The Great Australian Bake Off Casting For 2016 Series now Open

Are home-made pies your passion? Does bread get your oven temperature rising?

Is your favourite cake a work of art?Is baking like a sixth sense for you? 

FEBRUARY 11, 2016:The Great Australian Bake Off has begun its search for Australia’s best amateur home-bakers for its 2016 series. In 2015 The Great Australian Bake Off took both baking and television by storm and the successful series will have a much-anticipated return later this year.

Culinary icon Maggie Beer and acclaimed chef Matt Moran will once again be overseeing all of the amazing creations in the Bake Off Shed and determining the all-important results.The Great Australian Bake Off screens on Foxtel’s LifeStyle FOOD and profiles 12 home baking enthusiasts who are put through a series of mouthwatering challenges.

Maggie Beer is searching for something unique for the 2016 series, she said,“This is such a delightful show to be a part of and I'm so excited to meet our new home-bakers for 2016. Most of all I’m looking forward to being surprised by new flavours and seeing some of my favourite bakes reinvented.”

Matt Moran has his eye on the next generation, he says, “I think it would be great to see some blokes turn the show and baking on its head this year! There’s been such a revival in home baking and so many different types of people are getting into it - the popularity of this show is a great reflection of that. We really want to see the next generation of amazing, creative home–bakers.”

The Great Australian Bake Off is seeking amateur bakers of all ages, both male and female, and from all walks of life to apply.

To apply, please go to www.lifestyle.com.au/applynow

Applications close February 24.

The Great Australian Bake Off is a FremantleMedia Australia production of a BBC Worldwide format for Foxtel.

For more information please call:

Steven Murphy
FremantleMedia Australia Publicity
E: steven.murphy@fremantlemedia.com.au
P: 0413 842 932

Road Maintenance works in Woorree

The City of Greater Geraldton wishes to advise that road maintenance works will be taking place in the locality of Woorree starting on18 February till 11 March 2016. 

Roads undergoing shoulder maintenance include:

• Polo Road
• Dayana Drive
• Tobin Way
• Ridley Road
• Rowan Road
• Jenark Road 

Traffic management will be in place during this time. Motorists and pedestrians are advised to exercise caution and obey all warning signs and direction from authorised City personnel and contractors. 

For more information on the road maintenance please contact the City’s Acting Manager Service Delivery, Peter Traylen, at 9956 6600. 

The City regrets any inconvenience and will endeavour to keep disruptions to a minimum.

Water safety survival skills a focus at Aquarena

The Geraldton Aquarena is urging local parents to enrol their children in swimming lessons to help increase water safety awareness.

Western Australia has recorded its highest number of toddler drownings in a decade with numbers increasing this summer.

City of Greater Geraldton Mayor Shane Van Styn said it was vital for children to learn to be comfortable around the water and learn water safety techniques.

“The stats speak for themselves and the Aquarena offers great programs for kids of all ages to learn the necessary skills to be safe in the water,” he said.

“Starting from a young age is important and it’s something that parents should definitely be vigilant about.”

A total of 59 people have died in Australian waterways since December with the most common place for these occurrences being home swimming pools.

Royal Life Saving WA is working tirelessly to curb this alarming trend by increasing water safety awareness and ensuring that all Western Australians have access to swimming lessons.

You can help this cause by enrolling your child into the Aquarena’s swim school programs.

The Aquarena offers weekly swimming lessons all year round. Through their program, children will not only discover their ability to swim but will also about water safety, drowning prevention techniques and rescue skills.

Enrolments for swim school are now open. For a full run down on program times and more information, contact the Aquarena on 9956 6909, e-mail swimschool@.cgg.wa.gov.au or visit their website at www.aquarena.cgg.wa.gov.au.

Schools Apprenticeship and Traineeship Broker

Joblink Midwest with support from the Department of Training and Workforce Development is providing a new service for schools/students/parents/employers to increase the participation rate in School Based Traineeships and Apprenticeships across the region. This service is the Schools Apprenticeship and Traineeship Broker (SATB) and commenced in 2015 with the establishment of an online application portal for student applications and employers to register their interest in taking on a school based trainee or apprentice.

