Hard work pays off for language ladies

Bundiyarra-Irra Wangga Language Centre workers, Edie Maher and Godfrey Simpson (left) and Rosie Sitorus (right), were on hand to congratulate the newest graduate teachers, Nadine Taylor and Leeann Merritt from Bundiyarra, and Natasha Ryan from Beachlands Primary School. Below: Their achievement called for a celebration with a yummy cake back at Bundiyarra!

Three local Aboriginal ladies have plenty to celebrate after graduating as qualified language teachers this month.

They were presented with their Aboriginal Languages Teacher Training qualifications at a graduation ceremony in Perth and the language centre team went along to support them and share their joy.

The three ladies started their language training in 2014 with block releases in Perth and Broome twice a year. The trainees had to be associated with a school, with Natasha already at Beachlands Primary School, and the language centre was able to negotiate positions for Nadine and Leeann at Waggrakine Primary School and Beachlands/ Meekawaya respectively.

Language Centre Coordinator, Jenny Kniveton-Gregory, said the graduates will complete a year on probation, after which they have the position of ‘Limited Authority to Teach’.

“This means they can’t yet have a classroom to themselves, but they can work within the school as an employee,” she said.

“It’s a great achievement for them all having graduated, as they all have busy lives and lots of other commitments, but they’ve stuck it out, and now we’re lucky in this region as we get three more qualified language teachers!

“Most if not all language teachers in the region started out in this program.

“It was a happy graduation if a bit emotional, as everyone was so overwhelmed by all their achievements and so proud of how far they’ve come,” said Jenny.

Bundiyarra CEO, Marchelle Retallack, congratulated the ladies.

“Three years ago Leeann sat behind a hidden desk and said she was only a transcriber. It just shows that selfdetermination, good mentoring, and real opportunity does make a difference to people’s lives,” she said.

“Bundiyarra and the board is proud of them all.”

Bundiyarra-Irra Wangga Language Centre staff, Jenny Kniveton-Gregory, Edie Maher, Rosie Sitorus and Godfrey Simpson thank Adrian Huber, (left) from Wrays, an intellectual property law firm that has kindly done some pro bono work for the language centre.

Language centre Coordinator, Jenny Kniveton-Gregory said Wrays has helped the centre get all its agreements and contracts up to scratch for copyright.

“They are helping us make sure all our practices protect the IP of Bundiyarra and the individuals and communities we work with,” she said.

Free tipping periods resolved by council

Council at its meeting on 22 September 2015 resolved that there will be free tipping periods introduced during the year in response to concerns relating to the withdrawal of the vergeside collection and introduction of tip fees.

The community are also advised that the entry charge for tipping at the Meru Waste Disposal Facility at Narngulu will come into effect on 1 November 2015. 

The fees being introduced at the landfill include $10 per entry for each load up to three tonnes of unsorted, mixed, general household waste for all motor vehicles including those with trailers, utilities or light trucks.

Residents who choose to separate their waste into separate streams will pay only $5. These streams include clean green waste, mixed general waste, household putrescible waste and recyclable materials.

Please note that there are no changes to commercial tipping fees.

Residents are reminded that for green waste to be able to be recycled into mulch it must not be contaminated with any other waste. Green waste that is contaminated with other waste matter will incur the $10 fee. 

Eftpos payment services are also available at Meru.

As part of the 2015/16 budget, it was announced that the annual bulk verge side collection has been discontinued.

In response to this, the City will be providing an alternate service for pensioners which will provide for one free bulk bin service to each property per annum. This service to eligible pensioners will commence in November, 2015.

Pensioners wishing to access this service, can ring the City’s Customer Service Team on 9956 6600 or visit our website www.cgg.wa.gov.auto get details on how to apply.

Not for profit agencies are also eligible to be exempt from these fees, but will need to make application to the City for the exemption to apply.

City of Greater Geraldton CEO, Ken Diehm, said the City was mindful that not everyone had the ability to get their rubbish to a waste facility.

“We have therefore put in place a strategy including, both the free bulk bin for pensioners and residential free entry periods,” Mr Diehm said.

“There is absolutely no need for illegal dumping and as members of this great community we shouldn’t tolerate it or turn a blind eye to it either.

“Our rangers will be vigilant in this space but everyone can do their bit to help keep our city clean.”

Illegal Dumping in Western Australia may be reported using the illegal dumping hotline (1300 766 541), online, or the City using the Snap, Send, Solve mobile phone application.

