inmcommunity - local news

Search for missing Jarrahdale man

Mon, 20 May 2013 00:00:00 +0800

POLICE are concerned for the welfare of a Jarrahdale man who has been missing since Friday. A WA Police spokesman said Peter Charles Clarke (42) had not been seen since he left his Jarrahdale home at 9.30am on May 17.

Mr Clarke is 183cm tall, of medium build, with a fair complexion, blonde hair and blue eyes.

It is not known what clothing he is wearing.

Mr Clarke was driving a black Landrover Defender, registration number 1DPR 217.

“While his whereabouts are unknown, police have reason to believe he may have visited the bush area around Wungong and Canning Dams since he left his home,” the spokesman said.

Anyone with information or who sees Mr Clarke or his vehicle is asked to call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

Fatal crash being investigated

Mon, 20 May 2013 00:00:00 +0800

THE Major Crash unit are investigating an accident that killed an 89-year-old woman in Gwelup on Sunday.At 3.50pm, the woman was driving a Daewoo hatch when it crashed into a tree in Ludgate Way, shortly after leaving a house in that street.

Police would like anyone who saw the crash or saw the car prior to the incident to call Crime Stoppers on 1300 333 000.

Tame protected raptor found chained to fence

Mon, 20 May 2013 00:00:00 +0800

A TAME Little Eagle was found in Kenwick last month, chained to a fence.A member of the public found the young male hieraaetus morphnoides (common name Little Eagle) chained to a Brook Road fence on April 18.

He took him to a wildlife rehabilitator who called the Department of Environment and Conservation (DEC).

DEC wildlife officer Rick Dawson said an experienced bird-of-prey rehabilitator found the two- to four-year-old bird to be in good condition and unafraid of people.

Its keepers might have been trained in falconry, but might have also just kept it as a pet.

“It is illegal to take this species from the wild and keep it without a licence, because Little Eagles are protected and should not be held in captivity,” Mr Dawson.

“There are only a very small handful of wildlife rehabilitators that are licensed in WA to keep these raptors, and that is because they require very specialist skills to care for and rehabilitate.”

Mr Dawson said the nylon cord, metal fittings and chain used to attach the bird to the fence could have seriously injured it and were unacceptable restraints.

“It is clear that the people who have kept this Little Eagle are not licensed and may not be aware of the accepted standards in keeping such a high-maintenance species,” he said.

“We are still trying to determine whether this bird has the ability to hunt, and if so, we are hopeful that it can be released into the wild after a period of rehabilitation,” he added.

Report any information to DEC’s Nature Protection Branch on 9334 0292.

Council to continue visitor centre success

Sat, 18 May 2013 00:00:00 +0800

THE Mundaring Visitor Centre has moved ahead in achievements since the local council took over its management.

In February 2011, the Mundaring Shire Council voted to take control of the centre for two years.

The trial period ends on June 30 and the council has elected to take up visitor servicing at the centre full time.

Projected budget forecasts to run the centre for the current financial year are $133,000. The Shire heard at a meeting on Tuesday the centre made a significant contribution to local tourism.

Some of the improvements since the Shire took over include:

- Improved range of in-house brochures.

- Rostered staff at all opening times.

- Improved layout, display furniture and stands.

- Improve heating and cooling efficiency.

- New networked computers and an integrated shire phone system.

The council report said it was believed between 13 and 15 per cent of visitors stayed an extra night in the Hills area and, although there were no direct figures, it was understood to be due to the centre offering tourism advice.

Shire president Helen Dullard said the council was pleased to include visitor servicing in its range of services.

“The centre not only caters for visitors, but local residents and business operators, which is part of our commitment to supporting a thriving community,” she said.

Runners fire up for battle

Sat, 18 May 2013 00:00:00 +0800

THE Warrior Dash – the world’s biggest running series held across four continents – will come to WA today at the Northam Army Training Camp.

More than 600 people are expected to take part in a 5km dash over a series of aptly named obstacles including Stormin’ Norman, Horizontal Hike and Deadman’s Drop.

Survivors will then celebrate with music, beer and muddy shorts.

This year, Warrior Dash has joined the Red Cross to raise funds to help support some of the most vulnerable people and communities in Australia. Red Cross executive director for WA Steve Joske said he hoped as many people as possible would take the ultimate challenge and compete.

“The Warrior Dash is a ‘must-do’ for all adventure-seeking warrior men and women,” he said.

“We think it’s a fun way to challenge yourself and raise awareness of the good work that Red Cross does in WA.”

