Esperance Tide September 2022

ISSUE 89

FREE MONTHLY SEPTEMBER 2022

GO BU SH

TIDE PICKS

H I S T OR Y

Where the Wildflowers Grow

Father's Day Gift Guide

Helms Arboretum

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PHOTOGRAPHY CREDIT: LUCY VINCENT (Cape Le Grand National Park)

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Thank you Esperance Care Services, for over 25 years of service The McGowan Government, through Lotterywest, recently provided Esperance Care Services $70,000 towards crisis and emergency relief for people experiencing financial hardship in the Esperance community.

To find out more and apply, visit www.lotterywest.wa.gov.au/grants

Shelley Payne MLC

MEMBER FOR AG REGION

(08) 9072 1786 Shelley.Payne@mp.wa.gov.au

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

Spring has sprung! September is a fickle month, usual ly giving us a taste of al l four seasons, sometimes in one day. It has been a little wintery of late, though we’ve no doubt there’s sunshine ahead. Until then, we’l l keep our ugg boots within arm’s reach - it’l l probably be a while before they go into storage for the season!

Spring is by far our most visually appetising season of the year. Not only is the golden canola in full bloom, but our native flora bursts to life, too, in endless shapes, colours, textures, and sizes. This month, we’ve enlisted the help of our very own wildflower guru Katie White, to tell where to go and what to look for when heading into the bush this spring. With literally thousands of species unique to our region, there’s a lot to keep an eye out for. If you’re a novice, we highly recommend reading Katie’s top tips on page 4 before setting off on your adventure!

If you’d prefer to see a variety of wildflowers in one spot without having to leave the centre of town, head to the Esperance Wildflower Festival, which takes place September 20 - 24. Not only will your eyes be treated to an array of bold and beautiful native species, but your tastebuds will be treated, too, with the delicious offerings of the Anglican Parish Cafe. Scones, sandwiches, and a warm cup of tea? Sign us up! There’s stacks of artistic elements that make up the festival too, including the Community Sculpture Project and the Art Competition and Exhibition. For further information, check out Arts & Culture on page 15.

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GO BUSH Where the Wildflowers Grow

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SP O T LI GH T ON

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W HAT 'S ON

Esperance Care Services

This month, we headed to Esperance Care Services on Gilpin Street to chat with founder and CEO Chris Meyer about the awesome work they do for the community.

It’s all go out there! They run the thrift store we all know and love on top of providing locals with emergency relief, advocacy support, and a range of other services. They’re always looking for support, so read about what they get up to on page 8 and then drop in to see how you can lend a helping hand.

Happy wildflower hunting! Remember to look, but don’t touch - you need a special licence to pick native flora, so as pretty as it would look in a vase on your dining table, leave it where it is for someone else to enjoy! 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.

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Kidsfest 2022

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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.

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Unreal evening at Lucky Bay, a must visit spot in WA.

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Did you know? ALL aspects of Dental Implant treatment are performed by Dr Han Oh at our clinic here in Esperance!

8 Dempster St, Esperance 9071 5888

• CONSULTATION • IMPLANT SURGERY • IMPLANT PROSTHETICS

Gentle Dentistry with Your Comfort in Mind 3 / ESPERANCE TIDE / SEPTEMBER 2022

Landscape in Full Bloom

Where the Wildflowers Grow W O R D S & P H OT O G R A P H Y K AT I E W H I T E

Sandplains

Salt Lakes

This is by far my favourite community and the jewel in Esperance’s crown in terms of diversity. It’s thought that the sandplain communities have evolved to be so diverse due to having ancient soils without nutrients, resulting in a variety of wacky ways to survive. For example, the sandplains have a lot of carnivorous plants. It’s also where plants that have specialist root systems to survive dominate. Of course, I’m talking about banksias and more broadly hakeas, grevilleas and jug flowers (Adenanthos).

The sandplains are where you’ll find a dazzling display of banksia species. Other interesting plants commonly found on the sandplains are the world’s largest parasitic plant, the Christmas tree (Nuytsia floribunda), and the beautiful cultural plant, tallerack silver mallee (Eucalyptus pleurocarpa). Some awesome roads to drive down to check out this array of plants include Merivale Road, Dempster Road, Coomalbidgup Road or the Munglinup area.

The beauty of the salt lakes is in the micro and the tiny. Here you’ll find flowers and plants the size of my fingernail, not to mention the absolutely mesmerising structure of the salt crystals. I highly recommend grabbing a hand lens or magnifying lens when heading out to the salt lakes. Typically, salt lakes have a distinct vegetation structure, heading from the centre of the lake with open water, to samphire salt bush or native grasses, to low shrubs and then a thick shrubland on the ridges with scattered mallees. Each salt lake has its own unique combination of species. Due to the small distribution and unique hydrology of salt lakes, there is a huge range of rare plants. So, tread carefully and wonder if what you’re looking at is only one of a handful of plants left in the world. My top tip for a drive is Dempster Road or Styles Road, specifically between Scaddan and Norwood Road.

Stunning!

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The time of the year has arrived to dust off your hiking shoes, grab some sunscreen, and head into the bush to delight in all the beautiful plants that call Esperance home.

My top tip to successfully completing a wildflower hunt? Adventure into as many different habitats as possible, because different plants grow in different places. The Esperance region is truly remarkable in the diversity of landscapes and habitats that support vegetation communities. Here’s what to look for when you’re out and about.

