Collie River Valley Bulletin, April 6, 2023

BULLETIN

COLLIE RIVER VALLEY Published by LOCALS for LOCALS

No transparency EDITION No. 127

$2.50

Thursday, April 6, 2023

More Minningup Pool consultation demanded

SWINGING INTO EASTER

AROUND 40 Collie residents attended a community gathering on Sunday to have their say about the redevelopment of Minningup Pool. The gathering took place as planning presses ahead for the development of short-term eco-tourist accommodation at Minningup. The Shire of Collie has memorandums of understanding with two proponents, and two lots have been earmarked for development of the accommodation. However, attendees at the gathering expressed anger over a lack of public consultation and planning transparency. Organiser Rick Silk said many in the community feel like they are not being listened to. He said he’d like to see a 12-month hold put on the development, enabling greater community consultation. “People aren’t happy with the way they’ve gone about pushing through to the next stage,” Mr Silk said.

Constable Cass Chapman gives Constable Bunny a helping push before they head off to distribute easter eggs across town. See page 13.

“I’m hearing a lot of people feel that they weren’t informed by the shire. A lot of people I’ve spoken to have no idea what’s happening out here.” Mr Silk said the general feeling among Collie residents is that development should be kept to a minimum. “I believe that most people in Collie feel that Minningup should remain as a day-use-only venue,” he said. Mr Silk also questioned the value the development would ultimately provide Collie residents. “If it gets built here, the people who are going to benefit from that are the developers,” he said. Following the gathering, an online survey was launched to further gauge community sentiment. Plans are also underway to put together a petition asking the shire to put the development on hold, with an aim to secure 2,000 signatures. More on pages 4 and 5

World Parkinson's Day on April 11

New health mural unveiled at CRVMC

Greg Wheeler shares his Parkinson's journey, and Leanne Brockwell plans to shave her hair for the cause. Pages 2 and 7.

A NEW mural was painted at the back of Collie River Valley Medical Centre (CRVMC) this week, by artist Jerome Davenport. Page 3.

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2 COLLIE RIVER VALLEY BULLETIN, APRIL 6, 2023

Shaking the Parkinson’s stigma

AAAAAA What's on, When and Where Goods Shed markets Sunday, April 9, 8am to 1pm, Forrest Street, range of stalls. Collie Art Prize Collie Art Gallery, open 10am to 4pm, seven-days-a-week for duration of CAP exhibition. Entry $5. Collie Trail Fest Friday April 14, Saturday April 15, 8am to 5pm. Wide variety of trails to try. Bingo Collie Eagles football clubrooms, Thursdays, doors open 6.30pm, eyes down 7pm. Library activities Sing along story time, weekly, Mondays, 9am; Junior board game fortnightly Thursdays 3.30pm; Lego Club weekly Mondays, 3.30pm. Parkrun Soldiers’ Park every Saturday 8am, Walk or run at your own pace, fun and fitness is the focus. Coalfields Museum Open every day, 9am to 3pm. Children under 16 are free when accompanied by an adult. See how Collie people lived, worked and played. Riff Raff dancing Every Monday from 7pm at Collie PCYC. Beginners welcome, no partner necessary. Supper provided. Cost is $5 per person. JP signing centre Monday 10am to 12-noon; Thursday 2pm-3.30pm; Friday 10am to 12-noon at the courthouse. Op shops The Anglican Op Shop, Tuesday to Friday, from 9am to 3pm; Vinnies open Mondays to Fridays, 9am to 3pm; Jo’s Bazaar, Monday and Thursday, 9am to 12pm. Collie Child and Parent Centre Playgroup Mondays at 9.00am (for parents and carers with children birth to 5 years old); MyTime support group (for parents and carers with children with additional needs) Tuesdays February 7 from 12.30pm; Baby Business (for parents and carers with children birth to 2 years) Fridays at 9.00am. For more information call 9734 3364 or drop in at 6 Cable Street Collie. Send it in This column offers free publication of events for not for profit clubs and organisations, or for items of social news. Send copy to nola.crvbulletin@gmail. com or classies@crvbulletin.com. Deadline 5pm on Fridays.

EDITORIAL Martin Kovacs | 9734 1024 Journalist ADMINISTRATION

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GREG Wheeler knew something was wrong when he fell over, shaking uncontrollably, in his backyard. Mr Wheeler said he was fixing a sprinkler when he fell onto his side and could not get up. Not long after, in July 2019, he was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease. Parkinson’s is a brain disorder characterised by tremor, muscle rigidity and slow movement. Next Tuesday, April 11, is World Parkinson’s Day, which Mr Wheeler said will bring awareness to the disease. There are a lot of misunderstandings around those with Parkinson’s, and public perception needs to change, he said. “It’s a clinical diagnosis. There’s not actually anything wrong with the brain,” he said. “It’s a shortage of dopamine in the brain. It’s the perception that people have of those with Parkinson’s which is the worst thing. “A lot of people aren’t aware of what it actually is.” Mr Wheeler said he is mostly affected by the disease on his left side, and his tremor is worse when he tries to do heavy lifting. “Just because we shake, it doesn’t mean something is wrong with us,” he said. “Some days I shake a lot, some days I don’t. I’ve been on the same medication since July 2019 and it (the disease) has only progressed slightly. “It is slow moving - and I hope it stays that way.”

FIGHTING: Greg Wheeler was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease in July 2019. April 11 is World Parkinson’s Day and Mr Wheeler hopes the day will raise much needed awareness of the disease.

“The family had noticed I’d been shaking, but I’m stubborn and they didn’t want to approach me about it,” he said. “My dad used to shake a bit, but I don’t have any confirmed family history.” Mr Wheeler said he developed anxiety after his diagnosis. “There’s lots of information available, but my doctor told me to stop reading because it was making me anxious,” he said. “A lot of people lock themselves away when they are diagnosed, and that’s the wrong attitude - you should get out and do what you can. Get out and talk about it - don’t hide away. “When I told a friend about my diagnosis, he joked that at our next party I’d be the cocktail maker,” he laughed. Mr Wheeler said Parkinson’s hasn’t had a huge impact on his life. “I have a bit of difficulty doing up buttons, but there’s not a lot that I find difficult,” he said. “I used to help my brother train horses, but I’m worried I wouldn’t be strong enough to hold them so I don’t do that any more.” Mr Wheeler said he attends a monthly support group, on the third Tuesday of every month in the Collie Public Library undercroft. The next meeting will be on April 18 from 9.45am till 11am. All are welcome.

Mr Wheeler said he was shocked by his diagnosis, however, his family had noticed subtle changes.

Local woman Leanne Brockwell plans to shave her head to raise awareness. See page 7.

can come from the Federal Government,” Mr Murray said. With the State Government making funding available under a number of initiatives, Mr Murray said the council should also seize the opportunity to secure federal assistance. “Here’s an opportunity for Collie to go one further and get the Federal Government involved, as there’s only a few towns that are doing a transition program in Australia,” he said. Mr Murray said, based on the council’s

response, the apparent lack of action “is pretty disappointing”. “Opportunity only comes once and it’s here right now,” he said. “If we’re not on the front foot, it’ll go past and we’ll say we should have done more. “Whatever they ask for, whether it be a covering for a heated swimming pool, or a new road, or a new subdivision, or new businesses – it doesn’t matter what, if you’re not engaging with those people, they don’t even know you’re around.”

Council pressed to pursue federal funds THE COLLIE Shire Council is missing a trick by not proactively pursuing Federal Government funding, according to former Collie-Preston MLA Mick Murray. Mr Murray, who at last month’s council meeting asked whether a direct request for federal assistance had been made, said he “wasn’t happy with the response”. “I’m disappointed that the council hasn’t been proactive in chasing down federal ministers and federal members of parliament to see what other assistance

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Transitional housing concerns COLLIE RIVER VALLEY BULLETIN, APRIL 6, 2023 3

CONCERNED residents gathered at the Collie Family Centre last Thursday evening for a question and answer session about the development of transitional housing at 22 and 24 Wallsend Street. Accordwest, a not-for-profit community services provider, is proposing the construction of three three-bedroom, one-bathroom units on the amalgamated blocks. It states the housing will “provide a transitional home and safe space for people experiencing or at risk of homelessness”. However, residents fear the housing, intended to cater for local residents, will lead to further issues in the area and property prices dropping. Concerns were additionally raised about the potential burden placed on

local health services and police. Accordwest CEO Evan Nunn said the accommodation will be chiefly targeted at women and children who have been subject to domestic abuse and violence. It is intended occupants will be supported in the housing for up to six months. Responding to resident concerns, Mr Nunn said further resourcing could be sought to cater for issues unique to the area. Further community consultation is planned ahead of construction of the units. Mr Nunn said the development application will come through the council. Earthworks are slated to commence around August, with the homes to be completed in October next year.

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TALENT: The lead artist and director of Blank Walls, Jerome Davenport, with the newly painted mural at the back of Collie River Valley Medical Centre.

Health a mural theme A NEW mural was painted at the back of Collie River Valley Medical Centre (CRVMC) this week. Lead artist and director of Blank Walls, Jerome Davenport, said he worked with CRVMC for the last nine months to perfect the mural plan. “We worked on a brief to encapsulate the community’s health, care and looking after each other,” he said. “This is important after COVID and it is a chance to appreciate the staff in these businesses, and the community.” Mr Davenport also painted the numbat mural at the back of Central Park’s music shell, which was jointly funded by CRVMC and Festiv Arty.

