Esperance Tide July 2021

ISSUE 75

FREE MONTHLY JULY 2021

PHOTOGRAPHY CREDIT: DYLAN ALCOCK

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Follow my Facebook page to keep up to date with what the McGowan Government is doing to keep the Agricultural Region strong!

Hon. Shelley Payne MLC Member for Agricultural Region

shelley.payne@mp.wa.gov.au

ShelleyPayneMLC

Authorised by Darren West, 185 Fitzgerald Street Northam WA 6401

What a fab start to winter. Kicking off with a long weekend, June got underway with a few gloriously sunny days and still, starlit nights. We snuck in a couple of swims while we could and toasted to magical afternoons as the sky turned from blue to pink to orange. And then, the real winter arrived. Boy oh boy! We experienced some wet and wild weather. There was even talk of too much rain in some farming districts, bringing quite a literal meaning to the saying ‘when it rains, it pours!’

We open with the women’s footy this month. If you watched a game without knowing the comp’s backstory, you’d have no idea that it’s only been up and running for two years. It’s so damn popular amongst local women that every club has entered a team this season, and there’s talk of establishing a reserve comp in the near future. The sport’s popularity has skyrocketed in recent years, not just in Esperance but Australia-wide. We spoke to players from all four clubs to ask why they think this is, and to chat about the local comp. Read the story on page 4.

On the flipside, we dropped into Men in Sheds on Simpson Street for a yarn with a few members about the organisation. Don’t let the name fool you – Esperance’s branch of Men in Sheds is one of the few in Australia that allows women to join. Kudos to the blokes out there for recognising that the gals don’t mind getting on the tools every now and then too! Men in Sheds is an important organisation in Esperance, both for its members and the wider community. Take a look at what they’re doing on page 12 and then give them a call if you’d like to get involved.

With winter upon us, we thought we’d write a Tide Guide on things to see and do around Esperance while the weather is cooler [p 24]. Don’t be deterred from stepping outside just because there’s a chill in the air – there’s plenty of fun to be had, from whale watching, to having your mates over for drinks around the open fire. Winter is also a great time of year to get in the kitchen and cook something warm and hearty, like our Roast Pumpkin with Tomato & Fennel Sauce on page 29. Perfect with a thick slice of Bread Local sourdough and a drop of red.

If you’re getting up to anything fun this school holidays, don’t forget to take a pic and tag us on Insta! 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.

Thank you to our advertisers who make this possible and the 3,000 people who pick up a copy every month. We acknowledge the traditional custodians of the land on which we work and play, the Nyungar and Ngadju people, and pay our respect to their Elders past, present and emerging.

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The Rise and Rise of Local Women’s Footy WORDS HANNAH SIEMER

P H OT O G R A P H Y L U C Y V I N C E N T

It’s a gloriously warm Saturday afternoon in late June.

A stream of footballers run onto Newtown-Condingup Oval under the clear winter sky. The home team is versing Ports Football Club, and it promises to be an exciting match. Cars surround the oval, and the veranda of the clubhouse is lined with onlookers, basking in the sun. You’d be forgiven for thinking it was just another local footy game, but just a few years ago, this match wasn’t possible. That’s because this afternoon, it’s a women’s match. The local women’s football competition has doubled in size since its inception in 2019 and two years down the track, there are no signs of it slowing.

The first official women’s game of Australian Rules played in Esperance was in 2017, an exhibition match against Kalgoorlie. The match, which has since been played annually, identified that there were enough local women interested in playing football to begin a competition. In 2019, the Esperance District Football Association (EDFA) established the inaugural women’s competition. Two clubs – Ports and Esperance Football Clubs – participated in the competition, playing six games in the season. Nicole Fraser, EDFA Vice President and Esperance player, was one of a small handful of people instrumental in bringing the women’s competition to fruition. She says she had participated in a few exhibition matches but wanted to play in a competition that was taken more seriously. “I was tired of people treating running around the football field as a joke,” Nicole says. “Our skills would never improve if we were only playing a few games here and there.”

This year, all four local clubs have entered a team in the women’s competition, with Gibson and NewtownCondingup Football Clubs participating for the first time. The popularity of the game amongst local women aligns with national statistics. In 2005, just under 19,000 females played Australian Rules, a number which had skyrocketed to more than 460,000 – 30 per cent of all players nationwide – by 2017. Nicole believes the AFLW competition, first telecast in that same year, was the catalyst for the spike in popularity. “It’s no longer viewed as just a males’ game,” she says. “There has been a shift in attitude amongst people.” Ports player Laura Bennett agrees, saying AFLW has given the sport greater visibility. “It’s provided girls and women alike something to follow and aspire to,” she says.

Prior to the local women’s competition, girls could not continue playing football after they turned 15, when they were no longer eligible to participate in mixed gender divisions. The lack of opportunity to continue the sport into adulthood, as well as the popularity of more traditionally ‘feminine’ non-contact sports, was a deterrent to young girls taking up the sport altogether.

As a result, most women had never played football prior to the competition being established. “I didn’t even know the rules when I started,” says Gibson player Clara Graham, who stepped onto the field for the first time this season. “I’ve been watching footy for years, but it’s only now that I’m out there playing myself that it’s all making sense.” ⟶

Women have long played an important role in football clubs, supporting their husbands, sons and brothers, working in the canteen, and sitting on committees.

But being a part of the physical game is very new, and something Clara says is overdue. “It’s such a big part of Australian culture and it’s about time women became part of it instead of just being spectators and facilitators,” she says. “We can still be those things but also have the option to play if we want to.”

When the idea of a women’s competition was first floated, there was some pushback from the local football community (it was “probably 50/50,” says Nicole). But since the competition began, female players across all four clubs say they’ve been welcomed with open arms. Esperance player Shyanne Thomas-Mirrielees, or ‘Shyza’ as she’s known, says the amount of support the women have received from the men at her club has been “absolutely astonishing,” saying they felt welcomed from the moment they stepped foot in the clubrooms.

“They are very supportive of our development, regularly helping out and giving us advice and words of positive reinforcement,” Shyza says. “I don’t think any of the women’s teams would be as successful if not for the club members who have supported them so much.” In all four clubs, the men’s and women’s teams train at the same time and have dinner together once a week, and many of the male players are there to support the women at their

HOME GROWN

matches, whether they be running water or cheering from the sidelines. “There is no separation,” says Laura. “We are just as much a part of that club as any other person.”

While the scores in the women’s matches might be lower than those in the men’s, the physicality of the game is just as present. With many men having played since childhood, the women say it simply comes down to experience. “It’s second nature for the men,” says Newtown-Condingup’s Tenique Adams. Shyza believes this doesn’t mean the games are any less exciting to watch. “The blokes look more polished ... but with the women, you don’t miss out on those big kicks, hard tackles and a want for the ball,” she says. “And that’s the reason people watch the sport.” As the competition grows and young girls are inspired to take up the game, the women’s skills will only improve. According to Nicole, the sport has a bright future in Esperance. “There are increasing numbers of girls participating annually in Auskick and the junior grades and they are the future of the female comp,” she says. “The EDFA will continue their support and carefully plan for the future, and I am confident that the competition will continue to grow in years to come.”

We are moving!

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C ONS ER VING & P R ES ER VING

Behind the Scenes of the Esperance Museum P H OT O G R A P H Y R O S I E H E N D E R S O N

With winter upon us and school holidays looming, there’s never been a better time to visit the Esperance Museum. Alive with quirky and colourful relics from our town’s fascinating past, the museum is a great rainy day activity for young and old. We took a peek behind the scenes to see what keeps it going strong after 45 years of operation.

