Burglary Arrests Geraldton

the weekend of Saturday 27 and Sunday 29 January 2018, Officers from the Geraldton Police Station arrested and charged two juvenile females for a number of burglaries that occurred during December (2017) and January 2018 on Geraldton Businesses.

2 people were arrested and charged with the following:

• 14 year old female from Rangeway – 1 x Agg Burglary with Intent, 1 x Agg Burglary and Commit and 1 x Stealing.
• 14 year old female from Rangeway – 1 x Agg Burglary with Intent, 2 x Agg Burglary and Commit and 2 x Stealing.
• Both will be attending the Geraldton Children’s Court

Cricket champs success to attract more events

The City of Greater Geraldton are set to attract more high-quality sporting events to the region after the success of the recent Toyota Australian Country Cricket Championships. Picture: Arctic Moon Photography

After the success of the recent Toyota Australian Country Cricket Championships, the City of Greater Geraldton is set to attract more high-quality sporting events to the region.

The 10-day tournament saw the local economy benefitting from 500 people staying in Geraldton with the total economic output estimated at $1.1 million.

City of Greater Geraldton Mayor Shane Van Styn said hosting the Championships was another step closer to securing more sporting events.

“We are continuing to showcase ourselves as a destination that can host top-notch sporting events and this is the perfect example alongside last year’s AFL pre-season Derby match,” he said.

“It will open up a lot more opportunities for us to host other nation-wide cricket competitions and we are currently in talks with the WACA regarding the possibility of a regional Big Bash match here in Geraldton.

“We have proved that we have top-class facilities to hold these kinds of events and we look forward to bringing more to our region as we know how invaluable the benefits are.”

The Championship Exhibition Match was well attended with nearly 600 people at Wonthella Oval taking in the action.

The tournament was delivered in partnership with Cricket Australia, Western Australia Cricket Association (WACA) and the Geraldton Regional Cricket Board.

Cricket Australia Executive General Manager of Game and Market Development, Andrew Ingleton congratulated Geraldton on the event.

“We are very pleased to have brought the Toyota Australian Country Cricket Championships to Geraldton. The city continues to establish itself as a destination of choice with a stunning Foreshore, excellent sporting venues and welcoming people,” he said.

“Geraldton is a wonderful place to visit, and these Country Cricket Championships have provided a great opportunity for many visitors to appreciate everything this town has to offer.

“The success of the competition comes down to the backing from state and regional associations and local communities off the field.  We could not run such an event without the outstanding contribution and support of the local cricket community and our event partners, namely, the City of Greater Geraldton, Toyota, Kookaburra, the Geraldton Cricket Board, Gatorade, Sanitarium, umpires and officials.”

Mayor Van Styn added that the event was a great example of local clubs and boards working in conjunction with the City and outside parties.

“We were very lucky to work alongside Cricket Australia, the WACA and also our Geraldton Regional Cricket Board,” he said.

“A lot of hard work and effort was put in from a lot of our local clubs and it is a testament to the great outcomes that can come from collaborations like this one.”

February bumper month for Cruise Ships

Councillor Bob Hall receives a plaque from Azamara Journey Captain Magnus Davidson.

A total of five cruise ships will call Geraldton home for a day in February making it a bumper month for the local cruise ship calendar!

With two ships already hitting our shores this year, there are a total of 12 cruise ships scheduled to visit Geraldton in 2018 with the possibility of more.

City of Greater Geraldton Mayor Shane Van Styn said Geraldton was becoming an increasingly popular spot for cruise ships to stop.

“We love having the cruise ships come here to Geraldton, the benefits to our community are massive,” he said.

“In February alone there will an estimated quarter of a million dollars injected into our local economy.

“Four of the five ships coming in February have never been to Geraldton before so it’s great that our name is now on their radar.

“With extended trading hours in operation it’s fantastic that ships scheduled to visit on a Sunday will have a lot more variety when it comes to retail.”

The first ship of 2018 was ms Regatta followed by an unscheduled stop by Azamara Journey. Next will be Crystal Symphony on Sunday 4 February.

“We love seeing all the tourists disembarking off the ship and into our community on various tours and sightseeing ventures,” Mayor Van Styn added.

