Collie River Valley Bulletin, June 8, 2023

Silverchain cuts

Aged patients suffering amid reduced care

Reporter: NOLA GREEN

COLLIE residents Ed and Eileen Riley are among a group of elderly locals affected by restricted medical support services being offered in town.

What was once a support service offered by Silverchain 24 hours a day, seven days a week, is now available only three days a week.

Nursing staff travel from Bunbury and Busselton to provide services in Collie.

This means elderly and infirm patients still living at home are only offered support for showering and dressing changes on the three days of the service.

This is particularly distressing for Eileen, who is a retired sister of what was formerly known as Silver Chain.

Mrs Riley spent the couple’s 62nd wedding anniversary and also Mother’s Day changing her husband’s cancer dressings.

“I worked for Silver Chain for many years, so I know how it used to operate,” Mrs Riley said.

PLAYGROUND PJs

ings, the Rileys had to buy them themselves. That issue has now been resolved, but not before the Rileys were considerably out of pocket.

Mrs Riley said silverchain insisted they could not change the dressings unless her husband’s wounds were documented through photographs.

“They wanted to take a photo of his wounds, but he was embarrassed about this, and they said we couldn’t have free dressings unless Silverchain did them,” Mrs Riley said.

The Rileys have met with Silverchain to discuss the issue.

“The sisters are very good, very nice, but what if it was an incontinent old lady, and she could only have showers three times a week?” she said.

Mr Riley pointed to the heightened risk of infection if cancerous growths and wounds are not attended to daily.

Last month, he wrote to the State Minister for Health, Amber-Jade Sanderson, about the matter.

“There were five cars in Collie, and five or six sisters, and we used to call on people seven days a week, on weekends and at night.

“Tommy Jones (former member of parliament) started it and there was a strong committee, including Dave Allnutt, the bank manager. Money was raised by donations locally.”

To add insult to injury, during a period of two years when Silverchain was not providing the service to change dress-

“In 85 years, I have written one letter to the Minister for Health and made one phone call,” Mr Riley said. “To date, busy staff have not got back.

“Many Collie people have supported my attempts to get a better deal with the WA Government and Silverchain to restore the service that was previously available.”

Mr Riley intends to also contact federal member Rick Wilson to seek his help.

Silverchain seeks donations - page 5

Amaroo Primary School students Oscar Kaurin, Leeroy Whelan, Willow De Bont and Amarni Coyle (front) wore pyjamas to school last Tuesday as part of a fundraising day for the school’s World Vision child, Sok Heng. See page 5.

Goods Shed markets

Sunday, 8am to 1pm Markets at the Old Goods Shed in Forrest Street. Variety of stalls, morning tea or coffee.

Immerse art exhibition

Collie Art Gallery, Thursday to Monday, 10am to 4pm.

Former St Kilda players

Friday, 8pm, Collie Eagles clubrooms.

Collie Idol heats

Crown Hotel Saturday, June 10, 9pm

Collie Art Group

At Old Police Station, Throssell Street.

Open most weekdays 9am to 12noon, Weekends 10am to 2pm. Craft sales, visit historic building.

Bingo

Collie Eagles football clubrooms, Thursdays, doors open 6.30pm, eyes down 7pm.

Library activities

Sing along story time, weekly, Mondays, 9am; Junior board game fortnightly Thursdays 3.30pm; Lego Club weekly Mondays, 3.30pm.

Parkrun

Parkrun at Soldiers’ Park every Saturday 8am, Walk or run at your own pace, fun and fitness is the focus.

Coalfields Museum

Open Thursday to Mondays, 9am to 3pm. Children under 16 free when accompanied by an adult.

Riff Raff dancing

Every Monday from 7pm at Collie PCYC. Beginners welcome, no partner necessary. Supper provided. Cost is $5 per person.

Signing centre

Monday 10am to 12-noon; Thursday 2pm3.30pm; Friday 10am to 12-noon at the courthouse.

Op shops

The Anglican Op Shop, Tuesday to Friday, from 9am to 3pm, top of the hill Venn street. Vinnies open Mondays to Fridays, 9am to 1pm, now opening Saturday 9am-1pm. Donation bins at St Brigid’s church and primary school.

Jo’s Bazaar, Monday and Thursday, 9am to 12pm exhibition hall, showgrounds.

John’s books Mondays 9am to 12 noon exhibition hall.

Harvest Life op shop Prinsep Street Monday to Friday 10am to 2pm.

Collie Child and Parent Centre

Playgroup Mondays at 9am; MyTime support group Tuesdays from 12.30pm; Baby Business Fridays at 9am. More information 9734 3364 or 6 Cable Street Collie.

Send it in

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.

Door-knocker caution urged

COLLIE residents are being urged to exercise caution if approached by unsolicited door-knockers.

In recent weeks, door-knockers selling bitumen and solar services have been approaching residents.

Consumer Protection commissioner Trish Blake confirmed there have been reports of fake tradies, known as bitumen bandits, operating in the South West region.

Ms Blake said consumers looking to get bitumen work done should resist any approaches and sales pitches.

She said bitumen scammers often target farms with long driveways, elderly residents and businesses.

“They may tell potential customers they have just finished a job nearby and have some bitumen left over, so can offer them a good deal,” Ms Blake said.

“Usually the materials being used are substandard and the surface is so thin it can’t support the weight of a vehicle.

“They will then take their victim’s money and quickly move on.”

Christmas helpers sought

THE Collie Shire Council’s Christmas decorations working group is seeking community members to help with decorations design and installation.

Cr Michelle Smith highlighted the role decorations can play in boosting community spirits.

Cr Smith said it is important to have “something that is uplifting at Christmas time, and something that makes people feel happy”.

“We are keen on getting people to join the group,” she said. “It’s a community group, and I’m the only council member.”

Cr Smith said that in addition to potential shire funding, the group will also consider reaching out to local businesses and other organisations to provide financial assistance.

Above all, Cr Smith pointed to the potential for community involvement.

“It’s all a matter of getting people involved, because it should be a community thing,” she said.

“We’ve got to start planning soon, because if we’re going to order decorations it will take a while to get them.”

Application forms can be accessed via the council website.

Ms Blake said traders cannot start work or ask for payment until 10 days after a contract is signed. This allows consumers time to do research, including via social media and product review websites.

It is also possible to look up company details, such as registration, company number or business number. “These checks will help determine how long a company has been operating and the main business location,” Ms Blake said.

It is important for consumers to do their due diligence, Ms Blake added.

“Do your research, seek multiple quotes and shop local or with reputable businesses, so that if anything goes wrong it will be easier to seek a remedy,” she said.

Bulletin’s website embraced

THE Collie River Valley Bulletin’s new website - colliebulletin.com.au - has been enthusiastically embraced by readers.

Local and out-of-town subscribers, including some from overseas, have been quick to get on board.

Former Collie resident and Innasanatorium drummer Ryan Noonan is one of many who have subscribed.

Mr Noonan said the website is easy to use and navigate.

“It was easy to sign up and it all happened instantly,” he said. “All in all, I was very happy with it. It’s good to keep on top of what’s going on in Collie.”

The Bulletin’s managing-editor, Martin Kovacs, said the site is being updated on a regular daily basis.

“Clearly there is a demand from people wanting to get local news as it happens,” Mr Kovacs said.

“We’re uploading stories as they are written.”

