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)
by Olivia Cleal | November 14
has appointed its first female principal starting next year
following a string of serious allegations pointing to a toxic culture and inappropriate behaviour from staff
In March this year, Nicholas Sampson resigned from his role as principal of Cranbrook when an ABC Four Corners investigation revealed he had kept a male staff member employed
who had allegedly engaged in inappropriate behaviour with his former students
which is set to become co-education in 2026
has undergone a review into how Cranbrook handles child safety concerns
in an attempt to overhaul the toxic culture at the school
The latest appointment of Anne Johnstone as the school’s next principal – and first woman to hold the role at the 100-year-old college – appears to be part of the effort to stamp out past behvaiour
Geoff Lovell, the council chair at the school, sent a letter to parents informing them of Johnstone’s appointment
there was an “extensive global search” to find Sampson’s replacement
and Johnstone was the best fit for the position
“Throughout the competitive recruitment process
the council was impressed by Anne’s energy
deep educational experience and by her values,” Lovell wrote to parents
in appointing Anne as our new head of school
we have secured a leader who can fulfil the hopes and aspirations of the school community and guide Cranbrook to become the very best co-educational school it can be
will be leaving her position as principal of Ravenswood
a school on the upper north shore which she has headed up since 2016
she was the principal of Seymour College in Adelaide
the deputy headmistress at Anglican private girls’ school St Catherine’s and the head of the junior school at St Catherine’s.
including co-curricular and the wellbeing of students
is aligned closely with Cranbrook’s vision and mission,” Lovell wrote
Johnstone said she felt “honoured to lead a school with a vast and significant history of educating boys”
“I am also excited about the great potential and opportunities ahead as we welcome girls to Cranbrook from 2026,” she said
an ABC Four Corners investigation revealed a “toxic” culture and inappropriate treatment of female teachers and staff members at Cranbrook
the investigation found former female staff members at Cranbrook in Sydney’s eastern suburbs have been blackmailed
Some complaints by staff were also dismissed by male colleagues and superiors
former principal Nicholas Sampson resigned following revelations that he allegedly kept a teacher employed who he knew had sent multiple graphic emails to a former female student
The teacher also reportedly boasted about looking up girls’ skirts in class and describing sexual fantasies about his students
Upon the news of Anne Johnstone’s appointment as the school’s next principal
Louise Milligan from the ABC Four Corners posted on LinkedIn
“Following the departure of former Cranbrook headmaster
sparked by our Four Corners investigation earlier this year
the private Sydney boys’ school has appointed its first female principal in its history,” Milligan wrote
“The Four Corners investigation sparked state and federal inquiries and an internal inquiry by the school itself which had 76 reports to it and apologised for its past failings
If you or someone you know is experiencing
family or sexual violence call 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732
chat online via 1800RESPECT.org.au or text 0458 737 732.
If you are concerned about your behaviour or use of violence
you can contact the Men’s Referral Service on 1300 766 491 or visit www.ntv.org.au
Cranbrookeducationfour cornersprivate schools
by Olivia Cleal
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Linda Reynolds has labelled her party’s election loss a “comprehensive failure” and said the Liberal Party needs to look at quotas or targets for women
the Prime Minister didn’t hesitate: universal
affordable early childhood education and care
a sweep of female politicians took over safe Liberal seats in WA
Donald Trump’s hate politics is finally doing some good
It’s showing other countries what they don’t want their governments to look like
The way forward for the Liberal Party isn’t to double down on reactionary politics
Whoever wins will be tasked with leading the party after its worst result in history
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Advertising and partnerships support our independent journalism
We acknowledge and pay respect to the past
present and future Traditional Custodians and Elders of this nation and the continuation of cultural
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Sydney private schools are publishing templates on their websites with specific legal wording so former students can bequeath their houses
share portfolios or art collections before their death
Seeking bequests to fund expenses such as scholarships is not new
but research commissioned by industry group Philanthropy Australia last month said across all charities
more than $40 million every year is lost due to errors in legal processing or executors deciding not to pay
Cranbrook School says the cost of funding a scholarship in perputuity stands at $750,000.Credit: Wolter Peeters
Sydney private schools’ philanthropy departments have stepped up their work over the past decade to bring in hundreds of millions of dollars in donations.
Cranbrook’s form template suggests benefactors describe their gifts with wording such as “all my shares in publicly listed companies” or by naming specific properties or artwork
to the Cranbrook Foundation,” the form states
The cost of establishing a named scholarship at Cranbrook in perpetuity stands at $750,000
Those who remember Cranbrook in their will and whose support has made a significant difference are admitted to the school’s 1918 Society
Other schools to have published legal bequest templates include Riverview
Newington says a bequest provides much needed funds for the college to develop infrastructure and provide scholarships.Credit: Louie Douvis
St Catherine’s School in Waverley admits those who pledge a bequest to the school into its Fielding Fellowship
the school appreciates and acknowledges the continued generosity and impact of our St Catherine’s old girls and past parents who continue to follow in Ruth Fielding’s footsteps by supporting our girls,” a spokesman said
only 6.5 per cent of wills include a charity
compared to 10 per cent in the United States and 13.7 per cent in the United Kingdom
alumni who donate between $5000 and $9999 are given foundation junior fellow status
A donation of $500,000 or more qualifies someone for that school’s 1830 Society
The King’s School Foundation has doubled its total assets from $23.5 million in 2013 to $51.5 million in 2023
Donations currently fund scholarships and bursaries for more than 250 students
A school spokesman said families who donate are often doing so in gratitude for the opportunity they or their children received and wanted to support the education of future generations
“This strong sense of community and continuity is what sustains our scholarships program and enables the renewal of the School’s facilities,” he said
According to the Philanthropy Australia research, conducted by Bequest Assist
an estimated 3 per cent of wills included a gift promised to a charity but never paid
“Charities are bearing the full cost of this ‘missing gifts’ issue because no one is consistently checking if gifts are being paid,” it said
The average size of a gift to all charities stands at around $143,000
Its research focused only on gifts that charities knew about
It said 33 per cent of gifts in wills were completely unknown “windfall” gifts to charities
noting the estimate of missing gifts could be much higher
there was an estimated $140 billion in inheritance in 2024 with an intergenerational transfer of $5.4 trillion to come over the next two decades
Start the day with a summary of the day’s most important and interesting stories, analysis and insights. Sign up for our Morning Edition newsletter
Cranbrook\\u2019s form template suggests benefactors describe their gifts with wording such as \\u201Call my shares in publicly listed companies\\u201D or by naming specific properties or artwork
to the Cranbrook Foundation,\\u201D the form states
Those who remember Cranbrook in their will and whose support has made a significant difference are admitted to the school\\u2019s 1918 Society
St Catherine\\u2019s School in Waverley admits those who pledge a bequest to the school into its Fielding Fellowship
the school appreciates and acknowledges the continued generosity and impact of our St Catherine\\u2019s old girls and past parents who continue to follow in Ruth Fielding\\u2019s footsteps by supporting our girls,\\u201D a spokesman said
A donation of $500,000 or more qualifies someone for that school\\u2019s 1830 Society
The King\\u2019s School Foundation has doubled its total assets from $23.5 million in 2013 to $51.5 million in 2023
\\u201CThis strong sense of community and continuity is what sustains our scholarships program and enables the renewal of the School\\u2019s facilities,\\u201D he said
\\u201CCharities are bearing the full cost of this \\u2018missing gifts\\u2019 issue because no one is consistently checking if gifts are being paid,\\u201D it said
It said 33 per cent of gifts in wills were completely unknown \\u201Cwindfall\\u201D gifts to charities
Start the day with a summary of the day\\u2019s most important and interesting stories
follow the instructions for your browser below
Adorned with native flora and fauna and a ‘splash’ of bright colours
Cranbrook town centre is home to Water Corporation’s latest Splash of Colour project.
regional artist Natalie Veal and the water utility
the mural has transformed a dull cabinet into a vibrant centrepiece.
Ms Veal explained she worked with students and local community to identify key features of the local area which saw the Cranbrook Bell Flower
Western Spotted Frog and Splendid Fairy-wren incorporated into the design.
“It was a lot of fun working with the students to learn what local features are meaningful in their daily lives
and these themes were echoed by comments from the community,” said Natalie.
“Along with an array of local wildlife and plants
I’ve also drawn on regional landforms and water bodies including the pink salt lake
and Stirling Ranges to capture the connection to nature and water across the Great Southern”.
the Cranbrook Bell Flower caused the biggest buzz amongst those who stopped to watch the painting come to life with some commenting it was the most realistic depiction of the flora they’d seen
Water Corporation Great Southern Regional Manager Adrian Stewart said the team identified the cabinet for a makeover while upgrading the local water treatment plant earlier in the year
"Our project team spent many months in town completing the water treatment plant upgrade works and wanted to give back to the community and celebrate the features of the local area,” said Mr Stewart
“It was also a great opportunity to engage with the local school and have them be part of designing the artwork
while also educating students about the importance of water in sustaining the natural environment”.
