Abrolhos Islands now named under Greater Geraldton district

/

The Houtman Abrolhos Islands have been moved from the Shire of Northampton and now fall under the City of Greater Geraldton

In a big announcement for local tourism, the Houtman Abrolhos Islands have been moved from the Shire of Northampton and now fall under the City of Greater Geraldton.

The Department of Local Government and Communities announced that the Minister for Local Government had approved a recommendation to the Local Government Advisory Board to amend the boundary between the district of Greater Geraldton and district of Northampton wherein the Abrolhos Islands now fall entirely under the district of Greater Geraldton.

City CEO Ken Diehm said that this announcement means the City of Greater Geraldton has a seat at the table in terms of contributing to opportunities for the tourism and fishing development of the islands and can play an immediate role in relation to disaster management for the region.

“This boundary change came about due to our great relationship with our neighbouring shire Northampton and we thank Northampton for this extremely positive outcome,” he said.

“Ultimately it is all about the protecting and promoting the Abrolhos.”

The City of Greater Geraldton had advocated for the movement of the boundary as there are a number of service organisations including response units which serve the cluster of 122 islands directly from Geraldton.

This means easier management of disaster events as all service organisations are based in Geraldton.

A special cabinet committee have been working with the Department of Fisheries regarding the management of the Abrolhos and although the City isn’t involved in this committee, we have a significant vested interest in the management of the Islands.

“We want to be more involved and have our voice heard when it comes to the future of fishing and tourism at the Abrolhos,” Mr Diehm said.

“We are proud to have the Abrolhos fall under our district and we will do our utmost to preserve and promote the beautiful islands which hold a very rich history for our community.”

Video- This is why we can't have nice things - Drunk attacks sink at Breakers, lands on his butt

/

According to the person who sent this in to Everything Geraldton, the video was recorded at Breakers in Geraldton. The video was posted online around 11pm Thursday evening 13/11/14. 

The video shows an intoxicated man attempting to lay the boot in to a tap, but gets his foot caught and falls backwards dropping his beer and hitting his head. 

The person who sent the video in said:

 

"Why do people in this town, think that they have the right to try and damage the facilities and small businesses that our community works so hard for?"

Video Security for your home or shop supplied and installed locally

/

If you're looking for a high quality CCTV (closed circuit television) system for your home or shop, but don't know where to start, Watson Computers might be able to help you out. 

We had a chat with them about the cameras they provide and what's involved in getting one or more installed. 

The model they recommended to us was called a UniFi

The recording quality was pretty amazing, a lot higher than most of the CCTV footage we usually see. Here's a video sample of the 720p camera model working.

And it works amazing at night time too. 

The cameras used in these videos are $230 each to purchase. 

There's also a 1080p model available (even better resolution) and they're $810 each. If you can afford them they're great, but you probably don't need them everywhere. Some store owners will just point one of them at the entrance to the store to ID people, and use the cheaper cameras to keep an eye on key areas of the premises. 

There's no extra cost for the software needed to run these cameras.

They are available in stock. 

The reason the cameras work so well at night is they have infrared collars around them. You can also purchase Infrared Lamps which flood the area with even more infrared light, invisible to the human eye but it lights up the camera like daylight. 

What will it cost to install?

Watson Computers will give you a free quote to install a system. Each case is going to be different. 

What else will you need?

The footage needs something to record on to. They can record to your existing computer, or a dedicated hard drive or small computer. 

It will also need power. You can set it up so it draws power from the network cable, and Watson Computers can help you with that. 

You may want to provide back up power, or Western Power ask that if you lock your meter box it be with an approved Western Power masterkey lock – available from licensed locksmiths and security suppliers. Western Power meter readers will have a master key, and it stops would be thieves turning off your power. 

Click here for more info

There's lots of systems online one can purchase, but if you want some expertise in recommending the right cameras and equipment for the job, and peace of mind knowing you have somewhere you can go if there's any dramas, using a local retailer like Watson Computers is a good idea. 

Watson Computers are open 8:30-5:30 Mon to Fri and 9:00-1:00 on Saturday. Phone 08 9964 1543

They're located at 62 Flores Rd (near Place Rd). For more info click here. 

 

Midwest Fishing report by Tackleworld Geraldton

/

OFFSHORE
The Southern Group Islands have produced lots of small Red Emperor and a few sized fish as well, most fish getting caught on Abrolhos jigs, the all-rounder doing the damage.

Pink Snapper, Coral Trout, Baldies andDhuies are also getting around in big numbers.

TACKLEWORLD PRO ANGLER JOSH WITH A SOLID MIDREEF DHUIE

SIMON WITH AN IMPRESSIVE RED EMPORER ON A JIG

There have been some great catches of Blue Marlin at the back of the Islands with Jared and Kody tagging 2 in one trip great work guys.

