5 activities that will make you want to go to Canggu immediately

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With stunning beaches famed for their surf breaks, ancient temples, and paddy fields, Canggu is one such town in Bali that warrants attention from every traveller visiting the ‘island of the gods’. Unlike other towns in Bali, Canggu is a sleepy village before it is a home to many expatriates who chose to settled down in the middle of sprawling green fields as opposed to metropolitan cities. Once a visit to Canggu is initiated, there are no takebacks.

Home to some splendid sights including the ocean waves, black sand beaches, and marvellous sunsets, Canggu is definitely one for the books. It is now teeming with holiday villas and beachfront resorts or boutique hotels that not only provide modern comforts in a more traditional and old-world setting but also make you feel right at home in a foreign land.

Canggu has a lot to offer but some of the things are more crucial and exciting than others and below are a few that will surely fulfil all desires when it comes to truly knowing Canggu as a beach town with its culturally-rich heritage and easygoing atmosphere.

 

1. Rolling green rice fields in Canggu

When in the mood for some one-oh-one with nature, the rice fields of Canggu are more spectacular than anything else. They are easily the most authentic, serene, and well-maintained thanks to having fewer tourists and commercial interests. Bike along the slightly terraced and mostly sloping fields of luscious green while the skies stretch far and wide above. The beautiful sight is inspiring to say the least and many expats flock to these generous expanses to unwind and gather their bearings. Bali is known for its paddy and what better way to learn of the ways in which the locals make their living than first-hand experience.

 

2. Surfing on wild surf breaks at Batu Bolong beach

Another reason why Canggu is so popular among foreign travellers is owing to its surf breaks on Batu Bolong beach. Equally adventurous for beginners and pro-surfers, the waves are famed across the country for being powerful and promise an enjoyable time. The beach is family-friendly and sees a lot of footfall from locals, expats, and travellers here for a short visit. As one of the most famous beaches, Batu Bolong beach with its white sandy shores and panoramic views has several options for food and beverage along with many recreational activities. Echo beach is another good spot for surfing, seafood restaurants, and sunset views.

 

3. Stay at a private villa

Canggu is slowly becoming a hotspot for many private villa owners who have touched base in these beautiful surroundings and made a home for themselves and their families. There are plenty of beachfront villas near Echo beach and Pererenan village that are close to major haunts and still maintain the peace that is well-desired. Booking a villa in Canggu is as easy as it comes because all you need to do is set your preferences and you have something suitable to choose from. Travelling with families, friends, for a private event, or a corporate retreat; Canggu has something for everyone with fully-staffed villas fitted with modern amenities all under a traditional, alang-alang ceiling and a thatched-roof.

 

4. Visit the picturesque Tanah Lot temple

Set atop the spectacular Tanah Lot rock formation, Pura Tanah Lot is a stunning relic of Balinese religion and culture. A famous spot for travellers, the entire panorama makes for a mesmerising display of natural wonder. The outcrop contrasts with the crashing waves below and the endless turquoise waters of the ocean against the horizon. The sunset is exceptional from where the temple sits and the verdant greenery brings it all together wonderfully. The temple is a shrine to the sea god, Baruna and has an engaging legend to its name ‘Tanah’.

 

5. Hit the beach clubs and restaurants

Although Canggu is culturally-driven, it is becoming popular for its hip cafes, seafood restaurants, and beach clubs. The nightlife in Canggu is on the rise to becoming at par with towns like Seminyak. With good music and a chill vibe amidst the verdure of Canggu’s landscape is conducive to more than one memorable experience. There are many beach clubs to check out including Finns Beach Club, La Brisa, The Lawn, and COMO; each serving heavenly wines, expert concoctions, and good food. Some of the restaurants that are a favourite amongst travellers include Deus Ex Machina, The Shady Shack, Old Man’s, and The Beach House. 

Belynda is Bravely Promoting Breast Cancer Awareness

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Desert Blue Connect will be holding a Braving Breast Cancer: Breast Awareness Event on Friday 26th October 2018 to raise awareness of breast cancer and fundraise for So Brave, a charity that supports young breast cancer survivors.   

