inside
Ashburton
February 2012
Samara Ignoti (Photograph by Julie Anne Glover)
in this issue Minister Brendon Grylls visits Tom Price.......................................... 2 Australia Day Award Recipient.......... 3 Welcome To Country......................... 4 Aussie, Aussie, Aussie!....................10 Aussie Day Breakfast in Paraburdoo......................................14
3 4 10
Australia Day Australia Day celebrations were a mixed bag in the Shire of Ashburton this year. Cyclone Iggy took the wind out of celebrations in Onslow while Tom Price, Paraburdoo and Pannawonica enjoyed festivities and fine weather. Paraburdoo put on a fantastic show for the kids with the Karingal Neighbourhood Centre hosting a free Australia Day breakfast which included show bags, face painting, bubbleblowing and a jumping castle.
Councillor Peter Foster invited Tom Price residents to acknowledge traditional owners of the land and consider what Australia Day meant to them. “Australia Day is a day driven by communities, by this nation’s people and by celebrations held in many of its towns,” Cr Foster said. “Let us take a moment to consider our great country, Australia. To remember who we are, where we came from and where we are going as a nation.”
After the breakfast, Councillor Linton Rumble presented the Active Citizenship Award to Jo Barron-Perry for her efforts inspiring the Paraburdoo community to win the Tidy Towns award for the Pilbara in 2011.
Attendees were then treated to a display of innovation at the first Tom Price Regatta as contestants raced the distance of the pool in boats made of bottles, plastic and rubber. One hopeful punter even tried his luck in a garbage bin.
In Tom Price, the Vic Hayton Memorial Pool hosted over 550 people to celebrate the 30th birthday of the Pilbara regiment. The regiment marked the occasion with a Freedom of Entry exercise, which has not been performed since 1998.
The Pannawonica community had a great deal of fun celebrating Australia Day with a BBQ at the pool, while Onslow’s celebrations had to be postponed due to bad weather caused by Cyclone Iggy.
Page 1 | Inside Ashburton | February 2012
Minister Brendon Grylls visits Tom Price The Pilbara drives the state, national – and to a large degree, the world economy. “I think it was relatively easy when we first started because there was a lot of upgrade needed which we’ve been able to address. We are now into the phase where we question: Okay what’s next? Royalties for Regions wasn’t about building a Recreation Centre in Onslow or a new CBD redevelopment in Tom Price and that’s it – Royalties for Regions is an ongoing fund with a focus on the Pilbara going forward.” Shire of Ashburton CEO Jeff Breen with Minister Brendon Grylls in Tom Price town centre.
The Minister for Regional Development, Hon Brendon Grylls visited Tom Price last month to review the developments of the town centre revitalisation, which is funded by the Royalties for Regions Pilbara Cities program. “We’re excited about the town revitalisation of all the town centres across the Pilbara communities, essentially because we didn’t want the towns to look like temporary workers accommodation. So hopefully the projects that we are doing can give your town centre some focus,” said Mr Grylls. The Minister explained that the Royalities for Regions Policy only works if there are royalties, and emphasised the importance of people communicating what they want and need for the town.“What we’ve done is found a way to get that money back to you. The challenges that we have is to make sure that we’re getting the priorities right – and we can only do that by hearing from you.”
“So for example if there’s something more important than the hospital or the school, then we need to know that because we don’t want to get to the scenario where we say we’re going to do ‘this’ and you say well actually we want you to do ‘that’ first. That’s why we would like you to have roles in writing to us, ringing us, talking to your community leaders through the shire or other organizations.” Another reason Mr Grylls made a visit to Tom Price was to address the hospital upgrades. “Already some preliminary work is being done to improve services. The people from Pilbara Health have provided us with a good idea of what they see to be the future of the hospital and emergency facilities.”
Royalties for Regions is an historic agreement that underlines the State Government’s long-term focus on regional development throughout Western Australia. Through Royalties for Regions, the equivalent of 25 per cent of the State’s mining and onshore petroleum royalties will be returned to the State’s regional areas each year as an additional investment in projects, infrastructure and community services.
Page 2 | Inside Ashburton | February 2012
“It is aimed at building strong, vibrant, exciting communities – the sort of place that you would want to live, work, raise your family and retire in. A place where friends and family would want to come and visit. That’s about building a resilient community fabric around a strong economic driver that you have in the mining sector.”
Unmasked youth rage 2012 Saturday 25th February 2012 Tom Price Youth Centre (Stadium Rd)
FREE ENTRY 6-11pm 13+ only VIP red carpet entrance I Prizes for Best dressed & Dancers Professional photographer I Mocktail bar I Pool table Finger food I DJ Beats I Semi Formal dress code Collect your free entry pass from the youth centre Before 24 Feb – No pass no entry This is an alcohol and drug free event
Australia Day Award Recipient: “teamwork is what makes it all work” St John Ambulance volunteer Steve Moule is passionate about ensuring the safety of the Tom Price community.
Stephen Moule (Photograph by Julie Anne Glover)
Steve, an active volunteer for the last five years, received recognition for his dedication to the community when he was presented the Premier’s Active Citizenship Award on Australia Day. “I am an Aussie boy through and through and there’s no greater honour for me than to receive an Australia Day award,” he said. “It’s also important to recognise my fellow volunteers who don’t have as much time to donate as me but who work full time and still manage to volunteer.” According to Steve, the positive aspects of being a volunteer far outweighed the negatives. “It’s not all blood and gore,” he said. “One of my recent highlights was to see the Majewski boy recover after the terrible accident at the gorges. It was great to be a part of that.” Steve deals with death, sadness and trauma on a regular basis – and he doesn’t even get paid for it. “Some sad things do stick in your mind and you remember them forever,” he said. “But I’m not one to stand by when something needs to be done. I get in there and help.” While money may not be at the top of Steve’s value system, saving lives is. He’s not shy about advocating the desperate need for an air-strip in Tom Price. “Here we have one of the richest towns in Australia and we still don’t have an air-strip,” he said. “It just doesn’t make any sense.” “An airstrip for the RFDS located in town should be an essential part of our emergency infrastructure. Over the years, in my opinion, outcomes have changed because of distance.”
