The Collie River Valley Bulletin, January 12, 2023

BULLETIN Published by LOCALS for LOCALS Thursday, January 12, 2023

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COLLIE RIVER VALLEY

‘Stay-of-execution’

Yourdamung Resort battles fire risk claims

OFF TO UNI

THE proposed Yourdamung Road resort project is back before Collie Shire Council.

Council rejected the proposal in late 2021 because of perceived “catastrophic fire risks”, but it was given a “stay-of-execution” at the last shire meeting.

Councillors decided to go against a recommendation to refuse an application to expand use of the site and deferred the matter to allow staff to work through legislation issues with the proponents and the Department of Fire and Emergency Services (DFES).

The decision was made after a consultant for the proponent, Russell Tierney, said there had been changes made to the access and egress requirements since last year.

DFES had been and was still against the proposal due to the bushfire risk.

Mr Tierney had appealed to the State Administration Tribunal (SAT) to overturn council’s decision in December, 2021, and had worked through media-

Jackson Rabaud is believed to have achieved Collie’s highest ATAR score, and will study pathology and laboratory medicine at the University of Western Australia later this year.

Story page 7

Suspected arsonist active

A NUMBER of fires are believed to have been deliberately lit, including one that threatened the home of a family of five.

Page 3.

tion sessions about legislation requirements concerning the fire risk. The site is located in State forest, and there is only one access route via a gravel road.

DFES had estimated it could take up to 45 minutes to evacuate the site in the event of a bushfire.

An amendment suggested in the new application was for a building to be altered to become a shelter.

One of the objections to this was that a shelter was supposed to be a vacant building, whereas the proposed building was to also be used for a variety of purposes, and furnished accordingly.

Chief executive officer Stuart Devenish said the matter is “complex and difficult to resolve”.

“Council is in a very unenviable position,” he said. “While it is seeking to expand tourism opportunities, it cannot ignore the legislative requirements for bushfire risk.”

Story continued page 8.

Quarry ‘ideal venue for events’

THE success of the Quarry Under the Stars gala dinner, held last October, has led to a move to have further events at the venue.

Page 5.

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Drowning prompts lake action call

2 COLLIE RIVER VALLEY BULLETIN, JANUARY 12, 2023

AAAAAA What's on, When and Where Mario Kart tournament Saturday January 14, 10am to 11.30am, Collie library.

Summer movies Saturday, January 14, “Labyrinth”, 7.30pm, Central Park. Wednesday, January 18, “Sing 2”, 7.30pm.

Collie Art Gallery Open Thursdays to Mondays, 10am to 4pm, “The Visitors” exhibition.

Coalfields Museum Open every day, 9am to 3pm. Children under 16 free when accompanied by an adult.

Signing centre Mondays, Tuesdays and Fridays, from 9.30am to 12 noon, and on Thursdays from 1.30pm to 3pm, at the Collie courthouse.

Op shops The Anglican Op Shop has reopened, Tuesday to Friday, from 9am to 3pm.

Vinnies open Mondays to Fridays, 9am to 3pm. Jo’s Bazaar, Monday and Thursday, 9am to 12pm.

Send it in This column offers free publication of events for not for profit clubs and organisations, or for items of social news.

If you would like to have details of your events or organisation published in this column, send copy to nola.crvbulletin@ gmail.com or classies@crvbulletin.com.

Deadline 5pm on Fridays.

THE Christmas day drowning at Black Diamond lake has renewed calls for action to be taken.

The former chairperson of the Black Diamond working group, Rosanne Pimm, this week called on the government to implement the $6 million master plan for the lake.

Mrs Pimm was one of the drivers behind a 2020 feasibility study on the future of the popular swimming spot for tourist and recreation purposes, and to resolve issues regarding the site’s ongoing management.

She fears not just for another drowning, but other accidents, such as a traffic accident, around the unmanaged site.

A 33-year-old Taiwanese man drowned at the lake on Christmas Day. It follows

the drowning of a Korean tourist at the lake in 2008.

The Collie River Valley Marketing group commissioned consultants Harley Dykstra to do a feasibility study of the lake precinct to review existing and potential future uses.

Mrs Pimm said the lake presents “a golden opportunity to increase Collie’s tourism potential”.

“We want some decent facilities out there and to let people know that Collie exists,” she said.

“My fear is not just a drowning like what happened recently, but I worry about a child getting hit by a car.”

Mrs Pimm said the plan included installing a drum line to divide the public and private swimming areas, with signs

Baby Beau’s the first of 2023 A LOCAL baby was the first born at Bunbury’s St John of God Hospital in 2023. Beau Douglas Chappell was born at 9.51pm on Monday, January 2.

Rinay Swallow said she and her partner, Rhys Chappell, were surprised that Beau was the hospital’s first baby of the year as he came a day after his due date.

“It was a nice surprise when Suzanne - the midwife - came and told us the news,” she said.

Rinay said they were unsure if Beau was the first baby born in Bunbury, as there was another woman in labour at Bunbury Regional Hospital.

“It is special for Beau to have a milestone like this and be so oblivious,” she said. “It is a keepsake forever.”

Rinay said Beau has settled in well and is a “very relaxed little guy”.

Beau will now share the limelight with his big brother, Spencer, who is 20 months old.

“Spencer is totally in love and is rough as guts with him already,” Rinay laughed. “We consider ourselves very lucky with our two beautiful boys.”

Beau’s middle name “Douglas” has been passed down from his dad and his grandfather, Kim Chappell.

Beau’s other grandparents are Clint Swallow and Loralee Dye.

pointing out private property. “That probably wouldn't have saved him, but you never know,” she said.

“If it was operated properly there would be plenty of signage to let people know to be wary of the water dropping off.”

Mrs Pimm said the redevelopment plan included a bridge over the nearby river and a camping area.

“The camping area wouldn't take a huge amount of money to develop.

“That should be managed by DBCA (the Department of Biosecurity, Conservation and Attractions).

“It is disappointing the report has just been left.

“We put a lot of work into it and the study cost $70,000 and that’s money that should not be on the shelf and forgotten about.

“The shire has put it in the too hard basket, but the shire, in particular, has the clout to get it moving and ask why it's not getting done.

“I've spoken to the local member and have been disappointed with her response.

“We just need someone to drive it and the South West Development Commission also needs to get behind it.”

Mrs Pimm said the report recommended the DBCA take over management of the site, but believes this won’t happen unless the agency is forced to.

“DBCA don’t want it because they don’t have enough money for the sites they already manage,” she said.

Marron season now underway

BROTHERS: Beau Chappell was the first baby born at Bunbury’s St John of God Hospital in 2023. He is pictured with his big brother Spencer.

EDITORIAL Michelle Loxton | 0481 893 606 Managing editor ADMINISTRATION

Megan Creemers | 9734 1024 Office Manager ADVERTISING

Elysia Harverson 0477 360 087 Printed and published by Joe Italiano, 52 Bucktin Street, Collie for Collie Community Publishing Pty Ltd., 1B Collie Park Shopping Centre, Collie, WA, 6225

MARRON season opened at noon on Sunday and it will close at noon on Sunday, February 5.

Fishermen must have a licence to fish for marron, and bag and size limits apply.

Fishers may have up to six drop nets per fisher, or one basket crab scoop net, or one bushman’s pole snare. Fine mesh nets are illegal.

Visit fish.wa.gov.au to check the requirements.

HOW TO SUBMIT NEWS/SPORT News and sports contributions are welcome.

Simply email your contributions to: editorial@crvbulletin.com SPORT DEADLINE: Monday 5pm

HOW TO BOOK AN ADVERTISEMENT Advertisements can be booked by ringing 0499 904 801 or by emailing bookings to: advertising@crvbulletin.com DEADLINE: Monday 12 noon

HOW TO LODGE A CLASSIFIED Classified advertisements can be lodged at 1B Collie Park Shopping Centre (opposite post office), or by email to: classies@crvbulletin.com

Coombe St. fire threat

COLLIE RIVER VALLEY BULLETIN, JANUARY 12, 2023 3

Family of five sleeps as deliberately lit fire approaches MADI MacNish woke to the smell of smoke in the early hours of last Thursday morning.

Bushland next to her Coombe Street home was on fire, in what Collie police said was one of many suspected arson attempts in town during the past fortnight.

Miss MacNish said that by the time she woke up, a neighbour had already reported the blaze, and an off-duty police officer heading home from work had stopped to help.

There have been numerous fires in Collie since January 4. Three are being treated as suspicious.

Miss MacNish’s father-in-law, Mick Dye, lives next door and said a similar situation occurred about 12 years ago.

At the time, Madi’s grandparents lived in the home and had to be woken as the flames approached.

Mr Dye said the home nearly burnt down, so they started taking fire precautions.

“I got a bobcat and made a fire break around the house and we made up a fire unit in case of a bushfire - it has 1000L of water sitting, waiting,” he said.

“I can’t imagine if the fire had got closer towards the river.

“The lucerne trees burn like wildfire once they start, they go mad.”

Miss MacNish said her children wereasleep at the time of the fire.

“People who light fires don’t give a thought about if there are kids asleep in the house, or if someone’s house burns down,” she said.

“It is a constant worry - every year we dread it.”

A SUSPECTED arsonist has lit a spate of fires in Collie since January 4.

Collie Police Station senior sergeant Michelle Cornwall said she was aware of a number of fires that were lit within 12 hours.

At 3pm on January 4, a fire started at the intersection of Raymond and King streets.

A Department of Fire and Emergency Services (DFES) spokesman said the fire burnt about two acres, but was contained and under control by 4pm, and extinguished at 7.15pm.

Nine fire vehicles attended from Collie Volunteer Fire and Rescue, Collie Preston Bushfire Brigade, Collie Burn/ Cardiff Bushfire Brigade, Harris River Bushfire Brigade, Allanson Bushfire Brigade and Bunbury Fire and Rescue.

Two fires were reported on January 5.

The first was at 1am, at the intersection of Harris River Road and McKinley Street.

The DFES spokesman said the fire burnt about an acre of bushland, and was extinguished just after 4am.

It was attended by the Collie Volunteer Fire and Rescue and was considered suspicious.

The second fire was reported at the in-

tersection of Coombe and Wells streets at 3.22am.

It burnt through a quarter of an acre, and was extinguished by 4.50am.

It was attended by the Collie Volunteer Fire and Rescue team, Collie Preston Bushfire Brigade, Allanson Bushfire Brigade and Collie Burn/Cardiff Bushfire Brigade.

Snr Sgt Cornwall said she believed firefighters were called to another fire in Evans Street shortly after.

Collie Shire president Sarah Stanley said locals should be vigilant this summer.

“Deliberately lit fires are not only extremely dangerous this time of year, but they also use up precious resources and take our volunteer firefighters away from their work, families and home lives,” she said.

“Our volunteer firefighters work extremely hard to keep our community safe throughout the year, without the addi-

ASH: Mick Dye with his grandchildren Ashton MacNish (left), Zavier MacNish (right) and Lottie Dye at the site in Coombe Street where police suspect a fire was deliberately lit.

Suspected arsonist active

tional strain of deliberately lit fires.

“We urge all residents to ensure they stay safe this bushfire season, including reducing risks around their properties and making a bushfire plan with their families, ready to roll out if required.”

Business taxation Personal taxation Self-managed super funds GST compliance Business structures

For more information please contact us at the Forrest Business Centre: Unit 10, 13 Forrest Street T 9734 1000 rsm.com.au/collie

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4 COLLIE RIVER VALLEY BULLETIN, JANUARY 12, 2023

SHIRE UPDATE

Community Information from the Shire of Collie

JANUARY 2023

SEE SOMETHING? SAY SOMETHING Following a spate of deliberately lit fires, Collie Police are asking the public to be vigilante and report any suspicious behavior to Crimestoppers - 1800 333 000.

LIBRARY EVENT

BEING YOU IS ENOUGH TUESDAY 24 JANUARY,10AM MINEWORKERS MEMORIAL POOL COLLIE SATURDAY: MONDAY TO 10am - 6.30pm FRIDAY SUNDAY: 6.30am - 6.30pm 12pm - 6.30pm

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Josh Langley is an award winning author and illustrator, and he's coming to visit!

Hear Josh's story and learn more about self-acceptance, resilience, understanding emotions and kindness, and teach your children these important life lessons.

NEXT COUNCIL MEETING

TUESDAY 14 FEBRUARY @7.00PM

COUNCIL CHAMBERS SHIRE OF COLLIE ADMINISTRATION Council Meetings will be held on the 2nd Tuesday of each month.

