Give Geraldton Youth a Go

Master Builders is asking the Geraldton Community to support its youth during the economic downturn in the building industry and the economy generally.

Master Builders Director Michael McLean said that in a time of economic uncertainty, where there are fewer jobs available for trades people, it’s important we support the development of our younger generation.

“We’re calling on local businesses and employers to assist the school leavers, apprentices and young tradies who are coming up through the ranks to provide them with some work experience or job opportunities,” Mr. McLean said.

“WA has just come off an extraordinary period of high construction activity thanks to the mining sector. However, with many of these projects now coming to an end, new jobs are in short supply.” 

Master Builders Regional Manager Di Gilleland is concerned that unless young people are provided with educational, training or work opportunities they are likely to leave the mid-west region.

“The housing industry is forecast to experience a 26% downturn in the number of dwelling starts, from over 31,000 in 2014-15 to about 23,000 in 2015-16,” Mrs Gilleland said.

“Unfortunately we haven’t seen the worst yet. Housing starts are said to drop even further over the next two years which means we need to plan ahead now to help our younger generation”.

“Master Builders is aiming to engage the regional business community in Geraldton to assist in this local initiative to give young people a go. Giving them the opportunity to work at the local supermarket or fast food outlet, assist in their training and development, or taking them on as work experience students or apprentices will all help with their self-esteem and encourage them to stay in the region”, Mrs Gilleland said.

“Although the displacement of labour can occur during a downturn, we want to instill confidence in our youth. Even if their initial work experience might not be their first choice of career path, developing skills in communication, problem solving or customer service will assist them in being better trained and job ready in the long term.”

“Although there may be harder times ahead in WA, there are many exciting opportunities available for our youth; it’s just about how much they’re willing to go looking for them,” Mrs. Gilleland said.

“We would like the Geraldton media outlets to get behind this initiative to publicize those employers who are prepared to give Geraldton youth a go”.

“If this campaign is successful and embraced by the business community there is no reason why it couldn’t be extended to other regions which will be exposed to the same challenges,” Mrs. Gilleland concluded.

Mullewa tip undergoes transformation

The Mullewa landfill will soon become a fully operable transfer station.

The Mullewa landfill is undergoing a transformation over the coming months that will see it moving away from a general disposal site to a fully operable transfer station.  

The transformation of the site is required to improve environmental outcomes and better meet the needs of the local community. 

City of Greater Geraldton Mayor Shane Van Styn said the construction of the Waste Transfer Station will provide residents with an improved waste management system.   

“The construction of the Waste Transfer Station will provide residents the opportunity to separate their refuse into various streams such as green waste, construction and demolition waste and car bodies,” he said. 

“The waste transfer station will also help educate the local community about the importance of environmentally-conscious waste management practices.” 

When completed, the transfer station will feature a 2m high, 15 m long retaining wall where members of the public will be able to dispose of their waste into the appropriate skip bins. 

In the interim, customers at the site are asked to follow the various signs directing them to the appropriate disposal area based on the type of waste being disposed. 

Members of the public that need to dispose of asbestos must contact the City first and organise an appointment to do so. This will ensure that human and environmental health standards are maintained.  Any asbestos containing material needs to be double wrapped in thick plastic to ensure that the dangerous fibres do not get airborne.  

The asbestos containing material will then be buried as soon as possible to prevent the release of asbestos fibres into the atmosphere. 

Liquid waste is no longer being accepted for disposal in Mullewa.  Members of the public wishing to dispose of liquid waste must take their liquids to the Meru Waste Facility in Geraldton.

Regarding the proliferation of Go-Fund-Me listings

(The purpose of the following article is to reduce the amount of questionable Go Fund Me listings that are sent around each day, so that the ones that are genuine are actually effective. Please don't think we want everyone to become hard hearted and stop giving. Geraldton is famous for its generosity, and it's something we can all be proud of.)

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If you spend any time on social media, you've probably noticed the huge spike in Go Fund Me listings over the last few months. They've become a popular way for people to reach out to their fellow citizens and ask for money. Everything Geraldton gets sent about one Go Fund Me link each day.