“In very severe cases – which we have every year – there is more than triple the amount of time wasted on travelling during a crucial emergency response, in comparison to a Tom Price RFDS airstrip which would equate to 10 minutes. We need to be giving our patients, the people in our town, the best care they can be given.” Steve also expressed concern about the welfare of pregnant women. “For a start, we’re dealing with two lives,” he said. “There are massive risks to the mother and baby and that one hour drive to Paraburdoo could be crucial. Although the RFDS plane is equipped to deal with most things, it is not an intensive care unit; there is no provision for requiring an emergency cesarean.” The rapid expansion of the Tom Price community has brought an increase in responsibilities for Steve and other volunteers.
“The need for the St John Emergency service has increased exponentially – it’s almost out of control,” he said. “There are calls nearly every day and some of these calls require a huge time commitment. For example, when called out to an emergency based in Karijini, the shortest time out there is about six hours, and sometimes the longest ones have been up to 18 hours before securing the person in need safely to a rescue point.” How do a small group of volunteers manage such a huge commitment? “There have been times where we’ve been called out to the RFDS three times in one day – a huge demand on volunteers, especially driving those distances at night,” he said. “Incredible teamwork between the SES, police, fire brigade and the St John Ambulance team is what makes it all work.”
The need for the St John Emergency service has increased exponentially – it’s almost out of control… Page 3 | Inside Ashburton | February 2012
Welcome To Country for NRW team at Fortescue’s Solomon project Recently at Fortescue Metals Group’s Solomon iron ore project 70 kilometres north of Tom Price, the Wirlu-Murra Yindjibarndi People welcomed NRW Indigenous employees to Country. NRW’s Indigenous employees consist of people from several Aboriginal groups throughout Australia, including Nyoongar from the South West of WA, Yamatji from the Mid West of WA, Torres Straight Islanders and Aboriginal people from Queensland and NSW. “Working, or just being in, another Aboriginal group’s Country, can be fraught with all kinds of difficulties,” said Michael Thompson from Fortescue’s Heritage team. “The most difficult of these is initial acceptance from the Traditional Owners of that particular Country, and from ‘The Old People’ belonging to the Country. ‘The Old People’, being the spirits of the ancestors; along with that there are various other Dream Time entities presiding over the Country.”
An important part of Aboriginal Cultural Protocol is the ‘Welcome to Country’, where the Traditional Owners welcome and accept strangers to their Country. This goes towards alleviating some of the worry that people experience and hopefully make people feel more comfortable and welcome on Country. A ‘Welcome to Country’ ceremony was organised by Fortescue’s Heritage team at the Solomon project, where WirluMurra Elders graciously undertook to welcome strangers to their Country: Yindjibarndi Country. In response the employees welcomed to country were extremely appreciative and respectful of the time and effort, the acceptance of the Wirlu-Murra Elders to allow them to be employed on Yindjibarndi Country.
Council Meetings 2012 Council meets on the third Wed of every month in either Onslow, Paraburdoo, Pannawonica or Tom Price. The general public are welcome to attend these meetings. A public question time is held at the start of the meeting for the general public to raise concerns to Council. This provides an opportunity for Councillors and staff to gain a greater understanding of the issues affecting the community. Schedule for the Ordinary Meeting of Council for the period January to December 2012. Time for all meetings is 3.00pm.
Date
Location
Wed, 15 Feb
Meeting Room, Community Recreation Centre, Tom Price
Wed, 21 March
Ashburton Hall, Ashburton Avenue, Paraburdoo
Wed, 18 April
RM Forrest Memorial Hall, Second Avenue, Onslow
Wed, 16 May
Meeting Room, Community Recreation Centre Tom Price
Wed, 20 June
Ashburton Hall, Ashburton Avenue, Paraburdoo
Wed, 18 July
Meeting Room, Community Recreation Centre, Tom Price
Wed, 15 Aug
RM Forrest Memorial Hall, Second Avenue, Onslow
Wed, 19 Sept
Barry Lang Centre, Pannawonica
Wed, 17 Oct
Meeting Room, Community Recreation Centre, Tom Price
Wed, 21 Nov
Ashburton Hall, Ashburton Avenue, Paraburdoo
Wed, 12 Dec
RM Forrest Memorial Hall, Second Avenue, Onslow
Page 4 | Inside Ashburton | February 2012
Members of the NRW team with Wirlu-Murra Yindjibarndi People at Fortescue’s Solomon iron ore project.
This Ceremony has also been performed by Nyiyaparli Elders at Fortescue’s Christmas Creek mine for employees, in particular Indigenous employees from other parts of Australia such as EDI Downer Mining employees from Fitzroy Crossing.
