PO Box 618, Newman WA 6753 | newmanmainst@westnet.com.au | Ph/Fax (08) 9177 8290 ABN 16 009 425 564 | www.newmanmainst.com.

au

The objective of the Newman Mainstreet Project is to involve the community in projects or events that promote community cohesion, development and identity. The Newman Mainstreet Project also encourages a community based coordinated approach to improve the economic, social and physical environment. To get involved call: 9177 8290

Major Sponsor
Cost: Free Value: Priceless

NEWMAN NEWS
NEWMANS COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER
Edition Jan/Feb 2014 Issue 150

Newman News Celebrates Its 150th Edition

Newman News began its life in 2001 as the Whaleback Wailer under the auspices of Newman Mainstreet Project. This marks its 150th Edition and is a culmination of volunteer work by many of Newmans community, past and present, through their article contributions, photography, and advertising over the years. We thank you for your continuing support and hope that we may continue to keep everyone informed and entertained for many editions to come. Your contributions are always welcome.

Happy Australia Day, Newman!

Crawford Realty supports the Newman News

East Pilbara Australia Day 2014

The Shire of East Pilbara will celebrate Australia Day with community events in both Newman and Marble Bar. Australia day celebrations provide the East Pilbara community with a unique opportunity to come together and reflect on our diversity in a harmonious setting, said Chief Executive Officer Allen Cooper. We are thrilled to have Australia Day Ambassador and Para Olympian Priya Cooper OAM to join us for the festivities in Newman and to share her inspirational story, he added. The following events will take place in Newman on Australia Day: 10 am1 pm Free entry to the Newman Aquatic Centre and include childrens activities, water inflatables and a free barbeque lunch 10:30 am Official Australia Day Ceremony: meet and greet with Australia Day Ambassador and Para Olympian Priya Cooper Fireworks at Emu Oval

Newman News, your independent local community newspaper, would be delighted to hear from you. Please send us your stories, photos, events, birth notices and the like. Published monthly. You can submit your articles via Newman Mainstreet Projects email: newmanmainst@westnet.com.au

Free entry to the Marble Bar Aquatic Centre will be available from 9 am to 12 pm and will include Childrens activities, volleyball, sport and a free barbeque breakfast with the official Australia Day Ceremony commencing around 9am approximately.

New Dog Owner Laws

As per notifications by the States Department of Local Government and Communities, of 1 November 2013 dogs must be microchipped when they are registered for the first time or when change of ownership occurs in accordance with amendments to the Dog Act 1976. As of 30 November 2013 all dangerous dogs, which includes restricted breeds and commercial security dogs, must be microchipped. By 1 November 2015, all dogs must be microchipped.

Phoenix Dance Crew

7:30 pm

Advertise with Newman News

Newmans independent community newspaper Our advertising rates include G.S.T. You can submit your advertisements to the editor in the following ways: Fax: (08) 9177 8290 In Person: Mainstreet Office, Newman Community Hall (Mindarra Dr) Email to: newmanmainst@westnet.com.au Ad Size Bus/Gov regular rate min. 3 issues 132.00 88.00 60.50 150.00 330.00 180.00 Bus/Gov singular rate 165.00 110.00 71.50 150.00 385.00 220.00 Community/ Non-profit min. 3 issues 88.00 55.00 44.00 150.00 330.00 180.00 Community/ Non-profit singular rate 110.00 77.00 55.00 150.00 385.00 220.00

Those attending Newman events will have been entertained by the youth Hip Hop dance team Phoenix Dance Crew. They have been preparing for their Australia Day performance. With two members having left town, Phoenix was looking to gain the interest of more young people in Newman who are passionate about dancing, hip hop, community and performing. For further information about Phoenix, please contact Luisa or Lindsay at the Youth Centre on 9175 1963.

Free Community Lighting

Full page Half page Quarter page Inserts Full page colour Half page colour

The Shire of East Pilbara conducted an on-line survey in November and December 2013 to gauge the interest of the Newman community in using the Boomerang and Kangaroo Ovals during the summer months. Responses to the survey will be used to determine whether free lighting of these ovals will be made available. Public release of the outcomes is awaited.

