Dewayne Everettsmith to hit the road for BEYOND SURRENDER national tour, with special guest Sietta

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Dewayne Everettsmith’s 2014 release, the beautiful and captivating SURRENDER, provided an insight into a gifted young singer and songwriter.  The album, equal parts uplifting and haunting, took the listener on a journey through Dewayne’s life and experiences.  It featured ‘It’s Like Love’, a song that Tourism Australia adopted for a major international television campaign in 2012, providing the backdrop to one of the most visually arresting television commercials in recent times.

Some twelve months later, Dewayne is preparing to take the songs from ‘Surrender’, along with a selection of newly minted tracks, on a journey across Australia on the BEYOND SURRENDER national tour.  From Warragul to Alice Springs, Bunbury to Mackay, he will take in the vast expanses of regional Australia, sharing his stunning songs with live music enthusiasts in all corners of the country.

Joining Dewayne on the road is Sietta, a duo comprising of vocalist Caiti Baker and producer/instrumentalist James Mangohig.  Theirs is a union traditionally of soul, blues, hip hop and electronica; but when the opportunity presents, Caiti and James strip their songs back to tasteful rhythm and blues guitar and soulfully soothing yet gutsy vocals. In the special occasion of supporting Dewayne, Sietta will fuse rich live vocals with neck-groovin’ guitar; performing songs from their back catalogue as well as some newly written tunes. 

This inspired combination, bringing together two of Australia’s most exciting musical acts, promises an event not to be missed.

Catch Dewayne Everettsmith’s BEYOND SURRENDER national tour
With special guest Sietta.     Tickets on sale now.

JULY
Wednesday 1st                      Queens Park Theatre,  Geraldton, WA

ABOUT DEWAYNE EVERETTSMITH:
Descended from both the Aboriginal community of Cape Barren Island and the Gunai/Kurnai people of Victoria, Dewayne’s career started at an early age, performing amongst his own Tasmanian Aboriginal community. Through various trials and tribulations he has grown as a performer, playing festival stages around Australia and across the Pacific, supporting the likes of Gurrumul, John Farnham, Archie Roach and Guy Sebastian, and dueting with Paul Kelly.  Back in 2011, music critic Bruce Elder stated that he is … ‘a uniquely gifted singer with hints of the soul of Marvin Gaye and the sunny beauty of Johnny Nash.’
 
Whilst developing his music, Dewayne has also lent his support as national ambassador for the official Save The Tasmanian Devil Appeal, earned a Human Rights Week award for bringing Tasmanian Aboriginal Culture and language to the broader community, educating children and working to protect his aboriginal heritage, and was a Young Australian of the Year (Tasmania) Finalist 2014.

‘Surrender’ album out now
website / facebook / twitter

ABOUT SIETTA:
Sietta is the musical combination of singer songwriter Caiti Baker and producer/instrumentalist James Mangohig (B2M, Daniel Johns, Jessica Mauboy, Manuel Dhurrkay). Since commencing their musical union in 2007 in Darwin, Northern Territory, Sietta have released 2 EPs and 2 full length albums encapsulating their broad musicianship in genre-pushing sounds and themes. With songs written and inspired by struggle, love, stigma, mental health, storytelling and fantasy; Sietta present their sound in unexpected forms echoing the influences of Caiti’s childhood exposure of blues, soul, gospel, country and rock n roll.

After years touring nationally and internationally, Sietta have garnered rave reviews for their live electronic performances, although they feel most at ease when they simplify their songs by way of soulful guitar and raw bluesy vocals.  A perfect combination of old and new, Sietta are forever surprising their audiences and gaining new fans everywhere they play.
https://www.facebook.com/siettamusica?_rdr

11 year olds involved in attempt to steal car

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Two 11 year old boys and an 18 year old man have been charged over an incident that occurred in Digby Street, Rangeway last week.

Police say that around 11:50pm on Monday 1 June 2015 three males were at a residential address on Digby Street, Rangeway.

