City declared RV Friendly Town

City of Greater Geraldton Mayor Shane Van Styn on location at the Francis Street carpark where free 24hr free overnight parking is available for campervans and self-contained RVs.

A five-year long Council aspiration for the City to become more RV friendly has been fulfilled with Campervan and Motorhome Club of Australia officially declaring Geraldton an RV Friendly TownTM. 

To qualify for the program, the City had to meet the needs of RV travellers which include easy access to general shopping areas, provision of low cost overnight parking for self-contained vehicles, access to potable water and a free RV dumping point. 

City of Greater Geraldton Mayor Shane Van Styn said joining the network of 270 RV Friendly Towns across Australia with RV Friendly status will deliver direct benefits to the local community. 

“By joining the network, the City of Greater Geraldton will be promoted to RV travellers across Australia through the Campervan and Motorhome Club of Australia (CMCA) magazine, website and social media,” he said. 

“With the self-contained RV tourism market estimated to be worth more than $2.5 billion annually, Geraldton is now well positioned to access this lucrative market. 

“We already know that if we can capture just those visitors who currently bypass our City we can realistically increase overnight stays by 50% which would result in an estimated $9.5 million annual boost to our local economy.” 

According to CMCA Chairman Garry Lee, the CMCA RV Friendly TownTM network makes a significant contribution to the RV tourism market in Australia. 

“The number of registered RVs in Australia is expected to grow to more than 700,000 vehicles by 2020 as more baby boomers enter the market and regional Australia, which includes the City of Greater Geraldton, will benefit from this extraordinary growth,” he said. 

“Through a combination of social media and word of mouth RV tourists will quickly let their fellow travellers know what a great place Geraldton is to visit and experience what it is that makes this City region unique.” 

In an effort to further increase RV tourism in the area, the City will also be initiating a pilot project that utilises smart phone technology to notify holiday makers of the availability of overnight parking bays at the Francis Street carpark. 

“In the coming months the City will be trialling a mobile phone app called RV Parking Solution which informs passing traffic as to the number of RV parking bays in the Francis Street carpark, number of bays available, when bays will become available and the facilities available for use on site,” said Mayor Van Styn. 

For more information on visiting Geraldton go to the visitor centre website www.visitgeraldton.com.au

Nature playground planned for Wandina

Wandina Primary School Principal Di Miller and City of Greater Geraldton Mayor Shane Van Styn are joined by year three and year five students on the proposed site of a nature playground located on both school land and City owned land in Derna Park.

Getting back to nature will be easier than ever before for Wandina children with the signing of an agreement between the Wandina Primary School and the City to construct and maintain a nature playground in the heart of the suburb. 

City of Greater Geraldton Mayor Shane Van Styn said the school had contacted the City earlier in the year about jointly building a playground. 

“In July the Wandina Primary School approached the City with a proposal to construct a nature playground jointly on school land and City owned land located in Derna Park,” he said. 

“The proposal presented a unique opportunity for the Wandina Primary School and the City to pool funds and build a playground facility which would be used during school hours by students and after hours by the community.” 

Wandina Primary School Principal Di Miller said the idea to jointly build the playground came from the school’s strong focus on the local community. 

“The idea to jointly build the playground came from recognising the importance of involving the local community in the school and wanting to offer more activities to the young families in the area,” Ms Miller said. 

“With Derna Park located next door, approaching the City to jointly build a nature playground which would enable Wandina children of all ages to experience play in a natural environment was the obvious thing to do.” 

According to Mayor Van Styn the timing of the nature playground proposal couldn’t have been better with the City planning to construct a toilet block in the popular park this financial year. 

“Derna Park is classified as a District Park in the City’s hierarchy of parks which entitles it to playground equipment and a toilet block,” he said. 

“Although Derna Park is already popular with the local community, the addition of a nature playground and toilet block will result the Park becoming a top location for families from across Geraldton to visit and enjoy.” 

With the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between the City and Wandina Primary School regarding the construction and maintenance of the playground, a Royalties for Regions application to fund the construction of the playground will be able to proceed to the next stage.