The Esperance Museum opened in 1976, a joint effort between the Esperance Bay Historical Society and the Shire of Esperance. The museum was built on the enthusiasm of volunteers and, 45 years on, continues to rely on volunteers to maintain, conserve and preserve the history of Esperance. “Without the Historical Society and all the volunteers, we wouldn’t have the collection we have today,” says Lynda Horn, Cultural Officer at the Shire of Esperance. That collection contains almost 18,000 records. Some 12,784 of those records are archives, made up of newspapers, pamphlets, photos, and even meeting agendas and minutes from local clubs, guilds and societies. Another 4,803 records are objects, ranging from agricultural machinery, to tins of food, to fossils. It’s eclectic, to say the least. “We have a lot [of records], and it’s because of the efforts of our volunteers gathering all those things over the years,” says Lynda, who oversees the museum’s volunteer program. “We wouldn’t have what we have without what they’ve done.”

A team of 38 volunteers, some of whom have been with the museum for 20 years, lend a hand in a variety of front and back of house roles at the Esperance Museum.

A big task behind the scenes is accessioning – detailing the history of an archive or an object and placing it in the museum’s catalogue. The job is ongoing, with an estimated 20 linear metres of unprocessed archives and another 400 objects that need reviewing. Other current projects include archiving Esperance Theatre Guild records, rehoming thousands of objects into archivequality boxes, and newspaper cataloguing. ⟶ Museum volunteer Jen Ford

A D V E R T O R IA L “We’re almost there... We’ve only got 20 years to go!”

Lynda says of the latter, noting that the project began back in 2018 with newspapers from the 1970s. “We’ve done pretty well considering we were closed for six months last year because of COVID.” Despite being closed between March and September in 2020, the total number of visitors to the Esperance Museum over the last 18 months is not much lower than pre-COVID. Thousands of out-of-towners and locals have visited the museum since its reopening, eager to learn about Esperance’s early history, agricultural pioneers and war heroes. According to Lynda, the most popular exhibit is Skylab, which received a facelift in 2019. “We do get a lot of visitors for Skylab,” Lynda says. “Especially pre-COVID, we had a lot of international visitors seeking out the exhibit.

So, we’ve given the cabinet a makeover and improved the interpretation of the story, which adds to the visitation experience.” This month marks 42 years since the space station broke up over Esperance, falling over local farming districts. A number of the valuable and historic pieces of debris can be seen in the much-loved Skylab exhibit.

The Esperance Museum prides itself on being a bit different.

It’s far from a sterile environment; visitors are encouraged to ‘ride’ on the steam train, chat on an old telephone, and get up-close-and-personal with a century-old backyard dunny (if they so wish!). It’s a unique and immersive experience, only made possible by the team of volunteers who work tirelessly to both take care of the collection and welcome visitors through the door. And while there are plans to improve and develop the museum in the coming years, Lynda hopes that volunteer ethos will forever remain the same. “We never want to take that away,” she says. “This is the community’s museum and our volunteers are vital to maintaining that.”

The Esperance Museum is open Thursday to Sunday, from 1:30pm to 4:30pm.

L EN D A H A N D The Esperance Museum is always on the lookout for new volunteers, with a variety of roles to suit all skillsets.

If you’re interested in helping out, whether it be front of house or behind the scenes, send an email to museum@esperance.wa.gov.au and let them know you’re keen!

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S P OTLIGHT ON

Men in Sheds WORDS KARLI FLORISSON

P H OT O G R A P H Y R O S I E H E N D E R S O N

Having a shed is important – practically sacred – to a lot of Aussie blokes. It’s a place to potter around, build things, fix things, and find creative ways to use up bits of old wood that are lying around. That’s why the Men in Sheds organisation has become such an important part of many people’s lives around Australia. For men who don’t have a shed or tools, it’s a place to go and work on different projects. But more importantly, it’s a place where friendships are built, in the comfortable environment of a shed.

Here in Esperance, the Men’s Shed was dreamed up by local John Middleton, who was doing some woodwork with friend Roly Brooksbank. The two men thought it would be nice to have a shed where other blokes could come together to potter around.

They looked into the possibility of establishing a Men in Sheds organisation in Esperance and before long, they were able to get more people on board. After applying for grants, work started on the ‘Shed’ in 2008. Local businesses took care of the building with a great deal of help from the volunteers, who built the inside framework and the kitchen, and did many other little jobs. With the help of some generous funding from Lotterywest, Regional Partnerships, and the Shire of Esperance providing the land, Esperance’s Men in Sheds officially opened in 2009.

The original Men in Sheds movement was started in Sydney in the 1990s as a way to encourage men to get involved with craftwork and social interaction. Since that time, the movement has expanded all over Australia, with more than 1000 Men’s Sheds throughout the country. The model has also been copied overseas, with Men’s Sheds being established in countries such as New Zealand, Ireland, Canada, the US and the UK. Here in Western Australia alone there are around 180 Men’s Sheds. The Shed movement has many aims, including encouraging men to engage with

the local community, and sharing knowledge and skills. At the heart of it all however is the spirit of mateship; blokes building friendships as they work on projects shoulder to shoulder.

Since being established, the men in Esperance’s Shed have undertaken countless projects. Men in Sheds have built everything from the Community Pantries around town, to tables and chairs at the hospital, benches for schools, cubbies for playgroups, and marimbas for students at Castletown Primary School. Recently, they have also built props such as ladders and rifle racks for the feature film being made in Esperance, Before Dawn. Members of the Shed can work on things that interest them, meaning there is always a variety of projects being undertaken, from wooden toys through to restoring furniture and even horse drawn wagons that are being brought back to life by Shed President, Tony Ietto. According to Shed Secretary Mike Gibbs, the men don’t like to take on projects that would take work away from other tradespeople around town, focussing instead on projects that will benefit the community.

Esperance’s Men in Sheds now has around 65 members. Unlike some of the other Sheds around the country, the Esperance branch also allows women to join. The members are proud that they can provide an inclusive and supportive space where people with disabilities, along with their carers, can come to work on different projects.

Over the years, they’ve also had young people from local schools come to work on projects and learn skills from the men in the Shed. The men have been thrilled by the support that the Men’s Shed has received from businesses and organisations in town. As the members state, the Shed would not be successful without the generous support from the Esperance community.

Recently, they received a further grant from Lotterywest, which will allow them to build another shed, this one for metalwork and much needed storage. ⟶

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Being a member of Men in Sheds brings a great many benefits. Aside from the benefits to the wider community, the men are also able to learn new skills and find the sense of purpose that comes with helping others. As Tony states, it helps to get the men out of the house so they don’t become couch potatoes. There’s also a strong focus on health in the Shed, with their own gym on site, although the members joke that most of them are going to start using the gym “tomorrow.” The heart of the shed is definitely the cosy and inviting kitchen where the members can gather for smoko, and a chat over coffee and biscuits. It’s the friendships that are built along the way that make Men in Sheds such a special place.

Inte re ste d in jo ining Me n in She ds?

If you’d like to learn more about becoming a member of Men in Sheds, phone them on 9072 0012 or visit the Shed on Simpson Street.

Membership is open to anyone over 16 years of age, and there are also family memberships available. Membership is very affordable and fees go towards the running of the Shed.

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F IV E MI N U T E S WI T H

Pete McMahon

BY KYRON SMITHSON

Pete McMahon’s debut has been a long time coming, with songs from the six-track EP written over the past 20 years. Listening to the tunes, there is a distinct Australian element that flows through the disk, reminding me of artists such as Paul Kelly or Mark Seymour. Drawing on his own experiences, Pete has written lyrics that invoke beautiful to bleak imagery, contrasting landscapes, and rich stories born of memory, embellished with a little artistic license.

Over the past six weeks, I’ve worked with Pete on preparing for the EP’s physical and digital release, and it has been a most enjoyable experience. Memory and Myth will be available on all streaming services from Friday 2 July, with a live performance set for Sunday 4 July at Lucky Bay Brewing. In the lead up to the occasion, I hit Pete with a few cruisy questions for The Tide.

