Super Mother's Day Classic

Now's the time to register and fundraise for the Women in Super Mother's Day Classic breast cancer research walk and run, with strong support already coming from the City of Greater Geraldton.

Mother's Day Classic, which is the National Breast Cancer Foundation's major donor, will be held in 99 locations including every capital city - a great and meaningful way to start Mother's Day, Sunday May 11.

For the past 17 years proceeds from the Mother's Day Classic has supported NBCF research projects seeking better detection and prevention methods, treatment options and ways to improve the quality of life for the growing number of survivors.

This year’s Mother’s Day Classic will be held on Sunday, May 11^th at the Geraldton Foreshore (in front of the yacht club) registrations can be done online by visiting www.mothersdayclassic.com.au or on the day from 7:30am. Long Walkers commence at 8:30am and Runners and Short Walkers at 9:00am.

Breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in Australian women (1% of breast cancer is in men), with about 40 new diagnoses each day.

Through research, supported by the $19.8 million funding to NBCF by Mother's Day Classic since the event began in 1998, the 5 year survival rate for breast cancer patients has grown to 89%.

But, with research, more can be done.

This year, organisers are encouraging participants not just to enter, but to try their hand at fundraising. It's easy to register and to fundraise online at www.mothersdayclassic.com.au.

"The more funds we raise, the faster a cure can be found. Funding research is a great investment in the future," according to Mother's Day Classic national chair Louise Davidson.

"Once you register, it's easy to let your friends, family and broader networks know your fundraising link and they can go online from anywhere in Australia and donate via your fundraising page."

To register, donate, volunteer or find the event closest to you, go to www.mothersdayclassic.com.au

ANZAC Day flypast

In support of the ANZAC Day commemorations a flypast of three PC-9/A aircrafts will be conducted by members of No: 2 Flying Training School based at RAAF (Royal Australian Air Force) Base Pearce.

The aircrafts are expected to fly over Geraldton at 11.45am tomorrow morning during the Main Service.

PC-9/A’s are a two-seater single engine turboprop aircraft and are the major basic training aircraft for the Australian Defence Force.

RAAF flypasts are conducted within strict limitations. Safety, noise and the environment are vital considerations.

Here are the times for the fly pasts throughout the Mid West tomorrow:

08.01 am Dandaragan 10.30 am Jurien Bay 10.45 am Moora 11.00 am Dongara 11.25 am Northampton 11.45 am Geraldton

Celebrations for The Comedy Emporium’s First Birthday Show

Get set for a big night of laughter as The Comedy Emporium celebrates its 1st Birthday!

On Saturday the 3rd of May, The Comedy Emporium will celebrate this milestone as it hosts headline act and Australian Television Comedian Claire Hooper to celebrate it first Birthday Show.

This big performance will be held in the Bunker at the Queens Park Theatre which is where Geraldton's most popular (and only Comedy Club) opened 12 months ago. With 100 of the 200 tickets left, its a guarantee that the show will sell out.

“The show is limited seating as it will be in the Bunker. We like to call it the Bunker because it kind of looks like the place that Hitler got shot,” explains Julian Canny The Comedy Emporium Director.

“You will have seen Claire on Good News Week as a Team Captain, on Rove Live, The Sideshow, Stand Up!Australia and the Melbourne International Comedy Festival’s Great Debate.

“And to round off this big name act, we will be turning the whole show into a Birthday Party! Complete with lolly bags and cake.”

In the 12 months since The Comedy Emporium started, the shows have seen some spectacular results. The locally based arts scene that has developed around the organisation has been responsible for the injection of over $8000 worth of paid opportunities for local performers.  Not to mention bringing in over 30 International and interstate comedians to work alongside the local comedy writing team.

Some of the achievements by the group have been representing the region in a sold out performance hosted by The Comedy Emporium at this years Perth Fringe Festival. Two of the youngest Geraldton Comedians James Butson and Ellen Clancy Millet represented Geraldton High Schools at the Melbourne International Comedy Festivals Class Clown Competition in Perth.  The Highlight for the group was when Geraldton boy Lachlan Adam made it to the Semi Finals of the Triple J Raw Comedy Competition in only six months of performing.

“In 12 months we have produced beyond  40 hours worth of local comedy to a total audience over 1000 people... Thats a lot of jokes about the Centro Stirlings Carpark,” Julian said.