Waterwise Rewards Program

Water Corporation has launched a Waterwise Garden Rewards to help the community save water in the garden. Through this program customers can purchase a selected product at Bunnings stores - then Water Corporation will pay for one or two more depending on each offer. 

Products available include selected mulch, soil improver or soil wetting agent from WA brands Richgro and Baileys. 

Offers available through the program are selected: 

• Mulch: Buy four bags and Water Corporation will pay for one more; or buy eight bags and Water Corporation will pay for two more
• Soil improver: Buy eight bags and Water Corporation will pay for two more
• Soil wetting agent: Buy one bottle/bag and Water Corporation will pay for one more 

To receive your reward, visit https://www.watercorporation.com.au/gardenrewards and register to download an e-voucher.  

There is a limit of one voucher per household, and customers must choose one of the four offers available. Vouchers can be printed or displayed on a smart phone screen.

City to recommence wildlife control program

The City will recommence its wildlife control program to relocate corellas from our CBD and other community assets.

After proven success last year, the City of Greater Geraldton will recommence its wildlife control program in a bid to be on the front foot in protecting public infrastructure and community assets.

Last year the City introduced a new method to relocate corellas from our CBD and other hotspots where the birds were causing significant damage to buildings, sporting grounds, businesses and other community assets.

City of Greater Geraldton CEO Ken Diehm said it was imperative the City acted promptly and responded to early warning signs.

“The corellas in our community have been an issue for some time now and during that time not only have we decreased the plague proportions but we have been able to study their behaviour and strategise a plan to deter them from our public infrastructure,” he said.

“Every year corellas cause thousands of dollars’ worth of damage to our City but we have now found a method to control this issue in a safe way that poses no threat to wildlife.”

The strategic operation undertaken by City Rangers maps out pinpoint problem areas to deploy the handheld deterrent which fires a cartridge approximately 20 metres into the sky close to where the corellas are roosting.

The acquired specialised device made in New Zealand is specifically designed for controlling wildlife in an extremely safe and effective way.

There are three different cartridges which omit different high pitched sounds in order to relocate the birds.

The exercise will begin this week concentrating on current corella activity within central Geraldton, Wonthella, Utakarra, Walkaway and Mullewa. The operation is expected to continue for a month. Residents are advised not to be alarmed if they hear loud noises in their area. 

For further information on the program contact the City on 9956 6600 or email council@cgg.wa.gov.au

Community to celebrate International Day of People with Disability

In the spirit of breaking down barriers and celebrating abilities, the City of Greater Geraldton has teamed up with local service providers to host a number of events as part of International Day of People with Disability.

On Thursday 1 and Friday 2 December, celebrations will include wheelchair basketball, a live petting exhibit, the Creative Waves art exhibition plus heaps more.

City of Greater Geraldton Mayor Shane Van Styn said the event was celebrated on an international scale and it was very significant for the City to recognise.

“We are committed to facilitating the inclusion of people with disability and we think it’s very important to support the celebration and recognise the great work that is done within our community,” he said.

“We are proud to support International Day for People with Disability by hosting a celebratory event plus teaming up with local community organisations to present some great activities.

“I would encourage everyone to come down and check out the events.”

International Day of People with Disability (IDPwD) is an annual global event that aims to increase public awareness, understanding and acceptance of people with disability, and celebrate the achievements and contributions that people with disability have made to the community.

This year the City will be hosting celebrations on Friday 2 December from 4-7pm at the Geraldton Multipurpose Centre stage area on the Foreshore. There will be wheelchair basketball, family friendly activities, a free sausage sizzle and more.

The Creative Waves art exhibition by people with a disability will be held on Thursday 1 December at the Queens Park Theatre opening at 6pm.

There will also be a live petting exhibit presented by Central Regional TAFE Animal Studies and Students on Thursday 1 December from 9-11am.

Full details can be found on the City’s website at www.cgg.wa.gov.au

Wheelchair Basketball will be just one of the great activities held as part of International Day of People with Disability.

Better facilities for Mid West cancer patients

A new state-of-the-art cancer centre in Geraldton will enable patients in the Mid West to receive vital chemotherapy services closer to home. 

Member for Durack Melissa Price today welcomed the opening of the Midwest Cancer Centre, which was constructed with $4.1 million in federal funding. 

