Esperance Tide August 2022

ISSUE 88

FREE MONTHLY AUGUST 2022

W INTER W EEK E ND S

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H I S T OR Y

Twenty-Four Hours in KBC

Get To Know SAFE Esperance

Dempster Homestead

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PHOTOGRAPHY CREDIT: LUCY VINCENT (Little Hellfire Bay, Cape Le Grand National Park)

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The Community Sporting and Recreation Facilities Fund provides financial assistance to local government or not-for-profit sport, recreation or community organisations to develop basic infrastructure for sport and recreation.

2023/24 Annual and Forward Planning Grants round closes on 30 Sep 2022/23 Small Grants round closes on 31 Aug For further information, visit www.dlgsc.wa.gov.au

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Authorised by S Payne, 92 Dempster Street Esperance WA 6450.

What a wild start to August! With high winds, heavy rain, and temps cool enough to crack out the thermals, we’re glad the onset of spring is only a month away. The wintery weather hasn’t stopped us from getting out and about though, and it’s been great to see the community braving the elements to support local events. From the brewery, to the Civic Centre, to the Cannery, July was jam packed with music, theatre, and the arts. There’s nothing like a bit of culture to warm the cockles (literally and figuratively). We can’t wait to do it al l again this month.

Speaking of culture, we caught up with Tim Currie at the Civic Centre this month to find out what’s on, and how the venue has handled the last few years of pandemic pandemonium [p. 14]. Despite the challenges, the Civic Centre has gone from strength to strength and was even recently nominated for a statewide award for its efforts. Opening 41 years ago, the venue is a local icon; a hive of activity and arts and culture. Congrats to Tim and the team on the nomination, and while they didn’t take home the win, the Civic Centre is always a winner in our eyes.

Moving away from the stage and onto the seas, we jumped aboard Southern Sardines’ boat this month to join them on a fishing expedition [p. 4]. The local family business has been operating since 1989, and supplies Esperance and beyond with delicious, sustainable seafood. The business has experienced highs and lows over the years, but is booming at the moment. If you think sardines are a food of the past, think again! They’re not only tasty, but very good for you, so consider including them on this week’s shopping list.

LO CAL CATC H

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Southern Sardines

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South Regional TAFE

O P E N DAY

From the ocean to the red dirt, we visited Kalgoorlie this month to see how our northern neighbours are getting on [p. 8]. Whether you’re after a wild weekend, or you’ve got the kids in tow, there’s heaps to see and do in Kal. Packed with history and culture, and with some great food and bevs on offer, it’s a worthwhile weekend getaway. Check out what we got up to and our top tips for visiting the mining city, then plan a trip. We guarantee there’s more than meets the eye!

As we endure this final month of winter, we hope you stay warm and cosy!

Whether you’re whale watching, puddle jumping, or rugged up on the couch in front of the telly, have fun and we’ll see ya in spring! Until next time…

Established in 2016, Esperance Tide is a free, monthly publication that shares our community’s most uplifting and inspiring stories. We strive to support small business and community events, and champion the heroes that reside within our region. Esperance Tide is 100 per cent locally and independently owned.

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H OM E GR OWN

On the Sea with

Southern Sardines W O R D S & P H OTO G R A P H Y R O S I E H E N D E R S O N

It’s a good afternoon to be on the sea – the wind and waves are calm and the skies are clear.

Good fishing weather. The sun starts sinking and the sky is glowing as David Gray navigates from Bandy Creek Boat Harbour to a spot 10 nautical miles out, where we drop the net.

We stay bobbing in that spot for around five hours, eventually pulling in tonnes of sardines, almost by hand but with the help of a winch. It’s hard work. Seagulls swoop at the shiny skin of the sardines that jump and skim the surface while dolphins frolic around us enjoying an easy dinner and a bit of excitement.

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We’re out with Southern Sardines, a fishing and food processing business based in Esperance. They’ve been bobbing around on the ocean in the dark of the night covered in sweat and fish scales, supplying the state and beyond with Esperance sardines, since the 1990s.

It’s a family run business, and always has been. Southern Sardines is owned and operated by David, with his mother and father still involved in the business. It was David’s father Marcus who stepped into the industry back in 1989 when, as David puts it, “Dad thought it looked like a good industry to get into.” And it was, right up until the mid-90s when a virus wiped out the sardines and caused production to halt. “[There was] basically a 15 year drought in the fishing world,” David says. “We got through it by running a small operation, making just enough to cover the costs of licensing, which you have to pay for even if you don’t catch the fish. It’s the same with the boat - you’re paying for it even if you don’t use it.”

They stuck at it and today, Southern Sardines is thriving. Contrary to what the name suggests, Southern Sardines don’t only catch and supply sardines – they also produce silver flounder (silver jacket), both of which are sold wholesale and retail, locally and statewide. You may have spotted them at Bob and Jims, South Coast Food Services, or IGA. Southern Sardines also have an established bait market, with sardines sold wholesale and sent interstate for recreational fishing and even feed in zoos. Lucky penguins!

When you think of sardines, you probably think of something eaten by your grandma.

But sardines are not a food of the past.

They have funky scales and nutritional benefits for all – not just the older generations. High in omega 3 (good for the heart), vitamin B12 (increases nerve function), vitamin D and calcium (both aiding in strong bones), sardines are an undervalued delicacy that grow right on our doorstep in the Recherche Archipelago.

“Eventually, after the virus, the biomasses came back and we got the confidence to go out again,” recalls David, as he stands repairing a hole in the net as the boat rolls on the ocean below. ⟶

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David’s been working out on the boats since he was 17 and running the factory from when he was 18. In 2008, he spent some time in the big smoke getting his Master V ticket, before returning to Esperance qualified to run the boats. A big turn in the business came when they made the move into food production in the mid-90s, over time upgrading their factory and vessels which enabled them to expand into the trapping of silver flounder and sardines.

In late 2019, Southern Sardines received a $149,328 Regional Economic Development (RED) grant which helped them set up the factory for the filleting, crumbing, battering, weighing, packaging and marketing of the product. David says expansion has been slowed at points by the hit of the virus, more recently COVID-19, and a run of smaller sardines that aren’t big enough for food production. “When we first got that RED grant in late 2019, it was the start of COVID-19,” David says. “So it was quite a staggered, slow process, but now when we get big sardines coming in, we’re ready to go.”

It’s a challenging industry, especially when you’re dealing with the unpredictability of nature and the seasonality of the fish. “The unpredictable nature of the industry can be challenging – but that’s nothing you can change,” David says. “I can see the biggest challenges for us going forward are going to be staff and production cost, which is going up quickly. It’s not just fuel and freight, but everything coming here – like cartons, boxes, and bags – has fuel and freight as well.”

According to David, Southern Sardines strives for a wholly local operation. “Our aim is to do it all in Esperance – the fishing, processing, and packaging – and then sell Esperance fish as Esperance fish,” he says.

“Both of the fisheries are sustainable. The Department of Fisheries does a State of the Fisheries Report every year, and it’s completely sustainable. It’s an excellent fishery down here.”

Sustainability is a big driver behind the business, with David saying that the aim for Southern Sardines is to fish and produce in a manner that’s as sustainable as possible, encouraging people to support and consume local produce. The benefits of which we’re learning are great for our health, community, and local economy.

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Winter Weekends

Twenty-Four Hours in KBC W O R D S & P H OT O G R A P H Y H A N N A H S I E M E R

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It’s 4pm on a Saturday afternoon, and we’re loitering outside a brothel on Hay Street in Kalgoorlie. The white tin building proudly boasts on magenta signage that it’s Australia’s oldest working brothel. “Yes! Still an operating brothel,” another sign reads. “...when the girls are here.” It seems no industry has escaped the wrath of COVID-19, not even the most dependable industry there is.

A few minutes pass and a gaggle of grey nomads emerge from the depths of the brothel, Questa Casa.