Residents are also encouraged to register and become a litter reporter by heading to this link http://www.kabc.wa.gov.au/report-littering/register-as-a-litter-reporter

Free tipping periods are as follows:

• March – 1 week (7 days) for domestic waste to a maximum volume of three tonnes. There are no limitations on the volumes of green waste accepted during this week; 
• June – 1 weekend (1 Saturday and the adjoining Sunday) for clean domestic green waste alone;
• September – 1 week (7 days) for domestic waste to a maximum volume of three tonnes. There are no limitations on the volumes of domestic green waste accepted during this week; and
• December – 1 weekend (1 Saturday and the adjoining Sunday) for clean domestic green waste alone.

These dates will be further advertised using the City’s media channels.

Regional Organisational Sustainability Program

Geraldton MLA Ian Blayney has welcomed the news that Geraldton and the Midwest have been so successful in their applications for funding through the Regional Organisational Sustainability Program.

The Department of Sport and Recreation supports regional sporting bodies through this program.

Bodies that have the responsibility of developing players, officials, coaches and events on a regional basis are provided funding through the Mid West Gascoyne office. In return, these bodies must demonstrate a high level of planning and sustainability at both an operational and strategic level.

“I’m delighted that Sport and Recreation Minister Mia Davies has approved the following funds to Geraldton and the Midwest,” said Mr Blayney.

“It is reassuring to see the hard work of these sporting organisations being rewarded,” said Mr Blayney.

“I look forward to witnessing their future successes,” Mr Blayney said.

Price calls for submissions on improving Indigenous education

Member for Durack Melissa Price is calling for submissions on how to improve educational outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students. 

Submissions will be submitted to the House of Representatives Standing Committee on Indigenous Affairs’ inquiry into education outcomes for Indigenous students. 

Ms Price, who is a member of this committee, said the committee will inquire into the key aspects of education opportunities and outcomes for Indigenous students up to school leaving age. 

“This is an opportunity for people to have their say on how the Federal Government can improve things such as access to schooling, outcomes of pre-schooling and the provision of boarding school education,” Ms Price said. 

“This inquiry will allow people to share their views on the benefits of different school models for Indigenous students in all parts of Australia. 

“All submissions must be made by Friday October 30.” 

Submissions can be made by emailing: IndigenousAffairs.reps@aph.gov.au

Take action now for bushfires

People in the Midwest Gascoyne are being urged to prepare themselves, their families and property, with ‘Are You Ready?’ Bushfire Action Month beginning today.

Department of Fire and Emergency Services Midwest Gascoyne Superintendent Kim Lambkin said that bushfires are a real threat, with over 220 bushfires occurring in the region last season.

"People cannot afford to be complacent about bushfires, with parts of the Midwest Gascoyne expecting an above normal fire potential due to increased rainfall resulting in higher fuel loads,” Superintendent Lambkin said.

"Bushfires start suddenly and without warning. It’s difficult to predict where or when the next major fire will occur, and it’s essential everyone plays their part in getting prepared.

"Sit down with your family this month and create a bushfire survival plan that clearly says what you will do when a bushfire starts near you.

"Discuss your plans with your neighbours so everyone knows what they will do if a bushfire strikes. This will help you take action and avoid making last minute decisions that could prove deadly.

"Get your property prepared for the bushfire season by creating a 20 metre asset protection zone around your home by pruning back trees, cutting long grass, clearing your roof gutters and removing rubbish.”

A number of community events will be held across the Midwest Gascoyne during Bushfire Action Month to help people prepare for bushfires, including street meets, property walk throughs and community information sessions.

"I strongly encourage everyone to get involved with your local brigade and participate in events being held in your area – it’s a great way to get to know your community and obtain lifesaving information about how to survive a bushfire,” Superintendent Lambkin said.

For information about Bushfire Action Month events visit www.dfes.wa.gov.au/bushfireactionmonth    

For more information about how to prepare for bushfires visit areyouready.wa.gov.au 

Bushfire Action Month events being held in the Midwest Gascoyne region

Dog Arrest

At about 7.45pm on Sunday 27 September, 2015 Police were called to attend an address in Wandina where a male was attempting to gain entry to the home to access car keys for the vehicle parked in the driveway. On Police arrival the offender had left the scene.

Police dog Bucky tracked the offender to another address in Wandina where it is alleged the offender climbed a fence to gain access to the back yard where children were playing. There he used a bottle of olive oil to threaten the children and other occupants in an attempt to gain entry to the house.

The offender, a 35yr old male from Wandina was apprehended by PD Bucky at the front of the premises. He has been charged with 2 counts of Attempted Aggravated Burglary and 1 count of Possess article to cause fear. He was refused bail and will appear in Geraldton Magistrates Court on 29/09/15. 

Juvenile arrests

At approx. 9.15am on Saturday 26 September, 2105 Police had cause to speak with a group of juveniles they had observed walking along Mitchell St in Spalding.

