Unsolicited Bid Guidelines – Lands

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Geraldton MLA Ian Blayney has welcomed the adoption of a new Unsolicited Bids Guideline for the sale or lease of state-owned land.

“As Western Australia’s population grows, so does the demand for land. The Barnett Government is committed to unlocking the potential of its Crown land holdings to accommodate this growth.

“The Department of Lands is leading the Government’s Land Asset Sales Program. This is an orderly and coordinated program of sales and of surplus and under-utelised land assets.

“The proceeds from these sales will be used to reduce State debt and return revenue to the State Government to benefit Western Australia now and into the future,” said Mr Blayney.

The Unsolicited Bid Guideline has been developed to provide a transparent and consistent framework to deal with unsolicited bids received through the government’s Land Asset Sales Program.

An unsolicited bid is a market led proposal put to government by the private sector, which has not been formally requested by the Government.

The Guideline has been developed after extensive consultation with stakeholders and the community, and is based on the approach adopted in other jurisdictions in Australia.

The Government is committed to promoting transparent and competitive processes in the sale or lease of state owned land, and ensuring unsolicited proposals put to it are appropriately assessed on public interest grounds.

We recognise that circumstances may occasionally arise where it may be beneficial to deal exclusively with one party outside of a competitive process – such as when the land is not required for core government business or will have a beneficial impact on the community or environment.

All unsolicited bids would be subject to thorough government approvals processes and require State Cabinet approval.

The new guideline provides a mechanism for government to access the private sector’s expertise and innovate ideas for the benefit of the community, and will open up development across the State.

A copy of the new Unsolicited Bid guideline can be downloaded from the Lands website. 

Point Moore Inundation Study

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Geraldton MLA Ian Blayney has submitted his contribution to the City of Greater Geraldton’s Point Moore Inundation Study.

“I have submitted that I would be supportive of a Council decision to extend current leases.

“While I recognise that there is a risk of inundation at some time, I believe the risks can be well managed.

“Should Point Moore face the risk of serious flooding - due to a high tide and a cyclone coinciding – it is likely that there will be time available to evacuate residents, until the event has passed.

“Resident of Point Moore will need to consider carefully the risk to their home and property from inundation, and make calculated decisions. They will need to accept that insurance premiums are likely to me more costly and include disclaimers as to the level of cover.

“I am confident that providing there are open and honest discussions between the City and the Point Moore residents, any matters of contention can be resolved,” said Mr Blayney.

Grandparents Support Payment

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Geraldton MLA Ian Blayney said today that he supports the important role the Government plays in providing much needed support for Grandparents who care for their Grandchildren on a fulltime basis.

“The Barnett Government has implemented a range of strategies to support Grand-carers, including the Grand-carers Support Scheme delivered in partnership with Wanslea Family Services.

“This Scheme was launched in November 2013, and is currently paying 1347 individual grandcarers with $1,196,800 in payments for 2481 grandchildren.

“Eligible Grand-carers are able to receive an annual payment of $400 for the first grandchild and $250 for each additional grandchild in their care.

“The Department of Local Government and Communities provides over $256,000 in recurrent funding for the Grandcare Service to provide a telephone information line offering one to one support as well as group activities for Grandcarers.

“In addition to the direct support payments to the Grandcarer, and the telephone line, additional service such as respite activities, counselling services, training workshops, home help and school tutoring, are offered.

“Grandcarers make a valuable contribution to the community and the Barnett Government continues to recognise the sacrifices and the great work these Grandparents make in order to provide a safe and stable home environment for their Grandchiildren.

“I am very pleased we are able to provide them with continued support, “ said Mr Blayney.

Annual General Meeting Year Ending 2015

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Geraldton Regional Community Education Centre invites you to an Annual General Meeting Year Ending 2015 on Tuesday 22nd March 2016, 6.30pm in the Function Room of Geraldton Regional Community Education Centre

Refreshments will be served after the meeting

RSVP to Grady Smith by Monday 14th March via grady@edcentre.wa.edu.au or (08) 9921 4477

Works begin on Geraldton’s newest development

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The initial stages of Geraldton’s newest and exciting development have begun with site works commencing on the Batavia Coast Marina stage two Station Square. 

Stage two of the Batavia Coast Marina development will see the addition of Station Square which will be situated on the stretch of land behind the old Railway Station, between Chapman Road and Foreshore Drive, and Forrest and Bayly Street. 

Station Square will feature a vibrant mixed-use plaza which will offer a new meeting destination and a range of activities including shops, eateries, public space, play and entertainment areas. 

City of Greater Geraldton Mayor Shane Van Styn said the new development not only opens up very exciting investment opportunities but is introducing another great open space for the Geraldton community. 

“This is a huge development and having another shared open space will be a great addition to our City,” he said. 

“Remediation works have begun on the site this week and we have seen artist’s impressions of what the new space is set to look like and it has definitely got the community buzzing. 

“We know how much potential this land has and our community is about to see the start of a very exciting venture.” 