Their faces, slightly flushed, offer no indication of what we signed up for when handed over $30 each for a tour of the establishment. Some are smiling, some avoid eye contact. All look perplexed.

It’s soon our turn and before we have a chance to back out, we’re beckoned through the infamous pink gates by an elderly lady, sensibly dressed, with a neat ashy bob.

fewer than 14 pubs. But first, food. We head to Ruby’s Rasoi, an Indian restaurant near the famous Paddy Hannan statue.

The restaurant is quiet given it’s a Saturday, but great food makes up for the lack of ambience. We’re served up a fresh and flavoursome vego feast, with just the right amount of spice.

Octogenarian Carmel is the madam. She’s owned Questa Casa since 1991, when she left Queensland and headed to the bright lights of a booming Kalgoorlie, in search of something new. She ushers us into a dark room, where we take up the 12 chairs arranged in a semicircle. Hardly a word is spoken between the group as we nervously wait for Carmel to begin, though I do point out the oversized black appendage my companion has seated herself next to. Carmel sits on the other side, a novelty boob apron hanging above her 85-year-old head, and the tour begins.

After dinner, we set off in search of that drink. Earlier in the day, we’ve already hit up Beaten Track Brewery, where we sampled the local brews and devoured a smoked cauliflower burger. As we stroll along Hannan Street, we call into the York Hotel. Built in 1900, the hotel has all the unassuming charm you’d hope for in a country pub of that age. Like the restaurant, it’s quiet, but we’re welcomed in by the Floridian bartender and order ourselves a couple of pints. Memorabilia adorns every inch of space on the walls, and free board games are stacked up beside the bar for couples who’ve run out of things to talk about. Last drinks are called at 10pm, so we venture back out onto Hannan Street in search of the action Kalgoorlie is renowned for.

What we have paid for is less of a tour in the traditional sense, and more of a lecture by Carmel, who shares with us the sordid and salacious details of years gone by. We are taken on a short, guided wander through Questa Casa about halfway through, where Carmel shows us the BDSM room, the doorways where girls once stood to lure their customers, and the room where a man died mid-booking, then miraculously sprung back to life an hour later. After two hours, we too emerge from the brothel’s clutches a little flushed.

Through the swinging doors of the Wild West Saloon at the Exchange Hotel, we find where everyone has been hiding. The pub is packed, with punters filling the dance floor while a live band plays. More people sit around the four sides of the rectangular bar, ordering drinks from bikini-clad skimpies. We settle in a corner for a round of people watching. The clientele is a mixed bag; there’s as much high vis as there are high heels. A couple of drinks later and we beat retreat, unpacking the day’s events as we walk back to our hotel.

After that, we need a drink.

It’s a good thing we’re in Kalgoorlie, where there’s no

⟶

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The following morning, we explore the Museum of the Goldfields, which is interesting, interactive, and completely free. Highlights include the British Arms, which is the narrowest pub in the Southern Hemisphere and is attached to the museum, and taking the lift to the headframe viewing platform, where we’re treated to 360° views. Just a short stroll from the museum is the World’s Tallest Bin. It’s nothing more than a photo op, but lots of fun all the same.

Next up, it’s Kalgoorlie’s star attraction – the Super Pit. While it’s arguably just a big hole in the ground, it’s strangely mesmerising to watch the giant dump trucks, which look Tonka-sized from the viewing platform, weave their way into the bottom of the pit, their drivers no doubt praying to the mechanical gods that their brakes don’t fail them on the way down.

After a post-Pit pit stop at the Kalgoorlie Hotel for hands-down the best onion rings we’ve ever tasted, we head north towards the two-up shed, which comes alive at 2pm every Sunday.

Kalgoorlie and Broken Hill are the only two places in Australia where it’s legal to play two-up year-round. We find the scrappy tin shed at the end of a dirt track, nestled between a few gum trees.

It’s round, with no roof, door, or power, though a portable generator heats the urn for anyone wanting a cuppa.

The small crowd in the shed is made up of tourists and high rollers. The venue might be in poor shape but those there to play are anything but. Wads of cash spill out of pockets and into the ring where coins are being tossed into the air. The rules of two-up are more complicated than we expect, and we’re more entertained by the gamblers than the gambling. Yellow and green banknotes exchange hands without hesitation. We’re told one local player spends more than $100,000 on the game every year.

We decide to hit the road before we’re convinced to join in. As we jump on Goldfields Highway, we begin planning our return trip, with still so much to see and do in the city and beyond. We agree Kalgoorlie and Carmel have a lot in common – rich in history, uniquely Australian and, despite what it might look like on the surface, full of treasure.

Where we stayed The Plaza Hotel. It’s walking distance to the action on Hannan Street and all rooms have a balcony. Accommodation prices are heavily inflated in Kal due to a lack of accommodation options for miners, but we managed to snag a Deluxe King room for $280 per night.

What we ate Bangin’ burgs at Beaten Track Brewery and incredible Indian at Ruby’s Rasoi. Don’t leave without ordering the honey chilli cauliflower!

What we loved most Our two hours at Questa Casa was memorable, to say the least. The many murals throughout Kal are great too, providing splashes of colour to the city’s sepia tones.

Our best tip If you’re only going for the night, leave Esperance early. There is much more to see and do than meets the eye.

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Providing a Safe Haven for Cats and Dogs WORDS KARLI FLORISSON

In 2012, Janine Button was working at the local veterinary clinic. She had recently moved to Esperance, and was enjoying a quiet life with her rescue greyhounds. When the Cat Act was introduced in Western Australia, requiring that all cats be desexed and microchipped, Janine noticed a big increase in the numbers of cats being brought into the clinic to be euthanised. While Janine and the other staff at the clinic tried to find homes for some of the cats, she realised something needed to be done. The deciding factor for Janine was when a mother cat and her kittens were brought into the clinic just before Christmas. Despite the greyhounds, Janine took Mama Cat and the kittens home. Then, along with her friend Michelle Spargo, Janine got to work on starting an Esperance branch of Saving Animals From Euthanasia, or SAFE. SAFE Esperance has been running since 2014, and the story of Mama Cat has a happy ending. Janine was able to find new homes for the kittens, and she ended up adopting Mama Cat herself. “She’s very happy here,” Janine says. Janine’s work hasn’t slowed down since establishing SAFE Esperance. After six months of rescuing cats, the SAFE head office suggested that they begin rescuing and rehoming dogs as well. Since that time, Janine says they have rescued around 1500 cats and kittens, and over 500 dogs and puppies. As they don’t have a dedicated facility to house the rescue animals, SAFE Esperance relies on volunteers to foster the animals until they find a new home. In addition to the Esperance region, they’ve also helped rescue animals from surrounding areas, including Ravensthorpe, Norseman, and Kalgoorlie. It’s been a huge job for Janine and her fellow volunteers.

“It’s quite overwhelming,” Janine says. “But we do it because we care about the animals. If I didn’t do it, who would?”

Janine is also a passionate advocate for getting pets desexed. All animals that are rehomed through SAFE must be desexed, microchipped, and vaccinated. She encourages people to get their pets desexed as soon as they are old enough, to avoid more unwanted cats and dogs. She also encourages people to think about whether they can make a long-term commitment before they take on a pet. “It can be a 15-year commitment,” Janine says. “A pet is not something that you can pick up and put down again when you lose interest.” Janine notes that kitten season is usually a really difficult time for the organisation, when they are overwhelmed by dozens of kittens that need to be rehomed. As Esperance is a small town, there are only so many that can be rehomed locally. As such, SAFE sends around 50 cats and kittens to Cat Haven in Perth to be rehomed every year.

SAFE Esperance is an entirely volunteer run organisation, and is almost entirely self-funded, with the exception of a small amount of funding from the SAFE head office each year. Janine and her fellow volunteers, who now include the cat rescue coordinators Fabianne Brown

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↳ Janine Button (front) with volunteers (left to right) Ben Thompson, Stephanie Thompson and Fabianne Brown

and Stephanie Thompson, are always busy. Janine says they sometimes struggle to have enough funds for the emergency vet care often required for the animals. All money received by SAFE in adoption fees goes straight back into the care of other animals.

