Fire Update: Water Shortage in Mullewa

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*Please note a WATER section has been added.

The following alert has been issued by the Department of Fire and Emergency Services (DFES).

Time of issue: 5.00pm
Date of issue: 17 February 2016

Bushfire ADVICE for the northern part of Eradu South in the City of Greater Geraldton

ALERT LEVEL:
A bushfire ADVICE remains for people near Geraldton Mount Magnet Road in the northern part of Eradu South in the City of Geraldton.

  • There is no threat to lives or homes but there is a lot of smoke in the area.
  • Although there is no immediate danger you need to be aware and keep up to date in case the situation changes.
  • The fire is burning in bushland near Geraldton Mount Magnet Road, the closest intersection is Eradu Road South.
  • Smoke is impacting Geraldton Mount Magnet Road. 

BUSHFIRE BEHAVIOUR:

  • The fire has broken containment lines on the western side of the fire. 
  • The fire is moving fast in a north easterly direction.
  • The bushfire is out of control and unpredictable. 

WHAT TO DO:

  • Stay alert and monitor your surroundings.
  • Watch for signs of a bushfire, especially smoke and flames.
  • Close all doors and windows, and turn off evaporative air conditioners but keep water running through the system if possible.
  • Read through your bushfire survival plan.
  • If you do not have a plan decide what you will do if the situation gets worse.

IF DRIVING:

  • Be extremely careful when driving through the area.
  • Turn your headlights on and drive slowly.
  • Watch for emergency services personnel and follow their directions.
  • If you cannot see clearly, pull over, keep your headlights and hazard lights on, and wait until the smoke clears.
  • If you have a respiratory condition and you have been affected by smoke you should contact your local doctor or call Health Direct on 1800 022 222.

ROAD CLOSURES:

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

The Geraldton Mount Magnet Road is closed between Moonyoonooka Yuna Road and Mingenew Mullewa Road.

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

 

WATER

The fire has caused a power outage to Water Corporation’s borefield, which supplies drinking water to Mullewa.

Power has now been restored but the tanks that supply drinking water to the town are now low.

Mullewa residents are encouraged to be careful of their non-essential water use over the next 48 hours.

Please avoid using water outside the home on gardens, and try to conserve water indoors if possible.

WHAT FIREFIGHTERS ARE DOING:

  • 25 career and volunteer Fire and Rescue Service and Bush Fire Service firefighters are on the scene.
  • Firefighters are building and strengthening containment lines. 


EXTRA INFORMATION:

  • The incident was reported at 6.26pm 15 February 2016.
  • The fire has burnt approximately 800 hectares. 
  • 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 or listen to news bulletins.

The next update will be provided by 11am tomorrow, unless the situation changes.

END

Media Contact: DFES Media and Corporate Communications on 9225 5955.

Nukara Music Festival 19th March 2016

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An exciting selection of contemporary and traditional roots music is set to entertain at next month’s Nukara Music Festival with international touring acts like Pierce Brothers, Bret Mosley, Hussy Hicks and Kallidad to well established and upcoming West Australian bands Katie J White, The Inks and Me & The Missus. 

This is the 11th Nukara Music Festival held on the outskirts of Geraldton in an oasis of ancient River Red Gums, spring fed creeks and the scenic hills of the Chapman Valley. 

Popular because of its uncrowded stage areas, camp over facilities, casual atmosphere, great food, BYO and the stellar musical line-up in this outdoor setting.

Most acts are relatively unknown to the Mid West but some are massively popular at other festivals in Australia and overseas. 

Tickets can still be purchased from Geraldton CD Centre and online at https://events.ticketbooth.com.au/event/nukara-music-festival-2016

For more information can be found at the Nukara Music Festival Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/nukaramusicfestival/?fref=ts

Western Australian mobile black spots schedule announced

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Geraldton MLA Ian Blayney has welcomed today’s announcement by the The Commonwealth and Western Australian Governments that the first 10 from a total of 130 new or upgraded mobile base stations scheduled to be constructed in Western Australia under Round 1 of the $385 million Mobile Black Spot Programme.

“This is great news for the Midwest. I look forward to more telecommunication black spots being addressed as we go forward.

