Roads/campground reopen after heavy rainfalls

The City of Greater Geraldton wishes to advise the Ellendale campground has reopened and the following roads have reopened to all traffic:

• Yuna-Tenindewa Road
• Tenindewa North Road
• Coonawa Road
• Westbank Road
• Ellendale Road
• Carnarvon-Mullewa Road

Drivers are advised to use caution as there may be still water flowing across these roads.

Members of the community are requested to exercise caution and obey all warning signs and directions from authorised City personnel and contractors.

The City apologises for any inconvenience this closure may cause.

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

Road resurfacing works at Goulds Road

The City of Greater Geraldton wishes to advise it will be resurfacing a section of Goulds Road adjacent to Foskew Road in Narngulu, with works scheduled to commence on Monday 29 January 2018 for a period of approximately three weeks.

The anticipated hours of work will be from 7am to 6pm.

Main Roads WA has allocated $1,198,667 this financial year through the Mid West Regional Road Groups Road Project Grant Program for roadworks within the City of Greater Geraldton Municipality.

Traffic Management will be in place during this time; business operators, motorists and pedestrians are advised to exercise caution and obey all warning signs and direction from the authorised City personnel and contactors.

The City apologises for any inconvenience these works may cause.

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

Local heroes recognised on Australia Day

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Community nursery growing strong

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Cricket talent to flock to Geraldton for tournament

Cricket’s finest regional talent from across Australia and the East Asia Pacific are gearing up for the Toyota Australian Country Cricket Championships.

The annual tournament will kick off in Geraldton on January 5 and will run through to January 13.

A total of 13 teams including six male and seven female sides will play fixtures at various locations in the Midwest and the competition is open to the public.

City of Greater Geraldton Mayor Shane Van Styn said the community were in for a real treat.

“We are about to see some real quality cricket here in Geraldton and I would urge everyone to check out the matches,” he said.

“The fixtures have been finalised so make sure you put them in your calendars!”

There will be a number of men and women’s T20 matches and one dayers alongside an ‘Allstars’ match with a Country Representative team playing the local Allstars that will also include a number of former Australian state cricketers.

The Allstars will include WA’s Simon Mackin, WA all-rounder Jim Allenby, as well as South Australian bowler Mark Harrity, Queensland’s Chris Simpson, WA bowler Jo Angel, New South Wales wicketkeeper Daniel Smith and Brett Geeves from East Asia Pacific.

Games will take place at various sporting grounds in Geraldton including WA Country Builders Stadium (Wonthella Oval), the Recreation Ground, Muir Park, GBSC Sports Park (Eadon Clarke Oval) with fixtures also set for Nabawa Oval.

Spectators won't have to stump up any money for entry as all games are free.

Fixtures and more information regarding the tournament can be found on the City’s website.

Changes to rubbish collection and Meru Landfill hours

The City of Greater Geraldton wishes to advise that Meru Landfill and the Tip Shop will be closed on Christmas Day Monday 25 December 2017 and New Years Day 1 January 2018.

This will affect rubbish collection for both residential and commercial premises during the Christmas/New Year period. Changes to rubbish collection days are as follows:

Normal collection days will recommence on Monday 8 January 2018.

Flares released as part of HMAS Sydney II Commemoration Service

The City of Greater Geraldton wishes to advise local residents that they may hear a series of loud noises on Sunday 19 November as part of the HMAS Sydney II Commemoration Service.

At approximately 7pm, a large blank cannon shot will be fired as well as a display of multiple flares off the coast as part of the ceremony, kindly donated by the Geraldton Volunteer Marine Rescue and West Coast Fireworks.

The City also wishes to remind guests that there is a free shuttle bus service leaving from the QEII Seniors Centre from 4pm as Gummer Avenue Carpark will be closed to traffic from 2pm to 8pm.

The service will commence at 5pm at the HMAS Sydney II Memorial on Gummer Avenue.

City trials free parking at two CBD carparks

In an effort to support local businesses during the installation of underground power in the CBD, the City will be trialling free parking at two carparks until the project is completed at the end of January.

City of Greater Geraldton Mayor Shane Van Styn said trialling free parking at Carpark 3 behind McDonalds and Carpark 2 at the Geraldton Regional Library would make it easier for people to visit businesses located within the underground power project area and the rest of the CBD.

