A reported 'Shooting Star' at approximately 8:30pm this evening, February 6th, has been sighted accross the West Australian coast.
Resident of Port Hedland Chris Topher took this photo of the object landing "just behind the go-kart track".
The "bright green burst" was spotted in Geraldton, Paraburdoo, Telfer, Meekatharra, Hedland and Karratha among other places and has been described as "beautiful and amazing".
Report will be updated.
While the heatwave is temporary it’s a blunt reminder of the trend towards hotter and drier conditions in WA, and the need to continue to adapt our water use for the longer-term.
Some facts and handy tips:
A big congrats to everyone who has helped this wonderful community asset grow over the years.
Shoutout to Aussie Pastries for the cake and 1000 cup cakes, Aussie tree services for the group shots.
Geraldton MLA Ian Blayney has written to Planning Minister John Day in relation to the Point Moore community.
“I have always had a strong interest in the Point Moore residents and their situation.
“I have advised the Minister that I will be happy to engage with the City of Greater Geraldton and the residents of Point Moore to determine how tidal surge risk mitigation may occur in concert with the continued tenancy of the residents. I would support any Council proposal to extend leases.
“This would provide residents some level of security for their immediate future while enabling them to plan for the longer term outcomes.
“I have also requested that the Minister visit Geraldton to meet the Point Moore residents and discuss their situation with them and the Council, before any final planning decisions are made.
“Most residents accept that there is an increased risk of inundation due to the land’s proximity to sea level, but they also need to fully understand the City’s position due to its possible exposure to liability.
“I think it’s likely that in future residents will face increased insurance disclaimers and premiums. It will be a feature of Point Moore living.
“However, I don’t think there is an immediate threat to the homes of Point Moore and I hope that rational discussion and cool heads will allow sensible solutions to occur,” said Mr Blayney.
Letter to John Day re Point Moore tenancies
Geraldton MLA Ian Blayney has written to the Attorney General requesting that any move to release Geraldton axe murderer William Patrick Mitchell on parole is rejected.
“It has recently been brought to my attention that there will be a review by the Parole Board of William Patrick Mitchell’s sentence.
“While I recognise that these reviews will be an ongoing process over the term of his prison life, it is deeply upsetting for the family and friends of his victims. As it forces them to relive the events and pain of the past.
“I have requested that in the unlikely situation that the Parole Board makes a recommendation for his release on parole, the Attorney General rejects it.
“I have also advised the Attorney General of my intention to circulate a petition, which I will present to the Legislative Assembly from people of Geraldton, requesting that William Patrick Mitchell is never released from jail.
“I encourage everyone to sign this petition,” said Mr Blayney.
The City of Greater Geraldton wishes to advise that works will begin on the removal of the Queens Park Theatre asbestos roof from 8 - 21 February 2016 to make way for a new roof. The area is currently fully fenced off and appropriate signage will be in place.
An independent environmental consultant will be on site during the removal works to ensure the works are being undertaken according to Australian standards and to monitor air quality.
There are no planned additional footpath or road closures during this time. Please direct all further enquires to Project Manager Michael Librizzi at 9956 6600.
Wildflower lovers will enjoy this article from "Flowers Across Melbourne"
Geraldton gets quite a few mentions as you can imagine.
Interesting note from the article: "Western Australia alone has more than 12,000 species of native wildflowers, more than 60% of which can only be found here and nowhere else on earth."
Chinese Business Event; Workshop and Dinner: Expressions of Interest
Meaning "hello" in Chinese, Ni hao WA is an annual event for the State's tourism industry. The event welcomes Chinese trade partners to WA and aims to strengthen business relationships with key buyers and media.
The workshop for Ni Hao WA 2016 is set on 14 March 2016 in Fremantle. As part of the program, there will be 40 agents and media from China and Hong Kong where they will be split into 3 groups doing famils in WA. One group from China with 20 key agents and media and one group from Hong Kong with 10 agents will stay in Geraldton for 2 nights on 10 and 11 March evenings as part of the itinerary.
The City is hosting a workshop and dinner on the Thursday 10 Mar 2016. The objectives of the event are to:
• provide an overview and outline of opportunities in the China and Hong Kong markets (workshop)
• raise the profile of Midwest Region as a tourism destination (Dinner)
• establish and increase business networks with key trade partners in the target markets (Dinner)
• further strengthen business relationships with Product and Marketing Managers in China (Dinner)
• generate media exposure for Midwest and key marketing initiatives in China (Dinner)
The workshop will be held from 3pm to 5:00pm on the 10 Mar at the Function Room of the Civic Centre, and the dinner (includes pre-dinner drinks) is scheduled for 6:30pm- 8:30pm of the same day at the Latitude 28. The cost of the workshop and dinner is $220. The City is targeting 15 - 20 local businesses to attend the event.