Other size advertisements are available. Please contact us for our full rates chart.

Desert Irrigation Project for Remote East Pilbara

Extract from Ministerial Media Statements, State Government of Western Australia

The State Government has committed $12.5million in Royalties for Regions funding to establish two pilot projects growing irrigated crops in the Pilbara. A trial of irrigation systems will use surplus mine water to grow food and biofuel under the new Pilbara Hinterland Agricultural Development Initiative (PHADI). Sorghum will be grown at Woodie Woodie on Warrawagine Station in the eastern Pilbara, which can be then used for biofuel in the mining industry, as well as cattle fodder. A second site in the central Pilbara is under consideration. The trial will start with a 150ha farm operation and could be expanded to several thousand hectares with private sector participation. This is about teaming agriculture with mining to grow fodder for the pastoral

industry and biofuel for the resource sector. The knowledge uncovered through these pilot projects will be vital to Western Australia being able to develop systems for world-leading irrigated agriculture, said Agriculture and Food Minister Ken Baston. PHADI follows evaluation of past Pilbara Water Opportunities projects which identified significant prospects for further irrigated agriculture using surplus mine dewater.

The Beach Indoor Play Centre

for 0-12 year olds
Closed 8.30 am to 12.30 pm 8.30 am to 12.30 pm 2.30 pm to 5:00 pm 8.30 am to 12.30 pm 8.30 am to 12.30 pm Available for parties 1:00 pm to 5:00 pm

Hours of Operation
Monday: Tuesday: Wednesday: Thursday: Friday: Saturday: Sunday:

Afternoon available for parties

For all party bookings please call 9177 8290 during operation hours or email: newmanmainst@westnet.com.au

Newman Mainstreet Project Inc.

By Nicole Willis

Since taking on the position of Coordinator for Newman Mainstreet Project Inc. back in March 2013 a lot of people have asked me What does Mainstreet do? My usual response is What dont we do! At Mainstreet, our aim is to involve the community in projects and events that promote community cohesion, identity and development. Most people who have been in town a little while now would know that Mainstreet prides itself on putting together events for the community such as; International Womens Day and NAIDOC week (this year). But it is not just about these events. We also help a lot in the background, cooking barbeques at other events throughout the year, holding the bimonthly markets and producing the Newman News and operating The Beach Indoor Play Centre. All of these activities would not happen without our great community minded committee members. As our events are run by dedicated volunteers painstakingly organising and preparing for the event for days, weeks, even months leading up to them to ensure they come together perfectly. This involves regularly meetings to discuss ideas, liaising with people, businesses and performers to make the events memorable to those attending. The volunteers do all this with very little thanks, but that is what it means to be a community volunteer and these are the people who help create the communities spirit!

Did you know that Mainstreet now has a wide array of hire equipment? We can dress your event or get together for 5 to 300 people with table cloths, chair covers, centrepieces, crockery and cutlery and other dcor, as well as assisting you in bringing your event to life. In 2013 alone, we have managed to set up for 300 guests at the International Womens Day event, assisted the Fire Brigade with their anniversary ball, set up a wedding renewal event and also a Christmas dinner for forty guests. On top of all the other equipment we hired out for others to make their event spectacular. At Newman Mainstreet Project, we have got the vision if you have got the time!

Some creative decorating options for your events using equipment that can be hired from Newman Mainstreet Project. newmanmainst@westnet.com.au or call 9177 8290

Mining equipment on display at the Visitor Centre near the chalets

Family Separation Without Court

By J. Leonie Bailey, Principal Lawyer, DeLancey Legal

When families separate it is often an overwhelming process. Frequently people are not fully aware of the options or assistance that is available to help guide them through the resulting emotional and financial maze. Whenever possible it is best to focus on resolving disputes outside of the Court process. Where children are involved, their wellbeing must always be the paramount consideration. Methods of resolving disputes without going to Court include: Mediation an independent mediator works with both clients to identify the issues that are in dispute. They facilitate discussion in a safe environment and encourage the exchange of ideas to help develop solutions. Mediators do not provide legal advice. Clients should seek legal advice to ensure agreements can be implemented.