As a result of inquiries, 4 of the juveniles were arrested and conveyed to Geraldton Police Station to assist with inquiries in relation to a burglary offence that had occurred at Red Rooster in August.

A 15yr old male was charged with 1 count of burglary and stealing, 2 boys aged 13yrs were charged with breaching existing bail conditions and remanded in custody and the fourth boy, aged 15yrs was released pending further inquiries. 

Women’s Safety Package to Stop the Violence

Melissa Price, Federal Member for Durack welcomed today’s announcement by the Australian Government of a $100 million package of measures to provide a safety net for women and children at high risk of experiencing violence.  The package will improve frontline support and services, leverage innovative technologies to keep women safe, and provide education resources to help change community attitudes to violence and abuse. 

Ms Price said “we must elevate the issue of domestic violence to our national consciousness, and make it clear that domestic, family or sexual violence is unacceptable in any circumstances”. 

Women and children in Australia have the right to feel safe and live without fear of violence. 

Yet, one in six Australian women has experienced violence from a current or former partner, and 63 women have been killed so far this year. 

For Indigenous women the situation is even worse – they are 34 times more likely to be hospitalised as a result of family violence. 

In recent weeks, we have seen yet again the devastating impact that domestic and family violence has on our community. The tragic and avoidable deaths of women and their children at the hands of current or former partners or family members highlight the need for urgent action. 

The package includes $21 million for specific measures to help Indigenous women and communities. 

COAG has made domestic violence a national priority, and governments are acting. But recent events show we are not moving fast enough. 

This package responds to the initial advice of COAG’s Advisory Panel on Reducing Violence against Women and their Children – chaired by Ken Lay and deputy-chaired by Rosie Batty and Heather Nancarrow – which was provided to COAG at its special meeting on 23 July 2015. 

This is part of the Government’s longer term response to domestic and family violence and the COAG Advisory Panel’s final report, due in early 2016, will advise on what further measures could be introduced. 

Today’s package is in addition to the Australian Government’s $100 million investment in the Second Action Plan of the National Plan, and the $30 million national campaign to reduce violence against women and their children, jointly funded with the states and territories. 

Ms Price said the federal governmentlookedforward to working with states and territories to trial innovative new technologies to keep women safe, to train more frontline staff to recognise and respond appropriately to women experiencing violence, and to provide better resources and infrastructure to police working in remote Indigenous communities. 

The federal government will work with businesses and community groups to keep women safe from being tracked and harassed through mobile phones, and provide integrated services through dedicated domestic violence units in domestic and family violence hotspots.   

Ms Price said “Enough is enough. Women and children must be safe in their homes and on our streets. Domestic and family violence is never acceptable”. 

Details of the package

Immediate practical actions to keep women safe include:

• $12 million to trial with states the use of innovative technology to keep women safe (such as GPS trackers for perpetrators), with funding to be matched by states and territories.
• $5 million for safer technology, including working with telecommunications companies to distribute safe phones to women, and with the eSafety Commissioner to develop a resource package about online safety for women, including for women from CALD communities.
• $17 million to keep women safe in their homes by expanding successful initiatives like the Safer in the Home programme to install CCTV cameras and other safety equipment, and a grant to the Salvation Army to work with security experts to conduct risk assessments on victim’s homes, help change their locks and scan for bugs.
• $5 million to expand 1800RESPECT, the national telephone and online counselling and information service, to ensure more women can get support.
• $2 million increased funding for MensLine for tools and resources to support perpetrators not to reoffend.
• Up to $15 million to enable police in Qld to better respond to domestic violence in remote communities and for measures that reduce reoffending by Indigenous perpetrators.
• $3.6 million for the Cross Border Domestic Violence Intelligence Desk to share information on victims and perpetrators who move around the cross border region of WA, SA and the NT.

Immediate measures to improve support and services for women will include increased training for frontline staff and trials of integrated service models:

• $14 million to expand the DV-alert training programme to police, social workers, emergency department staff and community workers to better support women, and work with the College of General Practitioners to develop and deliver specialised training to GPs across the country.
• $15 million to establish specialised domestic violence units to provide access to coordinated legal, social work and cultural liaison services for women in a single location, and allow legal services to work with local hospitals, including for women from CALD communities and women living in regional/remote areas.
• $5 million for local women’s case workers, to coordinate support for women, including housing, safety and budgeting services.
• $1.4 million to extend the Community Engagement Police Officers in remote Indigenous communities in the Northern territory.
• Up to $1.1 million to help remote Indigenous communities prevent and better respond to the incidence of domestic violence through targeted support.

