Geraldton Netball Association senior 1 preview

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IMG_1490 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.

 

Fixtures:

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

 

 

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.

 

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.

 

 

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.

 

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.

 

 

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.

Update: Road Closures

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Due to recent rains the City of Greater Geraldton Works Department has closed several floodways on the City’s rural roads for community safety.

Closed floodways are Arthur Road, Short Street, Ramsey Road (Bluepools), McCartney Road, Phillips Road and Minnenooka Road.

Warning signage is in place on these roads and the City requests that all drivers obey the signs and take extra care.

Main Roads WA would like to advise all road users that Wubin Mullewa Road is CLOSED TO LIGHT VEHICLES 23 kms south of Mullewa.

All other vehicles to EXERCISE EXTREME CAUTION due to water over the road throughout this section of road.

Main Roads Customer Information Centre on 138 138 or refer to their website www.mainroads.wa.gov.au for up to date information.

Covert cameras to help combat hoons

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WA Police and Mid West Gascoyne Traffic Police officers will now be armed with state-of-the-art covert cameras to help fight the scourge of hoon driving across the State. The cameras came at a cost of $170,000 something that Ian Blayney MLA said "represented outstanding value for taxpayers".

Making a pre-Budget announcement, Police Minister Liza Harvey said the covert hoon cameras would help police to capture those motorists who drove recklessly and endangered the lives of West Australians.

“People are sick and tired of hearing cars hooning up and down their suburban streets,” Mrs Harvey said.

“These new cameras will have the ability to be hidden in known hoon hotspots and will capture those vehicles in the act.”

Mr Blayney said they were a vital asset for the whole State and will be available wherever there is a hoon issue and encouraged anyone who had ongoing hoon issues in their suburb to contact Mid West Gascoyne Traffic Police based at the Geraldton Police Station or phone WA Police on 131 444 to record details of the incident.

“The problem of hoon drivers is still an issue that is raised with me and people want to get them off our roads,” Mr Blayney said.

“Our local traffic police are aware of the problem and remain committed to increasing driver safety on roads throughout Geraldton and the Mid West Gascoyne region.”

Mid West Gascoyne Traffic Police senior constable Keith Burrows urged residents who witness reckless driving to contact their office and report hoon activity.

“Any information is good information. It enables us to build up a picture of where and when hoon activity is occurring which allows us to deploy our resources accordingly,” Snr Const Burrows said.

Since being elected in 2008 the Liberal-National State Government has increased the period a vehicle was impounded from seven days to 28 for a first hoon offence and from 28 days to three months for a second offence.

On the third and subsequent offence, vehicles have been confiscated and proceeds from its sale have gone to road safety projects. Vehicles of little value have been crushed.

Juvenile charged after primary school burglary

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Geraldton Police have charged a juvenile male with aggravated burglary and stealing after he broke into Allendale Primary School.

At approximately 5am on Sunday May 4, the school was broken into and Geraldton Police in the area were dispatched to the scene due to the silent alarm being activated.

The Geraldton Police canine officer attended with Police dog, Bear, and was able to track one of the offenders, locating him hiding in bushland.

The juvenile male was in possession of iPads which were confirmed stolen from the primary school.

He will appear at Geraldton Children’s Court at a later date.

Inquiries are continuing into two other juveniles who were also involved in the incident.

Excavating begins for test pits on Beresford Foreshore

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As part of the City of Greater Geraldton’s Beresford Foreshore Protection and Enhancement Project, geotechnical investigations will begin on the Beresford Foreshore, Tuesday May 6.

A local engineering company will excavate three test pits on the beach with a backhoe between the breakwater and Mark St at about 6.30am to coincide with the low tide.

The test pits will allow for the beach sediment to be assessed for properties including: sand colour and size, gravel inclusion, water level depth and the depth to rock/reef.

The backhoe will require access over the foreshore reserve and any access tracks created for the testing will be reinstated on completion of the works.