Negotiation lawyers take a more active role and negotiate with the other partys lawyer by way of letters, phone calls and conferences. Collaborative Practice parties engage lawyers who are specifically trained in collaborative law. Both clients and their lawyers are involved in a series of four way meetings. Once an agreement is reached it is formalised by preparing the relevant documentation. These processes assist clients to design agreements that are diverse and best meet their specific needs. Without litigation, agreements can be reached in a timely and cost effective manner. Becoming involved in the Court process, on the other hand, is both emotionally and financially costly, time consuming and the outcome is always uncertain.

Newman Visitor Centres New Chalets

By Tracey Bennett

To celebrate the opening of the BHPBIO sponsored chalets at the Newman Visitor Centre, a competition is being held to name each of the six chalets. Ideally, the names should follow a theme or have some relevance to our surroundings, culture or history. The Visitor Centre is giving residents the chance to enter your ideas in a competition. The winner will receive two nights' accommodation, a dinner pack to be used in the BBQ area and beverages for the evening.

Submit your six proposed chalet names to Ournamesare@bigpond.com by Saturday 15 February 2014. The winner will be notified at the accommodation's official opening, held toward the end of February 2014. The six chalets are self contained with a modern, tiled to the ceiling en-suite, refrigerator, kettle, microwave and toaster. Each room features a sitting area, queen size bed, free to air TV and wifi access. One of the six chalets is completely fitted for full disabled access. Please feel free to stop into the Visitor Centre for a look around the chalets.

OPSM is at NEWMAN shopping centre for the 17th February POP & SHOP SALE - Book your Eye-Tests Now
PH: 9321 5333 (Ask for Mel or Aaron) or opsmnew@bhpbilliton.com

Fantastic Brands / Great Discounts

BE QUICK, As always Appointments go FAST !

Eye-Tests - Digital Retinal Scans - Health Checks Glasses - Contact Lenses - Prescription Safety Glasses Sunglasses All the top Brands Oakley, Ray Ban & More...

Whaleback Ladies Darts Club PO Box 542 NEWMAN WA 6753

WHALEBACK LADIES DARTS CLUB SEASON 2014 - Starts 5th February

Ladies, do you want to do something different? Come down on Wednesday Nights and Play Darts. It is great fun and if you dont know how to play we will show you. You will meet new friends and have a good night out. Just come on down, FIFO Ladies are also welcome.

Every Wednesday Start Time: 7.15pm Where: Newman Club Mindarra Drive

If you require more information ring Michelle on 0400 209 385 or Sheryl on 9175 8006.
Note: You will need to join or already be a member of the Newman Club.

CALENDAR OF EVENTS JAN / FEB 2014

JANUARY 2014
25 Saturday Twilight movie series, comedy Imogene, free, from 6 pm, Boomerang Oval Free Entry to the Newman Aquatic Centre and includes childrens activities, water inflatables and a free barbeque lunch Official Australia Day Ceremony: meet and greet with Australia Day Ambassador and Para Olympian Priya Cooper Fireworks at Emu Oval 26 Sunday 10 am 1 pm 10:30 am 7:30 pm 27 Monday 31 Friday

Public holiday in lieu of Australia Day falling on a weekend Shire Council Meeting, Newman administration building, 10 am

