Nvnjanuary2017 by Northern Valleys News

NNNorthern Valley News Christmas celebrations page 4-5

• New Norcia • Wannamal • Watheroo

Mogumber NYE rodeo wrap

Please take a copy

page 22-24

2017

Bindoon • Bullsbrook • Calingiri • Chittering • Dandaragan • Gingin • Muchea • Moora

Summer on a stick

Ollie, Deanne and Millie Joubert enjoy Deanne’s delicious Northern Valleys Fruit Pops at the Gingin Aquatic Centre Tamieka Preston

Entrepreneurial mother-of-three Deanne Joubert has embarked on a new business venture inspired by a quest to provide healthy treats for her kids. Disillusioned by the high sugar content and additives in commercially available snacks, Deanne, a qualified school teacher, began experimenting with handcrafted popsicles made from pure fruit juices and pulverised whole fruits several years ago. After getting the green tick of approval from her kids, Millie, 9, Ollie, 6 and James, 4, she has launched her own range of healthy, fruity delights at local venues, events and markets under the brand Northern Valleys Fruit Pops. With an appetising array of flavours including

GINGIN

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the most popular Straight-up Stawberry, Raspberry Peach, Apricot Coconut and Strawberry Watermelon Kiwi as well as the more unusual Avocado Lime Date Honey and Cucumber Lime Mint, Northern Valleys Fruit Pops have become a hit with kids and parents alike. And the best news is they are 100% guilt free. Originating from the Mexican ‘paleta’ which literally means blended fruit on a stick, the fruit popsicle frenzy has already hit the states where makers take an artisanal approach, playing with inventive combinations of flavours. Deanne hopes the idea will take off here too. “I’d love to see school canteens stocking them as a healthy alternative to sugar-laden commercially produced icecreams and treats,” she says.

SEABIRD

It’s actually no real surprise that Deanne, the daughter of Maureen and Barry Dobra, has unearthed an innovative product based on fresh produce – it was her and sister Simone who initially came up wth the idea for the family’s iconic Gingin business, the Loose Leaf Lettuce Company. “Sim and I set up Loose Leaf Lettuce Company back when we were in our early twenties – Mum and Dad were growing lettuces and we came up with the concept of picking and selling it loose leaf.” The rest is history, and since Deanne and Simone have moved on the Loose Leaf Lettuce Company has grown into a Perth favourite producing up to 4000 kilograms of leaves for harvest each day. Currently, Deanne hand-makes the popsicles

$435,000

in the commercial kitchen at Loose Leaf Lettuce Company, churning out up to 300 for market days such as the Taste of Chittering and Aggies Cottage pop-up shop in Dandaragan. She uses as much local produce as possible, and makes the most of beautifully tasty but not-pretty-enough-for-supermarkets seconds from Costas berry farm, Berry Sweet Strawberries, Taddei Orchards and Arthur and Dawn Delechantos orchards. She’s also growing her own watermelons and oranges on the family farm and has plans to import a state-of-the-art popsicle freezer to streamline production further down the track. Northern Valleys Popsicles are available at the Gingin Aquatic Centre, local markets and special events. If you are interested in having Northern Valleys Fruit Pops at your next event please contact Deanne on 9575 2086.

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• 2030 sqm elevated block • Great views over coastal plain • Brand new 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom, brick and iron home • Inspection will impress

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• 10 hectares of vacant land • Plenty of room for your pets or a few animals • Good location close to town • Easy drive to Joondalup or Midland

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Here’s where we go... Letters to the editor...

The good news of several positive grant outcomes also looks to benefit many in the coming year. The Moora Hospital upgrade and increased chaplaincy programs are just two examples of Royalties for Regions boosts to the region. Natural Resource Management Program Community Action Grants collectively worth and almost a quarter of a million dollars will also support projects like the Wannamal Lake management and protection of endangered local species. Well done to all those involved in getting these projects off the ground.

Published by Northern Valleys News PO Box 206, Bindoon, 6502 www.nvnews.com.au Printed by Rural Press Printing 7 Rafferty Close Mandurah WA 6210 Your paper, your news. All attempts have been made to include accurate and full coverage across the region, but we are sure to have missed something. Please help us by emailing your feedback to the editor@nvnews.com.au or call on 0419 045 783 or post to NV News PO Box Bindoon 206

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Many thanks as well to all our advertisers and contributors who make the Northern Valleys News possible. We appreciate your assistance and support enormously.

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Tamieka Preston Editor

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Northern Valleys News - helping to grow our regional community.

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9222 1997 13 11 26 0427 699 701 9575 2211

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Neergabby

Thank You On behalf of all organisers, Bindoon Playgroup would like to extend a huge thank you to all of those who attended and supported the free Community Christmas Celebrations at Clune Park in Bindoon on 11 December. Around 140 children of all ages from throughout the Shire received gifts from Santa and enjoyed the activities. Special thanks to the Northern Valleys News, major sponsors Shire of Chittering and Tronox, other sponsors Bindoon Primary

School P&C and Bendigo Bank Bindoon Branch, Bindoon businesses IGA, Bakehaus and General Store and to community groups and individuals including Gingin Chittering Lions, Chittering Wildlife Carers, Bindoon Volunteer Bush Fire Brigade, CWA Chittering Bindoon Branch, ADRA Op Shop, Bindoon and Districts Agricultural Society, Cathy and Tuarn Brown, and Alan Barnes who made sure Santa was there. Nahrel Dallywater (President)

New Norcia

Wannamal

Muchea

Email: tamieka@nvnews.com.au

Yerecoin

Gillingara

Gingin

Advertising: Tamieka Preston Phone: 0419 902 904

Police Attendance

Dandaragan Cataby

Beermullah

Email: tamieka@nvnews.com.au

Non-emergency ambulance number

Miling

Moora

hw Hig

Editor: Tamieka Preston Phone: 0419 902 904

This issue also includes lots of great photos of locals enjoying the many recent social events over the festive period including, Liz Brennan’s stylish White Christmas party on the salt lake beach at Wongan, Santa visits around the region, the Mogumber Outback Club’s flagship rodeo event and our very own celebrity wedding held in Muchea.

Watheroo

Co-produced by Jackie Shervington and Tamieka Preston

Happy New Year and welcome to the January issue of the Northern Valleys News! This month I’m excited to share the story of a fantastic new local product – Deanne Joubert’s Northern Valleys Fruit Pops are an innovative way our fresh local produce is being used and they are seriously good. Don’t just take my word for it – try them for yourself! The Nectarine Coconut is my fave and I think I’ll be enjoying quite a few during VacSwim at the the Gingin pool this summer!

The ‘Northern Valleys’ region

Moora R

Northern Valleys News is a community newspaper available FREE at local newstands. Print run: 6000

Bindoon –

in the Northern Valleys

The Northern Valleys News can be found at local post offices, shire offices and CRC’s and on newsstands outside local shops and businesses in Bullsbrook, Muchea, Bindoon, Gingin, Dandaragan, Jurien Bay, Moora, New Norcia, Calingiri and Yerrecoin. It’s free! If you would like some at your shop or business phone Tamieka on 041 9902 904 or contact your local CRC.

Bindoon

Bullsbrook

The ‘Northern Valleys’ region has been created to describe the very unique valleys that lie north of Swan Valley. This region offers a richly-diverse landscape of valleys, rivers and farmlands. It covers the shires of Chittering, Gingin, City of Swan, Victoria Plains, Moora and Dandaragan.

Interested in advertising in the Northern Valleys News? Our adverting rates and sizes are online at www.nvews.com.au/ rate-card or call Tamieka on 041 9902 904

Deadline for the February issue Monday 25 January at 5pm.

We welcome your contributions! Please send to tamieka@ nvnews.com.au or call 041 9902 904 The Northern Valleys News is a locally produced newspaper with a focus on community news and events happening in the Northern Valleys region. We rely on you, our community members, to share your stories and photos of community groups, schools and local people. So please send them in! Our advertisers make the Northern Valleys News possible - so please support them too!

- OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK 8AM - 7PM Fruit & Veg, Meat, Deli, Dairy, Freezer, Grocery & Variety.

Northern Valleys News January 2017

Australia Day events in the Northern Valleys Thursday 12 - Sunday 15 January Lancelin Ocean Classic www.lancelinoceanclassic.com.au

Sunday 15 January

Lancelin Ocean Classic

Bindoon Come and congratulate those who have made an outstanding contribution to the community with the Australia Day Awards Ceremony at Bindoon Town Hall from 11am. Light refreshments will be provided after the awards. Please phone Natasha at the Shire of Chittering on 9576 4600 for more information.

Bullsbrook The Bullsbrook and Districts Branch of the CWA proudly presents the Australia Day Breakfast in Bullsbrook, 8-10am at Lowery Park. A gold coin donation for bacon and eggs on the barbecue, plus games, prizes and a visit from the Bullsbrook Volunteer Fire and Emergency Services fire truck!

Jurien Bay The Jurien Bay Progress Association is hosting the Australia Day Breakfast at Dobby Park in Jurien Bay from 8am11am. Eggs, bacon, sausages and bread provided to cook your own, plus DJ Bob and a flag raffle! For more information please contact Mike on 0439 177 222.

Lower Chittering The Australia Day Brekkie starts at 8am at the Lower Chittering Hall. For more information, please call Michelle on 0412 129 719.

Moora

The 2017 Shire of Victoria Plains Australia Day breakfast and Awards ceremony will be held in Bolgart.

Moora Rotary invite you to come along and enjoy Breakfast in Apex Park. Cost $5 per person for a cooked breakfast. Cool drinks will be on sale and there will be a donation tin for the bushfire appeal. The official awards ceremony will follow.

Dandaragan

Wannamal

Advance Dandaragan is proud to be hosting the Australia Day breakfast (plus cricket for the kids!) from 7-10am, at Aggies Cottage.

The very successful Wannamal Long Table Dinner is on again. Celebrating Australia Day under the stars on the Wannamal Oval is a great fun event, not to be missed. This free event to recognize Australia Day, is generously supported by the Chittering Shire. With limited seating, bookings are essential. The dinner will be held Tuesday 24 January, at the Wannamal Oval, pre dinner nibbles from 6.30pm. Book your seat by phoning Annette on 9655 7007 or Ruth on 9655 7024.

