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SearchArchives for June 2011
28 June, 2011
New Authority to
redevelop city
A new Authority is to be established to direct redevelopment activities in a number of metropolitan areas and the Perth waterfront.
Minister for Planning, John Day said the new Metropolitan Redevelopment Authority would replace existing authorities in Armadale, East Perth, Midland and Subiaco and bring with it far-reaching benefits for Perth’s future development.
Mr Day said the new Metropolitan Redevelopment Authority Bill was set to streamline existing systems and leverage long-term efficiencies while retaining the benefit to the State of the flexible redevelopment authority model.
“The new Authority will be governed by a seven-member board and simplify processes by centralising all administrative functions into one entity,” Mr Day said.
“This will ensure the locally-based five-member Land Redevelopment Committees can concentrate on fulfilling the new Authority’s planning and development functions in each area.”
He said the new structure would better serve communities as it would enable resources to be deployed to projects as required.
Mr Day said the Land Redevelopment Committees would ensure the existing Redevelopment Authorities’ close ties were maintained in the areas in which they operated.
“The new Redevelopment Authority will work closely with the Land Redevelopment Committees to ensure we retain good working relationships with Local Governments and community groups to provide the best outcomes for residents,” he said.
The Minister said the Metropolitan Redevelopment Authority was expected to start work on 1 January 2012.
28 June, 2011
Office building
has tall storeys
Setting high design standards for the State Government’s one40william building in Perth has won the Office of the Government Architect great praise at the 2011 Western Australian Architecture Awards.
The project won three major awards at the event including the George Temple Poole Award 2011, the most prestigious architecture award on offer.
The project, by national architecture practice Hassell, was also awarded the Ross Chisholm Award for Commercial Architecture; and the John Septimus Roe Award for Urban Design.
Announcing the winners, the Australian Institute of Architects jury said the State Government had shown “leadership by requiring design quality commitments to be included in the tenders for the right to develop the site above the new William Street underground train station”.
The Office of the Government Architect was also congratulated for leading the initiative which “created a new benchmark for commercial projects in Perth”.
Other major award winners included the State Theatre Centre of Western Australia in Perth’s CBD.
That project, by architecture practice Kerry Hill Architects, also received multiple awards and commendations including the Jeffrey Howlett Award for Public Architecture; the Julius Elischer Award for Interior Architecture; and a Commendation in the Mondoluce Lighting Award category.
A total of 49 awards and commendations across 12 categories were presented with 141 entries submitted from across the State.
The Australian Institute of Architects is the peak body for the architectural profession representing more than 10,000 members across Australia and overseas.
More information about the awards is available at this PS News link.
28 June, 2011
Vision for Perth
is the way to go
A 20-year vision for Perth’s city centre has been released by the Minister for Planning, John Day.
Mr Day said the integration of Perth’s city centre and surrounding inner urban areas was important to enable the State capital to thrive and capitalise on its natural strengths.
“Central Perth is progressively developing as a truly international city, and the Capital City Framework allows for growth and development while at the same time maintaining and building upon Perth’s existing identity and sense of place,” Mr Day said.
“In the past, the city has primarily been seen as a business-focused centre, but we need to move on from that way of thinking and embrace the idea that our city should be enjoyed for a wide range of purposes - including various forms of living, working and recreation.”
He said the new framework highlighted three main capital city precincts as Parliament and Kings Park, the Perth Cultural Centre and Forrest Place precinct, and the Perth Waterfront and civic precinct.
Mr Day said those areas were the primary venues of State and culture, for use by both residents and visitors.
He said the careful design of those precincts and their integration with other elements of the city was critical to the design of Perth in the next two decades.
“A vibrant capital city embraces growth and change, and this cohesive vision for Perth will amplify our sense of place and make our capital more internationally competitive and relevant,” he said.
“Western Australia is already highly connected to the rest of the world, particularly through our resources industry, and we need to capitalise on the impending period of economic growth to establish Perth as a truly international city.”
Mr Day said the draft framework would be open for public comment until 19 September.
For more information or to submit a comment visit this PS News link.
28 June, 2011
Low assault figures
a hit with police
A marked fall in reported cases of assault against police is the result of tough new laws according to the Attorney General, Christian Porter and Minister for Police, Rob Johnson.
The Ministers said the latest figures showed a drop of 13 per cent in the first five months of 2011 compared to the same period in 2010.
Mr Porter said the decrease was above and beyond the drop of nearly 30 per cent in the first year following the introduction of mandatory sentencing for serious assaults against police officers in September 2009.
“When dealing with criminal justice statistics it is sometimes difficult to separate cause and effect, however, it is a fact that since the mandatory sentencing laws were passed there has been a significant and extraordinary decline in reported assaults against police officers,” Mr Porter said.
“When these laws were being debated there were various alarmist and ridiculous claims that they would result in injustices ‘on a daily basis’ and a radical increase in the prison population.”
He said the State Government had been closely monitoring the application of police prosecutorial guidelines since the laws were passed and were satisfied that the laws were being used cautiously and appropriately by WA Police.
“Significantly, police have only sought a mandatory penalty on 43 occasions and of the 19 matters finalised, 13 have resulted in a conviction and mandatory jail term,” he said.
Mr Porter said this result was in accordance with how the Government had predicted the laws would be applied when the legislation was debated in State Parliament.
Mr Johnson said the legislation sent a clear message to the public that serious assaults on WA Police officers would not be tolerated by the community or by the courts.
“Police officers should not have to go to work with the fear that they will be attacked by the very community they are trying to protect,” Mr Johnson said.
28 June, 2011
Jail terms to tackle
violent offenders
Tough new rules that could see jail terms for people who repeatedly breach Violence Restraining Orders (VROs) have been announced by the Attorney General, Christian Porter.
Mr Porter said the revised laws would give VROs more teeth and take into account the community outrage felt when breaches occurred, especially when they resulted in even more serious crimes.
He said one of the main features of the legislation was a “presumption of imprisonment” for people who had breached a VRO three times.
“This means that upon conviction for the third breach of an order, the law requires the judiciary to presume in favour of imprisoning the offender, and they will have to give written reasons in the judgment if they do not lock the offender up,” he said.
“Shockingly, even after a person has been convicted of breaching an order four or more times, there is presently only roughly a 25 per cent chance that they will receive a term of imprisonment.”
Mr Porter said another feature of the new legislation was to allow WA Police to extend the duration of on-the-spot VROs from 24 to 72 hours without needing the victim’s consent.
He said that would remove the respondent from the situation so that the victim had more time to decide if they would like to go to court and apply for a more permanent order.
He said breaching a VRO would also be classed as a ‘serious offence’ under the Criminal Investigation Act, which would make it harder for an offender to get bail.
“Our changes will also rule out offenders arguing that there are mitigating circumstances to a particular breach because the protected person gave consent for contact to be made, despite an order being in place,” Mr Porter said.
“The community must be able to view VROs as a viable safety mechanism and people who breach VROs must be subject to the full extent of the law.”
28 June, 2011
Kimberley plan in
from the wild
A new long-term plan for the Kimberley has been released by the Premier, Colin Barnett.
Entitled the Kimberley Science and Conservation Strategy, the plan is accompanied by a $63 million investment over five years and aims to protect “one of the world’s last great wilderness areas”.
Mr Barnett said the strategy was one of the most significant conservation initiatives in Western Australian history.
“The Kimberley is a spectacular place, renowned for its natural and cultural significance as well as its raw beauty,” Mr Barnett said.
“It holds a special place for many people, locally, in WA, Australia and across the world.”
He said the new initiative would also provide opportunities for Aboriginal involvement and employment in land management, and would promote nature and culture-based tourism.
He said the strategy was founded on major themes raised through an extensive community consultation process.
Mr Barnett said the strategy would be delivered through partnerships with traditional owners; landholders; industry; as well as Government and non-Government organisations.
“A centrepiece of the Kimberley Science and Conservation Strategy is the Kimberley Wilderness Parks, which I announced last October,” he said.
“The Kimberley Wilderness Parks will include the State’s biggest interconnected system of marine and terrestrial parks.”
The Premier said four new Kimberley marine parks were proposed including Camden Sound; North Kimberley; Roebuck Bay; and Eighty Mile Beach.
He said the new initiatives were worth more than $41 million and included a Kimberley marine science program; landscape scale fire, feral animal and weed control partnerships; collaborations with the Australian Wildlife Conservancy; and upgrades to visitor facilities.
He said schemes to return barramundi to Lake Kununurra; an online science portal; and a geochemical and geophysical survey program would also feature.
Minister for the Environment, Bill Marmion said the plan would meet the challenge of conserving the Kimberley for generations to come.
“This strategy sets a long-term vision but is action-oriented,” Mr Marmion said, “with many initiatives ready to commence immediately and be funded into the longer term.”
The full Kimberley Science and Conservation Strategy is available at this PS News link.
28 June, 2011
Transport moves
at Exmouth
The Department of Transport (DoT) has established a new, purpose built office, in Exmouth.
Regional Manager of DoT Gascoyne, Daren Hutchins said the new office in the Exmouth Business Centre in Maidstone Crescent delivered the full range of the DoT’s driver and vehicle, marine and passenger services.
“Previously located in the State Emergency Service building on the corner of Riggs and Payne Streets, the new central location of the new DoT office will assist officers in implementing ongoing improvements to the services it delivers to residents and visitors to Exmouth,” Mr Hutchins said.
“This new office, together with the new accommodation unit at the Exmouth Marina, demonstrates DoT ongoing commitment to the Gascoyne region.”
He said the DoT office was a co-location with the Gascoyne Development Commission (GDC).
“We welcome the opportunity to share our accommodation with the GDC and the co-tenancy will ensure the close working relationship between the GDC and DoT continues and provides ongoing benefits to the people of the area and the State,” he said.
Mr Hutchins said work on the $340,000 project commenced in October last year and local contractors were used to refurbish and refit the office.
“The quality of the work undertaken is excellent and the results on show today reflect the skills and workmanship of the local workforce,” he said.
“The significantly improved surroundings represent a better environment for our customers, it’s better for our staff and will benefit business.”
He said the new office was open every week day from 8.15am to 4pm and could be contacted on 9947 8200.
28 June, 2011
Mental health program
ahead of the game
A new program of support for people with exceptionally complex mental health needs has been announced by the Minister for Mental Health and Disability Services, Helen Morton.
Mrs Morton said funding of $240,000, to be paid equally by the Mental Health Commission and the Disability Services Commission, would help people with multiple problems improve the quality of their life.
She said the program would involve people with a combination of mental illness, acquired brain injury, intellectual disability and significant substance use problems.
She said a successful pilot program involving six people conducted between 2006 and 2010 had led to 20 people being supported by the new funding in 2011.
“I am delighted with the success of the pilot because people with exceptionally complex needs are traditionally difficult to engage, require support from many agencies, have very poor health and wellbeing outcomes and often end up in prison,” Mrs Morton said.
“The evaluation showed that participants experienced a range of improvements, including decreased use of hospital emergency services; less contact with police and courts; greater independence and participation in activities; improved self-esteem and confidence; and greater resilience and positive coping strategies.”
She said the program showed that with appropriate support and assistance, people with exceptionally complex needs could live successfully in the community.
“For people with such complex needs, change doesn’t happen overnight,” she said.
“It is measured in small gains that nevertheless represent a big achievement for each person.”
Mrs Morton said a successful interagency collaboration had provided services in each case.
“Through better co-ordination and removing barriers, we will deliver intensive assistance in a more effective, efficient and flexible way,” she said.
28 June, 2011
New pest map
tool has bite
A new online tool that helps farmers and landholders predict the likelihood of a pest or disease in their area has been developed and launched for the wheatbelt.
The PestFax Map service was developed as part of a project funded by the Grains Research and Development Corporation (GRDC) and conducted by the Department of Agriculture and Food (DAFWA) and The University of Western Australia (UWA).
The new initiative centres around an online, interactive risk management tool which helps users predict the likelihood that a pest or disease was heading into a particular area.
Senior researcher at DAFWA and map project leader, Art Diggle said the initial one-page version of the map allowed pest and disease incidences, such as insects or rust, to be viewed online.
Dr Diggle said PestFax Map could show all instances of a pest or disease and show multiple pests and diseases for optional time periods of years, months, weeks or days.
“The aim is for PestFax Map to be the grain industry’s eye on pest and disease problems, allowing more rapid, better targeted responses,” he said.
“The initial version incorporates a ‘share’ function allowing users to create a link for a particular map, which can be shared with other people or published as a ‘hotlink’ in the PestFax email service.”
Western panel member of GRDC and Brookton grower, Anna Butcher said PestFax Map would assist growers and consultants to assess pest and disease occurrences and help them make more timely management decisions.
“For example, if PestFax Map shows that high numbers of aphids are present in a nearby district, the grower can make sure they are extra vigilant monitoring their canola crops and ensure they have the necessary chemical on hand,” Mrs Butcher said.
She said the initiative also had the potential to strengthen WA biosecurity efforts.
“If there is an incursion of an exotic pest or disease, people can use PestFax Map to report the outbreak and hopefully the threat can be identified quickly,” she said.
Dr Diggle said he welcomed invitations to demonstrate PestFax Map to groups of farmers or industry representatives. More information is available from this PS News link.