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Did you know Geraldton has a local charity that helps a lot of people?

Before I rant on about Go Fund Me listings, I want to share some info about a fantastic charity Geraldton has that I'm surprised so many people still haven't heard about. 

They're called "Midwest Charity Begins at Home".

The term "charity begins at home" is an old proverb, essentially meaning "help those close to you first."

Sometimes we get so overwhelmed with world events we forget to help those in very real need right on our own doorstep. 

Midwest Charity Begins at Home is run by a bunch of locals who see the needs in our community, and want to do something about it. 

I spoke with Chris Dobson about the work they do.

Who can Mid West Charity Begins at Home assist?

The person must be a Mid West resident, and in financial need due to serious illness. 

Do you give money or physical items?

We can only give cash. 

How does someone ask for help?

On our website we have an application form. We do need a doctor's certificate. We (the MWCBAH folk) meet up and discuss the application. We usually have funds within a few days. 

Wow that's fast!

Because we’re small and local, we can act on it pretty quick. 

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Go-Fund-Me listings

Sometimes Go Fund Me really is the best way to organise community support around a particular issue. It certainly has its place and is very convenient. 

But many of the listings we are sent make us question several things. 

Here's a list of some of the problems we are seeing. 

(NOTE: We're not telling people to not share their Go Fund Me listings with us. If the need is verifiable and the listing ticks all the boxes, we'd love to help out by sharing it.)

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1. There's so many of them now that people have become numb to them. People simply can't donate to every one they see, so they just keep scrolling. 

With each Go Fund Me listing people donate to, they are less likely to donate to the next one. Locals have expressed to EG that they feel like they're overwhelmed with people asking for money every day. 

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2. Some of the listings are spreading confidential or personal information. 

A Geraldton resident named Jake Drage was in an Indonesian prison in 2014. 

A Go Fund Me listing was created by a well meaning friend of his raising money to bring him home. But this Go Fund Me listing was how the media learned of the situation and, according to people assisting Jake, hamstrung efforts to get Jake released from jail.

I often see Go Fund Me listings set up by acquaintances of who the money is ostensibly for, sharing information that I doubt the people involved would want published for the world to see. 

The media love the listings though, as they have become a great source of inside information on tragedies. 

Before you publish anything, ask yourself if you're ok for this info to go viral, and for every person in town to know it. 

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3. There is no accountability as to where the money goes. 

We see many listings that claim to be raising the money for a third party. Donors have no way of verifying if the funds ever make it to the intended source, and in many cases even if a genuine need exists. Legitimate local charities like Midwest Disaster Relief or Midwest Charity Begins at Home do verify if actual need exists first before handing out money or goods, and they themselves must be accountable with funds that they receive. 

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4. It's hard to tell who is ACTUALLY in need

I've seen Go Fund Me listings for people I know to be quite wealthy. They've been set up by friends of the families following an accident or other event. The people who the money is for owned their home, a successful business, multiple cars... they're basically wealthier than most of the people that are donating to their cause. 

The friends who set up the Go Fund Me listings probably don't know their net worth, they're doing it as a kind gesture, the first way they can think of to help out. 

EG was sent one the other day where the family in question didn't seem to be in dire straits financially at all, and specifically told me that they wanted to go on a holiday with the money raised. I kid you not. The Go Fund Me listing didn't mention that, of course. 

I've seen other people in desperate need who have a Go Fund Me listing, and they can barely raise enough money for a tank of fuel. 

When we see so many Go Fund Me listings each week, some with serious need, others with questionable need, we grow numb to all of them. So that means people who are in GENUINE need are getting less donations because of all the listings that get created and shared. 

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5. There are formal ways of getting assistance that already exist. 

Yes, many people fall through the cracks and we all need to reach into our own pockets to help others out. No one is saying Australia's social welfare is perfect. 

But, many of the Go Fund Me listings are written as if Centrelink and Medicare didn't exist. Australia has, despite its shortcomings, one of the most generous health care and welfare systems in the world. 