“There are a lot of shops, restaurants and businesses located in the underground power project area which extends along Chapman Road between Cathedral Avenue and Forrest Street and on Durlacher Street between Sanford Street and Marine Terrace,” he said.

“The City is keen to support these local businesses by offering their customers and clients the convenience of free, nearby parking over the coming months.

“The free parking period will also double as a trial which will inform Council’s review of paid parking set to take place early next year.

“With the holiday season fast approaching and the recent extension of trading hours we anticipate free parking will entice more people than ever before to visit our CBD.”

The free parking will go into effect on Saturday 18 November 2017.

Changing the World – one inspirational story at a time

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Geraldton’s Sobering Up Centre to Close

Geraldton MLA Ian Blayney has been advised by the McGowan Government that it will be withdrawing funding for the Geraldton Sobering Up Centre.

The centre will close on December 31, 2017.

“This is a vital service for some of the most vulnerable people in our community that this Labor Government has told me it can no longer afford to fund,” Mr Blayney said.

“This service cares for people with entrenched mental health and alcohol addiction issues and also provides a safe, caring environment for any children that may be in the company of these people.

“This is a place where police can bring intoxicated people knowing they will receive basic medical care and monitoring rather than having to leave them alone in a prison cell.

“It is also an alternative to these people presenting at hospital where they can be a disruption to other patients.”

Mr Blayney said the closure added to the growing list of services and infrastructure in Geraldton that the Labor Government had decided it could not afford.

“After just seven months’ in office this Government has decided it can’t afford critical improvements at our Geraldton Hospital, a mental health unit and now this vital frontline service,” Mr Blayney said.

“The people of Geraldton see the McGowan Government spending billions on a train service to a marginal Perth electorate, millions on a biodiversity plant in the marginal seat of Collie and millions in wave power research in the marginal seat of Albany, but cannot afford a simple sobering up service in Geraldton.

“It would be easier to believe the McGowan Government’s spin about cuts to frontline services being for budget repair if they hadn’t bought down a budget that increased both Government spending debt.”

Roundabout planned for busy North West Coastal Highway junction

The McGowan Government will upgrade the busy intersection of North West Coastal Highway and Hosken Street in wider Geraldton into a new four-leg roundabout.

Taking community feedback into account, Main Roads Western Australia has finalised designs for a roundabout to replace the existing T-junction at Hosken Street and provide a new connection to Spalding via Horan Street.

The roundabout will include separate left-turn lanes on Horan Street, Hosken Street and North West Coastal Highway northbound and an upgraded shared path network for pedestrians and cyclists, in line with community feedback.

It will be designed to accommodate a future dual carriageway on North West Coastal Highway in this location to provide for heavy and oversized vehicles.

For more information on the proposed roundabout, visit http://www.mainroads.wa.gov.au or attend Main Roads' community information session at Spalding Park Tennis Club on Wednesday November 8, 2017 at 6pm.

Comments attributed to Transport Minister Rita Saffioti:

"I recently visited this intersection and I am confident the upgrade will significantly improve safety and efficiency at the current T-junction.

"Adding in the fourth leg to Horan Street will also help facilitate an urban renewal program in Spalding, planned by the Department of Communities."

Comments attributed to Agricultural Region MLC Darren West:

"I am pleased that safety issues at the Hosken Street intersection will now be addressed by the McGowan Government.

"Concerns about the safety of this dangerous intersection was first raised with me in December 2014 after a child had been hit in the face by a rear vision mirror while crossing the road.

"Since then, I have continued to advocate for an upgrade in the Parliament but this project was not deemed important by the Barnett Liberal National Government.

"I thank the Minister and the staff at Main Roads for supporting our community by improving safety for local and other road users."

Comments attributed to Agricultural Region MLC Laurie Graham:

"This upgrade is very much welcomed and needed, increasing road safety for road users and pedestrians.

"Construction will begin in early 2018 and the new roundabout should be completed by mid-year.

"This follows the announcement of upgrades to Brand Highway, Great Northern Highway and Indian Ocean Drive worth $13.5 million as part of the Regional Road Safety package."

New Four Leg Roundabout to Increase Safety at Hosken Street and North West Coastal Highway Intersection

Geraldton MLA Ian Blayney has welcomed the decision to upgrade the busy intersection of North West Coastal Highway and Hosken Street in wider Geraldton into a new four-leg roundabout.

“I'm very pleased to see this project being given the go-ahead.