Subscribers to the website also have access to the Bulletin’s digital edition, which is uploaded early on Thursdays. Back issues of the publication are also available.

Mr Kovacs said the website’s success would not impact the hard copy edition.

“We will continue to provide the hard copy in its existing format,” he said, adding that the website targeted people who either found it hard to get a copy of the paper each week, or who were already going to the internet for their news.

“It has really given us the best of both worlds,” said Mr Kovacs.

“There’s nowhere else online where you can get local Collie news and information.

“We believe we’ve filled a gap in the market.”

Subscriptions are available at colliebulletin.com.au.

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CHRISTMAS CHEER: Cr Michelle Smith and community development officer Tamsin Emmett are seeking community members to help with Christmas decorations design and installation.

Hospitality staff in high demand

Cafe forced to close doors due to shortage

HOSPITALITY workers remain in high demand, with some Collie businesses being forced to close during peak trading hours.

While larger operators can function at a reduced capacity, smaller businesses are often forced to close due to the shortage.

Barn-Zee's Burgers and Barista owner Lisa Barnes said the cafe had to shut down last Friday and Saturday nights due to staff shortages.

Mrs Barnes said the flu and Covid can be an issue at this time of year, with sickness having a significant impact on staffing.

She said the business regularly advertises for staff across a variety of chan-

nels, including the Collie Jobs and Skills Centre.

“We’ve got plenty of juniors that are applying, but I need some seniors, some baristas and other cooks,” she said. “It’s a bit of a struggle.”

Mrs Barnes anticipates trading hours will be back to normal this week.

Collie Ridge director Neil Ford said the hospitality employment market remains extremely competitive.

The Ridge is being expanded despite the challenges faced in attracting staff.

“Everybody’s chasing staff, and we need additional staff now as well,” Mr Ford said.

“I don’t think it’s anything new. We’re always struggling with that side of it. As

Collie vying to be tidiest town

COLLIE has entered the 2023 Tidy Towns Sustainable Communities Awards, and will again be competing for the mantle of the state’s tidiest town.

Committee chairperson Nola Green said the Collie community continues to support efforts to keep the town litter-free and tidy, and to protect the environment.

“Rotary and Harry Wiggers have the programme to keep approach roads litter-free working like clockwork,” Mrs Green said.

“The audit conducted by Keep Australia Beautiful WA during this year’s clean-up showed the need to continue to be vigilant, but also underlined the commitment of the teams allocated to keep various roads clean.

“Friends of the River also has a good support group who turn up to clean up and plant river banks, and their longterm dedication will pay off in the future.”

Mrs Green said the Renergi waste treatment plant will have a big impact on the amount of rubbish going into landfill.

“Once the plant is fully commissioned, we will be able to see its ben-

efits, and hopefully it will become an example to communities elsewhere,” she said.

The introduction of Cash4Cans has had a big impact on the amount of litter around town, and dedicated volunteers such as Terry Ransome do a wonderful job, Mrs Green added.

“Council also plays a large role in keeping the town looking good, with parks and gardens staff doing a good job,” she said.

“We are also lucky to have had the mural trail established, and new murals continue to keep this programme fresh.

“The pride in Collie’s heritage and its contribution to state development is one of the town’s strengths.”

Collie’s entry is due in August. Judging will take place in September and the winners will be announced in November.

“While Collie has a great record in the competition, winning the state title three times and the national title once, the greatest win for the town is the pride engendered in the community, and this is even more important than ever during this period of transition,” Mrs Green said.

is every business of any size at the moment.”

Mr Ford said the business has had to work around staff shortages, and at times operates at reduced staffing levels.

“Unfortunately, there are times when you can’t provide the services that you want to provide,” he said.

“It’s something that we’re working on, trying to get more employees. Right now, we’ve got a number of positions available.”

Collie Hills Village’s Sharon Fox said the accommodation provider advertises for staff both locally and outside of town.

Ms Fox said that dealing with staff shortages and operating at a reduced capacity is a reality of the industry.

“Because we carry more staff than others, we’re able to get the job done, but obviously it puts more pressure on everybody involved,” Ms Fox said.

She said the business was fortunate to have staff capable of moving between departments and staff prepared to do extra shifts. However, there were times when the business would be down on numbers which tends to put stress on available staff.

HERITAGE: The simulated underground mine received a major revamp which depicts Collie’s mining heritage. Pictured is Alison Kidman who was among those who were briefed on the new tour highlights.

Businessman sees future for cannabis

BUSINESSMAN Malcolm Humphryson believes medical cannabis has the potential to deliver employment benefits to Collie.

He is so convinced that he was one of 2771 people to invest in the recent crowdfunding campaign for Cannaponics Collie-based business.

“I thought it was a good idea for locals to support it,” he said. “I believe it will be good for the town and also for the South West.

“If locals support it, it’s going to be an area for employment.”

Mr Humphryson, who owns the Betta Collie franchise, said he had been keeping a watch on both the project and the broader medical cannabis industry.

“It is a very rapidly growing industry, and it’s growing very fast in Australia,” he said.

“They reckon it will grow 50 percent-plus over the next five years.

“It’s a good industry to have in the town.”

Mr Humphryson pointed to the potential for the industry to branch out from medical cannabis into other areas.

“There’s other byproducts that come from it that they can look into,” he said. These included making paper cups and paper trays.

Cannaponics last month raised a record-breaking $5 million via the Birchal crowdfunding platform.

It set a record for the platform’s largest campaign for any WA-based company, and was only the second campaign to reach the $5 million mark.

Cannaponics will use the funds to accelerate the development of its production facility.

Silverchain seeks donations for service

A LOCAL resident who has been a donor to Silverchain in the past, this week received a letter seeking further financial support for its home service.

Citing its record of providing care in the homes of older Australians, the silverchain letter outlines an “improved service for regional people”.

“For many generations, healthcare was provided in the community, with doctors and nurses making house calls, particularly to those that lived more remotely,” the letter states.

“At Silverchain, this community care is our heritage and a tradition we are

proud to continue.” The letter urges a donation to “make real change in the way that Australians are supported in their place of choice”.

It outlines how smart glasses have been trialled so that a nurse making a home call has the capability to communicate hands-free with the service base and show other clinicians what they can see in real time.

“Multiple clinicians can assess and provide care through the nurse who is in the home,” the letter states.

A clinical nurse manager is quoted as saying that the use of smart glasses

means Silverchain can provide “more comprehensive care”, as she is able to “be there for multiple nurses in one day without the restriction of travel time and distance”.

The letter states “this is particularly useful for our regional clients who are geographically isolated”.

“Introducing new health technologies such as smart glasses doesn’t mean that traditional methods of care will change completely,” the letter adds.

“It just means we can provide greater access to complex care in the community where it may not be possible otherwise.”

COMFY: Maggie Hammond raised money in comfort.

Playground PJs

AMAROO students came to school in their nightwear last Tuesday as part of a fundraising day for the school’s World Vision Child, Sok Heng. There was a little bunny, an energetic lion, and a colourful array of dressing gowns and sleep masks.

Year six student leaders had come up with the idea for the day, designed to raise money for 13 year-old Sok and his community in Cambodia. A total of $383.90 was raised, with the funds to go towards school books, hygiene kits, an after-school reading club, and new taps and wells for Sok’s community.

