Win for local business with changes to Buy Local - Regional Preference Policy

Geraldton MLA Ian Blayney is pleased that Finance Minister Bill Marmion has seen fit to recent changes to the Buy Local Policy. 

“A business recently brought to my attention that Perth based companies were managing to bypass the Buy Local Policy through loopholes in the policy. 

“If an interstate business submitted a compliant tender bid, it compromised the local preference policy. This enabled Perth based companies’ bids to also be considered. 

“I wrote to Minister Marmion to request this loophole was closed and have recently received confirmation that this has occurred. 

“Minister Marmion has advised me that an addendum to the Buy Local Policy has been released making it clear that where only Western Australian bidders are shortlisted for a tender process with a regional delivery point, then the Regional Price Preferences included in the Buy Local Policy will apply. 

“This is a big win for our local businesses and industries,” said Mr Blayney 

Comedy Emporium Finds New Home In Geraldton's West End

191 Marine Tce

Seriously: comics are leading revitalisation in the heart of our city

Geraldton’s local comedians and performers are moving into a new home in the West End of Geraldton’s Marine Tce today. The Comedy Emporium have taken up a 4 year lease in  Pollinators’ new CreativeHub, converting part of the derelict space into a home for performing arts. The rear of the old ‘Salvos’ building at 189 Marine Terrace, (currently decorated with local artist Jordan Andreotta’s octopus painting) will be The Comedy Emporium’s Headquarters for its state-wide operations and new performance venue, plus provide a unique new space for gigs, launches, workshops and artists to use.

“We now have a home! There is nothing in that home... However we have 30 of the most energetic and positive team members who want to see it become a amazing place to be.” said Julian Canny, The Comedy Emporium Ringleader.

“Patrons might even have to BYO chairs to our first few shows - But the fact that we have now a space to be able to share with other artist means we can really get to work making Geraldton the capital of regional performing arts” says Julian Canny, The Comedy Emporium’s Ringleader.

The Comedy Emporium has only been able to secure space at CreativeHub thanks to Pollinators Inc hard work and the support of Geraldton Investments.

Pollinators Space Lead, Angie West, explained “The creative vision emerged from conversations with our members, and in 2013 the negotiations got started. Securing the four massive spaces that make up CreativeHub has taken a lot of investment, and its partnerships with Williams and Hughes, Panaceum, and Headspace Geraldton that have got it across the line. Now the hard work is done, and the fun of revitalisation can begin and Comedy Emporium’s space is the first of the space to open to the public.”

“Now that we’re in, there is no containing our excitement” said Canny “There is a HUGE cleanup to be done, as no one has been in here for over a decade, and the team is ready to go!”

Everyone is invited to take a stickybeak at the venue at the very first array of live performances  that will take in the space as part of Funtavia on February 12th and 13th. For more information go to www.funtavia.com.au

For more information about Comedy Emporium visit www.thecomedyemporium.com For enquiries please ring Julian on 0458 306 111.

For more information about Pollinators’ and CreativeHub visit www.pollinators.org.au/creativity For enquiries please ring Angie on 9965 5371

Paul Dyer (Chair of Pollinators Inc) With Julian Canny (Ringleader of The Comedy Emporium)

City cracks down on restricted breed dangerous dogs

The City of Greater Geraldton is sending out a strong warning to dog owners in the Mid West after the Geraldton Magistrate’s Court reprimanded several people for incidents involving dangerous dogs that are of a restricted breed.

In a stark message for local dog owners, a single case went to court recently with up to 10 charges against the individual with fines of up to $5,000.

City of Greater Geraldton CEO Ken Diehm said the severity of declared dangerous dogs being involved in dog attacks is something that the City takes very seriously and it should serve as a reminder for all dog owners.

“The City takes dog attacks very seriously and if your dog attacks a person or animal, you will be held responsible even if you are not there during the time of the offence,” he said.

“If a dog that has been declared dangerous by the City is involved in an attack, the owner can face charges of up to $20,000.”

If a dog has been involved in an attack or has shown a tendency to attack, the City has the power under the Dog Act to declare the dog dangerous. Penalties for dog attacks double when the dog involved has been declared a dangerous dog.

“All dog owners have a responsibility to ensure their dogs are registered and are not left to wander and are in a secure area on their property in order to protect not only the safety of people, but dogs and other animals alike,” Mr Diehm said.