Red Cross will also host a warrior VIP Tent, where all who fundraise for Red Cross will be recognised with VIP treatment, including refreshments, a chill-out area and a chance to celebrate with fellow Red Cross warriors.

Mum on run paints town

Sat, 18 May 2013 00:00:00 +0800

STAYING positive is a way of life for York mother Hayley Norrish.

Ms Norrish has three children, two with cystic fibrosis and the other is a carrier of the genetic condition.

Her best friend died from cystic fibrosis a few years ago.

These experiences with the debilitating illness have motivated Ms Norrish to establish Paint the Town Red Day, to raise awareness and funds for research and care of people living with cystic fibrosis.

Ms Norrish’s eldest son Brandan (10) was diagnosed with the condition when he was just three weeks old.

“When Brandan was diagnosed with cystic fibrosis, he was given a life expectancy into his teens,” Ms Norrish said.

“Ten years later, his life expectancy is 37.”

She said this was because of advances in treatment and management of the condition.

Her second son Cameron (6) does not have the condition, but is a carrier of the gene disorder.

Her daughter Addison (3) was also diagnosed with cystic fibrosis as a baby.

Ms Norrish believes in living a healthy, active lifestyle and leads by example for her three children.

“I compete in triathlons, play netball and have just taken up competitive swimming again,” she said.

“I push them to function normally and stay active. And they don’t get out of their chores.”

Ms Norrish said Brandan and Addison had to take up to 60 tablets each day, including oral antibiotics, to manage their conditions.

Brandan takes part in regular sport, including swimming and netball in summer, and football and basketball in winter.

He was the Youth Ambassador for the Cystic Fibrosis WA walkathon and competed in the HBF Run for a Reason last year.

Brandan is now training for this year’s HBF Run for a Reason on May 26.

Ms Norrish is encouraging businesses and residents to get involved in Paint the Town Red Day in York on May 31 – Cystic Fibrosis National Awareness Day.

“We would love everyone in town to wear red on the day,” she said.

“It can be anything from a shirt to a headband or socks.

“I want to raise awareness in the community.

“People often look at cystic fibrosis sufferers and think they are healthy, but they are not healthy on the inside.”

More than 70 businesses in York and Northam have already signed up for the fundraiser.

“Cafe Bugati, in York, will donate $1 from each coffee it sells on the day to CFWA,” Ms Norrish said.

- To find out more about Paint the Town Red Day, visit tinyurl.com/ap5zztm.

Iron-clad fun guaranteed

Sat, 18 May 2013 00:00:00 +0800

WUNDOWIE will mark its history as the birthplace of WA’s iron ore industry tomorrow.

The Wundowie Iron Festival will celebrate the heritage of the town with iron sculptures, paintings and photography.

The festival is held at the Wundowie Community Hall and oval from 9am to 4pm.

Event organiser Trish Hamilton said she founded the festival in a bid to “put Wundowie on the map”.

The festival is heritage listed and has been running since 2007.

More than 2000 |people are expected to attend this year.

“The thing everybody loves is the bus tour of the foundry and the circle of swords, where a medieval group sword fight,” Ms Hamilton said.

“The football club will be doing a ‘toss the iron pig’ competition and there will be an iron beast competition.” The iron beast is an individual or team effort to build a device – predominantly from iron and steel – propelled by the down force of a 20kg weight.

A prize of $1000 will be awarded for the longest distance travelled in 30 seconds.

The town’s industrial history began on April 15, 1948, when the Wundowie Charcoal Iron and Steel mill was opened.

The mill closed in 1981 and engineering company Bradken now operate out of the foundry, maintaining a link to Wundowie’s commercial heritage.

The Iron Festival will include prize money of $1500 for the best iron sculpture, $1000 for an iron-themed painting, $500 for a utility object made from iron, $500 for photography with an iron theme and $250. All work will be displayed in the hall from 10am to 4pm.

Festivals can celebrate funding

Sat, 18 May 2013 00:00:00 +0800

THREE Avon Valley events will receive State Government Regional Events Scheme funding.

The three events next year to receive funding include the Avon Valley Vintage Festival held in Northam from April 19 to 21, the York Motorcycle Festival on April 20, and the Toodyay Moondyne Festival on May 5.

Tourism Minister Kim Hames said the Eventscorp scheme, jointly funded by Royalties for Regions, recognised the important role that events played in regional tourism.