The new centre has six chemotherapy treatment chairs and one patient bed, as well as facilities for use by breast cancer nurses. The project also includes a hostel for patients and families with seven double bedrooms. 

Ms Price said the ageing population in the Mid West meant that the number of cancer cases was continuing to rise. 

“Cancer is something that affects us all, directly or indirectly,” Ms Price said. 

“Investing in facilities and services in regional areas like Geraldton is important for individuals, families and communities and I’m proud to be a part of a Government which has delivered this facility. 

“A cancer diagnosis is hard enough on patients and their families. This new facility will allow many local patients to get the treatment they need close to home, without the added burden and cost of having to travel to the city.” 

Minister for Health Sussan Ley said tetter health services in rural, regional and remote areas of Australia are an absolute priority of the Turnbull Government’s health reform agenda. 

“This new cancer treatment centre will make a huge difference to people in the Midwest who are diagnosed with cancer and require chemotherapy,” Minister Ley said. 

“This cancer centre is a great example of delivering the kind of services that regional Australia deserves.” 

The Australian Government also provided $1.2 million for consulting rooms and offices for the new Garburdiny Renal Centre adjacent to the cancer centre. The renal centre has been operating since September. 

The Geraldton Cancer Centre is one of five new cancer centres and patient accommodation projects funded by the Australian Government with a total of $22.3 million. The other centres are in Albany, Narrogin, Kalgoorlie and Northam. 

“These centres will be used as the base to provide holistic, multi-disciplinary cancer services for patients in rural Western Australia, linked closely to major cancer centres in Perth and to each other,” Ms Ley said.

WA Police Pride Parade Involvement

The Commissioner of Police authorised all police officers and staff, for the first time in WA Police’s history, the ability to participate in uniform in the annual Pride Parade held in Northbridge, Perth.

Commissioner Karl O’Callaghan said the decision reflected the values of the agency and was a demonstration of our commitment to equality and diversity.

“A lot of police officers have been waiting for this decision and I am pleased to be able to support them and make it happen in my time as Commissioner”. 

On Saturday night, 19 November 2016, approximately 25 police personnel participated in the parade and the Commissioner was represented by Deputy Commissioner Steve Brown APM who participated in the march.

Numerous officers from regional Western Australia attended and it demonstrates widespread organisational support for persons within the LGBTI+ community. Members of the public, even in regional WA, should feel comfortable approaching their local police to speak with them about LGBTI+ related crime issues, domestic violence etc. 

Suspected Arson – Durlacher Street

At about 6:00am on Sunday 20 November 2016, police officers were called to attend smoke emitting from the rear of the Podiatry Clinic, 165 Durlacher Street, Geraldton.

On investigation, a fire was located outside in the rear of the premises and it appears that a bin was set ablaze which has spread to a nearby vehicle and the building itself. DFES attended the scene and extinguished the fire.

The fire appears to be suspicious and WA Police and DFES are currently investigating.

Police are appealing to any witnesses who may have observed the fire or any suspicious activity around that location leading up to the fire to contact Crimestoppers on 1800 333 000. 

Serious Crash (Car vs Scooter) – Rangeway

At about 11:00pm on Saturday 19 November 2016, police were called to attend a serious traffic crash on the North West Coastal Highway in Rangeway. It appears a scooter has hit the side of a van, causing the scooter to lose control and crash.

On arrival, police assisted paramedics with the 34 year old rider of the scooter who suffering life-threatening injuries. The rider was airlifted by RFDS to Perth in a critical condition for emergency surgery.

Other road users have reported to police that the scooter was being ridden erratically before the incident. Police are investigating if alcohol was a factor in the crash.

Mid West Gascoyne Traffic Enforcement Group and the Major Crash Investigation Section are investigating the incident.

Police are appealing to any witnesses who may have observed the altercation and are urged to call Crimestoppers on 1800 333 000. 

Update: Police have issued a correction to the age of the person.  

Grievous Bodily Harm – Geraldton Hotel

At about 7.00pm on Saturday 19 November 2016 a fight broke out inside the Geraldton Hotel with one male reported to have been knocked unconscious.

