Weekly Sports Wrap Up

Netball The Redink Homes Mid West Tigers are yet to get a win this season despite putting in a huge effort in a double-header home fixture over the weekend. The Perth Lions who sit on second spot of the state league ladder looked prime to take two easy wins but a feisty Mid West Tigers side showed no signs of backing down. Despite not getting a win, there were two hard fought out matches. Saturday was a tight clash and the Lions managed a 37-31 win over the home side. Sunday's scoreline was bigger with the visitors taking a 50-37 win.

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Basketball

The Geraldton Buccaneers have come off two wins on Perth on the weekend and they currently sit in second spot on the SBL ladder. The Buccs took a 125-101 win over their third spot rivals, Joondalup Woolves, and a 118-97 win over the Cockburn Cougars. The Buccs will take on Mandurah Magic on Saturday at Activewest Stadium with tip-off at 7pm. Tickets are available at the door.

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Hockey

The women's Cardinals side has made history over the weekend - being the first women's team to win three Challenge Cup titles in a row. The side took an easy 4-1 win against Swans to regain the cup. In the men's game it was Murchison who were too good for Yacht Club winning 7-2.

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GNFL

Brigades annihilated Rovers on Saturday with a massive 170-32 win. Brigades are currently sitting in second spot on the GNFL league ladder with Towns ahead of them. In third spot is Mullewa and they managed to get another win on the board on the weekend in a tight match-up against Northampton with Mullewa taking the 8-point win. In the other match over the weekend Chapman Valley lost to Railways, 113-84. Despite some high profile recruits this season, Chapman Valley sit on the bottom of the ladder but it's only early days. Next weekend Towns will take on Rovers, Brigades will go head-to-head with Northampton on Saturday and Mullewa and Chapman Valley will have the only Sunday match.

Local dancers bring home prestigious awards

Students from Geraldton dance studio, All Things Dance, have returned from Perth with a swag of awards and accolades after the West Coast Dance Festival.

Eighteen dancers from the local dance school competed against some of WA’s finest in a number of different categories last month.

Having a very successful competition was Tenae McCombe with two 1sts, three 2nds and a special mention. Nadia Priolo with two 1sts, one 2nd, two 3rds and a special mention. And Joel Houwen with three 1sts, one 3rd and a special mention.

An unexpected highlight of the competition was Nadia Priolo and Joel Houwen receiving the adjudicator’s award which is given to a competitor who has caught the judge's eye and attention for all the right reasons.

"This award is one of the four main awards given out at the end of the festival,” said All Things Dance instructor Jadine Priolo.

“To receive it is a huge honour and to have two students from our studio receive it is absolutely amazing."

Joining Tenae, Nadia and Joel in award success was Lili Gaudio with a 1st and 2nd place, Abbey Smith with two 2nd places and a special mention, Samara Houwen with a 2nd place and a special mention, Anna Priolo with a 2nd place, Antonio Priolo with a 3rd place and a special mention, and Eve Gaudio with a special mention.

"I'm extremely proud of all the students who competed,” said Mrs Priolo.

“Their dedication and commitment is incredible. They all work really hard and their success is well deserved."

Weekly Sports Wrap Up

Netball:

Falcons look like the team to beat in this year’s Geraldton Netball Association senior one competition after a grand-final re-match against Aztecs saw Falcons take out an easy 26-goal win. Despite being last year’s premiers, Aztecs weren’t good enough to keep up with this year’s favourites. Falcons’ shooters Stevee Adamini and Maddi Schultz combined for the first time in years in the attacking end, making it hard for Aztecs to get ahead. The game was set in stone early and Falcons have already cemented their dominance after the first round walking away with the 55-29 win.

It was an evenly matched game against Kazuals and Pumas from the first whistle. It was goal-for-goal in the first quarter with the score 10-all at the first break. Kazuals’ shooter Melissa Criddle was accurate but Pumas’ shooters Annie Ducas and returning player Shelby Kennedy were also pivotal. Pumas made a small break and managed to stretch out a 4-goal lead at half time. Kazuals didn’t back down and fired up with some great defensive pressure. This time it was Kazuals who managed to get ahead with a mere 1-goal lead heading into the last quarter. The game could have gone either way but it was Kazuals who managed to cling onto a lead and take home a tight 3-goal win.

Geraldton Buccaneers:

The Geraldton Buccaneers had a big victory over the Perry Lakes Hawks on Saturday night, 107-95. The Buccs now sit in second spot on the SBL ladder, just below the Rockingham Flames. It was a tight match-up throughout the game but the Buccs managed to hold out for the 12-point win. Buccs’ Bennie Lewis was outstanding for the side, adding 37-points on the scoreboard with Odartey Blankson scoring 23 points.

The Buccs will take on the Joondalup Wolves on Saturday in Perth and the Cockburn Cougars on Sunday. The Buccs should be able to have a win against the Cougars as they sit in 11th spot on the ladder but it will be a tight clash against the Joondalup Wolves on Saturday as the Wolves sit just below the Buccs on the ladder in third spot.

Football:

As the final siren sounded on Saturday night, scores were level for Railways and Northampton. Both sides couldn’t make a clean break as the match concluded 89-all. It was a disappointing start for the Rams as they failed to score in the first quarter. It looked as though it would be Railways who would take the win but Rams’ momentum increased. Northampton managed to get in front in the last quarter of the game but the lead swapped and changed until it was 13 goals and 11 points for both sides.