$5 million will also be provided as a longer-term measure to change the attitudes of young people to violence, through expanding the Safer Schools website to include resources for teachers, parents and students on respectful relationships. This will build on the $30 million national campaign (jointly funded by the Commonwealth, states and territories) to change young people’s attitudes to violence, which will commence in early 2016.

City seeking Mandarin speaking volunteers

The City of Greater Geraldton is seeking Mandarin speaking members of the community to assist during the stopover of the Asian cruise ship Super Star Virgo on 28 November 2015.

City of Greater Geraldton Mayor, Ian Carpenter, said the Super Star Virgo visit marks the first time an Asian cruise ship will visit Geraldton shores and the City is keen to make the time passengers spend in the region unforgettable.

“Geraldton is the first stop on the Australian leg of the Super Star Virgo’s 46 day Australasian tour and gives us the chance to show off our beautiful City region to a new tourism market,” he said.

“We already know that our volunteer Meet and Greeters are part of the reason why passengers enjoy visiting our City and we want to continue to provide this high level of service for Mandarin speaking passengers on the Super Star Virgo when they come ashore.

“To do so, the City is seeking Mandarin speaking volunteers to accompany our Meet and Greeters or be located at key tourist attractions to assist passengers with inquiries.”

If you speak Mandarin, or know someone who does, and would like to assist with the Super Star Virgo cruise ship visit please contact Han Jie Davis or Joanne Brown at the City of Greater Geraldton for more information on 9956 6600.

Mid West Cat Shelter - Spring Special! Cherri, Sweetie, Bubbles & Maisey

These cats have been with the Shelter for a while and we would really love them to find a forever home.  They are all only $100 until the end of October 2015.
You can find more info about these ladies at the links below.

• Maisey’s Profile
• Cherri’s Profile
• Bubbles’ Profile
• Sweetie’s Profile

• Sweetie’s Story – A Year With MWCS

The adoption fee for our cats is $150 and kittens is $200, (with the exception of Cat of the Week) which includes microchip, sterilization, immunization, vet check, worm and flea treated. That is a huge saving on the vet work alone!

Mid West Cat Shelter Inc is a registered charity whose main objective is to rescue and re-home, lost abandoned and homeless cats and re-home them to responsible pet owners.

We promote sterilization and containment, for the wellbeing of your cat, your neighborhood and the environment.

If you would like to adopt any of our other cats or kittens, visit our website www.midwestcatshelter.com our Facebook page www.facebook.com/midwestcatshelter or phone 0487 193 244 to speak to a coordinator.

Artworks transform our City

A culmination of numerous artworks in the City’s CBD have added colour, vibrancy and something different to our City centre.

The City of Greater Geraldton’s Vibrancy Strategy commissioned local artists to complete the various artworks with final designs approved by a panel from the City.

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

With support from the Arts and Cultural Development Council (ACDC), the City has welcomed the new art installations from murals, to street furniture and light installations. 

City of Greater Geraldton Mayor, Ian Carpenter, said vibrancy throughout the City was very important and the commissioned artworks had received rave reviews. 

“We had some specific outcomes through the Vibrancy Strategy which included encouraging new initiatives and opportunities for public art, inspiring expression to the ideas of individuals and groups which reflect on life in Greater Geraldton and encourage partnerships and community engagement in the development of public art projects,” he said.

“These outcomes have been achieved through a stunning series of artworks which are all very different, yet depict different elements of our great region.

“It has added something a bit different to our CBD which has most certainly added more character to our City.”

The talented local artists who completed the work include Shahran Jackey, Michelle Santarelli, Jessica Bibby, Karen Sanders, Craig Maynard, Hellen Ansell and Peta Riley from Mulla Mulla Designs, Anthea da Silva, Gemma Allen, Jordan Andreotta and Rose Holdaway with the help of local organisations Mara Art Aboriginal Corporation and Bundiyarra Aboriginal Community Aboriginal Corporation.

The artworks were part of the 2014/15 budget with the final piece of artwork, being a series of light boxes and planter boxes on the Blue Heelers building.

The newest instalment was a combined effort from a number of local artists including Anthea da Silva, Gemma Allen, Jordan Andreotta, Rose Holdaway and Shah Jackey.

With fully solar powered LED lighting, below the funky lightboxes are a series of 24 planter boxes featuring native species.

Zest Fest Success

Hundreds of people packed the Kalbarri foreshore on the weekend to experience the mysticism, intrigue and allure of the Orient for the fourth Kalbarri Zest Festival.

In the town’s biggest celebration of community, culture and history yet, festival goers turned out inmasses to experience Japanese and Chinese food, performances, art and other cultural offerings.

Zest Festival director Rebecca Millar said she had been overwhelmed by positive feedback about the event.