BUILDING

SHIRE OF COLLIE

Phone: 9734 9000

Email: colshire@collie.wa.gov.au

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

For the latest job opportunities at The Shire of Collie keep an eye on our employment page on the website. https://www.collie.wa.gov.au/council/employment/

www.collie.wa.gov.au

Office hours: Mon - Fri 8.00am - 4.30pm

COLLIE RIVER VALLEY BULLETIN, JANUARY 12, 2023 5

Quarry ‘ideal venue for events’ THE success of the Quarry Under the Stars gala dinner, held last October as part of Collie’s Kaya Collie 125th birthday celebrations, has led to a move to have further events at the venue.

Collie Shire Council’s director of corporate affairs Nicole Wassman told the council’s December meeting that an approach had been made to consider holding similar events at the quarry.

Ms Wassman said there was tourism potential for significant events to be held there, aimed at attracting people from outside the town and region.

“There has been a suggestion that we apply for a grant from the Collie Futures Fund Small Grants program to assist

with mounting an event at the quarry,” Ms Wassman said.

Cr Gary Faries said the council needed to leverage off the success of the gala dinner.

“We’ve been saying for some time that we need a signature event, and we’ve got South32 money to promote tourism,” he said. “The dinner was a huge success, and something like that would give us the signature event.”

The South West Development Commission (SWDC) provided event management support for the gala dinner, while the council managed funds and took the overall responsibility for the event.

In her report to council, Ms Wassman

said with the support of South32 and the state government, there would be no direct financial impact to the shire, other than the provision of staff resourcing.

“Through collaboration with the state government, the Quarry Under the Stars concept could introduce a high-end attraction and experience for visitors and the community,” she said.

“The initiative would complement the significant investments in tourism, strengthen the reputation of Collie, build capacity and capability in the town, and in turn, bolster the local economy.”

Ms Wassman said that while the Kaya Collie events such as the gala dinner had required considerable staff resources this

year, it is believed that streamlining can take place from the experience gained.

“Through collaboration with the state government, the Quarry under the Stars concept can introduce a high-end attraction and experience for visitors and the community,” she said.

Cr Elysia Harverson successfully moved that council support in principle the concept of the Quarry Under the Stars as an ongoing annual signature event for Collie, and authorises the preparation and submission of a Collie Future Funds Small Grants program application, naming the Shire of Collie as the proponent for signature events in 2023 and 2024.

Defibrillator unit stolen from cricket club THE Collie Cricket Club’s defibrillator was stolen from its Coombe Street clubrooms during the Christmas break.

However, the life-saving device was found and handed in to Collie police last Saturday.

Club president Mark Williams said a committee member noticed the device had been stolen between December 24 and 27.

He said the cabinet’s front glass panel had been smashed.

“I assume they used rocks to smash it,” he said. “There were rocks left all over the ground, as well as shattered glass.”

The defibrillator was returned to St John Ambulance soon after it was found

lican Tracey Denholm, and Leschenault Cricket Club were among the possible donors.

“Leschenault has a defibrillator, and it’s been used twice,” he said.

“So they have firsthand experience in understanding how important they are.

There are a few local women who play for Leschenault, and we really appreciate the offer.”

Mr Williams said he could not understand why someone would steal a defibrillator.

RETURNED: Collie Cricket Club president Mark Williams with the club’s smashed “We’re thinking they must’ve thought defibrillator cabinet. it was of value and they could sell it,” to assess its damage and if it was safe the club received donation offers to fund he said. “Defibrillators are a community thing. It’s one of those things you hope for use. a replacement.

However, before the device was found, Mr Williams said Victoria Hotel pub- you never have to use.”

6 COLLIE RIVER VALLEY BULLETIN, JANUARY 12, 2023

Prize money for lights winners

PRIZE money totalling $1000 was presented to the winners of the Bulletin’s Christmas Lights Competition on Monday.

The prize money was provided by Community Bank Collie.

First prize winner Troy Jones, and his sons Jett and Ace, collected $500 for the best overall display.

Jo Crowe received $250 as the best first time entrant, and Shirley Crowe got $250 for the kids’ choice category.

Chairman Jeff Riley said the bank enjoys supporting the competition which brings a lot of joy during the Christmas period.

“We see the Christmas season as a time of happiness and giving,” he said.

“Community Bank Collie enjoys supporting the competition which supports the town’s sense of community and Christmas spirit.”

As they collected their prize money, the

winners compared stories on how long it took to put up their displays.

Shirley said her effort was hampered

by COVID-19, and vandals.

“I had a set of lights cut before I had even turned them on for the first time,” she said.

“We disturbed them in the front yard it could’ve been a lot worse.”

Jo said she was considering buying shares in Blutak, considering the amount she went through securing her lights to her home.

But certainly the most dangerous maintenance came from Troy, who said he had to get onto his roof with a soldering iron to secure some of his Star Warsthemed display.

All winners agreed that much of their displays would need to be replaced next year due to sun damage.

The winners are already planning new displays for this year’s competition.

CHRISTMAS WINNERS: Community Bank chairman Jeff Riley (right) presented $1000 worth of prizes to the winners of the Bulletin’s Xmas Lights competition.

They were Troy and Ace Jones (centre), Shirley Crowe (left) and Jo Crowe (right).

Doling out for damage

COLLIE RIVER VALLEY BULLETIN, JANUARY 12, 2023 7

RATEPAYERS are forking out to pay for senseless vandalism in Collie.

Shire of Collie parks and gardens second in charge Jadon Chapman said his work schedule is regularly pushed back because of constant repairs and facility replacements at the skatepark, Central and Soldiers’ parks and along river walks.

“We have been refurbishing park benches and instead of taking one month, it’s taken two because as soon as we install one someone would smash it, and we’d have to fix it,” he said.

“It takes us twice the time, at twice the cost.”

Mr Chapman said there are 14 locations on the riverwalk between Soldiers’ and Lions’ parks where vandals have left unsightly graffiti.

“It’s under bridges, on drains and on the hot mix,” he said.

Mr Chapman said the shire has also had to refurbish the table and chairs at the Venn Street river stop, as well as repair the handrail three times.

A gate was fitted at the crossing, but was ripped off within a week.

Jackson’s forensics career path awaits JACKSON Rabaud achieved a 90.8 score in his final Australian Tertiary Admission Rank (ATAR) exams.

The Collie Senior High School’s 2022 dux is believed to have received Collie’s highest score in the exams.

He said he aimed for 80, and was surprised he got such a high result.

“I needed 80 to get into my course,” he said.

“I will be studying pathology and laboratory medicine at the University of Western Australia (UWA). I’ve been interested in forensic science, so that was my main motivation.

“However, forensic scientists aren’t in high demand, so I didn’t want a limited qualification. I chose pathology so I have other options.”

Jackson said he wanted to be a police officer from a young age.

However, after a discussion with a friend - at the tender age of 10 - he decided that it might not be the best option for him.

“I was always obsessed with cops and robbers, and part of me still wants to be a police officer,” he said.

“But we don’t live in movies. When I thought about what I am good at, which is science, I tied it in with law and got forensic science.

“I found myself interested in chemistry and understanding why things work the way they do. Chemistry explains a lot of the things that I am interested in, so it came together nicely.” In year 12, Jackson studied chemistry, English,

OFF TO UNI: Jackson Rabaud received an ATAR of 90.8.

maths applications, human biology and politics and law.

“I often look back and think what if I made a different choice in my subjects,” he said.

“Chemistry and human biology were a no-brainer, but I chose to study politics and law because I was interested in how the country was being run. I didn’t understand, and no one really explains politics to you.

“It was an interesting topic, and you need to understand the legal system to be a forensic scientist.”

While Jackson studied hard in year 12, he has advice for the students about to embark on their final school year.

“If they were all in a room with me and I was looking at them, I would tell them not to spend the last year of their school life stressing about it,” he said.

“Try for a good ATAR, but don’t forget the other parts of your life just to focus on schooling.”

Jackson will start at UWA in July, after a six-month study break.

WHY?: Collie Shire parks and gardens second in charge Jadon Chapman (left) and parks and gardens supervisor Brad Young with decking at the Collie skatepark that was vandalised. The damage is part of a spate of vandalism in town.

Parks and gardens supervisor Brad Young said his team spends most of its time repairing facilities.

“This is time we could spend on other projects,” he said. “There is so much

scheduled maintenance, but we are struggling to keep up because of the rework.

“We have about 10 sprinklers damaged every week. That’s expensive, and it takes time to fix.”

Mr Young said that vandals regularly rip out above-ground reticulation, and new plants.

Shire president Sarah Stanley said the community’s help was needed to stop the vandals.

“It needs to be reported so we can stop this behaviour,” she said.

“When the skatepark was built, there was no vandalism for the first few years.

“Now we’re dealing with a different group of kids who don’t understand how lucky they are.

“The skatepark is built for them, yet they damage it.”

Shire chief executive officer Stuart Devenish said he understood that not all young people were responsible for the damage, and the innocent ones were needed to identify those doing the wrong thing.

“We want to make sure that we don’t demonise all young people,” he said.

“It is a small part of our community who is doing this, but they do need to appreciate what they have.”

Cr Stanley said the best way for community members to report vandalism or damage is via the Snap Send Solve app.

“Plus, parents should have a word with their kids and let them know this kind of behaviour is not acceptable,” she said.

NEW ARRIVALS EVA Gladys Scanlan was welcomed into the world on December 21, 2022 at 2.35pm.

She is the first child for Emma (nee Garner) and Rob Scanlan, and weighed 2579 grams (5 pounds, 11 ounces).

See a photo you love in this week’s bulletin?

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8 COLLIE RIVER VALLEY BULLETIN, JANUARY 12, 2023 SEDDON on THURSDAY

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State of river appals

Griffin support is welcomed

Send your letters to editorial@crvbulletin.com

THE state of the Collie River through town has been condemned by Jack Walsh, a former Collie resident.

Mr Walsh had this to say: “I was a kid in Collie, 1944 to 1956, spent most of my spare time in the Collie River swimming all summer, catching marron, gilgies, perch, minnows and spearing cobblers in the crystal clear water.

“In the shallows, knee deep and deeper, pebbles on the river bottom, fish and marron etc could be clearly seen. We drank the water when thirsty.

“A few weeks ago, I visited the Collie River for the first time since 1956.

“The water has become a filthy dull green, you can’t see more than a few

centimetres into it and I would not have been game to put a toe in it for fear of infection.

“I was so appalled, I emailed the shire asking for something to be done. I have had no reply.

“I also despair for the once magnificent Collie River, with both local and state governments seemingly uninterested in its slow death.”

Prior to Christmas, Jack did spend some time in Collie looking around.

His dad was Dr Walsh, and the family lived in Robert Street, not far from Soldiers’ Park from 1944 to 1956.

Ed Riley Walter Drive

Letters to the Editor are welcome at editorial@crvbulletin.com or post/drop to: Shop 1B, Collie Park Shopping Centre

Stay-of-execution for resort Continued from front page.

Cr Elysia Harverson said staff were looking for excuses to knock back the application.

Cr Gary Faries said council had gone against an agency recommendation in the past when a flood-prone area was being discussed.

“There was a desktop study of floodprone areas, and we went against that decision,” he said. “We set a precedent by going against an agency before, why can’t we do that now?”

Staff pointed out that Mr Tierney had continued to use the site for unauthorised purposes in spite of warnings that this was unwise.

Mr Tierney is also appealing the coun-

cil’s decision not to approve retrospectively unauthorised additions and alterations to buildings on the site.

Approval had been granted for a bedand-breakfast venue to operate there, but the use had been expanded to create further accommodation and facilities for guests.

Mr Tierney lodged an application for development approval for a change of use from bed and breakfast to guesthouse, commercial kitchen/restaurant, expansion of the kitchen and storeroom, change of use from an outbuilding to guesthouse, bar and storage, seven freestanding patios and camping ground.

The site of almost seven hectares is located 18 kilometres northeast of the Collie townsite.

JODIE HANNS, Member for Collie-Preston, reports...

THE McGowan Government’s recent announcement of support for the workers at Griffin Coal was welcome news.

The government grant will assist receivers and managers of the insolvent company to stabilise its Collie operations and provide certainty for the workforce and community.

The interim funding arrangement follows an inability - to date - to resolve commercial arrangements and provide time for the parties, with the support of government, to finalise their negotiations to ensure a sustainable coal supply.

My focus, and ongoing discussions with the government, have been around how we can support the Griffin workers and I welcome this important announcement.

MY STAFF do an amazing job assisting the Collie community with the many queries we receive on a daily basis.

As we set out in a new year, I would like to say a huge thank you to Natasha and Kylie for their hard work in 2022. We had a well-earned break over the Christmas and New Year period before reopening with our normal hours on Monday.

WE ALSO have some very exciting news! Our office will soon be disability access friendly!

