Collie Bulletin March 17, 2022

COLLIE RIVER VALLEY EDITION No. 74

BULLETIN Published by LOCALS for LOCALS $2.50

Thursday, March 17, 2022

GUTTED

A DEAKIN Street home was gutted by fire on Tuesday morning. Prompt action by firefighters prevented the fire from spreading to nearby properties.

See story page 10.

Ball preparations get underway

STUDENTS and teachers will today start preparing for Saturday’s School Ball.

Page 5.

EVolution underway in Allanson THE electric vehicle evolution is underway in Collie, and, more particularly, in Allanson. Page 6.

COVID hits aged care

Reporter: ELYSIA HARVERSON STAFF isolating due to COVID-19 is impacting local in-home aged care services.

Domestic assistance services provided through Silver Chain, such as house cleaning and gardening, have been reduced from weekly to fortnightly.

However, a Silver Chain spokeswoman said essential services such as personal care have not been reduced.

“Some domestic assistance appointments have needed to be rescheduled due to the impact of COVID-19 and unplanned leave, primarily due to close contact and isolation requirements,” the spokeswoman said.

“There has been no reduction in nursing services in the region, however there has been an increase in the number of referrals to Silver Chain services in recent months.

“Despite this surge in demand, Silver Chain continues to provide clinical nursing services as required, with support of the Bunbury service centre.

“Unplanned leave is filled by casual staff where available to ensure continuity of care, and our clients’ care needs and services remain our priority.

“Silver Chain apologises for any inconvenience caused to any of our clients who have been impacted by these reschedul-

Riverview/ValleyView Residence is your local provider of Home and Aged Care in Collie.

Community owned and operated we provide a range of aged care services from Rental Apartments at Riverview, to Home Care services in the community and Residential Care at ValleyView.

Want to know more about what we do?

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ing requirements, and we are working closely with our clients to ensure their needs are met,” the spokeswoman added.

Silver Chain is one of three aged-care service providers in Collie and provides clinical nursing services and non-clinical services such as domestic assistance to more than 150 clients in the Collie region. Collie Home Community Care and ValleyView also provide in-home aged care services.

2 COLLIE RIVER VALLEY BULLETIN, MARCH 17, 2022

Timber focus of Shakey’s mural COLLIE’S latest historical mural brings local timber workers who were in charge of cutting rail sleepers in the early 1900s back to life.

Artist Jacob “Shakey” Butler created the artwork, which is located on the southeast corner of the Miners’ Institute.

The work was completed on Tuesday afternoon and was created mostly using spray paint.

Brushwork was also used to get finite fea-

PORTRAIT EXPERT: Jacob “Shakey” Butler below his latest work which depicts Collie’s timber and rail heritage.

tures into the subjects’ faces.

Mr Butler and the Collie Rail Heritage group are now looking for information regarding the people in the mural.

“I’m eager to find out the stories behind the people,” Mr Butler said.

“I’ve found out little bits of information from the museum, such as all the men were single and the guy in the centre is wearing a football jumper, but nothing beyond that.”

Heated pool meeting:

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A PUBLIC meeting will be held at 6pm tonight (Thursday) in response to a petition calling for a heated swimming pool.

The petition was submitted to Collie Shire Council last month and was signed by almost 900 people.

Collie Heated Indoor Pool Supporters (CHIPS) spokeswoman Beth Peters is urging locals in favour of the heated pool to attend the meeting.

She said an initial survey, compiled within the feasibility study carried out by council, was flawed.

Ms Peters claims a limited number of members of the community received a copy to complete.

“We believe that 300 surveys were returned and of that number only 80 returned a negative response which we believe is not a true representation of the community with a population of 8000 to 9000 people,” Ms Peters said.

“The feasibility study also did not

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ADMIN

EDITORIAL

Amy Dorozenko Journalist | 9734 1024

Reports by lap swimmers indicated this year’s average temperature was slightly warmer at 24 to 26 degrees, but still too cold to use as a therapy pool. Many residents are travelling to an indoor pool in other towns in the region for a variety of reasons, including rehabilitation, Ms Peters said.

“Unfortunately there are some in our community who do not have the ability to travel and recently the bus service to Bunbury has been cancelled.

“We are hoping that those who signed the petition and others who want the pool fill Roche Park tonight,” Ms Peters said.

“The 900 signatures are a good representation of the Collie community to retain the money for a much-needed indoor heated pool.”

The meeting will be held at Roche Park Recreation Centre. COVID19 health requirements will need to be observed, with masks to be worn.

Local reporting pushes animal cruelty figures up

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Megan Creemers Office Manager | 9734 1024

look at alternative energy sources (with focus on solar) to alleviate the ongoing running costs of heating and air filtration for an indoor pool.”

CHIPS claim the air filtration within the pool building will help to maintain pool temperature as well as lower running costs if kept at an ambient temperature of two degrees above pool temperature.

“There would be minimal increases in rates for Collie ratepayers,” Ms Peters said.

“The design of the pool is optimum to ensure all the needs of the community are met which would ensure ongoing usage giving equal opportunity for all users.”

Ms Peters said the 50-metre pool is not utilised to its potential due to the openness of the site – with no protection from the wind and the cold temperature of the water making it impossible to use for rehabilitation.

SALES

Leonie Davey Sales | 0408 294 597

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COLLIE experienced three separate cases of regional animal cruelty prosecutions in the past 12 months, which was the most of any regional town in WA. These cases made up 33 percent of cases reported regionally.

However, a new analysis of RSPCA state case files show these figures to be indicative of a proactive approach by local authorities and community members who were vigilant in reporting suspected abuse.

RSPCA WA south west inspector Genna Haines said most people in Collie loved their pets and were quick to make a report if they saw something that was not right.

“It’s true that some of the state’s most disturbing cases prosecuted in the past year came out of Collie,” Ms Haines said.

“But the fact these cases were reported in the first place demonstrates that locals won’t just sit idly by while animals are being neglected.

“Collie rangers and local police are fantastic to work with and really responsive in following up complaints.”

Two of the six animals at the centre of Collie’s worst cruelty cases finalised in the past year died after suffering terrible neglect.

Dog, Charlie, was found buried in a backyard having been malnourished and severely emaciated.

Meanwhile, a horse, Sunny, was suffering immensely from lack of food and water and had to be humanely euthanised.

Other animals, including a puppy and horses, were able to be rehabilitated.

Horses emerged as a key area of concern for Collie, with

the town home to four of the five horse cruelty prosecutions RSPCA finalised across the state last year.

This was 12 percent of reports about horses in the South West last year, despite Collie having less than five percent of the region’s population.

Animal cruelty offenders in Collie were disproportionally young compared to the rest of WA - the oldest offender was 30 and the youngest 22 years old.

“RSPCA’s message to pet and livestock owners is to reach out to friends, community members or the RSPCA for help sooner rather than later if you are struggling to care for your animals,” Ms Haines said.

“If you simply ignore your animal’s suffering, you will be held to account.”

Subsidised bus wanted

COLLIE RIVER VALLEY BULLETIN, MARCH 17, 2022 3

EXCELLENT SERVICE: Woolworths’ service manager Emily Chappell received the Chamber of Commerce customer service award.

Emily tops chamber’s customer service award

WOOLWORTHS’ service manager Emily Chappell has won the Collie Chamber of Commerce and Industry customer service award.

Ms Chappell was chosen from over 15 nominees based on the excellent customer service reported by her customers.

Ms Chappell said she was happy to be nominated.

“It’s nice being recognised by my customers for giving them good customer service,” she said.

The award was proudly sponsored by Mitch Davidson of LJ Hooker Property South West.

COLLIE Shire Council wants a public bus service between Collie and Bunbury restored.

It believes the service will need to be subsidised as it has been proven a commercial service is not viable.

Residents needing the service such as university and TAFE students, people going to medical appointments and those needing to get to work will benefit greatly.

Council will ask the Minister for Transport, Rita Saffioti, to consider “the provision of subsidised public transport to and from Bunbury for local residents who need to get to work or to access critical services not available locally.”

A regular bus service which was operated every weekday by South West Coachlines ceased on February 1. It was being provided on commercial terms, with no subsidy assistance.

The service, which left Collie at 7.30am and returned at 5.30pm, was mostly used by university and TAFE students as well as people getting to and from medical appointments.

In addition to these groups, the South West Aboriginal Medical Service (SWAMS) told council its clients had been directly affected and the loss of transport to Bunbury from Collie had led to the loss of employment.

Adding weight to support the council’s proposal, community development officer Tamsin Emmett said not all residents have access to private transport which puts them at a disadvantage.

“Public transport is widely recognised as a service requiring subsidy, which has proven evident by the last provider not being able to sustain a service on a commercial level,” she reported.

“The State Government oversees the provision of public transport services; at present there are no services from Collie to Bunbury outside of the school bus service.”