Fresh perspectives… New to Onslow: Julie Maxwell shares her experience of living in a Pilbara town. Just when you think that life is mapped out in a constant cycle of repeating days, from out of nowhere you get thrown a curve ball. The one I caught has propelled me to the tiny town of Onslow. There’s an angel or wise spirit out here to thank for the adventure that I hope has just begun. I see and feel beauty everywhere I go. The Pilbara colours are so crisp and the contrasts so daring that only nature would have the guts to put them together. I’m a frustrated painter and a budding photographer there are screens and canvasses in my every glance. Most people think I’m more than a bit barmy, I think that after years of feeling stagnant this little town has not just
Extra Rainfall Warning
Photograph by Scott Hansen
The Pilbara region saw a huge rise in rainfall over the January, with Karijini National Park closing because of flash flooding. Although welcomed by some, this influx of rainfall has introduced risks to the community. Tom Price State Emergency Services Unit Manager Simon Davidson advised people to use common sense and keep an eye out for the safety of other community members. “The main problems have been flooding,
shaken me awake it has lit a sparkler inside of me. The friendly people, amazing birdlife, fantastic geology and the ocean, wow! Oh and all those exotic plants we used to nurture down south, up here they flower! Boy – do they ever. I saw what looked like a pony tail palm this week that had a flowering stem almost as big as the whole plant. Who knew? Wandering along the edge of the red rock reef I noticed a tiny shell moving against the flow of the water. How delighted was I when I found an even tinier crab inside the shell. Once I knew what I was looking at I noticed they were all over the place. Hmmm this was going to make walking around tricky. All those teeny little houses it’s too much to consider. Every day I find so much that makes me smile and often laugh out loud. I’m happier and healthier than I have been for years. It must be something in the water, which by the way tastes pretty good. Julie Maxwell
vehicle recovery and trees falling,” Mr Davidson reported. “A lot of people are driving through fast flowing, discoloured water and end up getting stuck. You never know if the road has been washed away under the water, we just ask that people be careful and consider the risk.” Mr Davidson said that homes which are located in low-lying areas or have a history of flooding were also at risk. “We suggest getting prepared – flood damage can be easily prevented by using sandbags which can be supplied by the SES. Also, if people come across fallen trees, be careful of power wires. Contact the Police or SES to rectify the problem”. Finally, Mr Davidson cautioned local kids not to use rubber tubes to swim down the rivers. “Not only is it dangerous, but if we (or the police) see you doing it, you will be stopped.” Shire of Ashburton Chief Executive Officer Jeff Breen added that tubing could be life-threatening. “If you get stuck in a storm water drain, you’re putting yourself at great risk of drowning,” Mr Breen said. “At the very least you may receive cuts and abrasions from the pipes. It is a dangerous practice and we ask that the community take care in these times.” If you require emergency assistance for storm or flood damage call the State Emergency Service on: 132500
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Pet Profile
Name: Sam Looking for: Family to love me Age: 7 months Likes: Playing with other dogs, or fetching the ball Dislikes: Being left alone all day Appearance: Brindle coat with grey chest & adorable face Other Pets: Is fine with other dogs and just wants to play with them. Not sure about cats. Relationship status: I am still a puppy and love to play. I love to play in water and love it when you come outside to play with me. I also enjoy going for a walk and don’t seem to get tired at all. I have learnt to sit for my food & also walk well on a lead and don’t pull. I will need to live with another dog for company or with someone who has the time to give me attention, as I’ve lacked this in my short life. To view Sam contact SAFE Tom Price on 0437 511 692 or email tomprice@safe.asn.au There is also more profile info, video & photos of Sam on the main www.safe.asn.au pets in Tom Price/Paraburdoo. Follow us on Facebook by joining SAFE Tom Price/Paraburdoo
‘Gumala Funding’ Question Answered Land compensation funds are, however, not directly paid by Rio Tinto to the Traditional Owners. That is, the compensation monies are held in trust by Gumala Investments Pty Ltd (GIPL), which is the Trustee of the General Gumala Foundation. GIPL in turn provides a proportion of those monies to GAC, which we use to fund a variety of pre-approved projects (including lore and culture, health, education and community projects) and pre-approved programs (including health & well-being, education and lore & culture programs).
Steve Mav
People I meet in the local community often ask me how is it that Gumala Aboriginal Corporation (GAC) is able to fund its operations and where does its funding come from? Put simply, GAC funds its operations, including programs and projects that directly improve the lives of the Traditional Owners we represent, thanks to the Yandi Land Use Agreement (YLUA). The YLUA, which was signed in 1997, paved the way for the Yandicoogina (Yandi) mine to be developed on our Traditional Owners’ land.
GIPL utilises a significant percentage (a minimum of 40%) of the compensation monies to build a strong long term investment portfolio. These long term investments guarantee that the Traditional Owners will receive important social and economic benefits long beyond the life of the Yandi mine. Yandi is operated by Rio Tinto Iron Ore (RTIO) and currently produces 53 million tonnes of iron ore per annum. The Yandi mine, together with RTIO’s other iron ore projects in the Hamersley Range,
contain about 80 percent of all identified iron ore reserves in Australia. Given that this is one of the world’s major iron ore provinces, it comes as no surprise that Rio Tinto is investing more than $15 billion to expand its entire Pilbara operations by 50 per cent to 333 million tonnes per annum (Mt/a) by 2015. In addition to the compensations monies, GAC receives RTIO’s support in a variety of ways, including employment and training opportunities for our Members. Some of our Members work in the mines, and some (including Elders) assist RTIO with important heritage surveying work. For a strategic stakeholder partnership to operate effectively, transparency is paramount. Thankfully, our relationship with Rio Tinto is openly transparent, fluid and strong... and we are confident that the relationship between one of the world’s biggest mining companies and one of Australia’s biggest Indigenous corporations will continue to grow and flourish into the future. Steve Mav
Thinking about working for The Shire of Ashburton? Great benefits include a yearly bonus, participating in staff training and development, competitive salary, annual health and wellbeing subsidy and much more. Send your current resume to your local office or email Felicia Mudge, HR Manager: Felicia.mudge@ashburton.wa.gov.au
WA State and Regional holidays 2012 Mon, 05 Mar 2012 – Labour Day
Mon, 06 Aug 2012 – Community Festival (FeNaCING)
Fri, 06 Apr 2012 – Good Friday
Mon, 06 Aug 2012 – Port Hedland Cup Day
Mon, 09 Apr 2012 – Easter Monday
Mon, 20 Aug 2012 – Annual Fortescue Festival
Wed, 25 Apr 2012 – Anzac Day
Mon, 01 Oct 2012 – Queen’s Birthday
Mon, 04 June 2012 – Foundation Day
Tue, 25 Dec 2012 – Christmas Day
Mon, 09 July 2012 – Annual Marble Bar Race Weekend
Wed, 26 Dec 2012 – Boxing Day
Page 6 | Inside Ashburton | February 2012
To be or not to be…A cane toad A Tom Price resident brought what was thought to be a cane toad into the Shire office last month. While it was identified as a native frog after specialist examination, the sighting highlights the need to raise awareness of cane toads in the Pilbara region.