TWIN REDS

CRAIGO WITH A HONKER SNAPPER ON THE IFORMUS ABROLHOS ALL-ROUNDER

Closer to town Coral trout to 60cm have been caught from Pensioner’s Bank along with Dhu fish and Red Throat Emperor. There has also been reports of a few Mackerel and good schools of Bonito getting around the channel markers and the 5 mile bouy, Mid reef is also fishing well with big snapper and Coral Trout.

BEACHES
Tailor have featured well with good numbers coming right along the coast with South Gates and Tarcoola being the best, there are also nice sized mulloway from Tarcoola.

ROSNE WITH A NICE TARCOOLA SOAPY

Good herring and whiting have also come from these locations
Sunset beach is also worth ago with a mixed bagof fish getting caught there as well.

Drummonds to Coronation’s has also fished well with anglers getting there bag limit of tailor regularly with mulloway amongst them aswell 

GERALDTON HARBOUR 
Geraldton harbour has produced some great fish of late and also hold a wide range of fish.

From the humble whiting to the brutal Baldie. There is also good schools of bonito cruising the rock walls feeding on the masses of bait fish holding close to town, some nice size mulloway getting around with big cod close to the rocks. Herring are also around in big numbers.

MY SONS PB MULLOWAY WHICH HE MANAGED TO GET ON A LIVE YELLOW TAIL THAT HE CAUGHT ON A MICRO JIG

HEAPS OF THESE SAND SNAPPER GETTING AROUND AT THE MOMENT

KORIE WITH A NICE FLATHEAD CAUGHT WHILE MICRO JIGGING

KORIE WITH A LITTLE PINKY CAUGHT ON A SQUIGDY CRITTER

TRENT WITH HIS FIRST EVER COD GREAT EFFORT BUD

TRENT WITH A NICE FLATHEAD

WEEKEND FORECAST

THIS WEEKS VIDEO

Midwest Fishing Report by Tackleworld Geraldton 

20 ANZAC TERRACE GERALDTON WA

08 99216822

14 year old Geraldton lad shines at National event

/

14 year old Geraldton local Declan Knowles competed in the Australian 250cc U16 solo title on Saturday night in Ipswich Queensland.

He put in an awesome effort and made it into the semi final with 12 points after 5 heats.

He then came 2nd in the Semi Final which brings him in at 5th in the country.

A great effort for a 14year old. 

He says he is determined to be in the top 3 at next years Aussie tittle.

Active citizens recognised in Australia Day awards

/

Premier's Australia Day Active Citizenship Award nominees and winners.

(Click image to enlarge)

Australia Day is one for celebrating our great nation but also for recognising the hard work and dedication of local residents and community groups.

The Australia Day Active Citizenship Awards were announced at a ceremony at yesterday’s Australia Day events in Geraldton and Mullewa hosted by the City of Greater Geraldton.

Local volunteer Maureen Campbell took out Geraldton’s Premier's Australia Day Active Citizenship Award and said she couldn’t be happier.

“I wanted to win this award before I turned 80 and I’m 78 so I’m over the moon that I was awarded such a high accolade,” she said.

“I love volunteering. I have no immediate family here and I live alone so I love going out for the fun and the company.”

Maureen is a much valued volunteer of multiple local organisations including Nazareth House, Neighbourhood Watch, Royal Flying Doctor Service, PCYC Geraldton and Centacare.

She is also part of the Cruise Ship welcome team and regularly assists in the kitchen at Theatre 8 functions.

City of Greater Geraldton Mayor, Ian Carpenter, praised all the winners and nominees of the Australia Day award.

“All the people and groups that were nominated in the Australia Day awards have a heavy involvement in our community and I am proud to congratulate them for being recognised for their efforts,” he said.

“Active citizens make an enormous contribution to the social fabric and health of our community, that’s why the awards are so important, so we can recognise the tremendous efforts of our residents.”

See below for the full list of winners.

Geraldton

Premier's Australia Day Active Citizenship Award - Maureen Campbell

Premier's Australia Day Active Citizenship Award for group or event - Geraldton Hospital Auxiliary and Rangeway Utakarra Karloo Progress Association (RUKPA)

Premier's Australia Day Active Citizenship Award for under 26 year olds - Emma Howell

City of Greater Geraldton Young Achiever of the Year - Jodie Skennar                                                                                               

Mullewa

Premier's Australia Day Active Citizenship Award over 26 years old – Barbara Thomas

Premier's Australia Day Active Citizenship Award for group or event – Our Lady of Mount Carmel Centenary Celebration for Community Group.

Punch results in Fractured Eye Socket

/

At about 2:20am on Thursday 1 January 2015, police observed a male walking south on Lester Avenue in Geraldton.

Police observed the male interact with another couple (male/female) and after a short verbal exchange, the male struck the 19 year old male victim to the face. As a result the victim received a fractured eye socket.

