Innovation to boost well-being and quality of life

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Businesses and communities in Durack stand to benefit from a more innovative Australia.

Member for Durack Melissa Price said the Australian Government’s new Innovation and Science Agenda included a range of initiatives that would improve the well-being and quality of life in Australia’s regional and rural areas.

"The agenda is a broad-ranging strategy that will change the way all Australians work together to shape the future,” Ms Price said.

“Strong, vibrant, regional communities and innovative, sustainable rural industries are in Australia’s national interest.

“Agriculture and our regional economies are, and will remain, a foundation of our national economy as we position ourselves to embrace new opportunities.”

Ms Price welcomed the Agenda’s range of new initiatives that build on existing measures such as the Entrepreneurs’ Programme, Industry Growth Centres Initiative and the rural R&D system.

“This announcement presents a range of opportunities across the community,” Ms Price said.

“There’s assistance for local business to innovate and grow, support for entrepreneurs to back their ideas and get access to the capital they need, and closer connections between industry and research, particularly in agriculture.

“There are also new initiatives for our young people to get the digital literacy and science, technology and maths skills they need for the jobs of the future.

“Durack’s best resource is its people and we all need to work together to transform our future and unleash our best ideas.”

 

Car set on fire in Spalding Park

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The owner of a Nissan Patrol parked in Spalding Park before going on an early morning run, shortly before 4am on Sunday morning. While on his run he received a call from Police informing him his car had been set on fire.

The 4WD had been broken into and torched, the car contained nothing of value.

The owner who wishes to remain anonymous said he couldn’t understand why someone took the next step in setting fire to the vehicle rather than just breaking in.

Geraldton Police said they are investigating incident, anyone with information is asked to call the station on 9923 4555.

Click video below to see vehicle on fire.

2015 Floor Stock Clearance Sale at Forty Winks Geraldton

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Forty Winks Geraldton are having a MASSIVE clearance sale with up to 50% off selected floor stock and huge discounts storewide on manchester, furniture and 20% off giftware.

Get yourself down to the Homemaker Centre and let our bed experts help you choose the perfect match– Don’t miss out on an absolute bargain, this offer is only valid until the 12th December.

Got a specific model in mind? Give us a call on (08) 9921 1900 and we will let you know if it’s in stock. 

 

QPT to close for renovations, reopens mid 2016

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A Season Finale will see a close to an amazing and busy year at the Queens Park Theatre and will be the last event before its doors close for major upgrades in 2016.

The Finale will take place on Friday 11 December 2015, from 6pm in the Queens Park Amphitheatre with tickets on sale online or from the Civic Centre, Geraldton Regional Library and the Visitor Centre.

City of Greater Geraldton Mayor, Shane Van Styn, said the Finale is a way to celebrate the successes of the 2015 season.
“The 2015 season saw more than 100 local, national and international acts take to the stage, which is a huge effort, especially for our QPT staff members who worked countless hours to ensure the community had access to high class entertainment,” he said.
“I invite the Geraldton community to join the City and QPT staff for an evening of live entertainment from local string ensemble Vivace! and Perth-based brass funk band Junkadelic.”

The Queens Park Theatre will then close its doors for six months for a much needed refurbishment which will include the replacement of the current 33 year old air conditioning system, roof and interior renovations.

Local air conditioning and refrigeration specialists, Cramer and Neill, were awarded the tender to replace the outdated air conditioning with a new HVAC (heating, ventilation and air conditioning) system.

Mayor Van Styn said he was pleased a local business was awarded the tender.
“It’s important to keep work in our community and support our local businesses,” he said.
“We want to be able to support our local economy and we encourage others to do the same.”

When the QPT reopens in mid-2016, theatre goers will experience new luxury with new carpet, bathrooms, technical equipment and the addition of new digital signage to the building.

It’s anticipated the QPT will reopen sometime in late July or early August of 2016.

5 Gero pubs to hit up on a Saturday night

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Looking to head out to a pub in Gero on a Saturday night? This list might help you to choose your next Saturday night outing! These 5 pubs are all located in Geraldton’s CBD are all in walking distance of each other. 

  • Provincial

Pros: This is the place to be in Geraldton on a Saturday night. There’s usually some cool live acoustic tunes, awesome ambiance, potent cocktails and woodfired pizzas.

Cons: It’s a small space so sometimes it can be hard to find a spot to sit with you and your friends so make sure you book ahead. On the Saturdays that it is super busy you might find yourself waiting in line to go in or waiting a while to get a drink at the bar.

