Construction of the WA electric vehicle highway charging ahead

The City of Greater Geraldton will soon be part of Australia’s longest electric vehicle (EV) highway with construction of the highly anticipated public charging station in the CBD now underway.

Two EV charging stations that can charge up to four vehicles at the same time along with an EFTPOS pay station are currently being installed near the entrance to the Francis Street carpark.

The charging stations are part of the State Government’s proposed EV network being constructed by Synergy and Horizon Power that will run from Perth to Kununurra, along the southwest coast to Eucla and east to Kalgoorlie which includes 98 charging stations at 49 locations across the State.

City of Greater Geraldton Mayor Shane Van Styn said providing EV infrastructure is a win-win for residents and local businesses.

“Electric vehicle ownership is growing and motorists, companies and leasing firms need publically accessible charging stations, especially in the regions,” he said.

“The installation of public charging bays in the CBD will automatically make our City an EV destination allowing EV owners to explore the CBD while they charge their vehicles.

“The station will also be very convenient for locals who will be able to quickly charge their vehicles while running errands or while having a coffee with family or friends.”

The Francis Street carpark location was chosen for the charging station after a number of other CBD options were ruled out due to power network constraints.

Construction of the EV charging station will take approximately 12 weeks to complete and is budgeted under the McGowan Government's $24.1 million Electric Vehicle Fund for Western Australia. The WA EV Network will be fully operational by early 2024.

EV charging stations are also part of the State Electric Vehicle Strategy  and the initiative is part of the State Government's Electric Vehicle Action Plan which is key to boosting EV uptake in WA and helps continue the transition to net zero carbon emissions by 2050. To learn more about the WA EV Network visit: https://www.synergy.net.au/Our-energy/Projects/Electric-Vehicle-fast-charging-network

Beach Emergency Number signs boost safety

Safety on beaches will be boosted this summer following the installation of 75 Beach Emergency Number (BEN) signs at beach access points during the coming weeks.

Each BEN sign features a unique code that pin points the exact location of the caller and enables first responders to quickly and accurately find the incident site and how to get there.

BEN signs were introduced in honour of Ben Gerring who suffered a fatal shark attack near Mandurah in 2016.

Mayor Shane Van Styn with a recently installed BEN sign at one of the 75 beach access points along the City’s coastline.

City of Greater Geraldton Mayor Shane Van Styn said what began as a shark attack response has evolved into a system that allows for fast and accurate responses to a multitude of emergency situations that can occur on beaches.

“Since the signs have been in place, they have been primarily used to identify the locations of people seeking emergency services ranging from shark incidents, jellyfish stings to diving and surfing accidents,” he said.

“Over the years the signs have also been used to report disturbances, assist with search and rescue activities and to even report shark sightings.

“Quoting the unique code on the sign when calling 000 in an emergency ensures a fast response by the right agency can be made how and where it is needed.”

Shark sightings can be reported on the SharkSmart website, SharkSmart WA app, the Surf Life Saving WA Twitter feed, or via the Water Police on 9442 8600.

The City has worked with the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development to identify the 75 beach access points that warrant BEN signage.

Contractors needed for bulk verge side collection

In the hope community members will be able to take advantage of bulk verge side waste collection in 2023, proposals to take on the scope of work are now being requested.

The City of Greater Geraldton invites proposals from appropriately qualified, experienced and resourced contractors for the verge side collection of residential green waste and bulk hard waste.

Mayor Shane Van Styn said the City had been preparing a suitable criteria for the annual service since it was adopted in the 2022/23 Budget, aiming to get the program up and running as soon as possible.

“It was one of the most popular and well received programs to come out of this year’s Budget and we’ve been working hard to get this over the line since it was passed at Council as we understand how much the community values this service,” he said.

“We’ve faced a few hurdles in securing a start date given the challenges COVID-19 has thrown us in relation to contractor availability.

“The scope of works have been separated into two smaller components – green waste and bulk hard waste, in the hope it will attract suitable contractors.

“We’re looking to award the works in the New Year and the availability of contractors will determine the program commencement,” he added.

Bulk verge side waste collection was welcomed back by Council after $650,000 for the project was passed by Councillors as part of the 2022/23 Budget.

This comes after the service ceased in 2016 in order to reduce operating costs and decrease the level of untidy verges.  

As a key outcome of the City’s Strategic Community Plan, reinstating the free program helps to achieve a thriving community that provides opportunity whilst protecting the environment and enhancing the social and cultural fabric.

The contract will be in force for a period of one year with an optional one-year extension.

Contractors and businesses who are interested in submitting a proposal are urged to head to the City’s website and follow the appropriate links to the TenderLink portal.