“The whole weekend was just amazing,” Ms Millar said.

“We had hundreds of people turn out to embark on a sensory journey to the east – whether they were learning the physical and heart-racing art of Japanese drumming, dining on gourmet fare in the food tent, listening to the haunting melody of a gourd flute or experiencing the ancient ritual of tea ceremonies.”

Ms Millar said the free Saturday evening Chamber of Rhetoric performance at Chinamen’s Beach was once again a festival highlight.

She said she was particularly proud of the way Kalbarri youthhad worked alongside high-calibre artists to produce a captivating display of a Shogun’s court for the performance.

“The kids were incredible. They were so professional, so hardworking, and so enthusiastic and ­- together with visiting artists Karen Hethey and Theaker von Ziarno- they pulled off the most mesmerising performance,” she said.

“I think one of the Zest Fest’s greatest strengths is the way it exposes Kalbarri kids to this calibre of art, and provides them with the opportunity to learn from artists of an international standing.

“The quality of performances, the costumes, the lighting, the music, the dance – it was breathtaking.”

Ms Millar said the Trade Winds Tasting Tent had again proven a highlight with sold-out lunches provided by leading south-west winery Voyager Estate.

She also marked the tea ceremonies as an event highlight. The ceremonies were conducted in a tea house builtby the Kalbarri Men’s Shed on Chinaman’s Beach and designed by architectural student Jared Malton, who grew up in Kalbarri.

“They conduct these ceremonies with such precision and grace, in a way that encourages you to slow down, to be mindful, and to appreciate what you are doing,” Ms Millar said.

“To do this on the beach in Kalbarri with the waves crashing behind you and the breeze wafting through was a very special experience.”

Festival goers were also treated the sight of a giant Buddha sand sculpture, as well as a whirlwind of performances and demonstrations from the Confucius Institute from the University of Western Australia who conducted kung-fu on the foreshore, calligraphy, Chinese dumpling cooking and more.

Festivities continued at Kalbarri District High School, which transformed its library into a virtual Aladdin’s Cave of Zest Fest-related works created by Kalbarri students.

The school also hosted the Taste and Desire: Power of the Beautiful exhibition in which people submitted objects of beauty for professional curation by regional artists Marina Baker and Marianne Penberthy alongside beautifully crafted interpretive panels.

The Kalbarri Zest Festival is a five-year celebration commemorating the 300th anniversary of the sinking of the Dutch East India merchant ship the Zuytdorp on the cliffs north of Kalbarri.

It is produced in partnership with the ARC Centre of Excellence for the History of Emotions at UWA, which brings research history alive by delving into emotional heritage.

Ms Millar paid tribute to the Centre for its support for the event, as well as the volunteer committee who worked for months in the lead up to the festival.

She also thanked other major funding partners, including the Community Arts Network WA, Catalyst Community Arts Fund and the State Government through Tourism WA’s Regional Events Scheme, which is jointly funded by Royalties for Regions.

The Zest Festival is assisted by the Australian Government through the Ministry for the Arts’ Festivals Australia program.

The community youth Taiko drumming was a smoke, alcohol and drug free event proudly sponsored by Country Arts WA and by Healthway to promote the Drug Aware message.

For more information on the festival visit the website www.zestfestival.com.au.

Geraldton joins dementia friendly communities

Alzheimer’s Australia WA has made a big commitment to progressing the WA Dementia-Friendly Communities project by partnering with the WA Museum – Geraldton, the Regional Art Gallery and the City of Greater Geraldton to become dementia friendly pilot sites.

City of Greater Geraldton Mayor, Ian Carpenter, says this project is an Australian first and provides the opportunity to increase awareness, advocacy and understanding.

“A dementia-friendly community is a place where people living with dementia are supported to live a high quality of life with meaning, purpose and value.

“The City’s QEII Seniors and Community Centre will look to at changessuch as the types of language that we use, talking to staff about dementia, or keeping spaces clean and clear of clutter,” Mayor Carpenter said.

WA Museum – Geraldton Regional Manager Catherine Belcher said the Museum is making changes to become more supportive of people living with dementia.

“The Museum has completed a dementia-friendly audit tool to begin the project, and this week staff are undertaking living with dementia awareness training,” Ms Belcher said.

“The WA Museum – Geraldton aims to not only help people living with the condition, but also their carers, and to support people to stay socially connected.”

Director of the Geraldton Regional Art Gallery, James Davies, said he was very pleased that the Gallery’s recent $1.5M refurbishment of the gallery building and its layout aligns with the guidelines set out by Alzheimer’s Australia.               

“The Arts can and should play a pivotal role in increasing public awareness and understanding of the special needs of those afflicted by dementia as well as the critical role of carers in our community” said Mr Davies.

