Providing a safe and reassuring presence in the community
it also means being the brunt of frustrations and the shoulder to lean on when it seems there’s no one else to turn to
Senior Constables Rob Pienaar and Linda Taurima of Ballajura Police Station head out on an early morning job
Two brothers have been captured on CCTV taking a trolley load of groceries out a rear door without any attempt to pay
an arrest warrant has been issued for the one brother confirmed who absconded with the cart
where three adult siblings live together following the recent passing of both parents
the officers alight the vehicle and attempt to enter through the front gate
They are greeted by a half a dozen dogs who are keen for a game of Cops and Doggos
Taurima as she gently nudges the playful pups aside to gain entry
so the officers have a chat and leave to head to another address
past the dogs and the front yard obstacles
It’s not enough – they don’t clear the streets
they don’t remove the garbage,” says the man, gesturing toward the house
“This is a job that came though just yesterday
We are here on a specific matter and they will be dealt with to the full extent of our power,” Sen
we don’t have any say over what the magistrate does.”
Piennar explains that while officers do make submissions to court
the upset neighbour continues his tirade, gesticulating wildly towards his neighbours
Be like a rugby player – put your backbone into it
We’ve had more than ten years of this – it’s devastating our lives
It has devastated this area - like a cancer strip through it,” the neighbour says
I’m sorry if it’s not meeting your expectations but we’re doing what we can
“I understand your anger is not directed at me personally
I understand your frustration and I know you want more to be done and trust me
but we can only do what is within our powers.”
the officers spend an hour on a welfare call with a woman who wants the police to keep her teenage children away from ‘the bad influence’ of her husband’s family
a local bank employee calls through to report a customer who has a migraine
The officers suggest ringing St John Ambulance
keeping the peace and upholding the law
Often it seems it’s as much a matter of PR as it is policing
Don't include any personal information.If you need a response, send an enquiry instead
The Government of Western Australia acknowledges the traditional custodians throughout Western Australia and their continuing connection to the land
We pay our respects to all members of the Aboriginal communities and their cultures; and to Elders both past and present
all-abilities playspace is set to open in Ballajura next week
the $6.5 million facility is located at Weitj Park on Oxleigh Drive
and will feature three different zones to cater for families of all ages
“We are proud to support the City of Swan to create a community hub for the residents of Ballajura and beyond,” said Lotterywest CEO Colin Smith
Lotterywest contributed a $2 million grant towards the project’s completion
“This will be a space that promotes community health and wellbeing for many years to come.”
while an industrial play area features a ninja assault course
trampolines and even a ninja assault course – as well as a junior play area suitable for little ones to explore
a nature play area will be comprised of a dry creek
cubby and balance ropes for bigger kids to get their hands dirty
“The Ballajura intergenerational playspace helps us build an environment that meets the needs of children
families and aged people,” said City of Swan Mayor Tanya Richardson when ground broke on the project mid-2024
“I’m looking forward to welcoming the community to this incredible facility once it is completed.”
To celebrate the playspace opening, the City of Swan will host an event on January 30 from 9am-noon, with a sausage sizzle and ice cream truck as well as music from DJ Chocolate – BYO picnic blanket or chair! Find out more about the event here.
Anzac Day is an opportunity for us all to recognise and commemorate those who have served and sacrificed in wars and conflicts
The METRONET Ellenbrook Line is set to give people living and working in the north-eastern suburbs of Perth better transport choice and faster journeys.
Jointly funded by the Federal and Western Australian Governments, the $1.65 billion Morley-Ellenbrook Line is the biggest public transport project delivered in Perth in more than 16 years.
Starting at Bayswater Station on the Midland Line, the new 21km line travels along the centre of Tonkin Highway, through land north of Marshall Road, along the western side of Drumpellier Drive and ends in Ellenbrook, south of The Parkway.
Ellenbrook is one of Perth’s fastest growing regions, with annual growth figures forecast to be more than 6.5 per cent. Due to the lack of rail services, the corridor between Morley and Ellenbrook has the highest usage of cars compared to other Perth corridors.
Once complete, the METRONET Ellenbrook Line is set to create a more interconnected city with better transport, housing and employment options. The line will majorly reduce vehicle usage in north-eastern Perth by reducing travel times on public transport by up to 50 per cent and slashing travel times to a 30-minute train journey between Ellenbrook and the CBD. It will also provide direct links to Midland and Perth Airport, as well as better connections to Whiteman Park and the Swan Valley.
“The 21-kilometre Ellenbrook Line will give people living and working in Perth’s north-eastern suburbs more transport choice and halve the travel time to Perth for those travelling from Ellenbrook,” a METRONET spokesperson said.
New stations in the suburbs of Morley, Noranda, Ballajura, Whiteman Park and Ellenbrook will serve these growing communities. Additionally, the New Bayswater Station will create connections to improve connectivity with the Midland, Airport and Ellenbrook lines.
Each station is set to enable the development of the surrounding precincts to provide access to more housing, jobs, community services, tourism and recreation opportunities over the next 30 years, helping shape these growing neighbourhoods into vibrant new communities.
“Unique features of these station include new public spaces that prioritise pedestrian movement between transport corridors and the creation of vibrant public spaces,” the spokesperson said.
“Wayfinding was given significant consideration, and the new station precincts will give visitors generous pathways, artwork to entice people to the area, shade arbour canopies and interpretive signage.
“The precinct, including station buildings, urban spaces and landscaping, consider a passenger focused design.
“This includes positioning carparks and drop-off points close to the station.”