Flu is highly contagious and can cause serious illness. Getting vaccinated will protect you and those you love. And remember to keep up with healthy hygiene habits, and your COVID-19 vaccinations. Talk to your immunisation provider, like your GP or pharmacist, or visit healthywa.wa.gov.au

Get your free flu vaccine and keep doing the things you love this winter.

Lithium battery charging warning

LITHIUM-ION batteries should be charged in areas away from flammable household items.

This is the advice from Collie electrical contractor Paul Sweeney who said the batteries should be charged in areas where if a fire occurs it does not rapidly spread.

His comments follow a fire caused by an e-bike battery that gutted a Perth home.

Mr Sweeney said battery safety should be observed when charging batteries, such as those used in mobile phones, laptops and power tools.

He said anything that can burn should be kept away from battery chargers.

“We charge our mobile phones on the hot plate at home so if it does ignite, it can handle the heat,” he said.

“You could even put a baking dish on your hotplate and then charge.”

He added that cheaper devices and appliances, typically purchased online, are a particular cause for concern.

“People buy the cheap stuff, and it

Sprinklers off

COLLIE householders are reminded to switch their sprinkler systems off this winter.

The annual winter sprinkler switch-off requires all scheme and bore water users to switch off garden reticulation systems from June 1 through to August 31. Using sprinklers during this period can result in a $100 fine if witnessed by a WA Water Corporation inspector, or a written warning if reported by a member of the public.

Hand watering is permitted during the switch-off.

A year of meals

A LOCAL food ministry, initially intended as a service to help people struggling through the colder months has just passed it’s one year milestone.

Father Gerald Tan said he is “humbled” by individuals and groups who have rallied behind the service and allowed it to flourish.

catches alight,” he said. “Especially the cheaper power tools.”

Mr Sweeney said that lithium-ion battery fires are extremely intense and can spread very quickly, with many fires started in backyard garages and workshops.

“Really, there should be smoke alarms in garages if you’re using it as a work-

shop,” he said.

The Department of Fire and Emergency Services has recorded a “significant rise” in fires caused by rechargeable batteries.

Last year the department reported a 300 percent increase in the first half of the financial year when compared with four years earlier.

Kiara chops for charity

ST BRIGID’S School student Kiara

Elks is sporting a significantly shorter haircut for a good cause.

Kiara had her hair cut last week for the Variety Hair with Heart hair donation program.

Her hair, which she had to grow to at least 35.5 centimetres, will now be made into a wig for someone who has lost their hair due to a medical condition.

Kiara also raised over $1,100.

She said she had had the idea after her brother shaved his head for Relay for Life, which raises funds for the Cancer Council

Getting the chop has provoked a mixed reaction from her classmates.

“Some of them are like, ‘why are you doing that?’” she said. “And then others are like, “that’s really cool.’”

As for whether she was looking forward to showing off her new haircut at school. “No! Not really!”

CHOP: St Brigid’s School student Kiara Elks had her hair cut last week for the Variety Hair with Heart hair donation program and raised over $1,100.

Just Transition criticism was just not constructive

WHAT an interesting and revealing contrast of opinions on Collie's Just Transition plan on opposite pages of the Bulletin (June 1, 2023).

The Liberal Party's Steve Thomas, MLC for the South West, continued his usual extreme negativity on every single policy the State Government has either implemented or proposed in the past five years.

Thinking, pragmatic voters realise that the predictions and forecasts for any government project from either side of the parliament are nothing more than best guesstimations and are as rubbery as an elastic band.

It is quite clear from the constant bleating from Dr Thomas that - along with his state leader, Libby Mettam, current federal leader, Peter Dutton, and former Prime Minister Tony Abbott - he is a devotee of the mantra of UK politician George Tierney, who stated in the 1800s that the task of a political party in opposition is merely to oppose everything and propose nothing.

On the opposite page, we read that international researchers from Scotland have come across the seas to our little town in Western Australia to examine the "very impressive" transition process that (now former) Premier Mark McGowan and his Labor government have designed and are implementing in a timely manner after consultation with all affected parties.

The Nullarbor then and now

THE Eyre Peninsula is that triangle of land in South Australia that you get to once you have traversed the Nullarbor Plain.

The Nullarbor proudly proclaims itself as a vast treeless plain, so you know what you’re in for when you cross it.

However, for the uninitiated it can still come as quite a bit of a shock.

Living in this nicely verdant corner of the country, it’s easy to forget that quite a bit of Australia is flat and relatively treeless.

So, the first time you cross the Nullarbor, you fully expect trees, perhaps a few hills, and a few bends in the road.

Yet there is the Eyre Peninsula spread out to the east and south of you, a vast swathe of nothingness.

To add to this misery, the first time I visited it, I had been trapped in the back of the family station wagon for a number of weeks with my younger sister.

We couldn’t read books because we both suffered badly from motion sickness.

New Labor leadership

The Collie Just Transition is clearly being widely viewed as world's best practice.

Research fellow Rosanna Crawford also inferred that Margaret Thatcher's UK Conservative Party badly managed transitions in the 1980s, and history shows that many thousands of working class families were thrown on the scrapheap and never recovered.

I would have thought that experienced, highly skilled and motivated Collie-based workers currently employed in the mining and associated industries should be reasonably confident of finding employment in the new "transition" industries in Collie.

The stark contradiction on display in those stories is yet another example of the ridiculous adversarial style of democracy we have adopted in the western world.

It is no wonder autocracies around the world are flexing their muscles as they sit back and observe daily the politically motivated divisiveness weakening their likely opponents.

Footnote: may I please add my vote to MLA Jodie Hanns’ for “WA's Best Premier”. Surely an Australian record 91 percent approval rating makes Mark McGowan a shoe-in for the gold medal!

Rob Walton, Wellington Boulevard, Collie.

Correction to Peter Mills obituary

THIS week was a historic event in that the WA Labor Party appointed a new Premier and Deputy Premier in Hon. Roger Cook and Hon. Rita Saffioti.

Premier Cook and Deputy Premier Saffioti have committed to continue the great work of Mark McGowan, and I look forward to working with them both.

I AM so pleased to announce the State Government is standing up for tenants through reforms to the Residential Tenancy Act, and I look forward to the Bill being introduced to Parliament.

HAVE you had your free flu vaccine? I have good news if you haven’t yet found the time! The State Government has extended the free flu vaccination program throughout the month of June, so more of the community can prepare themselves for winter flu season.

I AM reminded again of the great community service groups we are lucky to have in Collie. I’m so impressed with the A-frame blackboards along Forrest and Throssell streets, and was even more pleased to find out they are designed and made by the talented team at the Collie Men’s Shed! Watch this space!

Congratulations to the Collie netball team players, and their committed coaches, supporters and families, who joined hundreds of others participating in the Netball WA 2023 Championships in Perth over the weekend.

It was wild and wet, but this did not dampen the enthusiasm or the excitement of competition at this level. Well done to everyone, I was so pleased to attend and watch some games.

A REMINDER to everyone, my office has now returned to regular operating hours. You can visit us for assistance from Monday to Friday, 9am to 4pm, with Wednesday being by appointment only.

It was long before the digital entertainment on offer these days, and the games of Spotto and singing of 100 green bottles had long since run out of steam.

Studies have shown that rats, when left in a cage with nothing to amuse themselves with, will fight amongst themselves rather than do nothing.

And thus it was for my sister and I. Locked in silent poking, prodding and general aggravation.

Silent lest we alert our parents that we were fighting and invite even more abject misery for ourselves.