“One of the major things that we need to remember is that 70 per cent of people with dementia live at home in the community and 30 per cent of those live alone. Becoming dementia-friendly is a community challenge more than it is a residential aged care challenge,” said Mayor Carpenter.

The City of Greater Geraldton and Alzheimer’s Australia WA will work together to make positive changes for consumers living with dementia. The key areas people living with dementia have asked us to target are:

1. Reducing stigma through improved awareness of dementia in the general community.
2. Developing of dementia enabling physical access
3. Increasing awareness of customers’ needs with dementia in businesses and services.
4. Increasing support and information for families and carers.
5. Improving access to social clubs and activities for people living with dementia.
6. Providing accessible person-centred dementia care and support services.
7. Improving transport services.
8. Increasing knowledge of dementia in medical professionals.

Alzheimer’s Australia WA CEO Rhonda Parker said the report provided the most first step in the journey to making a dementia friendly nation. The research was innovative in its state wide approach to consultation because it brought people living with dementia, carers and dementia professionals together in workshops.

“With 32,000 people living with dementia in Western Australia, and that projection set to grow over the next few decades as the population ages, WA needs to consider what strategies should be in place in the future and where our energies need to be focussed,” Ms Parker said.

“It is the first time anywhere in Australia that people with dementia were sought in communities across the state to shape the future.”

“Local government has shown great leadership and enthusiasm for this project,” Ms Parker said

“The City of Greater Geraldton, WA Museum – Geraldton and Geraldton Regional Art Gallery are leading the way in developing dementia-friendly communities,” Ms Parker said.

This project is an Australian first on how to create dementia-friendly communities and provide the opportunity to increase awareness, advocacy and understanding.

Repair and Replacement Plan for Geraldton playground equipment approved

The repair or replacement of more than half the non-compliant playground equipment as part of the 2015/16 budget has been endorsed by Council.

City of Greater Geraldton Mayor, Ian Carpenter, said the City’s Public Open Space Strategy was utilised to identify high priority parks that should have their play equipment replaced or repaired first with the available funding.

“The Strategy is based upon a hierarchy of parks, therefore parks that are of the highest priority to the community were allocated funding for the repair or replacement of play equipment first,” he said.

“Funds will be expended in accordance with the plan until the $349,000 in this year’s budget for the renewal of playground equipment is exhausted.”

Although the play equipment in 80 percent of the City’s parks meet compliance standards, adjustments to maintenance programs to monitor condition and maintain the equipment need to be made.

“By far, the majority of play equipment in 80 percent of City parks is in good condition and meets current standards however, the audit has shown that some parks haven’t been monitored as often as they should have been,” said Mayor Carpenter.

“To ensure this is a thing of the past, this Council has now taken steps to make improvements.”

Dates for when play equipment will be replaced or reopened to the public will heavily depend on delivery times of suppliers.

“Play equipment that is of a high standard and is durable enough to withstand our harsh environment can’t be bought at Bunnings or locally manufactured.  This is a specialist industry and it could take up to three months for equipment to be sourced,” said Mayor Carpenter.

“In the meantime, fenced off equipment that is being replaced will be removed from the parks and the fences taken down. 

“The City will endeavour to repair the play equipment as quickly as possible but until this work is done the fences will remain in place to ensure community safety.”

Play equipment will be replaced and soft fall either rehabilitated or replaced in the following parks:

-          Pages Beach
-          Rundle Park
-          Mahomets Beach
-          Geraldton Foreshore
-          Glendenning Park
-          Maitland Park
-          Muir Park
-          Spalding Park

The play equipment in Forrester Park, GRAMS Reserve and Webber Park will be repaired.

The replacement of the following non-conforming play equipment in lower priority parks will be considered in the 2015/16 mid-year budget review.

-          Clematis Park
-          Iduna Park
-          Jenner Park
-          Levy Street Park
-          Vincent Street park
-          Alexander Park
-          Lester Square Park
-          Bugara Park
-          Norm BrandPark

Pull Your Socks Up and Lend a Helping Hand to Seriously Ill Children on McHappy Day

McHappy Day will this year be celebrated on Saturday 17th October and Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC) is encouraging Geraldton residents to help to raise a record breaking $3.4 million by purchasing a $1 Helping Hand or a pair of Ronald Socks for $3 from their local McDonald’s restaurant. 

The Helping Hand is a key fundraising item for McHappy Day, with an impressive 805,000 Helping Hands sold across Australia for McHappy Day in 2014. This year for the first time Ronald Socks have also been added to the mix and are a fun way for Geraldton residents to show their support for RMHC. 