Chief executive officer Stuart Devenish said it was hoped a service could be restored.

This requirement has been raised previously.

At a meeting with the board of the Department of Transport in May, 2021, the shire president and the chief executive officer highlighted the importance of transport connections for the people of Collie, and the need for improved services linking to Bunbury where specialised services and employment not available locally, can be accessed.

During council discussion, Cr Brett Hansen asked what would happen if the government did nothing.

As a possible solution Cr Elysia Harverson urged council to approach the local member before escalating it to the minister.

“We should get her (Collie-Preston MLA Jodie Hanns) working on this problem,” she said.

Public transport services in the metropolitan area, both buses and trains, are subsidised.

Making good things happen When you bank with us, proÞts pour into the community. $7m so far.

Catchment Council forum reaches out

THE Leschenault Catchment Council (LCC) is holding a community forum in Collie on Wednesday, March 30, at the Collie Ridge Motel, from 5.30pm to 8pm.

LCC chairman Adrian Azzari-Colley has urged locals interested in their environmernt to attend.

“If you want to be part of any local action please come along and share your views and even join the council. It doesn’t cost anything except your enthusiasm and commitment,” said Mr Azzari-Colley.

The LCC is reaching out to all residents in inland parts of the catchment to extend efforts to protect and rehabilitate it.

The LCC develops projects and seeks funding from Federal and State Government bodies, as well as from other avenues, and has recently cooperated with Collie Shire Council in a blackberry spraying campaign.

The forum in Collie is the first of a planned series in the catchment.

Light refreshments will be served after the forum, which will operate under COVID-19 restrictions. Registrations can be made at reception@leschenaultcc.org.au or by calling 0458 960 576.

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4 COLLIE RIVER VALLEY BULLETIN, MARCH 17, 2022

ALL CLEAR: Worsley South32 corporate affairs specialist Dee O’Brien and employee Tracy Mulcahy raking the debris from the paths around the Collie River.

Pathway clean up ENVIRONMENTAL group Friends of the River spent last Thursday morning with the Worsley South32 shutdowns team cleaning the pathways around the Collie River.

South32 corporate affairs specialist Dee O’Brien said they were cleaning up for those who do exercise in the area, between the bridges and park.

“We are clearing up the path-

ways, making it free of debris for the park runners,” Ms O’Brien said.

The refinery has a community investment partnership with Friends of the River, supporting them throughout the year with river maintenance amongst other projects.

Refinery employees are given one volunteering day per year to help an organisation around town.

Local indigenous are vax reluctant LOW COVID-19 vaccination rates amongst the local Aboriginal community are concerning the Department of Health.

Currently, the local double-dose indigenous vaccination rate is at 70 percent, which is 25 percent below the State’s average.

According to up-to-date data obtained from the department, Aboriginals in the South West are at 75 percent for the first dose, 69 percent for second and 35 percent for third. Community leaders say more needs to be done to get the numbers up.

The low rate has been linked to widespread reluctance throughout the indigenous community, with the South West Aboriginal Medical Services (SWAMS) citing misinformation shared online as the main problem.

“One of the biggest problems is that there is a lot of misinformation still being shared online, on social media and by some media outlets,” said Aboriginal health practitioner Oceania Harris.

“This has been very harmful and has created a lot of unnecessary fear. Vaccinations, social distancing and hygiene are the best protection against this virus.”

Community member James Khan had similar beliefs about the misinformation regarding vaccination.

“A lot of Aboriginals are listening to the wrong information.

“If they were to sit down with their doctor and get the right information, they would feel more comfortable with being vaccinated,” Mr Khan said.

“If you look back at Aboriginal history, we did not have the illnesses and disease that we have now, and now we are attracted to all of the pretty colours of the fast food places.

“I think it’s super important that those with sugar diabetes and heart disease get vaccinated so they do not get really sick from COVID.” SWAMS recommends that anyone who is hesitant about vaccinations make an appointment with their doctor to get the best advice on their individual situations and health.

“Aboriginal people have a higher instance of chronic conditions such as diabetes, heart disease and more and therefore may have a more severe reaction if they get COVID-19,” said Ms Harris.

“Therefore, it is so important to make sure the community is protected as much as possible and get them in for the booster as well.

“The borders have opened and we have seen high levels of community spread of COVID-19 already.

“This will only get bigger, so we need to protect our mob.”

Of utmost importance for the Department of Health and a key focus for the WA vaccine rollout is increasing vaccination rates amongst priority groups, including Aboriginals.

“Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people have a higher risk of developing serious illness from this disease and vaccination remains the best protection we have against serious illness and death from COVID-19 in our communities,” said Ms Harris.

“All efforts are made to engage with Aboriginal people and communities across the State and continue to bring more opportunities for vaccinations.

“We need everyone from children to elders to get the needle now to help protect each other.”

SWAMS hosts vaccination clinics in their local clinic, in Stere Street, as part of their vaccination roadshow outreach program on April 4, May 2 and May 16.

The WA Country Health Service vaccination clinic runs out of the Collie Italian Club on Tuesdays.

There are also GPs and pharmacies in town offering a variety of vaccines.

Darts fundraiser to support epilepsy awareness

A DARTS fundraising event is being organised by Aileen Strahan to raise much-needed funds for Epilepsy WA. The event will be held March 26 and 27 at the Club Hotel.

Mrs Strahan lost her son, James, in August last year and a nephew in 2016 to Sudden Unexpected Death in Epilepsy (SUDEP).

“My son was diagnosed when he was six or seven years old and at no point did anyone mention it was life threatening,”

Mrs Strahan said. “I had one doctor tell me that seizures were common in children.

“Every week since James’ death, Epilepsy WA have called just to see if I was okay.

“They receive no government funding and so this fundraising event is my way of giving back to them,” she said.

Epilepsy WA provides support for the epilepsy community and their families, as well as being proactive in raising

awareness for SUDEP. The not-for-profit organisation relies solely upon public donations to be able to run its vital support services.

These include a statewide bed sensor-mat program and information hotline, online educational webinars, epilepsy management plan templates and useful online information and services.

Mrs Strahan is looking for any donations that can be used as prizes in all-day raffles held during the event.

“Local artist Phillip Hansen has kindly donated a painting to be used in a silent auction,” Mrs Strahan said.

People can register to play, with mixed teams of four players and a cap of 250 average.

For further information about the fundraiser, please contact Mrs Strahan on 0474 971 657.

Proof of double vaccination and mask wearing is required as per State Government regulations.

COLLIE RIVER VALLEY BULLETIN, MARCH 17, 2022 5

Record fuel price hike Local price hike follows city lead

BALL PREP: Collie Senior High School teachers Taylah Holden and Chris McDonald with year 12 student Jorja Davies organise the decorations for the school ball.

Students prepare for ball THE Collie Senior High School Ball is one of the riteof-passage events every senior student looks forward to each year.

This year’s ball is no different. With its rustic charm theme and Harris River Estate Winery backdrop, everything has been planned to give the students a night they will never forget.

“It is really important to have something for students to look forward to, some normalcy, as so much has been

taken away from them in the past two years, including Country Week,” teacher Taylah Holden said.

“Harris River has been at our beck and call, making adaptations for COVID wherever necessary.”

“Basically, there is going to be a lot of lights and natural woods everywhere,” added teacher Chris McDonald said.

More space has been provided, with access to the grassed area and balconies,

and photos will be taken at the cellar door.

The Golden Roast is providing the catering which student Jorja Davies was most excited about.

“Their food is really good.

From the meals to the desserts, I love all of it,” Jorja said.

Set-up begins today, with the help of the students studying the Certificate II in Community Services at South Regional TAFE volunteering their time.

FUEL prices in Collie jumped between 10 and 14 cents a litre last Friday, to never-before-seen prices.

Unleaded petrol (ULP) at Gull jumped eight cents per litre, while diesel increased by 14 cents. Ampol and Coles Express increased their ULP price by 10 and 11 cents respectively.

Before the increase, prices were 20 to 30 cents cheaper than the metropolitan area, but Collie is now in line with Perth prices.

FuelWatch manager Ben Derecki said regional fuel retailers generally turn over their fuel stock slower than metro retailers and hence price rises are delayed.

“This means it takes regional fuel retailers a longer time to buy new fuel stock at the increased price.

“When they purchase new stock at increased prices they then pass on that increase to consumers,” Mr

Derecki said. He said record average prices hit both metropolitan and regional areas last week.

“The records have been broken a number of times over previous weeks as prices continue to increase,” Mr Derecki said.

While insight into price changes is limited to the next couple of weeks, international benchmarks indicate what will happen in following weeks.

“At the moment we expect that prices will continue to increase in the short term.

“Before the Russian invasion of Ukraine, fuel prices were already increasing due to economies around the world opening up and increasing levels of manufacturing and travel.

“At the same time, oil production was not increasing to match demand,” Mr Derecki said.

