Price urges Durack shires to act on GST – right now

Melissa Price, Federal Member for Durack is asking all 44 shire councils as well as the two cities of Karratha and Greater Geraldton that comprise the largest electorate in Australia, Durack, to act now to support Western Australia’s federal battle for a fair share of the GST.

Ms Price congratulated the Shire of Goomalling staff members, councilors, families and friends who last week signed up for the Fair Go for the West campaign, to get a bigger slice of the GST cake for WA.

Ms Price wants all 46 local government areas in Durack to follow suit.

“Durack communities from the Kimberley and throughout the Pilbara, Gascoyne, Mid-west and northern Wheatbelt can add some weight to this campaign to address the current inequalities in GST distribution,” Ms Price said.

“My support for WA to get a better share of the GST campaign remains steadfast.

“Whilst I am collaborating with my Western Australian colleagues, Federal MPs and Senators, in Canberra, I think a grass roots campaign across the Durack electorate will really add some momentum to our efforts in Canberra to secure financial prosperity for WA.”

Join the petition: http://bitly.com/fairgoforthewest

Call to action: send a note to the community to sign up and invite them to a photo shoot.

Send a photo: of a work group, community group or family and friends who have signed the petition and the name of your shire to Ms Price’s media advisor - kim.pervan@aph.gov.au

Cabaret performance set to shine

Geraldton PCYC Cabaret

PCYCis gearing up for a stellar performance with their 2014 Circus Christmas Cabaret.

In partnership with Tarts and Co Catering, PCYC invites groups to celebrate this year's festive season in absolute style.

The 18+ Adult Circus Cabaret has been directed by Perth based choreographer, Chris Meyhew, and stars local performers.

As well as live music entertainment throughout the evening, the ticket also includes a three-course buffet dinner.

You'll enjoy everything from acrobalance, adagio dance, double trapeze, lira ring duet and theatrical circus performance.

PCYC Geraldton Centre Manager, Jill Bourke, said tickets are selling fast and people should get in quick.

"The team have been in preparation for months so guests are in for a real treat," she said.

"Tickets are on sale for everyone but it's also a great idea for businesses to celebrate the festive season and end of year with something different."

The show premiers this Friday, December 5 at PCYC and there will be a second show on Saturday, December 13.

Tickets are $65 per head, there is a licensed bar and the show starts at 7pm.

For tickets or more information contact PCYC on (08)9921 1317 or geraldtonpcyc@wapcyc.com.au

National Broadband Network coming to Durack

Homes and businesses in Durack are a step closer to getting the National Broadband Network, with the build to commence on the network by June 2016.

The NBN Co today released its national rollout plan to June 2016, which includes parts of the following suburbs and communities across the very large electorate of Durack, where the fixed-line build will commence:

In addition, build will commence on the fixed-wireless network in parts of:

• Jurien               100, approx. premises in plan
• Merredin          600, approx. premises in plan
• Wongan Hills  800, approx. premises in plan

Melissa Price, Member for Durack said it was an important milestone for some communities in Durack, with greater certainty for homes and businesses as they prepare for superfast broadband services.

“Essentially superfast broadband is another step closer for Karratha, Geraldton, Cervantes, Dongara, Green Head, Leeman, Jurien Bay, Kalbarri and Northampton,” Ms Price said. 

Since the election, the NBN has more than doubled the reach of its network. Nationwide, 1.2 million homes and businesses can now connect to the NBN or have work underway in their area.

Communications Minister Malcolm Turnbull said the release of new sites for build to commence was delivering on the Government’s promise to get the rollout back on track.

“When we came into Government, one of our chief priorities was to get this rollout completed sooner, cheaper for taxpayers and more affordably for consumers,” Mr Turnbull said.

NBN Co provides monthly updates on its website showing areas that have reached build preparation, build commencement and that are ready for service.

Residents can check their suburb at www.nbnco.com.au/rolloutplan

Only 30 sleeps to go-wireless mic users get ready!

As the festive season draws near, New Year’s (and the critical date of 1 January 2015) shortly follows. As a consequence, the Australian Communications and Media Authority is strongly urging all clubs, schools, businesses, places of worship and other community organisations, if they use wireless microphones, to check their devices to see if they can continue to use them after New Year.