As well as Claire Hooper, the audience will be entertained by a number of local and imported comedians. Live music by Geraldton artist will also be supplied before and after the show.

For more information head to www.thecomedyemporium.com or www.queensparktheatre.com.au

Doors open 6:30pm, live music from 7:15pm and Comedy at 8pm.

Tickets on sale now for $28 each presale.   Tickets at the door for $30 if sales permit – so make sure you pre book through the Queens Park Theatre. Group discounts apply and for enquiries please ring 0458 306 111. No BYO alcohol. Bar available.

Digital Portraits to capture the heart of Geraldton

The Geraldton community are invited to participate in an exciting new digital arts project, taking place throughout April 2014.

The project – part of the larger FIVE Geraldton initiative – will see nationally recognised digital artist Craig Walsh work with the local community to capture a series of filmed portraits, from 12 April to 4 May 2014.

The portraits are a means for Geraldton residents to share individual stories that will, collectively, be woven into a significant digital artwork for, and about, the town. The project is open to everyone in the community and there is no cost to participate.

Craig will set up camera and sound equipment at the Wedge building (part of the WA Museum – Geraldton). In a very informal and friendly setting, people can drop in to share a story, an experience or an idea around the project's broad theme of 'belonging'. Stories can be about work, family, the land, or anything else of interest to residents of Geraldton. They can be longer stories, or a simple sentence or two. You can participate alone, or with a family member or friend. The idea is to share your experience, and be part of an extraordinary project for the town.

Craig will also film other FIVE arts projects taking place at the ACDC Gallery and other locations around town, as well as key landmarks around Geraldton. This footage will be woven into the final digital work.

A public screening on 8 May will bring all portraits to life. Craig is known for his large-scale and engaging projections of his digital works onto rocks, trees and buildings. This will be the case for Geraldton, when the collective digital work – featuring all portraits – will be publically screened.

The Geraldton digital work will, eventually, be part of other FIVE digital projects from across the State, that will collectively tell a story about ways of 'belonging' and of the importance of community in regional Western Australia – including in towns that have a fly-in-fly-out workforce.

FIVE Geraldton is part of a statewide initiative taking place in five regional Western Australian communities: Paraburdoo, Geraldton, Busselton, Derby and Esperance. Named after the number of communities participating, FIVE is a partnership between DADAA and Rio Tinto, and aims to build social connection and community wellbeing.

WA Museum – Geraldton Regional Manager, Leigh O’Brien, said that the Museum was excited to be hosting the digital artwork project.

“We are delighted to be able to provide a venue for part of this unique community arts project,” said Ms O’Brien.

“We are particularly interested in the ways in which the project will document local stories in the context of significant social and historical icons of Geraldton.

“The WA Museum – Geraldton is a place for people to come together to explore and share their sense of identity and we see the FIVE project as contributing to this goal.”

For additional information on the project, visit www.five.org.au, email geraldton@five.org.au or call (08) 9430 6616.

Melbourne International Comedy Festival returns to Geraldton

The cast of intrepid travelling comedians can’t be confined to Melbourne’s comedy rooms any longer, they’re back on the road to entertain crowds worldwide in 2014.

Be a part of the fun when they roll into Geraldton with a huge show featuring some of the best from one of the world’s biggest comedy festivals.

After 15 years of traversing the many highways of this wide, brown land, the Melbourne International Comedy Festival Roadshow is back with another jam-packed tour. Think Almost Famous, but swap out the musicians for some incredibly funny comedians, replace USA for Australia’s smaller cities and rural towns, add in epic amounts of humour and multiply the amount of group sing-alongs.

Now in it’s 16th year, the Roadshow transports fresh faced and well-known comedians from the fancy theatres of Comedy Festival HQ to Hobart, Hong Kong and every venue in-between in the ultimate comedy odyssey.

In 2013, Roadshow enjoyed enormous success performing more than 109 shows in over 60 regional towns and cities across Australia, before concluding the tour with a sell-out international leg conquering Singapore, Hong Kong, and India.

With a mix of local heroes and international stars as well as the hottest new discoveries of the Festival, all your comedy bases will be covered. The roll call for 2014 includes, Harley Breen, Anne Edmonds, Cal Wilson, Tom Ballard, Dave Callan, David Quirk, Brendon Walsh (USA), Brian Nankervis, Pat Burtscher (CAN), Beau Heartbreaker, Greg Behrendt (USA), Tommy Dean and Nazeem Hussain.

