Changes to Motor Vehicle Expense Substantiation

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Since the commencement of motor vehicle expense substantiation, taxpayers have had four methods by which they could substantiate their car expense deductions:

  1. Cents per kilometre method
  2. 12% of original value method
  3. 1/3 of actual expense method
  4. Log book method

As of 1 July 2015, the “12% of original value method” and “one third of actual expense method” has been withdrawn. This leaves the “cents per kilometre” and the “log book” method available to substantiate car expenses and be able to claim a deduction.

Workplace Motor Vehicle Expenses
It should be notes that there is no change to claiming deductions for “work” vehicles. Claims for work related use of vehicles such as vans and utilities with a carrying capacity of at least one tonne will not be effected by these changes.

Cents per Kilometre
The “cents per kilometre method” is limited to a maximum of 5,000 kilometres per year. Any taxpayer who travels more than 5,000 kilometres in a financial year could be financial disadvantaged if they do not have a compliant log book for the financial year ended 30 June 2016.

Guidelines to ensure your log book is compliant
To have a compliant log book, the following steps must be adhered to;

  • A log book must be kept for the first income year when a claim is made for a car and it must be maintained for a continuous 12 week period.
  • The log book must record all business journeys made in the car for the 12 week period. For each journey the following must be recorded:
  1. The date the journey began and ended
  2. The total kilometres travelled on the journey
  3. The purpose of the journey (i.e. business or private)
  4. The total number of business kilometres travelled
  • If claims are to be made using the log book method for two or more cars in a particular business, the log books must cover the same 12 week period.
  • Once a log book has been maintained for a 12 week period, the next subsequent log book is only required to be completed after 5 years.

We urge all taxpayers to discuss the motor car substantiation options with their accountant, as each taxpayer’s circumstances are different.

Should you have any queries or would like more information, please contact the Geraldton office on 9920 7400.

 

The Comedy Emporium’s House Warming Show 2016

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The Comedy Emporium is back with their cast of hilarious locals, and hilarious invaders ­ bringing you their first Showcase for the year on Friday 15 April, for their official housewarming!

Christening their new home with the first stand up comedy showcase for 2016, and bringing headliner Fabien Clark to join the fun, The Comedy Emporium want you to join them and reminisce about the old times. You might have to BYO chair but the crew are pumped and full of witty punch lines to settle you in.

“Fabien Clark spins tales and enthrals an ever­chuckling audience... Over the past 10 years, Fabien has established his comic career in the Adelaide scene, last year having impressively won the title of ‘Adelaide’s Comedian Of The Year’. And to top it off, he has single­handedly started and promoted the dreadlock­headscarf combo. One could try to liken the languid wizard of comedy to many other performers on the circuit, but in his low­key relatable humour lies a unique personal lens where the sandpit at his playgroup transforms to Pride Rock and the comedian is no longer Fabien Clark but The Lion King. Sharing Libra shopping expedition woes and craft table nightmares, this businessman from the ‘70s will have you simultaneously nodding and cackling.” Katie Bryant of ripitup.com.au reviews.

MC Luke Joesphe Ryan is sure to keep the House Warming Show rolling in laughs ­ "an unpredictable mix of smut, cheese and wit" reviews The West Australian and "He is brilliant and unpredictable. Comedy lives inside him. I love him. If you don't, you're dumb'" reviews Greg Fleet ­ supported by Jez Watts, other hilarious Perth acts and your favourite locals.

If you’ve ever wanted to try your hand at a bit of standup, The Comedy Emporium are always welcoming new faces and would love to see you at their stand up workshops. You could even head down and join another regional team ­ then you don’t have to perform in front of an audience you know!

Tickets are available online now for just $25 (or less if you BYP chair!) at www.thecomedyemporium.com. If you’re late getting your ticket and buy it on the door, it costs more ­ just saying.

Call Ringmaster Julian Canny on 0458 306 111 or email laugh@thecomedyemporium.com for more information

Rob Jefferies stepping down from Chamber

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For the past two years, Rob Jefferies has been leading the charge as the CEO of the MWCCI (Mid West Chamber of Commerce & Industry) and navigating its course through challenging economic times. Effective April 30th 2016, Mr Jefferies will step down as CEO, opening up an opportunity for an equally high calibre candidate to take over the reins. 