We have a large number of people with disability, pram or accessibility needs who come into my office. I am very pleased to say that local builder Jila Riley has received the tender for the remodelling of the office.

At this stage, the office will be closed from January 24 until mid-April. During this time, we will be opening a temporary office on Mondays and Thursdays at the Chamber of Commerce building.

You will still be able to phone or email on the other days and we will be taking the opportunity to visit other areas of the Collie-Preston electorate.

Stay tuned for the official opening of the office when we hold a community open day so you can come in and check out the new, exciting facilities.

I REALLY am a disaster sometimes.

I don’t say that to put myself down, it’s just a fact. I’m not a disaster 24/7, just every now and then.

Like the other morning, when I was about to head for work.

I normally walk, but I knew I was going to be heading home at lunchtime and I had no desire to walk in 30-plus degree heat, especially with no hat and no sunscreen.

So, I gathered my stuff together and went to the car.

I pushed the button on the remote and nothing happened. Ah well, no matter.

The remote probably just needs a new battery.

I unlocked the car the old-fashioned way and got in.

Huh, that’s weird. Normally opening the door starts up the electrics. Uh-oh. I have a bad feeling about this.

I went to put the key in the ignition and, yep, there was my problem.

I went out the day before and didn’t turn the electrics off properly, so the battery was on all night and was now completely drained.

The words that started running through my head aren’t fit for publication.

One of my mother’s friends, who’s an English teacher, once told me that people swear because they have a limited vocabulary. As in, they don’t know enough words to get creative.

I’m still not sure that, even if I got creative, it would be suitable for publication.

Hang on. Let’s try, shall we?

(If there’s a gap here, an awkward jump between paragraphs, you’ll know the editor has been at this with her red pen.)

Consarn! Bejabbers! You mediocre pile of outdated and outmoded inflexible technology!

Thunderation! Dad-sizzle it! Frell!

Okay, I feel better now. Back to the disaster.

Since the man of the house (MOTH, to borrow a phrase from fellow Bulletin columnist Alison) wasn’t actually in the house, I was at a bit of a loss.

Aha! It suddenly struck me. In times past, MOTH had purchased a portable car battery jump starter.

I pulled the bonnet release and looked for the battery.

I can check the oil, change tyres and put air in them, but faced with that engine, my expression could be best summed up as: “Huh? Where’s the battery? Where do I put the cables?”

I gave up and did what I probably should have done in the first place. I swallowed my pride and rang for help.

My white knight in shining armour arrived post-haste, took one look at the engine, and said, “I’m sorry, I have no idea where to plug the cables in either. Unless your battery is in the boot?” he said.

“I can’t even look. The remote won’t work with the flat battery, and neither will the manual release. And the boot can’t be opened with a key,” I replied.

“Ah, well,” my knight lamented. He then offered to drive me to work, like the true gentleman he is.

Now I owe my knight a six pack of beer.

I’m not complaining, though. Beer is nothing compared to the roasting I got from MOTH when he got home.

COLLIE RIVER VALLEY BULLETIN, JANUARY 12, 2023 9

CCCCCCCCC PPPPPPP People, places and contributions to Collie life

Populated by Pilattis-a-plenty The Pilatti family gathered at the Collie Italian Club on Saturday for a reunion.

People: NOLA GREEN

on the farm was completed. Close by at Buckingham, an English family named Collins was living.

IT SHOULD come as no surprise that there is a Pilatti Day in Collie. There’s enough of them – in fact, at the Pilatti Day celebration in the Collie Italian and Sporting Club last Saturday, there were 101 present.

From hewing a farm out of virgin bush (although the Collins branch deserve some recognition for that, too) the Pilattis have had quite an impact on Collie.

Google the name, and you get Pilatti Bros Transport, Italia Plant Hire, Pilatti Concrete, Pilatti Plumbing and Gas. There has been a Pilatti bus service, a Pilatti-owned newsagency (quite a few years ago, admittedly) and even a Pilatti shire president and Chamber of Commerce and Industry president.

Where did they all come from? Quite small beginnings, but their numbers sure grew.

Giavanni Bortoli Pilatti, known as Jack, arrived in Western Australia with his mother, Caterina, and sister, Mary, on April 25, 1910.

His father, Gregorio, had arrived four years earlier, in 1906, and worked as a miner at Kanowna, near Kalgoorlie, for two years, before moving to Collie Burn.

With the family back together, four further sisters arrived - Rosina, Caterina, Bortolina and Dominica - but Jack was to be the only son.

After a year at Collie Burn, the family moved to Shotts in 1920, when a house

They arrived in WA in 1911, going first to Bridgetown, but in 1919, the patriarch, Frank, purchased a parcel of land at Buckingham.

JJJ’’ JJJJJ The carpenter’s heavy tools were uncomfortable so he got a little sore.

■■■ Nuns generally wear plain colours because old habits never dye.

It was virgin bush country, heavily timbered, and Frank set about the arduous task of carving out grazing land by hand. No bulldozers in those days.

In 1946, this farm was sold to Jack Pilatti, and his wife, Grace Alice Collins, more commonly known as Alice.

The young couple shifted their house from one farm to the adjoining property, where it still stands.

Jack worked as a coal miner before resigning after his long service leave and getting into trucks with log hauling to the Bucks Mill.

Jack and Alice had five sons - Ernie, Edwin, Ray, and twins Barry and Alan.

When Jack died the farm was bought

by Ernie and Phyl. It is still in the family.

The sons all married, and as women are wont to do, come Christmas time they all wanted to go home to spend Christmas with their families.

By this time, Jack had died, and Alice had remarried Jim Fare, and moved into town.

Alice was feeling left out, the wives’ families all had a family Christmas but she didn’t. So, she declared that Boxing Day each year would be Pilatti Day – and so it came about that every year for 50

THE

years, the Pilattis brought their families together on Boxing Day.

At first, they met at the Fares’ home, but as Alice got older, she decided the boys could take it in turns to host the day. This year, being the 50th such occasion, was considered special, and those of the family who had moved interstate wanted to come back for the occasion, so it was moved to last Saturday, January 8.

Alan, who married Jude Binnington, sister of Australian track athlete Max, had moved to Melbourne, but Jude and her daughter, Kirsten, got right into the act of organising the day.

Jude has loads of experience organising netball, and Kirsten is the CEO of Breast Cancer Network Australia. They were on it. Deidre, daughter of Phyl and the late Ernie, is a champion cook, so she got on to the catering, presiding over a lunch and afternoon tea which was all home cooked - and very nice, too!

Everyone chipped in – the array of eskies was almost as prevalent as the Pilattis. A special vintage of wines, red and white, was produced to mark the 50 years. A special cake was baked and decorated.

As it was a family day, the many kids were not forgotten. A play area was set aside in the hall for them, with games, play equipment, and balloons, and icy poles were distributed.

They came together, 89 adults and 21 children. Not all Pilattis, admittedly, but all related.

Edwin, commenting that Phyl was the oldest person present, said she was not really a Pilatti, she had just “married in”, but he contradicted this remark later by announcing that “if you are in the hall, you are a Pilatti!”

The Pilatti boys certainly married into some fine Collie families. Edwin’s wife Trish was a Henderson (she was an excellent pianist, and played in a dance band for many a Collie function; she was also a fine hockey player); Phyl was born a Hoddell (and was one of the first woman Justices of the Peace in Collie; she had a dress shop in town); Ray’s wife Jean was a McGinn (and a fine Scottish dancer – her dance costume can be seen in the Coalfields Museum). Barry’s wife Marlene was a Miss Green whose first school was Amaroo Primary.

The younger generation looked set to continue the tradition of Pilatti Day. A roving microphone gave them the chance to have their say, and it was unanimous that what they enjoyed about the gathering was the chance to meet up with their cousins and play with them.

The farm at Buckingham has now passed through five generations - Jack, Ernie, Graeme, Luke and Luke’s sons, George and Harry. George and Harry are the fourth generation to travel on the Bucks’ school bus.

The motto for Pilatti Day is Bringing Family Together, and they all set to keep doing that well into the future.

See page 19 for more photos of the mass Pilatti event.

BYSTANDER LOOKS AROUND

Short bloke’s steep drop There’s a local bloke who is a very keen golfer who has lived in close proximity to the golf course all his life, from birth until retirement, so you would think he would be very well acquainted with the course.

He was playing the third hole recently, where there is a six-metre drop from fairway to the river. One has to be very care-

ful descending this steep drop, so you would think that our keen short-legged golfer mate would have known better than to descend it head first.

We are given to understand that it wasn’t a case of hole-in-one, but almost one short legged golfer-in-river.

It took an heroic rescue mission to retrieve him, and he emerged both bloodied and bowed, rather than unbowed.

Store-bought memories.

Just like many others across town a local family was enjoying an impressive spread for Christmas lunch. Ham, prawns, fresh salads and an amazing spinach pie; the delights were endless.

Which made it all funnier that, when tasked with taking a photo of the food, a young family member dutifully captured several pics of... the store bought buns.

2022

10 COLLIE RIVER VALLEY BULLETIN, JANUARY 12, 2023

2022 was a year of ups and downs for Collie.

There were the lingering effects of COVID-19, plus the impact of the deadline announcement for the closure of coal-powered Muja and Collie Power Station.

Collie’s two coal mines suffered financial woes, but there was an injection of millions of dollars to upgrade Throssell Street and to develop a trail of murals.

The Collie Futures Fund and Just Transition were twin endeavours by the state government to attract new industries and prepare the coal and energy workforce for change.

The following pages provide an overview of Collie’s year that was.

January

► Transition for workers in Collie’s coal-fired power industry was underway, with 22 percent of Muja Power Station’s workforce upskilled in preparation for the staged closure of two of four operating units from October, 2022.

Planning for the Just Transition process began in August, 2019. ► More than 600 people signed a petition for an indoor heated swimming pool to be built. ► More than $2.5 million was spent

Year in Review

► Griffin Coal was negotiating an enterprise bargaining agreement with the Construction Forestry Maritime Mining Energy Union (CFMMEU). ► The Omicron variant of the COVID-19 virus led to a renewed mask mandate and the cancellation of the March Labour Day Festival and children’s activities at the Collie library.

Ninety-one per cent of the Collie population had been double-vaccinated.

► A record heatwave hit Collie with four consecutive days of 40 degrees or above. ► Collie’s little athletes starred at the country championships in Kalgoorlie, with An-ne Pelser, Gemma Buckle, Max Earl and Logan Gregory all winning gold medals.

Seven athletes qualified for the WA State Track and Field Championships to be held in February.

Mark Paget was named 2022 Citizen of the Year on Australia Day

during Collie Chamber of Commerce’s Buy Local Christmas shopping competition. ► Work on social housing units was underway, refurbishing six vacant government houses. ► Mark Paget was named 2022 Citizen of the Year on Australia Day. Liam Shepherd was the Young Citizen of the Year, Carol Gale received the Environment Award and the Collie Volunteer Fire and Rescue Service was the Community Group of the Year.

Collie River Valley Little Athletics Club under 14s Max Earl, Gemma Buckle, An-ne Pelser and Logan Gregory all received gold medals for their disciplines at the WA Country championships in Kalgoorlie.

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2022

COLLIE RIVER VALLEY BULLETIN, JANUARY 12, 2023 11

Year in Review

Jeff Riley started work on Collie Trails Retreat, his family’s accommodation venture built next to the Arklow Trail Network, in February.

February

► COVID-19 continued to affect Collie life, with fire and rescue volunteers having to produce proof of vaccination before they could assist with emergency situations. Thirty-seven percent of the total number of volunteers had not done so. ► A Facebook post of a possible COVID-19 case caused a rush of people attending Collie hospital. Three exposure sites were named, but the person concerned later received a negative test.

On the positive side, local police reported that with more people staying home, there had been a decrease in home burglaries and speeding fines. ► A $1.3 million transformation of the Collie Ridge Motel commenced, seeking to cater for tourists looking for resort-style accommodation. An extra 27 rooms had already been built, bringing the total number to 134. ► Collie Shire director of corporate services Allison Fergie retired after 12 years in local government. ► Parkrun celebrated its 100th weekly event, held at Soldiers’ Park every Saturday, encouraging people to run or walk the 5km course. ► Renergi’s pyrolysis demonstration plant was granted developmental approval to be located at the waste transfer site. ► A comprehensive plan for the Roundhouse site was announced by Be Our Guest Holdings. Minister for Regional Development Alannah McTiernan said it would be a game-changer, providing high quality accommodation and hospitality, steeped in the town’s rich industrial history. Conservation works were funded by the Collie Futures Fund. ► Ava Roney was selected for the junior Souwest Jets state team.

