Esperance Tide October 2022

We hope everyone had a ripper long weekend! The weather was all over the shop but there was still enough sunshine to throw on our Tide tees and catch some rays. It was great to see so many people out and about over the weekend, buzzing about the brewery, hanging out along the foreshore, and perusing the Museum Village Markets. We were stoked to see Açaí Buddies back at the markets because it means summer is just around the corner!

Can you believe it’s the 70th anniversary of the Esperance Show this month? We’re so keen to once again hit up Side Show Alley, check out the array of farm animals, and eat ourselves silly. There’s no bigger event on the Esperance calendar than the show and we know how overwhelming it can be, which is why we’ve compiled Your Ultimate Guide to the Esperance Show (p. 8). Have a read before heading to the Greater Sports Ground and you’ll be the most organised person there. Looking for the show’s history? We’ve got you covered there, too! Flick over to page 26 for the lowdown on local ag shows in years gone by.

This month, we jumped at the opportunity to hop aboard with Fly Esperance and try out their latest offering, a flying pub crawl (p. 4). This is one experience you cannot miss - whether you’re a local or a visitor, we highly recommend booking a ticket… ASAP. The tour takes you to the very best of Esperance’s watering holes. Your mode of transport? A plane! How fancy! Not only were we lucky enough to be flown from beer to beer, but we spotted some pretty amazing sights along the way, too, including whales!

We also caught up with Esperance treasure Dr Wally Byrne (p. 22). Dr Byrne recently retired at the age of 88, after practising medicine in Esperance for a whopping 42 years! He and his wife Anne have lived a life filled with adventure, meeting in Sydney and living in Vanuatu and England before moving to Esperance for three months in the 1980s. As we all know, those three months turned into more than three decades, but who could blame them? Esperance is a fab place to live, work, and play!

We hope you have a great month, filled with fairy floss, fireworks, and a few laps on the Apex train! If you see us at the show, come say hi. We’d love to see you! 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 4,000 people who pick up a copy every month.

Esperance Tide acknowledges the traditional owners and custodians of the land on which we work and play, the Kepa Kurl Wudjari people of the Nyungar nation and Ngadju people, and pay our respect to their Elders past, present and emerging.

CREATIVE DIRECTOR

Bronte Vincent bronte@esperancetide.com

TIDE

ABN

EDITORIAL

Hannah Siemer hannah@esperancetide.com

CONTRIBUTORS

FOLLOW US /esperancetide @esperancetide

Karli Florisson

Rosie Henderson

Lucy Vincent

WE ARE ONLINE esperancetide.com tideandco.com.au

Kyron Smithson Katie White

Q & A Rachel Vibart

PINTS

& Ricotta Cake

Tagged in Town

@glouise13

Just a little seagull living his (or possibly her) best life.

@ourfilmjournal Spring has sprung.

@rochellestudio #esperancetide

@tanyawatson_ Happy Esperance livin'!

@esperancefarmexperience

Egbert the lamb comes home to meet his favourite Jess dog.

@sonyahennessyphotography The cutest visitor just soaking up that spring goodness.

Flying from Pub to Pub

WORDS & PHOTOGRAPHY ROSIE HENDERSON

This adventure combines a few of our favourite things – flying, the Esperance landscape, and a few local watering holes. Today we’re embarking on Fly Esperance’s latest offering, the Flying Pub Crawl.

Ben, our pilot and tour guide for the day, picks us up from town in a luxurious Land Rover. We chat in excitement about the adventures ahead as he drives us out to the Myrup airstrip, where we’ll be starting our pub crawl from. Here, we meet the mighty 6-seater Cessna 206 that will be getting us around on this fine afternoon. She’s small, but considering there are seats for six, she’s surprisingly spacious and comfortable! Ben gives us our safety briefing and we strap on our bum bag life jackets before boarding the plane.

Taking off, we head east along the coast before ducking inland to touch down on a little airstrip near Condingup. On the trip out, aside from Ben pointing out landmarks and interesting facts, and a lot of ‘wows’ and ‘look at that!’ from us, we fly mostly in silence, completely absorbed in the scenery and gob smacked at the beauty of this coastline. We fly over Wylie Bay and Cape Le Grand, passing Frenchman Peak, before hitting Wharton Bay and the Duke. Heading inland to land at our first stop, we take in the tree plantations and paddocks full of cattle, sheep, and lambs. It’s a great time to experience the agriculture of the region.

After landing on a gravel airstrip in a paddock surrounded by cows and kangaroos, we’re picked up by Kevin Davey, owner of the Condingup Tavern, who ferries us straight to the bar. Here, we’re treated to cold beer and wine and a delicious feed of locally caught snapper, all enjoyed in the beer garden, right as the sun shows its face and sets a summer scene. After a couple of beverages and a good old chin wag, we’re dropped back to the paddock where the plane is waiting for us. It may sound like a risky combo – flying after a few beers! Luckily for us, we’ve got our faithful, fun, and sober pilot Ben leading the way. We’re all mates by this point, laughing and having a bloody good time as you should on a pub crawl.

Leaving Condingup, we take off and head west over farm land and flowering canola crops. The scene below looks like a painting. Next stop is the Esperance airport, where we jump in the Fly Esperance van, and head to the historic Gibson Soak Hotel for one off the wood. It’s mid arvo and a perfect time to be at the Gibbo. We sit out the back and enjoy a few beverages in the sunshine, before we head back to the airport and jump in the Cessna with Ben.

The final leg of the flight is unreal. We fly towards the ocean, hitting the coast out past 14 Mile Beach. With all eyes out the window, we spot a splash in the ocean below us, and it’s whales! Between July and October, Southern Right Whales swim along the Esperance coastline on their annual migration to warmer waters. We circle in the air, taking in the sight of the whales below. What a sight - the trip was made!

Heading back towards town, we follow the Great Ocean Road, over famous Twilight Beach and the many amazing spots this side of town. The light is sinking in the sky and the scene out our window is magical. We fly over the port and town, seeing Esperance from an entirely new angle, before landing back at Myrup. We disembark the plane right as the sun sets on what’s been a beautiful day. But that’s not quite the end of our pub crawl! It’s now off to Lucky Bay Brewing where we’re treated to a tasting paddle of Esperance’s only locally made beers, brewed from the finest of local grain. What a spot to top it all off! After some time spent here chatting with all of our new friends, we’re dropped home safely by the Fly Esperance team.

Within one afternoon, we experienced so many of Esperance’s greatest sights and spots, and we couldn’t recommend it enough. This tour is perfect for anyone who loves an airborne adventure and a bit of sightseeing, and it’s just all that much sweeter when accompanied with a few cold beverages at your favourite local spots!

Fly Esperance know what they’re doing and how to have a good time. Beginning as a satellite base of Goldfields Air Services in Kalgoorlie in 2017, they have expanded to offer a range of tours and flights that really showcase the stunning Esperance area to visitors and locals alike. Fly Esperance has a range of other scenic flights and tours on offer, including flights close to town, flights to the pink Lake Hillier, and 4x4 tours as well.