“After spending significant time at the Port during Azamara’s visit, I had several passengers commenting on how clean and attractive our City was and a majority of them carried shopping bags back onto the ship after enjoying their day out which was great to see.

“Big kudos to our cruise ship meet and greet volunteers who are always giving warm welcomes to our guests.”

With the recent acquisition of four shore tension units by Mid West Ports Authority,  Mayor Van Styn said Geraldton is becoming known as a ‘safe port’ for ships that are including Western Australia on their itineraries.  

“We are now able to have ships berth in Port instead of anchoring in Champion Bay, which is definitely a draw card,” Mayor Van Styn said.

“Geraldton is continuing to establish itself as a destination of choice and it’s great that we are being seen by thousands of cruise ship passengers from all over the world!’

City to upgrade sporting facility lighting

Evening football and soccer activities at the Greenough Oval and Alexander Park will soon come under new light when flood lighting towers at both facilities are replaced in the coming months.

City of Greater Geraldton Mayor Shane Van Styn said the decision to replace the towers was based on the findings of a recent audit conducted on sporting tower floodlighting at all non-leased grounds and several leased facilities with tower floodlighting. 

“The audit reported some light towers had reached their end of life whilst other towers were in need of maintenance,” he said.

“Many of these towers and floodlights were installed by the sporting clubs with the assistance of volunteers and we are thankful for their dedication and hard work.

“Unfortunately, the efforts of well-meaning volunteers has in many cases resulted in inadequately maintained floodlights which have now become financially unviable for clubs to continue to maintain or the towers becoming non-compliant.”

The Sporting Facilities Lighting Audit Report recommends removing the floodlight towers at the Greenough Oval and Alexander Park, as they no longer meet standards in terms of pole height and lighting levels.

“The light towers at the Greenough Oval, home to Rovers Football Club, are originally from the Gloucester Park in Perth and were installed more than 20 years,” Mayor Van Styn said.

“The Alexander Park towers have been lighting up Rovers Soccer Club, Chapman Athletics Soccer Club and the Marconi Soccer Club activities since the early 2000s.

“Although these towers have served these sporting groups well, due to their age and condition they now need to be replaced.”

Mayor Van Styn said asset renewal is a Council priority.

“This Council has been taking measures to improve the financial sustainability of the City and has concentrated spending on renewing our existing assets,” he said.

“The 2017/18 Budget includes $700,000 to renew sporting tower lighting which we are putting towards keeping the floodlights on at the Greenough Oval and Alexander Park.”

To improve the future management of flood lighting, a Sporting Flood Lighting Policy will be developed in the coming months.

Local heroes recognised on Australia Day

Nominees and winners of the Australia Day Active Citizen of the Year Awards.

Several community members have come away with a win following the Australia Day Active Citizen of the Year Awards on Friday.

Presented in both Geraldton and Mullewa, the Australia Day Active Citizen of the Year Awards acknowledge those who demonstrate leadership and enhance community life. 

Geraldton’s Community Citizen of the Year was presented to Emma Jackson, and local icon Bobby Pepper claimed Community Citizen of the Year (55 and over). Youngster Jessica Muller took out the 26 and under category and Geraldton Seniors Week Committee secured Community Group of the Year Award.

Mullewa’s Julie Freeman was awarded the Community Citizen of the Year and Casey Tunbridge obtained the 26 and under prize. Tenindewa Progress Association secured Community Group of the Year Award and Community Citizen of the Year (55 and over) was presented to Kim Keeffe. 

City of Greater Geraldton Mayor Shane Van Styn congratulated the winners and nominees.

“Each person who won or was nominated gives back to our community in a number of ways and I thank them for their ongoing contribution,” he said.

“They encourage positive change, enhance our community life and make Greater Geraldton what it is – a flourishing regional City.

“The Australia Day Active Citizen of the Year Awards are a great way to acknowledge those who put their blood, sweat and tears into our community and I thank everyone who took time to nominate.”

Winners of the 2018 Awards will join previous recipients Di Gilleland, Grant Woodhams and Julian Canny.

Mayor Van Styn, Australia Day Ambassador Tim Britten, Ian Blayney MLA and Laurie Graham MLC presented the recipients with a medal and framed certificate on the day.

For more information about the Australia Day Active Citizen of the Year Awards, please visit www.citizenshipawards.com.au

Community nursery growing strong

Plant production at the Community Nursery is in full swing with volunteers aiming to grow 20,000 local native plants to help revegetate Geraldton’s natural bush and beach areas this year.