Changes to regulations mean wireless mics that currently use radio waves in the 694-820 megahertz (MHz) range will no longer be able to be operated from 1 January 2015.

From 1 January the 694-820 MHz range will be used to deliver advanced 4G mobile broadband services and wireless mics users need to be ready. Wireless mics that currently use radio waves in the 694-820 MHz range must be retuned (if retuning is possible) or upgraded to allow operation in a different band (if the device cannot be returned). 

This infographic is a quick guide on whether you need to retune your gear or upgrade it. Popular television presenter, Shelley Craft, is also helping the ACMA get the message out in the community with this video.

‘Since 2012, the ACMA has been raising awareness of the change among a wide range of community and business groups, but as we count down through December time is running out to make the transition,’ said ACMA Chairman, Chris Chapman.

‘Our fact sheets and online resources, such as a frequency finder for your area, have been popular as they help groups understand how they can prepare for the change,’ he added.

The main ranges that can be used for wireless mics after 1 January 2015 are 520-694 MHz and 1790-1800 MHz. As 520-694 MHz is shared with television broadcasting, people purchasing wireless mics should either talk with their supplier or use the frequency finder to make sure they choose the most suitable frequency range for the area where they plan to operate.

The ACMA expects compliance will be largely self-managing as any remaining wireless microphones will stop working as the rollout of new 4G services increases. There might be delays in some areas or frequency bands before services begin, but wireless mic users should not assume that just because a wireless microphone system keeps working after 1 January it won’t need to be changed.

While in most cases wireless microphone are likely to stop working before causing interference, if interference is detected from a wireless microphone, the ACMA will take action in accordance with its graduated approach to compliance. This will usually mean an education awareness approach in the first instance, for example, advising the user they must not cause interference to radiocommunications services and must retune to another channel or cease using the device.

For all you need to know about wireless microphones, head to www.wirelessmicrophones.gov.au.

For more information or to arrange an interview, please contact: Emma Rossi, Media Manager, (02) 9334 7719 and 0434 652 063 or media@acma.gov.au.

Should the one-way section of Foreshore Drive be changed to two-way traffic?

What do you think about changing the one-way section of Foreshore Drive to two-way traffic? That is the latest question being posed by Your City Your Say.

A new initiative from the City of Greater Geraldton, Your City Your Say is an innovative online forum that allows community members to participate in the decision-making process by sharing their opinions on issues being considered by Council.

City of Greater Geraldton Deputy Mayor, Neil McIlwaine said Your City Your Say allows everyone in the community to have a say on a variety of issues.

“By sharing your ideas, commenting on others and voting for what is important to you, you are able to provide contribute to the decision-making process on different topics that will impact your local community,” he explained.

Currently the City is investigating changing the section of Foreshore Drive between Cathedral Avenue and Durlacher Street from one-way traffic only to two-way traffic.

“This will allow better traffic movement within the CBD and reduce confusion for first time visitors to Geraldton,” Councillor McIlwaine said.

“This project is currently in the planning stage and no funding is allocated for construction. We have asked the question on the Your City Your Say forum to inform the community of this issue  and get their final thoughts on this proposal.”                                                               

Councillor McIlwaine is encouraging all Geraldton residents to log on and have their say.

“The Council is very interested in hearing what local residents think and it is very easy to get involved,” Councillor McIlwaine said.

“You just need go to the City’s webpage and on the homepage you will find links to Your City Your Say.  From there people simply need to sign up, and then they can air their thoughts, ideas and feedback on a variety of topics impacting the City of Greater Geraldton.”

Other topics currently being discussed on the Your City Your Say include the Mullewa Muster and the City’s second Reconciliation Plan.

For more information or the have your say simply visit the City of Greater Geraldton website at www.cgg.wa.gov.au and click on the Your City Your Say link.  Having trouble navigating the site?  Staff can help – please contact Janell on 9956 6600.

Keeping Durack kids safe in the water

Families living in Durack will benefit from a new initiative aimed at increasing water safety for young children.

The Member for Durack, Melissa Price, said the initiative was aimed at children under five and teaching them about water safety.

Ms Price said the new programme consists of songs, videos and books which communicate the water safety message in a fun and engaging format for youngsters.

