Esperance Tide January 2021

ISSUE 69

FREE MONTHLY JANUARY 2021

PHOTOGRAPHY CREDIT: LUCY VINCENT (@LOVECHILDS_)

Welcome to 2021! January has to be one of our favourite months of the year. The weather’s warm, town’s buzzing, and the prospect of what’s to come is oh so exciting. That said, December will be pretty hard to top.

Edge of the Bay, the Community Christmas Pageant, heaps of markets and even more live music... The silly season was about as good as it gets.

We hope you had as much fun as we did!

This month, we’ve got the scoop on Esperance Distillery Co. We don’t mind the odd gin (or two) here at the Tide, so when we heard that a father and son team were going to open Esperance’s first ever distillery, we were over the moon. Read their story on page 10 and then head out to Norseman Road to try it for yourself. We promise you won’t be disappointed.

UP N EXT

10

Esperance’s First Gin Distillery

14

Best Picnic Spots

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If you’re just visiting Esperance, welcome! We’ve got all our lovely tourists sorted this month, with a guide to picnicking in Esperance [p14], a checklist of things to do with kids [p22], advice on getting off the beaten track [p4], and we’ve even convinced a few Esperance-ites to share with us their ideal summer day, so you can holiday like a local [p8]. If you need further tips on what to see or do while you’re in the region, jump on our website – www.esperancetide.com.

Now, a little real talk. Like us, you’re probably going to be spending most of your free time either in, on, or near the water this summer. Whether you’re swimming, surfing, snorkelling, boating or fishing, we want you to have the best time ever, but we also want you to get home safe at the end of the day.

Using the coastline comes with risks, so before heading out, brush up on these risks and refresh yourself on what to do in an emergency. And if you see someone doing something dangerous, please speak up! Your words might just save a life.

T IDE GUIDE

We hope you have an awesome start to the year. Kids, enjoy your school holidays but don’t drive your parents too mad... We’ll see you in Feb, when some sort of normality resumes. Until then, stay cool!

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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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P U BL I S H ER

C ON T R IBU T OR S

Karli Florisson

Esperance Tide

Aaron Green

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Kyron Smithson

Katie White Lucy Burrows

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Is there anything more Australian than a kangaroo hopping along a pristine beach?

Easy finding parking spots in #Esperance

Paradise across the bay.

@ U TOPI A 1 3 6

@ M ART HAW ERUIN G

@ MUSEUMVIL L AGEC AFE

While Shepherds watched their flocks at night. Christmas at the Bijou!

Taking a week break!

Looking forward to the next Sunset Markets

Gentle Dentistry with Your Comfort in Mind SERVICES INCLUDE DENTAL IMPLANTS 8 Dempster St, Esperance 9071 5888

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@HA N N A H SA RAH CR A I G

Exploring the Rugged Edge W O R D S & P H OT O G R A P H Y A A R O N G R E E N

No matter how much I travel, Australia always manages to surprise me with her beauty. From sprawling salt lakes and ancient walls forged by nature’s fury, to lakes with an ever-shifting palette, there's always something new to see and experience. Whether you're down in the Esperance region on holidays, or a local from way back, allow me to show you another side of Australia’s Golden Outback.

A U S T R A LIA' S AN CI E N T COAS T

WAR DEN’S S HIFTING P ALET TE

Toolinna Cove

Lake Warden, Esperance

You've heard of the Great Australian Bight, but have you ever given thought to where it begins? Situated a day’s travel northeast of Israelite Bay stands Point Culver, where the Bight meets the beach. Ancient cliffs looming over snow-white sands create a breathtaking sight to behold, as you're dwarfed in size by the natural formation.

Many travellers come to the Esperance area to see the famous Pink Lake but end up being disappointed at the now white Lake Spencer. However, take a drive to Spencer's neighbour, Lake Warden, and you'll be met with an interesting sight. An algae bloom is transforming the usually orange lake to a beautiful pink!

Further east stands Toolinna Cove, a stretch of the Bight that you've likely never even heard of. The ancient walls of the bight, combined with the rich history of the old telegraph trail and the palette of the Great Western Woodlands, create a stunningly unique vista.

Getting to Toolinna Cove from the Israelite side is challenging, so make sure you're prepared. Easier access is from the Northern Eyre Highway; the 66-kilometre track is much nicer for those who want the view without days of rough travel. And while you're there, be sure to camp at Toolinna Cove. Falling asleep to the waves crashing against the rocks is an experience not to be missed.

Lake Warden nature reserve is best experienced from the north side. Driving down Stearne Road, you will be greeted by the pink tones of the lake on the horizon. Stop just short of the lake and park up there is a small path that leads down to the water, so you can get all the #instagram shots that your heart desires.

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T H E IS LAN D A MON G SAL T

AN ALM OS T M AR TIAN LANDS C AP E

Cherry Island, Norseman

Lake King

When you think of Norseman, there is a good chance that you see it as a transient destination, a place to stop to split up a long journey. What you're probably not aware of though, is that it's home to one of the most beautiful sunset experiences on offer.

Situated a couple of hours north of Esperance, Norseman sits alongside the monstrous Lake Cowan, an expansive, sprawling salt lake. Taking the road across Lake Cowan, a striking sight in itself, it will be hard to miss Cherry Island, a landmass that would look more at home off the coast than on an inland salt lake.

It's during golden hour that Lake Cowan really turns it on. The island can be easily scaled, or driven up if you have a 4WD, so get yourself to the top of Cherry Island, make yourself comfortable, and witness the beauty.

Located between Esperance and Perth is the small town of Lake King. A farming town through and through, the town itself isn't huge. However, the town’s namesake, Lake King, is.

Newdegate-Ravensthorpe Road splits the great lake in two, creating an incredible experience - and photo opportunity - at sunset. An almost martian landscape lights up during golden hour, with pools of water shimmering like gems in the sand. Even if you're not a photographer, Lake King is a beautiful sight to witness as the sun sets on the horizon.

And while you're in the area, be sure to stop in at the Lake King Tavern. A great atmosphere and top-notch food are waiting for you after a long day of adventuring.

B EH IND TH E L EN SE Aaron is a West Australian based adventurer and aerial photographer. His travel and photography project, Lands Unseen, can be found on Instagram and Facebook - @lands.unseen

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bnaturallyyou.com.au

An Ideal Summer’s Day

BY KARLI FLORISSON

How good is summer? From early morning dips on the Quays to sunset cocktails at the Quarters, there are so many magical things to do between dawn and dusk. We caught up with five locals to ask, “What does your ideal summer’s day look like?”

Jonty Scoble I always start my weekends with a surf check at the West Beach carpark. If the surf is good, I’ll go for a surf, and that might take up the rest of my day. If not, I’ll head to Cloud 11 for a coffee. They’ve got a great Colombian roast, and while I’m there I’ll grab one of their Spaniard Toasties.

Heidi Browning

A bit later on, I’ll head back to the beach. Again, it will be West Beach – there’s something about the carpark at Westies, you usually run into someone you know for a chat.

I’d start off the day with a soy chai from Coffee Cat. Nowhere else in town has chai like Coffee Cat – it tastes like a hug.

Then I’d head to the Museum Village Markets for a wander and I’d get a donut or one of Etty’s spring rolls while I was there.

Afterwards, I’d go for a walk on the trails around the lookout.

It’s beautiful up there, and that’s one of my favourite things to do. Or I’d go to Blue Haven beach – it’s just divine!

I’m a big fan of the potato pies at the bakery, so that would be lunch. Then, in the afternoon, I might head to the Pottery Club at the Cannery to make a couple of mugs. Then I’d head back to the beach to take the dog for a walk. If I get to the beach two or three times, I’m happy, whether it’s for a surf or just to sit on the beach.

For lunch, I’d go to the Deli King for one of their really great salad sandwiches. Then in the afternoon, I might go to the movies! Later on, I’d go for a sneaky beverage with some friends, maybe out to Lucky Bay Brewing. I really like their Figure of Eight Island Ale – it’s really fruity and tastes like a summer’s day. Or I might go and try out the new distillery.

For dinner, I might head to mum and dad’s. Then, if there’s an event at the Cannery such as an open mic night, that would be the perfect way to finish off my day.

For dinner, there are some great options. I’d go to either Eljays at the Comfort Inn, or to the Taylor Street Quarters. Their polenta chips are amazing!

ESPERANCECHALETVILLAGE.COM.AU

(08) 9071 1861 info@esperancechaletvillage.com.au

Sue Starr

I’d pop into Annie’s shop, Naturally Esperance. I love the smell in there, it just takes you to another world. There are so many great products, too. It’s like Aladdin’s cave. They’ve even got bulk personal care products and cleaning products so you can take your own bottle and fill it up. Then I might go to Cloud 11 for a chai latte.

PHOTOGRAPHY CREDIT: TOURISM WA

Michael Florisson

Carmen O’Rourke One of my favourite things to do was when my kids were a bit younger was to load up the car and go park hopping. The kids would get about 15 minutes in each park and at the end, they’d get to choose which was their favourite park. The Lions’ Park was always a favourite. Then we’d take them to the Whale Tail, and the adults could relax while the kids had a swim.

Now, my ideal day would include brunch with my girlfriends. We love the Museum Village Café, or Breakaway Café. Or if we were catching up at night, we might go out for canapes and cocktails.

There are some great places to get cocktails in town. Taylor Street Quarters does great cocktails - their Blackberry Bramble is amazing. Or there’s the Loose Goose, or Eljays, for a Sunset Cruiser.

Of course, my ideal day would include some live music. The live music scene is just thriving here in Esperance at the moment. I’d go to Lucky Bay Brewing for some tunes, or to the Sunset Markets, which are just great.

Featuring beautiful blooms, gifts and interior decor, this boutique store offers a wide range of flowers and beautiful home and giftware to entice you!

I’d also head out to Yirri Grove for lunch with friends. Anne does a lovely job with meals out there. Then home for a bit more gardening in the afternoon!