“This serves as a timely reminder to dog owners that they need to ensure that their dogs are properly secured within their own property and not left to roam the streets and neighbouring properties.”

If residents find a lost or stray pet they are encouraged to report it to City Rangers by calling 9956 6600. Rangers are available from 6.30am to 6.30pm on weekdays and 8am to 4.30pm on weekends. They should also check the collar for a name and contact details, phone veterinary clinics as well as share on social media.

Tips to be more waterwise during this weekend's heatwave

While the heatwave is temporary it’s a blunt reminder of the trend towards hotter and drier conditions in WA, and the need to continue to adapt our water use for the longer-term.

Some facts and handy tips: 

• 40 per cent of our household drinking water is used outside the home.
• A pool cover can save up to 55 litres of water a day in summer - cover your pool after every swim.
• Keep a container of water in the fridge to avoid having to run the tap for a cool drink.
• Repurpose water – this can be done in a variety of ways – pet drinking water and even cooled-down cooking water can be used to water grass and plants. 

William Patrick Mitchell - Parole Review

Geraldton MLA Ian Blayney has written to the Attorney General requesting that any move to release Geraldton axe murderer William Patrick Mitchell on parole is rejected. 

“It has recently been brought to my attention that there will be a review by the Parole Board of William Patrick Mitchell’s sentence. 

“While I recognise that these reviews will be an ongoing process over the term of his prison life, it is deeply upsetting for the family and friends of his victims. As it forces them to relive the events and pain of the past. 

“I have requested that in the unlikely situation that the Parole Board makes a recommendation for his release on parole, the Attorney General rejects it. 

“I have also advised the Attorney General of my intention to circulate a petition, which I will present to the Legislative Assembly from people of Geraldton, requesting that William Patrick Mitchell is never released from jail. 

“I encourage everyone to sign this petition,” said Mr Blayney.

Removal and replacement of QPT asbestos roof

The City of Greater Geraldton wishes to advise that works will begin on the removal of the Queens Park Theatre asbestos roof from 8 - 21 February 2016 to make way for a new roof. The area is currently fully fenced off and appropriate signage will be in place.

An independent environmental consultant will be on site during the removal works to ensure the works are being undertaken according to Australian standards and to monitor air quality.

There are no planned additional footpath or road closures during this time. Please direct all further enquires to Project Manager Michael Librizzi at 9956 6600.

Price announces NBN kicking off in Dongara

Member for Durack Melissa Price is pleased to announce about 2,400 premises will soon have faster internet with the construction of the NBN in Dongara 

Dongara residents will see nbn contractors laying cables and installing nodes over the coming weeks as the build out rolls out across the town. 

“This is great news for the people of Dongara,” Ms Price said. 

“Dongara is a valuable town in Durack, with hundreds of families from throughout the Mid West moving to the beachside town to retire. 

“These 2,400 premises will be receiving fibre to the node (FTTN) technology which is very fast broadband.” 

The start of the Dongara construction continues the NBN rollout in the Mid West with most of Geraldton already able to connect to the NBN, and with construction in Northampton and Kalbarri just months away. 

“nbn’s end-user trials have shown FTTN delivers great speeds to Australians, with most end-users on the trial getting wholesale speeds of 100 Mbps (download) and 40 Mbps (upload),” Ms Price said. 

“The rollout of the NBN in Dongara is an important step in reaching its goal of connecting eight million homes and businesses to the NBN by 2020.” 

For further information visit: nbnco.com.au/3yearplan

Registrations open for 2016 Geraldton Toyota Endure Batavia Triathlon

The 2016 Geraldton Toyota Endure Batavia Triathlon is shaping up to be a spectacle for viewers and participants alike, with several big name competitors already committing to slog it out on Geraldton’s spectacular shores.

Six professional triathletes have already signed up to pit themselves against the elements for the gruelling event on April 17.

Geraldton Triathlon Association Vice President Simon Teakle said it was a real coup to have professional athletes signed up.

"Having professionals sign up so early and having athletes of this calibre return to compete is an absolute compliment to the quality and importance of the Endure Batavia Triathlon,” Mr Teakle said.

“Geraldton Triathlon Club aims to grow the Geraldton Toyota Endure Batavia Triathlon to become the best prize money race in the state, currently is the third highest. And with this we get to showcase Geraldton as must see destination for the triathletes of Australia.”