These tours are an amazing experience for anyone visiting town, or for yourself and your loved ones as a celebratory treat. We also couldn’t help but think there’d be a few farmers out there who’d love the combination of beer drinking and crop inspecting…

BOOK YOUR NEXT ADVENTURE

To check our Fly Esperance’s range of tours, head to www.flyesperance.com or call 1800 951 251.

Your Ultimate Guide to the Esperance Show

PHOTOGRAPHY ROSIE HENDERSON

One of the most exciting weekends in the Esperance calendar is just around the corner. This year is set to be bigger than ever, with the Esperance and Districts Agricultural Show celebrating its 70th anniversary! The first official Esperance Show was held in 1952, at Hancock’s Hall on Andrew Street. The event called a few spots home over the years, before eventually moving to its current location at the Greater Sports Ground.

The show is the biggest annual event held in Esperance, attracting around 12,000 visitors across its two days every year. That’s a lot of show-goers! This year sees an exciting itinerary of entertainment, activities, exhibitions, food, and fun on offer. So throw on some sunscreen, pack a water bottle, dig into that piggy bank, and head on down to the showgrounds early to make the most of all there is to experience. Overwhelmed? We’ve got you. Read on to find out what to see and where to find it.

Entertainment Hall

Always a highlight and a good spot to have a breather and be entertained.

There’ll be a mix of entertainment in various locations around the grounds over the two days, a lot of which you’ll find in the Entertainment Hall. However, keep an eye out for magician Vince of Pop Magic , who will be roaming the grounds pulling rabbits out of hats. And be sure to check out local band Grand Casual ripping it up in the Shearing Shed on Friday night.

• Kaleido Company ’s circus performances return with their impressive tricks and flips (you may also find them roaming outside).

• Chef Don Hancey , a highlight of last year’s show, will be taking the stage again, this year talking to local producers and using their products in his demonstrations. Make sure to pop past to try something yummy off the tasting plates that will be going around.

• Scitech , an all-time favourite for kids and adults alike, will be putting on science shows and an interactive display for all.

Sideshow Alley

All the bells and whistles of the show, including many of our favourites. We might bump into you on the bumper cars.

Trade Hall

A great area for escaping the sun (or wind!) and perusing local and visiting businesses. You may even find free wine tastings, pens, and stress balls in every shape, size and colour…

• Bubble and Squeak will be performing on Friday and Saturday, with several shows per day. This children’s performance act tells stories about how the ‘present’ is a gift.

• Aussie Eagle will be hanging out in the hall, so make sure to say hi and snap a photo with this crowd favourite.

• The Reptile Display will give young and old the rare opportunity to get up close and personal with some slithery mates. If you’re feeling brave, you’ll be able to give them a little pat!

• A Rotary simulator driving machine will be in the hall, too.

Exhibition Pavilion

A classic spot for young and old, with an array of skills and talents on display, including beer brewing, cake making, flower picking, collecting, vegetable growing, photo taking, painting, knitting, lego… You name it, it’s probably there.

• Open 9am – 7:30pm both days

esperancedistilleryco.com Check our website for opening hours.

Launched in 2020, Esperance Distillery Co is a small-batch distillery created by a father and son team. By crafting spirits from native botanicals in a custombuilt copper still, Esperance Distillery Co offers a distinctively Western Australian twist on the classics.

Main Oval

A hub of activity where you’ll find all the classic Esperance Show events.

• The Fireworks Show at 8pm on Friday is a highlight of the show, best enjoyed with a beer in hand at the bar, or viewed from atop the hill.

• Beaut Ute Competition on Saturday

• Grand Parade on Saturday

• Equestrian events like camp drafting, show jumping, and hacking will be happening around the oval over both days.

Shearing Shed

A spot that always draws a crowd who watch in anticipation and wonder as these men and women show off their skills and athletic abilities on the shears.

• Shearing competitions run on Saturday

• This is also where you’ll find Grand Casual performing Friday night from 5:30pm – 7:30pm. Bring your boogie shoes and don’t miss it!

Food

This year we’re seeing some fresh flavours on the scene in addition to all of our local go-tos! You can find these guys, and many others, around the Ports Footy Club.

• Smashed As Burger Co. with proper American-style burgers

• Bona Pizza with woodfired Italian goodness

• Tres Brasas with meaty Argentinian delights

• Casablanca Moroccan Cuisine with the tagines of your dreams

• Plus local favourites, including hot cinnamon donuts!

Bar

A favourite on the Friday afternoon and evening, as the sun sets and the thirst kicks in. A great spot for all those who’ve had a big day on the job or having fun around the fields, and a perfect area to take in the Friday night fireworks display!

Turn over for a map of the showgrounds

THE NITTY GRITTY

The Esperance Show will be held at the Great Sports Ground on October 14 and 15. Tickets are available at the gate - adults $20, pensioners $8, and students up to 16-years $5. Shoutout to Southern Ports for subsidising the children’s entry fees. Memberships are still available and offer a discounted entry rate and parking on the grounds. For further information, visit www.esperanceshow.com.au .

Council Connections

Community Consultation Outcomes – Holiday Houses

Council have received the Consultation Outcomes Report, compiling all feedback from the recent community consultation on holiday houses in Esperance, and requested that the CEO prepare a report on priority changes to the current regulatory regime. The Consultation Outcomes Report, available on the Shire website, found mixed levels of support for increased regulation of holiday houses in Esperance. Among other findings, the strongest level of support was for stronger sector governance, which was broadly supported across all stakeholder groups. The report on priority changes is expected to be complete and considered by Council by the end of 2022.

Citizen of the Year

Nominations for the Community Citizen of the Year Awards are open. These awards profile leading local citizens who inspire us with their achievements and challenge us to make our own contribution to create a better community. Outstanding contribution and community service include areas such as education, health, fundraising, charitable and voluntary services, business, sport, arts, the environment, social inclusion, or any other area that contributes to the advancement and wellbeing of a community. Regard is given to the nominee’s achievements in the year immediately prior to the receipt of the awards, as well as their past achievements and ongoing contribution to their community. Further information and nomination forms can be found on the Shire website at esperance.wa.gov.au/community-citizen-year-0.

Nominate a Sporting Legend!

All our sports players are legends, but who will be the most legendary in 2022? Give your favourite local sporting hero ultimate bragging rights - nominate them for the Sports Star of the Year Award! Categories are Sports Team, Volunteer Service, Junior, Veteran, and the top dog, Overall Sports Star. Find the nomination package on the Shire website at esperance.wa.gov.au/club-development, or email clubs@esperance.wa.gov.au.

Cemetery Busy Bee

The community is invited to get involved in a Cemetery Busy Bee on Saturday 22 October at 10am. Collection of litter, stray plastic flowers, and some maintenance is scheduled for the day. The Shire will provide gloves, rubbish bags and other working equipment, and a sausage sizzle will be courtesy of the Rotary Club of Esperance Bay. All you need to bring is a water bottle, sun protection and your own chair – we’ll see you there!