“Child care centres, kindergartens, play groups and water safety groups in the Kimberly, Pilbara, Gascoyne, Mid-west and Wheatbelt are receiving the educational packs,” Ms Price said.

“More than 80,000 are being distributed nationally and they are available online at www.kidsalive.com.au.

“The programme has been developed by water safety campaigner and former Olympic swimming coach Laurie Lawrence and builds on his highly successful Living with Water DVD.

“It teaches our children how to be safe at the beach, around pools, rivers and dams which is crucial to keep our kids safe this summer,” Ms Price said.

“As families and communities we need to work together to reduce the tragedy of drowning. We need to make sure that we are water safe.

The 2014 National Drowning Report showed that 20 children aged under five had drowned between July 2013 and June 2014; the new programme is one component of the Australian Government’s comprehensive approach to water safety. The Government recently announced a $4 million investment to assist the Royal Life Saving Society of Australia’s work to prevent drowning in inland waterways. Other programmes are delivered by AUSTSWIM and Surf Life Saving under a $15 million commitment from the Government to reduce drownings nationwide. Australia Post is supporting the new children’s programme meaning more children and families will benefit from receiving the educational material.

St Lawrence’s Geraldton, Geraldton Grammar and Holy Rosary Derby secure Federal grants of $1.75 million

St Lawrence’s Geraldton, Geraldton Grammar and Holy Rosary Derby will soon have improved facilities after being named as recipients under the Australian Government Capital Grants Program.

The three grants will go towards construction and refurbishment of learning areas and other buildings furniture and equipment.  .

School: St Lawrence’s School, Bluff Point, Geraldton
Facilities: Construction of two learning areas, an undercover area and amenities; furniture and equipment.
Commonwealth grant: $300 000

School: Holy Rosary School, Derby
Facilities: Refurbishment of year 12 learning area and library; furniture and equipment.
Commonwealth grant: $655 532

School: Geraldton Grammar School, Geraldton
Facilities: Construction of four learning areas, two science laboratories, two staff areas, two offices, store room.
Commonwealth grant: $800 000

Melissa Price, Federal member for Durack congratulated the two Geraldton schools and Holy Rosary in Derby on receiving the grants.

“These funds will ensure students at in Geraldton, Derby and surrounds have the infrastructure necessary to help them get the most out of their time at school,” Ms Price said.

“While buildings alone do not make a school, the Geraldton and Derby students will benefit when these enhanced facilities are complete.”

“They are also a very important factor in attracting staff members – the quality teaching environment works for everyone.

Senator the Hon Scott Ryan, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister for Education, said the CGP provides funding for non-government schools to improve capital infrastructure where they otherwise may not have access to sufficient resources. 

“The Australian Government is committed to improving the quality of our school education and ensuring students are equipped with the skills they need to succeed in an increasingly competitive world,” Senator Ryan said.

“The Government believes in an education system that puts students first. A quality education gives young people the opportunity to achieve personal success and contribute to our nation.”

For further information on the CGP, visit: http://education.gov.au/capital-grants-programme-non-government-schools.

Commencement of the redistribution of federal electoral boundaries in Western Australia

The Acting Electoral Commissioner, Mr Tom Rogers, announced today the redistribution of federal electoral boundaries in Western Australia has commenced.

The redistribution was triggered following a determination on 13 November 2014  by Mr Rogers of the number of members of the House of Representatives to which each state and territory will be entitled at the next federal general election.

“Based on population changes, it was determined Western Australia would gain one seat, increasing its entitlement to 16 House of Representatives seats at the next federal election,” Mr Rogers said.

An independent Redistribution Committee will be appointed to undertake the redistribution in Western Australia and the Committee will be supported by a small secretariat of staff from the AEC.

The redistribution process provides opportunities for individuals and organisations to propose where the electoral division boundaries could be located, or the name of an electoral division.

Members of the public will be invited to submit their suggestions about the redistribution during March. Guidelines are available to assist people or organisations interested in submitting their suggestions.

An indicative timetable for the federal redistribution process in Western Australia is available at www.aec.gov.au/Electorates/Redistributions/2014/wa/index.htm.

Further information about redistributions can be found at www.aec.gov.au/redistribution.

Phone scammers pose as Federal Government employees

Consumer Protection’s general advice line and regional offices have been getting lots of reports from Western Australians who have received a phone call from scammers claiming to be from the Federal Government. The caller offers either a rebate or refund of overcharged fees.