In his role as CEO, Rob’s influence and previous experience has given the chamber the opportunity to become a very influential organisation. His collaboration between government institutions, the city of greater Geraldton, the Midwest Development commission and also being on the forefront of dealing with new organisations and existing organisations within the Midwest region has given our members many opportunities. 

“It has been a great privilege to work with local businesses and where appropriate be their Voice on many issues and forums in the region” said Mr. Jefferies. Adding “I have made the decision to re-establish my consulting business based in the Mid West, and plan to work in facilitation of business and industry growth, regional development and to undertake project development and management.” 

The MWCCI’s efforts in the last few years through participation in regional planning, proactive engagement of government and industry leaders, taking on significant issues challenging our members’ growth and working to improve the regulatory environment businesses operate in, has established a very strong foundation to develop on. Under Rob’s leadership, the MWCCI has also dealt with many other community aspects which affect our small businesses in the region in relation to rates increases, Sunday trading and also collaborating with government on aspects which affect small business. 

From a chamber perspective Rob has driven the 2020 strategy which will pave the way for the future of the chamber to ensure it remains relevant and continue to provide a meaningful service to the business community. 

MWCCI President, Mr. Trevor Lake said “Rob has certainly paved the future of the Chamber and the next CEO’s role would have been moulded by Rob’s enthusiasm. His go, get and collaborative approach has certainly ensured that all parties who have Geraldton’s interests at heart will ensure that Geraldton and its business community benefit from this approach. We wish Rob all the best in his future endeavours and our hope is that our next CEO will benefit from the ties Rob has built.” 

The search for a new CEO begins. To learn more about the MWCCI, please call our office on 9964 6767 during normal trading hours.

Photos to Celebrate the Importance and Beauty of Rocks in the Murchison

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Organisers of the Mount Magnet Astro Rocks Fest are calling for submissions of photos which celebrate the beauty and importance of rocks in the ancient Murchison region.

The photos will be displayed in the Murchison Geo Photo Exhibition, as part of the festival weekend which includes stargazing, talks from scientists, a visit from SciTech, and more over the weekend of May 13 and 14.

Last year’s rock photography exhibition included some 40 entries from around the region and was a popular addition to the festival program.

Mount Magnet Shire CEO, Warren Olsen said the Murchison was home to some of the most ancient rocks on the planet.

Warren said these rocks formed spectacular landscapes, and helped shape the history of the Murchison.

“Indigenous people in the Murchison region created rock art galleries and used rock ‘signposts’ to communicate with each other across space and time,” Warren said.

“They used rocks to grind seed and ochre and make tools. And rocks were vital holders of water in this dry landscape as naturally formed rock holes and gnamma holes.

Warren said rocks were just as important to Europeans, who used rocks to create outback hot water systems known as ‘donkeys’, fire-places and tanks and troughs at windmill sites.

“They also used rocks to create shelters and infrastructure for everything from shepherd huts, homesteads, shearing sheds, churches and chimneys to public buildings, road-works and railways,” Warren said.

“Rocks have been lifted, shifted and re-organised for living, working, mining and simply enjoying the Murchison region.”

Please email your photo entries (maximum of five per person), along with your name and contact detailsto hello@eventnation.com.au, before 4pm April 29.

Photos received after this date will not be accepted.

While copyright remains with photographer, the photos downloaded and displayed will remain property of Mount Magnet Astro Rocks Fest for display at the 2016 and future Astro Rocks Festivals.

The photos will go in the running for a ‘most popular photo’ prize as voted by the public.

For any queries relating to this exhibition or the 2016 Mount Magnet Astro Rock Fest please contact the event coordinators at Event Nation by email gina@eventnation.com.au or phone 08 99646088.

Aboriginal Youth to Get Healthy and Have a Blast

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Aboriginal people aged between 12 and 25 are being urged to ensure they’re in good health – and have a blast while they’re at it – at the next free GRAMS Youth Health Day on Thursday April 14.

