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SearchArchives for January 2010
26 January, 2010
PPPs on cue
to perform
State Treasurer, Troy Buswell has announced the Government’s intention of delivering major infrastructure projects around the State under the joint Public Private Partnership (PPP) method.
Mr Buswell said the Attorney-General’s announcement that a new Young Adults Prison would be built under PPP principles was the first in what would become a “pipeline” of similar projects in the health, education, correctional services and utilities areas.
“We will actively pursue PPPs when they offer value for money and are in the public interest,” Mr Buswell said.
“This year, expressions of interest will be sought from industry for at least four PPPs in these important areas.”
He said PPPs were significant long-term arrangements involving private sector delivery of infrastructure and related services in support of the Government’s broader service responsibilities.
Mr Buswell said a number of other infrastructure projects would progress through planning stages and be released to the market during 2011.
The Treasurer said PPPs were part of the Government’s push to bring forward infrastructure investment and maximise value with innovative delivery of infrastructure and services.
“Moving beyond traditional ‘construct only’ contracting with the private sector towards engagement over the entire asset life cycle will allow the Government to benefit from innovation in the design, construction, operation and maintenance of infrastructure and the State Government services they support,” Mr Buswell said.
“Industry and the Government should work collaboratively to deliver important public infrastructure, service outcomes and value for money for the WA community.”
He said all general Government infrastructure projects with a capital value of more than $50 million would be considered for potential delivery as a PPP.
Mr Buswell said the State Government would appoint project teams and advisors to implement the process over the coming months.
26 January, 2010
PS chimes in for gongs
The Governor-General, Quentin Bryce has awarded Public Service Medals to three members of the WA Public Service.
The recipients were included in the Australia Day Awards.
PUBLIC SERVICE MEDAL (PSM)
Susan HUNT PSM
Perth Zoo
For outstanding public service as the Chief Executive Officer of the Perth Zoological Parks Authority.
As Chief Executive of Perth Zoological Parks Authority (Perth Zoo) since 2003, Ms Hunt has provided exceptional service to the Australian and Western Australian community.
Significantly, she has used her position to redefine the boundaries of wildlife conservation action by leading the (world-first) release of a captive born Orang-Utan (named Temara) into the wild, and has backed up this breakthrough through pioneering agreements with Indonesian government agencies to preserve its habitat.
The release of Temara was not a single event. It was preceded by months of behavioural and diet retraining to equip her for the wild, and was underpinned by bilateral agreements with Indonesian authorities.
It has been followed up by the resourcing of staff to monitor Temara’s progress and to build an Orang Utan sanctuary within the Bukit Tigapuluh National Park in partnership with agencies and NGOs.
This level of inter-agency and international diplomacy and influence far exceeds the capability that one might normally expect from the Chief Executive Officer of a relatively small state government agency.
It is Ms Hunt’s vision and determination that has allowed her to deliver this extraordinary outcome and to have an impact far beyond the boundaries of her role.
Ms Hunt has achieved this while still maintaining a clear focus on successful operational delivery of her ‘day-to-day job’ running one of Perth’s most loved community attractions.
Ms Hunt’s exceptional leadership of the Perth Zoo has turned operating deficits into operating surpluses, increased visitation numbers to record levels despite the economic downturn, and opened up an entire new strand of community contribution through breeding-for-release and conservation research programs.
Colin MURPHY PSM
Auditor General
For outstanding public service at senior levels in the financial and business services areas of the Western Australian Government.
Mr Murphy began his career in the public sector in 1969. Throughout, he has been widely recognised as being instrumental in the establishment of new Departments and in being part of senior leadership teams that have had the task of rectifying significant problems within agencies.
Of equal importance is the manner in which he has met these challenges. He is always positive, strategic, caring and, above all, looking for the best outcomes for the community of Western Australia.
Between late 2000 and mid 2005 he was the Executive Director (Finance) at the Department of Treasury and also acted as Under Treasurer for a 6 months’ period. During this time he was responsible for Fiscal Strategy, Financial Policy, Financial Operations and Government Procurement. From June 2005 he was Acting Director General of the Department of Justice/Attorney General at the request of Government after the sudden departure of then Director General.
At the time, a formal enquiry was being conducted into the Department. After the enquiry the Government split the Department into the Department of Corrective Services and the Department of Attorney General.
Mr Murphy successfully steered the Departments through this difficult period and assumed the duties of Director General of the Department of the Attorney General once the split was successfully concluded. He took a strategic approach to the creation of the new Departments, seeking to achieve positive and sustainable outcomes that would benefit the community and the whole-of-Government interests.
In 2006 Mr Murphy assumed his current role of Auditor General at a time when a series of high profile events and media criticism had damaged public confidence in Government agencies.
He has clearly played a major part in working with agencies in a manner to demonstrate to the communitythat his role as Auditor General adds significant value and, as a result, he is regaining the confidence needed.
Wayne SCHMIDT PSM
DEC
For outstanding public service within the Parks and Visitor Services Division of Western Australia’s Department of Environment and Conservation.
Mr Schmidt has recently retired from the position of Parks and Visitor Services Output Coordinator in Western Australia (responsible to the Director of Parks, Department of Environment and Conservation) in which he managed the overall coordination of the Department’s Parks and Visitor Services program - a demanding task with a primary role of overseeing, monitoring and reporting on the internal delivery and implementation of all output priorities.
This position required a rare combination of knowledge of the functions and strategic plans of the Department, the ability to set achievable work schedules and priorities and to communicate effectively with directors, managers, specialist staff and field officers to deliver the required outcomes.
Mr Schmidt was able to devise the means and systematic methods required to achieve the goals and objectives.
Throughout his lengthy career in the public sector Mr Schmidt served as an outstanding leader, an innovator, an educator, a role model, colleague and mentor to many.
Upon his retirement, his important contribution and distinguished service was recognised with the establishment of a perpetual ‘Wayne Schmidt Prize’ to be awarded annually to a member of the Parks and Visitor Services Division who have shown a commitment to excellence and innovation in his/her work and exhibited exceptional leadership, integrity and professional application; qualities that were so readily displayed by Mr Schmidt. Mr Schmidt has served the community of Western Australia with distinction.
26 January, 2010
No complaints about
grievance guide
The Office of the Public Service Standards Commission has published a guide to grievance resolution under the Standards Framework for Human Resource Management.
The framework was developed to enhance the efficiency of human resource practices in the Public Sector.
The guide, Grievance Resolution: Getting it Right, is the second of three guides developed under the framework and offers practical information on grievance processes and adhering to the Grievance Resolution Standard.
It explores the grievance framework and its six critical elements: prevention, approaches, awareness, people, processes and risk. Each element focuses on activities to help integrate grievance principles into good practice.
The guide also identifies common pitfalls and offers troubleshooting solutions, tools, resources and tips to resolve grievances.
“The guide does not prescribe a method of resolving issues,” it says.
