Visitors
Collie is noted for its friendly people, and this weekend we will have many visitors here with whom we can exercise this friendliness when some 400 people descend on the town for the annual Rotary District Conference.
This is the third time Collie has hosted this event, and I am told those who attended those earlier events were very impressed with the welcome they received, the beauty of the town, and the wonderful food.
If you see some strangers strolling around our streets, or passing by on bus tours, smile and wave. This is a great chance to convince them to return as tourists in the future.
The Rotary Club of Collie has ensured the conference will inject funds into our community by using local suppliers and organisations as much as possible. Let's help their efforts pay off with a great impression of Collie.
Vaccination campaigns
Rotary International is deservedly quite proud of its world-wide campaign to eradicate polio, as I was reminded when I heard that Collie Rotarian and District Governor Robyn Yates is raising funds to help complete the fight.
She will have her head shaved this Saturday night at the Rotary District Conference in Collie. While Rotarians will have the opportunity to support her efforts, non-Rotarians can also donate by contacting any Collie Rotarian, or by going on-line to Polio Plus.
Many of us can remember the effects of polio epidemics in our community, and also recall having either Salk or Sabin vaccination (some of us had both!)
There are few countries in the world now where polio still occurs, and they are in the troubled war zones of Afghanistan and Pakistan.
Hearing of recent measles outbreaks in WA also reminded me of the need for vaccination against childhood diseases.
The last outbreak in Collie occurred between February 12 and March 16, 1991.
A vaccinated seven-year-old at one of Collie's primary schools contracted measles, and this led to a total of 31 cases being detected and five being serologically confirmed.
17 of the cases occurred at the school attended by the first victim, and the others came mainly through family contacts of cases in the schools.
While historically, having measles was considered to be just one of the hazards of childhood, it is a serious disease which can have quite severe complications, including death. Vaccination can make this a thing of the past.
Memorial darts
The Eddy Woods Memorial Doubles Darts competition is in its 25th year. It will be held at the Club Hotel this Saturday, March 23, from 1pm.
Nominations ($5) start at 12pm through to 12.30pm, and prize money will be generated by those nominations. Go along and enjoy the darts.
Motorcycles
Motorcycles have played a large part in Collie's sporting history, so road racing at the motorplex this weekend should attract a good crowd, especially as entry is free.
You can see historic and modern solo and sidecar machines in action, close up. Food and drinks will be available. The first event will be a stand-alone non-championship round.
Saturday will be devoted to tuning and practice from 9am. On Sunday, there will be a riders' briefing at 8.30am, with racing beginning at 9am. Road registered bikes are welcome, but conditions do apply.
If you like bikes of all sizes and shapes, including sidecars, you will see models from as early as the 1930s to modern bikes. There will be junior races as well. Collie ride days give the opportunity to try your street bike out under racing conditions.
Social badminton
Thursday night social badminton starts tonight. Players of any age or expertise are welcome to go along to the Badminton Hall at Wallsend Ground from 7pm onwards to play some social games and have a bit of fun.
This is a great way to keep fit during the colder, wetter months. Queries to Sara 0439 795 323.
Music trail
The Philharmonic South West orchestra is organising a Ferguson Valley Music Trail on Sunday, April 7.
There will be eight mini concerts at local wineries, followed by a full orchestral concert at St Aidan's Winery at 3pm. This is a free event, and a great chance to sip some wine while listening to classical music.
More music
Classical music lovers may wish to help raise funds for cystic fibrosis at Peel Manor House on Sunday,
April 27, when Opera at the Manor will be held from 12 noon to 3pm.
Performance by Divalicious, and a sumptuous high tea, with bubbles on arrival, will cost $85 per person, but proceeds go to a great cause, cystic fibrosis. For more information go to www.peelmanorhouse.com.au
Burning period
The prohibited burning period has been extended for 14 days, until March 29.
Volunteers needed
The fortnightly markets at the Goods Shed have been a feature of Collie life for some years now.
They attract locals and visitors alike with their bustle and activity, helping to make the main street a vibrant place.
However, the markets are run by volunteers, and more are needed to keep them going.
If you can help, contact John Vlasich on 04283 414 470. If you have a craft or hobby, or something to sell, you may like to take a stall at the markets. There is room for you, so contact John for information.
Australind disruption
Just a reminder about the disruption to the Australind service. It has been suspended until April 15, due to mechanical issues.
Rail replacement road coaches will be used during the interruption to the Australind service, but this will not be easy for those requiring disability access.
Passengers who require disability access are advised to contact Transwa on 1300 662 205 to make arrangements.
It is to be hoped that the Australind will be up and running again, as it is provides much better service for people with mobility problems.
Send it in
Items for not-for-profit organisations are welcome for this column.
You can email information to me at nrg@highway1.com.au by 5pm on Mondays, or drop off notes in my mailbox at 87 Jones Street.
Please include a contact name and phone number in case I need to check information.