Ho w d oe s it fe e l t o h a v e yo u r f i r s t E P re c o rd e d a nd rea dy t o re le as e ?

Exciting, Kyza! I’ve written plenty of songs but I haven’t inflicted them on the public to this degree.

Ho w d id you f ind t he s t u d i o e x p e r i e n c e ?

It was fun spending the week with Dave, Joe and Andy.

Prior to this I’d only ever recorded in my studio so it was interesting to watch a seasoned producer at work.

Do yo u fe e l wor king w i t h A n d y a t De b a s e r h a d a st ro ng i m pact upon t h e f i n a l p ro d u c t ?

Definitely. I thought my demos were pretty good but he really added atmosphere and polish to each song.

T he so ng s o n Memory and Myth ha v e b e e n written ov e r a wide time sp a n. Ho w ha s yo u r wr iti ng c ha ng e d du ring tha t time ?

I find it harder to write these days. Songs take longer, they go through more changes and many never get finished.

W hic h a c ts influ e nc e yo u r writing ? And have they c ha ng e d ov e r time ?

I was a teenager in the southern suburbs of Perth so I was influenced by Dave Warner, who was the first person to write about life in Perth in the mid-1970s. And other bands of the 60s and 70s. The Stones showed me the way to the blues, glam and punk were fun. These days I enjoy listening to Americana and I guess that can be heard a bit in ‘The Lonesome Trail.’

T he fir st sing le fro m the de b u t, ‘King B ro wn Kev,’ ha s b e e n o u t fo r a mo nth no w. Ho w do yo u feel it ha s b e e n re c e iv e d?

Of a l l the t racks on Memory and Myth , w h i c h o ne surprise d you t he m o s t w h e n i t wa s d o n e ?

I’m thrilled that people have listened to it. I’m on the verge of stardom!

For ‘Nullarbor Night,’ Andy really spread the sound, gave it depth and an almost cinematic atmosphere. The effects and unorthodox instruments he added to ‘King Brown Kev’ built the tension and dark undercurrent.

Y o u ha v e the liv e la u nc h o f Memory and Myth set fo r Ju ly 4 a t L u c k y B a y B rewing . W ha t c a n we e xp e c t o n the da y?

Music, bevvies and a few laughs.

Scan the QR code to complete our survey and go into the draw to win a $150 voucher to Tide & Co!* *Survey must be completed by Friday 30 July, 11:59pm for the chance to win. Winner drawn and announced via social media on Saturday 31 July, and will be published in the August edition of Esperance Tide.

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Our monthly arts & culture guide brought to you by:

Mel & Michael JULY 9 @ 5PM LUCKY BAY BREWING Free entry

CONCERT

EXHIBITION

Feeling Good

Straight Outta Wilurarra

JULY 1 @ 7PM ESPERANCE CIVIC CENTRE

JULY 6 - AUGUST 6 CANNERY ARTS CENTRE

Tickets from $22.50 • The Shire website

Free entry

Shake off the winter blues with this warm and engaging show that affectionately highlights the music of some of the world’s favourite female piano-playing singers.

DANCE

A Taste of Ireland JULY 8 @ 7:30PM ESPERANCE CIVIC CENTRE

Crazy Arms

Tickets from $59.90 • The Shire website

JULY 25 @ 3PM ESPERANCE CIVIC CENTRE Tickets from $22.50 • The Shire website

A celebration of boogie woogie and rock ‘n’ roll by award winning, piano playing funnyman, Damon Smith.

COMMUNITY

NAIDOC Ball JULY 3 @ 6PM ESPERANCE BAY YACHT CLUB Tickets are limited • Call 9072 0094

Morning Melodies

Pop v. Musicals JULY 17 @ 8PM ESPERANCE BAY TURF CLUB Tickets $30 • Humanitix website

Over three hours, four award winning drag queens will entertain you with fastpaced frivolity and all round fabulousness.

Dancing, lip syncing, games and prizes. If you love glitter and glamour, don’t miss it!

ESPERANCE CIVIC CENTRE

Tickets from $22 • The Shite website

$5 entry

Fresh from sell out and award winning seasons at both Fringe World Perth and Adelaide Fringe, this hypnosis show with a party vibe is unmissable.

LIVE MUSIC

JULY 4 & JULY 18 @ 8:30AM ESPERANCE MUSEUM VILLAGE

Esperance Growers Market JULY 10 & JULY 24 @ 9AM SCOUT HALL

THE PIER HOTEL Pre-sale Tickets $12.50 • kyzapresents.com

Space Dive, MR.E Moon and MEiNA join Perth psych-rock outfit The Atlas State as they launch their second EP, ‘Just Another Man’s Hands.’ Dress in your most psychedelic to win a $50 bar voucher.

Laura Petrie & Kyza JULY 11 @ 3PM LUCKY BAY BREWING Free entry

Bonkers JULY 17 @ 7:30PM ESPERANCE CIVIC CENTRE

Museum Village Markets

JULY 10 @ 9PM

COMEDY

JULY 8 @ 11AM

MARKETS

Night of Psych

Open Mic @ The Cannery JULY 16 @ 5:30PM CANNERY ARTS CENTRE

Pete McMahon EP Launch

$5 entry • Childen are free

JULY 4 @ 3PM LUCKY BAY BREWING

Attendees are invited to BYO beverages and food. PA and drums supplied.

Free entry

Local singer-songwriter Pete McMahon launches his debut EP ‘Memory and Myth’.

Performing with his distinctive Australian style, reminiscent of artists like Paul Kelly.

A limited number of CDs will be available to purchase for a small donation.

Gavin Brown JULY 16 @ 5PM & JULY 18 @ 3PM LUCKY BAY BREWING Free entry

Learn more about what’s on in Esperance by visiting esperancetide.com/whatson 1 6 / E S P E R A N C E T I D E / J U LY 2 0 2 1

Sunday Lemonade

THE BRIDGE

JULY 23 @ 5PM LUCKY BAY BREWING Free entry

Mary Leske & Josh Bryant JULY 25 @ 3PM LUCKY BAY BREWING Free entry

Death By Carrot JULY 30 @ 3PM LUCKY BAY BREWING Free entry

Club 75 Winter Edition Vol.2 JULY 31 @ 6PM CANNERY ARTS CENTRE Tickets from $19.50 • canneryartscentre.com.au THEATRE

Clutching at Straws OPENING JULY 30 @ 7PM THE BIJOU THEATRE Tickets from $20 • thebijoutheatre.com.au

A hilarious modern day farce set in an old English mansion.

Admin is destroying my fingertips... I just want to get out and play some rock n roll music!

Admin over the past week has veered bloody heavily towards Grand Casual, which is certainly not a bad thing. I’m over the ‘tour graphics/announcement/digital presence’ stage. The Spaced tour is a goer, with the track out July 29 and a cool run of shows to follow. Give me a week and I’ll roll into the ‘Spotify playlist/ blog/radio/press-pitching’ stage (gotta love that stage). Can I fast forward to the ‘drinking a beer at Froth Craft in Exmouth with my shirt off’ stage? That’s my favourite. Big shout out to Lucky Bay Brewing and Esperance Combined Tyres and Mechanical for throwing down some tour sponsorship. Hometown heroes for the win.

July, baby! Pete McMahon launches his debut EP Memory and Myth live at the brewery on July 4. Joined by Dave Vooght Simpson, Joe Franzone and Matt Cooper to hunt down that tasty full sound, it should be a blast. We have Night of Psych set for the Pier Hotel on July 10 featuring Perth’s Atlas State, Albany’s Spacedive, Esperance’s MR. E Moon (Cam Garratt’s creation) and MEiNA on zee decks til late.