“It focuses on an early intervention approach.
“This model is considered an effective means of managing and resolving grievances, particularly those related to workplace decisions or interpersonal conflict.”
The guide says the Grievance Resolution Standard is aimed at promoting ethical and positive work cultures within the Public Service.
Under the Standard, employees must be informed of their rights and responsibilities in the grievance resolution process, the process must be based on proper consideration of the facts and decisions must be impartial.
The Standard applies to the employee lodging the grievance, the employee who is the subject of the grievance and anyone else involved.
The release of the guide followed the publication of Appointment: Getting it Right in December last year.
The guides were available from www.opssc.wa.gov.au
26 January, 2010
Termination guide is
not end of the line
The third guide to be released under the Standards Framework for Human Resource Management has been placed online by the Office of the Public Service Standards Commissioner.
The guide, Termination: Getting it Right, provides information on how to apply and meet the requirements of the Termination Standard.
The Termination Standard is aimed at promoting ethical and positive practices within the Public Service, and requires that employees be notified of their rights, entitlements and responsibilities upon termination.
The guide provides a suite of toolkits, resources and information sheets to help Agencies manage terminations effectively.
The guide says the minimum standard of merit, equity and probity is met for termination if decisions are based on good assessments, employees are informed of their rights and decisions are impartial and transparent.
Under the Standard, termination can occur through resignation, retirement, completion of a fixed-term contract, severance or death.
“The Standard does not apply to the cessation of employment as a consequence of sub-standard performance or disciplinary action,” the guide says.
The guide warns Agencies of the risks of mismanaged terminations, saying the termination could escalate and affect the reputation of the Agency.
The guide was available from www.opssc.wa.gov.au, along with the first and second publications under the Standards Framework, Appointment: Getting it Right and Grievance Resolution: Getting it Right.
26 January, 2010
Warning puts bite
on bugs in rugs
The Department of Health has warned residents of the Perth metropolitan area and the South west to take extra care to avoid being bitten by bed bugs.
Acting Medical Entomologist at the Department, Sue Harrington said an increased number of complaints had been received about bed bug infestation and bites over the holiday period.
“Increased travel within Western Australia and between other States and countries, accompanied by warmer weather over the summer months, has seen an increase in bed bug activity,” Ms Harrington said.
“Anyone staying in holiday or rental accommodation should be wary of an infestation in their room and take the time on arrival to check the bed for signs of bed bugs.”
She said many holiday accommodation premises had effective management practices in place to minimise the risk of a bed bug infestation but that it was not realistic to assume that all accommodation would be bed bug free.
“Bed bugs can walk to adjoining rooms, but over greater distances they are carried in and on people’s luggage and belongings or accidentally transported by cleaning staff, resulting in the infestation of other accommodation premises or people’s homes,” she said.
Ms Harrington said the bugs were commonly found in mattress seams, behind bed-heads and leg attachment points, bed frames, bedside furniture, floor joints and cracks, carpet edges, skirting boards and picture frames.
“Adult bed bugs are four to six millimetres in diameter, oval in shape and dark reddish brown in colour,” she said.
“Adult females can lay up to three eggs a day which hatch up to 10 days later.
“Humans tend to be bitten around the shoulders and arms, often in distinctive lines.”
Ms Harrington said skin reactions could take several days to appear and included redness, swelling, itchiness and burning sensations.
“Although the bites are not considered a health risk, scratching can lead to secondary infections for which medical attention should be sought.”
26 January, 2010
Council complaints
fail to rate
The Minister for Local Government, John Castrilli, has denied claims the reform transition process has ignored the views of the Local Government sector.
Mr Castrilli made the statement after the West Australian Local Government Association (WALGA) demanded consultation over what it says is a shift in the State Government’s approach to Local Government reform.
President of the WALGA, Councillor Bill Mitchell said the new reform transition process had little or no regard for Council submissions.
“It is important that the Minister appreciates the frustration and confusion in the sector but also that he has an opportunity to outline the process and address concerns,” Cr Mitchell said.
Mr Castrilli said the submission process on reform had revealed that nine Local Governments were prepared to merge into three separate new entities.
He said a further 54 Local Governments indicated they were open to the possibility of amalgamation.
Mr Castrilli said Councils had also taken part in briefing sessions to consider regional transition and regional collaboration groups.
He said claims by WALGA that he was “assigning Councils to various groupings without an opportunity to explore alternatives” and was compromising the voluntary nature of the process were misleading.
“Engagement in the reform options proposed is clearly a matter of choice,” Mr Castrilli said.
“If any Local Government does not want to participate either in a merger, a Regional Transition Group (RTG) or Regional Collaborative Group (RCG) they can choose to do so.
“I will be addressing the WA local governments at the WALGA State-wide Reform Forum and I look forward to building cooperative relationships with the new leadership group of WALGA.”
He said Local Governments who wanted to proceed with reform would receive State Government funding to help them develop a regional business plan.
26 January, 2010
Standards take care
of care concerns
New national standards for the treatment of children in care are to be developed by all State and Territory Governments in the coming months.
Announced by the Federal Minister for Families and Community Services, Jenny Macklin, the new standards are part of a push for common policies across the nation.
“Currently, child protection systems vary markedly across the country,” Ms Macklin said, “with each State and Territory having its own child protection policy, standards and legislation.
“We need national standards of care so children who cannot live with their families can grow up in a safe, secure environment.”
Ms Macklin said options being considered included best practice standards for assessing foster carers, appropriate training and support for carers and a benchmark for regular health checks for children in foster families.
“The tragic and apparently preventable death of a 12-year-old Northern Territory girl and the Coroner’s findings on her death show just how important it is for the health and welfare of children in care to be regularly monitored,” she said.
Ms Macklin said the standards also aimed to reduce disruption for kids in foster care.
She said a 2009 study showed children in foster care moved homes an average of 5.7 times in the past five years.
“By reducing the number of placements, children can have the stable and secure environment that’s essential for their long term development and wellbeing,” Ms Macklin said.
According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare’s (AIHW) report, Child Protection Australia 2008-09, over 34,000 children were living in out-of-home care at 30 June 2009, a 9.3 per cent increase from the previous year.
Spokesperson for the AIHW, Kate Valentine said while there appears to have been a rise in children needing protection, other factors could have contributed.
Ms Valentine said these factors included greater community awareness, a broadening of what is regarded as child abuse or neglect and changes to child protection policies.
She said the Institute’s report showed the rate of Indigenous children in out-of-home care was over nine times greater than non-Indigenous kids.
Ms Macklin urged all stakeholders, including children carers, practitioners and organisations, to contribute ideas to help develop the national standards.
She said national consultations would start in February in all Australian capital cities, as well as four regional locations in Queensland, Western Australia, New South Wales and the Northern Territory.
The AIHW report was available from www.aihw.gov.au
26 January, 2010
DEC gets keys
to historic park
The Department of Environment and Conservation is to take over management of the scenic Araluen Botanic Park, near Roleystone, from the Western Australian Planning Commission.