Belynda Mills, local Mullewa mother of two and breast cancer survivor is the special guest speaker, who will talk on her breast cancer journey and her recent ambassador work for So Brave.  Sharon, the Women’s Health Nurse at Desert Blue Connect will also explain to women how to do a self-breast examination.  The women’s health evening will have fun interactive activities, refreshments and raffles. 

Belynda is passionate about raising awareness of breast cancer in young women and is an ambassador and supporter of So Brave.  She features in the 2019 So Brave calendar which is a visual representation of the metamorphosis that each survivor has undergone, both through her experience with her breast cancer diagnosis and through the uplifting transformation of a full body paint and photoshoot session.  The calendar raises awareness and money to fight breast cancer and will be available on the night for $33.  

“Raising funds for breast cancer research is so important”, said Belynda.  “It’s only through continued research that advances in treatment and the eradication of breast cancer will happen.” 

“Breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in women aged 20-39 and young women tend to have poorer survival outcomes compared to older women. Breast cancer does not discriminate and it’s just so important that all women regularly check their breasts, regardless of age. Finding breast cancer early provides the best chance to surviving the disease,” she continued. 

The Braving Breast Cancer: Breast Awareness Event will be held on Friday 26th October 2018, 6pm to 9pm at the Desert Blue Connect Studio, 28 Durlacher Street, Geraldton.   

Tickets are $25 and are available at Desert Blue Connect reception or on Eventbrite at https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/braving-breast-cancer-breast-awareness-event-tickets-50726528412 

Further information on So Brave can be found at https://sobrave.com.au/

Desert Blue Connect provide a range of free or low cost services that include women’s health, rural support services, men’s services, family violence response, primary prevention and crisis accommodation for women and children.   

The women’s health program at Desert Blue Connect offers a range of health and wellbeing services that are provided free to women. They include pregnancy tests, STI testing, continence information, relationship/sexual health advice, contraception and mental health support (including perinatal).  

For an appointment at Desert Blue Connect, call 9964 2742 or drop into the office at 25 Chapman Road in Geraldton.  

WASO Regional Tour

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WASO come to Geraldton! Don’t miss the West Australian Symphony Orchestra perform works by two of the most loved composers of all time. Featuring WASO’s acclaimed Concertmaster Laurence Jackson as soloist and concluding with everybody’s favourite 5th symphony!

Thursday 1 November at 7.30pm.

Visit qpt.cgg.wa.gov.au for more info and to book.

eSafety Parent Presentation

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Free event. 

Children are exposed to online content in their preschool years. Behaviours like cyberbullying begin at primary school. Peer pressure can cause poor online decisions for many teenagers.

Hear from the Office of the eSafety Commissioner on empowering young people, parents and carers to manage online issues.

Commit to your child’s online safety by attending this presentation from one of Australia’s leading online safety experts.

Date: Monday 8 October

Time: 7pm - 9pm

Location: Geraldton Grammar School

To book your place:  https://www.trybooking.com/423782

Specialist child sexual abuse prevention education - "Protective Behaviours" being offered in Geraldton

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Desert Blue Connect have organised Protective Behaviours WA to deliver a 2 day certified training of their “Protective Behaviours” program in Geraldton on September 17 & 18th.   “Protective Behaviours” is a child-focused sexual abuse prevention education program that teaches children, young people and adults a range of skills and strategies to help prevent and reduce child sexual abuse in the community.

Desert Blue Connect uses a whole of community approach to provide strategies that aim to prevent child abuse and children’s exposure to family violence.  One approach is to provide professional learning for teachers, school support staff, youth workers, chaplains, police, or other professionals who work with children so they can provide this specialised program in a variety of education and care settings. 

Child sexual abuse prevention education usually takes place in schools and early childhood settings, however it can also be provided in sporting clubs, youth groups and other community settings where children learn, live and play.

“We are offering this specialist training to a range of educators and teachers but we also encourage anyone who has a role working with children or who has an interest in child sexual abuse prevention to attend”, said Ms. Camp, Senior Community Educator at Desert Blue Connect.

“It’s all about learning how to support children and keep them safe.  Participants will learn various protective behaviour strategies they can then teach to children, which promotes safety and wellbeing, and improves the children’s resilience.”

“The training manual is provided in the cost and we will have a range of resources available for participants to take home with them”, said Ms. Camp.