If you are interested in participating, please express your interest through email to Han Jie Davis hanj@cgg.wa.gov.au , by COB of 5pm 15th Feb 2016.
Member for Durack Melissa Price is pleased to announce about 2,400 premises will soon have faster internet with the construction of the NBN in Dongara
Dongara residents will see nbn contractors laying cables and installing nodes over the coming weeks as the build out rolls out across the town.
“This is great news for the people of Dongara,” Ms Price said.
“Dongara is a valuable town in Durack, with hundreds of families from throughout the Mid West moving to the beachside town to retire.
“These 2,400 premises will be receiving fibre to the node (FTTN) technology which is very fast broadband.”
The start of the Dongara construction continues the NBN rollout in the Mid West with most of Geraldton already able to connect to the NBN, and with construction in Northampton and Kalbarri just months away.
“nbn’s end-user trials have shown FTTN delivers great speeds to Australians, with most end-users on the trial getting wholesale speeds of 100 Mbps (download) and 40 Mbps (upload),” Ms Price said.
“The rollout of the NBN in Dongara is an important step in reaching its goal of connecting eight million homes and businesses to the NBN by 2020.”
For further information visit: nbnco.com.au/3yearplan
Every public swimming pool and aquatic centre in regional Western Australia will be in top shape this summer, thanks to a funding boost made possible by Royalties for Regions and The Nationals WA.
Nationals WA Member of Parliament Paul Brown MP, welcomed this week’s announcement of almost $3 million in funding for the Community Pool Revitalisation Program – which will be put towards 94 aquatic centres, swimming pools and water playgrounds in regional communities.
“The program was a Nationals WA election commitment, and will help local governments with the funding necessary to maintain and upgrade their aquatic facilities, purchase new equipment, provide staff training, or to subsidise the cost of entry to the pool,” Mr Brown said.
“With the warm summer weather we’re currently experiencing, there’s no better time to get down to the pool and cool off. As well as being a recreational hub, local pools are often the first place many regional residents learn and develop a love for swimming.”
In the current round of the Community Pool Revitalisation Program $2,938,667 has been made available through Royalties for Regions. Annual funding of up to $32,000 per aquatic centre and $10,000 per water playground, when attached to a primary aquatic facility, is available.
Mr Brown said the City of Greater Geraldton will receive $32,000 each for the Geraldton Aquarena and the Mullewa Swimming Pool.
“Royalties for Regions is ensuring community swimming pools continue to be safe and vibrant places to enjoy physical activity and a healthy lifestyle,” Mr Brown said.
Minister for Sport and Recreation and acting Minister for Regional Development, Mia Davies MLA, announced the funding this week.
“Particularly in regional and remote communities, aquatic centres are important facilities because there’s evidence that when they are well patronised, they contribute to a reduction in chronic disease and improved educational and social outcomes,” Ms Davies said.
“We also know that active children learn better, aside from the mental and physical benefits, there are also great community and social outcomes for kids who are active.
For a full list of successful Community Pools Revitalisation Program recipients, visit www.dsr.wa.gov.au/cprp-successful.
Yesterday afternoon around 3:50pm a crash occurred near White Peak Rd on the North West Coastal Highway.
Police have issued the following information, and would like anyone who has information regarding the crash to come forward.
Despite the temporary closure of the Queens Park Theatre, the City of Greater Geraldton is presenting an impressive line-up of world class shows at various venues.
Local venues including the Queen Elizabeth II Centre, Theatre 8 and Geraldton Grammar School will host six acts in the first half of 2016 while the Queens Park Theatre undergoes a refurbishment.
Among the upcoming acts are WA Opera in the Park, the Grigoryan Brothers and the Melbourne International Comedy Festival.
City of Greater Geraldton Mayor Shane Van Styn said the City was dedicated to ensuring Geraldton’s art and entertainment scene would not be hindered by the temporary closure of the QPT.
“We have always had a very impressive programme of events showcased at the QPT and although the theatre is closed, we will still continue to bring shows to the community and host them at other local venues,” he said.
“The theatre was well over-due for a refurbishment and new additions will ensure longevity for the Mid West’s most iconic theatre.”