The Festival will roll into Geraldton at the Queens Park Theatre on Monday 26^th and Tuesday 28^th May 2014 at 7.30pm.

Visit the QPT Website for more info!

Take a ride on the Batavia Longboat

The community are invited to go and have sail on Geraldton's beautiful  Batavia Coast Replica Longboat.

The Longboat sails most Sundays throughout the year from the front of the Museum in Geraldton’s Batavia Marina, and is regularly seen beating out to the point Moore lighthouse or tacking up into the harbour.

Vince Nock runs the tours and you can sit on the beautiful wooden replica and take in the sights of Geraldton from the ocean or you can learn how to sail the boat.

The sailing is free however donations are extremely helpful to keep the activity going.

Children are most welcome but must be over the age of six years and accompanied by an adult.

For more information or to see whether the boat is sailing on a Sunday call Chairman Vince Nock on 0417 961 387.

A bigger show and an extra day in 2014 for Boat, Caravan and Camping Show

The 2014 Club Marine Geraldton Boat, Caravan and Camping Show will be the biggest in its nine year history, with an extra Show day planned, and new entertainment for visitors to enjoy.

The Club Marine Geraldton Boat, Caravan and Camping Show is the biggest event of its kind in the region. Traditionally held over the last weekend in April, the 2014 Show will make history when it opens its doors a day early!

Show organiser Jane Clarke said because ANZAC Day public holiday falls on the Friday of the Show weekend, it made sense to open the Show early to give the people of Geraldton something extra to do.

“The Show will open at 12.30pm on Friday 25^th April (ANZAC Day), allowing extra time for visitors to make the most of this exciting event. The Show will continue across the weekend of 26^th and 27^th April 2014,” Jane said.

“We will have all kinds of entertainment happening on the Friday afternoon and evening, so that visitors can really enjoy their afternoon out!”

The Club Marine Geraldton Boat, Caravan and Camping Show is well established as a fun and exciting outdoor leisure event. The Show brings together displays of new products and services in boating, fishing, 4wds, camping, accessories, electronics and lifestyle products. The Show is held at the Geraldton Turf Club, and attracts around 5,000 visitors each year. The 2014 Show will feature more boats on display than ever before, so those in the market for a boat will be spoiled for choice!

The 2014 Show is shaping up to be bigger and more exciting than ever before. A full schedule of entertainment and attractions are scheduled including fishing demonstrations in the Aquatank, 4WD Extreme Show, motorcycle action, cooking demonstrations and much more.

“The Extreme Show has always been a huge attraction, with some of the best competition drivers in WA - and this year it will get even better,” Jane said. “For the first time, visitors can take a ride! For a fee towards a charity, visitors can go in one of these buggies and experience the thrill of the track!”

“Show visitors this year can also meet our special guest - TV personality Ernie Dingo; and go into a draw to win an Engel fridge,” Jane said.

“We’ve also got heaps for the kids to do, with a new quad bike track that kids can have a go on, plus a Casting Competition – grab a fishing rod and try to hit the target to win a prize!”

“It’s a great Show for the whole family,” Jane said.

More Show information is available on the website www.geraldtonboatshow.com.au

Exhibitor space is still available and interested exhibitors can call Jane at Sunset Promotions on 0403 226 303 or email sunsetpromotions@bigpond.com for a prospectus. The prospectus is also available on the website.

13 years on, Redhill continues to deliver top quality entertainment

It’s less than 3 days until Shannon Noll will hit the stage for the 2014 Redhill Concert.

The annual concert will be held on Redhill Farm on Saturday, April 5th with gates opening at 3pm.

The Redhill experience has been a highlight of the Mid West social calendar since 2002 and now in its thirteenth year, the concert will deliver nothing but quality.

Redhill is notorious for providing the people of the Midwest with quality entertainment with previous acts including Hoodoo Gurus, James Reyne, Daryl Braithwaite, Wendy Matthews, Mental as Anything, The Black Sorrows and Dragon.

Take in the sunset, relax on a picnic rug with wine, food and good company before the musical entertainment begins. 

Shannon Noll will be backed up by Mark Wilkinson and C4 so there will be no shortage of entertainment throughout the event.

The Redhill Concert is a BYO event and overnight camping is available to concert goers by a donation.

The best part of the Redhill Concert series is that all profits are placed back into community projects and those in need through Rotary.