Mallee

Coastal

What fascinates me most about our mallee country is the apparent lack of colour. It’s like it has been bleached out of the landscape. Grey soils, grey bark, grey flowers, grey foliage! But don't let that fool you, the eucalyptus and melaleuca trees are astounding in their diversity and tiny differences. Get up close and see how many different mallees you can count. I guarantee you will be surprised at how many there are! My particular favourite is the fuchsia mallee (Eucalyptus forrestiana). The other cool thing about mallee country is the fauna, with the high possibility of seeing echidnas, bustards, or emus.

Check out Speddingup Road or Fields Road.

Over summer, we all get to witness the challenges faced by our coastal communities growing in the dune systems, mostly dominated by dense shrublands. But these too also get a flush of wildflowers in spring. While the beautiful cockie’s tongue (Templetonia retusa) has just about finished flowering, there will be a stack of herbs and annuals that will pop up. The Great Ocean Drive is as good a spot as any to check out what the coastal shrublands are doing over wildflower season!

Granite

Great Western Woodlands

An absolute must-see during wildflower season. The moss goes crazy and amongst it are orchids galore, sundews, and everlastings. A particular favourite of mine are the redcoats (Utricularia menziesii), which act as little bladderwort carnivorous plants. They suck water into tiny little stomachs and digest the insects! Another favourite are the resurrection plants (Borya sp.), that remove all the chlorophyll from the leaves to go dormant in summer, turning bright orange. Then the smallest amount of rain and voila! Back to green again. Get out and about to look at granite headlands at the Duke of Orleans Bay, Howick Road, or closer to town at Dempster Head.

While this vegetation community is the furthest away from town, it’s arguably one of the most beautiful. There is something remarkably ancient about the tall salmon gums (Eucalyptus salmonophloia) and the blue bush (Cratystilis conocephala), creating the striking orange and blue colour combination. While orchids, everlastings and peas abound, for me it will always be about the bark of the eucalyptus trees. Get up to Salmon Gums townsite and wander about, or head across towards Peak Charles.

M EET K ATI E Katie White is a botanist, working right across the south of WA. She takes great delight in sharing the wonders of the natural world through her business, Caladenia Co.

ESPERANCE

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

For more information visit www.esperancewildflowerfestival.com

OVER 700 SPECIES ON DISPLAY

Esperance Civic Centre and Esperance Anglican Parish Hall

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

Council Connections James Street Cultural Precinct In an exciting move for development of the James Street Cultural Precinct, Council have appointed award-winning architectural firm CHRISTOU Design Group to complete the detailed concept design, a business case to attract project funding, and other components. The community has been heavily involved in shaping concepts for the Precinct so far, and opportunities for consultation will continue. The $300,000 contract was awarded to CHRISTOU at the August Ordinary Council Meeting (OCM) in a competitive tender process, based on; quality of their submission; their extensive experience and success in designing regional and metro community projects; and their highly regarded environmentally sustainable design work in coastal environments.

Consultation Invited for Cat Local Law 2022 Council endorsed advertisement of the proposed Cat Local Law 2022, inviting feedback from the community. The Cat Act 2011 provides for local governments to make local laws prescribing all matters required or permitted to be prescribed by a local law, and the Shire believes there is community appetite for local laws that respond to cat matters. The proposed Cat Local Law 2022 refers to wandering, nuisance, prohibited areas, permits, fees and charges, objections and appeals, and offences and penalties. Keep an eye out for your chance to respond soon!

Honour to Beloved Dr Wally Council and the Shire are thrilled to announce Dr Walter Bryne will be presented with the Key to the Shire of Esperance. This decision was supported unanimously at the August OCM, with staff noting Dr Bryne meets both criteria of the Shire Conferring of Honours Policy, having reached a high level of achievement and service in the medical field, and making significant contributions to the community. It is well known that Dr Byrne would often see patients out of hours, on weekends, or during extended hours following his rounds at the local hospital. His long service has also been recognised with a Rural Health 40-year service award, presented by the Governor Kim Beazley AC. A civic reception will be held to bestow the Key to the Shire of Esperance on Dr Wally. Keep an eye out for further details!

Image credit: Rural Health West

September in Salmon Gums Councillors will hit the road in September, with the OCM at the Salmon Gums Community Centre at 4pm on September 27. Our satellite towns are so important; taking Council out to them gives people who wouldn’t usually make it to a Council meeting the opportunity to see local government processes, demonstrates the availability of our local representatives, and increases transparency. Councillors are able to get a better understanding of the needs and aspirations of our remote populations, and are excited to chat with locals afterwards at the BBQ to be held at the same location.

Upcoming Council Meetings

Agenda Briefing: 20 September 2022 at 1pm Ordinary Council Meeting: Salmon Gums Community Centre on 27 September 2022 at 4pm

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

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Chris and Sue Meyer

Twenty-Six Years of Service

Caring for the Community WORDS HANNAH SIEMER

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

When Esperance Care Services (ECS) was established in 1996, it consisted of little more than a trestle table in the corner of a shed on Woods Street. Founders Chris and Sue Meyer had just sold their farm in Condingup, having identified the need for a service in town that provided support to those in the community who need it most. Twentysix years on, Chris is now the CEO of what has become a highly respected and relied upon service in Esperance. He says he never expected ECS to grow to the extent it has. “I was just a farmer,” he says. “There’s nothing special about me.”