“Now the US and UK have put sanctions on Russian oil and others are choosing to stop buying Russian oil as well.

“This is putting even more pressure on the availability of oil and production is still not increasing,” Mr Derecki added.

6 COLLIE RIVER VALLEY BULLETIN, MARCH 17, 2022

Griffin lodges financials

EVOLUTION: Markus Larsen and Frank Kidman say their Tesla electric cars are the way of the future.

EVolution is underway in Allanson

THE electric vehicle evolution is underway in Collie, and, more particularly in Allanson.

Two Allanson residents - Markus Larsen and Frank Kidman - are the first in the shire to embrace the new technology.

Both have opted for the Tesla Model 3 and neither have any regrets.

“I love driving the car”, said Frank.

“It handles really well and has plenty of boot space.”

Both are also pleased to have made the change from petrol powered cars, particularly as the fuel prices hover around and above $2 a litre.

“At a minimum, the running cost of

the Tesla is about one fifth that of a standard car,” said Markus. “The economics can get even better if you are able to use more solar to charge the car.”

“We charge the car at home from either excess solar power during the day or off peak rates at night,” said Frank.

In addition to the fuel saving, the lack of maintenance required by the Telsla Model 3 was an added attraction for Frank.

“There are only about 20 moving parts as opposed to about 2000 for an internal combustion engine.

“In the Tesla I only have to look after the tyres and the wiper fluid,” he said.

Both freely admit to having had some

range anxiety when they first picked up their cars.

“After all, you can’t exactly go and pick up a jerry can of electricity if you run out of power on the side of the road,” said Markus.

“But you soon get over that. The cars have a range of around 400 kilometres and with plenty of public charging stations around already, and more on the way, you can charge every 200 or so kilometres if you want to.”

Markus has had his car for about six months and Frank for two. Both do frequent trips to Perth and other road trips have included Denmark, Albany, Margaret River and Nannup.

GRIFFIN Coal has finally lodged its 2018/19 financial statements.

The results disclose a loss of $542.7 million on revenue of $114.1 million.

As reported by the Bulletin last November, the Australian Securities and Investments Commission had laid charges against the embattled miner after it failed to lodge audited financial accounts back to 2018.

The company has since slashed the value of its mining leases by $400 million, reducing the value of the Collie operations to just $163m.

Despite this the company still has the backing of its lenders for at least another 12 months.

Since going into administration in 2017, Griffin has been under the control of Singapore-based receivers and has relied on funding from Lanco’s secured creditor, Indian bank ICICI. According to the latest accounts, Griffin has drawn down $US33.8m of a $US48m working debt facility provided

by ICICI. Another lender owed $84.7m by Griffin had in January extended the repayment of its loan facility by a year to March 2023.

Griffin said its 2018-19 loss included $276.6m in written-off capital and a $437.33m impairment taken against its coal mine leases.

Radio plans given the nod

COLLIE RIVER VALLEY BULLETIN, MARCH 17, 2022 7

AFTER 16 years in a temporary location, Collie Community Radio 101.3fm has had plans for a new building approved.

Plans for the purpose-built station to be erected on part of the block behind the Collie Woodturners’ rooms, at the corner of Wittenoom and Steere streets, were approved by Collie Shire Council last week.

Building project manager Mark Sanders said with the plans approved, he expects the building to be ready by December, 17 years after the station’s first broadcast.

The new building will expand the station’s capacity from two studios to three, providing room for training, pre-recording and loading data.

Station chairman Tony Briggs said the

move to a new building will be a chance to encourage young people in particular, to join the association.

“We have managed for 16 years in cramped conditions, but with only two studios it has been tricky to schedule training sessions,” Mr Briggs said.

“Some of our presenters work shifts, so have to pre-record their sessions, and if they are using the second studio, we can’t have someone in there training.

“With a third studio, it will be easier to fit sessions in for people.

“Our new broadcast studio will also give us space to fit musicians in for live broadcasts.

“We have done this a couple of times in our present studio, doing Christmas carol programs in the past two years when

COVID caused the cancellation of the annual carol event.

“We had to set the musicians up in our reception area, with absolutely no room to move, but we have been used to improvising.

“Not having to waste energy on improvising will be a luxury.”

Mr Briggs said the station was very grateful to have received support from Collie Community Bank, Miners’ Welfare Fund and Jodie Hanns MLA. “All our members are volunteers and we pride ourselves on giving a good service to the Collie community, and it is great to see it has been appreciated, just as we have appreciated.

“We are looking forward to giving many more years of voluntary service.”

Horsepower needs volunteers

HORSEPOWER is calling on new volunteers to aid in a variety of positions.

The organisation, formerly known as Riding for the Disabled Association, is intent in its purpose – providing everyone with the opportunity to learn how to ride horses.

From catching, leading and grooming horses to handy jobs around the property, coach Rhiannon Rowden says “there is a job for everyone”.

“If someone is interested, it can be very rewarding for them,” Ms Rowden said. “You can learn to ride and coach others how to ride horses for free.”

Horsepower is open to anyone of any ability or age who is interested in learning how to ride horses.

It is a registered NDIS provider.

AUSTRALIA’S ECONOMIC PLAN We’re taking the next step to keep our economy strong.

• • • • • •

Keeping taxes low, because money in your pocket eases the cost of living Infrastructure projects across the country are creating jobs Skilling the workforce for the jobs of tomorrow Committing to making more goods in Australia to help secure our supply chain Delivering affordable and reliable energy to our homes and businesses Backing Australian businesses to modernise and innovate for our future

Australia’s Economic Plan has helped us through the last two years. There are 260,000 more people in work than before COVID. Australia has performed better than major advanced economies through the pandemic. That’s why we’re taking the next step.

To find out more, visit economicplan.gov.au KITCHEN FUN: St Brigid’s School kindergarten student Matilda Menezes enjoys playing in the new mud kitchen.

Muddy play in new kitchen

A NEW mud kitchen addition has refreshed the early childhood play area at St Brigid’s School.

The old bench that used to occupy the area was turned into a bright and colourful kitchen with plumbed water, sinks, pots and pans, and sand.

School principal Carmel Costin said the new play equipment allows students to fine-tune their growth and development skills.

“It helps their fine motor skills which are so essential at this age, as well as helping them with imaginative play and creativity,” Ms Costin said.

“The students are now excited to play in this area and it makes the entrance from Mary Street more colourful as well.”

Authorised by the Australian Government, Canberra.

8 COLLIE RIVER VALLEY BULLETIN, MARCH 17, 2022 SEDDON on THURSDAY

TTTTTTTT TTTTTTTT

with NOLA GREEN

Farmer got last laugh

JJJJJ’’ ’’’’’’’’

LLLLLL EEEEEE Send your letters to editorial@crvbulletin.com

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

Suggestions for improvement A great experience HAVING just spent three glorious days relaxing at Potters Gorge this past week, I would like to make a couple of observations/suggestions to the powers-that-be.

Sitting out on the calm, millpond-like water in our kayak the silence was deafening.

Please continue to advocate strongly for the banning of motorised craft on the Wellington Dam so that at least one of Collie’s delightful water playgrounds remains available for moments of quietness.

Perhaps an eradication program for marchies, midgies and parking mongrels would also enhance the enjoyment and serenity!

My wife and I struggled to find obvious and coherent directions, by way of signs and information boards, to the Wiilman Bilya TRACK, and specifically to the Sika TRACK leading to the weir wall.

Other campers expressed similar frustrations with signage within the campsite.

Also several bays on the eastern side slope away quite considerably and make it difficult to level a parked caravan or campervan – admittedly, a minor issue.

And now for another of my petty minor ‘issues’ ...

Can someone please inform me when and why a track became a trail; a bushwalker became a hik-

er; a ute became a pick-up; a congratulatory slap on the back or pat on the bum became a high five; attack became off-fence; defence became dee-fence; ‘like’ stopped meaning ‘similar’ and became a completely painful, superfluous addition to every sentence some people utter? Aarrgh!!!

Being a true believer in the Always Was, Always Will Be principle, I like to extend that principle to include Never Was, Never Will Be. For example ... hello/g’day (hi/ hey); mate/cobber (buddy/pal); bloke/sheila (guy/guy); toilet (bathroom); bum (butt); rubbish (garbage); destroy (trash); biscuit (cookie); died (passed); in future (going forward); etc, etc … I could go on!

Today’s world seems several lifetimes away from the idyllic time I had as a free-wheeling kid around Allanson in the 50s and 60s, with free-spirited mates like Ziggy, Teddy and others, soaking up the true blue Aussie ways that were all around us.

With little or no screen time we were not subjected to an overload of the Americanisms that have all but consumed our once wonderful, unique language and culture … and that capitulation saddens me.

Rob Walton Yallingup Siding

More letters page 10.

WOW … five years of a McGowan Labor Government; five years of keeping our State safe, fair and strong: five years of creating WA jobs across the State, and diversifying our economy.