Don’t forget to visit the Shire stall at the 70th Esperance Agricultural Show!

Celebrating Our Differences

KARLI FLORISSON

Maddison Lister always wanted to write a children’s book. Inspiration came when she had a career change, and began working with children with complex medical needs. The children she met at Perth Children’s Hospital were amazing, and along with their various medical needs and disabilities, Maddison got to know their amazing qualities, interests, and talents. This year, the book that she says has lived in her head for a long time, is now a reality. Released in August, I Am Unique, I Am Me! celebrates all the beautiful differences that make us who we are.

Maddison grew up in Esperance, and says the town will always be her home. She loves the tight knit community, and the sense of acceptance and belonging that she finds here. Maddison trained as a dermal therapist, and started her career as a beauty therapist with B Naturally You. After her career change, she got to know a little boy who required a trachea and an oxygen tank, and his sister. The warmth and affection in Maddison’s voice is unmistakable as she speaks about this family, who she worked with for a long time. The two children became the inspiration for her book’s main characters, Lola and Theo, who have complex medical needs.

I Am Unique, I Am Me! is a bright and cheerful book that features a range of children who have different medical conditions and disabilities, highlighting the talents and abilities they have that make them unique. Maddison’s characters include a girl who is deaf, a boy in a wheelchair, and a boy with autism, all of whom have wonderful abilities and great adventures. Maddison explains that although the manuscript for the book didn’t take long to write, the process of turning it into a book took about 18 months. She wanted to make sure that the book was diverse and inclusive, so she took her time to make sure she got it right. She especially wanted to make sure that a range of disabilities were accurately represented. The illustrations were drawn by Kim Griffin, an in-house illustrator working for her publisher, Shawline Publishing. Maddison gave Kim detailed instructions on how she wanted each of the characters to be represented, and she is thrilled with how the illustrations turned out. “Kim’s done an amazing job in capturing the characters,” Maddison says.

Becoming a mother also contributed to Maddison’s passion for this project. Her own daughter has a little unique feature of her own – she was born with an umbilical hernia. One of the characters in the book also has an umbilical hernia, and Maddison’s daughter loves seeing herself reflected in the pages of a book, especially as Kim was able to capture what she looks like in that character. “She loves reading ‘Mummy’s book’,” says Maddison with a laugh. “Although the novelty has worn off a little bit now. Sometimes when we’re choosing a book for bed, she’ll say, ‘Not mummy’s book!’”

Maddison is really pleased with the response to the book so far. Although the book hasn’t been out for long, she’s been able to get it into a few schools, libraries, and disability support centres, where the response has been very warm and heartfelt. She has also donated copies to some day care centres and to Perth Children’s Hospital, where the book’s journey really began. Although Maddison is no longer working in the disability support sector, the children she met during that time will always have a special place in her heart. She hopes that her book will contribute to opening up a conversation with children, and helping them to understand that, as she explains, “We’re all different, and that’s amazing.” Maddison thinks that the book will teach acceptance, and encourage children to ask questions and learn more about the different disabilities people live with. She also hopes that the book will allow a range of kids to see themselves represented. “If just one child can look at this book and relate to it, then I’ll be happy,” she says.

READ MADDISON’S BOOK

I Am Unique, I Am Me! is available at Dear Village in Museum Village, and the Esperance Public Library.

ENTERTAINMENT

Lifespan Quiz Night

SAT 8 OCT @ 7PM

ESPERANCE CIVIC CENTRE

$160 per table of 8 ($20pp) • trybooking.com

Brass Monkeys – Children are Stinky

WED 12 OCT @ 2PM

ESPERANCE CIVIC CENTRE

Tickets from $14 • The Shire website

LBB Quiz Night

THU 20 OCT @ 6PM

LUCKY BAY BREWING

Join in the fun and text your team to 0429 777 714.

Speakeasy

THU 29 OCT @ 7:30PM

ESPERANCE CIVIC CENTRE

Tickets from $28.50 • The Shire website

COMMUNITY

Mental Health Week Pop-Up Cafe

FRI 7 OCT @ 10AM

ESPERANCE MUSEUM ENTRANCE

Our monthly arts & culture guide brought to you by:

Campbell Garratt

SUN 2 OCT @ 3PM

LUCKY BAY BREWING

Mousey

FRI 7 OCT @ 5PM

LUCKY BAY BREWING

Helms Garden Open Day

SUN 9 OCT @ 9AM - 4PM

LOT 28 HELMS DRIVE, PINK LAKE

Tickets $5 at the gate, kids free

Garden talks, a fashion parade, food and drink, and so much more. All proceeds go to the Royal Flying Doctor Service.

Esperance & Districts Agricultural Show

OCT 14 & 15

GREATER SPORTS GROUND

Tickets from $5 at the gate

Celebrating its 70th anniversary, this year’s Esperance Show promises to be bigger and better than ever with activities, events and entertainment for young and old.

Dempster Homestead Open Garden

SUN 23 OCT @ 10AM - 3PM

DEMPSTER HOMESTEAD, 155 DEMPSTER STREET

Tickets $10 at the gate, under 18s free

A fundraiser for the Cannery Arts Centre, with refreshments for sale by the Condingup CWA and historic talks at 10:30am, 12:30pm and 2:30pm.

Josh Thomas and Ratty

SUN 9 OCT @ 3PM

LUCKY BAY BREWING

Rachel Vibart

FRI 14 OCT @ 5PM

LUCKY BAY BREWING

The Toni Childs Retrospective

FRI 14 OCT @ 7:30PM

ESPERANCE CIVIC CENTRE

Tickets from $65 • The Shire website

DJ FunKnight Live at 33 Degrees

FRI 14 OCT @ 9PM

33 DEGREES

Demos From Esperance Live Launch

SAT 15 OCT @ 5PM

ESPERANCE BAY YACHT CLUB

Tickets from $5.50+BF • kyzapresents.com

DJ FunKnight Live at The Pier Hotel

SAT 15 OCT @ 11:45PM

THE PIER HOTEL

DJ FunKnight Live at LBB

SUN 16 OCT @ 3PM

LUCKY BAY

Travis Aron

FRI 21 OCT @ 5PM

LUCKY BAY

Noah Young

FRI 28 OCT @ 5PM

LUCKY BAY

Open Mic

FRI 28 OCT @ 5:30PM

CANNERY ARTS

EXHIBITIONS

SUN 23 OCT

30 OCT

Living Reef Exhibition

ENDS OCT 9

CANNERY ARTS CENTRE

Open Borders: [IN]SITE

ENDS OCT 31

CANNERY ARTS CENTRE

An exploration of the burden and blessing of demarcation inspired by WA’s unique experience of containment during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Esperance Growers Market

OCT

Museum Village Markets

THE BRIDGE

If you’re looking for a jam-packed weekend then look no further than October 14 - 16. There is honestly enough musical goodness across these three days to fill an entire month. To begin, we have the Esperance Show on October 14 and 15. Busking returns on both days, featuring a great line-up of local talent. Head on over to the food court area and enjoy some delicious treats accompanied by casual acoustic tones. Busking at the Show has been an absolute hit over the past two years, with attendees and artists having a cracker of a time. Many thanks to the Esperance Show for its ongoing support.