The QPT closed its doors in December 2015 and will reopen in mid-2016 with a new asbestos free roof, new air conditioning system, carpet, bathrooms, technical equipment and the addition of new digital signage to the building.
WA Opera in the Park 'Gianni Schicchi' is the first show for 2016 and will be held at the QEII Centre next Saturday, 6 February at 8pm. Although tickets for the Opera in the Park simulcast are free, they will still need to be booked. Critically acclaimed Australian guitar duo The Grigoryan Brothers will hit Geraldton on 17 February, also at the QEII Centre.
To purchase tickets and for a full run down of upcoming events, visit the QPT website at www.queensparktheatre.com.au or phone the City on 9956 6600 for more information.
Tickets can also be purchased at the City of Greater Geraldton, the Geraldton Visitor Centre and the Geraldton Regional Library.
The 2016 Geraldton Toyota Endure Batavia Triathlon is shaping up to be a spectacle for viewers and participants alike, with several big name competitors already committing to slog it out on Geraldton’s spectacular shores.
Six professional triathletes have already signed up to pit themselves against the elements for the gruelling event on April 17.
Geraldton Triathlon Association Vice President Simon Teakle said it was a real coup to have professional athletes signed up.
"Having professionals sign up so early and having athletes of this calibre return to compete is an absolute compliment to the quality and importance of the Endure Batavia Triathlon,” Mr Teakle said.
“Geraldton Triathlon Club aims to grow the Geraldton Toyota Endure Batavia Triathlon to become the best prize money race in the state, currently is the third highest. And with this we get to showcase Geraldton as must see destination for the triathletes of Australia.”
Around 300 competitors are expected to participate, racing across the city’s azure seas with a 1.5km ocean swim, pedalling its colourful streets on a 44km bike ride and putting foot to pavement on a 10km run.
Competitors can choose to complete the full course, they can gather a team to compete in the long course, or they can sign up solo for a shorter course comprising a 750m ocean swim, 22km bike ride and 5km run.
Competitors in the long course will vie for a swag of cash prizes.
Geraldton Toyota General Manager Zane Clark said the business was proud and excited to support a valued community event that promoted participation and a healthy lifestyle.
“Triathlon is fast becoming the trend sport. More people are becoming passionate in improving their health and well-being” Mr Clark said.
“Geraldton Toyota shares the same passionas the athletes who strive to achieve that “oh what a feeling!”
“As we approach our 25th anniversary, we couldn’t have thought of a better way to underline our support for a fantastic community event in the Endure Batavia Triathlon, and to assist the further growth of the event in becoming the States premier competition.”
Registrations open now open. For more information, visit the website: www.geraldtontriclub.com.au/endure-batavia-triathlon.aspx
Homes at one of Geraldton’s most iconic locations are under threat, after the City of Greater Geraldton is considering the future of the 176 residences when the leases expire in 2028, at Point Moore’s historic beach cottage community.
In 2007 the WA Planning Commission deemed the area ‘unsuitable for permanent human habitation’ due to the risk of a severe inundation event impacting on human life.
This information only came to light for residents when 35 leases were renewed in 2014, prompting the Council to extend the leases for only 14 years instead of 21 years as always previously granted.
The Council commissioned independent consultants, M P Rogers and Associates, to undertake a Coastal Inundation Study of the Point Moore area to get a better understanding of coastal processes, including risks of erosion and inundation to the area.
On Wednesday 13 January 2016, the report: Point Moore Inundation and Coastal Processes Study, was presented to a meeting of Point Moore stakeholders; including the Friends of Point Moore Inc committee and members – an action group set up for members to work towards saving their homes – and representatives from the broader community.
The City invited feedback and comments by written submissions from all stakeholders and the broader community on the content and findings of the report.
Chairman of the Friends of Point Moore Inc, David Harrington, said the beach cottages have existed for more than 50 years, and many people would have fond memories of time spent either visiting or living there.
“We are hoping these people and others would be supportive of retaining this piece of Geraldton’s history. Now is the chance to help us save an iconic part of Geraldton – and our homes – by sending a submission on the inundation study to the City,” he said.
“The consultant told us the report didn’t represent a prediction for the future but just models for one potential – one in 500 year – event.”
Mr Harrington said mitigation strategies such as building up the sand dunes and planting vegetation was just one way to offset the possible threat of inundation.
“There are ways to address the perceived problem, and let’s face it, the cottages have survived for 50 years without incident when other parts of Geraldton have been inundated,” he said.
“However, we are working with the City Council to find a solution and would appreciate help from those who have good memories of the area; they may be your memories, but they are our homes!”