Towns are yet to loose a game this season and they remain on top of the ladder after they took a 115-91 win over Mullewa on Sunday. In the third league match for the weekend it was a mere 2-point loss for Chapman Valley against Rovers.

The current GNFL League ladder:

1st Towns - 12 points

2nd Northampton - 6 points

3rd Mullewa - 4 points

4th Brigades - 4 points

5th Rovers - 4 points

6th Railways - 2 points

7th Chapman Valley - 0 points

Check out the GNFL website for more information.

Hockey:

Murchison had a 2-1 win over Cardinals in the women’s A-grade hockey. Australs were just too good for Saints as they managed a convincing 4-nil win. Yacht Club couldn’t get a goal on the scoreboard in their match against Swans with a 2-nil loss for the side. It was a different story for the Australs men’s side as Saints won 2-1. Rovers and Murchison put on a good show for spectators as they drew in a high scoring 4-all match. It was also another draw in the Casuals, Yacht Club clash.

Tune into listen to the Buccs

You can now tune in and listen to live commentary of the Geraldton Buccaneers home games on the Sport Shed App.

Hosted by local commentator Peter Fiorenza and local basketball personality Scott Rubery, the pair not only commentate the games but bring listeners live interviews after the game and all the up-to-date stats throughout the match.

The broadcast is becoming popular among people overseas who can't watch the game.

Buccs great Dan Hunt was listening to the broadcast last week all the way from California and the family of Buccs' import Carter Cook have the pleasure of listening to the game from the USA also.

If you can't get to a home game, tune in and listen to the games on the Sports Shed app which is available for download on the App Store as well as Google Play.

Alternatively, people can tune into Radio Mama and listen to the live match on the station.

Geraldton Netball Association senior 1 preview

The Geraldton Netball Association senior one competition gets underway tonight with a 2013 grand final re-match between last year’s premiers Aztecs and this year’s competition favourites - Falcons.

Aztecs have had little change to their premiership side other than the addition of defender Clare Gee from Pumas while Falcons have welcomed former state shooter Maddi Schultz and defender Jess Kiely.

Falcons will be a hard force to break especially in attack with Schultz combining with former teammate Stevee Adamini. The pair were both from Pumas before Adamini made the change to Falcons last year and Schultz this year.

Falcons mid-court gun Rachel Opalinski will step into the role as coach for the side with veteran coach Sue Worthington as assistant coach.

Despite Falcons looking prime to take out the 2014 title, Opalinski says the competition will be tight.

“It should be another close and even competition this year,” she said.

“I think Kazuals will be extremely strong with returning players like Katie Kingdon.”

Aztecs’ coach Leanne Fiorenza says she is hoping for another full team effort in this year’s season.

“I think every single one of my players is vital,” she said.

“I’m looking forward to another great season and I still want to continue to develop my players.”

Kazuals have compensated for the loss of Tania Newey, Mischa Westlake, Holly Kerr and Brittany Moore with the additions of Kingdon as well as Zoe Sellers, Bridgette Clune and Bonnie Kerr.

Pumas will welcome back returning player Shelby Kennedy to the side while Lightning have added 7 new players to their squad.

Keep an eye out for match updates during the week.

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Fixtures:

6:30pm Aztecs vs. Falcons 8pm Pumas vs. Kazuals Bye: Lightning

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Team: Aztecs

Coach: Leanne Fiorenza

Finished last year: Premiers

Player Ins: Clare Gee (Pumas)

Player Outs: None

Key Players: All of my players

2014 ladder predictions:

1st- Falcons

2nd- Kazuals

3rd- Aztecs

4th- Pumas

5th- Lightning

Season comments: Looking forward to a great season and to continue to develop my players.

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Team: Falcons

Coach: Rachel Opalinksi

Finished last year: 2nd

Player Ins: Jess Kiely (Perth), Maddison Schultz (Dongara)

Player Outs: Kelly Eastough (Injury), Tessa Venturini (University in Perth)

Key Players: The whole team.

2014 ladder predictions:

1st- Falcons

2nd- Kazuals

3rd- Aztecs

4th- Pumas

5th- Lightning

Season comments: It should be another close and even competition.

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Team: Kazuals

Coach: Mischa Westlake

Finished last year: 4th

Player Ins: Zoe Sellers (returned town), Bridgette Clune (returned to town), Katie Kingdon (returned from having a baby), Bonnie Kerr (returned to town).

Player Outs: Tania Newey (pregnant), Mischa Westlake (injury), Holly Kerr (Perth), Brittany Moore (Perth).

Key Players: The whole team. The return of a few senior and experienced players will add some depth.

2014 ladder predictions:

1st- Falcons

2nd- Aztecs

3rd- Kazuals

4th- Pumas

5th- Lightning

Season comments: Hoping for a close and competitive season. Lots of young talent coming through in all clubs which is exciting.

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Team: Lightning

Coach: Kym Morphew

Finished last year: 5th

Player Ins: Kyra Jupp (Aztecs/Travel), Jess Desmond (Jnr 1 Pumas), Ellen Evers (new to town), Kirrily McCory (Snr 2), Lily pepper (Jnr 3), Emma Smith (Snr 3).

Player Outs: Raina Hunt, Sharna Hunt, Nat Hunt, Christine Tilley.

Key Players: Ex-Midwest Tiger Kyra jupp and junior talents Lily Pepper and Jess Desmond.

2014 ladder predictions:

1st- Falcons

2nd- Kazuals

3rd- Lightning

4th- Aztecs

5th- Pumas

Season comments: great to see the return of talented players. Looking forward to the juniors hitting the senior one court.