“Internet access and mobile phone coverage are essential for both business and daily activities. It is so important that people, business and industry have the ability to be connected at all times,” said Mr Blayney.

 New or upgraded base stations in East Yuna, Ferguson Valley, Grass Valley, Kununoppin, Minilya, Nabawa, Naraling, South Yuna and West River are scheduled to be constructed by the end of July 2016 in Western Australia, with one base station in Ajana already operational.

 Under Round 1 of the programme, the Coalition Government's $100 million investment leveraged an additional $32 million in co-contribution from the Western Australian Government as well as substantial co-contributions from mobile network operators, local governments and third parties. In total, 130 base stations will be built in WA over the next three years, with 363 of the 533 mobile black spots nominated in Western Australia to be addressed by handheld or external antenna coverage (or both).

 WA Minister for Commerce Michael Mischin said the programme was part of the WA Government's ongoing commitment to provide greater connectivity for regional communities and improve safety and emergency service capabilities.

 "Today's announcement builds on the 113 mobile towers established under the State Government's $44 million Regional Mobile Communications Project, which was completed in 2014, and 23 sites to be completed by the end of June 2016 under the 

State Government's $49.5 million Regional Telecommunications Project," Mr Mischin said.

Public nominations for black spots to be considered under Round 2 of the Programme closed last month, with an additional $60 million in funding announced for Round 2 in June 2015. The new locations to be funded under Round 2 are expected to be revealed by the end of 2016, with a competitive selection process for the funding to be announced in the coming weeks.

More information about the Programme and the rollout schedule is available at http://www.communications.gov.au/mobile_coverage

National Broadband Network rolling out in Northampton

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Member for Durack Melissa Price is pleased to announce around 800 premises in Northampton are a step closer to getting access to the National Broadband Network, with construction on the fixed line network now underway. 

Ms Price said it was an important milestone for the area, with greater certainty for homes as businesses as they prepare for superfast broadband. 

“This is great news for Northampton,” Ms Price said. 

“The message for Northampton residents is clear – superfast broadband is on its way. 

“Only the Turnbull Government will deliver fast, cheaper broadband to the Mid West.”  

Final network designs are now complete meaning that in coming weeks, NBN Co subcontractors will be seen in the streets, laying out fibre and building cabinets to house the electronics needed to supply superfast broadband. 

Today’s announcement is part of the Government’s ongoing reform of the NBN project, to ensure that superfast broadband can be rolled quickly, more cost effectively and with minimal inconvenience to households. 

Speeds on the new network will easily support high definition streaming on multiple devices at once. 

Ms Price said that the nbn project will provide much needed relief for the region, which in some areas has poor broadband infrastructure. 

“We have taken the steps to get this project on track after so many years of misinformation and frustration,” Ms Price said.  

“The nbn will truly revolutionise the way people connect in their homes and businesses.” 

Once construction is complete, connecting end-users is simple. Households just need a new modem gateway to plug in to the superfast speeds. 

Total connections to the NBN’s various networks, including the fixed line and wireless networks and the interim satellite service now stand at over 700,000. And earlier this year NBN Co released an updated national rollout plan indicating that by September 2018 three-quarters of all homes and businesses across Australia will be able to connect to the NBN or have construction underway in their neighbourhoods. 

Communications Minister Mitch Fifield said the release of the redesigned NBN construction plan was delivering on the Government’s promise to get the rollout back on track. 

The NBN will continue to update its online maps to inform residents when the network will be ready for service.  

Households and businesses can also register their details at nbnco.com.au to be provided with future updates.

Opportunity to see unique research and training in action

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BCMI lecturer Ben Byrne and student Joseph Kong with a fish bred at the research, development and training facility.

Ever wondered what goes on in that big building across the railway tracks on Willcock Drive at Separation Point in Geraldton?

It’s the Batavia Coast Maritime Institute (BCMI), a campus of Durack Institute of Technology; it’s a world-class facility that celebrates its 10th year of operation this year, and the public now has an opportunity to discover its many facets with regular 90-minute tours throughout February and March.