Bolgart

Gingin The Shire of Gingin, in partnership with the Neergabby Community Association, is hosting the Premier’s Australia Day Active Citizenship Awards at Neergabby Grounds. A free breakfast is provided from 7.30am, with official proceedings commencing at 9am

One of the world’s leading water sport championship events is on again this month! The Lancelin Ocean Classic runs from Thursday 12 January to Sunday 15 January (the events are currently scheduled for Friday 13 and Saturday 14 January, with Thursday 12 and Sunday 15 January being reserve days, pending wind conditions for wave events). The competition, in it’s 32nd year, brings together professional and amateur competitors in windsurfing, kitesurfing, paddle and jetski events, with a lucrative prize pool on offer. Take advantage of the summer weather and having a picturesque coastal pocket on our doorstep to see some world class sporting action this January. If you are interested in competing yourself in the Lancelin Ocean Classic, online registrations are open until 5pm on the 11 January. For more information and to keep up to date with the event schedule please check out: www.lancelinoceanclassic.com.au

Gingin Railway Market Sunday 12 February is the inaugural Gingin Railway Market – hoped to become a regular event in the calendar for 2017. The market will run from 8am to 1pm and will feature a fantastic selection of local produce, homemade cakes, local olive oil, clothing, and more to come! There will be plenty of childrens activities, music, and of course the Grande Dame cafe, who will be running a sausage sizzle. Registrations for stalls close on 22 January.Please note all stallholders must have their own public liability insurance. For further details on securing a stall please email teresabrowne@aol.com.au.

REDGUM Restaurant

4pm: Aussie BBQ (plus LIVE MUSIC every Sunday), Stringybark Winery, call 9571 8069

Wednesday 18 January 11am-12pm: Scitech Robotics Workshop, ages 8-15 years, Bullsbrook Community Library, 9207 8989

Friday 20 January 4-7pm: Twilight Multi Sports, Pickett Park, Jenna Whistler 0427 163 317

Saturday 21 January 10am: Chittering Youth Krew Meeting, Shire Chambers, call Lisa 9576 7007 NEW MEMBERS (10-25) ALWAYS WELCOME

Tuesday 24 January 6.30pm: Wannamal Long Table Dinner, Wannamal Oval; RSVP to Annette 9655 7007

Thursday 26 January 8am: Australia Day Brekkie, Lower Chittering Hall, call Michelle 0412 129 719 8-10am: Australia Day Brekkie, Lowery Park, Bullsbrook 8-11am: Australia Day Brekkie, Dobby Park, Jurien Bay, call Mike 0439 177 222 7.30am: Shire of Gingin Australia Day Breakfast and Celebrations, Neergabby Grounds 11am: Australia Day Awards, Bindoon Town Hall, call Natasha 9576 4600

Wednesday 1 February School commences for 2017

If you have an event to promote email tamieka@nvnews.com.au

Shane Love MLA

Country food from the heart at Gaylene’s kitchen in Dandaragan

The State Member for Moore 2/29 Moreton Terrace PO Box 216 Dongara WA 6525 T: 08 9927 2333 E: MooreElectorate@mp.wa.gov.au Shane Love MLA ShaneLove_Moore

Farmers: Finished Harvest? Celebrate in Style Why? Because you bloody well deserve it! Sunday Brunch: Pre-Book for 10am to 3pm only Family Restaurant: Evening Bookings, BYO. Buffet or A La Cart’e Groups, Clubs, Businesses, Conferences / Functions Book anytime for any day / night Menu: www.redgumvillage.com.au/blog/menu Restaurant and Accommodation enquiries: (08) 9651 4223 or 0428 550 046…e-mail info@redgumvillage.com.au

www.redgumvillage.com.au/blog/menu

Cabernet Merlot Blush Rosé Chardonnay Vintage Shiraz Port

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Authorised by S Love 2/29 Moreton Tce PO Box 216 Dongara WA 6525

Out & About... Santa visits Upper Chittering

Moora annual bed race

Lower Chittering Christmas Markets

Zaz, Georgia and Jake Edwards

Hundreds of people lined the streets for the 12th Annual Moora Bed Races and Street Festival organized by the Local Drug Action Group and YouthCARE Australia. “The races are about promoting fun, fitness and a healthy, positive lifestyle message, and raises money for YouthCARE Chaplains,” says Area Chaplain Doug McGhee, “Most of the town comes out each year and once again we’ve had a pretty good turnout. We always receive good feedback – but there is always some light-hearted controversy with results, which adds to the drama!” The race featured 10 competitors and was won by the ‘Moora Club’ who also clocked the fastest time in the qualifiers (25.25 seconds). Nearly $15,000 was raised this year which will all go towards supporting local chaplaincy services.

Above: Santa and helper Dave Wilson did the rounds of Upper Chittering delivering lollies and Christmas cheer to local kids. Right: Santa arrives at the Lower Chittering markets in style.

Bullsbrook Carols

Above: Samara Edwards with Kayla Evers and Niamh Hagan (selling Santa’s Ginger Softie by 14K Brewery) and Zane Houston (selling his handcrafted recycled wood art) Left: Samantha Fairfull, who has just returned home after working with best friend Samantha Jade in Sydney, wowed the crowd at the Bullsbrook Carols with her beautiful renditin of “Oh holy night”.

Santa rings the bell at Bullsbrook

Bridgette Goh and Saskia Henderson

Chittering Christmas party at Clune Park

MOC cricket About 40 people from Mogumber, New Norcia, Gillingarra and Wannamal attended the Mogumber Outback Club Christmas cricket match. “At this time of year, we remember those we’ve sadly lost within our club. We remind ourselves how important it is to socialise and look after one another.” says Secretary Pauine Carr The Godridge Memorial Trophy for best play of the day went to Clint McPherson.

Oliver Hayes looks keen on a new pet

Santa with Tracy and Dylan Gibbs

Faeries Cara and Kirstee with Maddi Pavy and Santa

Bindoon Dental Surgery Opening Hours Monday to Friday 8:30am - 5pm Every Second Saturday by Appointment Find us at: 8/27 Binda Place, Bindoon or give us a call on: 9576 0587

COUNTRY DENTAL SCHEME DENTICARE PAYMENT PLANS AVAILABLE CHILD MEDICARE BENEFIT SCHEME (ENDING 2016)

WALK-INS AND EMERGENCY PATIENTS WELCOME!

@ b indoondenta l

4 www.nvnews.com.au

Northern Valleys News January 2017

Out & About... White Christmas in Wongan Hills

Stepping out of the bus at the secret location, the 50 dazzlingly dressed guests at the Wongan Hills White Christmas party could have been forgiven for thinking they had been transported to an exotic beach. It was in fact the stunning local Lake Ninan, the salt lake making the perfect backdrop for celebrating the festive season in style. Guests mingled amongst the sea of white sipping champagne, enjoying the sultry sounds of songstress EzerEve and nibbling on yummy cheese platters from Rustic Events. Dynamic duo Elizabeth Brennan and Emmi Taylor orchestrated Nicole McInnes, Jacqui Corless-Crowther, Marlene Smith and the inaugural event. Jasmine Longford

Wrestler wins wedding ring Story and photos Nahrel Dallywater

The release of white doves marked the marriage of local Danielle McDonald to celebrity WWE NXT Wrestler Michael “Mikey” Nicholls. Family and friends gathered at a magical garden ceremony held at the family home in Muchea under a stormy summer sky to celebrate a love and partnership that has withstood the tests of time and distance.

L-R; Brothers of the bride: Brendan and Justin McDonald, grandmother of the bride: Ella Clifton, the bride and groom: Michael and Danielle Nicholls, mother of the bride: Joanne McDonald, maid of honour Leanne Hunt and brother of the bride Jack McDonald.

The gorgeous EzerEve entertained all evening

Vanessa Rawlings and Tiarna Bloomfield

Michael’s international commitments as an Australian professional wrestler, competing under the ring name of Nick Miller, have seen him based in Japan and America. With Danielle living here, they have travelled back and forth for the last 7 years to be together. The bride and groom met at work where they both care for people with disabilities. This caring ethic is shared with the bride’s mother, Joanne McDonald and maid of honour (and sister), Leanne Hunt, who are both foster carers.

The grooms family; Dan, Jess, Pearl and Amy Nicholls and Craig Best

Nicola Osborne, Narelle Hasson and Sacha Lupton

Erica Mitchel and Lisa Everly

Danielle’s ring bearers were her dog Lilly (8) and brother Brendan (14).

Brendan and Lilly

The couple are spending a well deserved break on their honeymoon in the Bahamas.

Justin McDonald, Victoria Gearon, Celine Duff and Jack McDonald

Elizabeth Brennan and Emmi Taylor

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Jasmine Longford and Nicky Brennan

Chatter

January 2017

Recent News

Local Road Works

Local Businesses in the Spotlight The Chittering Chamber of Commerce has had a number of successful events over recent months, with more planned for 2017. Call Trish on 0438 860 022 for more information.

• Binda Place – completion due late January 2017 • Chittering Road – (near Chittering Valley Road) seal complete • Chittering Valley Road – seal booked for December, but contractor unavailable, await rebook • Hay Flat Road – seal booked for December, but contractor unavailable, await re-book • Humphrey Street – seal booked for December, but contractor unavailable, await re-book • Learners Way – NOTE: there will be restricted access during January 2017 • Morley Road – seal complete • Owen Road – completion delayed until early March 2017 • Spice Road – NOTE: there will be restricted access during January 2017

Emergency Communications This useful fact sheet has just had its annual update - call 9576 4600 so we can mail you a copy or download one from the Shire website (click “A-Z” “Information Sheets). Recycle a Mobile – Donate a Meal Simply drop your old mobile phone into the marked recycling bins at Bindoon Library or Lower Chittering Fire Station up until mid-February and MobileMuster will donate the value of a meal to OzHarvest. WIN – WIN!

Saturday 21, 10am Chittering Youth Krew Meeting Shire Chambers; Lisa 9576 4600 NEW MEMBERS (10 to 25) WELCOME! Tuesday 24, 6.30pm Wannamal Long Table Dinner Wannamal Oval; RSVP Annette 9655 7007 Thursday 26, 8am Aussie Day Brekkie Lwr Chittering Hall; Michelle 0412 129 719 Thursday 26, 11am Australia Day Awards Bindoon Town Hall; Natasha 9576 4600 Note: there are no Markets in January & Chitterbug Gallery & Gifts will be closed.

www.chittering.wa.gov.au/discover/projects.aspx

Contact Technical Services for more information & for Works Requests

Keep in Touch • • •

t: 9576 4600

Sunday 14, 4pm Aussie BBQ (plus LIVE MUSIC every Sunday) Stringybark; 9571 8069

Our Monthly Newsletter Chatter: hard copy in the Northern Valleys News, at the Bindoon Library or download online. eChatter: emailed to your in-box. Keep Me Posted: mailed direct.

e: chatter@chittering.wa.gov.au

w: www.chittering.wa.gov.au

View our online events calendar at www.chittering.wa.gov.au/calendar

m: PO Box 70, Bindoon WA 6502

It’s YOUR community...