“McHappy Day is the biggest fundraising event for RMHC and Helping Hands are a symbol of how RMHC programs are able to continue to provide much needed services and programs for families with children going through a serious illness. It really is through the help of individuals who extend their hand, either through donations or volunteer work, that has made RMHC what is it today,” said Mike Hanlon, licensee McDonald’s Geraldton and McDonald's Geraldton Homemaker Centre. 

“For those people really looking to show off their support our Ronald Socks are the perfect addition to your McHappy Day outfit! My Crew and I will be sporting some socks and we encourage the community to join us for the day,” added Mike. 

Corporate Helping Hands will also be available for businesses to purchase in $10 and $50 increments. Geraldton businesses will be able to post a Helping Hand in their local restaurant and will also receive another to display in their office. 

“A $10 donation means that the Ronald McDonald Learning Program can purchase books and reading apps to engage with and help students catch up on missed school work while they were sick. $50 can provide a set of bedding for overnight rooms in the Ronald McDonald Family Rooms or a welcome pack for families arriving at a Ronald McDonald House for the first time; often with none of the essentials like toiletries,” added Mike. 

The power of family closeness is a driving factor in the work of RMHC and this year’s fundraising goal equates to providing around 27,000 nights for Australian families at one of the 16 Ronald McDonald Houses across Australia. 

Geraldton residents will be able to show their support for RMHC by buying, signing and displaying a Helping Hand at their local restaurant for just $1 or picking up a pair of Ronald Socks for $3 from Thursday 1st October, up until McHappy Day on Saturday 17th October. 

In addition to Helping Hands, people can get behind McHappy Day by simply dropping in to one of over 980 McDonald’s restaurants across Australia on Saturday 17th October to make a donation to RMHC or by buying a Big Mac ($2 from every Big Mac will go to RMHC). 

Donations can also be made via www.rmhc.org.au/mchappyday

Brickstory Project launches City’s Everlasting Program

WA Country Builders and the City of Greater Geraldton have entered into the first ‘Everlasting Partnership’ with the construction of the Brickstory project, which will replace the toilet blocks at Back Beach and Glendinning Park, scheduled to begin in October.

City of Greater Geraldton Mayor, Ian Carpenter, congratulated WA Country Builders being the first local business to come on board as a Diamond Everlasting Sponsor for City projects under the Everlasting Partnership Program

“The City is very pleased to partner with WA Country Builders, a local business through and through, in our new sponsorship program that enables business and industry to sponsor or partner with the City to deliver projects and programs the community highly values,” said Mayor Carpenter.

WA Country Builders Mid West General Manager, Phil Raven, said the Brickstory Project was about giving back to the community by providing them with the facilities they want most. The newly designed facilities will meet current Australian Standards and will be universally accessible.

“WA Country Builders have been in Geraldton for 21 years and we wanted to give something back to the community.  When the opportunity arose to partner with the City to deliver projects on their capital works priority list we knew it was an opportunity we didn’t want to miss,” said Mr Raven.

“The construction of the two toilet blocks was the most voted for project by locals during the Brickstory promotion late last year.  They are now being constructed and will be completed and ready for use just in time for summer,” he added.

Demolition of the existing toilet blocks will begin in early October with a 10 week period programmed for both demolition and construction, alternative toilet facilities will be provided during the project. 

The City has a range of initiatives available for partnership ranging from Bronze level sponsorship starting at $1000 up to Diamond level for $60,000 or more.  For more information on the Everlasting Program contact the City on 9956 6600.

22 Year Old Male Charged with Robbery

On Wednesday 24 September 2015 at approximately 9.00am, Geraldton Detectives and officers from Geraldton Police Station apprehended a 22 year old Rangeway male. The male is alleged to have been an outstanding person of interest for a number of offences in and around Geraldton area including a Robbery which occurred in August 2015.

The 22 year old was arrested and conveyed to Geraldton Police Station where he was interviewed over a number of incidents. As a result he was charged with the following offences; 1 x Burglary and Commit Offence in Dwelling

1 x Stealing
1 x Steal Motor Vehicle
1 x Robbery
1 x Attempted Burglary with Intent in Dwelling

It is alleged that the offences occurred within Geraldton area between 15 July 2015 and 14 September 2015. He will appear at the Geraldton Magistrates Court. 

Remaining Two Escapees Back in Custody

On Wednesday 24 September 2015 at approximately 9.30am, Geraldton Detectives and officers from Geraldton Police Station located the two remaining males who escaped from Geraldton Regional Prison on 21 September 2015.

The escapees were found in a residential address in Rangeway and are both now in custody.

This means all three escapees have been apprehended.