The amount being offered seems to consistently be around $7,000 and the consumer is asked to pay hundreds of dollars in order to obtain the money owed to them. Wire transfer (Western Union or Moneygram) seems to be the preferred payment method, although they may ask for payment via an electronic voucher like Ukash, direct bank transfer or credit card.

It is understood that the scammers may be playing on a recent Federal Court ruling that ordered National Australia Bank (NAB) to pay back late payment fees. But consumers who wish to join that class action need to do so by contacting Financial Redress (www.financialredress.com.au) and will NOT receive an unexpected phone call inviting them to be part of it.

This latest phone scam is simply a new variation of previous phone scams offering to help consumers reclaim bank fees, obtain Australian Tax Office refunds or other Government rebates in return for up-front fees.

In addition to these there are the ongoing ‘tech support’ scams, where the caller pretends to be from Microsoft, Telstra, Big Pond etc. wanting access to your computer. 

WA ScamNet has further advice that can help you to identify these types of scams, as well as tips on scam prevention.

Remember, you can still receive scam calls even if you have a private number or have your number listed on the Do Not Call register. Scammers can obtain your number fraudulently from black-market sources.

You can read the full article at www.scamnet.wa.gov.au

Modern spin on an old classic

Geraldton’s original Railway Station has been restored and will open as the new Geraldton Visitor Centre next week.

One of Geraldton’s oldest icons has been given a new lease on life.

Geraldton’s original Railway Station has been beautifully restored and will open next week as the new Geraldton Visitor Centre.

The operational launch of the new facility will take place on Monday, December 8, with the building open to the public for the very first time since 1999.

The West End icon was originally built in 1878 and was the first railway station constructed on a Government line in Western Australia.

Now 136 years on, the building’s heritage has been preserved through careful restoration and many elements from the original building feature in the new Visitor Centre.

City of Greater Geraldton Deputy Mayor, Neil McIlwaine, said the new Visitor Centre would be a crowning jewel in the West End.

“Seeing this building restored to its former glory is fantastic and it is one of several elements of the West End revitalisation project,” he said.

“The building holds a rich history for Geraldton so we ensured the restorations did justice to the important piece of heritage.

“This project is something that the whole community can enjoy and we are so glad we could make the piece of history a usable feature in our City, just as it served our ancestors.”

The striking double-story building on Marine Terrace has not only served as a Railway Station but also as the public library and a museum.

Despite the age of the building, much of the building structure was in perfect condition.

Even the original wooden floorboards, windows, fire places, skirting boards, stone work and architraves will feature in the new building.

The cost of the restoration was around $2.13 million with the City providing $1.03 million, $1 million from the State Government as part of Royalties for Regions and an additional $100,000 coming from the Federal Government’s Regional Development Australia Fund as part of the overall allocation for the West End Revitalisation Project.

The restoration is phase two of the West End Revitalisation Project. The Esplanade was the first phase and the third phase will be the Youth Precinct which is set to be completed next year.

The new address of the Visitor Centre is 246 Marine Terrace, Geraldton and the phone number is (08) 9956 6670. There will be an official launch of the Visitor Centre in early 2015.

US Consul General visits Geraldton

US Consul General Cynthia Griffin has arrived in Geraldton today.

She will be touring the area from today, Monday, December 1 through to Wednesday, December 3.

During her time, the US Consul General will visit local attractions, schools and the City of Greater Geraldton will host a morning tea for her on Tuesday morning.

Deputy Mayor, Neil McIlwaine, said the City had always maintained strong ties with the previous US Consul Generals.

“We look forward to building on the already strong relations between Geraldton and US Consul General,” he said.

Councillor McIlwaine will accompany the US Consul General to the HMAS Sydney II Memorial to lay a wreath during her visit.

Regarding the Cemetery vandalism: An ongoing concern

The following has been supplied by the Geraldton Cemetery Board in response to a recent incident reported by some Everything Geraldton readers. (Click here to read original post.)

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With reference to the post about trashed graves at Geraldton Cemetery, (Everything Geraldton, Nov 25) the desecration of graves and wanton vandalism is an ongoing issue for the Geraldton Cemetery Board and staff.