Jozie Goodfield, Volunteer Manager

Chris is humble, but he does admit there’s something pretty special about the people who make up the organisation. Today, ECS has 45 volunteers and 10 parttime staff who assist in providing a range of services to the community. These include emergency relief, pastoral counselling, advocacy, education and training programs, and providing referrals to other services in Esperance.

They’re a group of dedicated and selfless locals, some of whom were first introduced to ECS when they themselves needed help.

Since January alone, ECS has assisted 275 local families. A lot of this assistance has come in the form of emergency relief, providing people with food, household items, and utilities and rent support. Some food is donated, and some is purchased for a flat rate from food rescue organisations like Food Bank and Second Bite. Chris says a lot of food comes through the ECS doors, but demand is high, and it all goes.

Also in demand is the organisation’s advocacy service, something relatively new for ECS. Having received funding from Esperance Ag Fund for the initiative, ECS now employs an advocate part-time, who provides oneon-one support for a range of tasks, from attending a Centrelink appointment, to going to court, or writing a will. “Sadly, it’s a rapidly growing demand,” Chris says. “We need more funding so we can employ another person because [our advocacy support worker] is just run off her feet. It’s the sort of work that takes time.” ⟶ 9 / ESPERANCE TIDE / SEPTEMBER 2022

Volunteers Bernie Haberley and Rob Walker

↳ Liano Seisseis & Tracey Vinson

Across the many services they provide, the ECS team carries a heavy workload. Chris says he has noticed a significant increase in domestic violence in Esperance, as well a rise in mental health issues. Coupled with the skyrocketing cost of living, Chris doesn’t expect the work to slow down any time soon. With limited funding, particularly for wages, it’s a challenge for the team, though they are more like family than colleagues, and have each other to lean on when times are tough.

“It can be hard work, and really busy, but it’s a good atmosphere,” Chris says.

To the wider community, ECS is perhaps best known for its thrift shop. The shop sells a vast and varied selection of donated items, including clothing, shoes, toys, homewares, bedding, furniture, and electrical goods. ECS runs an eco-conscious operation and very few donations go to waste. Clothing and fabrics that can’t be sold are turned into rags, and those that can’t be turned into rags are pressed into bales using a wool press and sent to Eco Pay It Forward in Perth for recycling.

While using wool packs is not uncommon practice, to Chris’s knowledge, ECS is the only organisation of its kind using a wool press to pack the unwanted fabrics.

“I used to be a sheep man in a past life,” says Chris,

who came up with the idea and implemented it in March 2021. Since then, he estimates they’ve sent up to 70 tonnes of product to Perth, saving it from landfill.

The organisation’s commitment to reducing waste was recognised at a state level in May, when ECS received a highly commended in the 2022 WasteSorted Awards, nominated in the Waste Management category.

Esperance Care Services relies heavily on donations from the community, and Chris encourages anyone spring cleaning to consider donating rather than dumping. He says he’s seen a slight drop in donations recently, which he puts down to people being more budget-conscious, and not changing their wardrobe or furniture as often.

“But if you are putting it out, rather than putting it in the wheelie bin or dumping it out at the tip, if it’s in good order, leave it here,” he says. “Any household items that are in good order, we can use. We can’t survive without those donations.”

Other ways to support ECS include donating money, volunteering, or shopping at the thrift store. And if you need support, visit their website, or simply turn up and speak to the person at the front desk. “My wife always says, ‘There’s no wrong door’,” Chris says. “There’s no wrong door to come in and ask for help.”

Where t o f ind EC S Esperance Care Services is located at 2 Gilpin Street. They’re open Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday from 9:30am – 2:30pm, Thursday from 9:30am – 4pm, and Saturday from 9am – 12pm. For further information on how you can help ECS, or how ECS can help you, head to www.esperancecareservices.org.au or call 9071 6310.

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Father’s Day

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1. Patagonia Black Hole Duffel 55L Innertube Surf Shop $180.00 2. Esperance Tide X Car Park Social Cap Tide & Co $39.00 3. ARB X TRED Pro Recovery Boards (Set of 2) Southern 4x4 $329.00 4. Mesiba Red Cooler Bag - Small Tide & Co $90.00 5. R.M. Williams Drover Belt in Chocolate Woven $120.00 6. Black Jack Pirate Porter Carton Lucky Bay Brewing $91.50 7. Shimano Tackle Backpack Tatey's Fishing World $159.00 8. Minelab Vanquish 540 Pro-Pack Metal Detector Esperance Communications $749.00 9. Shaka Candle Hand Luxe Floral & Home Co. $69.95 10. Weber Jumbo Joe Portable Kettle Charcoal Fuel BBQ Barbeque's Galore $169.00

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

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FIND US AT 94A Dempster Street WE ARE ONLINE luxefloralandhome.com.au PHONE ORDERS 08 9071 7448 FOLLOW US @luxefloralandhomeco @luxefloralco

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Our monthly arts & culture guide brought to you by:

COMMUNITY

Father's Day Family Fun Event SUN 4 SEP @ 11:30AM LUCKY BAY BREWING

Esperance Wildflower Festival SEPTEMBER 20 - 24 ESPERANCE CIVIC CENTRE & ESPERANCE ANGLICAN PARISH HALL LIVE MUSIC

Annual Mens’ Health Fundraiser with Vince Garreffa

ENTERTAINMENT

THU 8 SEP @ 6PM LUCKY BAY BREWING

Koolbardi wer Wardong Tickets from $25 • The Shire website

Experience the incredible beauty of the language of this land, as this production promises to delight audiences of all ages.