Funds to protect local natural resources Works proposed by the Chittering Landcare Group, the Wannamal Lake Catchment Group and Moore Catchment Council are among 118 community projects that will benefit from the latest round of State Natural Resource Management Program Community Action Grants. The Chittering Landcare Group will receive more than $78,000 for two projects that will offer workshops on land management and target feral pig control in the Chittering Shire, the Wannamal Lake Catchment Group will receive $39,730 for revegetation works that will further protect the Western Swamp tortoise and the Moore Catchment Council has been granted $110,000 to continue works conserving Carnaby’s cockatoos and conserving natural biodiversity assets in the Moore Catchment. Statewide, the Community Action Grants will see a total of $3.73 million distributed across the 118 projects supported by $6.26 million worth of funding and effort from the participating groups. Member for Moore Shane Love MLA said the 2016-

$12.5 million to enhance disaster resilience in Western Australia

encourage eligible organisations to apply,” Mr Porter said.

Federal Member for Pearce, Christian Porter welcomed $12.5 million in funding for communities in Western Australia to enhance their resilience to natural disasters.

Of the $6.26 million in federal funding, $2 million is assigned to applicants involved in emergency management.

Funding is being provided as part of the $52 million National Partnership Agreement on Natural Disaster Resilience, with the Commonwealth and WA each contributing $6.26 million.

“By working together to improve disaster resilience we will contribute to safer and more sustainable communities in Western Australia.”

Projects must meet one of the categories in the priority areas of risk, capability, impact or engagement to be eligible, and must address at least one hazard identified in West Australia’s state level risk assessments.

Mr Porter said the Australian Government is focused on boosting the resilience of communities so that they are better prepared for future disaster events.

Applications for the grants program opened on 9 December 2016 and will close on 22 February 2017. Grants ranging from $10,000 to $250,000 are available to successful applicants.

“Grants will be available to support local projects that help to prevent the occurrence of natural disasters and I

Further information in relation to eligibility and applications is available at ndrp@oem.wa.gov.au

17 Community Action Grants included Royalties for Regions funding of $2.99 million. “These projects will make an enormous contribution across the State in protecting the State’s natural resources and our unique native plants, wildlife and landscapes,” Mr Love said. “The grants support local decision making, enabling communities to do on-ground works that are vital to their local area and encourage their continued involvement in the initiative.” The grants range from $5,000 to $55,000 and are part of a $24 million commitment over three years by the Government towards management of the State’s natural resources and environment. Mr Love said regional WA is home to many of the State’s natural resources and it’s important to invest in maintaining and enhancing our diverse assets to bring great benefits to West Australians. “Congratulations to all recipients. I look forward to seeing these projects contribute towards building sustainability in our regions,” he added.

If you can smile and say “WELCOME!” We would love you to drop into the Chittering Visitor Centre and ask about volunteering. We need friendly people who would like to learn more about their local area and help our visitors enjoy their stay with us. If this interests you, please call Colleen or Alex on 9576 1100. Better still, drop in and see us and take a look at what we’re all about!

Chittering Chamber of Commerce giant Christmas party The Chittering Chamber of Commerce (CCC) welcomed over thirty local small business owners and their crew to their inaugural Giant Staff Christmas Party on Thursday 8 December. Held at the gorgeous Bindoon Stone cottage, which is now available for short term rental (through Country Values Holiday Homes), the party was an opportunity for smaller businesses to join forces and celebrate the festive season together. CCC president Trish Murrell said the Christmas party was just one of the great events the chamber has held this year to enable local businesses to network, share and learn from each other in a casual environment. “We are gaining new members at every event and have some fantastic events planned for next year,” she said. “Our next event, to be held on International Womens Day, will be hosted by Bindoon Estate Wines at the New Norcia Hotel and we have invited an inspiring speaker to come along.” Like the Chittering Chamber of Commerce facebook page if you are interested in joining one of our events, and we’ll keep you in the loop.

Rachel, Jessica, Justin and Pipit Withnell

Amy McAuliffe, Lorraine Pierce and Sally Diano

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It’s YOUR community... Shire of Gingin to receive Youth Development Traineeship and Scholarship Program funding The Shire of Gingin is pleased to announce it has received funding through the Department of Local Government and Communities – Country Local Government Fund (CLGF) for a Youth Development Traineeship and a Youth Development Scholarship.

providers to encourage employment of apprentices and trainees in specific disciplines, and to continually develop traineeship programs. It also supports the Plan’s succession planning strategy by continuing to provide appropriate training and development for staff.

The Traineeship Program provides support to young people, aged 24 years or under, to enable them to develop long-term employment skills and expose them to future employment opportunites and networks. It will provide them with handson experience and develop their confidence to undertake ongoing employment.

“One of the many community focus points of the past 15 years from the Gingin and Lancelin Community Banks has been the development of youth, and to provide the young people from the Gingin Shire greater opportunities for their future,” said Bendigo Bank Chairperson, Stephen Beckwith.

The Scholarship Program provides funding for country local government employees, aged 30 years and under, to particpate in nationally accredited training to build their knowledge, skills and leadership capacity.

“Some examples of this include the continued support to the Year 7 and 9 Canberra Camp tour group from Gingin and Lancelin Schools, the recent commitment to Sponsor the Gingin CRC to support their Trainee Program, and the implementation of the Bendigo Community Bank Scholarship for students entering Tertiary studies.

Funding to the amount of $16,500 ($15,000 toward wages and $1,500 for trainee course fees) has been approved for the Shire to offer a Building Maintenance Youth Development Traineeship, which is currently being advertised. The Shire of Gingin and the Bendigo Bank have formed a partnership and agreed to contribute $10,000 each toward the balance of costs associated with the 12 month traineeship. Funding to the amount of $2,560 has also been approved for the Shire to provide a Youth Development Scholarship for the undertaking of a Certificate IV in Local Government Administration by Olivia Edwards, Customer Service/ Administration Officer. Both these funding opportunites support “Improving the capacity of the workforce to better meet and service future needs” strategy of the Shire’s Workforce Plan 2016. This includes developing working relationships with training

Shire to introduce paid parking to Guilderton foreshore At its December Council meeting the Shire of Gingin resolved to introduce metered parking at the Guilderton Foreshore car park, in accordance with its ‘Parking and Parking Facilities Local law 2004.’ It also agreed to issue free parking passes to all ratepayers within the 6041 postcode, with further passes available to other Gingin Shire ratepayers upon application. Given Guilderton Foreshore’s popularity with tourists and locals – particularly during busy peak periods - Council considered the installation of paid ticket parking machines as an option to address parking congestion concerns as well as mitigating additional foreshore maintenance costs. However, Council did not wish to penalise the local members of the Guilderton community who may wish to attend the local facilities during these peak periods and as such a ‘Resident Parking’ option was considered. The Shire has already undertaken considerable

“The newly developed Youth Traineeship Program, in conjunction with the Shire of Gingin, is a result of an idea developed with the Shire to offer opportunities to those youth interested in pursuing a trade. The Gingin and Lancelin Community Bank continues to support these initiatives and will continue to develop more opportunities for our youth. Being able to support these projects financially is a result of the banking business we receive, and the more the business and support grows, the more the community benefits.” This is an exciting investment for the Shire of Gingin and the Bendigo Bank into the future of young people in the Shire. Not only will this initiative enable participants to gain valuable skills through real life experience, it will enable them to stay living in their local community through the provision of local job options. improvements to the Foreshore, including the installation of a boat ramp, fixed deck area and finger jetty, and re-design and re-surfacing of the car park which will now include ticket parking machines. The car park will be a combination of paid ticket parking with free timed parking available in front of the Guilderton Store.

Are you ready to jump into gymnastics in 2017? Beck Foulkes-Taylor

Wheatbelt Gymnastics will launch at the Gingin Recreation Centre in 2017 with training commencing on 31 January. Classes are set to run twice per week, and training will be held Tuesday afternoons from 5pm and Saturdays from 8am. Sessions will aim to encourage participation in all levels of gymnastics and activities are designed to contribute to the healthy growth of children as well as teach valuable life skills and build self-esteem and confidence. Training sessions available to aspiring gymnasts will start

at preschool level and ages four and five and recreation level for boys and girls. There will also be opportunities for a development program to provide gymnasts with advanced skills for competitions. If you are interested in enrolling your child, please contact Beck Foulkes-Taylor via telephone 0428 310 734 and/or email wheatbeltgymnastics@outlook. com for an enrolment form. Wheatbelt Gymnastics would like to thank IGA Gingin for support of their Christmas Raffle during December, and congratulate the winner, Dale Jansen from Orange Springs.

It is expected these improvements will increase the number of patrons/visitors to the Foreshore and ticket parking ($5 per day per vehicle) will be used to offset increased maintenance and upkeep costs of the Foreshore ie, additional rubbish collections, ablution and facilities cleaning, lawn maintenance etc, and to allow orderly management/control of the car park into the future. All revenue raised would be placed into a restricted cash account for future expenditure on maintenance and upgrade works on the Foreshore. In addition to free parking passes for locals and ratepayers, free parking is also available at the top car park or residential streets for any overflow parking. Ticket parking at the car park will take effect toward the end of January 2017.