Protective Behaviours WA are offering their universal Foundations Training which is recommended for service providers working in education, child protection, children’s services, early education & care, youth services, disability services, family violence services, accommodation services, crime prevention and Indigenous services.

The Foundations Training will be held on 17th and 18th of September 2018 from 9:00am to 4:00pm at the Desert Blue Connect Studio, 28 Durlacher Street, Geraldton.  The cost is $300 which includes training manuals, morning tea and lunch.

Tickets are available at Desert Blue Connect reception, 25 Chapman Road, Geraldton or via Eventbrite https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/protective-behaviours-2-day-certified-training-tickets-47335393436

If you would like any further information about the training, contact Christine at Desert Blue Connect christinec@desertblueconnect.com.au or by phoning 9964 2742.

Desert Blue Connect offer specialist education in sexuality and relationship, respectful relationship and child protection and abuse prevention.  This is offered to professionals, individuals, community organisations and schools and is customised to meet the specific needs whilst using a whole of community approach.  Please contact Desert Blue Connect for further information on 9964 2742 or email info@desertblueconnect.org.au

Desert Blue Connect provide a range of free or low cost services that include women’s health, rural support services, family violence response, primary prevention and crisis accommodation for women and children.  

For an appointment at Desert Blue Connect, call 9964 2742 or drop into the office at 25 Chapman Road in Geraldton.

Community organisations work together to raise awareness of family violence in our community

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The Geraldton community are invited to a Walk or Run White Ribbon Fundraiser on Sunday 26th August, 2018 starting time is 9:00am from the Geraldton Foreshore.  This event is being organised by the Mid West-Gascoyne Domestic Violence Response Team who hold an annual event to raise awareness of family violence in the Geraldton community. 

“This year we have teamed up with Geraldton Harriers to hold a walk or run event”, said Senior Constable Renai Gildersleeve.  “We have designed it to be an outside community event where everyone can come along and join in.”

“Our message this year is that everyone can make a difference when it comes to preventing violence”, said SC Gildersleeve.  “We are encouraging everyone to wear a white t-shirt to support the event.”

The Walk or Run 2km or 6km event will be held on Sunday 26th August 2018 starting at 9:00am from the Geraldton Foreshore (near the Yacht Club). 
A breakfast barbecue will follow the Walk or Run.

Tickets are available at Desert Blue Connect reception, 25 Chapman Road, Geraldton or available on event day.  Costs are $10 for adults and $5 for children, please keep your ticket to collect your medal on the day.  All fees paid will be donated to White Ribbon.

The Walk or Run White Ribbon Fundraiser is a partnership between Western Australia Police, Department of Communities, Geraldton Harriers, Desert Blue Connect, and Mission Australia.

Sponsors for the event include Telstra Store Geraldton, Neighbourhood Watch, Water Corporation, Bunnings Geraldton, Mid-West Clontarf Academy and Rigters IGA Supermarket.

If you would like any further information, contact Senior Constable Renai Gildersleeve on 9923 4633 or Tracie McGiffin-Singh on 9923 4590.

White Ribbon Australia aims to create an Australian society where all women can live in safety, free from violence and abuse.  It is a non-for-profit organisation that works through a primary prevention approach in schools, workplaces and communities across Australia.  Through their programs and campaigns, White Ribbon engages with men to be part of the social change needed to prevent men’s violence against women.  Further information can be found at https://www.whiteribbon.org.au/

If you feel unsafe or would like confidential advice please call:

  • WA Police for immediate help 000
  • Desert Blue Connect – Geraldton 9964 2472
  • 1800 respect on 1800 737 732

Come & Play at the Geraldton Grammar School Early Learning Centre

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Geraldton Grammar School offers kindergarten programs especially for 3 and 4 year old children with highly qualified, experienced early childhood teachers in a beautiful environment. With the facilities only a K-12 campus can offer, their kindergarten programs are exciting places of fun and learning!

Do you want to have a look at Geraldton Grammar School’s Early Learning Centre? Then join them at their next Come and Play morning on Wednesday 5 September. You will get to meet the staff and experience their facilities. It is at the Junior Kindy Room at 134 George Rd, 9am to 10:30am. Alternatively, you can arrange a tour of the campus by calling 9965 7800.

 

Welcome to the ‘Glenview’

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Enjoy outstanding sunsets over the Indian Ocean.  Imagine yourself wining and dining on your very own balcony as you watch the ships go by. 