Celebrity butcher Vince Garreffa and the brewery’s own chefs will create a delicious three-course meal with produce donated by local farmers and Lucky Bay Brewing.

Condingup Masquerade Ball 2022

Roald Dahl & The Imagination Seekers

SAT 10 SEP @ 6:30PM CONDINGUP COMMUNITY CENTRE

FRI 9 SEP @ 1:30PM ESPERANCE CIVIC CENTRE Tickets from $13.50 • The Shire website

FRI 2 SEP @ 5PM LUCKY BAY BREWING

Open Mic Night

Tickets $75 • trybooking.com

SAT 17 SEP @ 6:30PM ESPERANCE CIVIC CENTRE

Tim Currie and Josh Bryant

Tickets $60 • condingupcommunitycentre.com

FRI 2 SEP @ 5:30PM CANNERY ARTS CENTRE

Ratty and Scotty FRI 9 SEP @ 5PM LUCKY BAY BREWING

Tipsy Jipsys SUN 11 SEP @ 3PM LUCKY BAY BREWING

Steve West and The Latitude FRI 16 SEP @ 5PM LUCKY BAY BREWING

Bach & Beer

Quiz Night @ LBB

THU 22 SEP @ 5PM LUCKY BAY BREWING

THU 15 SEP @ 6PM LUCKY BAY BREWING

Tickets $47.50 • The Shire website

Text your team of six to 0429 777 714.

Mousey SUN 18 SEP @ 3PM LUCKY BAY BREWING

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

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6:30PM @ LUCKY BAY BREWING L

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The Arid Ones Bodes Car Park Social Dave Simpson Dr Tasty Grand Casual John Ratcliff Manasseh Band Rachel Vibart

T EVERY TICKE TASTERS INCL. BEER

kyzapresents.com 12 / ESPERANCE TIDE / SEPTEMBER 2022

ESPER ANCE CIVIC CENTRE PRESENTS

AUSTRALIAN BAROQUE

BACH & BEER

Michael Ward FRI 23 SEP @ 5PM & SUN 25 SEP @ 3PM LUCKY BAY BREWING

THE BRIDGE

Kyza and Tom FRI 30 SEP @ 5PM LUCKY BAY BREWING EXHIBITIONS

Living Reef Exhibition AUGUST 24 - OCTOBER 9 CANNERY ARTS CENTRE

'Open Borders' Group Exhibition Opening Night THU 29 SEP @ 5:30PM CANNERY ARTS CENTRE MARKETS

Esperance Growers Market SEPTEMBER 3 & 17 @ 9AM SCOUT HALL

Museum Village Markets SEPTEMBER 11 & 25 @ 8:30AM ESPERANCE MUSEUM VILLAGE WORKSHOPS

Art Lab Series VARIOUS DATES CANNERY ARTS CENTRE Register at canneryartscentre.com.au

Walk on Country SEPTEMBER 29 - OCTOBER 1 CAPE LE GRAND NATIONAL PARK Tickets from $15 • trybooking.com

A guided walk along the Hellfire Bay track with bush tucker morning tea included.

Grace Sanders is set to play at Balmy Nights on November 26. Credit: Jonty Scoble

I’ve got a whole heap of really cool stuff to report as we inch towards summer. Pleasure Valley (aka Joey Franzone) recently released his debut track, ‘Beautiful’. I have a suspicion the tune will be added to a good deal of sneaky summer soundtracks.

Credit to the man behind Pleasure Valley, who in true multi-instrumental form laid down the majority of sound on the release, joined by Michael Dunstan on guitar and Talia Hoogewerth providing backup vocals.

Grand Casual also wrapped up a new release with Mixed Up Kid, set to drop on September 15.

In April, Demos from Esperance was launched. The album featured nine exceptional local artists, and the time has come to celebrate the project with a live launch on October 15 at the Esperance Bay Yacht Club, supported by Regional Men’s Health and Wells Building and Construction.

All artists will appear, performing their tracks from the album in addition to a few of their own

original compositions. Many thanks to WAM, Goldfields-Esperance Development Commission, and the Bijou Theatre for their support and contribution to the project. Also, a special mention to Nigel Bird whose ambition and drive was the catalyst for the CD and numerous others across WA. Tickets to the launch are now live. Head on down and celebrate a truly remarkable milestone for the Esperance music community.

Balmy Nights 2022 is just around the corner (November 26!) and I couldn’t be happier. Grace Sanders is set to headline off the back of an unbelievable performance at Red Moon Rising in October 2021. Grace is honestly one of my favourite WA artists, and I’m super excited to catch her in full band format. An epic line up follows with Mal De Mer, Missgenius, Bleu Haze Baby, Laura Petrie and DJ Senique all set to perform. Make sure to head over to the freshly created Balmy Nights socials and throw us a like to stay up to date. Tickets are live so dive onto www.balmynights.com.au to grab yours. Many thanks to our local sponsors, Luxe Floral and Home Co, Tim Green Construction, TV Financial, Bob and Jim’s Fruit and Veg, The Lillypad Esperance, and the Vibart family for providing some greatly appreciated accommodation. And deepest gratitude to the Mt Burdett Foundation for their ongoing support.

KYRON SMITHSON - KYZA PRESENTS

Wildflower

Season

Scan here for your Esperance Wondrous Wildflowers Guide.

visitesperance.com/visit/maps-brochures 13 / ESPERANCE TIDE / SEPTEMBER 2022

ME E T T H E ART I ST

Katie White Katie White has an unwavering enthusiasm for native flora.