The Youth Health Day at Geraldton Regional Aboriginal Medical Service (GRAMS) from 9am to 3pm will enable anyone who has a free health check to go in the draw for a chance to win prizes such as driving lessons, pamper packs, Quicksilver Skateboard, Bikeand more.

The day will also host a workshop by graffiti street artist Shay Jackey who will encourage participants to try their hand at creating vibrant graffiti art.

There will also be the chance to capture all thefun in the ‘Gigglebox’ photobooth, as well as enjoy non-alcoholic drinks and a barbecue lunch, visit information stalls and take home free health promotion giveaways.

GRAMS Youth Project Officer Danielle Sutton said the Youth Health Days were designed to empower young Aboriginal men and women to make healthy changes to their lifestyle.

“We want to encourage young people to take control of their health not just when they are sick and to use the services that GRAMS provides on a regular basis,” Ms Sutton said.

“If people can make healthy lifestyle choices while they’re young, it will put them in great stead to go onto enjoy a healthy adulthood.

“This way we can enjoy a healthier community as a whole.”

GRAMS will offer free transport to and from the event. Please call (08) 9956 655 to arrange.

For more information, call GRAMS on the number above or visit the website www.grams.asn.au

Wonthella Supa IGA best in the State

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Geraldton’s much loved and newly renovated Wonthella Supa IGA has cleaned up at the IGA State awards night.

Wonthella received three department awards for meat, grocery and customer service and managed to take out the top prize of Store of Year, making them the best Supa IGA in the state. Manager Leanne Merendino was also celebrated, receiving the ‘Rising Star’ Award. 

‘It’s fantastic for the team out there to be recognised for all their hard work,’ said Operations Manager Stuart Bain. ‘They were up against the best from around WA. Leanne has such a passion for her store and serving her customers and this is reflected in her whole team.’

Wonthella Supa IGA was reopened in 1974 by the Rigter family. Long time manager Eileen Jones became a favourite with the locals, before she passed the baton over to Leanne in 2011. It underwent a complete transformation last year with staff working overtime to create the new look you see today.

2016 marks the first year that a RegionalSupa IGA has won the award. The management crew head to Queensland in July where they will be in the running for the best store in the nation.

Helping Yamatji Kids be healthy kids

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Aboriginal parents will have the chance to give their kids a fun day out – and have the kids’ health checked while they’re at it – at the Geraldton Regional Aboriginal Medical Service (GRAMS) Child Health Day on April 20.

Children aged 0 to 5, and their older siblings, can visit the GRAMS Rifle Range premises for activities, a bouncy castle, face painting, giveaways, prizes and dress ups.

They will also be allocated into teams in which they work their way around the practice receiving different elements of their health checks as they go.

GRAMS CEO Deborah Woods said the day was a fun-filled way to ensure Aboriginal children are in good health.

“It’s a really great incentive to get the little ones along, have their immunisations updated, and conduct a whole range of health checks that help us prevent health problems later on,” Ms Woods said.

“The kids have a whole lot of fun while they’re at it and the parents can rest assured they are helping to keep their kids in good health.

“So many diseases and health problems can be avoided through preventative health care and early detection, helping our community to have healthier futures.

Children who complete their health checks will receive a goody and information bag, and go in the running for prizes includes that encourage outdoor activity, such as a trampoline and swing set.

The day runs from 9am to 3pm, a healthy lunch and a day of fun activities including the bouncy castle and face painting are included.

The antenatal and paediatrics clinics will operate as usual.

Geraldton girl Megan Marx appearing in upcoming series of "The Bachelor"

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Geraldtonian beauty Megan Marx was recently spotted by friends of hers in an issue of OK Magazine, showing her upcoming appearance in Channel 10's 'The Bachelor'. 

OK! didn't know the woman's name that they had pictured, but reported the "curvy blonde" certainly caught the eye of the star of the show. 

The upcoming series of The Bachelor stars a former contestant on The Bachelorette from Perth, Richie Strahan. 

Megan Marx, who hails from Geraldton, has done modelling work in the past and currently lists her place of residence as Perth. 

It's not pole dancing as you know it... but it's a great way to get fit

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Have you heard of Pole Fit Calisthenics?

We spoke with Annestasia Jones, an attendee, about the activity.

How long have you been doing Pole Fit?