FEBRUARY 2014
1 Saturday 8 Saturday 8 Saturday 10 Monday 10 Monday

Februarys Community Expo date TBA 1 Saturday Twilight movie series, comedy Bedtime Stories, free, from 6 pm, Boomerang Oval Freestyle MotoX at Hillview Speedway, Gates open from 5pm with motoX starting at 7pm Shire Councillors at the shopping centre available for discussing issues with them, 10 am 12 noon Twilight movie series, animation/comedy Dr Seusss The Lorax, free, from 6 pm, Boomerang Oval Course by Creating Communities on raising the profile of your community organisation, Newman House, 9:15-11:15 am, RSVP Teresa Southwell on 0418 296 915 or teresa@creatingcommunities.com.au Meet your Neighbours at the Newman Neighbourhood Centre. Get to know your neighbours, as well as services and activities available around town. 2 MacKay Street. Light refreshments served. neighbourhood@ benet.net.au All Welcome Twilight movie series, action/adventure Man of Steel, free, from 6 pm, Boomerang Oval Virtual Rottnest Channel Swim, Newman Aquatic Centre, a long distance swim for individuals and teams who cannot make the original event to Rottnest. Come and support those who are raising funds for charity, phone 9175 2145 Twilight movie series, comedy/musical Bran Nue Dae, free, from 6 pm, Boomerang Oval Club Meet, Hillview Speedway, President, Anton Porro, 0419 042 135 St John Ambulance course 4 hours on Basic Child Resuscitation, $89 payable to SJA, Newman Neighbourhood Centre, 2 MacKay Street, 8:30 am - 12:30 pm, crche available upon request, neighbourhood@benet.net.au or 9175 1516

15 Saturday 22 Saturday

22 Saturday 22 Saturday 24 Monday

COMING SOON
MARCH 2014
1 Saturday 8 Saturday 14 Friday 15 Saturday 29 Saturday 29 Saturday BHP Billiton Community Grant applications close Twilight movie series, comedy/romance Pitch Perfect, free, from 6 pm, Boomerang Oval Shire Councillors at the shopping centre available for discussing issues with them, 10 am 12 noon Twilight movie series, comedy The Boat that Rocked, free, from 6 pm, Boomerang Oval Street stock night, Hillview Speedway Shire Council Meeting, Marble Bar, 10 am Twilight movie series, action Rush, free, from 6pm, Boomerang Oval Club meet and presentation night, Hillview Speedway Ladies Party Plan Night, The Beach, 7-10 pm, details available from newmanmainst@westnet.com.au Autism WA for parents and teachers Ngala parenting courses, Newman Neighbourhood Centre, neighbourhood@benet.net.au. Further details to come. New Horizons Career Expo, Newman Recreation Centre, 9am - 1:30 pm, Wendy Sike from Pilbara Joblink, wendy. sike@pilbarajoblink.com.au Newman Rodeo Shire Councillors at the shopping centre available for discussing issues with them, 10 am 12 noon Memorial of Jesus Christ death, Luke 22:19,20, Kingdom Hall of Jehovahs Witnesses, Les Tutt Drive, 7:30 pm, 9177 8187 or 0412 991 551. Everybody is welcome.

APRIL 2014

1-4 April 1-3 April 9 Wednesday 12 Saturday 12 Saturday 14 Monday

WHATS ON? REGULAR ACTIVITIES

Monday Tuesday 08:30 09:30 19:30 08:30 08:30 16:30 19:00 19:30 19:30 Time Out session with crche, Newman Neighbourhood Centre, 2 McKay Street, 9175 1516, neighbourhood@benet.net.au Newman Playgroup, Moondoorow St, newmanplaygroup@hotmail.com Bible study, house at the rear of Anglican Church, 11 Hilditch Ave, 9175 1350 The Beach Indoor Play Centre open to 12.30pm, 9177 8290, Mindarra Drive, opposite Police Station Time Out session with crche, as well as New Mums Group, Newman Neighbourhood Centre, 2 McKay Street, 9175 1516, neighbourhood@benet.net.au Newman Capricorn Girl Guides, The Beach Mindarra Drive, Suzy Oldham on 0417 178 624, newmangirlguides@gmail.com Freeform Art session, 1st and 3rd Tuesday of each month, Newman Neighbourhood Centre, 2 McKay Street, 9175 1516, neighbourhood@benet.net.au Newman Lions Club, 1st and 3rd Tuesday of every month, Lions Park on Corwa Drive, Jessica Mclean- Middleton on 0415 699 991 Congregation Bible study, Theocratic Ministry school, Kingdom Hall of Jehovahs Witnesses, Les Tutt Drive, www.jw.org, 9177 8187 or 0412 991 551, everyone welcome