28 June, 2011
Water scheme taps
into Heritage List
The Goldfields Water Supply Scheme has been added to the National Heritage List.
Federal Minister for Sustainability and Communities, Tony Burke made the announcement saying the Scheme was a great example of engineering ingenuity.
“The National Heritage List is about recognising the stories and places that define our communities and protect our heritage for future generations,” Mr Burke said.
“When work began at the end of the 19th century, the Goldfields Water Supply Scheme was regarded as the largest engineering undertaking of its kind in the world.”
He said the Scheme extended from Mundaring Weir in the State’s west to Mount Charlotte Reservoir at Kalgoorlie and was originally designed to provide a reliable source of water for the goldfields.
“The pipeline now supplies water to support agriculture in WA’s wheatfields, which accounts for 42 per cent of the nation’s wheat crop,” he said.
“Today, the extended scheme includes around 8,000 kilometres of pipelines and more than 40 pumping stations and contributes billions of dollars to Australia’s annual economy.”
Mr Burke said the addition of the WA Goldfields Water Supply Scheme to the National Heritage List recognised how important Australia’s mining and agriculture heritage was to the nation.
He said the National Heritage Listing would not prevent future investment in the region but any action likely to have a significant impact on its National Heritage values would need to be referred to the Federal Government for consideration.
28 June, 2011
Councils rate in
LGA awards
Western Australian Councils and Shires were high on the winners’ list in the 25th National Awards for Excellence in Local Government announced in Canberra.
Local Governments won for Engaging and Strengthening Indigenous Communities, Climate Change Actions and Regional Collaborations when the awards were announced at the 2011 National General Assembly of the Australian Local Government Association.
Federal Minister for Local Government, Simon Crean said two national winners were chosen from a total of 17 category winners.
“The two national winners have made a significant contribution to making their communities a better place to live,” Mr Crean said.
“From a women’s mentoring and training program, Inspire, Encourage, Enlighten, run by Mid-Western Regional Council in NSW to a shopping discount card for students in Frankston, Victoria, the work happening at local governments across Australia is inspiring.”
Mr Crean said that recognising the innovative ways that Councils approached challenges and their capacity to find unique local solutions was good for regions and good for the nation.
More than 100 Councils from across Australia participated in this year’s awards and submitted 152 entries in 10 categories,” he said.
“The National Awards for Local Government are an important component of the partnership between the Australian and local governments as they recognise, reward and promote the work of Local Governments across Australia.”
Western Australian winners included the City of Swan for its work on the Yagan Memorial Park; and the City of Cockburn’s Sustainability and Climate Change program.
The Shire of Morawa, was also recognised as a Small Council Winner for its Education and Industry Training Alliance.
Information about the National Awards for Local Government can be found at this PS News link.
28 June, 2011
Scientists pounce
on feral cat baits
A trial of feral cat baits in south coast national parks has shown the practice to be effective in reducing populations in temperate regions.
Building on the success of feral cat baiting in WA’s arid and semi-arid regions, scientists and conservation officers from the Department of Environment and Conservation (DEC) are now at the forefront of an effort to save the critically endangered western ground parrot and other native animals.
DEC’s Cameron Tiller said there were less than 140 western ground parrots known to exist in the wild and if the current decline was not halted, the species could become the first bird extinction on mainland Australia since the early 1930s.
“Feral cat predation has decimated this species as well as local populations of chuditch, dibblers and other vulnerable fauna, and in the past cats have been notoriously difficult to control as they will not take traditional dried meat baits used for foxes,” Mr Tiller said.
“After a five year trial of non-toxic baits in Fitzgerald River National Park, we had enough data last year to air drop Eradicat 1080 poison baits over the park.”
He said both feral cats and native species were radio-collared prior to the baiting, with half the collared cats killed in two weeks, while no mortalities in native species were recorded.
“This shows that cat baiting is working, but that there is a lot more to do to refine the way we deliver the baits, which baits we use and how these baits are made up,” he said.
“Trials next year will focus on delivering baits during mid to late summer to determine whether this will achieve a greater result in our efforts to control feral cats in high value fauna conservation reserves on the south coast.”
Mr Tiller said as part of a wider approach to conserving the western ground parrot, a small number of birds had been captured for research to establish whether captive breeding could be used as a risk mitigation measure, so populations could be re-established where predator control had been effective.
28 June, 2011
Schools lend weight
to waste watchers
New resources for schools that promote waste reduction and recycling as part of the Waste Wise Schools program have been announced by the Minister for the Environment, Bill Marmion.
Mr Marmion said two new curriculum-linked online resources had been developed, one to help schools run a waste audit to determine the amount and type of waste produced, and the other to help schools hold a healthy Zero Waste lunch to reduce packaging and food waste.
“It’s all about giving teachers key information and guidance in the State Government’s aim to provide further support for current and future Waste Wise schools,” Mr Marmion said.
“These new toolkits build on resources introduced last year, including an operating practices manual, curriculum-linked activity guides and fact sheets that include topics such as climate change, littering and general waste minimisation.”
He said last year an accreditation scheme was also introduced to recognise schools that formed Waste Wise committees, ran waste audits and provided waste policies and plans.
“The program is all about teaching people that reducing waste and recycling is not only good for the environment, it’s good for the community and can be a lot of fun,” Mr Marmion said.
He said the Waste Wise Schools program encouraged participating schools to reduce their waste by implementing the three ‘R’s - reduce, re-use and recycle - while developing positive environmental values in students and school communities.
He said more than 600 schools across Western Australia were currently involved in the program which was run by the Department of Environment and Conservation and was primarily funded by the Waste Authority through the Waste Avoidance and Resource Recovery account.
More information about the resources is available from this PS News link.or phone 6467 5167.
28 June, 2011
Railway partnership
steaming ahead
A partnership between three State Governments and the Commonwealth is expected to lead to a new ‘roadmap’ for the rail manufacturing industry.
According to the federal Minister for Innovation, Senator Kim Carr the Rail Manufacturing Technology Roadmap would “help put the rail industry on the right track” for a successful future by matching its capabilities to domestic and international opportunities.
Senator Carr said it was important Government understood the rail industry’s technology and manufacturing capabilities in order to identify development opportunities and ensure the industry continued to contribute significantly to the national economy.
“The Roadmap will build a vision for the rail industry and provide direction for the next 30 years,” Senator Carr said.
“It will identify pathways and areas for industry focus and investment, boosting capability and encouraging innovation.”
He said Australia’s rail industry extended from signalling, communications and track; to rail components and building and maintaining rolling stock.
He said the Roadmap would be developed over the next 12 months by ANU Edge and the Cooperative Research Centre for Rail Innovation, the University of Cambridge Institute for Manufacturing and Strategic Connections Group.
Senator Carr said rail industry stakeholders and interested parties were encouraged to put forward their views through the various workshops, interviews and surveys that would be organised.
He said the Roadmap project was jointly funded by the Australian Government; industry (through the Australasian Railway Association); and the Victorian, Queensland and New South Wales State Governments.
For more information on the Roadmap and other Rail Supplier Advocate initiatives, visit this PS News link.
28 June, 2011
Rezoning plan
has the quay
An amendment to the Metropolitan Scheme has been made to finalise zoning of the remaining land reclamation area in North Quay.
Minister for Planning, John Day announced the gazettal, saying the additional land would be used for the expansion of the North Quay rail terminal and for additional storage space for port-related uses.
Mr Day said the rationalisation of the Fremantle Port’s operations rezoned 19.8ha of waterways reservation to the port installations reservation.
“The rezoning of land and the expansion of the rail facilities will assist the Fremantle Port Authority in meeting the trade needs of the State and provide significant economic benefits to the community,” Mr Day said.
“It allows the Port of Fremantle to be developed to operate at optimal capacity, while also ensuring the expanded port operations are mindful of the local community and the management of the environment.”
Mr Day said careful consideration had been taken to make sure the proposed land uses were linked with an efficient transport network.
“This amendment contributes to an efficient transport network by allowing the expansion of the rail terminal which will encourage the use of rail freight,” he said.
“It is anticipated this will help to reduce the need for road transport movements of freight to and from the Port of Fremantle.
He said the expansion of the rail terminal would also play a significant role in better managing the environmental and social impacts associated with heavy vehicles on the adjacent roads.
28 June, 2011
Warning put out for
bushfire threat
The Fire and Emergency Services Authority (FESA) has issued a warning to people in the Kimberley to take extra care to avoid starting bushfires in the dry season.
With one third of the Kimberley destroyed by bushfires every year, many of which are preventable, residents and travellers have been urged to ensure they do not start fires and they do have a bushfire survival plan.
Regional Director of FESA, Rob Cox said record rain had resulted in a significant increase in the amount of vegetation available to burn this year.
“The majority of bushfires occur in very remote areas that are difficult for fire-fighters to access and put out,” Mr Cox said.
“By having more vegetation available to burn it means a bushfire will be even harder to extinguish.”
He said volunteer fire-fighters would always focus on protecting lives and properties but needed the help of residents and visitors to be more vigilant to avoid starting fires in the first place.
“If you need to have a camp fire, make sure the area is clear of all flammable material not only around the fire but above as well,” he said.
“Never leave your camp fire unattended and always put it out with water before going to sleep or leaving the campsite.”
Mr Cox said residents and visitors to the region also needed to decide in advance what they would do during a bushfire.
“Bushfires can start suddenly and without warning which is why everyone needs to decide now what they will do if they are threatened,” he said.
“People living in towns need to prepare their properties and decide if they will stay and actively defend their home or if they will leave hours before the fire reaches them.”
He said travellers needed to be aware of their surroundings and check at roadhouses or police stations for any reported fires.
Mr Cox said if travellers did see a fire they should turn around and go back to the nearest town until the threat passes.
He said they should call 000 to report a fire and Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 for any suspicious behaviour.
More bushfire safety information is available from this PS News link.
28 June, 2011
And in Other news...
Contractor charged
A former contractor to the City of Stirling has been charged with one count of corruption over his dealings with the Council.
The Corruption and Crime Commission (CCC) has alleged that the 41-year-old Casuarina man submitted 11 invoices to the Council between 2005 and 2007, and received approximately $135,000 in payments of which $82,000 was paid to the City’s former Building Coordinator, his family and associates
It is the third charge resulting from the Commission’s investigation into contracting at the City of Stirling.
Allegations against other former contractors are continuing to be examined.
WA embraces claim scheme
Western Australians have been quick to adopt Medicare’s online claim service with figures showing more than a third of people who pay to see a doctor now lodge their claims electronically.
General Manager of the Human Services Portfolio, Hank Jongen said to claim Medicare benefits electronically, medical practices lodge claims with through either an EFTPOS terminal or a secure internet connection.
Mr Jongen said benefits were paid into a nominated bank account either instantly or in two to three working days, depending on which system is used.
He said to take advantage of the service register your bank details with Medicare Australia and ask about Medicare electronic claiming next time you’re at the doctor’s.
PS films shown
Three short films commissioned by the CPSU/CSA have been shown during a special screening at the State Library of WA.
The films, entitled Everyday Heroes, featured three “heroes” as the subject of the films who were nominated by members of the CPSU/CSA.
Branch Secretary of the union, Toni Walkington, said the films highlighted the diverse and important work done by the Public Service.
“These people are not famous, they are not wealthy, they are hard working Public Servants who contribute to the public’s wellbeing everyday,” Ms Walkington said.
“They are making a difference – everyday heroes who live, breathe and do important jobs that help the wider community everyday.”
Fire Awards open
Nominations for the 2011 Fire-fighting Awards are officially open.
The awards celebrate excellence in fire-fighting and are open to all career and volunteer Fire and Rescue Service and volunteer Bush Fire Service fire-fighters.
Nominations can be made in a number of categories including the Western Australian Career Fire and Rescue Service Award; Western Australian Volunteer Fire and Rescue Service Award; Murray Lang Bush Fire Service of Western Australia Award; and the Youth Achievement Award (fire-fighters 16 – 25 years old).
Nomination close Friday, 22 July with nomination forms available from this PS News link.
Health fellowships on offer
Applications for a health fellowship worth up to $20,000 are now open.
The funding is part of a new Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Fellowship for nurses and midwives to support projects that aim to improve Indigenous health.
Chief Nurse and Midwifery Officer, Catherine Stoddart said the fellowship was launched to celebrate the 10 year anniversary of Reconciliation Australia.
“Closing the gap between Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal health is an important step in reforming Western Australia’s health system,” Ms Stoddart said.
Applications close 20 July 2011.
For more information visit this PS News link or phone: 9222 4395.
Boating support tested
The Department of Transport (DoT) is seeking to determine the level of support for new boating facilities at Denham.
The Department has planned a telephone survey of 100 Denham residents which will include questions about boat ownership as well as a range of proposals.
General Manager of Coastal Infrastructure at DoT, Steve Jenkins said if there was community support for new facilities more detailed consultation would follow.
Mr Jenkins said the results of the survey would be made available to the community in time.
Safari manager found
A new operator has been selected to develop a commercial safari camp in the foothills of the Bungle Bungles in the Kimberley’s Purnululu National Park.
Tour operator Kimberley Wild Expeditions has been offered the opportunity after Intrepid Connections withdrew.