My ideal day would start with an early morning coffee on the foreshore. Then I’d pack a lunch, maybe get some prawns from Bandy Creek Fish Shop, and head out to Lucky Bay for a quick dip.

Then we’d head on out to the Duke and have lunch at Wharton Beach. We’d take our little Weber BBQ so we can cook some snaggers and the prawns. It’s perfect out there for a surf in the corner at Wharton and a general chill out for the afternoon.

The kids would generally stay in the water all arvo.

We’d head back to the Condingup Tavern late arvo for dinner. We’d just have to watch the roos on the drive home!

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My ideal day would start with some morning gardening. I love getting out into the garden early in the morning. Later on, I would go for a walk along the foreshore, and see how much progress has been made on the new jetty. Or I would go for a drive around the tourist loop. I’ve lived here for a long time and yet the beaches around there still amaze me. They’re so spectacular.

UP NEXT

Esperance Distillery Co.

BY HANNAH SIEMER

An environmental engineer, James has spent the last 17 years away from Esperance, studying, living and working in places as far as Portugal and Wales. When COVID hit, he suddenly found himself back in his hometown, giving his dad a hand with the approvals required to open a distillery. “I had a good sniff at the business plan and thought, ‘This could work,’” James said. And, more or less, that was that. The father and son team set about launching Esperance Distillery Co. Both David and James are very new to the world of distilling. During a visit to Kangaroo Island, David came across Kangaroo Island Spirits, Australia’s first craft gin distillery. “I was hanging around there like a bad smell, spying on them,” David admits. “They ended up saying to me, ‘Just go to Adelaide and do the course!’” Following the advice of those on KI, in October 2019, David enrolled in a short course at the University of Adelaide, focussing on the fundamentals of spirit production. He spent a month in South Australia, studying and visiting as many distilleries as he could, “driving them nuts” with questions and soaking up every last bit of knowledge to bring home.

Inspired, David ordered his first still before he left Adelaide and when he arrived back in Esperance, it was waiting on his doorstep.

Esperance Distillery Co. is about as grassroots as it gets. David started out with a tiny two-litre still, which evolved to a 30-litre still to create Cut and Run, a dry gin using acacia native to the region, giving it a distinctly local flavour. Just 200 bottles were in the first batch, all of which sold out on opening day. Their tasting room houses little more than a makeshift bar, crafted by James from old wood pallets. Outside, planter boxes, also made

by James using second-hand materials, are filled with native shrubbery. The exterior of the building has been given a fresh lick of paint. It’s crisp and coastal, standing out from its industrial neighbours. David and James have successfully launched the distillery on a shoestring. It’s organic and unassuming; a little rough around the edges but charmingly so.

However, David and James are bursting with ideas for the business, so it’s unlikely they will be the little guy for long. Thanks to a recent government grant, a 200-litre still is on its way, which will increase production almost tenfold. Cut and Run is just the beginning, with plans for numerous other gins already in the works. In particular, they hope to work with the local Indigenous community to produce seasonal varieties based on the Nyungar calendar, which has six seasons. They also plan on extending themselves beyond gin, with vodka, spiced rum, tequila and liqueur all floated as ideas for the future. The end goal is a purpose-built facility, where people can enjoy a drink and watch the spirits being made. Esperance Distillery Co. has the potential to become a big operation, but this isn’t dissuading David and James from reaching their target of being carbon negative by 2022. To help make this happen, they’ve chosen lightweight glass bottles to cut down on the CO2 emissions caused by freight, and caps made from a cork plant that sequesters so much carbon into the ground, it offsets the carbon footprint of the bottles.

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Never in a million years did David Price and James McCarthy-Price, father and son, think they’d open a gin distillery together. But last month, they did just that. In a building that once housed a fish factory, Esperance Distillery Co. opened its doors on December 12. Not only is it Esperance’s first distillery, but Australia’s smallest distillery, too. Their first batch, Cut and Run, was crafted using a 30-litre still. By comparison, Fremantle distillery Republic of Fremantle uses a 4,500-litre still, the largest in the southern hemisphere.

Esperance Distillery Co. celebrated their launch at Harvest Moon on December 4. Photo credit: Jonty Scoble.

The popularity of gin has risen immensely in recent years. Ten years ago, James says there were only ten distilleries in Australia. Today, there are around 700. “There’s a shift away from your Bombay and your Gordons,” James said. “People want to buy local.” And that’s exactly what Esperance Distillery Co. gives the community – a local choice, using local botanicals, designed to showcase the significant floral diversity of the region. Unsurprisingly, the venture has been welcomed by the town with open arms. “I love the support the community provides,” James said. “It’s overwhelming. I’m gobsmacked by how supportive everyone has been.”

W HERE T O FIN D Have we got you craving a G&T? Find Esperance Distillery Co. at 77 Norseman Road. For opening hours, head to their website www.esperancedistilleryco.com.

2021 NEW OPEN HOURS

Weekdays 8:30am – 5pm & Saturdays 9am – 12pm

UPDATES

Dr Aidan HENDRY joins the Banksia team in January.

Dr Brenno BECKER is pausing his training for 6 months for the birth of his first child. He plans to resume his training with us in July 2021.

Dr Kane DELLA VEDOVA is taking 6 months of personal leave, and hopes to resume his training also in July 2021.

Banksia Medical is hoping to get a locum Doctor in to cover for Dr Becker & Dr Della Vedova over the next 6 months, but please do continue to book ahead for all routine healthcare appointment and repeat scripts in the meantime.

Dr Graham Jacobs (Full-time) Dr Aidan Hendry (starting Jan 2021) Sharon Southall - Psychologist (Part-time) Please book a phone consult if you are unwell with a cold/cough/flu Call 90711511 or book online

WELCOME TO

Museum Village

Museum Village is home to a curated blend of small businesses, each housed within a heritage building.

Located at 54 Dempster Street, Museum Village is a unique shopping destination loved by locals and visitors alike.

Museum Village Cafe

Wild Posse

The perfect place to refuel after perusing the stores, Museum Village Café serves up breakfast and lunch with a whole lotta love. Once the Schoolmaster’s Residence, Museum Village Café is a must for great food and even better coffee.

Wild Posse is a store for mother and child. Once the Police Sergeant’s Headquarters, Wild Posse stocks children’s wear, accessories and recycled clothing, as well as a range for pregnant, postpartum and breastfeeding women.

OPENING HOURS MON - SAT FROM 8AM MARKET DAYS

OPENING HOURS SEE INSTAGRAM FOR OPENING HOURS

The Book Box

E.S.P.

Located in the Old Courthouse, The Book Box is a little store with a big personality. Stocking a wide array of genres, The Book Box has a title to suit every age and taste.

With something for everyone, it’s difficult to walk out of E.S.P. empty-handed. Inside the former Sinclair House is a vibrant mix of shoes including Birkenstocks, souvenirs, greeting cards, and more!

OPENING HOURS TUES - FRI 10AM - 4.30PM SAT 10AM - 12.30PM & SUNDAY MARKETS

BY APPOINTMENT - PHONE 0415388420

Tide & Co

Naturally Esperance

What used to be the Hospital Matron’s House is now Tide & Co, stocking bespoke local mementos, beach accessories and recycled clothing. It’s also the headquarters of Esperance’s favourite lifestyle publication, Esperance Tide.

Sitting in what was once the Methodist Church, Naturally Esperance stocks an extensive range of eco, chemical-free, health and wellbeing products.

OPENING HOURS MON - FRI 10AM - 4PM SAT 10AM - 1PM & MARKET DAYS

OPENING HOURS MON - FRI 10AM - 4PM SAT 10AM - 1PM & SUNDAY MARKETS

Pink Lily Beauty

Ker’Arty AWA

Pink Lily Beauty is located in what used to be the Chemist Shop.

Book an appointment for a beauty treatment or drop in to browse Pink Lily’s selection of Australian owned and made skincare brands, like Esmi and Skin Juice.

Within the four walls of the old Salmon Gums School is a treasure trove of local art and craft. Not only does Ker-Arty owner, Kerry Dixon, sell her art in store, but those of Esperance artists Louise Stewart-Brown and Picturesque.by.elodie, too.

OPENING HOURS TUES & WED 9AM - 4.30PM THURS & FRI 9AM - 2.45PM SATURDAY 9AM - 1PM

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Brodeine & Deine Locally designed and loved, Brodeine & Deine’s clothing and swimwear combines easy, light weight fabric, an earth-toned colour pallet and flowing designs which feature a uniquely distinguishable bohemian edge.

OPENING HOURS SEE INSTAGRAM FOR OPENING HOURS

OPENING HOURS MON - SAT 10AM - 3PM MARKET DAYS

January Markets MUSEUM VILLAGE MARKETS

Sunday, January 3 Sunday, January 17

8.30am - 12.30pm 8.30am - 12.30pm

SUNSET MARKETS @ THE VILLAGE

Friday, January 22

5pm - 9pm

TIDE GUIDE

Finding the Perfect Picnic Spot There’s nothing greater than the great outdoors, especially when wine and cheese is involved.

Picnic with a view As the highest point in the Esperance townsite, Dempster Head (Taananeditj) has some seriously breathtaking views. With several walk trails throughout the rocky reserve, there are plenty of choices of places to picnic.

The Rotary Walk is a 20-minute loop with a picnic table overlooking the ocean about halfway. On a still afternoon, this location is an absolute must. An extension of the Rotary Walk is the Taananeditj Summit, which will give you views over West Beach. Sunset is our fave time of day to visit, when the sky becomes a palette of pink and orange. Take a picnic blanket with you and, to avoid a numb bum, a cushion. If you’re feeling a little more active, throw your nibblies in a backpack and head toward Lovers Cove. The trail along the way has some pretty awesome views of Esperance Bay and the secluded beach at the end makes the steep walk worth it.