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Team: Pumas

Coach: Nic Gleghorn

Finished last year: 3rd

Player Ins: Shelby Kennedy (returning)

Player Outs: Tayla Royce (university in Perth), Clare Gee (aztecs), Ellerby Schultz (Falcons Reserves).

Key Players: Alesha Burnett (Condon), Annie Ducas, Shelby Kennedy.

2014 ladder predictions:

1st- Pumas

2nd- Falcons

3rd- Aztecs

4th- Kazuals

5th- Lightning

Season comments: We’ve got a good mix of senior and junior players. Great to have Shelby Kennedy back playing. Looks like it will be another close season with some new players in the mix.

Weekend Sports Wrap Up

Winter sports are now underway with plenty happenings over the weekend! If you would like to send in your sports results to Everything Geraldton e-mail them to petak@justeverything.com.au. GNFL:

It was a close match up between Chapman Valley and Brigades in round 2 of the GNFL season with Brigades coming out on top with a 97-74 win on Saturday at Nabawa. Mullewa managed a more convincing win over Rovers at Top Iron Oval securing a 46-point win. Towns and Railways were the only league sides to play on Sunday and it was Towns who took out the easy win, 124-48. For fixtures and ladders visit the GNFL website.

Netball:

The Geraldton Netball season got underway on Friday night with both junior and senior teams taking to the court for the first time this year. Sub juniors also began their 2014 season on Saturday. The season continues on Tuesday night with the rest of the teams in the GNA competition beginning their 2014 season, including the senior one competition. Keep an eye out on Everything Geraldton for a full preview tomorrow.

Tennis: 

Pink pink pink! Over 100 ladies turned out for Geraldton Tennis Club’s annual Pink Ladies Day on Saturday.  Now in it’s 7th year, many competed to raise money for the cancer council. Congratulations to Helen Spivey and Gaylene Crear who took out this year’s title.

Basketball:

The Geraldton Buccaneers had a convincing 17-win over the Rockingham Flames at Activewest Stadium on Saturday night. A huge home crowd came to support the side as they cemented their win early in the game. Buccs’ import Odartey Blankson was pivotal scoring 26-points as was Bennie Lewis who sunk 19-points. Despite Flames’ Cooper Land scoring a match-high 32 points, the Buccs were too good taking home the 112-95 win.

Hockey:

Cardinals had an easy win over Yacht Club in the Women’s A-grade competition with a 5-0 haul. It was a closer match-up in the other women’s game with Murchison defeating Australs 1-0. In the men’s games it was Yacht Club who trumped Cardinals 5-0 whilst Murchison took a 4-2 win over Australs.

Buccs off to firing start against Flames

The Geraldton Bucaneers got off to a quick start in their home game against the Rockingham Flames.

Buccs were quick on the scoreboard and led 7-0 before the Flames even had a chance to score.

Buccs’ Odartey Blankson cemented his dominance early and was strong under the bucket.

But a 3-pointer by the Flames put them right back into the match.

But Buccs seemed too good for the visitors and led 22-8 with five minutes left in the first quarter.

Clayton Dann came on for the Buccs and was swift in bringing the ball down court.

Flames tried their best to make leeway on the scoreboard but found it hard to convert under the basket.

Buccs managed to score a steady 39 points and led by 16 points at quarter time.

Shamus Ballantyne was pivotal for the Buccs and despite not being the tallest on court, he managed to weave his way under the basket for some speccy lay ups.

Flames’ frustration showed on the court but there were some signs of light throughout the second quarter with some strong rebounding in Flames’ defensive end.

Bennie Lewis put on a show for the huge Buccs crowd but Flames had a burst of good play with 5 minutes left in the half.

It looked as though they could lessen the margin but the Buccs led 67-48 at half time.

Buccs wasted no time heading into the second half and were first on the scoreboard.

Taylor Land was crucial for Flames sinking some needed points for his side.

Buccs Captain Mat Wundenberg helped his side on the scoreboard and teammate Luke Wrensted also proved his worth.

It looked as though the Buccs already has their fate set in stone as they continued to make ground on their leading margin.

But Flames didn’t drop their heads.

Flames’ Justin Beard helped Flames turn their game around as the margin lessened.

But Buccs managed still held a steady 89-72 lead heading into the final quarter.

The home crowd wasn’t shy in voicing their support for their side and the Buccs.

The Flames managed to get the margin to 16-points with seven minutes left in the match but they couldn’t get any closer.

Buccs got 100 points on the scoreboard with a score from Lewis and they led by 21-points with just over 6 minutes left in the match.

Youngster Jayden Crowe came onto the court and slotted in well with his side as did Jack Stone.

Despite the Flames giving it all they had the Buccs kept their composure to run away with a 17-point win with the final score 112-95.

You can listen to all the live updates on Radio Mama Geraldton and you can download the Sports Shed app from the App Store or Google Play.

Hockey – Five Star Hale defeat Peel Rebels in Melville Toyota League Fixture in Geraldton

Hale recorded their first win of the Melville Toyota League season with an emphatic 5-0 victory over Peel Rebels in Geraldton. Geoff Cock was the star man on Saturday, scoring four and assisting with the other in a five star performance. Hale had a lightening quick start to the game, scoring in the opening minute. A Penalty Stroke was awarded, which Geoff Cock duly converted into the top left hand corner to open his and Hale’s account.

Three minutes later, Cock would make it 2-0 after a sublime pass by Lachlan Ashton found the target man in the circle.