Students must conduct research on their chosen industry, undertake career profiling and attend job-ready workshops as part of the application process. Students who are successful through the application and interview process can gain a workplace placement depending on the availability of a suitable host employer and are engaged in work experience prior to commencing the school based traineeship or apprenticeship.

What are school based apprenticeships/traineeships (SBT/SBA)?

A SBA/SBT allows senior students (15 years and over) to undertake an apprenticeship or traineeship while being provided with structured learning and gaining valuable core work skills while earning a wage. Employers engage students for a minimum of one day per week. Students are also working towards completing their Western Australian Certificate of Education (WACE).

What industries are available?

There is a wide range of trade and non-trade related industries available. A full list of occupations offered in WA can be obtained online from the Future Moves web portal www.futuremoves.com.au/sbt (placements are dependent on local employment opportunities).

How can I help as a parent?

Tiffany Baskeyfield your local SATB is available to answer all your questions in relation to School Based Apprenticeships and Traineeships .Contact details are9964 1022 mobile 0419 944 835, or at Joblink Midwest, in the Bill Sewell Complex on Chapman Road. Email tiff@joblinkmidwest.com.au.

I am an employer and would be interested in taking on a SBT in 2016, what do I need to do?

Please contact Tiffany on 0419 944 835 or email tiff@joblinkmidwest.com.auor register your interest online www.futuremoves.com.au/eoi.

My student is interested in becoming a School Based Apprentice or Trainee, what do we need to do?

Sit down with your student and discuss possible career pathways. There are Helpful Hints on the www.futuremoves.com.au/sbt portal that can assist. Once you have both decided on the most likelycareer option, contact your schools VET coordinator or Careers Office to discuss. Applications can be completed online through the portal. You can also contact the SATB, Tiffany Baskeyfield,  on 99641022 or 0419 944 835 for more information.

The Schools Apprenticeship and Traineeship Broker (SATB) provides information and support to all parties throughout the process. Employers benefit from having a student who has undertaken career profiling, research into their chosen career pathway and training in job-ready skills. The training undertaken is structured to suit the employers industry and the qualification is a nationally recognised entry level accreditation.

For further information please contact Tiffany Baskeyfield your local SATB on 9964 1022 or email tiff@joblinkmidwest.com.au

Road Maintenance works in Allanooka Springs Road

The City of Greater Geraldton wishes to advise that road maintenance works will be taking place on Allanooka Springs Road starting on22 February till 7 March 2016. 

Shoulder maintenance will be undertaken between Nangetty Road, Walkaway Road and Roe Close. 

Traffic management will be in place during this time. Motorists and pedestrians are advised to exercise caution and obey all warning signs and direction from authorised City personnel and contractors. 

For more information on the road maintenance please contact the City’s Acting Manager Service Delivery, Peter Traylen, at 9956 6600. 

The City regrets any inconvenience and will endeavour to keep disruptions to a minimum.

Wonthella Oval lights project reaches final stage

City of Greater Geraldton Mayor Shane Van Styn said four 43m high light towers housing 28 lights each were lifted into place yesterday bringing the project one step closer to completion.

 “Now that the towers and lights are in place additional works for the oval that were approved by Council in December 2015 can be undertaken,” he said.

“The existing carpark lighting needs improving and the carpark bitumen is in rough shape therefore the carpark lighting will be upgraded and the carpark surface resealed which will not only improve security, it will provide safer access for facility users. 

“Retaining walls, stairs, new ramps and hand rails will also be installed to enhance access and inclusion for all and ensure safer access to the pitch from the grandstand. 

“Once everything is completed the oval can be used for night programming including entertainment, sporting activities and competitions such as regional and state wide sports as we will finally have the necessary infrastructure needed to host these events,” said Mayor Van Styn. 

The $1.5 million project funded by Department of Sport and Recreation, Midwest Development Commission Royalties for Regions, Country Local Government Fund, AFL and the City of Greater Geraldton was awarded to local Geraldton business S&K Electrical.

“The installation of the flood lighting at the Wonthella Oval is part of the record $68.5 million the City will be spending on a wide range of capital works this financial year that are helping stimulate our local economy,” Mayor Van Styn said.