Police allege that the male persons entered an unlocked Holden Statesman vehicle parked in the driveway of the address.

They say that the males placed the vehicle into neutral then pushed it to the end of the driveway.

At that time, the victim observed his vehicle being pushed down his driveway.

The victim and his family chased the male persons.

Police who were patrolling in the area arrested the suspects shortly afterwards. 

The adult male will appear at the Geraldton Magistrates Court at a later date charged with steal motor vehicle while the two juvenile males were issued with a juvenile caution and referral to the Juvenile Justice Team respectively over the matter. 

War medals stolen

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Geraldton Police are once again reaching out to the public regarding stolen war medals. 

The medals were taken over the weekend. 

If you have seen the medals or know anything about their whereabouts or the have any information regarding the matter please call Geraldton Police on 9923 4555 or 131444. 

"Geraldton Police seeking assistance to locate war medals stolen over the weekend. Info to GeraldtonPol or 131444."

Police remind public not to carry weapons for protection

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The Geraldton Police tweeted a reminder this evening that members of the public are not permitted to carry weapons for protection. 

A picture of the weapons they seized was included. 

 "Do not carry weapons for protection. It is illegal. Items seized and a date in court awaits."

Police issue statement regarding missing person

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Geraldton Police have issued the following statement regarding missing person David Narrier:

 

Geraldton Police would like to thank the community of Geraldton for their efforts and assistance in the search for missing person David Christopher NARRIER.

Tragically, he was located deceased yesterday, Sunday 7 June 2015, in Spalding. There are no suspicious circumstances relating to the death.

Police are now preparing a report for the Coroner. 

A Greenough Prisoner has Escaped - Update: Prisoner in custody

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Update 8:29pm, prisoner in custody. 

A Greenough Prisoner has escaped, according to Police. 

A Greenough resident had the man in their driveway. They said Police arrived shortly afterwards saying they were looking for an escapee. 

We spoke with Police early this morning who wouldn't make a statement regarding the missing prisoner. 

Moments ago Geraldton Police tweeted that the man's name is Steven BROCKMAN, along with the above image. 

They have also issued the following information:

Regional Investigations Units officers seek information regarding the whereabouts of 37 year old prison escapee Steven Arthur BROCKMAN.

BROCKMAN is an inmate at Greenough Regional Prison and was discovered missing about 6:50pm yesterday evening, 7 June 2015.

He is a minimum security prisoner.

BROCKMAN is described as being dark skinned, 175cms tall, slim build, short dark hair and brown eyes. He was last seen wearing prison greens.

He is considered unpredictable and should not be approached by members of the public.

This is an active investigation and any sightings of BROCKMAN or information regarding his whereabouts should be reported to WA Police immediately on 131 444.

Anyone with information regarding Brockman’s escape can contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000. 

Driver on drugs flees Police then sets car on fire

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A 49 year old male has faced multiple charges after fleeing Police last Wednesday. 

Police say that early Wednesday morning (3/6/15), around 2:45am, they observed a silver Ford Falcon ute on Hill Street in Geraldton. After attempting to conduct a vehicle stop, the driver heavily accelerated away. 

Police say that the driver drove a short distance then set the vehicle on fire before fleeing on foot. 

While running, Police say they observed the man throw a plastic bag over the fence, which was later found to contain 10 grams of a crystal substance believed to be meth. 

The 49 year old male was subsequently arrested where he was subjected to a roadside oral drug test. Police allege that the test provided a positive result to an illicit substance.

The male driver was charged with the following offences;

1 x Driver of Vehicle Failed to Comply with a Direction to Stop
1 x Used an Unlicensed Vehicle on a Road
1 x Unauthorised Driving by Learner Driver
1 x Reckless Driving
1 x Possession of a Prohibited Drug with Intent to Sell or Supply
1 x Fail to Comply Requirement Provision Oral Fluid / Blood Sample Testing / Analysis 

Cat of the Week- 7th June 2015 – Paris

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Our Cat of the Week is available for $100 to the right home. Meet Paris!