“Regional events encourage visitors to the area, add vibrancy and provide valuable exposure for the region through media coverage,” Dr Hames said. “These regional events showcase our extraordinary State and the unique things that it has to offer visitors.”

Regional Development Minister Brendon Grylls said the State Government had made a significant commitment to regional events, with $40 |million contributed over four years from Royalties for Regions.

“Regional events make a positive contribution to our State,” Mr Grylls said. “They boost local economies, engage residents and help to promote the region.

“With support from Royalties for Regions, these new and established events play an important role in creating vibrant, thriving regional communities.”

Savour flavours of valley at festival

Sat, 18 May 2013 00:00:00 +0800

GOURMET food and wine lovers will be on cloud nine on the WA Day long weekend.

The Avon Valley Gourmet Food and Wine Festival will be held on Saturday, June 1, and Sunday, June 2.

From 10am to 4pm each day at the Northam Recreation Centre, visitors can experience flavours from across the Avon Valley, with gourmet chilli, cheese, chocolate, olive oil products, nuts, sauces, spices, preserves, yabbies, wine and beer tastings, loose leaf teas, confectionery, plus a licen- sed bar and live entertainment.

There will be rides, a cuddly animal farm and face painting for child-ren. Other festival highlights include cooking demonstrations with the talented and entertaining Don Hancey of Panorama Catering and other chefs on the cooking stage.

Australian Iron Chef winner Herb Faust will collaborate with Barton Jones Wines to create a special dining experience at the Long Table five-course dinner from 7pm on the Saturday.

Cyclists squeezed

Sat, 18 May 2013 00:00:00 +0800

PUBLIC demand to have two main roads widened for safety purposes has prompted the Shire of Kalamunda to consider asking Main Roads WA for direct funding to upgrade them.

Cyclists who share Canning Road and Welshpool Road East with trucks and feel that their safety is being jeopardised each time they travel have voiced their concerns to the Shire, resulting in 25 requests in just six months to have the roads widened.

The Shire development and infrastructure services committee passed a motion at its meeting on Monday to approach MRWA about it taking charge of the upgrade.

A final decision to make the referral will be made at the next full council meeting.

Figures from a traffic count held 12 months ago revealed more than 2000 vehicles use Canning Road each day, 12.5 per cent of which are commercial vehicles.

More than 10 per cent of the 5000 vehicles that use Welshpool Road East daily are also commercial vehicles.

An increasing number of trucks using the roads results in a need for more maintenance, and the Shire has been struggling to keep up with residents’ concerns.

Shire acting CEO Clayton Higham said the council did not have the resources to fund the projects and could not guarantee it could secure the funds from somewhere else.

“The main request is for a wider roadway with sealed shoulders that allows appropriate separation distances between cyclists and heavy vehicles, as well as an escape route,” he said.

“Other solutions include the reduction of the speed limits.

“No (cost) estimate has been made as there are a number of options that would have various cost implications.

“The wide range of issues to be resolved includes the steep grades, narrow roads and vegetation clearing that would need to be dealt with.”

Mr Higham said passing responsibility to Main Roads did not guarantee funding would be secured.

“However, the transfer would provide direct access to funding from Main Roads, whereas currently, the Shire receives grants through the various State Government funding programs,” he said.

He said there had been no discussions yet with MRWA about the transfer of responsibility.

Piece-meal bypass congestion fears

Sat, 18 May 2013 00:00:00 +0800

THE Federal Government’s $418 million contribution towards the construction of the Swan Valley Bypass in this week’s Budget raised as many questions as it provided answers.

Although funding approval for the project was universally applauded, key issues thrown up around it made it likely the growing backlog of local traffic and heavy vehicles travelling on Swan Valley roads would remain here for at least another decade.

Residents and businesses have been lobbying for the bypass for years and both the Swan Chamber of Commerce and City of Swan praised the funding allocation.

“This project will be the most significant infrastructure project the Swan Valley has ever seen,” chamber president Joe Natoli said.

“It will take dangerous heavy haulage vehicles off our tourist roads, significantly adding to the positive tourist experience for Swan Valley visitors.”

City Mayor Charlie Zannino was similarly enthused.

“The bypass will reduce traffic congestion and heavy freight movements through the Swan Valley tourist area, improving safety and transport efficiency, noise management and amenity,” he said.

However, the State Government has committed only $196 million to construction of the first stage of the Swan Valley Bypass and would need to top up its funding allocation by at least another $200 million for the full 40km bypass – between the Reid-Tonkin Highway and Muchea – to be built.