The new project is the first to be created under the State Government’s Naturebank program that aims to develop low impact, sustainable, nature-based tourism operations.
The Purnululu National Park is a World Heritage-listed property recognised for its distinct cultural, geological and ecological features - particularly the Bungle Bungles, which attracts more than 26,000 visitors a year.
Architects appointed
Architects Cox Howlett & Bailey Woodland have been appointed to design Carnarvon’s new $52 million Police and Justice Complex.
Treasurer and Attorney General, Christian Porter said the company had a long and successful track record in designing similar buildings in Perth and regional Western Australia.
Mr Porter said the complex, a collaborative project between five State Government Agencies with the support of Local Government and community, would be built at the corner of Robinson Street and Babbage Island Road.
He said the building would accommodate courts, tribunals and registry, a community justice service centre, a police station and a shared custody facility.
Worksafe reminds on risk
WorkSafe has issued a reminder to workers engaged in high risk work that they need to obtain a licence to perform that work.
The National Standard for Licensing Persons Performing High Risk Work replaced National Certificates of Competency in 2007 meaning some workers will need to have the new licence by 30 June 2011.
Everyone performing high risk work will require a licence by June 30, 2012 however workers holding a WA Certificate of Competency or OHS Certification Australia Card issued between January 1 2002 and December 31 2004 will need to convert to the high risk work licence before June 30 this year.
Further information on licensing requirements can be obtained by phoning WorkSafe on 1300 307877 or visiting this PS News link.
Water awards open
Nominations are now open for the 2011 WA Water Awards.
The Awards, presented by the Department of Water and the Water Corporation, are open to individuals and organisations that had shown innovation, leadership and achievement across a range of water industry activities.
Categories include recognition for Conservation and efficiency; Water innovation; Program innovation; Infrastructure innovation; and an award for Water Professional of the year.
Nominations close on Friday, 2 September; with winners to be announced on Friday, 25 November.
For more information, or to submit a nomination, visit the Australia Water Awards website at this PS News link.
21 June, 2011
IT security audit
finds insecurity
An audit of IT security systems in the WA Public Service has found most Departments and Agencies to be at risk of cyber attack.
In his Information Systems Audit Report, Auditor General, Colin Murphy said many agencies showed serious weaknesses in the way they managed their Information Systems.
Mr Murphy said the first part of the IS Audit Report found that most of the 15 agencies assessed for IT security risks had failed to detect deliberate cyber attacks conducted by his office.
“Fourteen of the 15 agencies we tested did not detect our cyber attacks.” Mr Murphy said.
“The failure of most agencies to detect our attacks was a particular concern, given that the tools and methods we used in our tests were not sophisticated.”
He said the agencies audited were found to be vulnerable to cyber threats due to a lack of IT risk assessment activities and not addressing internet-borne threats in security policies.
He said almost all were found to have failed in implementing incident response plans and did not have procedures for managing internet threats.
Mr Murphy said while the internet provided benefits to service delivery and the conduct of business, it also presented serious security risks to information and systems.
“The cyber security threat is no longer an emerging threat - it exists now,” Mr Murphy said.
“And the threat is growing.”
In his report he said that more than 60 per cent of the 46 assessed agencies had not established controls to manage IT risks, information security and business continuity.
He said that in five key business applications and general computer controls tested, only one of the 46 had good controls in place for a key business application but had weaknesses in the other four.
He said that some control weaknesses included easy to guess passwords, unauthorised user accounts and failure to remove accounts belonging to former staff.
“Our work highlights that agencies often struggle to keep up with constantly changing issues and risks with information technology systems and security,” Mr Murphy said.
“I urge agencies to take note of the findings and act on the recommendations of this report.”
The full text of the Auditor General’s report is available at this PS News link.
21 June, 2011
Annual Reports take
annual awards
The Annual Reports of several Western Australian Public Sector Agencies were prominent among those recognised for excellence at the 2011 Australasian Reporting Awards (ARA) presented in Melbourne recently.
Now in their 61st year, the Awards are primarily a benchmarking activity - not a competition – with Reports judged against criteria to receive a Gold, Silver or Bronze Award.
Chairman of the ARA, Tim Sheehy said the 2011 Awards were highlighted by very high standards of reporting, despite the difficult economic times experience by many organisations during the reporting period.
“The record number of Gold Awards shows that many organisations in Australia and New Zealand are very concerned about improving the quality of their annual reports, and further, that the quality of the best reports entered in these Awards is very high by world standards,” Mr Sheehy said.
“It also indicates the ARA and its strong supporters, which include the professional associations CPA Australia and Chartered Secretaries Australia, have been very effective in both promoting the need for high quality reporting, and in helping organisations improve their performance.”
He said the ARA also presented Special Awards for reporting in areas critical to the performance and accountability of an organisation, including awards for best reporting on Governance, Sustainability, and Occupational Health and Safety and for Communication and Online Reporting.
Mr Sheehy said Main Roads Western Australia and the Office of the WA Auditor General scored Silver Awards for 2011.
The Cities of South Perth and Stirling both took out Bronze Awards for the year and in the special category for Communication Reporting - Public Sector, the Western Region Water Corporation came out the winner.
The City of Stirling was also a finalist in the Sustainability Report category.
The Overall Report of the Year Award for 2011 went to the Victorian City of Boorondara.
21 June, 2011
Healthy new body for
medical research
A new agency is to be set up to oversee an upgraded Government commitment to health and medical research.
Announcing that $8 million would be injected into health and medical research, the Minister for Health, Kim Hames said it would bolster the State’s broader research effort and encourage emerging clinicians to consider research as a career pathway.
Dr Hames’s announcement follows an assessment of the governance of government funding of health and medical research conducted by the former Chair of the National Health and Medical Research Council, Professor Richard Larkins.
“The work done by Professor Larkins showed that a similar approach to research funding in Victoria demonstrated a significant benefit to the economy,” Dr Hames said.
“For the average dollar that was invested in health research between $2.40 and $3.56 was added to gross economic growth.”
He said the Government was set to strengthen research governance and leadership by supporting up-and-coming clinicians with an interest in research by providing additional funding for research fellowships.
“We will increase our support for research projects that look at the best way to deliver health services,” Dr Hames said.
“This will be achieved through funding of research projects such as those commissioned by the State Health Research Advisory Council.”
He said the Government would draw on expertise from the United Kingdom-based not-for-profit organisation, The King’s Fund, to assist in validating its research funding.
Dr Hames said the King’s Fund worked with individuals and organisations to shape policy and transform health services, supported by expert research and analysis.
“I would also invite the corporate sector, where they may be considering investing in health and medical research in WA, to consider using this as a vehicle for funding,” the Minister said.
21 June, 2011
Incensed officers
ban smoke drugs
A joint investigation by the Drug and Alcohol Office, Department of Health, WA Police and the ChemCentre has led to a range of synthetic drugs being banned.
The man-made cannabinoids contained in products such as Kronic, Kalma, Voodo, Kaos and Mango Kush have been banned across the State after the investigation found evidence of potential harm from smoking them.
Minister for Mental Health, Helen Morton said that once banned, the synthetic cannabinoids would become illicit products and anyone caught with them could be charged for possessing, selling, supplying or intending to sell or supply.
“These products, commonly sold as incense and often labelled as ‘not for human consumption’ are being smoked by people seeking effects similar to those of cannabis,” Mrs Morton said.
“These people are placing their health at risk.
“I am satisfied by expert advice that there is sufficient evidence of harm to people smoking these drugs that warrants banning their availability and supply.”
She said that from 17 June 2011 the chemicals had been added to the Poisons Act 1964 and were illegal.
Minister for Health, Kim Hames said he had instructed the Department of Health to list the chemicals as banned substances under the Poisons Act.
He said WA Police would subsequently make changes to the Misuse of Drugs Act.
“Testing by the ChemCentre showed products such as Kronic contained chemicals known as synthetic cannabinoids, which may produce similar effects to cannabis and can raise heart rate, blood pressure and cause anxiety and hallucinations,” Dr Hames said..
Mrs Morton said she was aware that some people would continue to try to develop new designer drugs to bypass existing laws and sell for the intoxication of others.
“I recognise that banning these substances in WA is only part of the solution,” Mrs Morton said.
“The State Government will also be contributing towards a national response in dealing with synthetic cannabinoids and other synthetic substances that may pose a public health risk.”
She said that relevant agencies would continue to work closely together to rapidly identify and respond to trends and address other drug misuse issues.
21 June, 2011
New cat law has
sharp clauses
New laws governing the control and ownership of cats have been introduced into Parliament.
Minister for Local Government, John Castrilli said The Cat Bill 2011 would seek to save thousands of feline lives by reducing yearly euthanised numbers and encouraging responsible cat ownership.
Mr Castrilli said the Act would include compulsory identification, registration and sterilisation of domestic cats and give local governments the power to administer and enforce the legislation.
“Allowing unwanted cats to face starvation and neglect is unacceptable to both the community and the State Government,” Mr Castrilli said.
“There will be a phased-in period to allow local governments and members of the public time to prepare for the legislation’s introduction from 1 November 2012.”
He said provisions requiring micro-chipping, sterilisation and registration would come into effect one year later.
“There is overwhelming support for these initiatives from both cat owners and non-cat owners, as shown in the 590 submissions received in response to a consultation paper released on 9 June 2010,” Mr Castrilli said.
“This is a major initiative for this State and is a considered and measured approach to addressing an important animal welfare issue.”
21 June, 2011
Watchdog hung up
on phone scam
Householders in WA have been warned to beware of unsolicited phone calls offering refunds or grants.
Acting Commissioner for Consumer Protection, Gary Newcombe has urged consumers not to send cash via wire transfer to anyone they don’t know, after a pensioner revealed she lost her life savings to a fraudulent scheme.
Bunbury resident, Edna Sloan said she recently lost $57,000, to what is being described as ‘International advance fee fraud,’ through a telephone scam.
Mr Newcombe said Consumer Protection had since received reports of similar telephone requests from people as far afield as Karratha and Broome.
“This money is difficult to trace – and cannot be recovered once it’s collected,” Mr Newcombe said.
“Don’t send them a cent; the only guarantee here is that you’ll never get it back.”
Mr Newcombe said scammers had claimed they were from the Australian Taxation Office, Centrelink and even banks and had asked householders to wire transfer money in order to access ‘imaginary’ refunds.
“It’s a scam”, Mr Newcombe said.
“Remember, legitimate institutions don’t operate like this.”
In one case, Mr Newcombe said, a consumer asked Post Office staff to help him wire transfer a large sum of money to an unknown account, while in another case, a person asked a ‘stranger’ for help, but the stranger recognised the scam for what it was.
He said further information about scams targeting Western Australians could be found at this PS News link or by calling 1300 30 40 54.
21 June, 2011
New prostitution law
sees light of day
A draft law cracking down on prostitution in suburban areas has been released for public comment.
Attorney General, Christian Porter said the proposed Prostitution Bill 2011 would ensure a transparent State law and reflect the overwhelming community sentiment that the practice would not be tolerated in the suburbs of WA.
“The Bill aims to provide police, Government and the community the necessary tools to finally crackdown on illegal prostitution in residential suburbs,” Mr Porter said.
“What this Bill will mean for ordinary West Australians is that if the quiet enjoyment of their neighbourhood is disrupted by unlawful brothels, and a complaint is made, police will have definitive laws to work with and the tools to shut those brothels down.”
Mr Porter said prostitution was a difficult area for any Government to address and it was not the State Government’s intention to condone or in any way promote prostitution as an ordinary, socially acceptable activity.
“It is a reality that prostitution will always be an activity which the community sees as generally objectionable and which carries significant health and safety risks and the potential for the involvement of organised crime,” he said.
“Government should never lose sight of this.”
Mr Porter said the Bill would ban brothels from residential areas and ensure appropriate regulatory and licensing schemes were in place for limited non-residential areas where prostitution would be permitted, and heavily regulated.
The Government is expected to introduce the Bill into Parliament following a six-week consultation period and a copy of the draft Prostitution Bill 2011 could be found at this PS News link.
21 June, 2011
Sports ministers kick
goal on match fixing
Sports Ministers across the country have announced they are to join forces to stamp out sports corruption.
WA joined other States and Territories in signing the National Policy on Match-Fixing in Sport at the recent Sport Minister’s Meeting on the Gold Coast.
Minister for Sport and Recreation, Terry Waldron said match-fixing and corruption in sport had emerged as a critical issue facing Australian and international sport.
“Importantly we have managed to protect Western Australia’s particular interests in the development of the policy framework,” Mr Waldron said.
“For instance, WA has a unique method of directing revenue from sports wagering to grassroots sports and we are very keen to maintain that model.”
He said the new policy represented a commitment by Federal, State Territory governments to work together to address the issue of inappropriate and fraudulent sports betting and match-fixing activities.
He said the policy had the aim of protecting the integrity of sport.
Mr Waldron said The National Policy on Match-Fixing would provide the basis for Australia to participate in international reforms to achieve similar international outcomes.
The policy included agreements on areas including a nationally consistent approach to match-fixing, information sharing and networking, a consistent national sporting code of conduct and active participation in international anti-corruption efforts.