Despite the difficulties, there are many heart-warming moments. Janine remembers a kitten who was brought in after being hit by a car. He had to have surgery for a hernia, and he had a leg amputated. “He was an expensive little thing,” Janine says. “We called him Boy Blue, because he was pretty miserable when he came in.

But he turned out to be such a lovely kitten.” Boy Blue was adopted by a retired lady and Janine says his new owner absolutely loves him. Janine also thinks of Loki, a puppy who was recently adopted by a couple from out of town. “They just dote on him,” she says. “He’s going to have a great life. It’s really gratifying, and makes it all worthwhile.” And then there are all the people who decide to adopt the dogs that they were fostering. “We get so much good feedback, and it’s great to hear the animals are doing well,” Janine says.

FO ST ER, ADO PT , DO N AT E O R VO L UN T EER SAFE Esperance is continually looking for foster carers for both dogs and cats. There is also the option of fostering with the aim of adopting, if you’d like to see how an animal fits into your home.

There are plenty of other ways you can lend a hand, including transporting animals, or providing financial support, which goes towards the care and desexing of rescued animals.

To find out more about SAFE Esperance, visit www.safe.org.au, or find them on Facebook. If you or someone you know needs help to desex your pet, the RSPCA is offering financial assistance for people on low incomes to get their cats or dogs desexed. Visit www.rspca.org.au/register-for-assistance for more information.

BACH & BEER September 22

ADV ER TO R I AL

Esperance Civic Centre

Entertaining Esperance for 41 Years “It’s been a mad few years,” admits Tim Currie, Coordinator of the Esperance Civic Centre. He’s discussing running an entertainment venue during a global pandemic, the biggest challenge of his nine years managing the Shire of Esperance facility. But despite persistent cancellations and postponements due to border closures, lockdowns, and illness, Tim says it hasn’t been all bad. “The silver lining of COVID was that we’ve had some amazing shows touring regional Australia because they couldn’t go overseas,” he says. “We saw tribute bands come back to Esperance, which we haven’t really had in the last 10 years, because they couldn’t go on cruise ships.

We’ve also had acts like Drapht, Spacey Jane, Amy Shark, John Butler, and Great Gable, who we mightn’t have had under normal circumstances.”

With the COVID cloud now lifting, the Esperance Civic Centre is busier than ever, with an impressive line-up of shows to keep the community entertained through the remainder of winter and into spring. This month, Comedy Gold returns for its 10th consecutive year, with four of Australia’s funniest comedians taking to the stage on Monday 22 August (that’s one way to shake off the Monday blues). Then, on Wednesday 24 August, Barbaroi hits town, bringing with it a blend of high-octane contemporary circus and exciting physical theatre, combining daring aerobatics, aerials, and circus acts, complemented by finely tuned lighting, special effects, and a pumping soundtrack. The award-winning cyberpunk circus promises to leave audiences young and old on the edge of their seats. Rounding out the month is Edward the Emu on Tuesday 30 August, which springs to life the timeless Australian children’s classic.

Featuring world-class puppetry, an original score, and inventive storytelling, Edward the Emu will captivate the littlies, as well as those who bring them along.

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BARBAROI August 24

EDWARD THE EMU August 30

These are just some of the 400 shows the Esperance Civic Centre is offered every year. Tim has the challenging task of whittling that number down to just 15 to 20 shows that will appeal to a diverse range of ages and tastes. “We filter through the shows looking at their cost, target audience, our availability, and what else is happening in Esperance at the time,” Tim says. “We try to select a variety of shows. It’s not always about how many awards they’ve won, but who they’ll be of interest to in our community.” While it’s his job to select the shows, Tim rarely has the opportunity to see a show from beginning to end. “I get to see parts of shows, but I never get to see a full show because I’m running around behind the scenes,” Tim says. “But I love doing this job because I love bringing arts and culture to Esperance. It’s so important.”

The immense efforts of Tim and his team at the Esperance Civic Centre recently paid off, with the venue nominated for a Pinnacle Performing Arts Award for Western Australian Presenter of the Year. The awards celebrate the best in live performance in WA, and the Civic Centre was recognised for delivering more performing arts shows in 2021 than ever before, despite

COVID and Esperance’s remote location. Up against Arts Narrogin, who took home the award, and the Matt Dann Theatre in Port Hedland, Tim says it was an honour to be a short-listed nominee. “The nomination acknowledges our focus on diversity, high quality and strong service delivery for producers,” he says. “It’s great to be able to promote the work we’re doing to help create a thriving community.”

Celebrating its 40th anniversary last year, the Esperance Civic Centre doesn’t just host touring shows, but is available for hire for private and community events, too.

The facility is suitable for a range of events, including workshops and training, conferences, church services, wedding receptions, and funerals. With three spaces of varying sizes for hire, as well as a commercial kitchen, it’s a hive of activity week in, week out, throughout the year. Tim says the Civic Centre is a community hub; a space that anyone is welcome to utilise. “There’s not much we don’t do up here,” he says. “I encourage anyone who’s looking for a venue for their next event, no matter how big or small, to come and have a chat with us about what we can offer.”

CHECK OU T W H AT’ S O N AT T H E E S P E R A NC E C IVIC C EN T RE For further information and to book tickets to upcoming shows at the Esperance Civic Centre, head to www.esperance.wa.gov.au/upcoming-civic-centre-events. The Civic Centre is always on the lookout for volunteers to fill ushering, kiosk, and box office roles, too. It’s an opportunity to support the community facility, socialise with like-minded people and, perhaps best of all, see a show for free! If you’re interested in lending a hand, email civiccentre@esperance.wa.gov.au or call (08) 9083 1566.

Our monthly arts & culture guide brought to you by:

Lotterywest Morning Melodies THU 11 AUG @ 11AM ESPERANCE CIVIC CENTRE

Kris Nelson FRI 12 AUG @ 5PM & SUN 14 AUG @ 3PM LUCKY BAY BREWING ENTERTAINMENT

THEATRE

Grapevine Comedy

Lines of Laughter

SAT 6 AUG @ 7:30PM 33 DEGREES

AUG 5, 6, 12 & 13 @ 7PM AUG 7 @ 2:30PM THE BIJOU THEATRE

Tickets from $33 • Humantix

The Mess Around Down South Tour!

SAT 13 AUG @ 9PM THE PIER HOTEL

Tickets from $15 • Bijou Theatre website

Edward the Emu TUE 30 AUG @ 11AM ESPERANCE CIVIC CENTRE Tickets from $15 • Shire website

Comedy Gold 2022 MON 22 AUG @ 7:30PM ESPERANCE CIVIC CENTRE Tickets from $31.50 • Shire website

Barbaroi

The award-winning creative team from Monkey Baa Theatre Company are back with a brand new take on another muchloved tale, Edward the Emu. More than an adaptation, this is a unique imagining of two beloved picture books, Edward the Emu and Edwina the Emu, combining the plights of both emus in one heartfelt, clever and funny new tale.

LIVE MUSIC

WED 24 AUG @ 7:30PM ESPERANCE CIVIC CENTRE Tickets from $25 • Shire website

Barbaroi is a blend of high octane contemporary circus and exciting physical theatre. It combines daring acrobatics, aerials and phenomenal circus acts set against a pumping soundtrack complemented by finely tuned lighting and special effects.

Tim Currie and Olivia Pokela FRI 5 AUG @ 5PM LUCKY BAY BREWING

Manasseh Blues Band SUN 7 AUG @ 3PM LUCKY BAY BREWING

Conceived in the depths of pandemic anguish and born on the beaches of WA, The Mess Around brings an original flavour to your beloved indie music. A highly talented melting pot of musical backgrounds, their music, though often irreverent, is inconspicuous in its messages of love, self-improvement and finding a balanced lifestyle.