Geraldton Cemetery Board Chairman, Max Correy, said the vandalism is not confined to gravesites.

“Apart from the damage and destruction to people’s loved ones’ graves and monuments, the perpetrators also damage and pull out recently planted trees, shrubs and gardens and rip out reticulation systems,” he said.

“Our ground staff – of which there are only two to care for the grounds, operate the cremator and prepare graves – are tired and despairing of arriving at work to discover the vandalism and find reticulation ripped out.

“All of this destruction creates an extra workload for them to replant and re-establish reticulation directing financial resources and their time away from important projects,” said Mr Correy.

The use of the cemetery grounds as a thoroughfare between Eastward Road, Alexander Street and Abraham Street is causing the Cemetery Board great concern and anguish. The Board empathises with the families whose grave sites are being vandalised.

“In spite of the police and Yamatji Patrol’s efforts to eliminate the damage, the vandalism continues unabated,” Mr Correy said.

“The only real solution is to erect a security fence but as the cemetery is a self-funded public utility, not a City of Greater Geraldton asset as is commonly believed, the ability to fund such a solution is beyond the Board’s capacity.

“The Board would be interested in any alternative solutions, perhaps we could hold a public appeal to help fund a security fence, as the cemetery’s only form of income is through cremations and burials, and other funding that the Board is able to secure from time to time,” he said.

SMALL GRANTS MAKE A BIG ENVIRONMENTAL DIFFERENCE

2014 Grants: Members of the Friends of Bluff Point and other volunteers work together to rehabilitate vegetation bordering the Chapman River Estuary.

NACC is funding nine new projects to support community to improve the region’s unique coastal environment between Geraldton and Guilderton.

More than $40 000 has been awarded through this coastal grants round. Successful applicants are the Moore Catchments Council, Seabird Caravan Park Committee, Sunset Beach Community Group, City of Greater Geraldton, Friends of Bluff Point, Dongara’s Tidy Towns Sustainable Committee and Ledge Point Coastcare, Shire of Gingin and Friends of Lancelin Coast.

2014 Grants: Interpretive signage funded through NACC’s Coastal Devolved Grant Program.

The projects focus on the rehabilitation of degraded coastal sites, enhancing community skills and knowledge and local seed propagation techniques.

According to NACC’s Coastal Program Coordinator Dr Mic Payne, “Our coast is a valuable and unique environment under pressure from increased recreational use, urban development and a changing climate. These grants provide resources to local organisations who are working to improve the management of our coast”.

Grant recipient Jan Richards from Ledge Point Coastcare said “We have had many requests from local community members who missed out on our last seed propagation workshop so this grant will allow us to run a second workshop to meet this demand. We feel it is very important to use local provenance plants for our revegetation projects”.

The objectives of the projects funded are to:  Contribute to the implementation of recognised existing local and regional coastal plans and strategies;

• Increase community engagement, knowledge and skills in coastal site assessment, planning, rehabilitation,
• restoration and conservation projects; and
• Assist in the protection and maintenance of environmental values and natural assets along the coast.

The grants link back to key Australian Government Natural Resource Management targets and are designed to be flexible to meet the needs of the community. The successful completion of projects will continue to improve the management of our coast, continue to build community capacity into the future and complement the good work that has been achieved through previous grant rounds.

Road Ribbon safety message for WA roads

Police District Traffic Coordinator, Sergeant Peter Janczyk, with City of Greater Geraldton Deputy Mayor, Neil McIlwaine.

With the holiday season approaching, the City of Greater Geraldton is joining forces with the Western Australian Local Government Association (WALGA)’s RoadWise Program to take part in the Road Ribbon for Road Safety campaign.

From November 16th 2014, to January 5th 2015, the campaign aims to raise awareness of the importance of road safety over the Christmas/New Year holiday period, in Western Australia (WA).

To spread the word, the City is urging people to help raise awareness of road safety in WA to help eliminate accidents on the road during the festive season.

City of Greater Geraldton Deputy Mayor, Neil McIlwaine, said the Road Ribbon Road Safety message is an extremely important one that everyone should take on board.

“It goes without saying that accidents on the road, especially over the holiday period, can hit the community hard and we want to eliminate this happening,” he said.

“We don’t want to see any deaths on Mid West roads this holiday season.”