21 June, 2011
Perth beachcombers
pick up schools kit
An education initiative to help schools and community groups discover more about WA’s marine environment is now available online.
Developed by the Department of Fisheries, the new website is a web-based version of The Perth Beachcombers Education Kit which, according to Web Project Co-ordinator Sandy Clarke, has been a big hit with students and teachers.
Ms Clarke said the website contained fun and interactive features that could help people or groups plan a beachcombing trip, and included tips on choosing suitable locations to explore.
“Through the new website you can access a field guide, designed to assist beachcombers to identify the items they find washed up on the beach,” Ms Clarke said.
“It includes images and details of seagrasses and algae (seaweed), chordates (mainly vertebrates – animals with a backbone), invertebrates (animals without a backbone) and some unusual finds.”
She said WA had more than 12,500 kilometres of coastline and beachcombing was a great way to investigate the diversity of the State’s marine life without getting any feet wet.
She said active and regular beachcombing allowed people to monitor and look after a section of the marine environment important to them.
“Natural and man-made items arrive on our shores through winds, waves and tides, as well as from stormwater drains and other human impacts, such as littering,” Ms Clarke said.
“By monitoring your local beach over a period of time, you can get an indication of the health of your local marine environment.”
She said the kit was recognised as a finalist in the 2010 Western Australian Environment Awards in the category of Environmental Education and Communication.
It could be accessed at this PS News link.
21 June, 2011
Miners find gold
in safety survey
An independent survey of stakeholders in the mining and petroleum sectors has led to the Department of Mines and Petroleum publishing a baseline survey report on the progress of safety reforms.
The report addressed issues such as the importance of the roles of a safety regulator, and how well Resources Safety performed its role.
According to DMP, it also covered the perceptions of Resources Safety’s performance when working with industry to reduce the likelihood and consequences of serious incidents, and the perceptions of the value that various initiatives from Resources Safety would add to clients’ safety outcomes.
The report said key survey findings indicated that contact with Resources Safety was not uniform across all groups.
Survey results showed that the two roles of the safety regulator considered most important by mining groups included setting appropriate standards of safety and providing information and advice about safety.
It found that responding to complaints about safety and supporting the role of safety and health representatives were also highly rated.
According to the report, Resources Safety performed strongly overall across the survey, on the remaining roles of the safety regulator, but it found there was scope for improvement conducting safety audits.
Mine managers also suggested ways Resources Safety could improve its service.
The survey sought industry’s view of its own performance in achieving a safety culture.
It found that action plans had been developed to address concerns raised in the survey that were not already being addressed as part of the safety reform process.
DMP expects to conduct the industry survey biennially to provide ongoing evaluation of safety reform progress.
The research results were reviewed by Resources Safety and presented to the Ministerial Advisory Panel.
The baseline survey report can be accessed at this PS News link.
21 June, 2011
Transperth catches
first new bus
Transperth has taken delivery of the first of more than 600 buses in its new bus replacement program.
Accepting the prototype, the Minister for Transport, Troy Buswell said that under the five-plus-five-year contract, a minimum of 65 buses would be delivered each year, at a total cost of up to $400 million.
“We expect to take production deliveries of this bus from August, following the expiration of the existing supply contract,” Mr Buswell said.
“This enables a seamless continuation of (Transperth’s) program to modernise the fleet with new gas and diesel-powered buses.”
He said the contract included an allocation of $40 million for an extra 78 buses in the 2011-12 State Budget, including an increase of almost 30 per cent in bus operational funding over the next five years.
He said Volvo was supplying the bus chassis - a change to existing supplier, Mercedes - while the bodies would continue to be built at Volgren’s manufacturing facility in Malaga.
“The new contract also means Transperth will remain an industry leader in terms of disability access and environmental friendliness,” Mr Buswell said.
“Volvo, a world leader in emissions technology, will be using EEV (enhanced environmental-friendly vehicle) diesel technology, the cleanest bus technology commercially available today.”
Mr Buswell said the contract would initially supply diesel vehicles, maintaining the fleet at half diesel-half compressed natural gas (CNG).
Beyond 2014, he said Transperth would look at a new CNG bus platform incorporating new engine technology in the Volvo chassis.
21 June, 2011
Heavy support for
waste watch plan
A joint initiative developed by the Waste Authority and the Department of Environment and Conservation is set to benefit from a $7 million injection of funds announced by the Minister for the Environment, Bill Marmion.
The Local Government Strategic Waste Management - Regional Funding Program (RFP) 2010/2015 is to receive the financial boost over five years, to help local governments increase rates of recycling and reduce refuse going to landfill.
Mr Marmion said the funding was a direct outcome of the Zero Waste Plan Development Scheme which supported groups of local governments working together to manage waste better.
“The five year period is an important aspect of the program,” Mr Marmion said, “as it allows regional groups adequate time to plan and implement worthwhile projects, many of which have far-reaching consequences for other structural related activities and capital investment.”
He said Councils who wished to apply for funding would need to group themselves with other regional Councils, for example those facing similar waste management issues.
He said the scheme would help organise their resources to deliver the maximum benefit to their individual communities.
“Activities undertaken by Council collectives through the RFP include collaborative arrangements that make use of the common infrastructure and operational costs of collecting and processing waste, as well as diverting recyclates from landfill,” Mr Marmion said.
He said the RFP would commence on 1 July 2011 and run over three phases, including a fixed funding stage, a competitive bid fund stream phase and finally an implementation, completion and reporting phase.
21 June, 2011
Clean energy project
cleans up with $52M
Up to $52 million in Federal Government funding for a new clean energy program is to be allocated to the Collie South West Hub project.
Federal Minister for Resources and Energy, Martin Ferguson committed the funds as part of the Commonwealth’s $1.68 billion Carbon Capture and Storage Flagships Program.
Mr Ferguson said that Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS) had the potential to reduce emissions across a variety of applications such as industry and power generation.
“To achieve a significant reduction in emissions we need to take action on a number of fronts,” Mr Ferguson said.
“The Collie project will be a world leading commercial scale CCS demonstration project,” Mr Ferguson said.
He said the project would be developed south west of Perth with the initial aim of capturing up to 2.4 megatonnes of CO2 a year from surrounding industry including coal-fired power plants.
He said if the first phase was successful, the project could see a further $333 million Federal government boost, in the hope of generating another $660 million from State and industry sources.
The Minister said that finding space to store carbon dioxide and making sites accessible was vital.
“Without it, we cannot make the most of the Australian Government’s programs to capture and store emissions from industry.
“With the CCS Flagships program and the Global CCS Institute, the Australian Government is putting Australia at the forefront of carbon capture technology development.”
He said the Department of Minerals and Petroleum would carry out seismic analysis of the Lower Lesueur storage site as part of the storage study, followed by appropriate onsite drilling to determine the validity and viability of the CO2 seal.
Mr Ferguson said an extended community consultation program would accompany the ‘Collie Hub’ development, to ensure local communities were kept informed and provided with opportunities to input into the final outcome.
21 June, 2011
New guidelines to
guide designs
Draft design guidelines for the Midland Health Campus have been released for public comment.
Developed by the Midland Redevelopment Authority (MRA) in consultation with the Department of Health and Office of Heritage, the guidelines are to set the development parameters of the eight hectare site.
Minister for Planning, John Day said the guidelines were a critical part of ensuring that the Midland Health Campus delivered an attractive and welcoming facility that maximised the opportunities afforded by its central location.
“I strongly encourage all interested parties to view the draft guidelines and take the opportunity to have input into this important process,” Mr Day said.
He said the guidelines consisted of a written policy and plans giving guidance on all key areas of the development including approval processes; environmental design; built form; open space; pedestrian and vehicle access; and parking.
He said design proposals, to be submitted later in the year by the Department of Health’s shortlisted providers, Ramsay Health Care Ltd and St John of God Health Care Inc, would be informed by the new guidelines.
Mr Day said the guidelines were critical in guiding the construction of the landmark complex, the first new hospital in the Swan region for 50 years.
“The Midland Health Campus is one of the most significant components in the Midland redevelopment project, so it is vital that the framework for site planning and building design are clearly defined and understood,” Mr Day said.
Once adopted, the design policy would be used by the MRA as the primary assessment tool for master planning and site development works relating to the Health Campus.
The draft guidelines can be viewed at this PS News link or phone 9374 5500.
21 June, 2011
Rock lobster fishers
claw back weekends
Commercial rock lobster operators have been given the go-ahead to fish on weekends to mark the end of the current season.
Minister for Fisheries, Norman Moore said he responded to indications from the WA Fishing Industry Council and Western Rock Lobster Council that they would be interested in lifting the weekend fishing bans.
Mr Moore said he was happy to support that choice by fishers.
“As we progress towards a full quota system, it gives fishers flexibility and choice to work to suit their business plans,” Mr Moore said.
“The decision was made possible due to the greater flexibility that a quota system provides without having negative effects on sustainability.”
He said that under the new rules, fishers would have catch allocations and be able to fish to their own plan on available fishing days during the 2010-11 commercial season, which runs from 15 November until 31 August.
He said the move to a quota system this season was designed to provide more opportunity for the industry to deal with supply and demand issues while maximising its economic return.
“As we head into the more uncertain weather of winter, the flexibility to choose which days of the week to operate will help commercial fishers when considering the safety aspects and planning required to work in the most favourable conditions,” Mr Moore said.
He said the change to allow fishing on any day of the week would require formal gazettal, which he would expect to be completed in time for the ban to be lifted for the coming weekend (June 25-26).
He said the proposed changes to the commercial fishing management plan would not affect recreational rock lobster fishing whose season would end as usual on June 30.
21 June, 2011
Boat funding
bubbles up
Funding for the improvement of the State’s recreational boating facilities has quadrupled this year.
Ministers for Transport, Troy Buswell and Regional Development,
Brendon Grylls announced an $8.93 million boost to Recreational Boating Facilities Scheme (RBFS) projects, money traditionally sourced from recreational boat registrations.
“Following calls for submissions and the review process, 53 projects received $5.37million in funding to be allocated over the next two years,” Mr Buswell said.
“The number of grants is more than double the 22 projects funded last year.”
Mr Grylls said an additional $5 million would be made available each year over the four RBFS funding rounds to help meet increased demand for boating facilities in regional WA.
“The South-West received the largest allocation of the regional areas with more than $2.1 million in grants, including $600,000 to upgrade and expand the boat ramps and extend parking at Newtown Beach in Busselton,” Mr Grylls said.
“Boating is an incredibly popular activity in this State and the RBFS assists by helping authorities provide infrastructure to meet the growing demand.”
Mr Buswell said through the RBFS process, State Cabinet had endorsed priority allocations totalling $3.56 million in the current financial year to ensure early benefits for the boating community.
“This funding was for onshore facilities at the Albany Waterfront development, Coral Bay and Carnarvon, and boat ramps and trailer parking at Jurien Bay,” Mr Buswell said.
He said the RBFS fostered strong partnerships between the State and local governments and other authorities which significantly benefited the boating community.
Since its introduction, the RBFS has seen $20.2 million allocated to 282 projects throughout WA (rounds one to 16).
The RBFS has been managed by the Department of Transport (DoT), providing up to
75 per cent of funding for new or improved facilities for recreational boat users.
The Ministers said eligible authorities could also apply for planning grants that resulted in detailed plans, cost estimates, approvals or similar for recreational boating facilities.
21 June, 2011
And in Other News...
Pay deal lodged
The newly amalgamated Public Services and Government Officers General Agreement 2011 (PS GOSAG) has been signed and lodged with the Industrial Relations Commission
The agreement includes a 4 per cent pay rise on 13 April 2012 and 4.25 per cent on 12 April 2013.
Shared Services splits
Shared Services is to split from the Department of Treasury and Finance and become part of the new Department of Finance from 1 July 2011.
The new Department of Finance will have responsibility for Government Procurement, Building Management and Works and State Revenue.
Changes are expected to be made over time to the branding and naming elements of Shared Services reflecting the new Department’s name.
eBusiness is also expected to undergo a renewal in the future.
Visitor centre moves
The Western Australian Visitor Centre has moved to a new location.
It is now located at 55 William St, Perth (corner of William and Hay streets), having moved from Albert Facey House in Forrest Place on 1 June.
The Visitor Centre is open seven days a week and can be contacted at this PS News link.
Security contract settled
The Department of Corrective Services has confirmed Serco as the new contract winner to provide Western Australia’s court security and custodial services.
Corrective Services Minister, Terry Redman said the new arrangements would provide for operational staff to be trained to Certificate III level in correctional practices and include improved contract performance measures to assess performance against service requirements and obligations.
Legionnaires warning
The Department of Health has reissued a warning to travellers recently returned from Bali to be alert for symptoms consistent with Legionnaires’ disease.
Two cases of the deadly disease were detected in Australia in a week, prompting the warning.
WA Health said anyone who recently returned from Bali and developed severe flu-like symptoms within 10 days should contact their GP.
Emu point is top beach
Albany beach Emu Point has been named Western Australia’s cleanest beach at the state’s annual beach awards.
Environment Minister, Bill Marmion announced the win at the 2011 Clean Beaches Awards, an event aimed to encourage care, protection and management of WA’s coastal regions.