Both sides had to contend with the wet conditions, which saw 36.4mm of rain fall at the Mitchell & Brown Stadium in Geraldton. It was Hale though that best adapted to the conditions, taking an early two goal lead.

The downpour was too much in the twenty fourth minute of the game and the umpires paused proceedings momentarily. Hale had a couple of penalty corners soon after the restart, having to create some interesting variations with the puddles prohibiting ‘normal play’.

The second half started in much the same way as the first half, with Hale dominating the game. Peel Rebels found it difficult to gain momentum in their fleeting moments of possession.

Cock was pivotal up front for Hale, troubling Peel’s defence. The Goalscorer would turn provider for Hale’s third when the star man was fouled just outside the circle. Instead of going on to take a shot himself; he laid it off to Greg Reece, with the captain’s shot skipping under Mike Smith and into the back of the goal to extend the margin to three.

Damon Ross almost got himself on the scoreboard in the 49 minute. His shot from an acute angle slide past the goalkeeper, but Marshall Puzey was on hand to clear the ball off the goal-line.

Cock would bring up his hat-trick and Hale’s fourth not long after. Dwayne Rowsell played in Cock with a sublime ball which was finished off with class.

Peel had a couple of chances themselves in the latter stages of the game, earning a couple of penalty corners. Hale were able to quickly counter from a Peel corner which saw them win a short themselves. This time, a variation saw Geoff Cock slide across the turf. His deflection gave Mike Smith no chance in goals and with it, Hale’s fifth and final goal of the game.

Cock was inches away from having a fifth, when his tomahawk cannoned off the right hand post.

Peel had a penalty corner right at the end, but Aiden Elliot who was celebrating his 18th birthday got his body behind it to keep a clean sheet.

The win see’s Geoff Cock break his goal drought in impressive fashion, as well as secure Hale’s first points of the season. Peel meanwhile will have to wait at least another week to record a win.

Before the game; Hockey WA facilitated an umpiring and ‘coach the coaches’ session for the Geraldton locals by former Hockeyroo Hope Munro and Melissa Grey. Afterwards, the kids had the chance to quiz Munro about her experiences coming from the country area to participating in two Olympic Games for Australia. An autograph and photo session followed to cap off a wonderful day up in Geraldton.

Hockey WA would like to thank the Department of Sport and Recreation for their considerable support for which this event would not otherwise be possible. Thanks also to the Geraldton Hockey Association for their hospitality, as well as CBH for their continued support in Country hockey.

Final Score: Hale 5 (Geoff Cock 1’ PS, 4’, 50’, 63’ PC, Greg Reece 38’ PC) defeated Peel Rebels 0

Match day Squads Hale 1. Lachlan Ashton, 2. Justin Knapp (Captain), 4. Geoff Cock, 5. Morgon Dry, 7. Greg Reece, 10. Scott McCormack, 11. Chris Lawson, 13. Chris Moses, 18. Steve Cock, 20. Michael Ferguson, 21. Nat Curtin, 22. Damon Ross, 27. Aidan Elliot (GK), 28. Dwayne Rowsell, 31. Robbie Bear. Coach: Craig Emslie Manager: Catherine McFarlane

Peel Rebels 1. Nicholas Resta (Import), 2. Marshall Puzey, 3. Dylan Squibb, 4. Liam Smith, 5. Alex Wenn, 6. David Ogden, 7. Aaron Reichard, 8. Jordan Barrodeen, 9. George Farrant (Import), 10. Andrew Sutherland (Import), 11. Nathan Squibb, 12. Cale Varris (Captain), 13. Paul Morrissey, 14.Gavin Bathgate, 15. Mathew Rose (Import), 20. Mike Smith (GK). Coach: Mark Sandhu Manager: Mark Barrodeen

Umpires: Hope Munro and Dan Johnston Technical Official: Bree Coleman

Buccs take home 18-point win in home game against Giants

It was a shaky start for the Geraldton Buccaneers but they managed a convincing 18-point over the Goldfields Giants.

Buccs trailed by just 4 points at the first break of their home game against the Giants.

It only took Buccs seconds for their first score of the game with an easy one from Odartey Blankson but the Goldfields Giants were quick to reciprocate.

Bennie Lewis scored the next two goals for the Buccs with some speccy moves and pressure was high in the Buccs’ defensive end.

Some inaccuracy from the Buccs and strong plays in the Giants’ offensive end put the Buccs and the Giants 8-all with 7 minutes left in the first quarter.

Giants’ Lordan Franich was pivotal for his side and was accurate under the basket.

Giants continued their good form but Buccs didn’t let them get too far ahead as Giants led 28-24 at the first break.

Intensity was high as both sides entered the second quarter and it wasn't long before scores were level.

Blankson was accurate and Buccs' Shamus Ballantyne proved his worth bringing the ball down court swiftly.

Some good range shooting by Buccs' Bennie Lewis put them 5 points ahead with just under 5 minutes left in the half.

Giants' Duran Blue made it hard for Buccs to get too far ahead and it was tight competition for the rest of the half.

Buccs led 51-46 at half time.

After just 5 minutes into the third quarter, scores were back to even, 51-all.

Lewis pulled out all stops and the Buccs reeled in a 10-point lead, with just over 8 minutes left in the third quarter.

The home crowd showed their support for their side as their lead extended.

Buccs were strong in their rebounding but Giants were hot on their tails.

With just one quarter left in the match Buccs led 72-62.

Buccs were keen to keep their lead and Lewis together with Blankson put on a show for the crowd.

Giants looked as though they were running out of steam and Buccs maintained their intensity.