Overall, my memories of this area were not happy.

So imagine my surprise when I encountered a tourism brochure on our recent road trip, in which it was heaped with fulsome praise.

“Explore coastal playgrounds, discover jaw-dropping landscapes and experience dramatic coastlines,” it trilled enticingly.

Really? Were we talking about the same place?

Well, time to visit again and see who was right. And to be pleasantly surprised.

There was indeed dramatic coastline, treacherous-looking limestone cliffs being pounded relentlessly by waves untroubled by landfall since Antarctica.

Coastal playgrounds? Yes indeed. While fishing is hugely popular and oysters are abundant and fresh, this was somewhat lost on us.

We did, however, enjoy the many and varied coastal paths and mangrove boardwalks on offer.

There were many rocky roads to be approached with caution, but the one I was totally on board with was the chocolatey, marshmallowy nutty delight I found in a local bakery.

Mmm, one of the best I’ve ever had, and what I don’t know about rocky road isn’t worth knowing.

That’s the beauty of road trips, you have the time to scratch the surface of places and find the delights that lie underneath.

And lay to rest some of your childhood nightmares.

THE obituary for Peter Robert Mills, which appeared in last week’s issue of the Bulletin, referred to Mr Mills by the wrong middle name. The Bulletin apologises for this error and the distress it has

caused Mr Mills’ family and friends. The error was most regrettable, as the obituary was intended to pay tribute to Mr Mills and his significant contribution to the Collie community.

CCCCCCCC C PPCPCPP

People, places and contr ibutions to Collie life

No easy journey

People: NOLA GREEN

REFLECTING on reaching her 90th birthday, Eileen Massara says she is pleased to get so far, especially when she looks back on what has been no easy journey.

She has successfully raised seven children, and can enjoy 16 grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren, but she has had to overcome heartbreaking setbacks and ongoing hardship.

Only the constant support of loving parents, brothers and sisters, and good-hearted friends helped her to carry on as she raised seven little Australians.

Arriving in Australia with her parents and brother the family found an incomplete house, with a roof, no ceiling and some walls. There was no electricity, water had to be pumped from a well, and the bathroom was a tub on the back verandah.

“Until I was 19, I had to do the ironing with a flat iron heated on the stove,” Eileen reflected. “And the washing was done by hand.”

It was a daunting start.

Eileen O’Connor was born in England, where her Irish parents were living while her farmer father was working for a time. The family returned to Ireland, where a brother was born, but in 1935 the O’Connor family and one of Eileen’s mother’s Murphy brothers set sail for Australia.

“Mum’s brother was 18, and he came along to help her with us children on the boat,” Eileen said.

The family settled on a farm at Burekup, moving to Dardanup, where they had a dairy farm.

Eileen met her future husband, Phil Massara from Collie, at a dance at the Lyric Ballroom in Bunbury. Phil worked at the Stockton open-cut coal mine at the time, and later at Muja.

The young couple was married at the Dardanup Catholic Church, then came to Collie in 1955.

They shared a house in Deakin Street before buying one in Denton Road.

“It was too small, by this time we had three small children, so we bought an old house in Medic Street,” Eileen said.

As Phil worked for Main Roads, he was often away, but he came home enough for the family to grow to seven children.

“Phil bought me a washing machine, but I was scared of it – I had never used one,” Eileen recalled.

“I said to Phil he would have to use it and show me how it worked.”

When the youngest child, Brian, was six years old tragedy struck. Phil was driving a truck for Gascoyne Traders when it was hit by a train at a level crossinghis injuries were fatal.

Eileen was left widowed, with her seven little Australians, and no income apart from a very small insurance policy and a collection taken up by friends which produced a small amount.

“One of my sisters went to the welfare to see if they would help me,” Eileen said.

“They said they would, but I would have to pay them back out of the pension. My sister said not to bother.

“I had very little money, just 103 pounds, three shillings a fortnight from the pension. I learned to make a meal out of nothing. We lived on creamed rice, Weetbix and Milo.

“My brothers and sisters were very good, they helped out with loads of wood, and bags of potatoes and vegetables from the farm.

“My friend Debbie Gibbons was good to me too, and the sisters at the convent used to check up on me a lot.”

Life was not made any easier because of the old Medic Street house, where the stumps were failing.

“I had to wash the kitchen floor really quickly, or the water would run into the

bedroom,” Eileen said.

“Something had to be done, so I went to the bank manager, told him about the house, and asked if he would stand by me if the house was demolished and a new one built.

“He said he would, so we moved to a house in Robert Street while the old house was pulled down and the new one built.

“Luckily it was close to town, so the kids could walk or ride their bikes to get around – they all played sport, they were involved in every sport in town. “Ian and Terry would come home from footy with their friends, and dump their bags on the back verandah and just leave them there until Tuesday.

“My back verandah would be full of bags. I would open them and get out the socks to wash on a scrubbing board before putting them in the wash.”

At her recent birthday party, one of her boys joked that the Simpson (washing machine) would be going non-stop, and Eileen must have used enough Fab to have shares in the company.

“It was a real struggle,” Eileen said. “I can remember not having 10 cents left to buy a loaf of bread, but Bill Thomas gave me a job cleaning at the Club Hotel, and that helped out until I got sick when I was 50 and couldn’t continue.

“The kids always got presents for

birthdays and Christmas from my sister and mum and dad, and they got to go on holidays at the dairy farm at Dardanup. “Things got easier as the kids got older and paid a little board.

“Now, I’ve got so much that I don’t even have time to wear it all – the kids are always buying me clothes.”

Eileen sold her house in Medic Street to buy a unit in Pendleton Street.

“In my life I have bought two new homes!” she said proudly.

“I only lived for my kids, I didn’t have nothing else.”

In later life, Eileen got to travel to Tamworth via bus for the country music festival. “I’ve done that a few times, and gone to most of Australia,” she said.

“I love country music and dancing, but I don’t do that much any more.”

One memory she treasures is going to the opening of the Collie Mineworkers' Institute with Phil before they were married.

“I had the most beautiful black dress,” she recalled. “Win McAuliffe and her orchestra were playing.

“I helped on the tables at the Miners for the Cheerio Club for 30 years.”

In her cosy unit, Eileen is surrounded by photos of her ever-growing family.

“The little ones all check to see where they are when they come,” she said.

THE LOOKS AROUND BYSTANDER

Gate closed

A harp which sounds too good to be true is probably a lyre.

■■■

Why is it unwise to share your secrets with a clock? Well, time will tell.

■■■

A chicken farmer's favourite car is a coupe.

A local lady had occasion to visit a friend this week, and was faced with a closed gate at the home.

Being of diminutive stature, having to stand on tiptoe and lift the latch was a familiar situation for her. When she was leaving, she walked down the path, looked to the right and suddenly realised that the adjacent car port was open.

She could have just walked in that way!

Archives

Trawling through the archives of Collie’s early newspapers can reveal a few funny stories. Found one this week about a fire which broke out at one of the mines.

The fire brigade was called, but it took them a while to get out to the mine.

In the meantime, the fire was going

out. Not wanting to have the firemen have a useless journey, the miners threw wood on the fire to keep it going until the firies arrived.

A small gift

"You know how you said you'd get me one more small gift for my birthday?"

Asked a local husband before sending his wife a link to an $8000 mountain bike. Not quite the small gift she had in mind!

Eileen looking back at her 80th birthday photo.