Chris Edmondson FRI 19 AUG @ 5PM LUCKY BAY BREWING

Mary Leske SUN 21 AUG @ 3PM LUCKY BAY BREWING

Savanah Solomon FRI 26 AUG @ 5PM & SUN 28 AUG @ 3PM LUCKY BAY BREWING

Club 75 Vol.4 SAT 27 AUG @ 6PM CANNERY ARTS CENTRE Tickets from $17.50 • canneryartscentre.con.au

Learn more about what’s on in Esperance by visiting esperancetide.com/whatson Tickets available from Shire Administration, Esperance Library, Visitor Centre or Online www.esperance.wa.gov.au/civic-centre Proudly supported by

ESPERANCE CIVIC CENTRE PRESENTS

AGES

4 -10

+ FAMILIES

30 AUGUST 2022

BROUGHT TO YOU BY THE GEDC, CANNERY ARTS CENTRE AND KYZA PRESENTS

Winter Edition 2022 Vol.4

Saturday August 27th BUY TICKETS canneryartscentre.com.au Nin The Kid Savanah Solomon Bruce Fitz Tom Clark Kyza 16 / ESPERANCE TIDE / AUGUST 2022

WORKSHOPS

Art Lab Series VARIOUS DATES CANNERY ARTS CENTRE

THE BRIDGE

Register at canneryartscentre.com.au

Living Reef Festival AUG 5 - 25 VARIOUS LOCATIONS Free • Register at canneryartscentre.com.au

The Living Reef Festival invites you to join artist Angela Rossen, musician Thea Rossen, scientists, and cultural leaders in workshops and community events to explore and document the Esperance Reef.

Throughout these events, locals will create a collection of paintings, drawings and photographs celebrating the wonder and beauty of the Great Southern Reef.

TAFE Open Day THU 11 AUG @ 3PM SOUTH REGIONAL TAFE, 7 CONNOLLY ST EXHIBITIONS

Lorraine Kindma: Playful Acrylic AUG 3 - 14 CANNERY ARTS CENTRE MARKETS

Esperance Growers Market 6 & 20 AUGUST @ 9AM SCOUT HALL

Museum Village Markets 14 & 28 AUGUST @ 8:30AM ESPERANCE MUSEUM VILLAGE SPORT

Esperance ODE AUG 20 & 21 ESPERANCE PONY CLUB

Travis Green performing at Club 75 Vol.3 on July 30. Credit: Sarsby Martin

August marks the final month of winter. That really sped through! I'm full tilt into summer programming with some stupendous events just around the corner. Following Splendour in the Grass, I couldn’t help but scroll through the news reports and think to myself how in the hell would anyone want to spend three days wading through mud. I quickly realised I had done exactly that in my 20s, recalling a few Splendour mud stacks while gripping my smuggled flask of vodka.

It’s surprising what we are able to endure in the name of live music.

This year’s Splendour by all accounts was testing, though I'm sure it will return. For now I think I'll just stick to the more chilled live music events with a max of 500 attendees. The thought of 50,000 attendees makes me feel faint.

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August 27 marks our final Club 75 for 2022. It has been a hell of a series thus far with three sold out shows featuring 15 individual artists, local and touring. Our finale is set to hit a little different, closed out

by NinTheKid. I’m super excited to see Jonah and his crew bring this one to life - the latest releases have been absolutely banging. Earlier in the evening we venture back towards the classic Club 75 style, with Perth-based Savanah Solomon set to perform, alongside Bruce Fitzpatrick and Tom Clark. If you're yet to head along for the season, this one's for you. We’ll have the Cannery bar running hot and Sri Lankan rotis available courtesy of Esperance Sri Lankan Taste. Tickets are live and available from www. canneryartscentre.com.au.

Head back to the Cannery on Sunday 28 August at 12.30pm for a songwriting workshop with Savanah Solomon. Savanah will look at lyric writing, and her approach to recording the final product. The workshop is free to attend and open to anyone aged 12 years and older.

The Cannery Arts Centre Winter Live Music Program is brought to you by the Cannery and Kyza Presents, and supported by the Goldfields Esperance Development Commission, Rotary Club of Esperance Bay, Regional Arts WA, and the Shire of Esperance.

KYRON SMITHSON - KYZA PRESENTS

ME E T T H E A RT I ST

Angela Rossen Angela Rossen has made it her life’s work to observe and record the wonder and beauty of Western Australian plants, animals, and environmental systems through art. Graduating from Curtin University in 1982 with a degree in Fine Arts and Design, the Perth-based artist has spent her career travelling the state creating, exploring, and educating, driven by her curiosity and a love of nature. This month, Angela is in Esperance for the Living Reef Festival, which celebrates the Great Southern Reef through a number of community events and workshops.

Tell us a little about yourself.

I grew up playing in the sunshine along the Perth metropolitan beaches. I have never been able to live away from the ocean for long, it is part of my breathing. I work in a range of media including printmaking, ceramics, photography, and video, but painting and drawing are at the core of my practice. I hope that my artworks in any of these media will conjure for the viewer something of the wonder and beauty of the plants and animals that I study. Since 2012 I have worked with marine research scientists in several institutions. This has given me the opportunity to deepen and broaden my knowledge of the natural world.

What motivates you?

I am very motivated by the climate crisis that our planet faces. The vulnerability of natural systems to the steady rise of CO2 in the atmosphere is most particularly felt in the ocean. But because the underwater world is out of sight, the consequences of temperature change and acidification on marine plants and associated animal communities passes unnoticed for most people.

It is because of my connection to the ocean I want to do something that makes people realise what is happening.

Aside from the ocean, where do you find creative inspiration?

Nature is my inspiration. I travel throughout WA working with communities in arid places, in the tropical Kimberley region, in woodlands, wetlands, and parks and gardens. Where there are plants, animals will come. When one takes the time to look closely at nature, one discovers complexity and beauty.

What is the Living Reef Festival?

Throughout the Living Reef Festival, the Esperance community will observe and record the individual

plant and animal species of this natural treasure trove on their very doorstep. With 24 studio and outdoor events, we will conduct a biodiversity survey of the reef and together we’ll create a survey exhibition of painted, drawn, and photographed nature studies that tell the story of the reef. It’s all about bringing people together to create an opus made by many hands.

What events can we expect to see as part of the festival?

Exciting community events include painting workshops, percussion soundscape workshops, a walk on Country with Annie Dabb, an evening of conversation about the marine environment, a bird walk with the Esperance Bird Observers Group, and a whole community biodiversity survey at Twilight Beach. All events are free, suitable for all ages, and everyone is welcome. On August 24, the exhibition of artworks documenting the reef will open with a wonderful community celebration and remain on display until October 9.

Lastly, tell us where we can find your work!

You can find me online at www.angelarossen.com.

Reef Percussion Workshop 5 Aug Reef Soundscape Performance 5 Aug Community Bird Walk 14 Aug Painting Workshop 14 Aug Walk on Country 20 Aug Painting Workshop 20 Aug Exhibition Opening 24 Aug Sharing Ideas 25 Aug Registrations essential for this exciting lineup of events and workshops. Events are free but places are limited.

Book online at canneryartscentre.com.au/events 18 / ESPERANCE TIDE / AUGUST 2022

ARTS & CULTURE LI N ES O F L A U G H T E R This month, Esperance Theatre Guild presents its 2022 season of one act plays, Lines of Laughter. Directed by four well-known names in our local theatre scene, the short comedies showcase Esperance’s local acting, directing, and production talent in a limited run of five performances.

Produced by Marcella Sharry, the season is not to be missed.