Premier Colin Barnett told State Parliament on Tuesday the Government did not have the capacity to match the Commonwealth’s full $418 million contribution because of commitments to other major transport projects, including a rail line to Perth Airport and Metro light rail plan.

He said the Government stood by its $196 million commitment to build the first stage – from Gnangara Road to Muchea.

Construction would start in 2016 and be completed by 2019.

Confirmation the northern section of the bypass would be built first angered some residents, who claimed not building the entire bypass would make traffic congestion worse.

One resident, who asked not to be named said: “If traffic is coming down the new highway from Muchea to Gnangara Road, where will it all go then?

“Heavy traffic would face a choice of either turning right onto Gnangara Road to link up with Beechboro Road or Alexander Drive, or head east to West Swan Road. Either would likely make traffic snarls worse.”

West Swan MLA Rita Saffioti agreed. She said the Barnett Government’s plan to build the northern section of the bypass first would bring more traffic, including trucks, into the Swan Valley and the roads around Ellenbrook.

Inglewood man missing

Fri, 17 May 2013 00:00:00 +0800

POLICE are asking for public assistance to find a 46-year-old Inglewood man who has been missing since Friday, May 10.Andrew Watson (46) was last seen at the Rocket Room in Northbirdge at about 11.55pm.

He is described as about 170cm tall, olive skinned, of medium build with brown, greying hair and green eyes.

He was last seen wearing a dark beanie with grey stripes, a charcoal/black jumper, light brown jacket and denim jeans.

Police are also interested in any information about Mr Watson's car, a 1997 silver Honda CRV, registration number 1ACC834.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

Halls Head man faces murder charges

Fri, 17 May 2013 00:00:00 +0800

A 31-year-old Halls Head man charged with the murder of Ilario Maiolo (46) in Halls Head on Monday appeared in Perth Magistrates Court yesterday.Daniel Luke Zwerus (31) was remanded in custody until May 29.

A man walking along the dog beach near Calypso Road on Monday at 11.30am notified police about a body in the water.

Local police and Peel Water Police attended and found a deceased male in the water. The body was recovered and taken to the Peel Water Police base.

Mr Maiolo lived with his family on Calypso Road. As well as Mr Maiolo's home, houses on Oaklands Avenue, Kingfisher Drive and Glencoe Parade were cordoned off as part of the investigation.

Police are calling for the public's help as they piece together what happened.

They would like to hear from anyone who saw a man with a bike and a large dark-coloured dog in the vicinity of the dog beach and Mandurah Country Club Golf Course between 7.30am and 9.30am on May 13.

The man was tall and had fair skin.

Anyone with information should call Crime Stoppers.

City Link project closes Perth train station this weekend

Fri, 17 May 2013 00:00:00 +0800

COMMUTERS using the Midland, Armadale, Thornlie and Fremantle lines have been warned Perth train station will be closed this weekend to facilitate further work on the Perth City Link project.Trains will be impacted from 10.30pm today until the last service on Sunday, May 19.

Services will resume as normal on Monday, May 20.

The Mandurah and Joondalup lines will not be impacted.

Midland Line trains will run between Midland and Claisebrook, with replacement buses linking Claisebrook and Perth.

Armadale Line trains will run an all-stops pattern from Claisebrook to Armadale and replacement buses from Claisebrook to Perth.

Thornlie Line will close completely, with replacement buses between Cannington and Thornlie.

Fremantle Line trains will arrive and depart from Perth Underground on an altered timetable.

Commuters are not allowed to take surfboards and bicylces on Transperth buses.

For information call the InfoLine on 13 62 13 or visit the Transperth website, http://www.transperth.wa.gov.au/

Beach drop zone likely

Fri, 17 May 2013 00:00:00 +0800

A CONTENTIOUS plan to land skydivers on Rockingham Beach as part of a unique extreme sports tourism proposal could finally be approved by the City of Rockingham this month.Under the plan, Wollongong-based Skydive the Beach wants to land about two skydivers every hour on the sand between Victoria Street and Governor Road, from 9am to 3pm, seven days a week, except on public holidays.

The City’s community development committee has passed a six-month permit with 14 conditions to go before a council meeting on Tuesday, May 28.

However, it drew criticism from some residents, who questioned the safety of the plan and its effect on beach-goers.

The City received 19 responses supporting the plan and 27 objections during the public submission period in January.

Skydive the Beach director Anthony Boucaut told the committee the business would be a multi-million-dollar boost to the region’s economy and provide local jobs.

