Banana ecstasy and $7000 cash seized

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On Monday 30 November 2015, Geraldton Detectives arrested a 20 year old Drummond Cove man with attempting to possess 200 grams (7 ounces) of MDMA in the form of ‘banana’ ecstasy pills.

A subsequent search of the man's Drummond Cove house located approx. $7,000 cash believed to be from the sales of Prohibited Drugs.

The man was charged with:
1 x Attempt to Possess Prohibited Drug (MDMA) with intent to sell / supply and
1 x Possess Unlawfully Obtained Property (cash)

He will appear in Geraldton Magistrates Court later this month. 

Picture: Geraldton Police

Wonthella Supa IGA re-launches

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Hundreds of people attended the re-launch of Rigters Wonthella Supa IGA in 5th street this morning.

The refurbished store features a new layout, more products and the same great service.  

Operations Manager Stuart Bain said he was pleased about the relaunch of the improved store. 
"The refurb is long overdue and it's great to give back to the loyal community," 
"We're really pleased with turn out this morning, we had a huge response to the competition." he said. 

John Rigter and Shane Van Styn.  

Customers had the chance to win a $1000 shopping voucher, but had to be in attendance to receive the prize. 

Local Jo Franklin was the winner.  

Mayor Shane Van Styn who was in attendance said "It's great to see the Rigters group continuing a 46 year tradition of developing Geraldton supermarkets," he said. 

Young boy Noah Najar who was in an accident outside the store a few weeks ago, was made an honorary staff member. He received a gift and staff shirt. 

From the management and staff at Wonthella Supa IGA I would like to say thankyou to all our loyal customers for their...

Posted by Wonthella Supa IGA on Tuesday, 1 December 2015


Independent report finds work for the dole effective

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An independent evaluation of the Work for the Dole pilot which ran from 1 July 2014 has found the programme was effective in helping participants gain confidence and self-esteem and learn skills such as team work, communication and appropriate workplace behavior.

Federal Member for Durack Melissa Price said the Evaluation of Work for the Dole 2014-15 showed how the programme is helping more Australians get work-ready.

“This Government is determined to help every Australian who is able to find work,” Ms Price said.

“Work is the foundation of the economic security of individuals, of the nation and is the glue that makes our communities strong.

“That’s why we have invested in the Work for the Dole programme which places job seekers in activities where they can gain skills and experience in roles that also give back to the community.”

The independent evaluation by the Social Research Centre and the Australian National University found that of the participants surveyed: 

  • 83 per cent agreed that Work for the Dole is an opportunity to give back to the community
  • 79 per cent agreed that the routine was good for them
  • 81 per cent said they were treated like a valuable member of staff
  • 81 per cent said they were satisfied with the amount of responsibility they were given
  • 76 per cent said they were satisfied with the amount of work
  • 74 per cent said they were satisfied with the variety of tasks
  • 68 per cent agreed that their placement was a valuable experience 

“It’s also pleasing to note that host organisations, many of them community groups and charities, saw Work for the Dole as an opportunity to undertake activities and complete tasks they would otherwise not have the resources to do,” Ms Price said.

The Work for the Dole pilot was conducted in 18 selected areas and was open to job seekers aged 18 to 29 years.  It ran for one year in preparation for the national rollout of Work for the Dole under jobactive on 1 July 2015. 

Work for the Dole activities can be hosted by not-for-profit and government organisations. The programme gives organisations an extra set of hands to help to undertake activities that would not normally be done.

“I encourage more community groups to consider hosting Work for the Dole participants,” Minister from Employment, Senator the Hon Michaelia Cash said.

“It’s a win for those groups giving them extra people to continue their good work, and it’s a win for participants, learning new skills whilst supporting the community that is supporting them.”

Evaluation of Work for the Dole 2014-15 is based on a range of evidence including in-depth interviews with job seekers, host organisations, Work for the Dole coordinators, employment services providers and programme managers in the Department of Employment. In addition, a telephone survey of 700 eligible job seekers was undertaken.