Paris is very smoochy! Loves a cuddle and a pat. She is a very pretty girl too!

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

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

We promote sterilization and containment, for the wellbeing of your cat, your neighborhood and the environment. As part of the implementation of the new Cat Act, MWCS has recently received grant funding from the State Government, to provide a sterilization subsidy to low income earners in the City of Greater Geraldton. So if you have an adult cat that is not yet sterilized you can find the Application forms at your local vet.

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

Temporary closure of Francis Street carpark bays June 5, 2015

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The City of Greater Geraldton wishes to advise the public of the temporary closure of an area within the Francis Street carpark.

Parking bays will be closed to facilitate works on the new Multi User Facility and Youth Precinct and are expected to close from Wednesday 10 June, 2015, until Sunday 31 July, 2016.

For further information contact the City of Greater Geraldton on 9956 6600 or via council@cgg.wa.gov.au.

This attacker has made a 67 year old woman too scared to return home after violent robbery

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A 67 year old woman was violently attacked in her own driveway early on Thursday, May 21st, about two weeks ago. 

It occurred in Abelia Street, Rangeway, around 12:15am. 

Detective Senior Constable Gill Power

Detective Senior Constable Gill Power spoke with the media today in an effort to reach out to the public for assistance in solving this crime. 

This is what the attacker looked like. He is approximately 20 to 25 years of age, dark skinned, slim build and approximately 180cm (5’ 11”) tall. He was wearing a black hoodie with white writing on the front and dark long pants.

We asked how the victim was recovering, and unfortunately it wasn’t good news: 

“Mentally it’s really knocked her about, plus she’s had significant medical treatment already and she’s got more medical treatment coming. She’s not trusting anyone anymore and she hasn’t returned home since the incident which was two weeks ago today. So it’s quite sad and particularly appalling.”  

During the attack the woman’s handbag was also stolen. 

 

It contained a very sentimental necklace with a kidney shaped gold nugget, that was owned by her daughter who has passed away. 

Detective Senior Constable Gill Power said if you know anything, regardless of how small you think the information is, they would like to hear from you. You can pop into the station, call them, or if you want to remain anonymous you can call crime stoppers. 

  • Geraldton Police: 08 9923 4555

  • Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000

State Government breaks promise to fishers

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Revenue from fishing licensing that was promised by the Liberal party to be returned to the sector has been cut in half, leaving fishers angry. 

Andrew O'Connor for the ABC:

The State Government is facing a backlash from Western Australia's recreational fishers who are angry over the axing of funding to key conservation and education initiatives.

In the lead-up to the 2013 election, the Liberal Party guaranteed Recfishwest 25 per cent of more than $7 million raised in licence revenue would be allocated to the Recreational Fishing Initiatives Fund.

But Dr Andrew Rowland from Recfishwest said the Government has cut money flowing to the fund by half, breaking that election promise.

Improvements to Geraldton Residential College

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Students at Geraldton Residential College are enjoying new and refurbished bedrooms, along with upgraded facilities thanks to a $2.5 million investment.

Education Minister Peter Collier opened the extensions today, which include 16 new bedrooms in the female student wing as well as upgrades to existing bedrooms, bathrooms, staff accommodation flats and recreation areas.

“These refurbishments are fantastic for current students and will ensure the college is a comfortable home-away-from-home for years to come,” Mr Collier said.

There is also shared accommodation for younger students, which will help students living away from home for the first time to have the support of their peers.

Regional Development Minister Terry Redman said Geraldton Residential College had been providing boarding facilities for primary and secondary students in the Mid-West for more than 90 years.

“The college staff are outstanding in looking after the students, particularly with supporting them in their studies and organising outings and recreational activities,” Mr Redman said.

“I am pleased Royalties for Regions has been able to further enhance this essential service for our country students.”