How to recognise a cane toad • Large and warty with a distinct poisonous sack on each shoulder • Shorter, broader snout with a ridge above the eyes Native frog mistaken for a cane toad
Shire of Ashburton Coordinator of Environmental Health and Building Antony Cox said that it was common for frogs to be falsely accused. “Up to two-thirds of suspected toads turn out to be harmless native frogs, so it is important to correctly identify them,” Mr Cox said. “To date there have been no confirmed reports of cane toads in the Shire of Ashburton. Yet, given these amphibians’ remarkable invasion march west, vigilance is needed to avoid the destruction they cause.” The Department of Environment and Conservation’s most recent cane toad update reported that cane toads have spread to Kununurra and are now breeding in surrounding areas. The uncontrollable amphibians are also known for their hitchhiking abilities and have been spotted as far south as Perth and the South West. “Cane toads have a history of catching a lift on interstate road trains,” Mr Cox said.
“They live on the ground and breed in slow flowing water fresh or salt water. The average adult is 10-23cm in length and breeds twice a year producing up to a staggering 35,000 eggs.”
• Colour varies from light yellow, brown, reddish brown to nearly black • Dry skins, wet animals remain easy to hold • Sit comparatively upright
Cane toads are poisonous throughout their full lifecycle. This poison can kill pets and injure humans – especially young children.
• Short clumsy hops
Signs of poisoning include excessive salivation, twitching, vomiting, shallow breathing, and paralysis of the hind limbs.
Call: Sounds like the puttputt sound of a telephone dial tone.
• Females can weigh up to 2.5kg
Anyone concerned that they may have found a cane toad should contact the Shire of Ashburton Environmental health team on 9188 4470.
To date there have been no confirmed reports of cane toads in the Shire of Ashburton. Yet, given these amphibians’ remarkable invasion march west, vigilance is needed to avoid the destruction they cause.
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Don’t let the bugs bite
Fortunately there are simple steps we can take to reduce available breeding sites and the risk of mosquito and march fly bites: • Avoid being outdoors at dawn and dusk – when mosquitoes are most active • Cover up with long, loose fitting clothes – in light colours – march flies are attracted to dark blue • Use mosquito repellents containing DEET on exposed skin • Use mosquito coils or citronella candles in outdoor protected areas together with ‘knockdown’ sprays
With recent heavy rain falls in the Pilbara region, conditions are now ripe for mosquitoes and march flies to find ideal breeding grounds. Antony Cox, Shire of Ashburton Coordinator of Environmental Health and Building advises,“prevention is better than cure of potentially life threatening bites from both insects”. Mosquitoes do not carry HIV, but in Australia, mosquitoes can carry diseases including Ross River virus, Dengue fever, Barmah Forest virus or Murray Valley encephalitis virus. Symptoms include severe reactions, which can be identified by increased heart rate, rapid breathing and sometimes skin reactions such as a rash. “Severe anaphylactic reactions have been reported following march fly bites in the region, which has been on the increase in recent years,” explains Antony. Those with known severe allergic reactions should discuss individual management plans with their health professional to ensure access to urgent treatment. The Shire of Ashburton is responsible for mosquito management on council land and can direct private landowners, under public health legislation to take action and treat mosquito breeding sites.
Creams and gel insect repellents containing DEET or Picaridin provide the most effective form of protection. The majority of products provide protection for one to three hours. However, this is reduced if a person is swimming or sweating and frequent reapplication will be necessary. If there are mosquitoes in the bedroom spray the room with an insect spray before bedtime then close the door. Wait for a while to make sure that any mosquitoes have been fully eliminated. Mosquito and march fly bites are common among young children as they are too young to be aware of the problem. It is important to take precautions with babies and young children. Choose repellents that contain no more than 10 percent DEET and these are safest if rubbed or sprayed on to the child’s clothing or bedding. Repellents should not be used on infants less than 6 months old. Consult with your doctor or pharmacist for further advice and always follow the product instructions.
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• Check fly screens regularly and repair any damaged areas • Change water in vases, pot plants and bird baths weekly • Place sand around the base of pot plants to absorb excess water in the dish • Flush unused toilets weekly • Check outside dripping air conditioner units at least weekly for pools of water • Keep swimming pools well chlorinated or salted and empty completely when not in use for any extended time • Make sure water collection containers have secure lids or screens • Change pet drinking water daily • Keep fishponds stocked with fish to eat larvae • Empty child wading pools if not used regularly
Pannawonica Community News What’s New to the Pannawonica Library Samurai John Man John Man, as with his previous bestsellers about Genghis Khan and Kublai Khan, has captured his target audience with this detailed biography about the Last Warrior. The story of Saigo Takamori’s doomed rebellion against the Japanese Emperor in 1877 spans from feudal Japan through to the birth of modern Japan and enthralls the reader with this account of the fascinating Samurai. A great historical read!
Adult Bookclub Coming soon in 2012… Register your interest by emailing pannlib@ashburton.wa.gov.au
Storytime Tuesdays 10.15am and 11am
What else is new on our shelves… New items arriving each month, come in and check them out!
DURING SCHOOL TERMS Bring the children down to read a story and practice their craft skills
New lease of life for Pannawonica Rio Tinto’s work to revitalise the Pannawonica town site has reached a key milestone with 70 per cent of the towns houses now refurbished. The $250 million renewal project will refurbish 228 houses and upgrade most of the existing community and commercial infrastructure. This work includes local parks, post office, shopping centre and police station, medical centre, sports club, nurse’s quarters and primary school. Upon driving into the town of Pannawonica, residents now see a number of banners illustrating ‘community life’ from the perspective of local children and soon information boards will also be erected. General Manager East Pilbara Mine and Infrastructure Projects Rob Puglisi said the project is giving the town, which was built in 1972, a new lease of life. “This is the most comprehensive town renewal project our company has undertaken in the Pilbara. We have learned a great deal since work started and will use this knowledge in our other town projects, particularly our housing refurbishment program across all towns and the new subdivision at Wickham,” Rob said. “This project is as ambitious as it is complicated. Our scope means we have to constantly maintain the fine balance between getting the work done and minimising the impact on those living in the community. It is an ongoing challenge for our team.” The revitalisation project is transforming the Pannawonica town site and is due for completion in late 2012.