Submissions close at 12pm on Wednesday 11 January 2023.

Community members are reminded to not put any waste on verge sides until the City advises of a start date for waste collections to occur.

Unbelievable beasts at the Museum of Geraldton these school holidays

Get up close and personal with the bolt cutter teeth of a Thylacoleo skull when beasts take over the Museum of Geraldton during these summer school holidays.

Visitors will be spoilt for choice with the wide range of activities hosted by the Museum every day from 16 December to 30 January.

Discover some unbelievable beasts that roamed Australia 50,000 years ago when megafauna ruled the Pleistocene. Explore the Museum collection to uncover facts about mega and mini beasts hidden among some of the biggest and smallest items in the collection.

Design and create a Procoptodon – the largest and heaviest kangaroo ever recorded – in cup form and see how high it can jump.

Visitors will also be able to visit the temporary exhibition Cleverman – designed by ACMI. This exhibition explores a range of Aboriginal origin stories in a contemporary context and celebrates the award-winning television series of the same name.

Yvette Hollings is the Acting Regional Manager for the Museum of Geraldton and expects children to enjoy the exhibition this school holidays.

“The Museum of Geraldton looks forward to the school holidays every year. This year’s Megabeasts theme will be fun and educational, creating exciting opportunities for families and children to explore the Museum fully.”

“We have some great activities planned, and the Cleverman exhibition is the perfect place for young people to come and explore some of the deeper meanings behind ABC’s hit series.”

Road resurfacing works Rangeway

The City of Greater Geraldton wishes to advise road resurfacing works to Oleander Crescent and Howes Street, including Jade Place are scheduled to begin Monday 5 December 2022, weather permitting, and will take approximately six days to complete.

These works are part of the City’s 2022/23 Road Renewal Program which will see more than 14.3kms of roads resurfaced or resealed. 

The anticipated hours of work will be from 6am to 6pm and traffic management will be in place during this time. 

Members of the community are requested to exercise caution and obey all warning signs and directions from authorised City personnel and contractors.

The City apologises for any inconvenience these works may cause.

If you have any queries please contact the City on (08) 9956 6600 or email council@cgg.wa.gov.au.

City operating hours during festive season

The City of Greater Geraldton wishes to advise that the following operating hours will be implemented during the 2022-23 festive season:

CIVIC CENTRE – CATHEDRAL AVENUE, MULLEWA DISTRICT OFFICE, MULLEWA PUBLIC LIBRARY, WORKS DEPOT, QUEENS PARK THEATRE AND GERALDTON MULTIPURPOSE CENTRE
CLOSED from Saturday 24 December 2022
Normal operating hours resume Tuesday 3 January 2023

DOC DOCHERTY POOL (MULLEWA)
Open Saturday 24 December 2022 – 11am to 4pm
CLOSED Sunday 25 December 2022
CLOSED Monday 26 December 2022
Open Tuesday 27 December 2022 – 11am to 6pm
Open Wednesday 28 December 2022 – 11am to 6pm
Open Thursday 29 December 2022 – 11am to 6pm
Open Friday 30 December 2022 – 11am to 6pm
Open Saturday 31 December 2022 – 11am to 4pm
CLOSED Sunday 1 January 2023
CLOSED Monday 2 January 2023
Normal operating hours resume Tuesday 3 January 2023

GERALDTON AIRPORT
Operations continue as normal over the festive period

GERALDTON AQUARENA
Open Saturday 24 December 2022 – 8am to 4pm
CLOSED Sunday 25 December 2022
CLOSED Monday 26 December 2022
Open Tuesday 27 December 2022 – 11am to 4pm
Open Wednesday 28 December 2022 – 6am to 8pm
Open Thursday 29 December 2022 – 6am to 8pm
Open Friday 30 December 2022 – 6am to 8pm
Open Saturday 31 December 2022 – 8am to 4pm
CLOSED Sunday 1 January 2023
Open Monday 2 January 2023 – 11am to 4pm
Normal operating hours resume Tuesday 3 January 2023

GERALDTON REGIONAL ART GALLERY
Open Saturday 24 December 2022 – 9.30am to 1.30pm
CLOSED Sunday 25 December 2022
CLOSED Monday 26 December 2022
CLOSED Tuesday 27 December 2022
CLOSED Wednesday 28 December 2022
CLOSED Thursday 29 December 2022
CLOSED Friday 30 December 2022
Open Saturday 31 December 2022 – 9.30am to 1.30pm
CLOSED Sunday 1 January 2023
CLOSED Monday 2 January 2023
Normal operating hours resume Tuesday 3 January 2023