Police arrested the male and conducted inquiries. He was later charged with assault occasioning bodily harm. The 23 year old male from West End will face Geraldton Magistrates Court on 29 January 2015. 

Alleged drug dealer hit by car on Chapman Rd

/

Police say a 21 year old female driver from Northampton was driving a Mazda hatch yesterday along Chapman Rd near Mitchell and Brown when a cyclist rode his bike onto the road and collided with her vehicle. 

The 33 year old man was intending to cross the road, but had entered the path of the oncoming Mazda. He wasn't wearing a helmet, and ended up with abrasions to his knees and elbows, a cut to his head and a fractured vertebrae.

Police were called to the scene, and found the cyclist was carrying more than your typical pushbike rider. 

It was established the cyclist has in his possession of a quantity of dexamphetamine, an undisclosed quantity of cash and other drug paraphernalia.

As a result of those inquiries, the cyclist was charged with possessing a prohibited drug with intent to sell/supply, failing to give way from land abutting and failing to wear a protective helmet. He will face Geraldton Magistrates Court at a later date. 

Rocks thrown at vehicle in Wonthella, community help requested

/

This was sent in to Everything Geraldton on Australia Day:

"Can you please post a question asking people if they seen anyone around 8th st throwing rocks between 5-5.30 this morning (26 January) as my car has been damaged by this I have on camera the rock hitting my car at 5.26 but cant see the people. thank you"

Please contact Geraldton Police on 9923 4555 if you can assist. 

Driver crashes into playground at Foreshore

/

Just sent in:

A female driver has crashed into the playground equipment at the Geraldton foreshore moments ago. 

A mother who was at the playground at the time and had young children playing there was extremely shocked at the event, said it was a "total and utter miracle no children were injured."

The vehicle crashed into play equipment while children where on it. 

The driver is reportedly quite distressed following the incident, and Police are at the scene. 

Drage family getting frustrated in Indonesia

/

24/01/2015

Speaking from West Java today, Tiena Drage, mother of Jake is frustrated with Prosecutors who filed an appeal to the Supreme Court of Indonesia just before Christmas, despite losing an earlier appeal where they sought to increase Jake’s imprisonment of 9 months following a tragic motorcycle accident in Java in June 2014.

Tiena says “The whole process has been so frustrating. It may take 110 days for the appeal to be heard. With good behaviour Jake would be out by now, but this latest appeal means that he could be in jail after his 9 month sentence has been completed.” “It’s not fair to Jake and he is without a doubt being treated differently than a local who has been involved in a tragic accident such as this. A local may have spent 24 hours in jail” she added. “The family of the victim also want Jake out of jail. We have no idea why the Prosecutors are pushing this to the highest Court in the land” 

In terms of the Supreme Court process, Tiena is worried about having legal representation and said “We have spent over $60 000.00 since June and have just about run out of money. I really appreciate the support we have received so far including the businesses in Geraldton that are taking donations for Jake. Thank you Geraldton. Unfortunately it’s not enough to get Jake a lawyer and we will be launching a more public appeal shortly. If anyone is able to help out, we’d really appreciate it”. And adds “We have always respected the Indonesian Justice system and wish Prosecutors would do the same and let my son come home. We can only hope that the Supreme Court hears this appeal as soon as possible and hopefully make the same decision to reject the appeal, but if this means Jake goes to Court without a lawyer, it won’t make that process any easier”.

In terms of how Jake is going, Tiena says “He’s going ok, he has his best mate over here at the moment and he’s being treated well by inmates and staff at the prison. He’s been teaching his fellow prisoners English and the guards Muay Thai and boxing. He’s not only a model prisoner, he’s a role model in there”

“We are taking this day to day, it’s been a frustrating and very emotional roller coaster. I pray that this nightmare can be resolved soon and we can both come home.”

Can you identify this person?

/

Police are investigating a burglary which occurred overnight between 8 & 9 January 2015, an unknown offender smashed the glass door to a business premises on Marine Terrace, Geraldton. Offenders entered the store and stole cash from the till, before fleeing the scene.

Police are hoping the person in the attached image will be able to provide some information in relation to the incident. 

Anyone with information is requested to contact Crimestoppers on 1800 333 000. 

 

Double Demerits Reminder

/

Police are reminding the public that double demerit points apply from midnight last night until 11:59pm Monday night 26 January 2015. 

During this period double demerit points will apply to the following offences:

Speeding;

Seatbelt offences pertaining to drivers;

Driving with a BAC of or above 0.05;

Presence of prescribed illicit drugs or fail to supply oral sample or blood;

Contravene a red traffic control signal;

Contravene a red traffic control arrow; and

The illegal use of mobile phones. 

Bus stop saves the day after elderly driver mounts curb and hits cyclist

/

Police were called to Francis St in Geraldton on Thursday 22/1/15 after receiving a call about a cyclist being hit by a vehicle. 