Side note: Awesome wicked cool artwork on the walls 

  • The Gero (The Geraldton Hotel)

Pros: The Gero has the coolest of all cool beer gardens! Heaps of space to sit and enjoy a drink or space to dance to one of the cool DJs they usually have on a Saturday night. If you hang around late enough you can walk outside the door and head into Gero’s one and only nightclub – the Vibe! (Vibe Nightclub has recently undergone major renovations) 

Cons: If you’re not into “doof doof” music sometimes a Saturday night at the Gero might not be for you. And if you’re offended by skimpys – don’t head inside.

Side note: The Sunday Sesh at the Gero goes off! 

  • Breakers (Breakers Bar and Cafe)

Pros: You can enjoy a nice pub meal here before the tables and chairs are moved and the dance floor opens. Saturday night usually sees some sort of cool music or visiting DJ or even our popular local DJ Strawn.

Cons: The Breakers outside area is lacking in size and is usually full with smokers or people try to get some “fresh air”.

Side note: Breakers is your Pre-drinks stopover before hitting the nightclub - as it tends to go off on a Saturday night. 

  • The Camel Bar

Pros: From about 9pm -10pm the Camel bar usually gets pretty rowdy. There’s heaps of bar staff on and always some sort of entertainment whether it’s a band or karaoke. There’s a nice outdoor area, a pool table and a cool separate bar for functions… And this one’s mainly for the ladies – TWO SEPARATE BATHROOMS. You won’t find yourself lining up for the loo here.

Cons: If you don’t like people trying to cover an 80’s ballad in the form of karaoke – some Saturday nights might not be the best for you! The Camel Bar can also get super busy which can leave you lining up waiting to get in.

Side note: They have a cool “Beers of the World” challenge. (Limit per on of beer, each visit) 

  • The Freo (The Freemasons Hotel) 

Pros: Better known as “The Freo” one of Geraldton’s oldest pubs is still kicking. There’s a big selection of beers, always good tunes and has a nice chilled out atmosphere. The Freo has awesome nights such as Rewind back to the 90’s, 80’s nights and you’ll often see visiting acts but also our own locals such as Anne Williams, The Inks and Zain Laudher.

Cons: If you want to have a boogie with a drink in your hand this is a no-no! So drink your alcohol before stepping foot onto the dance floor.

Side note: You can now get cocktail carafes!

If your Pub should be on this list, email lewis@justeverything.com.au

Get Christmas ready with CleanPak

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Up to 10% off storewide for retail customers!

Having a Christmas get together? 

CleanPak have your food storage sorted.
Don’t let the Boxing Day hangover clean up put you off!

Clean it, pack it & wrap it with CleanPak’s wide range of cleaning and packaging supplies, including:

  • Napkins
  • Plastic Plates / Bowls / Cutlery
  • Foil
  • Cling Wrap
  • Table Cloths
  • Cleaning Products
  • Gift Wrap, Ribbon & Bubble Wrap
  • Car Cleaning Products
  • Vacuum Cleaners & Accessories
  • Brooms
  • Food Containers
  • Bin Liners
  • Bins
  • Latex / Vinyl Gloves
  • Cloths & Wipes
  • Detergent 
  • Bulk Toilet Roll & Kitchen Towels

Cleanpak also have a wide range of Christmas Wrapping and bows

Come in to CleanPak today and grab a bargain! We’re at 229 Place Rd, Geraldton WA 6530.

Need help? Speak to the team on (08) 9921 7077 or email them on orders@cleanpak.net.au

 

Paranormal Investigators visit Freemasons Hotel and QPT

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Professional Perth-based paranormal investigators Haunted were in Geraldton yesterday investigating the unexplained.

They visited the Queens Park Theatre and the Freemason’s Hotel.

Check out what exciting things they found by heading to their Facebook page. 

󾭩GERALDTON YOU ARE HAUNTED󾭩

Posted by Haunted on Tuesday, 1 December 2015


Well done council photographer !

Posted by Haunted on Monday, 30 November 2015

Airport staff commended for caring attitude

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I would like to give a massive thanks to the security ladies and gentlemen at the Geraldton airport. 
Fly out day is always a hard day for our 4 year old daughter but without a doubt every 3 weeks and the lovely staff help make the trip so very pleasant with hugs, high fives and letting her know they are looking forward to seeing her again.
I can't express how thankful I am to see their happy friendly faces every trip. 
A massive thanks from a very very grateful mother and happy little girl.
- Daneale

Wheelchair carousel to be placed on the foreshore

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The Foreshore will once again feature a ‘merry go round by the sea’ thanks to an Everlasting Partnership between the City of Greater Geraldton and Variety WA Mid West for the installation of a wheelchair carousel in the Youth Precinct.