Over the past 27 years, the Rotary Club of Geraldton - Greenough have made significant donations to numerous local, state, national and international organisations so proceeds from Redhill will be going to a worthy cause.

Tickets are limited and will be available from the Queens Park Theatre box office on Cathedral Avenue, The Geraldton CD Centre in the Marine Terrace Mall and Smart Mart Wonthella.

For more information go to redhillconcert.com.au contact Jason McCarthy jason.mccarthy@wafm.com.au or 99212244

New community arts program to engage community

A major new community arts project in Geraldton will engage the local community in an effort to build social connection and community resilience in the region.

The project is part of a two-year partnership between DADAA and Rio Tinto that will work in five Western Australian communities: Geraldton, Busselton, Paraburdoo, Derby and Esperance. The statewide project will engage whole communities in several related projects, with some aimed at FIFO workers and their families, as well as members from Aboriginal, farming and young adult communities.

Named after the number of communities, the project – called FIVE – will build awareness around issues of wellbeing through a community arts and cultural development approach. The project addresses key components of the Mental Health Commission’s 2020 strategy for Western Australia.

Three different projects will begin in Geraldton on 25 March.

A whole-of-community sculpture, facilitated by installation and performance artist Hiromi Tango around themes of ‘home’ and belonging’ with a unique large-scale sculpture created by the community; drop-in workshops at the Arts and Cultural Development Corporation studios run from 25 March to 27 April.

About 50 digital portraits, filmed by highly regarded digital artist Craig Walsh and resulting in a single collective work about what home, belonging, family, work and living in Geraldton means to participants; filming at the Wedge building (part of the WA Museum – Geraldton) from 14 April to 4 May is open to everyone.

A young adults project for youth from across Geraldton, held at various sites and led by local artists Sonal Kantaria, Anthea da Silva and Jordan Andreotta; activities will be held around the city from late March until 4 May.

A final community celebration on 8 May will showcase the project and its artistic outcomes, including the collective digital portrait from the filming project.

DADAA Executive Director David Doyle said that participatory arts have been shown to be a powerful tool in building community resilience and cohesion.

“DADAA is pleased to have been invited into Geraldton to work with the community in providing appropriate programs in the arts,” said Mr Doyle. “Our early consultation work showed that programs for young people and in the area of mental health would add the most value.

“Our three FIVE projects will work in these areas using a community arts and cultural development model, which is designed to generate dialogue within a community and allow for self-advocacy around important issues.”

With a local town office, and more than 200 employees flying directly from Geraldton to the Pilbara, Rio Tinto is strongly committed to the region.

“We aim to create an environment that acknowledges, supports and promotes good mental health in the workforce and the community,” said Andrew Harding, Chair of the Rio Tinto Community Investment Fund and Chief Executive, Iron Ore.

"We also recognise that this is a complex issue that requires a whole-of-community approach and a variety of interventions. FIVE is just one way we are working together with the communities in which our employees live and work, to encourage dialogue around mental health."

City of Greater Geraldton Mayor Ian Carpenter said that the City was pleased to have DADAA as a community partner and excited to be involved in the statewide FIVE project.

“FIVE – and our longer term partnership with DADAA – will go a long way towards helping the community to understand mental illness, and will facilitate more interaction and commitment for community-based projects that support mental illness prevention,” he said.

“As part of the City’s Strategic Community Plan, we want to maintain a strong, healthy community that is equitable and connected. We want to create a city that supports families and people with disability, and I believe doing so through the arts is a powerful way to achieve this.”

All events are free. For more information, visit www.five.org.au or email geraldton@five.org.au.

Community members are invited to attend an event officially launching FIVE and welcoming project artists.  This will take place on the foreshore next to the Dome Café, from 6–8pm on April 4th 2014.

Tackleworld brings fishing clinic for school holidays

Children from Geraldton and surrounding areas will have fun and learn new skills at a new fishing program during the April school holidays.

Recfishwest has been facilitating the community fishing clinic program for several years now and this Recfishwest SunSmart Fishing clinic is proudly sponsored by Healthway, promoting the SunSmart message.

Tackleworld Country & Recfishwest have come together for three days of fishing clinics from April 15 -17 at the New Marina, Service Jetty from 9am to 11am daily.

Tackleworld Country owner Wendy Norris said the free fishing clinics educate children about sustainable fishing practices including casting techniques, selection of bait and general rigging, recognition of fish species, catch and release and aquatic conversation.