Around 300 competitors are expected to participate, racing across the city’s azure seas with a 1.5km ocean swim, pedalling its colourful streets on a 44km bike ride and putting foot to pavement on a 10km run.

Competitors can choose to complete the full course, they can gather a team to compete in the long course, or they can sign up solo for a shorter course comprising a 750m ocean swim, 22km bike ride and 5km run.

Competitors in the long course will vie for a swag of cash prizes.

Geraldton Toyota General Manager Zane Clark said the business was proud and excited to support a valued community event that promoted participation and a healthy lifestyle.

“Triathlon is fast becoming the trend sport.  More people are becoming passionate in improving their health and well-being” Mr Clark said.

“Geraldton Toyota shares the same passionas the athletes who strive to achieve that “oh what a feeling!”

“As we approach our 25th anniversary, we couldn’t have thought of a better way to underline our support for a fantastic community event in the Endure Batavia Triathlon, and to assist the further growth of the event in becoming the States premier competition.”

Registrations open now open. For more information, visit the website: www.geraldtontriclub.com.au/endure-batavia-triathlon.aspx

Call to help save Point Moore beach cottages

Homes at one of Geraldton’s most iconic locations are under threat, after the City of Greater Geraldton is considering the future of the 176 residences when the leases expire in 2028, at Point Moore’s historic beach cottage community.

In 2007 the WA Planning Commission deemed the area ‘unsuitable for permanent human habitation’ due to the risk of a severe inundation event impacting on human life.

This information only came to light for residents when 35 leases were renewed in 2014, prompting the Council to extend the leases for only 14 years instead of 21 years as always previously granted.

The Council commissioned independent consultants, M P Rogers and Associates, to undertake a Coastal Inundation Study of the Point Moore area to get a better understanding of coastal processes, including risks of erosion and inundation to the area.

On Wednesday 13 January 2016, the report: Point Moore Inundation and Coastal Processes Study, was presented to a meeting of Point Moore stakeholders; including the Friends of Point Moore Inc committee and members – an action group set up for members to work towards saving their homes – and representatives from the broader community.

The City invited feedback and comments by written submissions from all stakeholders and the broader community on the content and findings of the report.

Chairman of the Friends of Point Moore Inc, David Harrington, said the beach cottages have existed for more than 50 years, and many people would have fond memories of time spent either visiting or living there.

“We are hoping these people and others would be supportive of retaining this piece of Geraldton’s history. Now is the chance to help us save an iconic part of Geraldton – and our homes – by sending a submission on the inundation study to the City,” he said.

“The consultant told us the report didn’t represent a prediction for the future but just models for one potential – one in 500 year – event.”

Mr Harrington said mitigation strategies such as building up the sand dunes and planting vegetation was just one way to offset the possible threat of inundation.

“There are ways to address the perceived problem, and let’s face it, the cottages have survived for 50 years without incident when other parts of Geraldton have been inundated,” he said.

“However, we are working with the City Council to find a solution and would appreciate help from those who have good memories of the area; they may be your memories, but they are our homes!”

The City invites feedback and comments from stakeholders and broader community members on the content and findings of the report that is on the City’s website: http://www.cgg.wa.gov.au/consultations/

“Please help us save Point Moore beach cottages by sending a submission to the City of Greater Geraldton by 4pm on Wednesday 24 February 2016,” said Mr Harrington.

New edition of popular Inland to Ocean resource launched

We often hear about the need for our children to connect with nature, and to gain an understanding and appreciation of their natural world – far away from their smartphones, computer screens and video games.

Fortunately, there are solutions, guides, resources and packages that can help with these goals – including … drum roll… NACC’s very own contribution – Inland to Ocean.

Primary schools across the Northern Agricultural Region have recently been provided with a new, free, and revamped version of the environmental education resource for their use.

Inland to Ocean is a workbook resource developed for primary schools in the Northern Agricultural Region, with a particular focus on educating Year 4-6 students about the environment.

The workbook approaches local environmental topics and engages young people to look after our natural assets from an early age, through fun, hands-on activities.

Ultimately, Inland to Ocean aims to promote environmental stewardship and the sustainable use of our natural resources.

“Inland to Ocean has been updated over the past year by Ingrid Jansen from the WordFarm and myself, to improve the content and quality of this workbook,” said NACC’s Social Science Research Officer Rolan Deutekom.