FRESH

LOCALLY-GROWN RAINBOW TROUT • Harvested using the ikejime method for optimum quality • Promptly cleaned and vacuum sealed for freshness

Western Fish Farms, Muckenburra Ph Peter Jones 0418 669 799

www.nvnews.com.au

Keeping in Touch From The Team in the Pink Shirts

Livestock

From the Livestock Manager Dean Hubbard– Elders Rural Services - Midland

Muchea Sheep 20/12/16 Elders reports agents yarded 6,069 sheep and lambs at the Muchea Livestock Centre on Tuesday December 20 which was approximately 6,000 less than last sale at this centre. Heavy cross-bred lambs were again dearer by $4-$5 per head to top at $128.50 per head. Heavy and medium weight lambs made approximately 500c/kg in the pen on a bare shorn basis. Light trade and air freight types met similar competition to be equal to last sale. Ewe mutton numbers were at 2500 head this week with this market equal to last sale, July shorn Merino ewes selling to $109.50 per head. Young wethers sold to both graziers and the trade with crossbred wether hoggets making $109 per head. Ram and mature wethers sold at similar rates to last sale. Muchea Cattle 19/12/16 Numbers dropped close to 25% for the final sale of the year with the majority of the decrease being pastoral heifers and cows. Quality was mixed with some excellent vealer steer and heifer drafts available along with plainer local and pastoral lines. All buyers were operating and the decreased supply saw most categories dearer by 10c/kg. Vealer steers to restockers and feed made 300-388c, with heavy weights firm and averaging close to 343c/kg. Light vealer steers made 300-388c and were 3-15c/kg dearer. Vealer heifers were 6-15c/kg dearer with the better muscled drafts averaging close to 330c/kg and plainer lines mostly pastoral drafts 220c to 272c/kg. Yearling steers made 292-332c to feed and were close to 10c/kg dearer overall. Local yearling heifers to feed made 270-324c with prices mixed due to quality. Pastoral drafts were generally dearer due to export demand and made between 180c and 250c/kg. Young cattle to the trade buyers remained close to firm, with vealer steers ranging from 328-352c and vealer heifers from 324-344c/kg. Yearling steers averaged 318c with the yearling heifers at a 314c average, similar to last sale. Grown steers had solid live export support with the better drafts making 270-308c and plainer drafts including most pastoral drafts to local processors making from 200-245c/kg. Grown heifers lifted due to both quality and numbers with the majority making 200-240c/kg. Small numbers of better local grown heifers made between 244c and 258c/kg. Cows all lifted on limited supply and quality. Light cows made 180-198c, with the medium weight 2 score cows averaging 209c/kg and dearer. Better conditioned cows including heavy drafts to processors made 192-218c with these up to 15c/kg dearer. Restockers purchased reasonable numbers of suitable cows with these selling between 180c and 232c/kg. Bull prices were also mostly dearer by close to 10c/kg. Bulls to processors, including the heavy weight drafts, made 180-216c and were up to 15c/kg dearer. Better medium weight bulls to live export made 270-330c with the light weight drafts from 300-400c and close to 11c/kg dearer.

Vet Nursing at Muresk provides a world of opportunity For anyone passionate about working with animals and a desire to travel the world will find veterinary nursing provides the qualification and skills they need.

not only develop many practical skills on site but also experience a variety of different work placements within the animal care industry.

In 2016 Central Regional TAFE (formally Durack Institute) established a Certificate IV Veterinary Nursing program at the iconic Muresk Institute in the central Wheatbelt.

“The overwhelming support we have received from a variety of local animal care providers has been invaluable in providing students with additional skills. Their time, patience and sharing of their knowledge is of immense benefit to the students,” says lecturer Nina Edwards.

Having successfully run the course in Geraldton for 7 years, Central Regional TAFE seized the opportunity to deliver a course at Muresk Institute. Aimed at training vet nurses to work in regional areas of Australia, Muresk has proven an invaluable location. Students in this program gain hands on experience with both large and small animals including dogs, cats, horses and a range of farm animals, while studying in a picturesque environment. As part of their course students

Elders Midland Brad Thompson: Branch Manager 0429 116 033

Matthew Nalder: Sales Representative 0418 737 238

Livestock 6350 3300

Rural Bank 6350 3388

Dean Hubbard: Livestock Manger 0418 952 087

John Dingle: District Banking Manager 0419 792 620

Don Morgan: Muchea/Stud Stock 0429 721 156

Amanda Smith: Deposits 6350 3326

Preston Clarke: Sales Gingin South 0429 111 797

Real Estate 6350 3300

Nigel Hunt: Sales Bindoon North 0437 970 006

Farm Supplies 6350 3344 Brad Thompson: Manager 0429 116 033 Bryan Burrell: Sales Representative 0428 591 208

Jock Henry: Bullsbrook & Surrounds 0428 887 781

The students all said the course requires a high level of commitment and ongoing preparation to complete. Lauren Searl, a graduate from Gidgegannup said “The vet nursing program at Muresk is most worthwhile and the hands on experience you get is unique.”

Students can use their qualification Australia wide, and if travel is their passion, Australian Vet nurses are highly prized overseas due to their welldeveloped practical skills. Highlights of this course from the students’ perspective were the opportunity to study in a rural area, having access to a working farm, being involved in the daily care of Muresk’s horses, observing and participating in livestock management and the opportunity to work with a broad range of animals. For more information or to apply to study in 2017, visit www. centralregionaltafe.wa.edu.au or email VetNursingMuresk@crtafe. wa.edu.au

Finance Solutions with agribusiness expertise

At Elders we understand that seasons don’t always run on time, and conditions are never predictable. Running a farming business and managing your finances with these uncertainties can be challenging. However, through our relationship with specialist agribusiness bank, Rural Bank, Elders can provide you with access to finance and deposit products which takes into account the unique seasonal requirement of rural producers. For more information contact the Banking Team at: Elders Midland, 14 Clayton Street, Bellevue WA 6056 P | 08 6350 3323

Insurance 9294 6666 Jon Nelson: 0417 913 121

14 Clayton Street, Bellevue

or visit elders.com.au/elders-midland

The Southern Cross

The course is aimed at hard working, diligent individuals with a passion to help animals and people alike.

Caitlin Burrett from Kwinana said she would tell anyone considering veterinary nursing that: “...the course at Muresk is wonderful and the environment is great to study in.”

This information has been prepared without taking into account your personal circumstance objectives, financial situation or needs. Terms, conditions, fees and charges may apply and are available by phoning the Rural Bank Customer Service Centre on 1300 660 115 online at www.ruralbank.com.au or by visiting your local branch. All information is subject to change. Products are issued by Rural Bank Limited and distributed by Elders Rural Services Australia Limited. Rural Bank Limited ABN 74 083 938 416 AFSL 238042. Registered office: Level 6, 80 Grenfell Street, Adelaide SA 5000

10 www.nvnews.com.au

Northern Valleys News January 2017

Northern Valleys PROPERTY

Northern exposure

2041 Gt Northern Hwy BULLSBROOK 11.5 Ha (approx)

56 Kay Road

$1,320,000

from $749,000

• Exceptional opportunity to live the good country life and earn at the same time. • Large 4 bedroom 2 bathroom modern home set in established orchards. • Good balance of citrus trees and easy to run packing shed, all equipment, tractor and truck. • Established productive orchard with young and mature trees. • Good water licence, tranquil lifestyle just out of town (off Great Northern Highway). • Great buy here at the price, just move in and profit or sub-contract orchard and relax.

Ian ‘Jock’ Henry • 0428 887 781 • Web ID 10800409

2441 Gt Northern Hwy

$11,000,000

There is a tidy home on premises which is fully fenced and also includes an excellent hard stand to the rear of the property. This is the place for your business to be seen with exposure plus.

7.67 Ha (approx) This property incorporates 19 acres (approx) centrally located on the main highway in Bullsbrook.

Comprising 11.5 ha (28.4 acres) the property consists of a 4 x 1 brick and tile home with modest lounge, dining area, large patio and store room with reverse cycle air conditioning.

There are 2 sheds with concrete floors both comprising workshop / storage areas which would be suitable for light vehicle storage / repair.

With available parking for 5 trucks and 5 trailers, 3 phase power, equipped bore,

An advantage of this property is its close proximity to Midland (approx) 20km and Perth (approx) 42km - a prime location! Location, location… Don’t delay, call ‘Jock’ to arrange a private viewing.

Ian ‘Jock’ Henry • 0428 887 781 • Web ID 9988463

CHITTERING

BINDOON

BULLSBROOK

all weather formed driveway, hard stand area which would be suitable for a ‘small transport’ depot.

The property is well fenced providing security and the boundary is fenced for livestock with some internal fencing.

Feature Property

Lifestyle with an Income - ‘Bindoon Orchards’ 6.32 Ha (approx)

With good exposure to Great Northern Highway and zoned ‘General Rural’ this property boasts multiple uses.

Heart of the ‘new’ north development area. Easy access to Perth/Darwin Highway and exposure plus! Inspection a must!

Ian ‘Jock’ Henry • 0428 887 781 • Web ID 9763867

294 Rosewood Drive

Platinum plus property 4.57Ha (Approx) • Immaculately presented 3 Bedroom, 2

Bathroom home. • Spacious kitchen with walk-in-pantry, quality appliances, master bedroom with ensuite

from $749,000

and walk-in-robe, built in robes to bedrooms 2 & 3, theatre/lounge, storeroom, r/c ducted a/c to entire home, quality flooring throughout. • Rear patio for entertaining and relaxation, incorporates fully fenced Jadan Spa, retic gardens, artificial turf with ambient lighting. • Avalon 18m x 9m x 5m, self contained with mezzanine, a/c, phone line, shower, w/c and laundry, insulated, power throughout, 4 tonne auto hoist (included by neg), pallet racking (inc).

• 3 phase power, solar powered

remote control driveway gates, bore, water tank, fire fighting system, house pump, pump shelter, wood shed.

Ian ‘Jock’ Henry • 0428 887 781 • Web ID 1051206

Thinking of a change of scenery? I am on deck this holiday season and happy to help with all your Real Estate needs Ian ‘Jock’ Henry Real Estate Sales Specialist Bullsbrook, Bindoon, Chittering and surrounds Mobile 0428 887 781

www.nvnews.com.au

Elders Midland Rural Ph 6350 3300

Fancy a quick harbourside holiday?

Watching the sun get swallowed up by the horizon of the Indian Ocean is a typical ritual from the balcony of your Hillary’s apartment at Sorrento Quay.

Escape the hustle and bustle 5 Parkside Gardens, Bindoon 1.82 ha or 4.51 acres, OFFERS INVITED Nestled amongst the hills and valleys in Bindoon is this magnificent, well appointed, country style oasis. Escape the hustle and bustle and reward yourself with the tranquil lifestyle that this property offers. The property is an entertainer’s paradise and has everything that is needed to make you feel like you are on holiday, every day. When you enter the property be pleasantly surprised by the open outlook and the lush green paddocks. Serenity comes to mind. This property boasts an amazing 4 bedroom, 4 bathroom residence and a separate 2 bedroom 1 bathroom caretaker’s quarters. In the main residence, each of the 4 large bedrooms have their own ensuite. The master bedroom includes a huge spa and overlooks a courtyard filled with greenery and has a very relaxed environment. All of these 4 bedrooms include built-in wardrobes, ducted air conditioning and ceiling fans. In the centre of the house is a wood fire that warms up the entire living area. Slate floor tiles are also a feature of this area. The kitchen is the hub and includes all the modern stainless steel appliances plus a huge walk in pantry. Large clear windows surround the open plan living and meals area of the home. The vista is absolutely stunning.