Botanist by day, multi-disciplinary botanical artist by night, and the Tide’s resident ‘Bush Banter’ columnist, Katie is inspired by the cleverness of Australian natives in the way they differentiate, survive, and evolve. Last month, Katie held her first exhibition at the Nannup Flower and Garden Festival, displaying her works alongside her mum and fellow artist, Leanne White. This month, Katie looks toward the Esperance Wildflower Festival, where she’ll host a series of workshops and have a piece showcasing the Droseras of Esperance on display at the art show.

Firstly, tell us what you create!

I create anything that celebrates our native wildflowers.

Primarily, I like to portray individual species as realistically as I can, following in the footsteps of many traditional botanical artists. I also love to include pressed specimens I’ve collected whilst working as a botanist, as well as creating art through photography, ephemeral bush sculptures, and floral styling, whenever an opportunity comes my way.

Were you reflecting the bush on paper from a young age?

I don’t think I ever went, “Ah-huh, I’m going to be a botanical artist.” It’s evolved. I remember a painting I did of orchids when I was around 10 and re-doing it over and over again to make it perfect. Fast-forward to university and studying botany, and we had to draw specimens as part of learning exercises. I absolutely loved it, but it was only a few years ago when I felt a shift to honour my creative side that I decided to give it a real crack.

How has your mum inspired you in your own journey to becoming an artist?

My mum is an amazing artist with an intense passion for portraying wildlife in their natural habitat in an explosion of colour. I’ve been blessed to see her journey from working a traditional 9-to-5 job to then becoming a fulltime commercial artist, and the joy it has brought her.

She literally gets to spend each day making the world a more beautiful place. How can you not be inspired by that?

Do you have a favourite species to draw or paint?

Absolutely not. Each new species is a challenge, intrigue, learning curve, and a total delight to work on. How could I have one favourite?

What is it about the bush that gets you so excited?

The landscape and our native flora are the footprints of my personal identity; a part of a relationship that is holistically essential for my wellbeing. We all have that landscape we connect with, whether it be Twilight Beach, the tall Karri trees of the South West, or the red dirt of Kal. A part of that landscape identity is the plants that make it up. I suppose my passion also comes from simple curiosity and a thirst to keep learning. I feel like I’m always on the tip of an iceberg understanding all these clever things our plants do.

Lastly, tell us where we can find your work!

My website is a work in progress, so watch this space.

But you can find me on Facebook or Instagram as ‘Caladenia Co’.

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.

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ARTS & CULTURE R E F LE C T I N G O UR FL ORA There’s no better month than September, when the heart of town lights up with an abundance of vibrant native flora and an explosion of colourful artworks that reflect our unique environment. The annual Esperance Wildflower Festival is not only a celebration of our natural surrounds, but a showcase of our local artistic talent, too. This year is no different, with artists of all ages and backgrounds contributing to the festival across numerous projects, exhibitions, and workshops.

Alongside the wildflower displays and Devonshire tea, one of the most anticipated features of the Esperance Wildflower Festival is the Community Sculpture Project.

The 2022 project builds on and expands the body of work that local artists Naomi Stanitzki and Mylene van Heijster have been creating with the community for the Esperance Wildflower Festival since 2019. Facilitated by Esperance Community Arts (ECA), approximately 60 people have been involved in this year’s project, ranging from schoolaged children to seniors. ECA Executive Officer Jane Mulcock says the two artists have hosted 24 workshops and four open studio sessions to bring the pieces to life. As it has in previous years, the project uses a lot of recycled materials, and aligns with the festival’s theme, ‘Celebrating Carnivorous Plants’. “Milly and Naomi are creating giant models of three species of tiny carnivorous plants found around Esperance with the help of community members,” Jane says. The artworks will be displayed in front of the Anglican Hall and Esperance Civic Centre throughout the five-day festival.

Another highlight of the Esperance Wildflower Festival is the Art Exhibition and Competition, which sees artists of all ages submit works to be displayed at the festival, with a number of prizes up for grabs. Solo artists, indigenous artists, community groups, and school groups from across the Esperance, Ravensthorpe, and Dundas Shires will have their works exhibited in the Anglican Hall during

Papier-mâché Tjaltjraak, part of last year’s Community Sculpture Project.

the festival, and be judged by an expert panel on their creative and strong links to the theme ‘Wildflowers of Our Region’, their innovative use of recycled or upcycled materials, and their demonstration of strong artistic skill.

Community members will also be invited to vote for three People’s Choice Awards.

HANNAH SIEMER

GO W IL D! This is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the Esperance Wildflower Festival, which runs from September 20 - 24. The five-day program includes workshops, presentations, performances, cultural tours, and so much more. The bulk of the festival is held at the Esperance Civic Centre and Anglican Hall.

Check out what’s on at www.esperancewildflowerfestival.com.

/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 15 / ESPERANCE TIDE / SEPTEMBER 2022

ADV ER TO R I AL

Road Trip to Kalgoorlie-Boulder!

KidsFest 2022

The City of Kalgoorlie-Boulder is proud to announce the return of KidsFest for 2022 this October 15 and 16. From 9am to 3pm, Saturday and Sunday, kids aged 0-12 will be entertained at this free, action-packed twoday festival, bringing exciting entertainment, activities and sports to one place for a whole weekend of fun.