Over 6,500 jobs have been created as part of this project, stimulating local employment opportunities.
Around 150,000 sleepers and 96,000 tonnes of ballast were used in the construction of the line.
Once the new line opens, commuters in the north-east will be able ride to the city using a SmartRider for only $4.16.
The first train to Ellenbrook hit the tracks in late-August, marking the beginning of a four-week program of rigorous testing and commissioning.
The program was undertaken to ensure all infrastructure and systems are operating efficiently and trains will run safely and smoothly.
Following testing and commissioning is driver familiarisation, before the line enters passenger service from December 2024.
One point of focus for the project is working more sustainably to reduce carbon impacts of materials by more than 15 per cent and to improve resource efficiency and support a circular economy by using recycled materials.
“Each new state-of-the-art station is built with future sustainable growth in mind for the precincts surrounding the new stations and rail corridor,” the spokesperson said.
A number of initiatives have been implemented to help reach these sustainability targets, including:
The project has committed to using 20 per cent Food Organics and Garden Organics (FOGO) in imported topsoil used for landscaping. In collaboration with local industry, the trial is expected to set a precedent that supports the use of FOGO and grows confidence to embrace this and other new materials, while encouraging innovative landscape practices.
Crushed recycled concrete (CRC) is being trailled for the base asphalt layer in Ballajura and Noranda station car parks. CRC is made of concrete debris from construction and demolition projects. The use of CRC aims to reduce materials going to landfill and result in reduced carbon emissions.
The amount of concrete used on site is also being reduced through a hollow core noise wall system that contains 30 per cent less embodied carbon than standard noise wall panels. Approximately 770 hollow core panels have been installed on the line so far.
The new stations as part of the Morley-Ellenbrook line are:
Morley Station is located under the Broun Avenue bridge, within the Tonkin Highway Median. Frequent bus services will connect passengers to the Morley Galleria shopping precinct, surrounding businesses and the local community.
A concept master plan for the Morley Station Precinct is already complete, which sets the long-term vision for planning, development and infrastructure delivery for the area around the station over the next 30 years.
The master plan was designed using feedback gained from the City of Bayswater, key stakeholders and the community, and sets out a vision for an urban village with a vibrant public environment and enhanced connections.
Noranda Station is located at Benara Road and Tonkin Highway and will deliver a reliable new connection point for local and surrounding communities.
Future planning for the precinct around Noranda Station will be managed by the City of Bayswater.
Ballajura Station, formerly Malaga Station, will provide efficient transport links to the surrounding suburbs and support future growth in the area.
The station is located north-east of the junction of Marshall Road and Tonkin Highway, and has been renamed to Ballajura Station due to its geographical location and its connection to the Ballajura community.
A new footbridge will be built across Tonkin Highway in Ballajura, with access via the shared path along the highway, close to the Premier Place access point on the western side. The footbridge will provide easy access to Ballajura Station and to Whiteman Park and improve connections for commuters.
Structure planning of the surrounding precinct is underway to guide the long-term planning of future roads, community facilities, schools, public space and land use in the area around the station.
Whiteman Park Station is located alongside Drumpellier Drive, just south of the Whiteman Park entrance.
The station will efficient and modern transport services to the communities of Henley Brook, Dayton, West Swan and Brabham, including new links to two of Perth’s most popular tourism destinations, Whiteman Park and Swan Valley.
A concept long-term master plan for the area around the station is already complete. The plan is designed to support growth in the area over the next 30 years and sets the high-level road map for the urban development east of Whiteman Park Station, as well as recreational and tourism areas to the west.
Ellenbrook Station is located in the town centre, south of The Parkway and west of Civic Terrace. The station will offer a new transport option for the 46,000 residents in Ellenbrook and the surrounding areas. It has been designed to accommodate the anticipated growth in the region, making the most of vacant land around the station.
Future planning for the precinct around Ellenbrook Station will be managed by a State Government and private sector joint venture.
The Bennett Springs East Station and precinct is a potential addition to the line that would urbanise the surrounding area with complementary transport, housing and recreation choices.
Precinct structure planning is currently underway to establish the long-term planning framework that will guide the future development of local roads, housing density, zoning and locations for community facilities such as schools, shops and public space.
The Morley-Ellenbrook Line will open with a community celebration on 8 December and commence passenger service on 9 December 2024.
The station precincts will create more liveable communities, new business and employment opportunities, as well as better transport links for tourists and visitors to the Swan Valley and Whiteman Park, making this project as a transformational expansion of Perth’s rail network and vital connection for Perth’s north-east.
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© 2025 All Rights Reserved. All content published on this site is the property of Prime Creative Media. Unauthorised reproduction is prohibited
A NEW modern classroom block at Ballajura Primary School has been officially opened with the new classrooms replacing old facilities that were no longer fit-for-purpose
The new building provides staff and students at the multicultural school with a new general classroom
a pre-primary block comprising two pre-primary classrooms
play area with storeroom and toilets for staff and students
Parry and Rosenthal Architects designed the new building and Solution 4 Building completed the construction works in July
Ballajura Primary School offers its staff first-rate leadership opportunities and has a strong focus on academic achievement
West Swan MLA Rita Saffioti said she had always been focused on ensuring local students and their families have access to great education right in their community
and I'm sure students will love coming to school and learning in these state-of-the-art facilities.”