City of Greater Geraldton Mayor Shane Van Styn said the Community Nursery is steadily ‘growing’ from strength to strength.

“Following the well-attended Volunteer Open Day in October last year, the number of nursery volunteers has grown to well over 40 who have all shown a keen interest in acquiring new skills,” he said.

“Recently, volunteers ranging in age from 13 to 82 attended a propagation workshop to learn the secrets behind successfully growing our very diverse native plants.

“Over two days, volunteers and MEEDAC work for the Dole participants banded together to learn how to germinate various seeds, how to prick out and pot on seedlings and how to grow local native plants from cuttings.”

Volunteers have already put their new knowledge to use when the first seeds ‘hit the dirt’ before the Christmas.  Now that the break is over, propagation will begin in earnest.

Community Nursery participants (from left) Kyle Cleminson, Anna Beyer and Roslyn Kelly use skills learned at a propagation workshop to prick out and pot on seedlings. 

Indian Ocean Drive Safety Package Underway

Work is underway this week to install audible edge and centre lines on Indian Ocean Drive, one of the improvements recommended by the recently released Road Safety Review report.

Public safety is a priority for Main Roads, as is the safety of our workers out on the road, so for the duration of these works we ask that drivers remain patient with the traffic management on site.

Main Roads has also installed advanced guide signs at the end of the current passing lanes to let drivers know how far they’ll need to travel before they reach the next passing lane opportunity.

Where signs were found to be less reflective they have been replaced, and line maintenance has also been carried out to ensure the lines are whiter and brighter for vehicles travelling along the route in all conditions.

Planning for the first set of passing lanes is well underway, with tenders to be advertised early in the new year and construction scheduled to begin near Ledge Point by April 2018.

Drivers along Indian Ocean Drive will see a lot happening over the next few years. Other recommendations such as the wide centre line treatment (similar to the Great Northern Highway between Muchea and Wubin in the Wheatbelt and the Coalfields Highway in the South West) are in the planning stages with funding to be sought through the normal budgetary processes.

Thank you for your patience and assistance when encountering changed traffic conditions, road works and temporary traffic management impediments.

Changing the World – one inspirational story at a time

Inspired Magazine founder Samille Mitchell with the latest issue of the magazine hot off the press.

Kalbarri writer Samille Mitchell is again showcasing the work of inspirational people striving to change the world, with the launch of the third issue of Inspired Magazine.

Inspired Magazine volume 3 takes readers across the globe to meet nine inspirational people working to make the world better.

It features people like the can-do Aussie Gemma Sisia, who is transforming lives for Tanzania’s bright but poverty-stricken children with free schooling in Africa.

It tells the tale of American man Conor Grennan’s bid to reunite stolen Nepalese children with their families. It shares the heartbreaking story of Live Your Legend founder Scott Dinsmore.

And includes a new feature on ethical travel with a story about a trip into the pulsing jungles of Borneo, plus more.

Samille, who founded the magazine three years ago, said she was extremely excited to have Inspired’s third issue back from the printers.

“I can scarcely believe we’ve managed to pull together the third issue of the magazine,” she said.

“And this year we’ve gone national – it’s amazing to think Inspired Magazine will now be in newsagencies across the country.”

Samille said it had been a testing road bringing the third issue to print.

“Producing a print magazine at a time when such magazines are in serious decline was probably not the most sensible business idea!” she said.

“There have been many times when I’ve questioned what I’m doing dedicating so much time and effort to telling these stories.

“But I’m so seriously passionate about sharing the stories of inspiring people that I just don’t seem to be able to give it up.

“I really think the media could do with a dose of hope and inspiration to help counter the negativity and political bickering that makes up so much of the news.”

Samille said producing a national magazine from her home office in Kalbarri had also posed some challenges.

“But I love that I can connect with all these amazing people all over the world, while still getting to live in a town that I love.”

Inspired’s first two issues were produced thanks to crowdfunding campaigns supported by a whole host of generous people. The third issue has been made possible thanks to partnerships with profit-for-purpose businesses.