Our strong, responsible budget management has given WA the capacity to respond to the global pandemic and invest in a significant infrastructure program, including the new Women and Babies hospital. From five years to a first – my first year as the member for Collie-Preston. I knew that I had big shoes to fill when Mick Murray retired, and my first year has been a great experience.

From hosting a Community Cabinet with the Premier and Ministers, to attending primary school colour runs, it has been a wonderful whirlwind. I look forward to the challenges, experiences and meeting new people that the next 12 months will bring.

It is amazing to see artist “Shakey” back in Collie shining a light on our timber heritage and adding another stop to our stunning mural trail.

Education and training is a passion of mine and it was a delight to represent Minister Ellery yesterday at the National Association of Women in Construction “Try a Trade” event in Perth. The aim of this forum is to give girls the opportunity to try their hand at plumbing, bricklaying, carpentry and painting supported by female trainers, and to expose female students to traditionally male-dominated careers as a future employment pathway.

The Shire of Collie is running a public meeting this evening at Roche Park to discuss the future of the Indoor Heated Pool Project.

Today I am looking forward to attending the opening of the newest branch of the Collie Mountain Bike Trail Network – the Wagyl Biddi “Dropped Pye Zone”.

The State Rounds 1 and 2 of the Cross Country Mountain Bike Series were held a couple of weeks ago on the existing Wagyl Biddi trails and I know the riders are keen to come back and try out the new additions.

Speaking of trails, just last week I discovered that the cups from The Wagon have the coordinates of local trails printed on them. Please tell me I am not alone in not noticing this previously!

ONE of the joys of volunteering at the local museum is to hear anecdotes from visitors.

A former McAlinden resident called in this week, and his visit took his mind back to his childhood on the family farm.

Like many a farm kid, he learned to drive at an early age. Being able to move vehicles around the farm was a valuable contribution to the daily workload.

The museum visitor said growing up on a farm in those days could be hard work, but it taught him many lessons about learning to make do, being able to turn his hand to many chores, and being self-sufficient – and he had learnt to drive a variety of vehicles.

Our bloke recalled a time when the long arm of the law reached out to the farm, which was divided by a busy road.

Sometimes it was necessary to move machinery and vehicles from a paddock on one side of the road to the other, and as a young lad, he had been tasked with getting the truck onto the road, a short distance along it, and into the home paddock.

It just so happened that the police were patrolling the road, and were transfixed by the sight of the truck apparently driving itself along the road, and into the paddock.

It also just so happened that one of the policeman was a newly arrived copper from the homeland – our bloke said he thought he must have driven one of the vehicles on z-cars (for our younger readers, that was a popular british police tv drama) as he was quite outraged at this breach of the law, and insisted on getting to the root of this blatant breach of road laws.

In his rush to apprehend the offender, the new arrival did not notice his colleagues, who were lurking in the background, trying to contain their laughter.

They had a fair idea of what was going on, unlike our hero, who demanded to know who had been driving the truck. When the young lad stepped forward, he could not believe his eyes, as there was no way this youngster could have a driver’s licence.

He gave the lad and his father a lecture about the necessity of obeying the law, in spite of the father’s plea that it had been essential for the truck to be moved, and everyone else had been too busy keeping livestock from straying on to the road to be spared to drive it.

After a long lecture, and obviously becoming aware that his colleagues, far from supporting him, were highly amused, he said he would issue a caution on this occasion, and overlook the fact that the lad lacked a licence. “Let’s just put the matter to bed,” he said, pocketing his notebook, and getting back into the police car.

At which point the father joined the local cops in laughing out loud. It wasn’t just the driver who lacked a licence; the truck was unlicensed too!

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Letters to the Editor are welcome.

Send to: editorial@crvbulletin.com

or post or drop off to: Shop 1B, Collie Park Shopping Centre, Steere St, Collie, 6225

COLLIE RIVER VALLEY BULLETIN, MARCH 17, 2022 9

CCCCCCCCC PPPPPPP

The

BYSTANDER

o o Looks Around

Cheap fuel A local resident found out last week that there’s no such thing as “cheap fuel”.

The gent in question chose to refuel his car closer to Perth when he left Collie as “petrol prices are always cheaper in the city”.

Said gent was almost in the city when a red light on his dash showed his tank was almost empty. After some anxious moments on the freeway, he eventually made it to a petrol station where - much to his dismay - he paid seven cents above the last price he saw when heading out of Collie.

Going cheep Being in the local radio studio, presenters become very conscious of extraneous noises. When a visitor came into the studio to chat, the on air presenter noticed a fresh noise – a rather loud noise. The visitor did not seem aware of the noise, so the presenter asked: “Did you hear that?”

“What?” “That loud sort of bird noise.” “Oh,” said the visitor, “I wondered if you’d notice. That’s the chicken.”

“The chicken?” “Yes, it’s my baby chicken, it gets lonely in the house on its own, so I brought it with me, and it’s too hot to leave it in the car.”

Secret fishing spot The secret of good fishing spots is zealously guarded by the piscatorial brigade.

It usually involves at a minimum, a 4wd, or at its extreme, an army surplus tank to reach said spot. Everyone knows that to catch fish involves suffering and sacrifice. So a local couple were pleasantly surprised (make that astonished) when they recently landed what was described as “a good feed of nice sized reddies”. So where was their “secret spot”? Soldiers Park, would you believe.

There is no bag or size limit for redfin, but you do need a licence.

People, places and contributions to Collie life

Mrs Potts’ rhythm of life People: AMY DOROZENKO MRS Potts is a great favourite with the kids who go to the Collie Library.

She’s been working there since way back in 2012 when Alison Kononen, an education assistant at a local primary school, took on a second job at the library.

Two years later, Mrs Potts was born.

“Mrs Potts decided that while she was enjoying a cup of tea, she could entertain the kids with stories and songs,” Alison said.

“She came about because I didn’t want to be me,” Alison said. “I am me at school!”

Being Mrs Potts enables Alison to entertain children who come to hear her read and sing.

Alison said it took “maybe a minute” to decide on a name for her character.

“I didn’t want to be Mrs Kononen, and I had a cup of tea in my hand when I was asked, so I became Mrs Potts.

“She can be a bit potty, and the children know that, and get enjoyment out of the potty things she does.”

Other characters that Alison creates, such as Mrs Muffin and Teapot who join in with the Mrs Potts sessions, are also enjoyed by the children.

“When you are able to be someone else, you behave differently,

TOY READING: Alison Kononen, aka Mrs Potts, reads to the toys who live at the Collie Public Library. and that is the whole idea of writing a story or entering a different world. I put on a different hat when I become Mrs Potts.”

Education and a love of reading go hand in hand, and through play-based learning, children are able to learn without realising and enjoy it, she said.

“Putting knowledge to songs

George’s Gems

My wife gave me a hug and sniffed: “Hmnn, she said,” that smells expensive, what is it?” “ Unleaded.” □□□ Think my doctor really likes my sensible choice of footwear: I overheard him telling his colleague I had serious healthy shoes.

CREATIVE SPARK: Alison Kononen is inspired by all things creative, from train sets to mushroom stools.

or games or changing the words to be silly makes it that little bit more enjoyable,” Alison said.

“Life is rhythm. Even when you talk, there is rhythm.”

Alison was just out of school when she accidentally fell into education. She was in the right place at the right time, when someone needed her assistance with a task.

From there, she discovered that she could do the work and she loved working with children.

“I don’t regard myself as a teacher, which is possibly why it works, but I enjoy kids, laughing and I just like to have fun,” Alison said.

“I know there are lots of hard and difficult times in life and I seize the opportunity when I can to have a good time.

“Kids are loyal and you can make them laugh. You can get enjoyment out of them and they can get enjoyment out of you from something really small.”

Alison counts herself lucky and fortunate to be able to play the keyboard, and is able to share her love of music with the children who come to see Mrs Potts.

Music is important to the sessions, as it allows adaptation and gives the creator the ability to make the rhythm faster or slower,she said.

“Without even realising it, you are doing it. You can still teach your way, but you’re doing stuff with music that takes it that little bit extra and gets more engagement out of the kids.”

A typical Mrs Potts session varies in size, particularly at the moment with COVID, but Alison can get anywhere from four children to 18, plus their parents.

“It is not compulsory, so par-

ents can bring their kids to the free sessions, without having to sign up for anything,” Alison said.

Mrs Potts’ sessions take place in a bright, colourful, inviting and non-confrontational environment, making children feel comfortable in their surroundings.

One week there might be a rhyme time, another week might be a story time, and songs are essential and sung every week.

Special events include a pyjama party, which is held in May, with a teddy bears picnic in August or September, but the sessions are always different and always fun.

Alison doesn’t see Mrs Potts as a performance, as it is not about her. The sessions are purely to see what the children get out of it and she enjoys the response she gets out of them.