Local police are also reminding people of several important factors to take into account when they hit the roads this holiday period.

These things include a reminder to use seat belts, installing proper car restraints for children and infants, don’t speed, don’t drive while tired, don’t use mobile phones, don’t drink and drive, don’t drug drive and keep your vehicle maintenance up to date.

Police District Traffic Coordinator, Sergeant Peter Janczyk, said the Christmas and New Year period was one of the busiest times on the road and people need to be extremely cautious.

“As everyone prepares for the upcoming festivities of 2014 and 2015 we want you to always remember to slow down, avoid driving tired and don’t drink and drive,” he said.

“One death on the road is one too many and as a community we can put things in place to ensure that we keep road accidents to a minimum.”

The community is encouraged to take part in spreading the message by wearing a road ribbon which you can get for free from locations including the Geraldton Visitor’s Centre, the Civic Centre and Bright Stars Family Day Care in Tarcoola.

For more information about the RoadWise Program, visit http://www.roadwise.asn.au/road-ribbon-for-road-safety.aspx.

MP kick-starts cardiac campaign for St John Ambulance Kalbarri Sub Centre

L-R Helen Evans - First Aid Trainer, Gudrun Pratt - Vice Chairperson, Tom Newman - Vice Chairperson, Melissa Price - Member for Durack, David Plenty - Chairperson

St John Ambulance in Kalbarri is promoting the need for more defibrillators in the community and it aims to put 20 into the popular holiday destination.

Federal Durack MP Melissa Price has kick-started the campaign to make sure that Kalbarri is well-equipped to respond to incidences of cardiac arrest by donating a defibrillator for installation at the Kalbarri Visitor Centre.

Automatic External Defibrillators (AED)can be used on those struck down with cardiac arrest and they are proven in dramatically improving a person’s chances of recovery.

St John Ambulance Kalbarri Sub CentreChairman David Plentysaid the defibrillator donated by Ms Price will be maintained bythe Kalbarri Sub Centre.

“Ms Price can see the importance of these machines and now we want to keep the momentum going and aim to get another 18 into Kalbarri,” said Mr Plenty. The Kalbarri defibrillators will be linked into the St John Ambulance WA Community First Responder. This program creates a direct link between St John Ambulance WA, the triple zero (000) call centre, local communities and organisations. This direct link enables individuals to provide immediate assistance to cardiac arrest victims in that time critical period before an ambulance arrives – when it matters most.

“We have also installed a defibrillator in the St John AmbulanceKalbarri Sub Centre but we are seeking around 20, because if a person has a cardiac arrest then they need CPR as well as a defibrillator within three to five minutes of collapse.”

Kalbarri, 160 kilometres north of Geraldton in the Mid West, is a popular coastal holiday destination as well as a centre for tourists, windsurfers, fishers and adventurers.

Ms Price said it is an important community safety initiative and encouraged local businesses to support the defibrillator drive.

Melissa Price - Member for Durack with donated defibrillator - Kalbarri

“You may be able to support the survival of a loved one, a work colleague, a customer or a tourist in Kalbarri if you donate to the defibrillator drive,” Ms Price said.

“Given the festive season, a time for giving, please think about your community contribution, and perhaps a number of businesses can group together for the St John Ambulance Kalbarri Sub Centre to purchase the machine on your behalf, that can save a life.”

The defibrillator will be purchased by the St John Ambulance Kalbarri Sub Centreand can be installed at your place of work or at an identified community site.

The St John Ambulance Kalbarri Sub Centre will maintain the defibrillator.

Charity Gala Dinner with Abrolhos theme featuring Peter FitzSimons

There’s a flurry of activity up at Batavia Hall today in preparation for tomorrow night’s Mitchell and Brown Midwest Charity Begins at Home annual gala dinner, as the hall is transformed into an Abrolhos Island theme.

The 7th annual gala dinner features Australia’s biggest-selling non-fiction author of the last ten years and ex Australian rugby player Peter FitzSimons.  

His book BATAVIA is described as the greatest story in Australia’s history!

Local band Hester take to the stage later in the evening after a 3 course meal from Dalgleish Catering.

The cocktail hour at 6pm will be Abrolhos Islands through and through, with a seafood BBQ, crayfish and other options from Perry Minisale and Tarts & Co.  Me & The Missus will get the crowd started as the sun sets.