Jett Gardiner, Kai Pike, Meila Pike and Tex Gardiner on the first day of the 2022 school year.

► Collie shire council was briefed on a proposal to site a private flight training school and electric aircraft manufacturing industry by proponent Michael Hebbard. Mr Hebbard was seeking funding from the Collie Futures Fund. ► Local builder Jeff Riley had started work on an accommodation venture, Collie Trails Retreat, next to the Arklow Trail Network. ► Allanson Primary School staff and students had to isolate when two COVID-19 cases were recorded. ► The close of the marron season came with mixed reports. The director of the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development aquatic resource management said reasonable catches had been made, but some fishers reported struggling with high water levels in certain dams, which made it difficult to access fishing locations. ► Collie shire council opposed an application by Griffin Coal Mining Company for a mining lease next to the airstrip, saying it would impact on future expansion of the strip. ► New mountain biking trails were added to the Wagyl Biddi network along Venn Street east.

The trails, close to the high school, featured drops and jumps, and were said to give young people the ability to develop their skills. ► Fairview Primary School staff wore tutus to school, and students participated in palindrome activities to celebrate a rare date, 22/2/22.

► Griffin Coal reported cases of COVID-19 at its mine site. ► Glen Mervyn Dam was closed to water skiing due to low water levels. ► New Wellington National Park mountain bike trails recorded an average of 100 riders per day on weekdays, and nearly double that on weekends. ► Long-serving Collie Visitor Centre staffer Raema Miffling retired after 22 years’ service. ► Paddy’s Shadow won her second Bunbury Cup in a dead heat with True Attraction. ► St Brigid’s Primary School canteen manager Kerry Higgins clocked up 25 years of service. ► Collie Eagles football club braced itself for COVID-19 regulations which limited crowds at outdoor venues to 500 people, and ANZAC Day services were cancelled.

Amaroo’s school dental service was scaled back. ► In-home aged care services were impacted by COVID-19, with visits reduced from weekly to fortnightly, due to close contact and isolation requirements. ► Collie’s timber industry heritage was the subject of the town’s latest mural, with timber cutters portrayed on the south-east wall Kurtis Thomson and Keely Blurton attended the of the Miners’ Institute.

2022 Collie Senior High School ball. ► Collie Shire council Street. The family of four was not at called for a public bus service between home at the time, but was left destitute.

Collie and Bunbury to be restored. ► Collie Cricket Club won the BunA regular bus service operated by bury and Districts Cricket Association B South West Coachlines ceased on Febru- grade premiership for the fourth consecary 1. utive year. ► After 16 years in a temporary loca► Year 11 and 12 Collie Senior High tion, Collie Community Radio 101.3fm School students celebrated with the had plans for a new building approved. school ball at Harris River Winery.

The building will be located on part of ► Gemma Buckle, 14, won the Austrathe block behind the Collie Woodturners’ lian under 15 javelin title at the Austrarooms. lian Athletic Championships in Sydney, ► Fire gutted a family home in Deakin with a throw of 39.72 metres.

March

► Collie was unlikely to get traffic lights for the intersection of Throssell and Prinsep Streets, being ranked 2525th on the Main Roads Department’s priority list.

West of the intersection is used by an average 5600 vehicles a day, while an average 7000 vehicles use the other side of the intersection. ► Long-serving GP Dr Basudeb Sahary called time on working at the local hospital after more than 45 years.

He gave up surgical practice at the hospital in 2010 to focus on patients at the Collie Medical Group, but continued to see in-patients and out-patients. ► South32 announced it will phase out coal by 2035 as part of its commitment to halve operational emissions.

A Deakin Street home was destroyed by fire in March.

2022

12 COLLIE RIVER VALLEY BULLETIN, JANUARY 12, 2023

April

► A giant battery of 600 to 800 megawatts that would attract investment of $730 million and potentially create 400 permanent jobs was the focus of a study for Sunshot Energy. ► Collie residents were urged to have their say on the future of the Australind rail passenger service. A study would potentially shut down the service for 18 months, or for good. ► Quantum Filtration Medium obtained $100,000 from the Collie Futures Small Grants scheme to look at building a laboratory in the LIA. The laboratory would process water to remove minerals and render it safe for drinking. ► Confidential papers from the Shire of Quindanning were found scattered over 25km of Coalfields Highway during a roadside pickup. Volunteers collected two tonnes of litter, mainly fast food containers. ► The Men’s Shed was able to expand its working area and storage space, thanks to a grant of $5000 from Premier Coal. ► International Graphite’s (IG) battery project for Collie received a huge boost when listed on the stock exchange.

Shares almost doubled expectations. IG received a $2 million grant from the Collie Futures Fund. ► One in six Collie women who had cervical cancer screening in 2021 received abnormal results. However, none came back positive for cervical cancer. ► Site works for LeoLabs Australia’s two space radars began at the site 10km west of Collie. ► Former shire president Wayne Sanford spoke against moves to build a heated swimming pool for Collie. He said the town could not afford it, predicting a 15 percent rate increase to pay for running costs. ► A disc golf course was opened at Lions Park. ► Camping and murals were a hit with tourists who flocked to Collie during the Easter weekend. ► A spate of copper thefts - including one worth more than $50,000 from Muja Power Station - coincided with the price of copper hitting a world-wide record price. ► Cash4cans Collie depot collected

Year in Review

nine million containers in 2021, giving a total of $900,000 back to the community. ► The annual electors’ meeting heard that the Coalfields Museum is desperately in need of a new site. ► Allanson resident Maureen “Maud” Taylor was selected in the WA Disability bowling team to play in Queensland.

It was the third time she was selected to represent WA. ► A mural depicting Aboriginal history was painted on the Shire building façade by Jacob “Shakey” Butler. ► Collie Shire council’s liquidity at the end of the 2021-22 financial year was less than half that recommended by the Department of Local Government, Sport and Cultural Industries. The ratio was 41 per cent, the lowest it had been for years. The recommended position is at least 110 per cent. ► Collie-Cardiff RSL asked people to stand at the end of their driveways and listen to a dawn service broadcast by Collie Community Radio 101.3fm, because of COVID-19 restrictions on public gatherings. ► COVID-19 prevented the annual Collie Senior High School’s ANZAC tour from proceeding. The decision came just before an announcement that school camps could resume. ► A rescission motion would be required if Collie Shire Council decided to proceed with a heated swimming pool. A standing motion is against such a move.

However, this would not stop council investigating the circumstances of establishing a heated pool.

May

► Collie’s infrastructure is a valuable asset, Professor Ross Garnaut said, as a memorandum of understanding was signed between International Graphite and Zen industries. The transmission lines which fed the integrated Great Southern System could be used to feed renewable energy back to Collie to be stored in a 600 to 800 megawatt battery, he explained. ► Collie Shire council approved site plans for fast food giant KFC in Throssell Street. CEO Stuart Devenish said council had every indication KFC would come to Collie. ► Collie was selected as a finalist in the Top Tourism Awards.

Lily Sparks and Ruby-Rose Rikihana took advantage of the new disc golf course.

Alf Sanford recalled his days wielding a pick while mining underground when he came face to face with one of the metal cutouts at the opening of the Wallsend Mine restoration. ► Perth’s Oli Stenning dominated the Lowry Memorial Race. ► After being told the 660km Gran► June was the month Collie was told ite Grovel ultra bikepacking event from Dunsborough to Albany could not be its state-owned power stations will be completed in under two days, Stephen closed during the next seven years. Collie Power Station will close in October Italiano beat this time by six hours. ► A $10 million update of the Wel- 2027, and Muja will follow in October lington Weir bridge would include a new 2029. Premier Mark McGowan made the pedestrian access. Design work was com- announcement. It is estimated that 1200 pleted, and construction was expected to jobs will be impacted. ► Muja C’s unit five was to close later get underway in 2023. ► Just Transition group’s Steve Mc- in the year, with unit six to close in 2024. ► The Premier extended an olive Cartney said magnesium promises a solid future for Collie. Mr McCartney, the branch to Collie with a funding injection state secretary of the Australian Manu- of $662 million to support the town’s fufacturing Workers Union, said a magne- ture. The funding is expected to attract new industry, create local jobs and prosium smelter could provide that future. ► Planning was delaying the Round- vide grants for local businesses. ► Disaster Relief Australia’s Project house project, National Trust Architect Resilience proposed a disaster resilience Julian Donaldson said. project for Collie. DRA identified Collie Development plans are conceptual and would require further detailed work, he as one of five communities in WA which could benefit from such a project, particsaid. ► Neoen’s Nathan Ling briefed Collie ularly for fire. ► Local residents needing to attend Shire council about a battery energy stormedical appointments in Bunbury had age project to be located 13km from Collie adjacent to Western Power’s 300mw been left stuck without a bus service following the cancellation of South West Shotts substation. ► Premier Coal could end up partially Coach Lines service in February. ► A collagen project which received owned by the state government as a result of a deal made in 2014 to prop up the funding to produce wound dressing, surcompany. Synergy agreed to subsidise gery and organ printing was placed on Premier under a convertible loan agree- hold due to COVID-19. The project was impacted because of delays of orders ment. ► Attorney-General John Quigley said arriving from China. It is expected to there were no immediate plans to close resume once the pandemic is over, and the Collie Magistrate’s Court, as a re- then will take two years to finish. ► South32 agreed to fund a tourism view by the WA Department of Justice released a review which proposed its clo- marketer, which is a vital part of council’s tourism marketing strategy. South32 sure. ► A feasibility study for a carbon-neu- will also provide funding for a special tral magnesium refinery to be built on Kaya Collie 125th anniversary concert to land east of Collie was delivered to the be held at the recreation ground. ► Collie’s uptake of rooftop solar panstate government by Magnium Austraels exceeded the state average. Some lia.

1500 local homes and businesses have ► Medical cannabis producer Cannasolar panels. ponics signed a memorandum of under► Father Gerald Tan of St Brigid’s standing with Avacare Health Australia to develop a pharmaceutical manufactur- Church began providing free meals once a week to needy people. ing facility in Collie.

June

2022

June

► Community Bank Collie directors helped Collie Community Radio project manager Mark Sanders drive the first spike on site for a new radio station. ► Local litter legend Terry Ransome was recognised in parliament when Collie-Preston MLA Jodie Hanns acknowledged him in a National Volunteer Week statement. ► COVID-19 heavily impacted attendance at Collie schools, with Amaroo Primary School operating classes at 50 per cent capacity. Collie Senior High School attendance also dropped to 52 per cent, but had recovered to 75 per cent attendance. ► The 2022 Lions Christmas Pageant was in doubt because of a lack of volunteers and funding. Pageant co-ordinator Greg Biffin said an ageing membership made it impossible to run the event. ► Collie singer Kate Hindle won two awards - WA Country Music Female Artist of the Year, and Emerging Artist of the Year - at the Boyup Brook Country Music Awards. ► Construction of the new campground and picnic area on the northern lakeshore of Lake Kepwari began. ► Trudy Vandenenden, who has volunteered for Red Cross for 25 years, celebrated her 90th birthday with friends. ► The Premier Hotel will receive a $250,000 refurbishment courtesy of a Collie Futures Fund grant. ► Men’s Shed chairperson Ian Bushell was honoured when an extension to the group’s building was named in his honour. ► Museum treasurer Alison Kidman urged Collie Shire Council to concentrate on obtaining a site for a new museum, rather than forming a working group or doing a business plan. Council agreed. ► The first residents moved into refurbished units repurposed to social housing. The first resident had been living in a tent for 18 months. ► Cheerio Club party organiser and Riverview Residence board member Steve Davies received a community service award from Collie Lions.

July

► With Muja’s C unit due to close by October 1, 22 Synergy employees opted to take voluntary redundancies, while five had chosen to be redeployed to other Synergy sites. ► Synergy’s announcement it would not renew its contract with Bluewaters Power Station potentially put 60 jobs at risk. ► Collie identities were interviewed about Collie’s future, live on air by ABC Regional Drive in a broadcast from the Coalfields Museum. ► An outbreak of influenza was described by Dr Peter Wutchak as worse than COVID-19, with a 50 per cent increase in cases. Only 30 percent of WA’s population was vaccinated against the illness. ► Dr Jan Van Vollenstee retired after 16 years at Collie River Valley Medical Centre. He said he planned to enjoy travelling, golf and boating in his retirement. ► A Collie Suicide Prevention Net-

COLLIE RIVER VALLEY BULLETIN, JANUARY 12, 2023 13

Year in Review

Community Bank Collie directors Ian Miffling, John Piavanini and Ken Smallwood on site to lend a hand to Collie Community Radio project manager Mark Sanders sizing up the site for the new radio station. work was launched, as a rise in mental several years. Some 15 properties were health sufferers was reported. involved in court action after attempts at ► The Colliefields Hotel celebrated its debt collection were unsuccessful.