There are views of the outdoor pool, the entertaining area, the fish pond, natural trees and green paddocks. Enjoy entertaining outdoors this and every summer and if you feel the cold there is heating available. Outdoors is an entertainer’s paradise complete with a built in rustic bar that features a solid timber bench top. The above ground pool is surrounded by stunning timber decking – enough room for the deck chairs when sunbaking – and the fish pond compliments this area beautifully. You will not disappoint any of your guests when entertaining at this property. The 2 bedroom, 1 bathroom caretaker’s unit has it’s own entry and is equipped with a functional kitchen, air conditioning, ceiling fans and a carport.

Walk the board walks, soak up the atmosphere and bathe in a true west coast sunset. Going to Rottnest for the day is easy, with the boarding ramp of the Rottnest fast ferry literally 250 steps from the doorstep of your apartment! Water slides, mini golf trampoline or rope walking are just on the other side of the cafes and restaurants. This 3-bedroom 2-bathroom apartment with sleeping for up to 6 people is available to rent over the summer period on a weekly basis. Lock off bedroom 3 and only pay for a two bedroom 4-person apartment. Comes completely furnished, with all kitchen equipment– even your own laundry. Free 4G wi-fi, access to pool, sauna and off-road parking help make to your home away from home holiday even

more relaxing. Enjoying breakfast on the balcony while the kids are asleep as you watch the sunrise over the resort is a great way to start the day. Or a dip in the pool below the balcony and enjoy a quick sauna or jacuzzi if that’s your thing. This apartment is in the heart of the Hillary’s Harbour Resort at Sorrento Quay and really is the complete package for a family holiday or business trip stop over. Privately owned with no middle person, this apartment cannot be rented through the resort website. Weekly Rental thru January

$240** a day (min 3 days) or $1500 per 7 day week For more info phone 0429 489 479

*longer term rates heavily discounted call to find out more. **Resort rates are $470 a night for a serviced 3 bedroom)

There is plenty of room to store your vehicles and any machinery in the triple garage and sheds available. Please call for an appointment to view this must-see property. You will be pleasantly surprised by the options available.

Contact: Irene Casella 0417766755 or Merle Manuel 0407933379

23 Sandpiper Mews Bindoon

“Bringing the Buzz into Bindoon.”

Thinking of Selling? Call...

Irene Casella - Real Estate Specialist 0417 766 755

(08) 9318 8260

landmarkwa.harcourts.com.au

12 www.nvnews.com.au

Northern Valleys News January 2017

Northern Valleys Property and Land...

Big, bold and beautiful

Feature Property 28 Buckthorn Drive, Lower Chittering Amy McAuliffe 0400 298 884

$725,000

Welcome home to this exceptional abode in Lower Chittering’s whisper quiet Peacefield Downs subdivision. Beautiful bush surrounds with a whopping 350m2 home (2011) and essential 16m x 8m x 4m workshop, both with 3 phase power.

an oversized master bedroom that is all 5 star. With its own sliding door entrance, bamboo flooring, huge walk in robe, ensuite with bath, Essa stone benchtops and separate toilet. The minor bedrooms all have built in robes and are good sizes.

The house boasts 4 double bedrooms – with

The open plan living area is commanded

LENNARD BROOK

$1,300,000

new carpet and new paint throughout complete this impressive house.

by a chef’s kitchen with pantry, recessed sink, dishwasher, Essa stone benchtops and overhead cupboards. The house is kept toasty with a central feature open fireplace and kept cool with ducted RC air conditioning. There are entertainment options galore with a huge theatre room with projector point and recessed ceiling, games room set up for your pool table and activity room for the kids’ enjoyment (currently being used for an approved home business). Easy care tiles, high ceilings,

GINGIN

Outside the home has solar panels, solar HWS with gas booster, massive workshop with its own toilet, veranda and large paved alfresco area, 163,000L rain water tank, Filtrex septic system, 3 fenced paddocks, fully fenced property, double garage. Low maintenance block, partly cleared, with its own 5.09 acres of natural beauty for you to enjoy.

Lot 15 Lennards Road

Mallee Lane, Gingin GREAT LOCATION

(174 Wowra Drive), Lennard Brook EXCELLENT HORTICULTURE COUNTRY – 350,000Kl WATER LICENCE

GINGIN

$125,000 - $135,000

•N ew subdivision close to shops,

• 146.7 ha with 40.48 ha of 22,315 orange

and mango trees • 75 kw submersible bore pump equipped with filter and micro irrigation • 85 sqm transportable home • General purpose shed 18m x 9m • 90,000l steel water tank

school and sporting facilities • Underground power • Bitumen road • Scheme water • Fully fenced

Tom Cabassi 0429 095 864

offers over $550,000

GUILDERTON

99 Wowra Drive, Lennard Brook JUST WOW! Offering expansive views across the Lennard Brook valley, this beautiful ‘Rural Building Company’ home is positioned high in the peaceful Moondah Ridge Estate, only a few minutes from Gingin. This is what country living is all about. Make it yours.

$625,000

57 Gordon Street, Guilderton VISTA D’MOORE – RIVER AND OCEAN VIEWS Situated in one of the most desirable streets in Guilderton, this elevated property has stunning views of the Moore River estuary and ocean.

• 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms plus study • Ducted r/c air con, wood fire and solar power • Large, all-weather gazebo with built-in bar • Bore reticulated gardens and 90kL rainwater tank • Double garage plus separate shed

• 3-bedroom, fully furnished home • Renovated kitchen, open-plan living with wood fire • Large front deck where you can watch the sunset over the water • 2-minute walk to the river foreshore • Currently operating as a popular holiday rental

Craig Hyne 0448 825 833

www.nvnews.com.au

It’s YOUR news...

ACWW World Triennial Conference calls for proper investigation into the risks of shale gas exploration and extraction Submitted by Kaye Lewis with permission of the Editor of the Countrywoman of Western Australia Magazine and the State President of the CWA.

At the Associated Country Women of the World 27th Triennial conference held in Coventry in the U.K. in August 2016 a resolution regarding Shale Gas was carried which is very important to all of us. The ACWW is the largest international organisation for rural women and consists of 74 member countries with over 3 million members. The conference was attended by over 600 delegates with over 400 voting at any given session. This information was extracted from “The Countrywoman of Western Australia”, November/December 2016 issue. The resolution moved by the WAU Overvaal (South Africa) Group reads: Be it resolved that ACWW members request their governments to, before allowing shale gas exploration to commence, gather as much as possible information from more than just the oil and gas companies applying for the fracking licenses. Carried.

Gingin Private Property Rights Group suggests WA can learn from NSW land management laws

Supporting Statement: The decision should be based on sound scientific information, in other words, proper investigation on the risks of shale gas exploration and extraction. Task teams should include NGO’s involved in the sustainability of the environment, all government departments like Agriculture, Health, Rural Development, Land Reform, Tourism and Transport.

Murray Nixon, President, Gingin Private Property Rights Group (Inc) Greenwood Farm, 240 Greenwood Road, Gingin W.A. 6503. Phone 9655 3021

Well pod sizes differ from 1 ha to 2.4 ha. According to an oil company, one pod can house up to 32 wells. The amount of water needed per well is 20 million litres. 55,000 truck trips per road will be transporting water and other equipment (like chemicals) to and from the wells.

Western Australia is not the only State where land clearing controls are causing concern. Recently New South Wales introduced amendments to its legislation following wide spread anger amongst farmers which led to an Environmental Officer being murdered by an irate land owner.

Road infrastructure will take a beating, 32 billion litres of water will be used on one pod, of which half will end up toxic and radioactive waste water.

Queensland has also had to deal with hostile land owners and there has been major changes to their legislation every time the Government has changed.

A myriad of health concerns and risks are associated with natural gas production and can range from infections and irritations to cancer. These are not just related to humans, but also the ecosystem. Different stages of the gas extraction pose different health issues. Groundwater and surface water contamination resulting from the toxic drilling waste water leads to serious illnesses in humans and cattle, especially due to BTEX chemicals known for causing endocrine disruption and cancer.

The Federal Government has signed two International Agreements that restrict clearing on private land, one which was incorporated in legislation in the Biodiversity Diversity and Environmental Protection Act and the Kyoto Agreement on Climate Change. The latter received further attention with the Paris Agreement.

Arid countries will not have the capacity to lose any water resources, as that will impact negatively on all communities and herds along the area earmarked for drilling.

Although the Federal Government acted under its Constitutional Foreign Affairs Powers, Land Management is a State responsibility and the States were required to pass complementary legislation.

YANCHEP CABINETS Specializing in Kitchens, vanity’s, robes, office fitouts and solid timber furniture sales. Ph Jason Glover on 95615024 or 0407788141

In Western Australia, the view that land owners also owned and controlled the vegetation on their property was overturned when the Director of Agriculture published a controversial Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) in 1997 on behalf several government departments, introducing clearing restrictions.

DANDARAGAN situated off main road, this lovely lifestyle home will suit most looking for a country change. Modern with many unique features. Must see.

$295,000 Ph: 0410 530 549

Isa brown chooks $10 each buy 10 get one free Free range in-lay 16 months old Delivery mid-December Call Maurice on 0407 381 114

In 2004-5 there were major amendments to the Environmental Protection Act 1986 which with minor amendment is the law controlling clearing in our State at the present time. What appears different to our law in the NSW proposal is that areas of that State will be deregulated and land owners in these areas will be allowed to control their vegetation as they see fit. There is a problem in getting agreement on where the lines on the satellite maps should be drawn and the Government intends to release draft maps which will be open to public consultation for at least six months. We face a similar problem where Environmental Sensitive Areas (ESA) have been determined by satellite maps that have not been field tested. There is provision in the reforms for a $240 million environmental fund managed by an independent trust that will be able to negotiate the set aside of private land for environmental purposes. Some areas will be fully protected and can’t be cleared. Certainly a fund of $240 million would not buy much land, we had that problem with “Bush for Ever”. Another innovation appears to be that in controlled areas, permits will be issued by Local Land Services Offices. Usually local decision making is better than centralised control. The NSW government is confident that the new laws will be good for both land owners and the environment. It recognises the need for farmers to be able to increase production and increase the prosperity of Australia. Western Australia can learn from NSW. Our Environmental Legislation is complicated, not generally understood, unworkable and if enforced would destroy agriculture and rural communities. There is a need to identify specific areas of important environmental value, which if on private land should be purchased on just terms and put into reserves. Land owners cannot afford to set aside productive land without compensation.