Ohhh hell yeah. Tix are just $12.50 (+ booking fee). Grab ‘em at kyzapresents. com. Cannery Open Mic on July 16, Sunday Lemonade at the brewery July 23 *deep breath* and Club 75 Winter Edition Vol.2 at the Cannery on July 31, featuring Fieldsy, Rach Vibart, J Rat and yours truly. This one will sell quickly, so grab your tix at the Cannery Arts Centre’s website before they’re all gone.

And with that, I’m out. Hit my website for all the other stuff. Peace, Kyza.

KY R O N S M I T H S O N

S CHO OL H OL I DAY PROG RA M

Creative w orkshops for curious kids OPENING

Tuesday, July 6

5:30pm

BOOKING ESSENTIAL $20 Cannery Members / $30 Non-members canneryartscentre.com.au

RUNNING

July 7 - August 6 Tues - Fri 10am - 4pm Sat & Sun 12pm - 4pm

LOCATION

Cannery Arts Centre Main Gallery

A bold exhibition on the culture, style and unique voices of Western Desert people

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ME E T T H E ART I ST

Jason Wooldridge Hailing from South London, sculptor Jason Wooldridge moved to Australia with his wife Karen in 2009, to fill teaching positions that the mining boom had created.

What was supposed to be a two year stint Down Under soon became more permanent and 12 years on, they call Esperance home. Jason considers himself a ‘maker’ – “A much less pretentious title than artist,” he says – and is perhaps best known for the iconic Whale Tail at James Street, a collaboration with local glass artist Cindy Poole. However, most of Jason’s work is on a much smaller scale, forged from pieces of scrap steel and recycled timber to create animals, birds, ships and the occasional figure.

PHOTO CREDIT: JAMES GIDDY

Ho w d id you fal l int o s c u l p t i n g ?

Te l l u s a b o u t c re a ting the W ha le Ta il.

I studied Graphic Design and Illustration at uni. With hindsight I wish I’d studied Fine Art or Sculpture but for my hard working and practical parents, these things had no real prospects. Much of my work at uni was unconventional. I loved old stuff and found ‘things’ to be infinitely more interesting and beautiful than anything I could paint or draw. London was full of flea markets and car boot sales, and I could get hold of so many amazing bits of junk. The need to make money and make a way in the world became more important than making sculptural follies, so I eventually went back to uni and became an art teacher. [After] moving to Australia, I became a Design and Technology teacher at Esperance Senior High School. I no longer had access to mountains of cool antique junk but what I did have was a skip full of steel offcuts of all shapes and sizes, and a welder.

The Whale Tail was an interesting chapter in my artistic career. Jobs like that are set up almost like a competition – you throw in an expression of interest, you might get shortlisted and then you have to create a fully costed proposal. Cindy and I made a pretty good team. She had drive and good organisational skills, and I had the design skill. Although there was some hands-on building, the large sweeping curves were rolled in Perth and the structural steelwork was done by Jatek Engineering, so for me this was much more of a design and project management exercise than a hands on sculptural one.

I am proud of what we created and like seeing people getting their photos with it.

Ho w has your s t y l e c h a n g e d ov e r t h e ye a r s ?

The Elements exhibitions have been fun and started out with an intention to find top quality local artists working in different disciplines. They have always been great exhibitions and well received by locals and visitors. I’m going to have a rest from that for now, but you never know what the future holds.

Style used to be something I worried about when I was a lot younger; ’trying’ to develop a style always ends up in creating work that is contrived. It’s best to just let it evolve on its own. I just make things that I think are beautiful. I used to draw every day and now I no longer do that. Instead, my sculptures are like 3-dimensional drawings. The pieces of steel that I use are like different gestural marks, and I often spend a long time finding the piece that feels right.

C a n we e xp e c t to se e a no the r c o l la b o ra tive Elements e xhib itio n in the ne a r fu tu re ?

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

You can find me on Instagram and Facebook as Esperance Sculpture Works. My wife hates that I don’t use my name, but I prefer to be incognito. I’m not trying to be famous. I want to be a best kept secret.

Read our full Q&A with Jason at www.esperancetide.com.

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A R T S & CU L T U RE

Straight Outta Wilurarra More than 1000 kilometres north of Kalgoorlie, accessible only by unsealed dirt roads, is a unique creative program alive with people and ideas. Wilurarra Creative, based in Mirlirrtjarra (Warburton), is described as a community hub and an incubator. Spanning music, fashion, design, writing and photography, the diverse space provides a range of activities and programs for people aged 17 - 30 living in remote communities. According to Wilurarra Creative, it excels where other projects struggle, “consistently engaging people in meaningful projects and providing real pathways to new opportunities through community building, learning, mentoring and employment.” Coinciding with NAIDOC Week celebrations, Straight Outta Wilurarra, an exhibition by Wilurarra Creative on the culture, style and unique voices of the Western Desert people, will open at the Cannery Arts Centre on July 6.

Straight Outta Wilurarra comes to Esperance after a stint at the Fremantle Arts Centre’s 2021 Revealed exhibition.

It recreates the Wilurarra Creative hub, complete with photographic studio, selfie booth, artworks and even a hair salon. The exhibition promises to capture the excitement

of the exploration and expression of personal and collective identity that comes out of the 16-year-old creative space on Ngaanyatjarra Lands. For sale at the exhibition will be Alanya, the second edition of Wilurarra Creative’s Keisha West by Angelica McLean. own magazine.

Credit: Wilurarra Creative Ngaanyatjarra slang for ‘looking good,’ Alanya captures the vibrant living creativity of the Ngaanyatjarra communities. Within its pages are the stories, both written and visual, of young people living in Warburton, and reflects their own trends through design, photography and fashion. Wilurarra Creative describe the magazine as a publication for everyone, “whether you can see all your families in [its] pages, or you’ve never been to a remote desert community before.”

EXHIB IT IO N IN FO Straight Outta Wilurarra is a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the energy and vibrancy of the remote Wilurarra Creative. The exhibition runs until August 6.

Joyful. Crazy. Fun! Enjoy onstage or in audience (you choose!)

ESPERANCE CIVIC CENTRE PRESENTS

SAT JULY 17

esperance.wa.gov.au/ Ages 15+ |Tickets $22-30 | Shire Admin| Esperance Library | Visitor Centre | www. upcoming-civic-centre-events

WASO’s Southern Symphony Tour Beloved classics with Asher Fisch and Grace Clifford

1 9 / E S P E R A N C E T I D E / J U LY 2 0 2 1

IMA G INI N G T H E F U T U RE

What’s Your 2040?

Have you ever thought about what Esperance might look like in 2040? As part of Readers and Writers Esperance, the Esperance Climate Action Group hosted a creative writing competition called ‘What’s Your 2040?’ Based on the documentary 2040, which looks at the innovative ways that the world is becoming more sustainable, the creative writing competition challenged people to express their vision of what Esperance might look like in 2040. ‘What’s Your 2040?’ was judged by visiting author Yann Toussaint.

The winning entry, written by Jasmin Daniels, was a story about Nate (AKA ‘Mother Nature’), who is able to take a day off because of the work that locals are doing to make Esperance a greener place. Kayelene Watts and Sue Starr also won prizes for their entries.

Here are some excerpts from the wonderful entries of ‘What’s Your 2040?’

Eco tourism will add value to our region, with visitors inspired to implement ecological and ethical changes into their own lifestyle. For example, walking, cycling and sailing tours will be popular. Eco volunteering, such as citizen science projects, will become commonplace.

Housing will be affordable with more land made available in regional towns. 3D printing of homes will reduce new housing costs. Houses will be energy efficient and will utilise passive solar principles. For example, residential blocks will be surveyed to allow north facing windows to the living rooms to let in winter sunshine. All homes will have rainwater tanks. Care for people and the planet is integral to living in Esperance. That’s my 2040!

In my 2040 everybody rides their bikes through trees that haven’t been burnt by bushfires. We ride because it’s safe and feels good, on a network of paths that can get you anywhere. I hope they can drink fresh water from the ground and from the sky and use it well, not just flush it out to sea. In 2040 my kids will value water, save it and protect it from pollution. I hope they don’t own a car like mine or buy drinks packed in plastic. In my 2040 my kids ride their hoverboards around and only take our electric car if it’s too wet to ride.