Get out of the wind

PHOTOGRAPHY CREDIT: @ROVEBYRONBAY

Esperance is infamously windy. In fact, it’s the sixth windiest place in Western Australia, with an average mean windspeed of 24.6 km/h (Dunsborough comes in first with 30 km/h, just in case you were wondering).

However, this shouldn’t get in the way of a good picnic.

Our suggestions are as follows: Northerly – Ten Mile Lagoon. A rocky shore lining a picturesque blue lagoon means you’ll get the Insta shot of your dreams. Clothing optional.

Southerly – Bandy Creek Boat Harbour. Park on the beach and watch fishing boats come and go. Say hi to the resident seal (but don’t get too close)!

Easterly – Thistle Cove. The forgotten child of Cape Le Grand. Not as popular as its siblings, Hellfire Bay and Lucky Bay, but undoubtedly just as beautiful.

Westerly – Observatory Point. The little nook at the bottom of the stairs is the perfect romantic hideaway.

TI DE GU I DE

A family affair

Lake Monjingup (Murdidyinakabi) is a haven of native flora and fauna, and proves the beauty of our region extends beyond the coastline. At this time of year, the Munji (or Western Australian Christmas Tree) are in full bloom and bursts of bright orange speckled along South Coast Highway will guide you towards the nature reserve. A fire tore through the area in January 2015 and as such, the recreation area is not what it used to be. A maze, giant chess and numerous native gardens remain, but there is an eerie sense of abandonment. However, 500 metres down the road is the lake itself, which is the perfect place for a picnic on a late summer afternoon. For an experience that is as peaceful as it is unique, set yourself up in the bird hide, which sits over the edge of the lake. From here, you can observe the water birds and soak in the serenity. No picnic blanket required – the hide contains bench seating and enough room for a bottle of bubbly, plus your cheese and crackers.

Got Granny, the kids and Uncle Bill in tow?

The Esperance Foreshore is a no-brainer.

With loads of seating and shelters, as well as multiple playgrounds, the foreshore is about as family friendly as it gets. There are heaps of easy options. Pack up a brekky picnic then nestle yourselves between Coffee Cat and S’Juice for the morning. Or if mornings aren’t your thing, head to the Whale Tail for a BBQ lunch and kick back while the kids go bananas off the pontoon. And nothing says summer like fish and chips for dinner, so swing past Fish Face then stroll down to the water to share your meal with a seagull or two. Bon appetit.

EAT + D RIN K If you can’t be bothered running around town picking up supplies, let someone else do it for you. Bob & Jim’s can whip together a gourmet picnic hamper, filled with much more than just cheese and bikkies. Think fresh fruit and veggies, local sourdough, artisanal sodas and handmade treats. Or have the team at Deli King prepare you a charcuterie box with a selection of meats, cheeses and crackers. These are as much a delight for the eyes as they are the stomach. To drink, keep it local! We suggest Lucky Bay Brewing ‘Beaches to Boab’, a blonde ale that’s equally refreshing and easy drinking. An Esperance Distillery Co. gin & soda also goes down a treat as you’re watching the sun set. Add a fresh slice of grapefruit for complete satisfaction.

WE ARE OPEN Tuesday to Sunday 11am - Late Live music EVERY SUNDAY FROM 4pm Tuck into some of our cosy new spots and enjoy some great food and wine.

to book a table for lunch or dinner Text 0457232039

15 / ESPERANCE TIDE / JANUARY 2021

Go bush

F R O M ROCKS T O RI PS

An Urgent Call to Prioritise Coastal Safety this Summer On average, one person is fatally swept from rocks in the Esperance region every year. In 2020, three have been killed. A visitor from Perth was the most recent victim, swept off the rocks at Salmon Beach while exploring the area on December 2. One minute he was taking photos, the next he was gone. He had been in town less than 24 hours.

There’s no better place to be in summer than Esperance. Vast stretches of coastline between Stokes in the west and Cape Arid in the east means a seemingly endless choice of places to play in and on the water. With each spot more breathtaking than the next, it’s little wonder almost 200,000 people visit the region every year. As beautiful as our coastline is, it can also be unpredictable and dangerous. This summer, locals and visitors alike are being urged to take care along the coastline by educating themselves about the dangers. Regardless of age or experience, it’s a message everyone needs to hear.

Esperance Coastal Safety Workgroup (Esperance Coastal Safety) is on a mission. Established in 2012, representatives from the Shire of Esperance, Department of Transport, Marine Rescue, St John Ambulance, WA Police and Surf Life Saving WA make up this collaborative group. These men and women are the first responders to any incident, and their priority is to ensure everyone is aware of the risks associated with the coastline. By no means do they want to prevent anyone from enjoying the magic of the region. They work to promote safe behaviours to ensure everybody gets home safely after a day in or on the water.

Esperance Coastal Safety is encouraging people to take responsibility for their own safety by doing four simple things: Be Prepared, Be SharkSmart, Know the Local Hazards and Always Have a Plan. Flyers are circulating the region detailing these messages and banners will be placed at popular swimming and fishing spots over the summer as a reminder. This initiative aims to better equip both locals and visitors with the knowledge they need to enjoy the coastline safely. Esperance Coastal Safety urges everyone to not be complacent, no matter how many times they’ve visited the area or how calm the ocean looks on that particular day.

In addition to flyers and banners, Esperance Coastal Safety is using social media to promote the message.

Christiane Smith, Marketing and Communications Officer at the Shire of Esperance, said using these platforms to provide important coastal safety information is relevant.

“We encourage everyone to take a look at these pages so they can make an informed decision before heading out to explore our beautiful coastline,” she said.

Esperance Coastal Safety is also urging local residents to take ownership of this important message. While the group is working hard to spread the word, they need help from the community, too. Chris Brien, Esperance Coastal Safety member and Duty Officer for Surf Life Saving WA’s southeast region, said locals were more likely to be aware of the dangers of the coastline than visitors. “If you see someone doing something that is potentially dangerous, you need to say something,” Chris said. “People don’t know what they don’t know. You’re potentially saving a life by saying something.”

A DV ERTORI A L

Before getting out and enjoying the coast, ask yourself the following: 1 . A m I p re p a re d ?

Life jackets should always be worn when you’re on the water and if you’re rock fishing, you should tie off on rock bolts, too. If you don’t have a life jacket or rope, both can be borrowed for free at Tatey’s Fishing World, Southern Sports & Tackle, Dempster Sporting, Esperance Diving & Fishing, and Duke of Orleans Bay Caravan Park.

2 . A m I s h a r k s ma rt?

Download the SharkSmart WA app to receive notifications of recent shark sightings. You can also use the app to report any sightings. Don’t worry if you don’t know what species or size shark you’ve seen – a report with minimal information is better than no report at all.

3 . Do I k n o w t h e lo c a l ha z a rds?

The biggest hazards in the Esperance region are black rocks, rips and big swell.

Some of these are harder to spot than others. A black algae grows exclusively on rocks along the WA southeast coast. This is extremely slippery when wet.

Walking on black rocks should be avoided at all times. While black rocks are relatively easy to identify, rips can be much more difficult to see. Look for deeper, dark-coloured water, fewer breaking waves and a rippled surface surrounded by smooth waters, although rips don’t always show all of these signs at once. And while you might think a big swell looks pretty obvious, king waves can occur with no warning. If you’re on the rocks, never turn your back to the ocean.

4 . Do I h a v e a p la n?

For further information, find Esperance Coastal Safety on Facebook and Instagram at @esperancecoastalsafety

Think about what you’ll do in an emergency. Signage is located at the entrance of every beach (and it isn’t there to look pretty). Take the time to read it and follow any advice given. Take note of the beach’s unique identification number on the signage, which will help pinpoint your position in an emergency. Always carry a mobile phone and if you know you’ll be heading out of range, make sure someone back home knows your plan.

MEE T T H E ART I ST

Jasmine Lewis Graphic designer and digital artist Jasmine Lewis grew up on a farm smack bang in between Gibson and Scaddan. During the 2020 lockdown, she created a series of unique digital illustrations of her favourite spots in Esperance, including Twilight Cove and Blue Haven. Jasmine has lived in Perth for the last five years.

When she comes home, you’ll find her at Coffee Cat, sipping on an iced coffee.

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Te l l us a l itt l e a b o u t yo u r s e l f a s a n a r t i s t.

I did design as an ATAR subject at high school, but I guess I didn’t start creating ‘art’ until recently. I’m probably what you’d call a digital artist, as all my work is created on my laptop or iPad. I’ve never been one to hand draw on paper. I find there’s a lot more flexibility and creativity with digital art as you can continually change colours or textures.

Wh at was t he in s p i ra t i o n b e h i n d t h e s e r ie s o f dig ita l il lus t rat ions yo u c re a te d i n 2 0 2 0 ?

When our good friend COVID arrived, I moved back home to live with my family. My motivation was low and I didn’t create anything for weeks. Then the Shire of Esperance ran its annual Showcase Competition, with winners’ works to be exhibited in Yagan Square. That’s when I created my first print of Twilight Cove. It got such an amazing reaction from the public, I just kept going and haven’t stopped since.

Lockdown was the creative shake up that I needed.

T h e proce s s of c re a t i n g t h e s e i l l u s t ra t i ons lo o k s pa ins t aking. Ta l k u s t h ro u g h t h e p ro c e s s.

They’re known as digital vector illustrations, which basically means they’re a bunch of points, lines and shapes.

Painstaking is exactly what it is, but the outcome is so worth it. I used to do them on my laptop, which would take between three and eight hours. Now I have an iPad, the process is a lot faster and I have a bit more freedom to experiment with styles and brushes. I get a reference image of what I want to draw and study the lines, points and shapes to create the image. All the stairs in my illustrations are really just lots of rectangles put together, differentiated by colour and texture.

Y o u finishe d u ni in 20 1 9 a nd a lre a d y have a n imp re ssiv e re su me . W ha t’s b e e n a c a re e r hig hlig ht to da te ?