Education Minister Dr Tony Buti said Ballajura Primary School enjoyed an excellent reputation for providing an outstanding education for the students in its care
“This significant upgrade will ensure this continues into the future,” he said
but Ballajura’s James Marrs is already proving age is no obstacle in the world of motorcycle racing
James is gearing up to compete in a series of high-profile state and national competitions across Western Australia and South Australia later this year and is being supported by Skill Hire (part of the IntoWork Group) to help reach his goals
Competing in both the 65cc class for 10 to 12-year-olds and the 85cc class for 9 to 12-year-olds
James is a rising star in the motocross world
He started riding motorbikes when he was four
inspired by his father’s passion for the sport
he was already competing in official races every weekend
said it was incredible to see how much James had grown: “It is frightening at times
Especially now that he’s getting on bigger bikes and going faster,” she said
It is amazing to see how much he has progressed.”
a Western Australian leading provider of training
looked to help support James in his pursuit of excellence
and traveling to races can be substantial,” Sarah said
“This sponsorship allows us to focus on James’s training and ensure he has the best possible experience.”
James’s favourite part of racing is the camaraderie and the thrill of the track
“The friends are nice and sometimes when you do a good part of the track
Some of the jumps can be a bit scary but I’m starting to get over them now,” he said
His most memorable moment was securing a win in the first round of the 2023 season
His current goal is to win the state championship
a title he has narrowly missed in the past two years
Sarah offers valuable advice for parents of young motocross athletes: “Motocross is a challenging sport
and it's important to ensure that your child is genuinely passionate about it
and it’s essential to build their confidence on the bike before they start racing
It’s all about making sure they are prepared for the challenges they will face.”
Skill Hire chief executive officer Ben Dahlstrom expressed the company’s pride in supporting young athletes like James
“It's important for not-for-profit organisations like us to give back to the community and support rising stars who are making a positive impact
We believe in the power of passion and hard work
and James embodies both,” Mr Dahlstrom said
While James is focused on winning the state championship this year
The $1.65 billion Metronet Morley-Ellenbrook Line is powering towards the finish line
with all of the track now laid and the second of five new stations complete
which will be formally named Ballajura Station to better reflect the location
the significant residential community adjacent to the station
and future residential opportunities in the area
The milestone follows the completion of the Ellenbrook station earlier this year and the opening of the Bayswater station in April
a project jointly funded by the federal and state governments and critical to the operations of the new Morley-Ellenbrook Line
As part of the transformative Metronet project for Perth's north-eastern suburbs
21 kilometres of new rail track has now been laid
allowing for line electrification to occur next month ahead of the testing of trains
It marks the most significant milestone to date on the project
which has supported an estimated 6500 jobs
The Morley-Ellenbrook line starts at the new Bayswater Station
The station is a 21-minute journey to Perth city
and Bennett Springs to high-quality and affordable public transport
the Ballajura station includes a 12-stand bus interchange and 1100 parking bays
and will unlock thousands of new housing options for Western Australians as part of future developments
Work is also now complete on the new Ballajura footbridge to provide safe access for pedestrians and cyclists from the residential areas west of Tonkin Highway to the new station
An education campaign will be delivered in coming months as electrification of the line begins
to encourage public safety around high-speed rail and live rail
WA Transport Minister and West Swan MLA Rita Saffioti said the Morley-Ellenbrook line was powering towards completion
and when it opens later this year will slash travel times for people across the north-eastern suburbs
“Communities in our growing north-east corridor have been crying out for better public transport options
and I am incredibly proud that our government is making that a reality
The WA Government has set the official opening date for the METRONET Morley-Ellenbrook train line – Sunday 8 December
The line will be formally known as the Ellenbrook Line and its opening will be celebrated with a community event before regular services begin on December 9
The 21 kilometre line starts at Bayswater Station
and will feature five new stations along the way – Morley
“I am thrilled for the communities in our north-east who have waited so long for this train line,” said Transport Minister Rita Saffioti
“This train line will be a game changer for these communities
offering affordable and reliable transport options to get around our city.”
Journey times will be approximately 31 minutes from Ellenbrook to Perth
The two-zone fare cap means the ride will cost commuters $4.16 (with a SmartRider)
with rides free on Sundays and school students riding free during the week
The line comes in at a cost of $1.65 billion (jointly funded by Commonwealth and State Governments)
and according to the Government has created 6,500 jobs during construction
“This METRONET project will transform the north-eastern suburbs
providing affordable or free public transport on a world-class rail network for tens of thousands of local families,” said Premier Roger Cook
The community event on December 8 will include family-friendly entertainment at each of the new stations
Head to metronet.wa.gov.au for more info, image credit: Woods Bagot
06 Sep 2024 • 3m read • View Author
Paving-a-new-pathway-for-Perth-with-Woods-Bagot-1732001189.png
Ellenbrook and Ballajura stations have reached practical completion, a major milestone for the flagship METRONET Morley-Ellenbrook Line project.
Perth Residents will soon benefit from services covering 21-kilometres of rail from Ellenbrook to the Perth CBD, with trains set to deliver commuters into the city in under half an hour.
Woods Bagot is the lead architect and urban design consultant on the project, working in collaboration with lead contractor Laing O’Rourke, architects Taylor Robinson Chaney Broderick and landscape architects UDLA and TCL.
“Conversations around rapid transit to the North-East have been underway for decades. To see these stations reach practical completion is very exciting, and long overdue for the communities it will serve,” says Principal and Perth Studio Chair Kukame McPierzie.
“Ellenbrook is a growing and thriving community, and the new train line is a key piece of infrastructure that will unlock connectivity for this part of Perth.
“Perth is growing rapidly, and high-quality public transport is essential to support and enable sustainable and liveable communities. Strategically designed with future housing and transit-oriented development in mind, stations like Ballajura will become a catalyst for new neighbourhoods.”