City calls Minister of Education to reconsider proposed ‘Super School’ location

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The City is urging the Minister of Education to reconsider a proposed public ‘super school’ in close proximity to the City Centre due to traffic concerns.

City of Greater Geraldton CEO, Ken Diehm said a consolidated high school or ‘super school’ on the Shenton Street site would increase traffic in the area by 50 per cent and that the existing road network would not be able to handle the additional traffic flows.

“The City engaged a traffic modelling consultant to investigate what effect the ‘super school’ would have on traffic flows and the road network within the existing school precinct.  The report forecasts an additional 1,400 car trips per day would be generated by the facility and that Durlacher Street alone would see an increase in traffic and congestion of up to 20,000 car movements per day.

“Although sections of Cathedral Avenue and Chapman Road are dual lane and have some capacity for additional traffic, Durlacher Street is only single lane and would require a major upgrade to accommodate the forecasted increase in car movement,” Mr Diehm said.

Several intersections in the school precinct that would also be substantially impacted by an increase in traffic flow and require upgrading were also identified in the report.

“To help traffic flow in and out of the area traffic signals would need to be installed at the intersections of Durlacher and Shenton Street and also at Cathedral Avenue and Maitland Street. Existing turning lanes would need to be lengthened or new ones introduced on Cathedral Avenue, Shenton Street, Durlacher Street and Waldeck Street all of which would cost more than $7Million of rate payer’s money,” Mr Diehm said.

The City is also concerned about community safety as traffic congestion and poorly designed drop off and pick up zones pose a real risk to students and parents alike.

“Every parent who drives into the school precinct knows how awful the current traffic congestion already is and understands the horror of trying to negotiate poorly designed drop off and pick up zones for their school children,” said Mr. Diehm.

“I urge the Minister to reconsider the proposed super school in Shenton St and to provide a commitment that, if a super school is built in Geraldton, our ratepayers are not left to foot the bill for the required traffic management works.”

African Boxthorn Suffers Serious Setback

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African Boxthorn plant showing spines and berries

Recent collaborative projects between the Northern Agricultural Catchments Council (NACC), the City of Greater Geraldton and the Shire of Chapman Valley have resulted in the removal of over 13,000 African Boxthorn (Lycium ferocissimum) plants.

African boxthorn is a widespread Weed of National Significance that reduces biodiversity, harbours feral animals and is a significant public nuisance. During the month of May, thousands of boxthorn plants were removed from around the Greenough River estuary, the Chapman River Regional Park and coastal dunes at Cape Burney and Coronation Beach.

Plants were mechanically removed using small skid steer loaders and a technique called ‘cut and pasted,’ which involves cutting plants down near their base and applying herbicide to the stump.

“This fantastic work has greatly improved the areas’ biodiversity and aesthetic values and I am excited to be involved in future collaborative projects” said NACC Natural Resource Management Officer, Heather Legge.

“Results have been far greater than anticipated and none of this would be possible without close collaboration between the City’s Environmental Planning team and NACC’s Biodiversity, and Coastal and Marine Programs,” said Ms Legge.

Funding for the works came through the City, NACC’s Biodiversity Program’s Hidden Treasures project and NACC’s Coastal and Marine Program.

Safe removal of boxthorn using a skid steer loader.

“This collaborative approach is beneficial because the economy of scale it offers allows more boxthorn to be removed with the funds available,” said NACC Coastal and Marine Program Coordinator, Dr Mic Payne.

“NACC is also extending work previously carried out by the City and Shire of Chapman Valley to develop a regional strategy to control this weed in the Northern Agricultural Region,” he said.

Looking ahead, NACC will continue working with the City and the Shires of Chapman Valley and Irwin to reduce populations of this invasive weed species, and revegetate following its removal. The City is also taking part in the Federal Government’s Green Army program, training a team in chemical handling so that participants can continue to target boxthorn and other weeds.