125th anniversary as part of the Kaya ► United Workers’ Union members Collie festivities. Descendants of the protested outside the office of Collie-Presoriginal owner and architect, Tom Carri- ton MLA Jodie Hanns , calling for a five gg, were present. percent wage rise. ► The State Government signed a ► Cancer survivor Deborah Strike memorandum of understanding with Fu- urged local women to undergo breast ture Energy Australia to investigate the screening while the Breastscreen WA possibility of a renewable diesel industry bus was in town. She said early detection plant. saved her life. ► Collie-Preston MLA Jodie Hanns or► Collieburn resident Joe Hetherganised a petition to oppose the proposal ington told Collie Shire Council that the to close the Collie courthouse. environment was more important than ► Collie Shire Council announced a Lake Kepwari. He called for a public rate rise of five percent for the 2022/2023 meeting with Minister for Water Dave Kelly, to discuss the Collie River. financial year. ► Units at Riverview Residence which had been vacant for 12 years were being demolished to make way for new retirement units. ► South West Regional TAFE was ► New funding was sought by Collie Shire Council to continue work on the ramping up its efforts to ensure workers blackberry problem. The Collie Shire impacted by Just Transition got job-seekwas working in partnership alongside ing help and training. Three locations in Collie were to be established, including a Dardanup and Donnybrook-Balingup. larger training facility and a shop front ► Magnium Australia raised $3.24 in the CBD. million to scale up its technology for car► Consistent rains caused the Venn bon neutral processing of lightweight Street water stop to overflow, drawing magnesium. Collie is a potential location many people to see the water cascading. for its plant and the State government has granted $2 million for a pre-feasibil► Collie Shire Council opted to keep ity study. fire control local when asked by the ► Collie Shire Council acted to claw State Government about a Consolidated back close to $300,000 in rates owing on Emergency Services Act. A possibility of local properties, with debts going back centralising control of training and man-

August

Underwater hockey players Troy Bolderson, Toby Stanley and Ty Sloan (back), with Kya Digney and Grace Cheng at the 2022 Underwater Hockey Championships.

agement with the State Government was discounted by council. ► Coalfields Museum suffered a setback in its bid for a new site when it was told it could not get a lease of the former army drill hall. The building is still required by Forest Products. ► More than 8.5 million containers were recycled by the Collie Cash4Cans depot during the 2021-2022 financial year. ► Collie Courthouse was given a reprieve by Attorney General John Quigley when he announced it would remain open following a review of court services by the Department of Justice. ► Disaster Relief Australia held a workshop to help local responders and volunteers to see the big picture of where emergencies could arise. A “Big Map” showed potential flood threats. ► The 2022 Christmas Pageant would be downsized so it could go ahead, Lions Club chairperson Helga Henke said. The event was at risk because of a lack of volunteers and funding. ► Collie was marked as a potential wind farm site, a Synergy spokesperson said. The farm would be part of Synergy’s future renewable energy projects.

Geoff Blackford checking out the overflowing Venn Street water stop. ► Collie couple Dorothy and Ted McCormick celebrated 72 years of marriage.

They met after Ted moved from Pinjarra to Collie to work as a cleaner at the locomotive depot. ► The median price of a Collie house had increased by $45,000 to $230,000, the Real Estate Institute of WA said.

This was still well below the regional WA median price of $403,000. ► Hundreds of riders competed in the 2022 Collie River MTB Marathon. A field of 262 riders took part. ► Collie Shire Council decided to give a favourable submission to South32’s environmental review document for Worsley mine expansions.

The WA Forest Alliance protested against the expansion. ► Heritage paintwork began on the Goods Shed. ► Collie Shire Council backed a change to waste processor Renergi’s terms of approval to establish a processing plant at the waste transfer station. The change would yield savings for the community. ► A bulldozer and its driver fell 20 metres over an embankment at Premier Coal. The dozer driver was not injured. ► Local firewood suppliers had completely run out of firewood, with more than a month of winter left. Mumballup Organics owner Mark Tilbrook said he only received three quarters of his allocation of jarrah.

2022

14 COLLIE RIVER VALLEY BULLETIN, JANUARY 12, 2023

Year in Review

A marquee and orchestra stage were set up in the quarry at Wellington Dam for the once-in-a-lifetime dinner event in October.

Bignell set a club record when he played of Education on school-based activities. his 250th game for the Eagles.

Weekly meetings will be held online. ► A hydro power plan would provide ► Beam Mobility addressed Collie ► Bluewater Power made a bid to take 350 jobs during construction and 20 per- Shire Council about a plan to introduce over Griffin Coal, with the companies due manent jobs. The $650 million pumped shared e-scooters which would allow resin court as Bluewaters sought to invoke hydro project was suggested for location idents and visitors to move around town its “step-in rights” to take over the mine. at the Muja coal pit. Pump Hydro Collie for shopping and sightseeing. ► The Collie Rail Heritage Group was working with Griffin on the project. ► Westpac Bank decided to close its lo(CRHG) told Collie Shire Council it op► Cancer sufferer Michele Gannaway cal branch in December. A bank spokesposed the granting of a lease to operators left a legacy of a restored Colliefields Ho- person said impacted customers could of the Central Park railway wagon. The tel when she died. She achieved her am- access the same cash services locally via lease for the land on which the wagon is bition to have the hotel restored in time Australia Post at the Collie Post Shop. located expired in December 2021 and for its 125th birthday in July. ► Renewable power producer Neoen was up for renewal. CRHG was partic► A $1 million boost for Westrac Train- Australia filed planning documents with ularly aggrieved that the operators had ing Centre would enable the expansion the Shire of Collie to develop a standpainted the restored Brunswick green of buildings which house the theory and alone one gigawatt battery energy storwagon white, without consultation. virtual reality training at the centre. age system to be built at Myaree Farm. ► With the temporary closure of the ► FestivArty opened for its 10 days of ► Collie Shire Council will lose at least Collie hospital’s operating theatre so it art, with a street fair. It attracted 400 two councillors when revised local govcould be upgraded, Collie women were entries for its art awards. ernment requirements come into force choosing to give birth in Bunbury. Of the next year. The recommendation for its ► South32 Worsley Alumina was set 27 babies born through the Collie Midband of population is between five and wifery Group Practice, only six were born to import up to 260,000 tonnes of coal to nine elected members. keep its refi nery going after local supin Collie. plier Premier Coal failed to meet its re► Construction of the Collie Resource ► Three local businesses shared in quirements.

Recovery Centre was underway at Colmore than $200,000 to diversify Collie’s ► Embattled Griffin Coal was sent lie’s Landfill site. economy and create jobs. They were Busy into receivership, to avert a threatened ► Bankwest Collie announced it would Bee Dry Cleaners, $63,814 to expand its business, Collie Flight Training school, move on the company by Bluewaters reduce its opening days by two at the end of October. It will open only on Mondays, $100,000 towards relocating aircraft and Power Station. ► All Saints Church invited the com- Wednesdays and Fridays. acquiring demountables, and Collabs Scientific Services $38,683, to develop a munity to toll its bell to mark the passing of Queen Elizabeth 11. A condolence business case. ► Terry White Pharmacy installed a book was placed in the church for those medicine dispensary robot to dispense all who wished to show their respect.

September

customer medications. Owner Peter Carr said the robot would not replace jobs but free pharmacists and assistants to better engage with customers. ► Collie Football Club player Adam Collie BMX Club mini wheeler Milla Cherry competed at the State Championships in Perth.

► Collie River Valley Bulletin published its 100th edition.

► Collie student Austin Bates was selected on the WA Student Council , which provides feedback to the Department

October

► St Brigid’s parish priest Fr Gerald Tan called on the Bishop of Bunbury to be removed from his post, accusing him of breaking the confessional seal. Fr Tan wrote to the Papal Nuncio in Canberra calling for an investigation. ► A North Collie home was engulfed in flames just after midnight. Volunteers were quickly on the scene but could do little more than douse the flames. ► The Collie Agricultural Society announced the Collie Show would go on in spite of a disappointing clash of dates with two metropolitan shows. A spokesperson said this would affect the availability of sideshow rides and stalls. ► The centenary of the Collie arboretum was marked by the planting of trees, as part of the Kaya Collie festivities. ► Collie Clay Target Club member Max Cubic was inducted into the WA Clay Target Association’s Hall of Fame.

Collie club president Laurie Paterson said Cubic is one of the best shots in WA.

► Wallsend Street was barricaded in a five hour standoff after a man threatened to harm himself. ► Jacob “Shakey” Butler completed a mural in Throssell Street of miners changing shifts at the Proprietary Mine.

The mural was a project of the Retired Miners’ Association. ► Former long-serving local GP Dr Owen Isbel died in Busselton. He retired there 31 years ago after serving Collie families for 30 years. ► Two hundred people paid $200 each to be part of a once-in-a-lifetime dinner at the Wellington dam quarry area to mark Collie’s 125th birthday as part of Kaya Collie festivities.

► A forum on Lake Kepwari and the south branch of the Collie River was told the goal of the Department of Water and Environmental Regulation is to maximise resilience of rivers in a drying climate. The forum was told Lake Kepwari would be a refuge where native species could survive. ► A $2million agreement between International Graphite and the State Government had been finalised. The agreement is to help establish a micronising plant in Collie. ► Shire Council endorsed a working relationship with the Coalfields Museum and Historical Research Centre, to identify a suitable future museum site. ► Celebrity Chef won the King Coal Cup at the Collie Harness Racing Club.

► Premier Coal set a target of 38 per cent growth with an increase of 50 million tonnes of coal and over burden. ► Permission was granted to the caravan park to allow people to camp alongside the park, even though it was technically not on the caravan park lease. ► A 12-month trial of a bus service between Collie and Bunbury started. The bus leaves Collie on weekdays at 7.30am and is back in Collie by 5.15pm.

► Collie was named a finalist in four categories in the State Tidy Towns competition, and was also a finalist in the overall award. ► The Miners’ Institute was undergoing a comprehensive assessment ahead of a major overhaul. The hall is more than 70 years old. ► A controversial lot, in Patstone Road, is set for rezoning after changes to the planning application were made.

2022

November

► Coal was to be imported from the eastern states to prevent blackouts in WA over summer. Collie-Preston MLA Jodie Hanns said this would insure against any unexpected local coal supply issues. ► Collie was spared from a 32 amp electricity limit imposed on regional homes by the State Government earlier in the year. ► Michelle Loxton took over as the managing editor of the Collie River Valley Bulletin, as directors Joe Italiano and Elysia Harverson took a step back from day-to-day activities. ► Three Collie businesses received accolades at the South West Business Excellence Awards. They were Keip Filtration, Iridescent Studio and Community Bank Collie. ► Arson attacks destroyed a 60 hectare blue gum plantation worth almost $600,000 late in October. Four deliberately lit fires burned 300 hectares of local forest. ► New residents were welcomed to Collie at a morning tea in Central Park.

Locals Roz Martinac and Donna Davies hosted the event.

Alexander Simpson scales the rock climbing wall at the Collie Show. ► Collie Senior High School’s graduating class of 2022 celebrated the end of studies. Jackson Rabaud was dux. ► A pipe leak in Steere Street sent water gushing as a hole opened up in the road’s surface. ► A proposal was put to Collie Shire Council for a $750 million Collie Ammonia Development Company to be located at the decommissioned Collie Power Station site. ► The backers of a potential $650 million pumped hydro project were eyeing off the site of embattled miner Griffin Coal. ► Local runner Clint Riley competed in the New York City marathon, among 50,000 others. ► Amaroo Primary School’s entry in the 2022 Perth Royal Show Sustainable Scarecrow competition won the People’s Choice Award. ► All Saints Anglican Church Ladies’ Guild celebrated 120 years of work for the church. The anniversary coincid-

COLLIE RIVER VALLEY BULLETIN, JANUARY 12, 2023 15

Year in Review

ed with Collie’s 125th anniversary of gazettal as a town. ► Collie Senior High School year 11 student Ebony Whitney was selected as one of 10 WA students to attend the Premier’s Anzac Tour in 2023. ► Collie-Cardiff RSL remembered the fallen of the First World War with a service in Soldiers’ Park. ► Fears that a lack of suitable housing could derail the State Government’s Just Transition plan led to Collie Shire Council evaluating the development of 12 freehold titles in Wilson Park. It will also look at opportunities to infill housing for private laneway-backed lots in central Collie. ► Former Collie glam rock band Sisters Doll headlined at Whisky A Go-Go in West Hollywood. ► A local man was shocked when he uncovered a hand grenade at Minningup Pool. He was metal detecting near Griffin Bridge. He handed the grenade to police. ► Collie River Valley Medical Centre patients were shuffled between doctors when the surgery’s general practitioners were hit with illness. It was believed two doctors tested positive for COVID-19. ► A woman driver was taken to hospital after her car crashed through fencing at the Coalfields Museum before hitting a power pole. ► A three year lease to establish a private flight training school at the Collie airstrip was granted by Collie Shire Council. ► The annual Collie Show attracted many to see the varied exhibits, with a fireworks display proving to be the highlight. ► Gemma Buckle won Collie’s sportsperson of the year award. An-ne Pelser was named the junior sportsperson of the year. ► Fourteen players from the Collie underwater hockey club were selected to play at the National Underwater Hockey Championships. Kaz Digney, Rory Millman, Jake Darnell, Isabel van Aard, Jasmine Pike and Matilda Shepherd were chosen in the under 15s side. Kaya Digney, Troy Bolderson, Ty Sloan, Shae Digney, Toby Stanley and Grace Cheng were selected for the under 19s division.