Minister for Planning, John Day said the transfer of the 60 hectare park, which is well known for its gardens and tulip displays, would help guarantee its preservation.
Mr Day said DEC had the practical expertise to care for Araluen as it already managed nearby nature reserves and forest areas.
The park, which has been managed by the Araluen Botanic Park Foundation under a lease agreement with the Planning Commission since 1995, has 14 hectares of developed garden beds, includes a number of heritage buildings and is on the State Register of Heritage Places.
“I acknowledge the Foundation’s contribution to the many significant improvements at the park in recent years, including the restoration of heritage structures, gardens, paths, steps and terraces,” Mr Day said.
“We are grateful to all the Foundation’s volunteers and hope they will continue to actively support the park in the future.”
Minister for the Environment, Donna Faragher said the new management arrangement would apply from 1 July and would allow DEC to manage Araluen as a multi-use park.
Ms Faragher said the Foundation would be contracted to manage the 14 hectares that are developed while DEC would manage the rest in a manner that complemented the adjacent Stinton Cascades Nature Reserve.
Araluen Park was created in 1929 by J.J. Simons, who named it after an Aboriginal word meaning ‘singing waters’.
It was sold to the private sector in the 1980s and subsequently purchased by the WA Planning Commission in 1990.
26 January, 2010
Boats warned in
wake of incidents
Sailors, skippers and divers have been warned to take extra care on the water following a recent surge in serious incidents.
General Manager of Marine Safety at the Department of Transport, David Harrod said despite more comprehensive laws being introduced to provide greater protection for divers, several reports of dangerous interactions between vessels and divers in WA waters had been made over the past month.
“There are concerns there will be tragic consequences if skippers and divers continue to fail to adhere to the rules and ignore recognised safe practices for diving,” Mr Harrod said.
He said amendments to regulations governing the operation of vessels near divers required skippers who saw a dive flag on a vessel or buoy to keep a proper lookout, proceed at a safe speed and, where possible, keep their vessel at least 50 metres clear.
Mr Harrod said where it was not possible to keep 50 metres clear, skippers must proceed at the slowest possible speed.
Vessels with divers operating from them are required to display a dive flag which is no less than 750mm in length and 600mm in width and is clearly visible, in keeping with the International Flag Code.
Mr Harrod said divers also needed to exercise caution and he reminded them that the 50 metre zone did not mean boats were excluded from approaching dive sites.
“Additionally, while the regulations do not require snorkelers to display a dive flag, those snorkelling in areas of vessel traffic, in isolated areas or further offshore, are recommended to use a dive flag to alert skippers and enhance personal safety,” he said.
26 January, 2010
DAFWA warms up
bushfire assistance
The Department of Agriculture and Food has urged landholders affected by the Toodyay bushfires last month to seek advice on land recovery and conservation.
Manager of the Northam area, Pamela I’Anson said the fires had left nearly 3,000 hectares of land at risk of wind and water erosion.
Ms I’Anson said Department officers were among the recovery teams that visited more than 250 properties in the days following the fire to assess damage and address urgent animal welfare issues.
She said a priority in coming months, particularly before opening season rains, would be to minimise further damage to burnt properties through erosion.
“The fires have removed a lot of the ground cover that protects the soil from the elements and the Department is supporting affected landholders with advice about managing these erosion risks,” Ms I’Anson said.
She said landholders could consider destocking burnt paddocks; minimising cultivation, earthworks and traffic across paddocks; waiting to tidy up until the threat of erosion was past; provide hay for stock; check water for contamination; and consider soil stabilising treatments.
Additional aid for victims of the bushfires was being distributed through a further 22 payments from the Lord Mayor’s Distress Relief Fund (LMDRF).
The latest round of payments, amounting to $49,000, are in addition to the 30 handed over to people in Toodyay recently and brings the total amount of money distributed to people affected by the bushfires to $143,000.
Chief Executive of the City of Perth, Frank Edwards said the LMDRF had been effective in relieving some of the hardship experienced by bushfire victims.
“The quick turnaround has been appreciated by people who are adjusting to life after the fires while planning for their futures,” he said.
Landholders affected by the fires could access further information on land conservation by phoning the Department of Agriculture and Food’s Northam office on (08) 9690 2162.
26 January, 2010
Doors open for
prison project
A new prison for young adults is to be built and operated as a Public Private Partnership (PPP), the Attorney-General, Christian Porter, has announced.
Mr Porter, who is also Minister for Corrective Services, said the prison would add 80 new beds to the adult prison system and was part of the Government’s 2008 election commitment to address the specific needs of 18-to-22 year-old male offenders.
“These offenders are particularly vulnerable to re-offending and traditional approaches aimed at breaking the cycle of recidivism have not worked,” Mr Porter said.
“It is for this reason that the State Government has decided to engage the private sector in what will be a unique offender facility with a focus on employment, training and offence-specific programs.”
He said the Departments of Treasury and Finance (DTF) and Corrective Services (DCS) had engaged a consultant to undertake a detailed procurement options analysis on the Young Adults Prison.
“A targeted market sounding was undertaken by a procurement working group with potential market participants and it was determined that there was a substantial level of market interest in participating in this project,” Mr Porter said.
He said the management of the prison would be based on the private operation model integrated into the public system at Acacia Prison.
”The privately-run Acacia Prison costs about 20-30 per cent per annum less to operate than prisons in the public system,” Mr Porter said, “with the average prisoner costing $187 per day to accommodate compared to $295 in the public system.
“Private industry will be used for the facility management and support and custodial services at the 80-bed prison, to be located at the existing Rangeview Remand Centre site.”
The DCS will retain responsibility for prisoner placement, sentence management, prisoner disciplinary proceedings, the intelligence system, the emergency support group, internal investigations and high security escorts.
“The DCS Commissioner will be responsible for the development of strict standards and stringent contract management,” Mr Porter said.
Tenders for the first stage of the construction of the Banksia Hill expansion will be awarded this month, with construction due to start in February.
The Young Adults Prison is scheduled to open at the end of 2011.
Mr Porter also announced that the $126 million, 387-bed expansion at Acacia Prison would be designed and constructed via existing public sector procurement processes, with private sector service delivery.
The Community and Public Sector Union/Civil Service Association has criticised the policy, saying the Government was misleading the community.
Branch Secretary of the CPSU/CSA, Toni Walkington said claims the Acacia Prison was cheaper to run were based on the report of the Office of the Inspector of Custodial Services (OICS) of Acacia Prison published in July last year.
“We do not believe the OICS designed their analysis for use in comparing private prison and public prison costs,” Ms Walkington said.
“Their analysis, often qualified by such terms such as ‘suppose for present purposes’, does not specifically compare costs or value for money between private and public prisons.”
26 January, 2010
Councils urged to be
fair with fairer sex
A campaign designed to encourage more women to serve on Local Government Councils has been endorsed at the highest level.