Buccs' Carter Cook made leeway on the margin and the Buccs went from strength-to-strength.

A tussle between the two sides with just under two minutes in the match didn't deter the Buccs and they walked away with  a 102-84 win.

Speccy surfing at 4th annual surf comp and novelty beach games day

It was a sight to see on Sunday as 150 local spectators and 60 competitors graced Back Beach or the 4th Annual Geraldton Christian Surfers Competition and Novelty Beach Games Day.

After a safety briefing and prayer, the Novelty Division Expression Session began.

Through this division, competitors joyfully rode inflatable surf craft and standard boards with intent and amazing displays of skill with a giant bouncy castle in the background.

Some of the speccy results included:

• Best Wave:  Bodhi Brooker (15):  A quality wave with a big forehand hack send spray well above the lip.
• Best Trick:  Ruben Edwards (12):  Grab a tractor tyre tube, caught a wave, stood up and completed a 360 degree turn on his way to shore.
• Best Theme Interpretation:  Mac Carter (11):  stood up wearing float ring on top of a chair on top of foam surfboard.
• Best Effort:  Lilly Piesse (7):  Completed an awesome coffin ride.
• Most Committed: Ishi Weaver (7):  Got hit by a stray surfboard as she walked out to surf but soldiered on catch some great waves.

Next up, was the grommet heats in more of a standard style competition.  For many surfers, it was their first surfing contest and they cruised up and down the challenging waves throwing in impressive turns wherever possible.

For the MicroGrom and SuperGrom divisions, parents were also able to assist in dragging their children into position to help them get onto the best position of the waves breaking.

MicroGroms Champion: Jake Haagen (8) 18.3 Points MicroGroms Runner Up:   Jai Plumber (8) 15.0 Points

SuperGroms Champion:   Mac Carter (11)  16 Points SuperGroms Runner Up: Jed Taylor (12) 14 Points

CadetGroms Champion:  Bodhi Brooker (15)  14.3 Points CadetGroms Runner Up: Coup Taylor (14)   13 Points

A donated refurbished surfboard was also given away to Taylor Healy (9) as an encouragement award for her consistently impressive surfing on a soft top surfboard up to the quarter finals.

Christian Surfers Geraldton president Nathan Boothman again was impressed with the community spirit around this event.

"I want to thank God for the amazing day and the huge effort from all our volunteers,” he said.

As event organisers, Christian Surfers Geraldton also want to thank sponsors including Midwest Surf School, Geraldton Surf Life Saving Club, Sticky Feet Wax, Kim Ansell, Midwest Signs, BM Surf, Geraldton Surf and Sail and Stone Surfboards.

People looking to learn to surf can call Midwest Surf School on 0419 988 756 or for fortnightly surf adventures can call Nathan from Christian Surfers Geraldton on 0422 428 972.

UAV operator "not certified" according to ACUO, after triathlete injured by UAV in Geraldton

Australian Certified UAV Operators (ACUO) have today said local business New Era Film and Photography are not a holder of a CASA UAV Operator Certificate (UOC).

This comes after yesterday's incident where a triathlete was struck on the head by a UAV (unmanned aerial vehicle, or drone) according to witnesses and the triathlete herself, Raija Ogden.

Everything Geraldton has since spoke to the business owner Warren Abrams who is still adamant he does in fact hold the proper certification.

"My registration number is 819 640," he said.

"I obtained my UAV Operator Certificate in February 2013 and at the time CASA told me that I was the third person in Australia to obtain this."

Warren went onto say that he believes CASA have not updated their records.

Brad Mason from the ACUO, an independent not for profit organisation with members from around Australia who operate UAV's, said that the number Mr Abrams quoted is not a licence number for flying a UAV. "It sounds like an ARN, which doesn't mean anything," said Mr Mason. An ARN is a registration number that is used to simply correspond with CASA. "The number a licensed UAV operator should have is a combination of letters and numbers," said Mr Mason.

A statement by ACUO said research they conducted revealed that there was no records of New Era Film and Photography holding the certification.

"The alleged operator of the UAV was not the holder of a CASA UAV Operator Certificate (UOC)," the statement said.

"ACUO’s own research conducted today indicates the alleged operator has been active for some time, following several claims by the alleged operator in media interviews, including with the West Australian regional media in March 2013 to be a CASA certificate holder."

ACUO confirmed that the alleged operator of the UAV was not, nor has ever attempted to become, a member of the organisation. ACUO can also confirm that they have today acted to ensure CASA is aware of the alleged operator’s previous claims to be a certified operator as part of the matters arising from the weekend’s accident.

“What happened during the Endure Batavia Triathlon must be fully investigated,” says President of ACUO Joe Urli.

“The very act of flying a UAV low over the head of members of the public is a direct breach of Part 101 of the Australian Civil Aviation Regulations which clearly mandates a minimum separation of 30 meters.

“The circumstances by which the air vehicle came to be in close proximity with the triathlete and the subsequent events culminating in her being physically injured is not acceptable by any standards of professional airmanship.

“To the female triathlete ACUO says this: We are appalled by what happened to you at the weekend. We believe you are entitled to a full explanation as to how and why the accident happened. We are sorry that the apparent actions of an uncertified operator have caused you injury and pain. As a peak industry body we will do all we can to ensure that no person has to again endure the events as experienced by you.”

Raija Ogden received head injuries during Geraldton's Endure Batavia Triathlon yesterday and was taken to hospital where she received stitches.