December

► Premier Mark McGowan announced a $200 million package to bring green industry to Collie, through the Industrial Transition Fund. ► Terry Ransome was named a Litter Legend at the State Tidy Towns awards. ► Collie Shire Council won a heritage award at the Heritage Council of WA , for a contribution by a public or private organisation. The Throssell Street restoration was recognised. ► Pallet manufacturer Sustainable Pallets announced a $75 million investment in the town at the Collie New Industry Forum. ► A Jobs and Skills Centre is to be located in Forrest Street. ► Building approvals in Collie increased by $37.1 million in the last five years. ► Hampers full of donated goods were

being prepared for needy families, to be distributed before Christmas. ► The centenary of the Ewington School building was celebrated with a barbecue lunch and afternoon tea, with former school pupils returning. ► Bianca Ashcroft was named Trainer of the Year by the Collie Harness Racing Club. ► Collie coal would need to be blended with 50,000 tonnes of coal shipped from NSW to cover shortfall in supply by local mines to power stations. ► ValleyView had one section in COVID-19 lockdown, the third since the start of the pandemic. ► Local trots meetings were at risk with a recommendation from Racing and Gaming that community regional meetings be cut to one a year. With eight trainers in Collie handling 60 horses this was a potential blow. ► Cr Elysia Harverson moved that Shire Council staff investigate the introduction of smoke-free zones in Collie. ► Australia’s corporate watchdogs were asked to act to protect the future of Collie and Griffin coal mine workers. ► Neoen set a 2025 goal for its $2 billion big battery project in Collie, with construction to start in 2023. ► Collie-Preston MLA Jodie Hanns was promoted in her first term in parliament to the post of parliamentary secretary. ► The annual toy ride collected donations of toys and food as 100 motorbikes roared around town. A total of $2100 in cash and vouchers was also raised for the needy. ► Local small businesses were urged to stay open during the Christmas period to cater for tourists. ► Central Park was packed for the annual carols service, with the food tent sold out of sausage sizzles,, burgers, icecreams and drinks by 6pm, raising more than $2200 for Youth Care Collie. ► LeoLabs Australia’s space radar site near Worsley was complete and set to begin transmitting by December 31. ► The State government gave a lifeline to Griffin Coal Mining Company with a grant for an undisclosed sum to the company’s receivers to stabilise its Collie operations and provide certainty to Griffin workers and the community.

Jasper Povee whispering to Santa what he wanted for Christmas at the Amaroo Christmas fair. ► South32 Worsley was set to receive a second shipment of imported coal. ► The replica mine at the Visitors’ Centre was set to open in time for the school holidays. ► The indoor swimming pool group was asked to determine if $7.5 million building costs and associated operating costs were something Collie could afford. ► A Rural Clinical School of WA for doctors-in-training was to open in Collie in January, with the arrival of four doctors. ► Griffin workers were owed $8.9 million in various entitlements. ► Troy and Carrie Jones of Hawthorne Avenue won the Christmas lights competition. ► Members of the Australian Manufacturing Workers’ Union stopped work at South32 over disputes in negotiating. ► Trail builders Common Grounds was named as a finalist in the 2023 Telstra Best Builders awards in the outstanding growth category. ► Collie couples Bob and Lenore Sanford and Don and Robin Pike celebrated their 60th wedding anniversaries.

Collie Shire councillor Elysia Harverson (centre, with daughter Nava) moved to introduce smoke-free zones in Collie. She was supported (from left) by Vicky Ward and Vance Sciesinski, Caitlin and Rivah Genev, Kasey Collier and Autumn Bright, Keegan Rinder and Hudson Cavanagh, Crystal and Davina Jones, Carole English and Jayla and Payton Parkin.

16 COLLIE COLLIE RIVER RIVER VALLEY VALLEY BULLETIN, BULLETIN, JANUARY JANUARY 12, 12, 2023 2023 16

RRRR EEERER

Home’s jarrah features THIS family home has four spacious bedrooms, with timeless jarrah features.

When entering the property’s front gates, it is hard to believe you are on the town’s doorstep.

The home has a charming, inviting nature and exudes the tranquillity and peace only found in country living.

The master bedroom features bay windows, while all four bedrooms are carpeted.

The ensuite in the master features a shower, toilet and vanity unit.

The bathroom has a shower, bath and large vanity unit with plenty of bench and cupboard space.

Jarrah cupboards are a feature of the kitchen, as is the jarrah skirting, architraves and window sills.

There is also a dishwasher and double fridge recess.

The jarrah theme continues into the dining area and lounge, with exposed beams that add a touch of class.

The lounge features a built-in wood fire

HOME FACT FILE Location: 6 York Road, Collie Price: $549,000 Bedrooms: 4 Bathrooms: 2 Contact: Mitch Davidson 0408 910 337 or Tocoda 0447 340 344

HHHH H H HH

with Mitch Davidson

and wood box, which is accessible both from inside and outside.

This impressive property is a short drive from the town centre, and walking distance to a local primary school, tracks and trails.

Some of the furniture can be purchased with the property.

The home’s approximate annual land rates are $2,071, and water rates are $269. The property is zoned R15 and the block is 1822 metres squared.

The home was built in 1985.

WHY BUY ME: ► Ducted air-conditioning; ►Ducted vacuum system; ► Wrap-around verandah; ► Below-ground pool, with built-in stone waterfall feature; ► Colorbond pool shed; ► Patio entertaining area; ► Powered workshop with two roller doors; ► Garden shed; ► Fully enclosed yard; ► Reticulation; ► Individually glazed windows; ► Colorbond steel roof; ► New gutters and downpipes; ► Sealed bitumen driveway.

COLLIE RIVER VALLEY BULLETIN, JANUARY 12, 2023 17

HOME FACT FILE Location: 33 Wallsend Stree Price: Offers over $349,000 Bedrooms: 3 Bathrooms 1 Cars: 1 Contact: Matt Blackford 0405 919 121

18 COLLIE RIVER VALLEY BULLETIN, JANUARY 12, 2023

CHURCH NOTICES

ACROSS December 29th - Year in Review YEAR IN REVIEW 3. month which Queen 1

2

3 4

5

6 7

9

8

10

11 12

14

13

15

16 17

18

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Elizabeth died (9) 6. this tennis player was deported from Australia (joins 2 Down) (5) 10. top grossing film for 2022 (subtitle) (8) 12. recent Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee (6) 14. Anthony Albanese became the _____-_____ Prime Minister (joins 19 Across) (5) 16. Winter Olympics were held in this capital city (7) 18. Elon Musk purchases this social media website (7) 19. Anthony Albanese became the _____-_____ Prime Minister (joins 14 Across) (6) 20. this novelist was stabbed at a public lecture in New York (joins 15 Down) (6)

20

Across 3. month which Queen Elizabeth died (9) 6. this tennis player was deported from Australia (joins 2 Down) (5) 10. top grossing film for 2022 (subtitle) (8) 12. recentACROSS Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee (6) 4 Albanese blue became the 14. Anthony _____-_____ Prime Minister (joins 19 5 feliznavidad Across) (5) 7 kfc 16. Winter Olympics were held in this capital city (7) 18. Elon Musk purchases this social media website (7)

S

hu rthur y e

19. Anthony Albanese became the _____-_____ Prime Minister (joins 14 Across) (6) 20. this novelist was stabbed at a public lecture in New York (joins 15 Down) (6) Down 1. winning song at Eurovision (8) 17 9 germany 2. this tennis player was deported 12Australia sugar(joins 6 Across) (8)18 from 4. this broke out in London 20 14 pox herod (6) 16 macys 5. July event involving Shinzo Abe (13) 7. winner of the UEFA Champions League (4, 6)

8. activists threw this onto a Van Gogh painting (10) 9. this celestial event was discovered (9) 11. Liz Truss resigns after ______ days in UK parliament (5) 13. location of the Commonwealth Games (10) tinsel DOWN 15. this novelist was stabbed at a eggnog capricorn public lecture in New York1(joins 20 Across) (7) coin 2 cupid 17. location of the FIFA World Cup 3 ebenezer (5)

14. ngilgi 16. garnet Will YOU be the 17. katipo first winner of 18. convex 2023?

20 years ago River diversion plan An environmental impact study was underway in 2003 on an innovative anti-salinity proposal to divert tens of millions of litres of the Collie catchment’s saltiest water into mine voids.

The proposal centred on diverting particularly saline water from the East Collie River into Griffin Coal mine voids at Chicken Creek.

Police seize weapons Collie police warned they have a “no tolerance” policy on violence.

This warning came after a major disturbance in Atkinson Street led to the seizure of an array of dangerous weapons.

The weapons included a shovel, a baseball and two samurai swords.

DOWN 1. winning song at Eurovision (8) 2. this tennis player was deported from Australia (joins 6 Across) (8) 4. this pox broke out in London (6) 5. July event involving Shinzo Abe (13) 7. winner of the UEFA Champions League (4, 6) 8. activists threw this onto a Van Gogh painting (10) 9. this celestial event was discovered (9) 11. Liz Truss resigns after ______ days in UK parliament (5) 13. location of the Commonwealth Games (10) 15. this novelist was stabbed at a public lecture in New York (joins 20 Across) (7) 17. location of the FIFA World Cup (5)

6 elf 8 mistletoe 10 eight 11 paris

19. iceworks 20. sangria

13 odbody 15 hat 19 grinch

ALL SAINTS’ ANGLICAN CHURCH: 46 Venn Street.

Church Services: Every Sunday at 9am.

Morning tea after the service.

Holy Communion: First and second Sundays of each month.

Morning prayer: all other Sundays.

Enquiries to warden: Gwen Molnar.

Phone 9734 4020 or 0439 375 598.

Op shop: Open Tuesdays to Friays 9am - 3pm Church office: Tuesdays only.

Secretary email: collieanglican@gmail. com Website: www.allsaintschurchcollie.org BAPTIST CHURCH: Cnr Prinsep and Elouera Streets, North Collie.

Church Enquiries: Pastor Timothy van Aarde 0450 880 775.

Collie Hospital Chaplain: Timothy van Aarde.

Sunday Service : 9.30am Visitors Welcome.

Sunday School during Service.

Ladies Bible Study Group: Tuesday 10am at the Church.

Prayer Meeting: Monday 5pm-6pm at the Church.

CHURCH OF CHRIST: 165 Prinsep St. Pastor: Shayne Goldfinch 0422 515 257.

Elder: Evan Mandry 0407 445 788.

Secretary: Glynis 0403 159 668.

Sundays: 9.30am, Family Service and Kids Church.

Thursdays: 9.30am, Craft & Friendship – Phone Heather 9734 4066 Saturdays: 7.30am, Periodically, Breakfast – Phone Evan 9734 1354.

Weekly Bible studies on various days.

All enquiries welcomed. Vision Radio (87.6FM) is a Ministry of our Church.

COALFIELDS BAPTIST CHURCH: 43 Venn Street, Independent Baptist Church, Simple Bible Preaching, Psalms, Classic Hymns and Spiritual Songs, KJV, Friendly Congregation. Main Service Sun 10am Bible Study Sun 4pm. All Welcome! Tea and Coffee Refreshments after Services.

Enquiries: Pastor Josh Denford 0403 300 802 coalfieldsbaptist@gmail.com facebook.com/cbccollie

DOWN

FOURSQUARE GOSPEL CHURCH: 46 Johnston Street, Collie. All are welcome to join with us in fellowship.

Friday: Food Ministry 10am-12noon, Prayer meeting 7pm Sunday: 10am morning service. Sunday School during service. For enquiries phone Pastor Garry Fisher on 9734 3796.