Ellenbrook Station is now listed as Australia’s highest certified 6 Star Green Star train station using the Green Star – Railway Stations v1.1 tool, and has been benchmarked as “World Leading in Sustainable Development.”
Ballajura and Ellenbrook are the first of three railway stations in Western Australian to achieve the Green Star Design Review rating, and are on track to receive a 5 Star Green Star – Railway Stations v1.1 assessment.
The project is the first rail infrastructure project in Australia and New Zealand to achieve an IS version 2.0/2.1 rating, which acknowledges the commitment to the economic, social and environmental performance of infrastructure across the planning, design, construction and operational phases of infrastructure assets.
Green Star principles from these two sites have been carried over to the works on Morley, Noranda and Whiteman Park stations including indoor environment quality, energy, innovation, land use and materials.
Art plays a central role in defining the unique character of each station on the METRONET Morley-Ellenbrook Line. Integrated from the outset, the art installations weave a living tapestry of Noongar stories and cultural heritage, enhancing the sense of place and identity.
“The design of Ballajura and Ellenbrook stations are highly contextual, taking inspiration from the surrounding landscape and suburbs, as well as creating stations that seek to embody the spirit of the place. The stations’ sculptural folded roof geometries were also conceived to be animated by Perth’s remarkably crisp light, bringing a playful, uplifting travel experience for people on their daily journeys,” says Neil Hill, Principal and Design Leader.
Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the new train line will connect thousands of people along Perth’s north-eastern corridor as part of the most significant expansion of the Perth rail system since the Mandurah line opened in 2007.
“We hope that the stations will become memorable landmarks for the local communities for generations to come,” says Kukame.
The five new stations – Morley, Noranda, Ballajura, Whiteman Park and Ellenbrook – are expected to reach patronage exceeding 18,000 people per day by 2031.
Main station buildings for Ballajura and Ellenbrook Stations’ are now complete, with a few ongoing precinct and public realm works. Woods Bagot is continuing works on the Noranda, Morley and Whiteman Park stations, with the line expected to open to commuters in late-2024.
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AUSTRALIA — The METRONET Morley-Ellenbrook Line
a major public transportation project in Perth’s north-eastern suburbs
has reached a significant milestone with the completion of all track laying and the second of five new stations
following the earlier completion of Ellenbrook Station and the opening of Bayswater Station in April
which starts at Bayswater Station and includes new stations at Morley
jointly funded by the federal and state governments
is set to transform public transport options for Perth’s north-eastern suburbs
The line is expected to support an estimated 6,500 jobs and provide more efficient transportation for residents in the area
located a 21-minute journey from Perth City
will connect several suburbs to high-quality public transport
The station features a 12-stand bus interchange
and a new footbridge for safe pedestrian and cyclist access
the next phase involves line electrification
Western Australian Premier Roger Cook emphasised the project’s significance
stating: “This is the biggest milestone to date on the METRONET Morley-Ellenbrook Line
affordable public transport one step closer for the tens of thousands of people in our north-eastern suburbs.”
Federal Infrastructure Minister Catherine King highlighted the collaboration between Federal and State governments
noting that the project “will provide more transportation options as we continue to build the infrastructure that commuters in this fast-growing area need and deserve”
The METRONET Morley-Ellenbrook Line is on track to open later this year
promising reduced travel times and improved public transport options for Perth’s growing north-eastern corridor
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We’re bringing our live blog to a close for the day
Making headlines today was the latest from the Supreme Court trial of Andre Rebelo
who is accused of killing his mother Colleen to cash in on life insurance policies he took out in her name before her death in 2020
who described seeing Andre’s car at the Bicton home on the morning of the much-loved mother’s death
the co-host of UK rapper and YouTuber Yung Filly
who was extradited to WA and charged with rape last week
telling the show’s fans he can’t comment on the allegations because they are now before the court
Yung Filly – real name Andres Barrientos – faces a string of charges after allegedly sexually assaulting a woman following a show at Bar1 in Hillarys last month
The famous rapper continued his tour of Australia before being arrested in Queensland
Asked about the rebrand at a press conference today
Transport Minister Rita Saffioti denied the government was politicising the rail network
and said election promises had ended up as government brands in the past
I think Medicare was taken to an election,” she said
and then you deliver those election commitments
tune in again tomorrow as we bring you all the news you need to know
UK podcaster Chunks has addressed accusations his co-host Andres ‘Yung Filly’ Barrientos raped a woman in a Perth hotel room after a show last month
shared a brief video on his Instagram story on Monday after Barrientos was charged by WA Police on Thursday
like everyone I’ve heard the reports coming out of Australia
Whilst I understand many of you want my reaction on it
I hope you guys can understand that I can’t and won’t be commenting on it publicly
So I’ve just come on here to basically let you know the reasons why I can’t
It comes after Yung Filly was spotted at the weekend reporting to Northbridge Police Station as part of his strict bail conditions which also require him to remain in WA while he fights the sexual assault allegations
He also isn’t allowed to talk about the charges online or enter licensed venues
assaulting and choking a woman in a hotel room after his Bar1 Nightclub show in Hillarys last month
with his lawyer saying the issue in the case will be around consent
Numerous brands including Heinz and ASOS have appeared to remove content featuring Yung Filly following the charges
The rapper will next appear in court in December
To the Supreme Court of Western Australia now
where the murder trial of Andre Rebelo – the boyfriend of Instagram social media mogul Grace Piscopo – has entered its third day
Rebelo is accused of killing his mother Colleen Rebelo inside her Bicton home in May 2020 to cash in over a million dollars in life insurance policies he took out in her name just days before she was found dead
The ensuite shower where Colleen Rebelo was found dead by her youngest son in May 2020.Credit: WA Supreme Court
Ms Rebelo’s best friend told the jury she did not approve of Andre’s girlfriend’s social media career as she was worried about the work eventually drying up
She also told the court her friend was a “wonderful mother” who was devoted to her children and proud of their achievements
Ms Rebelo had been a single parent for much of her four children’s lives after she had an acrimonious divorce from their father
Two weeks before her death she began a new job with the Health Department after years of working in night fill and cafés to make ends meet
“She was excited about it,” her friend told the court about her job
Ms Rebelo was found dead in her ensuite shower by her youngest son Fabian with a coroner’s inquiry failing to ascertain a cause of death
State prosecutors have told the jury her second son
was at the house the morning she died and had opportunity to kill her and then put her in the shower to create the impression she died of natural causes
And following on from our story about the Metronet rebrand this morning
Transport Minister Rita Saffioti has provided a more fulsome defence of the move during a press conference in Byford today
The opposition accused the state of politicising the rail network with the rebrand
We’re doing it as we open those train lines,” she said
“This is not something that will be done in six months or 12 months
This will be done over the next four to five years.”