For those wanting to view Cranbrook’s Splash of Colour
it’s located opposite the post office and adjacent to the RSL on Gathorne Street
Splash of Colour artworks have been created on Water Corporation water and wastewater infrastructure since 2017
More than 75 installations across Western Australia tell local stories of water and how it interacts with the land
For more information about Water Corporation’s Splash of Colour program
visit www.watercorporation.com.au/about-us/in-the-community/splash-of-colour
An elite private school has been rocked after social media gossip among its wealthy parents blew up an incident between two boys on a camping trip into a wild White Lotus-style sex act
Cranbrook School - an all-boys school at Bellevue Hill in Sydney's eastern suburbs which charges up to $49,500 a year in tuition - notified parents this week that inappropriate behaviour had taken place at the camp
Daily Mail Australia understands that other students had seen two senior school boys kissing each other
mandatory reporting rules required the school to launch a probe
consulting the Association of Independent Schools of NSW and even the police
The school advised parents of the incident but was not able to go into any specifics
leading the rumour mill to go into overdrive among parents
The speculation sparked claims of a much more serious sex act to spread, similar to one shocking scene in the current season of the HBO TV drama, The White Lotus
The reality however was much more naïve and innocent
sources have stressed to Daily Mail Australia
despite the wild allegations in parents' WhatsApp groups
'I think the (school) handled it very poorly by sending out an email that was too vague,' said one parent
'The (school) were looking out for their own interests and not the interests of the boys
'Of course you would jump to conclusions if you received an email like that.'
A Cranbrook spokesperson said an 'incident that occurred at the school's outdoor education programme was addressed by the school'
'The school received external advice from the Association of Independent Schools of New South Wales (AISNSW),' the spokesperson said
'Cranbrook contacted the police at this time who confirmed it was not a police matter
we seek to balance our duty of care to any students involved with the need to provide appropriate information and reassurance to our parent community
'The wellbeing and safety of all our students remains our highest priority.'
Cranbrook is the fifth-most expensive school in Australia. Its alumni include billionaires such as Mike Cannon-Brookes, James Packer and Will Vicars
The Anglican school is due to start accepting girls for Years 7 and 11 in 2026
with the goal of becoming fully co-educational by 2029
Cranbrook has attracted unwanted attention since the ABC's Four Corners program exposed claims of bullying and a toxic culture in March 2024
Among the allegations aired was that a female teacher was the victim of an attempted blackmail attempt by a male student
The ABC later claimed a teacher allegedly sent graphic emails to a former female student at a previous school where he worked
The teacher allegedly boasted about looking up girls' skirts in class and having sexual fantasies about his students
Cranbrook headmaster Nicholas Sampson was aware of the emails but kept the teacher on staff and even promoted him
Mr Sampson resigned in the wake of the scandal
The school held an independent review of its culture and apologised to the community for what it described as 'past failings'
The current acting head of school is Michele Marquet
who will make way for Cranbrook's first female leader
Daily Mail Australia has contacted Cranbrook School for comment
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which will become co-educational from 2026
has appointed its first female head in the institution’s more than 100-year history
The school council told students and staff on Thursday that Ravenswood School for Girls principal Anne Johnstone would take up the position as Cranbrook’s principal from the start of term 3 next year
Johnstone will replace the school’s former high-profile head Nicholas Sampson, who sensationally resigned from his $1 million-plus a year post in March after allegations of workplace bullying and historical abuse at the prestigious eastern suburbs school
Ravenswood principal Anne Johnstone will be the next head of Bellevue Hill private school Cranbrook
deep educational experience and by her values,” the council’s chair Geoff Lovell wrote in a letter to parents
Lovell said recruitment firm Korn Ferry was enlisted to conduct an “extensive global search” for the school’s new principal
we have secured a leader who can fulfil the hopes and aspirations of the school community and guide Cranbrook to become the very best co-educational school it can be,” Lovell said
has been principal at Ravenswood on the upper north shore since 2016
and before that head at Seymour College in Adelaide
She was also deputy headmistress at Anglican private girls’ school St Catherine’s and the school’s head of junior school
The announcement caps a tumultuous year for the school after an ABC Four Corners program on March 4 detailed claims of bullying of female staff and allegations of a toxic culture
Separate claims emerged days later that Sampson was aware a teacher had sent sexually explicit messages to a former student at another school but failed to notify the council
That program triggered the resignation of Sampson
who had served as head of the $46,500-a-year institution for a decade
Cranbrook made a confidential settlement with Sampson
saying the basis for him leaving the school “may have caused confusion”
Cranbrook – one of Sydney’s wealthiest schools and the alma mater of billionaire Kerry Packer and his son James – announced it would move to co-education
accepting girls in years 7 and 11 from 2026 and becoming fully co-ed by 2029
That decision – and the timing of the school’s move to co-ed – sparked a bitter dispute that later led to the mass exodus of its former council and board president Jon North
That crisis came just a month after the school unveiled a $125 million building upgrade
All-boys private school Cranbrook will become co-educational from 2026.Credit: The Australian Institute of Architects
Lovell said Johnstone had “led a significant period of innovation and development” at Ravenswood that included “historically high demand” for enrolments at the kindergarten to year 12 school
“She has implemented a positive education and wellbeing program and has helped support outstanding student academic achievements in the HSC and International Baccalaureate diploma program
Anne has also expanded the boarding program and fostered a strong relationship with Ravenswood’s brother school
This included co-curricular activities and development of the Knox-Ravenswood cadet unit
is aligned closely with Cranbrook’s vision and mission,” Lovell said
Johnstone said she was “honoured to lead a school with a vast and significant history of educating boys
I am also excited about the great potential and opportunities ahead as we welcome girls to Cranbrook from 2026.”
the school said it would regularly survey students about bullying and provide “intensive” training for teachers
following a months-long review conducted by law firm Thomson Geer
That review into the handling of serious child safety concerns
triggered by the scandal that forced Sampson out
received 76 reports from community members
federal education department bureaucrats told a Senate estimates hearing that the school had failed to hand over the contents of that review
The federal government has been conducting a concurrent investigation into the school
the head of the junior school and a Cranbrook veteran of 26 years
has been serving as acting head of the school since March
who was deputy headmaster of Cranbrook from 1997 to 2002
will return to be acting head of school for term 2 next year
with Johnstone to start her position at the start of term 3
Marquet will return to her position as head of junior school in term 2 next year
Sydney private boys\\u2019 school Cranbrook
has appointed its first female head in the institution\\u2019s more than 100-year history
The school council told students and staff on Thursday that Ravenswood School for Girls principal Anne Johnstone would take up the position as Cranbrook\\u2019s principal from the start of term 3 next year
Johnstone will replace the school\\u2019s former high-profile head Nicholas Sampson
who sensationally resigned from his $1 million-plus a year post in March after allegations of at the prestigious eastern suburbs school
\\u201CThroughout the competitive recruitment process
the council was impressed by Anne\\u2019s energy
deep educational experience and by her values,\\u201D the council\\u2019s chair Geoff Lovell wrote in a letter to parents
Lovell said recruitment firm Korn Ferry was enlisted to conduct an \\u201Cextensive global search\\u201D for the school\\u2019s new principal
we have secured a leader who can fulfil the hopes and aspirations of the school community and guide Cranbrook to become the very best co-educational school it can be,\\u201D Lovell said
She was also deputy headmistress at Anglican private girls\\u2019 school St Catherine\\u2019s and the school\\u2019s head of junior school
The announcement caps a tumultuous year for the school after an ABC Four Corners program on March 4 detailed claims of of female staff and allegations of a toxic culture
saying the basis for him leaving the school \\u201Cmay have caused confusion\\u201D
Cranbrook \\u2013 one of Sydney\\u2019s wealthiest schools and the alma mater of billionaire Kerry Packer and his son James \\u2013 announced it would move to co-education
\\u2013 and the timing of the school\\u2019s move to co-ed \\u2013 sparked a bitter dispute that later led to the mass exodus of its former council and board president Jon North
Lovell said Johnstone had \\u201Cled a significant period of innovation and development\\u201D at Ravenswood that included \\u201Chistorically high demand\\u201D for enrolments at the kindergarten to year 12 school
\\u201CShe has implemented a positive education and wellbeing program and has helped support outstanding student academic achievements in the HSC and International Baccalaureate diploma program
Anne has also expanded the boarding program and fostered a strong relationship with Ravenswood\\u2019s brother school
\\u201CHer commitment to educational excellence
is aligned closely with Cranbrook\\u2019s vision and mission,\\u201D Lovell said
Johnstone said she was \\u201Chonoured to lead a school with a vast and significant history of educating boys
I am also excited about the great potential and opportunities ahead as we welcome girls to Cranbrook from 2026.\\u201D
the school said it would regularly survey students about bullying and provide \\u201Cintensive\\u201D training for teachers
We’ve rounded up our top picks of the most luxurious properties across the country
The Scots College and Rose Bay harbourfront are all within walking distance of this beautifully renovated family home
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With a brief to capitalise on the serene northerly views over the Noosa Valley Golf Course and hinterland
Reitsma and Associates has designed a polished yet minimalist single-level abode showcasing board-form concrete
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this three-level house designed by Nicholas Saunders intrigues
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Boasting a coveted location close to Chevalier College and Burradoo Park
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Spanning a house-like 307-square-metres in Witherington
this whole-floor apartment comes complete with harbour views and a double lock-up garage
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separate living and dining rooms and two sunrooms
This article was originally published by Domain.com.au. Reproduced with permission
We\\u2019ve rounded up our top picks of the most luxurious properties across the country
There\\u2019s a host of high-end finishes to admire
The luxe home has \\u201Can extraordinary sense of height and space\\u201D
eat-in kitchen with a butler\\u2019s pantry
This article was originally published by Reproduced with permission
corruption and dodgy deals of more than £1.5million were behind the building of the Cranbrook heating hub
Bribes worth millions of pounds were paid for ‘lucrative contracts’ to build the district heating network at the East Devon new town of Cranbrook
who issued fake or inflated invoices as a way to handover the money
paid bribes to the tune of around £2million to two employees at energy giant E.ON in a bid to build the Cranbrook heating plant
This week six fraudsters appeared in court for sentencing for a raft of bribery
money laundering and fraud charges relating to the construction of the heating system at Cranbrook
The two former E.ON employees involved had signed off the fake invoices for payment
and the contractors gave them the extra cash that had been added to the over-inflated bills
which took place around a four-year period
were only discovered when the two E.ON employees left the company and new staff found ‘discrepancies’ when they reviewed the work
the new employees contacted police and an investigation was launched
Police said smaller companies who bid for the work ‘lost out’ as a result of the bribery and corruption
There was no wrongdoing on the part of the energy company itself
employed as E.ON’s head of projects and later head of build for Cranbrook’s heating hub
Baker and Heyward accepted bribes and illegal payments from companies Priddy Engineering Limited and RK Civil Engineering
Priddy Engineering Limited was controlled by Andrew Blunsdon who paid bribes to both men
RK Civil Engineering Ltd (RKC) was one of a group of companies controlled by Richard King
King’s business partner at RKC was Timothy Patterson and bank accounts linked to the pair showed they paid a combined total of more than £1.5million to Baker and Heyward
Appearing at Winchester Crown Court for sentencing on Wednesday
was jailed for 46 months and banned from being a company director for seven years after he admitted being bribed
four counts of fraud by false representation
being concerned in a money laundering arrangement and fraud by abuse of position
was jailed for 30 months and banned from being a company director for seven years after he pleaded guilty to bribery and being concerned in a money laundering arrangement
took bribes and backhanders for heat hub building contracts at Cranbrook.Image: D&C Police
of Husbands Bosworth in South Leicestershire
was jailed for 29 months after admitting to fraud by false representation and to bribing another person
Timothy Patterson was jailed for four years and banned from being a company director for seven years after admitting two counts of fraud by false representation
two charges of bribing another person and one of acquiring criminal property
paid out millions of pounds in bribes to for ‘lucrative’ building contracts at Cranbrook.Image: D&C Police
suspended for two years and made subject of a three months’ 8pm to 6am curfew
after pleading guilty to two counts of fraud by false representation and being concerned in a money laundering arrangement
Detective Inspector Dan Parkinson from the Devon and Cornwall Police complex fraud team
said: “These individuals believed corrupt practice was widespread in the construction industry and the method by which business was done
“These corrupt practices are a parasitic blight on society
“It is through E.ON’s initial identification of concerns and reporting this corrupt practice to Devon and Cornwall Police that enabled these convictions to be obtained
“Bribery is a criminal offence and it is illegal for both employer and employee to offer
“This was a complex and time-consuming investigation but we are happy to have worked alongside E.ON and secured convictions against six defendants who believed rules did not apply to them and they could do whatever they wanted in order to reach their desired goal
“These practices were often referred to as favours
they are simply corrupt criminal practices.”