Police attended the scene and took a man into custody. He is currently assisting with our inquiries.

The victim reportedly suffered serious injuries, including a bleed to the brain, and is currently admitted within the Geraldton Regional Hospital for treatment.

Police are appealing to any witnesses who may have observed the altercation and are urged to call Crimestoppers on 1800 333 000. 

Greenough Pioneer Museum have a very cool "Women Through The Ages" exhibition at the moment

Get down to the Greenough Pioneer Museum and check out the Women Through the Ages exhibition. 

Thanks Michelle McKoy for these great shots.

New funds to inspire and entertain

The Geraldton community is invited to share in the benefits of two new programs to bring dynamic shows and performing artists to regional centres.

Nationals WA Member of Parliament and candidate for the seat of Geraldton Paul Brown MP said the investment of $1.3 million in the New Work in the House and Artists in the House initiatives would see performances created that were relevant to local audiences, along with exciting artist-inresidence programs.

“I encourage Geraldton performing artists to pitch their ideas and apply for funding,” Mr Brown said.

“This is about supporting and creating regional jobs in the arts sector, while entertaining and inspiring local residents.

“It is another example of the Liberal National Government’s commitment to ensuring country communities have access to as many cultural opportunities as possible.”

The funding has come from Royalties for Regions, through the four-year, $24 million Creative Regions program.

“The $1 million New Work in the House program will challenge Western Australian performers and performing arts companies to create work that will engage both regional and metropolitan audiences,” Mr Brown said.

“But the bottom line is that the performances will have to be produced and premiered in country WA, which will help drive job creation and community engagement.”

The $315,000 Artists in the House program will help fund artist-in-residence programs designed to activate regional venues.

“I have no doubt the Geraldton community will benefit because both programs will support strong interaction between performers and local residents,” Mr Brown said.

“The two new programs will dovetail with other Creative Regions initiatives, which support touring shows and improving local venues.”

Applications for stage one of New Work in the House are now open and close on 15 December 2016. The second stage opens February 2017 and closes at the end of March 2017. Applications for Artists in the House open in February 2017 and close at the end of March 2017

For more information on the new grants programs, visit: http://www.dca.wa.gov.au/onlinegrants/online-grants-programs/

Students volunteer their skills to help the community and local economy

Geraldton Senior College students and staff gather with members of the Geraldton Clay Target Club and Construction Onsite Training to celebrate the completion of the building project.

Year 11 students studying at Geraldton Senior College rolled up their sleeves last term to assist the Geraldton Clay Target Club. These students are studying certificates in Building and Construction and Engineering pathways with Construction Onsite Training whilst completing their schooling at Geraldton Senior College. Under supervision of their teachers and tradesmen, they built a brick trap house with a custom metal roof. This, in turn, enabled smooth running of the recent Crayfish Carnival held at the Geraldton Clay Target Club which hosts over 150 visitors from within WA and interstate over the three day event.

“We can’t find the words for what these students have done,” said Club President Laurie Oliveri. “They have done such a good job and we are so grateful.

“When we first spoke about the project, we had a definite deadline with the annual carnival. The young people really got into it and finished the job two weeks early. I have received many comments on the high quality of the workmanship and its accurate positioning. We all thought it was so good that we decided to repaint the other trap houses so we could renumber them and call the one built by the students’number one.

“The whole process saved the club a lot of money and gave these young people a chance to show themselves and the community what they can do. They took a lot of pride in their work. Their supervisor had a lot of patience for them, worked with their abilities and everyone learned a lot.

“The Carnival went very well and the extra trap house made our club look more professional. We have visitors from as far away as Darwin and Melbourne. The person who took out ‘High Gun’ for the day was from Mulgoa NSW.”

To show their appreciation the Geraldton Clay Target Club held a thank you event to bring together the families of the students, various staff within the school and club members. Attendees were able to try out the sport as well as enjoy lunch and a presentation.

For mum Denise Beard, this program has been a welcome change, “Programs like this are priceless in developing skills for my son’s future. Doing real-life activities in various types of trades helps our youth make decisions about being part of specific industries such as building and construction. Its’ hands-on experience that will help him secure a job in the future.