“We are pleased to be making this available to local children in Geraldton and those from surrounding areas during the holiday period, working with Recfishwest has made this possible,” Wendy Norris said.

Recfishwest chief executive officer Dr Andrew Rowland said, “the Recfishwest SunSmart Fishing Clinics are extremely popular in many regions around WA, everyone gets something positive out of learning how to appreciate our aquatic resources and becoming a better fisher.”

Participants are taught about personal safety and the importance of being SunSmart as well as caring for their catch and current rules and regulations.

Dr Rowland said the fishing clinics encouraged young people to be active and make new friends while engaging in an enjoyable activity, plus there are prizes and giveaways throughout the day.

“Fishing is a fun activity that helps to provide positive life skills such as creative decision making, problem solving, goal setting and patience," he said.

Places are limited and registrations can be made through Craig and Lloyd at Tackleworld Country at 20 Anzac Terrace

For more information call  Tackleworld Country on  99216 822 or Recfishwest visit www.recfishwest.org.au  or phone 9246 3366.

Lots of laughs set for Comedy Emporium Youth Comedy Jam

The Comedy Emporium’s youngest members will be kicking off National Youth Week with a special free “Youth Comedy Jam” at City Hive.

The night will feature local acts all under the age of 18 as well as a large amount of Comedy Improvisation on Friday, April 4th at 8:30pm.

Veterans of The Comedy Emporium team recently back from performing at the Melbourne Comedy Festival Class Clown Competition for high school students, Ellen Clancy Millet and James Butson will lead the show consisting of new up and coming comedy talent Jackson Canny, Joseph Tanti and impro musician Louis Canny.

“The shows are normally 18 plus, so its going to be a great opportunity for friends and family of our very talented youth members to come and get involved in our program,” said Comedy Emporium’s coordinator Emma Howell.

“A large portion of the show will be improv comedy. This is in the spirit of things like Whose Line Is It Anyway and Thank God You're Here - but with our own Comedy Emporium twists."

If the comedy will not convince you to come down maybe the free pizza will. Thanks to support from the City of Greater Geraldton, the Youth Comedy Jam is a free event.

“Our workshops for progressing comedians have attracted a large amount of young talent, something we never considered when creating the program," Emma said.

"We have been pleasantly surprised to see how well our under 18 comedians have gone in comparison to the adults. They have so much confidence!”

For more information head to www.thecomedyemporium.com or call 0458 306 111.

Doors open 8pm, Jam starts at 8:30. FREE EVENT Family members welcome.  No BYO alcohol.

Help clean up Chapman River

Local community group 'Chapman River Friends" are asking the public for help in cleaning up the Chapman River Regional Park.

The cleanup will take place on Saturday, April 5th from 3pm-5pm.

Registrations will be at the entrance of Spalding Park.

Wear strong shoes, a hat and BYO water. Kids welcome.

We Love Local! Ethics, economics and ecology of ‘localism’ up for discussion

This month there are a range of opportunities to discover and grow the benefits of ‘localism’ in the Midwest. Pollinators Inc and partners are collaborating to run surveys, events and discussions about the ethics, economics and ecological impacts of buying, eating, and even banking, locally. Full details are available online at http://pollinators.org.au/learning/swarm-events/love-local/

There are 4 opportunities to get involved and have your say:

Complete the 5-minute individual (consumer) survey: https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/97DWF5N

Complete the organisation (business) on selling local: https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/HDD5TCC

Join the FREE workshop on Tuesday 25th March: http://pollinators.org.au/event/love-local-training/

Start a conversation: with your friends, at the markets, in the shops, or online!

Andrew Outhwaite, Pollinators Inc Executive Officer, said “We have a lot of great local enterprises, organisations and causes, but we also live in an increasingly globalised world and economy. Whether its grabbing a coffee, donating to a charity or using a graphic designer our individual choices can add up to have a significant impact on people and the planet. Our members and partners agreed that it was timely consider how we can smarter and better-informed about ‘localism’.”

The mix of surveys, workshops and online discussions will give a rounded perspective on the reasons, impact and opportunities for individuals, charities, and businesses.

Alan Bradley, Executive Officer of Regional Development Australia Midwest and Gascoyne said his organisation supported the survey, to uncover the facts, perceptions and habits of buyers, producers and retailers in the Midwest. “A thriving local economy is part of RDAMWG’s vision for this region, and this survey will uncover some of the issues and barriers that prevent more people buying locally. It will also highlight opportunities for local producers and retailers to increase their local market share.”