I work at a development firm, Cedar Woods Properties, where I’ve had the rare opportunity to do the branding for a new development being built on the Mandurah Foreshore. This included the logo, website and a billboard. On a local level, highlights include working on Cindy Poole Glass Artist’s newest recycled collection and with the team at Coffee Cat.

Do you t hink gro w i n g u p o n t h e l a n d e n c o u ra g e d your cre at iv it y ?

L a stly, te l l u s whe re we c a n find your wo rk !

Yes, absolutely! Growing up on a farm we had so much freedom, which probably paved the way for a creative mindset. My mum was also a graphic designer and quite the painter, so days off were spent painting or wandering through the backyard looking for inspiration.

I have an online store at www.allthatjas.com.au and new work gets posted on my Instagram @allthatjasdesign Read an extended Q&A with Jasmine at www.esperancetide.com.

A R TS & CUL T URE

Readers & Writers Esperance 2021

The first workshop, Scriptwriting and Presenting for Podcasts and Radio, is facilitated by Perth-based actor, director and playwright, Jenny Davis. Two half-day workshops will be held on January 30 and 31, giving participants the skills they need to write a script for broadcast, whether it be a radio play or podcast. Jenny will then return to Esperance mid-March for individual feedback sessions. In April, local actor, writer and voice artist Kym ‘Bid’ Bidstrup, will facilitate the recording and production of the plays and podcasts, before they are presented at the end of May.

Other workshops in the program include journaling, poetry and nature writing, and printmaking. The latter will have Perth-based artist Perdita Phillips visiting Esperance in February to show how sunlight and the pages of old books can be used to create visual journals.

Lake Grace-based artist Kerrie Argent will then facilitate a workshop on book binding in March, to bring the pages together. ECA Executive Officer Jane Mulcock said the workshops were a way of keeping old books out of landfill. “We’ve been running a campaign to encourage people to upcycle books and find creative ways to reuse them,” she said. “This was launched at Edge of the Bay, where we ran a journal making workshop for kids using old encyclopedias.”

With the five-month program promising something for everyone, it is hoped people are inspired to share their stories, whether it be through the written word, spoken word, or visually. “We want to see local stories being shared in as many different ways as possible,” Jane said.

For further information, visit www.readersandwritersesperance.com.

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A workshop on scriptwriting for podcasts and radio plays will be held at the end of this month, marking the beginning of Readers & Writers Esperance 2021. More than $90,000 in funding has been secured by Esperance Community Arts (ECA) for the inaugural festival, which will bring together established, emerging, local and visiting writers and the community. A range of collaborative creative activities that celebrate storytelling in a range of formats are lined up between now and May, enabling participants to share their stories and develop skills in the process. The program will culminate in a weekend event at the Bijou Theatre, where local work will be presented alongside readings, interviews and panel discussions.

I slept for about three hours last night, all because the There Goes The Sun setup was rolling endlessly around and around in my head. Should I design an archway sign that sits over the entryway gate? Should we steer away from fairy lights? Are we able to construct a tunnel entryway out of a coloured spider web type substance? What contingencies do I have for poor weather? Is the line-up right? Will this be the event that I burn out and end up on the floor in a writhing mass of sweat and anxiety?! Probably not, to be fair, because I have one hell of a team that supports me in everything that I do. You all know who you are. So much bloody love.

Now in its fourth year, There Goes The Sun hits the Cannery Arts Centre Round Garden on January 16.

How the hell has that time moved so fast? Always in January, always an eclectic mix. So, to the line-up...

Well, we have three super cool bands, likely unknown to the broader Esperance audience. But, to be honest, I wanted to throw everyone a bit of a curve ball this year by swooping in some fresh blood, something new, something unexpected. Big Orange, Joan and the Giants and Mitchell Martin will all grace the Cannery stage for the first time. I could rattle off some genres here but I’m sure you all have Spotify, so hit them up and add them to your playlists. And to round out the band sets why not swing Grand Casual into the mix?

At the end of the day, I don’t mind being a real rock n rolla once in a while.

Big Orange is playing at There Goes The Sun on January 16.

I’d been thinking of how best to set this one apart from those before, while making sure I have a solid local contingent. Why wouldn’t I consider putting on two cracking local DJs? Early December, Esperance lad Will Creed hit me with an enquiry to play a coupla gigs over summer. Will’s been making beats in Perth and playing some shows under his stage name CREED, and I’m super excited to see what he will cook up for us. MEiNA is a new Esperance local, working the past two years in Espi. The lass has previously hit the decks at Groovin The Moo of all places, and is keen to get back to it. I think I’ll set up a side stage for the DJ sets, with the guys playing between sets and to finish the night out. It’s going to be rad.

There Goes The Sun will be the only large scale ticketed Kyza Presents event in January, so why not keep the party alive and enjoy the killer space that is the Cannery Round Garden. Tickets are $34.50+BF for Cannery members and $39.50+BF for non-members. Available from www.kyzapresents.com. Big shout out to Dudley Newton Optometrists and Elders Insurance for their support on this one. For all other live music in January head on over to the Kyza Presents webpage.

KYRON SMITHSON

SPONSORS

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THE BRIDGE

CANNERY BAR OPEN

SAT 16TH JAN 5PM

CANNERY GARDEN

TACO BAR BY MUSEUM VILLAGE CAFE

TICKETS VIA KYZPRESENTS.COM

$34.5O+BF (CANNERY MEMBERS) - $39.5O+BF (NON MEMBERS)

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Get on your magic carpet and fly to the Soundshell for a Moving Movies screening of Disney’s Aladdin. Gates open at 6:30pm and the genie will be released from his lamp (the movie will start) at 7:15pm. Adults $10, kids $5, under 2s free. Bring your own picnic or grab a delicious movie snack from Floss n Pop when you’re there! For more Moving Movies dates in Jan, head to their Facebook page - @MovingMoviesEsperance.

Head down to the first Museum Village Markets for 2021. Pick up local produce, peruse handmade wares and check out the many retail stores housed in heritage buildings. Rumbly tummy? Food and coffee available, too. Every second Sunday from 8:30am - 12:30pm.

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An eclectic mix of Margaret River talent is headed to the Pier Hotel for a night of big vibes and good times. Not only have Salt Tree, ASKYA and Nathan Parsons performed to audiences around the world, but they’ve amassed millions of streams on Spotify, too, so you know this is one night at the Pier that you won’t want to miss. The first set kicks off at 10pm. Tickets via Eventbrite.

Feel like a morning boogie? As part of the Esperance One & All Community Program, a disco will be held at the Esperance Civic Centre from 10am - 12pm. All ages welcome.

For more information, call Escare on 0418 557 397.

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The collective isolation experiences of our community will be displayed at The Art of Isolation, an open community exhibition at the Cannery Arts Centre. The Art of Isolation compares and contrasts each artist’s encounter with the first pandemic of our time, showcasing their take on the experience. On display until February 14.

Visit www.canneryartscentre.com.au for opening hours.

Enjoy an afternoon at the races and then kick on with the Tipsy Jipsys at Mexican night from 6pm. Jump onto the Esperance Bay Turf Club Facebook page for further details.

There Goes The Sun will be taking over the Cannery Arts Centre with four bands, two DJs and a taco bar. Now in its fourth year, There Goes The Sun will feature some awesome acts, with Grand Casual, Big Orange, Joan and the Giants, and Mitchell Martin hitting the band stage, while CREED and MEiNA hit the decks on a second stage. Tix at kyzapresents.com.

Pull up your socks and get out the lederhosen! OOMPAH! are bringing all the fun of Oktoberfest to the Esperance Civic Centre. OOMPAH! are a fun and energetic Bavarian themed band delivering the great German beer hall sound. Traditional Bavarian drinking songs like Ein Prosit, Bayerisches Bierlied and Waldeslust are mixed with classic Aussie rock and pop songs like A Long Way to the Top, Khe Sahn, Land Down Under and Never Tear Us Apart – all in the “oom-pah-pah” style.

Tickets via the Shire of Esperance website.

Friday night plans? Get down to Museum Village for the Sunset Markets from 5pm.

The Museum Village shops will be open and all your favourite stallholders will be there, encouraging you to #shoplocal.

Bites and bevvies also available. If this isn’t the perfect start to the weekend, we’re not sure what is.

Learn more about what’s on in Esperance by visiting esperancetide.com/whatson

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Elements ed. III continues at the Cannery Arts Centre. A stunning exhibition showcasing the creative talents of local artists Caroline Abbey, Tammy Andrews, Eimear O’Connor, Naomi Stanitzki and Jason Wooldridge. Entry is free and most works are available for purchase. On display until January 9. Visit www.canneryartscentre.com. au for opening hours.

The Ultimate List of Things to Do This School Holidays

BY KARLI FLORISSON

Summer holidays are a magical time for children, but as every parent knows, they are six whole weeks long. Sooner or later, those two dreaded words will make an appearance… I’m bored . So you’re prepared for that moment in advance, we’ve created a summer activity checklist for you. See how many activities you and the kids can check off before the end of the school holidays. And if you don’t have kids, but still want to work your way through the list, we won’t judge!

PHOTOGRAPHY CREDIT: ERIN CALABRESE (@OUR.HAPPYVAN)

Ǜ Climb Frenchman Peak and take a selfie at the top. Ǜ Walk, bike, skateboard, or scoot along the foreshore.

For best results, start at the Jetty, and reward yourself with ice cream at Aurelia’s before you head back again. Ǜ Go to Australia Day in the Park, a free event run by the Rotary Club of Esperance. This annual event is fun for all the family with live music, entertainment and market stalls from 9am - 2:30pm. Monsterball Amusements will be there this year with attractions to get your heart pumping! Have a go at the Spider Mountain - an eight-metre high climbing tower with a super slide to get you back down. For an added adrenaline rush, it also has three (yes, three!) bungee trampolines attached. If that’s not enough excitement for one day, there will also be two land-based water slides AND a bucking bull! We know it isn’t going to be just the kids lined up for these... Mums and dads will definitely want to get in on the action, too! Did we mention this event and these attractions are completely free of charge?