The company operates several similar tandem skydive operations around Australia.

“It will stimulate the local economy, increase overnight stays, increase domestic and international tourist visits, boost local employment, and diversify tourism offerings in Rockingham,” he said.

Pauline Boothey, who walks her dog along the foreshore, said the proposal was not appropriate for the beach, given the number of seniors who use it, and gusty wind conditions.

“It is a popular beach area and the plan is to introduce an extreme sport into a passive recreation area,” she said.

“I know that elderly people can be intimidated by these kinds of sports and the beach is extremely important to them… it will (also) make more aircraft noise.”

Mr Boucaut said skydivers would land about once every hour, depending on bookings, but would need only a three-to-five-minute window to land on a 10m by 10m patch of beach cordoned off with witches hats.

“It will not affect public space for an ongoing time during the day; once they land, we can pack up and if people are there already, we can set up in a different spot,” he said.

Mr Boucaut said planes would leave from either Serpentine airfield or Jandakot airport, climb over the ocean and be too high for most people to hear.

Day of reflection

Fri, 17 May 2013 00:00:00 +0800

FOR Parmelia Noongar elder Dorothy Getta, the landmark apology to Australia’s indigenous community by then-prime minister Kevin Rudd in 2008 was more than just lip service.

It was a sign of healing.

But while steps have been taken towards reconciliation and mutual respect, there’s a long road ahead to combat Aboriginal disadvantage in Kwinana.

Ms Getta (69) was taken from her family aged six and placed in a mission home in Kellerberrin.

Her parents worked nearby, clearing land and shearing for local landowners, but while she could see her mother from the mission, the little girl was only able to visit her on Sundays.

After 12 months, the mission broke up, her family moved on and Ms Getta went with them.

She was separated from her family for the better part of one year – a year stolen.

Others she knows were taken for good.

“In my family, three cousins on mum’s side were taken from their parents and put in the New Norcia mission,” she said.

“On my dad’s side, a lot of cousins were sent there.

“I’ve heard bad stories they weren’t getting fed properly.”

Though the horror of the Stolen Generations is fading over time, the loss of culture is having an impact on the next generation.

“We lost our culture when they took us away, we weren’t able to speak our own language, to be blackfellas,” she said.

Ms Getta said Sorry Day was an appropriate time to reflect on issues still facing indigenous people in Kwinana, such as housing shortages, a need for educational funding, a ‘fair go’ for Aboriginal staff by employers and diversionary programs.

Ms Getta said more activities for indigenous youth, including sports and implementing the famed Noongar Patrol in the area, would help get local young people on the right track.

“I don’t think we get a fair go in life, we’ve had to battle for a lot of years now,” she said. “We’re not even in the constitution.... what are we?”

Budget: win some, lose some

Fri, 17 May 2013 00:00:00 +0800

FUNDING to fix dangerous black spots and local roads is one of the major highlights of the Federal Budget for voters in Brand.

Brand MHR Gary Gray announced on Wednesday that $120,000 would be spent upgrading the intersection of Safety Bay Road and Baldivis Road in Baldivis and Mandurah Road and Stakehill Road in Karnup under the Black Spot Program.

Mr Gray said the City of Rockingham would receive $331,112 in 2013/14 under the Roads to Recovery Program while the City of Kwinana would receive $277,178 to maintain and upgrade local roads.

He said local students would benefit from the Creative Young Stars program to encourage and recognise young people’s involvement in creative, cultural, academic and community events.

Liberal candidate Donna Gordin said the budget did nothing to help local families deal with cost of living pressures, economic uncertainty and poor services.

Mr Gray said 3,752 people in Brand could be eligible for the Disability Care Australia scheme.

He said 10,450 local families would receive the SchoolKids Bonus of $410 per primary school child and $820 per high school student paid in two instalments each year.

However, the baby bonus will drop from $5,000 to $2,000 for the birth of the first child, from $3,000 to $1,000 for subsequent children and only parents earning under $101,000 will be eligible.

From March next year, the bonus will form part of Family Tax Benefit A payments.

Opposition leader Tony Abbott was due to make his budget response last night.

What they said: Brand MHR Gary Gray (Labor):

“The budget is a big win for the local area with huge investments in our classroom and our kids to give them the best possible start in life. Make no mistake, this is a government absolutely determined to support jobs and economic growth.”

Liberal candidate Donna Gordin:

“At a time when Australians are desperately seeking stable and competent economic management, the budget just delivers more chaos, debt and spin.”