‘Perils of the Pink Lady’, also known as ‘He’s Rotten to the Core’, is a play adapted by Judy Barr, and directed by Tim Barr. Both Tim and Judy have had a long involvement in the Esperance Theatre Guild, and this play is Tim’s directorial debut. Tim notes that the play is an old-time western melodrama, complete with heroes and villains, and all the things that make going to the theatre fun. It’s a fun, lively play that tells the story of how the Pink Lady apple made its global debut. “We’re so excited to present this play, we can hardly wait,” Tim says. “The cast is having a great time, and I’m loving every minute of it.”

‘Out for the Count’ is a comedy written by Jim Hollingsworth and directed by Esperance theatre regular, Mary McCulloch. The play tells the story of Walter and Mabel,

celebrating their ruby wedding anniversary. Unbeknownst to each other, they each arrange a surprise party. Add in a couple of hypnotists, and you have the recipe for hilarity.

While Mary has performed in many roles on the Bijou Theatre stage, this is her directorial debut, which she looks forward to. She says her first time as a director has been a really positive experience, albeit a huge learning curve, and she’s grateful for the amazing support from Marcella, as well as the wonderful cast and crew.

‘Anger Management’, written by Robert Scott and directed by Mak Bailye, is another comedy about a group anger management session which takes a turn for the worse. Mak has also been a regular on the Bijou stage, and has assisted in various

roles in productions over the years.

He says that this show has been a lot of fun to put together, and he’s had a blast working with the cast and crew.

Mak gives credit to the wonderful cast of the play, and is looking forward to the performances.

‘Everything I Know I Learnt from Being in a Bad Play’ is the final play of the collection, written by Werner Trieschmann and directed by Stanley Halls. This parody of a ‘bad play’ features a stuffy narrator, a neurotic cast, and a passive-aggressive stage manager, brought together to form one hilarious comedy. Stanley is another Bijou regular, and is excited about presenting this performance, which he is sure will keep the audience in stitches.

KARLI FLORISSON

SEE FO R Y OU RSEL F Lines of Laughter opens on Friday 5 August, with performances August 5 - 7 and 12 - 13. Tickets are available at www.thebijoutheatre.org.au, Clobberz, and the Esperance Visitor’s Centre.

ESPERANCE

Wildflower Festival Celebrating Carnivorous Plants 20th - 24th September 2022

For more information visit www.esperancewildflowerfestival.com

OVER 700 SPECIES ON DISPLAY

Esperance Civic Centre and Esperance Anglican Parish Hall

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COMMUNITY SCULPTURES· NYUNGAR RANGER PRESENTATIONS · DANCE · ART COMPETITIONS · ARTIST IN RESIDENCE · GUEST SPEAKERS · ESPERANCE BRASS BAND · ENVIRONMENTALDISPLAYS AND WORKSHOPS · LIGHT LUNCHES, MORNING & AFTERNOON TEA

5 MI N U T E S WI T H

NinTheKid KYRON SMITHSON

Who exactly is NinTheKid? We’re set to find out as we catch up with the man behind the project, Jonah Symonds, before NTK’s first live performance for Club 75 on August 27 at the Cannery Arts Centre. A string of releases over the past six months to Soundcloud have allowed the project a refreshed momentum.

Jonah’s output has been prolific across a number of projects, from Echo Run to Atmos and most recently NTK, each with their own individual identity and sound. Consistent across all - Jonah’s energetic flow and lyricism. But don’t take my word for it, search NinTheKid on Soundcloud for a solid dose.

I've been really impressed with the string of releases from NTK over the past six months. Where do you feel this renewed drive for the project has come from?

I’ve always loved to make music, as I’m sure people already know. But I have mainly been in groups, such as Echo Run and Atmos. So I decided to try and create something that was authentic and flexible. If I feel like making a certain genre of music I have the ability to do so.

I believe you have collaborated with Sunni, based on the east coast, on a number of the tracks. What does Sunni bring to the project?

Sunni is a huge influence on my music. We grew up together in Esperance before he moved over to Queensland. He’s a tremendous artist himself so for sure check him out on Soundcloud also. We just bounce ideas back and forth off each other, show each other snippets, and give each other really sound advice. Will be more collabs to come for sure.

Do you feel lyrics and flow are influenced by the beats you have to work with, or are you consistently writing lyrics with no set track in mind?

For me, it’s a mixture. I am always writing lyrics and also always sifting through beats. My good friend Jarrod Nelson, who goes by the name OT, produces a lot of my NTK work. He’s massive in contributing to my sound and overall vibe. If I am really feeling a beat I will start rapping over the top of it, and if I’m happy with the flow and cadence then I will load it up to my ableton and start recording. Songs like ‘TOLL’, ‘Worth It’ and ‘With You’ I didn’t write any lyrics for, I just recorded what was on my mind at the time, almost like a stream of consciousness.

20 / ESPERANCE TIDE / AUGUST 2022

LL o o rr rr a a ii n ne e K K ii n nd dm ma a

August 27 will be your first live set showcasing the new material.

What can the audience expect?

They can expect some really cool lyrics and flow. I am going to try and experiment a little bit with my set and try to create a set that people don’t really see in Esperance. I’ll have a couple of special guests to help me out, so everyone grab a ticket and come on down for an awesome night.

Who do you feel are the key influences on NTK’s sound?

P Y F U L PP LLL A A Y F U A Y F U LL A R AA C CC R R YY Y LLLI IICC C Lorraine Kindma

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I draw a lot of inspiration from The Kid Laroi , however I really try not to limit it to one style of rapping. I think the key is to try as many styles as possible. Some won’t work, some will, but that’s just part of the experience.

Ongoing plans for NinTheKid? I’m just going to keep pumping out music, if not with NTK then it will be with Echo Run or Atmos. I have about five songs ready to release for NTK, so expect some more tracks in the near future! I would like to thank everyone who has my back and supports me. I love making music and it makes me feel so humbled and loved to hear people saying positive things about anything I create.

See N inThe K id L iv e Check out NinTheKid's first live performance at Club 75 on August 27 at the Cannery Arts Centre. Head to www.canneryartscentre.com.au for ticket sales.

/fenwick.cinemas @fenwick3cinemas

CHECK THE WEBSITE FOR SESSION DETAILS esperancefenwickcinemas.com.au PHONE 08 9072 1344

th

th

August – August 14th Open Tuesday to Friday 10AM to 3rd 4PM Tuesday to Friday OpenOpen Tuesday to Friday 10AM to10AM 4PM to 4PM Saturday & Sunday 12PM toSunday 4PM Open Tuesday to Friday 10AM 4PM Saturday & 12PM to12PM 4PM Saturday & Sunday toto4PM

Dempster St, Esperance

PLEASE NOTE LIMITED SEATING - ADVANCED TICKET PURCHASES ADVISED 21 / ESPERANCE TIDE / AUGUST 2022

a s rc. ta n ct e r en12PM . tc ro em &e su Sunday to. .4PM y ta ca ou m . a u c a n n e r y a r t sc cacenannnternreey. Saturday cr ro m

c a n n e r y a r t s c e n t r e . c o m . a u

L EA D I N G E D G E TR AINING FOR LOC ALS

Get Job Ready with

South Regional TAFE

Whether you’re leaving school, thinking about a career change, or looking to gain new skills, there are loads of training opportunities right here in Esperance. From agriculture to administration, hospitality to hairdressing, South Regional TAFE offers an abundance of courses for in-demand industries at its state-of-the-art campus on Connolly Street. Celebrating its first anniversary this month, the $18.69 million facility gives students hands-on experience in an engaging environment that reflects the industry they’re training for.

22 / ESPERANCE TIDE / AUGUST 2022

ADV ER TO R I AL

PHOTOGRAPHY CREDIT: LUCY VINCENT

Locals have a chance to hear about South Regional TAFE’s courses and check out the multi-million-dollar campus at an open day on Thursday 11 August from 3pm – 6pm. A free event, lecturers will be available for a one-on-one chat about the courses they teach, giving prospective students an opportunity to ask all their burning questions. Plus, there’ll be a postcard game to collect stamps from stations on the campus tour.