The Metronet name and concept was devised the Labor party ahead of the 2013 election
Asked whether the government had considered changing the rebrand to something that wasn’t closely aligned to an election promise
Saffioti said election promises had ended up as recognisable government brands in the past
Saffioti said the rebrand would cost “in the tens of thousands” which was included in operational budgets anyway
Returning to the news we brought you earlier today that a Pilbara council had voted to condemn COVID-19 vaccinations (see 8.28am post)
Here is what Premier Roger Cook has had to say in response during a press conference just now:
they are important for saving lives and keeping the community safe
the The Town of Port Hedland should stick to its knitting
it should stay focused on the services to the people in that community
This is another example of that particular council going completely off the rails.We know that there are people on that council who are travelling overseas at the invitation of Vladimir Putin to monitor elections in Russia
This current decision is another example of that council lacking focus on the issues that matter to their constituents
making sure they provide great services to the people of Port Hedland
making sure that they look after the people and not get distracted by these silly ideological debates
WA Police has just released vision of its air wing and canine teams assisting in the arrests of two males in Como and Huntingdale last week
allegedly involved in a burglary earlier that day
driving down Riseley Street in Booragoon in a Mitsubishi Pajero
The car travels into Como before it stopped
the men don’t get far with police air wing directing the canine team to where the men are hiding
A search of the area later revealed a tomahawk
the canine section attended a home to speak with a 16-year-old boy in relation to a number of ongoing investigations
spotted the teen running through the backyard
jumping multiple fences in an attempt to escape police
He jumped into an alleyway just as a canine team was walking by
South African Airways will put on extra direct flights between Perth and Johannesburg to deal with increased demand for travel over summer
which was relaunched in April after a four-year hiatus due to COVID-19 and airport biosecurity disputes
will go from three flights a week to four in December
South African Airways will increase its direct flights from Perth to Johannesburg
Perth is also preparing to welcome back direct flights between Guangzhou and Perth next month
while direct flights to Toyko resumed today
Tourism Minister Rita Saffioti said there were now 20 international destinations that had direct flights from Perth including Paris
“It’s exciting to welcome back the direct flight between Tokyo and Perth
given Japan is one of our top 10 tourism markets for visitation and spend,” she said
it’s fantastic to see such huge demand for the services between Johannesburg and Perth
particularly given South Africa is one of our biggest inbound markets for travellers visiting their friends and relatives.”
Perth journalist Gary Adshead was on the weekend honoured with a prestigious Australian Commercial Radio Awards (ACRAs)
winning the ‘Best Podcast by a Radio Show’ prize for The Reporter: True Stories
Published alongside in-depth features on WAtoday and other Nine mastheads
and available wherever you get your podcasts
The Reporter took listeners on a journey inspired by Adshead’s 40 year career in news
It tackles a vast array of Western Australia’s most notorious stories
from murder investigations and national espionage to heroic rescues and missing person cases
Check out The Reporter: True Stories
The Town of Port Hedland has called for the immediate suspension of COVID-19 Pfizer and Moderna vaccines
Councillor Adrian McRae
who publicly endorsed Russian President Vladimir Putin earlier this year
brought the motion forward during a special council meeting on Friday
following claims by a Canadian virologist last month that the vaccines could alter human DNA
Port Hedland mayor Peter Carter (left) voted against the motion
with councillor Camilo Blanco (right) among five who voted in favour
Despite the council highlighting the decision would likely lead to a loss of trust in the council
and impact its relationships with state and federal government agencies
councillors voted 5-2 in favour of the motion
It will now notify all councils Australia-wide of its decision
and will be contacting all local practitioners to urge them to share the council’s stance with their patients to ensure they are informed before they give consent to have the vaccine
Mayor Peter Carter said it was disappointing the motion was passed
“It’s not the role of council … this is something that we shouldn’t be entertaining at all,” he told Radio 6PR this morning
There’s a standoff underway this morning between protesters and developers as a group of residents fight to save 10 trees in Mount Lawley
The group claim a new social housing development in the area will see Moreton Bay fig and gum trees
including two believed to be more than 100 years old
chopped down at the corner of Guildford Road and East Parade
The ‘breakfast blockade’ is waiting for scheduled tree loppers to arrive at the site today
One protester is currently up in one of the trees
The locals claim they’ve received little community consultation
and want the development to be redesigned to be built around the trees
Perth is Australia’s least-vegetated capital
with just 22 per cent suburbs having more than one fifth tree canopy cover