Ǜ Get up early to see the sunrise. Get up extra early and make a bacon and egg sandwich to take with you. Ǜ Go to Moving Movies at the Soundshell. There are four different sessions to choose from over the school holidays. You can check out Aladdin on January 2, Brave on January 9, Frozen 2 on January 16, and The Incredibles 2 on January 23. Ǜ Order a babyccino or a hot chocolate from Coffee Cat and drink it on the grass while you enjoy the sun and the view of the bay. Ǜ Have a sandcastle building competition at the beach. Ǜ Get a pot and some soil and plant a few seeds. You could try radishes, sunflowers, or spinach. Don’t forget to water them and enjoy watching them grow. Ǜ Go to the Esperance Museum and check out the Skylab display. While you’re there, have a look at the other exhibits. Which is your favourite and why? Ǜ Buy some bubble wands and blow some bubbles. Have a competition for the biggest bubble, or who can pop the most bubbles in one minute!

CH ECKLI S T

Ǜ Go to the Rotary Lookout and check out the amazing view! While you’re up there, look at the map and see if you can learn the names of some of the islands. Then go for a walk on one of the walk trails.

Ǜ Take a picture with a kangaroo at Lucky Bay.

Ǜ Grab an icy pole from s’juice and enjoy it in the park.

Ǜ Check out an exhibition at the Cannery Arts Centre or check out the art at Esperance Community Arts. Get inspired to make some art of your own.

Ǜ Take a ride on the miniature railway at Adventureland Park. Ǜ Catch a movie at Fenwick 3 Cinemas.

Treat yo’self to a choc top while you’re there! Ǜ Do something kind for someone else, such as buying some non-perishable food and leaving it at the Community Pantry near the Esperance Library. Ǜ Have a picnic under the trees at Helms Arboretum. Or have a picnic at one of the many suggested locations in our Tide Guide to Finding the Perfect Picnic Spot. Ǜ Go to the Esperance Grower’s Market and buy some veggies to make into a fresh and tasty meal. Ǜ Have fish and chips on the beach. Count how many seagulls come along to eye off your chips! Ǜ Take a wander in the Museum Village and check out the shops. While you’re there, read the signs to find out the history of some of the buildings.

s erance present p Es f o b lu C y Rotar

Ǜ Drive out to the Gibson Soak Hotel or the Condingup Tavern for lunch. Both have got kidfriendly seating areas outdoors in the garden.

Ǜ Go to the Museum Village Markets on a Sunday morning (January 3, 17 and 31) or to the Sunset Markets (Friday, January 22). Try one of Etty’s Spring Rolls, or a fresh doughnut, or a Sri Lankan Taste roti. Delicious! Ǜ Pick up a bargain at the Esperance Public Library’s book sale on January 7. How many books can you read before the end of the holidays? Ǜ Head out to the Bird and Animal Park and feed the animals. You can feed yourself while you’re there, too, with their all-day breakfast. Ǜ Jump in the car and cruise around the Great Ocean Drive. Check out all the beaches, and decide on your favourite (we understand if you can’t choose just one!) Ǜ Do a bit of baking, then invite a few friends over for afternoon tea in the backyard. Ǜ Lie out under the sky at night and see if you can spot some shooting stars.

26 Jan 2021 9am - 2.30pm

Adventureland Park

Live Local Entertainment Displays - Markets - Food Citizen Awards & More

INFLATABLE WATER SLIDES LITTLE SPLASH - BUCKING BULL SPIDER MOUNTAIN - BUNGEE

FAMILY FUN EVENT

Major Sponsers:

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23 / ESPERANCE TIDE / JANUARY 2021

Ǜ Cold day? That doesn’t mean missing out on a swim! Chuck on your bathers and get in the pool at the Bay of Isles Leisure Centre.

5 MINU T E H I ST ORY

History of Castletown

BY KARLI FLORISSON

We all know how Esperance got its name – from one of the French ships that took shelter in the bay in 1792. Other suburbs in the area were named after important people, such as Nulsen that was named for the politician Emil Nulsen, and Sinclair, named after local man Laurence Sinclair. But where did the name Castletown come from? The origins and history of this area of town are fascinating, and go right back to the early days of Esperance.

In 1894, the gold rush broke out in Kalgoorlie, turning Esperance almost overnight from a sleepy little seaside town to a booming port servicing the goldfields area.

In that same year, an English syndicate was formed, investing in land in the Hampton Plains, just east of Coolgardie, and in an area of land between Coolgardie and Esperance, which they named Grass Patch Farm. This syndicate then formed the Esperance Bay Land Company.

They had grand plans of establishing a town just next to Esperance and connecting their new little townsite with the booming goldfields region. The Esperance Bay Land Company built a jetty and started to make plans to develop the area that soon became known as Newtown. Some of the investors in the Esperance Bay Land Company included the principal investor Lord Castletown, along with Mr Chaplin, Colonel North, Mr Wiseman, Mr Walmsley, and Lord Arthur Butler. If you think those names sound familiar, it’s because they are prominent street names in the suburb that is now known as Castletown.

Newtown Jetty 1915

The Esperance Bay Land Company had ambitious plans for the Newtown area. The jetty, built in 1894, was over 300 metres long, and provided a place for ships to unload cargo. The Afghan cameleers, who were instrumental in transporting goods from Esperance to the goldfields, had their camping ground in the area, and so Chaplin street was built wide enough for a camel train to turn around. The company also built a customs house and a hall on the foreshore. They had plans to build a large store, a hotel, and a number of cottages in the area, even going as far as to ship materials to Esperance for these buildings. They were expecting the Western Australian Government to build a railroad connecting Newtown with the company’s proposed townsite of Hampton, near Coolgardie. The company’s vision for their new townsite in Esperance included flour mills, cheese and butter factories, and plantations of fruit trees which would create industry for the new townsfolk and supply them with food.

F IVE M I NU TE H I S TORY

The jetty and the newly started development at Newtown was left by the Esperance Bay Land Company to deteriorate. In the 1940s, the jetty was sold to Brian Fullerton, who dismantled it, then milled and sold the timber. The remaining structure of the jetty was left in place. By the 1950s, there were still only a few houses in the area, and the roads were dirt or gravel tracks. The Castletown Quays was a beach track, and the few houses that were along the Quays had direct access to the beach. Most of the blocks of land that the Esperance Bay Land Company had developed had been abandoned. They were seized by the Shire Council for the nonpayment of rates in the 1950s. In order to find new owners for these blocks of land, they were sold off very cheaply in 1954. Blocks on the Castletown Quays were sold for $1 each, blocks on Westmacott Street were sold for 75 cents each, on Goldfields Road for 50 cents, and on Burton Road for 20 cents each.

Blocks on Easton Road were sold for one shilling, or 10 cents each.

The sale of the land brought new

landowners into the area and slowly, Newtown began to be developed. In 1963, Tom and Tess Starr started a general store in the area. In 1966, they started a garage next door, which is still operating today as Castletown BP. With the population of the area beginning to grow rapidly, and plans for a school underway, the Shire Council realised the need to gazette and name the area, which was still known as Newtown at the time. Newtown was rejected as being too commonly used and the name Castletown was chosen, after the Castletown Quays and Lord Castletown. In 1966, Castletown Primary School was established, with three teachers and a headmaster. Since that time, the population of Castletown has grown steadily. While it might not be the agricultural utopia that the Esperance Bay Land Company originally intended, with orchards and dairies, their legacy still remains in the street names of the area.

Many thanks to Nick Kleinig and Barb Terrell for providing information about Castletown.

L AUNC H IN G J A N U A R Y 1 5

Wild: Stories from Western Australia's Past A podcast by Karli Florisson

Check out www.wildwapodcast.com for further infor mation.

PATRONI OLIVES LOCALLY MADE COLD PRESSED OLIVE OIL Drop in anytime • Phone 08 9076 1101 Lot 7 Fisheries Road, Esperance

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The established merchants in the main town area did not want business to be taken away from them by the new town, and so the newly established town of Esperance was reluctant to support the development at Newtown. In 1900, a tram line was built from the Newtown jetty to the customs shed at James Street. With the Esperance Bay Land Company’s plans relying so heavily on the proposed railway to the goldfields, it soon became apparent that they were not going to be successful. Esperance locals had been lobbying for a railway to be built from the goldfields to Esperance since the start of the gold rush. However, merchants and landowners in Fremantle realised that this would take away business from their port, and so the building of the railway was delayed. In 1897, the railway from Fremantle to Kalgoorlie was completed, which was a major blow to Esperance’s standing as a port for the goldfields.

The population of Esperance, which had grown rapidly during the early years of the gold rush in the 1890s, just as quickly declined. The railway from Esperance to Kalgoorlie was not completed until 1927.

Council Connections 03/12

New Director of Corporate & Community Services Felicity Baxter was appointed as the Shire of Esperance’s new Director of Corporate & Community Services at the start of December. Mrs Baxter, who takes the position after Shane Burge was appointed as CEO earlier in the year, has over twelve years of experience working for local government and an extensive career in private industry. Commencing her position February 8, Mrs Baxter will provide strategic management for Finance, Information & Communications Systems, Administration and Governance, Customer Service, Records Management, Human Resources and Community & Economic Development. Mrs Baxter said she was looking forward to making a contribution to the community and getting to know both the community and staff of the Shire of Esperance.

Shire Receives CCTV Funding The Shire of Esperance has received a $210,000 grant from WA Police’s State CCTV Strategy Infrastructure Fund for CCTV upgrades in the Esperance township central business district. The funding will go towards upgrades outlined in phase one of the Shire’s upcoming CCTV Master Plan, which is currently being developed in consultation with local police and lays out a phased approach to the upgrade and installation of CCTV for Esperance’s town centre. The Plan is expected to go before Council in the near future with the CCTV upgrades to follow in 2021. Esperance Shire President Ian Mickel said the upgraded CCTV would benefit the town. “Esperance is already a very safe place to live and this will just be an extra tool for local law enforcement,” he said.