Moreover, there are charities that exist specifically to help people in crisis, and not only are they accountable for the money they handle, but donations to those charities are tax deductible. 

Midwest Charity Begins at Home is one local charity that does a fantastic job of getting assistance to people in need in our community suffering financial difficulty due to illness. More about them above. 

Mid West Disaster Relief give out countless amounts of second hand furniture and other items to people needing assistance. They're a fantastic asset to our community. 

There are plenty of others too... The Salvos and Sun City Care spring to mind.

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Now in saying all that, Everything Geraldton will not institute a policy of never sharing a Go Fund Me listing. We're simply asking that people creating these listings consider the points mentioned. 

1. Has the person who the money is for actually asked for a go fund me listing to be created?

2. Are you sharing sensitive information? Are you happy with whatever you publish to be known by every person in Geraldton?

3. Have you already exhausted all the official ways of getting financial assistance that exist?

4. Have you spoken with Midwest Charity Begins at Home, or other relevant charities?

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Keep in mind that the more Go Fund Me listings we see each day, the less effective they are. 

So save them for genuine needs and use existing channels to raise money whenever possible. 

Discussions over future of family day care

The decision for the City to discontinue its involvement in family day care was discussed at the Council Agenda meeting last night and will go to Council for the final decision next week. 

Negotiations are currently being undertaken between early parenting and early childhood specialists, Nglala, and the Geraldton Regional Community Education Centre (GRCEC) for the organisations to take over as the approved provider of the current City run Bright Stars Family Day Care Service. 

City of Greater Geraldton Acting CEO Ross McKim said Bright Stars Family Day Care would be in very capable hands if the decision were to go through council and the Ngala Board choose to progress with this direction. 

“This matter is something we haven’t taken lightly and Bright Stars have been a very integral part of our organisation,” he said. 

“If Bright Stars was to be operated by Ngala and GRCEC we know that it would be in extremely capable hands. This would be an excellent outcome for our community.” 

The City has been actively involved in the provision of family day care since 1978 and since then, the City’s Bright Stars Family Day Care Scheme has grown to service Geraldton and the Gascoyne and Pilbara regions.  

More recently, they were the winners of the WA Best Service Award for excellence in Family Day Care in 2014. 

“Our successes are largely due to our staff who prides themselves in providing service excellence,” Mr McKim said. 

GRCEC is community organisation which has been operating in the Mid West Gascoyne and Murchison regions of Western Australia, delivering a diverse range of programs since 1975. 

The organisation is committed to providing services to children, youth and families to build individual, family and community capacity.  

GRCEC’s Director Jenny Allen said Ngala and GRCEC are committed to further enhancing their partnership. 

“We have available the resources, experience and commitment to continue to deliver a high quality education and care service for families,” she said. 

Ngala is a provider of early parenting and early childhood services with a focus on supporting and guiding families and young children and CEO Ashley Reid said the organisation was very excited to be part of this initiative with GRCEC. 

“With a long history of child health and early childhood development services in WA, we look forward to working with all involved for the benefit of local families,” he said.

Mr McKim said if the decision goes through council the long-standing reputation of Bright Stars would continue on its positive path. 

“If Council and Ngala make the decision for Bright Stars to be run by Ngala and GRCEC I am confident that both these organisations will be able to continue the legacy that our Council has made over the last few decades,” he said. 

The Council meeting will be held at 5pm Tuesday 23 February 2016, in Council Chambers, 63 Cathedral Avenue, Geraldton. Members of the public are welcome to attend.

Nukara Music Festival 19th March 2016

An exciting selection of contemporary and traditional roots music is set to entertain at next month’s Nukara Music Festival with international touring acts like Pierce Brothers, Bret Mosley, Hussy Hicks and Kallidad to well established and upcoming West Australian bands Katie J White, The Inks and Me & The Missus. 

This is the 11th Nukara Music Festival held on the outskirts of Geraldton in an oasis of ancient River Red Gums, spring fed creeks and the scenic hills of the Chapman Valley. 