An E.ON UK spokesperson said: “Our internal processes enabled us to identify this case and take decisive action
Reflecting our zero-tolerance approach to bribery
we reported the matter to the police and have fully supported their investigation.”
The court heard how former EON employees Mark Baker and Matthew Heyward took bribes and illegal payments to ensure specific companies won ‘lucrative’ contracts to build Cranbrook’s heating plant
The pair were paid a total in excess of £1.5million from bank accounts linked to Richard King and his business partner Timothy Patterson
The bribes and backhanders to the men were made in the form of cash
Baker was kept on side by being provided with fake references
which allowed him to fraudulently move house multiple times
A Devon and Cornwall Police spokesperson said: “The reason the bribes were paid is because these companies were construction contractors who either had or desired a commercial relationship with E.ON
Part of Mark Baker’s role was deciding which companies should be given construction contracts at Cranbrook
and later at other locations around the UK
“Heyward played a key role in authorising the payment of contractor’s invoices
King and Patterson knew Baker and Heyward to be in positions of influence when it came to the awarding and the management of contracts
They bribed them to further their own financial interests knowing they’d willingly act in a corrupt manner
“The bribes started in 2011 and continued through until the end of 2015 when E.ON discovered and reported the illegal activity.”
“There was no wrongdoing on the part of the energy company itself,” police said
a year after the first spade went into the ground at Cranbrook
and E.ON won the contract to supply the new town with district heating
the Bakers accepted a false employer’s reference from Priddy Engineering Ltd
contained false information about Angela Baker’s income and employment
allowing the couple to rent an expensive house in Lincolnshire
Blunsdon’s Priddy had an ongoing Cranbrook contract with E.ON and for the whole period paid Heyward around £40,000 in bribes
A police spokesperson said: “By the summer of 2012 the Bakers had moved to Devon
and Blunsdon further bribed Mark Baker by arranging and paying for an air conditioning unit to be installed in his wife’s florist shop
“Blunsdon then submitted an invoice to E.ON as part of his company’s ongoing contract with the company
Leicestershire-based company RK Civil Engineering Ltd had an ongoing lucrative contract with E.ON as a preferred contractor
RKC’s King and Patterson also had a corrupt relationship with Baker and Heyward
The Devon and Cornwall Police spokesperson said: “From early 2012 to late 2015
RKC paid bribes to Mark Baker totalling around £175,000
“Needing to cover up the bribes in their accounts
Mark Baker submitted a number of false invoices through his company Baker Projects Ltd to RKC often marked as ‘wages’ even though Mark Baker did not work for RKC
“Mark Baker also received bribes from RKC in the form of false references of employment to obtaining rental properties and mortgages
free building work and improvements to one of his houses
an air conditioning unit at the florist and a Range Rover.”
but on an even larger scale than Mark Baker
The force spokesperson said: “Over this time period Heyward accepted a total of £1.4million
once again covered up by false invoices submitted to RKC by two companies associated with Heyward
“Later in this period King and Patterson switched to paying Heyward in cash and also bought him fancy hotel rooms and supplied him with an Audi car.”
Heyward had what was described by police as a ‘raging gambling habit’
Heyward ‘kicked back’ more than £500,000 of the money received from RKC to Patterson who then spent it
Between 2011 and 2014 Mark and Angela Baker moved house four times
The police spokesperson said: “In 2012 the Bakers moved from Lincolnshire to Devon to be closer to the site in Cranbrook
To rent this property a second fraud was required
“In their rental application it was falsely declared that Angela Baker worked for RKC on an annual salary of £60,000
Patterson enabled this fraud after being contacted by Mark Baker by creating a reference and fake wage slips
“In 2013 the Bakers moved out of their first Devon property and started the process of buying a house with a mortgage
however the couple was unwilling to pay for the house or subsequent improvements
“RKC paid the deposit and with the help of King and Patterson obtained the mortgage by fraud
RKC then went on to pay for improvements at the home
“The property was in Okehampton and Angela Baker told the bank the deposit was a gift from her father
“The majority of the deposit came from RKC as a disguised bribe to Mark Baker
Further money was received in smaller amounts.”