This a great opportunity to pack the kids up and head to Kalgoorlie-Boulder for a mini-getaway. Pull the caravan up at the 24-hour free stop at Centennial Park right across from the action, set up at Lake Douglas for the weekend at the 72-hour free stop, or contact the Kalgoorlie-Boulder Visitor Centre for information on accommodation options.

This free event celebrates all things fun with a full schedule of activities and entertainment. Science, art, music, and sport activities will be presented through stage shows, hands-on workshops, and interactive games.

This year’s festival features headline act, rescue dogs in training Chase, Marshall and Ryder from Paw Patrol, who will be performing stage shows over the weekend and roving the grounds on each day for photo opportunities.

A spokesperson for the pups said they are looking forward to meeting the kids of Kalgoorlie-Boulder.

“Chase, Marshall and Ryder are excited to be welcoming everyone to Adventure Bay,” they said.

A Science Wonderland will be catered by SciTech to engage the kids in the weird and wonderful world of science with interactive exhibits, brain-bending challenges and awesome technology. The SciTech stage shows will present Under Pressure, an exploration of air pressure, and Hot vs Cold, the ultimate showdown in which two temperatures enter and only one leaves.

For the animal lovers, camel rides with the friendly fourlegged giants will run throughout the festival, and a petting zoo full of cuddly farm animals will be catered by Old MacDonald’s Travelling Farm.

For the action seekers, there will be plenty to do including go kart rides, a nine-hole mini golf course, bungee trampolines, a climbing mountain, a large inflatable soccer pitch, and a 35 metre inflatable obstacle course.

For the arty types, craft activities will be facilitated by the Museum of the Goldfields and Kalgoorlie-Boulder Urban Landcare Group, and live sketch artist Ash Von Castel will be set up to capture the little ones, creating an instant memory to take home.

Keep an eye out on the City of Kalgoorlie-Boulder Facebook page for updates and further event details, including a downloadable map.

17 / ESPERANCE TIDE / SEPTEMBER 2022

5 MI N UT E H I ST ORY

Helms Arboretum WORDS KARLI FLORISSON

In the 1920s, Esperance was a sleepy little town with a population of around 700 people in the entire district. Farming in the region was still in its infancy, and aside from harvesting salt from Pink Lake, there was very little industry in the area.

In 1927, a new company was registered, Esperance Pine Forests Limited, with the objective of planting commercial softwood forests near Esperance. At the time, Western Australia had plenty of hardwood available, but was importing softwood for timber and other purposes. In 1928, the Sunday Times reported that WA was importing £156,000 worth of softwood a year. One of the directors of the newly established company was Esperance’s EJ McCarthy, a businessman who had built the Bijou Theatre as a town hall in 1896. Esperance Pine Forests was granted a conditional purchase lease of 45,000 acres between Esperance and Gibson. In 1928, Robert Stuart, who was the chairman of the

company, recruited Andreas Helms as the new operations manager.

Andreas Helms, or Andy, as he was commonly called, was born in Sydney in 1891, to Danish parents. He spent his childhood between Queensland and Denmark, and then attained a Master of Forestry degree from the Royal Veterinary and Agricultural College in Copenhagen in 1918. Andy returned to Australia, and began his career in New South Wales, working for the Forestry Commission. In 1921, he was sent to the United States and Europe to collect conifer seeds that might be suitable for planting in Australia. He returned via Denmark, where he married his sweetheart, Margrethe. The couple would go on to have four children. Andy and Margrethe then moved to Bunbury to work with the Western Australian Forests Department.

In 1928, Andy and Margrethe moved to Esperance to begin working for Esperance Pine Forests. They began planting Maritime pine trees (Pinus pinaster), a tree that originates in the Mediterranean region of Europe, 18 / ESPERANCE TIDE / SEPTEMBER 2022

which has a similar climate to Esperance. The trees were started as seedlings, and then planted out in a 500 acre cleared area. In 1929, Andy reported that 250,000 pine seedlings had been planted, and by 1931, the Kalgoorlie Miner reported that 380,000 pine trees had been planted, although not all of them were expected to survive to maturity. Sadly, the pine plantation did not do well, due to poor soil and competition from native Munji, or ‘Christmas Trees’ (Nuytsia floribunda), which are hemiparasitic, drawing some of their nutrients from nearby plants.

In addition to planting the pine forest, Andy began to plant an experimental plot of land, trialling different types of crops which could be successful in the Esperance soil.

He planted various types of clovers, grasses, lupins, and other crops, and experimented in applying different amounts of superphosphate to the crops. The experiments demonstrated that various crops could be grown successfully in Esperance soil, and Andy had particular success with

↑ Andreas Helms

clover, rye, lupins, and oats. He prepared a report for the Minister for Agriculture, which stated in part that the ‘… investigation is reaching the stage when it is possible, in a certain measure, to base the future development of this type of country on facts. The soil deficiencies that exist seem all to be of a controllable nature. Factors which were uncertain and speculative have become known. In short, a small beginning has been made towards solving the problems connected with bringing the Esperance Plain into production.’

Andy’s work became the basis for developing farmland throughout the region.

In the early 1930s, as the effects of the Great Depression began to be felt in Western Australia, Esperance Pine Forests Limited went into liquidation. Most of the company’s 45,000 acres went on to be used as farm land. However, in the mid1930s, a 10,000 acre plot of land, where the pine plantation was located, was taken over by the WA Forests Department. Andy Helms and his family left Esperance, and went

↑ Workers clearing scrub in 1928

on to several other jobs, including working as a Research Officer for the WA Forests Department, and a Planning Officer for the Forestry and Timber Bureau in Tasmania.