To find out more about Work for the Dole visit: employment.gov.au/work-dole

To see the full Evaluation of Work for the Dole 2014-15 report visit employment.gov.au/evaluation-work-dole-2014-15

Midwest Fishing report by Tackleworld Geraldton

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WHARF AND MARINA

Marina wharf activity has increased lately with good size mangrove Jack and big Cod around the Wharf rock wall taking deep diving lures with bream and pinkies to 40cm as well Tailor and Snook are busting up bait around the wharf lights at night. The New marina is also fishing well with Diamond Trevally getting caught on lures big cod are also very active With herring and Snook also around

JACK BUY NAME JACK FISH AWSOME CATCH BUD

ROSNE WITH A IMPRESSIVE DIAMOND TREVALLY TAKEN ON A DUO SPEARHEAD

NICE COD TAKEN ON A STRADA 70MM DREDGE DEEP DIVER

BIG COD TAKEN ON LIGHT GEAR WITH THE SAMAKI VIBELICIOUS

RIVERS

Chapman river is still firing with lure angler doing well with Bream to 40cm still getting Released.Giang herring are still providing anglers with some entertaiment

JORDAN WITH A NICE DOUBLE FOR THE DAY WITH HIS 39CM PB BREAM AND A 36ER

IN SHORE

Kayak and Dingy angler have done well with whithing and Bone fish to 40cm coming from Sepporation Point and Drommonds cove, eplosives is holding big Tailor from the white wash, Sambos and amber Jacks have been hanging around the fish farms.

DAVE HOWIE WITH ONE OF TWO BONE FISH CAUGHT ON THE SAMAKI VIBELICIOUS

VIBELICIOUS THUMPER TAIL BONE FISH

AZ WITH A 50CM+ FLATHEAD

TACKLEWORLDS HELLO SUMMER SALE

STARTS 24TH OF NOVEMBER

PLUS WE HAVE HEAPS MORE SAVINGS ON YGK BRAID INSTINT LEADER AND RODS AND REELS

Seasport Charters Kalbarri
Specialising in Jigging, Soft Plastics, Live Baiting & Game Fishing
Quality Shimano Rods & Reels
Tackle & Bait Provided
Long Description
0477901445
Email
seasportcharters@bigpond.com

FISH REPORT WRITTEN BY

CRAIG WISE

20 ANZAC TERRACE GERALDTON WA

08 99216822

Armed robbery at Bluff Point Liquor store

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At about 9:00pm, Tuesday 1 December 2015, the manager of a liquor store on Chapman Road, Bluff Point exited the store and locked up for the evening.

At this time the manager was confronted by a male person who had his head and face covered with clothing, and was armed with a metal instrument.

The male person demanded that the manager unlock the door, before they both moved back inside the store.

The male then demanded money from the tills, threatening to stab the manager if she did not comply.

The male took a small bottle of spirits before departing.

The offender is described as being a tall male, skinny with dark skin, in his teens or early twenties.

Geraldton Detectives are seeking assistance from the community with any information that may assist with the investigation. Please call Geraldton Police 99234555. 

Second division winner at Rigters Supa IGA

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CONGRATULATIONS to our lucky customer who purchased a second division lotto ticket for Saturday night, picking up $7,732.45.

Posted by Rigters Supa IGA on Sunday, 29 November 2015

GDR movie night

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Geraldton Dog Rescue are holding a fundraiser movie night this Thursday night.

In the Heart of the Sea from 6:00pm at Orana Cinemas. 

Tickets will be available to purchase at the Cinema (through Geraldton Dog Rescue only) for $30 each from 5:30pm to 6:00pm.

A representative from Geraldton Dog Rescue will be at the cinema from 5:30pm.

The tickets will be $30 each for cash door sales.

Otherwise, pay $27.50 online by Clicking here to book through Eventbrite.

City gets grants for Disability services

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Regional Ambassador for of ‘Count Me In’ Chris Kerr looks forward to the new mobility beach access ramp being constructed at Town Beach.

The City of Greater Geraldton is pleased to announce it recently received grant funding from the Disability Services Commission of $50,000 to go towards the construction of a mobility beach access ramp and a further $100,000 for accessible amenities and adult change facilities at Town Beach.

City of Greater Geraldton Mayor, Shane Van Styn, said the timing of the funding announcement coincides perfectly with the City’s celebrations for International Day of People with Disability.