GERALDTON VISITOR CENTRE
Open Saturday 24 December 2022 – 9.30am to 1.30pm
CLOSED Sunday 25 December 2022
CLOSED Monday 26 December 2022
CLOSED Tuesday 27 December 2022
Open Wednesday 28 December 2022 – 9am to 4pm
Open Thursday 29 December 2022 – 9am to 4pm
Open Friday 30 December 2022 – 9am to 4pm
Open Saturday 31 December 2022 – 9.30am to 1.30pm
CLOSED Sunday 1 January 2023
Open Monday 2 January 2023 – 9.30am to 1.30pm
Normal operating hours resume Tuesday 3 January 2023

GERALDTON REGIONAL LIBRARY
Open Saturday 24 December 2022 – 9.30am to 1pm
CLOSED from Sunday 25 December 2022
Normal operating hours resume Tuesday 3 January 2023

GERALDTON FORESHORE WATERPARK
Open 8am to 6pm everyday

MERU WASTE DISPOSAL FACILITY
CLOSED Sunday 25 December 2022
CLOSED Sunday 1 January 2023
Normal operating hours are 7.30am to 4.30pm

THE BOWERBIRD TIP SHOP
CLOSED Saturday 24 December 2022
CLOSED Sunday 25 December 2022
CLOSED Monday 26 December 2022
CLOSED Tuesday 27 December 2022
Open Wednesday 28 December 2022 – 7.30am to 1.30pm
Open Thursday 29 December 2022 – 7.30am to 1.30pm
Open Friday 30 December 2022 – 7.30am to 1.30pm
Open Saturday 31 December 2022 – 7.30am to 1.30pm
CLOSED Sunday 1 January 2023
Open Monday 2 January 2023 – 7.30am to 1.30pm
Normal operating hours resume Tuesday 3 January 2023

QEII SENIORS & COMMUNITY CENTRE
CLOSED from Saturday 24 December 2022
Normal operating hours resume Monday 9 January 2023

We apologise for any inconvenience these adjusted operating hours may cause.

The City wishes everyone a safe and merry festive season.

Chapman River mountain bike trail maintenance

The City of Greater Geraldton wishes to advise maintenance of the Chapman River Regional Park Loop Trail will begin this week, Monday 28 November 2022 and take approximately two weeks to complete.

To ensure community safety the Loop Trail located between Strathalbyn Road and Broome Street will be closed during this time. Walkers and mountain bike riders will need to use the service track to bypass the area of works.

Members of the community are requested to exercise caution and obey all warning signs and directions from authorised City personnel and contractors.

The City apologises for any inconvenience these works may cause.

If you have any queries please contact the City on (08) 9956 6600 or email council@cgg.wa.gov.au.

GENESIS to launch at Library

Geraldton secondary students will be thrilled to see their artwork on display at the Geraldton Regional Library this month as part of the yearly exhibition GENESIS.

The display represents artworks from seven local schools including a number of home school students.

GENESIS includes every kind of media including painting, drawing, sculpture, ceramics and photography said City of Greater Geraldton Mayor Shane Van Styn.

“This year the exhibition is placed in the Geraldton Regional Library, which is a great chance for the community to view the young people’s work,” he said.

“The Geraldton Regional Art Gallery team had the tough job selecting finalists and now it’s up to the public to vote for their favourite with the People’s Choice Award.

“Definitely come and check it out – it will be on display until early next year.”

GENESIS is the survey of the best and brightest secondary visual art students in Geraldton. It features artworks from years 7 – 12, and has various prizes including a People’s Choice Award.

The exhibition’s Opening Night will take place at 5pm on Friday 2 December at the Geraldton Regional Library. Free tickets are available through Eventbrite by clicking here.

GENESIS will be on display until Tuesday 7 February 2023 with the People’s Choice Award announced shortly after the exhibition’s conclusion. 

Night road works in Beresford

The City of Greater Geraldton wishes to advise that night road resurfacing works to the Chapman Road and Phelps Street roundabout are scheduled to commence from Monday 21 November 2022.

The night works will take place from 6.00pm to 6.00am and are expected to take approximately six nights to complete with detours and traffic management in place during these hours.

Members of the community are requested to seek alternative routes and exercise caution and obey all warning signs and directions from authorised City personnel and contractors.

The City apologises for any inconvenience these works may cause.

If you have any queries please contact the City on (08) 9956 6600 or email council@cgg.wa.gov.au.

Foreshore light pole maintenance

The City of Greater Geraldton wishes to advise maintenance works to the light poles located along the Foreshore Promenade between Two Foreshore and Forrest Street will start on Wednesday 16 November 2022 and take approximately five working days to complete.