Inspired Magazine is available in Geraldton at newsagencies, Pollinators, Flow Vitality, or by ordering online at www.inspired.org.au

City balances Budget

After years of hard work to identify efficiency gains whilst maintaining a high level of service to the community, the City of Greater Geraldton’s budget has reached surplus. 

At last night’s Ordinary Meeting of Council, the City’s operating result was reported to be sitting at $3.2 million in surplus with an underlying surplus of over $145,000 after allowing for prepaid grants.

City of Greater Geraldton Mayor Shane Van Styn said it was a big win for Council who had been working hard for years to find efficiency gains to pave the way for a bright financial future for the City.

“Two years ago we had an operating deficit over $9 million and financial sustainability was projected to be at least 10 years off,” he said.

“It’s been a rewarding journey and it’s great to see that the City is back on track and has ended years of operating losses.”

Mayor Van Styn said while the financial position of the City was a huge win for the organisation, it was not a time for Council to be frivolous with spending.

“We are still budgeting for a deficit of $1.2 million this year and we need to continue to work hard to achieve sustainable surpluses,” he said.

“We still have a backlog of asset renewals so we need to continue to be smart with our long-term financial planning to ensure we can still offer key services to our community whilst keeping up with infrastructure renewals.”

The City has also dramatically lifted its FHI score from being in the bottom 20% to possibly the top 20% of Councils within Western Australia on the Department of Local Government’s Financial Health Indicator (FHI) calculator.

The FHI Calculator is the current benchmark measurement of a Council’s overall financial health.

“The FHI calculator enables us to measure our overall financial health and this information assists in our long term financial planning,” Mayor Van Styn said.

“The City’s operating financial position has improved significantly as a result of the flow on effect of cost saving initiatives that Council has undertaken over the last few years including changes to organisational structure, staffing levels and our range and level of services.

“Council’s score progressed from 53 in 2015-16 to 87 in 2016-17 and is projected to increase even more in the next financial year.”

Mayor Van Styn also commented on the City’s positive audit result.

“There were no specific comments and/or recommendations arising from the audit which is extremely rare and indicates the fine work, commitment and knowledge from the City’s Finance team,” he added.

Free vaccinations to stop Parvo

Mayor Shane Van Styn and the Mayor Pooch, Bella.

An influx of Parvovirus has brought organisations in the Midwest together to hold a free vaccination day to protect our canine friends.

The deadly virus has claimed the lives of over 120 dogs this year and the City of Greater Geraldton is urging dog owners to take action and vaccinate.

City of Greater Geraldton Mayor Shane Van Styn said Parvovirus has no cure and the only prevention is through vaccination.

“Parvovirus is a highly infectious disease that kills dogs, but it can be easily prevented by vaccinations,” he said.

“As a dog lover myself, I’m delighted that we can join forces with Central Regional TAFE, Geraldton Dog Rescue and the veterinary services to raise awareness and vaccinate dogs for free.

“Unfortunately we are unable to provide this service to the whole community, however, those who receive Centrelink benefits or have a Senior Citizen Card are encouraged to attend and have their dogs immunised.

“We want to help educate the community through this free event.”

The virus is highly contagious and attacks dogs’ gastrointestinal tract and cardiovascular systems. The main source of Parvovirus is through the faeces of infected dogs, making it even more important to bag and bin your dog’s faeces when in public places. 

The free vaccination day will take place on Wednesday 4 October at N-Block, Central Regional TAFE from 9am to 4pm.

In addition to the free barbecue and information session, the City’s Rangers will be there microchipping dogs at no cost.

“A big thank you to our Rangers for providing such a vital service,” added Mayor Van Styn. 

To secure your dog’s free vaccination, please email skye.strutton@crtafe.wa.edu.au or call 0427 566 112. 

New CEO looks to build on solid foundations

City of Greater Geraldton’s new CEO Ross McKim.

Ross McKim has been appointed as the City of Greater Geraldton’s Chief Executive Officer and says he looks forward to continuing the years of hard work bringing the City to a financially sustainable position.

At the Ordinary Meeting of Council in Mullewa today, a recommendation was passed with unanimous support from Council appointing Mr McKim as CEO for a five year term.

Over the past two years, Mr McKim has been the City’s Director of Infrastructure Services and most recently stepped into the role of Acting CEO after the departure of previous CEO Ken Diehm in June.