On the Friday evening of the Esperance Show, Grand Casual takes to the stage from approximately 6pm. This will be the band’s first local performance in a good while so it’ll be beaut, with a few tasty new originals ready to be thrown into the mix. Many thanks to Kieran Doherty for jumping on the sound and lighting for this one.

I’m stoked to announce DJ FunKnight returns to Esperance to fire up across three electric gigs on that same weekend. Catch him on October 14 from 9pm at 33 Degrees, October 15 from 11.45pm in The Pier Nightclub, and October 16 at Lucky Bay Brewing from 3pm for a classic Sunday sesh. I'm interested to hear how these three shows play out - FunKnight no doubt greatly varies his set from

show to show to suit the venue and audience. Chad is one of the best DJs I’ve worked with, so treat yourself and head along to one or all of his performances.

To round out a ridiculous weekend of live music, make sure to head along to the Demos From Esperance Live Launch on Saturday 15 October at the Esperance Bay Yacht Club. Early in 2021, WAM headed to Esperance and the Ngaanyatjarra Lands to capture the sounds of both regions. The time has come to celebrate the Esperance leg of the project with a live launch supported by Regional Men’s Health and local business Wells Building and Construction. Many thanks also to the Goldfields Esperance Development Commission and Bijou Theatre for their support during the recording process. Esperance artists set to appear at the launch include The Arid Ones, Bodes, Car Park Social, Dave Simpson, Dr Tasty, Grand Casual, Manasseh Blues Band, John Ratcliff, and Rachel Vibart. Each artist will perform their album track, and a few original compositions. Tickets are $16.50+BF for adults and $5.50+BF for under 18s (all under 18s must be accompanied by a guardian). Grab your tickets from www.kyzapresents.com.

KYRON SMITHSON

Atheleen Thomas

Atheleen Thomas is a Nyungar woman from the Esperance/ Norseman area. When Atheleen was a child, she wanted to be a newspaper cartoonist and could often be found practising drawing characters from MAD comics. Today, Atheleen is an established local artist, creating vibrant paintings that blend traditional Aboriginal styles with contemporary techniques.

Who taught you to paint?

I have mainly taught myself to paint but my Aunty Norma Woods also mentored me. It was Aunty Norma who told me to ‘be unique’ and that ‘you got your own style’. Aunty Norma also told me to watch other people who did art in my family (moort) and to learn from them.

How did you find your style?

Through lots of experimenting with different techniques and tools. I like to paint in different styles and use traditional methods and tools for producing detailed dot paintings, and at other times I use more modern methods and tools to produce more contemporary paintings, such as the ‘pour painting’ method. I also like to use different mediums to paint on and will sometimes use canvas or wood, for example, to achieve different results.

What inspires your work?

I am inspired by my family, by my culture, and by my country (boodja).

I am inspired to tell the dreamtime stories of my people through my art and I like to paint landscapes and animals (barna) that reflect places where my family live and where we are from.

You will soon be heading up the ART Kaartdijin program at the Esperance Aboriginal Art Centre. What’s the program about?

ART Kaartdijin (learning) will include weekly art workshops held at the Mudjar Aboriginal Corporation in the Esperance Aboriginal Art Centre. I’ll be mentoring and assisting participants to develop a range of artistic skills using a variety of mediums. We will also be inviting guest artists and artefact creators from the Wongi, Ngadju and Wudjari regions to join us so we can widen the variety of cultural skills and knowledge on offer to our participants. The focus of the program is to support the development of Aboriginal artists and to uncap artistic potential in a creative space that is designed to foster learning, sharing of culture and storytelling.

You most recently exhibited your work in the NAIDOC Week 2022 exhibition NGALAK | UNITY at the Cannery Arts Centre. Tell us a little about this exhibition.

The exhibition was a collaboration between Mudjar Aboriginal Corporation and the Cannery Arts Centre, focussing on showcasing Aboriginal art and local Aboriginal artists. I really appreciated the opportunity to bring people together, to show people my talent, and to receive recognition for my artwork.

You have a lot of work off the gallery walls, too!

I have painted several murals around town that show what Esperance means to me. I also designed the artwork for the Shire of Esperance ‘casual Friday’ shirts, and am currently working with Bunnings Esperance to design a mural for a wall in the local warehouse.

I also designed the Shire of Esperance window silhouette which was displayed during National Reconciliation Week 2022. I am currently working on an artwork for the Esperance Football Club.

What does the next 12 months hold?

Over the next 12 months I am focusing on ART Kaartdijin, completing consignment artworks, and I would like to enter the Archibald Prize. I will also continue to paint and produce my own artwork and will work with Mudjar to plan more local and online art exhibitions.

ANA TIQUIA

On October 12, the Cannery Arts Centre will welcome Artist in Residence Ana Tiquia for a six-week residency. Ana is a futurist, whose projects invite participation from the community and dialogue with the future. She is a transdisciplinary artist who works across the arts, technology, and design to create public interventions. These works invite the community to imagine what the future might be like, using arts practices to collaboratively generate ideas for ways to see our world become better and more inclusive.

Ana is a Melbourne-based artist, and the founder and director of All Tomorrow’s Futures, an initiative that consults and collaborates with public institutions to help create strategies, ideas, and visions for their futures. Through this organisation, Ana has worked with the Melbourne Museum, Auckland Museum, and Monash University, among other cultural organisations, to help design, imagine, and create exhibitions and installations. One of All Tomorrow’s Futures’ projects involved working with the Sacconi Quartet to create HEARTFELT, an immersive performance of a Beethoven string quartet where ECG data from performers’ heartbeats was used in the lighting design

and transmitted to the audience through handheld devices. Ana has worked in the cultural sector for over a decade, curating projects and exhibitions, developing strategy, and implementing digital engagement and audience-centred projects with major cultural organisations both here in Australia and in the UK.

Ana’s residency is part of the Rural Utopias program, which brings exhibitions and residencies to rural and remote Western Australia. As part of this program, artists, including Ana, will develop new works alongside their host communities. Ana will also be conducting an ArtLab workshop while she is in Esperance, with the theme ‘DIY Speculative Tech’. During this workshop, participants will explore the values behind our everyday technologies and ideas about technology in the future. Participants will also use prototyping techniques used by ‘professional futurists’ in order to create their own prototype of a speculative technology.

KARLI FLORISSON

ENGAGE WITH ANA

Ana Tiquia will be in residency at the Cannery Arts Centre from October 12 until November 24. To find out more head to the Cannery Arts Centre’s website.

Rachel Vibart

INTERVIEW BY KYRON SMITHSON

On the Esperance music scene, Rachel Vibart is a household name. Rachel has been writing and performing since she was 14 and, with a wealth of experience under her belt, the quality of her current compositions come as no surprise. April saw the release of her latest single ‘Flowers Blooming’, recorded as part of WAM’s Demos from Esperance and Ngaanyatjarra Lands. ‘Flowers Blooming’ was nominated as the lead single for the Esperance disc, marking Rachel’s transition from emerging artist to fully realised songstress.