“It is an hour of enjoyment where everyone is on an equal plane,” Alison said. “I am not above them, they are not below me, we don’t yell, and the kids don’t have to listen to the story if they don’t want to.

“They can come, enjoy the experience of being in a library as there is lots to see, and if they don’t sing, that is okay.”

Through the language immersion of the songs and stories, children are able to soak it up and blossom into social beings when it comes time for them to begin school.

“Exposure to language allows children to have more opportunities in life,” Alison said.

Mrs Potts is held at the Collie Public Library on Mondays between 10am and 11am during the school term. For more information phone 9734 9042.

10 COLLIE RIVER VALLEY BULLETIN, MARCH 17, 2022

Parkies get ball clinic

CLINIC: Leo Lawrence was among those to attend the basketball clinic.

STUDENTS at Wilson Park Primary School were treated to a basketball clinic on Tuesday run by the Stephen Michael Foundation.

Warm-up games and drills plus skills practice in passing, dribbling and more were enjoyed by the Year 1/2 class of eight students.

The students will participate in the clinic every Tuesday until the end of term to learn the craft of the game.

LLLLLL EEEEEE

AFTERMATH: Firefighters look over the remains of the house.

Send your letters to editorial@crvbulletin.com

Street and bush rubbish collected

WE believe that there is a decrease in litter around town. The worst litter is the drink cups from takeaway shops. Only if we could get 10c for those too.

Many thanks to Dee and South32 crew for the walk trail clean-up.

Well done everyone.

Many thanks for all the work that Carol, Terry, Trish and Tahnwyn do. Thanks also to Aaron for looking after our trailer.

If we all do a bit we will have a clean and green community. It is

ok to pick up some litter on your walk.

Other projects we are looking at are the 100 years of the Arboretum, the water tank in Atkinson Street, and we would like to get some history on the large log in the tree park – there is no history plaque.

You can email me on ggwilks@ westnet.com.au if you can help stay clean and green.

Geoff Wilks, Regent Street, Collie.

Fire guts Deakin St family home A HOUSE at 83 Deakin Street, Collie, was entirely gutted by fire on Tuesday morning at about 11.10.

The occupants of the home were not there at the time, but two dogs and a badly burned cat were rescued by Collie Volunteer Fire and Rescue.

Snr Sgt Dayle Hamilton

said Collie police were around the corner dealing with another matter when they were alerted to the emergency.

“It is unknown at this time what caused the fire,” Snr Sgt Hamilton said.

“If deemed to be suspicious by the Department Fire Emergency Services fire examiner,

police will investigate the situation further.”

Fire fighters from Bunbury and Brunswick Junction were in attendance, as well as Capel traffic police who were in town for a different matter.

Staff at the Steere Street Deli alerted residents in the area to the fire.

RRRRR RRRRRRRRRR Green with with Nola Nola Green with Nola Green Twilight market The Cardiff twilight market will be open on Saturday from 3pm to 7pm. There will be a good variety of stalls. The 10 metre climbing wall will be there as well as other features.

Anyone wanting to have a stall can contact Rose on 0427 320 809.

Welcome morning tea Collie CWA invites all newcomers to the town to a morning tea on Tuesday, March22, to be held at 10am in the CWA Hall in Throssell Street, across the road from the Miners’ Institute.

CWA lunches An early heads up to let you all know that CWA soup and sandwich lunches will start In April, with proceeds from the first one going to the appeal for flood victims in Queensland and NSW. A donation tin will be there for anyone who wishes to make an extra donation.

Visitor Centre souvenirs The Visitor Centre has a wide range of local souvenirs and crafts, with woodwork a feature.

Riff raff dancing Riff raff dancing is on at the PCYC on Monday nights at 7.30pm.

If you are interested in learning to dance this is the perfect opportunity, just come at 7pm and they will help you brush up your moves. Ring Wendy on 427 343 828 for more information.

Police rangers Police rangers nights have returned at the PCYC, Mondays, 4.30pm to 6.30pm for 11 years old and up. This is a cost free activity, and enquiries are welcome.

Bingo Collie Eagles bingo is held each Thursday at the clubrooms. Doors open 6.30pm, eyes down at 7.30pm. All welcome, but masks must be worn

when entering the clubrooms.

Museum The Coalfields Museum on Throssell Street is open seven days a week, from 9am to 3pm.

Entry for adults is $5 each, with children who are accompanied by a responsible adult admitted free.

Signing centre If you have documents which need witnessing, Collie Justices of the Peace offer a signing centre Mondays, Tuesdays and Fridays from 9.30am to 12 noon, and on Thursdays from 1.30pm to 3pm, at the Collie courthouse.

Send it in This column offers free publication of events for not for profit clubs and organisations.

If you would like to have details of your events or organization published in this column, send copy to nola.crvbulletin@gmail.com by 5pm on Fridays. Or, pop a note in my letter box at 87 Jones Street.

COLLIE RIVER VALLEY BULLETIN, MARCH 17, 2022 11

Richmond St Kilda Geelong Sydney Brisbane Hawthorn Fremantle Gold Coast

Cartlton St Kilda Geelong Sydney Brisbane Hawthorn Fremantle West Coast

Carlton St Kilda Essendon GWS Port Adelaide North Melbourne Fremantle Gold Coast

Corene King

Christy Davidson

Redgie Old

62 Forrest St 9734 2202

80-82 Steere St littlebluedoor80@gmail.com

144 Atkinson St 9734 1277

Richmond St Kilda Geelong Sydney Brisbane Hawthorne Fremantle West Coast Eagles

Richmond Geelong Sydney Brisbane Hawthorn Fremantle West Coast Eagles

Carlton St Kilda Geelong Sydney Brisbane Hawthorn Fremantle West Coast Eagles

Troy Anderson

Chris Black

Jo Crowe

tranderson1976@icloud.com 0458 638 768

526 Medic St 9734 1893

125 Throssell Street 08 9734 1144

Richmond St Kilda Essendon Sydney Port Adelaide Hawthorn Fremantle West Coast Eagles

Carlton St Kilda Geelong GWS Giants Port Adelaide Hawthorn Fremantle West Coast Eagles

Richmond St Kilda Geelong Sydney Port Adelaide North Melbourne Fremantle West Coast Eagls

Ash Stewart

Debbie Miller

Bunny Aramini

137 Throssell St 9734 1322

68 Forrest St 9734 5022

Rowlands Rd 9734 2785

Richmond St Kilda Geelong Swans Port Adelaide North Melbourne Fremantle West Coast Eagles

Rusti Pitchers

ROUND 1 Carlton vs. Richmond St Kilda vs. Collingwood Geelong Cats vs. Essendon GWS GIANTS vs. Sydney Brisbane vs. Port Adelaide Hawthorn vs. North Melbourne

13 Rowlands Rd 0428 347 675

Adelaide vs. Fremantle West Coast Eagles vs. Gold Coast

LEADERBOARD Tipster Troy Anderson | TR Anderson Painting Jo Crowe | Unity Bank Rusti Pitchers | LJ Mechanical Chris Black | Floorworld Collie Corene King | Collie Florist Redgie Old | Spry’s Meat Market Christy Davidson | Little Blue Door Bunny Aramini | Salvage and Hardware Ash Stewart | Henderson Hardware Debbie Miller | Sportfirst

Last Week 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

Year Total 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

12 COLLIE RIVER VALLEY BULLETIN, MARCH 17, 2022

RRRR EEEEEE

This could be your home sweet home CHARACTER, charming, classic, or cosy … no matter what you call this property, it is definitely one you want to see.

High ceilings embellished with decorative cornices and ceiling centrepieces, along with jarrah boards and spaces beaming with potential, make this property the perfect cottage to live out the peaceful life of your dreams.

The home is a brick and tile four by one, situated in an elevated position in a sought-after area north of town, close to local schools and the hospital.

Properties like this are few and far between!

WHY BUY ME ►Kitchen with wood stove; ►Cosy in-built log fire with mantle; ►Lino flooring underfoot to dining area; ►Generous-sized laundry; ►King-sized master bedroom with carpet underfoot and decorative cornices; ►Queen-sized minor bedroom; ►Double-sized minor bedroom with carpet underfoot; ►Single-sized minor bedroom with carpet underfoot; ►Main bathroom with shower, bath and vanity; ►Sunroom with tiles underfoot; ►Jarrah boards throughout; ►Gabled patio entertaining area; and ►Tool shed.

Land Rates:$1463.00 pa (approx) Water Rates:$1463.12 pa (approx) Land Size:886 m2 Zoning:R15 Build Year:1955

HOME FACT FILE Location: 10 Walsh Street, Collie Price: $269,000 Bedroom: 4 Bathrooms: 1 Cars: 1 Contact: Mitch 0408 910 337 or Tocoda 0447 340 344

RRRR EEEEEE

Spacious home in a great location

THIS quality brick and tile home is well-located close to bush walks and schools and is a short drive from the central business district and numerous community facilities.