To ensure community safety during the works pedestrian management will be in place.

Members of the community are requested to exercise caution and obey all warning signs and directions from authorised City personnel and contractors.

The City apologises for any inconvenience these works may cause.

If you have any queries please contact the City on (08) 9956 6600 or email council@cgg.wa.gov.au.

Road works Tarcoola Beach

The City of Greater Geraldton wishes to advise that road resurfacing works to Seacrest Street from Sander Street to Watterson Road are scheduled to begin Wednesday 16 November 2022, weather permitting, and will take approximately three days to complete.

These works are part of the City’s 2022/23 Road Renewal Program which will see more than 14.3kms of roads resurfaced or resealed. 

The anticipated hours of work will be from 6am to 6pm and traffic management will be in place during this time.  Members of the community are requested to exercise caution and obey all warning signs and directions from authorised City personnel and contractors.

The City apologises for any inconvenience these works may cause.

If you have any queries please contact the City on (08) 9956 6600 or email council@cgg.wa.gov.au.

Information for 81st HMAS Sydney II Commemorative Sunset Service

The City of Greater Geraldton wishes to advise members of the public that they may hear a series of loud noises and see flares released on Saturday 19 November as part of the 81st HMAS Sydney II Commemorative Sunset Service.

At approximately 7pm there will be simulated cannon fire as well as a display of multiple flares off the coast as part of the ceremony.

The carpark on Gummer Avenue will be also closed to traffic from 4:30pm to 8pm.

Parking will be provided at the Parking Station 5 (cnr Durlacher and Sanford Streets) where the City has organised a free shuttle bus service, departing from the carpark between 5pm – 5:30pm and returning between 7pm – 7.30pm.

The service will commence at approximately 5:40pm.

The City apologises for any inconvenience the noises as well as carpark closures may cause and requests that the community obey signage and directions from authorised City personnel and contractors.

If you have any queries please contact the City on (08) 9956 6600 or email council@cgg.wa.gov.au.

Geraldton roads works

The City of Greater Geraldton wishes to advise that road resurfacing works to Wattle Avenue from Brede Street to the cul-de-sac bulb are scheduled to begin tomorrow, Thursday 10 November 2022, weather permitting, and will take approximately two days to complete.

These works are part of the City’s 2022/23 Road Renewal Program which will see more than 14.3kms of roads resurfaced or resealed. 

The anticipated hours of work will be from 7am to 6pm and traffic management will be in place during this time.  Members of the community are requested to exercise caution and obey all warning signs and directions from authorised City personnel and contractors.

The City apologises for any inconvenience these works may cause.

If you have any queries please contact the City on (08) 9956 6600 or email council@cgg.wa.gov.au.

Temporary closure Fairfax Crossing

The City of Greater Geraldton wishes to advise maintenance works to the Chapman River crossing track located near Fairfax Drive are scheduled to start today, Monday 7 November 2022.

During the works, which will take approximately five days to complete, the crossing will be closed to ensure community safety.

Members of the community are requested to exercise caution and obey all warning signs and directions from authorised City personnel and contractors.

The City apologises for any inconvenience this closures may cause.

If you have any queries please contact the City on (08) 9956 6600 or email council@cgg.wa.gov.au.

Council supports application for Active Travel Officer

Shared path at Sunset Beach

The City of Greater Geraldton Council unanimously voted in favour of seeking State Government grant funding to co-fund a three year Active Travel Officer position.

The role would involve developing and delivering active transport initiatives to improve health outcomes and address traffic congestion especially around schools.

City of Greater Geraldton Mayor Shane Van Styn said having a dedicated Active Travel officer would streamline projects and programs.

“Having a full time officer to coordinate our internal processes while providing a single point of contact for the community and advocacy groups regarding the planning and delivery of active transport infrastructure would be a fantastic outcome for our community,” he said.

“The position would also coordinate active travel to school initiatives such as the Department of Transport’s Your Move program and active transport planning and projects for new schools in liaison with State Government agencies.”

Geraldton Bikes owner Leighton Thomas welcomes the City’s application for the new position which will improve infrastructure, facilities and safety of all bike riders.

“The cycling community is very broad as most people own a bike. Some cycle for fun, fitness, transportation, socialising or competition. Everyone’s needs are different, and it is great the Council has recognised this by supporting an Active Travel Officer role,” he said.

“The timing is ideal, with e-bikes and e-scooters becoming increasingly popular and it’s noticeable that more people using the existing infrastructure.