Amid a whirlwind of radio play and an appearance with project leader Nigel Bird on morning television, Vibart packed her bags and hit the road to escape the Esperance winter. I was wrapped to receive a text from Rachel asking for a hand in writing a little blurb for a gig at one of the Mid West’s premier venues, Froth Craft in Exmouth. Off the back of a raft of gigs in the north, Rachel returns home to join eight brilliant Esperance acts as we celebrate the release of the WAM compilation with a live launch on October 15 at the Esperance Bay Yacht Club. I’m stoked to have Rachel along for a catch up with Esperance Tide prior to the event.

Thanks so much for joining us, Rachel. I want to start by asking how being a part of the Demos project has impacted your outlook on your music career?

It feels amazing to have been chosen to record with WAM. These guys support so many regional upand-coming artists and provide so many amazing opportunities for musicians within WA. Being able to record ‘Flowers Blooming’ with James Newhouse and Andy Lawson was a dream come true. Their support, encouragement, and drive for music made my whole experience. Not only did they nail the song, but they brought it to a whole new level. They have helped me see my potential for future recordings and what I am capable of.

‘Flowers Blooming’ is an absolute cracker of a track. What has the overall feedback been like?

The feedback has been insane. I never expected it to take off as much as what it has. It has been so lovely to hear everyone’s views and comments. It's what drives me to keep going!

Have you been writing new material? And if so, can you give us a little insight into the inspiration behind the tunes?

Yes yes yes! I’m so excited to be returning to Esperance with new music. There’s one song in particular that I’m so proud of. It has been two years in the making and I couldn’t have been happier when I finished it. It’s a song about my experience with heartbreak and the challenges that come after it. But don’t worry, I’ve got happy songs too!

Any plans on heading back into the studio?

I’m hoping to be back in the studio next year sometime with James Newhouse. Stay tuned. I have so many exciting plans ahead!

PHOTO CREDIT: JARRAH KNOWLES PHOTOGRAPHY

You played a substantial number of shows while based in Exmouth. Which one was your favourite and why?

It has been so great performing at a variety of venues here in Exmouth - the music scene up here is so supportive and welcoming. One of my favourite shows to date would definitely be at Froth Craft on its rooftop for sunset markets! I felt on top of the world. What a vibeeee.

Did you expect to be performing live while travelling?

I definitely did not plan to be performing while up here but I’m so glad that I did! It has been so rewarding.

Who have you been listening to lately?

Tough question! It has been a real mix of music for me including Lennon Stella, Julia Jacklin, and Deadbeat Love to name a few.

If you could choose one track for everyone reading to listen to, which would it be?

‘Drifting Apart’ by Noah Dillon, an incredible songwriter. The way he uses his words can catch someone’s attention in a second. He has been my recent inspo for writing lately. Enjoy!

Any plans for performing over summer?

I definitely plan to play some shows over summer. It’s up in the air about where I will be as of yet. Margs is on the cards so I would love to get some gigs over that way!

SEE RACHEL VIBART LIVE

Rachel is set to perform at Esperance Bay Yacht Club on October 15 for the Demos From Esperance Live Launch . Head to kyzapresents.com for more information.

Dr Wally Byrne Reflecting on aLife of Adventure

WORDS KARLI FLORISSON

Doctor Walter ‘Wally’ Byrne and his wife Anne first came to Esperance in 1980 for a three month stint. Driving on Twilight Beach Road soon after arriving, they saw a pod of dolphins in the crystal-clear water, just one of many factors that prompted them to stay. Forty-two years on, the couple are much loved fixtures of the community, and Dr Byrne, having retired from medicine in August at the age of 88, will soon receive the Keys to the Shire. Dr Byrne notes with a laugh that he's driven along Twilight Beach Road hundreds of times since that day in 1980, and hasn’t seen another pod of dolphins since, although he continues to enjoy the breathtaking views.

Wally grew up in inner city Sydney, a tough area where it was almost unheard of for students to finish school, much less go to university. His father was a World War One veteran who worked as a pick and shovel labourer for the local council, working his way up to a senior position. His mother died when he was a teen, so Wally and his sisters helped run the household. After failing every subject in Year 10, Wally began a carpentry apprenticeship.

As a young carpenter, Wally travelled with a mission group to Vanuatu, then known as the New Hebrides, to rebuild schools destroyed by a hurricane. He was inspired by the doctors working with the mission. “I had a bit of hide to think I could become a doctor,” Dr Byrne says. However, he was determined. Back in Australia, he went to technical college to pass his high school leaving exams, and was accepted into Medicine, making him the first in his family to go to university. He was 30-years-old. In his last year of residency, Wally married Anne, a registered nurse and midwife.

Dr Byrne and his family, which now included two children, soon returned to Vanuatu. Working first in the capital Port Vila and then moving to the island of Tanna, Dr Byrne had his own hospital and was responsible for four other islands. He treated a range of tropical diseases and emergencies, using the very basic medical facilities available. There were no shops on the island, just a trading post, with a radio telephone at the post office. Dr Byrne’s carpentry skills came in handy from time to time, like when he built a much-needed dispensary on one of the islands.

After three years of adventure in Vanuatu, which included the delivery of their third child in the Mission Hospital on the island of Iririki, the family moved to England for a further three years. Dr Byrne completed training in anaesthetics and surgery, and their fourth child was born. Then, as Dr Byrne recalls, “I was 46 years old, with four kids, and we owned nothing. We decided it was time to come home to Australia and get on with life.” The family travelled to Esperance where Dr Byrne would work as a locum for Dr John Fenwick for three months. When he decided to stay, Dr Byrne became one of just five doctors in Esperance, which had a population of 10,000.

Dr Wally Byrne and his wife, Anne.

Dr Byrne says a variety of skills have been needed to be a doctor in Esperance. “When we first came to town, there were no visiting specialists,” he explains. Dr Fenwick was an experienced surgeon, and Dr Byrne worked alongside him as an anaesthetist, as well as working in the clinic. The facilities in Esperance Hospital were basic, with only an x-ray machine for diagnosis. When the time came to set up their own clinic, Dr Byrne’s carpentry skills again came in handy as he built the internal walls and furniture. Later, when their children were older, Anne came on board to help run the practice.

Dr Byrne has many stories from his years as a doctor. He reminisces about the time he was asked to help a sick sailor on a ship out at sea. Due to bad weather at the time, with huge winds and waves, he was transported to the ship by helicopter. Dr Byrne was lowered down in a harness, where he helped lift the patient to the helicopter. Then, with the only available harness being used by the patient, Dr Byrne was hoisted back onto the helicopter using a rope with a loop, being advised by the pilot, “Do not lift your arms or you will go straight into the ocean!” He received a bravery award for his actions. “I would have paid for the experience,” Dr Byrne says, showing his love of adventure.