Walking down the steps from the hotel, Nate looked at the ocean. The beaches of this town were breathtaking with their white sand and crystal clear water. Nate heads for town enjoying the sea breeze and the display of gazebos. Colourful water tanks display the work of local artists, which he is sure supply water to keep the foreshore lush and green. People were walking the street and even though it was a weekend, only two parked cars could be seen. Cars were saved for rainy days, people preferring to walk to collect the things they needed or to get them delivered at the end of the day. There was an old couple at the counter of a local grower who could be seen trading some of their produce. It was a good system for the town with so many people now having the time for gardening.

- J AY M E B E R G M A N

- JASMIN DANIELS

- JENNY MORCOMBE

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I can see a 2040 where the world has healed We’ve transitioned to a better future, the alternative’s been repealed Compost available for gardens as nutrition for the Earth From food scraps and garden waste collected from the verge Our veggies bought straight off the shelf grown organically No horrendous plastic covering them just like it used to be A shop with bulk food for us to buy just as we require Cheap fast clothes made overseas no longer are desired No longer mountains of stuff that’s bought, there’s reusing and repair The remaining landfill sites using power from methane there So when 2040 comes around this is what I’d like to see Maybe not here to witness but caring is the legacy I’ll leave

In a future world that I see, Butterflies are twisting, twirling all around me.

Orangutans thriving in the rainforests overseas, At night possums are hanging in the trees.

The ocean is healthy, Blue as a sapphire.

Underwater populations grow, The fish swim to and fro, Eating seaweed salad.

The sun is shining down, quite bright, Solar panels are collecting the light.

Wind turbines up on the hill, Making electricity.

- LUCY PEARN (AGE 9)

Bill hadn’t been to Esperance since he lived here as a child. Now in 2040, at the fine age of 60, he was revisiting his childhood memories.

The bus glided to a halt by the bustling skatepark. They filed off one by one whilst the driver plugged the vehicle in. The bicycle tour started slowly, taking in the graceful whale tail of wood and glass pushing out through the pavement. They came to the jetty, youngsters dropped their bikes and ran off to the water reserve, famous for its population of leafy sea dragons and boardwalk aquarium. Lunch was sat atop Observatory Point. The wind turned the powerful turbines energising the town and filling the batteries for the night. The turbines were new, but Bill remembered how proud people were of WA’s first wind farm all those years ago.

- LOUISE PEARN

- S U E S TA R R

When my family come to visit, I’m proud of our beaches. I want the kids to grow up with memories of enjoying our beaches. I don’t want my nieces and nephews to think of rubbish at our beaches. I want them to go fishing and swimming in clean ocean. In summer my friends and I always walk on the foreshore, and I sunbake. In winter I love looking at stars and the moon at Blue Haven and Salmon Beach. Lucky Bay is my favourite because the sand is hard and white, and I can use my wheelchair easily. In 2040 I will have a new wheelchair that can go on every beach. All of Esperance can keep them clean for everyone.

- K AY E L E N E WAT T S , P R I Z E W I N N E R

COMING SOON!

/fenwick.cinemas @fenwick3cinemas

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

Dempster St, Esperance

PLEASE NOTE LIMITED SEATING - ADVANCED TICKET PURCHASES ADVISED 2 1 / E S P E R A N C E T I D E / J U LY 2 0 2 1

COMING SOON!

Gibson Football Club

Esperance Football Club in 1965

Ports Football Club’s inaugural team

5 MINUTE HIS TOR Y

Australian Rules Football in Esperance

BY KARLI FLORISSON

Football in Esperance has a long history, with our first football club formed in May 1897. During a meeting at the Grace Darling Hotel, committee members were elected and the club was named Esperance Football Club. The group decided that the club colours would be blue and white, and membership would cost two shillings and sixpence.

Later that year, another team was formed, the ‘Royals’, and competition between the teams began. A third team, the ‘Pirates’, was added and then in June, the Esperance Football Association was formed after a meeting at the Esperance Hotel. Many spirited games took place, delighting the local crowd. Occasionally players wouldn’t be able to play if there was a steamship that needed to be unloaded. This all took place during the population boom in Esperance that followed the gold rush in Kalgoorlie and sadly, as the town’s population declined in the following years, the fledgling football association dwindled away.

The next era of footy in Esperance started when settlement in the Mallee area took off. Most of the little towns that sprang up in the Mallee formed football clubs and in 1925, the Mallee Football Association was formed. Sometimes the teams from the Mallee would come to Esperance to play a game against local players.

One Esperance team that took on the Mallee was called the Seaweeds. Teams in the Mallee Association included Salmon Gums, Scaddan, Grass Patch, Norseman, Dowak, Red Lake and Circle Valley. The players were transported in the back of stock trucks over miles of unsealed roads to get to the games, and the play often took place on very rough fields. Sometimes the teams travelled as far as Ravensthorpe to compete.

The football games were often big social occasions in the Mallee area and were sometimes accompanied by dances in the evenings.

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From the 1930s, teams from Esperance would often join the Mallee competition. In 1956, the Esperance District Football Association (EDFA) was formed, although to begin with, it was the Esperance-Mallee Football Association. The first president of the association was AJ ‘Moggy’ Bow, who served as President of the EDFA for over 40 years. Moggy was an umpire, but he also supported local teams in other ways, such as donating trophies and loaning his truck to transport players to the games. Moggy was also the President of the Esperance Football Club (the Bulldogs) for 35 years. Many of Moggy’s family members were also great supporters of Esperance football, including grandson Michael ‘Pancho’ Harding who has served as the President of the Esperance Football Club for many years. Esperance Football Club was the first club to have a dedicated clubhouse, built by Herb Hansen in the 1960s.

The Gibson Football Club was formed when a group of surveyors working in the area gathered at the Gibson Soak Hotel in the evenings. Moggy Bow, visiting the hotel with other businessmen, suggested that there were enough men to start a team, and the Gibson Football Club was formed in 1956. Moggy also donated the football gear and jumpers for the team. Their first clubhouse was a tea tree shed with a wood copper to boil water for cups of tea on land to the north of the hotel, with players showering in one shower at the hotel.

The Gibson Football Club won the Premiership in their first year. In 1963, the Gibson Tigers moved to their current oval, and proper clubrooms were built in 1975.

The Ports Football Club was formed in 1965 after an increase in Esperance’s population meant that the Esperance Club had a surplus of players. The club was named after the port, which had just been built. In 1980, the ‘Mighty Blues’ two-story clubrooms were built, with all work done by volunteers, under the supervision of builder Steve Basic.

The Newtown Football Club was formed in 1958 and named after the area of town known as Newtown, which is now Castletown. The ‘Demons’ moved into the visitor’s change rooms at the Esperance Oval, an old tin shed

where the hot water for the showers was heated by a fire in an old 44-gallon drum. When the club moved to their current location, the site was a deep valley surrounded by high sandhills and a great deal of clearing, filling and shaping was required to create the Newtown Oval.

The Condingup Football Club was formed in 1983, when some players who lived in the Condingup/Beaumont area got together to discuss starting a football club. More than 40 players turned up for the club’s first scratch match. An old shearers’ quarters was donated, and this became the ‘Cougars’ clubhouse. In the early 2000s, with many smaller farms amalgamating, and the agroforestry industry taking over other farms in the area, the population in the area decreased. With the club facing closure, and the Newtown Football Club also struggling for numbers, the two clubs decided to amalgamate in 2006, forming the Newtown-Condingup Football Club, or the Lions.