Markets upbeat despite the chill

IT TOOK Brandy Newtown a while to warm her fingers up at the Collie Country Markets on Saturday.

However, despite the cold start to the day, the singer-guitarist was soon in full flight, lending an upbeat ambience to the morning’s activities.

Steve Allen, who made the trip from Bunbury for his first time at the markets, said he was impressed with the scope of the event.

Shoppers regularly filed in throughout the morning, browsing an array of books, bric-a-brac, clothing, toys and other items.

The next markets will be held on July 1.

Locals split on McGowan's legacy

MARK McGowan's reign as Premier was anything but uneventful.

Here's what locals say:

Roger Glocke: Destroyed the coal industry in Collie - was a typical left-wing politician, clearly glad he's gone.

Dawn Windle: He did the best that he could in very difficult circumstances, and did his best to keep the state safe. As a result, we had much more freedoms than other states. I wish him all the best.

Michael Sanders: We still need coalfired baseload power. For a forever-Labor town, McGowan did Collie no favours.

Gaile Cordery: Mark was a fantastic Premier and helped get us through some rough times. He is well respected by many people, and I for one wish him and his family all the very best for the future. Thank you Mark, for all that you have done.

Ernie Lehoczky: Nothing good has come out of his time. Businesses going broke, companies closing shop, causing more unemployment and more of a burden on the tax payer through welfare payments. Closing logging means more unemployment and a big burden on everyone. Shutting down the coal mines is the beginning of huge power bills for everyone.

Vicki Vanda: I truly believe Mark has done a fantastic job and I’m sorry to see him go. Good luck to him and his family.

John Vlasich manning his book stand.

Kara Lauder, from Kader Boot Co, made the trip up for the day from Bridgetown. Brandy Newtown between songs.

Pokemon video game series (7)

e Hyundai A-League (9)

he RSL mural Jacob " " Butler

at Footrot Flats (5)

n Yallingup (6)

ary (6)

ack spider (6)

wards (6)

be this in the 1920s (8) h (7)

Down

ACROSS

4. game mascot of the Pokemon video game series (7)

6. new NSW team in the Hyundai A-League (9)

8. artist who painted the RSL mural Jacob "_______" Butler (6)

11. giant cat who lives at Footrot Flats (5)

14. semi-guided cave in Yallingup (6)

16. birthstone for January (6)

17. New Zealand redback spider (6)

18. surface curved outwards (6)

19. Shell servo used to be this in the 1920s (8)

20. Spanish fruit punch (7)

DOWN

1. West Australian author of Breath and Cloudstreet

_____ Winton (3)

2. hotel built in 1907 near Muja, _____ Tree Hotel (7)

3. founded coal by mistake, George ______ (5)

5. large antelope with pale fur and large horns (4)

7. Dhaka is the capital city of this South Asian country (10)

9. Andy Samberg character from cop comedy Brooklyn 99, Jake ______(7)

10. natural monument featured in Close Encounters, _____ Tower (6)

12. 00s pop band featuring Sophie Monk (6)

13. colour associated with the Colliefields (6)

15. hair salon near Soldier's Park, ________ Studio (10)

1. West Australian author of Breath and Cloudstreet Winton (3)

2. hotel built in 1907 near Muja, Tree Hotel (7)

3 founded coal by mistake, George (5)

5 large antelope with pale fur and large horns (4)

7 Dhaka is the capital city of this South Asian country (10)

9 Andy Samberg character from cop comedy Brooklyn 99, Jake (7)

10. natural monument featured in Close Encounters, Tower (6)

12. 00s pop band featuring Sophie Monk (6)

13. colour associated with the Colliefields (6)

15. hair salon near Soldier's Park, Studio (10)

CHURCH NOTICES

ALL SAINTS’ ANGLICAN CHURCH: 46 Venn Street.

Church Services: Every Sunday at 9am. Morning tea after the service.

Holy Communion - Second Sunday only Morning prayer: all other Sundays. Contact Warden Marie Woodward, 0478 640 379 Office: by appointment

Website: www.allsaintschurchcollie.org

BAPTIST CHURCH: Cnr Prinsep and Elouera Streets, North Collie.

Church Enquiries: snr Elder Bob Greig 0418 903 693

Elder Stephen Sopolinski 0457 896 365 Sunday Service : 9.30am Visitors Welcome.

Kid's church: during Service. Morning tea after service.

Ladies Bible Study Group: Tuesday 9.30am 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:

41 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

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. ST BRIGID’S CATHOLIC CHURCH Cnr Prinsep and Medic Streets. Parish Priest: Fr. Gerald Tan Office: 9793 2011. email:stbrigidscollie@ optusnet.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. Vinnie’s shop: 9734 5664. Shopping hours: 9am to 1pm, Monday to Friday.

Future

was in the balance

There were worries in 2003 that there may be only one coal company in Collie if a proposed base load power station was not built here. The concern was that, if the power station was not built in Collie, Premier Coal and Griffin Coal would be forced to become even more competitive leading to the possibility that only one would survive.

Assault

leads crime stats

More than 45 per cent of offences reported to Collie police were assault related incidents. Statistic from the Western Australian Police website from July 2002 to April 2003 found that 107 out of 237 reported offences came under the category of assault. The category included sexual penetration, aggravated sexual pen-

etration, common assault, series assault and assaulting a police officer.

Shooting at station

Kangaroo shooters near the Collie Power Station were putting lives at risk. There were a number of incidents where people had been out shooting kangaroos, but in the absence of animals shot the signs on the station’s outer fence or just whistled bullets through the air. Staff at the power station said people needed to be aware and realise there were people patrolling the grounds.

Students shone in notable night

Sixteen students at Fairview Primary School took part in the Pegasus Program. The students used a variety of learning tools to research characters from history. The program ended with the students

taking on the characters and answering questions about their famous person. People the students chose included Muhammad Ali and Florence Nightingale. Fund cuts hit local roads

Roads in Collie suffered after $18 million was withdrawn from the Regional Road Group funding pool. The fund was to be distributed over five years and the withdrawal of such a large amount of money hit every regional council hard. Sport: Eagles scored a treble

The Collie Eagles put up their best performance when they beat Carey Park in Bunbury, winning round 8 of the 2003 competition by 12 points. The Eagles kicked three goals in the last quarter, giving them their first treble of the season.

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.

Contributed by Kym Saunders

ACROSS

4. turnbull 6. euphonium 7. laud

8. belgrade 9. biro 11. age 15. ian guppy

16. ganymede 18. beyond 20. sharpie

DOWN

1. brolga

2. hebe

3. tofu

5. fourteenth 10. july 12. nag 13. ineffable

14. spider 17. boodja, 19. latte

Wind farm transport to cause traffic delays

DRIVERS are being asked to be patient during the ongoing transport of large wind turbine equipment through Collie via Coalfieds Highway.

The equipment is being shipped 250 kilometres from Bunbury Port to the Flat Rocks Wind Farm in Broomehill.

Main Roads Western Australia has

advised that the traffic movements will take place Monday through Saturday until early August.

Trucks are leaving Bunbury at 5am and arriving at Flat Rocks at around 5pm.

Travelling speeds are expected to be about 50 to 60 kilometres an hour, and

will be a lot slower during turning manoeuvres. Pilots and the traffic escort warden will control traffic and passing opportunities, with all traffic to be stopped during turning.