Federal Minister for Local Government, Anthony Albanese, announced in Sydney that the Commonwealth would back the scheme, committing $500,000 to a range of projects to help women play a more active role in leadership and management at the Local Government level.
Mr Albanese said the 2010 Year of Women in Local Government campaign would encourage Councils to reflect the communities they represent by boosting female employment.
“Local Governments make an important contribution to the nation, delivering vital infrastructure and services, such as local roads, community facilities, environmental and waste services, child care and health and welfare services,” Mr Albanese said.
“However, less than a third of Councillors are women; 20 per cent of senior managers are women; and only seven per cent of Chief Executive Officers are women.”
The national Minister for the Status of Women, Tanya Plibersek said many talented Australian women got their political start in Local Government.
“Councils are big employers in local communities,” Ms Plibersek said.
“Organisations that employ women and people from diverse backgrounds better represent and understand their community leading to better results.”
She said Governments had taken a number of steps to improve the way Councils engage with women.
Ms Plibersek said these steps included providing funding for gender equity programs and auditing the status of women in leadership roles.
Other measures include funding for scholarships, improved data collection on the status of women in the Local Government sector and identifying strategies to promote gender equity in Councils.
Further information on 2010 Year or Women in Local Government was available from www.lgwomen2010.org.au
26 January, 2010
Women’s Centre
in the pink
A report from the Inspector of Custodial Services that rates Boronia Pre-Release Centre for Women a ‘first-rate’ facility has been welcomed by the Department of Corrective Services.
The report follows an inspection of the facility in June 2009, during which the Inspector found the purpose-built buildings were well planned and that the centre was well funded and resourced.
“The prison has bedded in well since opening in 2004, with careful management, good community liaison and a gradual fill of prisoners,” the report says.
“It is also immune from the pressures of overcrowding that affect much of the State’s prison system.”
Inspector of Custodial Services, Professor Neil Morgan said although the report made some recommendations with respect to Boronia itself, the main challenge was for the Department of Corrective Services and the Government to replicate Boronia’s achievements across the whole of the prison system.
“For good reason, Boronia has attracted national and international interest as an example of how to deliver pre-release services for women prisoners,” Professor Morgan said.
Assistant Commissioner of Custodial Operations, Jon Peach congratulated Boronia management and staff for their efforts in ensuring the continued strong performance of the Centre.
“Boronia has succeeded in providing a unique and appropriate setting for minimum-security female prisoners and their children,” Mr Peach said.
“The women take part in meaningful rehabilitation activities and work placements that really get to the core of the unique needs of female prisoners.”
He said the report did raise concerns about the fact that Aboriginal prisoners made up only 30 per cent of Boronia’s population as compared to about 50 per cent of the State’s female prisoner population.
“The Department is committed to giving Aboriginal women prisoners the same opportunities as the non-Aboriginal population but has to balance this with the importance of allowing prisoners to stay ‘in country’ close to their families and communities, which has been found as a key factor in facilitating rehabilitation,” Mr Peach said.
“To this end, we opened a dedicated women’s precinct at Broome Regional Prison late last year, providing a distinct area for females to not only live but take part in the necessary education and programs to give them the best chance of rehabilitation and reintegration into the community.”
The report was available from www.custodialinspector.wa.gov.au
26 January, 2010
Curtin opens window
for Central students
The Curtin University of Technology and Central Institute of Technology in Perth have joined forces to create a direct pathway to the university for Central students completing their higher level qualifications.
A Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) was recently signed by the two institutions and offers a direct pathway from Central to Curtin, giving students from Central an opportunity for direct entry to Curtin from the first semester of 2010.
Under the MOU, students who have completed a specific range of Diploma and Advanced Diploma courses are eligible for direct entry to Curtin University in a range of degree qualifications in the humanities, business, science and engineering and health sciences faculties.
Manager of Education Pathways Support at Central, Andrea Vinciullo said the MOU was an exciting development for the Institute.
“This will give Central’s students improved pathways to Curtin and promote higher level education,” Ms Vinciullo said.
“The pathway will be seamless, involving completion of an application form, rather than students needing to complete a Stat Test or applying through the Tertiary Institutions Service Centre.”
Students who want to know if they are eligible, or who are seeking more information, could visit www.central.wa.edu.au or phone Ms Vinciullo on (08) 9427 1220.
26 January, 2010
Army barracks
get discharge
The Prime Minister has announced that areas of Commonwealth-owned land at the Fremantle Artillery Barracks known as Cantonment Hill are to be sold for community use.
Approval of the concessional sale of three areas of land, which form part of the 3.87 hectare site, to the City of Fremantle has been given by the Federal Government on condition they be redeveloped for the community.
Federal MP for Fremantle, Melissa Parke, said the City of Fremantle intended to incorporate the land into the existing Cantonment Hill Reserve and restore it for public use, creating a safe public park and regenerating the native bushland.
Ms Parke said the sale was a fantastic result for Fremantle and the wider Western Australian community.
“It will return to our community the views and public open space of a vantage point that was always intended to be Fremantle’s equivalent of Kings Park,” she said.
Ms Parke said the sale of the land would resolve the “long-running issue” which had been stagnant for the past 10 years.
The concessional sale comprises of three areas of the Fremantle Artillery Barracks, known as Tuckfield Street Reserve, the Signal Station and surrounds and the former Royal Australian Navy Warehouse.
The site was formerly used by the Department of Defence, but was declared surplus to Defence requirements in 1999.
Since that time the land has remained part of the Australian Government’s property portfolio.
The contractual terms of the sale are anticipated to be finalised between the Department of Defence and the City of Fremantle within the next two months.
26 January, 2010
Childcare failings
caught in web
Information about serious breaches of childcare regulations by State childcare providers is now available on the internet.
Minister for Community Services, Robyn McSweeney said all serious breaches and prosecutions from June 2008 relating to the Child Care Services Act 2007 were now available.
The move follows consultations held by Ms Sweeney with the childcare sector late last year and will be the first time the information has been made publicly available in the State.
“The move to publish breaches and prosecutions online aims to sustain confidence among parents using Western Australia’s childcare services, that this Government is serious about putting in place policies to increase the quality of childcare we have on offer,” Ms McSweeney said.
“When I signalled this move, I did it with the intention of parents being able to access information about the quality of care offered to their child and if they feel this is not up to scratch, they have a right to make a decision to move their child to another provider.”
She said publishing the information would have a significant effect in raising awareness among parents about regulations that guide providers and help maintain compliance within the childcare sector.
Ms McSweeney also signalled the release of the Compliance and Enforcement Framework for all WA childcare providers, seeking to encourage voluntary compliance in the sector, with a strong but flexible enforcement regime.
Information on the breaches was available from www.communities.wa.gov.au
26 January, 2010
Satisfied customers
A customer perception survey has been conducted by the Department of Treasury and Finance’s State Revenue Office.
