Wheelchair carousel to be placed on the foreshore

The Foreshore will once again feature a ‘merry go round by the sea’ thanks to an Everlasting Partnership between the City of Greater Geraldton and Variety WA Mid West for the installation of a wheelchair carousel in the Youth Precinct.

City of Greater Geraldton Mayor, Shane Van Styn, said the new carousel will provide people of all ages and abilities the opportunity to play on our Foreshore.

“The City has been actively designing, building and refurbishing Foreshore spaces and amenities to be accessible and inclusive,” he said.

“The addition of universally accessible play equipment in the Youth Precinct which includes a wheelchair carousel and nest swing means more members of our community will be able to enjoy the Foreshore than ever before.”

Variety WA Mid West Regional Coordinator, Jan Ajduk, says their organisation was pleased to be a partner in the City’s new Everlasting Sponsorship program and to also be part of the final stage of the Foreshore development.

“The installation of the universally accessible and inclusive play equipment in the Youth Precinct will enable children to come together, interact and engage with each other side by side regardless of age or ability,” she said.

“The City is very pleased to partner with Variety WA Mid West in our new sponsorship program that enables organisations to sponsor or partner with the City to deliver projects and programs the community highly values,” said Mayor Van Styn.

Mayor urges community to dig deep this Christmas

This Christmas there will be thousands of families in the Mid West who will go without food.

City of Greater Geraldton Mayor, Shane Van Styn, is urging the community to get behind Foodbank’s Christmas Appeal and make a donation. He has kicked off the campaign by pledging $2,000.

Food donations can be made at local supermarkets as well as the Civic Centre, Aquarena and the Geraldton Regional Library. You can contact Foodbank to make a monetary donation.

Dig deep this Christmas.

Gorgeous video of Geraldton from above

A gorgeous video of three of Geraldton's iconic landmarks. Thanks to All Decor for funding production of this video.

Produced for Everything Geraldton by Mullermind Creative

Dead bird halts flights to Perth

Both evening flights from Geraldton to Perth have been delayed due to a dead bird on the runway.

The 6:10pm Qantas flight and the 6:30pm Virgin flight were grounded until the bird could be removed.

Parcels stolen from doorstep

Local Trevor Dunen claims he had two parcels stolen off his front door step in Strathalbyn after they had been delivered by Australia post, one containing 2 Albums, by Pink Floyd- "The Wall" and "Dark Side of the Moon" in Quadraphonic.

The other Parcel contained Led Zeppelin IV with an orange label and a rare misprint on the label.

"All three albums have rare matrix/serial numbers and are valued at around $1000 plus all up.

The albums were allegedly stolen by an aboriginal male, he was seen by the next door neighbors leaving my home with my property.

Half an hour before the records were stolen this aboriginal person was caught behind a bush near my front door and asked to leave, any person knowing any information please pm me or the Geraldton Police.

If you have my rare albums and return them, nothing more will be said."

Mr Dunen said "a $100 reward would be offered for their return."

Geraldton Police currently have no lines of inquiry relating to this incident and are appealing to the public for information. 

Anyone with any information is asked to call Geraldton Police station on 9923 4555  or make a report online at www.crimestopperswa.com.au

Students suspended following incident

Social media was a buzz with talk of John Willcock College going into lockdown yesterday.

Below details what actually happened.  

John Willcock College Principal Julie Campbell said in a letter sent to parents today, I can confirm that an incident occurred on Wednesday, 2 December that required us to keep students in classrooms for a brief period to ensure their safety.

Eight students behaved in a very intimidating manner, looking to fight particular individuals and banging on windows to try to get into classrooms. Police were called and those students were suspended.

Contrary to some entirely false rumours circulating online, there was no physical assault on any person, no student was at risk of harm, nor were any weapons involved.

However, the behaviour was a disgrace and I will not stand for it at this school. In addition to suspension, further work is being done with the students and their families to prevent a repeat of such behaviour.

It is sad that from time to time we have students whose behaviour undermines all the good and positive work we do at John Willcock College. Most of our students are very well-behaved and a credit to themselves and the school.

However, our procedures for ensuring student safety worked very well and are consistent with the processes used by all schools in such situations. As we do after any incident, we are reviewing what happened so we can further strengthen our response for the future.

Police spokeswoman from Geraldton Police said Officers attended the school but were not required to intervene.

Geraldton Grammar donate hundreds of dollars worth of food

Geraldton Grammar School joined Foodbank in the fight against poverty five years ago. Each year teachers and students rally together and donate hundreds of dollars’ worth of food. This year is no different, with Grammar School’s year sevens’ coordinating and driving change.