The night will feature raffles, silent auctions, major auctions, best dressed, Charity & Abrolhos Islands merchandise and much more!

Midwest Charity Begins at Home creates hope and financial relief for Midwest residents in need due to serious illness.  They pride themselves on all dollars raised staying in the local community and adopt a values approach of contribution, community, integrity and compassion.

40 years of service recognised

Bob Urquhart has been recognised for decades of service.

City of Greater Geraldton Airport Manager, Bob Urquhart, has been recognised for his dedication after taking out the Chairman’s Award for Outstanding Service to the Airport Industry.

Mr Urquhart attended the Australian Airports Association National Convention Gala Dinner on the Gold Coast on Tuesday evening where he was awarded the national prize.

“It was must unexpected but it was spectacular to be recognised by my peers,” Mr Urquhart said.

“It’s a specialised industry and I’ve accumulated a vast bank of knowledge over the years.”

Mr Urquhart has been in the industry for over 40 years and reflected on his career.

“When I first started we used a pen and paper and a telex machine,” he said.

“I’ve watched the advent of aviation security and screening and the implementation of new age technology.

“Our team at the Geraldton Airport is always at the forefront and we have led the way in a lot of innovation that has happened in regional airports.”

City CEO, Ken Diehm, praised Mr Urquhart for his passion and dedication.

“Bob has proven himself to be an integral part of the operational running of the airport and we are extremely proud that he has been awarded for his efforts,” he said.

The industry stalwart isn’t a stranger to the spotlight after he was appointed to the prestigious National Board of the Australian Airports Association last year.

Mr Urquhart was pleased to report back from the Gold Coast that Qantas had announced they will operate jet aircrafts out of Geraldton starting next year.

CBD gets makeover with street art

Artist Jordan Andreotta with his Octopus painting on the old Salvation Army building.

You’ve probably already spotted some brand new art work additions in the CBD but keep your eyes peeled in the coming months for even more colour.

Commissioned by the City of Greater Geraldton, several local artists are using their artistic flair to increase vivacity as part of the City’s Vibrancy Strategy.

As part of strategy, the City asked for expressions of interest from artists, entrepreneurs, not-for-profit organisations (NFPs) and city centre landowners to come together in a bid to add some vibrancy to the city centre.

With support from the Arts and Cultural Development Council (ACDC), a number of local artists have been commissioned to complete various artworks around the CBD with final designs approved by a panel from the City.

These artists are Shahran Jackey, Michelle Santarelli, Jessica Bibby, Karen Sanders, Craig Maynard, Anthea da Silva, Jordan Andreotta and Rose Holdaway with the help of local organisations Mara Art Aboriginal Corporation and Bundiyarra Aboriginal Corporation.

City of Greater Geraldton Deputy Mayor, Neil McIlwaine, said the City Vibrancy Strategy provided a framework for the City to raise the vivacity throughout Greater Geraldton.

“The artworks that we have already seen and the pieces we can expect in the coming months add even more character to our City,” he said.

“The City has invested considerable time and resources into the Vibrancy Strategy which will ultimately have a positive outcome for the community.”

Local artists Shahran Jackey, Michelle Santarelli, Jessica Bibby, Karen Sanders, Craig Maynard, Anthea da Silva and Jordan Andreotta.

Shah Jackey is currently working on a piece on a building in Marine Terrace which he says represents his love and passion for art.

“I can’t thank the City enough for this opportunity to express myself through art,” he said.

“I love the fact that I can create something beautiful that the community can enjoy.”

Other local artist Jordan Andreotta has also completed some artworks in the CBD which have a great local connection.

He has painted a Moorish Idol Fish on a building on Cathedral Avenue and also an octopus on the old Salvation Army building in Marine Terrace.

“I wanted my artwork to be able to resonate with the community so I’ve stuck with a theme of local sea creatures,” he said.

“The Moorish Idol Fish is a local species and I found the shape was very interesting and the fish was slightly obscure.

“The feedback on the work so far has been really positive and it’s been a really good experience.”

Shah Jackey begins his artwork in Marine Terrace.

Bushfire warning for Eneabba, Brand Closed

Brand Highway closed between Eneabba and north to the Indian Ocean Drive turn off. 