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6450 Job Connection The Shire of Esperance has teamed up with the Esperance Chamber of Commerce & Industry (ECCI) and Goldfields Esperance Development Committee (GEDC) to create and promote the 6450 Job Connection initiative, which aims to connect local employers to potential employees. The initiative involves a marketing campaign promoting jobs to locals and visitors, helping to address the labour shortage that businesses are currently experiencing. The initiative was allotted $4,000 by the COVID-19 Local Recovery Committee, funded by IGO Limited, for the production of two videos promoting Esperance as a “work destination”. The two videos and more information can be found at www.esperance.wa.gov.au/erric.

With the current shortage in rental properties and many business trying to recruit additional staff, the old Blue Waters Lodge is being made available, with funding through the State Government as short-term workers accommodation.

Edge of the Bay Festival 2020 The Shire of Esperance’s Edge of the Bay Festival was a huge success on December 5, with over 3000 attendees gathering at the Youth Precinct to take part in the event. Supported by Horizon Power, Southern Ports, 103.9 Hope FM, Freight Lines Group and Lotterywest, this year’s festival was the biggest ever welcoming over 60 stallholders, food vendors and community groups. A vibrant flying kite display decorated the beach, laser tag was played amongst the trees and art & craft activities took place alongside the action-packed skate park. Battle of the Bay presentations were held in the afternoon to a crowd of local and visiting competitors.

Upcoming Council Meetings /ShireOfEsperance

09/12

Agenda Briefing: 19 January 2021 at 1PM Ordinary Council Meeting: 27 January 2021 at 4PM @shire_esperance

@shireofesperance

Ph: (08) 9071 0689 • PO Box 507, 77 Windich Street, Esperance, WA 6450 shire @esperance.wa.gov.au • www.esperance.wa.gov.au

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Protecting the Duke’s Dunes The Duke of Orleans Bay Regional Park, aka ‘The Duke’, is one of Esperance’s most prized and valued coastal gems for tourists and locals alike. A collaborative project called ‘Protecting the Duke’s Dunes’ kicked off in December, involving the Shire of Esperance, Esperance Tjaltjraak Native Title Aboriginal Corporation (ETNTAC), Duke of Orleans Bay Caravan Park, and South Coast NRM. The Project is seeing inter-organisational collaboration towards ensuring recreational activities in and around the Duke remain sustainable for current and future generations. The project also complements works undertaken recently by the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions in the nearby Victoria Harbour area.

PHOTOGRAPHY CREDIT: LUCY VINCENT (@LOVECHILDS_)

Tjaltjraak Rangers closing tracks

Deep Erosion Gully at Nares Beach

A DV ERTORI A L

Shire of Esperance Environmental Coordinator Julie Waters said there was mounting pressure on the Shire by concerned locals to do something to address these problems. “The community doesn’t want to see the Duke ruined by a few irresponsible users,” she said. “People need to ensure they stick to designated tracks and only camp in authorised campgrounds.”

Esperance Shire President Ian Mickel said protecting our natural assets was of high priority. “Esperance’s coastline is incredibly important to our culture, history, economy and way of life and it is imperative that we do all we can to preserve it for the next generations,” he said. “This project is seeing some fantastic collaboration between like-minded organisations and the works being conducted will have many positive effects for years to come.”

Works on-the-ground have recently started, with Tjaltjraak Rangers working alongside Shire staff to rationalise and manage unauthorised tracks and address some of the serious coastal erosion issues. In most areas this has involved surveying the multitude of tracks to a destination, selecting the most sustainable to

remain open and closing the others. In addition to the biodiversity, recreational and conservation values, the area is of layered cultural value and significance. In addition, there are many registered and unregistered Aboriginal heritage sites throughout the coastal plain and granite outcrops; protection of these places and their associated cultural values is extremely important.

Currently a few of the unauthorised vehicle tracks are impacting directly on these places and values.

The area is part of a wider cultural landscape with Esperance Tjaltjraak Rangers recently uncovering and documenting evidence of human occupation in this area extending beyond 3,500 years ago.

ETNTAC Chief Executive Officer Peter Bednall said that for many years, Esperance Nyungar Elders had been concerned about the impact to these values and specific cultural sites from increasing visitor numbers and the damage caused by off-road vehicle use.

These works are funded by numerous partners, including Shire of Esperance, the Western Australian Planning Commission’s Coastwest program, South Coast NRM, WA State NRM Program, Esperance Tjaltjraak Native Title Aboriginal Corporation and the Australian Government’s ‘Indigenous Advancement Strategy’.

The project will run through to the end 2021 and the area will be patrolled over the coming summer by the Shire of Esperance and Tjaltjraak Rangers to ensure people act responsibly and respect the recent changes.

29 / ESPERANCE TIDE / JANUARY 2021

Recently, there’s been an increase in the extensive damage to the sensitive coastal environment found at the Duke; this is evidenced by the large chasms and erosion gullies formed by unauthorised off-road vehicle use and the apparent expansion of the track network seen on aerial photography. A recent study showed that over four kilometres of new tracks have been created in the last decade, resulting in over 12 hectares of habitat loss, essentially clearing the bush. This doesn’t include the dune blowouts created by people illegally camping in the dunes and off-road vehicles.

30 / ESPERANCE TIDE / JANUARY 2021

BOOK SMART The Living Sea of Waking Dreams by Richard Flanagan Regarded as one of Australia’s finest writers, Richard Flanagan’s latest book is not an easy, comfortable read.

It is, however, a deeply moving portrayal of family and the impact the death and loss of a parent has. While Francie lies in her sterile air-conditioned hospital bed, outside her window, the country is burning, and the world is slowly changing.

While the extinction of the environment and ecosystems happens simultaneously and almost in the background, the story centres around dying Francie and her three middle aged children. I found this book rather confronting and slightly obscene as the three children debate Francie’s health and imminent death and their reluctance to ‘let her go.’

As Anna, the successful daughter, insists on more and more interventions to keep her mother alive, Francie exists in a cruel half-life of tubes and high-risk hospital therapies. I wasn’t sure if Anna’s actions were based in love, guilt, a refusal to fail or loneliness but I found her hard to like and rather arrogant, as she is mollified by social media.

AT T H E M U S E U M V I L L A G E F R O M 5 P M O N F R I D AY , J A N U A R Y 2 2 LIVE MUSIC • BEER GARDEN • FOOD VENDORS MARKET STALLS • VILLAGE SHOPS + CAFE OPEN To book a stall, please email esperancesunsetmarkets@gmail.com

This is a novel that tackles the big issues of dying and euthanasia, while we slowly ignore the death of our planet through global warming and the destruction of the environment. Flanagan suggests that we live in a world which is drowning in opinion, jargon and oblivious ignorance. A vanishing mother, a vanishing world, things are slowly disappearing without people even noticing it.

While dying can be undignified, cruel and obscene, and with so much devastation and fear in the world, The Living Sea of Waking Dreams is an emphatic, wrenching and confronting novel that considers apathy to be the true monster.

TA M M Y M A L O N E Y, T H E B O O K B O X

LOCAL LINGO Have you just moved to town? Or are you holidaying in Esperance?

You might notice we speak our own language down here.

Never fear! We’re here to help you learn the local lingo.

Snake Pit

Tearooms

Annie’s

Officially known as T he Pier Hotel Nightclub

Officially known as Taylor St Quarters

Officially known as Naturally Esperance

Westies Officially known as West Beach A popular congregation point for tanned bodies and bare feet. A carpark first, beach second.

Harvest Ban Officially known as a 40+ degree day When it’s too hot to do anything except wait for the cool change.

Woolies Officially known as Esperance Boulevard An unavoidable bubble in which there is only two degrees of separation between every person.

An establishment where the same hands that once held spearmint thickshakes now hold blackberry brambles.

A magnet to those who have ever used the phrase, “There is no Planet B.” Owned by Annie. Duh.

The Duke

Dunc’s

(the ‘D’ is pronounced as a hard ‘J’)

Officially known as Esperance SUPA IGA

Officially known as T he Duke of Orleans Bay Caravan Park (and surrounding beaches) A complex web of Landcruiser Saharas and Yamaha four wheelers. Best avoided in January.

Tourist Loop Officially known as Great Ocean Drive The first port-of-call for every new visitor to town. Fortykilometres of the world’s best beaches (don’t bother arguing otherwise).

The #shoplocal OG. The grocery store of choice for those who snub the big guy but can’t make it to the grower’s market.

Pink Lake

31 / ESPERANCE TIDE / JANUARY 2021

A dark and smoky space where dreams are made and hearts are broken. Strangely enticing after four house whites.

Officially known as, well, Pink Lake A semi-rural suburb of Esperance near a lake that was once pink but is now white. Not to be confused with Lake Warden, which was once white and is now pink. Or Lake Hillier, which was once pink and is still pink (last time we checked).

OPEN EVERY DAY 7am - 3pm (January 1 - 26)

Paninis,Juices & Smoothies (Vegan options)

The Tanker Jetty, Esperance Foreshore

Follow us!

10 years on the Esperance foreshore

H IDDEN HER OES

The Esperance Community

32 / ESPERANCE TIDE / JANUARY 2021

If you look behind the scenes, you’ll often find selfless, generous people who give their time and energy to great causes. Here is one of our inspiring ‘hidden heroes’ who make this community such a wonderful place.

This month, we’d like to take a moment to acknowledge a particularly special Hidden Hero – the Esperance community. As we all know, 2020 was a particularly difficult year, and as a community, we rose to the challenge.