City of Greater Geraldton Mayor, Shane Van Styn, said the new carousel will provide people of all ages and abilities the opportunity to play on our Foreshore.
“The City has been actively designing, building and refurbishing Foreshore spaces and amenities to be accessible and inclusive,” he said.
“The addition of universally accessible play equipment in the Youth Precinct which includes a wheelchair carousel and nest swing means more members of our community will be able to enjoy the Foreshore than ever before.”

Variety WA Mid West Regional Coordinator, Jan Ajduk, says their organisation was pleased to be a partner in the City’s new Everlasting Sponsorship program and to also be part of the final stage of the Foreshore development.

“The installation of the universally accessible and inclusive play equipment in the Youth Precinct will enable children to come together, interact and engage with each other side by side regardless of age or ability,” she said.
“The City is very pleased to partner with Variety WA Mid West in our new sponsorship program that enables organisations to sponsor or partner with the City to deliver projects and programs the community highly values,” said Mayor Van Styn.

Looking for somewhere to have your Christmas Function?

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Looking for somewhere to have your Christmas Lunch or get together before Christmas craziness?

Why not come into Toppos on the Terrace?

We are located is in the heart of the CBD and are open 7 days a week, for breakfast, lunch, dinner or just a casual coffee and cake. We offer a great menu and are fully licensed. 

We would love to see you during this festive season for a bite to eat or just drop in for a drink. We are now taking group or single bookings for the Christmas period, so book now to avoid disappointment on missing out on one of our delicious meals.

Also come down at any lunch or dinner times and you can get a Movie Meal Deal which includes garlic bread, a glass of wine or soft drink, a choice of 9 different main meals and a movie ticket – all for $39 – you can’t beat that deal.

If you need to wind down on a Friday night after a hard week at work we have our Cocktail Night every Friday night – we hope to see you there soon.

To make a booking call us on 9964 5866 or come in and see us at 158 Marine Tce

For any more information visit our Facebook page or website - www.toppos.com.au

 

Mayor urges community to dig deep this Christmas

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This Christmas there will be thousands of families in the Mid West who will go without food.

City of Greater Geraldton Mayor, Shane Van Styn, is urging the community to get behind Foodbank’s Christmas Appeal and make a donation. He has kicked off the campaign by pledging $2,000.
Food donations can be made at local supermarkets as well as the Civic Centre, Aquarena and the Geraldton Regional Library. You can contact Foodbank to make a monetary donation.

Dig deep this Christmas.

Marine Terrace Library entrance closed for repairs

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The Marine Terrace entrance to the City of Greater Geraldton Regional Library will be closed for building repairs all day on Monday 7 December 2015.  Scaffolding will be erected at the Marine Terrace entrance prohibiting entry or exit. Visitors can access the Library through the Chapman Road entrance.

The City apologises to library patrons and other members of the public visiting this end of town for any inconvenience.

$1000 Rebate to any Host Employer who takes on a School-based Trainee or Apprentice in 2016

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There are only two ways to continue to grow as a community, either we attract more people to work, live and play here and/or we retain our population that we have.

ATC Midwest recognise that we need to engage, inspire and develop tomorrows leading workforce today. As the leading workforce solutions provider in the Midwest they are investing in strategies to retain our population by showing our youth that there are career opportunities for them locally.

“It’s definitely uncertain for many employers as to whether they will have enough work to carry a full-time apprentice or trainee over the next couple of years”, ATC Midwest General Manager Dave Clare said. “However, we need to show our children, our future workforce, that there are still opportunities here in the Midwest. One of the most economical ways to do that for employers is to put them on a School-based Traineeship or Apprenticeship (SBT/SBA). The employer then gets to develop a relationship with a student who can become a full-time apprentice or trainee on successful completion in 2 years’ time when the economy improves.” Mr Clare added.

SBT/SBA allow senior secondary students to start an apprenticeship/traineeship while also completing the Western Australian Certificate of Education. Under these arrangements the student is both a full-time student and a part-time employee, with the same employment and training responsibilities as other apprentices/trainees. Each student will be with the host employer one day per week over an average of 78 weeks through the school years 11 and 12.