The City invites feedback and comments from stakeholders and broader community members on the content and findings of the report that is on the City’s website: http://www.cgg.wa.gov.au/consultations/
“Please help us save Point Moore beach cottages by sending a submission to the City of Greater Geraldton by 4pm on Wednesday 24 February 2016,” said Mr Harrington.
This is the inspiring story of a local woman who overcame grief and depression, and now helps others do the same.
Read MoreDo not to place orders with the website onsalemarketdeals.com as WA ScamNet investigates whether the website is fraudulent.
A WA couple paid more than $500 for a barbecue from the website about two weeks ago and were unable to contact the site about their purchase when it wasn’t delivered.
Investigations have so far revealed a number of issues with the website including:
WA ScamNet are making enquiries with Eastern States counterparts as well trying to shut this website down.
Read the full story on WA ScamNet, including tips on safely shopping online.
You can report scams to WA ScamNet via email or by calling 1300 30 40 54.
Thousands of young Australians starting or returning to senior secondary school are being reminded about the option of a school-based apprenticeship that can help prepare them for a career in a trade or other occupation.
School-based apprenticeships combine hands-on industry experience and the opportunity to work towards a vocational qualification while completing the senior school certificate.
The Chief Executive Officer of Group Training Australia (GTA), Jim Barron said a school-based apprenticeship can be an ideal way of combining senior school study with practical trade training.
“It gives students a taste of what it may ultimately be like to pursue an apprenticeship or a trade career, and is a real choice for those who are not necessarily focused on university,” Mr Barron said.
School-based apprenticeships are offered at many secondary schools across a range of subjects.
Group training organisations around Australia employ about 14 per cent of all school-based apprentices.
One of the advantages of starting through group training is that it provides much needed support at a time when school-based apprentices are juggling the simultaneous demands of the school curriculum, the training course and the workplace.
This support is invaluable in assisting the apprentice to complete their senior secondary certificate and make a more seamless transition to a full time apprenticeship after leaving school.
“It’s important that students commencing their senior years at school are made aware of the range of choices that are available to start down the path of a rewarding apprenticeship or vocational career,” Mr Barron said.
“Increasingly, the choice of an apprenticeship is being seen as equivalent to a university education, where a priority on technical and trade skills is paramount.
“A school-based apprenticeship helps to get students thinking about career and life choices and can help them stay engaged with school.
“It’s a way of getting a head start in a career, commencing training and earning a wage, while completing the secondary school certificate.
“I would strongly encourage students entering Year 11 or 12 to talk to their local group training organisation or school VET co-ordinator about the possibility of a school-based apprenticeship,” Mr Barron said.
Sent in to EG:
"The Sunflower on the right is 14 foot 1 inch.......... WOW!! And now flowering all over."
- Beryl & Robert
The Australian Government welcomes today’s Northern Agricultural Region announcement that seven local groups will share in $52,691 in grants under the National Landcare Programme.
The Northern Agricultural Region’s projects include a range of activities that will support land managers and community groups to undertake on-ground land management to enhance community skills and knowledge in rehabilitation, restoration and conservation of the region’s animals and plants.
“National Landcare Programme funding is supporting local landcare networks and other community-based groups to help restore local ecosystems and protect natural assets so the local community can enjoy the long-term benefit of a healthy and livable environment,” Minister for the Environment Greg Hunt said.
“The Government is ensuring that funding is invested locally to deliver real change that is targeted on and off farm to safeguard productive capacity in the land for the future and to safeguard our environment,” Minister for Agriculture and Water Resources, Barnaby Joyce said.
“This is crucial because farmers, landcarers and community groups know what works best for their properties, environment and their communities,” Mr Joyce said.
“Over the coming months, the Northern Agricultural Catchments Council will support local groups to carry out important on-ground works to address some of the crucial environmental issues facing the region,” the Federal Member for Durack, Ms Melissa Price said.
“The Northern Agricultural Catchments Council has a proven track record in managing projects that consistently deliver good environmental outcomes in the Northern Agricultural Region,” Ms Price said.
The Australian Government is investing $1 billion to help support better natural resource management across Australia through the National Landcare Programme. This includes more than $450 million directed in regional funding through to Australia’s 56 natural resource management organisations.
The Northern Agricultural Catchments Council’s announced funding is part of its commitment to invest over 20 per cent of its National Landcare Programme funding to help support local projects as well as other local community engagement activities.
For more information about the National Landcare Programme go to www.nrm.gov.au
Below is the full list of projects:
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