Up to 80 per cent of the trees felled in WA are on private land
Listen to WA Tree Canopy Advocates co-founder Nick Cook speaking with Radio 6PR from the protest this morning
We\\u2019re bringing our live blog to a close for the day
who described seeing Andre\\u2019s car at the Bicton home on the morning of the much-loved mother\\u2019s death
telling the show\\u2019s fans he can\\u2019t comment on the allegations because they are now before the court
Yung Filly \\u2013 real name Andres Barrientos \\u2013 faces a string of charges after allegedly sexually assaulting a woman following a show at Bar1 in Hillarys last month
And it\\u2019s time for a makeover for Metronet
which has been a centrepiece of WA Labor\\u2019s policy offering since the 2017 election
with the latest ditching the colourful stripes
I think Medicare was taken to an election,\\u201D she said
UK podcaster Chunks has addressed accusations his co-host Andres \\u2018Yung Filly\\u2019 Barrientos raped a woman in a Perth hotel room after a show last month
like everyone I\\u2019ve heard the reports coming out of Australia
I hope you guys can understand that I can\\u2019t and won\\u2019t be commenting on it publicly
So I\\u2019ve just come on here to basically let you know the reasons why I can\\u2019t
He also isn\\u2019t allowed to talk about the charges online or enter licensed venues
where the murder trial of Andre Rebelo \\u2013 the boyfriend of Instagram social media mogul Grace Piscopo \\u2013 has entered its third day
Ms Rebelo\\u2019s best friend told the jury she did not approve of Andre\\u2019s girlfriend\\u2019s social media career as she was worried about the work eventually drying up
She also told the court her friend was a \\u201Cwonderful mother\\u201D who was devoted to her children and proud of their achievements
Ms Rebelo had been a single parent for much of her four children\\u2019s lives after she had an acrimonious divorce from their father
Two weeks before her death she began a new job with the Health Department after years of working in night fill and caf\\u00E9s to make ends meet
\\u201CShe was excited about it,\\u201D her friend told the court about her job
Ms Rebelo was found dead in her ensuite shower by her youngest son Fabian with a coroner\\u2019s inquiry failing to ascertain a cause of death
We\\u2019re doing it as we open those train lines,\\u201D she said
\\u201CThis is not something that will be done in six months or 12 months
This will be done over the next four to five years.\\u201D
Asked whether the government had considered changing the rebrand to something that wasn\\u2019t closely aligned to an election promise
Saffioti said the rebrand would cost \\u201Cin the tens of thousands\\u201D which was included in operational budgets anyway
the men don\\u2019t get far with police air wing directing the canine team to where the men are hiding
\\u201CIt\\u2019s exciting to welcome back the direct flight between Tokyo and Perth
given Japan is one of our top 10 tourism markets for visitation and spend,\\u201D she said
it\\u2019s fantastic to see such huge demand for the services between Johannesburg and Perth
particularly given South Africa is one of our biggest inbound markets for travellers visiting their friends and relatives.\\u201D
winning the \\u2018Best Podcast by a Radio Show\\u2019 prize for The Reporter: True Stories
The Reporter took listeners on a journey inspired by Adshead\\u2019s 40 year career in news
It tackles a vast array of Western Australia\\u2019s most notorious stories
and will be contacting all local practitioners to urge them to share the council\\u2019s stance with their patients to ensure they are informed before they give consent to have the vaccine
\\u201CIt\\u2019s not the role of council \\u2026 this is something that we shouldn\\u2019t be entertaining at all,\\u201D he told Radio 6PR this morning
There\\u2019s a standoff underway this morning between protesters and developers as a group of residents fight to save 10 trees in Mount Lawley
The \\u2018breakfast blockade\\u2019 is waiting for scheduled tree loppers to arrive at the site today
The locals claim they\\u2019ve received little community consultation
Perth is Australia\\u2019s least-vegetated capital
CNN and the BBC World Service which is copyright and cannot be reproduced
AEST = Australian Eastern Standard Time which is 10 hours ahead of GMT (Greenwich Mean Time)
This is probably not the page you’re looking for
It doesn’t have water views or even a pool
but this unusually palatial home in the working-class suburb of Ballajura has hit the market with the hefty price tag of $8 million
The Lakefarm Retreat home sits on 10 acres and features 2500 square metres of internal floor space
well above the 232-square-metre average for new home builds in Western Australia
This sprawling home in Ballajura is on the market for $8 million
The house is spread over three floors with 15 bedrooms
theatre and games rooms as well as formal and informal spaces
House Proud Realty agent Peyal Jayatilaka said the property was like a “mini-hotel” and the most expensive house ever listed in the region
“The house was originally meant to used as a multi-residence for the owners’ family but now that plan has changed,” he said
“There is nothing like this anywhere in Perth
The home was originally built as a multi-residence
“Where else can you find 10 acres of land for sale within 17 kilometres of one of Australia’s major capital cities
10-acre lots close to a capital city will be even rarer.”