The commission of the flood lighting will be completed by 19 February 2016.

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Fixing the Grass

A number of residents have expressed concerns over the state of the oval. CGG have advised us that remedial works are underway. 

"The works on remediating the oval have commenced today. The oval is expected to be ready for use at the end of March 2016."

Pic: Posted in the EG app by "tig"

Power bills getting you down? See Sun City Solar

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Bushfire WARNING: Watch and Act - Eradu South in City of Geraldton

Bushfire WATCH AND ACT for for the northern part of Eradu South in the City of Geraldton

Tuesday 16 February 2016 - 4:48 PM

*Please note this alert has been upgraded. 

A bushfire WATCH AND ACT has been issued for people near Geraldton Mount Magnet Road in the northern part of Eradu South in the City of Geraldton.

•    The alert level for this fire has been upgraded  fire behaviour is unpredictable due to a wind change.

•    There is a possible threat to lives and homes as a fire is approaching the area and conditions are changing.

•    You need to leave or get ready to actively defend. 

•    The fire is burning in bushland near Geraldton Mount Magnet Road, the closest intersection is Eradu Road South.

BUSHFIRE BEHAVIOUR: 

•    The bushfire is moving in a south westerly direction.

•    it is out of control and unpredictable.

•    Burning embers are likely to be blown around your home. Spot fires are starting up ahead of the fire. 

WHAT TO DO:

•    If you are not prepared or you plan to leave, leave now if the way is clear.

•    There is ember attack ahead of the fire, so close all doors and windows, and turn off evaporative air conditioners, but keep water running through the system if possible. 

•    If you are well prepared and plan to actively defend your home, make final preparations now. 

•    Do not rely on mains water pressure as it may be affected. If you have access to a water tank and plan to defend your home, start patrolling with your hose and put out spot fires.

•    If you are not at home, do not try to return as conditions in the area could be very dangerous.

SAFER PLACE: 

•    Your safest option may be to visit family or friends who live away from the area.

ROAD CLOSURES:

Avoid the area and be aware of fire and other emergency services personnel working on site

A number of roads have been closed including:

•    Geraldton Mount Magnet Road in both directions from Moonyoonooka Yuna Road to Mingenew Mullewa road.

Road information may also be available from Main Roads WA by calling 138 138 or visiting www.mainroads.wa.gov.au. 

WHAT FIREFIGHTERS ARE DOING:

•    30 career and volunteer Fire and Rescue Service and Bush Fire Service firefighters are on the scene.

•    Firefighters are actively fighting the fire and building containment lines

EXTRA INFORMATION:

•    The incident was reported at 6.26pm 15 February 2016.

•    The cause of the fire is unknown.

•    The City of Geraldton is managing the fire.

KEEP UP TO DATE:

Visit www.dfes.wa.gov.au, call 13 DFES (13 3337), follow DFES on Twitter @dfes_wa, listen to ABC local radio, or news bulletins.

Updates will be provided every two hours unless the situation changes.

Geraldton Guardian switching to two papers per week; Tuesday and Friday→

The Geraldton Guardian is switching to two papers per week, Tuesday and Friday.

Click here to read story.

Devastating blow to tourism: Murchison Off Road Adventures under threat of closure

Murchison Off Road Adventures have been running an adventure park just outside of Geraldton with activities such as camping, "Mud Nutz and Forbys" and more.

They've been a real asset to our community, providing something other than the run of the mill entertainment we normally have on hand. They're also a fantastic tourist attraction, bringing in visitors and money into the region. 

It seems their future is at stake though, all because of a paperwork drama with the Department of Lands. 

Geraldton MLA Ian Blayney has put out the following press release regarding the matter. 

If you would like to show your support for Murchison Off Road Adventures, contact Lands Minister Terry Redman's office on 6552-6700 or email Minister.Redman@dpc.wa.gov.au

You can also complete a contact form by clicking here. 

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Time for the Minister to intervene in Coolcalalaya lease issue.

Geraldton MLA Ian Blayney is calling on Lands Minister Terry Redman to intervene in the issues relating to the re-leasing of Coolcalalaya Station, near Kalbarri. 