Charities supported
The Department of Environment and Conservation has warned against dumping household rubbish in suburban charity bins after a Salter-Point man was charged with littering.
The 41-year-old man was discovered dumping unwanted household items at the foot of charity bins in Manning on 8 October 2010 and now faces a charge of littering and a potential $1,000 fine.
Investigators from Keep Australia Beautiful Council said they were committed to assisting charity organisations reduce the increasing costs involved in removing dumped rubbish from their sites.
14 June, 2011
Queen pins honours
on starring staff
Public sector staff appeared prominently in the 2011 Queens’ Birthday Honours list with the following personnel singled out for awards for excellence, commitment and ability.
The new awards are:
MEMBER IN THE ORDER OF AUSTRALIA (AM)
Professor Jack GOLDBLATT AM,
King Edward Memorial Hospital,
For service to medicine in the area of human genetics as a clinician and researcher, and to professional associations.
Professor Kadambot SIDDIQUE AM
UWA Institute of Agriculture
For service to agricultural science as an academic and researcher in the area of crop improvement and agronomy and through contributions to professional associations.
MEDAL OF THE ORDER OF AUSTRALIA (OAM)
Councillor Janet Elizabeth DAVIDSON OAM
Deputy Lord Mayor, City of Perth
For service to local government, and to women.
PUBLIC SERVICE MEDAL PSM
Alastair John BRYANT PSM
Department of Transport
For outstanding public service as an outstanding leader in the areas of business management, strategic planning and the arts over many years.
Mr Bryant has been an outstanding public servant in Western Australia for almost 40 years. He was Commissioner of State Revenue in 1993, Director General of the Department of Culture and Arts and Acting General Manager of the Perth Theatre Trust in 2000. He is currently General Manager of Licensing at the Department of Transport.
John DELL PSM
Environmental Protection Authority
For outstanding public service to the advancement of natural history and conservation.
Mr Dell possesses an encyclopaedic knowledge of the flora and fauna of Western Australia, enabling him to make important contributions to the advancement of natural history and conservation, not only in Western Australia but also throughout Australia. In all respects, he is a leader in his field.
Catherine Rose (Cathy) HARRISON PSM
Parliament House
For outstanding public service at Parliament House in Perth, Western Australia.
As a telephonist at Parliament House for almost 30 years, Mrs Harrison has played a vital role in the effective operation of the building and the Parliament.
David Martin HILLYARD PSM
Consumer Protection
For outstanding public service in the areas of consumer protection and fair trading.
Mr Hillyard has worked in the Department of Labour and Industry since 1977 in Consumer Protection and Fair Trading roles. He is the current Director Industry and Consumer Services.
He has been a Public Servant for 39 years.
AUSTRALIAN POLICE MEDAL (APM)
Detective Superintendent Paul Edward COOMBES APM
Detective Superintendent Coombes has been a member of WA Police for over 28 years and has served his entire career with distinction in the metropolitan area.
Superintendent Harold (Harry) HEAVENS APM
Superintendent Heavens joined WA Police in 1975 and has considerable operational service in both metropolitan and country locations as well as in the Legal Services area and Internal Investigations.
Inspector Joanne Lee McCABE APM
Inspector McCabe has been a distinguished member of WA Police for over 22 years and has served in both metropolitan and country locations, as well as a period in the Specialist Crime area as an Investigator.
Inspector Neil Lawrence ROYLE APM
Inspector Royle has been a police officer for over 38 years and has had a distinguished career in both metropolitan and country locations, with a particular emphasis on traffic-related policing duties.
AUSTRALIAN FIRE SERVICE MEDAL (AFSM)
Jeffrey DRAGE AFSM
Mr Drage has been an active firefighter with the Fire and Emergency Services Authority (FESA) in Western Australia for over 20 years. He has also served as Secretary for the Mount Barker Volunteer Fire and Rescue Service (VFRS) over many years and as Brigade Captain.
Bruce Sidney JONES AFSM
Mr Jones began his career in the New Zealand Fire Service, rising to the rank of Senior Fire Commander in the position of National Training Manager. In 1997 he was appointed as a Director with the WA Fire Brigades Board. He is currently the Regional Director of the Fire and Emergency Services Authority (FESA) central metropolitan region.
Gary Thomas (Kingy) KING AFSM
Mr King, has been involved In firefighting since his time in the Australian Army some 40 years ago. He has served with distinction as a member of the Packsaddle Bush Fire Brigade for over 23 years, as the Brigade’s Captain for 15 years, and as the Chief Bush Fire Control Officer for the Shire of Wyndham East Kimberley for over 11 years.
James Leon McNAMARA AFSM
As a volunteer firefighter, Mr McNamara has given over 40 years’ distinguished service to the Fire and Emergency Services Authority (FESA) and to the community of Western Australia.
Peter Hugh THURKLE AFSM
Mr Thurkle has been a member of the Bush Fire Service in Western Australia for 16 years. Since taking over as the Chief Bush Fire Control Officer of the Shire of Murray some 3 years ago he has displayed outstanding leadership and dedication, and excelled in establishing an excellent working relationship between the Shire authorities and the brigades in the area.
EMERGENCY SERVICES MEDAL (ESM)
Paul Bradley CARR ESM
Since 1993, Mr Carr has served the Fire and Emergency Services Authority (FESA) in Western Australia with distinction. In particular, he has demonstrated exceptional performance is his support and training of FESA volunteers. He has also been involved in numerous major events that have dramatically affected the community, such as cyclones, floods, storms, and search and rescues.
14 June, 2011
Livestock ban
a lot of bull
The Minister for Agriculture and Food, Terry Redman has expressed disappointment at the Federal Government’s decision to ban livestock exports to Indonesia and has set up a cattle producers’ hotline to support them.
Mr Redman described the decision as “ramshackle”, saying there had been little consultation before the Federal Government imposed the ban and it had placed Western Australia’s $250 million live export beef industry in jeopardy.
“Like everyone else, I was horrified by the images shown on the Four Corners program,” Mr Redman said.
“And I certainly support urgent action to markedly improve animal welfare standards for Australian cattle processed in Indonesia”.
He said however that while he agreed with action against abattoirs mistreating animals, he did not support the “hasty decision” to suspend all exports.
“A decision like this, which has such far-reaching implications for the several thousand West Australians involved in this major industry, needs to be made after thorough exploration by governments collectively,” Mr Redman said.
He said 80 per cent of the 370,000 head of cattle Western Australia exported last year went to Indonesia and the suspension “could simply mean Indonesia will take cattle from people who don’t care as much as we do”.
Mr Redmond was also concerned that years of work to improve standards could be lost.
He said the ban had the potential to cause serious animal welfare and environmental issues as Western Australian pastoralists could be left with thousands of animals they couldn’t sell.
“That could lead to over-grazing, our own animal welfare issues and land degradation if not managed properly.”
He said a taskforce had been set up with representatives from Government, the beef industry, exporters, the Pastoralists and Graziers Association and WAFarmers, which met recently to discuss the ban.
Mr Redman said affected cattle producers could call the Government’s hotline on 1800 084 881 during business hours to obtain information and advice.
He said crisis counselling was also available from the Crisis Care 24-hour support line on 1800 199 008.
14 June, 2011
Resources tax plan
for public comment
An exposure draft on the proposed Minerals Resource Rent Tax (MRRT) has been released by the Commonwealth Treasury for public comment.
The preliminary exposure draft legislation is based on the recommendations of the Policy Transition Group and establishes the framework for the operation of the MRRT.
The Treasury says the draft is not exhaustive and is intended to provide stakeholders with an early overview of the legislation.
A second and final exposure draft is intended to be released for public consultation later in the year.
The Treasury has encouraged stakeholders to make submissions on the preliminary draft.
It said it valued the constructive consultation it had with the mining industry and tax professionals, and that their submissions would play an important role in informing the detailed design of the new resource tax arrangements.
Releasing the draft, the Treasury thanked the Resource Tax Implementation Group (RTIG), which comprised representatives of industry and the tax profession as well as government officials, for their substantial input to date on the draft Bill.
It said consultation with the Group identified some technical issues in the legislation that the Treasury and RTIG would continue to work on and cover in the second exposure draft release.
The MRRT will come into operation on 1 July 2012.
The Treasury said it would release an exposure draft of legislation relating to amendments to the Petroleum Resource Rent Tax (PRRT) in the near future.
It said both the MRRT and amended PRRT would ensure Australians received a better return from their non-renewable resources and would help strengthen the economy through increased superannuation, new and better infrastructure, and business tax cuts.
It said the initiatives were crucial to maximise the opportunities presented by Mining Boom Mark II, and would ensure all Australians received a fair return from the nation’s resources.
Copies of the MRRT draft and supporting materials were available from this PS News link and consultation on the preliminary draft is to close on 14 July.
14 June, 2011
Commissioners draw
line on boundaries
The Electoral Distribution Commissioners have released their proposed electoral boundaries to be in place for the next State general election in 2013.
The proposed boundaries have been released to allow interested groups and individuals the opportunity to lodge concerns or objections.
Chair of the Commissioners, Neville Owen, said a booklet illustrating the boundaries had been published and circulated throughout the community and the review process included set periods of public consultation which sparked 38 submissions from the public.
Mr Owen said the deliberation process had taken into account 18 suggestions and 20 comments from individuals, organisations and political parties with all submissions posted on the boundaries website for public inspection.
He said the Commissioners adopted an ‘incremental change’ approach to the revision process, limiting changes to those districts that needed to change due to a growth or decline in the number of electors, and neighbouring districts impacted by the flow-on effect.
“Of the 59 current districts, 12 have had no change and a number of others have had minimal change,” Mr Owen said.
“Indeed, less than 10 per cent of the State’s electors will be affected by changes to the boundaries.”
He said one notable change was the inclusion of the Mandurah district in the South Metropolitan Region from the South West Region and some of the changes led to new names being proposed for four districts.
Mr Owen said the Commissioners welcomed feedback on the proposed boundaries and wherever possible, submissions should include an alternative suggestion that met the requirements of the legislation.
He said written objections should be made to the Office of the Electoral Distribution Commissioners by 5 Monday, 11 July 2011 and further information was available from this PS News link or by calling 9214 0450.
The Commissioners conducting the review are former Supreme Court judge Neville Owen, the Electoral Commissioner Warwick Gately and Government Statistician, Gillian Nicoll.
The proposed boundaries are also on this PS News link.
14 June, 2011
Radiation database a
glowing initiative
The Federal Department of Resources, Energy and Tourism has launched a new database to track the radiation dose histories of employees in the uranium mining and milling industries.
To be managed by the Australian Radiation Protection and Nuclear Safety Agency (ARPANSA), the centralised database will allow workers to move across jobs and across jurisdictions and have their exposure histories follow them.
Commonwealth Minister for Resources and Energy, Martin Ferguson, said around 6,000 Australians employed in the uranium industry would benefit from the new Australian National Radiation Dose Register.
“The health and safety of workers is always our first priority,” Mr Ferguson said.
“The national dose register is integral to ensuring we have a world class regulatory regime in place for uranium mining in Australia.”
He said under the new scheme, data on radiation doses would be sent to the central register and workers could then access their personal records collected over a lifetime.
The new service would be provided free of charge.
OHS Consultant and editor of SafetyAtWorkBlog, Kevin Jones said the initiative announced did not improve safety for uranium workers, but instead collated evidence of harm in preparation for compensation.
“It is a common criticism of modern corporations that communications follow the “silo” structures of the companies rather than using more thematic pathways, such as safety,” Mr Jones said.
“The silos of human resources and safety management continue to exist.”
“But in government there are silos within silos where Government Departments and Authorities do not talk with each other as much as is necessary to progress.”
14 June, 2011
Minister flags
taxi checks
Increased compliance checks for the State’s taxi industry have been announced by the Transport Minister, Troy Buswell.
Mr Buswell said three additional staff would be appointed and two patrol cars pressed into service to carry out compliance operations on taxis every Friday and Saturday night when 40 per cent of taxi trips were taken.
“This arrangement will be permanent and give a much higher profile to the on-road compliance work of Department of Transport (DoT) taxi compliance officers, making it more visible to the public and industry,” Mr Buswell said.
“Feedback provided to me at the Taxi Driver Forum in February was that most drivers support an increased on-road compliance presence to lift the standards of the industry and improve its reputation with the public.”
He said compliance officers could issue infringements to drivers for not wearing the correct uniform, not displaying identification or vehicle roadworthiness.
He said fines ranged from $200 to $1,000.
Mr Buswell said 5,032 random roadside taxi inspections were carried out by compliance officers in 2010, an increase from 3,166 in 2009.
“By doubling the number of on-the-road compliance staff, I expect we will see a further increase in inspections,” he said.
“This should only be of concern to those drivers who are not providing the service expected of them, which I believe is a minority.”
He said the increased compliance checks were the third initiative of the Taxi Action Plan, which would also include a new demerit point system and the release of additional lease plates to meet demand.
Mr Buswell said the Government would soon be commencing the rollout of new taxi camera surveillance units to give police greater ability to investigate and prosecute crimes in taxis.
14 June, 2011
Museums join up to
show off collections
A new partnership between the Western Australian and British Museums is to result in a Perth-first exhibition in the lead up to the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM).