“They also participated in a community service task of cleaning up an elderly gentleman’s garden. They didn’t have to do it but chose to. They were all proud and happy to help out.

“My son hasn’t missed a day of this program. He wants to be there, doesn’t mind getting his hands dirty or cleaning up. Each week his pop has been enjoying seeing his progress and that of the project.”

Geraldton Senior College representative and Career and Vocational Education Manager, Cameron Todd said, “It is so beneficial to have a real-life project for students to work on rather than just creating a practice wall where you build it then take it down at the end. This has been a real game changer for the students involved.”

Principal of Geraldton Senior College, Greg Kelly said, “This is a brilliant example of the partnerships that we develop between the school and community. It gives the opportunity for our students to develop confidence in doing high level tasks while having the support of a teacher or tradesman nearby.”

Extreme fire conditions forecast for Tuesday

Residents in the Midwest Gascoyne, Great Southern and Goldfields Midlands are being urged to prepare their families and properties this weekend, with the Bureau of Meteorology predicting dangerous fire conditions on Tuesday.   

The Department of Fire and Emergency Services (DFES) Acting Assistant Commissioner Country Murray Bawden said the predicted weather conditions will make it extremely hard for firefighters to bring bushfires under control. 
 

"Tuesday is predicted to bring a dangerous combination of 40 km/h strong winds, temperatures in the high 30s, and possible dry lightning,” A/Assistant Commissioner Bawden said.  

"These are extremely bad conditions for a fire, and DFES is getting ready by putting preformed incident management teams and strike forces on standby. 

"Tuesday also coincides with the anniversary of the 2015 Esperance fires, with it being a stark reminder of the heartbreaking destruction bushfires can cause.” 

A/Assistant Commissioner Bawden said DFES is getting ready for the bad fire weather, however everyone needs to play their part.  

"This weekend sit down with your family and have a chat about what you will do if a bushfire occurs, and make sure you have an emergency kit ready to go. 

"Also take the time to prepare your property by pruning back trees, cutting long grass, clearing your roof gutters and removing rubbish from around your house – taking an hour to prepare now will give you, your family and property the best chance of surviving a bushfire. 

"On Tuesday you will need to be extra vigilant of your surroundings, and if you see smoke and flames report it immediately to triple zero and put you bushfire survival plan into action.” 

For more information about preparing for and responding to bushfire visit emergency.wa.gov.au  

Funding approved for underground power in CBD

The removal of dangerous and unsightly timber power poles and overhead power lines on Chapman Road and Durlacher Street in the Geraldton CBD is one step closer with the City being approved for funding in Round Five of the Western Power State’s Underground Power Program Localised Enhancement Project.

City of Greater Geraldton Mayor Shane Van Styn said the undergrounding of power in the CBD was one of the key issues he wanted Council to focus on under his leadership.

“The undergrounding of power in the CBD was a key component of my mayoral campaign and I am very pleased that we are one step closer towards achieving this goal,” he said.

The removal of power poles and provision of underground power will improve road safety whilst providing a more reliable power supply and enhanced streetscapes.

“The power poles on Durlacher Street are an ongoing safety concern as a number of vehicles have collided with the poles in the past,” said Mayor Van Styn.

“Underground power also reduces the risk of blackouts during inclement weather due to downed power lines.

“Once the timber power poles are removed the City can take the first step in the beautification of these thoroughfares which starts with the renewal of the footpath on Durlacher Street between Chapman Road and Sanford Street.

“The project involves replacing the old concrete block footpath with a continuously poured reinforced concrete footpath will improve pedestrian and cyclist safety in this location,” Mayor Van Styn added.

Undergrounding of power in the CBD has also been recommended in the City’s Integrated Transport Strategy, City Centre Vibrancy Plan and in the recently released draft Growth Plan. 

The project has now entered the Detailed Proposal Stage which will confirm the final project boundary and total project cost. The City has allocated $500,000 in the 2016/17 Budget to match the State Underground Power Program Grant contribution.

Removal of tree in Rundle Park

The City of Greater Geraldton wishes to advise it will be removing a dead Tuart tree in Rundle Park on Tuesday 15 November 2016.