The survey aimed to obtain feedback in relation to how the Revenue Office could improve its services.
Feedback was generally positive, with 80 per cent of respondents being either satisfied or very satisfied with the service provided to them in the last 12 months, up from 74 per cent in 2008.
The survey results were available from www.dtf.wa.gov.au
Prison officer charged
The Corruption and Crime Commission has laid multiple charges against an officer from Hakea Prison for allegedly accessing and disclosing confidential information about prisoners from the Department of Corrective Services’ computer system.
The 26-year-old man faces 10 charges of unlawful use of computers and five of disclosing official secrets to associates between May and September last year.
He is due to appear in the Perth Magistrates Court on 12 February and has resigned from the Department of Corrective Services.
Auxiliary police sought
WA Police has begun advertising for the first 37of 150 Police Auxiliary Officers needed.
Applications for the first round of recruitment close on 1 February.
Successful applicants will be required to complete 12 weeks of paid training and will be based in Perth, Bunbury and Geraldton.
All 150 Officers are expected to be recruited by June 2013.
Further information was available from www.stepforward.wa.gov.au
Development team in place
The corporate leadership team for the Department of State Development is now fully in place, with two new senior executives joining the Corporate Strategic Executive.
Director General of the Department, Anne Nolan said the team members were Deputy Director General, State Initiatives, Gail McGowan; Deputy Director General, Resources and Industry Development, Giles Nunis; Deputy Director General, Strategic Policy, Nicky Cusworth; and Executive Director, Corporate Services, Stephanie Black.
Ms Nolan said major challenges facing the Department included delivering key resources and industry infrastructure projects in partnership with private proponents and the Commonwealth.
Shared Services off air
Shared Services has apologised for being unable to respond to calls to its customer service centre and switchboard on 15 January.
It said an emergency evacuation of its Cannington offices was the cause of the problem.
Operations are now continuing as normal and the 1300 345 677 number is available. Shared Services apologised for any inconvenience.
Lunchtime at the Library
The State Library of Western Australia in Perth is hosting free lunch-time screenings of films and videos from the Library’s collection every Wednesday.
The shows start at 12:30 pm and run for around an hour, making it the perfect place to escape the heat at lunchtime.
Further information and a schedule is available from www.slwa.wa.gov.au
Excellence awards open
The Department for Communities has partnered with the Western Australian Council of Social Services to deliver new Community Services Excellence Awards.
The Awards celebrate outstanding community service and are open to organisations, individuals and for those working in partnership with business or Government.
Applications close on Wednesday 10 March and further information was available from www.communities.wa.gov.au
Builders wanted
Expressions of interest by Kimberley builders are being invited by LandCorp for house and land packages in Broome.
Minister for Lands, Brendon Grylls said 20 lots were available and that expressions of interest would close on 4 February.
Further information was available from www.landcorp.com.au
Student art on show
The Art Gallery of Western Australia has announced the 18th edition of Year 12 Perspectives which showcases the work of Western Australia’s finest young art students.
This year 71 works by 68 students have been selected from across Western Australia, with Curator, Glenn Pilkington saying the paintings, drawings, sculptures and photographs explored a range of subjects important to young people.
The exhibition will be on display at the Gallery from 20 February to 31 May.
Management report available
A report commissioned by the Conservation Commission on management planning in Western Australia in 2009 has been released.
Conducted by researchers at Murdoch University, the report looks at the best practice approach to management planning and has been presented in three parts: a review of management planning approaches in WA; strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats; and recommendations for reform.
The Department of Environment and Conservation is currently considering the report’s recommendations. The report is available from www.conservation.wa.gov.au
19 January, 2010
Kids in care to get
level playing field
A new policy involving all Departments and Agencies has been announced to ensure access to Government services for children in State care.
Minister for Child Protection, Robyn McSweeney said the initiative, Rapid Response, would take a whole-of-Government approach to improving access to health, education housing and employment services.
Mrs McSweeney said the program had undergone a successful pilot in the Fremantle, Great Southern, Midland and Pilbara regions during 2009.
She said 84 children participated in the six-month trial, 76 per cent of whom were given a medical assessment within the first three months of the trial being rolled-out.
“These interim results indicate the Rapid Response approach would greatly improve how current medical reviews and education assessments are managed for children entering State care between various Government Agencies,” Mrs McSweeney said.
“The reality is we see many children and young people entering care with significant medical, psychological, developmental, educational, disabling conditions and behavioural problems that have not been addressed properly by their families and most of them need priority treatment.”
She said it was encouraging to see the work done by participating Departments to identify ways to meet the needs of those in State care.
Mrs McSweeney said the new program would help support vulnerable children and would include referrals if further assistance was needed.
She said Rapid Response was expected to benefit 3,200 children who were cared for by the State.
“This is a positive step our State Government is making to address the needs of children in care,” she said.
“Rapid Response is a key in seeing these children and young people reach their full potential.”
The Department for Child Protection is to consult with other Government Agencies to improve, inform and enhance the Rapid Response program over the next year.
Mrs McSweeney said elements of the program were already underway, with the State-wide roll-out of Education Assessment and Plans for all children in State care commencing in July 2009.
19 January, 2010
New media office
making the news
A new communication model has been introduced by the Premier, Colin Barnett following the closure of the Government Media Office on 1 January 2010.
Mr Barnett said under the new model the Department of Premier and Cabinet would take on the functions of the former Government Media Office (GMO), which included media monitoring and overseeing Government advertising.
He said media advisers would now work for individual Ministers and his office would take responsibility for creating public awareness of Government initiatives and coordinating media strategies.
“The GMO was first established in 1984 but over time the model has proved less useful,” Mr Barnett said.
“The structure we are now adopting is more closely aligned to the Commonwealth model and most other States and Territories.”
He said former head of the GMO, Paul Plowman would continue to head Government communications and would work directly from the Premier’s Office.
The Premier also announced that former Cabinet Secretary and Chief of Staff, Deidre Willmott has been appointed as State Director of the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM).
“Ms Willmott is well placed to take on this important role for CHOGM, to be held in Perth in 2011, having been General Manager, Executive Services for the Melbourne 2006 Commonwealth Games for a period of three years,” Mr Barnett said.
He thanked Ms Willmott for her performance as his Chief of Staff, saying her experience was “invaluable” in guiding his Government through its first year in office.
Ms Willmott will take up her new role on 2 February 2010.
19 January, 2010
Snowball takes
chance at Health
An acting Director General of Health has been appointed for the next six months.
Minister for Health, Kim Hames named Kim Snowball as the acting DG saying the Government would launch an international recruiting search for a permanent occupant of the position with a selection process conducted by the Commissioner for Public Sector Standards over the coming months.
Dr Hames said Mr Snowball was a highly experienced Public Servant and certified practising accountant, who had been chief executive of the WA Country Health Service, an organisation with an annual budget of $1billion.