As a community, we followed the advice of the health authorities and did what needed to be done when it came to lockdowns, social distancing, and the pandemic in general. During the lockdown, the Community Helping Community volunteer program was established by the Esperance Volunteer Resource Centre in conjunction with Esperance Care Services, and while in the end there wasn’t a big call for their services, it was wonderful to see how willing the community was to help other people. Some lovely stories of kindness also emerged from travellers who were stuck here during the lockdown and were looked after by locals. We’d particularly like to acknowledge local business owners who have had to weather a particularly difficult year in 2020. Now, staff shortages and a huge influx of visitors to the town means that business owners and staff are working particularly hard to keep serving the needs of the community over the summer as well.

Of course, no community is perfect, and we’ve had the odd few cranky people. But overall, Esperance, your community spirit has shone through! We are sure that Esperance will welcome record numbers of visitors to our town over the summer with equal amounts of grace and kindness. And if you’re a visitor to our town, we hope that you’ll feel welcome here and that you’ll love this place just as much as we do.

Esperance, thanks for being so wonderful. We’ve loved highlighting all the special people from our town and we look forward to highlighting even more throughout the rest of this year.

THE HIDDEN HEROES COMMITTEE

The Shire of Esperance will be announcing the Community Citizens of the Year and welcoming new citizens at the Rotary Club of Esperance’s Family Fun Day on Australia Day, January 26.

Come along to see more of our community’s heroes honoured and welcome our new citizens.

BUSH BANTER Surviving the Summer

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

33 / ESPERANCE TIDE / JANUARY 2021

Ever wondered why and how plants can survive these beautiful, hot, sunny, blue days that make the Esperance summer? From the sand dunes of Fourths, to the crackly moss on top of the Duke granite headlands, parched salt lakes of Scaddan and the red dust of Salmon Gums, Esperance is home to some amazing plants with adaptations to survive drought. In the science world this is called xerophytic adaptations. Some plants are hairy to trap moisture before it evaporates.

Others have silver foliage, are waxy, have curled leaves or a high oil content in leaves.

At the extreme, some plants lose their leaves altogether and only photosynthesise from their stems, such as many Acacias. Probably my favorite technique, which many plants use, is actively changing the position of their leaves to reduce the direct exposure to the sun. Many Eucalyptus trees in arid areas have long leaves that hang down, reducing the amount of leaf surface area actually in direct contact with the sun’s rays. Of course, many plants avoid the summer altogether by shutting down entirely or are native annuals, that are only alive in the wetter months.

Unbelievably clever!

Eucalyptus pleurocarpa, Coomalbidgup Swamp

Esperance’s best known Breakfast and Lunch Bar We’ve got the largest drink selection in town!

200+ Cold Drink And Iced Coffee Selections 60+ Hot Food Options 30+ Different Sandwiches, Rolls, Wraps & Focaccias Also Salads & Salad Packs with Dips Cakes, Yoghurts, Chocolates, Ice Creams & More And, humour!

EST 1968 Open Monday - Friday 4am - 5pm & Saturday 4am - 12pm • Phone (08) 9071 2005

CAPR IC O R N

DE C 22 - JAN 2 0

Have you been butting heads with your significant other recently? You need to work on reconciling your differences now, or you might find your relationship adversely affected in the long run. It’s normal to have a difference in opinion but if your values don’t align, you’re going to run into trouble. Don’t stress about small differences – if they want to barrack for the Dockers, that’s fine (kind of). However, if their social and political views make them sound like they’re on a train bound for Looney Town, work it out or get out.

AQUA R I U S

JA N 2 0 - F E B 1 7

Big changes are happening in 2021, so strap in. January is always an exciting month, full of promise. There are a million things you want to achieve this year and with a little planning, you can have it all. You’ve got a bit of extra time up your sleeve at the moment – use it to think about where you’re going to be in three months, six months, twelve months’ time. Buying your dream home, landing your dream job, taking that dream holiday... Anything is possible in 2021.

P I SCE S

FEB 18 - MAR 19

You’ve found a lot of happiness in the last few months and it looks like this will continue into 2021. Hooray! This comes down to being more grounded and less flighty. The stability has allowed you to find greater meaning in your personal life. Spread your joy with those around you. Invite your nanna to the movies, take your bestie on a spontaneous picnic, host a family BBQ complete with bocce or Twister – anything to put a smile on someone else’s face.

AR I ES

TAURUS

APR 20 - MAY 20

The new year has you feeling fired up and ready to see that great idea of yours come to fruition. Grab the bull by the horns while you’re energised, otherwise that post-new year slump may get the better of you. Don’t be afraid to accept the help of someone who offers, even if you’re unsure about how helpful they’ll actually be. Beggars can’t be choosers and you might be surprised with what they bring to the table.

GE M IN I

M AY 21 - J UN 20

You give, give, give... But what do you get in return? The Christmas period had you running around like a headless chook, trying to keep everyone happy.

Unsurprisingly, you’re probably feeling burnt out. It’s time you put your feet up and let someone else take the reins for a change. Is there something you’ve wanted to do for a while but haven’t had the chance because you’ve been the support holding everything together?

Do it this month (without feeling guilty)! You deserve it.

C AN C E R

JUN 21 - JUL 22

You’re not really one to make new year’s resolutions but 2021 feels different.

You’re inspired to succeed and setting goals is the best way to achieve this.

There have been a lot of distractions over the last few months and topped off by the silly season, it felt impossible to get anything of any value done. Look at this month as a fresh start. Put your social life on hold and take time to yourself to figure out what you need to do to make your dreams come true this year.

LEO

JUL 23 - AUG 22

Phew! You made it to 2021. After

MA R 2 0 - A P R I L 1 9 numerous Christmas celebrations, you’re

There’s little chance of easing into 2021. It’s going to hit you head on, so be prepared. Your commitments – work, family or otherwise – will step up this month. With so much on your plate, be sure to get enough sleep and eat well.

The festive season is done and dusted, so swap out the sparkling wine for sparkling water over the next few weeks to give your body the opportunity to recuperate. With a little focus and a lot of determination, you have every chance of success this year.

no doubt feeling lazy. Enjoy this time of wanting to do absolutely nothing.

Spend the day at Blue Haven, order Thai for dinner and catch up on The Crown. Repeat for several days until your energy returns and you’re ready to take on the world again. Don’t worry, motivation will come, it just won’t be in the first five minutes of the year.

V IRG O

AUG 23 - SEP 22

This year might not get off to a great start. Please, don’t let it get you down.

2021 is not going to be a repeat of last year. Promise. Someone will let you down at the last minute but before you blow up at them, give this person a chance to explain. You have a tendency to jump to conclusions. Why not make it your new year’s resolution to work on this? Learning to breathe will do wonders for your reputation as the hotheaded friend.

LI BRA

SEP 23 - OCT 22

You’ve been stuck in your little bubble for too long now. It’s time to venture outside. You won’t be heading overseas but who really cares when there’s so much to see in your own backyard? If you’re strapped for time, head to Woody for the weekend or jump on a HeliSpirit flight and pretend you’re a tourist for a few hours. However, if you’ve got some leave up your sleeve, think about a bigger trip. From Busselton to Broome, there’s so much to see in WA so get out of Esperance and start exploring!

SCORPI O

O C T 23 - NOV 21

Like all of us, you’ve likely indulged in one too many Emu Exports over the last few weeks. Now’s the time to take charge of your health. Whatever you do though, make sure it’s sustainable.

Eating nothing but carrot sticks won’t last, and you’ll be back in the Red Rooster drive-thru before you know it.

Find enjoyment in a healthy lifestyle – walks with friends, joining a sporting club or hosting a dinner party with wholesome and nourishing food. Find balance between what you want and what you need, and you’ll feel a whole lot better for it.

SAGITTARIUS

NOV 22 - DEC 21

Careful! If you’ve been sitting on a volcano, it’s about to erupt. Tension has been building for quite some time now and it won’t be long until someone blows. This isn’t such a bad thing. In fact, it might be what’s needed to help clear the air. If you can, avoid confrontation in a public place. Nobody wants to witness a yelling match in the middle of Woolies (even if it does add a little drama to the weekly shop). Prepare your thoughts now so you know what you’re going to say when the time comes.

Pesto Potato Salad Jazz up your beach BBQ with this tasty twist on an Aussie summer classic.

Serves 4-5 (as a side dish)

Ingredients

Method

5 boiled eggs 200g edamame beans (shelled baby soybeans) 1kg baby potatoes, washed 20g basil leaves 20g parsley leaves 50g sunflower seeds 60g parmesan, grated 2 garlic cloves, peeled and crushed 150ml olive oil 2 tbsp white wine vinegar Handful of mint leaves, shredded Salt & pepper

1. In a pot of boiling water, cook the potatoes for 20 minutes or until they are soft without falling apart.

2. While the potatoes are cooking, use a blender to blitz the basil, parsley, sunflower seeds, garlic cloves and parmesan, until a thick paste is formed. Slowly add the olive oil and white wine vinegar and pulse until it becomes a nice, runny pesto. Set aside.

3. In a separate small saucepan, blanch the edamame beans in boiling water for 1-2 minutes, then drain and set aside.

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

Dempster St, Esperance

PLEASE NOTE LIMITED SEATING - ADVANCED TICKET PURCHASES ADVISED

4. Drain the potatoes. Once they are a bit cooler and easier to handle, cut each potato in half. To a large bowl, add the potatoes, along with the pesto, edamame beans, and shredded mint leaves. Mix well and season to taste.

5. Peel and cut the boiled eggs into quarters and gently fold through the salad.

6. You’re done! Serve with hot snags, cold frothies and a game of beach cricket.

PHOTOGRAPHY CREDIT: ASH BOWMAN @BOWMANFARMING

GET A G D U CAT ED

Harvest 2020 36 / ESPERANCE TIDE / JANUARY 2021

B Y L U C Y B U R R OW S

The year ended on a high for the majority of farmers in the Esperance region, with harvest exceeding initial tonnage estimates. It was a slow start to the harvest season, which began at the end of October, due to intermittent rainfall events across the region. The rainfall varied throughout the area but held operations up across the board. In the end, however, many did better than expected.