Beautifully finished with cedar ceilings to the entry.  Timber finished doors say a big ‘Welcome Home” in a way only timber can.  As you walk through the spacious hallway the Tasmanian Oak stairs hint this is not your normal four by two.

Theatre room off to the right provides separation for relaxation or entertaining. Ocean views through the awning windows are a constant reminder  that one of Geraldton’s best beaches is only a few meters away.

As you enter the main living area practical, spacious and stylish are the words that come to mind.  Q- Stone benchtops compliment the modern galley style kitchen. Plenty of storage for the family’s supplies in the walk in pantry and softened by Tasmanian Oak finished shelf fronts. 

An outside entertaining area that is protected from the summer southerly’s, provides alfresco dining at its best.  Close to the kitchen and sheltered from the wind and afternoon sun. Check out the beautifully laid midland bricks. Surely this home has it all.

Four spacious bedrooms with fully shelved robes feature Tasmanian Oak window boards and shelf fronts, keeping the timber theme flowing throughout the home.

A practical, laundry with plenty of room for looking after the needs of the family that is lucky enough to call this home.

The main bathroom enjoys a feature wall complimented with recessed shelf. Can you see yourself soaking away your worries in the extra depth bath, glancing around and noticing how the semi frameless shower screens compliment the openness of this room. 

As you ascend the timber stairway you are greeted with three choices. Do you settle down in the retreat and enjoy the ocean view through the large feature window. Continue out onto the balcony and settle down to enjoy the sound of the waves lapping on the sun soaked beach. Absorbing the colours of the ocean and the spectacle of ospreys, that have made this beach there home.

The upper floor main bedroom has it all. Beach front views through the two awning windows. Plenty of room to move as you enter the walk through robe, fitted out with the modern yet practical elite robe system. A cavity slider provides privacy to the massive ensuite.  Practical and stylish, there is so much room to move. Feature wall tiles and semi frameless shower screen compliment the massive shower. A wall hung vanity complimented with a massive mirror depicts the style found throughout this home. 

Come and see the Glenview for yourself.  You will be impressed.

See our website www.tritonbuilding.com.au for opening hours.

 

Save the date for Geraldton Grammar School’s Open Day

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Save the date for Geraldton Grammar School’s Open Day Thursday 9 August. 

Whether you currently have children going to Geraldton Grammar School, you are considering sending them there or you just want to see what Geraldton Grammar has to offer, this is the perfect opportunity to get more information, have a look around, and speak to the staff.

It starts at 6pm in the library to meet our Principal Neesha Flint followed by a video and presentation. Tours of the school can be arranged and you will have time to speak with staff and parents over cheese and wine. 
If you would like any more information please contact the school on 9965 7800 or email them at ggs@gegs.wa.edu.au

https://www.facebook.com/events/688432704834901/

 

Strathalbyn Christian College Invites Parents for a Play Date at Kindy

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Strathalbyn Christian College is throwing the Kindy doors open and inviting parents and children to visit, play and explore.

Strathalbyn Christian College provides a safe and supportive environment for young minds to grow. At the beginning of each new school year, Kindy students attend for half days only, which is ideal for parents and children, allowing them to gradually become more familiar with the school environment. They transition to full days after a few weeks. We are blessed at Strath to have two wonderful Early Childhood Teachers, Mrs Quenby Fabian and Mrs Brenda Pattenden, who really enjoy teaching young students in a play-based environment.

Play based learning capitalises on children’s natural sense of inquiry and discovery through hands-on exploration of the world around them. Our Teachers embed elements of teaching and learning within the play experiences that children are interested in and naturally drawn to – and therefore more likely to stay engaged with.

With limited places at Strath for 2019 and 2020, we would encourage parents with young children under 4 years of age to consider coming along to see what Strath has to offer.

There are three separate Open Days providing different opportunities for families to attend. The first session will be held on Monday 30th July at 11am - 1pm. Refreshments will be provided however we encourage parents to bring a picnic lunch for their children. RSVP is essential for the Open Days. Please email the College admin@scc.wa.edu.au or phone 9938 9100.

Additional Open Days will be held on Monday 27 August and Monday 17 September from 11am - 1pm.

Create, Share and Imagine at Strath.

