City declared RV Friendly Town

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Nature playground planned for Wandina

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Local contractor awarded Beresford Foreshore Protection project

Geraldton based civil contractor Central Earthmoving has been awarded the contract to construct coastal protection works along the Beresford Foreshore, one of the City’s largest Capital Work projects to date.

Stretching two kilometres in length, the first phase of the Beresford Foreshore Coastal Protection and Enhancement Project involves the construction of a 100m breakwater extension to the detached breakwater, a 45m extension to the existing groyne and three shore based rock revetment structures to mitigate the effects of erosion.

City of Greater Geraldton Mayor Shane Van Styn said Council was very pleased to award the coastal protection works to a highly experienced local contractor which will also help stimulate the local economy.

“Central Earthmoving has more than 30 years’ experience delivering civil construction, land development and land care projects throughout regional WA and were able to demonstrate they have the specialist skills and experience required to build the coastal protection structures,” he said.

“This year the City will be investing a record $78 million in building and renewing infrastructure focusing on projects that will transform our economy whilst preserving and maintaining our lifestyle.

“The Beresford Foreshore Protection and Enhancement Project not only protects $55 million of state and local government infrastructure at risk due to coastal erosion, it’s construction will also inject millions of dollars back into the local economy,” said Mayor Van Styn.

The Beresford Coastal Protection works which extend from Marina Beach, also known as Midalia’s Beach, in the south to Trigg Street in the north are scheduled to begin in January 2017.

The second phase of the project which includes coastal enhancement works to replace amenities already lost to erosion include landscaping, barbeques, picnic settings, benches, bicycle racks, showers, playground equipment, lighting, drinking fountains, shade structures and a toilet block will begin once the protection works are completed.

The $23.1 million project is jointly funded with Royalties for Regions contributing $17.28 million, Mid West Ports Authority $4 million with the City contributing $1.85.

Waterwise Rewards Program

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

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

Offers available through the program are selected: 

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

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

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

ArtDrive celebrates success

People’s Choice winner for the Mullewa category Julie Freeman and Greenough category winners Glenyce Miller and Joy Graham.

In its inaugural year the City of Greater Geraldton’s ArtDrive project attracted thousands of visitors to the Midwest region to take in a series of one-of-a-kind art installations.

Launched in June this year, a call out went to all local artists, community groups and organisations to create pieces of work which were displayed in various locations to create a self-drive rural art tour.

The event saw 22 art works along Brand Highway, Greenough, through to Walkaway, Ellendale Pool, Mullewa and Tenindewa from August to the end of October.

City of Greater Geraldton Mayor Shane Van Styn said the response from the community regarding the project was fantastic.

“We had people from all over coming through Geraldton and taking the ArtDrive and it was amazing to see so many cars through the Midwest region,” he said.

“We chose to run the project at that time as it is wildflower season and it makes for an absolutely stunning drive and this year was no exception.

“I was absolutely blown away with the high calibre of artwork that was made for the project and we look forward to bringing it back bigger and better next year.”

Artists were asked to create works based on the themes of farminglife, wildflowers or aboriginal cultureA panel of judges then chose winners in a Greenough and Mullewa category and the public voted on people’s choice winners. The winners were as follows:

• Mullewa winner: Julie Freeman – Benevolence
• Mullewa runner up: Roxanne Grant – Tenindewa Standing
• Greenough winner: Rachel Weaver, Jane Greenlees & Andrew Mills – Recycling the Season
• Greenough runner up: The Leaning Tree Community School – From Seed to Tree, a Journey of Growth
   
• People’s Choice Awards:

o   Mullewa: Julie Freeman – Benevolence
o   Greenough: Joy Graham & Glenyce Miller – Flock Art Jamboree

Mayor Van Styn congratulated all the artists who were involved in the project.

“Our aim was to create something unique and that’s exactly what it was,” he said.

“It brought people to our region and it made them stay that little bit longer and explore our beautiful wildflower country.

“Well done to all those who create stunning pieces of art which truly represented our region and enhanced the drive out in the Midwest.”

Julie Freeman’s piece Benevolence.

Council endorses Mountain Bike Master Plan

Geraldton Mountain Bike Club President Paul Spackman and City of Greater Geraldton Mayor Shane Van Styn at the existing mountain bike trail in Chapman River Regional Park which could be formalised as part of the City’s Mountain Bike Master Plan.

The formalisation of the existing mountain bike trail through the Chapman River Regional Park is one step closer with Council recently endorsing the Chapman River Regional Park Mountain Bike Master Plan. 