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Tom Price Community News Aussie, Aussie, Aussie! By Rebecca Parish
The Australia Day celebrations in Tom price kicked off with the Amateur Swimming Club cooking a barbecue breakfast for the community. The Vic Hayton Memorial Pool hosted over 550 people for an extra special Australia Day this year, also celebrating the 30th birthday of the Pilbara Regiment. The Pilbara Regiment marked their birthday with a Freedom of Entry exercise, and were granted permission of entry into the region by Police Sergeant Dan Anderson and his Officers The last time Pilbara Regiment exercised its right for Freedom of Entry to the Shire of Ashburton was on the 9th of August 1998. The tradition stems from an ancient custom observed by British Regiments in marching through the City of London. Following the ceremony, Shire of Ashburton Chief Executive Officer Jeff Breen along with Councilor Peter Foster presented the Premier’s Australia Day Active Citizenship Awards. The Tom Price Emergency Service Cadets won the award for the community group category while Steve Moule and Asha Holland each won the individual citizenship award for their outstanding service to the local community. Australia Day Tom Price also saw the very first running of the Tom Price Regatta, with seven teams enter their boats made out of materials such as plastic, rubber, foam and duck tape. Due to its success, it is planned to be an annual Australia Day competition event.
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Event Coordinator and Shire of Ashburton Projects Officer Mabel Gough said the regatta was a “great success, it was very impressive and I was extremely pleased with the creativity of the boat owners”. The race was run in two heats with all participants receiving a prize for their efforts. Special thanks to the Fortescue Metals Team who gave their winnings to the other teams.
Warrant Officer Timothy Grover
Asha Holland receives the Premier’s Active Citizenship Award for under 25’s
Mabel Gough & Ray Martin
The winners were as follows: Children’s Race 1st: Thomas & Jasper Murphy 2nd: Declan Markich & Jack Green 3rd: Jacob & Will Adults Race: 1st: Fortescue Metal Group (FMG) 2nd: Rostyn & Ardeena Heffernan 3rd: Mitch Williams 4th: Rebecca Parish As the Regatta came to an end, a large inflatable provided fun for all children and adults alike, with many locals enjoying the festivities.
B Troop Pilbara Regiment
The last competition of the day saw local girl, Chantel Hayes be awarded for the best Aussie costume after a unanimous vote by the judges.
The Shire of Ashburton would like to thank Muzzy’s Hardware for supplying and helping set up and pull down the jumping castle. We would also like to thank all those who attended and participated in ‘being Australian’ celebrations.
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Tom Price Community News Suspected poisoning of Little Corellas An increasing number of Little Corellas have been found dead in the ‘Area W’ vicinity of Tom Price. The cause of death is currently unknown. It was thought to be heat exhaustion but suspicions are now turning toward other environmental factors. Some suggest it is deliberate poisoning with over thirty carcasses found near Minha Oval since November 2011.The matter has been reported to the Department of Environment and Conservation who are currently investigating the situation.
Little corellas are native to the Pilbara region and are classified as protected species…
Little corellas are native to the Pilbara region and are classified as protected species, unlike the eastern long-billed corella which were introduced to WA and are not found in the Pilbara. It is believed the population increase of little corellas in the region is largely due to the establishment of water and an abundance of food and waste at local refuge sites. Due to the sheer scale of numbers causing damage to local infrastructure, the little corellas have been declared as pests to agriculture. “We can assure you that the Shire of Ashburton has nothing to do with birds being poisoned,” says Senior Ranger Morgwn Jones. “We have been granted a destruction license by the DEC to use culling methods to deal with the population of corellas in the region, but poisoning the birds is illegal and puts other wildlife at risk”. The Shire of Ashburton plan to work with the DEC in finding a long-term management plan but in the meantime it is advised not to touch any dead birds and to report any sightings to the Shire.
Parking & Gutters update The town centre is now more open and accessible, and the Shire of Ashburton would like to thank the public and all shopkeepers for their cooperation and perseverance during the first stage of the revitalisation project. “As stage one nears completion, we’ll be redeveloping the car park located near Muzzie’s/Better Electrical and the Coles car park during the month of March,” said Geoff Brayford, Executive Manager of Technical Services. “This may cause some inconvenience as we have to schedule access around these redevelopment areas.” Advance notice will be provided by signage at the entrances to both car parks, but this does not include the parking area near Blockbuster as it is privately owned.
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The gutters are also private facilities and are the responsibility of the shop owners. However, recognising a problem during the interim, for the safety and convenience of the public, the Shire recently installed temporary guttering above the doorways to allow better access to shops during rainfall. “We understand the shop owners intend to install permanent guttering in future, and we expect they will announce their scheduling for when these works are likely to occur,” said Geoff Brayford. “In the meantime, we ask the public for their patience while the upgrades continue.”
St John Ambulance celebrates 25 years in Tom Price St Johns Tom Price will be having an open day at their Sub Centre to celebrate the centre’s 25th year of being operational in Tom Price. Date: Saturday, March 31st 2012 Time: 9am-2pm Venue: St John Ambulance Sub Centre, Tamarind St Tom Price Celebrations will include: kids activities, sausage sizzle, games, prizes, giveaways and much more. All welcome!
Tom Price Surf Life Saving Club Inaugural meeting & BBQ, Saturday 3rd March at 7pm Come along & meet fellow clubbies. Former clubbies also welcome See Ray at the pool for details or call 0438909303
Damage to Tom Price In-ground Lights Vandals have dealt the Tom Price Town Centre Revitilasation Project a costly blow by damaging the in-ground lighting in the CBD. Each light fitting costs approximately $1500 each and will increase the time-frame of the project, which the majority of Tom Price residents wish to see completed as soon as possible. The in-ground lighting promises to be a spectacular feature that will greatly enhance the feel and appearance of the CBD when it is completed. The Shire of Ashburton is working with the Tom Price Police to identify the offenders and asks residents to contact police if they witness any further damage to the CBD or if they have any information regarding the damaged lighting.