The Greens WA Senator Scott Ludlam:

“It is appalling to see nothing in the budget to address the housing affordability crisis in WA.”

Worthy of a career move

Fri, 17 May 2013 00:00:00 +0800

HE has seen more than 500 students graduate from Baldivis Primary School and after 10 years, principal John Worthy will close the door on what he has described as a “decade of fulfilment”.

Mr Worthy will farewell his much-loved Baldivis community to take up the head role at Beaconsfield Primary School, in Fremantle at the end of term.

After a decade in the job, Mr Worthy said he has watched Baldivis transform from a small rural school into a vibrant suburban establishment.

He said last year marked a special moment in his career, watching a group of students he first met when they were in kindergarten graduate as Year 7s.

Every morning, Mr Worthy travels to work from Joondanna in Perth and he recently realised he had travelled more than 188,000 kilometres over the past 10 years – equivalent to five trips around Australia.

Mr Worthy said he wanted to seek a new challenge but was leaving Baldivis with a heavy heart.

“My decision to leave Baldivis was not an easy one, but I felt that after 10 years it was time to allow a really great school the opportunity to grow and prosper under new leadership,” he said. “This school is extremely unique and it has been wonderful to see changes take place including new projects and facilities for students.

“It is with great sadness that I leave this school but I think it’s time for me, and the students and staff members have given me memories I’ll always remember.”

Since announcing his departure, Mr Worthy said he had been overwhelmed with letters and emails of support.

Racing towards a healthy future

Fri, 17 May 2013 00:00:00 +0800

HILLMAN Primary School is one of 300 junior schools from around the country taking part in a nationwide campaign that aims to spread the healthy living message to children.

Run Around Australia participants accumulate points for their school when they make healthy choices when grocery shopping at participating shopping centres.

The program started on April 15 and runs until May 26.

Statistics indicate 85 per cent of Australian children don’t get enough exercise, 76 per cent don’t eat enough vegetables, 59 per cent don’t eat enough fruit and 20 to 25 per cent are overweight or obese.

Rockingham City Shopping Centre is running the campaign locally.

At the end of campaign, it will offer cash prizes to the top three schools that have chalked up the most amount of points by shoppers. The money can be used to make the school’s canteens healthier, and improve the school’s sport and fitness facilities.

The progress of each of the participating schools will be tracked via an interactive map at www.|runaroundaustralia.com.au.

The more ‘kilometre’ points the schools receive, the further around Australia they will run.

Witnesses to Midvale crash sought

Thu, 16 May 2013 00:00:00 +0800

Major Crash investigators are seeking witnesses to a fatal crash in Midvale on Tuesday, May 14.The 61-year-old victim was driving a silver Toyota Camry sedan north on Roe Highway near Morrison Road when it left the highway and hit a tree.

The woman was taken to hospital where she later died from her injuries.

Anyone who witnessed the crash or observed the vehicle prior to the crash is asked to call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

Fundraising yoga

Thu, 16 May 2013 00:00:00 +0800

A JOONDALUP gym is holding a fundraising yoga class on Saturday to support the Telethon Adventurers, a group dedicated to finding the cause and a cure for childhood cancer.The class will run from 10.45am to 12.15pm for a gold coin donation from members and $5 from non-members.

Family mateship without boundaries

Thu, 16 May 2013 00:00:00 +0800

IT is a “simple story” of how the kindness of strangers can lead to the strongest of friendships.When Hillarys residents Chris and Liz Ducasse went to Germany for the 2006 soccer World Cup, they did not expect Australia, who had not competed in the World Cup for 32 years, to advance to the knockout rounds.

However, a win against Japan and a draw with Croatia meant Australia was able to move on to play Italy in the small town of Kaiserslautern.

Ferdi Rill said he knew there was not enough accommodation in his hometown for the game and he thought some people might need a place to stay.

“We went to the tourist information and said we would take some people,” Mr Rill said.

Having first visited Australia in 1992 and finding Australians to be lovely, friendly and looking to help anyone who needed it, Mr Rill, his wife Babsi and children Hannah and Samuel welcomed five Australians into their small home.

“We were two of the lucky ones. We were told we could camp in the park but we had no camping gear so we were very happy,” Mrs Ducasse said.

The families have kept in contact ever since, sending letters, emails and Christmas and Easter presents.

They also caught up again when the Ducasse's went back to Europe in 2011.

“They greeted us again with tremendous warmth and hospitality and surprised us with a front page article in their local paper, a personalised walking tour of their city and we even got to meet their mayor,” Mrs Ducasse said.