You can discover why students from across the world are so eager to enrol, and get an insight into the diversity of research and training that quietly goes on over the railway tracks, next to the ocean.

Durack Lecturer in Tourism and Guiding, Kevin McEwan, encourages the public, schools and special interest groups to enjoy an informative tour, guided by Durack’s Certificate III in Guiding and Certificate II in Tourism students.

He said visitors will learn about protecting flora and habitats at the amazing Abrolhos Islands;monitoring invasive fish and turtle species in Mid West rivers; about cutting-edge research into cracking the life cycle of difficult to breed marine ornamental fish for the aquarium market, including Nemo – or clownfish; and breeding and restocking marine finfish.

“Visitors will learn all this and more from BCMI staff that are very passionate about what they do and eager to share their knowledge,” he said.

Dr. Suresh Job, Training Director of Marine, Applied and Environmental Science at Durack added,

“People who participate in a tour will discover that BCMI is the largest marine ornamental fish breeder and supplier to the aquariumindustry all over Australia, and about conservation and land management, horticulture, laboratory science, aquaculture and maritime courses that can lead to someone graduating with nationally recognised qualifications.”

As with manyof the industry relevant courses at Durack, the tours serve a double purpose; the public gets to learn about the facility and the students get to learn how to conduct a tour.

Dr. Job continued, “The guiding and tourism students get hands-on experience in the field and guiding tours through BCMI gives them real industry experience; you can’t sell a tour if you haven’t walked it, and it’s a real confidence builder.”

Bill Swetman, Managing Director of Durack Institute of Technology, said that one of the key roles of the BCMI was to engage and educate the general public.

“People who have undertaken a tour of this facility gain an insight into the biodiversity, conservation research and projects that we undertake, and some come back to study with us, which is a great outcome.”

The tours began on Tuesday 9 February and will continue twice a day on the following dates:
Thursday, February 18; and Tuesday, February 23, from 10am-11.30am and 1pm to 2.30pm.
Tuesday, March 1; Tuesday, March 8; and Thursday, March 17, at the same times.

The tour cost is $5 per adult and a maximum group of 12 people will visit the aquaculture hatchery, marine ornamental fish production area, horticulture and conservation and land management greenhouses, aquaponics and hydroponics facilities.

Bookings can be made at the Geraldton Visitor Centre on Marine Terrace or by calling (08) 9956 6670 or call Kelly at BCMI on (08) 9956 6175. 

Geraldton Better Money Management workshop to help regional women achieve financial goals ahead of International Women’s Day

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A national money education program that offers regional women the opportunity to check and boost the health of their finances is coming to Geraldton this month. 

The ‘Better Money Management’ program was developed with expert advice from the ASX and other industry bodies andoffers regional women access to unbiased financial education, free of charge and without having to travel huge distances.

Run by not-for-profit financial well being social enterprise 10thousandgirl and supported nationally by Rabobank, the program is designed to strengthen the financial position and planning abilities of regional women.

The Geraldton workshop is being held at the Geraldton Universities Centre on Monday 29 February, a week ahead of International Women’s Day on 8 March, with its focus reinforcing this year’s ‘Pledge for Parity’ theme. See below for event and registration details.

A recent 10thousandgirl survey found that while Aussie women are becoming more strategic when managing their finances, many find they need more discipline, knowledge and skills to achieve their goals – key topics the workshop will address.

“It’s important that we have goals to strive towards, but it takes commitment, information and know-how to achieve them,” said Zoe Lamont, 10thousandgirl founder and CEO, who will run the Geraldton workshop. “For many women often it’s time; we get so caught up in doing things for others, managing work, homes and families, that we don’t always take the time to sit down and do a budget, review insurances or our superannuation.  Our workshops are designed to give women space and time and support to do just that. 

“10thousandgirl was established to educate women, no matter where they are, to learn the skills and build the confidence to better manage their money, so they have the financial acumen to achieve their dreams.”

The 10thousandgirl survey revealed that while 63% of those surveyed said they set financial goals, 60% admitted they don’t create a budget for achieving them, with almost two thirds saying they needed more discipline, 43% more knowledge and 42% more skills. Respondents listed top financial goals as ‘general savings’ (56%), debt management / reduction (50%), house/mortgage (37%) and overseas travel (30%).