For further information or information on the Beresford Foreshore Coastal Protection and Enhancement Project contact Michael Dufour on 9956 6600 or council@cgg.wa.gov.au

Weekend Sports Wrap Up

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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.

Flood information for the Midwest Gascoyne region

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People in western parts of the Gascoyne should take care after rising water levels in local rivers and streams.   The Bureau of Meteorology advises the flood watch has been cancelled for the Gascoyne District.

WHAT TO DO:

DFES State Emergency Service (SES) advises you to:

  • Watch for changes in water levels so you are ready if you need to act.
  • Never walk, swim or play in floodwaters as they are dangerous.
  • Do not go near storm drains and pipes, ditches and ravines, as they are dangerous.

IF DRIVING:

  • Floodways and river levels may rise rapidly so be careful at crossings.
  • Obey road closure signs and do not drive into water of unknown depth and current.Take care on gravel and unsealed roads as they may be slippery and muddy, and you could get bogged.

ROAD CLOSURES: Some local roads may be closed.

Road information may also be available by calling Main Roads WA on 138 138 or visiting www.mainroads.wa.gov.au

FLOOD DETAILS: As at 10:50am on Monday 5 May 2014 the Bureau of Meteorology advises a low pressure system lies off the northern west coast, and is expected to cross the Gascoyne coast and weaken during Monday.

No significant rainfall is forecast for next 24 hours from 9am Monday.

Stream rises with areas of flooding are no longer expected to develop in coastal areas of the Gascoyne District during Monday through to Tuesday.

Current river levels are available from the Department of Water athttp://www.water.wa.gov.au/.

IMPORTANT NUMBERS:

  • For SES assistance call 132 500
  • In a life threatening situation call 000
  • For the latest flood information call 1300 659 213 or visitwww.bom.gov.au/wa/flood. 
  • For information about road conditions and closures contact local Police or Main Roads WA on 138 138.

KEEP UP TO DATE: Visit www.dfes.wa.gov.au, call 13 DFES (13 3337), follow DFES on Twitter @dfes_wa or listen to news bulletins.

No further updates will be issued.

Community Question: Could I please ask if anyone who exercises their dog in the early mornings could share some tips on the safest/most well lit places to do this, perhaps where there are usually others around? I don't mind driving.

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Community Question:Could I please ask if anyone who exercises their dog in the early mornings could share some tips on the safest/most well lit places to do this, perhaps where there are usually others around? I don't mind driving. -Mikayla

Buccs off to firing start against Flames

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photo-17 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.

 

Geraldton Dog Rescue Dog of the Week

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gdr lockie This week's Geraldton Dog Rescue Dog of the Week is Lockie.

Lockie is a small  Chihuahua cross approximately 18 months of age. He is a cute little boy looking for a loving family. He is good on the lead and would enjoy a daily walk. Lockie has been vet checked, C3 vaccinated, microchipped, wormed and flea treated.

He will be sterilized before being rehomed and will cost $350. If you would like to meet Lockie please call GDR on 0400 219 719.

Lockie will be at Better Pets and Gardens on Saturday 3rd May at the GDR Dogs Day Out event being held between 10am and 12 noon.

Hooper won't be deterred by Geraldton's double gees

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068L2047 From ginger haired male comedians, the birth of the first child, her mother-in-law and "Geraldton's double gees", comedian Claire Hooper will have a lot of people laughing at the Comedy Emporium's first birthday show tomorrow night.

The well renowned Australian comedian is headlining the big event for local business The Comedy Emporium, which is set to be a huge night of laughs and celebrations.

Claire is well known around Australia for her comedic stylings and you have probably seen her on Good News Week, The Sideshow, Rove Live, The Circle, Stand Up Australia and The Great Debate.

Everything Geraldton spoke to Claire yesterday and she relived some of her childhood memories from holidays in Geraldton.

"My mum spent her adolescence there so we were always holidaying in Geraldton as kids," she said.