claiming she worked for RKC on a salary of £85,000 a year
by passing off fake wage slips created to disguise the fraud which involved both of the Bakers
The force spokesperson said: “RKC went on to pay for improvements to the property worth £50,000 before the home was sold at a profit by the Bakers
“After spending some of the profits on a car and holidays
the Bakers purchased a house in Yorkshire in late 2013
“To buy the property Angela Baker again claimed to the mortgage lender to be a RKC employee earning £84,000 a year
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Currently 5.5 hectares of mature vineyards
with the potential for significant expansion identified
Spring Vale added Melrose to their vineyard portfolio in 2007 while seeking expansion opportunities to source grapes while increasing their home vineyard plantings
The criteria was to provide premium quality grapes to reflect East Coast regional characteristics
The Spring Vale "Melrose" wines have since become their largest market share and ambassadorial label
Set on the banks of the Swan River in a beautiful scenic setting on 25.97 hectares with two road frontages Melrose represents a wonderful opportunity with significant options.The vendors continue to make wines from these established vines under their label
high profile in the Tasmanian wine industry where the visions
style and intent of the proprietors can be reflected in the range of wines that are grown in the vineyards
result in bottle and are presented for guests to enjoy
Melrose has 5.5 hectares of vineyards planted with four varieties of grapes including 3 hectares of Pinot Noir (6 clones); half a hectare of Chardonnay (2 clones); and 1 hectare of both Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Gris
The vineyard rows are planted at 2.2 metre spacings with 1.2 metres between vines and VSP (vertical shoot positioning)
The majority of the vineyard is cane pruned
however the Pinot Gris and a section of the Pinot Noir are spur pruned
Allowing for seasonal variations yields of eight tonnes per hectare have been averaged since 2009
Clonal information of varietals and a more detailed breakdown of yields per variety is available upon request
If a new owner chooses to complete the vineyard expansion potential of the property of a further 8 to 10 hectares
more than enough irrigation capacity and security exists at the property with 160 megalitres available
The 160 megalitres is comprised of the following allocations 25 megalitres from 3 dams; 115 megalitres direct offtake from the Swan River and 20 megalitres from the Tasmanian Irrigation Scheme
All the vineyards have drip irrigation installed
in addition frost mitigation sprinklers are installed due to the East Coast continental climate
The brick country homestead is a sprawling four or more bedroom with open plan living and family rooms
wood heating all in a parkland type setting on the banks of the river and with a floor area of 240 square metres
Open the sliding doors to the patio and enjoy the serene grassed setting around the house or pop down to the Swan River for a kayak paddle
The house can be opened up to let the breeze flow through in summer
while in winter the home has the two rooms with wood fire heating
Nothing creates a more special ambiance in a room than the sight of glowing embers in the hearth
The full height windows allow maximum light efficiency and views of the outdoors
always an attractive feature when there are no neighbours to consider
There are no wine stocks available as all grapes currently enter the Spring Vale range
however there is a site on the property that has long been identified as an ideal site for a cellar door and tourism facility near the junction of the two road boundaries (Glen Gala Road and Tasman Highway)
highly visible and easily accessible on an elevated stony knoll overlooking the property
Should a new owner wish to build a brand and launch to passing public it is an ideal location
its close proximity the East Coast Wine Trails other notable vineyards and Cellar Doors provides "Melrose" a significant potential kick start with tourism trade already drawn to the area
There are a number of potential options on the table with this offering
The obvious is the property sale at the advertised price (bare)
however the vendors are happy to enter into an arrangement with new owners to make wines on their behalf if they wish to open a cellar door and establish their own wine brand
Springvale intend to retain the Melrose name
The vendors are also happy to purchase the grapes for continued use in Springvale wines or to enter into a lease agreement to manage the vines if purchasers do not wish to be directly active in the wine industry
The vendors remain open to exploring a number of possibilities
or new owners may wish to go it alone and forge a new era for the property
Approximately 2 hours drive to either the heart of Launceston or Hobart
The East Coast wine region is well known and desirable location
producing quality grapes and wine at the fore front of Tasmania and Australia's premium cool climate wine reputation
It is a comfortable commute to this enticing destination for operators and tourists alike
Sushames Real Estate trusts in the information in this document which has been sourced from means which are considered reliable
Prospective purchasers are recommended to carry out their own due diligence regarding permits
and boundary positions prior to settlement
Inspections are strictly by appointment with agent
Please contact Neil on 0429 331 664 for further detailed marketing information and to schedule inspections
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Cranbrook School will regularly survey students about bullying in a bid to foster a more inclusive culture after it concluded a months-long review into abuse and harassment at the 106-year-old institution
There will also be “intensive” training for teachers
admin workers and school management in a bid to help the Bellevue Hill school establish and maintain a respectful
says students will be regularly surveyed about bullying.Credit: Rhett Wyman
The suite of measures capped off a tumultuous couple of months for the private school after an ABC Four Corners program detailed allegations of workplace bullying and historical abuse at the eastern suburbs school– triggering the resignation of headmaster Dr Nicholas Sampson from his $1 million a year position
Cranbrook School Council president Geoff Lovell wrote to parents to provide an update on an external review conducted by law firm Thomson Geer
It received 76 reports from community members
“The majority of concerns were raised by current and recent former students
Some issues involved events going back decades
No concerns of child sexual abuse were raised about current staff at Cranbrook,” Lovell said
The allegations earlier this year detailed how female staff were bullied at the school
There will also be a new online portal to submit complaints to the school.Credit: Rhett Wyman
“The school is determined to continue to work to prevent behaviours which adversely affect students and staff
and to deal with them proactively when they occur,” the letter said
There will be a new online system to make complaints
the student wellbeing program will be expanded and programs will be strengthened “to better meet the needs of its diverse school population”
Lovell said the school was reviewing its bullying procedures
“This includes increased and regular opportunities for students to share concerns through surveys and safe reporting mechanisms
There is also an expansion of targeted educative programs addressing preventative and protective behaviours to foster an increasingly inclusive mindset and culture,” he wrote
Intensive professional development sessions for the school leadership
teachers and administration staff will focus on how the school can establish and maintain a respectful
Lovell said a small number of complaints were still being dealt with and conceded that not everyone who participated would be satisfied with the school’s responses
“We apologise for the past failings of the school and the impact this has had on those in our community,” he said
Sampson earlier this year settled a legal dispute with the school’s governing council for an undisclosed sum following his dramatic resignation from the prestigious all-boys institution in March
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There will also be \\u201Cintensive\\u201D training for teachers
The suite of measures capped off a tumultuous couple of months for the private school after an ABC Four Corners program detailed allegations of at the eastern suburbs school\\u2013 triggering the resignation of headmaster Dr Nicholas Sampson from his $1 million a year position
\\u201CThe majority of concerns were raised by current and recent former students
No concerns of child sexual abuse were raised about current staff at Cranbrook,\\u201D Lovell said
\\u201CThe school is determined to continue to work to prevent behaviours which adversely affect students and staff
and to deal with them proactively when they occur,\\u201D the letter said
the student wellbeing program will be expanded and programs will be strengthened \\u201Cto better meet the needs of its diverse school population\\u201D
\\u201CThis includes increased and regular opportunities for students to share concerns through surveys and safe reporting mechanisms
There is also an expansion of targeted educative programs addressing preventative and protective behaviours to foster an increasingly inclusive mindset and culture,\\u201D he wrote
Lovell said a small number of complaints were still being dealt with and conceded that not everyone who participated would be satisfied with the school\\u2019s responses
\\u201CWe apologise for the past failings of the school and the impact this has had on those in our community,\\u201D he said
for an undisclosed sum following his dramatic resignation from the prestigious all-boys institution in March
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Home » Cranbrook Water Quality Advisory rescinded
which has been in place for City of Cranbrook water customers since April 9
Turbidity levels have been sitting at about 1 NTU since April 9
but testing over the past 48 hours confirms that the turbidity levels in Phillips Reservoir have dropped below 1 NTU allowing the Water Quality Advisory to be lifted
Turbidity is a measure of water clarity or how much matter is suspended in the water
Increased turbidity can make it harder for the chlorination to do its job
which occurs when there is run-off from snow melt and rain events
is common when you are dealing with a surface water system like the city is with the Phillips Reservoir
This increase in turbidity is likely because of the transition to spring weather encouraging a fast lake turnover which has stirred up sediment
Both the City of Cranbrook and Interior Health Authority appreciate the patience and understanding of those impacted by this Water Quality Advisory
Find more information about water quality and the city’s overall water system.
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A former teacher at Sydney private school Cranbrook
who a student attempted to extort for nude photographs
is suing the elite institution for failing to support her and creating an unsafe work environment
complained about her treatment to the Australian Human Rights Commission in October 2023
She has now lodged a Fair Work application against the school in the Federal Court of Australia
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Home » Movement that transforms lives
When you step into Louise Wight’s cozy home studio in Kimberley
you’re stepping into more than just a Pilates class — you’re stepping into a space built on resilience
and the belief that every body deserves the chance to move with ease and confidence
Her journey began with her own struggle: debilitating back pain in her twenties that left her sidelined from the activities she loved
A physiotherapist’s suggestion led her to a Pilates class — and just three months later
“That experience changed everything,” she shares
I knew I wanted to help others feel that same empowerment.”
Louise and her family made the move to Kimberley
With the transition came the perfect opportunity to launch her long-held dream: her own Pilates business
Louise Wight Pilates opened its doors in November
personalized classes for up to four people in a welcoming home studio — with her sweet dog Tito often stealing the show
inviting setting — Louise’s sessions are grounded in strength and science
“Every class includes resistance work — squats
“Because it’s not just about movement — it’s about getting stronger to live longer
Her small studio format allows for tailored instruction
whether through group classes or one-on-one rehabilitation sessions
And with her recent Diploma in Clinical Pilates
Louise brings the latest research-based techniques to every client
“It’s a lot — but I wouldn’t trade it,” she laughed
“It’s amazing watching people get stronger
Her clients’ transformations are what keep her going
“I hear stories every week — someone’s back pain is gone
someone else has more energy or is sleeping better
her vision is already looking forward: a dedicated commercial space in Kimberley that offers Reformer and mat classes — a full Pilates hub that serves the growing demand for personalized
Running a business as a woman comes with its fair share of challenges
“There’s this perception that it’s just a little side hustle,” she said
“But I want women to believe they can create successful businesses doing what they love.”
mentors like Raphael Bender and Adam McAtee of Evidence Based Pilates have played a key role in her journey
Their science-backed approach helped her develop a teaching style that blends deep knowledge with intuitive care
“I want every client to feel seen and safe
but they know their bodies best — I trust them to choose what feels right.”
When she’s not teaching or growing the business
Louise is investing in herself — through daily gratitude journaling
She also finds joy in singing with the Kimberley Community Choir
“It’s such a stress reliever — a completely different outlet that feeds my spirit.”
— but I’ll admit I’m still working on that one!”
“I didn’t plan to open a home studio — but it works
And remember — your work matters to your community.”
She also emphasizes the power of relationships — with clients
Whether you’re looking to ease chronic pain
Louise is ready to guide you — with warmth
Home » Street sweeping moves to Zone 3
The City of Cranbrook street sweeping crew has moved operations on residential streets in Zone 3
which is from Victoria Avenue to 34th Avenue South between 2nd Street North and 11th Street South
To help us do the best cleanup job possible
please make every effort to park off street on all these priority routes for the next few weeks
Public Works puts a lot of effort each spring to remove much of the debris on city roads left behind from its winter maintenance efforts
through the annual street sweeping operations
As the street sweeping program rolls out this year
we will provide up-to-date information about which areas of the city our team is currently working in and encourage residents in those areas to park off street wherever possible to ensure the best clean up possible
Street sweeping operations will continue at regular intervals through the spring and summer months ahead of major events and help with removal of debris through the fall months
Find our most current street sweeping map and information.