Andy then became a lecturer in Forest Management at the Australian Forestry School in Canberra. Andy retired in 1958, after a career which made a strong contribution to rural development in three different states. He died in 1968 at the age of 77, and his wife, Margrethe, died a year later.

In 1973, a variety of trees were planted on the Esperance Pine Forest land to see what species would do well in Esperance conditions.

These plots of land became the arboretum and in 1991, it was named Helms Arboretum after Andy Helms. The rest of the 10,000 acre plot consists of a pine plantation,

which is commercially harvested, and a reserve, which is made up of Kwongan heathlands. This area is incredibly biodiverse, with a large number of species of plants from the region. It also provides habitat for a number of native birds and animals, including honey possums and Carnaby’s black cockatoos, as well as 45 plant species and 15 animal species that are listed as nationally threatened.

Andy Helms’ work in nutritional trials is recognised as important to the development of agriculture in the Esperance region, and many of the farmers who came to the region were able to learn from his work. Despite the short period of time that he spent in Esperance, his legacy here continues on today.

↓ Workers ploughing the experimental plot

19 / ESPERANCE TIDE / SEPTEMBER 2022

VI RGO

AU G 2 3 - S E P 2 2

CA PRI COR N DE C

2 2 - JAN 2 0

You’re feeling somewhat disconnected from your social circle, but don’t overthink it. Your friends haven’t cut you off – everyone has simply been in hibernation over the winter months. Now that the mercury is beginning to rise, plan a spring fling for everyone you’ve missed during winter. Take advantage of the sunshine and host a picnic in your backyard or grab an esky and head up to West Beach to share a few local brews as the sun goes down.

If you’re single, step outside your comfort zone and explore different activities and environments this month. You have a newfound zest for life which is going to attract someone who is as unexpected as they are exciting. If you’re attached, this zest is still at play, so use it within your relationship. Suggest an activity that’s out of the ordinary, whether it be relaxing, romantic or fun. Your partner mightn’t feel like it at first, but your enthusiasm will soon catch on.

LI BRA

AQUA RIUS

S EP 2 3 - O CT 2 2

It’s time for a makeover... On the inside!

Focus on adjusting your attitude over the next few weeks. Don’t take the little things for granted. Remind yourself daily how lucky you are and watch as you transform from a Negative Nancy into a Positive Polly. You can achieve great things with the right mindset and once you’re on the right path, there’ll be no stopping you.

Treat yourself with love and respect this month. You don’t deserve to be punished, especially by yourself.

S CO RP IO

JAN 2 0 - FE B 17

Tied? It could be something more than your busy lifestyle. Make health your number one priority this month and get yourself in ship shape before summer hits.

After all, who wants to be at the doctor when you could be at the Duke? You might feel like a hypochondriac seeing a medical professional when nothing is wrong with you, but a quick general check-up once in a while is one of the best things you can do for yourself.

TAUR US

AP R 2 0 - MAY 20

It’s embarrassingly cliched to tell you to spring clean this month, but that’s exactly what you need to do. The junk in your garage, spare bedroom, or kitchen drawer isn’t going to throw itself out, so get to work on sorting through it. Post anything decent on Facebook Marketplace or go old school and have a garage sale. Nothing says, “Hello, Spring!” like a bunch of strangers standing impatiently on your front lawn at 6:59am on a Saturday morning.

GEM INI

MAY 2 1 - J UN 20

‘Reduction’ is your keyword for September.

Less is more, so opt for quality over quantity throughout the month. Eliminate anything that is no longer useful or necessary in your life, from clothes, to tools, to toys. This also applies to the people around you. Chances are, there’s someone toxic in your life that you’ve been thinking about shedding. If this relationship is a one-way street, don’t waste a second more on it. Drop ‘em like it’s hot and move on, stat.

PI SCES FE B 18 - MAR 19 CANC ER JUN 2 1 - J UL 22 O CT 2 3 - N O V 2 1 Does how you look on the outside reflect The promise of warmer weather fills

Woo hoo! Spring has sprung and you’re feeling like a new person. Use this newfound zest for life to get ahead. Now is the perfect time to work on achieving your personal goals. Whether you’ve got a side hustle up your sleeve or you want to shift those sticky date puddings you indulged in over winter, make a plan and get to work. If you need an extra boost of motivation, find a friend who’s looking to smash some goals, too.

SAGITTARIUS NOV

22 - DEC 21

It’s important to allow your inner child to come out and play every so often but you’ve been so serious lately. Why not let your hair down and have some fun? If you’ve got children, let them dictate your schedule one day this month and don’t be afraid to say “Yes!” to whatever they want to do. No kids? No worries! Plan a board game tournament with friends, go see a Disney movie, or grab an ice cream from Aurelia’s.

the person you are on the inside? You might have a sudden urge to change your appearance this month. A change is as good as a holiday. Cut your hair, buy a new outfit, paint your nails a colour you normally wouldn’t dream of... Anything that leaves you feeling refreshed and revitalised. Your dynamic presence post-makeover is going to make an impression with someone important and may lead to great things.

you with energy and drive this month. It has been a long, cold winter, and you’ve unfortunately taken your frustrations out on others. Clear the air as soon as you can, or else you’ll be bogged down right through spring. What do you want to achieve over the next three months? Put your objectives on paper and go through them with your nearest and dearest over beer or two at the brewery.