City of Greater Geraldton Deputy Mayor Neil McIlwaine said Mr McKim had put himself in good stead with the City and emerged as the most outstanding candidate for the position.

“We had a great response for the job role with over 20 quality candidates applying from around Australia,” he said.

“After a rigorous selection process, I am very pleased to announce that Mr McKim has accepted the role as CEO.

“Ross has been working at the City for the last two years as the Director of Infrastructure Services and has a wealth of knowledge and experience leading local government teams.

“I look forward to working closely with Ross now and into the future.”

Mr McKim has over 25 years of local government experience and has previously held leadership positions at Cairns, Redlands and Tablelands Regional Councils, where he was responsible for the delivery of a diverse range of local government services. 

His qualifications include a Masters of Business Administration, an Honours Degree in Civil Engineering, a Graduate Diploma in Municipal Engineering, a Diploma in Community and Youth Work and various certificates relevant to local government operations.

Mr McKim said he was honoured and humbled to be the successful candidate for the role.

“The City of Greater Geraldton is a very progressive local government with a strong national reputation for community consultation and innovation and I am honoured to take up the position of CEO,” he said.

“I'm looking forward to working closely with the Mayor, Councillors, staff and the community in building on the great work currently underway.” 

Mr McKim also added that Council had worked extremely hard over the past years to build strong foundations for the City.

“The Councillors have made a number of courageous decisions over the last two years with the intention of bringing the City back to a financially sustainable position,” he said.

“I look forward to continuing this work which should see the City reach a surplus in the very near future. 

“Complementing this endeavour, is the need to develop robust asset renewal programs that will ensure the City’s nearly $1 billion in infrastructure remains fit for purpose.”

Mr McKim added that he will continue to work with stakeholders on initiatives that will help to grow the local community.

“I look forward to working with key stakeholders such as the Midwest Development Commission and the Midwest Chamber of Commerce and Industry to develop and implement initiatives to assist in the growth of the local economy,” he said.

“The Progress Midwest model combined with the completion of the Greater Geraldton Growth Plan demonstrates the Council’s commitment to doing all it can to grow the local community.

“I also look forward to developing and implementing the City’s customer service strategy and working with local community groups to ensure their input is provided to Councillors as part of the decision making process.”

Mr McKim will officially take up the new position on 28 August 2017 and said he is excited to keep the City of Greater Geraldton moving forward.

“I am passionate about local government and all that it represents and achieves,” he said.

“I very much appreciate the faith both the Council and staff have shown in me and it is very rewarding as it provides me with the opportunity to continue doing what I love – which is serving the local community to the best of my ability.

“I believe Geraldton has a very bright future ahead of it, and I am excited about making a positive contribution.”

Foreshore upgrade replaces struggling trees

The City will be replacing poor performing Norfolk Pine trees on the Foreshore.

Poor performing Norfolk Pine trees located on the Geraldton Foreshore will soon be replaced with similar looking Cook Pine trees as part of the City’s program of Foreshore upgrades undertaken in the last 12 months.

City of Greater Geraldton Mayor Shane Van Styn said even though Norfolk Pines are well suited to the climate a number of them are not doing well on the Foreshore.

“Norfolk Pines thrive in our Mediterranean climate and can be found almost everywhere in the City,” he said.

“However 12 of these trees, which were planted seven years ago on the Foreshore between Durlacher Street and Forrest Street, simply aren’t thriving despite all our efforts.

“Therefore, the City will be replacing them with Cook Pines, a hardier variety that drops less foliage and will fit well with the aesthetic of the Foreshore.

“These new mature trees will beautify the City’s premiere public open space whilst providing shade for many years to come,” Mayor Van Styn added.

From Wednesday 16 August to Friday 18 August 2017, seven of the 12 trees will be removed and new trees planted in their place.  The remaining five trees will be replaced when replacement trees are available.

Bushfire Cadets to represent Geraldton at Championships

A group of youngsters are gearing up for the Australian Fire Cadet Championships where they will be the first regional Western Australian team to compete and are seeking the community’s assistance to get them there. 

The Waggrakine Volunteer Bushfire Brigade Cadets are one of two teams representing the state at the Sydney-based Championships in October and a GoFundMe page has been established to raise funds.

City of Greater Geraldton Mayor Shane Van Styn said the group are a huge asset in the community.