“Resources and activities have been simplified and local examples highlighted for students and teachers, and best of all, it fits with the Australian Education Curriculum.

“The package is straight-forward and teachers can easily identify a suitable activity that fits with curriculum requirements.”

The 2016 workbook edition is being released this week to coincide with the commencement of the 2016 school year, and already has many schools excited to use it.

Inland to Ocean is already being used as a helpful environmental resource in the region, and will be distributed electronically to a number of teachers this week.

For more information about the resource, or to get a hard copy, contact NACC on 9938 0100, or visit the Inland to Ocean website directly for your free download of the Inland to Ocean 2016 edition: http://inlandtoocean.com.au/ .

Agriculture and adaptation the hot topic for farming future Forum

Undertaking agriculture in a warmer and drier landscape will be the subject of most interest to the participants at the inaugural Productive Farming Future Forum – being held in Coorow on 10 February 2016.

The forum program will feature a cross-section of leading scientists and innovative farmers discussing how a changing climate will impact agriculture in the Northern Agricultural Region.

The event, hosted by the Northern Agricultural Catchments Council (NACC), will also feature, as the forum’s keynote speaker, Major General The Honourable Michael Jeffery, who will present on the importance of maintaining soil health in the face of a changing climate.

Other speakers who are sure to attract considerable interest include Bureau of Meteorology’s Glen Cook, discussing changing weather patterns; University of Western Australia’s Theo Evans on how termites and ants can improve soil productivity, and a number of innovative farmers sharing their personal experiences of adapting to our changing conditions.

One of the landholder case studies, Stuart McAlpine, will discuss changes with his on-farm practices related to land use and productivity in changing conditions in the Northern Agricultural Region.

Event spokesperson and NACC Regional Landcare Facilitator Stanley Yokwe said: “We are privileged to bring some of our country’s outstanding speakers – including the keynote speaker and soil health advocate Major General The Honourable Michael Jeffery – to the region to participate in this forum.”

“It is important to share with members of our farming community practical and innovative experiences being developed and implemented by local farmers seeking productive and sustainable farming options for adapting to a changing climate in the region.

“Anecdotal evidence and research reports have confirmed that our region has become significantly drier and warmer over the past 40 years. The reports have clearly shown that our region is suffering from declining winter rainfall, heat stress and frost risk.

“These changes are creating great challenges for our farming community and indeed the entire agriculture sector, so it is important to have events like this forum to provide our landholders and industry people with more evidence-based information on the best available options to cope with the vagaries of climate change.”

From climate modelling to discussions about innovative ways to use non-productive land, the forum aims to provide farmers with positive options and solutions for climate adaptation.

The Productive Farming Future Forum will be held on Wednesday, 10 February 2016, at the Coorow District Hall, from 9.45am to 3.30pm.

The event is free, however registrations are essential for catering purposes.

To register, visit the Eventbrite link, or for more information about the event, please contact NACC’s Regional Landcare Facilitator at Stanley.Yokwe@nacc.com.au or call 9938 0105.

This forum is funded by the Australian Government’s NRM Planning for Climate Change Fund, the Australian Government’s National Landcare Programme, and the Western Australian Royalties for Regions. It is supported by the Mid West Science Engagement Group and Inspiring Australia.

Funtavia Mania Hits Geraldton

Funtavia mania has hit Geraldton.

With the Opening night nearly sold out, tickets are racing out the door as locals lap up the chance to access world-class never-seen-before-in-Geraldton dazzling performances in their home town on February 12 and 13.

The regional Fringe World ‘hub’ event brings international, national and local performers to Geraldton in a brilliant line-up of side splitting performances.

Funtavia organisers Event Nation and Geraldton Comedy Emporium are urging interested people to book fast to ensure their spot.

“We’re so excited about bringing an event of this calibre to the Geraldton event calendar and don’t won’t people to miss out,” Event Nation managing director Jodi Reilly said.

“And we’ve organised it so that seating is not set – you simply select your seat at the show, so you don’t need to wait for your mates to book their tickets in a group. Everyone just jumps online and gets their tickets individually and meets up in the Baba Marda Pop-up-bar and food arena.”

Ms Reilly said three shows would run concurrently on the Saturday night so Funtavia-goers would need to choose the shows they’d most like to see and book accordingly.