The Master Plan includes making improvements to the well-established mountain bike trail loop and the closure and rehabilitation of spur tracks which are causing erosion and vegetation management issues. 

City of Greater Geraldton Mayor Shane Van Styn said the Mountain Bike Master Plan is the next step in the ongoing management of the popular Park. 

“Over the past 23 years the City has developed a number of plans and strategies regarding the environmental management and recreational use of the Chapman River Regional Park,” he said. 

“These plans ensure this important community asset is shared and enjoyed by all recreational users which also includes mountain bike riders.” 

The City’s Mountain Bike Master Plan also aligns with the Western Australia Mountain Bike Strategy which advocates for sustainable mountain bike trails across the state, many of which are located in areas of environmental significance. 

“The inclusion of mountain bike trails in significant environmental areas is common place practice such as 40kms of fully signed trails in the Kalamunda National Park and State Forrest located in the Perth Hills and a 9km network of trails in the Bramley National Park in the Margaret River area,” said Mayor Van Styn. 

Before detailed designs of the various master plan elements will be undertaken an environmental impact statement will be developed and key stakeholders further engaged. 

“To ensure trail formalisation is environmentally sustainable and will preserve and enhance the current environmental, cultural and heritage values of the Park the City will be meeting with all key stakeholders including Chapman River Friends and Traditional Owners of the land to reach consensus on the implementation of the Mountain Bike Master Plan,” Mayor Van Styn addded. 

“The City will also enter into a partnership agreement with the Geraldton Mountain Bike Group who not only assisted with the development of the Master Plan, they will also have a role in the implementation of the plan and upkeep of mountain bike trail facilities.”

City to recommence wildlife control program

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Entertain the kids – GAMES ZONE-style

Wondering how to entertain the crowds at your next community event or large gathering?

Think Event Nation’s mobile ‘GAMES ZONE.’

The mobile for-hire GAMES ZONE trailer includes more than 15 games and activities to keep the youngsters and young at heart entertained for hours.

Event Nation director Jodi Reilly said she’d decided to offer the one-stop games shop after receiving many enquiries for children’s activities.

“We’ve been in the events organising game for a long time now and recognise the importance of providing quality activities to make your event a stand-out success,” Ms Reilly said.

“By providing the GAMES ZONE for hire, we hope to make it so much easier for people to entertain at their next event, no matter where they are throughout the region.”

Among the games are giant plastic chess set, bean bag toss, building blocks, jumbo connect four, inflatable limbo, giant pickup sticks, inflatable toddler ball pit and plenty more.

“It’s basically fun in a trailer,” Ms Reilly said.

“It’s so great to watch the little ones have a blast as they try all the activities. I has bought my 6 yr old daughter much joy.”

The mobile GAMES ZONE is available for hire for fun days, festivals, community events, large gatherings, staff Christmas parties or weddings in Geraldton or beyond.

Games and activities are suited for children aged 18 months and above.

The games have laminated instructions and rules, to help keep scoring above board!

Basic hire includes the complete ‘Game Zone’ trailer (all games and activities), with the client picking up from and returning to Geraldton. 

Event Nation can also quote for assisted set up and pack down and/or supervision, based on individual requirements.

To find out more contact Event Nation on 08 9964 6088 or email hello@eventnation.com.au

Community to celebrate International Day of People with Disability

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Better facilities for Mid West cancer patients

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Twilight Dinner Markets back by popular demand

After its popularity during this year’s Festivals on the Foreshore, the Twilight Dinner Markets will become a regular event on the first Sunday of every month.

From December through to April, the community will be able to enjoy a variety of delicious food options whilst taking in live music on the Foreshore as part of Sundays by the Sea.

City of Greater Geraldton Mayor Shane Van Styn said the event will return due to positive community feedback.

“The community has spoken and we have listened,” he said.

“We saw such a huge turnout for the twilight dinner markets during Festivals on the Foreshore that we wanted to make it a regular occurrence on the City’s events calendar.

“I’d like to thank the community for their feedback regarding the event during Festivals on the Foreshore and we hope they will continue to show their support.” 

The event will be presented in partnership with the City of Greater Geraldton and local business It’s All Sorted.

It’s All Sorted owner Emma Howell said she predicted the markets would be just as successful as earlier in the year.

“We coordinated the Twilight Dinner Markets during Festivals on the Foreshore and I had so many people asking if we could make it a regular thing,” she said.

“With support from the City we have been able to make that happen and I would encourage everyone to head on down to the Foreshore on the first Sunday of every month to enjoy the markets.”

Mayor Van Styn said the markets were just another way the City was activating the Foreshore.