They were charged with Escaping From Lawful Custody

International student is BCMI ‘rising star’

Richard takes advantage of the hands on training approach at the BCMI campus whilst being guided by industry experienced lecturers.

Oh, Vienna. The cultural capital of the world, renowned for its architecture and music, liberal thinking and more than 150,000 student places in private and public universities.

So why would any student want to leave to study half the world away in Geraldton, WA?

“To study in a best practice aquaculture facility,” said former Viennese university student Richard Kreuzweger, who did his homework on the place before making the quantum leap.

This international student swapped life and education in the Austrian capital to enrol in aquaculture at Batavia Coast Maritime Institute (BCMI) in Geraldton and earned himself an Outstanding Achievement Award to boot.

BCMI is a campus of Durack Institute of Technology in Geraldton and is a best practice aquaculture, marine research and training facility, and that’s what attracted Richard.

He switched from biology to aquaculture because it could provide him with more practical skills, and his decision is really paying off.

BCMI Lecturer, Aquaculture and Maritime, Ben Byrne, said Richard is a rising star.

“Richard is a popular and highly motivated student,” he said.

“He is adaptable and hardworking and has already received an Outstanding Achievement Award in Cert II and III in Marine Sciences, has completed Certificate II in Aquaculture, and is now studying his Diploma in Aquaculture.”

Richard is already getting hands‐on work in the industry as a casual hatchery assistant in the ornamental fish section at BCMI (Australia’s biggest breeder of Clown Fish – the much‐loved Nemo), and volunteers with our industry partner, Chapman Valley Fish Farm, where he harvests and moves fish. He is also working on a federally funded tilapia and riverine pest control program with Dr Colin Johnson in the mid‐west.

When he has gained his diploma, Richard plans to pursue employment working with salmon in Europe’s Aquaculture industry, or return to his homeland and start his own business in farming and breeding fish. Richard is not the only International student choosing to study at BCMI’s world class facility. Students from Singapore and the Philippines have previously enrolled to take advantage of the Marine Science and Fisheries Courses that offer a pathway to employment or further study in marine sciences in the university sector.

BCMI is not only becoming an important research Institution in marine ornamentals aquaculture in Australia, but also provides great opportunities for training in Marine Science.  

For more information on these courses, contact BCMI (08) 9956 6175 or email bcmi@durack.edu.au. Alternatively, visit the Durack Institute of Technology website, www.durack.edu.au and click on Batavia Coast Maritime Institute to discover the range of nationally recognised qualifications from Certificate I to Diploma level.

Young Sean gets his sea legs early

Young Sean Parks, ‘Squid’ to his mates, has a bright future in the maritime industry.

The 16‐year‐old former high school student from Jurien Bay on WA’s west coast displays a great aptitude for the industry and is proof choosing your career path early can pay off.

He is studying a Certificate II in Fishing Operations at the Batavia Coast Maritime Institute (BCMI), in Geraldton, in the Marine and Environmental Science portfolio.

BCMI is a Durack Institute of Technology campus which offers electives in Years 10 and 11 in high schools and that’s where Sean got his start.

BCMI Lecturer, Aquaculture and Maritime, Ben Byrne, said Sean began as a student through the Jurien Bay District High School (DHS) Marine Tourism Program.

He said Sean had developed into a mature, highly skilled member of the BCMI Fishing Operations Team.

“He’s regularly chosen to work as a volunteer deckhand on BCMI’s research and education vessel, Masterclass and is an excellent watch person and boat operator,” said Ben.

“He is only a few weeks away from achieving his Grade I Coxswains ticket, and it’s fantastic to see such a young lad so committed and dedicated to setting himself up for his future.

“Sean is very motivated and keen to be involved and is a strong candidate to gain employment in the fishing or tourism industry,” Ben said.

Clearly the entrepreneurial type, while he was studying the Marine Tourism Program at high school, Sean was involved in making dive bags that were sold through a local tackle shop.

Ben said studying through the high school program opens pathways and gives students more opportunities to learn.

“Studying at BCMI under the Marine and Environmental Science portfolio can lead to employment in many areas. For Sean, it can result in work in the seafood industry, marine tourism or charter boats or the fisheries industry,” said Ben.

“The world is his oyster, so to speak!”

For more information on these courses, contact BCMI (08) 9956 6175 or email bcmi@durack.edu.au. Alternatively, visit the Durack Institute of Technology website, www.durack.edu.au and click on Batavia Coast Maritime Institute to discover the range of nationally recognised qualifications from Certificate I to Diploma level.

Sean Parks works alongside fellow students during the Marine Tourism Program at high school to create new dive bags.

Sean Parks at the helm of Durack’s training vessel named the Masterclass as he undertakes his Grade I Coxswains ticket training.