Intended application for incorporation of the Tom Price community markets Notice is hereby given that Lynsey Pyke of 475 Privet Street TOM PRICE WA 6751 being duly authorised by the above named association intends to apply to the Commissioner for Consumer Protection on or after 10th January, 2012 for incorporation of the Tom Price Community Markets. The association is formed for the purpose to encourage community involvement by providing an avenue where local artists, crafts people and small business can showcase their goods and services to the community.
What’s On at the Tom Price Library… Book Club
Book Reviews
The Book Club Met for the last time for 2011 on Thursday 15th November. What a fabulous way to end the year with two outstanding reads. We read Midwives by Chris Bohjalian, and The Help by Katrhyn Stockett, Which were both a great read.
We have decided to do some reviews this month on our previous book club books because we personally think they were brilliant
The new books are ready to be picked up, but the date for the first Bookclub meeting is to be advised, as we are only opening the Library from 9.00 till 12.00 until we get our new air-cons.
“A story with heart and hope…”
Opening hours: Monday, Tuesday, Friday 10 am – 1 pm & 2 pm – 5 pm Thursday 10 am – 1 pm & 3:30 pm – 6:30 pm Saturday 9 am – 12 pm Wednesday & Sunday CLOSED
The Help
Midwives
by Kathryn Stockett
by Chris Bohjalian
“Graceful and real, a compulsively readable story”
A mystery anchored in sorrow, a haunting tale of delusion and intervention. Did the midwife kill the mother when the baby was being born?
A black and white woman together help to change how people in Mississippi and all around the world treat ‘the help’. Also a major motion picture.
WE ARE LOOKING FORWARD TO WELCOMING LOTS OF NEW MEMBERS IN 2012.
Our Storytime Sessions started for the year on Friday February 3rd. We welcomed some new Mums and little ones, and made a swimming man. Our first Rhymetime session was on Monday February 6th. It’s great to see lots of new people coming along. All welcome. Story Time – Mondays 11am. Rhyme Time – Fridays 11am For enquiries contact the library on 9189 1053 or email: tplib@asburton.wa.gov.au
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Paraburdoo Community News Aussie Day Breakfast in Paraburdoo What a fantastic turn out for Paraburdoo. Karingal Neighbourhood Centre put on a free breakfast Bacon, Egg, Sausage and Onion rolls. The children had a wonderful morning playing on the Bouncy Castle, Slippery Slide, Dunking Machine, Bubble Blowing and Face Painting. Australia Day Show Bags were given away including Free Beach Balls, Aussie Footballs, Tattoos, Aussie Key Rings, Balloons and Aussie Flags.
Cr Linton Rumble with Jo Barron-Perry
Part of our Australia Day was the Presentation of the Active Citizenship Award by Cr Linton Rumble. The award was given to a member of the community who has put a lot of time and effort into the Tidy Towns Committee. Jo Barron-Perry has inspired the community to work together to keep their town clean which led to Paraburdoo winning the award for Tidy Towns in the Pilbara for 2011. This success was just one of the many achievements during her time living in Paraburdoo. An enormous thank you goes out to all our volunteers that helped on the day. Paraburdoo Volunteer Fire and Rescue Service was a great asset ensuring smooth and safe operation of both our slippery slide and dunking machine. We would also like to thank Barry Edlin for all the help during the day and running the bouncy castle – it was much appreciated.
Many thanks to our faithful local face painter Willie Sobieralski and her little helpers who creatively painted anything from butterflies to the good old faithful Australia Flag, and to Bill at Pilbara Mechanical Services for donating two Bottles of Gas for the BBQ’s on the day. My staff and Volunteers from Karingal Neighbourhood Centre put in a great effort organising and presenting this wonderful morning at the Memorial Park Gardens. This type of event takes up a lot of their personal and family time, and with the small team that we have it is great for something like this event to be so successful. Thanks all so goes out to The Shire Swimming Pool and Cr Linton Rumble for the loan of their BBQ, and to Paraburdoo Police Station for the loan of the Dunking Machine.
It was a great day had by all and we look forward to seeing you again at the next community event.
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Paraburdoo Community News
For these events to be provided free to the community Karingal has to find funding, and without this, these events would not happen. We would like to thank our major sponsors Rio Tinto and The Shire of Ashburton for their generosity and support. It was a great day had by all and we look forward to seeing you again at the next community event. Vivienne Alchin Karingal Neighbourhood Centre
Page 15 | Inside Ashburton | February 2012
Paraburdoo Community News International Women’s Day 8th March WA community theme for 2012: Sharing the Caring for the Future The Karingal Centre in Paraburdoo is inviting local women to share their creative talents and celebrate International Women’s Day on Thursday March 8th. International Women’s Day is a global celebration of the economic, political and social achievements of women past, present and future. This year’s international theme is ‘Connecting Girls, Inspiring Futures’. Karingal will host a celebratory event at the Ashburton Shire Hall in Paraburdoo from 5pm until 9pm.
Festivities will include a buffet dinner featuring international cuisine, performances, product demonstrations and art and craft displays. Tickets are $10 from Karingal or the Chemist and will include a meal and entertainment. Beer and wine will be on sale at the bar. The WA community theme for this year is ‘Sharing the Caring for the Future.’ All women are invited to share their knowledge and skills with the community by cooking traditional food, performing, displaying art or craft or doing a product demonstration.
Those interested in contributing to the 2012 Women’s Day celebrations can contact Karingal on 91895579 (Paraburdoo) or Julie Glover at media@ashburton.wa.gov.au or 9188 4444 (Tom Price). The event is open to all women in Paraburdoo and surrounding communities. All proceeds from the event will go to the Make a Wish foundation.