The following alert has been issued by the Department of Fire and Emergency Services (DFES).

Time of issue: 12.20pm

Date of issue: 26 November 2014 

Bushfire ADVICE for Eneabba, and the 30 kilometres north of the town, in the Shires of Carnamah and Irwin

ALERT LEVEL:

A bushfire ADVICE has been issued for people in Eneabba, and the 30 kilometres north of the town, in the Shires of Carnamah and Irwin.

The alert level for this fire has been downgraded.

There is no threat to lives or homes but there is a lot of smoke in the area.

A wind shift is pushing the fire away from the town.

Although there is no immediate danger you need to be aware and keep up to date in case the situation changes.

There is fire burning on both sides of Brand Highway, near Eneabba and for the 30 kilometres north of the town. 

BUSHFIRE BEHAVIOUR:

The bushfire is moving in a south westerly direction.

It is out of control and unpredictable.

WHAT TO DO:

Stay alert and monitor your surroundings.

Watch for signs of a bushfire, especially smoke and flames.

Close all doors and windows, and turn off evaporative air conditioners but keep water running through the system if possible.

Read through your bushfire survival plan.

If you do not have a plan decide what you will do if the situation gets worse.

WHAT TO DO:

Be extremely careful when driving through the area.

Turn your headlights on and drive slowly.

Watch for emergency services personnel and follow their directions.

If you cannot see clearly, pull over, keep your headlights and hazard lights on, and wait until the smoke clears.

If you have a respiratory condition and you have been affected by smoke you should contact your local doctor or call Health Direct on 1800 022 222. 

ROAD CLOSURES:

Avoid the area and be aware of fire and other emergency services personnel working on site.

A number of roads have been closed including:

Brand Highway, between Eneabba and the Indian Ocean Drive turn off.  

WHAT FIREFIGHTERS ARE DOING:

Firefighters are on the scene working to build containment lines. 

Aerial support has been sent to assist ground crews.

EXTRA INFORMATION:

The incident was reported this morning. 

The cause of the fire is lightning .

The Shire of Irwin is managing the fire.

KEEP UP TO DATE:

Visit www.dfes.wa.gov.au, call 13 DFES (13 3337), follow DFES on Twitter @dfes_wa or listen to news bulletins.

The next update will be provided by 4pm today unless the situation changes.

Bushfire ADVICE for Brand Highway in the Shire of Irwin

*There is no change to previous alert.

The following alert has been issued by the Department of Fire and Emergency Services (DFES).

Time of issue: 3.50pm

Date of issue: 25 November 2014 

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ALERT LEVEL:
A bushfire ADVICE remains for people travelling on the Brand Highway, between Midlands Road and Kailis Road, in the Shire of Irwin.

• There is no threat to lives or homes but there is a lot of smoke in the area.
• Although there is no immediate danger you need to be aware and keep up to date in case the situation changes.
• The fire is burning near the Brand Highway between Midlands Road and Kailis Road. 

BUSHFIRE BEHAVIOUR:

• It is contained but not under control.

WHAT TO DO:

• Be extremely careful when driving through the area.
• Turn your headlights on and drive slowly.
• Watch for emergency services personnel and follow their directions.
• If you cannot see clearly, pull over, keep your headlights and hazard lights on, and wait until the smoke clears. 
• If you have a respiratory condition and you have been affected by smoke you should contact your local doctor or call Health Direct on 1800 022 222. 

ROAD CLOSURES:
No roads are closed.

Avoid the area and be aware of fire and other emergency services personnel working on site.

WHAT FIREFIGHTERS ARE DOING:

• Dongara Volunteer Fire and Rescue Service and Irwin Bush Fire Service firefighters are on the scene.
• Firefighters are consolidating containment lines. 

EXTRA INFORMATION:

• The incident was reported at 11.03am on Sunday 23 November.
• Approximately 400 hectares have been burnt.
• The cause of the fire is accidental.
• The Shire of Irwin is managing the fire.

KEEP UP TO DATE:

Visit www.dfes.wa.gov.au, call 13 DFES (13 3337), follow DFES on Twitter @dfes_wa or listen to news bulletins.

The next update will be provided by 11am tomorrow, Wednesday 26 November, unless the situation changes.