Mrs Ducasse said they had been waiting to return the favour to the Rills when they finally booked to come back to Australia on March 23.

The Rills have now been in WA for the past few weeks, staying with the Ducasse family and travelling the south-west together.

“It's a simple story of friendship,” Mrs Ducasse said.

“Things like that make the world a safer place - to know you have friendships around the world,” Mrs Rill added.

“They are good friends, we match, we fit together.”

Coles spending spree up for grabs

Thu, 16 May 2013 00:00:00 +0800

ONLY a few days remain for readers to tell us what you like about their local newspaper and go into a draw to win up to $2500 to spend on Coles groceries.The 2013 Local Reader Survey asks a variety of questions about your reading habits, which stories matter most to you, how useful you find the advertisements and where you like to shop.

Along with the major prize, second prize in the participant draw receives a $1000 voucher and there are 26 further vouchers worth $250 to spend at Coles.

Simply complete the Local Reader Survey online at communitysurvey.com.au and before Monday, May 27 to enter the draw.

Vote for local govt: Mayor

Thu, 16 May 2013 00:00:00 +0800

NORTHERN suburbs residents are being urged to vote ‘yes’ for local government in this September’s referendum.

Wanneroo Mayor Tracey Roberts said a ‘yes’ vote would ensure local government was recognised in the Australian Constitution.

“Constitutional recognition means the Commonwealth Government can fund local governments direct and this is crucial to the future of many infrastructure projects,” she said.

“The role of local government has evolved considerably in recent decades, and we now do a lot more than the traditional roads, rates and rubbish.

“We are putting significant focus on infrastructure, community facilities, programs, parks and recreation and, of course, employment.”

She said Commonwealth Government funding was critical for many of these services.

“The Federal Government has already assisted with Ocean Reef Road, Hepburn Avenue, the GP Superclinic now being built in Wanneroo Town Centre, in addition to healthy living programs for our residents.”

WA Local Government Association president and Joondalup Mayor Troy Pickard said it was critical the public recognised the importance of the referendum.

“A referendum about constitutional recognition could easily be glossed over by the public as having little relevance to them but nothing could be further from the truth,” he said.

“What this referendum means for local communities is that they will at last have certainty for the funding of a range of Commonwealth funded projects that could otherwise be under threat.”

The referendum will be held in conjunction with the Federal Election on September 14.

In the pink for support

Thu, 16 May 2013 00:00:00 +0800

PINK was the colour of the day last Friday when the students and teachers of Warwick’s Hawker Park Primary School held their fifth annual sports day for breast cancer awareness.

The day included a cupcake sale, sausage sizzle and other fundraising activities with all money going to Breast Cancer Network Australia, while the students participated in a variety of round robin sports.

The school also hosted guests from the West Coast Fever, West Coast Eagles, North Coast Raiders, Western Force, Perth Glory and Subiaco Football Club.

Kingsley MLA Andrea Mitchell congratulated Hawker Park Primary School on the initiative.

“It is fantastic to see the children being active whilst also recognising such an important cause”, she said.

City now slicker

Thu, 16 May 2013 00:00:00 +0800

THE City of Joondalup has taken to social media to connect with the community.

It officially launched its Facebook page this week in the presence of Wanneroo Times co-founders Bill and Bernice Marwick.

Mayor Troy Pickard said communities now demanded quicker interaction, communication and engagement with their local government.

“Using Facebook, Twitter and YouTube, the City wants genuine and meaningful feedback and discussion with its community on issues important to them,” he said.

“There has already been an impressive response from members of our community who have taken the time to post questions, provide feedback and share City information with their own social networks.

“The communication dynamic between the tiers of government and its |citizens has changed forever; our communities want instant information and interaction, and to be part of the conversation.”

The City’s presence on |social media follows the|recent launch of its free wi-fi service in the Joondalup City Centre.

The City’s Facebook, Twitter and YouTube pages share photos, city news, event updates, videos, public notices, employment vacancies and weekly features.

Residents can search for the City of Joondalup on each medium to have their say.

Hidden talents of guide dog

Thu, 16 May 2013 00:00:00 +0800

ROLLING around on the floor and begging for belly rubs, Hillsy the guide dog seems just like any other loving pet.

But as soon as her new owner James House, from Sorrento, calls her over and attaches the signature eye-catching guide dog vest, Hillsy becomes a working dog guiding her master through the darkness.

It’s an exciting time for Hillsy.