The news of Dr Byrne’s retirement in August was met with an outpouring of gratitude from the community. “Everyone has been so kind,” he says. “I am quite overwhelmed by it all.” He and Anne are now looking forward to having more time for reading and music, which they both enjoy, and visiting their grandchildren, who live both here in Australia and in England. In the meantime, they are working together to wrap up 42 years of practice, transferring hundreds of patients to other practices, and reflecting on a life full of adventure. “It has been a great journey,” Dr Byrne says.

Building furniture for one of the consulting rooms in his practice.

Dr Byrne receives a bravery award for assisting a sick sailor.

Vanuatu.

Tackling Mental Health Issues Head-On

While our town’s isolation contributes to our resilience as a community, it also means we face greater challenges in terms of our health and wellbeing. Access to mental health services is, in particular, substantially more limited in country areas than in major cities. According to the National Rural Health Alliance, rates of self-harm and suicide increase with remoteness, a result of the difficulty regional and rural Australians experience in accessing the support needed for mental illness.

↳ Many workers in the transport industry face mental health issues. Credit: Shire of Esperance.

Here in Esperance, we are no stranger to the impact mental health issues have on a community. A report published by the WA Country Health Service in 2018 revealed that Esperance had the highest proportion of non-urgent emergency department presentations for psychosocial complications compared with the rest of regional WA, and nearly triple the hospital admission rate per 10,000 people due to depression compared with the rest of the nation.

With such statistics front of mind, the Shire of Esperance is working to promote and enhance the health, wellbeing, and quality of life for the local community. The Shire is committed to creating environments that support our community’s health and wellbeing, and through the promotion of healthy lifestyle choices, the enhancement of built environments, social interaction, and community connectivity and wellness, they aim to create an active and healthy community. The Shire’s Public Health Plan 2021 – 2026 sets out how they intend to achieve this, focussing on promoting three key themes – healthy active lifestyle opportunities for all, a safe and protective community, and an inclusive, resilient, and connected community.

The Shire’s Suicide Prevention Grants Program, funded by WA Primary Health Alliance under the Australian Government funded Local Suicide Prevention Activities, aligns with the latter theme of the plan – an inclusive, resilient, and connected community. Launched in March, the program provided funding for events and projects that would support mental health and reduce the risk of suicide at the local level. Applicants had to demonstrate how their projects aligned with one or more of the four pillars of the Alliance Against Depression Framework, an integrated community-based approach to tackling depression and suicide. Priority was given to applicants focussed on high-risk groups, including Aboriginal communities and men aged 25-54 working in farming, fishing, or FIFO.

Another component of the Suicide Prevention Program is working with the local transport and agricultural industries, recognising that both face unique challenges including tight deadlines, long hours, shift work, and isolation. Shire of Esperance Coordinator of Environmental Health Chantal Spittle says while we have all had our challenges over the last few years, for those working in the road transport, warehousing and logistics

industries, the challenges hit a little differently. “When flights were grounded across the country, our drivers, our posties, the folks driving the road trains became a lifeline for so many businesses and individuals across the country. Their resilience was tested every day,” Chantal says. “So, we included an opportunity specific to them with a free online course - Lifeline Mental Health and Wellbeing in the Road Transport, Warehousing and Logistics Sector . It highlights the importance of managing stress and building resilience, and how to put that into practice, equipping participants with the tools to help manage their mental wellbeing.”

The 110-minute industry-specific eLearning course focuses on managing close relationships for better mental health when away from home and developing small daily habits for a healthy lifestyle around the core principles of wellness. With the transport industry the third biggest employer in Esperance, the course is vital for many in our community. According to Healthy Heads, an organisation championing mental health and wellbeing for people working in trucks and sheds, the transport, postal, and warehousing industry is ranked 19 out of 19 in terms of workplace mental health and wellbeing. They report that 48 per cent of workers in the industry have had a mental health condition in the last 12 months, and 40 per cent of drivers experience loneliness on the road.

Other upcoming events funded by the Suicide Prevention Grants Program include a free two-day mental health first aid course, men’s movement and breath sessions with sports physiotherapist Cam Watkins, a resilience youth camp with Armed for Life, yarning circles with Whadjak Noongar Elder Len Yarran, and a quiz night fundraiser for Life SPAN Esperance. All events are free, though registration is required. The Shire encourages people to register for and promote the free courses and events, so we continue to build a strong community. To keep up to date with what’s on, subscribe to the Community eNewsletter at www.esperance.wa.gov.au/ enewsletters or check out the Shire events page at www. esperance.wa.gov.au/events .

If you, or someone you know, are feeling overwhelmed, connect with Lifeline in the way you feel most comfortable. Phone Lifeline on 13 11 14 (24/7), text 0477 131 114 (24/7) or chat to Lifeline online at www.lifeline. org.au (24/7).

Scan the QR code to head to the Suicide Prevention Training Page.

Seventy Years of the Esperance Show

BY KARLI FLORISSON

This year marks the 70th Esperance and Districts Agricultural Show. The Esperance Show has always had a special place on our community’s calendar - it’s an opportunity to showcase our produce and handiwork, watch ring events, go on rides, and enjoy a variety of entertainment. Here’s a look back at some of the wonderful memories from the last seven decades.

The Esperance and Districts Agricultural Show was not the first show to be held in the region. Instead, Esperance’s first show was held by the Agricultural, Horticultural and Floricultural Society in November 1897. The show was held at the Bijou Theatre, where 300 entries were exhibited, including flowers, produce, handiwork, and schoolchildren’s work. While there were several shows held in these early years, the town’s population soon declined to the point where a show was not viable. In 1928, the first Southern Mallee Agricultural Society Show was held in Salmon Gums and in the 1930s, Grass Patch also held its own show. Lorraine Bale recalls her parents, who farmed near Scaddan, would take a horse and cart loaded with exhibits, and drive their sheep, cattle, and horses by road to Salmon Gums for the show, a process that would take about a week.

In 1928, the Esperance and Districts Hospital Committee held their first show, also at the Bijou Theatre. This ‘Spring Show’ was largely a flower and produce show, and was held periodically in the 1930s as well. The Esperance and Districts Agricultural Show began in 1952, and has continued regularly since then, with the exception of 2020, when it was cancelled due to COVID. In 1952, the first official Esperance and Districts Agricultural Show was held in Hancock’s Hall on Andrew Street. Hancock’s Hall, owned by Cyril ‘Pop’ Hancock, was used as a feed store, so it took a lot of work to clean it out for the show. There were over 330 entries of vegetables,

flowers, cookery, and needlework, and even a prize for the best dressed dog. The second ag show was held in 1953 at the Bijou Theatre, with a crowd of 700 people attending. Ring events, such as exhibiting livestock and horse riding events, were held on a vacant block opposite the theatre.

Between 1954 and 1963 the show was held at the Fresh Air League, now the YHA on Goldfields Road. Livestock and horse riding events were held on the vacant block next door, now the RAC Esperance Holiday Park.