The property is currently leased until February 23, 2023.

WHY BUY ME ►Three large bedrooms, main master bedroom with built-in robes; ►Open plan kitchen, fridge/freezer recess, gas cooker, family and meals area; ►Separate formal lounge/dining room; ►Reverse cycle air-conditioning; ►Log fire; ►Massive patio and storage area with side access to a huge powered eight metre by eight metre lockup garage.

HOME FACT FILE Location: 16 Shannon Way, Collie Price: $275,000 Bedrooms: 3 Bathrooms: 1 Cars: 2 Contact: Charles Pinto 9780 0524 or 0419 389 455

COLLIE RIVER VALLEY BULLETIN, MARCH 17, 2022 13

14 COLLIE RIVER VALLEY BULLETIN, MARCH 17, 2022

Looking back...

20 years ago ...

GOYA’S GOTCHA CROSSWORD (Created by Goya Olecki)

Contributer: KYM SAUNDERS From the Collie Mail, March 21, 2002

$700M new iron plant on cards A $700 million new coal-based plant could have been producing export iron in Collie.

A West Australian company took the first step towards determining the feasability of building the plant in the Collie area.

Rally drops Collie stage Rally Australia organisers announced in 2002 that Collie would no longer hold a stage of the high-profile international event.

Chamber will research trading extension Collie’s Chamber of Commerce researched the impact of Saturday afternoon trading in small towns after a push by the local Coles supermarket to extend its trading hours. The then Chamber president Glyn Yates said the chamber was keen to research the matter.

Two arrested in immigration raid Two people were arrested and removed from Collie’s Golden Bowl Chinese restaurant by immigration officials.

The man and woman, from China, had been found to have been working in breach of their visa conditions.

Community groups feel insurance heat The then Collie Shire Chief Executive Officer Ian Miffling had said Collie community groups were feeling the impact of insurance premium rises.

Mr Miffling had said a number of groups had approached the council to ask whether the shire could cover them under their insurance.

Sport Riverside title goes to another ‘Dennis’ The “Dennis” name was once engraved on the Collie Golf Club’s most prestigious piece of silverware following a two-stroke win

by Busselton’s Eric Dennis in the 36-hole River Open for 2002.

CHURCH NOTICES 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.

Revd. Lynda Myres is on long service leave until August. Bible study: Noyes Hall, 4pm on Wednesday Op shop: Open Tuesday to Thursday 9am - 3pm Warden and op shop manager: Gwen Molnar.

Phone 9734 4020 or mobile 0429 375 598.

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 Street.

Minister: Dave Carr, 9734 1361; 0416 784 146.

Elder: Evan Mandry 9734 1354.

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. Please direct enquiries or outages to Dave Carr.

COALFIELDS BAPTIST CHURCH: An old fashioned, independent Baptist Church.

You are warmly invited to join us for our worship service, Sunday, 2pm, CWA Hall Throssell Street. Enquiries Pastor Chris Manessis 9797 0056, 0439 970 059. pastorcbcaustralind.com 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 Parish Priest: Fr. Gerald Tan Secretary: Marie Hicks. 0414 755 054. Office: 9734 2183. Email: collieparish@westnet.com. au Weekend Masses: Collie: 6.00pm Saturday, 10.00am Sunday.

Darkan: 8.00am, 1st and 3rd Sunday each month.

Confession/Reconciliation and Baptisms by request.

Vinnie’s shop: 9734 5664. Shopping hours: 9am to 1pm, Monday to Friday.

NAME_____________________________AGE____ Drop your entries

to the Collie Bulletin by 4pm Monday

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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.

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 the following days: 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.

The 1947 Collie horse plague

COLLIE RIVER VALLEY BULLETIN, MARCH 17, 2022 15

MUSEUM MORSELS Contributor: EDWARD PAXTON Part 1 WHEN you think of wild hordes of horses roaming free, Collie does not come to mind, but back in 1947 horses were roaming free here, and no pot plant was left unturned in their search for forage.

After the war, farming equipment was increasingly mechanised, and there was a growing number of cars and trucks on the road.

The fact that horses were becoming obsolete as a working animal might in some way explain the presence of wild horses in and around Collie. Tracking them back to their original owners was almost impossible because most of the horses were unbranded. Thus, they were intent on “causing anguish to garden lovers” stated the Collie Mail.

A number of these equine culprits snuck into the local police sergeant’s front yard and hel-

STRAYS: A mob of stray horses caused chaos in Collie in 1947. ped themselves to whatever took their fancy. The matter was referred to the pound keeper who, after trying to resolve the issue, concluded that they were very hard to catch.

Mr Wiltshire, of Wittenoom Street, unwittingly left his gate open one night and horses got in and gobbled up most of his apple crop. Despite him remembering to close the gate, the horses were back some time later to feast on his baby cabbages. They just muzzled the gate open.

Many complaints were made to the Collie Municipal Council about the stray horses. Apart from destroying gardens, they were a menace to traffic, especially at night. One resident claimed to have been thrown from his motorcycle twice in a period of months by horses on

HUNGRY: A stray horse helps itself to some apple blossoms.

Nominations Extended NOMINATIONS for the Collie Small Business Awards have been extended to March 30.

Collie Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCI) executive officer Tara van Beuningen urged local businesses to apply.

“Winning the awards is a marketer’s dream – the opportunities for promotion are huge,” she said.

Mrs van Beuningen said the awards boost morale, bring staff together and provide an opportunity to review business operations.

“Your submission is like a business plan: it is a perfect vehicle for you to analyse your performance over the past 12 months and identify areas of growth,” she said.

To enter the awards contact the CCI on 97344817.

the very same stretch of road.

This was not the only time Collie had been besieged by rampant stock. In 1942, horses, cows and dogs roamed the streets. Some felt it was unsafe to go out at night, and residents demanded the council act, so they made rounding up and impounding strays high priority for the municipal ranger and pound keeper.

But the problem had evidently returned, and a more permanent solution was needed.

It was suggested the South Perth Zoo could accept the horses once they had been rounded up. The zoo would pay the freight and house them. Two lads from Cardiff, titled “experts”, were very keen to round up the horses.

Cr Chapman, quite clearly at the end of his tether, stat-

ed if nothing better, the horses could be food for the lions. Cr Marshall commented that one morning, there were 23 horses on the recreation ground, while a dairyman almost ran one over at night because it was lying in the road. They agreed the situation was bad and resolved to ask the zoo if they would take them.

Sadly, the zoo declined the offer because they were overstocked at that time. Rural areas elsewhere in the state were battling the same problem and had beaten Collie to offload their strays.

Meanwhile, horses were still roaming the streets at will.

With little other option, the Collie Municipal Council decided to cart them off to be boiled down.

Multiple offers were made to the council to turn the horses into pig and dog food. There was

a further push to catch these horses and impound them but as had been the case before, all involved found these horses hard to catch and only a few were successfully impounded.

Perhaps seeing what a problem the horses had become, the zoo in Perth offered to take a truck load a couple of months after their initial rejection, but originally Collie had asked to ship up two truckloads, and one was not a total solution.

Problems started to multiply when stray dogs started to resurface, and nobody was willing to become a council dog catcher.

Under such stress and scrutiny, it is no wonder that the assistant pound keeper up and left.

Not two days after the pound keeper’s departure, horses were back on the streets of Collie.

Part 2 - next Thursday.

16 COLLIE RIVER VALLEY BULLETIN, MARCH 17, 2022

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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)

DEATHS MATHERS (Barry): Passed away peacefully 10.3.22. Beloved son and brother of Winifred, Leonard, Thelma, Fred, Ken and Trevor (all deceased). The final link in the family chain has been broken. Dearly loved brother-in-law and uncle of Noel, Lyn, Shelley, Stephen, Donna and their families. Our dearest Barry has left us to be with his beloved Judy, his parents and siblings. We will miss you so much but know you are no longer suffering. All our love goes to his two beautiful daughters; Melissa and Michelle, and their families.

Always here for you both. RIP Barry.

EMPLOYMENT

MECHANIC

South West Fire is a manufacturer and repairer of Fire Appliances and we are based in Collie, Western Australia.

We seek applications from committed, motivated & friendly people to join our team.

We are looking to employ suitably trade qualified Heavy Vehicle Repairers with demonstrated experience in the service and maintenance of trucks and machinery. We will consider training a Light Vehicle Mechanic if the applicant proves suitable. Attention to detail, a willingness to learn and work as part of a team are essential.

The following Certifications are desirable but not essential: VSB-6, MVR, O/Head Crane, MR License and Forklift.

This role presents the opportunity to work a 9 day fortnight. General working hours are Monday to Friday, 6-00am to 4-30pm, however some after hours standby may also be required.

For further information please contact Colin Giles on 0428 932 893.