Featured guest speakers and stories include:

Greg Payne of Karara Mining and Milton Milroy of MEEDAC— on local procurement.

Paula Fletcher of Calypso Designs — creator of the ‘We Love KB‘ maps in Kalgoorlie-Boulder.

John Stanley of John Stanley Associates — consultant and adviser on growing local enterprise.

Mark Weston of Bookara Goat Dairy — selling locally produced cheeses in the Midwest and across the state.

Wendy Norris of Geraldton Organised Primary Producers —a Midwest success story taking a collaborative approach to local buying.

Monica Luppi of Hope Community Services — PR and Communications for social enterprise. We Love Local? sponsors and partners include:

Mid West Development Commission

Regional Development Australia Mid West and Gascoyne

Geraldton Organised Primary Producers

Midwest Chamber of Commerce and Industry

Sinosteel Midwest Corporation Limited

Full details are available online at http://pollinators.org.au/learning/swarm-events/love-local/

All Stars headline at Sunset Music Series

On Friday, March 21st the Queens Park Theatre will present a Geraldton All Stars concert as part of its Sunset Music Series in the Amphitheatre.

This concert will showcase several of Geraldton’s leading musicians, including singers Alida Crothers, Gavin Carvill, Mia Royce and Leon Tioke, and instrumentalists Daniel Connor (sax), Josh Crothers (piano) and Simon O’Sullivan (classical guitar).

Each artist will be featured on several songs, with diverse repertoire spanning the blues, classical, funk, jazz and R&B idioms. Accompaniment will be provided by local and Perth-based musicians.

Alida Crothers hailing from outback NSW, is a graduate of the Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts’ Jazz course. Her style is a predominately bluesy, soulful lament but encompasses everything from jazz to gospel, funk and beyond.

Gavin Carvill is a highly-respected Geraldton singer and multi-instrumentalist with extensive experience touring, performing solo, and performing in bands and in duets.

Mia Royce singer, songwriter, pianist and physiotherapist, launched her debut CD “Chasing Footprints” to a sold-out crowd in June 2011, receiving rave reviews with 2 songs nominated in the 2011 WAMI award finals. Mia was one of three finalists in the 2012 WA Boyup Brook Country Music Festival in the categories of Best Female Vocalist, Best New Talent and Album of the Year.

Leon Tioke a Kiwi now based in Geraldton, is in high demand throughout the Mid West and Pilbara regions as a soloist and band leader. His motto is “YES ONE MAN CAN MAKE A PARTY”.

Tickets are $20 for adults and $10 for children.

Bring a picnic supper, bar will be open so strictly no BYO. The show will kick off at 6pm in the Amphitheatre.

Head to www.queensparktheatre.com.au for more information.

Harmony Day in Durack

Federal Member for Durack Melissa Price today encouraged people across Durack to be part of Australia's largest national multicultural event - Harmony Day 2014.

Harmony Day on 21 March gives communities across Durack the opportunity to celebrate Australia’s cultural diversity and recognise local groups and individuals.

It coincides with the United Nations International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination.

This year a record number of over 6,186 Harmony Day events have already been registered nationally, with that number growing daily as more organisations register to celebrate our cultural diversity.

“We have a rich history of migration. Since 1945, over seven million people have migrated to this country. Today around 45 per cent of us were born overseas or have a parent who was born overseas,” Ms Price said.

“Over the years tens of thousands of Harmony Day events have been held by students, community groups, councils, small businesses and many others.

“Durack is no exception. This year 22 events have been registered so far, including a free film festival in Broome, live entertainment, stalls and a community dinner in Geraldton, a gala night in Karratha and a morning tea in Newman.”

Ms Price said the theme of this year’s Harmony Day is ‘Everyone Belongs’, which is about understanding how each of us sees our future in this country and how we can make it a better place.

“Next year we’ll be marking the 15th anniversary of Harmony Day – so now’s a good time to talk about what belonging really means to you, your family, friends and community,” Ms Price said.

“I encourage everyone in Durack to join in by registering or attending an event, or connecting via Facebook, Twitter and Instagram using the hashtags #HarmonyDay and #everyonebelongs.”

Next Saturday the Midwest Multicultural Association in geraldton will present Harmony Day Celebrations.

When: Saturday, March 22nd at 10am-3pm Where: Maitland Park

There will be school performances, lots of activities and workshops for the family as well as face painting and food stalls!