Paraburdoo Swimming Pool endorsed with Watch Around Water The Paraburdoo Swimming pool was recently accredited as a Watch Around Water facility by the Royal Life Saving Society of WA.
It is our role to educate the parents and guardians adequately to supervise the children”… Also the number of children an adult can supervise is restricted: they are allowed to supervise a maximum of four children under the age of 10yrs. Gary Anderson-Smith, Paraburdoo pool manager says “This ensures that children are safe and the responsibility is in the hands of the adult. It is our role to educate the parents and guardians adequately to supervise the children”.
This means new guidelines are to be followed to ensure greater safety measures are in place. One of the regulations specify that an adult must be in the water within arms reach of children under 5yrs of age at all times and children under 10yrs of age must be accompanied by a guardian.
Page 16 | Inside Ashburton | February 2012
Since the Watch Around Water programme started six years ago, over 400 public pools across Australia have been endorsed, and as a result, there have been no drownings in public pools where the programme has been implemented.
Paraburdoo Community News What’s New to the Paraburdoo Library Book Review.. Halfway to the Grave Jeaniene Frost. Cat Crawfield is half vampire and half human. Brought up in the belief that all Vampires are evil, soulless monsters she sets out at the age of sixteen to rid the world of all these vile creatures. She has the perfect set up. Using herself as bait she trolls bars waiting to be ‘picked up’ by a vampire then allows herself to be lured to a secluded spot… perfect for a stake through the heart! Her plan works perfectly until she is captured by the mysterious vampire, Bones. Out maneuvered and outclassed, she must now team up with him in order to survive. Everything she has ever known about vampires is about to be questioned… This Action packed and fast paced urban fantasy book will certainly appeal to anyone who is a fan this genre.
New Junior Kindy book Moo Mathew Van Fleet Photography by Brian Stranton. This fabulous new board book is full of pop up flaps, pull tabs and pettable textures, making it extremely interactive. With its beautiful photographs of farm animals it is sure to be a favorite with every young toddler.
New Junior Picture Book Class Two at the Zoo Julia Jarman Illustrated by Lynne Chapman. When Class Two go to the Zoo they are so busy looking at all the animals that they don’t notice the giant Anaconda following them, or their class mates slowly disappearing. With Short rhyming narrative and bright busy pictures this is a fantastic book to share with young children.
New Junior Fiction Book Justin Thyme Panama Oxridge. The first in a series of books the critics are raving about.
Full of fantastic characters and mysteries to solve, this book is perfect for the older reader. If you enjoyed book like Artimus Fowl and Alex Rider than this book is a must read.
New Junior DVD. RIO The latest musical animation by Blue Sky Studios. Blu , a blue Macaw is the last Male of his species, in order for the species to continue he must leave his home and go to Rio. Full of vibrant images and musicals this funny movie is suitable for the whole family.
New adult fiction DVD Just Go with It. Romantic Comedy starring Adam Sandler and Jennifer Aniston. A plastic surgeon convinces his assistant to pose as his soon-to-bedivorced wife in order to cover up a lie he told to his much-younger girlfriend.
New Library Officer Welcome to the Paraburdoo Library – Kylie Pettit! Kylie has been living in Paraburdoo for five years and has just started working with us in January as a casual Library officer.
She originally volunteered one day per fortnight as part of her long distance library studies with Training Services Australia. Please welcome her when you next visit the library.
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Cindy Derschow, Senior Library officer
Onslow Community News Caring for the Turtles Photograph by Marissa Speirs, DEC
Residents and summer visitors to Onslow are being reminded to watch out for nesting turtles and emerging hatchlings and keep lights to a minimum around the water’s edge. Between December and April each year, turtle hatchlings begin to emerge and make their way back to the water. “It is important during this time to keep your distance from hatchlings and allow them to make their own way to the water,” says Rachael Middlebrook, Department of Environment and Conservation Marine Park Coodinator. “Stand away from emerging hatchlings as others may be digging their way out and try to keep sources of light away from them (i.e torches, boat lights, camp fires) as it can disorientate the hatchlings and affect their journey to the water”. Beach driving can also have a significant impact on turtle hatchlings both before hatching and on those making their way to the water.
Rescheduling of Australia Day events for Onslow Due to the wind and water predictions and following consultation with The Bureau of Meteorology, FESA, Work Safe and several Onslow residents, Australia Day Events in Onslow were postponed. “This was a difficult decision, with our major focus being the Safety of our Community members and Staff,” said Deb Wilkes, Executive Manager of Community Development. ‘We appreciate that many community members have made a significant effort to participate in the Australia day events, and we hope that you will join us later in the year when we reschedule.”
Driving vehicles on the sand can increase the chance of nests being compacted and crushed under the weight of the vehicle as well as increasing the risk of driving over hatchling themselves. To limit the impact of vehicles on nesting beaches it is recommended that members of the public drive and park only in the intertidal zone (wet zone) and avoid driving on dry sand or dunes. Flatback, green, hawksbill and loggerhead are the most common turtle species in the Pilbara. All are threatened species.
REGIONAL CONSULTATION PILBARA WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT PLAN A public forum is being conducted on behalf of the Department of Training and Workforce Development and the Pilbara Workforce Development Alliance. The forum is part of broader consultations which will result in the preparation of a Pilbara workforce development plan for 2012 – 2015. The overall purpose of the plan is to identify the current and future workforce development and skills needs of the region and develop strategies to ensure that these needs can be addressed. The focus of the forum will be in two key areas: • Provide a local perspective on key regional workforce trends and challenges; and • Canvass potential strategies, actions and priorities that need to be included in this regional workforce development plan. Forums will be held on: Tuesday 28 February, 2012 from 4pm to 6pm at RM Forrest Memorial Hall, Second Avenue, ONSLOW; and Wednesday 22 February 2012 from 4pm to 6pm at the Shire Chambers, Recreation Centre, TOM PRICE If you would like to attend the forum please register at: Onslow: http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/OnslowRSVP Tom Price: http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/TomPriceRSVP or contact James Mathews at jmathews@kpmg.com.au or Tel: 07 3233 9443
Page 18 | Inside Ashburton | February 2012
Onslow Community News Onslow Early Learning Centre Children’s Services Support Unit (WA) inc (CSSU) is delighted to be opening the Onslow Early Learning Centre in the coming weeks. The centre will be licensed for 19 children aged 0-6 years. CSSU is a not-for-profit organisation that has been operating since 1973. We sponsor and support a number of childcare services and community services throughout Western Australia and the Northern Territory. We are a Registered Training Organisation and offer accredited training for the child care industry.