She was reunited recently with her raiser, Belmont City College teacher Michele O’Neill, who had not seen her in months.

Hillsy returned to the school where she spent time as a puppy.

The faithful hound was part of Ms O’Neill’s upper school science classes for two years, where she became a special member of the school’s community.

Ms O’Neill said Hillsy’s presence in the classroom had a “profound” effect on student behaviour and interacting with her was a great incentive for students to complete work.

“I never expected the dogs to be a behaviour regulating tool,” she said.

“You don’t often get a 16-year-old asking to sit in a play pen with a puppy.”

For Mr House, who has 8 per cent central vision, Hillsy has given him independence and freedom.

“Hillsy has brought daily routine and flexibility into my life by making it possible for me to go walking or use public transport at any time,” Mr House said.

“I recently went out in the afternoon when it was pitch black.

“Prior to (having) her, I wouldn’t do that because I can’t judge how far away a car is or (when to) cross the road. When you have a guide dog, people light up around you and they ask you questions.”

“Thanks to Hillsy, I was recently able to help Dreamfit Foundation with their display and fundraising at Hillarys Boat Harbour during the Boat Dive and Fishing Show.

“All guide dogs are amazing, but there is something special about Hillsy.”

Open day promises fun

Thu, 16 May 2013 00:00:00 +0800

HILLARYS Kindergarten is having a free open day for parents and children on May 25.

The will have a bouncy castle, and other children’s activities as well as refreshments.

Kindergarten teacher Alison Ford said there were places for children for 2014.

“So many people prefer this as a perfect first small step in their child’s educational journey before they hit the big school,” she said.

“We offer a wonderful year of transition from home to the more formal school environment, with a balanced curriculum of structured learning and fun |activities.”

Champion Lakes water body closed

Wed, 15 May 2013 00:00:00 +0800

THE water body of Champion Lakes, in the City of Armadale, was closed to all activity last week after water testing by manager VenuesWest revealed unsafe levels of bacteria.Signs at the water body last week did not say which bacteria had been detected, and it remained closed this week.

Rowing WA chief executive Pierre Pougnault said the first regatta would be held in a couple of weeks but he had not been told about the closure.

Champion Lakes Boating Club president Glenn Baker said the closure disrupted rowers preparing for their regatta season, and the rowing programs of schools in Kelmscott and Southern River.

Mr Baker called for filtration systems to be improved to minimise the frequency of closures.

“I’ve not been informed by either the previous managers or VenuesWest as to what those health risks actually are,” he said.

Joe Kalajzich, head of the Kelmscott Senior High School’s rowing program, said he fully supported the rigorous water testing, and students would continue to train on rowing machines while the water body remained closed.

When Comment News called the Champion Lakes Regatta Centre directly last Thursday, the newspaper was told it had been closed since last Monday.

For the Pitham family, of Camillo, the closure means they prefer to keep their 12-year-old daughter, who has cystic fibrosis, away from the lake where they would normally ride their bikes.

Sherrii Pitham last week told Comment News a sign posted during a prior closure said pseudomonas had been detected.

Pseudomonas is an airborne bacterium that normally people would just breathe out, but Ms Pitham said for people like her daughter, it could lead to a life-threatening infection.

VenuesWest was unable to respond to questions from Comment News by yesterday’s deadline, despite questions being put to the organisation last Thursday.

Police rule Joondalup car incident an 'accident'

Wed, 15 May 2013 00:00:00 +0800

POLICE will not be charging a driver who reversed a car onto the bonnet of another vehicle at ECU Joondalup last Friday.District traffic police boss Ian Knight said the student (20) was not drink driving and had a valid licence.

This offered no reason for police to investigate further, with the carpark crash ruled a clear-cut accident.

Witness Jaimie Perry, an ECU staff member, said the driver had his right leg out the door while controlling the pedals with his left foot.

“Maybe he couldn’t see properly so he had his head right out of the door,” he told a news website.

“He’s accidentally floored it and just catapulted onto the other car.

“The curb is sloped and I think he just hit it at pace and got airborne.”

The driver suffered a leg injury and was taken to Joondalup Health Campus.

An ECU staff member and a student provided first aid to the driver until an ambulance arrived.

ECU acting Vice Chancellor Arshad Omari wished the man “a full and speedy recovery”.

“As soon as we learned of the incident, ECU’s Security Operations immediately contacted emergency services,” he said.

“There were some minor disruptions in the car park as traffic staff cordoned off the area to remove the vehicles involved in the incident.”