The Esperance District Football Association (or South East Football League, as it was known for a time) has included other teams at certain times. Ravensthorpe joined the Esperance League in 1965, until the Ravensthorpe and Districts Football Association was formed in 1968. The Norseman Football Club, or the ‘Vikings’, joined the EDFA in 1983 for a time. The Munglinup Football Club was also part of the EDFA from 1983 until 1987, before they transferred to the Ravensthorpe Association. Players from Esperance have gone on to great success in the WAFL and in the AFL, including Alan Johnson (Melbourne), Quinten Lynch (West Coast Eagles), Murray Rance, (Footscray and the West Coast Eagles, including a stint as the West Coast captain), and Brayden Ainsworth, who made his debut with the West Coast Eagles in 2018. In 2019, a local women’s football competition was established, with two teams participating, Esperance and Ports. In 2021, Gibson and Newtown-Condingup followed suit.

Thanks to the Esperance District Football Association and the Esperance Museum for information and photographs.

Esperance distillery co Australia’s smallest distillery producing gin from native botanicals within the Esperance region.

www.esperancedistilleryco.com @esperancedistilleryco Check our website for opening hours.

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TIDE GUIDE

Winter in Esperance

BY KARLI FLORISSON

Winter in Esperance sees us swapping out our bathers and thongs for trackies and Ugg boots, and building sandcastles in the sun for watching the rain through our windows. But winter doesn’t have to be miserable.

In fact, we think winter is a wonderful season here in Esperance. There are crisp, clear days for beach walking and cosy evenings by the fire, everything is green and growing, and it’s the optimum time for whale watching. While you might have to rug up, it’s a great time of year to get out and experience a different side to Esperance. We thought we’d share a few winter activity ideas to keep you both warm and entertained throughout the colder months.

Look out for whales

PHOTOGRAPHY CREDIT: LUCY VINCENT

Throughout the winter, Humpback and Southern Right Whales can be seen as they migrate along the Esperance coastline on their way to the warmer breeding grounds off the northern coast of WA. You can whale watch all along our coastline, even in the Esperance Bay, but there are some areas where they are more commonly sighted. Cape Le Grand is a popular spot for the whales to rest on their way through the region, as is Wylie Bay, and some areas further out, such as the beaches in the Cape Arid National Park. To make sure you don’t miss out, join the Whale, Dolphin and Shark Sightings group on Facebook, where avid whale watchers regularly post the latest local sightings.

Take a winter drive There are some beautiful places to visit within a short drive of town. Helms Arboretum is stunning year-round, and you can check out the gorgeous trees from the warmth and comfort of your car. While you are out that way, take the kids to the Bird and Animal Park, then have a hearty lunch at the cosy Gibson Soak Hotel. Or head to Condingup to check out the views at Wharton Beach, drop into Condy Vineyard (don’t forget to phone ahead – they’re open by appointment only) and then finish off with a meal and glass of red by the fireplace at the Condy Tavern. If you’re in the mood for something a little closer to town, we never get sick of driving along the Great Ocean Drive.

Swing by Bob & Jim’s for a few gourmet snacks, then pop on your favourite playlist and away you go.

Refresh your winter wardrobe As the saying goes, there is no bad weather, only inappropriate clothing. If the cold has got you down, try revamping your wardrobe with something warm and woolly. Treat yourself to a snugg pair of Ugg boots from White Sands Gallery. Peruse the op shops for woolly knit jumpers. Invest in a classic coat from Woven. Keep your head feeling toasty with a beanie in your favourite team’s colours. You can even DIY something to keep you warm, like a chunky scarf in this season’s neutral hues, and you’ll be toasty all winter long.

Purchase a fire pit There’s something magical about an open fire on a cold winter’s day. A fire pit in your own backyard is a great way to experience camping without having to leave home.

Gather your friends and family, and sit around toasting marshmallows while watching the stars fly up to the sky.

Both Bunnings and Barbeques Galore have a range of fire pits and braziers for sale, or if your budget extends a bit further, you can have one custom made featuring your favourite motif. There are plenty of options for DIY firepits as well, like the drum of an old washing machine.

And don’t forget that you can buy firewood from the local Royal Flying Doctor Auxiliary, so you can support a good cause and keep warm at the same time.

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Host a long winter lunch Winter is the perfect time for long lunches with good friends and hearty food. Dust the cobwebs off your slow cooker and cook a tasty winter stew to pair with freshly baked Bread Local sourdough. Grab some cheese from The Deli King for an antipasto platter, use your best tableware, and make some mulled wine.

To get the conversation going in different directions, use conversation cards to ask your friends a few curly questions. If you don’t feel like hosting, have a long, lazy lunch at one of our cosy local cafes, and you’ll be supporting a local business, too!

Support winter sports It might be cold out, but winter sports are in full swing! Rug up in your warmest winter gear and cheer on your friends who are playing footy, hockey, netball or soccer. Take a thermos of hot chocolate and an umbrella in case of rain! After the match, celebrate the wins (or commiserate the losses) with a woodfired pizza and a beer at Lucky Bay Brewing.

Pamper yourself This is the perfect season to give yourself some TLC. Grab a bath bomb and soak away the winter blues in a warm tub. Book yourself in for a manicure or a facial at B Naturally You. Or just get yourself a good exfoliator and moisturiser to keep your skin glowing and fresh all through winter. Then put your feet up with a good book from The Book Box and a block of chocolate. Tis the season to relax!

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 2 5 / E S P E R A N C E T I D E / J U LY 2 0 2 1

HIDDEN HEROES Lyn Ling Lyn Ling doesn’t consider herself to be a hero. She’s just someone who loves gardening and loves making other people smile. But there’s no doubt that Lyn’s gardening and her caring nature have impacted many people’s lives. Lyn is well known around town for her beautiful and creative Helms Gardens. Lyn, along with a group of volunteers, has held an annual open garden day at Helms Gardens for nine years running, to raise money for the Royal Flying Doctor Service. Each year, the day has become more festive, with a fashion parade and various stalls recently added.

“Last year, we raised $11,400 for the Flying Doctor in one day at the garden,” says Lyn. She’s quick to point out that there are many people involved in making the day happen, from people who volunteer to help with the garden, through to craftspeople who make goods to sell or raffle.

Lyn worked for Esperance Home Care for many years. “It’s a wonderful place to work,” Lyn says. “It really made me realise the importance of caring for other people.” Lyn took every opportunity to get her Home Care clients out into the garden. As Lyn states, a garden is a wonderful way of getting people to remember things, particularly clients with dementia. “Many of the clients were gardeners themselves, and getting them into the garden was always very rewarding,” she says. “The smell of things in the garden, or the feel of things would often help to bring back memories and experiences to them.”

Now that she has retired, Lyn plans to spend more time helping out, especially by raising funds for the Flying Doctor. “The Flying Doctor is a cause that is close to

Lyn gardening at her home, also known as Helms Gardens

my heart,” she says. “I’ve had some friends and family who were saved by the Flying Doctor Service.” And of course, she’s going to spend more time in her beloved garden, which is truly a work of art. Lyn calls the garden a “sharing garden,” with cuttings, plants and other features in the garden coming from friends or people that she’s known over the years. Lyn is glad she can use her passion for gardening for a good cause, and planning is already underway for this year’s Open Garden. “Last year’s theme for the open day at the garden was recycling,” Lyn says.

“This year, it’s going to be all about children, and we hope to see lots of children come along dressed up as fairies or gnomes.” The fashion parade will be on again, and the garden will be full of quirky and interesting details as usual.

As well as raising money, Lyn hopes that the Open Garden will encourage more people to get involved in the work that the Royal Flying Doctor Service does. “Get involved,” Lyn says. “It puts a smile on your face to be able to help.

You get so much satisfaction from helping others out.”

Lyn’s Helms Garden Open Day will be held on October 24.

Do you know a H id d e n H e ro ?