To find about more about NACC’s boxthorn removal projects in the Geraldton region, please contact NACC Natural Resource Management Officer, Heather Legge, on 9938 0103 or heather.legge@nacc.com.au.

If you would like to find out more about the CGG’s Environmental Sustainability Program, please contact Environmental Sustainability Officer, Bronte Grant on 9956 6932 or bronteg@cgg.wa.gov.au.

"I am a drug addict" - A letter from a Geraldton mum

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A "Letter to the Editor" sent to Everything Geraldton:

I see many complaints from innocent people who are victims of crimes because of drugs.

I am a drug addict.

I wish for no judgement but I accept that I will receive bad receive reviews. I have been a heavy drug user for since I was 17 first starting with cannabis and for the last 9 months I have been a heavy 'speed addict'. I'm writing this because I want to warn young and old what using such a heavy drug does to your life.

I managed to steer clear of troubles from the law as juvenile and now 23 I am facing close to 40 serious charges (all committed in the last 5 months). This drug ruins lives, I heard and knew people sitting where I sit today and never did I imagine I would be here. Drugs are the ruination of people, relationships jobs.

When I first started I thought I could control my habit but the truth is the drug is more powerful than you know. Those who use will cheat, lie, steal anything for their next hit. Those who have just started will be sitting reading saying I've got this'.

If you're using you're never in control.

I won't tell you my journey over the last almost year has been all miserable because i have had some fun times (that didn't involve crimes) met some people I wouldn't have looked sideways at and seen a better side than you could imagine.

But the truth is this drug has damaged relationships beyond imagination. Some unrepairable, most loved ones. When the damage is first done you won't care but when you're sitting in the dark thinking 'I need help' you see the people you've hurt in order to service your drug habit.

I have lost my job, my true friends, my family and that's just the start. I sold items from my home, stolen items from family members and denied it. I have committed crimes I am ashamed of admitting. It's all fun and game's until it's not fun anymore and its a 'fight to survive'. If you've never touched it I can't stress enough how much I wish I never had.

Please take my strong advice. It's real, and there is nothing sadder sitting in a hole with nobody who cares and they don't care because after all you've used them, stolen from them etc to get your next hit. This drug will suck the life out of your soul, I promise you.

The world once was at my feet but opportunities closed and now it's a long climb back. I have young children and if I could lock them away from this I would do it in a heartbeat. I hope services start providing more education on this but not text book stuff, real people like me, real life proof. Maybe then people will see the reality of this evil drug.

Please don't kid yourself, to those who have loved ones on it the best thing you will do for them is shut your door firstly to protect yourself but the faster they fall the quicker they might get help.

Not everyone comes out and they'll never be the same person. The drug changes you more than I can explain. I wish I could protect all young people especially from this but I can't. Some will read this and become a user or continue to use but if i just make 1 person think twice and decide they are better than this I will have achieved a goal.

Believe me no matter what EVERYONE is better than this drug. There's no happy ending to a life like this. I wish to stay anonymous for my own safety but to my family I am sorry for the pain and hurt I have caused. It may not mean much but know they are true words.

To the innocent victims of my crimes an apology won't fix the damage caused but I offer my sincerest apology and hope one day I can say it in person.

Be conscious of what this drug does. I'm getting help (not court ordered) because I see now and I don't want to live like this. However, I accept some of my actions carry permanent consequences and I have to live with that and know that my actions caused it.

This drug has taken a lot from me but I am getting help because I am better than it and my children deserve better than they've received. It's taken a long time but it's never too late to stop.

I have a long road but I know now I can do better and I want to do better.

The most amazing video showcasing the Mid West you've ever seen

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Absolutely stunning!

When we watched Kerrin Rowe's creation we were simply stunned. Do yourself a favour and invest four minutes of your life enjoying this wonderful video. 