But she said two Funtavia highlights – ‘What the Funtavia?’ and the ‘RED FM Late Night Lock In’ offered such stand-out hilarity that they would be presented as stand-alone events (and not at the same time as other shows).

“We’ve got an awesome mix of local, national and international talent so be sure to jump online and book the shows you’d most like to see,” Ms Reilly said.

‘What the Funtavia?’ offers a tasting plate of the best international, national and local performers as the world's biggest acts come crashing into Geraldton, while the ‘RED FM Late Night Lock In’ is a half show, half closing party featuring all the best acts from Funtavia in one room.

Other shows include a cabaret-comedy performance by Die RotenPunkte from Berlin, a stand-up comedy performance by acclaimed entertainer Umit Bali and stand-up comedy by award-winning WA comedians Brodi Snook, Cameron McLarenand Matt Storer.

There’s also a Regional WA Comedy Showcase, a side-splitting theatrical production Fat Girls in Bike Shorts and outrageous musical theatre with original songs by Keira Daley (LadyNerd), Mark Simpson (Hairspray), and musical director Steven Kreamer (The Drowsy Chaperone).

Funtavia patrons and others can also attend the Baba Mardapop up Bar and Food arena, to wet their whistles, top up their tummiesand chill out and enjoy live music, entertainment and a game of Pong!

The baba Marda pop-up bar and food arena will be open from Friday February 12 from 5.30pm (come down for dinner and some awesome tunes) and Saturday from 4.30pm with Local lady Beck Tuesley releasing her debut CD.

For more information and to book tickets visit www.funtavia.com

10 Pointers for Anyone Moving to Geraldton

Pic: Travis Petford

So, you’re making the move to the seaside city of Geraldton, right?  

Firstly, a very big welcome.  Geraldton is a Port city with a population of almost 40,000 people, 4.5 hours North of Perth.  We have agriculture.  We have fishing.  We have water sports.  We have wind.  Lots and lots of wind.  

If you’re new to town, here are ten must-read pointers on our fair city that will help you navigate and work out where things are and what  

1. The Geraldton Visitor Centre is located at 246 Marine TCE and is a MUST for people who are new or visiting our city.  They have a wealth of information, and friendly staff who are always quick to lend a helping hand.  You can ask them anything and they will do their best to accommodate. 

2. Geraldton has two hospitals, the Geraldton Regional Hospital which is located on Shenton St, and St John of God Healthcare, which can be found on Hermitage St.  Panaceum Group has after hours consults available (call 99208111 to book), otherwise you can report to the Emergency Department at the Regional hospital. 

3. If you need to buy a loaf of bread when you get here, there are many excellent supermarkets to choose from: 

• Queens Supa IGA- 79 Durlacher St
• Rigter’s Supa IGA- 179 Durlacher St (Open 7 Days) 
• Wonthella Supa IGA- Fifth St, Wonthella (Open 7 Days) 
• Glenfield IGA- Chapman Valley Rd, Glenfield (Open 7 Days) 
• Mt Tarcoola IGA- Paringa St, Mt Tarcoola (Open 7 Days) 
• Woolworths- Centro Stirlings, Chapman Rd 
• Coles- Centro Northgate, Chapman Rd 

4. The Geraldton Foreshore is a must see.  There are cafes, a beautiful path to walk or bike ride, various sculptures, an enclosed playground, great beaches, a monitored Surf Lifesaving tower and plenty of space for picnics and barbecues.  Please note, dogs are not allowed on the Geraldton Foreshore. 

5. If you are keen on an insight into Geraldton history, including shipwrecks such as the Batavia and the Zeewijk, the culture of the Yamaji people, the local flora and fauna and marine life and the discovery of the HMAS Sydney, the Geraldton Museum is absolutely fantastic and worth a look.  They are open 7 days a week from 9:30-4pm and run school holiday programs for the kids as well.  

6. The local police- the Geraldton Police Station can be directly contacted on 99234555. 

7. Our city has a variety of different markets which range in fresh produce and local arts and crafts. 

• The Farmer’s Markets are held every Saturday morning in Maitland Park from 8am-12pm.   
• The Platform Markets are held at the old railway station, Chapman Rd, Sunday mornings from 8am-12pm.  A great place to stock up on wonderful cheeses, hobby crafts and fresh local food, fruit and veg. 
• The Craft Markets run on Marine TCE on the first and the fourth Sunday of each month from 8am-12pm. 
• Geraldton Lion’s Community Markets are held at the Bill Sewell Complex on the second Sunday of each month from 8am-12pm.  Stall fees contribute to renovating the Settlement buildings. 