Mr Abrams has made several claims that the UAV didn't hit Mrs Ogden and that it merely frightened her, causing her to fall to the ground and sustain the injuries. According to The Geraldton Guardian, Mr Abrams said footage taken by the drone showed the athlete Mrs Ogden look backwards toward the approaching drone, become frightened, and then fall over injuring herself.

The Geraldton Guardian also spoke to Mrs Ogden who said the propeller from the drone struck her on the front of her head and that the ambulance crew pulled a piece of propeller from her head.

Today Mr Abrams said he was unable to make comment on whether the athlete in question had actually been hit, and an enquiry is ongoing and that a statement would be released in the next couple of days.

See previous story - Unfortunate Accident at Triathlon

Unfortunate event as Triathlete sustains head injuries from drone

A competitor in today’s Endure Batavia Triathlon has been taken to hospital after an Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) otherwise known as a drone, fell from the sky hitting her on the head.

The competitor, Raija Ogden was heading into her second lap of the run leg of the race on the Foreshore when the incident occurred.

The remote-controlled copter struck her head and she fell to the ground.

Raija is the wife of defending champ Courtney Ogden who came in second place in today’s race shortly after the incident occurred.

The UAV operated and owned by local videographers New Era Photography and Film were covering the event with live footage and owner Warren Abrams said the circumstances looked to be suspicious.

“We will be conducting a full investigation of what happened but it looks as though someone has hacked into our system,” he said.

The Geraldton Triathlon Club released a statement expressing their sincere apologies about the accident.

“In relation to the incident that occurred today at the Endure Batavia Triathlon involving an aerial camera and competitor Raija Ogden, the Geraldton Triathlon Club wish to state their sincere apologies to Mrs Ogden,” the statement said.

“Mrs Ogden has been treated by paramedics on location and the club have been advised she is in a stable condition following the incident, with minor injuries sustained to her head.

“Geraldton Triathlon Club President Simon Teakle, said the club are very disappointed that this has occurred.

“We are currently in discussions with the videographers to assess how the incident occurred and the circumstances surrounding the accident,” he said.

“This incident should never have occurred and a full investigation will be conducted in conjunction with the videographers involved.”

Update - Follow up story - UAV operator “not certified” according to ACUO

Buccs take swift lead in first quarter against Slammers

Buccs have got off to a flying start in their second home game of the season against the Southwest Slammers taking a 37-18 lead at the first break. Buccs had their work cut out for them heading into the fourth round of the season with the Slammers in 5^th spot and the Buccs not far behind in 7^th spot.

The game starter and both teams had opportunities to score but it was Buccs’ Bennie Lewis who sunk a speccy three-pointer for the first score of the game but the Slammers were quick to reciprocate.

The smallest man on the court, Luke Wrensted then pulled out another three pointer but the Slammers were right on their tails.

Buccs imports Carter Cook and Odarty Blankson were standouts as was new-comer Bennie Lewis and captain Mat Wundenberg was a strong force in the Buccs’ defense.

Slammers’ Todd Hendley didnt waste his opportunities under the bucket both in offence and defense.

Buccs scoring percentage was impressive as they ended the first quarter with a sturdy 19-point lead.

Slammers put up the first four points in the second quarter and their intensity looked a lot higher in the second term.

But it didn’t defer the Buccs’ confidence and they continued to make leeway on the scoreboard.

Slammers’ Patrick Phillips showed some smooth moves in the keyway but Buccs’ defense was just as good.

Bennie Lewis put on a show for the crowd and his 3-point range was impressive.

In just seven minutes into the second quarter, The Buccs had extended their lead to 25-points.

The composure of  Buccs’ Luke Wrensted and Aaron Ralph was pivotal as they enjoyed a 73-52 lead at half time.

Shooting percentage was low for both sides in the first stages of the third quarter but Buccs’ momentum didn’t seem like it was going anywhere.

Slammers made some crucial mistakes and they seemed a bit shaken as the Buccs continued their good form.

Slammers upped the anti mid-way through the third term and Todd Hendley worked tirelessly to put his side on the scoreboard.

Buccs’ Clayton Dann proved his reliability in court and with three minutes left in the third quarter Buccs were up 94-66.

Buccs led 99-67 heading into the last quarter.

The game was almost set in stone as the Buccs entered the court for the last quarter with a 32-point lead.

Youngsters Charles Thurkle and Jack Stone got their chance on the court and all the Buccs had to do was hold their lead.

Slammers didn’t drop their heads and continued to lessen the margin on the scoreboard.

With 4 minutes left in the game Slammers only trailed by 17 points.

It looked as thought Slammers were going to make a tight comeback but the Buccs made sure the score line didn’t blow out.

With two minutes left in the game the crowd voiced their support as it was set in concrete that the Buccs would take home a win.

The last minutes of the game played out as the Buccs continued to seize their opportunities.

As the final siren sounded the crowd was on their feet as the Buccs took home a convincing 120-100 win.

Buccs return to Activewest Stadium this weekend

The Sun City Plumbing Geraldton Buccaneers will return to Activewest Stadium tomorrow night in the hope for a win in their second home game of the season.

They will take on the Southwest Slammers in round four of the season, heading in with a full side.

The side is coming off two wins last weekend after they beat the East Perth Eagles by 20 points and then took a 113-97 win over the Perry Lakes Hawks.

The Buccs currently sit in 7th spot on the SBL ladder with this weekend's rivals above them in 5th spot.

Buccs' coach Mark Heron said he feels confident heading into tomorrow night's match.

"We had two good wins last weekend and we are feeling good," he said.