Jayatilaka said the buyer would need to bring in tradies to complete much of the home
which remains an unfinished project of incredible proportions
“Whilst designed and built as a family residence
it is envisaged that the property is ideal for adaptive re-use and expressions of interest are invited that might adapt the home for community uses
bed and breakfast and other options,” he said
Romanian-born owner Ioan Valcan purchased the land 20 years ago for $260,000
The property has been on the market for 75 days and has generated hundreds of inquiries
It doesn\\u2019t have water views or even a pool
House Proud Realty agent Peyal Jayatilaka said the property was like a \\u201Cmini-hotel\\u201D and the most expensive house ever listed in the region
\\u201CThe house was originally meant to used as a multi-residence for the owners\\u2019 family but now that plan has changed,\\u201D he said
\\u201CThere is nothing like this anywhere in Perth
\\u201CWhere else can you find 10 acres of land for sale within 17 kilometres of one of Australia\\u2019s major capital cities
10-acre lots close to a capital city will be even rarer.\\u201D
\\u201CWhilst designed and built as a family residence
bed and breakfast and other options,\\u201D he said
CITY of Swan has received a $2 million grant towards an intergenerational play space in Ballajura, which in 2022 was estimated to cost about $4.6m.
The state government through Lotterywest provided the grant for the play space, which will be designed to encourage participation from people of all ages, abilities and cultural backgrounds.
The play space will have trampolines, exercise equipment, an obstacle course, a climbing wall and more.
It will be built close to schools and public transport, near the intersection of Illawarra Crescent South and Cassowary Drive.
During the consultation phase some community members had concerns about the traffic volumes on the adjacent roads, the drainage ability of the site, being situated too close to businesses and the high school and being situated away from the majority of residential houses within Ballajura.
But a May 2022 officer’s report said traffic counts indicated that Illawarra Crescent South (east of Oxleigh Drive) carried 7413 vehicles per day with most traffic between 8am to 9am.
“During these times, the activity at the play space is expected to be low, with the main usage anticipated to occur on weekends and after school,’’ the report said.
The traffic volumes on Cassowary Drive and Townsend Street were 3201 and 2938 vehicles per day respectively.
“As a result, traffic volumes are not anticipated to be significant concern for a play space at this location.
“Drainage of the site was another concern but the report said the proposed site would be raised and drainage cells would be utilised to mitigate drainage concerns.
“This will allow the site to serve its drainage purpose, while providing a safe and functional site for the community.’’
The report said no local businesses raised concerns about the location of the play space and Townsend Street would act as a separation between the play space and business activity.
“In addition the business activity is anticipated to be at a reduced level during the peak periods of the play space on weekends.
“City staff view the close proximity to the schools, including Ballajura Community College, as a positive outcome from the local community.
“This location provides students a close and safe recreation opportunity to attend outside of school hours.
“While city staff agree that the play space is not located in the centre of residential houses, there are still good access opportunities to the site – this includes access roads, footpaths and public transportation.’’
Site works are expected to start in February 2024, with completion scheduled for 2025.
Deputy premier and West Swan MLA Rita Saffioti said she was pleased to announce the state government’s investment in the Ballajura intergenerational play space through the Lotterywest grant.
“This initiative is an indication of our government’s commitment to creating a stronger, more connected community, where people of all ages and backgrounds can come together and interact,’’ she said.
Swan Mayor David Lucas said the play space would encourage people of all ages and abilities to get outside and have fun together.
Ballajura Landsdale Cricket Club hosted their annual Mental Health Charity Match last month at Kingfisher Oval.
Funds raised were donated to Richmond Wellbeing who have been providing mental health education to cricket clubs throughout Perth through their Bouncing Back program.
Money was also raised through canteen sales and raffle tickets, and attendees had the chance to win signed bats, shirts, and other goods donated from the local community.
The annual fixture launched in 2018/19 when Ballajura Cricket Club hosted Lansdale Cricket Club before the two clubs merged.
North Beach Carine Cricket Club participated in last month’s match and Osborne Park Cricket Club and Warwick Greenwood Cricket Club have taken part previously.
Ballajura Landsdale’s fundraising efforts and positive approach to mental health education has seen them named as a finalist for the Healthway Healthy Club Award at the 2023 Sport West Awards with the winner to be announced on February 29.
If clubs are interested in how they can adopt similar initiatives please contact Chris Haddock, Community Health and Partnerships Officer on chris.haydock@wacricket.com.au
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The family of a Perth man involved in a brutal pub brawl has pleaded for public help as he fights for his life.
Brandon Orr was bashed with a cricket bat in Ballajura and his family – who released pictures of him in hospital to show the scale of his injuries – pray he will wake up.
Brandon Orr was allegedly bashed with a cricket bat outside a pub in Ballajura and is fighting for his life.Credit: Nine News Perth
Mr Orr suffered bleeding on the brain and a fractured skull in the incident and is fighting for his life in Royal Perth Hospital.
"I just need him to wake up now. I really need him to wake up," his mother Jasmine Corvi told Nine News Perth.
Mr Orr, 26, was allegedly bashed with a cricket three days ago outside the Alexander Bar and Bistro in Ballajura.
His recovery is turbulent; on Friday he suffered a seizure and was placed in an induced coma.
His family has now launched a fundraiser, pleading for help to support the self-employed plumber, who became engaged to his fiance Chantelle Baxter only three months ago.
"We've been trying for kids for the past two years. That's something Brando has always wanted, is to be a dad," she said.
Steven Muckleton, 33, was charged over the assault but on Thursday night his 29-year-old partner Nicolle Talbot was also charged and accused of threatening patrons with a cricket bat and will face court next month.
Mr Orr's family face an anxious wait on his recovery.
"I just want him home ... going home without him is horrifying," his fiance said.
Brandon Orr was bashed with a cricket bat in Ballajura and his family \\u2013 who released pictures of him in hospital to show the scale of his injuries \\u2013 pray he will wake up.