Oncoming vehicles will be positioned onto the shoulder on single-lane carriageways and may be made to wait

until trucks have passed. Pilots may decide to close all lanes on multi-lane carriageways, resulting in no overtaking opportunities.

There will be 180 oversized loads transported in total, including 54 blades, measuring in at 73.7 metres and weighing 17 tonnes.

Students explore mining careers

TWENTY eight Collie Senior High School students recently got to experience what it is like being a miner for a day.

The year nine students, participating in The Smith Family's Work Inspiration Reach Out program, were hosted by Premier Coal for the afternoon.

Following a safety briefing, the students were taken on a tour of Premier Coal's workshop and viewed the open-cut pit.

Premier Coal team members then sat down with the students to talk about their day-to-day roles and run through career possibilities.

The Smith Family Learning for Life Collie and Bunbury program co-ordinator Diane Blount said students “gain a lot of knowledge visiting potential employers”.

“Youth unemployment here is around double the national rate,” she said. “We have recognised that young people from disadvantaged backgrounds often lack the understanding, encouragement and aspirations to explore their future career

options. By offering the Work Inspiration Reach Out program to high school students, we aim to help them successfully navigate the transition to work, be motivated, engaged and have realistic job expectations.”

The employer-led initiative allows for employers to highlight their work and employment opportunities, and to engage with future workers in the local community.

Over the course of two days, students were able to visit workplaces, gaining an insight into different industries and helping to develop connections that could potentially lead to career pathways.

Premier Coal operations manager Braedon Gaske said it is “vital that students in our area experience the practical firsthand side of employment to really explore potential career opportunities”.

“We have been working with The Smith Family for several years and this is another one of their great programs they offer students in our community,” Mr Gaske said.

Graphite company’s $4.7m. grant

INTERNATIONAL Graphite has signed a $4.7 million funding agreement with the Federal Government.

The funding comes from the national Critical Minerals Development Program.

Under the agreement, funding will be made available to the Collie-based company over 22 months, with the first tranche, of $1.7 million, expected before June 30.

The company’s managing director and chief executive officer, Andrew Worland, said the grant, awarded last month, will help fast-track the company’s mine-tomarket graphite supply chain strategy.

Mr Worland said there was a growing global graphite demand.

“With our planned mine and concentrator at the Springdale graphite project, near Hopetoun, and downstream battery anode processing facilities, in Collie, we offer a unique Western Australian-focused opportunity to be a pre-eminent global supplier of choice to the lithium-ion battery markets,” he said.

Funds will be used to advance feasibility studies for its proposed Springdale and Collie operations.

The company also recently signed a non-binding memorandum of understanding, enabling it to negotiate a lease over privately owned land in the Coolangatta industrial precinct east of Collie.

The 20-year, 20 hectares lease has a further 20-year option available.

BAITING TO PROTECT NATIVE WILDLIFE

Under the Parks and Wildlife Service’s Western Shield program, baiting to control foxes and feral cats occurs on more than three million hectares of conservation lands in Western Australia.

The baits used are toxic to introduced animals but not to native animals which have an evolved tolerance to the active compound (1080). All baited areas are signposted.

Baiting occurs on a regular and ongoing basis to protect endangered native animals including the numbat, western ground parrot and western swamp tortoise.

Attention pet owners: these baits will kill domestic dogs and cats.

Baited areas must be considered dangerous for pet dogs and cats at all times.

For more information and maps on areas baited under Western Shield visit dbca.wa.gov.au/westernshield or contact your local Parks and Wildlife Service district office.

Western Shield is generously sponsored by Alcoa Foundation, Tronox and Western Areas.

LARGE LOAD: Drivers may experience delays during the transport of large wind turbine equipment through Collie via Coalfieds Highway.

Cosy home with excellent features

thing you could ever wish for, ready for your own personal touch.

WHY BUY ME:

►Kitchen with ample cupboard space and vinyl flooring;

►Living area with decorative open fireplace and free-standing log fire;

►Woodshed; ►Evaporative AC; ►Electric hot water system; ►Security screens; ►Outdoor laundry with bonus second toilet;

WITH a realistic price and some excellent features, 48 Roberts Street is a home buyers should consider.

This cosy home is situated a hop, skip and jump away from the Collie CBD, local primary schools, butcher shop and the town's recreational ground. How could you go wrong?

This three-by-one cottage has every-

HOME FACT FILE

Location: 48 Roberts Street

Price: $225,000

Bedrooms: 3

Bathrooms: 1

Contact: Mitch Davidson 0408 910 337

►Queen-size master bedroom with AC, ceiling fan and roller blinds;

►Double-size minor bedroom with roller blinds and AC;

►Single-size minor bedroom with carpet underfoot and roller blinds;

►Walk-in access to shower, providing a bathroom that is both functional and traditional;

►Front verandah area, perfect for the morning cuppa; ►Rear lane access.

Don't hesitate to act on this fantastic opportunity. Contact Mitch or Emily on 0408 910 337 or 0447 340 344.

Land rates: approx. $1,485.00 PA

Water rates: approx. $1,488.73 PA

Land size: 1012m2

Build year: 1930

RRRR EEERER

A family haven to call your own

to entertain and enjoy the company of friends and family;

►An immaculately landscaped garden, along with a courtyard, with fruit trees, a grape vine, and beautiful greenery at every turn;

HOME FACT FILE

Location: 6 Hope St, Allanson

Price: $499,000

Bedrooms: 4

Bathrooms: 1

Cars: 2

THIS brick four-bedroom, one-bathroom home is the perfect property for a family looking for a comfortable haven to call their own.

Featuring an open-plan living and dining area, plus a separate family room, a large modern kitchen with all the trimmings, and a study area, this home oozes style and practicality.

Situated on a massive 1930m2 block, this is the perfect family home in a quiet, friendly neighbourhood.

WHY BUY ME:

►Step outdoors to a large alfresco area with barbeque facilities, the perfect spot

►Two additional garden sheds all within the fenced area to provide the perfect spot to enjoy some peace and privacy for the whole family;

►The large, powered workshops and side access right the way around the block will provide all the space you need for storage for any situation;

►Woodfire heating;

►Ducted evaporative air conditioning and additional wall reverse cycle air conditioning;

►An automatic single-car garage;

►Fully reticulated yards and gardens;

►Close to a popular primary school.

Inspection highly recommended. Don't wait call Matt Blackford today on 0405 919 121.

Contact: Matt Blackford 0405 919 121

HORTICULTURE

SEPTIC TANK CLEANING TREE SERVICES YARD MAINTENANCE C

PAINTING

MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES

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)

FOR SALE

A1 FIREWOOD: Any size loads. Pensioner discounts. 0404 186 871.

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

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

NEWS ON DEMAND: Don't miss out on any of your local news. Subscribe now at colliebulletin.com.au or call Megan on 9734 1024

FUNERALS

FUNERAL NOTICE

SMITH :

The Funeral Service to celebrate the life of Mrs Phyllis Smith of Collie will be held in the The Funeral Chapel, 9 Spencer Street, BUNBURY commencing at 1.00pm on TUESDAY (13.6.2023)

PUBLIC NOTICES

Collie Burn Cardiff Bush Fire Brigade

Annual General Meeting

Please be advised of the following date for the Annual General Meeting of the Collie Burn Cardiff Bush Fire Brigade Saturday 17th June 2023 commencing at 10.00am

DEATHS EMPLOYMENT

FUNERALS

SMITH (Phyllis): Much loved sister-in-law of David Smith and Aunty of Carolyn, Kim (dec.), Janine, Deanne and families. Such a special lady! Our sympathies and love to the whole family.