“What a fantastic announcement to be able to make to our community who is celebrating International Day for People with Disability this week with the opening of the art exhibition ‘Creative Waves’ and the launch of a short film ‘Part of the Community’ at the Queens Park Theatre on Thursday, 3 December from 4.30 to 6.30pm,” he said.
The grant funding program, administered by the Western Australian Local Governments Association, will enable the City to undertake capital works related to access and inclusion which were identified as a top priority by the Community Panel in late 2013.
As a result, the City has decided to include access as a top priority for the Multi User Facility and Youth Precinct currently under construction on the Foreshore in the West End.
“The refurbishment of the toilet block behind the Visitor Centre will house a new beach wheel chair and the accessible change rooms will feature a hoist for transfers from one chair to another and an adjustable adult change table,” said Mayor Van Styn.
“The beach wheelchair ramp, which will be built on the western side of the Town Beach groyne across from the basketball half court, has been specifically designed and engineered to counteract erosion of the concrete path.  Adjoining the foreshore promenade, the path will feature stainless steel handrails for users down to the high water mark on the beach.
“The City continually consults with community representatives to improve access in the CBD which also includes strategically located ACROD (Australian Council for Rehabilitation of Disabled) parking in the West End as part of the Multi User Facility project.”

The Francis Street jetty is also being replaced so that people with mobility impairments can fully utilise it.

A beach wheelchair is currently stored at the Two Foreshore Café and is available for hire by contacting the City.

For more information about the beach wheelchair ramp or other City projects visit www.cgg.wa.gov.au or phone the City Council on (08) 9956 6600.

Main street to light up for Christmas!

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Christmas on the Terrace is back for another year with our main street hosting the family fun event. Picture: Richard Rossiter 

Marine Terrace will once again light up with a sea of colour, Christmas lights, retailers, stall holders, activities and festive cheer as Christmas on the Terrace hits our main street for another year.

On Thursday, 10 December from 5-8.30pm, head down to Marine Terrace to enjoy an event that the whole family will love.

You can expect unique markets and stalls, an array of fabulous food, local artworks, aero bungy, bouncy castles, cool inflatables, a variety of musicians including The Comedy Emporium’s piano bike, Perth based funk band Junkadelic, as well as other local singers.

Kids will also be able to write their very own letter to Santa!

The City has been working closely with local retailers to continue to provide an annual family friendly event full of fun and entertainment.

City of Greater Geraldton Mayor, Shane Van Styn, said Christmas on the Terrace had been a popular event in the past and he encouraged the community to come along and support local retailers.

“This is such a great event for the whole community and local retailers put a lot of effort into making Marine Terrace come alive for the festive season,” he said.

“There is so much on offer and there will be something there for everyone so you’ll be able to do all of your Christmas shopping in one night.”

The winner of the City’s #whyilovegero photo competition will also be announced and photos entered into the competition will be projected onto a building on Marine Terrace across the road from the Men’s Shed.

For more information you can visit the City’s online events calendar http://ow.ly/V5TpI and you can also find updates on the City’s Facebook page.

Laser pointing Juvenile charged with drug possession

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On Saturday, Geraldton Police charged a 16 year old male in Sunset Beach.

Police allege the male was pointing a laser pointer at traffic whilst being pillion on a motorcycle.

Police had cause to search the male where a black laser pointer that emits green light was located and a clip seal bag containing a tablet believed to be MDMA.

He was charged with: 1 x Possess Prohibited Drug and 1 x Carries or Possesses a Controlled Weapon.

The male will appear in Geraldton Childrens Court. 

Open Letter to Ratepayers

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Open Letter to Ratepayers

Ratepayers  - you may not have noticed the small notice in the Guardian recently advising you of the Electors Meeting tomorrow Tuesday at the Council Offices at 5.30pm.

This meeting isa once a year opportunity for you asa ratepayer to have your say about the operations and decision making of Council – Don’t waste it.

Preferably you should put any questions you have in writing to Council beforehand so as to allow time for a researched answer. 

Ratepayers I urge you to spend an hour or so of your time to show the Council you care.  The opportunity is yours – come along and ask why the Council do what they do with your money.  Remember it’s your money the Council spend.

Regards

Max Correy

Hell Fire Pass ANZAC Day Tour for Students 2016

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The City of Geraldton RSL is promoting a community involved Tour of Thailand for Students in Geraldton to attend during the 2016 ANZAC day. We are looking for expressions of interest from those students wishing to participate in this wonderful opportunity.

The tour is for 12 days - 11 nights and the focus is in the story is of the Australian POWs, their camps and the Australian doctors, culminating in the ANZAC Day Dawn Service at Hellfire Pass, and the Memorial Service in the Cemetery at Kanchanaburi. Sites of War camps, the Bridge on the River Kwai and other areas of interest.