1. tim 2. cabbage 3. marsh NAME_____________________________AGE____ 5. oryx Drop your entries to the Collie Bulletin by 4pm Monday

PROUDLY SPONSORED BY

Contributed by Kym Saunders Party-goer fined $1650 A 38-year-old Collie man was fined $1650 and ordered to undertake 100 hours of community service work after he pled guilty to five charges including assaulting a police officer, hindering police, resisting arrest and being in possession of a cannabis pipe.

Fire at former mine A small but thoughtlessly-lit rubbish fire could have resulted in the tragic loss of Collie homes, according to the Department of Conservation and Land Management.

The fire was lit in a hole caused by collapsed former mine tunnels at the old Co-operative Mine site.

Wendy struck a chord After featuring in a newspaper article,

Collie wildlife carer Wendy Jarman was overwhelmed with offers of support for her work.

Donation tins were placed in the aisles of a local supermarket and a local family offered a cash donation.

Wendy was thrilled with the community support.

Sport Olympic success Collie’s two representatives in the taekwondo competition at the 2003 Youth Olympics returned with outstanding results.

Hayley Jones claimed a bronze medal and Melissa Coe finished fourth. The pair fought in three tough matches against world-class competition.

7. ban 9. per 10. de 12. ba

ST BRIGID’S CATHOLIC CHURCH Cnr Prinsep and Medic Streets.

Parish Priest: Fr. Gerald Tan Secretary: Marie Hicks. ON LEAVE 0414 755 054. Office: 9734 2183. email:collieparish@westnet.com.au Weekend Masses: St. Brigid’s: 6.00pm Saturday, 10.00am Sunday.

St. Mary’s, Darkan: 8.00am, 1st and 3rd Sunday each month.

Baptisms and weddings by request. Reconciliation cancelled, at present, due to social distancing.

Vinnie’s shop: 9734 5664. Shopping hours: 9am to 3pm, Monday to Friday.

SEVENTH DAY ADVENTIST CHURCH: Cnr Wittenoom & Steere Streets. You are welcome to fellowship with us, we meet every second and fourth Saturday. Bible Study 9.30am, Service 11am. 88.0 faithFM WEST ARTHUR: The Uniting Church meets on the first and third Sunday of the month at 9am.

KYB is held on Tuesday at 9.30am at the Old Duranillin School.

The Catholic Church meets on the first and third Sunday of the month at 8am.

The Anglican Church meets on: Second Sunday of the month at 8am at Darkan Fourth Sunday of the month at 8am at Darkan. Third Sunday of the month at 8am at Arthur River.

101 Pilattis party THEY did not all have the surname Pilatti, but if some of the 101 people present didn’t, they had “married out”, and some of them had “married in”.

It was Pilatti Day at the Collie Italian and Sporting Club last Saturday, and the extended Pilatti family gathered for the 50th year in a row to “bring family together”.

It all started when Alice Fare, formerly Pilatti, was annoyed that none of her five sons celebrated Christmas with her, but dutifully followed their wives back to their families for Christmas Day. Boxing Day, Alice, also known as “Nin”, decreed would in future be Pilatti Day, and so it was.

It is remarkable that not only does the

COLLIE RIVER VALLEY BULLETIN, JANUARY 12, 2023 19

family gather, but it hasn’t missed a year in the ensuing 50 years.

A few of them may have been elsewhere, but most were at the annual party, introducing their offspring to their cousins, and later, their partners and subsequent children.

From the oldest present, Phyl Pilatti, widow of Ernie, to the youngest, Hazel Pilatti, they had a ball.

Two of the original brothers are no longer with them, and two wives have also died, but their offspring were there to swell the numbers as they sat down to a delightful home-cooked lunch and afternoon tea.

“If you are in the hall, you are a Pilatti,” Edwin Pilatti declared.

Oldest person present at the Pilatti Day was Phyl Pilatti, seen here with the youngest Pilatti, Hazel, with the celebration cake.

Julie Pilatti, Jamie, Joshua and Carissa Page, Charlee Italiano, Mary Pilatti and Rose Paley.

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Brothers Barry, Edwin and Alan Pilatti.

Jane and Jess Jakens.

Shane Roberts and Anthony Pilatti.

For more information contact our Collie Branch on 08 9734 1144, email collie@unitybank.com.au, visit 125 Throssell Street Collie or go to unitybank.com.au

strength in unity Credit eligibility criteria, terms and conditions, fees and charges apply. 1. Other fees and charges may apply and will be specified at the time the loan is approved. 2. For more information on the First Home Guarantee offer visit www.unitybank.com.au/first-home-guarantee.html. The First Home Guarantee is not a cash payment or a deposit for your home loan. Unity Bank Limited. | ABN 11 087 650 315 | AFSL/Australian Credit Licence 240399.

Daniel and Jack Pilatti, Phil Anderson, Ben Scott and Nic Pilatti.

20 COLLIE RIVER VALLEY BULLETIN, JANUARY 12, 2023

BBBBBBBB CCCCCCCCCCC

HOW TO LODGE A CLASSIFIED

Classified advertisements can be lodged at: 1B Collie Park Shopping Centre (opposite post office), Steere Street, or by email to: classies@crvbulletin.com Minimum charge is $10 including GST for up to 15 words, then 33 cents a word DEADLINES: Tuesday 4pm (lineage) Monday 1pm (display classifieds)

BIRTHDAYS

DEATHS

MARTIN (Betty): A loyal and respected volunteer in the Australia Red Cross shop, Collie, for over 20 years, and a kind, helpful friend to all volunteers. RIP dear Bett.

OLIVER (Alexander Peter): Loved husband of Annette, loving father to Julie and Alan, Bruce and Liz, Laurie and Melissa and their families. Loving Grandad to 9 and Great Grandad to 10. Loved and remembered always.

OLIVER (Peter): Deepest sympathy to Annette and family. Many fond memories of times spent together over the years. Our thoughts are with you. Jim and Margaret.

RILEY (Sydney): Much loved baby brother of Bev. I’ll miss our weekly catch-ups.

My deepest sympathy to Gayle and family.

RIP. RILEY (Sid): Now having a beer with old mates upstairs. We extend deepest sympathy to loved ones. Ed and Eileen.

RILEY (Sid (“SAM”)): I learnt and experienced so much growing up with you, I was your shadow as a young boy. Our love and thoughts are with Gayle, Leanne, Jarrad and Kane. He was so deeply loved by all. I will miss our chats over a beer. Steve, Colleen and family. I’ve always remembered ‘Mum’s the word’.

5714772 Private Sydney Alexander RILEY 2nd Battalion, The Royal Australian Regiment The President, committee and members of the Collie Cardiff RSL Sub Branch mourn the passing of Syd. Sincere condolences to his family.

‘Lest We Forget’

EMPLOYMENT

EMPLOYMENT

IN MEMORIAM

CBH Maintenance Vacancies

LESCHENAULT CATCHMENT COUNCIL Sustainable Agriculture Project Officer • $75,075 per annum (prorata 0.5 FTE) depending on experience • Flexible hours 18.75 hours /week based in Bunbury office.

• Initial contract until 30 June 2023, with likely extension to December 2024 subject to funding and performance.

Leschenault catchment Council (LCC) are seeking a confident, friendly, and motivated person with practical rural/ farming experience and a passion for sustainable agriculture, to work in a small busy team at LCC assisting local farmers and landholders to implement fertiliser management and stream restoration projects in the field.

This role will support the Biodiversity Program Manager to deliver the 20222024 Healthy Estuaries WA (HEWA) environmental outcomes.

If you have practical farming knowledge/ experience, excellent skills in face-toface communication and negotiation, sound computing skills and a passion for caring for the environment while working with primary producers and the land, we would like to hear from you.

Please refer to the Position Description for Applicant Instructions and Selection Criteria at our website HERE. Applications close 30 January 2023, at 2.00PM. Late applications or those that do not address the selection criteria will not be considered.

Contact jacquie.nichol@leschenaultcc. org.au or 0493 428 494 for further information.

Healthy Estuaries WA is a State Government program that aims to improve the health of our South West estuaries.

SCOTT (Rob): 2.9.1942 - 8.1.21.

Precious memories keep your near. Sleep peacefully. Love Ber.

• Electrician - Wongan Hills & Northam • Diesel Mechanic - Merredin • Mechanical Tradesperson - Corrigin & Northam Are you seeking a var varied role where no two days are the same and to work for Australia’s #1 Co-Operative? These are permanent, full-time roles. Accommodation suitable for singles available at most locations & partial relocation costs may be covered.

Electrician – Roles in Wongan Hills & Northam • Experience with preventative and corrective maintenance and repairs to bulk handling equipment, including conveyors, fixed and portable machinery as well as fault finding PLC controlled equipment including elevators, conveyors, trippers, and dust systems.

• Trade Certificate & Current WA Electrical Licence required.

Diesel Mechanic – Merredin • Experience carrying out preventative and corrective maintenance, as well as repairs to bulk handling equipment, FEL’s, Skid Steers, Alternators, and other portable equipment.

• You will be trade qualified and have a reasonable working knowledge of diesel motors and hydraulic systems.

Mechanical Tradesperson – Roles in Corrigin and Northam • Experience with preventative and corrective maintenance, as well as repairs to bulk handling equipment, which includes elevators, conveyors, as well as other fixed and portable machinery and any other routine maintenance tasks required.

• Sound welding and fabrication skills desirable but not essential.

All Role requirements • Ability to work at heights, in confined spaces and in areas of high dust concentration.

• Possession of a High-Risk Work Card; DG, CV, LF, WP or RB desirable.

• Possess an unrestricted driver’s licence - HR class desirable.

• Applicants must be willing to relocate or live in or close to the regional town of the listed vacancy.

These towns offer country living at its best with cheap housing and low cost of living!

All towns have state of the art, modern recreational facilities, and a great supportive and safe community culture.

CBH offer a range of Employee focused benefits aimed at ensuring a healthy work life balance, including: • Subsidised health insurance for you and your immediate family • Other corporate Employee discounts including travel, financial services and more • 13-weeks paid parental leave (regardless of gender) • Salary sacrificing & Employee assistance program To apply and start your CBH journey, visit our Careers website at http://careers.cbh.com.au/

FOR SALE JOHN'S BOOK EXCHANGE: Will be open at Ag Society building, 9am to noon, 16.01.23. Great selection of books. Phone 0428 341 470.

LIME and FERTILISER: Bulk ag lime and fertiliser delivered bulk to Collie and surrounds, call Mumballup Organics. 0417 322 007.

SHOPRIDER AND HOIST: $1,500 neg.

Can seperate into five pieces for easy lifting. Barbara 0450 471 749.

FUNERALS FUNERAL NOTICE

THOMPSON: The Funeral Service celebrating the life of the late Dennis Wayne Thompson of Collie will take place in the Crematorium Chapel, Belcher Street BUNBURY commencing at 3pm on THURSDAY (19.01.23)

9752 1484 COLLIE

SUTHERLAND (Anne): 07.11.1955 06.01.2022. Your life was a blessing, your memory a treasure. You are loved beyond words and missed beyond measure. One year on heavens side, our hearts still ache to have you home. Always and forever our beautiful angel. Alec, Daniel, Danika, Ashleigh, Angus, Ryker, Kylah, Ava and Kade.

PUBLIC NOTICES E-BULLETIN: Subscribe at colliebulletin. com.au. $100/year.

FRESH, FREE RANGE EGGS: at The Mumby Shop, $6.50 per dozen.

MORE TO BE DONE: We have saved Minningup Pool. More to be done. The river through town is another matter.

THAI MASSAGE: Massage and vouchers available. Phone Collie Chinese Massage on 0420 806 385.

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COLLIE RIVER VALLEY BULLETIN, JANUARY 12, 2023 21

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A ERT DRIVING Anna Farrell: 0427 344 953 alertdriving@hotmail.com Collie & Surrounding Areas Friendly, Helpful & Patient Fully Insured & Qualified Female & Male Instructors

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22 COLLIE RIVER VALLEY BULLETIN, JANUARY 12, 2023

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TELEPHONE SUPPORT

If you or someone else is in immediate danger, call an ambulance/police on 000 now.

Beyond Blue Emergency Response Line | 1300 555 788 Kids Help Line (5-25 years) 1800 551 800 Lifeline | 13 11 14 Men's Line | 1300 789 978 Mental Health Emergency Response Line | 1300 555 788 Rural Link | 1800 552 002 SALVO CARE | 1300 36 36 22 Suicide & Self Harm Call Back Service 1300 659 467 Youth Beyond Blue (12-25 years) 1300 224 636 Youth Line WA | 1800 198 313

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COLLIE WINDOW CLEANING SERVICES

PLUMBING

YARD MAINTENANCE

Doctor’s hospital tenure comes to an end DOCTOR Basudeb Saharay has retired from hospital work after 45 years.