MANAGER WANTED (READVERTISED)

The Collie Visitor Centre has a vacancy for a vibrant and energetic team manager to oversee the operations of the Centre at 161 Throssell Street.

The role is a 30 hour per week part time position.

The applicant should have, or demonstrate a willingness to gain, a sound knowledge of Collie and its attractions and also demonstrate excellent people skills in dealing with staff and the public. Application packages may be obtained by emailing the secretary at rtr1946@hotmail.com

Applications close at 4pm on Friday June 30, 2023.

FUNERAL NOTICE

ANDERTON :

The Memorial Service for the late Mr Darryl Glen Anderton of Preston Settlement will be held in the Collie Vintage Car Club, Medic St (across from Harvey St), Collie commencing at 10:00am on TUESDAY (13.6.2023).

9722 5311

COLLIE

Post an eTribute at barretfunerals.com.au

South West Family Owned

9722 5311

COLLIE

Post an eTribute at barretfunerals.com.au

South West Family Owned

Be

To be held at the Cardiff Bush Fire Brigade, Hoddell Road Cardiff WA 6225

All existing and potential new members are welcome.

For any information, please contact the Shire office on 9734 9000

COLLIE ROTARY CLUB: Drop your empty cans and bottles at Collie Mowers and More or cite the account number C10397872 at the Cash for Cans depot to help raise funds for youth programs.

BBBBBBBB S

Eagles press fancied Dons

FOOTBALL

COLLIE put up an encouraging display when pitted against second placed Donnybrook in the league football match at VC Mitchell Park, Donnybrook, last Saturday.

The Eagles outscored their fancied opponents in the second half but went down by 26 points, 12.7 (79) to 7.11 (53).

Play started positively with a free kick to ruckman Teale DeAngelis who handballed to Adam Bignell who sent Collie forward with a long kick which was marked strongly in defence by Donnybrook.

A quick succession, by foot and hand, moved the ball into the hands of big man Jeff Smith, coming off a four goal haul the previous week. Smith put the first on the board in his endeavour to catch the league’s leading goal scorer, South Bunbury‘s Keigh Kohlmann.

Sam Bevan scored Donnybrook's second minutes later before the combination of DeAngelis and Bignell at the centre bounce got the ball forward, only to see it touched on the line for Collie’s first score. Both defences were working overtime to keep their teams in the game. Cameron Davidson was taking strong marks, Jack Mounsey was tackling fiercely and Kye Barker was working hard to get the ball down field, but persistence by Donnybrook resulted in Smith’s second for the quarter.

Collie was able to win the ball out of the centre and hit talented youngster Max Ireland on the chest before he scored his first league goal and his team’s opener for the game.

The DeAngelis-Bignell duo again combined to get a second long kick out of the centre but, unfortunately, Bignell’s kick was again touched on the line and the quarter ended with Collie trailing 20 to 10.

The Eagles started well in the second with a win out of the centre and a good series of kicks and marks resulting in Robbie Chitty’s shot on goal but yet again Donnybrook got a touch on ball before it crossed the goal line.

Loose checking through the centre enabled Donnybrook to get their first for the quarter.

Both teams were working hard as Ireland took a great kick at goal for a minor score, as did Jayce Fontana.

Donnybrook responded with a handball over the top from Smith resulting in an easy running shot on goal followed by Smith kicking another.

Collie continued to put it up to the strong Donnybrook side with Fontana presenting strongly in the forward line and he was rewarded with his first goal late in the quarter to see Collie down 4719 at half-time.

A string of kicks down the wing, starting with Davidson, enabled Ireland to score his second goal despite enormous pressure in the third term.

A DeAngelis tackle at the centre bounce resulted in a free kick and he pushed the ball forward to a running Fontana who

took a couple of bounces to sprint in for his second goal and Collie’s fourth for the day.

Donnybrook, not to be outdone, produced a series of good kicking and marking passages to again enable Smith to score.

Collie had plenty of opportunities in the quarter with Ben Higgs taking two quick shots on goal, resulting in points, to see Collie win the quarter but still down by 20 points at the break, 55-33. Collie’s fierce tackling during the quarter and the great tagging job by Matt Blackford on dual Hayward Medallist Chris Atthowe kept the Eagles' slim hope of a victory alive.

Collie again got the ball out of the centre with Talan Michael and Bignell getting the ball to Higgs who did not have his goal kicking boots on, kicking his third minor for the game.

Donnybrook were getting the ball through the centre cleanly and keeping the pressure on Collie’s defence.

Davidson was intercepting many forward thrusts with strong marks and was well assisted by Jak Mounsey, but the continuous bombardment took its toll with Smith finding the middle of the sticks for another major followed by free kicks getting Donnybrook clear 67-41.

Collie, to its credit, continued to push Donnybrook with goals from youngsters Jack Rinder, Hayden Mears and veteran Bignell before Donnybrook took the points, 12.7 to 7.11, with man mountain

BATTLE:

Pike battle for the ball in the Eagles 1.1 (7) to 11.8 (74) loss to Donnybrook in the colts clash.

Smith getting six goals for the game. Collie outscored Donnybrook in the second half, 33 to 32.

The Eagles, who were missing several key players, could have been closer, but for missed opportunities.

Goal scorers were Max Ireland, Jace Fontana 2, Jack Rinder, Hayden Mears, Adam Bignell. Better players for Collie were Adam Bignell, turning back time,

Teale DeAngelis, rucking all day against three different opponents, Cameron Davidson and Jak Mounsey for their great games down back, Talan Michael leading from the front and a lively game up forward from Hayden Mears.

Collie Eagles play Busselton at the recreation ground on Sunday - colts 9.45am, reserves 11.40am, women 1.30pm and league 3pm.

Photos: FAYE GOLDING

Ethan Michalak and Jett

BUCKLING UP: Eagles Gemma and Bibi Buckle put the squeeze on their Donnybrook opponent in the women's clash. The Dons won 4.6 (30) to 1.1 (7).

PRESSURE: Marc Cain puts the pressure on and prevents Donnybrook going forward in the reserves match, won by the Dons 12.10 (82) to 3.5 (23).

Young Gibbo storms home

in par triumph

GOLF

LOGAN Giblett got over the line in a close call at the Collie Golf Club last Saturday.

Young Gibbo held off the affable Brett Smith in a countback to claim top spot in the 18-hole par event for the Tom Price and Sons trophies.

Both players had plus three and the outcome was decided on the concluding holes with Giblett making use of extra shots on holes 16 and 17 for nett pars.

Brian Banks, on plus one, was the only other player in the men’s field of 42 to be better than square to claim the third place trophy.

Three in-form players - Luke Serra, David Broadbent and Stephen Edwards - played to their handicaps to finish all square.

Minus ones were returned by Roger Hunter, Phil Warburton, Rob Cavanagh, Colin Giblett, Ron Annandale and Blair Malatesta, while Neil Motion, Clayton Flynn and John Williamson finished with minus two.

Patti Law was a bolter in the ladies’ event with plus two.

She finished well clear of Nancy Lynn and Lesley Motion, on minus three, and Rhonda Annandale, minus five.

Winner Logan Giblett won three novelties, on Nos 1, 6 and 13.