I have been doing pole for around seven months now I started in late September 2015.

What do you like about it?

I love a lot of things about pole, the atmosphere in the studio, the passion of the instructors, how kind and friendly all the girls are. Pole is not just something to do for fitness, its an addiction and an incredible art form and sport. I am stronger and fitter and more flexible then I have ever been in my life.

Who do you think would enjoy it?

Anyone could enjoy pole if they gave it a go, I myself didn't want to go at first but I did and now I'm an addict, women and men of all ages could feel the same if they gave it a chance.

What other benefits have you found from doing Pole Fit?

I have benefited from pole in amazing ways. Apart from getting fit, strong and flexible it has also helped me grow more confident in myself, realise that I am beautiful and sexy. It has made me feel ten times happier than I did before I started, my self esteem is through the roof all thanks to Pole and the incredible instructor.

Pole Fit Calisthenics can be contacted on 0429 501 451

Click here to visit them on Facebook.

 

Geraldton Cup Day 10th April 2016

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Think glamorous, indulgence, dazzling dresses and fancy fascinators and handsome hats for this year’s Geraldton Turf Club Geraldton Cup Day on Sunday April 10.

The annual race meet is one of the hottest on the Geraldton Turf Club calendar

Turf club manager Dave Wrensted said the marquee promised a day of decadence for racegoers. “It’s the perfect excuse to do something that extra bit special,” he said. “It is a sensational day out every year.”

Leon Baker Jewellers will again sponsor a glamourous Fashion on the Fields showcase, with a $2,500 prize pool, including an elegant Triton men’s watch and a Pierre Cardin watch, silver amethyst and Abrolhos pearl pendant and silver chain, silver and rose gold Coral Bay pendant with Abrolhos pearl and, for winner of the mostly finely dressed lady, a 9ct gold and silver Coral Bay ring with Abrolhos pearl and starfish valued at $1,100.

Entrants will be handpicked to take part in the competition this year with a racing selection criteria to be met.

Leon Baker Jewellers co-owner Elise Barker said she was delighted for Leon Baker Jewellers to continue sponsoring Fashion on the Fields and encourages everyone to come down and enjoy what the Cup has to offer. “All our work is carried out locally on the premises, so being local and supporting local is important to us.

“The day is perfect way to revel in the cup action with visiting or local friends, business contacts and valued clients,” Ms Baker said.

“It offers the best way to get swept up in once-a-year Geraldton Cup racing magic.”

LEON BAKER JEWELLERS FASHIONS ON THE FIELD

CATEGORIES
Ladies Race wear | Men’s Race wear
All ladies and gentlemen, providing they are adhering to the criteria, are eligible to be selected by the Fashions on the Field scouts to enter the Geraldton Cup Fashions on the Field.

Entrants will be given a token to be taken to the stage area (when announcement is made over the PA), this token will be exchanged for a participation number for the judging.

Entrants selected by our Fashions on the Field scouts are asked to be at the stage area by the following times (men at 2.15pm and ladies at4.00pm). Entrants will be asked to pose on stage with other entrants while the judges make their decision. For the Geraldton Cup, due to time constraints between races there will be one heat only for men and also one only for the women.

Scouts and judges will be briefed before the event on the strict criteria in place for each category.

There will be a Fashions on the Field overall winner in both the men’s and ladies’ category. 

LADIES AND MENS RACEWEAR CRITERIA
Glamour, style and key accessories are some important facets to include in your outfit, however some advice to consider for entering the Ladies Fashion category include: -

  • Do your research. The internet is a valuable tool to see who is winning competitions around the country.
  • Visit or google search under Fashions on the Field
  • Check out the magazines for styling tips and ideas
  • Create your own hat or visit a Milliner for an original piece.
  • Leave your nightclub outfit at home - this includes short dresses and low cut tops - be comfortable at the races!

CRITERIA FOR LADIES AND MENS RACEWEAR

  • Style and originality;
  • Appropriateness of outfit for the race day;
  • Attention to detail of accessories;
  • A predominance of exposed skin is not classed as Classic Race wear;
  • Ladies Racewear hats or fascinators

ARE ESSENTIAL TO MEET THE CRITERIA OF LADIES FASHION:

  • Classic Men's Racewear jacket is essential. You could consider a tie, hat or lapel flower. Matching cufflinks, hanker-chief and tie are always an advantage;
  • Understanding and interpretation of current fashion and trans-seasonal trends;
  • Grooming and Deportment;
  • Suitability of the outfit; and
  • To be eligible to enter you must be over 18 years of age.