Sydney private school Cranbrook has made a confidential settlement with former principal Nicholas Sampson while acknowledging the basis for his resignation “may have caused confusion”
But Mr Sampson will forge ahead with an official complaint against the ABC’s Four Corners program
saying its reporting in an episode titled Old School was “wildly inaccurate
lacking in impartiality and in contravention of a number of the ABC’s own editorial standards”
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Credit: Cranbrook SchoolFormer Cranbrook principal Nicholas Sampson has reached a settlement with the elite Sydney private school three months after his sudden departure during a teacher sex scandal
Mr Sampson quit his role at the $48,000 a year school in the fallout of a Four Corners report that alleged he had not dealt appropriately with teacher misconduct and that female staff had been badly treated by management at the school
He is separately pursuing the ABC over the report and has engaged heavy-hitting defamation lawyers Rebekah Giles
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a male teacher at Cranbrook had sent sexually explicit messages to a student at Sydney’s Mount Benedict College when he was previously employed there
The council said on March 7 that Mr Sampson had not disclosed to them the details of that incident
on Tuesday the school said in a statement that Mr Sampson had told the school council in 2015 about the historical incident
“I am extremely pleased that I am no longer in dispute with the Cranbrook School Council,” Mr Sampson said in a statement
“The harm done to my reputation arising out of the misinformation that followed the earlier statement has now been ameliorated and I have been vindicated
I appreciate the Council’s goodwill in publicly clarifying its previous statement and acknowledging the confusion caused by those words
“There now cannot be any doubt that I reported the matter to the Council in 2015 and that the allegations were externally investigated by an independent body
NSW Police and notified to the Office of Children’s Guardian.”
Cranbrook said on Tuesday that its initial statement “may have caused confusion”
“The Council thanks Mr Sampson for his contribution and long service and
wishes him the very best for the future,” the school said in a statement
Mr Sampson thanked his lawyers and said he would continue his action against the ABC
“I have lodged a detailed complaint with the ABC Ombudsman concerning reporting by the Four Corners program that was wildly inaccurate
lacking in impartiality and in contravention of a number of the ABC’s own Editorial Standards,” his statement said
“It is gravely concerning that our own national broadcaster is prepared to broadcast dishonest and biased reporting callously and unfairly impacting so many
I am determined to pursue that complaint to its conclusion.”
Mr Sampson’s departure from the top job came at a tumultuous time for Cranbrook
which had wrestled over recent years with its transition to co-education
He said on Tuesday that he wished his former colleagues well
“My experience has shown that the pathway to reform is not always easy but I firmly believe that we have an excellent team that will deliver a first rate co educational offering
“One of the distinctive characteristics of the current school is the number and proportion of outstanding female educators within a single sex institution
I know that the excellent staff will lead Cranbrook to success.”
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forced some evacuations Thursday evening (May 1)
which is 56 hectares and burning out of control
was discovered on Thursday and is believed to be human caused
Wildfire Service says 12 firefighters are responding alongside the Fort St
along with two helicopters and an air tanker.
John posted on its Facebook page that the wildfire not currently threatening any structures as it moves beyond the Community Forest into the Peace River Regional District
Evacuees were directed to the Pomeroy Sport Centre for emergency support services.
Dialogue and debate are integral to a free society and we welcome and encourage you to share your views on the issues of the day. We ask that you be respectful of others and their points of view, refrain from personal attacks and stay on topic. To learn about our commenting policies and how our community-based moderation works, please read our Community Guidelines
Cranbrook RCMP are investigating after a body was discovered in a vehicle in downtown Cranbrook overnight Sunday
police had blocked access to 10th Avenue between Baker Street and 1St Street South after they were alerted to the discovery
Vehicle and pedestrian traffic was re-opened by early Monday morning.
Cranbrook RCMP request anyone with CCTV or dash cam video of the area over the weekend to call 250-489-3471
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Major construction is set to start at Horseshoe Bay ferry terminal at the end of the peak summer travel season and at that time
BC Ferries will make reservations mandatory on sailings to Departure Bay
announced some of its plans related to upcoming terminal upgrades work in West Vancouver
The most significant change is that starting in the fall
pre-booking will be required for all vehicle traffic from Horseshoe Bay to Departure Bay
with standby no longer an option except for emergency vehicles and travellers with medical assured loading status
"This change applies to one direction only and is designed to prevent traffic from backing up onto the highway
and supporting better traffic flow through the terminal during construction," noted a press release from BC Ferries
Reservations will not be required in the other direction
Project plans at Horseshoe Bay terminal include deconstruction of the elevated concrete holding area and relocation of the control tower
and the phase of work is expected to reduce the terminal's vehicle capacity by approximately 25 per cent
“Every element of this project is being thoughtfully planned to safeguard the customer experience and ensure the safety of both our customers and crew as we renew our infrastructure at this critical terminal,” said Melanie Lucia
vice-president of customer experience with BC Ferries
“We recognize that construction brings challenges
which is why we’re acting early and taking proactive steps to minimize disruption and maintain reliable service throughout the transition.”
Other plans include licensing for the Queen of Capilano vessel servicing Bowen Island to carry approximately 33 per cent more passengers and crew, and the previously announced once-a-day sailings from Tsawwassen to Departure Bay starting at the end of spring
BC Ferries said it is also developing "advanced modelling" technology to try to simulate how traffic will move through Horseshoe Bay terminal during each phase of construction to help with planning and decision-making
Future phases of the work at the terminal include upgrading or replacing three berths and enhancing seismic resiliency and "operational efficiency." BC Ferries says the total cost of the renewal program at Horseshoe Bay terminal is expected to be in the hundreds of millions of dollars
The ferry corporation noted that the terminal is one of its busiest and most operationally complex
but is challenged by its relatively small footprint with limited space for vehicles
and its lack of flexibility to accommodate growing demand
"The need for change is clear," noted BC Ferries in the release
the limitations of the Horseshoe Bay terminal were evident
with high traffic volumes and congestion putting pressure on local communities
contributing to a negative customer experience for passengers trying to travel through this terminal to their final destination."
About the Author: Nanaimo Bulletin News Staff
Dialogue and debate are integral to a free society and we welcome and encourage you to share your views on the issues of the day. We ask that you be respectful of others and their points of view, refrain from personal attacks and stay on topic. To learn about our commenting policies and how our community-based moderation works, please read our Community Guidelines.
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Rayogreatest hitsdevonnewsSix people sentenced for Cranbrook bribery and corruptionEnergy officials had used cash bribes and false invoices
Six people have been sentenced for their involvement in a criminal conspiracy which included bribery
money laundering and fraud centred around the Devon new town of Cranbrook
Around £2 million of bribes were accepted by two former employees at the energy company E.ON - in the form of cash
One of the employees was kept on side by being provided with fake references used to fraudulently facilitate several house moves
The wrongdoing was identified by E.ON after the employees moved on
leading to a long and complex investigation
the employees ensured that companies who made legitimate and fair bids
Those sentenced at Winchester Crown Court yesterday and today (Wednesday 30th April and Thursday 1st May) are:
Cranbrook was being developed with new-build houses and E.ON was awarded with a contract to provide district heating for the project
Mark Baker was appointed as E.ON’s Head of Projects and subsequently Head of Build for the project
with Matthew Heyward employed as a Quantity Surveyor
accepted bribes from individuals behind the companies Priddy Engineering Limited and RK Civil Engineering
with Heyward also receiving illegal payments
Priddy Engineering Limited was controlled by Andrew Blunsdon who paid bribes to both Mark Baker and Heyward
King’s partner at RKC was Timothy Paterson and bank accounts linked to the two paid a combined total in excess of £1.5million to Mark Baker and Heyward
The reason the bribes were paid is because these companies were construction contractors who either had or desired a commercial relationship with E.ON
Heyward played a key role in authorising the payment of contractor’s invoices
King and Paterson knew Baker and Heyward to be in positions of influence when it came to the awarding and the management of contracts
The bribes started in 2011 and continued through until the end of 2015 when E.ON discovered and reported the illegal activity
Detective Inspector Dan Parkinson from the Devon and Cornwall Police Complex Fraud Team
they are simply corrupt criminal practices.”
we reported the matter to the police and have fully supported their investigation."
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An elite private boys' school has appointed its first female principal since it was founded more than a century ago
Current Ravenswood School for Girls principal Anne Johnstone will become the new head of Cranbrook private school in Sydney's eastern suburbs
The historic announcement to students and staff was made on Thursday, saying Ms Johnstone will move into the top job from the start of term 3 in 2025, The Sydney Morning Herald reported.
The head of Ravenswood will replace Cranbrook's former principal Nicholas Sampson, who resigned in March from his $1 million-plus a year role after allegations of workplace bullying and historical abuse at the elite school.
Cranbrook council chair Geoff Lovell wrote in a letter to parents that the appointment follows a 'competitive recruitment process' which involved an extensive global search conducted by recruitment firm Korn Ferry.
'The council was impressed by Anne’s energy, warmth, intellect, wisdom, deep educational experience and by her values,' he wrote.
'The council is confident that, in appointing Anne as our new head of school, we have secured a leader who can fulfil the hopes and aspirations of the school community.'
'And guide Cranbrook to become the very best co-educational school it can be.'
Ms Johnstone was an English and history teacher before she scored the top job at Ravenswood on Sydney's upper north shore in 2016.
She had previously been head of Adelaide's Seymour College and deputy headmistress at Anglican private girls' school St Catherine's.
Ms Johntone was also the head of St Catherine's junior school.
Cranbrook has been in the spotlight since the ABC's Four Corners exposed bullying claims on March 4, as well as a toxic culture.
Among the allegations aired was that a female teacher was the victim of an attempted blackmail attempt by a male student, who demanded she send him nude photos.
Other allegations came to light days later, claiming Mr Sampson knew a teacher had sent sexually explicit messages to a former student - but had failed to tell the council.
The Four Corners investigation sparked the resignation of Mr Sampson, who had been the head of Cranbrook for ten years.
The school made a confidential settlement with the former principal in June, saying the reason for him leaving 'may have caused confusion'.