Rural Romance For Country Singles!

PHD Lic: 1566

VE SAFE EFFECTI LUTIONS T SO EMEN NAG A M &

• Termites • Pre-Purchase Reports • Timber Pest Inspections • Pre Treatments • Rodent Control • All Household Pests • Total Weed Management

Jason & Lynette Prendergast chitteringpestandweed@ westnet.com.au

0400 979 000

14 www.nvnews.com.au

At CCN we help lonely gentleman in finding their soul mate and romantic partners. Call for a FREE compatibility match to start meeting genuine singles in your area seeking companionship and love today.

1800 261 848

www.countrycompanionship.com.au RM2627541

Northern Valleys News January 2017

Piawaning desalination plant officially opened Once salty underground water will now provide the tiny country town of Piawaning much-needed fresh water with the installation of a $260,000 desalination unit.

Minister Davies, also Deputy Leader of the National Party in WA, says the site has state of the art technology installed which is really impressive for such a small community.

The Minister for Water the Hon. Mia Davies MLA officially opened the Piawaning Desalination Plant in warm conditions at midday on Saturday 17 December.

“We talk a lot in Western Australia about iron ore and gold and all of those precious metals. Water, I think, is our most precious resource and without it we can do very, very little,” the Minister said.

The new facility comes after months of collaboration between the local Shire of Victoria Plains ($160,000) and the Department of Water ($100,000) through the Community Water Supply Program.

“There is nothing more important than making sure we’ve got water for our agricultural sector, for our community and for fire fighting services. It is the thing that people in this part of the world understand very well,” she said on opening the unit. A series of camlock fittings make the non-potable water accessible to local fire fighters however the water is also for emergency water supply for stock and other farm purposes, and townsite beautification of gardens. Minister for Water the Hon. Mia Davies MLA and Member for Moore Shane Love MLA

The plant should also reduce the pressure on scheme water supplied to Piawaning from nearby Yerecoin.

Minister for Water the Hon. Mia Davies MLA and Shire of Victoria Plains President David Lovelock

Local residents Yvonne Bessent and Graham Buscumb

As yet Piawaning residents have not been

Water is available for emergency use but only after contacting the Shire in Calingiri and only during office hours, leaving those needing water in an out of office hours emergency somewhat perplexed.

New display open.

REMOTE CONTROL DOOR

The Shire of Victoria Plains President David Lovelock said the opening ceremony completes the Shire’s plan to provide an emergency water supply to each of seven towns within its boundaries.

given definitive guidelines on the access or use of the water with the Shire of Victoria Plains still to investigate options including a swipe card operating system.

D BLE GARAGE DOU

The Karri Creek range starting from $234,659* WA W ALLK KW WA AY

L'DR DRYY

BATH

ACTIVITY

WIR

3000 x 4110

REAR ENTRY

BED 2 3000 x 4110

EENSUITE N I E

OFFICE

2800 x 3020

TIMBER SCREEN

WA ALLLL IN LINEN N N ROBE

BED 3

SCULLERY /PANTRY

MASTER SUITE

GAS FIREPLACE C & SHELVING

4375 x 3090

4120 x 4650

ISLAND BENCH

ROBE RO

CL @ 2783

FREE FOR RM LIVING 11820 x 6090

CL @ 2783

Display model floor plan 4845D shown

KITCHEN CL @ 2783

CEILING RAKIN K G DOWN DW REC

ALLFRESC FRESCO

Introducing the Karri Creek Traditional from the Views Range. The Karri Creek Traditional is a true Australian country style living home. It’s not hard to imagine this home sitting comfortably in a scenic setting complete with hammock strung between the bush poles, and the afternoon breeze passing through. Outside features take advantage of surrounding natural scenery with expansive sheltered alfresco, the perfect haven to relax and enjoy a book or a wine with friends in the open air. The Karri Creek Traditional truly is an individual home.

Visit the Karri Creek Traditional at 24 Wanju Drive, Wundowie. Open Mon & Wed 2-5pm, Sat & Sun 1-5pm. Please note this display home will be closed from the 19th December and will be reopening on 7 th January 2017. Visit ruralbuilding.com.au/display-homes to find out more about our Christmas closures. For more information call 1800 643 800 or visit ruralbuilding.com.au/views to view the full range.

WE UNDERSTAND

5800 x 4000

*Avon pricing only. Price subject to location. Images for illustration purposes only. Terms & conditions apply.

www.nvnews.com.au

Builders Reg No. 11421 & 11422 | CM_RAVKARR118

Business...

Nature Notes The Landcare Crew

Is that weed Scotch Thistle? In WA probably not, or at least not what is generally known as Scotch Thistle in most of the world. Scotch Thistle is Onopordum acanthium and is native to Europe and Western Asia but is naturalised widely in other parts of the world. It is not thought to occur as a weed in WA at present. The Dept of Agriculture and Food Western Australia does not list it as a declared plant and does not have management requirements for it. In Western Australia another thistle Variegated Thistle (Silybum marianum) is often called Scotch Thistle. O. acanthium is a biennial plant which occurs in its first year as a rosette of spiny leaves which develops a stout taproot. In its second year it grows up to 2.5m tall with spiny deeply lobed leaves, often with white woolly hairs giving it a grey appearance. In summer it produces pink to lavender flowers in globular heads. Its stems are winged. Silybum marianum is a similar plant but has green leaves with white veins, its stems lack wings and the flower heads are larger than those of true Scotch Thistle. It is toxic to cattle and sheep. It is a declared pest plant in WA and requires management to reduce its numbers and contain its spread. Stemless Thistle Onopordum acaulon is related to Onopordum acanthium but remains as a ground hugging rosetted plant and has white or purple flowers arising directly from the rosette. It is a declared pest plant requiring to be managed in Western Australia. It is

generally unpalatable to livestock but if eaten may cause stomach ailments and liver and kidney damage. Also similar in appearance to Scotch Thistle and also a declared pest plant and requiring management is Cardoon or Artichoke Thistle Cynara cardunculus. This is not toxic to livestock. Other thistles found in WA have green leaves. They include Slender Thistles (Carduus pycnocephalus and C. tenuiflorus) with winged stems and smaller flower heads and Spear Thistle Cirsium vulgare which has winged stems and relatively large flower heads. These are not declared in WA. Perennial Thistle (Cirsium arvense) has wingless stems and smaller flower heads and Nodding Thistle (Carduus nutans subsp. nutans) has nodding flower heads with purple coloured bracts. Both of these are declared pest plants and prohibited in WA meaning they cannot be brought into or kept in WA unless a permit is obtained. They have however been found in WA in the past and if found need to be reported to DAFWA immediately. Scotch Thistle, like many of the thistles, reproduces by seed which may remain viable in the soil for up to 20 years. Seed may be spread by wind, animals and water. It was introduced in many places as an ornamental garden plant but has become a major weed in many areas around the world spreading rapidly to become dense stands which can displace pasture and native flora and prevent use of recreational areas. Control of small infestations of this and other thistles can be by pulling out or cutting off below ground level individual plants. Larger infestations are best treated by herbicide use at the rosette stage or when young. If slashing to remove plants ensure this is done before flowering and repeat if necessary to prevent flowering as seeds may still mature in the cut heads. Avoid mowing after seed has been set to minimise the spread of seed. Weeds can be reported to Dept of Agriculture and Food (DAFWA) via MyWeedwatcher app (see https://www.agric.wa.gov.au/ myweedwatcher-information for more information) or online https://www.agric.wa.gov.au/ myweedwatcher/search. It is particularly important any declared weeds or new weeds are reported. Further information on these weeds and recommendations for herbicide control can be found on DAFWA website https://www.agric. wa.gov.au/organisms.

Bees – friend and foe

With the hot summer weather drawing bees to pool and garden areas, it’s a good time to remember how important the European honey bee (Apis mellifera) is to us and and how you can help protect Western Australia’s bee industry by reporting unfamiliar bees or insects. Honey bees are familiar to most of us –they’re more commonly seen than the estimated 2000 native bee species we have in Australia. As the name suggests, European honey bees are not native to Australia and were first introduced by early European settlers to supply honey. Today, in addition to the production of honey, bees provide important pollination services for our horticulture and agriculture sectors. Thirty five industries depend on honey bee pollination for most of their production. Unfortunately, honey bees have also become an invasive species colonising most of Australia. Having left their manmade beehives, these wild or ‘feral’ bees can out-compete native insects for floral resources, disrupt native pollinators and displace endemic wildlife such as birds and possums from their homes in tree hollows or artificial nest boxes. Unless you have a beekeeper with beehives living nearby, your flowers, fruit trees and vegetables are most likely being visited (and pollinated) by feral bees. During spring, bee swarms are often seen as bees leave their parent colony in search for a new home. This can cause concern to property owners if that new home is in your wall cavity, compost bin or letter box. Honey bee workers may also sting people and domesticated animals when defending themselves or their hive. Their sting may trigger allergic reactions in some people, which can sometimes be life threatening. As with most pests, a balance must be struck. In this case the cost and benefits

"The Tractor Specialists"

of providing local pollination versus environmental protection, health and safety. It’s also important to understand that the removal or destruction of problematic bee swarms or hives in domestic, recreational or bushland/conservation areas poses little to no impact on the health of the bee industry in WA. To support the WA honey, horticulture and agricultural industries and continue to enjoy home grown produce, we need to protect the health of all bees. The greatest health threat to our bees comes from the entry and spread of exotic pests and diseases. For assistance with bee removal contact a licensed pest controller, local apiarist or see the WA Apiarist Society’s website (waas.org.au) for a list of swarm collectors. How you can help If you find dead bees or can safely take close up photos (especially showing the vein pattern of their wings) please send these to us with the location and a brief description. We screen samples and photographic reports for exotic bees and pests not yet present in WA, such as the Asian honey bee, Apis cerana (established in far north Queensland), bumble bee, Bombus terrestris (common in Tasmania) and varroa mites, Varroa destructor and Varroa jacobsoni (the latter species was recently detected on Asian honey bees in QLD). Before sending in samples, please contact us (phone or email) so we can provide tailored advice to your situation. To find more information on bees – see our website agric.wa.gov.au and search ‘bee’. Reporting unfamiliar pests You can report biosecurity concerns or unfamiliar pests using our free smartphone and tablet apps or online! See: mypestguide.agric.wa.gov.au. The MyPestGuide Reporter app is available from Google Play Store and Apple iTunes Store. You can also contact us direct if you have concerns about unfamiliar weeds, pests or plant diseases.

est 1987

112 Wandena Road Muchea WA 6501 T: 0447710056 : E: chris@cdtractors.com.au

www.cdtractors.com.au 16 www.nvnews.com.au

Northern Valleys News January 2017

It’s YOUR community...