\\\"I just need him to wake up now. I really need him to wake up,\\\" his mother Jasmine Corvi told Nine News Perth.
\\\"We've been trying for kids for the past two years. That's something Brando has always wanted, is to be a dad,\\\" she said.
Mr Orr's family face an anxious wait on his recovery.
\\\"I just want him home ... going home without him is horrifying,\\\" his fiance said.
there are always exciting and interesting homes being listed for sale
as is the case with almost everything in life
some of these residences will draw more attention than others
and that's what we're looking at today
we've tracked down the five most-viewed properties this week
out of over 130,000 listings currently being advertised on the site
READ MORE: Johnny Cash's former Californian ranch listed for sale
This week's top five includes a whopping estate on Perth's outskirts, a stunning family home in Hobart and an Edwardian classic in Melbourne.
Set on a massive 40,000 square metre block just 20 kilometres from Perth's CBD, this vast estate has endless possibilities for future owners.
For now, anyone that buys the property will be taking possession of a home with grand proportions.
Spread over three levels, the 17 bedroom, 13 bathroom, 18 car space residence is large enough to satisfy the most populous of families.
Presenting as a tranquil, temperate proposition for the discerning buyer looking to enter the Darwin property market, this home in Howard Springs has a lot to offer.
With not one but two homes built on the expansive 50,000 square metre block, this place represents a lucrative buy for the keen investor or owner-occupier.
Ideally located in Flynn, 21 kilometres north of Australia's capital city, this smart-looking, four-bedroom, two-bathroom brick home seems like very decent value when considering its proximity to Canberra.
And, we're obviously not the only ones who thought $790,000 for a home of this calibre was great buying ... because the house is already under offer.
This stunning home in West Hobart is a picture-perfect example of a beautifully maintained and improved 19 century Victorian home.
With five bedrooms, two bathrooms and off-street parking for three cars (a rarity anywhere in Hobart), this beautiful family home oozes elegance and old-world charm.
And, being within walking distance of Hobart's increasingly vibrant and cosmopolitan CBD, there are myriad things for this home's new owners to enjoy.
Seldom do homes as nice as this Edwardian stunner come up for sale in the affluent inner-Melbourne suburb of Elwood.
Commanding a nearly 800 square metre block on a quaint, plain tree-lined street just moments away from the beach, as well as myriad cafes, restaurants and everything else that Elwood has to offer, this is a family home of exquisite quality and heritage.
Property News: For $30million you can live next door to Amazon billionaire Jeff Bezos.
A Ballajura home sprayed with bullets six weeks ago has been set alight overnight
Emergency services arrived at the Northbridge Drive home around 11.30pm Monday to find the house and rear workshop on fire
The Ballajura home has been destroyed by fire
It took firefighters 45 minutes to control the blaze
Police believe the fire was deliberately lit
The Ballajura house was the subject of a shooting on September 5
with seven bullets sprayed into the property
No charges have been laid in relation to the incident
Nine News Perth reported the owner of the property also had his nearby kebab shop set a light at the weekend
an employee at the kebab shop is understood to have been shot three times outside his Westminster home on October 15
He has since been released from hospital after suffering wounds to his hip and ankle
Police are investigating whether the incidents are related
A man armed with a shotgun held up the Red Rooster restaurant at Ballajura.
Link copiedShareShare articleStaff at a fast food restaurant in Ballajura were forced to hand over cash when they were threatened by a man armed with a shotgun.
The man went into the Red Rooster shop on Illawarra Crescent at around 10:00pm on Saturday and demanded workers give him money.
Police said he was given an amount of cash before he fled.
The man was described as being fair skinned, around 180cm tall and was wearing black pants, a dark hoody, a baseball cap and a bandanna covering his face.
Anyone with information about the raid should contact police.
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3rd December 2020 - Western Australian sport and recreation centres can now apply for new Healthy Venues grants
28th November 2020 - New $5.65 million Southern Cross Aquatic Centre opens in Western Australia
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17th September 2020 - Construction begins on new indoor Ellenbrook recreation and aquatic facility
31st August 2020 - New recognition levels for Western Australia’s Waterwise Aquatic Centre Program
7th October 2019 - LIWA Aquatics’ new President outlines future association objectives
9th August 2019 - Western Australian aquatic centres report identifies industry labour shortages
13th August 2019 - Eight new Western Australian aquatic centres receive recognition for being Waterwise
28th July 2017 - City of Gosnells’ Mills Park complex named Western Australia facility of the year
9th June 2017 - Western Australian Government looks to expand Swan Valley tourism
5th October 2016 - Ellenbrook Southern Playing Fields and Pavilion get official opening
3rd June 2016 - Western Australian Premier says new Mills Park complex sets a ‘benchmark’ for sporting facilities
14th November 2016 - Investing in tourism could create 4,000 new jobs in Western Australia
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Firefighters pulled the woman and men from the burning house on Vista Parade last month. (ABC News)
Link copiedShareShare articleA woman has been charged with attempting to kill two men in a house fire in Perth last month, with police alleging she tried to drug the pair first.
Emergency services were called to the fire on Vista Parade in Ballajura on November 11 after neighbours raised the alarm.
Two men, aged 79 and 45, and the woman, 66, were pulled out of the home suffering from minor burns and smoke inhalation.
Arson Squad detectives were called in to investigate the blaze, and it is now alleged the woman tried to drug the men before setting the house alight.
The woman has been charged with two counts of attempting to unlawfully kill.
The fire caused $250,000 in damage to the property.
The woman is due to appear in Perth Magistrates Court.