“The Lanes purchased the pastoral lease for Coolcalalaya Station near Kalbarri nearly ten years ago for the purpose of developing a 4WD adventure park – Murchison Off Road Adventures.

“I am advised the Lanes sold all their assets to invest in this enterprise, have been slowly building the property and the business.

“My understanding is that approximately three years ago they were visited by the Manager of Pastoral Land and were advised to consider changing the purpose of the lease from pastoral to general.

“They made the applications for a Section 91 Licence and also a Section 79 lease. I’m uncertain whether the need to comply with the renewal conditions for the lease, which would enable this to occur was properly explained to the Lanes, or they misunderstood their responsibility, but the outcome was the expiration of Coolcalalaya Pastoral Lease on the 30th of June 2015.

“Shortly after, the Lanes received a letter from the Department of Lands asking them to close their business, remove their possession and leave. 

“The Lanes have continued to negotiate with the Department of Lands in an attempt to comply with the Department's conditions for the issue of a new licence or lease to operate however, time is running out for the Lanes as the application assessment and case referral process will not be completed before they are required to quit the property.

“In the mean time they have been required to dismantle their business and cease operations and I understand, have no other means of income. 

Mrs Lane contacted my office in September 2015 to request assistance.

“I arranged for Mrs Lane to meet Minister Redman prior to the Regional Cabinet meeting in Geraldton last year, and have written to him on her behalf, but the outcome is unchanged.

“I had hoped to raise this matter in Parliament, as a Grievance to the Minister, on their behalf. Unfortunately, there is no available opportunity to do so before June, which is too late for the Lanes.

“There appears to be no avenue available other than to call on the Minister for his personal intervention in this matter, so that he may determine what steps can be taken to allow the Lanes to stay in their home and continue their business activities.

“I support the concept of an outback, off road 4WD park.

“This business typifies the economic diversification and investment the Minister is trying to encourage for the rangelands with the introduction of the new Rangelands Lease.” 

“Western Australia has limited opportunity for 4 wheel driving in a safe environment. This provides the authentic outback, off road experience with reduced risk. This could be an important local business, providing a broader benefit for the community, reducing risky behaviour on our roads,” said Mr Blayney.

GERALDTON PRIMARY SCHOOL RE-UNION - 1949 to 1955

GERALDTON PRIMARY SCHOOL RE-UNION

CLASSES STARTED FROM YEARS 1949 to 1955.

SEE ATTACHED PHOTOS - WHERE ARE YOU NOW?

RE-UNION AT GERALDTON, W.A.

FROM TUESDAY 13th to SATURDAY 17th SEPTEMBER 2016

ACCOMMODATION BEING ORGANISED - SOLO OR SHARED.

CONTACTS:

ERROL RAFTOS
Mob: 0407 180 152
Email: emroy.raftos@gmail.com

BERYL GRACE (nee Gould)
Mob: 0427 861 942
Email: gracetwo@hotmail.com 

Power outages expected due to Western Power works

The City of Greater Geraldton wishes to advise that Western Power’s delivery partner, Logsys will be replacing power poles and approximately 36.5km of conductor in Geraldton resulting in power outages.

Work will commence on Thursday 25 February in Deepdale and will continue through until mid-May, with further work taking place in Woorree, Moonyoonooka, Kojarena, Mullewa, Pindar and Nunierra.

A total of 266 power poles and 36.5km overhead powerlines will be replaced and this section of powerline is the sole provider of electricity to parts of Mullewa and a number of the surrounding localities. As a result any work on these poles can impact the electricity supply.

While most of this work will be done on live lines, Logsys have stated they will need to have 14 outages to complete the necessary work.

As the majority of the work is occurring in Deepdale and Woorree, suburbs next to and in close proximity to the Geraldton substation, this means that the majority of the customers affected which could be 700 – 1100 customers, will receive 13 outages. This will be one full day outage per week on Thursday for 13 weeks.

Due to the high volume of work required, a series of power outages have been planned to take place on the following dates:

For more information you can contact Western Power on 13 10 87 or visit their website www.westernpower.com.au

Win for local business with changes to Buy Local - Regional Preference Policy

Geraldton MLA Ian Blayney is pleased that Finance Minister Bill Marmion has seen fit to recent changes to the Buy Local Policy. 