COMPLETE: The finished mural.

CRVMC manager Tanya Wutchak said the new project was initially planned for 2021, but was postponed due to the centre’s renovations. “The mural was very much anticipated, and it has been really exciting to see it going up,” she said. “We wanted a mural that had a medical theme through it, that had the idea of community, caring and the different aspects of life, such as aged care and nurses, who are so central to what we do.” Mrs Wutchak said it was important that the mural and renovations were completed in time for CRVMC’s 25th anniversary in June.

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4 COLLIE RIVER VALLEY BULLETIN, APRIL 6, 2023

WHAT’S

COOKING IN COLLIE

DRIVE-THROUGH ONLY Renovations in progress

Wednesday to Monday 7am- 5pm Cooee • Burgers • Waaes

Bill says money better spent elsewhere NOT HERE: Bill and Helen Loneskie at Sunday’s community meeting.

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COLLIE resident Bill Loneskie echoed the sentiments of many in attendance at Sunday’s community meeting in saying development at Minningup Pool should be kept to a minimum. Mr Loneskie pointed to his own experience growing up in the Pilbara, which he said has changed dramatically over the years and is now “locked up” and “not the same”. He said he feared Minningup would follow a similar path if the development is to proceed. “There’s other places they could spend money if they were really dinkum about tourism,” Mr Loneskie said. Mr Loneskie noted there are already other similar areas in the Collie region dedicated to tourism, and said money would be better spent improving an area such as Black Diamond Lake. He also pointed to the need to better police vandalism at Minningup, and said efforts should be made to reduce littering. “This is for Collie people,” Mr Loneskie said. “It’s for us. Do it up a little bit, but leave it.”

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COLLIE Shire Council’s corporate business plan includes an intention to pursue funding to implement the Minningup Pool day use master plan this year. The completion of statutory approvals is part of the action plan for this year. Council intends to seek funding from the State and Federal Government and other sources in order to develop facilities in the day use area.

COLLIE RIVER VALLEY BULLETIN, APRIL 6, 2023 5

‘Loved to death’ FFFFFFFF FORMER Collie-Preston MLA Mick Murray says a key issue with Minningup Pool is “it’s been loved to death”. The proposed development of ecotourism accommodation has sparked heated community debate amid criticism it is not in the public’s interest. A Facebook group dedicated to the issue has attracted over 800 members since being created a little over two weeks ago. Mr Murray, who as the member for Collie-Preston helped secure funding for the original planning project, said Minningup has suffered wear and tear from unregulated use. “There’s been a lot of not intentional damage, but damage where people are

pushing new tracks into the river,” he said. “There has to be some action taken about the damage that’s been done along both sides of the river, where people are pushing in with their 4WDs and camping.” Mr Murray stressed the importance of getting the balance right, with certain development ideas “never tenable”. “They should go back to basics,” he said. “The idea of a campground at the old hockey grounds is certainly something that I would support. “But I’m a bit wary of over-the-top development in what is a pretty special place for Collie people.”

Council defends consultation process

THE COLLIE Shire Council has defended the Minningup Pool development community consultation process, with Shire President Sarah Stanley stating there has been regular consultation since planning commenced in 2019. Cr Stanley said the shire has held community meetings and provided updates via its website, while there has also been a display in the library. “This certainly isn’t the first time that the community has known about this,” Cr Stanley said. “There’s been a lot of consultation.” Cr Stanley said the shire is aware of the community meeting held on Sunday

and is assessing how best to progress moving forward. “We recognise that Minningup Pool is extraordinarily significant, both to our Traditional Owners and also our broader community,” she said. “There’s never, ever been any intent to close it off to use, or even to develop it to the point where you ruin the beauty that it is.” Cr Stanley said with the development now subject to another study, consultation will be ongoing. “That will necessarily involve some further community consultation,” she said. “So, it’s by no means a done deal.”

FFFFFFFF

Our questions, your answers.

Leave it alone say locals COLLIE locals prefer minimal or no development at Minningup Pool, responses to a Collie River Valley Bulletin Facebook post have revealed. Feedback to the question “What would you like to see happen at Minningup Pool?” was mostly uniform in a desire to see development kept to a minimum. Many respondents simply said Minningup Pool should be left as is, while others highlighted the potential for minor upgrades. Other respondents expressed frustration over a lack of public consultation and disregard for community opinions.

Here’s what locals are saying. Steve Cashmore: Leave it as it is for the locals. Melody Jaarola: What would be awesome to see is a bike/footpath all the way to the bridge. The kids ride that way in summer and there has been some close calls. Tana Marie: Minor upgrades only!! A couple of toilet blocks, maybe some

BBQs. No bins!!! (encourage people to take away what they bring in). Fix the retaining walls. The locals absolutely need one place that is for them. There's so many other tourist spots, Minni doesn't need to be one too. Leanne Scott: Better toilets, minor upgrades only – leave it mostly as it is. This place is one of the best parts of living here. No camping, no eco-chalets, no blocking off Sandy Beach to vehicles! Develop the other ones for tourists, leave this untouched for local use. Clint Riley: It’s all good and well to leave it for the locals, as long as the locals start looking after it. Every time I run out that way I end up picking up heaps of rubbish. Paula Giffen: Leave Minni as it is, it's the one thing that hasn't changed at all. We're country people, we're ok with sitting on a muddy river bank. It's a special place and once the government get their hands on it, it's all over.

Long doctor wait times 6 COLLIE RIVER VALLEY BULLETIN, APRIL 6, 2023

A SHORTAGE of local doctors is leaving some patients waiting up to 11 weeks to get an appointment. Wait times at Collie’s biggest surgery have skyrocketed, with wait times to see

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one of the two female doctors the longest. According to the Collie River Valley Medical Centre (CRVMC) website earlier this week, one female doctor did not have availability for eight weeks, and the other had no bookings available for 11 weeks - until June. It would take between four and seven weeks to see a male doctor at the practice. CRVMC owner Dr Peter Wutchak said the practice has been running three doctors short. “We are mindful of the excessive wait times,” he said. “We normally have a number of doctors

in training, but one left at the start of the year and we haven't been able to replace him.” Another doctor had also left. “We feel we need 10 doctors and we only have seven,” he said. Dr Wutchak said the doctors also do hospital coverage and have other commitments, such as anaesthesia and “oncall” duties. The practice is unique in that there is always one “on-call” doctor fully available for walk-in appointments. Dr Wutchak said he understood the frustration with long wait times to see female doctors.

“Marelene and Emma are very popular,” he said. “They are also both involved at the medical school, so that’s one day a week where they can't do appointments.” Dr Wutchak said the practice has just recruited another doctor which will help ease the wait times and another parttime doctor will start later in the year. “We are still actively looking for doctors, but it’s hard,” he said. He said Australian-trained doctors have a tendency to not want to go inland to rural places, such as Collie, and recruiting graduate doctors presented challenges.

Final Queen Scout’s milestone QUEEN’S Scout Award recipient Dylan Cartledge’s advice to kids thinking about joining a local scout group is to “get involved and get amongst it”. Mr Cartledge and four other Collie scouts attended the Scouts WA annual youth awards held at the Perth Concert Hall in February. The Queen’s Scout Award is one of the most highly regarded awards in scouting. It is currently known as the Venturer Scout Peak Award ahead of royal patronage being determined following the death of Queen Elizabeth II. However, as a large group of Venturer scouts achieved the award before the Queen’s passing, they are considered Queen's scouts. Mr Cartledge described the award, which required completion of a range of components, including an “adventurous journey” undertaken over the course of four days, as a milestone in his life. “It showed my dedication to the scouting movement and my dedication to the

AWARD WINNERS: Queen’s Scouts Samuel Shepherd, Lachlan Sloan, Dylan Cartledge, venturer leader Jenelle Stone, Jarrad Sloan and Abigail Jones. tasks at hand,” said Mr Cartledge, who has also achieved peak awards in both cubs and scouts. While Mr Cartledge is no longer actively involved with scouting, he said it had provided strong ben-

efits over his 10 years of participation. “Scouting serves as a way to learn, explore and even challenge your fears,” he said. “It opens pathways to lifelong friendships and knowledge.”

Council looks ahead:

Plan to guide future budgets A PLAN to guide Collie Shire Council’s operations until 2026 was approved at its March meeting. The council’s corporate business plan aligns with the recently adopted strategic community plan, which defined key objectives of the community, economy, built environment, natural environment and council’s organisation. It will guide the council's budget allocations in the next four financial years. The plan includes 56 actions, with 48 to begin this year. Some are expected to be completed within one or two years, while others will take up to four years or longer. Key elements are: • Community recreation facilities strategy; • Ensure appropriate industrial land is available; • Integrate the use of pyrolysis waste technology; • Plan to improve the health of the Collie River; • Develop a long-term financial plan. The community recreation facilities strategy involves a survey of facilities and liaison with user groups on facility sharing and co-location opportunities. The pyrolysis waste technology is expected to significantly reduce the amount of waste going to landfill. Improving the health of the Collie River will appease locals and meet the ex-

pectations of visitors. Financial planning will underpin all of the elements in the business plan. Other plans include working with sporting and community groups to promote volunteering and participation, and in so doing improve how the council communicates with the community. The expansion of the light industrial area and the progress of the Coolangatta Structure Plan will also receive attention this year. Registration of Collie as a trail town and working with the Coalfields Museum on sourcing new premises will fall within the realm of promoting tourism in the town. A Williams Road Bushfire Brigade centre and associated fire trucks is proposed with an application for Department of Fire and Emergency Services funding, with building envisaged for 2024-25. Initiatives to improve parking in town centre locations are scheduled for 202324, as well as evaluation of taxi and special needs parking, or pick-up/set-down areas within the town. Allied to improving the health of the river are plans to seek funding to remove weeds and pests on shire reserves. The completion of statutory approvals to enable implementation of the Minningup Pool day-use master plan and seeking funding to implement the plan are set for 2023-24.