Goal smashed in Georgina's World's Greatest Shave

When 15-year-old Georgina Ashworth Preece decided to shave her head in honour of Alex, her 11-year-old brother who lost his battle to cancer two years ago, she was hoping she could make $1,000.

With the support of the local community, Georgina's donations sky rocketed and her goal went from $1,000 to $10,000. Now she has already bypassed $10,000 and with the shave tomorrow, Gerogina is on the hunt to raise $14,000!

"Thank you to everyone who has decided to kindly donated. It is so awesome to see thoughtful people in Geraldton donating to such an important cause," Georgina said.

"Together we can really make a big difference to people suffering from blood cancers.

"We have reached the $10,000 mark, now Team Alex are going to aim for $14,000 or as much we can.

"Alex would have been 14 years old if he was alive this year, so I think 14 is a good number."

With the support of lots of local businesses, Georgina has put together a silent auction and is urging the public to get onboard.

If people are interested in making a silent bid they can email either accounts@lightstartptyltd.com.au or jrashworth@iprimus.com.au.

Phone bids are also welcome by call or text to 0437 382 787. All funds raised go straight to the Leukaemia Foundation and are added to the total funds raised for Team Alex.

The items up for auction include:

-2x black and white Moroccan style ottomans. Donated by Spotlight. Value $158 for the pair.

- Queen size 100% cotton quilt, 100% cotton queen fitted mattress protector and 2 latex pillows with tencel covers. Donated by Forty Winks. Value $360.

- 70cm GVA HD LED LCD TV with built in DVD player. Donated by Good Guys. Value $284.

-Assorted hair products, value $45 from Price Attack

-Various jewellery from Amanda's Emporium

-Michael Hill pearl earrings- studs value $30

-Michael Hill drop earrings value $30

-Wild donations- Home maker set- gorgeous ornaments value $60

-Man pack-mugs and quiz packs value $40 Donated from Wild

-Athletes Foot voucher $50

-Flower Pot voucher $40 for floral arrangement or gift

There will also be a raffle tomorrow with items up for grabs including:

-ThisI am gift pack-raffle on Saturday. Value about $45.

-Perth Concert Ticket Hall Tickets for 2 people to any concert, valid for 6 months. Value approx. $100.

-Children's mixed pack from Wild 50c a ticket or 3 for a $1.00

Georgina will shave her head with her mum, Will Todd (one of Alex’s school buddies) and Ian Blayney tomorrow, March 15th at 12:30pm.

The shave will be a public event located at the rear of Dome on the grassed area on the Geraldton Foreshore.

Local barber Cut Throat Joes has very kindly offered their services and will conduct the shaving.

People can click here to donate online or they can come down tomorrow and show their support!

Twenty years in the making - Badimaya Dictionary Launch

To have your life-long culture and language valued and respected is something anyone would hope for.

After 20 years, Mr Ollie George and Badimaya people can be proud that finally, their culture and language is being preserved and developed into multiple educational resources.

Initial preservation work was commenced by The Yamaji Language Centre in the early 1990s before being transferred to the Bundiyarra – Irra Wangga Language Centre in 2005.

Since 2012, more than 60 hours of audio and 10 hours of video recordings have been obtained and utilised to produce seven resources including five story books, a photographic calendar and picture book.

This has helped assist with collaboration for the upcoming launch of the Badimaya Dictionary, Badimaya Guwaga wordlist and Alphabet Poster.

Four Badimaya families - the George, Walsh, Fogerty and Clinche families - have provided the majority of the recordings with Mr George taking a lead role. Mr George is one of few remaining fluent Badimaya speakers and is pleased to see what has been developed from the work.

Bundiyarra – Irra Wangga Language Centre Linguist James Bednall said that Mr George is really excited.

“His face and eyes just light up when he sees the productions,” he said.

“It is so dear to him to see his culture and language being preserved for the rest of the world to see, his language is just as important as any other language, he is a happy man.”

The launch of the Badimaya Dictionary, Badimaya Guwaga wordlist and Alphabet Poster will take place on Mr George’s true country, Kirkalocka Station at Mount Magnet.

Mr George was raised at Kirkalocka Station by his Nan and Pop. This is where he was immersed in his culture. He was able to learn and speak his language, was taught to hunt and took part in corroborees with family.

Mr Bednall said: “When community see these publications it gives them a sense of pride. People see photos of themselves, their country and their language in print and it creates excitement as they feel respected and valued.”