A RI ES

LEO

MAR 2 0 - AP RI L 19

If you found yourself in a funk over winter, get ready to shake it off. Push yourself beyond your comfort zone this month – physically, mentally, and emotionally. Swap out your boring workout for something fun and new, cook with a mystery ingredient from Pinoy, or buy something from Woven that you’d never dream of wearing. Think of ways to challenge yourself every day throughout September and you’ll soon be strutting out of that rut with all the confidence in the world.

Phone (08) 9071 0500

Email enquiries@freightlinesgroup.com.au

www.freightlinesgroup.com.au 20 / ESPERANCE TIDE / SEPTEMBER 2022

JUL 2 3 - A UG 22

You find yourself restless this month and increasingly desperate to try something new. Don’t hold back! That something new is exactly what you need right now. How much are you willing to shake things up?

Is it a new haircut or a change of style, or something more radical like taking your career in a different direction or moving house? Things will fall in your favour over the next few weeks, so it’s a great time to take the plunge.

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

T ID E KI T CH E N

Tuna & Bean Salad Spring is for salad.

Eat on its own or as a side!

Serves 4

Ingredients 100g rocket leaves 300g cherry tomatoes, halved 2 shallots, finely sliced 1 lemon, finely sliced Handful parsley, finely chopped 400g can cannellini beans, drained and rinsed 185g can tuna in olive oil 3 boiled eggs, halved Dressing 4 tbsp olive oil 2 tbsp red wine vinegar 1 tsp Dijon mustard 1 garlic clove, finely grated Salt & pepper

Method 1.

Combine the dressing ingredients in a small bowl and season with a good pinch of salt and pepper.

2.

Place the first six ingredients in a large bowl, add the dressing and toss to combine.

3.

Lay the salad onto a large platter and top with eggs and tuna, making sure to break it up into chunks. It’s now ready to serve!

21 / ESPERANCE TIDE / SEPTEMBER 2022

Last month's 01

Esperance will soon welcome back cruise ships into the port after it was announced that cruise vessels with capacity for more than 350 guests and crew will be permitted to return to Western Australia from October 1. It has been two-and-a-half years since cruise ships last entered the state. Prior to COVID-19, WA welcomed 106 cruise ship visits in the 2019-20 financial year, which generated $261.9 million for the state’s economy. Details of Esperance’s first arrival for the cruise season are yet to be announced.

03

An emerging artist was awarded the Cannery Arts Centre’s inaugural Art Lab Scholarship, which is designed to support a local artist in their artistic growth by allowing them to participate in workshops, mentoring, and tutorials delivered through the centre’s Art Lab series. Meleena Wych was named the recipient of the scholarship, and said she hoped the knowledge she gained would assist in a future career in the arts. The Art Lab Scholarship is a trial project and will be open again in 2023.

02 Esperance District Football Association’s Hepburn 04 Medal was held on August 13, with Esperance Football Club midfielder Kaine Buckley taking out the coveted fairest and best award for the second consecutive year. The Dempster Sporting Medal for fairest and best in the womens’ league went to Ports player, Emma Scally. Newtown Condingup’s Scott McArthur took out the Frank Murray Medal for A-Reserve fairest and best, and Esperance player Edward Graham was awarded the McArthur Medal for Colts fairest and best.

Temperatures were slightly below average in the month of August, while rainfall was higher than usual. The average minimum temperature in August was 8.6, just 0.1 below the average, while the average maximum was 17.4, a little lower than the average of 18.0. The highest maximum of the month came on August 26, when the temperature hit a warm 23.9. Just two days later, the lowest maximum was recorded, when the temperature only made it to 13.7. Rainfall totals came to 138.4mm, 52.7mm above average.

ESPERANCE TIDE MERCH BEACH WARES TUES - FRI 9AM - 5PM SATURDAY 9AM - 1PM

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22 / ESPERANCE TIDE / SEPTEMBER 2022

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

TRADES & SERVICES

NON-EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS South Coast NRM has two vacancies for Non-Executive Directors to join its board to contribute to the governance, strategy, purpose, financial wellbeing and sustainability of the organisation. We seek candidates who support the work of South Coast NRM in its advocacy and lead role in supporting independent natural resource management throughout the south coast region of Western Australia.

Candidates who identify with, or have experience in working with, people and their communities with a very real interest in sustainable natural resource management and the protection of our Aboriginal cultural heritage are encouraged to apply. For further information package and selection criteria please email info@southcoastnrm. com.au or visit our website www.southcoastnrm.com.au Applications due by Monday 26th September 9am

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

PUBLIC NOTICES ESPERANCE RATEPAYERS AND ELECTORS ASSOCIATION Join us to talk about Council issues at our next meeting, Monday 5 September, 7pm at BOICO, 56 the Esplanade ESPERANCE ARTS AWARDS 2022 The Esperance Arts Awards 2022 presented by the Cannery Arts Centre this year with over $9500 of prizes. Check the Cannery Arts Centre website for T&C’s, Registrations Nov 4-8.

Opening and Awards evening Thursday Nov 17.

KICKARTS SCHOOL HOLIDAY WORKSHOPS KickArts School Holiday workshops are on at the Cannery. Bookings essential canneryartscentre.com.au

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

TABLE TENNIS PLAYED AT THE SCOUT HALL Thursday Mornings 9am - 11.00am & Friday Night 7.00pm - 9.30pm. $5.00 each session.

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.

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

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23 / ESPERANCE TIDE / SEPTEMBER 2022

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He is hiding on one of our pages.

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