Announced by the Premier Colin Barnett in London, the exhibition, to be entitled Extraordinary Stories: The Commonwealth Objects from the British Museum, would open at the WA Museum on 22 October.
Mr Barnett said the event would feature artefacts sourced from both Museums and represent most of the 54 countries that make up the Commonwealth.
“(The exhibition will be) part of the cultural program for CHOGM and will be on display until 5 February,” Mr Barnett said.
Minister for Culture and the Arts, John Day, said the exhibition would be unique to Perth.
“No other CHOGM host country has attempted an exhibition like this before,” Mr Day said.
“The exhibition includes some of the British Museum’s most important objects, never before seen in Australia.”
He said the exhibition also signalled the beginning of an important relationship between the WA Museum and the British Museum, which would lead to ongoing collaborations.
“We will be showing the earliest evidence of tool-making by humans on the planet - stone hand-axes from the Olduvai Gorge in Tanzania crafted probably at least a million years ago,” Mr Day said.
“At the other extreme is the Throne of Weapons, a work created by the Mozambique sculptor Kester.
“The throne is a 20th century piece and is made entirely out of decommissioned automatic weapons collected in the wake of the civil war in Mozambique.”
Mr Day said the exhibition would also include one of the earliest expressions of Buddha in human form - a carving from Ancient Gandhara in Pakistan dating back to the 2nd century AD - as well as Hindu temple sculptures from Orissa in India; a priceless Gold Torque from Celtic Britain; and Byzantine silver objects which were buried for safety in Cyprus.
14 June, 2011
Sport kicks goal
with 5-year plan
A five-year plan for sport and recreation in Western Australia developed by the Department of Sport and Recreation’s Industry Reference Group was launched in Perth last week.
Key features are the growing importance of the ageing population, increasing time pressures on people and the value of volunteers.
Minister for Sport and Recreation, Terry Waldron, said the plan entitled Strategic Directions 5 (SD5) would be a crucial tool for broader industry development and would help sport and recreation organisations at all levels in their strategic planning.
“Sport and recreation is about more than winning,” Mr Waldron said.
“It is a vehicle to bring the community together and provide people with opportunities for positive interactions with one another. “
Chairman of the ANZ Bank, John Atkins, who chaired the SD5 Reference Group which wrote the document, said it identified “some very significant challenges which require careful and considered responses”.
“This is a call for action for all to work together to ensure that active involvement in sport and recreation is not considered a ‘luxury’ but essential to building a safe, healthy and happy community,” Mr Atkins said.
“It seeks to identify the challenges that must be met, and the elements that should be considered, by sport and recreation organisations as they develop their plans for the future.”
Mr Atkins said SD5 was developed by industry leaders in consultation with a broad group of stakeholders and community groups.
The document is available at this PS News link.
14 June, 2011
Gold shines in
mining plans
Drilling for gold has emerged as the most popular project in mining under the Department of Mines and Petroleum’s Co-funded Exploration Drilling Program.
Minister for Mines and Petroleum, Norman Moore, said the precious metal featured in 49 per cent of all applications received by the program.
Mr Moore said of the 53 successful applications received, 26 listed gold as the main target, or as one of the commodities sought.
“Gold was followed by copper in 17 projects, nickel in 10 and iron for nine projects,” Mr Moore said.
“Other commodities being explored include platinum group elements, zinc, lead, uranium and manganese.”
Mr Moore said a geothermal and an oil and gas project were among the successful applications, which also included nine from prospectors for drilling programs which would be undertaken from July 2011 until the end of June 2012.
He said the Co-funded Industry Drilling Program provided funding of up to 50 per cent of direct drilling costs with caps of $150,000 for a multi-hole project, $200,000 for a single deep hole and $30,000 for a prospector’s project.
“Payment is made to successful applicants after the completion of their drilling programs,” Mr Moore said.
He said general applicants would share in $4.5 million while prospectors would be offered a total of $196,000.
Mr Moore said the program was the centrepiece of the Exploration Incentive Scheme (EIS) funded by the Royalties for Regions program.
“It gives companies extra incentive to drill in underexplored areas, which is the key to the continuity of Western Australia’s robust mining industry future”.
He said another round of co-funded drilling would be advertised in August calling for applications in September and October for projects to be undertaken between January 2012 and the end of December 2012.
14 June, 2011
Briefing closes in
on mine closures
The Department of Mines and Petroleum (DMP) is to join up with the Environmental Protection Authority to host a briefing for stakeholders on the key requirements of the soon-to-be-released Guidelines for Preparing Mine Closure Plans.
Executive Director of Environment at DMP, Phil Gorey said the briefing would be held at Perth’s Pan Pacific Hotel on 23 June and registrations closed on 17 June.
“It is hoped this briefing will help the guidelines have a smooth implementation process and ensure relevant stakeholders are fully informed of the new requirements and how the guidelines will affect their business,” Dr Gorey said.
“The Mine Closure Plan Stakeholder Briefing will cover a number of important areas including key requirements by DMP and the EPA, submission and assessment of mine closure plans, and an interactive panel discussion.”
He said a mine closure plan was an essential management tool for industry to ensure all stakeholders had their interests considered during the mine closure process.
“This event is relevant for all those involved in preparing Mine Closure Plans in Western Australia.”
He said the plans were needed to identify risks related to the mine closure early; facilitate rehabilitation consistent with post-mining agreements; ensure clear accountability and adequate resources to implement the closure plan; establish indicators to demonstrate the closure has been successful; and establish a point to be met where the company can relinquish tenure.
More information about the briefing, including registration details, can be found at this PS News link.
14 June, 2011
Aboriginal patrols
to be stepped up
Aboriginal community patrol services are to be expanded across Western Australia.
Minister for Indigenous Affairs, Peter Collier, said new patroller positions would be created, buses for existing patrols replaced and additional safety equipment purchased at a cost of $2.1 million over the next two years.
Mr Collier said the funding would enable Nyoongar Patrol to extend its services to the south-east and northern corridors of the Perth metropolitan area, primarily along railway line accessible areas.
“This adds to existing services in Perth, Midland and Fremantle,” Mr Collier said.
“Regionally, the funding will allow operations in Kalgoorlie-Boulder to be back up-and-running within the next month.”
He said the patrols offered support, advice and intervention and operated on the streets primarily at night with patrollers working closely with businesses, residents and visitors to diffuse any potential problems.
“Their presence has a significant impact in ensuring a safe, more family-friendly environment,” Mr Collier said, “and means that any issue that might arise can be handled in a culturally appropriate manner.
He said patrols currently operated in Broome, Carnarvon, Derby, Geraldton, Hedland, Kununurra, Laverton, Meekatharra, Mullewa, Perth, Roebourne, Warburton and Wyndham.
14 June, 2011
Housing project tees
off on golf course
A management order for the transfer of land on the Boulder Golf Course to the Department of Housing has been raised by the Minister for Housing to clear the way for a temporary accommodation project for Indigenous visitors in Kalgoorlie.
The Minister, Troy Buswell, said the order made the Kalgoorlie Indigenous Visitors Accommodation Project one step closer to fruition.
Mr Buswell said the Boulder Golf Course was one of 22 potential sites considered for the project, which would provide temporary accommodation for up to 51 people.
“The first phase of building is about to start, with the awarding of the contract for all the project’s civil work awarded to Kalgoorlie-Boulder construction company RWE Robinson and Sons Pty Ltd,” Mr Buswell said.
The Minister for Regional Development, Brendon Grylls, said $13 million would be allocated over three years to establish Indigenous Visitor Hostels in regional Western Australia.
“Currently indigenous people are forced to stay in overcrowded camps with limited facilities, posing a number of problems, including anti-social behaviour,” Mr Grylls said.
He said the Kalgoorlie Boulder Indigenous Visitors Accommodation Project was expected to open in July 2012 and a second centre would be built in Broome, with site allocations still being negotiated.
14 June, 2011
Sandalwood probe
hits its straps
The Department of Environment and Conservation (DEC) has stepped up its campaign against the illegal harvesting of sandalwood following four seizures so far this year.
The Department has issued a call for public information to help track down illegal growers.
Regional Manager of DEC Goldfields, Ian Kealley said the four seizures in the Kalgoorlie area had totalled about 13 tonnes, including harvesting equipment.
“Sandalwood can fetch more than $10,000 per tonne, making the four seizures worth around $130,000,” Mr Kealley said.
“Our investigations are focusing on the alleged harvesting, processing, transportation and sale of sandalwood.”
Mr Kealley said there had been a big rise in the frequency and scale of illegal sandalwood operations.
He said the black market was thought to be worth millions of dollars with most illegally harvested sandalwood exported out of Australia ending up in Asia, and used for medicinal and aromatic purposes.
Mr Kealley said DEC would continue to liaise with mining and pastoral industries to gather more information about illegal sandalwood operations.
“The public can assist greatly by reporting any suspicious activities, particularly vehicle movements and registration numbers,” he said.
DEC and the Forest Products Commission issued annual licences and regulated sandalwood harvesting on unallocated Crown land, pastoral leases and private land.
14 June, 2011
Art exhibition
in the frame
The first of six exhibitions to be staged at the Art Gallery of Western Australia with material from New York’s Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) is to include works by Andy Warhol, Henri Matisse and Pablo Picasso.
Minister for Culture and the Arts, John Day said the exhibitions would be exclusive to WA with the Gallery the only venue in Australia to host the MoMA collection.
“The partnership with New York’s MoMA will give West Australians the chance to see exclusive highlights from this outstanding collection, many of which have never been seen outside the United States,” Mr Day said.
“The first large-scale exhibition - with a working title of Picasso to Warhol: Twelve Modern Masters’- will launch on 16 June 2012 and will feature more than 100 modern art masterpieces by 12 iconic artists of the 20th Century.
He said the MoMA was home to one of the most famous collections of modern art in the world, including photography, design, painting and sculpture, and offered audiences a continually changing perspective on modern art.
“It’s an exciting and ambitious project for the Art Gallery and forms the next stage in the Gallery’s ‘Great Collections of the World’ exhibition series.
He said the other five exhibitions in the stage would a significant selection of works from each of the museum’s curatorial departments, including design and photography.
Princely Treasures: European Masterpieces 1600-1800 from London’s Victoria and Albert Museum, the second in the ‘Great Collections of the World’ series, will be in Perth from 24 September 2011 to 9 January 2012 as part of an international tour.
More information about the exhibitions is available from this PS News link.
14 June, 2011
Coronary care unit to
be heart of region
The State’s first coronary care unit in a regional area is to be set up in Bunbury with $5 million in funding from the Royalties for Regions program
Minister for Regional Development, Brendon Grylls, said a six-bed unit would be built at the city’s St John of God Hospital to provide care for more than 2,000 South-West residents hospitalised with acute cardiac conditions each year
“Because specialist coronary care services are not available in the South-West, most of these people are forced to travel to Perth - away from family and friends - for life-saving diagnostic and therapeutic treatments,” Mr Grylls said.
“This new facility, which will include an angiography suite, will enable people who have had heart attacks or are suffering chest pain to receive the care they need close to home.”
Minister for Health, Kim Hames, said the stand-alone unit was expected to open in 2012 and would be accessible to both public and private patients.
“This initiative will have a positive impact on people’s quality of life, allowing patients to receive specialist care,” Dr Hames said.
He said a planned 24-hour service would provide job opportunities for medical practitioners, including cardiologists, angiography technicians and radiographers.
14 June, 2011
Shake-up for
liquor laws
Approved managers of liquor outlets are to be freer to move between venues under streamlined new licensing arrangements announced by the Minister for Racing and Gaming, Terry Waldron.
Mr Waldron said the new system included two levels of approvals - unrestricted and restricted.
He said unrestricted approvals would be required for managers at commercial licence venues such as taverns and liquor stores while the restricted category was for club managers.
Mr Waldron said restricted managers had to complete the nationally accredited Responsible Service of Alcohol course as a minimum qualification.
He said unrestricted managers would be required to complete the Course in Liquor Licensing as well.
“Applications for the two categories of approved manager must be submitted by the manager themselves, and approval is valid for five years,” Mr Waldron said.
“Those managers already in the system as approved managers will not be required to pay the application fee to register as an approved manager under the new system.”
He said licensees would be responsible for ensuring an approved manager personally supervised and managed their venues at all times during trading hours.
“Importantly, licensees are still required to display the name of the manager or managers who are on duty at all times the venue is open for business,” Mr Waldron said.
“This can be done by using the existing sign at the entrance to the licensed premises or by displaying a sign or notice in a conspicuous position inside the venue.”
14 June, 2011
Tourism statistics
take off in WA
Tourism statistics have revealed a significant increase in overseas visitors to Western Australia in the year ending March 2011, with travellers from China, Indonesia and the United States recording big growth.
Minister for Tourism, Kim Hames, said there were 706,600 international overnight visitors to WA in the period.
“This is a very pleasing result coming off the back of a 0.7 per cent decline in international visitors to WA in the previous survey for the 12 months to December 2010,” Dr Hames said.
“Better still, the amount those visitors spent while here rose by 9.5 per cent - the second highest increase in Australia - to $1.9 million.”