Kerrin says this about his creation:

‘Australia's Midwest’ was shot over a 10 month period with high end camera equipment and motion control dolly’s to capture the region’s stunning landscapes. The film comprises over 10,000 individual photographs which are combined in video editing software and then rendered to motion. The amazing aspect of Western Australia is that outside of Perth the light pollution is near non existent due to the great distances between towns which allows the night sky to pop out and be visually spectacular. The film captures the night sky over some of Western Australia’s most iconic locations. The underlying theme of the film is about getting outdoors and exploring Western Australia and its beauty, whether that be catching a 15 foot monster set at Gnarloo Station, hiking through 400 million year old cliffs in Kalbarri National Park or snorkelling through the turquoise waters of the world heritage listed Ningaloo Reef.

Film locations:
Nambung National Park, Carnarvon, Geraldton, Kennedy Range National Park, Chapman Valley, Gnarloo Station, Red Bluff, Kalbarri, Kalbarri National Park, Coral Bay, Denham, Exmouth, Shark Bay World Heritage Area, Cape Range National Park, Francois Peron National Park, Beaches of the Ningaloo Reef

If you would like to Follow Kerrin Rowe Media on Facebook click here. 

 

Paint stripper poured on vehicle in act of vandalism

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A local resident is asking for help after their vehicle was vandalised with a chemical believed to be paint stripper. 

The incident occurred on Chapman Valley Rd on Saturday evening 30/5/15. 

If you can assist please contact Geraldton Police on 99234555. 

Marjorie Collett is Hiking for Nepal

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When on holiday in sunny UK last year, my friends challenged me to join them on a 4 day trek along an Inca Trail in Peru. At that point, a hike up to Machu Picchu at 13,000ft seemed like a doable task and so I agreed. A year later I'm pondering on the wisdom of my 53 years and am considering that an embroidery course may have been a better option. 

In any case, I’m now committed and have been hiking all over Geraldton, complete with Backpack (weighed down with dumbbells) and walking boots, trying to find appropriate hills to climb. I’ve been jabbed with rabies and yellow fever vaccines, got my altitude sickness tablets, mosquito net, water purifying tablets and shewee (don’t ask….!) and I’m ready to go!

Thursday 4th June I start the travels (alone) to Peru via: - Geraldton, Perth, Sydney, Chile and eventually Lima in Peru, there I meet my friends from the UK and we fly to Cusco to start our trek in the jungle!!

I then considered that since I was doing this huge challenge I may as well make some money for charity…. But which one? 

And then the terrible earthquake happened in Nepal and I knew that these people needed all the help they could get. The least I could do was to raise some money for them with the help of Australia Red Cross. So when I’m walking 10k after work each night (with my friend in tow) I can at least consider that I am doing it for a good cause. Blistered feet, backache, creaking knees are nothing compared to the devastation that those poor people are having to endure. I just hope I live to tell the tale…. Wish me luck!

If you'd like to donate:  Marjorie Collett. BSB 086-082. Account no. 16-870-4917

Click to visit event on Facebook. 

 

 

K-12 Enrolments Open at Geraldton Grammar School for 2015 and 2016

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Geraldton Grammar School are now taking applications for enrolment for years Kindergarten all the way to year 12. 

Why Choose Grammar?

  • Personalised learning
  • Smaller class sizes
  • Qualified and dedicated staff
  • Excellent pastoral care
  • Commitment to excellence
  • Strong sense of community

The learning adventure at Geraldton Grammar School begins with our exciting 3 year old Kindergarten program right through to our expansive Year 12 courses, all on one friendly and well-resourced campus.

Specialist subjects include Music, Drama, Media Arts, Design and Technology, English Literature, Computer Studies and Outdoor Education.

We also proudly offer an International Exchange Program with our sister school in China and deliver language programs across the Campus.

Geraldton Grammar School also has a long and successful relationship with Geraldton Residential College for boarding students.

For more details about enroling your child at Geraldton Grammar School, please phone us today on (08) 9965 7800 to arrange an appointment and/or download an Enrolment Application Form

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