Men’s Fashion on the Fields will be held at approximately 2.30pm

Women’s Fashion on the Fields will be held at approximately 4.15pm

  • Gates Open at 11
  • 10 card field ( last race is at 5.35pm)
  • Entry at the gate; $20 for adults, aged pensioners $10. under 18 free but must be accompanied by a guardian.
 

Turn It Up Dancewear are holding a Beautiful Minds Make-up Workshop

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Turn It Up Dancewear has now been opened since mid-February 2016 and has been overwhelmed by the amount of support received from customers, dance studios and other local businesses. It has made Roshelle and her team feel excited about opening their doors every morning. 

But it is anything but business as usual at Turn It Up Dancewear. There are always interesting and innovative plans afoot by the Turn It Up team.

Most recently owner Roshelle has been to Perth to meet with Capezio to go through next lot of season editions. 

During the April School Holidays Turn It Up will be holding a "Beautiful Minds" Make-Up Workshop

If you want to wear make-up but want more confidence in knowing what to do, come along to this great event, on 15th April 5pm to 7pm.

There will be:

  • Learning Make Up & Skin Care Secrets with a qualified Beauty Therapist
  • Jewellery Showcase
  • BYS Make Up Gift Bag
  • Light Refreshments
  • In Store Special Discounts
  • Door Prize (To be TIU next Photo Shoot Model)

Tickets are limited and are $50.00 per person
BUT if Parents booking with a child before the 11 April will receive FREE entry

Want to know more? Come in store, call them on 9964 5064 or check out their Facebook Event - https://www.facebook.com/events/1704964233116110/

Sign up to ‘Turn It Up’s Troupe’ and as a member you can earn reward points for your dance/gym.

Opening and running a new business can be hectic and a little bit crazy, but Turn It Up Dancewear show no signs of slowing down! Pop in and see them at 18 Anzac Terrace, Geraldton and follow them on Instagram and Facebook!

 

Melissa Price on the Cashless Welfare Card

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Melissa Price
Federal Member for Durack 

The Welfare Debit Card is designed to encourage people to further their education and seek other employment opportunities, as well as to reduce welfare-fuelled alcohol and drug abuse, domestic violence and increase childhood school attendance.  

The trial of the card has the support of Labor with the bill passed in Parliament late last year. Ceduna in South Australia was the first trial site which started last month, and Kununurra and Wyndham are scheduled to start later this month. 

Card holders are able to access 20% of their welfare payment in cash, with the remaining 80% accessed by the Welfare Debit Card. Direct debits can be set up on the card, and BPAY is also available - so card holders can pay things like rent, mortgages and bills. People are able to apply to opt out or opt in to the trial. 

The Federal Government is currently considering whether Geraldton could be a potential third trial site. Around 10% of the Geraldton population is on some form of payment from the Government. This includes some 3,000 people on a payment equivalent to "the dole".  Unlike the other trial sites Geraldton is a city and welfare recipients are predominately non Aboriginal. It is likely that should the trial proceed in Geraldton that only those on Newstart or Parenting Payment would be captured in the trial, but this decision has yet to be made. 

But what is so special about Geraldton? Does it have a worse crime rate and major social issues when compared to similar size towns in regional Australia? Of course not.  What it does have though is a desire to be better, innovative. It has leadership that wants more for its city and its people. It wants to put the ice dealers out of business. Get all of its children living safely and going to school and provide more opportunities for adults to get into employment and get off welfare. 

Under the leadership of the Hon Alan Tudge, the Minister for Human Services, the Government is consulting widely in Geraldton about the city being a trial site. At the same time reviewing the services available to support those impacted. Like in other trial sites, it is critical that we ensure we have services like drug and alcohol support, financial planning, sufficient child care, family violence support, job services and other practical advice and assistance readily available. Even practical assistance like help to get a driver's license. 