Have your say on smart technology program

Tech Talk with Daryl du Plessis from Chittering IT Ph 0417 300 701 blog.chitteringit.com

Paper Replacement Apps Despite the promises of a paperless office it seems that we are printing and producing more paper documents than ever. I don’t think that will change any time soon but there some apps that can be used to replace the handy paper pad. I have been trying out a few apps that are suitable for a Windows 10 tablet with a stylus. There are a number of options available from the Windows Store, but I have whittled down the choices to three apps: Nebo, Bamboo Paper and Graphiter. Nebo, by MyScript, is my favourite as a paper notebook replacement. You can organise your notebooks into folders and create separate notebooks for different uses. One of the best features is that Nebo can convert your handwriting into text. It does this on the fly and seems to be very accurate, even with my scratchy handwriting. You can also draw boxes and shapes in diagram mode as well as math formulas. This can all be exported to Word for further editing purposes. I did find that the layout of converted text can be tricky to manage but this is not a big deal if you export it. Bamboo Paper, by Wacom (who are known for digital pen editing), is a

worthy mention. For simple note taking, this a very useful app. It doesn’t provide text recognition but it is easy to use and feels very natural when writing. Paid features allow you to add highlighters, crayons and paintbrushes as well as a variety of colours for each of these tools. This is handy if you want to use the app for sketching and drawing as well as note taking. This is a good all round pen app but if you want a specialised sketching app then Graphiter may be a better choice. Graphiter provides a pencil for free use but the value of the app comes from the paid options. This allows you to use coloured pencils, pens and a blending tool. The ability of this app is only limited by your own sketching prowess. The demo shows very detailed real life drawings that are possible with the app. You can customise the heaviness of the pencil as well as the pencil width to allow for detailed sketching.

Durack residents are invited to help shape a flagship Australian Government smart technology program for Australian cities and regions.

The $50 million Smart Cities and Suburbs Program will support projects that apply innovative technology and data solutions to fix local problems and make cities, suburbs and towns more liveable. Member for Durack Melissa Price said the draft guidelines for the program were open for public consultation until 20 January 2017. Input from the public and stakeholders is essential to ensure the program is welldesigned and makes a practical difference for local communities. Technologies like sensors, WiFi, control systems, computer-vision software, augmented reality and building management systems are transforming the way cities work all over the world. Technology has huge potential to improve engagement with citizens, resolve persistent urban problems and increase the efficiency and effectiveness of local government service delivery. “Smart Cities need to take a people-

first approach to public services, using technology to make our communities better places to live,” Ms Price said. “The Australian Government is committed to working in partnership with governments, business and the community to help our regional and metropolitan cities reach their full potential.”

Following consultation on the guidelines, the first funding round will open in the first half of 2017, with collaborative projects involving local governments, the private sector, research agencies and not for profit organisations expected. Eligible applicants will be able to apply for up to $5 million in grant funding to meet up to 50 per cent of project costs. Applicants will be encouraged to submit ambitious and transformational proposals that will be scalable or able to be rolled out quickly to other regions. “Partnerships are vital to the success of smart city initiatives and will underpin the development and adoption of smart technology,” Ms Price said. Local governments will be invited to register their interest in participating in a structured incubation program which aims to progress ideas and support the development of innovative smart technology projects. To help shape the guidelines, visit cities. dpmc.gov.au.

Overall I have found that Windows 10 tablet mode with a stylus is very useful and there are many choices of apps to make the most of this mode. For further information follow the links below.

http://myscript.com/nebo/ http://bamboo.wacom.com/ http://graphiter.com/

Moora Chamber of Commerce 2016 Shop Local campaign “Money spent in the community stays in the community.” “You live local, so Eat, Drink and Shop Local” was the theme for this year’s Shop Local Campaign in Moora. The campaign was run by the Moora Chamber of Commerce with the winning entry drawn by Santa at the Annual Moora Bedrace and Community Christmas Street Festival on the 15th of December. This year, with 45 local businesses taking part and over 6,500 tickets being collected between November 21 and December 12 a positive outcome for all was achieved. Mr Ron Loughlin from Watheroo was the lucky winner of the draw. He placed his winning entry into the Farmer Jacks Foodworks entry box. Mr Loughlin collected his $500 worth of Chamber cheques from the Moora CRC. The cheques can spend at any of the Chamber Member businesses in Moora and surrounds.

Your Local Bookkeeper BAS Preparation & Lodgement Payroll. End of Year accounts

Ron thanked the Moora Chamber of Commerce for making this possible and the CRC for assisting with the coordination of the tickets. He looks forward to spending the cheques around town.

Specialising in QBO, Xero and

The Moora Chamber of Commerce wishes to thank those businesses for their involvement in the promotion and for the support of the local community in shopping local. All the best for 2017!

www.chitteringbookkeeping. com.au

MYOB online Call Nadine on 0429 978 893

BAS Agent 25197316

For a friendly, professional accounting service based in Bindoon, call Trish. Trish Murrell CPA Mob 0438 860 022 trish@northernvalleystax.com

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It’s YOUR community... CHURCH NOTICES

RAINFALL DATA

Recorded at 150 Bindoon-Moora Road, Bindoon Thanks to John Williams

ANGLICAN CHURCH (Marion Bird 9576 2054, John Broad 9576 0311) Bindoon 2nd and 4th Sundays of month at 9.30am Gingin 1st Sunday of month 8 am 3rd Sunday of month 9.30 am UNITING CHURCH (Marian Crew, 9575 1357) Worship 2nd and 4th Sunday 10am SEVENTH DAY ADVENTIST (9576 0085) Bible Study 9.30am to 10.30am, Divine Service 11am to 12 noon every Saturday, Bindoon BENEDICTINE MONASTERY New Norcia 9654 8018 Parish Priest: Abbot John Herbert OSB Weekend Mass times: Sunday 9am CATHOLIC CHURCH (Fr Paul Fox ph 9571 8068)

PONDERINGS

Solutions to last month’s sudoku

By Alex Douglas

2017 is the Year of What? Does anyone know yet? With monotonous regularity, we are advised that this is the year, month, week or day of something or other. I don’t know who issues these decrees, but the United Nations gets the blame for a fair few; no doubt to add a touch of gravitas. After all, what other body is even more important than national governments? Well, apart from a whole slew of multinationals, that is. My point is that somebody, somewhere comes up with a reason to “celebrate” something all the time. At just about any tick of the clock we are likely to find ourselves observing the Day of the Philatelist; in the midst of the Week of the Chihuahua Breeder; which falls during the Month of the Astrologer; which are all within the span of the Year of the Plastic Surgeon! All of these worthies bring some small degree of pleasure to at least a few of their fellow beings and it all seems harmless enough, but while we’re “celebrating” the mundane, are we taking our eye off the ball and missing what else is afoot. We are having our attention diverted from the antics of those that really affect our lives. What I suspect we really need is a bit less celebration and a bit more examination. The triumph of Donald Trump in the USA after the upset of the Brexit vote in the UK referendum show that, in some parts of the world at least, people are expressing their discontent with the existing establishment. Both these results were rebuttals of the status quo that discomfited the ruling elite in these countries. Perhaps it’s time for the rest of us to look closely at the performances of our own hierarchy. Of course, days, weeks and months would not serve to look closely enough at the various components of the monolithic structure that our own establishment has become, but we could start by declaring the Year

Sat Vigil: St Catherine’s Gingin 6pm Sunday: St Anne’s Bindoon 7.30am Bullsbrook Shrine-Church 9.30am Immaculate Heart College, 34 Santa Gertrudis Drive, Lower Chittering Sunday 5pm Mass.

This month Rain days

32 years Ave Rainfall

This mth

Last year

This month

Last year

December

6.4

0.2

January

59.9

February

2.0

Month

March

April

Tackling the bureaucracy would be a far greater task. We would break it down into smaller bites and maybe start with the Year of the Tax Office Worker. The ATO’s sole duty is compliance. There is no product except mountains of paper. It exists to ensure that we all toe the line and contribute revenue. To this end, it employs some 25,000 people at a cost of about four billion dollars per annum. We need to ask “Can these figures be improved on?”; “Can technology reduce the need for such a large workforce?” I suspect that we could manage well enough with about 30% of them. The other 70% could claim the dole and still save the nation well over $2 billion a year! The SAS could be given the task of dealing with reps of multinational companies that don’t pay tax at all! Roll on the Years of the Lawyer; of the Journo; of the Company CEO; not to mention the Decade of the Bureaucrat! Let us make a start on the Century of Parasite Pruning! I’m sure we’ll all feel so much better for it. Thanks for your time.

GINGIN CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP Cnr. Brockman & Robinson Streets, Gingin. Meeting: Every Sunday - 10 am Sunday School available Ph: Barry & Alison - 9575 3089 or Judy - 9577 2938 ANGLICAN PARISH WONGAN HILLS Kathy Barrett-Lennard kathybl@bordernet.com.au

St Peters Anglican Church Wongan Hills weekly Sun and Tuesdays 9am HOLY TRINITY PARISH NEW NORCIA Contact: Keith Hunt 96 548 013 or liz. payne1@reachnet.com.au

Thought for the month Tony Webb former editor Chittering Times.

Too good to be true. Corinthians C15:33 Do not be deceived: “Bad company corrupts good morals.