“Mr Snowball has also worked at a national level, having developed a National Rural Health Framework for the Commonwealth, State and Territory Governments,” Dr Hames said.
“I am looking forward to working with Mr Snowball to continue the good work being done in the Department of Health, including the implementation of the Four Hour Rule, improving access to health care for Indigenous people and the construction of Fiona Stanley Hospital.”
The Minister thanked former Director General of Health, Peter Flett for his work over the past two years.
“Dr Flett initiated a series of reforms which has ensured our health system has provided world-class care to patients in Western Australia,” Dr Hames said
The recruitment process for a Director General would begin immediately.
19 January, 2010
Council homes in
on homelessness
A new Advisory Council has been established to tackle the issue of homelessness in WA.
Minister for Child Protection, Robyn McSweeney announced the members of the Western Australian Council on Homelessness, saying they would provide her with information and advice for achieving the State’s homelessness outcomes under the National Affordable Housing Agreement (NAHA) and the Homelessness National Partnership Agreement (NPA).
The Council has been established for two years.
Mrs McSweeney said the Government had committed $68 million over four years to roll-out WA’s Implementation Plan under the National Partnership Agreement focusing on new approaches to tackling homelessness issues.
“Starting in February, the Council will support this Government’s strategies aimed at reducing overall homelessness statistics by 2013. These will be based around early intervention and prevention to break what is sometimes an inherent cycle for some members of our community, Mrs McSweeney said.
“It is just not acceptable that so many Western Australians experience various forms of short and long-term homelessness and do not have access to appropriate support services.
She said the former chair of the Supported Accommodation Assistance Program, Kay Hallahan, will chair the new Council.
It would also include:
Executive Manager, Homelessness and Housing, Ruah Community Services, Anna Paris;
Chief Executive Officer, Pilbara Community Legal Service, Nanette Williams;
Chief Executive Officer, Foundation Housing, Kathleen Gregory;
Director, Centrecare, Anthony Pietropiccolo; and
State Director, Mission Australia, Ross Kyrwood.
19 January, 2010
Heart Foundation
takes PS pulse
The national Heart Foundation is targeting Public Service offices to promote healthier lifestyles by becoming involved in organised walking programs.
National Senior Project Officer of Heart Foundation Walking, Michelle Wilson said 30 Government Departments across Australia had already signed up for the program which was based on a network of community-based walking groups aimed at encouraging people to be more active.
“In the past six months we have had over 30 new walking groups start in Government Departments across Australia,” Ms Wilson said.
“Many workplaces are encouraging staff to be more physically active and walking is a fun, free and social way to be active.”
She said volunteer Walk Organisers lead groups in their local area, and Public Servants were encouraged to become involved.
“Heart Foundation Walking Groups are a great way to meet people,” Ms Wilson said.
“Joining or starting a walking group in your area or workplace is easy and best of all it’s free.”
Ms Wilson said the Heart Foundation worked in partnership with Area Coordinators to establish walking groups in their local community.
“Area Coordinators may be from health or community centres, Councils or workplaces,” she said.
“These Area Coordinators work with the Heart Foundation to assist volunteer walk organisers to recruit walkers and establish groups.”
Ms Wilson said walk organisers were provided with resources, training and support to begin and maintain their group.
“They also receive complimentary merchandise as a ‘thank you’ for their role,” she said.
To become involved and find or start a group at your workplace, visit www.heartfoundation.org.au
19 January, 2010
WorkSafe nails
cabinetmakers
A year-long program investigating cabinet-making workplaces across Western Australia has led WorkSafe to call on the industry to improve its safety practices.
During the program, 95 inspections of furniture-making businesses were conducted to identify any common safety risks and provide information to employers on how to comply with occupational safety and health requirements.
Acting Executive Director of WorkSafe, Joe Attard said the inspection campaign confirmed some common risks to safety in the cabinet-making industry that needed to be addressed.
“The manufacturing industry – under which the cabinet-making sector falls – has the highest number of lost-time injuries of all WA industries,” Mr Attard said.
“More than 3,600 people employed in the WA manufacturing industry are injured each year seriously enough to have to take time off work, so there is room for considerable improvement.”
Inspectors issued a total of 295 improvement notices and four prohibition notices in the course of the 95 inspections, and three major areas of concern emerged.
“By far the greatest number of notices - 94 - were issued for breaches of the laws pertaining to the storage, labeling and use of hazardous substances in the workplace, Mr Attard said.
“Workplaces in which cabinet making is carried out would usually need to have a range of substances such as glues, stripping agents, varnishes and so on, all of which need to be stored, labelled and used in a safe manner to avoid injury and illness.”
He said a total of 28 notices were issued for matters relating to the lockout and tagging of machinery and tools and 26 notices referred to the guarding of machinery.
“One other issue this campaign looked at closely was the safe stacking of timber sheets in cabinet making workplaces,” Mr Attard said.
“A 22-year-old worker was crushed to death in March 2008 when a stack of veneered chipboard sheets toppled onto him, and this tragic event provided the incentive for this campaign.”
The campaign was completed in August, and involved a team of WorkSafe inspectors undertaking inspections at a random selection of workplaces in both metropolitan and regional areas of the State.
19 January, 2010
Teachers awarded
for fast learning
A new category is to be introduced in the 2010 Education Awards to recognise the most promising new teachers in the WA public school system.
Minister for Education, Liz Constable made the announcement at this year’s official welcome day for new public school teachers.
“The WA Beginning Teacher of the Year award is designed to recognise new teachers who make a distinct personal contribution to improved student engagement, achievement or well-being,” Dr Constable said.
“Six promising new teachers will be identified from across the State and will be provided the opportunity to extend their teaching expertise through professional learning to the value of $3,000.”
The Minister congratulated the hundreds of new teachers present and stressed the important contribution they will make to the lives of students throughout their school years.
“Teachers play a vital role in providing the best possible education for Western Australian students and often they do more than educate - they also inspire, entertain, motivate and support those they teach,” she said.
“I have been fortunate to meet some of the State’s best and brightest public school students, and their success demonstrates the strength and quality of teaching in our public schools.”
Dr Constable said teachers joining the profession this year were part of a new era as the State Government embarks on a new direction for public schools in 2010 with the establishment of 34 Independent Public Schools.
“This is the first group of schools to have greater flexibility to make decisions to best meet the needs of their students and school communities,” the Minister said.
19 January, 2010
Biosecurity notices
signs of the times
New warning signs designed by the Department of Agriculture and Food are expected to improve protection for farms against pests, weeds and disease.
The Department developed the signage in association with GrainGuard partners, including the Grain Industry Association of WA (GIWA).
National Grains Biosecurity Officer with the Department and Plant Health Australia, Lisa Sherriff, is working with growers to raise awareness about grains biosecurity. She said signage was a key part of on-farm biosecurity.