In 1963, the show was moved to the Noel White Memorial Pavilion, at the current Greater Sports Ground. Noel White was a pastoralist who farmed at Young River Station, a pioneer of the Esperance district, and a great supporter of the Esperance Show. Noel, who donated generously to the building fund that the Show Society started, sadly died of cancer in 1960.

When the new building was opened in 1963, it was named in his honour. The pavilion, built in part from Ravensthorpe stone, was only just finished in time, with a huge community effort, for the 1963 show. The stone later began to fret badly, so the building was reclad in Midland brick.

The entertainment, exhibits, and events at the show have been interesting and varied every year. A novelty wheelbarrow race was held the first year, with contestants

pushing their passenger in a wheelbarrow from the Tanker Jetty all the way to the Bijou Theatre.

The women’s team was given an advantage, as the men’s teams stopped for ‘refuelling’ at the pub along the way. In 1971, the Miss Showgirl contest began, with over 40 girls entering the competition in the first year. In the early years, the show featured an evening ball, and rodeo and camp drafting events were added in the 1970s. One of the most popular events over the years has been the shearing competition, hotly contested by shearers from across the region. Sheep dog trials were added in 1976, and for several years, the show featured a dog breed competition. Along the way, various buildings and pavilions have been added to the Greater Sports Ground to house animal exhibits, including sheep, cattle, and poultry.

The Esperance Show has always been a place where the wider community has come together to create something memorable. Different community groups have been involved over the years, often

↳ A riding event in the 1970's where a horse is ridden by two or more children.

using the show as an opportunity to raise funds for good causes in our community. Community groups have run pony rides to raise money for the childcare group Lingalonga, the Guides and Scouts have run various events to raise money, and the local Rotary clubs have sold food and helped run events in order to help fund their activities. The Apex Train has been a feature of the show since the early days. Originally built from scrap and rebuilt over the years, it continues to delight children today. Entertainment

has ranged from musical events, like the police marching band and the bagpipe band, to cooking demonstrations, circus performers, and even a skydiving display. The fireworks became a feature of the show in 1994, and have been highly anticipated ever since.

From its early years, when the show attracted around 700 attendees and an admission fee of one shilling was charged, the show has grown and developed. The 50th show in 2001 attracted a record crowd of

over 10,000 people and these days, around 12,000 people attend the two day event. After 70 wonderful years, many things have changed, but many traditions remain - the show is still an excellent place to exhibit your scones, veggies, or crafts, the agricultural heart of the show remains strong, and the event is still one of the most anticipated on Esperance’s calendar for people young and old.

Information and photos courtesy of the Esperance Museum archives.

↳ Sheep shearing in 1972 with a manual hand wound shearing set.

⟶ Opening the show in the early days.

↳ Grand parade 1971.

LIBRA SEP 23 - OCT 22

It’s been a while since you’ve been this fired up! Use that burst of energy to make things happen now. Do you have a crazy, inventive way of making money? There’s never been a better time to get your side hustle off the ground. Quit waiting around for that pay rise, that dividend, that inheritance... The only way you’ll see your bank balance increase is by using your initiative and drive to come up with your own ways to grow it.

SCORPIO OCT 23 - NOV 21

It’s best you avoid making decisions this month. Small things, like deciding between dinner at the Quarters or the Goose are fine but bigger, potentially life-changing decisions should be placed on hold. If your feelings on certain issues are conflicted give yourself time to gain perspective before you come to your conclusion. Now’s a good time to practice meditation, whether it be in the traditional sense or something a little more ‘you’, like taking a Pilates class or perusing the Esperance Museum.

SAGITTARIUS NOV 22 - DEC 21

When did you last revise your financial situation? Now is the time to review your current circumstances and plan for the next 12 months. Put a few hours aside to go over your credit situation, your mortgage, or any other loans you have. Can you get yourself a better deal? Don’t put it off – do it now before the summer hits and you have better things to do with your time, like hitting 33 Degrees for a long boozy lunch.

CAPRICORN DEC 22 - JAN 20

You are constantly changing your mind, which is easy to do when your head is so full of plans and ideas. However, it can be tricky for those around you to follow along so this month, why not try sticking to something? Even if it’s just your plans for the weekend... If you say you’re going to walk from West Beach to Twilight, actually do it (and kudos to you if you do because that’s a bloody long way).

AQUARIUS

JAN 20 - FEB 17

If your social life has dwindled recently, don’t despair! October is the perfect time to foster new friendships. If you’ve met someone who could be a potential pal, shake off your shyness and ask them on a mate date. A jog along the jetty, a beer at the brewery, or a workshop at the Cannery – find out what you have in common and go from there. Do this now and your social calendar will be bursting at the seams by summer.

PISCES

FEB 18 - MAR 19

Are you keeping a secret from your loved one? Regardless of the size of the secret, it’s time to ‘fess up. Whether you lied about eating the last of the Bread Local sourdough or you have a second family living in Kal, you need to come clean. It’s tricky telling the truth sometimes, but relationships are built on trust. Do the right thing and own up to whatever it is you’re hiding, even if it might land you in hot water.

ARIES MAR 20 - APRIL 19

Your ability to influence others is a gift. A subtle suggestion is usually all it takes to get your way. You might find yourself in the firing line this month. Be sure to use your charm, rather than your arrogance, to wriggle your way out. If you land in someone’s bad books, take them to lunch at Yirri Grove and offer them an olive branch. They’ll be eating out of the palm of your hand in no time.

TAURUS APR 20 - MAY 20

It can be harder for you than most when you don’t win. It’s fine to feel let down when your team loses, or you’re beaten in Monopoly, but don’t take it out on other people. Moping about after a loss isn’t fun for anyone and has the potential to lead to bigger problems in your relationships down the track. As much as it sucks, sometimes you just have to put on a smile, congratulate your opponent and let it go.

Winter’s well and truly over, which means you don’t have too many excuses left to stay at home. It’s time to escape your cocoon and get exploring. The wildflowers are still blooming, so pack up the car and head off on a mini adventure out of town. If you’re short on time, a day trip will do, but if you’re lucky enough to have a few days free, take it slow and experience every inch of the beautiful region you live in.

CANCER JUN 21 - JUL 22

October is a great month to get in touch with your romantic side. You needn’t make a grand romantic gesture to do this – small acts can be just as effective at showing someone you love them. It could be as simple as surprising your special someone with freshly washed sheets, their favourite home cooked meal, or tickets to the movies. Single? Challenge yourself to go on a date this month with someone who’s not your type. What’s the worst that could happen?

LEO JUL 23 - AUG 22

Have you been avoiding someone? Dodging them at Woollies, ignoring their calls, or hiding behind the couch when they knock on your door? It’s time to ask yourself if you’re doing this for the right reasons (hint: you’re probably not). You know as well as anyone that you can’t keep this up forever so take a deep breath and rip that band-aid off stat. Once you do, you might just feel like a weight has been lifted from your shoulders.

VIRGO AUG 23 - SEP 22

The emotional roller-coaster you’ve been riding lately is about to come into the station. It’s been a bumpy few months but things will start to even out over the next few weeks. You should notice you’re not as sensitive as you have been and you’re able to better control your emotions. If someone you love has been at the receiving end of an emotional flare up, surprise them with a Downtown delivery to their workplace as a way of saying sorry.