Salmon Gums farmer, Monty Graham, described the harvest conditions as mixed. They had a quick start on their farms, harvesting all barley before November, which was a first for them. “We had those rain events in early and mid-November that made it stop-start for a bit,” he said, adding that they saw 50mm total fall in November.

Closer to the coast near Mount Howick, Damien Schlink reported 90mm just after a good start to their harvest. “Luckily we had no downgrades on the grain,” he said, “[The rain] must have hit early enough.”

The second half of November saw harvest ramp up with more consistent weather conditions. “There were three weeks of good weather to finish [harvest] quickly,” Monty said. The aim during harvest is to get the crops off as quickly as possible so they are not exposed to the elements – rain, wind, hail, lightning and fire.

Ash Bowman, who finished harvest on his Grass Patch farm at the end of November, said finding workers was a challenge. “We were one worker short right up until the last two weeks,” he said. “So it was a good achievement to finish when we did.”

At the time of writing, CBH were reporting that almost 2.6 million tonnes of grain had been delivered from around the Esperance region, higher than preharvest forecasts. “We had a few paddocks that let us down but the rest were above average,” Ash said. Similarly in Salmon Gums, yields were a mixed bag across farms. “Our lighter dirt did better than expected,” Monty said. Damien was amazed by the yields for the amount of rain they had received throughout the season, coupled with difficult crop establishment. Overall the farmers concurred the yields reflected an average to above average season, surprising considering the dry growing season.

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

Phone (08) 9071 0500

Email enquiries@freightlinesgroup.com.au

www.freightlinesgroup.com.au

Send your Sports Shorts to hannah@esperancetide.com

B ASKET B A L L

Other trophy recipients: Junior F & B – Stevie Barlow, R/up’s – Darcy South, Lachlan Barlow, Oakley Della Vedova.

Senior F & B – Clayton Barlow, R/up – Max Chapman.

SOCCER The Esperance Soccer Association (ESA) is excited to announce that we have a new committee gearing up toward the upcoming soccer season, kicking off on May 1. ESA is also excited to announce we will participate in this year’s ‘One and all community programme,’ taking place on January 11 from 10am – 12pm. Come and join us for a couple of hours of soccer fun, general introduction and familiarisation. All ages from juniors to seniors are welcome.

We are also very lucky to have the opportunity to welcome West Ham United Training Academy to our soccer fields on January 28 and 29 for a unique opportunity to further perfect soccer skills via a dedicated trainer. The cost is $80 for a two hour a day, two-day session.

Keep an eye out for the upcoming season’s ESA registrations in early January. For more information, contact espsoccerassoc@outlook.com or Ollie 0492 933 523.

PROFE SSI ONA L DOG GROOMING

WE ARE TURNING 13 THIS JANUARY! Thanks to all my amazing and supportive customers - locals and travellers alike! Help us celebrate this month and get 13% OFF collars, leads, harnesses, beds and toys.

All you need to do is mention this advert!

Book your dog in by calling 9071 3363 Shop Open Monday – Friday 9-1pm Balmoral Square, 53 The Esplanade

Esperance Bay Turf Club results: December 5: R1: 1. Kenny The King 2. Husstarr 3. Aurae R2: 1. Sun Power 2. Amelie Argot 3. Busy One R3: 1. Royal Soldier 2. She’s A Ruler 3. Yulong Rockstar R4: 1. Gillespie 2. Another Demon 3. Helms Gate R5: 1. Willhego West 2. Whim Creek 3. Scene To Sin R6: 1. Misty Lad 2. Frosty Bay 3. Unikat R7: 1. Arsinoe 2. Sassational 3. Sound of Fury December 12: R1: 1. Goodbyefeds 2. Ornamental Belle 3. Must Rush R2: 1. No Stopping Me Now 2. Fortune Gift 3. Foxy Dreamer R3: 1. Husstar 2. Bizzi Too 3. Do It Right R4: 1. Sound Of Fury 2. Blue Turns To Grey 3. Prince Hal R5: 1. Deel Red 2. Slick Unit 3. Nordic King R6: 1. Greywolf 2. Abu Dhabi 3. Another Demon R7: 1. Arsinoe 2. Willhego West 3. Bootleg Rascal R8: 1. Dirty Dot 2. Sun Power 3. Royal Soldier Horses to follow: Willhego West, Royal Soldier, Nordic King, Misty Lad

37 / ESPERANCE TIDE / JANUARY 2021

The Condingup Basketball Association finished up its successful season with its grand final matches on December 18. Congratulations to Juniors team, Wizards, for an amazing goal for goal match, winning by a mere 2 points. Best in grand final – Hunter Fowler.

Congratulations to the Senior team, Pumas, for taking out the grand final against Dukes in what was also a nailbiting match. Both teams going goal for goal until the last three minutes, with Pumas having the final say 43 to 39. Best in grand final – Sean Barrett.

HOR S E R ACING

Next meetings: Saturday 2 January, Friday 15 January, Friday 22 January

NETBALL If you’re looking to join a netball club in Esperance for the 2021 season and beyond look no further than Gibson Netball Club. We welcome players aged 16 years and up to join our club. Please join our Facebook page Gibson Netball Club Members for all updates on registrations, trials and other important information.

SH ORT & SWEET: LAS T M ONTH’S

01

News in Brief

Scaddan Primary School was announced as the first school in WA to receive a solar power system as part of the State Government’s Solar Schools Program. Horizon Power will install 29 solar panels at the school, saving an estimated $5,000 in power costs per year. Condingup Primary School will also be included in the program, which will see 2.1 megawatts of rooftop solar panels installed in 30 regional public schools over the next 18 months.

02

Part of South Coast Highway will close up to three times a week over the next two years, potentially impacting those travelling in and out of the Esperance region. It was announced the road closures will take place to allow for blasting for a new mine 30 kilometres east of Ravensthorpe. The highway will close for up to 20 minutes at a time.

03

Esperance horse trainer Melda Daniels had her first ever win at Ascot on December 16. Melda, 77, had initially withdrawn her mare, Losing Ticket, from the race. However, after being told only seven other horses were in the race, she quickly re-entered her. Ridden by jockey Natasha Faithfull, it was only Losing Ticket’s third win in 39 races. Melda is now setting her sights on the Esperance Cup.

04

The State Government granted $40,000 to the Shire of Esperance to boost accommodation available to seasonal workers. Local businesses have so far experienced severe labour shortages during the busy summer season, with a lack of low-cost accommodation for seasonal workers flagged as a potential reason why.

The funding will go towards maintenance works on the Blue Waters Lodge, to make the former hostel a safe and comfortable accommodation option for seasonal staff.

Win a 2-Night Luxury Island Escape To celebrate our brand new couple’s retreats, we are giving away a 2-night luxury stay on Woody Island for one lucky couple. See details on our Instagram page to go into the draw to win.

Winner will be announced via Instagram on Friday 8 January 2021 at 2pm WA time. Prize must be claimed between 10 January – 20 April 2021 and includes ferry transfer to & from the island for 2 people. *Ferry to Woody Island is weather dependent*

This package includes: • Cruise through the Esperance Bay • Safari Hut with King Bed • Large private deck overlooking Recherche Archipelago • Champagne upon arrival • Interior and exterior lighting & USB charge points • Guided Bushwalking Tour

BOOK NOW • woodyisland.com.au • 0484 327 580 @woodyislandecotours

/ WoodyIslandEcotours

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

POSITIONS VACANT

WE ARE HIRING Esperance Crisis Accommodation Service is looking to hire Mobile Family & Domestic Violence Outreach Workers. Two part-time positions. Please email ecass@wn.com.au for a job information package.

FOR SALE

PUBLIC NOTICES

CHOOKS FOR SALE Free range ISA brown chooks. $10 each. Buy ten get one free. Maurice 0407 381 114.

OLD TIME / NEW VOGUE BALLROOM DANCING Come along and learn the Barn Dance, Gypsy Tap, Evening Three Step, Pride of Erin and more. Every Friday from 6:50pm at the RAOB Hall on Williams Street (behind Bijou Theatre). Contact Daryl 0419 370 089.

LOST & FOUND Can you help find Sammy the seal?

He is hiding on one of our pages.

ESPERANCE COMMUNITY SINGERS Tuesday Nights from 7pm. at Esperance Senior Citizens Centre. $6pp new members welcome. More info Martin 0403 567 079.

PUBLIC NOTICES

PUBLIC NOTICES

WANTED: STALL HOLDERS FOR SUNSET MARKETS Sunset Markets is a boutique night markets and will be at the Museum Village on January 22 from 5-9pm. If you would like to book a stall, please email esperancesunsetmarkets@ gmail.com.

GOT SOMETHING TO SAY? The classies are a lowcost advertising option for community groups and members. Births, deaths and marriages, job postings, buy, swap and sell, public notices…

We can get the word out for you!

Head to www.esperancetide. com/classifieds to place yours.

SUBSCRIBE TO THE TIDE Do you know someone missing out because they don’t live locally? Why not treat them to an Tide subscription for only $5 per month? Head to www. esperancetide.com/subscribe to sign up.

0429 996 577

HAPPY BIRTHDAY GTB! 26 on the 26th. Love ya. Love Spud x

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Trying to reach a wider audience?

Have an upcoming event to promote?

Then, why not advertise with Esperance Tide?

To find out about your advertising options, email hello@esperancetide.com

TRADES & SERVICES

Over 25 years of Plumbing & Gas Fitting in Esperance & surrounds

BIRTHDAYS

LAKE HILLIER, MIDDLE ISLAND

Scenic helicopter flight and guided walking tour WEEKLY & MAJOR PRIZES ON OFFER BOOK A FLIGHT AND GO INTO THE DRAW TO WIN!

Scenic helicopter adventures showcasing Esperance’s pristine coastline and the famed pink lake of Middle Island’s Lake Hillier.

0428 721 776 helispirit.com.au