Popular because of its uncrowded stage areas, camp over facilities, casual atmosphere, great food, BYO and the stellar musical line-up in this outdoor setting.

Most acts are relatively unknown to the Mid West but some are massively popular at other festivals in Australia and overseas. 

Tickets can still be purchased from Geraldton CD Centre and online at https://events.ticketbooth.com.au/event/nukara-music-festival-2016

For more information can be found at the Nukara Music Festival Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/nukaramusicfestival/?fref=ts

Opportunity to see unique research and training in action

BCMI lecturer Ben Byrne and student Joseph Kong with a fish bred at the research, development and training facility.

Ever wondered what goes on in that big building across the railway tracks on Willcock Drive at Separation Point in Geraldton?

It’s the Batavia Coast Maritime Institute (BCMI), a campus of Durack Institute of Technology; it’s a world-class facility that celebrates its 10th year of operation this year, and the public now has an opportunity to discover its many facets with regular 90-minute tours throughout February and March.

You can discover why students from across the world are so eager to enrol, and get an insight into the diversity of research and training that quietly goes on over the railway tracks, next to the ocean.

Durack Lecturer in Tourism and Guiding, Kevin McEwan, encourages the public, schools and special interest groups to enjoy an informative tour, guided by Durack’s Certificate III in Guiding and Certificate II in Tourism students.

He said visitors will learn about protecting flora and habitats at the amazing Abrolhos Islands;monitoring invasive fish and turtle species in Mid West rivers; about cutting-edge research into cracking the life cycle of difficult to breed marine ornamental fish for the aquarium market, including Nemo – or clownfish; and breeding and restocking marine finfish.

“Visitors will learn all this and more from BCMI staff that are very passionate about what they do and eager to share their knowledge,” he said.

Dr. Suresh Job, Training Director of Marine, Applied and Environmental Science at Durack added,

“People who participate in a tour will discover that BCMI is the largest marine ornamental fish breeder and supplier to the aquariumindustry all over Australia, and about conservation and land management, horticulture, laboratory science, aquaculture and maritime courses that can lead to someone graduating with nationally recognised qualifications.”

As with manyof the industry relevant courses at Durack, the tours serve a double purpose; the public gets to learn about the facility and the students get to learn how to conduct a tour.

Dr. Job continued, “The guiding and tourism students get hands-on experience in the field and guiding tours through BCMI gives them real industry experience; you can’t sell a tour if you haven’t walked it, and it’s a real confidence builder.”

Bill Swetman, Managing Director of Durack Institute of Technology, said that one of the key roles of the BCMI was to engage and educate the general public.

“People who have undertaken a tour of this facility gain an insight into the biodiversity, conservation research and projects that we undertake, and some come back to study with us, which is a great outcome.”

The tours began on Tuesday 9 February and will continue twice a day on the following dates:
Thursday, February 18; and Tuesday, February 23, from 10am-11.30am and 1pm to 2.30pm.
Tuesday, March 1; Tuesday, March 8; and Thursday, March 17, at the same times.

The tour cost is $5 per adult and a maximum group of 12 people will visit the aquaculture hatchery, marine ornamental fish production area, horticulture and conservation and land management greenhouses, aquaponics and hydroponics facilities.

Bookings can be made at the Geraldton Visitor Centre on Marine Terrace or by calling (08) 9956 6670 or call Kelly at BCMI on (08) 9956 6175. 

Geraldton Better Money Management workshop to help regional women achieve financial goals ahead of International Women’s Day

A national money education program that offers regional women the opportunity to check and boost the health of their finances is coming to Geraldton this month. 

The ‘Better Money Management’ program was developed with expert advice from the ASX and other industry bodies andoffers regional women access to unbiased financial education, free of charge and without having to travel huge distances.

Run by not-for-profit financial well being social enterprise 10thousandgirl and supported nationally by Rabobank, the program is designed to strengthen the financial position and planning abilities of regional women.

The Geraldton workshop is being held at the Geraldton Universities Centre on Monday 29 February, a week ahead of International Women’s Day on 8 March, with its focus reinforcing this year’s ‘Pledge for Parity’ theme. See below for event and registration details.