A morning tea was held at Collie Health Service on Friday to honour Dr Saharay’s retirement and celebrate his long and dedicated years of surgical work.

Speaking at the special event, Dr Saharay regaled the crowd on his adventure of first coming to Collie. “(Dr) Jim Turnbull advised me to come to Collie because they were desperate for a surgeon and general practitioner,” he said.

He made the move to town and, while he did have a problem with the language barrier, he never regretted the move.

“I feel very privileged that the people trusted me with their operations,” Dr Saharay said.

He is not fully retiring yet, but will continue to work at his practice, Collie Medical Group, and at ValleyView.

“There are a lot of people who depend on me,” he said.

“The time will come for retirement one day, but not yet.”

Dr Peter Wutchak spoke about Dr Saharay’s hard work ethic and commitment to his patients.

“His car was always here at all hours of the day and night,” he said.

“He had an amazing work ethic, jug-

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Perpetual awards for young riders

STALWART: Dr Basudeb Saharay, pictured with wife Jharna, has retired from Collie hospital work after 45 years. gling his surgical load plus his practice load.

“He has always been compassionate and dedicated to his patients.”

Dr Wutchak said had great respect for Dr Saharay as a surgeon.

“I have a great mutual respect for him as a surgeon, he taught me a lot about medicine and life,” he said.

WA Country Health Service south west operations manager Jeremy Higgins presented Dr Saharay with an acknowledgement certificate on behalf of executive director medical services Dr Andrew Jamieson.

“Dr Saharay has been an important part of the WA Country Health Service for 45 years,” he said.

He joked that a pin made in recognition of his service had to be specially minted due to the high number.

From back page Bell also attended fortnightly training sessions with Bunbury coach Austin Forrester.

He said his 2023 goal is to place within the top eight at the state titles at Bullcreek’s Southside track later this year.

Chloe said she was excited to win the Helena Giblett trophy.

“I was excited, but I didn’t think I would get it. I was definitely surprised,” she said.

Chloe has placed second in the state in her age group for the past two years, and this year will aim for number one.

However, she will need to beat her main rival who is also number one in Australia.

Cherry marked his last year in the sprockets division by being recognised for his improvement.

This year he will race with eight-yearolds and will receive a timing chip and accumulate points. The club has undergone a huge transformation in the past five years. It has received kitchen upgrades, a new first berm and a new public announcement system.

Mrs McIllree said she is hopeful a new starter gate will be installed soon, as well as continued track maintenance.

She said the 2023 season will start

with an interclub challenge. The challenge will begin in Cowaramup on Friday, January 20, and continue in Bunbury on Saturday, January 21.

The challenge and presentations will conclude in Collie on Sunday, January 22. Registrations have closed, but there will be canteen facilities and free entry for spectators. Collie’s 2023 summer racing season will start on Friday, January 27. Other presentation results: eight-yearolds (in order of placing): Jesse Griggs, Jeb Slapp, Isaac Shaw; nine-year-olds: Mya Nelson, Nate Pike, Abel Slapp (qualifiers: Connor Delfante, Lukas Broomhead, Lucas Cherry); 10-year-olds: Jye Pike, Harrison McIllree, Jake Spencer (qualifiers: Miley Massara, Makayla Jarvis); 12 and under: Taj Nelson, Chloe McIllree, Darius Mandry; 14 and under: Jace van Asselt, Sarina Jarvis, Logan Shaw. Open: Tom Bell,William McIllree, Jeremy Mandry (qualifiers Kev Crowe, Steph Slapp, Tom Slapp, Cassie McIllree, Lauren Massara).

Seven Sprockets: Levi Cherry, Axel Crowe, Bodhi Clay, Chase Fearey; Six Sprockets: Aston Foster, Ashton Clay, Lachlan Roberts, Bodhi Iley, Jorja Swan, Blaine Fearey; Five Sprockets: Trey Pike, Milla Cherry, Ellodi Foster. Mini Wheelers: Archer Mandry, Lucas Roberts, Redgie Mandry, Paxton McCagh, Zeyke Rebello, Kaleb van Asselt, Rosie Jarvis; Club Volunteer of the Year - Darren Nelson.

COLLIE RIVER VALLEY BULLETIN, JANUARY 12, 2023 23

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Macca’s quality stroke round GOLF TREVOR McCormick produced a quality round of 78 off-the-stick for victory in the Clayton Flynn sponsored 18-hole stroke event at Collie Golf Club last Saturday.

McCormick, who has had a lean spell after suffering health issues in 2022, was back to his old efficient self with two nines of 39, recording six pars and three bogeys on each side of the course.

His 65 nett was two better than Len Hennigan’s 67.

Hennigan, who was making a return to golf after a break, took the runner-up trophy by one shot from three players on 68.

They were separated on a countback in which Stephen Edwards finished ahead of David Farr and Naomi Dorrington.

The only other player in the field of 59 to break 70 nett was young Flynn Cocker who showed promise when finishing on 69.

Others to do well were Jan Mead, Graham Williams 71, Luke Serra, Bevan Stone, Jaydon Ellery 72, Colin Giblett, Ross Davidson, John Wray 73, Clayton Flynn, Chris Mead 74, Phil Warburton, Denis Cocker 75.

Bev Moyses was almost in the next postcode when sinking the longest putt on No. 9, with other novelties going to Danny Cheng (Nos 1 and 6), Stephen Edwards (4), Rhonda Annandale (4), Danny Clayton (7), Naomi Dorrington (12), Chris Mead (14), Luke Serra (15) and Terry Reeves (18).

FORTY-FOUR players turned up for last week’s Tuesday leisure day stableford which was won by youngster James Connell who was rewarded with Chris Shea’s carton.

Rob Cavanagh was on song for 36 and second spot, with club president Lesley Motion a shot further back on 35 to take bragging rights from husband Neil who was on 34, a score shared with Ken Tate.

Others to get vouchers were Phil Warburton, Jay Robinson, Michelle Tate 33, Charlie Beumi, Colin Giblett, Baxter Miller, Alan Kent, David Laird and Trevor McCormick 32.

Vicki Graham (No. 4), Danny Clayton (7), Ken Tate (9), Colin Giblett (14) and Neil Motion (18) won the novelties.

ROSS Davidson made the most of his

RMC_2023_Full-Page_262x92mm_V1.indd 1

opportunities to take two novelties as well as an easy win in last Thursday’s nine-hole scroungers.

“Davo” finished with 19 points on a low scoring day to win easily from Pe-

ter Coombs, Dean Rakich and Jackson Broadbent on 16. He took novelties on offer for Nos 1 and 4, leaving Nos 6 and 9 to Cody Irvine and Ed Riley, respectively.

THIS week’s events Today (Thursday), nine-hole scroungers; Saturday, 18-hole stableford for Joe Italiano’s Mafia trophy; Tuesday, 18-hole leisure day stableford.

DURING the Christmas-New Year holidays, Jack Rinder and Kyle Hulls won Saturday events.

Young Rinder won the Christmas Eve event when posting an imposing 48 points to finish two better than Jamie Pitchers who had 46, an almost guaranteed winning score on any other Saturday.

Others to do well were Chris Mead, Corey Gulvin 44, Rob Cavanagh 41, Flynn Cocker, Matt Pearson, Bevan Stone 40, Ian Stewart 37, Trevor McCormick, Jack Davidson 36, Phil Rabjones, Kade East, Phil Warburton and Jim Larsen 35.

Hulls had to withstand a countback before being declared the winner of the 18-hole par event sponsored by Sandra Brittain on New Year’s Eve. His score of plus six was matched by Jay Robinson

who had to settle for the runner-up prize.

Other good scores were returned by Jake Timms +4, Terry Ellery +3, Eric Annandale, Luke Serra +2, Jaydon Ellery, David Broadbent 0, Ben Mead, Rance Dorrington, Graham Williams, Lesley Motion, Michelle Tate and Colin Giblett -1. Luke Serra and Rance Dorrington were Tuesday leisure day winners over the same period.

Serra won the Vic Hotel carton on December 20, with Dorrington successful on December 27 when he held off Serra in a countback.

Results December 20: Luke Serra 38, Rob Cavanagh 37, Max Thomas, Mun Lye, Dean Rakich 34, George Dorozenko, Baxter Miller 33, Kim Metcalffe, Phil Warbur-

ton, Alan Kent, Fred Bronickis 32.

December 27: Rance Dorrington, Luke Serra 38, Matthew Reuben, Phil Rabjones 37, Connor Mumme, Colin Giblett, Alan Kent, Darren O’Brien, Greg Bell, Max Thomas 36, Jim Larsen 35, Greg Moyle, Trevor McCormick, Greg O’Neil, Leanne O’Neil 34, Eric Annandale 33.

Brett Smith (December 22) and Joe Italiano (December 29) won nine-hole scroungers events.

Results December 22: Brett Smith 23, Corey Gulvin, Ash Stewart, Jay Robinson, Gary Old, Jim Larsen 21, Peter Ellery, Jackson Broadbent 20.

December 29: Joe Italiano 21, Graham Williams, Brett Smith 20, Eric Annandale, Kalev Kutt, George Dorozenko 19.

Christmas-New Year event winners

Versatility 4s event starts today

BOWLS

THE ladies’ Versatility Fours event will start today (Thursday) at the Collie Bowling Club.

This two-day event is sponsored by Judy Saunders and will be completed next Thursday, January 19.

The Harrison family’s championship singles will be played on January 25, February 2 and 9.

In March, the Heather Gibbs championship fours will be played on March 2, 7 and 9.

In the last game of pennants before the Christmas-New Year break, Brunswick beat Collie 3-1.

Pennants resumed this week at Eaton. Pennant games are at 9am on the green.

The South West League Championships will be played on March 13, 14 and 15.

THERE was a good attendance for the last meat pack before Christmas,

with Tom Edwards and Peter Kaurin winning from Max Cubic and Jeff Crowe.

On December 28, Max Cubic and George Saggers won from Phil Warburton and Peter Kaurin with Lynn Mitchell and Rose Colgan coming third.

The first game of the new year, a triples event, was won by Harley Johnson, Max Cubic and Peter Kaurin.

SUNDAY scroungers attracted a small field on December 18 when Glenice Kaurin won from Max Cubic and Barry Lowe.

There was a better turnout for the January 1 event with the four rink winners in final winning order being Max Cubic, Yannick Peltier with Kerry Scott and Ray Colgan tying for third.

A big field turned up last Sunday.

The six rink winners played in a semi-final with the three winners playing in the final. The winning order was John Waywood, from Neil Roberts and Len Flynn.

Highest scorer was Barry Lowe and the consolation winners were Barry Hore and Yannick Peltier.

Players should not forget the Charlie Crowe day on January 15. Nominations should be in as normal and lunch will be provided.

IN MEN’S pennants, the first division played Dunsborough away and lost 3-1.

The fourth division played Dunsborough at home and won 4-nil.

On December 20, both teams travelled to Eaton with first division losing 3-1, as did the fourth division.

There will be make-up games on Saturday, January 21, for third division against Capel White and Harvey and the first division will play a doubleheader on January 28 and 29.

COMMUNITY bowls start on Wednesday, January 25. Team nominations are now due. Contact Rod Garner on 97344018 or the club to nominate teams.

24/11/2022 10:32 pm

24 COLLIE RIVER VALLEY BULLETIN, JANUARY 12, 2023

SPORT

ALL THE GOOD SPORTS ARE IN THE BULLETIN

RECOGNISED: Levi Cherry (front), Chloe McIllree and Tom Bell were each awarded perpetual trophies at the Collie BMX Club’s end-ofseason presentations.

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Email your sporting stories and photos to: editorial@crvbulletin.com Deadline: Monday 5pm

Perpetual awards for young riders

THREE local riders won perpetual trophies at the Collie BMX Club’s 2022 end-of-season presentations at the skatepark recently.

Sixteen-year-old Tom Bell won the Jamie Welhan Memorial trophy for the best junior sportsperson, and Chloe McIllree, 12, won the Helena Giblett Memorial trophy for the most outstanding female rider.

Levi Cherry, 7, won the Crank n Cycles Sprocket Rocket achievement award.

Club president Cassie McIllree said Bell won the award for his help at the club, and his all-round achievements.

“He shows initiative, aims to improve, sets goals and helps the younger riders,” she said.

Bell said he felt proud to win the award, and trained hard. His effort paid off when he sliced seven seconds from his lap time.

“I trained really hard to get better,” he said. “I trained at home, in the gym and did sprints.”

Continued page 22.