Although the City is always reluctant to remove trees as they add to the liveability of the urban space, in this case the tree located in close proximity to the footpath presents a serious risk to pedestrians and motorists.

During the removal of the tree, motorists and pedestrians are requested to exercise caution and obey all warning signs and directions from authorised City personnel and contractors.

The City apologises for any inconvenience these works may cause.

If you have any queries regarding the renewal works please contact the City on 08 9956 6600 or email council@cgg.wa.gov.au. 

Geraldton Apprentice is WA’s Top Building Apprentice

Jamie Desmond, a third-year carpentry apprentice with Aussie Sheds Group in Geraldton is the 2016 Master Builders WA Most Outstanding Apprentice, beating six other finalists to take home this prestigious award. 

Master Builders Training Director, Neil Du Rand said Jamie was a standout winner.  

“The three-member judging panel was very impressed with Jamie and how he conducted himself in the interview. He has a broad skill set, is very articulate and a good thinker, all the qualities we look for in an apprentice. He will be a great ambassador for Master Builders and other apprentices in the industry,” Mr Du Rand said.  

“The Master Builders Apprentice of the Year Awards are vital for our industry as they celebrate and acknowledge the innovation, skill level, dedication and leadership of the new generation of workers in the construction industry, those who will lead our industry in the future,” Mr Du Rand said.   

Melanie Battilana, Office Manager at Aussie Sheds Group said Jamie has excelled in leaps and bounds since he first started with the company in 2013.

“Jamie is well respected by all his co-workers and other trades onsite. He uses his initiative in getting the job done in a safe and timely manner, and is constantly coming up with new ideas to make the working environment run smoother,” Ms Battilana said. 

“Jamie is a huge asset to Aussie Sheds and all of our clients in the mid-west region,” Ms Battilana concluded. 

Other finalists for the Master Builders Apprentice of the Year were:

• Gary Clegg – Apprentice carpenter, Skill Hire’s Most Outstanding Apprentice;
• Jordan Westray – Apprentice plasterer, the Most Outstanding Solid Plastering Apprentice nominated by the WA Solid Plasterers Association (WASPA);
• Beau Simpson – Apprentice bricklayer, Now Living (Most Outstanding Bricklaying Apprentice);
• Jacob Moore – Apprentice wall and floor tiler, Silver Fern Tiling (Most Outstanding Floor and Wall Tiling Apprentice);
• Tameka Kenny – Apprentice painter and decorator, MPA Skills (Most Outstanding Female Apprentice); and
• Jeremy Allan – Apprentice carpenter, Broome Builders (Most Outstanding Regional Apprentice).

 Congratulations also to Tameka Kenny, a third-year painting and decorating apprentice with MPA Skills for winning the Most Outstanding Female Apprentice at this year’s awards. 

“This year we saw the highest calibre of female apprentices enter the awards, among the 79 female apprentices in our industry in WA, so Tameka did extremely well to win,” Mr Du Rand said. 

“The passion and dedication she displayed, along with the outstanding achievements she has attained to date made her a standout in an extremely competitive year for female apprentices.”     

“All finalists for the Female Apprentice of the Year Award should be proud of themselves and their ability to perform at the highest level in the traditionally male dominated industry,” Mr Du Rand said.  

“It is remarkable that for the third time in the last five years, an apprentice from Broome has won our Regional Apprentice of the Year Award,” MBA Geraldton Regional Manager, Di Gilleland said. 

“Well done to Jeremy Allen who is employed by Broome Builders in being adjudged the most outstanding apprentice across five regional areas of WA.”  

“Congratulations to all winners in this year’s Apprentice Awards. These awards are highly contested, and so to win is a great achievement that all finalists should be very proud of,” Mrs Gilleland concluded.  

Master Builders acknowledges the generous support of Cbus Super and the Department of Finance as our major alliance partners, along with all our other sponsors and supporters in helping to make this special event happen.  

The annual Master Builders Apprentice of the Year Awards were held on Friday, 4 November at Perth Convention and Exhibition Centre before a crowd of nearly 300 apprentices, builders, contractors, trainers, sponsors, and other supporters including family members. Finance Minister Hon. Sean L’Estrange MLA represented the Premier. 