The $46,500-a-year school lists late billionaire Kerry Packer and his son James among its alumi
The school announced in 2022 it would start accepting girls in years 7 and 11 from 2026 and would be fully co-ed by 2029.
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Splatsin and the City of Enderby are united in a call for action in response to the ongoing crisis of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women
Girls and Two-spirited individuals (MMIWG2S)
The two communities are hosting a gathering at the Splatsin Community Centre (5767 Old Vernon Road) on Thursday
Tragedies across Canada and the Okanagan community (including the violence connected to the Sagmoen property and the devastating impacts of the opioid crisis in local communities) highlight the urgent need for coordinated action and criminal justice reform
said a joint statement from the communities.
Both communities are calling for the immediate strengthening of support for grassroots
survivor-led initiatives focused on healing
along with criminal justice reform and increased
sustained resources to combat organized crime and the opioid crisis affecting Indigenous and neighbouring communities.
They are also calling for strengthened collaboration between Indigenous
and federal governments to deliver systemic change to prevent tragedies and bring justice to those who have been lost
"Splatsin and the City of Enderby are committed to working together to build safer
stronger communities where the lives of Indigenous women
and 2-Spirited people are fully protected and respected," the joint statement reads. "We call on all levels of government
and individuals to join us in demanding the justice and systemic change that is long overdue."
The grassroots MMIWG2S gathering will begin at 1 p.m
The fire grew to 80 hectares but BCWS is classifying the fire as being held
meaning it is not expected to spread further.
Fraser-Fort George has rescinded the evacuation order and alert put in place due to the fire
The regional district of Fraser Fort George issued an evacuation alert for properties north of Hixon.
The fire's behaviour has subsided since sunset last night and with windy conditions there is still risk
Wildfire crews are continuing to battle the fire and protect infrastructure
While BCWS says there is no risk to the highway at this time
they are asking that those travelling on the highway do not stop to look at the fire
The wildfire near Hixon is now estimated to be 70 hectares Friday evening
Prince George Fire Centre lists the fire as out of control
and says it measures 45 hectares and was human-caused.
Home » The 10th Kootenay Rockies Gran Fondo filling quickly
If you have been contemplating taking part in the 10th annual Kootenay Rockies Gran Fondo on Sept
you may want to register sooner than later
The Cranbrook Rotary Sunrise Club reports it is closer to hitting the maximum of 500 riders for the bicycle race held between St
The beautiful ride features three distances
Register and learn more
Spring is here and it's time for spring cleaning
Wildsight and Mountain Phoenix Community Culture have collaborated to organize the Springtime Spruce Up and Co-Community Cleanup
"This initiative is designed to bring together residents
and organizations in a collective effort to revitalize our neighbourhoods and green spaces," explained a Wildsight spokesperson.
This is to be an inclusive event for individuals
families and groups, that will offer numerous benefits including contributing to their communities by clearing up the litter that has accumulated over the winter
while spending quality time outdoors.
"Events like these are not just about cleaning," Wildsight said. "They also promote team building
and a sense of pride in our shared achievement of enhancing our environment."
The Springtime Spruce Up for Kimberley and Cranbrook is scheduled for April 22 to 25
You are encouraged to register your business
school or community group, or with a group of friends or family.
Groups will be provided supplies by their corresponding city representative
This year groups will also be provided with a media package to help with organizing and advertising
Prizes will be awarded to one participating team
The Co-Community Clean Up is scheduled for April 26 for Kimberley and Cranbrook
Groups will meet at Western Financial Place in Cranbrook and the Centennial Centre in Kimberley.
Garbage bags and personal protective equipment will be provided
but participants are encouraged to bring their own pair of gloves
wear brightly-coloured clothing and car-pool
ride or walk to the event to reduce the carbon footprint.
Prizes are also up for grabs at the Co-Community Clean Up
provided by local businesses and organizations
Registration for both events can be found here: wildsight.ca/events/cocommunitycleanup/?source=SSU
Nestled on a beautiful campus overlooking Sydney Harbour
Cranbrook School fosters a tightly-knit and supportive environment where diverse learners thrive in and outside the classroom
staff and students come together to celebrate individuality and embrace unique learning challenges
The school supports students with conditions like ADHD
and autism by tailoring teaching strategies to meet their needs
To ensure every student is not only captivated but also achieves meaningful learning outcomes
One of them is Cranbrook Senior School Art Teacher
who shares the lightbulb moment that encouraged him to complete a Graduate Certificate in Education (Inclusion Education) at Queensland University of Technology
This qualification equipped Wrigley with enhanced learning approaches and techniques that inspire students with neurodivergent minds to learn and thrive
“There was a student in my class distracting me with disruptive behaviour which took my focus away from other students,” Wrigley told The Educator
“I considered why I was getting worked up and discovered that it wasn’t the student who needed to change
it was me who needed to change – it was a great lightbulb moment.”
The Inclusion Education course encourages the school’s teachers to celebrate diverse learners rather than wanting to change them
This is achieved by shifting one’s mindset to recognise each student’s individual strengths
understanding their points of view and accepting their needs
Enacting these principles is vital to transforming the student’s classroom engagement
Neurodiversity promotes embracing and celebrating the various ways peoples’ brains work and rejects the idea of deficits or shortcomings
according to a Child Mind Institute article
It encourages acceptance of the different ways individuals perceive and interact with the world
The apple and pear picture illustrates this
Research shows there are around 800,000 people in Australia living with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and according to Professor Michael G Sawyer
around 6-10% of Australian children and adolescents have ADHD
Neurodivergent students have different strengths and challenges
so it is important to create an environment that fosters understanding and minimises anxiety
and visual or verbal prompts may be used to get their full attention before giving clear instructions or speaking with them
and allows the student to focus on clear goals
A key part of the course was understanding and utilising Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS) which is a whole school
prevention and evidence-based framework for guiding classroom teachers
MTSS has three tiers – Tier 1 students are neurotypical and the majority (82-94%); Tier 2 students (5-10%) require supplemented learning intervention and Tier 3 students (1-8%) require individual learning plans
Varying teaching strategies ensure that lessons are engaging
inclusive and accessible to all learners to accommodate different learning styles
Neurodivergent Tier 3 students may have academic
and/or behavioural needs and so individual learning plans are delivered in an inclusive learning space
Establishing a structured classroom environment with consistent routines and clear expectations provides stability
I start by asking how I can support them in the classroom
then tailoring structures to their learning style to reduce classroom management challenges
limiting responses to their constant chatter
plus observing any distractions that may impact their focus
and having things ready to switch it up if they become unsettled.”
Utilising these techniques plus offering choices
using feedback and rewarding activities further supports the learning journey at Cranbrook
By adding parent and carer collaboration and promoting self-management skills
we equip our students to thrive and succeed academically and socially
typically between 5-10% of a student population
require supplemental intervention for improved learning outcomes
By using preventive intervention through targeted support
breaking down subjects into smaller learning outcomes
giving worked examples so students know what is expected of them and providing opportunities for guided and independent practice
The Tier 1 approach accommodates the needs and abilities of all students
with teachers intentionally designing tasks achievable for all students based on multiple learning needs delivered in a proactive and supportive environment
The approach differs slightly for Cranbrook students with mild ID or ASD
“I have found that getting to know a student from their independent learning plan
and then applying strategies designed to their interests
resulting in big and small goal achievements for the student,” Julian says
then the first steps are empathy and providing a safe and calm classroom environment
“Using emotional intelligence and reversing roles can give teachers insight into how students perform and react in a busy classroom
Simple things like reducing noise or overhead lighting can lessen anxiety
and then we slowly encourage the student to participate in group activities
and connect them with Cranbrook peers with similar interests
to increase their confidence,” Julian explains
Wrigley emphasises the importance of closely monitoring and reporting on explicit teaching to understand each student’s individual progress
This involves students actively engaging in tasks designed to improve a specific skill
“We can modify curriculum by reducing content or replacing it with language attuned to the student’s learning development,” Wrigley said
also assists along with integrating diverse perspectives and cultural relevance to engage all students
structured learning paths and support systems we actively assist Cranbrook students with different learning needs.”
and learning environments require flexible teaching strategies that cater to diverse learning preferences
By incorporating ongoing formative assessments to track progress
and adjusting teaching methods based on results
we achieve better outcomes and can proudly celebrate our diverse learners
“By creating adaptive learning environments that are physically and emotionally supportive and encouraging collaborative learning and peer interaction to foster understanding and empathy
we can truly celebrate the individuality and diversity of each Cranbrook student,” Wrigley said
building trust and analysing data we gain insights into each student’s strengths and challenges.”
Wrigley said further insights are gained when teachers collaborate with Cranbrook students
“When we combined this knowledge and insight with inclusive education tools and strategies
we create an effective learning environment that encourages growth and development.”
Add professional development opportunities like the Inclusion Education course
diversify and increase our teaching strategies
then Cranbrook continues to pave the way for greater inclusive and equitable education outcomes for all students
“This delivers Cranbrook students who are better placed for their future journeys in our rapidly changing world.”