“Placing farm biosecurity signs at major access points to the property highlights to all visitors their responsibility to ensure they do not bring weeds, pests and diseases on to the property and provides them with appropriate contact details should they need to alert growers,” Ms Sherriff said.
“GrainGuard and GIWA have banded together to promote the importance of good farm biosecurity practices, including the use of signs, to assist the grains industry in protecting its production and markets.”
Grain grower Rod Birch, of Catalina Farms, said he was stringent with weed control on his property, including the roadsides. His farm had excellent laneways ensuring trucks do not need to cross paddocks and his shed area had a compacted gravel base with machinery kept clean and stored at all times.
“Other industries have high standards that are mostly driven by consumers, our grains industry needs to follow suit to protect our businesses from unwanted pests and maintain market access,” Mr Birch said.
“Buyers are looking for a point of differentiation and by lifting our farm standards even higher we can give them that.”
The Grains On-farm Biosecurity Program is delivered by Plant Health Australia and funded by growers through the Grains Council of Australia together with the Western Australian, Queensland, Victorian, South Australian and New South Wales State Governments and the Cooperative Research Centre for National Plant Biosecurity.
19 January, 2010
Planning policies off
the drawing board
A range of new planning policies for inner-city developments has been released to guide the work of the East Perth Redevelopment Authority (EPRA).
Minister for Planning, John Day said EPRA Scheme 2 and the policies had been specifically designed to meet the needs of inner-city development.
The new guidelines would affect EPRA’s entire redevelopment area, made up of six inner-city project areas including The Link; Perth Cultural Centre; Riverside; New Northbridge; East Perth Power Station; and Claisebrook Village.
“This is an important step in planning for the future development of our city and one that encourages a ‘people-focused’ approach in creating public open spaces and urban environments,” Mr Day said.
“It delivers the tools needed to continue the exciting work already under way, so we can create a truly world-class city full of vibrant public spaces.”
The new guidelines were finalised following a two-month public consultation period as well as industry workshops and research and analysis of issues and trends.
Mr Day said the new guidelines would improve the development application process.
“The regeneration of Perth is about ensuring our city is environmentally sustainable and creating a place in which people want to live and encouraging more private and public sector investment,” he said.
From this month, Scheme 2 replaces EPRA’s original Redevelopment Scheme, first released in 1992 to help guide the Claisebrook Village project. The 10 new development policies replace the current 43 planning policies.
19 January, 2010
Library meeting room
turns over new leaf
The State Library has unveiled a new conference room on its ground floor following a major refurbishment of the area.
Capable of accommodating 30 people, the new Geographe Room is equipped with the latest in technical equipment and comfortable facilities.
The room is equipped has audio visual systems with touch screen panel and smart wiring, high quality acoustics, kitchen facilities and filtered water.
Its flexible layout enables it to be set up quickly in boardroom, conference or theatre styles. It can be used for lunchtime corporate meetings, a new product launch or an offsite executive or board meeting. In addition, there are optional items such as a smart board, laptop and two break-out rooms available for hire.
The Geographe Room compliments the 200-seat theatre and other seminar and meeting rooms (which can accommodate groups of between 20 to 70 people).
The State Library is located in the Perth Cultural Centre within close proximity to the Perth central business district and train station with the No 11 City of Perth Car Park underneath the building.
The State Library’s website, www.slwa.wa.gov.au carries more information and images. Alternatively, bookings can be made by calling Venues Coordinator Anita Freeman, 9427 3466, Mob: 0424 181 170 or email: anita.freeman@slwa.wa.gov.au
19 January, 2010
Fencing code puts
industry on guard
A new code of practice for safeguarding of machinery and plant has been issued by the WA Commission for Occupational Safety and Health.
The code will apply to almost all workplaces in the State.
Commission Chair, Tony Cooke said the code aimed to assist workplaces to maintain a safe working environment.
“The code explains how to ensure that machinery and plant is safely guarded so it does not pose a risk to safety and health,” Mr Cooke said.
“Statistics show that around 1,440 workplace injuries each year involve machinery, and that around 240 of these injuries are serious enough to result in more than 60 days off work.”
He said the lack of guarding on machinery was a significant cause of workplace deaths and injuries in WA, and the code aimed to reduce the toll.
It applies to workplaces covered by both the Occupational Safety and Health Act 1984 and the Mines Safety and Inspection Act 1994, making it applicable in almost all WA workplaces.
The code was developed by the Commission for Occupational Safety and Health and the Mining Industry Advisory Committee, along with representatives of unions, employer organisations and Government.
Mr Cooke said the Commission also took into consideration public comment submitted by industry representatives, unions, organisations and community members.
19 January, 2010
Port probe reports
health plain sailing
A study conducted for the Department of Environment and Conservation has concluded that the residents of Esperance exposed to lead and nickel emissions were unlikely to suffer adverse health impacts.
The finding is contained in the final report from environmental consultants Golder Associates, who produced the Esperance Townsite Human Health and Ecological Risk Assessment (December 2009) on behalf of the Department.
The study assessed the risks to humans and the environment from lead and nickel in air, soil, water sediments, plants and organisms surrounding Esperance Port, which was the source of lead and nickel emissions in 2007.
It found that levels of lead and nickel in rainwater, soil and dust were not high enough to cause acute human health effects and there were no long-term health risks identified for children and adults when realistic long-term predictions of exposure to lead and nickel were used. However there was some risk for carnivorous marsupials and some plants exposed to nickel in the soil.
Finally, the study concluded that lead in the soil posed some risk for birds (insect and nectar eaters) and mammals (insect eaters).
Deputy Director General of Environment at the DEC, Robert Atkins said the findings would assist in restoring confidence in Esperance as a desirable and safe place to live and visit.
“The findings do not, however, diminish the seriousness of the pollution incident or the need to complete the clean-up that is still underway,” Mr Atkins said.
19 January, 2010
Heat taken out of
asbestos removals
New and tighter rules governing the removal of asbestos are to be introduced in June following amendments to occupational safety and health laws.
Commissioner for WorkSafe WA, Nina Lyhne said the changes to licensing requirements for the removal of more than 10 square metres of asbestos aimed to minimise the dangers of working with asbestos products.
“There is still a large amount of asbestos in WA and we need to make sure that its removal is carried out only by workers who have the proper knowledge and skills to perform the task safely,” Ms Lyhne said.
“A National Code of Practice for the Safe Removal of Asbestos has been in existence for many years, so there has always been a requirement for working safely with asbestos. These changes aim to improve compliance with the code.
Ms Lyhne said asbestos cement products did not pose a risk to health if they were left undisturbed in buildings. However, there was a serious risk of exposure to asbestos fibres during the disturbance or removal of asbestos-containing materials unless basic safety precautions were followed.
“Concerns have long existed about the potential for serious health effects from exposure to asbestos where these safety precautions are not followed,” she said.
“These concerns resulted in the Commission for Occupational Safety and Health recommending stronger controls on the removal of asbestos cement sheeting.”