The Esperance community is filled with people who do amazing things. It's time to honour our Hidden Heroes, those people serving behind the scenes, selfless and generous with their time and talents. To nominate someone you know, please email Jennifer.Obourne@esperance.wa.gov.au

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BUSH BANTER

k r a P ar C p m a R at o B e th i

at

Fr no M at pm m S 3 - 2p am m0 a 8.3 9

BY THE JETTY COMING SOON! Escape the wind and join us for an informative and ‘hands on’ farming adventure.

Half Day Tours of Oake Marsh Farm, or full day tours which also include visits to Stonehenge, Yirri Grove and Esperance Distillery Co. Visit our website esperancefarmexperience.com to find out more and book your ‘must do’ Esperance Escapade.

Granite Forbland, Quaranup, Albany

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T h e Ma gic of Makuru Seasonal change is a wonderful thing. More and more, there’s an understanding that the European concept of four seasons isn’t really accurate or reflective of what we experience across the south coast. For example, the beginning of winter looks wildly different to the end. Following the six seasons of the Nyungar calendar gives much more information on how nature is likely to play through seasonal change. Currently in ‘Makuru’, the bush is, as always, extremely busy. The plants are harvesting and storing the precious resource that limits them so much the rest of the year: water. Growing, healing, softening, budding and preparing to flower. It’s a wonderful time to plant natives in your own garden, so they have time to root firmly in the ground and recover from transplant shock before the drier months come.

If you keep an eye out in town, there’ll be plenty of revegetation along our beaches happening too! It’s also the best time of year to pull your macro lens out, as the bush becomes alive with lichen, moss and fungi. A few of the Makuru flowers to find in the Esperance bush are the Helmet Orchids (Coryba sp.), Old Man’s Beard (Clematis sp.) or Limestone Pomaderris (Pomaderris myrtilloides).

And of course, if you do don your wellies, don’t forget to grab your Dieback (Phytophthora cinnamomi) Hygiene Kit to keep your shoes disease and mud free, being the greatest threat to the bush at this time of year!

HELP CLOSE THE GAP The gap between Aboriginal and other Australian school students is immense. Research shows Aboriginal students flourish best with Aboriginal teachers. You help make that happen. Support the Kate Mullin Scholarship Program which helps Aboriginal people from regional or remote WA become teachers.

For more information about the Program please join us for an evening at the Esperance Bay Yacht Club, from 6-8pm on Saturday the 31st of July, where Esperance woman Sarah Callow will talk about her experiences with the Scholarship. Or visit

www.katemullinassociation.org

PRESALE $12.50+BF OR $15 ON THE DOOR TICKETS KYZAPRESENTS.COM

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

2 7 / E S P E R A N C E T I D E / J U LY 2 0 2 1

CANC E R

JU N 2 1 - J U L 2 2

Life is feeling chaotic right now and that’s no surprise. You’re being pulled from pillar to post between work, friends and family. All you want is a bit of routine, but that feels like an almost impossible ask at the moment. Write yourself a schedule and if someone wants your time or attention, they’ll need to fit in around you. It might feel selfish to begin, but it’s imperative you put yourself first if you want to reintroduce order into your life.

LEO

JUL 2 3 - A U G 2 2

You’ll be more indecisive than usual this month. There are several exciting prospects coming your way, but you can’t have it all. Who do you trust to help you make important decisions about your life? Think about this now so that when the time comes, you know who to call on.

Think outside the square. It mightn’t be your significant other or you mum, but a work colleague or a gym buddy. You’ll make the right decisions, so long as you have the right support.

VI R G O

AUG 23 - SEP 22

S C ORP IO

O C T 23 - N O V 21

The weather has you wanting to curl up with a hot choccy and good podcast, but your friends are ready to party.

Don’t knock back too many invites this month. It might be cold outside, but this isn’t an excuse to go into hibernation. Your zest for life depends on variety. If your uggies are fused to your feet, invite some friends over for a movie night so you can be both a sloth and a social butterfly at the same time.

SAGITTARIUS

A RIES

NOV 22 - DEC 21

Someone unexpected will challenge your beliefs this month. It will come out of nowhere, but don’t let your surprise silence you. Speak up as quickly and as directly as you can rather than beating around the bush. With a careful choice of words, you may sway their opinion.

On the flipside, this person could be right, and you might find you’re the one changing your mind. Be open to new and different points of view – if you’re not, how else will you grow?

C AP RIC ORN

DEC 22 - J AN 20

There’s a saying that fake friends are like shadows – they follow you in the sun but leave you in the dark. This saying will ring true to you over the next few weeks, when you realise that someone you’ve held dear has another side to them. Surround yourself with people that you know are genuine; people that have been with you through all your ups and downs. Don’t waste your time with those who only want to be around you when the sun is shining.

L I BR A

AQ UARIU S

Generosity abounds this month, but whether you will be the one to give or to receive remains to be seen. It’s better to give than receive, so be on the front foot with your friends and family. Surprise someone with a delivery from Dinner Twist, or a spa date at B Naturally You. If you’re strapped for cash, a homemade cake or handmade floral arrangement is just as thoughtful.

Then sit back as you watch them pay it back or, better yet, pay it forward.

TA U RU S

APR 20 - M AY 20

If you’ve been procrastinating more than usual lately, ask yourself why. You might be in a creative rut, or the cold weather might have you feeling lazy. Either way, you need to snap out of it this month.

It’s simple – work hard now and enjoy the rewards later. Treat yourself to something small for every box you tick, like a slice of cake from Break Away or a cocktail at the Goose, and you’ll be amazed at how quickly you get things done.

G EMI NI

M AY 21 - J U N 2 0

Health is front of mind this month. With

JAN 20 - FEB 1 7 flu season upon us, it’s important you

You are full of ambition this month and if your current work or home life stifles this, you’re going to become increasingly frustrated. Look for ways to change things up and use this boost of motivation to advance yourself. Life has been a little ho-hum lately, so no doubt you’ll jump at the opportunity to exert some energy. Just be careful not to bite off more than you can chew – you’ll only burnout and find yourself back at square one.

Phone (08) 9071 0500

MAR 20 - AP R IL 19

It’s no secret that you love a good party, but your social calendar is looking a little sad over the winter months. If this is making you feel flat, you’re probably not alone. Why not plan something for your friends and family to help shake off those winter blues? Grab a keg from the brewery, order a couple of Riccardo’s pizzas, pop on a playlist and you’ve got yourself a party. Bringing people together will re-energise you, so get planning!

take extra care to stay fit and healthy.

Wet and wild weather is no excuse to skip the gym and order Dominos instead.

Getting your activewear on is going to take extra determination throughout July, but you’ll feel so much better for it when you do. Pull the slow cooker out and throw on a veg-packed soup before work. This will make maintaining your health that little bit easier.

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

FEB 1 8 - M AR 19

Things quieten down this month and now is the perfect time to get your life in order. Get to work on a task you’ve been putting off or go back to a project you left behind months ago. Winter is great for taking life a little slower, but that doesn’t mean everything should come to a standstill. If you find yourself with extra time up your sleeve, make the most of it. Remind yourself daily, there is no time like the present!

You’ve been very strict on yourself lately and although your self-discipline is admirable, you need to take a break from competing with yourself every now and then. You place quite unreasonable expectations upon yourself, and those expectations sit on your shoulders 24/7.

It’s likely you’ve forgotten how to relax, so retrain yourself to do just that this month. Allow yourself an hour or two to do something mindless, like whale watching, wandering through the museum, or reading the Tide cover to cover.

SE P 2 3 - O CT 2 2

PI SCES

Email enquiries@freightlinesgroup.com.au

www.freightlinesgroup.com.au 2 8 / E S P E R A N C E T I D E / J U LY 2 0 2 1

T ID E KI T CH E N

Roast Pumpkin with Tomato & Fennel Sauce A rich and hearty winter warmer, ready in 40 minutes. Serves two as a meal, or four as a side.