"We've had a really good week at training and the boys look to be in great form so I'm expecting a good game tomorrow."

To help the Buccs get over the line this weekend, come and support them at the Activewest stadium tomorrow night with tip off at 7:30pm.

A healthy way to empower females

Empowerment through sport is the aim of not-for-profit organisation Fast and Female Australia. Local Fast and Female co-manager, Brooke Darlington, said sport usually focuses on athletic ability and skill but the health, social and fun side is just as important and often overlooked.

“Females really thrive when provided with a stimulating, inspiring, and motivating environment that doesn’t just focus on their athletic ambitions,” she said.

“Fast and Female provides such an environment and also gives women tools to develop as complete individuals.”

To give Geraldton women a chance to experience this motivational and fun way of gaining confidence, Fast and Female has teamed up with the Geraldton Triathlon Club for a Triathlon Skills and More event for an afternoon of fun, fitness and inspiration on Saturday, April 5 from 11am to 3pm at Edith Cowan Square on Geraldton Foreshore.

However, participants won’t be expected to complete a triathlon! The program will cover goal setting, bike skills, dance and yoga sessions, a nutrition workshop and inspirational chats from Fast and Female ambassadors.

“It is planned to be a fun day to inspire girls to gain the confidence and leadership they need to reach their full potential in life and sports,” said Mrs Darlington.

“We encourage all girls and women, from nine years and up, regardless of ability and experience to register.”

Mrs Darlington has brought Fast and Female to Geraldton from the Eastern States and said this is the organisation’s first warm climate event.

“In the east the events have been mainly winter sports so having an event in Geraldton is a great complementary summer event,” she said.

“By increasing the retention and participation rates of girls in sport, Fast and Female Australia hopes to be one of the leading organisations in the combat against female youth obesity and mental health awareness as well as providing information and pathways to be successful in elite sport competition”

It costs $20 to register online by Friday, April 4 by visiting fastandfemalegeraldton.eventbrite.com.au or $25 on the day. Participants will get a hat and funky crayband to take away from the event along with new found confidence!

For more information visit www.fastandfemaleaustralia.org or the Facebook Page.

Former Olympic coach comes to Geraldton

Former Olympic swimming coach Laurie Lawrence will visit the Geraldton Aquarena tomorrow advocating water safety in his role as ambassador for the Royal Life Saving Keep Watch program.

Mr Lawrence will conduct a professional development session for local swim instructors and will launch the new Royal Life Saving Infant Aquatics program.

The Keep Watch Program aims to prevent toddler drowning by promoting four key messages to parents; parent supervision at all times around water, have a secure home pool fence, learn CPR and enrol your child in an infant aquatics class.

The Infant Aquatics program is delivered at 62 Endorsed Swim Schools throughout WA, 32 metropolitan centres and 30 regional centres including Geraldton Aquarena. Last year more than 20,000 infants and their parents participated in the Royal Life Saving Infant Aquatics program in WA.

"This program is all about lifting the quality of learning to swim, not only in the country but also particularly in WA as they've embraced the program," he said.

"It's all about water safety for under 5's and how we can stop drownings."

A Junior Lifeguard Club development session will be run in the afternoon for local children. The Junior Lifeguard Club is a Royal Life Saving Society program that is an aquatic education alternative to traditional swimming lessons for kids who want to combine their passion for swimming with the ability to learn new lifesaving skills.

The program is an opportunity for kids to join a club that will advance their aquatic skills in a fun environment while maintaining strong club feelings and loyalties. It acts as a stepping stone for the future lifesavers and lifeguards in WA.

The Junior Lifeguard Club session will run from 4.30-5.30pm at the Aquarena and children who are at Stage 8 and above are encouraged to come along.

For more information or to register contact the Aquarena on 9921 8844.

Geraldton sporting clubs and athletes get boost

A total of 16 local sporting clubs are the recipients of a one-off $500 subsidy in the first round of the Community Sporting Club Equipment Subsidy Scheme. The new $2million Supporting Community Sport initiative gives regional sporting clubs a $500 subsidy to be spent on increasing or upgrading shared sporting equipment which is accessible to all club members.

The initiative is being delivered by the Department of Sport and Recreation, funded by the State Government’s Royalties for Regions program.

Geraldton-based recipients of the $500 equipment subsidy are:

• Casuals Swans Hockey Club
• Chapman Valley Football Club
• Geraldton Amateur Swimming Club
• Geraldton and District Badminton Association
• Geraldton Croquet Club
• Geraldton Tennis Club
• Greenough Archery Club
• Hawks Basketball Club
• Martians Softball Club
• Midwest Practical Pistol
• Olympians Basketball Club
• Railways Basketball Club
• Rovers Cardinals Hockey Club
• Towns Football Club
• Trades Basketball Club
• Yacht Club Hockey Club

”More people are taking part in local sport and recreation clubs in the regions, so the funds help ensure equipment can be provided to keep pace with the growing demand,” Geraldton MLA Ian Blayney said.

“And it’s also important for equipment to be kept up-to-date, in good condition and safe for play.”

In other sporting news, 10 local athletes will reap the benefits of the State Government funded Athlete Travel Subsidy Scheme that supports talented regional athletes who are keen to pursue regional, state and national representation.

The Athlete Travel Subsidy Scheme is also part of the $2million Supporting Community Sport initiative with the first round recipients announced this week.

Mr Blayney said regional athletes and sporting clubs are reaping the benefits of the two new State Government funded schemes helping athletes pursue their sporting dreams and boosting the equipment stocks of local clubs.