8. Geraldton has an exclusive type of sea hare known as Aplysia Gigantean which wash up on the beaches regularly during the Summer months and can be dangerous if your family dog goes near them.  If you suspect your pet has had contact with one of these, please get in touch with a local vet right away. 

9. There are some wonderful things to do in Geraldton.  These include the Greenough Wilflife Park, Lavender Valley Farm, Oakabella Homestead, The HMAS Sydney Memorial, the Greenough Hamlet, Orana Cinemas and some amazing beaches catering to your needs.  A list of the best beaches in Geraldton can be found here http://www.cgg.wa.gov.au/play/sports-recreation/beaches.aspx. 

10. Geraldton is the fourth windiest city in the world.  Great for kitesurfing, not so fantastic for your washing though.    

So, once again, on behalf of the city of Geraldton we welcome you.  I have fallen in love with this place over the past ten years and I hope you get as much out of it as I have.   

Another ATC Midwest Apprentice Wins National Award for 2015

Deland Lovrenovich (left) was joined by CJD Equipment Midwest General Manager, Bruce Walton (right).

ATC Midwest 1st Year Apprentice Deland Lovrenovich, hosted by CJD Equipment took out the CJD Equipment national award for first year apprentices across Australia for 2015. Del was up against 16 other apprentices in his category. 

“We at CJD Geraldton are pleased to announce apprentice Deland Lovrenovich was recently awarded CJD Equipment’s 1st Year Apprentice of the Year. Deland is an extremely hard worker in both the workshop and the class room and we are very proud of his accomplishment” said CJD Equipment Geraldton General Manager Bruce Walton. “Deland is just one example of the quality apprentices and trainees we see come through ATC Midwest. The support they provide to both the apprentices and the employer goes a long way to ensure the success of these young people.” Mr. Walton added. 

“Del is an exceptional young man who has worked hard to achieve this great national honour within CJD Equipment” ATC Midwest General Manager Dave Clare said. “Thanks to the leadership of Bruce Walton, CJD here in the Midwest have gone against the grain and partnered with us as a local Not for Profit.  This award is a reflection of our Quality Outcome Model© in action. With a quality host employer, a quality candidate and quality training, ATC Midwest can proudly assist CJD with engaging, inspiring and developing tomorrow’s leading workforce in the Midwest” Mr Clare added. 

CJD Equipment Pty Ltd partners with world leading manufacturers to offer a diverse range of quality trucks and construction equipment including earthmoving machinery supporting a variety of industries.

Geraldton Mount Magnet Road Closure

The City advises the Geraldton Mount Magnet Road (Southern Transport Corridor) will be temporarily closed between the North West Coastal Highway and Goulds Road on 27 and 28 January 2016 to enable the safe lifting of the Abraham Street bridge segments over the road.

The road will be fully closed to all vehicular traffic from both directions on Wednesday 27 January from 0.00hrs till 23.59hrs on Thursday 28 January.

A detour will be in place at Utakarra Road to ensure motorists have continued access to the Meru Waste Disposal Facility and the Southern Transport Corridor east of Edward Road.

Traffic management will be in place during the hours of the road closure. Motorists and pedestrians are advised to exercise caution and obey all warning signs and direction from authorised City personnel and contractors.

For more information on the road closure or detour please contact the City’s Project Manager, Moneer Fates, at 9956 6600.

The City regrets any inconvenience and will endeavour to keep disruptions to a minimum.

Midwest Fishing report by Tackleworld Geraldton

OFF SHORE

With a good run of weather, it has allowed the boaties to get out to their favourite spots and you need not travel far to catch a feed, with good fish coming from close to town, with Bald chin groper Cod and coral trout all getting caught around the 5mile marks and Point Moore, if you’re after a feed of Dhu fish or Pink Snapper nor-west of town from 10-15mile

Spanish Mackerel have started to appear inside the 5mile buoy, along with Yellow Fin and Long Tail Tuna