“I have been advocating for the project since being elected 

“It will make a significant difference to road safety and the safety of the community.

“The project was ready to go last year, but was held up in negotiations with the City.

Following community consultation and feedback Main Roads Western Australia has finalised designs for a roundabout to replace the existing T-junction at Hosken Street and provide a new connection to Spalding via Horan Street.

 The roundabout will include separate left-turn lanes on Horan Street, Hosken Street and North West Coastal Highway northbound and an upgraded shared path network for pedestrians and cyclists, in line with community feedback.

 It will be designed to accommodate a future dual carriageway on North West Coastal Highway in this location to provide for heavy and oversized vehicles.

 For more information on the proposed roundabout, visit http://www.mainroads.wa.gov.au or attend Main Roads' community information session at Spalding Park Tennis Club on Wednesday November 8, 2017 at 6pm.

NWCH and Hosken Street roundabout approved

Diagram of the new North West Coastal Highway and Hosken Street roundabout.

Construction of a roundabout at the current T-junction of Hosken Street and the North West Coastal Highway will go ahead with Main Roads Western Australia securing funding for the project from the State Government.

City of Greater Geraldton Mayor Shane Van Styn thanked Main Roads WA and the Department of Communities for finding the money to construct the new four-leg roundabout.

“Over the years there have been a number of traffic accidents at this dangerous intersection,” he said.

“Community concerns regarding the safety of the intersection have clearly been heard and we are thankful steps are now being undertaken to upgrade the T-junction to a roundabout which will result in less serious injuries or fatalities.”

The new roundabout will feature separate left turn lanes onto Horan Street, Hosken Street and the North West Coastal Highway and an upgraded shared path network for pedestrians and cyclists.

Mayor Van Styn said the project would also increase traffic efficiency and amenity.

“The new roundabout will be far more efficient than the existing T-junction, providing a much safer access to the North West Coastal Highway,” said Mayor Van Styn.

“However, it’s the link onto Horan Street that the City sees as a critical first step in improving connectivity in the area and will be a key element in the revitalisation of Spalding planned by the Department of Communities.”

Other works to improve the overall safety in the area include modifying Strickland Street access to the NWCH to provide left in, left out access only.

According to Main Roads, construction will begin in early 2018 and the new roundabout should be completed by the end of the financial year.

For more information on the proposed roundabout visit www.mainroads.wa.gov.au or attend Main Roads’ Community Information Session at Spalding Park Tennis Club on Wednesday 8 November from 6pm-7pm.

Council cements steady position after local election

Councillors Michael Reymond, Graeme Bylund, Natasha Colliver, Tarleah Thomas, Jen Critch, Lewis Freer, Deputy Mayor Neil McIlwaine, Mayor Shane Van Styn, Simon Keemink, Victor Tanti, David Caudwell, Sally Elphick, Jerry Clune and Steve Douglas. (Absent: Bob Hall).

After Saturday’s Local Government Election, City of Greater Geraldton Mayor Shane Van Styn says the outcome showed locals took a vote of confidence and had faith in the current Council.

All incumbent Councillors were re-elected and were sworn in at a special meeting of Council last night.

This included Natasha Colliver being re-elected for Tarcoola ward, David Caudwell for Chapman ward and Victor Tanti in the Port ward.

Simon Keemink was also welcomed back to Willcock ward alongside newcomer Sally Elphick while Jerry Clune has stepped back onto Council for Hills ward after two years off.

Steve Douglas will continue in the Champion Bay ward after being elected unopposed as will Jennifer Critch for the Mullewa ward.

Mayor Van Styn said he was looking forward to continuing the hard work of Council.

“Having all incumbent Councillors returned on Saturday night demonstrates the community are happy with the direction of Council and are asking us to keep the course steady,” he said.

“Our Council is incredibly proactive and we work extremely well together and the two new candidates who filled vacancies are sure to continue in that vain.

“The election result is also another endorsement of our decision to extend trading hours in Geraldton.”

Mayor Van Styn said the two new candidates are welcome additions to Council.

“Jerry Clune is an experienced and highly respected former Councillor and he has worked with a majority of Council members only two years ago,” he said.

“Sally Elphick is also a sensational addition to Council as her involvement with the Wonthella Progress Association means she is not only in tune with her wards’ ratepayers, but also is well aware of how Council functions.”

Councillor Neil McIlwaine was also elected as Deputy Mayor by his fellow Councillors for a fourth consecutive term.