Hunger and poverty is at large in Western Australia and this Christmas many will suffer in silence without food, love and laughter. While most spend Christmas rejoicing with family and friends, Foodbank WA are looking at one of their toughest years yet.

Year 7 coordinator Ms Sharon Cole highlighted the importance of helping those in need, especially at Christmas.

“Grammar School look forward to this time of year. Christmas is a time for giving. It’s a time for celebration and sharing. Each year people in our community go hungry and we need to help!

“The year sevens’ drive the Christmas Foodbank Appeal and get the whole school involved. Through this, they learn the importance of giving to those in need,” Ms Cole said.

A Foodbank representative received the donation on Wednesday and spoke of the difference it will make.

“In 2014 there was an eight per cent increase in those seeking food assistance. This year Foodbank has seen another increase due to the mining downturn and our role is to help.”

He explained: “Every little bit makes a difference and it’s fantastic to see all the students getting involved.”

Students buzzed with excitement as they helped load food into the Foodbank truck, which will be distributed to those in need.

To help make a difference this Christmas or for more information, visit the official Foodbank website at www.foodbankwa.org.au

Recall on Carlton Dry beer

Carlton and United Breweries has recalled Carlton Dry beer from Coles, Woolworths, liquor stores, Metcash/IGA (BWS, Dan Murphy’s, First Choice, Liquor Land etc.), other independents & on premise liquor outlets (bars, pubs, clubs, restaurants and hotels) nationally.

The recall is due to the possible presence of glass in product. Consumers should not consume this product as glass may cause injury.

Relevant date marks are 19JUL16 3A & 20JUL16 3B. The product can be returned to the place of purchase for a full refund.

Public assistance sought after knife attack

Geraldton Local Policing Team officers are seeking the public’s assistance for information to assist with their investigation into an assault in Rangeway on Monday, 9 November 2015.

At about 8:50am, a 37 year old man and his female partner were walking along Cassia Street when a man and a woman chased them. The woman was armed with a knife.

The couple ran away in different directions and the offenders pursued the man to a service station on Rifle Range Road.

The woman accompanied by the man, stabbed the victim several times with the knife.

The 37 year old man received minor injuries and was taken to Geraldton Regional Hospital for medical treatment.

The woman is described as being in her 20s, about 165 to 175cms tall, with a slim build and dark coloured hair tied up in a bun. She was wearing a pink jumper with a white motif and blue denim jeans rolled up below her knees.

The man is described as being between 30 to 40 years of age, approximately 170 to 180cms tall with a slim build, dark short hair and a short goatee. He was wearing a black shirt with a motif on the front, black shorts and sunglasses.

Anyone with any information is asked to call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or make a report online at www.crimestopperswa.com.au

This local supermarket just gave 1000 loaves of bread to feed the hungry

Queens Supa IGA store Manager Hayden Hebiton said we heard Foodbank was in need due to a supply shortage so we donated 1000 loaves of fresh bread. 

Pat Hodges from Foodbank said the donation is fantastic and will enable them to give fresh bread this Christmas.

"Queens have been a huge supporter for a number of years, this delivery will help greatly."

"We are still in need desperately of food and we won't be able to deliver on hampers at this point."

"The situation is improving slightly however we are still in crisis and it's the worst I have seen in 13 years," she said.

If you wish to donate Food you can deliver it directly to Foodbank or at one of the following locations: 

• Queens Supa IGA
• Melissa Price's Office
• CGG council offices
• Aquarena
• Geraldton Regional Library 
• Woolworths

Foodbank supplies emergency food relief to the needy in the Midwest Region. 

Everything Geraldton have started a donation portal for community members.

We will give the money to Foodbank. Click the button to donate ->

Donate to foodbank

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Banana ecstasy and $7000 cash seized

On Monday 30 November 2015, Geraldton Detectives arrested a 20 year old Drummond Cove man with attempting to possess 200 grams (7 ounces) of MDMA in the form of ‘banana’ ecstasy pills.

A subsequent search of the man's Drummond Cove house located approx. $7,000 cash believed to be from the sales of Prohibited Drugs.

The man was charged with:
1 x Attempt to Possess Prohibited Drug (MDMA) with intent to sell / supply and
1 x Possess Unlawfully Obtained Property (cash)

He will appear in Geraldton Magistrates Court later this month. 