Cobia have been caught in most locations from Geraldton to the islands  

HANIS WITH HIS PB DHU FISH AT 15KG NICE BUD

AINDAL WITH A CRACKIN COD TAKEN ON THE SQUIDGIE WHIP BAIT

HANIS JIGGING UP A NICE COBIA ON THE NEW ENTICE FLOP JIG

AS MAN WITH A NICE IN SHORE COD

JAZALI DOING HIS THING WITH A NICE DHUIE TAKEN ON A JIG

RIVERS

Greenough river has some nice size Whiting and Tailor caught around the mouth,  angler have been also getting a feed of prawn, Chapman river is also fish well with catch and release angler catching good size bream to 40cm on lure and plastics

KORIE WITH A COUPLE OF NICE BREAM

BEACHES

Taiolr Herring and Whiting can be found from Greenough, Tarcoola Point moore and Drummond Cove with Buller river being the best location,Cobia have been caught at South Gate and a big 150cm mollaway at drummonds which would weigh around 34kg.

---

Seasport Charters Kalbarri
Specialising in Jigging, Soft Plastics, Live Baiting & Game Fishing
Quality Shimano Rods & Reels
Tackle & Bait Provided
Long Description
0477901445
Email
seasportcharters@bigpond.com

FISH REPORT WRITTEN BY

CRAIG WISE

20 ANZAC TERRACE GERALDTON WA

08 99216822

The Croquetwest State Handicap Singles

The Croquetwest State Handicap Singles were held in Geraldton on the 8th, 9th and 10th January 2016. A Geraldton Croquet Club player, Paul Christmass topped the list in the round robin draw of 17 games. Second place was held by Martin Clarke from Mandurah, a regular player in the state squad.

Martin Clarke, left above, won the competition, defeating Paul Christmass, pictured at right, in a best of three games playoff. Martin began his croquet playing career at Geraldton Croquet Club.

Visiting Players

l-r Owen Keane (East Fremantle), Ed Parravicini (Forrest Park), Torben Bek (Forrest Park), Martin Clarke (Mandurah), John Doepel (Forrest Park), and Dorothy Bull from York.

Rankings at completion of round robin series

The Geraldton Croquet Club thanks the many members who dressed courts, provided wonderful afternoon teas, set up the clubrooms for our dinners, prepared excellent meals, provided refereeing services and managed the competition. Well done all! You have done the club proud.

Martin Clarke playing a jump shot in the final against Paul Christmass.

Footpath renewal works on Chapman Road

The City of Greater Geraldton wishes to advise that footpath renewal works will be carried out on a section of Chapman Road footpath between Smith Street and Davis Street, Bluff Point with works programmed to commence during the week of 4 January 2016 for a period of approximately 17 days. 

The works include removing the 1.2m wide slab path and replacing it with a user friendly concrete path. The works will require some sections of the foot path and some driveways to be partially or fully closed at times to pedestrian and vehicle traffic.

These works are part of $1,175,739 allocated in the 2015/16 Budget for the renewal of footpaths which will see approximately 3kms of the footpath network replaced. 

The anticipated hours of work will be between from 6am to 6pm.

The City requests motorists and pedestrians to exercise caution and obey all warning signs and direction from authorised City personnel and contractors.

The City regrets any inconvenience and will endeavour to keep disruptions to a minimum.

Please direct all enquiries to Mr Pino Faraone, on (08) 9965 6714 or 0409 378 242

Amoebae at Ellendale Pool & Greenough River

The City of Greater Geraldton is issuing a warning to exercise caution when swimming or engaging in water activities at Ellendale Pool and the Greenough River.

Results of water samples taken from these water bodies last week during routine sampling indicated Amoebae detected at both sites. 

Infection by amoebae can lead to illnesses such as amoebic meningitis, which causes inflammation of the brain. Amoebic meningitis occurs only if water containing active amoebae goes up the nose. Water activities such as fishing and canoeing have a lower chance of infection, while activities where a person’s head is submerged such as swimming would present a higher risk. Don’t allow the water to go up your nose forcefully or sniff into your nose whilst swimming in contaminated water. 

Permanent health warning signs exist at Ellendale Pool and sites along the Chapman and Greenough River’s warning of this risk. 

More information can be found on the WA Public Health website www.public.health.wa.gov.au

Looking for a Playgroup Leader for 2016

Notice Details: Must be able to come every week, setup craft activity, receipt fees etc

Name of Organisation: Mt Tarcoola Family Playgroup

Email address: Kyliemorgan14@gmail.com

Contact Phone: 0407986939