“The cadets will be our next volunteer firefighters and will gain key insights from this event,” he said.

“The Australian Fire Cadet Championships provide a safe and enjoyable opportunity for cadet firefighters to compete, develop their skills and interact with other cadets from across the country. It’s a great honour to be invited.

“I encourage everyone to spread the word about the GoFundMe page that has been created and help get these kids to Sydney in October.

“I wish the cadets the very best of luck at the Championships.”

Waggrakine Volunteer Bushfire Brigade Cadet Coordinator Darren Cole said the cadets are extremely excited about going to New South Wales to compete in the Championships.

“This event attracts 26 teams from all over Australia and to be given the opportunity is fantastic not only for the kids, but also for Geraldton,” he said.

“The cadet unit caters for kids from 12 to 16 years old and teaches firefighting skills, fire behaviour, teamwork and leadership whilst having fun.

“Unfortunately we are only allowed to take six cadets to compete in the Championships and none of them have been to Sydney before, so we are hoping to show them a few icons before heading to Myuna Bay for the Championships.

“That’s why we are raising funds – we want to make this a really enjoyable trip for the cadets.”

The Waggrakine Volunteer Bushfire Brigade were a recipient of the last round of the City of Greater Geraldton Community Grants. Round 19 of the 2017 – 18 Community Grants Program is currently open.

To support the Cadets at the upcoming Australian Fire Cadet Championships, please visit https://www.gofundme.com/waggrakine-volunteer-bushfire-cadet

The Waggrakine Volunteer Bushfire Brigade Cadets are representing the state at the Australian Fire Cadet Championships in October and are raising funds to help get them there.

Dozens to Sleep in Their Cars for the Homeless

Fusion Australia with the support of Shelter WA, will be hosting ‘Sleep in Your Car 2017’ on August 11 to raise awareness and funds for homelessness in Australia.

Held during Homelessness Week, the event hopes to create an understanding of the plight of those living without a home by having participants experience homelessness first hand.

In Geraldton on August 11 from 6pm participants will spend the night sleeping in their cars at 193 Marine Terrace (behind Headspace).

There are over a hundred thousand people who are homeless every night in Australia - 48% of these are under 25 years old.  ‘Sleep in Your Car’ aims to raise funds and increase awareness about the homeless.

Once again, Fusion, in partnership with GRC (now RAW) and Ngala Midwest, will run the event in Geraldton  “We are so excited about the opportunity for people to sleep out and make a real difference for the thousands of people that don’t have a home or a bed tonight,” said event organiser Alison Hilton.

So far 26 individuals including politician Ian Blayney MLA have volunteered to give up their beds and sleep rough on August 11.  The Geraldton team hopes to have 30 participants sleeping out and have raised $1500 already and hope to meet our target of $16000 from this local event.  Money raised supports Fusion’s homelessness programs, GRC (now RAW Regional Alliance West) and Ngala Midwest.

For the first time Sleep in your Car – Geraldton will be holding an interactive experience developed by Fusion Housing and Support Team “The Walk without Home”

The Walk without Home has a number of aims:

• To help participants develop empathy and compassion for others.
• To advocate for young people within this system and the obvious gaps in the housing sector that need addressing to best support those most vulnerable.

For those who don’t want to sleep out why not bring a cash donation and participate to discover what it might be like to be young and at risk of homelessness.

Other activities on the night will include games, an adult ball pit/discussion pit, a sausage sizzle and the sharing of information about homelessness in the Midwest and beyond.

Participants over 18 are asked to raise a minimum of $100 (under 18 raise a minimum of $50). The reason for this minimum is that we want people to do this that are committed to raising funds and creating awareness for homelessness.  Fusion is running the event nationwide, with people participating in at least ten different locations.  Here in Geraldton the event is being assisted through a $500 grant from Shelter WA to help cover the administration costs.

For further information or to register, visit www.sleepinyourcar.com.au or call 0423 895 978.

Enrolment reminder for Local Government election

With Local Government elections less than three months away, residents and ratepayers are reminded to ensure they are enrolled to vote and have their say in the future of the City of Greater Geraldton Council.

By simply going onto the WA Electoral Commission website, people are able to check their enrolment to ensure they have the chance to say who runs their community.