He said the 15,200 visitors from China represented a 36 per cent increase over the 12 months while Indonesian visitor numbers increased by 27.5 per cent to 28,900.
He said the 45,000 visitors from the United States represented a 19.9 per cent increase overall and the March quarter figures rose by “a very healthy 53 per cent”.
“Some of that growth will undoubtedly be a result of the WA promotion on The Oprah Winfrey Show in November 2010 and the extensive marketing Tourism WA has conducted in the US in conjunction with Oprah’s Great Australian Adventure,” Dr Hames said.
“China continues to show enormous potential,” he said.
“We hope to tap into (it) even further once direct flights to Perth are established and Tourism WA launches its new China marketing strategy.”
Dr Hames said the survey also showed a 23.3 per cent increase in the number of business visitors; holiday and pleasure visits rose by 2.3 per cent; and visits for the purpose of education increased by 2.5 per cent.
“Quite clearly, WA’s buoyant resource and corporate sector is luring more and more people to this State and business visitors currently make up 16.4 per cent of all international visitors, up from 13.6 per cent in the year ending December 2010,” Dr Hames said.
He said Tourism WA was developing strategies to increase the contribution of business travel to WA’s visitor economy.
14 June, 2011
City roads to 40
The majority of roads in central Perth and Northbridge are to change to 40 km/h speed limits on Monday 20 June 2011.
The new limit will apply from Newcastle Street south to The Esplanade and Elder Street east to Hill Street.
The City of Perth council is also investigating speed reductions in eight more areas including sections of Riverside Drive, Roe Street, Adelaide Terrace, Mounts Bay Road, Barrack Square, Kings Park Road and Malcolm Street.
The change is a joint project by Main Roads WA and the City of Perth.
Builders wanted
Applications have been called for members of the new Building Services Board.
The new Board is to replace the Builders Registration Board, the Painters Registration Board and the Building Surveyors Qualifications Committee.
Vacancies exist for a chairperson, two consumers, two builders, two building surveyors and two plumbers.
Further information is available by calling 9476 1321.
Beaches in the running
Sixteen beaches are in the running to become WA’s cleanest beach in the Keep Australia Beautiful’s 2011 WA Clean Beaches Awards.
The regional beaches are Back Beach and Koombana Bay in Bunbury; Blue Holes/Bellenger Beach, Coalmine Beach and Shelley Beach in Walpole; Cemetery Beach and Pretty Pool at Port Hedland; Emu Point at Albany; Green’s Pool at Denmark; Jurien Bay; and Melros Beach at Mandurah.
The Perth beaches are City Beach; Coogee Beach; Cottesloe Beach; Marmion Marine Park; Point Walter/Blackwall Reach; and Waterman’s Bay.
The categories are Friendly Beach Award; Community Action Award; Protection of the Environment; Natural Resource Management; and Litter Prevention Award.
Heritage decision put off
The deadline for a decision about National Heritage listing of the west Kimberley has been extended until the end of August to allow further community consultation.
The Australian Heritage Council has revised the boundary of the proposal after receiving extra information which means some landholders now included were not consulted in the initial consultation period.
Information about the new proposal is available from this PS News link.
Volunteer awards open
Nominations are open for this year’s Volunteer Marine Rescue Services (VMRS) Awards.
The awards acknowledge Marine Rescue Services volunteers who have shown exceptional commitment over the last year.
Nominations can be submitted for the FESA Award recognising outstanding personal contribution by a VMRS volunteer; the Award recognising personal contribution by a VMRS youth volunteer; the VMRWA Paul Kimber Award recognising excellence in VMRS; and the VMRWA Award recognising excellence in VMRS group operations.
Nominations will be accepted until Friday 1 July and more information is available from this PS News link or Jess Reid on 9323 9399 or email awards@fesa.wa.gov.au
Leonora complex open
The new Leonora Sporting Complex in the Shire of Leonora has been officially opened.
Built at a cost of $1.107million the complex includes kitchen facilities and meeting rooms and will cater for all sporting and community organisations within Leonora.
Freeway to be widened
A contract has been let to widen Kwinana Freeway between Leach and Roe highways from two to three lanes each way.
The successful contractor is Highway Construction Pty Ltd and major building activity is expected to start in July.
The State and Federal Governments are funding the $58 million project on a 50:50 basis with the work expected to be completed in early 2012.
7 June, 2011
Abseiling rangers
drop in for survey
The abseiling skills of staff with the Department of Environment and Conservation’s (DEC) Walpole office have been put to good use surveying the rare flowering shrub, mountain paper heath (Sphenotoma drummondii), on Mt Frankland.
The plants favour sheer granite cliffs and overhangs as habitat and the only way to do a full survey of the Mt Frankland population is to abseil 250 metres down a rock face.
Frankland District Flora Officer at DEC, Janine Liddelow said the plants had been regularly surveyed using binoculars but it had been 14 years since the last full survey.
“It is very difficult to do a full survey but it is important to do one when possible to add to and confirm the accuracy of the observations made from the ground,” Ms Liddelow said.
“This year we were fortunate to have two DEC employees in the Walpole office who are experienced abseilers and could take on this challenge.”
Nature Conservation Coordinator for the Frankland District, Karlene Bain and conservation employee Anthony Thompson found the first plant in a shallow rock crevice 70 metres down the cliff face. Over the next 100 metres they found 14 adult and nine juvenile plants.
Ms Liddelow said although the plants were restricted in where they were growing, they were healthy and the survey had confirmed that the main area of the population could be seen from the ground with binoculars.
7 June, 2011
Tourism feasts
off MasterChef
The idea of inviting top-rating television series MasterChef to Western Australia has been hailed a resounding success by the Minister for Tourism, Kim Hames.
A total of more than six million Australians watched the three episodes, which were shot in WA.
“In the five biggest city markets the shows were watched by 1.511 million, 1.577 million and 1.502 million viewers respectively, with an estimated 500,000 more viewers watching each night on regional networks,” Dr Hames said.
“The conservative estimate of the value of that publicity for WA is put at $9 million.”
The first episode was filmed at the Sunrise Dam gold mine near Laverton, the second was shot at Clairault Winery in Margaret River and the third episode at the end of Busselton’s famous jetty.
Tourism WA provided financial support for the visit to help FremantleMedia offset some of the costs associated with bringing about 80 cast and crew to WA in February. A range of tourism operators also provided valuable support.
“That modest investment has already been returned many times over through the millions of dollars worth of promotion the State has received,” Dr Hames said.
“And that doesn’t include the marketing activities that are being conducted in conjunction with those episodes to attract more tourists to WA.”
That marketing included radio promotions in Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane; a comprehensive South-West food feature in the June edition of MasterChef Magazine; running several of Tourism WA’s latest cinema advertisements on Channel 10 in Sydney, Melbourne and Perth during the broadcast of the three episodes; paid search engine marketing; a twitter campaign; and Facebook advertising.
7 June, 2011
Fire warnings heat
up for winter
The Fire and Emergency Services Authority (FESA) has issued a warning to homeowners to take extra care with heaters as the cold weather sets in.
FESA said that on average, five people lose their lives in house fires each year. Last winter, fire fighters attended more than 280 house fires which caused nearly $12.5 million in damage.
Manager for the Fire Investigation and Analysis Unit at FESA, Craig Waters said many of the fires could have been prevented if people had taken action and put safety measures in place.
“It is a fact that house fires increase during winter as more people turn to electrical goods such as heaters to stay warm,” Mr Waters said.
“Being aware of the risks and taking precautions could save the life of a loved one and stop your home from going up in flames.”
He said the rules were simple - keep flammable material a metre from the heater or fire, don’t leave candles unattended and don’t smoke in bed or when feeling tired.
Mr Waters said people should be aware they will use more electrical goods during the next few months to stay warm, including electric blankets.
“Electric blankets need to be turned off before going to sleep and not left on during the day as the bedding could catch fire,” he said.
7 June, 2011
Inspectors awake
to driver fatigue
WorkSafe inspectors and WA Police have carried out a roadblock exercise at Norseman to check on compliance with fatigue safety laws.
The roadblock found generally good compliance, but some continuing problems with rest breaks.
Commercial vehicles were stopped to check whether the required rest breaks had been taken.
Acting WA Commissioner for WorkSafe, Lex McCulloch said the operation found there had been continuing improvements in compliance with the fatigue laws, but there was still room for improvement.
“Fatigue is still a significant occupational safety and health issue in the commercial transport industry and it’s pleasing to see that transport companies are largely in compliance with the major aspects of WA’s fatigue regulations,” Mr McCulloch said.
“Inspectors did find some continuing problems with mandatory rest breaks and notices were issued when breaches were discovered.”
A total of 100 commercial vehicles were stopped at the Norseman roadblock, with four prohibition notices issued to drivers who had not had the mandatory seven-hour rest break. Three improvement notices were also issued.
In addition to these notices, inspectors will follow up with 16 transport companies on other fatigue-related issues such as medical checks for drivers, training of drivers and keeping proper records.
“A relatively small number of notices were issued on this occasion and there was no change in the number of follow-ups required, so the overall result shows consistency in the level of compliance” Mr McCulloch said.
7 June, 2011
Greyhounds have
prison licked
The Department of Corrective Services has launched a new program that will see prisoners training greyhounds to give up the track.
An innovative partnership with Greyhounds WA, Community First International and Extra Edge Community Services will see up to 100 inmates of Hakea Prison take part in the Companion Animal Service Employment Centre (CASEC) program that will socialise the dogs through obedience training and exposure to a non-racing environment.
Commissioner for Corrective Services, Ian Johnson said the program was a win-win situation for both Hakea prisoners and the greyhounds.
“The dog handling and general workplace training skill modules delivered will certainly increase the employability of the prisoners, and at the same time enable retired greyhounds to become valued family pets,” Mr Johnson said.
Chief Executive of Extra Edge, Louise Gray said the nine six-week programs would be delivered by external facilitators from Extra Edge Community Services and Greyhounds WA.
“We will be mentoring and supporting the participants through a program of caring for, managing, training and assessing the retired racing greyhounds, whilst also taking part in workplace skills training sessions,” she said.
The CASEC program is funded by the Australian Government through the Innovation Fund.
7 June, 2011
Bus tickets added to
salary packages
Staff of the ACT Public Service are to be eligible to ‘salary package’ bus travel on the local network in a new arrangement announced by the ACT Chief Minister, Katy Gallagher.
From 1 June 2011 the ACT Government will provide ACT Public Service employees access to salary packaging for bus fares on the ACT Internal Omnibus Network (ACTION).
“I am very pleased to announce this important initiative which will see ACT Public Service employees save up to between $300 and $400 a year on the cost of public transport for travel between home and work,” Ms Gallagher said.
“As the second biggest employer in Canberra with a workforce of nearly 20,000 this is a significant commitment to our employees and the community.”
The Chief Minister said the initiative aimed to provide savings to ACT Public Servants and their families as well as see a greater patronage on buses, which would in turn diminish the carbon footprint of the Territory.
“A commitment to initiate arrangements was made in the ACTPS 2010-2011 enterprise bargaining agreements to introduce salary packaging of public transport costs for ACT Government employees,” she said.
“The benefit applies to all Public Service employees including part-time workers, and also applies to family members for their travel between home and work or school on ACTION buses under a private ruling obtained from the Australian Taxation Office.”
7 June, 2011
Minister dark on
solar claims
Consumer Protection has warned consumers to check out the power-saving claims made by retailers before installing solar power systems in their home and to thoroughly check power saving claims being made by retailers.
So far this year more than 50 complaints against the industry have been received. Some consumers believe they were misled by cost-saving claims, but the majority were concerned about unreasonable delays in installations.
Commissioner for Consumer Protection, Anne Driscoll said the solar PV (photovoltaic) industry had experienced rapid growth in recent months and the increase in demand was causing delays.
“Many consumers are frustrated by installers who are battling to keep up with the huge demand boosted by Federal Government rebates being offered,” Ms Driscoll said.
“Some consumers are also concerned that their systems won’t be installed before the rebate is reduced in July this year and this change has also fuelled further demand.”
Ms Driscoll said promotional statements such as “wipe out your electricity bills” would need to be backed up with evidence as, under the Australian Consumer Law, all statements made in advertising must be true and not designed to mislead consumers.
“Consumer Protection now has the authority to issue substantiation notices which require companies to provide proof of their claims. Making an unproven claim in order to sell a product can be a false or misleading representation and the penalties can be harsh with fines as high as $1.1 million for corporations and $220,000 for individuals,” she said.
7 June, 2011
DEC rocked by
rock wallabies
The Department of Environment and Conservation (DEC) has launched a series of urgent measures to assist two key populations of rock wallaby in the Wheatbelt while an investigation is held to find out why they are declining.
A population of the species at Nangeen Hill near Kellerberrin had declined and there was concern the population would be lost without intervention from the DEC.
The exact cause of the decline was not known. Predation by foxes, drought and potential weed toxicity as the rock wallabies grazed on plants they normally avoided, are among the causes being considered.
Preliminary results from a survey at Mount Caroline Nature Reserve also near Kellerberrin have also indicated significant decline in the rock wallaby population. The Minister said DEC was undertaking recovery actions and investigations at both of these important sites for the threatened species.