Wednesday 08:30 The Beach Indoor Play Centre open to 12.30pm, 9177 8290, Mindarra Drive, opposite Police Station 08:30 Time Out session with crche, Newman Neighbourhood Centre, 2 McKay Street, 9175 1516, neighbourhood@benet.net.au 09:30 Newman Playgroup, Moondoorow St, newmanplaygroup@hotmail.com 14:30 The Beach Indoor Play Centre open to 5:00pm, 9177 8290, Mindarra Drive, opposite Police Station 19:15 Whaleback Womens Darts Club, Newman Club Thursday Friday Saturday 08:30 08:30 09:00 09:30 19:30 08:30 09:00 09:30 10:00 The Beach Indoor Play Centre open to 12.30pm, 9177 8290, Mindarra Drive, opposite Police Station Time Out session with crche, Newman Neighbourhood Centre, 2 McKay Street, 9175 1516, neighbourhood@benet.net.au Young mum's bible study, Anglican Church, 11 Hilditch Ave, 9175 1350 Gumnuts story and nursery rhyme time at the Library for 1 3 year olds, Newman Library Music practice, Anglican Church, 11 Hilditch Ave, 9175 1350

The Beach Indoor Play Centre open to 12.30pm, 9177 8290, Mindarra Drive, opposite Police Station Family fun craft until 11:00, cost $5 for the family, Newman Neighbourhood Centre, 2 McKay Street, 9175 1516, neighbourhood@benet.net.au Newman Playgroup, Moondoorow St, newmanplaygroup@hotmail.com Story time and craft for 3-5 year olds, Newman Library

18:30 Eucharist Liturgy/ Community Liturgy at St Josephs Catholic Church, Warman Avenue, 9175 2344 19:30 Twilight session, bring a project of your own to start or complete, Newman Neighbourhood Centre, 2 McKay Street, 9175 1516, neighbourhood@benet.net.au

Sunday 08:30 Eucharist Liturgy/ Community Liturgy at St Josephs Catholic Church, Warman Avenue, 9175 2344 09:00 Worship, Vibrant evangelical, holding to biblical teaching, Anglican Church, 11 Hilditch Ave, 9175 1350 Including bubs and tots ministry and Sunday school 10:00 Bible Discourse and Watchtower study-talk, Kingdom Hall of Jehovahs Witnesses, Les Tutt Drive, www.jw.org, 9177 8187 or 0412 991 551, everyone welcome 11:00 AquaZumba, Newman Aquatic Centre, $12 per class includes entry 13:00 The Beach Indoor Play Centre open to 5:00pm, 9177 8290, Mindarra Drive, opposite Police Station 13:30 Freestyle craft, art, sewing, quilting etc. session until 16:30, Newman Neighbourhood Centre, 2 McKay Street, 9175 1516, neighbourhood@benet.net.au 4 day shift bible study, Anglican Church, 11 Hilditch Ave, call Hope on 0487 178 243
Disclaimer of Liability: Newman Mainstreet Project undertakes to ensure that accurate information is disseminated to its clients through its community newspaper, Newman News. Every care is taken to ensure accuracy and we will publish any corrections that are brought to our notice. However, Newman Mainstreet Project makes no warranty, guarantee or promise expressed or implied concerning the content or accuracy of the information provided by this service. Newman Mainstreet Project accepts no liability for any loss or damage a person may suffer because that person has directly or indirectly relied on any information presented in this publication. The views expressed in the Newman News are not necessarily those of the editor or the Newman Mainstreet Project Coordinator or Committee.

Partners celebrate Disability Awareness Week

By Disability Services Commission

The Disability Services Commission and East Pilbara Independence Support (EPIS) held a barbecue at the Newman Aquatic Centre on 4 December to celebrate Disability Awareness Week. Commission Local Area Coordinator, Colette Tyler, said the Commission and EPIS were delighted that the event was well attended and supported by the Shire of East Pilbara and the Lions Club, with a special thank you to Face Fantasy for donating her time at this event. The International Day of People with Disability (IDPwD) is a United Nations sanctioned day that aims to promote an understanding of people with disability and encourage support for their dignity, rights and wellbeing. Celebrations for 2013 ran from the 1 to 7 December. Locally, the Disability Awareness Week recognises and shares the achievements of individuals, organisations, local and State governments and local communities in contributing to a better future for people with disability. The week highlights the Commissions vision commitment to a future where all people live in welcoming communities that facilitate citizenship,

friendship, mutual support and a fair go for everyone.