The Quiet Lion Tours have always featured High School students from around Australia who are sponsored by various charitable and service organisations. The focus on students is to celebrate the work done by the Doctors on the railway and to perpetuate the message that “we may forgive but we will never forget” the horrific story of the Burma Thailand Railway.

The tour normally includes survivors of the railway construction, but this is subject to the health of the POW’s and is not guaranteed.For those interested please contact Christina Ross on 0437325279 for further details, on how to apply.

Northgate Shopping Centre broken into overnight

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An unknown number of people entered Northgate Shopping Centre between 10pm (last night) Sunday and 5am this morning, breaking windows and doors to gain access to the Shopping centre.  

The people made their way into Target and allegedly stole numerous mobile phones including Microsoft 640’s, Samsung Galaxy’s J1 Android, Samsung Galaxy’s S5 and A5.

Police are seeking assistance from the community with any information that may assist with the investigation. Please call Geraldton Police 99234555.

BBQs Galore have got your Christmas get togethers sorted

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Christmas is nearly upon us once again! But not to worry because Barbeques Galore Geraldton has got your Christmas get-together sorted…

Think prices are lower in Perth? Think again, there’s no need to travel all that way when we have the same prices in store right here in Geraldton!

Come in and see our huge range – 

  • BBQs / Ziggy’s
  • Weber Range BBQs
  • Chimineas 
  • Outdoor Settings
  • Egg Chairs
  • Umbrellas
  • BBQ Care products
  • Cooking Utensils
  • Meat Smokers & Pellets
  • Cooking & Food trays
  • Gas refills
  • Gift Vouchers

We’re at the Homemaker Centre – In case you didn’t know where we are! Come and say hello!

Have a question? Give us a call on (08) 9964 3314.

Find us on Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/Barbeques-Galore-Geraldton-1504276433174572

 

Call for Green Army participants

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Member for Durack Melissa Price is encouraging young people to join the Green Army, joining what is fast becoming the largest-ever team of young Australians supporting environmental action across the country.

“Green Army projects are underway around the country and young people who want to gain valuable skills, training and experience in environmental and conservation fields are encouraged to register their interest,” Ms Price said.

“The Geraldton Carnaby’s Black Cockatoo Propagation/Revegetation Project – Stage 1 will be based at the City of Greater Geraldton Community Nursery, planting native seedlings that will provide habitat and foraging food for the endangered black cockatoo.

“The team will also educate the public that visit the nursery on the importance of planting native seedlings in their backyards and how it can contribute to increasing the Carnaby's populations.

“They will also help with planting activities around the City of Greater Geraldton to improve habitat values for the Carnaby's.

“Planting native flora for the black cockatoo during this project will provide much needed food sources and habitat for this endangered species.”

The Green Army provides young people across the country with a chance to take part in important environmental and conservation activities, while at the same time receiving training and qualifications.

Participation is open to a diverse range of young people, including Indigenous Australians, school leavers, gap year students, graduates and job seekers. Participants must be aged between 17 and 24 years and an Australian citizen or permanent resident.

The Green Army was a key Coalition election commitment, and with more than $700 million committed over four years, the Green Army is one of the Government's major environmental initiatives and encourages practical action to support local environment and heritage conservation projects across Australia, providing training to thousands of young Australians by 2018-2019.

Young Australians interested in joining the Green Army can apply through the appointed Service Providers for each state and territory. Contact details for Service Providers are available from environment.gov.au/green-army

Mark McGowan visits Geraldton to talk jobs

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WA Labor Leader Mark McGowan visited Geraldton last week to talk to the community about Labor’s vision to create jobs.

Mr McGowan said “We are here to put jobs on the agenda.

“We all know that the resources sector is changing, so it’s important to diversify the economy and create new job opportunities for West Australians.

“It should have happened a long time ago but unfortunately Colin Barnett failed to plan for life beyond the resources boom. This is why so many West Australians, including people in Geraldton, are now facing the prospect of unemployment and this is why we should be talking about ways to diversify the economy and create new jobs.

“We’ve already announced important plans to ensure that people and businesses in regional WA benefit from big State Government projects.

“A WA Labor Government will give people in Geraldton a fair go.”

Mr McGowan also said WA Labor’s Priority Start policy would create jobs in Geraldton, by ensuring all big State Government construction projects deliver apprenticeships and traineeships for locals.