City of Greater Geraldton Mayor Shane Van Styn said it was important for the local community to vote in the election to ensure they felt confident that the Councillors in their ward would represent their needs.

“Our community is very passionate and vocal when it comes to topical issues and the best way to ensure their voice is heard at Council is through their ward Councillors,” he said.

“Council makes big decisions for our community from providing significant services through to community infrastructure and our Councillors are the voice of the people.

“A strong Council forms the foundation of an effective and efficient Local Government and I urge residents and ratepayers to assess the candidates and vote in this year’s election.”

Just one in three eligible Geraldton residents voted in the 2015 election and this year participation is strongly encouraged among under-represented sections of the community including women, Aboriginal people, young people, and those from culturally and linguistically diverse communities.

People who are ineligible to enrol to vote, such as non citizens, but are ratepayers are also entitled to vote in local government elections, as are ratepayers who are enrolled to vote in other parts of the country.

Local government elections take place on Saturday 21 October 21 2017. 

Enrolment forms are available at post offices, the Western Australian and Australian electoral commissions and local government offices.

To check your enrolment head to www.waec.wa.gov.au before 5pm on 1 September 2017.

Fauna successfully relocated from Olive Street Reserve

Golden Orb Spider

Fauna relocations undertaken as part of the Olive Street Reserve Remediation works have resulted in 672 insects, reptiles and mammals being captured and safely removed from the site during the initial clearance.

A report submitted by Darren Darch of Fauna for the Future stated 648 native insects and reptiles including Orb Spiders, Stick bugs, Binoe’s Prickly and Reticulated Velvet Geckos, Bearded Dragons, West Coast Four Toed Leristas and Gwardars or Western Brown snakes were captured onsite and successfully relocated to similar habitats across the City region.

City of Greater Geraldton Mayor Shane Van Styn said the Chapman River Regional Park has especially benefitted from the relocation of Orb Spiders into the Park.

“More than 500 Golden Orb spiders were captured on the reserve and many of these were released in the Chapman River Regional Park,” he said.

“This has really helped boost local Golden Orb population numbers which were reduced in a fire in the Park three years ago.”

The report also indicated three feral animal species were netted and later euthanised during the process.

“All the traps used were designed to capture creatures humanly, which ensured any native animals caught would remain unharmed and could be successfully relocated,” said Mayor Van Styn.

“The traps worked so well that 17 Common European House mice, two European Black rats and a Red Fox were also captured and put down after they were confirmed as feral pest species.”

With onsite remediation works now complete, landscaping of the eight-hectare site is proceeding well with mulching and planting operations in full swing.

West reflects on election result

Member for Agricultural Region Darren West says he’s looking forward to “getting on with the job” of delivering for Geraldton and the Mid West after WA Labor’s stunning election win last month.

Mr West, who was returned at the recent poll said he is determined to get Geraldton moving again and thanked the Geraldton electorate and the wider Agricultural region for their support. .

“Being elected is humbling and I thank the electorate for their faith in us and the opportunity to get things done in the region,” he said.

“WA Labor made some sound commitments to the community before the election and our focus will be on making these projects a reality.

“WA Labor will also retain Royalties for Regions fund but will spend the money more wisely and more fairly with a focus on regional roads and regional jobs and will continue the Country Aged Pension Fuel Card at $575 per year.”

Mr West said his office will remain at 84 Marine Terrace in Geraldton.

“I am not moving out and the door is always open.”

Also elected representing Labor in the Agricultural Region is former City of Greater Geraldton Councillor, Laurie Graham, who will be sworn in to the Parliament on May 21.

Mr West said that he is delighted to get the opportunity to work with Laurie to represent the people of the Agricultural Region, which extends from Kalbarri to Esperance.

“Our differing skill set means that we will complement each other well in the community.”

Mr West also paid tribute to WA Labor Candidate for Geraldton Lara Dalton, who he described as “a breath of fresh air” and the clear choice of the community on March 11.

“The community clearly wanted Lara as their representative in Parliament but sadly the Nationals and One Nation preferences went against her and handed the Liberals the seat.

“While we are very disappointed that Lara was not successful, I remain hopeful that she will contest Geraldton again in 2021 - Geraldton needs her positive approach and willingness to get things done.”

Mr West was sworn in as Parliamentary Secretary to Minister Alannah MacTiernan and will assist with the portfolios of Agriculture and Food, Regional Development, State Development, Trade and Jobs.