Applications close Friday March 18, 2022, and should be emailed to colin@swfire.com.au or in writing Colin Giles, P.O. Box 598 Collie WA 6225

FOR SALE FIREWOOD: Chopped jarrah firewood delivered to Collie. Phone Mumballup Organics 0417 322 007 LIME and FERTILISER: Bulk ag lime and fertiliser delivered bulk to Collie and surrounds, call Mumballup Organics 0417322007

EMPLOYMENT

EMPLOYMENT Government of Western Australia

Department of Mines, Industry Regulation and Safety

POSITIONS VACANT

DIRECTOR CORPORATE SERVICES CEO PERSONAL ASSISTANT RECORDS CO-ORDINATOR The Shire of Collie is seeking highly motivated individuals to join our staff. Details of all positions listed above, along with closing dates can be found on the Shire’s website www.collie.wa.gov.au/ council/employment/ Instructions for submitting your application can be found on our website or you can call into the Administration Office to collect a hard copy. Applicants should read the related job descriptions to decide if the position matches their skill set.

Licensing Coordinator - Collie Level/Salary: Level 4 $81,452 - $85,797 pa (PSCSAA 2021) Are you an experienced leader motivated to provide exceptional customer service?

We currently have a permanent position in Collie available for immediate filling!

In this role, you will be responsible for undertaking assessment of, recommendations on and processing of complex applications in accordance with relevant legislation, policies and procedures, as well as liaising with relevant stakeholders to resolve matters and enquiries. You will assist the supervisor with the management and coordination of staff providing direction and support to ensure outcomes are achieved.

You will possess strong leadership skills to train, coach and guide staff, as well as high quality customer service to deliver accurate information in operational activities.

Experience in processing licenses is highly desirable yet not essential, as you will be provided with on-the-job training and support.

For further details please visit www.jobs.wa.gov.au and search for the title ‘Licensing Coordinator’ or contact Jane McLean, Principal Licensing Coordinator on (08) 6251 2640.

APPLICATIONS CLOSE: 4:00pm on Monday 21 March 2022 (WST) DMIRS_6962

PUBLIC NOTICES

Applications should be addressed to Human Resources Officer at hr@collie. wa.gov.au. Please include the job title of the position you are applying for in the email subject line. Alternatively, you can send your application in writing to: “Confidential – Human Resources Officer” Shire of Collie Locked Bag 6225 Collie WA 6225 Stuart Devenish Chief Executive Officer

JUNIOR FOOTBALL COACHES & TEAM MANAGERS 2022 SEASON The Collie Eagles Football Club are seeking expressions of interest for the following Coaching and Team Manager positions with the following junior sides.

Year 8 & 9 Boys Teams Youth Girls (Y/G) Teams 6­7, 8­9 and 10­12 This is your chance to help grow and de­ velop our young players for the future.

Please register your interest by emailing cefc_secretary@hotmail.com by Monday 28th March 2022.

CANTEEN MANAGER The Collie Eagles Football Club invite ap­ plications for the position of Canteen Manager for the 2022 Season.

The successful applicant will be asked to provide canteen service at all home games and at other times as agreed. This is a negotiated remunerative position.

Please email your application to cefc_secretary@hotmail.com

FOR SALE SHEEP MANURE: $12/100L bag, minimum 10 bags per order. Free delivery to Collie. Call 0417 322 007.

CLEANING BUSINESS: Thriving business for sale, including vehicle and machines. $15,000 ONO. Contact Irene 0400 515 636. Includes work.

GARAGE SALES SATURDAY: Garage sale Saturday March 19, 8am – 12pm. 35 Swanstone St. 4x4 rims, generator, garage items, power tip tray and canopy to suit single cab, household goods.

SATURDAY: Old stuff, garden stuff, furniture, steel pots, free stuff, mixed stuff.

Saturday March 19, 13 Elouera Rd, 7.30am – 3pm.

IN MEMORIAM BURNETT (BJ (Burt)): 35 years since 13.3.87. Oh how time flies Brother Graeme. Uncle to Corey and Kellie.

WANTED HOUSE CLEANER: wanted for domestic cleaning. Call Tom on mobile 0428 260 210.

Advertise your garage sale in the Bulletin. Only $10 for 15 words

COLLIE RIVER VALLEY BULLETIN, MARCH 17, 2022 17

AIR CONDITIONING

BUILDING

CONCRETING

AUTO AIR CONDITIONING

CANVAS WORK

DRIVING LESSONS

ENGINEERING

FERTILISERS AUTOMOTIVE

COMPUTERS

DESIGN

GLASS WORK BIN HIRE

CLEANING

HARDWARE & SALVAGE BRICK LAYING

ELECTRICAL

18 COLLIE RIVER VALLEY BULLETIN, MARCH 17, 2022

HARDWARE & SALVAGE

PAINTING

PATIOS & SHEDS

SHEDS

PLUMBING

TREE SERVICES

SEPTIC TANK CLEANING

YARD MAINTENANCE

IRRIGATION

PRINTING Need something designed, scanned or printed? Give the Bulletin a call on 9734 1024 NO JOB TOO BIG OR SMALL!

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Mitchell and Co win the Gibbs trophy Athletes shine at the State titles BOWLS THE ladies played the final two games in the Heather Gibbs sponsored championship fours on Tuesday and Thursday of last week at Collie Bowling Club.

They played the best of three games with Lyn Mitchell’s team of Karina Snow, Rose Godfrey, Kath Cluning and sub Kath McElroy winning the first and third games in a close finish for six points, plus five.

The runners-up, Heather Gibbs, Rose Colgan, Cheryle Brown, Eileen Hindle and sub Glenice Kaurin finished on three points, minus five The ladies have been away at the South West League Championships in Bunbury, which conclude today (Thursday).

Next Tuesday and Wednesday, the ladies will be playing medley pairs sponsored by Hair Dressers and Boulevarde Cafe.

The format will be 2 x 4 x 2, 3 x 3 and 2 x 2 to finish. The nomination list for this event is on the notice board.

Coming in April will be the Karina Snow fours/pairs.

ONLY a small field turned out for the meat pack on Wednesday of last week.

Jeff Crowe, Glenice Kaurin and Phil Warburton won five, plus eight, with Tom Edwards, Harley Johnson and Chris Sanford coming second with four, plus three.

TWILIGHT bowls were played last Friday, with a change of leads for the second game.

The winner was Ray Colgan with four, plus 21, followed

by Glenice Kaurin with four, plus eight. Then followed Vicki Daniel with four, plus seven, on a spin of the wheel from Rod Garner also on four, plus seven.

THE penultimate week of community bowls saw the Feds win.

Going into the last week there are still half the teams in the running for the prizes.

The men’s teams had a bye on March 8 and played their last game on March 15 prior to the finals.

THE men hosted the teams from Donnybrook on March 12. Garry Keep, Rod Garner, Warrick Ferris and Ray Colgan won 28 to 24. Ash Collins, Jamie Parker, Rob Ferris and Jeff Crowe won 23 to 16. Ross White, Tom Edwards, Ron White and Wayne Stocks won 23 to 16. Collie six points to Donnybrook nil.

The third division team of Tom Gale, Peter Kaurin, Jamie Godfrey and Les McCamish lost 36 to 14. The other team of Hans Wiggers, Kevan McKenzie, Ian Corley and Valdis Brojanowski won 21 to 11. Collie one point to Donnybrook three points.

The finals start on Saturday and conclude on Saturday, March 26.

THERE was a great rollup for scroungers last Sunday and after the first round the five rink winners, in final winning order, were Chris Sanford, Rod Cordrey, John Magill, Barry Lowe and Ric Daniel.

The highest scorer was Barry Lowe and the consolation winner was Terry Uren.

LITTLE ATHLETICS SEVEN Collie athletes competed at the 2022 WA Little Athletics State Championships over the recent long weekend.

Over 1500 athletes competed and our athletes did not disappoint.

An-ne Pelser came away with three medals and Gemma Buckle with two and will represent WA at the national championships in Sydney at the end of the month.

All our competitors went through the rigorous competition at Country Championships to qualify and this in itself is a wonderful achievement.

Below is the full list of results: An-ne Pelser: Gold, Discus 34.56m; Bronze, Shot Put 11.78m; Bronze, Javelin 33.67m.

Gemma Buckle: Silver, Javelin 42.04m; Bronze, Discus 26.87m; Fourth Shot Put 10.58m.

Logan Gregory: Fourth, 1500m Speed Walk 10:04:14 min.

Max Earl: Fourth, 400m 59.25sec; Seventh, 200m Hurdles 32.15sec; Eighth, 200m 26.09sec; 17th, 100m 13.20sec.

Lilly Earl: Seventh, Triple Jump 9.58m; Seventh, 200m 29.54sec; 12th, Long Jump 4.31m; 14th, 80m Hurdles 15.17sec.