 

Dr Lorel Mayberry to talk on pornography and effects on children and young people

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Dr Lorel Mayberry, Sexologist will be in Geraldton on 9th August 2018 facilitating an education session for parents and caregivers.  The session is for those who would like to increase their confidence and skills to talk to children and young people about pornography and/or have concerns about children’s access to pornography.

The session covers topics including the impact of young peoples’ expectations of sex and sexuality, effects of exposure, responding to online pornography and other risks, and how to talk with children. 

“Parents are the most important educators of their children,” said Dr Mayberry. “The more comfortable parents feel about talking about sexuality, the more likely it is that their children talk with them.”

“Talking with your children about pornography is essential. Research tells us that even young children are accessing porn and quite often this is by accident. Porn gives young minds false messages about healthy sexuality. It is often sexist and disrespectful towards women.”

“Parents may think that their children will not listen to them. With a positive approach, parents can have a strong influence on attitudes towards relationships and sexuality,” Dr. Mayberry said.

The session for parents & caregivers: Online pornography, effects on children and young people will be held on 9th August 2018, 7pm to 9pm at the Desert Blue Connect Studio, 28 Durlacher Street, Geraldton.  Tickets are $25 and are available at Desert Blue Connect reception or on Eventbrite at https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/online-pornography-effects-on-children-and-young-people-tickets-46969259319

Dr Lorel Mayberry will also facilitate a professional development session:  Understanding sexuality and relationship education on Friday 10th August 2018 from 9:30am to 12:00 noon at the Desert Blue Connect Studio.  This session is aimed at teachers and school staff, counsellors, psychologists, social workers, and others with an interest in sexuality and relationship education.  It will explore topics including sexual development (preschool to adolescence), how to talk to children and young people about keeping safe, gender and sexuality, and promoting healthy relationships.  Cost is $25 which includes morning tea, tickets either at Desert Blue Connect reception or on Eventbrite at

 https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/understanding-sexuality-and-relationship-education-tickets-46926612762

Dr Lorel Mayberry has worked as a sexologist for three decades and lectures in sexology at Curtin University.  She works as a consultant in sexuality education specializing in teaching of the controversial issues in health education.  She does many workshops with parents and teachers including workshops with the school curriculum materials – ‘Growing and developing healthy relationships’. 

Desert Blue Connect provide a range of free or low cost services that include women’s health, rural support services, men’s services, family violence response, primary prevention and crisis accommodation for women and children.  

Desert Blue Connect also offer specialist education in sexuality and relationship, respectful relationship and child protection and abuse prevention.  This is offered to professionals, individuals, community organisations and schools and is customised to meet the specific needs whilst using a whole of community approach.  Please contact Desert Blue Connect for further information on 9964 2742 or email info@desertblueconnect.org.au

 

Geraldton Grammar School Enrolments for Junior Kindy to Y12

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Geraldton Grammar School is taking enrolments for Junior Kindy to Y12. 

We are a small school with a big heart but large enough to provide a huge array of opportunities supported by our dedicated, independently appointed and highly qualified teaching staff. We run more than 30 subjects and participate in 28 different sports, musical groups, clubs and societies.


Each year, our students eclipse state literacy, numeracy and tertiary qualification standards. Geraldton Grammar School was recognised as the top performing school in the MidWest in both the Primary and Secondary education sections of the NAPLAN assessments. In addition, we achieved the highest rankings in the Vocational Education and Training in Schools awards, and we regularly have over 70% of our year 12 cohort enter university. This is more than double other schools in our region. 

To experience the real warmth and personality of our School in person, please contact the School, so we are able to organise a personal tour with the Principal.

Call: 9965 7800 or Email: ggs@gegs.wa.edu.au

July Savings!

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For the month of July only, bring your puppy in for their first vaccination, pay for the first and second vaccination and get the third one FREE!

At Chapman animal hospital it is our passion to keep pets safe from preventable diseases. Parvo virus is highly contagious and easily preventable by ensuring our pets are vaccinated from puppy through to old age.

Our vet Jackie

Nurse Renae and Clover

Adorable Pepe

Call us today on 99642828, and speak to one of our friendly staff to book your puppy vaccinations and begin the journey to a healthy, happy life with your dog.

*Terms and conditions apply.