Shire Welcomes DAIP Input

The Shire of East Pilbara is reviewing and updating its Disability Access and Inclusion Plan (DAIP) and welcomes input from individuals and organisations about current initiatives and ideas for the new plan. Please contact the Shires Coordinator for Community Services Keesha Booth on 9175 8000 or ccs@eastpilbara.wa.gov. au to discuss your ideas or for further information.

Newman News is a predominantly volunteer based, community newspaper and we welcome input from the people of Newman highlighting activities past and future. Please contact Newman Mainstreet Project to have your community event added to the calendar or if you have an article you wish to contribute. Phone/Fax 9177 8290 or via newmanmainst@westnet.com.au

FMX Coming to Hillview Speedway

Freestyle Motocross (FMX) is one of the worlds fastest growing action sports and is a combination of suspense, thrills and excitement that will engage the whole family. FMX riders are known for their blatant disregard for life and limb while putting their motorbikes through some of the most mind-blowing aerial stunts. When team ASP FMX Team comes to the Hillview Speedway in Newman on Saturday 1 February 2014, spectators will see adrenalin pumping sports actions that will have their hearts and minds racing with excitement. This is the teams first ever visit to Newman so they are looking forward to seeing massive crowds. They love visiting the North West and being WAs premier FMX riding team. Team manager Tim Thirsk says, This is a very exciting time for Freestyle Moto X as it appeals to a wide cross section of the community; families, young kids and adults. It is full on, heart racing excitement that keeps crowds screaming and their eyes glued to the air. Team FMX is made up of highly experienced riders with collectively over 50 years of riding between them. Luke Mulcs Mulcahy is WAs number one trick rider and his off the bike stunts are the best in WA. Big Russ Lightfoot will be back flipping his new 450 Suzuki and Ash Rogers will be flying high. The team will put on a spectacular show pulling some of FMX biggest tricks to entertain the crowds. For more information and images please contact, Tim Thirsk from Action Sports Promotions via tim@aspxtreme. com.au or 0407 993 720 further information can be found on their website www.aspxtreme.com.au

Newman Aquatic Centre

JANUARY OPEN TIMES
24/01/14 25/01/14 26/01/14 27/01/14 28/01/14 29/01/14 30/01/14 31/01/14 Friday 8:00am-7:00pm Saturday 10:00am-4:30pm Sunday 10:00am-4:30pm Monday 8:00am-7:00pm Tuesday 8:00am-7:00pm Wednesday 8:00am-7:00pm Thursday 8:00am-7:00pm Friday 8:00am-7:00pm

Some of the great action you may see at Freestyle Motox at Newmans Hillview Speedway Club on Saturday 1 February 2014 Adults $20;Kids $10;Kids under 10 free Pre-book your tickets at: Pirtek Newman, BMS Newman or call Brooke 0419 149 004

Luke Mulcahy

Brayden Davies

Iron Ore

Community Grants now open

Together we are helping community groups grow
BHP Billiton Iron Ore is now calling for applications for our Community Grants Program. Our grants help local organisations like sporting associations, not-for-profit and service groups to expand their services, upgrade their facilities and purchase new equipment. There will be three funding rounds in 2014, closing 1 March, 1 July and 1 November. Projects that produce positive outcomes in the following areas will be considered for support: Strong Communities, Educational Enrichment, Indigenous Development

Community Grant applications close 5:00pm, 1 March 2014

For more information

Email waironorecommunity@bhpbilliton.com Port Hedland 9173 4514 Newman 9175 3682 Perth 6321 8895