Give Country Builders A Fair Go: Master Builders

Government incentives to use regional building contractors and suppliers should be doubled, the Master Builders Association says.

Under the Buy Local Policy, a contractor tendering for a regional Government construction project can claim preferences if it has an office in the area and if it undertakes to purchase services and materials from local businesses.

Its tender price is notionally reduced by up to 10 per cent if both preferences apply, but only in contracts up to $5 million. Master Builders is calling for the incentives to apply in projects up to $10 million. Builders say opportunities to tender for substantial projects in their regions are limited.

The Buy Local upper limit does not reflect their capacity to take on much bigger jobs but the incentives plateau at the $5 million level.

Master Builders supports an increase in the regional preferences.

“We’re calling on the major parties in the lead up to the election to look at the Buy Local preferences and commit to doubling them,” says Master Builders’ director Michael McLean.

“The incentives support builders maintaining a presence in country towns,” he said. “They encourage use of local labour, suppliers and trades and create opportunities for apprenticeships.”

Mr McLean said there were many country builders and regional offices of metropolitan firms capable of taking on $10 million building and construction projects.

“In the interests of a strong building industry, and ultimately, a strong economy, these country businesses and their local subcontractors, apprentices and suppliers need to be fostered,” he said.

But Master Builders says there also needs to be tighter monitoring of successful tenderers who have benefited from the incentives.

“The criteria by which a business is judged to have a regional office need to be strengthened,” Mr McLean said. “A requirement should be that at least a small number of the business’s employees live permanently in the town or locality. And currently, an office can be said to be permanent if it has been operational for six months. This should be increased to a year.”

Mr McLean said there also needed to be more rigorous auditing of the regional content preference. It was too easy to claim at the time of tendering that local labour and materials would be used but then to bring in subcontractors and supplies from elsewhere.

“This is a difficult issue,” Mr McLean said. “Things often are pretty fluid between the time tenders close and actually doing the job but we still believe there’s a need for greater integrity in the system. That means the Government agencies responsible for the projects taking a more active interest.”

Major suicide prevention trial extended to the Mid West

WA Primary Health Network is one of four regions across Australia with higher than average suicide rates and will take part in a $46 million trial aimed at delivering better mental health services.

The Federal Government will establish four Suicide Prevention Trial Sites, including the Mid West, with each site receiving approximately $3 million over three years.

Member for Durack Melissa Price said the local community will benefit from better resources and services for mental health.

“Suicide is tragic and heart wrenching experience for anyone involved, affecting family members, friends and the community,” Ms Price said.

“We must do all we can to turn the tide and reduce our suicide rate.

“We are bringing together and coordinating federal, state and local governments, GPs and mental health service providers to identify issues and deliver a tailored response to a community or individual need.”

WA Primary Health Network will administer the funding and, in consultation with the local community and government, decide what services can be brought together and assess which are most effective.

The four new Suicide Prevention Trial Sites will be established in Darwin, Central Queensland, Western New South Wales and Mid-West Western Australia.

This are in addition to the eight trial sites already announced for Brisbane North, North Coast NSW, North Western Melbourne, Perth South, Townsville, The Kimberley, Tasmania and country South Australia.

Two of the trial sites will be in Indigenous communities.

IGA Sports Night

On the evening of Wednesday 1st February more than 70 staff from Rigters Supermarkets enjoyed competing for their Argie Cup at Geraldton Croquet Club. The night pitted staff from Queens Supa IGA, Rigters Supa IGA and Wonthella Supa IGA against each other to see who would claim the glory.

The Argie Cup

The competition was a round robin event played on 6 half courts. Each game was guided by members of the croquet club who explained rules and technique to the players and helped to keep the scores as the games proceeded. The players enjoyed a pizza, drinks and snacks between games and had a great time.

The cup was won by Wonthella Supa IGA with 132 points who held out Rigters in second on 114 points and Queens in third on 86 points.

Wonthella Supa IGA celebrating the win on the night and retaining bragging rights as the winners of The Argie Cup for the second time in a row.

Pictured below, General Manager, Kyme Rigter and Operations Manager, Stuart Bain revealing the results prior to presenting the Argie Cup to Wonthella Supa IGA.