A recent 10thousandgirl survey found that while Aussie women are becoming more strategic when managing their finances, many find they need more discipline, knowledge and skills to achieve their goals – key topics the workshop will address.

“It’s important that we have goals to strive towards, but it takes commitment, information and know-how to achieve them,” said Zoe Lamont, 10thousandgirl founder and CEO, who will run the Geraldton workshop. “For many women often it’s time; we get so caught up in doing things for others, managing work, homes and families, that we don’t always take the time to sit down and do a budget, review insurances or our superannuation.  Our workshops are designed to give women space and time and support to do just that. 

“10thousandgirl was established to educate women, no matter where they are, to learn the skills and build the confidence to better manage their money, so they have the financial acumen to achieve their dreams.”

The 10thousandgirl survey revealed that while 63% of those surveyed said they set financial goals, 60% admitted they don’t create a budget for achieving them, with almost two thirds saying they needed more discipline, 43% more knowledge and 42% more skills. Respondents listed top financial goals as ‘general savings’ (56%), debt management / reduction (50%), house/mortgage (37%) and overseas travel (30%).

A key feature of the workshop, will be a Q&A panel session with local financial experts presenting their insights into financial management fundamentals. Topics include investment principles, financial planning, tax tips, succession planning, solutions to barriers and support mechanisms. The panel will include:

• Christina Ware, Solicitor, Pacer Legal
• Lisa Farnell, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER ®, Financial Solutions Geraldton
• Ross Jones, Senior Rural Manager, Rabobank Geraldton
• Robin Taylor, Accountant, Encompass Financial

The workshop will help participantsto document key life goals and priorities. They will be assisted in completing a personal financial review and investment plan, including a spending plan, balance sheet, debt review, insurance audit and superannuation audit.

The Better Money Management program is being funded by a Financial Literacy Australia grant and global agribusiness bank Rabobank. Industry super fund HESTA, the Australian Taxation Office, the Financial Planning Association and the Insurance Council of Australia are also supporting the program.

In anticipation of the workshop, Rabobank’s Geraldton Senior Rural Manager Ross Jones said: “Servicing the financial needs of around 9 million clients around the world, Rabobank has a very strong charter to help improve the financial literacy of not only its clients, but people in regional areas more broadly.

“We’re proud to be supporting 10thousandgirl in delivering this great initiative. Drawing on the expertise of local experts in finance, insurance and succession planning, the workshop will equip women with the tools to proactively manage their savings and investments.”

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10thousandgirls’ top financial tips for achieving your money goals

Set clear goals
Write your goals down as though they have already been achieved, or if you’re a visual person create a vision board using inspiring imagery

Be specific
Choose short, medium and long-term goals – breaking them down helps to see how they can be achieved

Plan
Planning is key – conduct your own financial review to understand your current position and what you need to do to have the money to support your goals

Reflect
Learn from past experiences. A good way to start is to ask yourself what were the three best and worst things that happened over the past 12 months and reflect on how to make changes where necessary

Look ahead
The longer you plan in advance, the easier it will be to achieve your goals

Have an emergency buffer
Keep three to six months’ worth of living expenses for emergencies

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To register for the ‘Better Money Management’ workshop in Geraldton, on Monday 29 February, from 9.30am – 3.30pm at Geraldton Universities Centre please visit http://10thousandgirl.com/, or call Tina McElligott, 10thousandgirl Partnership and Events Coordinator on 0401 740 440.

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About 10thousandgirl

10thousandgirl is a not-for-profit financial wellbeing organisation striving to break down societal barriers for women, close the financial gender inequality gap and offer women easy access to expert financial information. Started by a group of women in a Sydney pub in 2009, who realised the importance of understanding finance basics and planning, so they could realise their dreams. Their vision gained momentum. In March 2011, a board of directors was established, and the initiative today provides financial education to thousands of women across Australia every year. 10thousandgirl has attracted national and global recognition in their bid to contribute to increasing women’s financial wellbeing and economic health. To learn more please visitthe 10thousandgirl website, and join the #10tg #BetterMoney social media conversation on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, YouTube and Pinterest. 