A pre Christmas chat with an old friend encouraged me to reflect on an issue that concerns many of us. My friend was talking about a mutual acquaintance who we agreed was not as ethical as one should be. In fact this person was a wheeler dealer under the guise of everybody’s mate. One of those characters that can find a good bargain for you and always has something to offer. In the haste to obtain a bargain

18 www.nvnews.com.au

This year

Last year

This year

Last year

11.0

447.9

564.3

0.0

15.7

59.9

0.0

31.1

13.1

61.9

31.1

Rainfall recorded at 150 Bindoon-Moora Road, Bindoon 7 77.0Year ended 23.3 December 17.531, 2016 13 10 138.9

54.4

56.2

This month Rain days mm

35 33 years 23.6

195.1

89.4

Rainfall year ended December 31, 2016 140.0 120.0 100.0 77.0

80.0

59.9

60.0

56.2

40.0 20.0

2.0

0.0

Jan

Feb

Mar

Apr

Jan Feb Mar Apr 66.7 May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov May Dec

59.9 2.0 77.0 56.2 66.7 97.2 116.9 115.8 41.9 32.2 9.8 Aug 9.3

116.9

115.8

97.2

Jun

Jul

Worship Service every Sunday 10am of the Pollie! These folks are at least susceptible to the whims of the electorate. We could use the name and shame system to help guide voters in their choices; and to avoid being totally negative, we could have a celebratory Day of the Honest Pollie – if we find any.

Rain days

Progressive total mm May 8 5 66.7 62.8 Average 76.7 Rain 33days 22 261.8 152.2 Month This month Last year This month Last year Rainfall This year Last year This year Last year January 7 0 59.9 0.0 15.7 7 0 59.9 0.0 June 11 9 97.2 56.8 92.3 44 31 359 209 February 1 3 2.0 31.1 13.1 8 3 61.9 31.1 March 5 77.0 23.3 17.5 13 10 138.9 54.4 July 12 167 116.9 115.4 113.6 56 47 475.9 324.4 April 12 7 56.2 35.0 23.6 25 17 195.1 89.4 MayAugust 8 66.7 62.8 76.7 33 22 261.8 152.2 16 155 115.8 66 87.4 72 62 591.7 390.4 June 11 9 97.2 56.8 92.3 44 31 359.0 209.0 11 6 41.9 27.0 61.1 83 68 633.6 417.4 JulySeptember 12 16 116.9 115.4 113.6 56 47 475.9 324.4 August 16 15 115.8 66.0 87.4 72 62 591.7 390.4 October 76 32.2 7.4 30.6 90 75 665.8 424.8 September 117 41.9 27.0 61.1 83 68 633.6 417.4 October 7 7 32.2 7.4 30.6 90 75 665.8 424.8 November 33 9.8 16.7 19.1 92 78 675.6 441.5 November 22 9.8 16.7 19.1 92 78 675.6 441.5 December 4 4 9.3 6.4 11.0 96 82 684.9 447.9 December 4 4 9.3 6.4 11.0 96 82 684.9 447.9 561.8 mm annual average rainfall for 33 years 1984 to 2016

MUCHEA – BULLSBROOK CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP Lowery Park Hall,End of Parklands Rd., Bullsbrook. 9576 1326 CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP NONDENOMINATIONAL WORSHIP. (Jac 0412873447)

Progressive total

Rain days year ended December 31, 2016 18 16 14

12 10 8

7 5

6 4

Jan Feb Mar 11 Apr 8 May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct May Nov Jun Dec

WORDLINESS 1

2 0

Jan

Feb

by Alex Douglas

Mar

Apr

There are many words that start as adjectives and end up as nouns through our tendency to take short cuts whenever we can. Words like academic and professional started as descriptions of a person’s work status and evolved to mean the person themselves. Of course, if you put the word “the” in front of almost any adjective, it serves as a noun. So we have the rich and the poor; the young and the aged; the old and the new; even the good, the bad and the ugly! An ancient example is the word “cathedral” which, strictly speaking, is an many people gave little consideration to the origins of the product, while it is obvious that the transaction was to good to be true. My friend made two points. Number one, someone back down the line would have suffered and not received a fair price. The second point was that we should be wary of whom we keep company with, and not associate with those that would take advantage of the chance to profit The Bible in is quite clear on this point. Corinthians 15:33 Do not be deceived: “Bad company corrupts good morals.” It is human nature to seek value for money, but we have to be careful in our pursuit of good stewardship of our money we do not err into bad habits and company. There is a fine line to follow as we must not be judgmental in our assessment of what is good company. However if there is the slightest doubt in your heart this

41.9

Sep

32.2

Oct

9.8

9.3

Nov

Dec

Graphs summerising rainfall data across the year and monthly for the past 33 years. Our ongoing thanks to John Williams who

7 continues to record 1 12 11 5 and analyse the rainfall 12 data in the Bindoon 8 area7for everyone’s 11 benefit. 4 12 16 2 11 anything relating to a adjective meaning 7 church” was the seat of chair. A “cathedral AugThese Sep Oct would Nov contain Dec 2churches aJulbishop. 4 (throne?). Another more the bishops chair

recent, but still historical example is the calling American police stations “precincts”. A precinct is an area with clearly defined boundaries. In the case of American cities these are political divisions and police patrol areas originally shared the same boundaries. Therefore the police station in say the 99th Precinct was called the 99th Precinct Station House. It was easier to shorten this so that the station itself was referred to as the 99th Precinct.

should be the warning. The Robin Hood philosophy of robbing the rich to pay the poor is questionable and has no moral standing. Not only should we be prudent in our financial dealings, our general decision making should not be taken lightly. As much as we try to stand up for our principles there is always the question of compromise and often we look for reasons to justify our actions. A few years ago when I was in a community leadership role I found myself agreeing with decisions that in my heart of hearts I knew were unwise. With the benefit of hindsight I would have acted differently today, the truth will come out in the passage of time and as is often stated you reap what you sow.

Northern Valleys News January 2017

It’s YOUR community... Warriors Wellbeing

High blood pressure – a silent killer The Regional Men’s Health Initiative Phone: 08 9690 2277 Email: menshealth@4blokes.com.au www.regionalmenshealth.com.au

Sadly lots of us blokes don’t have our blood pressure (BP) checked because we don’t visit our GP for check-ups or the GP has not done a blood pressure test. High BP is one of the 3 main risk factors for heart attack and the main risk factor for stroke. Having a consistently high BP isn’t a good thing and may become more common as we age. High BP isn’t inevitable, nor unmanageable if we have it, but controlling high BP is critical in protecting our long term health and wellbeing. Our bodies contain about 5 litres of blood which the heart pumps continuously around an intricate network of blood vessels. This process delivers vital nutrients and fresh oxygen to our body’s tissues and organs whilst creating a certain amount of pressure inside our arteries (blood vessels that take blood away from the heart and out to the body). Our blood pressure depends primarily on two things:• The amount of blood pumped by the heart; and • How easily the blood can flow through the arteries. Blood pressure readings are given in millimetres of mercury (mmHg) and consist of 2 numbers: • The top number - measures the pressure in your arteries when

your heart pumps – systolic (systol-ik) pressure; • The bottom number - measures the pressure in your arteries when your heart relaxes – diastolic(dias-tol-ik) pressure. What is ‘normal’ blood pressure? According to the Australian Health Foundation there is no ‘normal’ or ‘ideal’ blood pressure reading. The following figures should only be used as a guide. The cause of high BP quite often is a mystery. It can be linked to genetics (family history is important), poor diet, being overweight and/or lack of exercise. The effects of some medicines being used to treat varying health conditions can also be a factor along with underlying health disorders that we may have. The harm of high BP over time is simple. It can overload both the heart and blood vessels which in turn make us more susceptible to heart attack and stroke. There are many things that we can do to keep our blood pressure healthy. To help manage high BP many people need medicine but by making the following healthy lifestyle changes blood pressure can be lowered. • Be a non-smoker; • Eat less fat and salt; • Lose excess weight; • Exercise regularly; • Keep alcohol intake down. It is possible to have high BP for years without knowing it, which is why it’s called a ‘silent killer’ and is most often discovered during routine physical examinations. Remember, be proactive and make an appointment for a service visit to your GP and always have BP on your checklist for your GP to look at.

Koorunga CWA update Individual Christmas cakes, homemade shortbread and fruit mince pies were just some of the Christmas goodies that Koorunga CWA members used to spread Christmas cheer. This year, 34 boxes packed full of Christmas goodies were delivered to those living alone, those who had experienced tragedy in 2016 and full term patients in the Moora Hospital. Koorunga CWA members have been delivering these lovingly boxes for more than 25 years. The very appreciative staff at Moora Hospital were thrilled when their boxes were delivered. During December Koorunga members made pancakes and assisted with the Breakfast Club at Gingin District High School and presented Helena, the Chaplain at GGDHS with a large bundle of Feelie Hearts. These are hearts made from soft materials that can be placed in pockets and provide comfort for the holder. During the year Koorunga members have also provided emergency toilet bags, RFDS Bears, newborn bonnets and knitted teddy bears to Nickol Bay Hospital (Karratha). The first meeting for 2017 will be held in Gingin on February 2, new members always welcome. If you would like to know about Koorunga CWA please contact Karyn Collins 9575 3143 or Lois Jones 95760451

Do You Have a

Dis bility? (Source – Heart Foundation – Managing high blood pressure)

Country Women’s Association of WA Inc

Chittering Bindoon Branch Annual General Meeting Wednesday 15th February 2017 11.15am CWA Room in Bindoon Hall All Welcome at 10.15am for a cuppa and a scone, followed by a short general meeting Light Lunch after the AGM For more information phone Marg 9571 0610 or Cathy 9571 4176

Results of the Lions Club Xmas Raffle: 1st Ticket number 249 Moira McKinley Moora 2nd Ticket number 621 Edith Walton Moora 3rd Ticket Number 1355 Craig Moses 11 Gardiner St Moora

Moora Red Cross volunteer receives a 50 year volunteer badge Audrey Browne joined the Bindi Bindi Red Cross unit in 1960 as the liaison officer and continued until 2006. In 2000 Audrey joined the Moora Red Cross unit as Vice President which she held whilst travelling from Bindi for each meeting. In 2007 Audrey and her husband made the move to Moora and Audrey took on the position of Secretary and Treasurer, positions she still holds with great pride. In 2011 Audrey was presented with her 30 years of service badge for continued service to the Red Cross and on the 5th December 2016 Audrey was presented with her 50 Years of service badge and Certificate from the government.

Essential Personnel Can Help You! We are a FREE, individualised service that offers; Assistance with Job Placement in an open market, Life Skills, Recreational Activities and Social Interaction. We will also assist with Government Funding Applications. Let us help you so that you have all bases covered.

It was a great honour to be present when the award was made at the combined Moora, Coomerdale and Gingin Red Cross units Christmas luncheon. This is an award that Audrey truly deserves for her continued dedication to Red Cross.

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