COLLIE RIVER VALLEY BULLETIN, APRIL 6, 2023 7

Light at end of sinkhole tunnel THERE is light at the end of the sinkhole tunnel for Collie Burn resident Pia Ramsing after an inspection of the Bacon Street area on Monday by Main Roads WA and Department of Mines, Industry Regulation and Safety personnel. For Ms Ramsing it is the first time she has been able to feel positive about her future since finding the sinkhole in August, 2022, three days after she moved to her property. “It has been a struggle, but at last there seems to be some movement,” she said. Ms Ramsing said a technical assessment is to be made of the road and her adjoining property in a month’s time.

“There were two guys from the Main Roads, two from the Mines Department in Perth, and Scott Geere from the shire,” she said. “They were all very good, and they said they will come and do a survey on the road and my block to see how deep the sinkhole is, and if there are any other places on the block which are likely to sink. “There is a dent in another part of the block, I think maybe where the tunnel ends, so they will look at that. “They looked around in the bush opposite my block as there’s a few holes in there.

“They have to put a plan in place to do the survey in about a month’s time.” The work will need to be costed, then decisions will have to be made about who will pay for the survey and any necessary works. Ms Ramsing has been told she must put in a driveway to access her property from Bacon Street, but said she cannot use it because of the possible risk. “I haven’t been using Bacon Street, I have been bringing my truck in from the back of my property, near the river,” she said. “I am told that is a reserve, so I can’t use it, I have to put in a drive off Bacon

Leanne’s shave for the cause MORE support is needed in the south west for people with Parkinson’s disease, according to local woman Leanne Brockwell. There are only two care nurses in the region for Parkinson’s sufferers, and patients are being isolated after their diagnosis. Mrs Brockwell hopes that by shaving her head, in recognition of World Parkinson’s Day, she might raise enough money to employ another nurse. Mrs Brockwell has a family member and friend who suffer from Parkinson’s. “They have lived amazing lives,” she said. “But one received all the care needed, and the other was given a diagnosis with no follow up.” Mrs Brockwell said there are many symptoms of Parkinson’s disease. “As an outsider looking in, it is complex,” she said. “They lock up and they can’t move. Some sway like they’re in the breeze - sometimes people even mistake them as being drunk. “They get to the stage where they can’t swallow, and a lot have tummy problems. “It is more than just a shaking disease. I am here because if I can make a little

they were worried about locking up in the doorway and not being able to move.” Ten years ago, Mrs Brockwell shaved her head for cancer awareness. “I only see it as hair - it grows back,” she said. “It’s about making a difference and it is about awareness. “As soon as I say why I’ve shaved my head, you see the light switch go on. “Everyone can make a difference. You don’t have to be a millionaire. You can donate anything, but you can’t get anything if you’re five cents short. “Put your hand up to help and, if you’ve got a friend with Parkinson’s, go and talk to him or her. They are still the same person. GOOD CAUSE: Leanne Brockwell plans “Take a meal and sit with them, have a to shave her head to raise awareness for cup of tea. We can make a big difference.” Parkinson’s disease. Mrs Brockwell will shave her head on bit of a difference, we might be able to May 16. get another nurse for the south west.” Mrs Brockwell said she has seen firsthand how a Parkinson’s diagnosis changes people. “Some people withdraw. They think they are being judged,” she said. “I know someone with Parkinson’s who said they wouldn’t go shopping because

THE COLLIE Bowling Club is looking in mint condition following the recent acquisition of a ride-on mower, made possible by a $4,300 donation from Premier Coal. With the existing mower having been in desperate need of replacing, the groundskeeper will no doubt be thankful for the time and energy saved in keeping the greens well groomed. Club president Valdis Brojanowski said the greens get plenty of traffic, with the club having over 90 members, while there is also a growing interest in barefoot bowls parties. “Many hours go into maintaining the bowling club and we recognised the need

to trade in our existing mower,” Mr Brojanowski said. “We are thankful to Premier Coal for their donation to purchase the new mowing equipment. “Bowling is a great sport. It gets people outdoors, socialising and having fun. We are hopeful that by looking after our grounds, we can encourage more members and visitors to the club.” The donation was part of the Premier Coal Community Support Program, funded by Yancoal.

Bulletin Easter publishing

THE Collie River Valley Bulletin will be published on Thursday next week despite the four-day Easter long weekend break. Our office will be closed tomorrow (Friday) and Monday, but our normal deadlines for contributed copy and classified advertising will still apply. Copy can be sent to editorial@crvbulletin.com, while classifieds can be sent to classies@crvbulletin.com

E L T T . I L R O O D E U BL

Bowling club looking tip top

RIDE-ON: Collie Bowling Club’s Robert Ferris enjoying his new mower.

Street. I am surprised the school bus is still using Bacon Street, there’s a few kids on the route. “There is another route they could use off the main road, do their pick-up and then turn around and go back.” Ms Ramsing has been in communication with Consumer Protection about not being given information by the seller, the estate agency or the settlement agency that the property is over an abandoned mine, or that the shed there had been built without council approval.

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8 COLLIE RIVER VALLEY BULLETIN, APRIL 6, 2023 SEDDON on THURSDAY

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

Send your letters to editorial@crvbulletin.com

'Business killer' nonsense Social housing THOUGHT I had picked up a decades’ old newspaper when I saw the frontpage headline of last week’s Bulletin: “Business Killer!” Alas, serial anti-free-trading and special-interest campaigner Steere Street Deli owner Darcy Buckle was repeating the same rhetoric he espoused in 2014 after the first granting of extended trading hours for businesses in Collie. According to Mr Buckle then and now, Collie small businesses are doomed if entrepreneurs and consumers are allowed to enjoy the same shopping freedoms as their city cousins. Mr Buckle’s special-interest arguments against free-market reforms are the same today as all special-interest arguments have always been and will always be no matter what the subject. When I came to Collie from Perth in 2008 as a shift worker, it absolutely amazed me that after noon on a Saturday until Monday downtown Collie was pretty much a ghost town, in spite of having two competing supermarkets, and we working people, tourists, visitors and the like were forced to travel to Bunbury to shop.

Today, in spite of some, including some so-called “business people”, the people of Collie and surrounding areas enjoy a town that is open seven days a week and at times conducive to the needs of consumers, and no matter if it’s a Saturday or a Sunday, downtown Collie is no longer a ghost town. It’s going on nine years since Mr Buckle first made his dire predictions about small businesses in Collie, but still it appears he has managed to survive and prosper in his business, to which we say well done and thank you, because it’s not easy for any business, big or small, to survive in the face of ever-increasing government-induced costs. I, for one, hope that the viability of both Coles and Woolworths in Collie can be maintained so that we can continue to enjoy the price and choice benefits of competition and other flow-ons, including employment of locals. Let local businesses trade when they want to and consumers shop local when they want to!

COLLIE Shire Council has confirmed it will continue to open the swimming pool at 6.30am on weekdays, with the exception of public holidays, for the 2023-24 season and beyond. Chief executive officer Stuart Devenish said there was no intention to change the time. He was answering a question on notice from Nicki Polding.

Ms Polding also asked whether the shire is considering outsourcing both the operation and management of the swimming pool for the 2023/24 season and beyond to an external pool management company. Mr Devenish replied that no determination, decision or even discussion had been held with regards to outsourcing management of the pool.

Don Scott Collie

Swimming pool hours confirmed

Power down after car crash Around 1000 properties suffered a power outage on Tuesday after a traffic incident on Deakin Street. Western Power has confirmed the

incident occurred after a car hit a power pole, resulting in a twohour outage. Power was down from 1:20pm through to 3:20pm.

changes lives

FOLLOWING recent commentary regarding social housing, I wanted to take the opportunity to outline why public housing is important in our community. As has been previously outlined by Housing Minister John Carey, the vast majority of public housing tenants will never even have a single complaint made against them. Social housing makes an immeasurable difference to some of the most vulnerable people in Western Australia, including here in Collie. I won’t name names, but many people who contribute to our way of life in Collie needed a hand along the way. Many people seek the safety net of social housing for a range of reasons and range from disability pensioners, single parents and low-income earners who have had their long term rentals sold by landlords. There are also those fleeing family and domestic violence. I know firsthand how welcoming and inclusive the Collie community is. We need to wrap our arms around people who need our support. There are also many legitimate reasons why people may seek a transfer on the public housing list into Collie, whether to be closer to family or to make a fresh start. As the Local MP and a Collie resident for 18 years, I wholeheartedly support social housing in our community and over the last few weeks we’ve seen new modular homes come in to town in a boost to our social housing supply. Last year, I worked with the minister to convert unused Government Regional Officer Housing (GROH) to public housing stocks. The McGowan Labor Government is doing everything it can to bolster the supply of social housing and homelessness measures across the state, investing a record $2.4 billion into social housing and homelessness.