A passionate educator with global experience joins the Junior School to champion student growth
The program will help Year 7-9 students develop healthy screen habits and make better decisions online
Don't miss the chance to spotlight your school's success and impact
Copyright © 2025 KM Business Information Australia Pty Ltd
Nikita Tolopilo was set up perfectly to play the hero role for the Abbotsford Canucks in Saturday's (May 3) game two against the Coachella Valley Firebirds
Called on in the second period to replace Arturs Silovs (who let in three goals on eight shots)
the Belarusian took over a game that saw the Canucks trail 3-0 and the team in front of him refused to give up
The team's veterans stepped up and it started when Phil Di Giuseppe got the Canucks on the board just 2:55 into the second
Nate Smith scored just 82 seconds after that and suddenly it was a 3-2 game
Jujhar Khaira completed the comeback at 6:17 of the third and he added the go-ahead goal at 13:18 to silence the Firebirds crowd
Coachella's Ben Meyers then beat Tolopilo at 15:58 to send the game to overtime
The Belarusian goalie was solid through two periods and made 18 saves
but all of that goodwill may have been erased in the extra frame
Tolopilo coughs up the puck, what a massive mistake. Game over and there will be a game four on Friday in Abbotsford. Game three is Wednesday pic.twitter.com/LaZx7BkHD4
The Firebirds dumped the puck into Abbotsford's zone 4:40 into overtime and Tolopilo left his crease to retrieve it
There was a moment of indecision as he saw a Coachella player approach and that was all the Firebirds needed
found Jacob Melanson in front and just like that the series is tied 1-1
A mistake like that in overtime could swing a series and it's now going to lead to a debate about which goalie starts game three for Abbotsford
Making the loss sting even more is that forward Aatu Raty and defenceman Jett Woo both got injured in game two
Add those injuries to defenceman Christian Wolanin and forward Jonathan Lekkerimaki and the all of a sudden the grind of the playoffs is hitting Abbotsford hard
Khaira again, this line is on fire pic.twitter.com/g1b0eu9aUs
Lost in the major flub by Tolopilo was an amazing effort by Khaira
who had a three-point night and also dropped the gloves with Firebirds enforcrer Ian McKinnon in the first period after he injured Woo
Khaira's Gordie Howe hat trick is believed to be the first-ever by an Abbotsford Canucks player in the playoffs
Canucks head coach Manny Malhotra didn't just yank Silovs after falling behind 3-0
he also shuffled the lines and his moves got his club back into the game
Smith and Blais combined for seven points and fuelled the comeback
Khaira, Smith and Blais dominate down low and it's 3-2 on Smith's goal pic.twitter.com/F6sKqix0B8
Abbotsford was out shot 31-30 in the game and special team were again not a factor with just three total power plays awarded
Abbotsford went 0/2 and the Firebirds went 0/1
The Canucks opened the series with a 3-1 win over the Firebirds on Thursday (May 1).
the numbers for several of Abbotsford's young players throughout the playoffs so far are getting concerning
Max Sasson and Ty Mueller have combined for just one goal in five playoff games
Lekkermaki was also held pointless in his two games against Tucson
Only forward Sammy Blais is averaging more than one point a game.
the Canucks do escape California with a split and now the series shifts to the Abbotsford Centre
Game three is set for Wednesday (May 7) and game four goes Friday (May 9)
Final from overtime. pic.twitter.com/haPalPFNXR
THREE crooked construction build bosses bribed energy officials linked to a major Devon housing development to the tune of around £2million in order to secure lucrative contracts and other favours.
Six people have now been sentenced for involvement in a criminal conspiracy which included bribery, money laundering and fraud centred around the, at the time, new community of Cranbrook in East Devon.
Two former employees at the energy company E.ON were found to have accepted bribes in the form of cash, false invoices, references and home improvements, among other bribes, in exchange for work relating to Cranbrook.
One of the employees was kept on side by being provided with fake references used to fraudulently facilitate several house moves.
The wrongdoing was identified by E.ON after the employees moved on, investigated and reported, leading to a long and complex investigation. There was no wrongdoing on the part of the energy company itself.
By accepting the bribes, the employees ensured that companies who made legitimate and fair bids, lost out on the work.
In 2010, Cranbrook was being developed with new-build houses and E.ON was awarded with a contract to provide district heating for the project.
Mark Baker was appointed as E.ON’s Head of Projects and subsequently Head of Build for the project, with Matthew Heyward employed as a Quantity Surveyor, responsible for signing off works.
Mark Baker, who is married to Angela Baker, accepted bribes from individuals behind the companies Priddy Engineering Limited and RK Civil Engineering, with Heyward also receiving illegal payments.
Priddy Engineering Limited was controlled by Andrew Blunsdon who paid bribes to both Mark Baker and Heyward.
RK Civil Engineering Ltd (RKC) was one of a group of companies controlled by Richard King. King’s partner at RKC was Timothy Paterson and bank accounts linked to the two paid a combined total in excess of £1.5million to Mark Baker and Heyward.
The bribes arrived in the form of cash, money paid in to bank accounts, the use of prestige cars, free hotel rooms, free building work and false references.
The reason the bribes were paid is because these companies were construction contractors who either had or desired a commercial relationship with E.ON.
Part of Mark Baker’s role was deciding which companies should be given construction contracts at Cranbrook, and later at other locations around the UK.
Heyward played a key role in authorising the payment of contractor’s invoices, particularly at Cranbrook.
Blunsdon, King and Paterson knew Baker and Heyward to be in positions of influence when it came to the awarding and the management of contracts. They bribed them to further their own financial interests knowing they’d willingly act in a corrupt manner.
The bribes started in 2011 and continued through until the end of 2015 when E.ON discovered and reported the illegal activity.
Mark Baker, 56, of Goole in Yorkshire, Angela Baker, 53, also of Goole, Matthew Heyward, 51, of Kingsteignton, Devon, Timothy Paterson, 56, of Derby, Richard King, 51 of Husbands Bosworth in South Leicestershire and Andrew Blunsdon, 57 of Winscombe in Somerset, all appeared at Winchester Crown Court on Wednesday, April 30 and Thursday, May 1 for sentencing after pleading guilty to various offences.
Mark Baker pleaded guilty to being bribed, four counts of fraud by false representation, being concerned in a money laundering arrangement and fraud by abuse of position.
Angela Baker pleaded guilty to four fraud by false representation counts, fraud by abuse of position and being concerned in a money laundering arrangement.
Paterson admitted two fraud by false representation charges, two charges of bribing another person and one of acquiring criminal property.
King pleaded guilty to fraud by false representation and two bribing another person charges.
Heyward entered guilty pleas to bribery and being concerned in a money laundering arrangement.
• Mark Baker was jailed for 46 months and disqualified from being a company director for seven years.
• Matthew Heyward was jailed for 30 months and disqualified from being a company director for seven years.
• Timothy Paterson was jailed for four years and disqualified from being a company director for seven years.
• Angela Baker was sentenced to 13 months in prison, suspended for two years and made subject of a three months 8pm to 6am curfew.
• Andrew Blunsdon was sentenced to 12 months in prison, suspended for two years and must complete 150 hours of unpaid work.
Priddy Engineering Ltd, the Bakers and Matthew Heyward
In February 2011, the Bakers were provided a false employer’s reference which was given to an estate agent containing fabricated information about Angela Baker’s income and employment, allowing them to rent an expensive house in Lincolnshire.
During 2011 and 2012, Blunsdon’s Priddy had an ongoing contract with E.ON at Cranbrook and over this time period paid Heyward around £40,000 in bribes.
By the summer of 2012 the Bakers had moved to Devon, and Blunsdon further bribed Mark Baker by arranging and paying for an air conditioning unit to be installed in his wife’s florist shop.
Blunsdon then submitted an invoice to E.ON as part of his company’s ongoing contract with the company. The invoice was signed off by Heyward.
RKC was a company based in Leicestershire who had an ongoing lucrative contract with E.ON as a preferred contractor. However, RKC’s King and Paterson also had a corrupt relationship with Baker and Heyward.
From early 2012 to late 2015, RKC paid bribes to Mark Baker totalling around £175,000.
Needing to cover up the bribes in their accounts, Mark Baker submitted a number of false invoices through his company Baker Projects Ltd to RKC often marked as “wages” even though Mark Baker did not work for RKC.
Mark Baker also received bribes from RKC in the form of false references of employment to obtaining rental properties and mortgages, free building work and improvements to one of his houses, an air conditioning unit at the florist and a Range Rover.
RK Civil Engineering Ltd and Matthew Heyward
At the same time, RKC also bribed Heyward, but on an even larger scale than Mark Baker.
Over this time period Heyward accepted a total of £1.4million, once again covered up by false invoices submitted to RKC by two companies associated with Heyward. Later in this period King and Paterson switched to paying Heyward in cash and also bought him fancy hotel rooms and supplied him with an Audi car.
Heyward had what was described as a raging gambling habit, a habit he shared with Paterson. Heyward “kicked back” part of the money received from RKC to Paterson who then spent it.
A total of more than £500,000 was kicked back to Paterson.
Between 2011 and 2014 Mark and Angela Baker moved house four times, with each of the moves tainted by fraud.
In 2012 the Bakers moved from Lincolnshire to Devon to be closer to the site in Cranbrook. To rent this property a second fraud was required.
In their rental application it was falsely declared that Angela Baker worked for RKC on an annual salary of £60,000. Paterson enabled this fraud after being contacted by Mark Baker by creating a reference and fake wage slips.
In 2013 the Bakers moved out of their first Devon property and started the process of buying a house with a mortgage.
The plan was to find a house, do it up and sell it on for profit, however the couple was unwilling to pay for the house or subsequent improvements.
RKC paid the deposit and with the help of King and Paterson obtained the mortgage by fraud. RKC then went on to pay for improvements at the home.
The property was in Okehampton and Angela Baker told the bank the deposit was a gift from her father.
The majority of the deposit came from RKC as a disguised bribe to Mark Baker. Further money was received in smaller amounts.