“We’ve seen some great crowds on the Foreshore for Sundays by the Sea and we want to leverage the amazing location,” he said.

“We want to continue to host events on the Foreshore that will bring the whole family down.”

The Twilight Dinner Markets will kick off on Sunday 4 December from 5-8pm at Stow Gardens on the Foreshore.

WA Police Pride Parade Involvement

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

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

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

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

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

Suspected Arson – Durlacher Street

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

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

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

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

Serious Crash (Car vs Scooter) – Rangeway

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

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

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

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

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

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

Grievous Bodily Harm – Geraldton Hotel

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

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

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

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

Aquarena closed due to power pole fire

The Aquarena will be closed today as Western Power replaces a power pole that caught fire last night.

Works will take place today Thursday 17 November from 9am-4pm. The Aquarena will advise when the centre is back open.

Swimming classes that are missed today will be replaced at a later date.

For any inquiries contact the City on 9956 6600 or e-mail council@cgg.wa.gov.au

New funds to inspire and entertain

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Laughing all the way at Geraldton’s Comedy Improv Christmas Special

Let some Geraldton’s best comedians save you from all the bad cracker jokes this December and get you into the festival spirit at the Comedy Improv Christmas Special.

Featuring the best christmas themed improv battles this side of the North Pole, such as Naughty vs Nice and Santa vs Rudolph, as well as the Young Guns Christmas Comedy Special.

The Comedy Improv Christmas Special is taking place over two nights in the vibrant west end of Geraldton’s CBD on Friday the 9th and Saturday the 10th of December at Pollinators City Hive.

If you haven’t seen live improv comedy in action before this is your chance to see some of Geraldton’s best comedians from The Comedy Emporium go head to head in a battle of christmas wits.

The Comedy Emporium’s 18+ Adults Improv Troupe will start the laughs off on the Friday night with the Young Guns Troupe (14-17yrs) continuing the laughs through to Saturday night.

Some of Geraldton’s youngest comedian’s – as young as 10 years of age from The Comedy Emporium’s Prodigies Troupe – will also be taking the stage as part of the C hristmas special on Saturday afternoon at 4.30pm.

The Comedy Emporium Ringmistress Jody Quadrio said, “the shows are guaranteed to be like nothing you’ve seen before and the spontaneous nature of improv comedy means you’ll never see the same show or laugh at the same joke twice.

“Often improvisers will take a suggestion from the audience, or draw on some other source of inspiration – this always adds to the fun of the shows,” she said.

“The shows are so much more than one liners, imagine whole scenes of hilarity coming together at whim,” she said.

The Comedy Improv Christmas Special is guaranteed to be the best Santa-sack full of laughs this festive season. So dont be a scrooge, grab yourself a ticket online at www.thecomedyemporium.com for just $10. Student prices are also available for the Young Guns show and the Prodigies show is free entry. BYO Drinks.

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Event Details:

Naughty vs Nice Comedy Improv Christmas Special – Adults 18+ Troupe

Date: Friday, 9 December 2016

Venue: Pollinators City Hive, 184 Marine Terrace, Geraldton

Time: 8pm to 10pm (doors open at 7.30pm)

Tickets: $10

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Santa vs Rudolph Comedy Improv Christmas Special – Prodigies Troupe

Date: Saturday, 10 December 2016

Venue: Pollinators City Hive, 184 Marine Terrace, Geraldton

Time: 4.30pm to 6pm (doors open at 4pm)

Tickets: Free Entry

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Young Guns Comedy Improv Christmas Special – Young Guns Troupe

Date: Saturday, 10 December 2016

Venue: Pollinators City Hive, 184 Marine Terrace, Geraldton

Time: 7.30pm to 9.30pm (doors open at 7pm)

Tickets: Adult $10, Student $5.

For more information visit www.thecomedyemporium.com or contact Jody on 0498 230 487 or jody@thecomedyemporium.com 

Geraldton just got its first Tesla and Electric car recharge point

Geraldton's Ocean West, a local short term accommodation provider, is the home of Geraldton's first TESLA and electric car recharge point. 

Minnie Reynolds from Geraldton's Ocean West provided the following info regarding the install.

"Apparently they have approached a lot of businesses, council etc in the past.  

"We were more than happy to have the first install here – TESLA paid for the recharge point equipment being the first in Geraldton, and Ocean West get to support the electric car movement. Win Win!

"We have the Tesla charger plugged into a 3 phase socket, which is good, since Electric Vehicles other than Tesla’s will be able to plug into the socket direct."

Click here to see a map of charging points.

Click here to be a legend and buy a TESLA

Students volunteer their skills to help the community and local economy

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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