A key feature of the workshop, will be a Q&A panel session with local financial experts presenting their insights into financial management fundamentals. Topics include investment principles, financial planning, tax tips, succession planning, solutions to barriers and support mechanisms. The panel will include:

  • Christina Ware, Solicitor, Pacer Legal
  • Lisa Farnell, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER ®, Financial Solutions Geraldton
  • Ross Jones, Senior Rural Manager, Rabobank Geraldton
  • Robin Taylor, Accountant, Encompass Financial

The workshop will help participantsto document key life goals and priorities. They will be assisted in completing a personal financial review and investment plan, including a spending plan, balance sheet, debt review, insurance audit and superannuation audit.

The Better Money Management program is being funded by a Financial Literacy Australia grant and global agribusiness bank Rabobank. Industry super fund HESTA, the Australian Taxation Office, the Financial Planning Association and the Insurance Council of Australia are also supporting the program.

In anticipation of the workshop, Rabobank’s Geraldton Senior Rural Manager Ross Jones said: “Servicing the financial needs of around 9 million clients around the world, Rabobank has a very strong charter to help improve the financial literacy of not only its clients, but people in regional areas more broadly.

“We’re proud to be supporting 10thousandgirl in delivering this great initiative. Drawing on the expertise of local experts in finance, insurance and succession planning, the workshop will equip women with the tools to proactively manage their savings and investments.”

10thousandgirls’ top financial tips for achieving your money goals

Set clear goals
Write your goals down as though they have already been achieved, or if you’re a visual person create a vision board using inspiring imagery

Be specific
Choose short, medium and long-term goals – breaking them down helps to see how they can be achieved

Plan
Planning is key – conduct your own financial review to understand your current position and what you need to do to have the money to support your goals

Reflect
Learn from past experiences. A good way to start is to ask yourself what were the three best and worst things that happened over the past 12 months and reflect on how to make changes where necessary

Look ahead
The longer you plan in advance, the easier it will be to achieve your goals

Have an emergency buffer
Keep three to six months’ worth of living expenses for emergencies

To register for the ‘Better Money Management’ workshop in Geraldton, on Monday 29 February, from 9.30am – 3.30pm at Geraldton Universities Centre please visit http://10thousandgirl.com/, or call Tina McElligott, 10thousandgirl Partnership and Events Coordinator on 0401 740 440.

About 10thousandgirl

10thousandgirl is a not-for-profit financial wellbeing organisation striving to break down societal barriers for women, close the financial gender inequality gap and offer women easy access to expert financial information. Started by a group of women in a Sydney pub in 2009, who realised the importance of understanding finance basics and planning, so they could realise their dreams. Their vision gained momentum. In March 2011, a board of directors was established, and the initiative today provides financial education to thousands of women across Australia every year. 10thousandgirl has attracted national and global recognition in their bid to contribute to increasing women’s financial wellbeing and economic health. To learn more please visitthe 10thousandgirl website, and join the #10tg #BetterMoney social media conversation on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, YouTube and Pinterest. 

Roads closed due to bush fire: Geraldton Mt Magnet

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Due to a fire burning in Wicherina bushlands near Geraldton Mount Magnet Road at 1.38pm this afternoon the Geraldton- Mt Magnet Rd has been closed between Moonyoonooka Yuna Road turnoff and Mingenew to Mullewa Rd turn off.

The City of Greater Geraldton encourages residents in the Wicherina, Eradu & Northern Gully to stay alert, monitor your surroundings and to obey all warning signs from authorised personnel.

A total of 25 Career and volunteer Fire and Rescue Service and Bush Fire Service fire fighters are actively on the scene and building and strengthen containment lines.

For regular updates please visit the DFES website at www.dfes.wa.gov.au or by phoning 13 33 37 for emergency information, or to find out more on the roads visit the Main Roads WA website on www.mainroads.wa.gov.au/pages/alerts.

The Great Australian Bake Off Casting For 2016 Series now Open

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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.

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"

​

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

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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.

 

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

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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. 

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

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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

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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