“We are in this together. ATC are willing to give a $1000 rebate to every employer who hosts a SBT/SBA with ATC Midwest upon successful completion of their qualification.” said Mr Clare. “We have a great relationship with all the schools in the Midwest and Gascoyne and the local brokers. We have amazing pre-qualified youth ready to learn and earn, what we need is the continued support of our local business community to show these students that there is opportunity here in the Midwest so that’s why we are showing the business community that we are financially willing to help them get involved”.

If you or your business would like to learn more about hosting a SBT/SBA, contact ATC Midwest today.

DWT Jewellers – 20% Off Handmade Stock!

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Get that special someone the perfect gift this Christmas at DWT Jewellers. 

DWT Jewellers Design & Manufacture High Quality Hand Made Jewellery.18ct & 9ct Yellow/White Gold, Silver, Platinum, Diamonds, Pearls & Gemstones.  

  • Rings.
  • Pendants.
  • Necklaces.
  • Earrings.
  • Bracelets / Bangles.
  • Argyle Diamonds (pink, yellow, champagne).

With over 45 years experience, father – son team Derek & Tyrone produce some of the finest jewellery in the Midwest.  Their services include:

  • Design.
  • Repairs (same day where possible).
  • Polishing.
  • Valuations.
  • Remodelling.
  • Re-stringing pearls.

Get 20% off our handmade jewellery & stock! Offer valid through December.

“We will work around you”

Speak to us today:

  • Derek: 0418 271 717
  • Tyrone: 0459 277 027
  • Fiddy55@hotmail.com

Opening Hours:
8.30 – 5 (Mon – Fri)
8.30 – 1 (Sat)
Closed Sundays & Public Holidays

We are a local home based business in Geraldton.

Find us on Facebook – DWT Jewellers

Give someone a Christmas they'll never forget

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Get cycling this Christmas with Revolutions!

Being active is being healthy! So get out and about this Christmas…

GOPP member? Get 10% off with us.

Give them a gift that they will truly never forget!

Bec loves the XDS Retro Ladies Bike

Rhys has gone on his Giant Alight – Commuting Bike

Surly Pugsley Fat Bike (Model on bike not available)

Come and see us at 2c Jensen Street, off the NWCH.
Got a question? Give us a call on (08) 9964 1399

 

Parcels stolen from doorstep

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Local Trevor Dunen claims he had two parcels stolen off his front door step in Strathalbyn after they had been delivered by Australia post, one containing 2 Albums, by Pink Floyd- "The Wall" and "Dark Side of the Moon" in Quadraphonic.

The other Parcel contained Led Zeppelin IV with an orange label and a rare misprint on the label.

"All three albums have rare matrix/serial numbers and are valued at around $1000 plus all up.

The albums were allegedly stolen by an aboriginal male, he was seen by the next door neighbors leaving my home with my property.

Half an hour before the records were stolen this aboriginal person was caught behind a bush near my front door and asked to leave, any person knowing any information please pm me or the Geraldton Police.

If you have my rare albums and return them, nothing more will be said."

Mr Dunen said "a $100 reward would be offered for their return."

Geraldton Police currently have no lines of inquiry relating to this incident and are appealing to the public for information. 

Anyone with any information is asked to call Geraldton Police station on 9923 4555  or make a report online at www.crimestopperswa.com.au

Students suspended following incident

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Social media was a buzz with talk of John Willcock College going into lockdown yesterday.

Below details what actually happened.  

John Willcock College Principal Julie Campbell said in a letter sent to parents today, I can confirm that an incident occurred on Wednesday, 2 December that required us to keep students in classrooms for a brief period to ensure their safety.
Eight students behaved in a very intimidating manner, looking to fight particular individuals and banging on windows to try to get into classrooms. Police were called and those students were suspended.
Contrary to some entirely false rumours circulating online, there was no physical assault on any person, no student was at risk of harm, nor were any weapons involved.
However, the behaviour was a disgrace and I will not stand for it at this school. In addition to suspension, further work is being done with the students and their families to prevent a repeat of such behaviour.
It is sad that from time to time we have students whose behaviour undermines all the good and positive work we do at John Willcock College. Most of our students are very well-behaved and a credit to themselves and the school.
However, our procedures for ensuring student safety worked very well and are consistent with the processes used by all schools in such situations. As we do after any incident, we are reviewing what happened so we can further strengthen our response for the future.
Police spokeswoman from Geraldton Police said Officers attended the school but were not required to intervene.