“A business recently brought to my attention that Perth based companies were managing to bypass the Buy Local Policy through loopholes in the policy. 

“If an interstate business submitted a compliant tender bid, it compromised the local preference policy. This enabled Perth based companies’ bids to also be considered. 

“I wrote to Minister Marmion to request this loophole was closed and have recently received confirmation that this has occurred. 

“Minister Marmion has advised me that an addendum to the Buy Local Policy has been released making it clear that where only Western Australian bidders are shortlisted for a tender process with a regional delivery point, then the Regional Price Preferences included in the Buy Local Policy will apply. 

“This is a big win for our local businesses and industries,” said Mr Blayney 

HOWZAT! MILO T20 Blast a Hit with Kids

Young cricket fans were treated to an afternoon of fast paced, social and energetic games last Friday when the first MILO T20 Blast session for 2016 got under way.

Over 95 children aged between 7-12 headed down to GBSC Sports Park for the first of eight sessions designed to help strengthen basic skills in preparation for Junior Club Cricket.

Now in its third season here in the Mid West, MILO T20 Blast is a modified version of the Twenty20 format that became popular when the Big Bash League burst onto our televisions in 2011. 

Each session runs for 90 minutes, is delivered by accredited coaches and uses modified equipment such as rubber balls during each game. This means that parents can relax knowing that their kids are being introduced to real games of cricket in a safe way.

Every child--no matter their gender, skill level or age--gets a chance to bat, ball and field. This helps kids develop their proficiency in bowling, catching and throwing, running between wickets and hitting a ball, while also introducing them to teamwork, communication and good sportsmanship.

Even though this round has already commenced, boys and girls between 7-12 years of age are still able to join in, with registration remaining open until 21 February 2016.

The cost is $99 and includes a Big Bash League themed pack that includes a hat, shirt, carry bag and more.

To register follow the steps below:

1. Visit www.playcricket.com.au
2. Type in postcode 6530
3. Click ‘Geraldton Junior Cricket Association’
4. Click ‘T20 Blast’
5. Click ‘Register’

Milo T20 Blast happens every Friday evening between 5 – 6.15pm from now until 1 April down at GBSC Sports Park – Green St, Geraldton.

79 year old man on gopher robbed

Geraldton Police are seeking any witnesses to a stealing offence which occurred on Saturday 30th January 2016 at about 10.30am near the silo’s on Marine Terrace, Geraldton.

The 79 year old male victim who travels on a gopher was approached by an unknown male who grabbed the victim’s wallet from his breast pocket and ran off.

Police particularly wish to speak to a passer-by who stopped to assist or anyone that has any information. Please call Geraldton Police on 99234555.

Greenough residents wanting to keep their "G" number plates

Geraldton MLA Ian Blayney has written to Transport Minister Hon Dean Nalder regarding the issue of localised car number plates.

“I’ve been approached by a number of constituents who have concerns about their ability to access local plates for their cars in future.

“The issues are to do with number plates issued by the Shire of Greenough since its amalgamation with the City of Greater Geraldton.

“I’ve asked the Minister to advise whether a person with an existing G plate can obtain new ones?

“Also, whether it’s possible to buy a set of G plates from someone who already has a set and wishes to sell them?

“Another issue raised with me is – if a plate has been handed back and is no longer used, is it possible to gain a list of those plates and get them reissued?

“And lastly, like all Shires in the region, Greenough issued a series of special plates in reverse order. Is it still possible to obtain these plates?

“While the Shire no longer exists and the new local authority no longer carries the name Greenough, locals have a strong attachment to their area and genuinely would like to keep, or obtain their number plates,” said Mr Blayney.

Have you got your Childcare sorted for 2016?

Are you going back to work, or do you need an out of school care for your kids?

Enrol your children into Ready Set Grow Child Bluff Point Care Centre and Out of School Care.

Ready Set Grow’s team of educators are long term, hardworking and dedicated to their role of helping your child learn and grow while providing a safe and nurturing environment

Their child care service care for children ages 6 weeks to 2 years, 2 – 3 years and 3 – 5 years keeping your child within their developmental age group.