Campus Manager Chloe Nella says TAFE’s open day is a great way to find out what’s on offer at the local campus, as well as everything you need to know about training with TAFE. “Whether you know exactly the industry you’re wanting to enter, or you have no idea what you want to do, this open day is for you,” Chloe says. “The interactive format provides an opportunity to get a really good understanding of what you can do here at TAFE, and what your training will look like.”

South Regional TAFE’s Esperance campus includes three trade workshops for training in construction, metal engineering/fabrication, and automotive, as well as specialist facilities for childcare, aged and disability care, and hair and beauty services. At present, courses on offer at the local campus include building and construction, agriculture, administration, business management, leadership, automotive, health and nursing, hairdressing, beauty, hospitality, aged care, disability care, education support, and children’s services. ⟶ 23 / ESPERANCE TIDE / AUGUST 2022

The campus also offers a host of short courses, from two-day Microsoft Excel and Word courses to high-risk courses, like Working at Heights, Confined Spaces, and Forklift. Chloe says South Regional TAFE strives to provide courses that are relevant to the community, and encourages local businesses and organisations to reach out if there’s a particular training they’d like to see delivered. “The college’s purpose is to build our community today, for tomorrow,” she says. “We’re here for the community and we’d like to know what they want to see us delivering.”

South Regional TAFE’s new Summer Skill Set program is an example of the college delivering training that meets the community’s needs. Summer Skill Set has been created in response to staff shortages across a number of local industries and selected free courses are on offer to Year 11 and 12 students to help them gain employment in these industries in the school holidays and beyond. The courses will run throughout terms three and four, and include business, construction, broadacre harvest, and individual support.

More than 500 students have enrolled at South Regional TAFE’s Esperance campus over the last year, across VET courses for secondary students, apprenticeships, traineeships, and 12 different short courses. That’s a number that’s expected to grow in the future, as the college continues to meet the needs of in-demand industries by providing high quality training to students, resulting in job-ready graduates.

Chloe says the responsive and sustainable training that South Regional TAFE provides builds on innovation and celebrates the diversity of the local community. “Our vision is to provide a learning experience that inspires success,” she says. “We achieve this by providing students with lecturers who are as engaging as they are experienced, whose teaching is enhanced by our modern facilities. This in turn gives students the very best chance at acquiring the skills and knowledge they need to be job-ready at the completion of their course.”

F IN D O U T MORE A B O U T T R A I NI NG AT SO U TH REG ION A L TA F E

ort

Mo Kaya Wanju

to 3pm to 6pm Thursday 11 August 2022 ► Course information ► Discuss training options ► Meet with lecturers ► Games and displays ► Local food vendors

RTO Code 52790

Esperance Campus 7 Connolly Street

6371 3500 Freecall 1800 675 781

24 / ESPERANCE TIDE / AUGUST 2022

esperance@srtafe.wa.edu.au southregionaltafe.wa.edu.au

1455

South Regional TAFE’s Esperance campus open day is on Thursday 11 August from 3pm – 6pm. For further information about the open day or any of the courses TAFE has on offer, head to www.southregionaltafe.wa.edu.au, or call the campus on 6371 3500.

South Regional TAFE is located at 7 Connolly Street.

d You’re invite

Council Connections Esperance Accommodation Study Council endorsed the Esperance Accommodation Study, identifying a strong demand for more short stay/workers accommodation. The Study identified land opposite the Civic Centre as a suitable site for this accommodation, and found that on its own, short stay/workers accommodation is not viable for investors, so Government support would be required. Council will now consider funding in the 2022/23 Budget to undertake a business case comparing options, financial analysis, and implementation options for a preferred project.

CCTV Expands The Esperance CCTV Strategy outlines a phased approach to upgrading CCTV infrastructure around the Esperance townsite. At the July Ordinary Council Meeting, Council appointed Avantgarde to implement the final stages of the Strategy. Stages 2 & 3 will comprise 16 cameras, monitoring the Foreshore and Pink Lake Road. Stage 4 is the possession of two mobile units, to be mobilized in consultation with Esperance Police. All CCTV footage is monitored by WA Police, and the infrastructure maintained by the Shire of Esperance.

Greater Plans for the Sports Grounds The Greater Sports Ground (GSG) is Esperance’s premier sporting complex, and home to 14 sports and recreation groups. Council endorsed a Masterplan for the GSG in October 2021, to guide and inform future developments within the precinct. Construction of four outdoor netball courts has begun, with contractors and staff currently filling and levelling the site. This will be followed by sealing and curbing, getting them ready for the September asphalt program.

The courts will be used for junior and senior training and will be ready for the 2023 netball season. Shire staff have sealed and lined the road around Ports Oval, removing tuart trees, to be replaced with a more suitable species. One of the next jobs will be to close the lane between Ports’ clubroom and northern goals (along the bottom of the grassy knoll). The gravel will be removed and grass laid. Future development will tier the hill with large grassy steps, perfect to watch a game from. To read the Masterplan and see the projects planned for the area, visit the Shire of Esperance website.

Pet Sterilisation Program Sterilising your cat or dog can be expensive, but it’s important! The Shire is working with RSPCA WA to help improve animal welfare with the Pet Sterilisation Program.

Sterilised pets are happier, calmer, healthier, less likely to roam (ending up in the pound), and may save you money in the long run. The program is available to all Concession Card Holders and is open until the funds run out. RSPCA will cover 75 per cent of the cost to have your cat or dog sterilised, and the Shire will waiver Pet Registrations for three years. For more information visit www.esperance.wa.gov.au/ pet-sterilisation-program or call the Shire Rangers on 9083 1533.

Upcoming Council Meetings

Agenda Briefing: 16 August 2022 at 1pm Ordinary Council Meeting: 23 August 2022 at 4pm

/ShireOfEsperance @shire_esperance @shireofesperance Ph: (08) 9071 0666 • PO Box 507, 77 Windich Street, Esperance, WA 6450 shire @esperance.wa.gov.au • www.esperance.wa.gov.au 25 / ESPERANCE TIDE / AUGUST 2022

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27/08

5 M INUTE HIS TOR Y

Dempster Homestead

WORDS KARLI FLORISSON

In 1863, three of the Dempster brothers set out on an exploratory journey heading east from Albany, looking for new pastoral land to settle. When they reached Esperance Bay, they found areas of grassland, suitable for grazing sheep. They made an application to the Western Australian colonial government to lease several runs of land, a total of 304,000 acres, in the Esperance area. In 1864, they began to bring stock to their new lease, successfully bringing 580 sheep, 80 cattle, and 19 horses overland from Northam, through land that was mostly unsurveyed, and entirely without roads.

The Dempster family had originally settled in Northam after Captain James McLean Dempster emigrated to Australia in 1830. He married Anne Pratt, and went on to manage her father’s estate, called Buckland, in Northam. James and Anne had seven children. Their four boys were James, Charles (who was known by his middle name, Edward), Andrew, and William. Their girls were Anne, Jane, and Marion. As young men, the Dempster brothers wanted to expand their landholdings, leading them to lease new land in the place that would later become Esperance.

Andrew and James Dempster managed the new lease at Esperance Bay, first building a simple cottage on the Dalyup River. They then moved closer to the coast, building a simple stone cottage near the

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beach in 1867. This cottage would become the first section of the elegant Dempster Homestead, built from limestone and timber from the surrounding area. Andrew Dempster moved into the homestead with his new wife, Emily. The Dempster brothers continued to explore the area, setting up stock runs at Mount Ragged and Stokes Inlet, as well as keeping sheep on some of the islands. By 1868, the brothers had 5,000 sheep, 150 cattle, 24 pigs, and 20 horses in the area.

The arrival of the Dempsters caused untold disruption to the Wudjari Nyungar people, who had lived in the area that they called Kepa Kurl for many thousands of years.