Ingredients Half a butternut pumpkin sliced into 3cm slices, skin on 1 brown onion, sliced 2 garlic cloves, crushed 3 tsp fennel seeds 3 tsp brown sugar 750mL jar passata Handful basil leaves, finely chopped 400g tin brown lentils, drained and rinsed Garnish Capers Botanical Cuisine Persian Style Macadamia Feta Toasted almonds, chopped Torn basil leaves

T IDE P IC K Botanical Cuisine Persian Style Macadamia Feta is available from Bob & Jim’s General Store. Use regular Persian feta, or even goat cheese, if you prefer.

Method 1. Generously oil and season the pumpkin then roast in a 200C oven for 40 minutes, or until soft and golden.

4. Just prior to serving, lightly season the lentils and gently heat, either in a saucepan on the stove or in the microwave.

2. While the pumpkin is roasting, prepare the tomato and fennel sauce. Place the onion, garlic, fennel seeds and brown sugar in a large, well-oiled frying pan over medium heat. Cook, stirring frequently, for about 10 minutes, or until the onions begin to caramelise. Be patient!

5. To serve, pour the tomato and fennel sauce over a warm serving platter and scatter the lentils on top. Arrange the roast pumpkin to your liking over the lentils and top with a generous helping of capers, macadamia feta, toasted almonds and basil.

3. Stir in the passata and basil leaves and bring to a simmer.

Reduce the heat to low and simmer for five minutes. Season to taste.

6. Serve with crusty sourdough, to mop up any leftover sauce.

Tip: Thyme also works fabulously in place of the basil.

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2 9 / E S P E R A N C E T I D E / J U LY 2 0 2 1

SH ORT & SWEET: LAS T M ONTH’S

News in Brief 01

03

02

04

Geoscience Australia reported an earthquake northwest of Esperance only to later discover the tremor was in fact an explosion. The 2.8 magnitude ‘earthquake’ was felt at 7:28am on June 26 and after some confusion, was found to have come from the film set of WWI drama Before Dawn, where explosion scenes were being filmed.

Horizon Power and Contract Power Australia announced that the Shark Lake Renewable Energy Project had reached a substantial milestone with the arrival of the new wind turbines from China into the Port of Esperance on June 25. Each blade of the turbines, destined for the Renewables Hub on Shark Lake Road, measures 74 metres long and weighs 25 tonnes.

Lucky Bay Brewing took home two major awards at the 2021 Perth Royal Beer Awards, one of which saw them named WA’s Champion Small Brewery. In addition to numerous medals for their beers, including gold for their Cyclops IPA, the local brewers also won the Trophy for Best Porter, for their popular Black Jack Pirate Porter.

RM Williams shot an upcoming promotional campaign in Esperance, using local farms, businesses and beaches as a backdrop. Almost 30 people travelled to Esperance from interstate for the fashion shoot, including five models.

The Esperance branch of the Veteran Car Club provided vintage vehicles for the three day photoshoot, locations for which included the Esperance Jetty and Fourth Beach.

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MP

Delivering for O’Connor Unit 11, 75-79 Dempster Street, Esperance WA 6450 9071 4846

rick.wilson.mp@aph.gov.au

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RickWilsonMP

Authorised by Rick Wilson MP, Liberal Party, Unit 11, 75-79 Dempster Street, Esperance WA 6450.

3 0 / E S P E R A N C E T I D E / J U LY 2 0 2 1

TRADES & SERVICES

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

PUBLIC NOTICES

FIREWOOD

KATE MULLIN ASSOCIATION INFORMATION EVENING

Dry split Tuart. Large 7x4 load. $120 delivered. 0429137371.

POSITIONS VACANT NOW HIRING Now hiring for the positions of Electorate Officer and Research Officer at the new Esperance office of Hon Shelley Payne MLC Member for the Agricultural Region.

Visit www.jobs.wa.gov.au for more information.

PUBLIC NOTICES 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 at the RAOB Hall on Williams Street (behind Bijou Theatre).

Dancing starts at 7.30pm.

Contact Daryl 0419 370 089.

Kate Mullin Association is holding an information evening at the Esperance Bay Yacht Club, from 6-8pm, on Saturday the 31st of July. Come along to hear about the Kate Mullin Scholarship Program, which is assisting Aboriginal people from regional or remote WA to study for a BEd and return to teach in schools with significant numbers of Aboriginal students. People involved in the scholarship program will speak at the information evening, and refreshments will be served.

Come along and find out how you can be involved.

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

New to business?

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

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

0429 996 577

www.southernsuspension4x4.com Mechanical & Electrical Repairs for 4WD’s, Cars & Camper Trailers Supplier of 4x4 Off Road & Travel Acessories 53 Norseman Rd, Esperance

Ph. 9072 0917

sales@southernsuspension.com

Visit the team instore at 61 Norseman Road, Esperance.

Phone Clarke & Stokes Agriservices on (08) 9071 1517

Council Connections Esperance Shire Reviews Wards In June, the Shire finalised reviewing the region’s wards and representation to ensure there was a similar ratio of Councillors to electors. Currently the Shire has two wards, with three Councillors representing the Rural Ward and six representing the Town Ward. During the April 2020 Ordinary Council Meeting, Council resolved to undertake the review and begin the process of community consultation. Council considered the feedback during the October 2020 Ordinary Council Meeting and resolved to: Adjust the electoral ward boundary to increase the size of the Town Ward and reduce the size of the Rural Ward, as well as adjust the number of Councillors representing the Rural Ward to two (from three) and the number of Councillors representing the Town Ward to seven (from six). The changes will be implemented at this year’s local government elections in October, during which, four positions on Council will be up for election in the Town Ward.

New Director External Services Appointed Holly Phillips was recently appointed as the Shire of Esperance’s new Director of External Services. Ms Phillips has over four years of experience working in local government and more than 10 years in private industry. The Director of External Services is responsible for the management of the Bay of Isles Leisure Centre, Esperance Airport, Esperance Public Library, Esperance Museum, Esperance Home Care, Volunteer Resource Centre, and Wylie Bay Management Waste Facility, as well as culture, seniors and disability, emergency services, rangers, planning, building, and health and environment. Ms Phillips said it was a privilege to be undertaking the role, and to work with Council, the Senior Leadership Team and staff to deliver on the Shire’s strategic goals. “I am passionate about delivering outcomes and I look forward to being a strong advocate for this thriving and welcoming community,” she said. Ms Phillips will her position commence in mid-August.

25/06

23/06

2021/22 Community Grants Awarded During the June Ordinary Council Meeting, Council approved a total of $325,724 in funding for the 2021/22 Community Grants Program, the highest amount that has ever been allocated. Funding was distributed through four grant categories with Council allotting the following: Support - $25,000 (for smaller applications that arise throughout the 2021/22 financial year); Assistance - nine applications approved to the value of $24,144; Development - eight applications approved to the value of $244,180; Events - seven applications approved to the value of $32,400. Submissions for grants in the Support Category for 2021/22 will be accepted from late July. Please visit the Shire’s website for more information on how to apply.

2021 NAIDOC Week Celebrations The Shire of Esperance and Esperance Tjaltjraak Native Title Aboriginal Corporation will celebrate the commencement of NAIDOC Week 2021 with an official opening ceremony in front of the flag poles at the Shire’s administration building. The event is open to all and will take place at 10am on Monday 5 July, after which participants are invited to join a procession down Andrew Street to the Whale Tail for more NAIDOC-themed activities and a free BBQ. Running from July 4-11, NAIDOC Week’s theme this year is ‘Heal Country, Heal our Nation,’ which focusses on embracing First Nations cultural knowledge and understanding of Country as part of Australia’s national heritage.

Upcoming Council Meetings /ShireOfEsperance

05/07

Agenda Briefing: 20 July 2021 at 1PM Ordinary Council Meeting: 27 July 2021 at 4PM @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

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06/06