Angela Baker lied to the bank saying she was working for RKC on a salary of £85,000 per year, with fake wage slips again created to disguise the fraud which involved both of the Bakers, King and Paterson.
RKC went on to pay for improvements to the property worth £50,000 before the home was sold at a profit by the Bakers.
After spending some of the profits on a car and holidays, the Bakers purchased a house in Yorkshire in late 2013.
To buy the property Angela Baker again claimed to the mortgage lender to be a RKC employee earning £84,000 a year. King created a wage slip to enable this.
Detective Inspector Dan Parkinson from the Devon and Cornwall Police Complex Fraud Team, said: “These individuals believed corrupt practice was widespread in the construction industry and the method by which business was done.
“Corruption costs business and society, providing benefit for just a corrupt few. Ultimately, we all pay the price.
“These corrupt practices are a parasitic blight on society.
“It is through E.ON’s initial identification of concerns and reporting this corrupt practice to Devon and Cornwall Police that enabled these convictions to be obtained.
“Bribery is a criminal offence and it is illegal for both employer and employee to offer, promise, give a bribe or receive or accept a bribe.
“This was a complex and time-consuming investigation but we are happy to have worked alongside E.ON and secured convictions against six defendants who believed rules did not apply to them and they could do whatever they wanted in order to reach their desired goal.
“These practices were often referred to as favours. Favours they are not, they are simply corrupt criminal practices.”
Anybody wanting to anonymously report such activities and practice should contact CrimeStoppers online at crimestoppers-uk.org or by telephone - 0800 555 111.
An E.ON UK spokesperson said: “Our internal processes enabled us to identify this case and take decisive action. Reflecting our zero-tolerance approach to bribery, we reported the matter to the police and have fully supported their investigation."
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RCMP say a wildfire near Dawson Creek has impacted communication services in the area
A cluster of wildfires are burning around Dawson Creek
including G70192 along Highway 52 toward Tumbler Ridge
It's listed as out of control at 35 hectares
RCMP's North Division says the fire destroyed the Tumbler Ridge fibre optic
radio and internet connections unavailable
will have to go to the local detachment to report any issues.
RCMP added it's not known when repairs will be made.
The cluster of wildfires have also partially shut down Highway 52
between Brassey Road and Bearhole Lake Road
It is currently single-lane alternating traffic.
Rob Morrison showed the party's support remains unimpeachable in Columbia-Kootenays-Southern Rockies
Morrison won his third straight election Monday night in the federal election
He finished with 35,478 votes from 304-of-310 polls reporting in
or 50.6 per cent of total ballots cast as of Tuesday morning
“We could tell when we went to the doors that people really wanted change and they were really supportive of what Conservatives were going to do," Morrison said at his election night party in Cranbrook
"It was a team effort here and we knocked on thousands and thousands of doors to find out what was important
… I’m really proud to be the Columbia-Kootenay-Southern Rockies Member of Parliament and I will work really hard for everyone here."
The Conservatives, who were once vying for control of the government as former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's support sagged, were forced to settle for second place after Mark Carney and the Liberal Party stormed back to win the election. Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre also appeared to lose his own seat in Parliament
he wanted a better national result for his party
especially with some things we’ve talked about with the gun legislation and things that I’m worried if we don’t win
But I also worry about the economy and we need to get people to work; we don’t need to spend money
We need to get people working to get the tax base and I worry about that."
Liberals' Reggie Goldsbury (19,623 votes) finished second ahead of the NDP's Kallee Lins (12,581)
followed by Steven Maffioli of the Green Party (1,044), independent candidate Jim Wiedrick (842)
and Laurie Baird of the People's Party of Canada (501)
The riding changed to include Trail and drop Revelstoke and Golden ahead of Monday's federal election
But the result stayed the same as Morrison won his third consecutive election to maintain the riding as a Conservative stronghold
The riding followed a nationwide trend of NDP voters turning to the Liberals
Goldsbury's second-place result would be the first time in 25 years a Liberal has finished better than third in the riding formerly known as Kootenay Columbia
Goldsbury conceded it was a difficult challenge to upend the Conservative vote
but said the Liberals deserved credit for convincing NDP voters to change their colours
"Liberals came second in the riding because at the local level and first at the federal level we had the right candidate at the right time
with myself having such strong connections in all of our riding
we showed that the progressive vote does not have to stay with the NDP."
But Morrison also likely benefited by the collapse of the People's Party (PPC)
which was forced to run Baird after Andrew Skinner pulled out of the campaign early on
took part in no debates and did not campaign in the riding
PPC candidate Sarah Bennett finished with 4,467 votes
Those voters probably turned to Morrison
who has tentatively increased his margin of victory by nearly 10 per cent from four years ago
“It was a short election period," said Morrison. "We went as hard as we could the whole time and I’m really proud of the team that I’ve been working with and really proud of the people who were listening and we listened as well and I think the results show it."
The Alberta government is taking the federal Liberal government to court.
Minister of Environment and Protected Areas Rebecca Schulz and Minister of Affordability and Utilities Nathan Neudorf jointly announced that Alberta was taking the federal government to Alberta's Court of Appeal over matters of constitutionality where it came to Ottawa's net-zero emissions by 2035 plan
According to a release accompanying the press conference
the province notes that "Canada's constitution is clear" and "provinces have exclusive jurisdiction over the development
conservation and management of sites and facilities in the province for the generation and production of electrical energy."
"The federal government refused to work collaboratively or listen to Canadians while developing these regulations," said Smith
and place Albertans’ livelihoods – and more importantly
Our government will not accept unconstitutional net-zero regulations that leave Albertans vulnerable to blackouts in the middle of summer and winter when they need electricity the most.”
The release notes that findings by the Alberta Electric System Operator show that Ottawa's new regulations will make the provincial grid 100 times less reliable than it currently is and increase costs by around 35 per cent
"The introduction of the Clean Electricity Regulations in Alberta by the federal government is another example of dangerous federal overreach," said Amery
"These regulations will create unpredictable power outages in the months when Albertans need reliable energy the most
They will also cause power prices to soar in Alberta
which will hit our vulnerable the hardest.”
impose "strict limits on fossil fuel power" in an effort to force provinces to move to a net-zero emission grid
something that Alberta believes is impossible given current technologies.
"Ottawa’s electricity regulations will leave Albertans in the dark," said Schulz
"They aren’t about reducing emissions – they are unconstitutional
ideological activist policies based on standards that can’t be met and technology that doesn’t exist
It will drive away investment and punish businesses
provinces and families for using natural gas for reliable
We will not put families at risk from safety and affordability impacts – rationing power during the coldest days of the year – and we will continue to stand up for Albertans.”
Albertans currently rely on natural gas for 75 per cent of electricity generated in the province; however
with Ottawa's push to "unproven" technologies
those generators would not be able to remain without significant and costly upgrades.
there would be a serious risk of regular brownouts and blackouts during the cold of winter
and through the dog days of summer," said Smith
Alberta would be left to freeze in the minus 40 degrees while sitting down for dinner
lit by flashlight or candlelight as they wait for the rolling blackout to move on to the next community ..
Such uncaring arrogance is typical of the liberal government."
It is unknown what the timeline for the Court of Appeals is going to be
or what the response from Mark Carney's new minority Liberal government will look like
has returned with a bang taking out the grand champion ram at the NSW Dorset Championships
All articles from our website & appThe digital version of This Week's PaperBreaking news alerts direct to your inboxAll articles from the other agricultural news sites in your areaContinueHeld at Cowra last Friday and Saturday
18 studs took to the ring with Cranbrook 42-23 awarded the senior champion ram before going on to claim grand
said the ram had good growth for age and was a very correct ram with good temperament
"He's got a very strong Poll Dorset head on him," Joanna Balcombe said
the ram won grand champion off the back of being awarded interbreed champion at Bathurst Show earlier this year
The Balcombe family run about 140 stud ewes and sell about 60 rams a year
with the grand champion to be on offer this year
intermediate and senior champion rams were all outstanding exhibits
"I was particularly drawn to the junior champion but when I placed him beside the senior champion the thickness of carcass of the senior ram was too much to overlook to give the junior champion the benefit that he would develop to that extent," he said
"He was a very heavy ram that had very few faults."
Reserve senior champion ram went to Rene stud
sired by Valley Vista 155.21 and out of Rene 973.18
took a clean sweep of the intermediate and junior ram classes
View +14 PhotosPictures by Alexandra BernardThe intermediate champion was Abelene Park 43-23
sired by Tattykeel 155-21 while reserve was Abelene Park 60-23
said the intermediate champion was well-muscled
The junior champion was Abelene Park 210.23 and reserve was Abelene Park 91.23
Mr Douglas said the junior champion had a really good outlook
he's structurally really correct and a clean face which is important to us," he said
Judge Mr Binnie said it was like splitting hairs between the two junior rams but the champion was hard to go past
Mr Douglas said he judged at the Dorset Championships with his father in 1991 and had been coming almost every year since
"We just see it as a great opportunity to get our sheep out and benchmark them against some of the best in NSW," he said
The Douglas' run about 200 Dorset stud ewes and Mr Douglas said they cull heavily
Abelene Park was also awarded the most successful exhibitor and the highest strike rate award
Cranbrook won the overall Stockscan performance ram
while the Central West NSW region award for highest placed ram lamb went to Mt Bathurst
Cranbrook had further success in the group classes taking out NSW pair of the year
Rene stud won the group of two rams and one ewe
Finley High School claimed the sires progeny group
In the Dorset Horn classes long-time exhibitor Kei-Vale Dorset Horns stud
won the champion and reserve for the ewes and rams
Journalist based in Wagga Wagga covering all things agriculture in southern NSW.
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