Mercades Ingram: Eighth, Discus 8.14m; 10th, Shot Put 8.13m; 15th, Javelin 14.07m.

Devon Larkworthy-Darke: Sixth, Javelin 26.47m; 10th, 200m 30.38sec; 11th, 100m 15.17sec; 14th, Discus 20.26m; 14th Shot Put 8.14m.

Collie’s fourth straight title Continued from back page.

In a great team performance by Collie, every player contributed to a brilliant grand final victory.

Blair Malatesta was awarded man-of-the-match for his amazing

performance with the ball.

The club is most appreciative of its many volunteers for helping make it a great day and also to the small crowd who obeyed all protocols and enjoyed a fantastic game.

COLLIE RIVER VALLEY BULLETIN, MARCH 17, 2022 19

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Rako wins life members’ event GOLF CLUB captain Dean Rakich won the life members sponsored par event held last Saturday at Collie Golf Club.

Rako, who has been playing a terrific brand of golf in recent times, finished his round with the great score of plus five.

By way of a countback, Darren O’Brien finished runner up, on plus three, edging out Jamie Pitchers into third and Ian Stewart into fourth.

Ian Annandale, Connor Mumme and Kalev Kutt each returned plus one scores, followed by Bruce Jackson, Liam Reuben and Chris Stewart on square.

George Newlands and Eric Annandale rounded out the

vouchers, each recording one down.

Finishing on square, Nancy Lynn was the ladies’ winner, from Dion Smallwood on three down. Naomi Dorrington, Patti Law and Jodie Allison received a voucher for their respective four down scores.

Novelty winners were: Nearest third (No.1) and nearest to pins - Dean Rakich (1 and 14), Ian Annandale (4), Dion Smallwood (4) and Terry Ellery (7).

Longest first putts – Jamie Pitchers (6) and Frank Battista (9 and 18). Long Drive on No.15 – Chris Stewart DARREN O’Brien set up his Saturday runner-up performance by winning last Thursday’s nine hole scroungers com-

Night racing under lights a go for club

BMX LIGHTS installed at the Collie BMX Club recently will enable riders to participate in Friday night race meetings.

The four 12 metre high poles and 14 lights were installed around the track after funding had been secured from Collie Coal Miners Board, Worsley South 32 and Bendigo Community Bank. Several contractors also donated their time and resources in kind.

Last Friday night was the first race meet under the new lights, and riders and families, who came down to support their children, loved the experience.

Committee member Daniel Foster said that the lights will give the club more flexibility with race schedules.

“Some kids are opting for other sports on Sunday mornings so are missing out on racing and participating in BMX, the lights will allow them to come down on Friday nights now,” Mr Foster said.

The club hopes to host bigger events, attracting those passing through on their way home from work or wanting to spend the weekend in Collie, said Mr Foster.

“It will enable us to host larger events and attract more people from the surrounding areas, including Perth.”

Later this year, the club will host the King Coal competition, which draws about 400 riders to Collie.

petition. Oby scored 21 points, one better than Jim Tyler, on 20.

Dean Rakich, Ed Riley, Shanks Shannon and David Broadbent each returned a score of 18, while Ron Annandale and Phil Rabjones rounded out the vouchers with 17 apiece.

Dean Rakich had the day’s best gross score with 39 off-thestick.

Novelty winners were David Broadbent (1), George Newlands (4), Phil Rabjones (6) and Ross Davidson (9).

LAST Wednesday’s nine hole ladies competition resulted in a comfortable win to Peta Ellery.

She recorded 21 stableford points to win by four shots from Rhonda Annandale on 17, on a

countback from Dot Lawrence.

Olna Turner, with 16 and Donna Smith 15 each received a ball each for their respective scores.

Novelty winners were Rhonda Annandale (11) and Olna Turner (14).

TERRY Ellery was the carton winner in last week’s Tuesday 18 hole leisure day stableford competition. His score of 40 points was one shot ahead of Charlie Buemi, on a countback from Wayne Waywood , with each player scoring 39.

Ian Edwards scored 37 to finish fourth while Connor Mumme played to his handicap, finishing fifth, on 36.

George Dorozenko, Ray Cooper, Jake Timms and Barry McGill each returned 35, followed,

on 34 by Kevin Ireland, Bruce Jackson, George Newlands and Joe Italiano.

John Williamson, with 37, was the day’s best vet.

Novelties went to Guy Asser (1), Joe Bambrick (7), David Carter (9), John Williamson (14) and Gary Old (18).

THIS weekend is the annual Riverside Open event, sponsored by the Coverley family and Bendigo Bank, It will be played over 36 holes on Saturday and Sunday and will be preceded by the Henderson Hardware fourball on Friday.

Scroungers is on today and will be off full handicaps. Next Tuesday will be leisure day as usual, followed by ladies day next Wednesday.

Nelson and McEllree win Super Series event

SPROCKET: Collie BMX rider Ellodi Foster participated in the mini-wheelers race during the WA Super Series event in Bunbury.

BMX COLLIE BMX riders had some impressive results recently at the statewide Super Series, which attracted over 500 competitors, to Bunbury.

Despite having to adjust the event just days before, and with new tight COVID restrictions in place, the event went off with very little issues and the twilight event had a very positive and enjoyable vibe.

Collie had 37 riders spread across the majority of categories from three years old mini-wheelers right up to some mums and dads in the adult classes.

In the nine year old girls class, Mya Nelson was faultless and managed to win all the heats and the final despite some pressure from Mandurah and Cockburn riders who previously finished at the top of the category in the 2021 state championships.

With Mya relatively new to the sport and constantly improving, this puts her in a good position for the rest of the series.

Chloe McIlree came away with an easy win in the final of the 11 year old girls class after facing

very intense pressure in the heats.

After only winning the first heat by a tenth of a second, then coming a close second in the next heat, it was always going to be a tough battle to take out the class.

In the third heat, Chloe set the best lap time of the day within the class and easily took the win.

In the final, despite starting from the outside, McIlree managed to get around the others and hold on to the lead until the finish line.

Whilst the seven year old and under riders are only participation classes, Jorja Swan gave it everything in the six year old girls class.

She absolutely flew around the truck, leaving the rest in her dust and showing she will be a serious contender once reaching the age classes.

Results First place rankings went to Mya Nelson (9), Chloe McIllree (11).

Second place rankings went to Steven Parry (30-34 and 30-34 cruiser), Stephanie Slapp (30-34) and Jaymee Macintyre (35-39).

Third place rankings went to Edward McIlree (13) and Thomas Slapp (30-34 cruiser).

20 COLLIE RIVER VALLEY BULLETIN, MARCH 17, 2022

Get your sporting goods in store

SPORT Collie’s fourth straight title ALL THE GOOD SPORTS ARE IN THE BULLETIN

CRICKET COLLIE Cricket Club has won the Bunbury and Districts Cricket Association B grade premiership for the fourth consecutive year.

The local team took the title by defeating Marist in the grand final at Roche Park last Saturday.

After finishing the year on top of the ladder and winning the semi final a fortnight ago, Collie earned the right to host the grand final.

On a beautiful day for cricket and in front of a COVID-safe crowd, Marist won the toss and sent Collie in to bat in a change of tactics by the visitors.

Collie started their innings fairly with openers Austin and Brayden Kent, and young gun Max Ireland all getting a start but consistent wickets fell along the way.

Collie found themselves at

four for 57 before Mark Williams was joined at the crease by captain Fraser Hislop and the pair took the score to 96 before Williams was out.

Former skipper Greg Tomasini came and went in a hurry and when Hislop was also gone, Collie was reeling at seven for 119, well short of what was thought would be a competitive total. Enter Bailey Moloney and Josh Elliot.

New dad Moloney and talented junior Elliot put together what would be a match-winning partnership to steer Collie out of trouble and to a final score of 177.

Both players produced some great shots and terrific running between wickets to give the bowlers a good target to defend.

In reply, Marist were off to a shaky start with Collie’s opening bowlers, Steven Ireland

and Brayden Kent, both striking early to have the visitors at two down for eight runs.

When Ireland took his second wicket, Collie was well on top before opposition skipper Blaze Rosinski compiled a well-made 40 to give life to the chase.

In a move to change the momentum, Hislop turned to spin twins Blair Malatesta and Matthew Tanner with almost immediate impact.

The two spinners were able to halt momentum and Malatesta ripped the heart out of Marist with a match-winning four for 20, including an incredible caught and bowled effort.

In a fitting end to the innings, another one of the club’s up-and-coming stars, Zac Reuben, bowled with experience beyond his years at the death to claim two wickets and wrap up Marists innings for 137.

Continued page 18.

Email your sporting stories and photos to: editorial@ crvbulletin.com

PREMIERS: Collie Cricket Club players Brayden and Austin Kent, with vice captain Bailey Moloney (centre) after they won the Bunbury and Districts Cricket Association B grade premiership last Saturday.