Picture: Geraldton Police

Armed robbery at Bluff Point Liquor store

At about 9:00pm, Tuesday 1 December 2015, the manager of a liquor store on Chapman Road, Bluff Point exited the store and locked up for the evening.

At this time the manager was confronted by a male person who had his head and face covered with clothing, and was armed with a metal instrument.

The male person demanded that the manager unlock the door, before they both moved back inside the store.

The male then demanded money from the tills, threatening to stab the manager if she did not comply.

The male took a small bottle of spirits before departing.

The offender is described as being a tall male, skinny with dark skin, in his teens or early twenties.

Geraldton Detectives are seeking assistance from the community with any information that may assist with the investigation. Please call Geraldton Police 99234555. 

City gets grants for Disability services

Regional Ambassador for of ‘Count Me In’ Chris Kerr looks forward to the new mobility beach access ramp being constructed at Town Beach.

The City of Greater Geraldton is pleased to announce it recently received grant funding from the Disability Services Commission of $50,000 to go towards the construction of a mobility beach access ramp and a further $100,000 for accessible amenities and adult change facilities at Town Beach.

City of Greater Geraldton Mayor, Shane Van Styn, said the timing of the funding announcement coincides perfectly with the City’s celebrations for International Day of People with Disability.

“What a fantastic announcement to be able to make to our community who is celebrating International Day for People with Disability this week with the opening of the art exhibition ‘Creative Waves’ and the launch of a short film ‘Part of the Community’ at the Queens Park Theatre on Thursday, 3 December from 4.30 to 6.30pm,” he said.

The grant funding program, administered by the Western Australian Local Governments Association, will enable the City to undertake capital works related to access and inclusion which were identified as a top priority by the Community Panel in late 2013.

As a result, the City has decided to include access as a top priority for the Multi User Facility and Youth Precinct currently under construction on the Foreshore in the West End.

“The refurbishment of the toilet block behind the Visitor Centre will house a new beach wheel chair and the accessible change rooms will feature a hoist for transfers from one chair to another and an adjustable adult change table,” said Mayor Van Styn.

“The beach wheelchair ramp, which will be built on the western side of the Town Beach groyne across from the basketball half court, has been specifically designed and engineered to counteract erosion of the concrete path.  Adjoining the foreshore promenade, the path will feature stainless steel handrails for users down to the high water mark on the beach.

“The City continually consults with community representatives to improve access in the CBD which also includes strategically located ACROD (Australian Council for Rehabilitation of Disabled) parking in the West End as part of the Multi User Facility project.”

The Francis Street jetty is also being replaced so that people with mobility impairments can fully utilise it.

A beach wheelchair is currently stored at the Two Foreshore Café and is available for hire by contacting the City.

For more information about the beach wheelchair ramp or other City projects visit www.cgg.wa.gov.au or phone the City Council on (08) 9956 6600.

Laser pointing Juvenile charged with drug possession

On Saturday, Geraldton Police charged a 16 year old male in Sunset Beach.

Police allege the male was pointing a laser pointer at traffic whilst being pillion on a motorcycle.

Police had cause to search the male where a black laser pointer that emits green light was located and a clip seal bag containing a tablet believed to be MDMA.

He was charged with: 1 x Possess Prohibited Drug and 1 x Carries or Possesses a Controlled Weapon.

The male will appear in Geraldton Childrens Court. 

Open Letter to Ratepayers

Open Letter to Ratepayers

Ratepayers  - you may not have noticed the small notice in the Guardian recently advising you of the Electors Meeting tomorrow Tuesday at the Council Offices at 5.30pm.

This meeting isa once a year opportunity for you asa ratepayer to have your say about the operations and decision making of Council – Don’t waste it.

Preferably you should put any questions you have in writing to Council beforehand so as to allow time for a researched answer. 

Ratepayers I urge you to spend an hour or so of your time to show the Council you care.  The opportunity is yours – come along and ask why the Council do what they do with your money.  Remember it’s your money the Council spend.

Regards

Max Correy

Northgate Shopping Centre broken into overnight

An unknown number of people entered Northgate Shopping Centre between 10pm (last night) Sunday and 5am this morning, breaking windows and doors to gain access to the Shopping centre.  

The people made their way into Target and allegedly stole numerous mobile phones including Microsoft 640’s, Samsung Galaxy’s J1 Android, Samsung Galaxy’s S5 and A5.

Police are seeking assistance from the community with any information that may assist with the investigation. Please call Geraldton Police 99234555.