Open-Plains Zoo planned for Western Australia

Geraldton MLA Ian Blayney has today welcomed the Premier’s announcement of a proposed open-plains zoo for Western Australia. 

“I visited Adelaide in 2013 and spent a day at the open plains zoo at Monarto, 70 kilometres east of Adelaide. 

“I was so impressed that on my return to Geraldton, I wrote to Premier Barnett advocating for such a zoo to be established in Western Australia. 

“Open plain zoos will have a huge role in the preservation of endangered species. The animal that first comes to mind is the rhinoceros. These imposing animals are fast being driven to extinction in Africa, by poachers selling their horn. 

“I’d hoped that Geraldton might be considered for such a facility but it is important that the zoo is located within an hour’s drive from Perth. I think Chittering is a good choice. 

“There is nothing quite as amazing as seeing these animals roaming freely in the open plains, living peacefully,” said Mr Blayney. 

The proposed zoo will be located on the Avon River at Lower Chittering next to the Avon Valley National Park. 

“it will be an amazing attraction for visitors to Western Australia and locals alike,” said Mr Blayney.

Meth strategy delivers 10 new Midwest rehab beds

The Liberal National Government has announced funding for 10 new residential rehabilitation treatment beds in the Midwest as part of its $14.9 million WA Meth Strategy announced in May. 

Mental Health Minister Andrea Mitchell said the contract for the 10 beds at Hope Community Services in Geraldton, was one of a number that would provide a total of 60 new treatments beds across the state, all of which will be available from January 2017. 

Geraldton MLA Ian Blayney said the beds represented a significant boost in treatment and support for users and their families in the Midwest who wanted to address methamphetamine use. 

“Recent statistics show that methamphetamine use and its associated harms is a significant problem in regional areas right around Australia,” Mr Blayney said. 

““These beds will add to the existing stock of treatment beds in the Midwest and ensure continuity of treatment options for people in Midwest communities who are experiencing meth-related harm.” 

Minister Mitchell said the WA Meth Strategy 2016, had already delivered a boost to staffing in community alcohol and other drug counselling centres across the state, a dedicated Meth Helpline, a specialist meth outpatient clinic and front line worker training.

“There is no one-size-fits-all treatment model for treating people with drug and alcohol problems,” Minister Mitchell said. 

“The best outcomes are achieved when the type of treatment matches the specific needs of the individual and State Government is ensuring that the entire spectrum of treatment and prevention options is supported and available across the State.” 

Seniors Week jam packed with activities

Seats are quickly being snapped up for the popular Mayor’s Mystery Bus Tour.

Seniors in our community will be celebrated during Seniors Week with a jam packed program of events!

Kicking off on Saturday 5 November, a bumper line up of activities has everything from music, sport, art, different workshops and have a go days.

City of Greater Geraldton Mayor Shane Van Styn said the week-long festivities was a great way to acknowledge the hard work and contribution of local seniors.

“We have some amazing seniors in our community that make a very big and important contribution in all different facets of our community,” he said.

“Seniors week is a great way to recognise all that hard work and we’re extremely proud that we can offer such an amazing line up of activities and something that will appeal to all seniors.”

Mayor Van Styn will officially open Seniors Week on Sunday 6 November from 2pm onward with the Neil Diamond Tribute concert at the Queens Park Theatre.

There will be a prelude event on Saturday 5 November with the screening of Young @ Heart at 6pm by the Friends of Queens Park Theatre.

During the week there will be a huge line up of activities from the popular Mayor’s Mystery Bus tour, quiz afternoon, bingo session, workshops, have-a-go sessions and much more.

“These celebrations would not be possible without the hard work and dedication of the Seniors Week Committee, as well as the businesses who have made generous donations,” Mayor Van Styn said.

Along with prize contributions, select businesses are also offering discounts to those with valid pensioners or seniors cards.

Pick up a program booklet from the QEII Seniors & Community Centre or download a copy from the City’s website at www.cgg.wa.gov.au.

Bookings are essential! Tickets are available from the QEII Seniors & Community Centre from 8.30am until 2.00pm weekdays.