WHEN I was a child, April Fool’s Day was the day kids tried to get into the classroom before the teacher. Once inside all the new pieces of chalk could be broken and then set up to look whole, all the blackboard dusters would be hidden, some wag would try to get something into all the inkwells on the desks so no-one could do any written work. Then everyone would walk around on high alert in the fear that someone would attach a notice on a victim’s back reading “Kick me” or “Punch me”. The cry of “April Fool” would ring out, but only until noon, as anyone who tried a trick after that time became an April Fool themselves. Playing pranks on April 1, as in last Saturday, is a long tradition, one which is hard to pin down to a particular event or time, although researchers have tried hard to find the origin. It seems it started a long time ago. One well-documented prank occurred on April 1, 1698, when several people were tricked into going to the Tower of London to “see the lions washed”. Tickets to the event were printed and distributed, and some people were fooled. The early pranks seem a lot like the tricks played on new employees and apprentices, like being sent on an errand to fetch a “left-handed hammer”, or a tin of “striped paint”. People would produce a sealed envelope or note and send the victim to deliver it to someone; when the recipient received it and opened it, it would read something like “send the fool further”, so they would reseal it and ask for it to be delivered to another person. With the advent of media and radio, the possibility of pranks on a large scale emerged. Perhaps the most famous occurred in 1957, when the BBC (a respected and trusted medium) broadcast a film on the Panorama current affairs series showing Swiss farmers picking freshly grown spaghetti, calling it the Swiss spaghetti harvest. The BBC was flooded with requests to buy a spaghetti plant. They had to declare the next day that it was a hoax. When I was organizing the Collie Kaleidoscope, in 2002, with a Scottish theme, I sent out a media release on April 1, saying a creature resembling the Loch Ness monster had been spotted in the waters of the Wellington Weir. I even threw in a bit about the creature mainly being seen by people on the way home from the pub. Imagine my surprise when I received a phone call from an ABC journalist based in Albany asking questions about the creature, who had seen it, how many times had it appeared, did this happen in the daytime or at night? “Did you see the date of the release?” I asked. “Yes,” came the reply. “Did that not mean anything to you?” I asked. “No,” replied the puzzled journalist in all innocence. Eye roll. Maybe the tradition which has existed for hundreds of years has died out, but no doubt there were still some caught out last Saturday.

COLLIE RIVER VALLEY BULLETIN, APRIL 6, 2023 9

CCCCCCCCC PPPPPPP People, places and contributions to Collie life

Joanne’s fostering rewards People: ALISON KIDMAN

FOSTERING children is not for everyone, according to Joanne Remeika, but the rewards can be “immense”. Joanne speaks from experience. She has been fostering children for more than a decade. “When my own children were nearing the end of their school years, I realised that I had the means to be able to foster children,” she explains. “It’s heartbreaking that some children live in such challenging circumstances. They all should be able to rely on a warm bed and a roof over their heads. “You don’t need any particular qualifications to be a foster parent,”she said. “By the time children are in need of foster care, they have probably had some fairly significant upheavals in their life and a carer who can simply provide them with time can make a huge difference. “It may seem like a small thing, but it could entirely change a young child’s life.” Joanne discussed the issue of fostering with her family. “Of course, my own children and family relationships would come first,” she said. “But they were all for it.” She then contacted the organisation Life Without Barriers, and she and her family embarked on a training program, spending time each week with a

psychologist as preparation to become foster carers. “Life Without Barriers mainly deals with older children,” Joanne said. “Our first placement was a 13-year-old boy. It is the nature of fostering that the children will often have complex issues. The best you can do as a foster family is to provide some safety and stability in a caring environment. “We had that first child for about 12 months, and it was quite difficult at times. “We had other children for shorter times. Often this was to provide respite for another foster family for a week or a weekend here and there. We eventually started working with the Department for Child Protection (DCP) as they deal more with younger children.” The department tries to keep siblings together, and over the last decade or so Joanne has fostered five children from the same family. “Three of them are still with me and the oldest is now in year 12. She will be the first of my foster children to graduate from high school and I am immensely proud of her.” Joanne is in something of a minority, being a general carer. “Family carers are more common these days,” she notes. “There are a lot of grandparents and extended family who take on fostering roles, so they usually already know the children they are taking on, whereas I don’t.”

Joanne and her son Rhys.

JJJ’’ JJJJJ Lumberjacks can keep accurate records because they understand logs. ■■■ When a ghost is offered a blind date does it say 'Woo who?..' ■■■ A commander walks into a bar and orders everyone around.

THE

Joanne said that when children enter a foster family, it is not the end of the contact with their own parents. “Foster families are supported by DCP staff, and visits between parents and children can be arranged whenever requested.” Growing up on Sydney Harbour, Joanne worked in aged care when she finished school and then had three children of her own. When the youngest, twins, were babies, Collie beckoned as there were work opportunities here and Joanne had a sister already living in Allanson. “So over we came and more than 30 years later I’m still here,” she said with some satisfaction. “Now that all the younger kids are at school, I work at Vinnies, on the welfare side, a service which is open on Wednesdays and Thursdays every week. People in need can come to us for food and personal items. We do whatever we can to help.” Joanne enjoys networking with organisations and businesses to procure food

and other perfectly usable items that may otherwise go to landfill. “There is no doubt that times are pretty hard for a lot of people at the moment,” she acknowledged. “Collie has some other challenges too, such as barely any rental accommodation, and not much public transport, so we are kept pretty busy.” Joanne’s family has now grown to include two grandsons, who they frequently visit. She has also taken her foster children on interstate and overseas trips, before COVID-19 intervened. “Creating happy memories and helping the children feel secure is all part of the deal,” she said. “It’s sad, but there are many more children needing care than there are foster carers. I won’t deny that there have been challenging moments and disappointments, but the rewards far outweigh any of that.” “My oldest son is 35, and here I am still doing school pick-ups and helping with the canteen and uniform shop. But I wouldn’t change it for the world.”

ANT sinkhole (sorry for shouting, but the “story” shouted) which now apparently is 10 metres deep and two kilometres long. The local mining companies may be interested in learning the excavation/mining methods that can create a big hole so effortlessly. Matter of tust Heard from a former local who is involved in research at one of our tertiary

institutions that she received an email from our oldest tertiary institution. As per the policy of the one she does research for, she was asked “Is this email from someone you tust?” She wondered, not if she could tust the sender, but if she could tust the one she works for!

BYSTANDER LOOKS AROUND

That’s big! When the Bulletin ran stories about the Collie Burn sinkhole, we had no idea what a big story it was going to turn into. The sinkhole is pretty big – described as eight metres wide and 10 metres deep – but apparently it is growing. Imagine the surprise of the Bulletineer who wrote the story when she saw on Facebook a familiar photo headlined GI-

Well said The best thing to come out of a mine is a miner.

10 COLLIE RIVER VALLEY BULLETIN, APRIL 6, 2023

FOOTY TIPPING COMPETITION

THE COLLIE RIVER VALLEY BULLETIN’S Collingwood Carlton Fremantle Richmond St Kilda Sydney GWS Giants Melbourne Geelong

Corene King

Collingwood Carlton Adelaide Richmond St Kilda Sydney Essendon Melbourne Geelong

Christy Davidson

Collingwood Carlton Adelaide Richmond St Kilda Sydney Essendon Melbourne Hawthorn

Redgie Old

SPRY’S MEAT MARKET 62 Forrest St 9734 2202

80-82 Steere St littlebluedoor80@gmail.com

Collingwood Carlton Adelaide Richmond St Kilda Sydney Essendon Melbourne Geelong

Troy Anderson

Collingwood Carlton Fremantle Richmond Gold Coast Sydney Essendon Melbourne Geelong

144 Atkinson St 9734 1277 Collingwood Carlton Adelaide Richmond St Kilda Sydney Essendon Melbourne Geelong

Chris Black

Steve Thomas MLC

526 Medic St 9734 1893

4B Spencer St, Bunbury 9792 5628

T.R. ANDERSON painting

tranderson1976@icloud.com 0458 638 768 Collingwood Carlton Fremantle Richmond St Kilda Sydney Essendon Melbourne Geelong

Collingwood Carlton Fremantle Western Bulldogs St Kilda Sydney Essendon Melbourne Hawthorn

Brisbane Carlton Adelaide Western Bulldogs St Kilda Sydney GWS Giants Melbourne Geelong

Ash Stewart

Deb Miller

Bunny Aramini

137 Throssell St 9734 1322

62 Forrest St 9734 2202

Rowlands Rd 9734 2785

Collingwood Carlton Adelaide Richmond St Kilda Sydney Essendon Melbourne Geelong

Rusti Pitchers

ROUND 4 Brisbane vs. Collingwood North Melbourne vs. Carlton Adelaide vs. Fremantle Richmond vs. Western Bulldogs St Kilda vs. Gold Coast Sydney vs. Port Adelaide Essendon vs. GWS Giants

13 Rowlands Rd 0428 347 675

West Coast Eagles vs. Melbourne Geelong Cats vs. Hawthorn

LEADERBOARD Last Year Tipster Week Total Deb Miller | Sportfirst 6 14 Redgie Old | Spry’s Meat Market 6 14 Rusti Pitchers | LJ Mechanical 4 14 Troy Anderson | TR Anderson Painting 4 14 Christy Davidson | Little Blue Door 5 14 Chris Black | Floorworld Collie 4 13 Bunny Aramini | Salvage and Hardware 4 13 Ash Stewart | Henderson Hardware 4 13 Steve Thomas MLC 4 12 Corene King | Collie Florist 2 11

Need 2 Dance night A SMALL but enthusiastic crowd hit the floor at the PCYC recently for an autumn dance hosted by the Riff Raff Dance Group. The group organised the cabaret-style event for the Need 2 Dance class, which includes people with disabilities.