“These power assisted items are a realistic alternative to motor vehicles and with good planning and support, Geraldton can make the most of this sustainable transport option.”

Should the Western Australia Bicycle Network grant application be successful the City would receive $112,500 over three years to fund 50% of a full time position.

Mullewa pool reopens

The City of Greater Geraldton wishes to advise the Doc Docherty Pool in Mullewa has reopened for the summer season as of today, Tuesday 1 November 2022.

Opening hours:

·         Tuesday – Sunday 11.00am-12.30pm and 1.00pm-6.00pm.

·         Closed Mondays. 

If you have any queries please contact the City on (08) 9956 6600 or email council@cgg.wa.gov.au.

CCTV Installation

The City of Greater Geraldton wishes to advise the installation of CCTV near the Horizon Sculpture site on the Beresford Foreshore will begin on Monday 31 October 2022 and take five days to complete.

During the works pedestrian management will be in place.

Members of the community are requested to exercise caution and obey all warning signs and directions from authorised City personnel and contractors.

The City apologises for any inconvenience these works may cause.

If you have any queries please contact the City on (08) 9956 6600 or email council@cgg.wa.gov.au.

Road works throughout Greater Geraldton

The City of Greater Geraldton wishes to advise road resealing works will be commencing in locations across Greater Geraldton from Monday 31 October 2020.

The works are part of the City’s 2022/23 Road Resealing Program and will take place over a period of two weeks at the following locations:

·         Mullewa:  Maley Street from Callaghan Street to Old Mingenew Road

·         Mullewa:  Main Road from Burges Street to Fry Street

·         Tardun:  Mindage Spring Road/Tardun-Pindar Road intersection

·         Tardun:  Mindage Spring Road/Kelly Road intersection

·         Tardun:  Mindage Spring Road/Drummond Road intersection

·         Rangeway: Cypress Street from Tamar Street to Eastward Road

·         Spalding:  O’Neil Street from Clarkson Street to Horan Street

·         Walkaway:  Padbury Road from Anderson Street to the cul-de-sac

The anticipated hours of works will be from 7am – 5pm Monday to Saturday with traffic management in place during this time. 

Members of the community are requested to exercise caution and obey all warning signs and directions from authorised City personnel and contractors.

The City apologises for any inconvenience these works may cause.  If you have any queries please contact the City on (08) 9956 6600 or email council@cgg.wa.gov.au.

Seniors Week bookings are open

Pat Parker, Deputy Mayor Jerry Clune, Jean Jones and Lina Mittoni add the final touches to the QEII Seniors and Community Centre in preparation Seniors Week.

Staff and volunteers at the QEII Seniors and Community Centre are preparing for a busy week, with bookings officially opening for the 2022 Seniors Week program.

Taking place on Friday 4 – Saturday 12 November, the Seniors Week program comprises of both free and paid events that are sure to appeal to everyone.

City of Greater Geraldton Mayor Shane Van Styn encouraged seniors from all backgrounds to grab a program and plan out their week of fun.

“The 2022 program contains classic events that everyone knows and loves, as well as a few new additions to spice things up,” he said.

“From tours and feasts, to crafts, quizzes and even an information session on how to prepare for an emergency, there is something for everyone.”

“Thank you to the tireless work of the Senior’s Week Committee as well as QEII Seniors and Community Centre staff for putting together another stellar program.”

Queens Park Theatre (QPT) will be a flurry of entertainment, with a QPT Club movie screening of The Duke, a special Morning Melodies performance by the Golden Age Girls and a Multicultural Concert hosted by Midwest Multicultural Association.

If you’re looking to get up and active, Wednesday includes Walk and Breakfast as well as outdoor bowls and croquet ‘have-a-go’ sessions.

Participants can also get out in the garden at the Community Nursery tour or a Devonshire tea at Greenough Museum and Gardens.

Other events include basket weaving, grandparents story time at Geraldton Regional Library, bingo, an oral history morning at Geraldton Regional Art Gallery and the ever-popular quiz afternoon.

Food galore is also on the menu, including a Taste and See three course lunch at Lighthouse Church, morning tea with Lara Dalton MLA, and an afternoon tea at Geraldton Shore Care Community.

“And no Seniors Week event is complete without my personal favourite, the Mayor’s Mystery Bus Tour,” Mayor Van Styn added.

“I know it’s always very popular so be sure to get in early to secure your seat!”

Bookings for the activities officially opened Monday 24 October and can be made at the QEII Seniors and Community Centre on Durlacher Street or by calling 9956 6636.

For more information or a copy of the program, head to the City’s website or follow Over 50’s Geraldton Life on Facebook.