BHP: Fun and games in the snow

BHP Christmas Party

By Nicole Willis

The hills might have been alight up with a deliberately lit fire, but within Kangaroo Oval on Saturday 14 December the atmosphere was a little chilly with thanks to the team at BHP Billiton who brought ice to the outback for their Winter Wonderland Christmas party for all employees and their families. From 4.30 pm until 10 pm it was fun and festivities for all. The children (and young at heart) were kept busy with building snowmen, throwing snowballs, riding the slopes, lots of bouncy castle action, face painting and a craft table to boot. There really was no excuse for the children not to have had a wow of a time. The food was fabulous and plentiful and with thanks to the generosity of Newman's own Iron Lions there was also snow cones and popcorn to enjoy. The entertainment was provided by Chris Murphy and his band along with

Aquatic Centre: Tree lighting ceremony

BHP: Game turned into a snow fight

the sound and stage supplied by Dave and his team at RockWest Productions. Santa made his arrival at 6.30 pm and was kept busy listening to all the childrens Christmas wishes while also posing for family picture. It was a truly magical night.

Combined Churches: Nativity at carols by candlelight Aquatic Centre: Children cheering the at tree lighting

Santa Sirens Surprise Children at Playgroup

By Meegan Muir Photographs by Meegan Muir

Santa arrives at playgroup Newman style, in the Fire Truck

The Christmas party at the Newman Playgroup on Monday 16 December entertained the children with much delight and surprise. While snacking on delicious Christmas treats the children eagerly had their faces painted, engaged in inside play, as well as outside in the sandpit and water tables. Although the sun was already beaming with heat, it did not prevent a swarm of children from rushing outside to see Santa emerge from a Fire Truck with sirens blaring. The childrens excitement could barely be contained when they were given permission to climb onboard Santas Fire Truck and experience the view from up high. Santas jolly arrival brought extra joy all around as he hand delivered gifts personally addressed to each child. It was a wonderful Christmas celebration enjoyed by all who attended. A big Christmas cheer of thanks to the playgroup members who assisted in organising the event and to those who participated on the day.

Gabby Muir enjoyed her face being painted

Nicole Willis assisting her son Mathew down from the towering heights of the Fire Truck First on the scene to meet Santa was Ninna Sander Norgaard with her son Zac

Family Christmas at the Neighbourhood Centre

By Sonya Matheson

With the emergency services being extremely busy driving Santa to all his engagements, Santa may well have arrived on a lawn mower to the Newman Neighbourhood Centres family Christmas party on Friday 13 December. The children played pin-the-nose on Rudolph, threw velcro balls to decorate a tree, tried to lasso mini Christmas trees, and other activities. Everyone then migrated inside to share the platters of food that everyone brought and be entertained by some gorgeous little dancing Christmas trees. All the children where then treated to a gift and hug from Santa. Thank you to all involved.

Club Transforms in Spirit of Christmas

By Michelle Spencer

The Pioneers Football and Sporting Clubs clubroom was transformed to a party playground at the recent family Christmas community event. Families with children of all ages joined together and enjoyed a great afternoon of free, fun activities including a sausage sizzle, fairy floss, jumping castle, face painting, slip n slide and more. Children waited in eager anticipation for the Man of the Month, Santa Claus, to arrive. In true Newman style, he was escorted by the Newman Voluntary Fire and Rescue Service to the Pioneers clubrooms. The engine driver, Allan McDonagh, heightened the excitement levels by alerting everyone he was close with the traditional sounding of sirens. The event certainly reflected the strong sense of community spirit that is synonymous with life in Newman. Everyone certainly appeared to get involved and enjoy themselves no matter what their age.

The event would not have been so successful without the generous support received from volunteers and businesses in the wider community. Many thanks especially go to Owen and Angel Rawlinson from the Lions Club, Woolworths Newman, Parties by Imagination, Newman Voluntary Fire and Rescue Service, Allan McDonagh, Jeremy Murphy, Danielle Cochrane, Brian Reilly and Casey Fimmel. The Club is planning to stage the familyfriendly event again next Christmas and is looking forward to it being even bigger and better.
Santa Claus with brothers Kynan and Taylor

Club Committee members Leanne and Lucy

Madi from Bulloo Downs Station

Photographs by Danielle Cochrane

Little Ruby-Jayne enjoying her big fairy floss