Dancers and their friends, family and carers enjoyed a night of line dancing, party games, air guitar and a raffle. The event was hosted by club president Martin Piggott, with the raffle and game prizes provided by sponsor Community Bank Collie.

COLLIE RIVER VALLEY BULLETIN, APRIL 6, 2023 11

Business taxation Personal taxation Self-managed super funds GST compliance Business structures

For more information please contact us at the Forrest Business Centre: Unit 10, 13 Forrest Street T 9734 1000 rsm.com.au/collie

100 Percent Austalian Beef

gibsoncountrystylejerky.com | 99 Throssell st Collie | 0409 184 599

Chris Collie and Ben Watts.

Delys Franke and Rex Beach.

Amilee Bastow.

Julianne Headley, Martin Piggott and Sharon Del Fante.

12 COLLIE RIVER VALLEY BULLETIN, APRIL 6, 2023

CHURCH NOTICES

January 28th 1

2

ACROSS

3 4 5

6 7 8

9

10

12

11

13

1. Cardiff farm grows these berries (9) 2. escorts you to your cinema seat (5) 4. not straight or direct, as a course (7) 7. hunter constellation (5) 8. world's smelliest fruit (6) 9. 2021 Chinese Zodiac animal (2) 12. custom, habit, practice (4) 14. capital of Albania (6) 15. genetic mutation in mammals which causes soft, curly hair (3) 18. dull, yellowish brown (5)

15 17 18 19

20

ocation (7) movie room in the PCYC (2,8 belfry 7) ACROSS 10 synopsis 3 orifice ______ (5) 12 complex 6 nab fter kingdom (6) 15 hasten 7 hatred ove Golden Eagle restaurant (5) ward in 2006 (4, 5) 8) ed a coal miner's strike in 1948 (3) ew CEO Stuart _______ (8) tion of work (6)

3. St David's church location (7) 5. name sake of PCYC movie room (2, 7) 6. if it isn't true, it is ______ (5) 10. taxonomy rank after kingdom (6) 11. parapet name above Golden Eagle restaurant (5) 13. Collie won this award in 2006 (4, 5) 16. Minecraft villain (8) 17. horse which caused a coal miner's strike in 1948 (3) 19. Shire of Collie's CEO Stuart _______ (8) 20. break or interruption of work (6)

DOWN

14

16

CLUES

Down 1. farm located in Cardiff grows these berries (9) 2. escorts cinema seat (5) 16 sprig you to your DOWN 5 interlock 14 leveret 19 juxtapose 1 smirk 9 melt 17 recur 4. not straight or direct, as a course (7) 20 farther 2 vista 11 radiant 18 utter 7. hunter constellation (5) 4 subterfuge 13 liaison 8. world's smelliest fruit (6) 9. 2021 Chinese Zodiac animal (2) 12. custom, habit, practice (4) 14. capital of Albania (6) 15. genetic mutation in mammals which causes soft, curly hair (3) 18. dull, yellowish brown (5)

NAME_____________________________AGE____ Drop your entries to the Collie Bulletin by 4pm Monday

PROUDLY SPONSORED BY

20 years ago

Dog attack A Collie man called for greater regulation of dangerous breeds after he found a staffordshire-cross mauling his pet dog and chickens in his backyard. Geoff Forster said greater regulation and licensing of dangerous breeds was needed.

Grill influence claims denied Griffin Energy denied that former Labor energy minsiter Julian Grill was involved in the company's fight for a new coal-fired power station in Collie because he pull in the Labor Party. Mr Grill's involvement was bipartisan and a community-wide approach, said then general manager of Griffin, Gary Jeffrey.

Contributed by Kym Saunders Miners’ hearing loss concerns Noise-induced hearing loss had emerged as a significant occupational health and safety issue for the mining community. The MineHealth database found the proportion of mine workers with hearing loss of more than five percent had increased by 4.3 percent. Gallop: Bright future for coal Premier Geoff Gallop predicted a bright future for coal when he visited Collie. Dr Gallop was in Collie to launch Wesfarmers Premier Coal's “50 Years of Powering Western Australia" book. He said the state’s power procurement program gave coal companies a real chance to compete.

Thousands flocked to town Collie burst from the seams on Easter weekend with three motoring events that brought thousands to the town. The motocross competition, burnout nationals and Riley Car Club visit all contributed to the influx of visitors over the long weekend. Sport: Power’s wins, losses and draw Collie Power soccer teams had mixed results, with the league team losing 3-2 to Margaret River, reserves drawing 1-1 with Margaret River and the third side winning 5-2 over Capel. In addition, the women's team defeated Capel in its first game, 5-1, whilst the under 16s lost to Bunbury United 4-2.

ALL SAINTS’ ANGLICAN CHURCH: 46 Venn Street. Church Services: Every Sunday at 9am. Morning tea after the service. Holy Communion - Second Sunday only Morning prayer: all other Sundays. Contact Warden Marie Woodward, 0478 640 379 Office: by appointment Website: www.allsaintschurchcollie.org BAPTIST CHURCH: Cnr Prinsep and Elouera Streets, North Collie. Church Enquiries: snr Elder Bob Greig 0418 903 693 Elder Stephen Sopolinski 0457 896 365 Sunday Service : 9.30am Visitors Welcome. Kid's church: during Service. Morning tea after service. Ladies Bible Study Group: Tuesday 9.30am at the Church. CHURCH OF CHRIST: 165 Prinsep St. Pastor: Shayne Goldfinch 0422 515 257. Elder: Evan Mandry 0407 445 788. Secretary: Glynis 0403 159 668. Sundays: 9.30am, Family Service and Kids Church. Thursdays: 9.30am, Craft & Friendship – Phone Heather 9734 4066 Saturdays: 7.30am, Periodically, Breakfast – Phone Evan 9734 1354. Weekly Bible studies on various days. All enquiries welcomed. Vision Radio (87.6FM) is a Ministry of our Church. COALFIELDS BAPTIST CHURCH: 43 Venn Street, Independent Baptist Church, Simple Bible Preaching, Psalms, Classic Hymns and Spiritual Songs, KJV, Friendly Congregation. Main Service Sun 10am Bible Study Sun 4pm. All Welcome! Tea and Coffee Refreshments after Services. Enquiries: Pastor Josh Denford 0403 300 802 coalfieldsbaptist@gmail.com facebook.com/cbccollie FOURSQUARE GOSPEL CHURCH: 46 Johnston Street, Collie. All are welcome to join with us in fellowship. Friday: Food Ministry 10am-12noon, Prayer meeting 7pm Sunday: 10am morning service. Sunday School during service. For enquiries phone Pastor Garry Fisher on 9734 3796. ST BRIGID’S CATHOLIC CHURCH Cnr Prinsep and Medic Streets. Parish Priest: Fr. Gerald Tan Office: 9793 2011. email:stbrigidscollie@ optusnet.com.au Weekend Masses: St. Brigid’s: 6.00pm Saturday, 10.00am Sunday. St. Mary’s, Darkan: 8.00am, 1st and 3rd Sunday each month. HOLY WEEK: April 2, Palm Sunday, 10am. April 6, Last Supper Mass, 7.30pm. April 7, Good Friday Liturgy- Stations of the Cross 2.30pm, Communion Service 3.00pm. April 8, Easter Vigil, 6pm to 7.30pm. April 9, Easter Sunday Mass, 10am. Brunch to follow please bring a plate to share. Baptisms and weddings by request. Vinnie’s shop: 9734 5664. Shopping hours: 9am to 1pm, Monday to Friday. SEVENTH DAY ADVENTIST CHURCH: Cnr Wittenoom & Steere Streets. You are welcome to fellowship with us, we meet every second and fourth Saturday. Bible Study 9.30am, Service 11am. 88.0 faithFM WEST ARTHUR: The Uniting Church meets on the first and third Sunday of the month at 9am. KYB is held on Tuesday at 9.30am at the Old Duranillin School. The Catholic Church meets on the first and third Sunday of the month at 8am. The Anglican Church meets on: Second Sunday of the month at 8am at Darkan Fourth Sunday of the month at 8am at Darkan. Third Sunday of the month at 8am at Arthur River.

Swinging into Easter

POLICE CONSTABLE Bunny came swinging into town on Tuesday, bringing some early chocolate-flavoured joy to local children. While he waited for the children to find

COLLIE RIVER VALLEY BULLETIN, APRIL 6, 2023 13

him, he tried out the swings in Central Park, assisted by Constable Cass Chapman. After this it was time to do the rounds of the town distributing further chocolate joy.

Steve Thomas MLC MEMBER FOR SOUTH WEST REGION

Mahalia Payze takes a selfie with the Constable Bunny.

Leader of the Opposition in the Legislative Council; Energy

OPEN GOOD FRIDAY 9am to 8pm ALL OTHER DAYS 4am - 8pm Constable Eric Gibson and Ebony Pinto.