Phase one of Station Square is expected to see 19 lots developed which includes a range of mixed use lots, residential apartments and single residential lots. An extension of Museum Place will also be constructed which will include a colonnade styled walkway and public car park. 

The project is part of the Batavia Coast Marina development, which is being progressed in partnership between the City, LandCorp and the Mid West Development Commission, with a funding contribution from Royalties for Regions. 

Batavia Coast Marina Stage 1 was completed in 2000 and saw the completion of waterfront promenades and boardwalks, linking the waterfront to the heart of the city. It also included 10 mixed residential and commercial lots, The Western Australian Museum Mid West Gallery and a hotel site. 

“The Batavia Coast Marina development is part of the City’s Foreshore Redevelopment project,” Mayor Van Styn said. 

“We all know how much our beautiful Foreshore it utilised and most recently we’ve seen the addition of the Esplanade, the Youth Precinct and the Multi User Facility which will be opened in the near future. 

“We have such an amazing coastline and we want to showcase it the best we possibly can, not just for tourism but for our community to enjoy.” 

LandCorp chief executive officer Frank Marra said the Station Square redevelopment would transform the disused six hectare site into a prime destination for residents and visitors to meet and socialise, supported by accommodation and a range of commercial opportunities such as shops and eateries. 

“In our experience, the best outcomes for a city and its residents are achieved when Government and local authorities work together to deliver the right balance of economic, social and environmental benefits,” Mr Marra said. 

“The Batavia Coast Marina redevelopment, together with its new Station Square, aims to offer the Mid West region an iconic destination that will meet the needs of the community for generations to come.” 

In preparation for civil works and construction of Batavia Coast Marina stage two, contractors have been on site from Monday 22 February to complete additional remediation works. 

Activity will be restricted to between 7am to 5pm, Monday to Friday and temporary fencing will be installed around the works area. 

The works are scheduled to take approximately eight weeks to complete and will prepare the Station Square at Batavia Coast Marina site for the phase one subdivision and roads/drainage construction in mid 2016. 

For more information you can visit http://www.landcorp.com.au/Industrial-and-Commercial/Batavia-Coast-Marina/

Recent First World War discoveries at the WA Museum – Geraldton

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Corporal James Davie Renner, 4th Divisional Signals Company, of Fremantle, Western Australia

Visitors to the Western Australian Museum – Geraldton will have the opportunity to view the Australian War Memorial’s extraordinary travelling exhibition Remember me: the lost diggers of Vignacourt from 27 February 2016. 

WA Museum CEO Alec Coles said it was a privilege to display the unique First World War exhibition, an exquisite collection of black and white images printed from the original glass-plate negatives, as part of the Museum’s Centenary of Service commemorative calendar. 

“The photographs being exhibited represent one of the most important and recent discoveries of material from the First World War,” Mr Coles said. 

“This is such a significant exhibition we are especially pleased that not only was itdisplayed at our Perth site, it is also traveling to our regions to ensure the widest possible audience can experience it.” 

During the First World War, a total of 32,231 Western Australians enlisted in the Australian Imperial Force and saw active service at Gallipoli, the Western Front and Sinai-Palestine – some 6,800 never came home. The State raised 28th and 44th Battalions and the 10th Light Horse Regiment and, along with South Australia and Tasmania, contributed troops to five other units. 

The 80 photographs featured in the exhibition are part of The Louis and Antoinette Thuillier Collection, re-discovered in 2011 after sitting undisturbed for nearly a century in the attic of a farmhouse in the French village of Vignacourt. The soldiers in them were photographed by an enterprising husband-and-wife team, Louis and Antoinette Thuillier, who had set up a makeshift studio in their stable yard, just off the main street of Vignacourt. 

WA Museum – Geraldton Regional Manager Catherine Belcher said the images were printed onto postcards the soldiers sent to loved ones back home.

“The postcards were a treasured link to family amidst the horrors of war, and the Australian War Memorial has added several photographs of Western Australian soldiers to the tour not previously displayed in any other exhibition outside of WA,” Ms Belcher said. 

“Since the exhibition’s tour in WA commenced, eight more confirmed identifications of Western Australian soldiers have occurred. We encourage the public to help identify these unknown soldiers who had their photographs taken to send home to their families as postcards, but did not have their names recorded against the original glass plates. We would be thrilled to make another discovery in Geraldton”. 

The exhibition photographs were hand printed in the Australian War Memorial’s darkrooms from the original glass-plate negatives. Objects from the battlefields revealing what the Australians experienced and endured are also on display, while the original postcards included in the exhibition allow these soldiers to speak to us in their own words. 

The exhibition features prints of 80 of the more than 800 glass-plate negatives which were generously donated to the War Memorial by Mr Kerry Stokes AC in 2012. 

Director of the Australian War Memorial, Dr Brendan Nelson, said the enduring appeal of the photographic portraits is that they enable us to imagine the personalities and life stories. 