He said the 10 local athletes had received financial assistance to travel to sporting events.

“This is a fantastic initiative which is helping sports at a grassroots level. It’s making it financially possible for kids to travel to sporting events that they might not have been able to, and giving local sporting clubs the opportunity to upgrade their equipment,” Mr Blayney said.

“This means more support for people participating in sport and recreation in the Geraldton region, which, as we know, has an array of benefits.”

The athletes and the sport they will represent are:

• Chloe Little (Vasic) – Yachting Western Australia’s Laser State Titles;
• Soren Pidgeon - Yachting Western Australia’s Pelican State Titles;
• Elizabeth Middleton – Hockey WA’s U15 Girls State Squad Training (outdoor);
• Kacie Crabb - Polocrosse Association of WA National Championships State Selection Carnivals;
• Tennille Crabb – Polocrosse Association of WA National Championships State Selection Carnivals;
• Angus Dufour – WA Squash State Training Camp and Tournament;
• Brianna Short – WA Swimming Association State Swimming Championships;
• Jonty Calder - Westcycle Incorporated 2014 Australian MTB National Championships;
• Brayden King – Hockey WA National Championships;
• Dylan Myers – WA Basketball Federation U/18 Australian Junior Championships.

Huge crowd turn out for Buccs first home game

The Sun City Plumbing Geraldton Buccaneers have been welcomed with a huge crowd as they ran onto the court for their first home game of the season.

They lead 25-21 at quarter time with some speccy plays from new players Odartey Blankson and Bennie Lewis as well as second year player Carter Cook.

Their opponents the Joondalup Wolves were first on the scoreboard but the Buccs kept a small lead for the rest of the quarter.

Buccs continued their good form in the second quarter and led 49-44 at half time.

An unsportsmanlike foul by Buccs captain Mat Wundenberg didn't deter the side as their defensive pressure was pivotal in their second-quarter match play.

Wolves don't look like backing down and continue with strength bringing the ball down court.

Scoring range from Buccs new-comer Bennie Lewis is entertaining to watch as the side look confident heading into the second half.

The Buccs have their work cut out for them heading into the last quarter of the first home game as scores are level 65-all.

The Wolves ramped up their offensive plays but it was only in the last two minutes that scores were all level.

Buccs missed crucial opportunities to make leeway on the scoreboard and Wolves seized their opportunities under the basket.

Some costly mistakes will now see the Buccs put in a lot of hard work if they are to take home the win tonight.

Intensity was high heading into the last quarter but Buccs were quick on the scoreboard and held a 75-70 lead with just over nine minutes left in the match.

Blankson pulled out all stops and sunk crucial goals as well as being dominant in rebounding.

Wolves didn't stop their impressive offensive plays and took their opportunities under the basket.

With five minutes left in the game Buccs held a mere 82-80 lead but it was only second before scores were level.

Wolves took a three-point lead with just under four minutes left in the game. Buccs threw everything they had at their opponents but the Wolves made it count in their offensive end.

Carter Cook sunk a crucial goal with under three minutes in the game which put them just two points behind.

But some simple errors by the Buccs saw Walves extend their lead.

Aaron Ralph sunk a shot with just under two minutes left in the match to see the Buccs trail by just 1 point.

Buccs trailed by 5 points with 30 seconds to go when a timeout was called and it was all over for the Buccs.

Wolves ran away with a 99-91 win.

Buccs new import will take to the court tonight

Odartey Blankson will take to the court with the Geraldton Buccaneers tonight after arriving in Geraldton yesterday.

The 6ft 7 forward won't be in the starting five but says he will be subbed on during the game.

He had his first training with the side this morning and Odartey said he is hoping to just go with the flow.

"I'm really forward to getting my feet wet and seeing what the night brings," he said.

"I don't want to force anything. We already have a great side so I'm looking forward to getting out there."

Odartey has played all over the world and most recently in South Korea.

To see the Buccs take on the Wolves tonight, you can get tickets at the door at Activewest Stadium.

Tip off is at 7:30pm.

Buccs get pumped for first home game

The Sun City Plumbing Geraldton Buccaneers are gearing up for their first home game of the season on Saturday and Buccs' recruit Bennie Lewis is encouraging Geraldton to come down and support the side.

“I want the whole city to be here, standing room only,” the Buccs recruit said.

The side will take on the Joondalup Wolves at Activewest Stadium tomorrow night which is set to be a payback game for the Buccs after the Wolves knocked them out of finals last season.

Newest import Odartey Blankson is set to arrive in Geraldton today and and debut with the Buccs tomorrow night.

Bennie, Odartey and second year import Carter Cook are all set to be huge assets for the team as they head into the second round of the SBL season.

Carter said that the Buccs have the best fans in the league.

“Geraldton crowds are the best crowds,” he said.

“Even when we play in Perth we bring more fans with us then the Perth sides do.”

Both Bennie and Carter spoke to Everything Geraldton yesterday and said the side is looking prime for a good season.

“With a few more training sessions and games under our belt I think we can go all the way this year,” Carter said.

“I think last year we hit our stride a little too early and we went a bit flat towards the end of the season.”

Bennie played for the Redbacks last year so he has been on the other end of the Geraldton crowds but says he is excited to be part of it this year.

“We want to entertain our fans. That’s the reason we play. If fans don’t come, we don’t have a team,” he said.

Tip off is at 7:30pm tomorrow night with tickets available at the door.

Check out Everything Geraldton during tomorrow night’s game for all the latest updates.