Authorised by Dr Steve Thomas, 4B Spencer St, Bunbury WA 6230

Scott Winmar and Rhys Chirgwin.

Willow Masters.

OPEN ALL LONG WEEKEND 6am - 2pm

9734 1387 | 140 Atkinson St

Rayden and Alexis Goltz.

Open every day this Easter Weekend GOOD FRIDAY: 11.30AM -2PM FOR LUNCH & 4.30-8.30PM FOR DINNER EASTER SUNDAY: 11.30AM -2PM FOR LUNCH & 5-8PM FOR DINNER

Pre-orders w elcome

9734 5066

From Collie Salvage and Hardware

Good Friday – Closed Saturday – 8-12pm Sunday – 9-12pm Monday – 9-12pm

14 COLLIE RIVER VALLEY BULLETIN, APRIL 6, 2023

RRRR EEEEEE

Entertain away! HHHH with Mitch Davidson SITUATED on a quiet street at the top end of town is the sturdy family home you have been waiting for. With four bedrooms, a massive kitchen and an even bigger entertaining area, there is plenty of room to keep the whole family happy and entertain your guests to no end. Just a short walk away from everything this growing town has to offer, including restaurants and cafes, tracks and trails and so much more. Enjoy the convenience of living close to town. WHY BUY ME: ►Lounge area with carpet underfoot, ceiling fan, RCAC, built-in fireplace and direct patio access; ►Tiles to dining area and kitchen; ►Formal dining/bar area; ►Generous sized kitchen with ample bench, cupboard space and dishwasher; ►Master suite with carpet underfoot, ceiling fan, RCAC and side patio access; ►Renovated ensuite boasting shower and large vanity with quality fixtures;

►Two minor bedrooms with floating flooring underfoot and BIRs; ►Fourth minor bedroom or study option; ►Renovated bathroom featuring walkin shower and generous sized vanity with quality fixtures; ►Large gabled patio entertaining area, perfect for all-year-round entertaining; ►Fully enclosed rear yard; ►Powered shed; ►Solar panels; ►Caravan or boat hardstand; ►Brick and tile home. Jump on it! Contact Mitch 0408 910 337 or Tocoda 0447 340 344 for your private inspection today! Land rates: approx. $1,789.81 PA Water rates: approx. $1,488.73 PA Block size: 1012m2 Year built: 1980

HOME FACT FILE Location: 38 Wittenoom Street Price: $399,000 Bedrooms: 3 Bathrooms: 2 Contact: Mitch Davidson 0408 910 337

RRRR EEEEEE

COLLIE RIVER VALLEY BULLETIN, APRIL 6, 2023 15

The perfect family home for any buyer HHHH with Matthew Blackford THIS stunning four-bedroom, two-bathroom family home will impress. Located in the heart of Collie, this property offers an abundance of features and potential. It boasts an open plan kitchen/dining/ living area with an additional theatre room, a large outdoor entertaining area, and a double lock up automatic garage. WHY BUY ME: ►Four-bedroom and three-bathroomhouse, close to all the amenities Collie has to offer; ►Situated on a massive 1604 square metre block with both commercial and subdivision capabilities; ►All four bedrooms are spacious in size and come with either walk-in or built-in robes; ►The living area and master bedroom

have a large reverse cycle air conditioning system; ►The house has also been freshly painted throughout and on the exterior frontage; ►Reticulated lawns; ►A massive powered 8m x 12m shed with two-car access, roller doors and room for any tradie's situation; ►Side access to the block on the east, with room for your boat and caravan; ►An old commercial building with roller door access to the west of the block. Don't miss out on this amazing opportunity! Contact Matt Blackford today on 0405 919 121 to arrange an inspection!

HOME FACT FILE Location: 64 Prinsep Street Price: Offers Over $639,000 Bedrooms: 4 Bathrooms: 3 Cars: 4 Contact: Matt Blackford 0405 919 121

ON THE

MARKET WITH

MATT

Born and bred Collie, I aim to promote our beautiful town and help lift property value for everyone!

Matt made selling our home such an easy and stress free experience. He was always honest, reliable and the communication we could not fault him. His knowledge was invaluable. Thanks Matt!

0405 919 121

matt.blackford@elders.com.au 80 Forrest St, Collie Monday - Friday, 8:30am - 5:00pm

16 COLLIE RIVER VALLEY BULLETIN, APRIL 6, 2023

BBBBBBBB TTTTTT

AIR CONDITIONING SOUTH WEST REFRIGERATION & AIRCONDITIONING

BUILDING

Commercial Residential

FERTILISERS

alertdriving@hotmail.com

9734 4866 | 0456 041 510

Collie & Surrounding Areas Friendly, Helpful & Patient Fully Insured & Qualified Female & Male Instructors

Lot 2057 Sweeny Crt, Collie

Superior technology. Ultimate comfort.

AUTOMOTIVE

DRIVING LESSONS

A ERT DRIVING Anna Farrell: 0427 344 953

COOL SUMMER | WARM WINTER

swrac@westnet.com.au

SSSSSSSS

BIN HIRE

ELECTRICAL

GLASS WORK

COLLIE ELECTRICAL SERVICES Commercial Builders Household Car Body Removal Bins from 2-9 metres Asbestos Removal

AUTO AIR CONDITIONING

COMPUTERS

Phone Paul Sweeney

9734 3414 / 0409 680 315

DESIGN

51 Throssell St, Collie

HARDWARE & SALVAGE

print

DESIGN AND

BOOKKEEPING HAPPY BALANCE BOOKKEEPING

Bookkeeping services available All enquiries welcome

0403 454 764

CAR AND TRAILER

DIRTY DEEDS LOCALS looking after LOCALS

Car and Trailer maintenance ► Detailing ► Minor rust/panel and paint repair ► Lifetime of experience ► Servicing all types of trailers ► Certified welding for brakes, bearings and electrical Steve 0456 221 261 | Macka 0472 567 868

Logos Flyers Invitations Business Cards and more! Need something designed and printed? The Collie Bulletin team can help! Email classies@crvbulletin.com Phone 9734 1024 or pop into our office at 1b Collie Park Shopping Centre to learn more!

Volunteers wanted

JOIN OUR STATION WE WILL TRAIN YOU! colliecommunityradio@gmail.com 9734 5545

Rowlands Road, LIA

HARDWARE

COLLIE RIVER VALLEY BULLETIN, APRIL 6, 2023 17

BBBBBBBB TTTTTT PAINTING

SEPTIC TANK CLEANING

T.R. ANDERSON painting

PC 100 310 PP 100 311

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TREE SERVICES

OZARB

TREE SERVICES

YARD MAINTENANCE

Cu

tback

MOWING and GARDENING

MOWING-PRUNING-SPRAYING- HEDGING

▬ Servicing the Collie area ▬ ★ Reliable ★ Registered ★ Insured

0458 638 768

Laurie Berridge 0488 521 961

tranderson1976@icloud.com

cutbackmowingandgardening

BBBBBBBB CCCCCCCCCCC SPENCER (Kathleen): Happy 90th birthday, for Monday, April 10. Love from family and friends.

DEATHS WHITE (Robert Thomas "Bob"): 13.12.1936 - 29.03.2023. Loving husband of Margie (Frizz), loved Dad to Derek, Greg, Denny and Tracy. Father-in-law and special friend to Bill, Kim, Paul and Belinda. Loving Pop to 15 grandchildren and 31 great-grandchildren. Forever in our hearts. RIP. All our love. xx WHITE (Bob): Almost 65 years of loving you and being married to you. I will miss our days in the garden together. I will miss and love you forever. Until we meet again and I am back in your arms. Always, your Frizz. xx WHITE (Bob): Lifelong friend of Bev and John (both dec) and "Uncle Bob" to Ross, Peter, Jeff and Julie. Such wonderful memories of a strong but gentle man and even though we sat on different sides of the fence at footy, never did it come between our families. We had such good times. Deepest sympathy to Aunty Marg, Derek, Greg, Denny, Tracy and families.

DEATHS WRAY (Barbara): Our love and sympathy to John, Michelle, Dan, Jak, Olivia and Chadd on the loss of Aunty Barb. Loved by Evan, Ruth, Rhondda, Lloyd and families. In God's loving care. WRAY (Barbara): A remarkable lady of faith, strength, an resilience. Deepest and heartfelt sympathy to John, Michelle, Dan and family. Gone to be with her beloved boys. Love Silvia. WRAY (Barbara): Our love and heartfelt sympathy to John, Michelle, Dan, Jak, Olivia and Chad. Barb was always such a vibrant, sparkling lady with a beautiful smile. Thinking of you all. Neil and Lesley. xx WRAY (Barbara): Dearest loving friend of 45 years. Memories to treasure made of family gatherings and children as they play. Holidays in Mandurah, so special and unforgettable. Sad and joy always shared with understanding and warmth. Thank you so much Barbie for loving me and also for being second mum to the Bell children, who loved you dearly. My heartfelt sympathy to John, Michelle, Dan, Jak, Olivia and Chad. Your little Nan loved you so much. Trevor and Geoffery will be waiting for her. My last visit will remain with me forever of you smiling and waving goodbye to Deenie and I as we were leaving. Little did we know if would be our last. Forever loved, Normie, John and family.