The Food Coordinator provides a nutritionally balanced morning tea, cooked lunch and afternoon tea and they can cater to your child’s specific dietary needs. 

Before/Afterschool and Vacation Care is an option for those parents with primary school aged children K – Yr6 that operates from Bluff Point Primary School across the street. The programs are fun, stimulating and based on the children’s interests. There is a free pick up and drop off services are available for before and after school care, from a number of schools.

Services are childcare rebate and benefit approved which significantly reduces the cost of care.

The childcare center can be found on 441 Chapman Road or contacted on 9923 2977 and rsg_bp@westnet.com.au

The out of school care service can be found at Bluff Point Primary School – 18 Mitchell Street or contacted on 0478 398 533 and bluffpoint-oshc@readysetgrow.net.au

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Ready Set Grow CCC Bluff Point

Incredible recovery for this neglected animal thanks to Geraldton Dog Rescue

"Geraldton Dog Rescue would sincerely like to thank everyone involved in the care of Demi over the last 4 month. The Geraldton Ranger services, Chapman Animal Hospital, Sanford Vet Clinic, Midwest Vet clinic, Jo from Dirty Dog Busters, GDR foster carers Jenny and Melody and most of all, the Geraldton Community for your well wishes, donations and support xxx
Demi was finalised today and became Miss Demi Schofield. 
Melody, Donnie, Coco (BF) and Dusty (Blue Heeler) are over the moon xxxx"

Comedy Emporium Finds New Home In Geraldton's West End

191 Marine Tce

Seriously: comics are leading revitalisation in the heart of our city

Geraldton’s local comedians and performers are moving into a new home in the West End of Geraldton’s Marine Tce today. The Comedy Emporium have taken up a 4 year lease in  Pollinators’ new CreativeHub, converting part of the derelict space into a home for performing arts. The rear of the old ‘Salvos’ building at 189 Marine Terrace, (currently decorated with local artist Jordan Andreotta’s octopus painting) will be The Comedy Emporium’s Headquarters for its state-wide operations and new performance venue, plus provide a unique new space for gigs, launches, workshops and artists to use.

“We now have a home! There is nothing in that home... However we have 30 of the most energetic and positive team members who want to see it become a amazing place to be.” said Julian Canny, The Comedy Emporium Ringleader.

“Patrons might even have to BYO chairs to our first few shows - But the fact that we have now a space to be able to share with other artist means we can really get to work making Geraldton the capital of regional performing arts” says Julian Canny, The Comedy Emporium’s Ringleader.

The Comedy Emporium has only been able to secure space at CreativeHub thanks to Pollinators Inc hard work and the support of Geraldton Investments.

Pollinators Space Lead, Angie West, explained “The creative vision emerged from conversations with our members, and in 2013 the negotiations got started. Securing the four massive spaces that make up CreativeHub has taken a lot of investment, and its partnerships with Williams and Hughes, Panaceum, and Headspace Geraldton that have got it across the line. Now the hard work is done, and the fun of revitalisation can begin and Comedy Emporium’s space is the first of the space to open to the public.”

“Now that we’re in, there is no containing our excitement” said Canny “There is a HUGE cleanup to be done, as no one has been in here for over a decade, and the team is ready to go!”

Everyone is invited to take a stickybeak at the venue at the very first array of live performances  that will take in the space as part of Funtavia on February 12th and 13th. For more information go to www.funtavia.com.au

For more information about Comedy Emporium visit www.thecomedyemporium.com For enquiries please ring Julian on 0458 306 111.

For more information about Pollinators’ and CreativeHub visit www.pollinators.org.au/creativity For enquiries please ring Angie on 9965 5371

Paul Dyer (Chair of Pollinators Inc) With Julian Canny (Ringleader of The Comedy Emporium)

Pages Beach given all clear

Pages Beach North back in action

The City of Greater Geraldton wishes to advise the community that further samples have been taken at Pages Beach North to assess the water quality.

Results have now been received and show there is no current health hazard present and the health warning has now been lifted.

For further information please phone 9956 6600.