Other winners were Jim Larsen (No. 2), Jayden Ellery (3), Terry Ellery (8), Stephen Edwards (9), Jackson Broadbent (11), Blair Malatesta (14), Connor Mumme (15), Luke Serra (17) and Darren O’Brien (18).

CHRIS Shea landed the “daily double” in last Thursday’s nine-hole scroungers, winning both the gross and nett honours.

Shea’s 40 off-the-stick gave him 19 nett points for top spot on a spin-of-the-wheel from the “baby beefster”, Kim Metcalfe.

George Dorozenko continued to do well with 18, while grouped together on 17 were Ian Stewart, Terry Reeves and Peter Ellery.

Darren O’Brien (No. 4), Ed Riley (6) and Terry Ellery (7) won the novelties.

LAST week’s Tuesday leisure day 18hole stableford event was won in style by Troy Sheppard.

“Sheppy” compiled a tidy 40 points to be two better than Fred Bronickis and Graham Williams, on 38, and four better than John Brown and James Connell on 36.

Alan Kent had 35, with Max Thomas on 34. A generous match office also rewarded a trio of players on 30 - Gary Old, Phil Warburton and Trevor McCormick.

Novelty winners were Fred Bronickis (No. 4), Logan Giblett (7), Alan Kent (9), Colin Giblett (14) and Bruce Miller (18).

THE ladies’ Grandmothers’ Cup event had to be cancelled due to rain last week and is being rescheduled.

A replacement stableford was played by six hardy players who battled the elements.

Beth Chappell continued her golfing development with 30 points to win from Bev Moyses on 29 and Heather Dabrowski on 27. Moyses also had a birdie on the fourth hole.

THIS week’s events -

Today (Thursday), nine-hole scroungers event; Saturday, 18-hole stableford for the Collie Salvage and Hardware trophies; Tuesday, leisure day for the Freed Up Accounting Service carton; Wednesday, ladies’ 18-hole stableford.

Cheryle Brown’s scroungers win

BOWLS

CHERYLE Brown scored 48 points when winning the ladies’ scroungers event played last week at Collie Bowling Club. She was well clear of Eileen Hindle on 36.

Last Thursday, the ladies played social bowls and cards.

During winter the club relies on the weather being fine enough to play bowls. There will always be other activities in the club for anyone wanting to attend.

THERE was no meat pack event

played last week, but last Thursday another travelling caravan group visited to play bowls and socialise.

There was another good attendance for scroungers on Sunday with four rinks of four players participating.

The winners of each rink played in the finals. The winners, in final order, were Max Cubic from Barry Lowe, John Waywood and Len Flynn.

The highest scorer was a tie between Barry Lowe and John Waywood on 40. The consolation winner was Chris Sanford.

Mixed results at carnival

WOMEN'HOCKEY

COLLIE year 9/10 recorded some mixed results at the Bunbury junior hockey carnival played last weekend.

Results -

Collie 1 (Samuel Newton) drew with North Coast Raiders 1. Best: Samuel Newton, Layne Marley, Regan Moloney; Collie 4 (Samuel Newton 2, Callum Eatts, Alexis Pitchers) defeated Fremantle/Cockburn 0. Best: Bella Earl, Oliver Stewart, Mereana Emery

Collie 0 drew with Kwinana 0. Best: Lilly Smith, Alexis Pitchers, Ava Williams; Collie 0 lost to Melville 2. Best: Levi Crowe, Layne Marley, Samuel Newton.

Collie 0 drew with UGSHA 0. Best: Jaycee Coverley, Layne Marley, Callum Eatts; Collie 0 lost to Ongerup 2. Best: Ava Williams, Layne Marley, Lilly Smith Collie 1 drew with Vic Park 1. Team effort; Collie v LGSHA – game cancelled.

Collie 0 lost to UWA 2. Best: Layne Marley, Jaycee Coverley, Cooper Earl.

The Collie year 9/10 mixed team competed in the boys’ competition and finished 15th out of 21 teams.

They showed great sportsmanship and competitiveness up against some very strong sides.

Jamie Pitchers coached the team, with Julie Davidson the team manager and Montana White umpired. Players and parents are commended for turning up in some very extreme weather conditions.

RESULTS of primary and intermediate Collie Women’s Hockey Association games played last week at the Preston Ground turf are as follows -

Primary: Green 6 (J Vernon 4, T Pullan 2) d Red 0. Best: Green, Z Ireland, H Read, S Vernon; Red, F Wheeler, O Wheeler, B Irving.

Blue 3 (I Jones 2, Q Roney) d Orange

1 (Q O'Brien). Best: Blue,: Q Roney, I Jones, A Crellin; Orange: J Gardiner, E Burek, O Hey.

Intermediates: Amaroo 3 (A Michael, M Jones, B Irving) d Mustangs 0. Best: Amaroo, M Jones, B Irving, L Hunter; Mustangs, A Pitchers, C Cochrane, L Burek; Rovers 3 (L Marley 2, L Smith) d Swans 0. Best: Rovers, Z Ireland, J Gulvin, Z Hitchcock; Swans, M Emery, L Tilbrook, N Emery.

Fixtures for this week -

Primary: Today (Thursday), 4pm, Red v Orange (B Morton, M Jones); 5pm, Green v Blue (L Marley, Levi Crowe). Thursday, June 16 - general bye.

A grade: Saturday, 1.30pm, Amaroo v Mustangs (W Marley, A Boyle; tech bench - Amaroo/Mustangs); 4.30pm, Swans v Rovers (B Latham, G Faries; tech bench - Swans/Rovers).

Mini hockey: Tuesday, 4pm to 4.45pm (F Worrell, H Ireland, R Dye).

Intermediates: Tuesday, 5.15pm, Mustangs v Swans (S Crowe, B MacDonald; tech bench - Mustangs/Swans); 6.30pm, Rovers v Amaroo (G Pullan, K Tilbrook; tech bench - Rovers/Amaroo).

Trots cutback looms Season

2023 safe but cuts proposed

COLLIE’S harness racing calendar will remain at four race meetings this year, but the threat remains that it could be slashed to one from 2024.

Racing and Wagering Western Australia (RWWA) is currently considering a proposal to transfer community club meetings to metropolitan or provincial clubs.

Collie Harness Racing Club secretary Peter Hemsley said the proposal, put to RWWA in December last year, had been roundly criticised.

Mr Hemsley said the proposal had been put off until the next financial year.

“Obviously RWWA has got a bit of flack from that,” said Mr Hemsley.

“We’ve got four meetings again this year, they’ve been allocated.”

Mr Hemsley said the Country Racing

for

2024

Association of Western Australia has sought submissions from its member clubs.

He said Collie had stressed both the financial and social importance of hosting four meetings each year.

“I’ve got about 40 different sponsors for our meetings, and we’ve just spent $30,000 doing up our track,” he said.

“We’ve got huge crowds that come for our four Sunday meetings.

“However, it all comes down to the dollars that are generated for the TAB, and we don’t generate the dollars of the bigger clubs.”

Mr Hemsley said the club will continue to put its position forward to the state body.

Collie’s 2023 meetings will be held in October and November.

GUTSY EFFORT: Teale DeAngelis, Adam Bignell and Jack Rinder put the squeeze on their Donnybrook opponents in last Saturday's football clash at Donnybrook. The gutsy Eagles pushed the Dons all the way before going down by 26 points.

Story page 18.