WHITE (Bob): Our love and deepest sympathy to dear Margie, Derek, Greg, Denny, Tracy and families on the sad loss of dear Bob, lifelong friend of our family. Well Bob, the last hand has been dealt, and the last card played. Rest peacefully dear friend. Noel, Lyn, Doody, Shelley, Stephen, Donna, Russell and families.

VINCI (Wendy): Deepest sympathy to Russell, Donna and family on the sad loss of your mother and grandmother. Loving memories to hold on to forever. From Mum, Lyn, Doody, Shelley, Stephen and families.

WHITE (Bob): Deepest sympathy to Margie and family on the sad loss of dear Bob. "Forever your hero." To Denny, Bill and family, love and sympathy on the loss of your champion and best friend Bob. Colleen and Kevin.

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

WRAY (Barbara): Sister-in-law to Ross and Catherine. Aunty to Lincoln and Linden and family. Through all life dealt you, you could still smile. Deepest sympathy to John, Michelle, Dan and family. Beyond the sunset the glorious morning. So long Barb.

FOR SALE LIME and FERTILISER: Bulk ag lime and fertiliser delivered bulk to Collie and surrounds, call Mumballup Organics. 0417 322 007. E-BULLETIN: Subscribe to the E-Bulletin at colliebulletin.com.au or contact Megan on 9734 1024. Subscribe for a year for only $25, a saving of $100. Access back issue of the Bulletin when you subscribe online.

EMPLOYMENT

FUNERAL NOTICE WRAY:

Tourism and Marketing Services (Fixed Term Employee or Consultancy Services)

With the generous support of South32, the Shire of Collie is seeking an experienced tourism development professional to drive and facilitate tourism destination development and marketing outcomes in the Collie region. This is an exciting opportunity to shape the future of Collie’s tourism industry. Applications are invited from potential employees or consultants. As an employee, flexible options will be considered such as part time, full time, and partial work from home/work remotely. Proposals from self-employed contractors or consultancy firms are welcome. Further information is available online from the Shire’s website www. collie.wa.gov.au or by contacting Nicole Wasmann on 9734 9000. Applications close Wednesday 12 April 2023 at 4.30pm. Stuart Devenish Chief Executive Officer

IN MEMORIAM CHIERA (Marilyn): (fourth anniversary, 5 April): Loved you more than we could have imagined and miss you more than we thought possible. Remembered with love by husband Rocco and children Michael, Rachel, Teresa and Natalie along with their partners and adored grandchildren. FLEAY (Arthur James): 25.3.1940 5.4.2018. Five years ago you left us, but you are always remembered and forever in our hearts. Love and miss you. Corene, Gary, Daniel, Breanna, Sheridan and families xxx WHELAN (Margaret): Our darling mum, we miss you so much. One long year gone already. Memories of you are ours to keep. xx. Geraldine, Aaron and family.

BULLETIN

COLLIE RIVER VALLEY Published by LOCALS for LOCALS Thursday, January 12, 2023

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EDITION No. 115

‘Stay-of-execution’

Yourdamung Resort battles fire risk claims

OFF TO UNI

THE proposed Yourdamung Road resort project is back before Collie Shire Council. Council rejected the proposal in late 2021 because of perceived “catastrophic fire risks”, but it was given a “stay-of-execution” at the last shire meeting. Councillors decided to go against a recommendation to refuse an application to expand use of the site and deferred the matter to allow staff to work through legislation issues with the proponents and the Department of Fire and Emergency Services (DFES). The decision was made after a consultant for the proponent, Russell Tierney, said there had been changes made to the access and egress requirements since last year. DFES had been and was still against the proposal due to the bushfire risk. Mr Tierney had appealed to the State Administration Tribunal (SAT) to overturn council’s decision in December, 2021, and had worked through media-

Jackson Rabaud is believed to have achieved Collie’s highest ATAR score, and will study pathology and laboratory medicine at the University of Western Australia later this year. Story page 7

Suspected arsonist active

A NUMBER of fires are believed to have been deliberately lit, including one that threatened the home of a family of five. Page 3.

tion sessions about legislation requirements concerning the fire risk. The site is located in State forest, and there is only one access route via a gravel road. DFES had estimated it could take up to 45 minutes to evacuate the site in the event of a bushfire. An amendment suggested in the new application was for a building to be altered to become a shelter. One of the objections to this was that a shelter was supposed to be a vacant building, whereas the proposed building was to also be used for a variety of purposes, and furnished accordingly. Chief executive officer Stuart Devenish said the matter is “complex and difficult to resolve”. “Council is in a very unenviable position,” he said. “While it is seeking to expand tourism opportunities, it cannot ignore the legislative requirements for bushfire risk.” Story continued page 8.

Quarry ‘ideal venue for events’

THE success of the Quarry Under the Stars gala dinner, held last October, has led to a move to have further events at the venue. Page 5.

Community Bank • Collie

Need help with the costs of study?

Applications are invited from eligible students who require assistance with tertiary education costs in 2023. Applications close Friday 27 January.

APPLY NOW

bendigobank.com.au/scholarships

Community Enterprise FoundationTM Community Bank Scholarships will be funded from management accounts of the Community Enterprise Charitable Fund ABN 12 102 649 968 (the Fund), The Bendigo Centre, Bendigo VIC 3550. Sandhurst Trustees Limited ABN 16 004 030 737 AFSL 237906, a subsidiary of Bendigo and Adelaide Bank Limited ABN 11 068 049 178, AFSL 237879, is the trustee of the Fund. OUT_26195554, 11/10/2022

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FUNERALS

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The Funeral Service for the late Mrs Barbara Wray of Collie will take place at The Church of Christ, 165 Prinsep Street Collie commencing at 11am on Wednesday Morning. (12/4/23) A Viewing will take place at 10am at the Church. The Cortege will leave the Church at the conclusion of the service and arrive at the Collie Cemetery at 12pm for a Burial Service.

9734 5533 COLLIE

Post an eTribute at barretfunerals.com.au South West Family Owned

PUBLIC NOTICES BADMINTON ASSOC EASTER RAFFLE: First: 0448 063 353. Second: Ashleigh. Third: Chantelle. Drawn by newsagency staff. Thanks to everybody. COLLIE ROTARY CLUB BOAT RAFFLE: Drawn; Friday March 31. 1st prize; Lee Massara, Collie. 2nd prize; Identity Withheld, Perth. Congratulations to the winners and thanks to the people who supported the raffle by buying tickets, and the businesses who helped in many ways. Funds raised will be dispersed by grants to providers of Youth Mental health Services in Collie. FRESH, FREE RANGE EGGS: at The Mumby Shop, $6.50 per doz. COLLIE ROTARY CLUB: Drop your cans at Collie Mowers and More or cite the account number C10397872 at the Cash for Cans depot to help raise funds for community youth programs.

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18 COLLIE RIVER VALLEY BULLETIN, APRIL 6, 2023

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Bulls overrun Eagles

COLLIE RETURN: Women’s captain Te Kanakana Jack-Tui will again take the field for the Collie Eagles in 2023.

Jak-Tui relishes return

COLLIE Eagles women’s captain Te Kanakana Jack-Tui is thrilled to be back in Collie colours this year, with the women’s side returning to the SWFL competition after a two-year absence. Ms Jack-Tui said a lot of hard work had been undertaken in the preseason to generate local interest and build player numbers. She said coach Matt Stevens and football director Daniel Graham, in particular, deserve a lot of credit for the many hours dedicated to ensuring Collie is again represented in the competition. “Matt Stevens and his wife did a brilliant job preseason staying committed, coming up the hill every Monday, Thursday, Friday just to get girls interested, putting the word out there,” Ms Jack-Tui said. “They were working overtime, and thanks to them we’ve got a side this season.” Ms Jack-Tui had played a season with the Harvey Bulls during Collie’s absence from the competition along with a number of other Collie players. Some of those players still remain at Harvey, however Ms Jack-Tui said “it’s brilliant” to be taking the field for Collie. It’s been a tough start to the season for the team, however, Ms Jack-Tui said the players will be better for the time spent together on the field as the season progresses. She noted the women’s side is still on the lookout for players and will be “trying to wrangle up a few more” throughout 2023. “I feel like as the season goes on, as our town watches us progress and grow as a team, more women will get interested and maybe want to come for a kick or a beer,” she said.

Continued from back page. Zac Pilatti and Kaleb Michalak worked tirelessly in the midfield to earn possessions and provide opportunities for Collie. Despite the emotional turmoil of being in a nail-biting Collie basketball grand final the night before, Rory and Billy Bebbington still dug deep to harass, tackle and aggravate the opposition with their trademark hostility. Kye Barker was a ball magnet, clearing the ball from the contest on numerous occasions and setting up many creative plays with his run and carry. Robby Chitty worked his way into the game with some good marks and set up a chain of possessions for the hardworking Eagles. Sam Russell, Talon Michael and Adam Bignell lead the way with their ferocious endeavour and attack on the ball, but inaccuracy for Collie ensured they had only converted 8 points nearing the half time break. Reliable defender, Trent Tanner threw caution to the wind with a brave dash into the forward line that seemed deserving of a goal and would have inspired his teammates before the main break, yet unfortunately for Collie he was not able to score. Some costly Eagles turnovers just prior to half time saw Harvey’s Michael Humble, Dylan Chatley and Jacob Pickett sneak quick goals in rapid succession to break the hearts of the hardworking Eagles who were now under intense pressure. A very resolute and composed Harvey Bulls team appeared after halftime.