Mark McGowan visits Geraldton to talk jobs

WA Labor Leader Mark McGowan visited Geraldton last week to talk to the community about Labor’s vision to create jobs.

Mr McGowan said “We are here to put jobs on the agenda.

“We all know that the resources sector is changing, so it’s important to diversify the economy and create new job opportunities for West Australians.

“It should have happened a long time ago but unfortunately Colin Barnett failed to plan for life beyond the resources boom. This is why so many West Australians, including people in Geraldton, are now facing the prospect of unemployment and this is why we should be talking about ways to diversify the economy and create new jobs.

“We’ve already announced important plans to ensure that people and businesses in regional WA benefit from big State Government projects.

“A WA Labor Government will give people in Geraldton a fair go.”

Mr McGowan also said WA Labor’s Priority Start policy would create jobs in Geraldton, by ensuring all big State Government construction projects deliver apprenticeships and traineeships for locals.

Drug seizure in Wonthella

Yesterday Geraldton Police siezed thousands of dollars worth of drugs from a home in Wonthella.

Multiple types of drugs were seized, methamphetamine (est. $30,000 worth), cannabis and cocaine including drug paraphernalia and around $2500 in cash.

A 32 year-old woman was arrested after allegedly being found in possession of the methamphetamine.

"The seizure of the drugs marks a significant crack down of the amount of drugs hitting Geraldton streets," Officer O'Keeffe said. 

Geraldton Business Named Finalist in Business Awards

Geraldton-based event organiser Event Nation has been named a finalist in this year’s Western
Australian Regional Small Business Awards.

The business has made a name for itself for organising outstanding events throughout regional WA.

The WA Regional Small Business Awards recognise small business excellence across seven
categories, with one category winner being named WA’s Regional Small Business of the Year.

Each category winner will receive a cash prize and a trophy and the overall winner will receive
$25,000 worth of television advertising and the production of a 30-second commercial.

Winners will be announced at a gala dinner at the Hyatt Hotel in Perth on November 20.

Event Nation director Jodi Reilly said she was humbled and honoured to have been selected as a finalist.

“It’s a real honour to be recognised for all the hard work and passion the Event Nation team puts in to any project,” Ms Reilly said.

“We are so passionate about what we do, so it’s really fantastic to be recognised for the depth of service and commitment we offer our clients.”

Ms Reilly said small businesses were the lifeblood of Western Australia.

“There’s so much attention on the resources industry but 96.73 per cent of all WA businesses are small businesses,” she said.

“It’s the small businesses that prop up the local communities, whose owners live among its
customers, whose kids go to school locally.

“So it’s so nice to have an award that recognises the importance of small businesses to our
communities.”

Cotton On KIDS to open first ever store in Geraldton, WA

Update: This press release from Cotton On originally stated the store would open 18 August. Cotton On apologised for their mistake, and have informed us the store will actually be opening on 18 September. 

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Cotton On KIDS, is excited to announce that it will bring its fashionable, fun and age-appropriate ranges to the community of Geraldton when it opens the doors to its very first store on 18th September 2015.

The new store, which will be housed within the new Cotton On Mega store, comes as a result of strong customer demand for its quality, aspirational and must-have collections at affordable prices.

The Geraldton community will be spoiled for choice with girls and boys apparel, baby apparel, dress ups, accessories, sleep, swim, gifting and bedroom linen and accessories.

“We are thrilled at how well Cotton On KIDS has resonated with the West Australian community and look forward to getting to know all of our new customers in Geraldton,” said Cotton On KIDS General Manager, Natalie McLean.

Customers can expect to find a range of new season styles across all categories when they shop the new Geraldton store including the new and highly-anticipated Activewear range which launches globally on Monday 17th August. 

The concept for the Activewear range was born after Cotton On KIDS Head Buyer, Meaghan Kendall, noticed the global trend of sports luxe becoming part of people’s everyday wardrobes.

“We are excited to be launching our new active range; we know that our customers love the style, fit and price of our everyday apparel, and we’ve incorporated this into the new category. We were inspired by what is trending globally, but we added our famous Cotton On KIDS twist to it – fun, colourful, prints, sparkle for the girls, a bit of attitude for the boys.

“Cotton On KIDS Active range is practical, on-trend and well priced and we hope it encourages kids to play, socialise, create, be active and most importantly just be kids,” Meaghan said.

Visit the new Cotton On KIDS store at 102 Marine Terrace, Geraldton, or find out more information about the brand and current collections at www.cottononkids.com.au.