They were affected by plagues of measles brought to the area by the Europeans, as well as loss

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of the land where they had lived and hunted for generations. The Dempsters tried to maintain good relationships with the Indigenous people, and often employed them as guides and stockmen.

However, they also stranded local Indigenous people that they deemed ‘troublemakers’ on the islands in the bay, using them as makeshift ‘prisons’. This practice earned them a reprimand from the Governor for taking action that was ‘beyond their station’. Despite this, the government essentially turned a blind eye to the Dempsters’ actions, due to the isolation of the area.

The Dempsters were the first Europeans to settle permanently in the Esperance area. Campbell Taylor was the second to arrive, leasing the land that would become Lynburn Station in 1870. After this, more white settlers moved into the area, including the Ponton, Brooks, and Dimer families in the Cape Arid area, and the Moirs to the west, at Fanny’s Cove. Some of the Dempsters’ stockmen also brought their families to Esperance and built houses, such as the Hannett, Sinclair and Doust families, all of whom worked for the Dempsters.

Andrew and Emily’s family began to grow, with their first son, named James McLean after his grandfather, born at the new homestead in 1868.

They extended the homestead to fit their growing family, with Andrew’s brother James undertaking the work on the building. Altogether, Emily had 12 children, 10 of whom survived

infancy. When Emily became sick in 1888, Andrew urgently took her to Northam, a journey that took 21 days. Although doctors operated on her as soon as she arrived, Emily died soon after, at 48 years of age.

A year after his wife’s death, Andrew took his family to the Dempsters’ property Muresk, leaving the Esperance station in the care of a manager.

Dempster Homestead, and the surrounding settlement, remained a sleepy, isolated outpost, despite a telegraph station being opened in Esperance in 1876 and a police station in 1879. When the gold rush began in 1893, things began to change very rapidly for the little community.

As the closest port to the newly opened goldfields at Coolgardie and Kalgoorlie, Esperance soon began to boom, with ships arriving regularly to bring men (and a few women) to seek their fortunes. Shops and hotels began to open up to provide services to these travellers and in December 1893, Esperance was formally gazetted as a town. At this stage, the Dempsters’ landholdings in Esperance were managed by Henry Bostock, who had moved into the homestead with his wife Emma in 1890. As the Justice of the Peace, Henry had to issue Miner’s Rights to those headed to the goldfields. Emma noted in a letter that he often had to sit up late into the night writing out these documents. Sadly, the gold rush was not to last and in the late 1890s, Esperance’s population began to decline.

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In 1898, Henry and Emma Bostock left Esperance and Willie Dempster, one of Andrew’s sons, took over managing the station. By this time, wool prices were declining, and plagues of rabbits, as well as overgrazing, had made running sheep around Esperance more difficult.

Although Willie Dempster wanted to retain a share of the Dempsters’ properties, disagreements between the family members brought an end to the partnership between the brothers and their families.

As Esperance declined, Dempster Homestead fell into disrepair.

Later, in the depression years, the Dempsters fell behind on their rates, and the homestead was sold to cover the arrears. The property was purchased by a businessman from Kalgoorlie who used the homestead as holiday accommodation for the visitors to Esperance from the Goldfields.

In 1966, Dempster Homestead was purchased by David and Marie Louise Wordsworth, who put a huge amount of time and effort into restoring and preserving the property. Tom and Victoria Brown purchased the homestead in 2017 and since that time, have continued to restore and preserve the beautiful homestead, which is undoubtedly the most historically significant building in Esperance.

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LE O

JUL 2 3 - A U G 2 2

Your instincts are usually spot on, which will come in handy this month. You’re going to have a bad feeling about something. This isn’t the time to secondguess yourself. Trust your gut and let it guide you in the right direction, or else you’ll find yourself in a situation that’s stickier than a Bread Local bun. On the flipside, if something feels right but your loved ones are advising you against it, blow them off and just go for it!

VI RGO

AU G 2 3 - S E P 2 2

Now is not the time to make hasty decisions. Life has been hectic lately and you don’t feel capable of choosing the right course of action. Great news – you don’t have to. Put aside anything not pressing and focus on the now. Rest and recuperation are what you need, so get it while you can. Treat yourself to a massage at B Naturally You. It will clear your mind and put you in a better position to make rational decisions.

LI BRA

S EP 2 3 - O CT 2 2

This month, be open to unfamiliar faces looking your way. Chat with a stranger, shout them a coffee, and entertain the idea of the two of you becoming great friends (perhaps even more if you’re single)! Don’t be shy – you have nothing to lose from saying hello to someone in the line at Woolies. Your current friends will take more than they give in August.

Take a breather from them if need be. New friends offer fresh perspectives, which you find invigorating.

S CO RP IO

O CT 2 3 - N O V 2 1

You have time on your hands this month.

Use it to clarify your ambitions. If you’re lacking in confidence and doubting your goals and ideas, reflect on those you admire. You probably have more in common with them than you think. Ask for feedback from friends and family.

Depending on who you approach, you might be in for some ‘real talk’, but you may also receive a timely confidence boost. You’ve got this, you just need to back yourself!

SAGITTARIUS NOV

22 - DEC 21

Holding back your feelings is going to cause trouble down the track. Someone is making you uncomfortable and now’s the time to rip the band-aid off and let them know. They mightn’t like what you have to say but there’s little doubt they’ll respect you for saying it. Don’t be too harsh – focus on building bridges rather than destroying them. Honesty is tough but walking on eggshells is tougher. This situation will be sorted in no time if you face it head on.

CA PRI COR N DE C

2 2 - JAN 2 0

How’s work going? Are you living the dream, or planning on faking your own death? If all’s well, great news. But if your boss is driving you loopier than Great Ocean Drive, don’t throw in the towel just yet. This month, you’ll notice small changes in the attitude of your employer and finally receive recognition for the effort and overtime you give to the job. Grit your teeth until the change comes – it will be worth it in the end.

AQUA RIUS

JAN 2 0 - FE B 17

AR IES

You haven’t been feeling your usual optimistic self recently, and perhaps it’s time to start looking at the reasons why.

Your zest for life is admirable but it’s okay to not feel okay all the damn time. You’re experiencing the winter blues, so have a chat with a close friend, flesh out all your problems, and get to the bottom of what’s going on. Like a hearty burp after a pint of Sandy Hook, your feelings are better out than in.

TAUR US

AP R 2 0 - MAY 20

You’ve been working hard on a project lately. Perhaps it’s a side hustle, home DIY, or losing that little bit of weight that’s crept on over winter. It’s great you’re so focussed, but don’t forget to take time out every now and then to stop and smell the Verticordia. You don’t want to suffer burnout so, like a sunbaking kangaroo on the shores of Lucky Bay, take it easy! As the saying goes, slow and steady wins the race.

GEM INI

MAY 2 1 - J UN 20

Your sentimental nature is holding you back from moving forward. Sometimes it’s best to let go, even if it’s the last thing you feel like doing. It’s only August but start your spring cleaning early and clear out some of that negative energy that’s been hanging around the house. You don’t need to dump everything you own on the front lawn but getting rid of a few bits and pieces will be as refreshing as a winter dip at Blue Haven.

Honesty is a trait most people look for in a partner. This is particularly important to you, and you always offer up the truth to your loved ones. However, do you find your honesty sometimes backfires? It’s your delivery. Something will happen this month that’ll have you re-evaluating your communication style. Avoid being brash and instead take a gentler approach, particularly if you know the topic is sensitive. You’re about to be tested on this.

PI SCES

CANC ER

FE B 18 - MAR 19

Listen up, Smarty Pants. You don’t always have to be right. Even if you are always right, conceding defeat occasionally won’t tarnish your reputation as the fountain of all knowledge. It’s exhausting to be around a know-it-all, and someone close to you is going to blow a fuse in the very near future. This month, practice letting someone else have a turn at winning for once. It’ll be tough, but no more so than the West Beach stairs on a 40°C day.