Chipping the ball around with precision and patience, they methodically began to overpower the Eagles. Cracks began to appear in the Eagles defensive game as the hungry Bulls ran harder and further to gain ascendency, create space and evade their direct opponent. Teale DeAngelis played another impressive game in the ruck and displayed some great ruck craft with deft delivery to his onballers. Kye Barker was outstanding with metres gained for Collie when the ball was in his possession. Ben Higgs fought hard in full back to curtail the second half Harvey onslaught. Captain Talon Michael was exceptional with his ferocity and intent, exploding through packs and doing everything he could to propel the ball forward. Against adversity, Jayce Fontana continued to lead, run and contest in the Collie forward line and finished with two goals. Cameron Davidsons’ aerial skills were a shining light for Collie, but he was often outnumbered by Bulls defenders at every contest, which enabled the ball to rebound quickly. The Collie team was gallant in defeat, but were no match for a strong Harvey Bulls team who will threaten most SWFL teams this season. The Lockie Hernaman medal was won by Jarrod Bowman of Harvey. In other results, the Collie reserves were outgunned by Harvey, 10.14 (74) to 4.9 (33), the colts suffered a 10-goal loss, 14.9 (93) to 5.3 (33), and the women’s team went down 15.10 (100) to 0.0 (0).

PRESSURE KICK: Despite the pressure, Mikayla Fleay gets her kick away in the women’s match.

STRONG HANDS: Odinn Hetherington-Kirk takes a strong mark in the colts match. Photos: FAYE GOLDING

WiTHIN GRASP: Jayden Bertolini Wolfe reaches for the ball in the reserves match.

GROUND LEVEL: Hayden Mears at the fall of the ball. Cameron Davidson and Declan Hoy-Maroney are ready to provide support.

COLLIE RIVER VALLEY BULLETIN, APRIL 6, 2023 19

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Glenice, Eileen prevail in pairs BOWLS THE GLOBAL Auto Electrical Championship Pairs went off playing a round robin series. The winning team was Glenice Kaurin and Eileen Hindle from Heather Gibbs and Rose Godfrey. Cheeky Squirrel commences on Tuesday the 4th and finishes Thursday the 13th April. This is a round robin format. The Karina Snow sponsored game will be on the 18th and 27th of April. WEDNESDAY’S meat pack on the 29th March saw a good turnout. There were only four players winning both games. Kevan McKenzie won with 4 plus 11, from Phil Warburton on 4 plus 8. In third was Max Cubic on 4 plus 7, and rounding out the two game winners was John Waywood on 4 plus 5. This week’s meat pack is being played today with a caravanning tour group from Safety Bay visiting. This group will be here on Saturday the 6th for an afternoon game. All members are welcome. Names on the notice boards.

THE fourth division played in the grand final last week, on Tuesday. After a tight game for the aggregate, the Eaton team prevailed. George Saggers, Peter Kaurin, Jim McElroy and Tom Gale lost 9 to 24. Neil Roberts, Barry Lowe, Jamie Godfrey and Ian Bushell won 21 to 10. Collie 1 point to Eaton 3 points. Congratulations to all the players for getting to the finals. THERE was a good turnout for the Summer Scroungers windup and finals. The rink winners in the Major were Max Cubic, Barry Lowe and George Saggers. The rink winners in the Odds and Sods were Len Flynn, Ric Daniel and Vicki Daniel. The Major was won by Max Cubic from Barry Lowe and George Saggers. The Odds and Sods was won by Rick Daniel from Vicki Daniel and Len Flynn. The winter Scroungers will start on Sunday the 16th April. THERE WILL be a social game between the RSL and the Bowling Club after Anzac Day. The date to be confirmed.

COMMUNITY CHAMPS: The Derby Road team won the recently completed community bowls competition. Team members Shane Stocks, Jason Hanns, Glen Gillespie and Daniel Cherry celebrated their success with a drink in the clubhouse after the final round of games.

Max Thomas (7) and the “ace man”, Ian Stewart (14), while longest drive on No. 15 was claimed by Ben Mead. LAST week’s Tuesdays Leisure day stableford carton event, sponsored by John Shepherd, was won by George Dorozenko with the great score of 43 points. Chris Shea was second with 38, with Alan Kent on 36. Rounding out the vouchers were Colin Giblett, James Larsen 35, Matt Pearson, Brett Smith, David Farr and Trevor McCormick 34. The sponsor also provided a carton for the overall winner for the month and this was won by Fred Bronickis with a total of 141 points, followed by Alan Kent 133 and Gary Old 127. Novelties were won by Paul Goodwin (No. 4), Logan Giblett (7), Gary Old (9), George Dorozenko (14) and Brayden Kent (18). THE Wednesday ladies nine-hole stableford, played last week, was won by Terri Old from a field of 23 players. Old had 21 points and won from Beth Chap-

pell on 20, followed by Lee Massara 19, Annette Atherton, Donna Smith 16, Blanche Faries, Geraldine Anderson and Sue Defante 14. Blanche Fairies had the longest putt on No. 2. LAST Thursday’s nine-hole scroungers event was won by the George Newlands with 22 points in the field of 37 players. David Laird was second on 21 followed by Rick Shea, John Williamson, Ray Cooper, Mick Pokrywka 20 and Eric Annandale 1. Novelties were won by Ross, “the Boss” Davidson (No. 1), Mick Pokrywka (4 and 6) and George Newlands (9). THIS week’s events Today (Thursday), nine-hole scroungers; Saturday, 18-hole, all-in, captain’s stableford; Tuesday, 18-hole leisure day stableford sponsored by Terry Ellery; Wednesday, ladies’ event. Winter fixtures have been published on the club website, club notice board and the whiteboard in the foyer. The ladies winter booklet has also been published.

Broadbent (jnr) delivers in par GOLF JACKSON Broadbent was the winner of the Collie Golf Club's 18-hole par event contested last Saturday. The big-hitting Broadbent finished with plus two, one shot better than three players grouped together on plus one in the all-in event. Trevor McCormick took second spot on a countback from Dee Devenish and the winner’s father, David Broadbent. Tony Barker-May, Logan Giblett, Chris Mead and Jay Robinson finished all square to also claim vouchers in the field of 46, which included two ladies. During the round Ian Stewart joined the select group of players to have recorded a hole-in-one with the perfect shot on the par three 14th hole. Novelty winner for the closest shot on No. 1 went to Max Thomas (1), while longest first putts were sunk by Peter Coombs (No. 6), Drew Devinish (9) and Jim Larsen (18). Nearest-the- pins were won by Chris Mead (4), Dee Devinish (4),

Heidi's Darwin bound

Continued from back page. “I play full back. I like tackling and I can read the play well,” she said. “I like stealing the ball - that’s probably what I enjoy most about hockey.” Ireland started playing when she was in grade five because the team was short of players. “I agreed to hang around and I really enjoyed it,” she said. Ireland plays locally for the intermediate Rovers team and fills in for the seniors. Her other passion - which closely rivals hockey - is football. “I’ve thought about playing hockey in the Olympics,” she said. “But I also love football, so I’m trying to choose between the two. “Hockey is winning at the moment, but the footy season hasn’t really started.” Ireland credits her hockey success to mentoring by locals. “Whitney Marley, Keith Old, Kiri O’Brien, Jan Ramshaw, Julie Davidson and Gary Faries have all helped me a lot,” she said.

20 COLLIE RIVER VALLEY BULLETIN, APRIL 6, 2023

SPORT

ALL THE GOOD SPORTS ARE IN THE BULLETIN

Heidi's Darwin bound HOCKEY

HEIDI Ireland will compete in the WA under-15s girls’ hockey team at the Hockey Australia Championships in Darwin next weekend. Fourteen-year-old Ireland (pictured) was selected for the “pool B” team following a rigorous selection process in Perth in February. She said she did not expect to be selected. “I wasn’t even going to try,” she laughed. “But I just wanted to see what level I am playing at.” Ireland said she expects to play about six games against other state teams and looks forward to honing her skills. Continued page 19.

Get your sporting goods in store Email your sporting stories and photos to: editorial@crvbulletin.com Deadline: Monday 5pm

Bulls overrun the Eagles FOOTBALL: Lady Whistledown A POWERFUL Harvey Bulls outfit eventually wore down the Collie Eagles to win 13.15.93 to 3.14.32 in the Lockie Hernaman tribute match, played on a perfect Sunday afternoon in Harvey. The match was initially a great battle fought between the 50m arcs of both teams. For what seemed an eternity both teams found it incredibly hard to penetrate the opposition defensive wall, resulting in limited opportunities in each forward line. When the ball did venture forward for Collie, Cameron Davidson looked impressive and provided a focal point in attack. There was uproar on and off the field when Jayce Fontana did not receive a

free kick for interference that would have resulted in a rare first quarter scoring opportunity for the Eagles. Hayden Mears took a scintillating mark and looked fantastic in the forward line; however, the hapless Eagles were not able to convert these opportunistic moments into goals and remained scoreless at quarter time. Fortunately, the Harvey Bulls were also in a similar predicament having scored only one goal, so the match was far from over. The second quarter was a continuation of the tight, negating defensive shackles imposed by both teams, thus scoring was kept to a minimum. Cameron Davidson was able to take some excellent contested marks; however, he often had to venture far from the goal square and kick toward goal from a long range. Continued page 18.