Police say that an elderly driver of a white Toyota Corolla was attempting to turn around and accidentally reversed at speed mounting a curb, impacting with a fence, then colliding with the cyclist.

It appears the fortunate placement of a bus stop seat saved the cyclist from being seriously injured, who walked away with cuts and bruises.

Police are conducting inquiries into the suitability of the driver of the vehicle to hold a drivers licence. There are no charges pending at this time. 

Nukara Music Festival Early Bird Tickets

/

IT’S THE FINAL WEEKS FOR 10TH NUKARA MUSIC FESTIVAL EARLYBIRD TICKETS

BOOM! BAP! POW!

There are only a few weeks to grab your EarlyBird tickets to the special 10thNukara Music Festival being held on the outskirts of Geraldton in the scenic Chapman Valley at Nukara Farm on Saturday 21st March. 

The Nukara Music Festival has evolved in many ways over its little lifetime. Initially on an old farm trailer by the creek and now a 2 stage venue, but still a very unique, boutique small sized music festival in the beautiful bush surrounds of Nukara Farm that many travel from afar to attend.

This year’s special anniversary is a slight look back in time bringing some of the favourite acts from previous festivals such as US Bluesman Eugene ‘Hideaway’ Bridges, Blue Shaddy, Punk/Folk/Rockers from Victoria The Go Set, Noongar songstress Gina Williams and Guy Ghouse, Morgan Bain and The Swoop, Boom! Bap! Pow!, Beck Tuesley, plus the band to play at the very 1st Nukara Music Festival, the Dave Mann Collective. 

DJVB (Victor Broido from Switzerland) will wind the crowd down again into the wee hours, and more live music will happen at the Recovery Breakfast Sunday morning (camping overnight is encouraged). 

Tickets are available from Geraldton CD Centre Ph: (08)99214821 and online from Ticketbooth.

EarlyBird $100 until cob 21st February (Full price $125)

Government moves to cut delays for home builders

/

The State Government has announced reforms to the building approvals process for single residential housing which will reduce time delays, giving owners and builders greater certainty that planning and building requirements will be met.

Commerce Minister Michael Mischin said the Instant Start initiative would allow registered builders to start construction upon lodging a certified permit application while the application was processed by local government.

Mr Mischin said this would remove delays in starting works which had been verified by competent independent experts to be compliant with planning and building requirements.

“Lack of certainty about the time taken to grant an approval are a significant cause of cost, delay and frustration to the home building industry and its clients,” he said.

“Each week of delay can cost the owner hundreds of dollars in mortgage costs on land and in rental costs. 

“Builders have to allow higher margins to cover uncertain start times and cannot schedule subcontractors in the most efficient way.

“With Instant Start, builders can be confident in starting work because both planning and building compliance have been verified by competent and independent experts.”

The Minister said Instant Start would be available to registered builders as soon as required amendments to building and planning regulations were made, which was expected to take six months.  The Department of Planning and the Building Commission will work towards a system of planning verification over this period.

Instant Start would also apply to home renovations when they are carried out by a registered builder.

“These reforms pave the way for more local governments to offer electronic lodgement and processing of building applications. This will reduce variations in requirements between local governments and remove the current manual processing period needed to assess applications for completeness and compliance,” Mr Mischin said.

Aquarena Takes on Epic 24-hour Challenge

/

Aquarena staff members Zoe Rowcroft, Emily Murphy and Emma Hancox (front) are gearing up for this weekend’s 24-hour swim to raise money for the Cancer Council.

Get your goggles ready because the Aquarena is calling on the community to join in their 24-hour swim to raise money for the Cancer Council.

The swim will take place this Friday, January 23 at 6pm and will go through to 6pm on Saturday.

The rules are very simple - you must have one person from your team swimming at all times, you can even wear floaties if you want.

City of Greater Geraldton Mayor, Ian Carpenter, said the event was a fun way to get involved in raising money for a very worthy cause.

“Everyone has been touched by cancer in some way and we would really like the community to get behind this great event,” he said.

Teams can range from one to 20 people and entry fee is $20 per person with all money going to the Cancer Council.

The Aquarena is also calling on all local businesses to make a donation to the event.

You can go and support the swimmers during the swim with a gold coin donation.

For more information about how you can get involved, contact Emma Hancox at the Aquarena on (08)9921 8844.

Second arrest made over firearms theft

/

Yesterday we shared information from the Geraldton Police about a firearms theft in Spalding that resulted in an arrest of a 17 year old male. Click here to read. 

Police say they have now arrested the second suspect, a 16 year old male. 

The arrest was made by the burglary suppression team and the 16 year old from Rangeway was charged with burglary and stealing.  

He will be appearing before Geraldton Children’s Court this morning.