"I remember the beautiful sand dunes and those double gees - yeah those brutal prickles."

We assured Claire she wouldn't hopefully encounter any "brutal prickles" but she said now she's a mum she would be travelling with shoes on.

Claire will mix it with the likes of local young guns Jackson Canny and Ellen Clancy Millett as well as local comics Brian Poller, Mark Canny, Rosie Sitorus, Lachlan Adam and Julian Canny. Professor Alistair Crawford will make his way from Kalgoorlie for the show and city slickers Rachel Mills and Colin Ebsworth will also grace the stage.

Claire said although she has some Geraldton related jokes on the cards, she would be leaving most of that stuff to the local comedians.

"I think I will leave most of the hardcore Geraldton jokes to the locals," she said.

"I'm excited to be back in Geraldton. It's always a warmer experience. It's not too big but not too small and people are just looking for a good time."

Claire said jokes about her mother-in-law always feature but she assures us she isn't overstepping the mark.

"I am blessed to have a really entertaining mother-in law and the thing is - she loves the attention!"

Tomorrow night's show will kick off at the Queens Park Theatre from 6:30pm tomorrow night with live music from 7pm and comedy beginning at 6pm.

Tickets are very limited so get there early to get a ticket at the door.

In one last comment to Everything Geraldton, Claire said she was "road tripping" from Perth to Geraldton with her mum and said, "If you see my mum on the streets of Geraldton, buy her a drink."

Midwest Fishing Report by Tackleworld Geraldton

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collage1 LOCAL ROCKWALLS

There are big schools of herring getting around seal rock along with school mackerel and Skippy, coral trout bald chin and finger mark are holding up close to the rockwalls.

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BEACHES

GREENOUGH FIRST AND SECOND POINTS - Tailor have been caught early mornings with a few mulloway  take from the beach, with all the rain we have over the last week the river should be ready to break is bank so be ready for the mulloway  to come in big numbers.

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9 MILE- Dhu fish have been landed from beaches with a lot of wobbies Tailor have been taken early mornings along with big yellow fin whiting.

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RIVERS

GREENOUGH - With the recent rains the river has swollen and is covering snags and bring the oxygen levels back up which should make for interesting fishing over the next couple of weeks with big bream and jacks on the hunt for a good feed.

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OFFSHORE

PENSIONERS - Tuna-Mackerel

AFRICAN REEF-  Dhu fish Samson and coral trouMID-REEF- Pink snapper

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PRODUCT PLUG -

Tonic Releases Blue Mirror Limited Edition

Untitled Are you the kind of fishermen that has no time for rivers, lakes and small fish? Do you spend the day trolling the shelf in search of big game species or just out on the deep blue sea ? Fear not, the Tonic Blue Mirror is the lens for you. It offers high definition and contrast in the blue water environment on long days out wide. Being a glass lens you are unable to scratch the blue mirror off the front surface maintaining the clarity your eyes deserve.

With all Tonic lenses we use a new lay up anti reflective coating on the back surface of the lens to reduce bounce back glare . In store now $199.

FISH REPORT WRITTEN BY TACKLEWORLD GERALDTON

20 ANZAC TERRACE GERALDTON WA

08 99216822

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Top 5 Geraldton photos shared with us this week

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Katarina Smelikova took this photo from Drummonds on Sunday after the rain. Spectacular cloud formation.

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Michelle McKoy took this sunset photo at Point Moore also on Sunday after the rain.

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Albert Cream took this photo on the Foreshore during the April School holidays.

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This photo was sent in from an Everything Geraldton user in the aftermath of some hooning in Waggrakine. It sparked some controversy on our Facebook page.

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We had some stunning photos sent in of the solar eclipse that happened this week. Ken Lawson sent us this one.

Post your pics in the Everything Geraldton app, the Everything Geraldton Facebook Page or email them to petak@justeverything.com.au. We’d love to share them.