The Great Australian Bake Off Casting For 2016 Series now Open

Are home-made pies your passion? Does bread get your oven temperature rising?

Is your favourite cake a work of art?Is baking like a sixth sense for you? 

FEBRUARY 11, 2016:The Great Australian Bake Off has begun its search for Australia’s best amateur home-bakers for its 2016 series. In 2015 The Great Australian Bake Off took both baking and television by storm and the successful series will have a much-anticipated return later this year.

Culinary icon Maggie Beer and acclaimed chef Matt Moran will once again be overseeing all of the amazing creations in the Bake Off Shed and determining the all-important results.The Great Australian Bake Off screens on Foxtel’s LifeStyle FOOD and profiles 12 home baking enthusiasts who are put through a series of mouthwatering challenges.

Maggie Beer is searching for something unique for the 2016 series, she said,“This is such a delightful show to be a part of and I'm so excited to meet our new home-bakers for 2016. Most of all I’m looking forward to being surprised by new flavours and seeing some of my favourite bakes reinvented.”

Matt Moran has his eye on the next generation, he says, “I think it would be great to see some blokes turn the show and baking on its head this year! There’s been such a revival in home baking and so many different types of people are getting into it - the popularity of this show is a great reflection of that. We really want to see the next generation of amazing, creative home–bakers.”

The Great Australian Bake Off is seeking amateur bakers of all ages, both male and female, and from all walks of life to apply.

To apply, please go to www.lifestyle.com.au/applynow

Applications close February 24.

The Great Australian Bake Off is a FremantleMedia Australia production of a BBC Worldwide format for Foxtel.

For more information please call:

Steven Murphy
FremantleMedia Australia Publicity
E: steven.murphy@fremantlemedia.com.au
P: 0413 842 932

Road Maintenance works in Woorree

The City of Greater Geraldton wishes to advise that road maintenance works will be taking place in the locality of Woorree starting on18 February till 11 March 2016. 

Roads undergoing shoulder maintenance include:

• Polo Road
• Dayana Drive
• Tobin Way
• Ridley Road
• Rowan Road
• Jenark Road 

Traffic management will be in place during this time. 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 maintenance please contact the City’s Acting Manager Service Delivery, Peter Traylen, at 9956 6600. 

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

Road Maintenance works in Allanooka Springs Road

The City of Greater Geraldton wishes to advise that road maintenance works will be taking place on Allanooka Springs Road starting on22 February till 7 March 2016. 

Shoulder maintenance will be undertaken between Nangetty Road, Walkaway Road and Roe Close. 

Traffic management will be in place during this time. 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 maintenance please contact the City’s Acting Manager Service Delivery, Peter Traylen, at 9956 6600. 

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

Power outages expected due to Western Power works

The City of Greater Geraldton wishes to advise that Western Power’s delivery partner, Logsys will be replacing power poles and approximately 36.5km of conductor in Geraldton resulting in power outages.

Work will commence on Thursday 25 February in Deepdale and will continue through until mid-May, with further work taking place in Woorree, Moonyoonooka, Kojarena, Mullewa, Pindar and Nunierra.

A total of 266 power poles and 36.5km overhead powerlines will be replaced and this section of powerline is the sole provider of electricity to parts of Mullewa and a number of the surrounding localities. As a result any work on these poles can impact the electricity supply.

While most of this work will be done on live lines, Logsys have stated they will need to have 14 outages to complete the necessary work.

As the majority of the work is occurring in Deepdale and Woorree, suburbs next to and in close proximity to the Geraldton substation, this means that the majority of the customers affected which could be 700 – 1100 customers, will receive 13 outages. This will be one full day outage per week on Thursday for 13 weeks.

Due to the high volume of work required, a series of power outages have been planned to take place on the following dates:

For more information you can contact Western Power on 13 10 87 or visit their website www.westernpower.com.au

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.