Italian Lemon, Almond & Ricotta Cake

RECIPE LAUREN BENEFER

Spring has sprung and lemons are in season so what better way to use them than in this easy, light and zesty cake. Perfect for afternoon tea in the garden.

Ingredients

170g unsalted butter, softened

250g caster sugar

400g smooth whole milk ricotta

3 large eggs

1 tsp vanilla essence

1 large lemon, juice and zest

1.5 tsp baking powder

1/2 tsp salt

120g plain flour

To decorate

Icing sugar

Toasted almonds

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

Method

1. Preheat your oven to 180 degrees.

2. Line the base of a 22cm cake pan and generously grease the sides of the tin.

3. Using a stand mixer or electric hand beaters, cream the butter and sugar together until combined. Add the ricotta and beat until smooth and fluffy (around 5 minutes), scraping the bowl half way through.

4. Add the eggs one at a time until combined. Add the vanilla, lemon zest and juice.

5. Using a spatula (or a low setting on your mixer), add in the baking powder, salt and flour, and gently mix until just combined. Pour into the cake tin.

6. Bake for 45 - 55 minutes or until a skewer comes out clean. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes then remove and let it cool completely on a wire rack.

7. Dust with icing sugar and toasted almonds.

8. Serve with a big dollop of cream, extra lemon zest, and a nice cup of tea!

FIND US AT 94A Dempster Street

WE ARE ONLINE luxefloralandhome.com.au

PHONE ORDERS 08 9071 7448

FOLLOW US @luxefloralandhomeco @luxefloralco

BUSH BANTER

Diary of a Wildlife Enthusiast

It’s not the flora I wanted to banter about this month… It’s the fauna! The iconic Australian animals that really make the bush special. Spring is not only about the wildflowers putting their party dresses on, it’s also the time of year that fauna really come alive. I’ve had some amazing interactions over the past week, and I wanted to share them with you!

On Monday I drove past a huge flock of Carnaby’s black cockatoo, which are listed as an endangered species. They move southeast to the Esperance sandplains with their young around this time of year to forage in our high quality banksia communities. While there are numerous other black cockatoo species in WA, only Carnaby’s occur in Esperance.

On Tuesday we saw three malleefowl. I repeat, THREE! This elusive bush chook builds enormous dirt mounds as nests that regulate the temperature during egg incubation. The chicks hatch under a pile of debris and can take up to 15 hours to reach the surface. These birds are beautiful, and I’m always struck by how graceful and elegant they are.

On Wednesday we saw the most enormous, healthy, glossy dugite. Normally they’re scaredy-snakes and, when startled, shoot off into the bush as fast as they can. But this dude quite happily stayed tangled up snoozing under a sandplain banksia shrub while we took photos and oohed and ahhed over him.

Thursday was about scoping out chudditch, or the spotted quoll habitat on ironstone breakaways, which surprisingly occurs in Munglinup. The rocky overhangs provide perfect habitat for these native carnivorous predators. We saw plenty of prey, including a bustling echidna and scats of brush tail wallabies.

On Friday I finished field work with mixed emotions, as a week in the bush is always beautiful. But after being swooped by magpies, snacked on by mosquitoes, and swallowing a few flies, I always appreciate going home.

KATIE WHITE - CALADENIA CO.

BUSH BANTER IS KINDLY SPONSORED BY VALANNE FOUNDATION

“Continuing the family tradition of giving back to the community”

01 Esperance hip hop artist Dr Tasty took out the coveted Grand Prize at West Australian Music’s (WAM) 2022 Song of the Year Awards on September 21. Dr Tasty, real name Morgan Kelly, was awarded Song of the Year for ‘Hopscotch’, a track that was recorded as part of WAM’s regional Demos from Esperance project last year. First established in 1989, the annual competition invites songwriters and musicians from across WA to submit their songs, which are then anonymously and independently judged by music industry experts.

02 Fortescue Future Industries (FFI) and Esperance Tjaltjraak Native Title Aboriginal Corporation (ETNTAC) held their first engagement meeting following the signing of an agreement earlier this year that paved the way for FFI to assess the potential for a green hydrogen hub in the Esperance region. Feasibility studies for the green hydrogen hub will help to refine the project’s footprint and land tenure requirements should FFI decide to progress with it. The meeting marked a significant step in FFI’s bid to lead the green hydrogen and green energy revolution across WA.

03 It was revealed that Esperance Airport broke three new passenger records over winter, with an increased number of travellers leading to more flights in the region. The airport broke all-time passenger records in June, July and August, resulting in increased services as demand consistently exceeded supply. Passengers utilising the Perth to Esperance service included locals, domestic and international tourists, and business travellers. Simon Latchford, Tourism Development Manager for Australia’s Golden Outback, said the numbers reinforced the interest in the Esperance region.

04 Scaddan farmer Brad Egan was named Young Farmer of the Year at the Australian Farmer of the Year Awards on September 8. The 27-year-old was recognised for his analytical skills, agronomy work, and focus on precision agriculture. He was also praised for his enthusiasm for sharing his knowledge and experiences with other young farmers by speaking at field days and industry events, and holding the Vice Chair position on the South East Premium Wheat Growers Association’s Youth in Ag committee. Brad also received the Award for Excellence in Innovation.

Carnaby's Black Cockatoo, Howick Rd

POSITIONS VACANT

MANAGER AGED CARE AND DISABILITY SERVICES

An excellent opportunity exists for a dynamic, motivated individual with proven management experience to provide leadership of the Shire’s Aged Care and Disability Services team and oversee its day to day operations. Extensive experience in this sector and a working knowledge of relevant industry standards and legislation is essential. This performance-based contract of 3 – 5 years has an attractive remuneration of $120,000 base salary p/a, private car usage, 5 weeks annual leave and allowances. Housing benefit and relocation assistance available if required.

Further details are available on the Shire’s website www.esperance.wa.gov.au

This vacancy will remain open until the position is filled. The Shire of Esperance is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

PUBLIC NOTICES

OLD TIME / NEW VOGUE BALLROOM DANCING

Held at RAOB Hall every Friday, starting at 7pm. All welcomed, with or without a partner and we will teach you if you don’t know the dances. Contact Daryl on 0419370089 or Jan on 0420638851.

ESPERANCE ARTS AWARDS 2022

Presented by the Cannery Arts Centre this year with over $9500 of prizes. Check the Cannery website for T&C’s, Registrations Nov 4-8. Opening & Awards evening Thurs Nov 17.

KICKARTS SCHOOL HOLIDAY WORKSHOPS

KickArts School Holiday workshops are on at the Cannery. Bookings essentia.

TABLE TENNIS PLAYED AT THE SCOUT HALL

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

ESPERANCE COMMUNITY SINGERS

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

Book your classifieds advert online esperancetide.com/classifieds

Or email hello@esperancetide.com

PUBLIC NOTICES

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.

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