Opponents of the welfare debit card argue that people will find a way to game the system.  Yes, there will be some that will go to any length to access more cash. Others argue the card is a breach of human rights. Personally, I am more focused on the rights of the children to lead a healthy, happy life. As one of my constituents wrote to me and said “the situation of children, who are some of the most vulnerable members of our community, must not be overlooked. They too have a right to choice, and even more basically a right to food, clothes, a place to live, physical safety and to be loved.” I couldn’t have said it better myself. 

Now, not everyone is doing the wrong thing by their family; most people are trying hard to make a better life. As someone who has been a single mother, I know firsthand how hard it can be to get ahead, when balancing work and family commitments. The worst thing is dealing with the stigma of being a single parent and convincing an employer to give you a chance. 

Change is never easy. But nothing changes if nothing changes. I hope that if Geraldton is chosen as a trial site for the Welfare Debit Card it has the courage to embrace change.

You wont get in to One Night Stand if you're under the influence of alcohol or drugs

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“Do not attend the event if you are under the influence of drugs and alcohol as management of the concert will refuse you entry.”

That's the message to concert goers from Geraldton's Senior Sergeant Brad Bird. 

“We are taking a zero tolerance approach to anti-social behaviour, drugs and alcohol,” he said.

There will be a large contingent of police from the district, specialist units and support units as well as sniffer dogs and mounted police. There will also be other covert resources to identify people that are under the influence of any illicit substances.

As well as a massive police presence, there will also be security guards and rangers conducting patrols of the venue surrounding areas.

Visitors that are staying at tent cities are also reminded that alcohol is not permitted. Police will patrol and those caught drinking alcohol at these locations may be fined and removed.

Everything Geraldton has had multiple people contact us asking about whether they'll be able to drink beforehand, thinking that "alcohol free event" just means the bar isn't open. But the message from event organisers and police is clear that anyone under the influence of drugs or alcohol won't be allowed in. 

City of Greater Geraldton Mayor Shane Van Styn reiterated the messages from police saying he hoped everyone would enjoy themselves.

“This event will showcase Geraldton to the rest of Australia and I urge everyone to abide by the no drugs and alcohol rule,” he said.

The all ages, drug and alcohol free event presented by triple j will take place at Wonthella Oval this weekend, Saturday 9 April. Click here for more information. 

Pic: Our local little Art store is a tad excited about ONS - Kellie Mayer

 

 

Tackleworld Country are changing their name

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This year Tackleworld Country turns 40 and they have had a mid-life crisis!

They have rebranded to become the new, independent store - Hunt & Fish Co.

Just because their name has changed doesn’t mean everything else has as well. They still have:

  • The same great customer service
  • All your Hunting needs from firearms to ammo and accessories
  • All your Fishing needs – the Midwest’s only Shimano Shop and Authorised Team Daiwa Tournament Dealer
  • All your Home Butchering needs from mincers, meals, knives, steels, seasonings and much more, and are the MBL Distributor
  • All your Archery gear from starter kits through to arrows and accessories
  • The same location at 20 Anzac Terrace, just up from Harvey Norman Electrical

The new team of John, Ash, Juppy, Mac and Lynne will be happy to help you with all your needs

Wendy, Pete and the team would like to thank everyone for the enthusiastic support of our changes.

The best is yet to come!

Hunt and Fish Co are open – 
Monday to Friday 8:30am to 5:30pm
Saturday 9am to 1pm
Out hunting and fishing a lot of the other times!

 

Today Blayney tabled a petition to keep Greenough Axe Murderer locked up

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 Blayney tables Axe Murderer Petition with 2548 signatures

Geraldton MLA Ian Blayney presented a petition with 2548 signatures to the Speaker of the Legislative Assembly today, protesting against the parole of the Greenough Axe Murderer.

“I will be following up the presentation of the petition with a letter to the Attorney General, once again conveying the message that William Patrick Mitchell should never be released from jail.

“This petition has already been signed by about 10 per cent of Geraldton’s adult population and there are still more signatures to come.

“It is the second time I have petitioned on this matter. The people of Geraldton have again reacted strongly.

“Clearly the community doesn’t want this person released from prison,” said Mr Blayney