“The exhibition gives a vivid and insightful account of life behind the front lines in the village of Vignacourt, but it also speaks universally about the wartime experience of soldiers. The exhibition will provide Australians with the opportunity to connect with these remarkable photographs and the personal stories of camaraderie, loss and courage, behind many of the faces,” Dr Nelson said.

Remember me: the lost diggers of Vignacourt has been developed with the generous support of Mr Kerry Stokes AC, the Seven Network, Seven Group Holdings, and Wesfarmers. 

The exhibition is on display at the WA Museum – Geraldton from 27 February – 1 May 2016.

Price welcomes Dob in a Dealer launch – Australia’s fight against ice

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Federal Member for Durack Melissa Price has today welcomed the launch of a new million dollar partnership between the Turnbull Government and Crime Stoppers Australia to establish a national Dob in a Dealer campaign.

The Turnbull Government is providing $1 million to fund the national Dob in a Dealer campaign to raise awareness of methamphetamine, or ice, and encourage local communities to contact Crime Stoppers to help tackle the issue of manufacturing and distribution in their local area.

Ms Price said crimes relating to ice continue to be a concern for local police in Durack, with strong links between those who commit drug offences and those committing other violent crimes.

“Drugs such as ice can have devastating consequences for entire communities, and putting a stop to it will require a whole of community response. Police can’t do it alone,” Ms Price said.

“This is a vital campaign in Australia’s fight against ice, but its level of success will be reliant on the local intelligence Crime Stoppers receives.

“I urge all Durack residents to say enough is enough and to rid our streets, parks and neighbourhoods of criminals profiteering from the misery of ice, by undermining any criminal business models operating in our local area.”

Minister Keenan said the National Ice Taskforce Final Report, delivered in December, identified that the most important strategies to protect Australia from this devastating drug – and the violence it causes – is to disrupt supply and reduce demand.

“We’ve made significant investment in policing our borders and our streets and committed an additional $300 million over four years to improve treatment, after care, education, prevention, support and community engagement,” Mr Keenan said.

“While it is critical that these efforts continue, targeted Dob in a Dealer campaigns will help ensure our communities are no longer the end-game for international drug kingpins.

“Crime Stoppers provides residents with a safe, secure and anonymous avenue to report those suspected of being involved in the manufacture or supply of ice and other illicit drugs.

“It is up to all of us to work together to do all we can to protect our communities from the devastation of illegal drugs.”

If you have information about someone who is manufacturing or dealing in ice call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or online:crimestoppers.com.au.

No Fish Traps for the Gascoyne - February 24th Deadline for comment

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Vince Catania MLA, member for North West Central has reacted angrily to proposals for fish traps to be trialled by commercial fisheries in the Gascoyne.

The Department of Fisheries has called for community comment for the fish trap proposal and has given the public only two weeks to make submissions.

“The proposal to use fish traps in the Gascoyne is highly contentious. We have only been provided two weeks to comment on this proposal which is ludicrous” said Vince. “People in the Gascoyne have long memories and many recount the reason these traps were withdrawn originally in the 80’s.” he added “Fish traps are an idea that belong in the last century, we now fish for the future.”

Vince has listed many environmental concerns including the depletion of entire stocks of fish in an area when fish traps are used as commercial fishers attempt to fill their quotas around recreational fishing areas, the unacceptable risk of traps being lost and fishing “forever”, the impact on recreational fishing areas and damage to juvenile fish as the traps are raised and as juveniles are released at the surface.

“Recreational Fishing is an important pastime in the Gascoyne both for visitors and locals. This proposal has the potential to decimate recreational fishing, resulting in significant economic losses in the recreational fishing and tourism sector.” Said Vince.

“I am also extremely concerned that the proposal would allow Trap fishing from Shark Bay to Coral Bay one of the most pristine areas of the Australian coast. The damage fishtraps would cause on sensitive coral areas would be irreparable.”

Vince is preparing a petition which will be circulated to stop the fish trapping proposal. “There needs to be an inquiry into how this proposal has been put forward with minimal time for public comment. There is definitely something fishy going on here.” Said Vince “The proposal is not on the Department of fisheries website. Why the rush for something that could be so devastating?”

Bumper stickers are also being printed. “I fish, I vote, no fish traps in the Gascoyne” stickers will be available in the next few days from Vince’s Carnarvon office.

“I urge everyone to sign the petition, call the office for a sticker and write to Recfish and Minister for Fisheries to express their concerns about this proposal. The deadline for comment is 24th of February so please act now. If we don’t make our voices heard this trial will go ahead and it will be too late for our fish and our fishing future.”

Fish trap trial in the Gascoyne Demersal Scalefish Managed Fishery

Form for Petition in Relation to Fish Traps in The Gascoyne

Give Geraldton Youth a Go

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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

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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

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(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.)

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.

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. 

Visit MWCBAH

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.)

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. 

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. 

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. 

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. 

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.

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?

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

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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

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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

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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

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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.”

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

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.

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

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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

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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

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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

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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