We specialise in assessing compliance in relation to regulatory and service requirements.
CSSU offer support in financial management, service delivery, human resources and training and development. We are able to undertake evaluations and facilitate in the development of strategic plans.
We are also currently recruiting staff to fill various positions at the centre. For details regarding the centre, job vacancies and child enrolments, please contact either Coral Callan 0459 115 135 or Sam Bullen on 0438 929 582.
We encourage parents and the community to be involved in our childcare services. At the Onslow Early Learning Centre, we are open to, and welcome parent involvement at a level that you feel comfortable with.
…we are open to, and welcome parent involvement at a level that you feel comfortable with.
What’s New to the Onslow Library Onslow Library would like to wish you A Happy New Year 2012 & all the best in the near future. Our library has received some great new items in our monthly exchange from the State Library WA. For those who enjoy reading the Adult Non-Fiction & Fiction books we have received the following new titles: The Kingdom by Clive Cussler A Walk in Old Sydney by Michael Tatlow
Bill’s Sydney Food – the original and classic recipe collection By Bill Granger and The mind-beauty connection – 9 days to reverse stress aging and reveal more youthful, beautiful skin by Amy Wechsler Don’t Forget to Write by Pam Hobbs
Never been to the library? We are located in the Shire office at Second Ave, Onslow. Please feel free to drop in and have a look! Opening Hours 9am – 4pm Monday to Friday Phone: 08 91846001
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New Talking Books & Dvd’s also now available for loan include: Fallen by Lauren Kate & Mindswap by Robert Sheckley
DVD’s Thor Paint Ball The Next Three Days Bridesmaids Prep & Landing & Arthur & The Invisibles and Hoodwinked for the kids
Tom Price Paraburdoo Directory Update Call For Entries • • • • •
Nameless Jarndunmunha Festival Committee PO Box 249 Tom Price 6751 shaza.morley@hotmail.com
Churches Sporting Clubs Community Organisations and Clubs Businesses Residential
Do you want to advertise in the directory? This will be a chance for you to advertise your company/business/ organization for a two year period. The Directory is widely used and coverage for advertising purposes within our region is excellent. Many directories are distributed to other local Shires making your advertising potential widespread covering a two year period.
The Nameless Jarndunmunha Committee is currently updating the local Tom Price – Paraburdoo Directory. Would you like to have your details published in this directory? If you do then please give us your updated contact details that you would like to appear in the directory.
Pricing is: Front Cover (Full Page Coloured Gloss Card)....................................$1,500.00 Inside Front Cover (Full Page).......$1,000.00 Inside Front Cover (Half Page)........ $500.00
Categories for the directory are: • Emergency Information • Cyclone Information • Local Government • Shire Officers and Justice of Peace • Health Services and Local Assistance • Education and Children’s Services • Animal Services
Back Cover (Full Page Coloured Gloss Card)....................................$1,200.00 Inside Back Cover (Full Page)......... $600.00 Inside Back Cover (Half Page)........ $300.00
Inside Card Divider Pages (Full Page Coloured)...............................................$700 Inside Card Divider Pages (Half Page Coloured).............................................. $350 Inside Pages (Full Page Black & White)...................................... $500 Inside Pages (Half Page Black & White).......................................$250 Simple Black and white advert...............$20 (Name address, phone, email) Please send your details/advert as you would like it to appear in the directory to either the above email or PO Box address or place into the letterbox of 609 Boolee Street, Tom Price. Note for the colour page advertising send a coloured advert.
The Nameless Jarndunmunha Festival Committee is now seeking new members. Please contact us if you are interested through the above contacts.
Get your copy of Inside Ashburton first, online SUBSCRIBE TODAY! soa@ashburton.wa.gov.au
Newsletter Drops The Shire of Ashburton is supporting the community by giving different not for profit groups from each town the opportunity to deliver the newsletter for a donation to their not for profit group. If you would like to find out more please contact the Media & Communications office at the Shire of Ashburton on 08 9188 4444.
Advertising Enquiries Advertising and news enquiries can be directed to soa@ashburton.wa.gov.au As this is a small newsletter and there is only limited space, priority will be given to the business/not for profit groups that get their advertising and news stories in first. Please contact us soon to avoid disappointment. If you would like a copy of the advertising rate card, please visit www.asbhurton.wa.gov.au
ADMINISTRATION CENTRE Poinciana Street, Tom Price WA 6751 (PO Box 567) T: 08 9188 4444 – F:08 9189 2252 E: soa@ashburton.wa.gov.au W: www.ashburton.wa.gov.au
Disclaimer This newsletter is for general information purposes only. The views expressed in this newsletter are not necessarily those of the Shire of Ashburton. The Shire has taken all measures to ensure the contents in this publication is correct, however it accepts no responsibility for the accuracy or the completeness of the material. Readers are advised not to rely solely on this information when making any decision. The Shire of Ashburton reserves the right to change the publication as it sees fit. The Shire of Ashburton disclaims any responsibility or duty of care towards any person for loss or damage suffered as a result of this newsletter. Copyright The contents of this newsletter are subject to copyright under the laws of Australia. The copyright in materials in this newsletter as a whole is owned by the Shire of Ashburton. Third parties may own the copyright in some materials incorporated into this newsletter. In reference to the Copyright Act 1968, please feel free to reproduce parts of this newsletter for personal, educational or any other non-commercial purposes, provided that the Shire is aware of this.
Page 20 | Inside Ashburton | February 2012