“Councillor McIlwaine continues to make significant contributions to our community as Deputy Mayor and he is very well respected by Council,” Mayor Van Styn said.

“I would like to thank those who took the time to vote in the local election and to have a say on a strong Council that represents the voice of the people.”

City balances Budget

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Free vaccinations to stop Parvo

Mayor Shane Van Styn and the Mayor Pooch, Bella.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Price calls for Mid West Space Agency

The Federal Government has committed to establishing a national space agency to ensure Australia has a long-term plan to grow its domestic space industry.

Member for Durack Melissa Price has called for some or all of the new agency and capability to be placed in Geraldton, in the Mid West, where a number of large space projects currently exist.

“We have already demonstrated we have the capacity to support that industry here in the Mid West” Ms Price said.

“We already have the Square Kilometre Array (SKA) project here in the radio quiet zone of the Murchison, a next generation mega telescope that will help us to uncover the mysteries of the universe.

“We also have the Harold Holt Naval Communications Station at Exmouth, the Universal Space Network ground station at Dongara, the European Space Agency Deep Space Earth Station at New Norcia, the Swedish Space Corporation Ground Station, 30kms north of Mingenew and the Australian Defence Space Communication Station at Kojarena, 30kms east of Geraldton.

“You would be hard pressed to find any region in Australia with as high a concentration of satellite ground stations, with as much expertise in the field, as is found in the Mid West.

“Any space agency the Government is looking at creating, in my opinion, should seriously consider using the industry expertise that is already available in this region.

“As a member of the Select Committee on Decentralization and Regional Development, we are looking at a number of possibilities of relocating Government Department to where they are most suited, and a space agency based in Geraldton makes a lot of sense” Ms Price said.

Acting Minister for Industry, Innovation and Science, Senator the Hon Michaelia Cash, said the establishment of a space agency is one of the key issues being examined by the Expert Reference Group appointed to review Australia’s space industry capability.

“The global space industry is growing rapidly and it’s crucial that Australia is part of this growth,” Minister Cash said.

“A national space agency will ensure we have a strategic long-term plan that supports the development and application of space technologies and grows our domestic space industry.”

“The agency will be the anchor for our domestic coordination and the front door for our international engagement.”

Former CSIRO Chief Dr Megan Clark is chairing the Reference Group, and its review is well advanced.

The Reference Group has sought views from across the country from industry, government and society, which will be used to inform our plan to expand this important and exciting sector.

The Reference Group has received almost 200 written submissions in response to its issues paper, and more than 400 people have been consulted through roundtables in each state and territory.

Meetings have also been held with key stakeholders, including the state and territory governments.

Feedback from the extensive consultation process has overwhelmingly shown the need for the establishment of a national space agency.

The Reference Group will now develop a charter for the space agency for inclusion in the wider strategy being brought forward by the end of March 2018.

Attorney General must stop release of paedophile

Attorney General John Quigley must act immediately to ensure the planned release of a serial sex offender into the Geraldton community next week does not happen.

Opposition Leader Mike Nahan said the Attorney General should be more concerned with protecting the public than political point scoring.

“In Opposition Mr Quigley called for the Attorney General to overrule the Director of Public Prosecutions and appeal the release of dangerous sex offenders; he is now the Attorney General and the buck stops with him,” Dr Nahan said.

“While Mr Quigley is focusing on his planned legislation, he is overlooking the fact that a serial sex offender, with a known risk of reoffending, is about to be released from jail to live near a school.”

Dr Nahan said Mr Quigley could not distance himself from the fact that he appointed the judge that made the decision to release this offender.

“This decision was made at the discretion of the judge, there was scope within the law for the judge to order this offender remain in jail, and Mr Quigley cannot hide from that fact.” Dr Nahan said.

Geraldton MLA Ian Blayney reiterated that the most urgent task before Mr Quigley was to stop this offender being released into his community.

“Mr Quigley is playing a long blame game and not doing his job to protect the people of Geraldton,” Mr Blayney said.

“The people of Geraldton need to be reassured Mr Quigley has exhausted every possible legal avenue to keep this man in jail.

“Legislation yet to be introduced into Parliament is all well and good and will get due and serious consideration but right now I want the people of Geraldton protected.”

New CEO looks to build on solid foundations

City of Greater Geraldton’s new CEO Ross McKim.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Foreshore upgrade replaces struggling trees

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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