Phone (08) 9071 0500

Email enquiries@freightlinesgroup.com.au

www.freightlinesgroup.com.au 28 / ESPERANCE TIDE / AUGUST 2022

JUN 2 1 - J UL 22

You’re constantly chasing validation, which must be exhausting. It’s only natural to enjoy a pat on the back but expecting a Bijou-worthy standing ovation every time you take a breath is too much. Throughout August, you’re going to be your amazing usual self, but challenge yourself to do what you do without expecting praise. This might release some of the pressure you place on yourself to overachieve, leading to an increased sense of contentment.

Esperance Tide is delivered to you BY Main Office Lot 619 Sims St, Esperance

MAR 2 0 - A PR IL 1 9

T ID E KI T CH E N

Pea & Saffron Risotto

Cold weather calls for comforting meals made with love.

Serves 4

Ingredients 200g butter 1 onion, finely diced 6 cloves garlic, finely chopped 2 cups arborio rice 200mg saffron 1 cup dry white wine 2L chicken stock 100g frozen peas, defrosted 100g parmesan, finely grated Salt & pepper

Method 1.

Bring the chicken stock to a simmer in a saucepot.

2.

Melt half the butter in a large frypan or Dutch oven over medium heat.

3.

7.

Add the onion and garlic and cook until translucent, about 10 minutes.

Add a ladle of the chicken stock and repeat, allowing each ladle to absorb into the rice. This process should take about 20 minutes. The rice should be al dente.

8.

4.

Add the rice and stir continuously for two minutes.

You want to slightly toast it without burning.

Once the rice is on the firmer side of al dente, stir through the peas and heat another minute.

9.

5.

Add the saffron to the rice, and continue stirring for another minute.

Remove from the heat and stir in the remaining butter until mixed through, then stir through the parmesan and season to taste.

6.

Add the wine and simmer until it fully absorbs.

10. Serve with a generous dusting of parmesan and freshly cracked pepper.

esperancedistilleryco.com

Check our website for opening hours.

Launched in 2020, Esperance Distillery Co is a small-batch distillery created by a father and son team.

By crafting spirits from native botanicals in a custombuilt copper still, Esperance Distillery Co offers a distinctively Western Australian twist on the classics.

29 / ESPERANCE TIDE / AUGUST 2022

BUSH BANTER Buzzing About

Conostephium drummondii, Neds Corner

It’s no secret that Esperance is home to some rather weird and wacky plants, and today's Bush Banter is focussed on nerding out about a particular pollination technique that has evolved for some of our native flora. Introducing ‘buzz pollination’ or, more scientifically, sonification. This pollination method relies entirely on native bees and the frequency they buzz! Numerous species have tubular flowers or tubular anthers (male bits), with a small opening at one end that is tightly closed. A native bee lands on the flower and buzzes away, with the exact frequency of vibration to cause the tubular flower to relax and open, causing a stream of pollen to flow out and onto the bee. This is so precise that some studies have even measured the frequency with a tuning fork, identifying specific species’ preferred frequencies. Buzz pollinated species include native tomatoes/ Solanums, Conostephiums, Hibbertia, Senna species and Dianellas. Buzz pollination is an amazing example of how plants and insects rely on each other. Not all bees buzz at the right frequencies for specific plants, so it’s important we protect the diversity of our native bees to ensure we also protect the diversity of our plants!

K AT I E W H I T E - C A L A D E N I A C O .

B U S H B A NT E R I S K I NDLY SPO N SO RED B Y VAL AN N E FO UN DAT IO N “Continuing the family tradition of giving back to the community”

Last month's 01

Esperance runner Lisa Mannix won the women’s division of the 2022 Goldfields Pipeline Marathon on July 24. The annual event gives runners the choice of competing in a 10-kilometre run, half-marathon (21 kilometres), full marathon (42 kilometres) and ultramarathon (50 kilometres). Lisa completed the full marathon in 3 hours and 2 minutes, taking home $1,000 prize money for her win. Kalgoorlie’s Joseph Cleasby won the men’s division, crossing the finish line in 2 hours and 47 minutes, beating the previous record.

02 Six-year-old Lily Edwards was awarded first place in the Lower Primary category at the 2022 Shaun Tan Award for Young Artists on July 25. The Nulsen Primary School student’s artwork ‘Llama Queen’ was one of 50 pieces exhibited in Subiaco, chosen from more than 1,600 submissions. The award encourages imagination and creativity in young people with its patron, Perth-born artist and Academy Award winner Shaun Tan, placing much importance on these qualities in his own artistic practice.

30 / ESPERANCE TIDE / AUGUST 2022

Book your classifieds advert online esperancetide.com/classifieds Or email hello@esperancetide.com PUBLIC NOTICES

PUBLIC NOTICES

ESPERANCE RATEPAYERS AND ELECTORS ASSOCIATION

TABLE TENNIS PLAYED AT THE SCOUT HALL

Join us to talk about Council issues at our next meeting, Monday 5 September, 7pm at BOICO, 56 the Esplanade ARTISTS WANTED Esperance Art Awards 2020 are on at the Cannery Arts Centre. Artists have the chance to take home a share in over $7000 of prize money.

Registrations are open 4-8 November. Check the Cannery Arts Centre website for terms and conditions.

OLD TIME / NEW VOGUE BALLROOM DANCING We are having a break and will resume on Friday the 28th of January 2022. Held at RAOB Hall starting at 7:30. Contact Daryl on 0419370089 or Jan 0420638851. All welcomed, with or without a partner.

work with us Making our region a fantastic place to live, work and play!

Thursday Mornings 9am - 11.00am & Friday Night 7.00pm - 9.30pm. $5.00 each session.

ESPERANCE COMMUNITY SINGERS

Scan here for Vacancies and Position Descriptions esperance.wa.gov.au/vacancies

Tuesday Nights from 7pm. at Esperance Senior Citizens Centre. $2pp new members welcome. More info Martin 0403 567 079.

TRADES & SERVICES

SUBSCRIBE TO THE TIDE Get The Tide delivered to your door for only $5 per month!

Head to esperancetide.com/ subscribe to sign up.

www.southernsuspension4x4.com

Can you help find Sammy the Seal?

Mechanical & Electrical Repairs for 4WD’s, Cars & Camper Trailers Supplier of 4x4 Off Road & Travel Acessories

He is hiding on one of our pages.

53 Norseman Rd, Esperance

Ph. 9072 0917

sales@southernsuspension.com

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03

Regional capped airfares were introduced on July 1, giving Esperance residents access to cheaper flights to and from Perth. The most locals will now pay for an airfare is $199 each-way, provided they book a return flight from Esperance. More than 4,400 capped fares have been sold across Western Australia since the introduction of the $19.8 million State Government scheme, which is the first of its kind in Australia. All airports under 1000 kilometres from Perth have had airfares capped at $199, while those more than 1000 kilometres away are capped at $299.

04

Water deficiency declarations for Salmon Gums and Grass Patch were revoked on July 21. The farming communities have received above average rainfall since April, with all farms now having sufficient water in their dams for livestock. Despite receiving above average rainfall over winter 2021, both Salmon Gums and Grass Patch received less than 70mm of rainfall between September 2021 and March 2022. Coupled with hot windy conditions over summer, this resulted in water shortages and a water deficiency declaration being made in March this year.

31 / ESPERANCE TIDE / AUGUST 2022

COSMECEUTICAL SKINCARE CORRECTIVE SKIN TREATMENTS BODY TREATMENTS FACIALS SKIN NEEDLING LED LASH LIFTS BROWS MAKE-UP PEDICURES MANICURES (08) 9071 5778 22 Andrew Street, Esperance

bnaturallyyou.com.au

r e t n Wi tials! n e ess Now located at 73A Dempster Street

we are open...

MON - FRI 9AM - 5PM SATURDAY 9AM - 1PM

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