The Commissioner said a large amount of consultation had taken place, with input from industry representatives, unions, organisations and members of the community all being taken into consideration when deciding to implement the changes.
From 1 June, business operators removing more than 10 square metres of bonded asbestos, including asbestos cement material, in a workplace will need to have completed an approved training course and hold an asbestos licence.
Ms Lyhne said the changes put Western Australia on the same footing as the other States and Territories.
19 January, 2010
Lobster industry
digs in its claws
The Minister for Fisheries has accepted recommendations from the Rock Lobster Industry Advisory Committee (RLIAC) to adjust arrangements applying to WA’s commercial rock lobster industry to help it meet the current season’s targets.
Chief Executive of the Department of Fisheries, Stuart Smith said the adjustments were part of the adaptive management approach the Minister for Fisheries, Norman Moore, had announced before the season to ensure the overall catch remained around 5,500 tonnes.
“The most immediate change will be closure of C Zone, which includes the port of Jurien, the Perth coast and South-West waters to Cape Leeuwin,” Mr Smith said.
“C Zone will be closed to rock lobster fishing from 18 January until 31 January, following the existing weekend closure.
“Fishing will resume in C Zone on 1 February through until 11 March, using the balance of the catch target for the full C Zone season. There will be a further C Zone closure from 12 March to 11 April, with fishing resuming on 12 April if that target has not been exhausted.”
Mr Smith said the current closure in B Zone, which stretched from north of Jurien to North West Cape, would end on 24 January, when additional management changes would apply.
“A Zone commercial rock lobster fishers will fish in B Zone from 25 January until the catch target for the first half of the season is exhausted. After that, A Zone licensees will cease fishing until the Abrolhos Islands (A Zone) season opens on 15 March,” he said.
“B Zone commercial fishers will fish from 25 January until 11 March. B Zone will then be closed from 12 March to 11 April, with fishing allowed again from 12 April.”
Mr Smith said the aim of restricting the catch in 2008-09 and in this season was to increase the number of lobsters available during coming seasons. The rules did not apply to recreational fishers, as they had their own management measures.
19 January, 2010
Heritage listing
makes history
The rich geographical and biological treasures that make up the Ningaloo Coast have been included on Australia’s National Heritage List and simultaneously nominated for World Heritage Listing.
The announcement was made jointly by the Minister for the Environment, Donna Faragher and Federal Minister, Peter Garrett and involves an area of 708,000ha in mid-west Western Australia, including Cape Range on Exmouth Peninsula, a coastal strip extending about 260km south to Red Bluff, as well as adjacent dune fields, marine areas, reefs and islands.
Mrs Faragher said the nomination was recognition of the comprehensive management arrangements in place for Ningaloo based on a network of marine and terrestrial conservation reserves.
“The State Government will remain principally responsible for management and decision-making in the area, in consultation with Local Governments, pastoralists, landholders and the community,” Mrs Faragher said.
“The various land tenures of the nominated property, if listed, will remain under the control of the State and Federal Government jurisdictions; the Shires of Exmouth and Carnarvon; and private land and lease holders.”
Mrs Faragher said the State Government had worked closely with the Australian Government to identify an appropriate boundary for the nomination.
Mr Garrett said the nomination was a major achievement for both Governments.
“The World Heritage nomination reflects that Ningaloo is internationally significant for its role in the protection of an exceptional number of marine and terrestrial species,” Mr Garrett said.
He said Shark Bay and Purnululu National Park were the only other Western Australian sites to be World Heritage listed.
19 January, 2010
Brainstorms beat
grainstore leaks
The Department of Agriculture and Food is leading a project to trial new computer technology that could lead to major cost savings and improved market outcomes for grain storage systems across the nation.
Personal Digital Assistants (PDAs) are being used to transform manual paper trails into more accurate and efficient systems that will also support biosecurity processes.
The Department is working through the Cooperative Research Centre for National Plant Biosecurity (CRCNPB) in association with the CBH Group, ABB Grain, GrainCorp Operations and other Western Australian agriculture organisations.
A researcher, Rob Emery, said while the efficiency and accuracy gains alone would be beneficial, the potential for the systems to improve market access would be invaluable.
“In this day and age markets expect credible evidence to validate claims that grains are free from pests and diseases,” Mr Emery said.
“These new PDA based systems will be able to document expanded surveillance results more accurately and securely to prove freedom from biosecurity risks. This will greatly assist market access for Australian grains.”
Mr Emery said the use of PDAs would also help to improve phosphine treatments of stored grain by allowing more extensive monitoring and on-site evaluation of fumigation effectiveness.
“A map of phosphine levels across grains bulk storage could be created that show potential inconsistencies and leaks, which the grain handler can then act upon before they become a problem - generating considerable cost savings,” he said.
The Department has programmed prototype PDAs, which the CBH Group will test in the field to provide feedback and refinement.
“This technology is very exciting and could be potentially be used in a range of different industry applications,” Mr Emery said.
19 January, 2010
New union website
The Community and Public Sector Union/Civil Service Association of WA ( CPSU/CSA) has launched a new website focused on ease of navigation with information up front and simple to find.
Features include frequently asked questions on a range of issues; information on awards and agreements; training registration and assistance for workplace organisers.
Other features will be added over time in response to members’ feedback.
Safari on track for tourism
Australasian Safari will continue an arrangement to promote regional Western Australia for the next three years, with options for a further six years.
Minister for Tourism, Liz Constable said an agreement reached with the event organisers would ensure imagery of the Dakar-style safari, and ultimately the Western Australian Outback, would be broadcast to millions of households around the world.
The gruelling seven-day off-road rally involves competitors in four-wheel-drives, motorbikes and quad-bikes racing the clock as they test their driving skills across 3,700 kilometres of challenging Outback terrain.
The 2009 Australasian Safari attracted more than 100 national and international competitors and boosted WA’s economy by about $2 million.
Davis wins fellowship
The State Library’s second Battye Fellowship has been awarded to Jane Davis.
Dr Davis’ project will challenge the current widely-held assumptions about settlers and the Australian environment.
It will focus on 21 colonists who settled in the South West of Western Australia between 1829 and 1907, and the extent to which they developed a sense of home and belonging through their relationships with and perceptions of the landscapes they encountered.
The Fellowship has a value up to $20,000.
Photos on show at Library
The State Library of Western Australia is showcasing the winning entries of the national photo competition, Thanks Dad!
The competition highlights positive moments between male role models and children and is a celebration of the fun Dads and their kids can have.
The exhibition, Thanks Dad! PhotoVoice Competition, will be open until 10 February.
Reef marker helps skippers
The western limits of the reef at Fish Rocks in Cockburn Sound are to be identified by a new marker, significantly assisting skippers navigating the area.
Manager of Navigational Safety and Compliance at the Department of Transport, Ray Buchholz said the new West Cardinal marker would complement the existing North Cardinal mark showing the northern limit of the reef.
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