The Bundiyarra – Irra Wangga Language Centre and Badimaya Community invite you to join them at Kirkalocka Station on Thursday, 10 April, 2014 from 11.30am – 1.30pm for this historic launch. The launch is a free event and will include a good feed and some entertainment. Free, limited bus transport is available from Bundiyarra in Geraldton. For further enquiries please contact the The Bundiyarra – Irra Wangga Language Centre on (08) 9920 7900.

Publications will be available for purchase at the launch and from the Bundiyarra on-line store: www.bundiyarra.org.au

Obstacle racing comes to Mid West in man vs mother nature course

For the first time ever, obstacle racing is coming to the Mid West with WA Mud Gladiators running on Saturday June 14,

21 year old Daniel Lane an obstacle racing enthusiast and entreprenure has designed a 15km man vs mother nature course set out along the Murchison River on Coolcalalaya Station.

The event is designed to push you to your limits and make you overcome obstacles that you never thought possible.

Part proceeds from the Mud Gladiator event is going to Youth Focus to help in the fight against youth suicide a cause close to his heart.

Youth focus has just established a branch right here in Geraldton and Daniel has taken it upon himself to raise funds to get it off to a flying start.

The mud arenea will have obstacles and challenges not seen before in obstacle racing, it is a unique fitness challenge which utilises the natural terrain of the Murchison River, throw in barb wire crawls, ice baths, mud crawls, hill climbs and much much more.

The event culminates in a fantastic after party in the Dirt Dust n Diesels Bar and grill where participants will enjoy a well earned meal and dance into the night.

Mud Gladiators is suitable for all ages and fitness levels. You can compete as an individual or as a team. Register now and get on board to fight like a gladiator against Youth suicide.

For more information or to register go to www.mudgladiators.com.au or phone 089933 1050.

Nukara set to host world class acts this weekend

There will be a unique lineup this weekend at the Nukara Music Festival.

With around 10 hours of live roots music kicking off at 3pm on Saturday March 15th, acts include Mama Kin, Morgan Bain, Toby, Tracey Barnett, Mutima, Brian Alleaume, Folklore and making their first appearance will be Formidable Vegetable Sound System.

Plus afterwards there will be couple of hours groove/wind down with DJVB (from France) on the ‘Creek Stage’.

More live acoustic music is been planned for the Recovery Breakfast on the Sunday in the way of a ‘Blackboard Open Mic’ giving anyone willing to try an experience on the Creek Stage.

Camping is encouraged whether you have a Swag or a Winnebago.

More info & updates from the ‘Nukara Music Festival Group’ Facebook page or call 0407 121 021.

Get Hypnotised! The Matthew Hale Comedy Hypnosis Show

Winner of 3 national comedy awards, Matthew Hale is a professional comedy stage hypnotist based in Australia. Having hypnotised people around the world from London to Vegas (where even Mike Tyson told him ‘You are AMAZING!’), Matthew currently provides his show for events of all sizes.

And on Tuesday, he will be performing in Geraldton!

Combining the fun of total audience participation with the incredible abilities of the mind, Matthew turns the traditional hypnosis show on its head, highlighting the talents and creativity of the volunteers for big laughs instead of embarrassing them. No two shows are ever the same!

Expect to see hypnotised volunteers transported into bizarre car journeys, talking alien and unleashing talents they never knew they had.

In addition to his live shows, Matthew trains stage hypnotists in the USA, has released his own range of hypnosis CDs, and conducts group seminars on a variety of subjects including memory, stressbusting, motivation, weight management, and smoking cessation.

He's appeared in media as diverse as the UK's tabloids, BBC, ABC, Today Tonight and has been included in the National Film and Sound Archive and Ripley’s Believe It Or Not.

Matthew's shows are fast paced, funny and full of your guests. Both audience and volunteers will have an amazing experience that they will remember for a long time, (and the ones that didn't volunteer will probably leave thinking about doing so next time!).

Matthew Hale will appear at Queens Park Theatre on Tuesday 11th March 2014 at 7pm.

Ticket prices are as follows:

Adult: $30.00 Pensioner: $24.00 Senior: $24.00 Child/Secondary Student: $18.00 Family 2+2: $21.00 Groups 8+: $26.00 Groups 20+: $15.00 QPT Club: $27.00

Visit the QPT Website or call the box office on 9956 6662 for tickets.