Minister for the Environment, Bill Marmion said DEC had stepped up fox baiting at Nangeen Hill and Mount Caroline from once every four weeks to fortnightly.
The black-flanked rock wallaby is a threatened species under the WA Wildlife Conservation Act 1950 and is listed as vulnerable according to World Conservation Union criteria.
The sites are Nangeen Hill and Mount Caroline nature reserves have held more than 100 and more than 300 animals respectively in recent years.
A comprehensive survey of rock wallabies at Nangeen Hill was undertaken in April and found that the numbers had decreased to just 14 rock wallabies compared with 112 recorded in 2007.
7 June, 2011
Skill forums to
aid employers
Immigration forums are to be conducted by the Federal Department of Immigration and Citizenship (DIAC) over the next month or so to provide WA employers with information on skilled migration programs available to help address their labour needs.
DIAC is organising the forums in cooperation with the WA Department of Training and Workforce Development.
A Departmental spokesman said the Australian Government had announced an increase in the skilled migration program and a range of initiatives to help meet demand for skilled migrants in regional Australia.
At the forums, employers can get an overview of skilled migration options or pathways available to those seeking to address skill shortages in regional and remote areas of the State across a range of industries.
The WA regional outreach officer will be available to answer questions regarding immigration issues and provide specific information on employer-sponsored migration options for temporary and permanent visas to address current and future skills shortages in the regions.
Employers may also request a private consultation to discuss issues such as sponsorship of overseas workers, permanent skilled migration options, employing overseas workers and checking work rights of employees.
The dates and locations for the regional migration forums are: Albany 8 June, Karratha 16 June, Port Hedland 17 June, Kalgoorlie 22 June, Bunbury 24 June, Exmouth 28 June, Carnarvon 30 June and Geraldton 1 July.
7 June, 2011
School upgrades
pencilled in
Major upgrades and access to state-of-the-art facilities are in store for a number of regional schools courtesy of funding from the Royalties for Regions program.
Benefitting from the program are Karratha Senior High School, Carnarvon Senior High School, Derby District High School, Broome Senior High School and Hedland Senior High School.
Minister for Education, Liz Constable said increased investment in regional schools would ensure students living in regional areas had access to modern facilities.
“Students and staff learning and working in schools in the north of our State can look forward to enjoying state-of-the-art facilities and spending their time in very comfortable surroundings,” Dr Constable said.
“Regional students must be given the best chance to succeed, and these school upgrades will help them achieve their goals.”
The Minister said Karratha Senior High School would receive an extra $9 million from Royalties for Regions to provide recreation facilities, adding to the $46 million already committed for the completion of the second stage of redevelopment by mid-2013.
“This school was a priority for redevelopment,” she said.
Royalties for Regions funding also goes to Denmark High School and Esperance Primary School. Denmark High School has been allocated $7 million for new specialist subject buildings.
Esperance Primary School will have $10 million spent on it, completing the replacement school by mid-2012.
Building the Education Revolution funds of $3 million have already provided a new library and four-classroom teaching block.
7 June, 2011
Gambling plans
called a winner
National plans to examine the impacts of gambling on the community have been welcomed by the Minister for Racing and Gaming, Terry Waldron.
The Minister said he was pleased the Council of Australian Governments’ Select Council on Gambling Reform had agreed to review the Federal laws governing on-line gambling as part of a broader focus on problem gambling in the community.
“I am very pleased the Federal Government has agreed to review the Interactive Gambling Act because the existing controls are ineffective and the impacts of on-line gambling as regards problem gambling are not being recognised or addressed at the moment,” Mr Waldron said.
He strongly supported action to reduce and control the promotion of live odds during sports coverage.
“Governments across Australia are concerned that promotion, including commentary by sporting role models, is now a major component of live sports coverage and this has the ability to greatly influence the community and particularly the younger members,” he said.
The Council also agreed that pre-commitment, where a gambler pre-commits the amount of money they are prepared to lose before playing, was a useful tool and supported the technology needed to implement it.
Mr Waldron said while Western Australia maintained its strong support for voluntary pre-commitment, he remained opposed to mandatory measures.
7 June, 2011
Structure plan shows
way for Geraldton
A new structure plan for Geraldton has been published by the Minister for Planning, John Day.
The plan primarily focuses on the urban areas and areas likely to experience development pressures within the City of Geraldton-Greenough and the Shire of Chapman Valley.
Mr Day said the Mid-West region was becoming an increasingly more attractive place to live, work and invest - it boasted a diverse economy underpinned by mining, agriculture, fisheries and tourism.
“The structure plan investigates the potential residential capacity of Greater Geraldton and indicates that the region is capable of substantial growth,” Mr Day said.
It would guide amendments and reviews to the City of Geraldton-Greenough and Shire of Chapman Valley local planning strategies and schemes.
The Minister said the plan finalised the draft Greater Geraldton Structure Plan Update 2010 following the public comment period and updated the Geraldton Region Plan Part 3 - the Greater Geraldton Structure Plan (1999).
“Since the release of the previous structure plan in 1999, a number of land use changes have occurred in the area and the new Greater Geraldton Structure Plan 2011 accommodates this evolution,” he said.
“The structure plan takes into consideration the current planning for major infrastructure projects, like the Oakajee Port, and also reflects refinements to the regional road network, including the finalisation of the Southern Transport Corridor and the recently determined southern route for the Geraldton North South Highway.”
The plan also accommodated the proposed expansion of the Narngulu Industrial Estate and the future Oakajee Industrial Estate.
7 June, 2011
DEC celebrates
park milestone
Yanchep National Park has welcomed its 1,000th annual local pass holder for 2011.
Kinross man Andy Khan received the honour amid celebrations to mark the milestone.
Department of Environment and Conservation (DEC) staff presented Mr Khan with free passes to Crystal Cave, an Aboriginal experience tour, a chocolate hamper and vouchers for dinner at the Yanchep Inn.
Mr Khan, a long-term pass holder and regular visitor to Yanchep National Park, renewed his local annual pass last month.
“Yanchep National Park is one of my favourite places to visit. It’s not too far from home and is a beautiful place to relax and take the family on the weekends,” Mr Khan said.
“We often come up on the weekend for a meal at the Yanchep Inn or make a day of it with a picnic in the grounds and a cave tour.”
Spokeswoman for DEC, Jennifer Green said the sale of local annual passes was increasing every year as more people moved into the northern suburbs.
“The card represents outstanding value and includes unlimited, 12-month vehicle entry for just $20,” Ms Green said.
“All revenue collected from entry fees and park passes is reinvested into the park, so it’s a win-win for visitors and the environment.”
She said a number of park passes were available including a four-week holiday pass which covered all national parks in Western Australia for $40. There was also an All Park Annual Pass for $80.
7 June, 2011
Yawuru project
up and running
Offices of the Yawuru Joint Management Program in Broome have been officially opened and a new patrol vessel ‘christened’.
The offices, at the Department of Environment and Conservation’s (DEC) Broome complex, will accommodate Yawuru Rangers and staff who are managing conservation areas near Broome in collaboration with Yawuru, the DEC and the Shire of Broome.
Performing the launch, Minister for the Environment, Bill Marmion said joint management was part of the Yawuru Native Title Agreement and subsequent Indigenous Land Use Agreements registered in August 2010.
“The agreement included funding for joint management of conservation areas with the aim of providing opportunities for Aboriginal people to work on their own country and be involved in decision-making on how that country is managed,” Mr Marmion said.
Nine Yawuru management staff had been employed, including four trainee rangers, an operations officer, coastal park co-ordinator, interpretation and community education officer, a trainee supervisor and a Yawuru program leader
The Minister said Yawuru, DEC and the Broome Shire were now preparing cultural, terrestrial and marine management plans as well as plans for the development of visitor facilities in the area.
The new marine patrol vessel, named Jangabarri, the Yawuru name for the oyster back stingray found in local waters, is a 5.8-metre, semi-rigid inflatable craft for two crew and four passengers.
7 June, 2011
Native title talks
spearhead accord
Native title agreements have been made between Rio Tinto Iron Ore and traditional owner groups in the Pilbara region of Western Australia.
Australian Attorney-General, Robert McClelland praised the efforts of the Yamatji Marlpa Aboriginal Corporation, which represented the Nyiyaparli, Puutu Kunti Kurrama and Pinikura, Kuruma and Marthudunera and Ngarlawangga traditional owners in negotiations.
He also acknowledged the separate agreement between Rio Tinto and the Ngarluma traditional owners.
“The agreements, which provide for land access and cooperation across more than 71,000 square kilometres in relation to Rio Tinto’s iron ore business, are amongst the largest and most comprehensive native title agreements ever made,” Mr McClelland said.
“These agreements, which were negotiated over several years, are an excellent example of native title groups and industry working together to improve outcomes for traditional owners.”
Federal Minister for Families, Housing, Community Services and Indigenous Affairs, Jenny Macklin said the agreements offered broader benefits for traditional owners and their communities, including commitments by Rio Tinto to deliver training, employment and business development opportunities.
“After extensive negotiations, Rio Tinto and the native title groups have reached a comprehensive agreement that ensures payments to native title groups will be invested appropriately for the good of the community,” Ms Macklin said.
“These agreements are unique in that they provide an option for traditional owners to enter an additional Regional Agreement that could potentially benefit all Indigenous people in the Pilbara, through the work of a Regional Aboriginal Corporation.”
7 June, 2011
Conservation area
to be conserved
A new protected area along the Kimberley coastline is to be formally managed for conservation.
More than 3,400 square kilometres of north Kimberley coast has been declared the Uunguu Indigenous Protected Area (IPA).
The Federal Court of Australia has granted the traditional owners native title over 26,000 square kilometres of the Kimberley, with the traditional owners immediately declaring that part of this country would be formally managed for conservation.
Australian Minister for the Environment, Tony Burke said it was a groundbreaking decision for the Wunambal Gaambera people and a great conservation gift to all Australians,
“Uunguu, meaning ‘living home’, abounds in native wildlife including many threatened species. Dolphins, dugong and marine turtles are found in seagrass beds off the coast and sand goanna, bush turkey, euro and rock wallabies live in spectacular woodland and escarpment country,” Mr Burke said.
“Countless significant rock art sites form one of the most stunning open air art galleries in Western Australia.”
Mr Burke said the Australian Government had made a commitment to employ over 65 Aboriginal rangers in the Kimberley region by June 2013.
“We’ve invested in the Uunguu ranger group to provide jobs on country as part of that commitment,” he said.
“Indigenous Protected Areas and Working on Country rangers are one of Australia’s most successful conservation stories - they protect Australia’s biodiversity while providing training and employment for Aboriginal people doing work that they love on their own country.”
7 June, 2011
TAB to stay
The Government has reaffirmed it has no plans to sell the Western Australian TAB.
Its statement follows an article in the West Australian suggesting the Government had received a ‘secret bid’ to sell the State-owned enterprise.
The Government said it believed it was in the best interests of West Australians for it to continue to own the TAB.
Sprinklers banned
A garden sprinkler ban that came into force on 1 June is to last until 31 August. This is the second year a permanent winter sprinkler ban had been enforced.
Last year’s ban is estimated to have saved 4.2 billion litres of water.
The ban will not affect any industrial or commercial activities that use water to support their businesses, such as turf farms.
Environment awards open
West Australians who care for and preserve the natural environment will be recognised at the 10th WA Environment Awards.
Nominations have been called for 11 categories from which an overall environment award winner is chosen.
The nomination period closes on Friday, 29 July and entry forms and further information can be found at the Department of Environment and Conservation’s website this PS News link.
Car park let
Capella Parking has been named as the State’s preferred provider to deliver the Queen Elizabeth II Medical Centre (QEIIMC) Car Park Project.
The project includes a multi-deck car park with more than 3,000 bays, increasing the total number of car bays at the QEIIMC to 5,100
The project will be delivered under a Build Own Operate and Transfer public-private partnership model, whereby the private sector would build the new multi-deck car park and operate and manage parking across the QEIIMC, before transferring the asset back to the trust at the end of the contract.
Science awards open
Nominations are open for the 2011 Western Australian Science Awards.
Now in their 10th year the Awards recognise and reward outstanding science endeavours and achievements.
Nominations close at 5pm on Friday, 29 July. Information, including nomination forms and award guidelines, can be found at this PS News link.
New ISA for Kimberley
A new Integrated Service Arrangement (ISA), valued at $152 million, for the maintenance of the State’s road network in the Kimberley has been awarded to DownerMouchel.
The successful organisation is a joint venture comprising of Downer EDI Works and Mouchel International (Jersey) Limited (Australia Branch).
The ISA was awarded for an initial period of five years and is the fifth of seven ISAs with the remaining two to be awarded over the next three months.
Services under the ISA arrangements will begin in July 2011.
Biosecurity funding announced
The Department of Agriculture and Food has announced its Biosecurity funding schemes for 2011-12.
Cattle producers will continue to pay a 20c contribution on cattle/carcasses sold within the State in 2011-12.
Sheep and goat producers will pay a 12c contribution on all sheep and goats/carcasses sold within the South West Land Division in 2011-12.
Grain and seed producers will pay a 30c contribution on first sale of every tonne of grain and seed within the South West Land Division of WA in 2011-12.
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