Media Statements: Statements http://www.mediastatements.wa.gov.au/Lists/Statements/Date Descending.aspx RSS feed for the Statements list. Department of the Premier and Cabinet Tue, 24 Nov 2009 00:22:42 GMT Windows SharePoint Services V3 RSS Generator 60 Media Statements: Statements /_layouts/images/homepage.gif http://www.mediastatements.wa.gov.au/Lists/Statements/Date Descending.aspx Wheatbelt agricultural school wins prestigious national award http://www.mediastatements.wa.gov.au/Lists/Statements/DispForm.aspx?ID=132814 Content:

Cunderdin’s agricultural college has won the prestigious VET in Schools Excellence at the Australian Training Awards.

 

Congratulating the Western Australian College of Agriculture - Cunderdin, Education Minister Liz Constable, who attended the awards in Canberra, said the prize recognised excellence in the provision of vocational education and training in schools.

 

“For the Cunderdin agricultural college to be recognised in this way is a huge honour and a pat on the back for the staff and students at the school,” she said.

 

“The college has a proven record in delivering training and structured courses, giving students time in the classroom and practical experience in trade areas on the work farm.

 

“In 2008, 100 per cent of Year 12 graduates went on to employment or further education and training after completing the minimum Certificate II in Agriculture.

 

“This demonstrates how the WA College of Agriculture - Cunderdin is playing a part in developing today’s students for tomorrow’s workforce.”

 

The Minister said the agricultural college was one of four WA award winners.

 

“This State should be proud of providing four winners and three runners up,” she said.

 

“This result, one of the best ever, demonstrates the high quality of education and training in WA.”

 

Minister's office - 9222 9699
Date: 23/11/2009
Minister: Constable
Portfolio: Education
Region: Wheatbelt
]]> Arbouin, Shane Mon, 23 Nov 2009 03:39:24 GMT http://www.mediastatements.wa.gov.au/Lists/Statements/DispForm.aspx?ID=132814 Leeuwin Lighthouse manager in the tourism spotlight http://www.mediastatements.wa.gov.au/Lists/Statements/DispForm.aspx?ID=132811 Content:

A man who lives, breathes and sleeps tourism was a big winner at last night’s 2009 Western Australian Tourism Awards.

 

Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse guide/manager Paul Sofilas won the FACET Golden Guide Award.

 

Tourism Minister Liz Constable said Mr Sofilas was a tireless worker and a respected member of the tourism industry.

 

“Paul not only manages the cottages at Cape Leeuwin, he is a fabulous guide with encyclopaedic knowledge of his product, he is deeply passionate about his work and actually resides in his place of work,” Dr Constable said.   

 

“He is a great advocate for tourism and it is people like Paul that help make WA  an extraordinary place to visit.”

 

More than 800 key industry stakeholders attended last night’s awards at the Burswood Grand Ballroom.

 

The awards are organised by the Tourism Council WA and acknowledge the State’s best tourism service providers and event holders.

 

The other big winners on the night were the Augusta Margaret River Tourism Association, which received the esteemed Sir David Brand Award for Tourism, and Chris Pye, chairman and chief executive officer of Hospitality Inns who took out the Sir David Brand medal for an individual.

 

The Minister said the awards acknowledged the diversity and vibrancy of WA’s tourism industry.

 

“WA is an exciting and appealing tourism destination, as well as a great place to live,” she said.

 

“So much so that in the last 12 months international visitors to this State grew by more than two per cent while the national average has seen a drop in international visitors.

 

“It is also an industry that now employs more than 82,000 people in WA.  Those who excel in their chosen profession are celebrated with these awards.

 

“I commend every finalist and winner for their work in ensuring a quality experience is delivered.”

 

All of the State award winners will automatically enter the national competition and will be judged on the national stage at the Qantas Australian Tourism Awards in Hobart on Friday February 26, 2010.

 

The full list follows:

 

·              Major Tourist Attractions:  Fremantle Prison

·              Tourist Attractions:  Willie Creek Pearl Farm

·              Major Festivals and Events:  Whereis Australian Surf Life Saving Championships

·              Festivals and Events:  Argyle Diamonds Ord Valley Muster

·              Ecotourism:  Donnelly River Cruises

·              Heritage and Cultural Tourism:  Broome Sightseeing Tours

·              Indigenous Tourism:  Uptuyu Adventures

·              Specialised Tourism Services: Willie Creek Pearls

·              Visitor Information and Services:  Swan Valley Visitor Centre

·              Meetings and Business Tourism: Hyatt Regency Perth

·              Major Tour and/or Transport Operators: Willie Creek Pearl Farm Tours

·              Tour and/or Transport Operators: Kimberley Wild Expeditions

·              Adventure Tourism: Windward Balloon Adventures

·              Tourism Marketing:  Rottnest Express - Red Rides of Summer Campaign

·              Tourism Education and Training:  Challenger TAFE - Marine Tourism Training Program

·              Tourism Restaurants and Catering Services:  Matilda Bay Restaurant

·              Tourism Wineries,  Distilleries & Boutique Breweries: Sandalford Wines

·              Tourist and Caravan Parks:  Beachlands Holiday Park

·              Backpacker Accommodation:  Perth City, YHA

·              Hosted Accommodation:  Cape Howe Cottages

·              Unique Accommodation:  Forest Rise Eco Retreat

·              Standard Accommodation:  Perth Ambassador Hotel

·              Deluxe Accommodation:  Riverglen Chalets

·              Luxury Accommodation:  Cable Beach Club Resort & Spa

·              New Tourism Development:  Pinnacles Desert Discovery

·              Qantas Award For Excellence in Sustainable Tourism:  Adventure Out Australia

·              Sir David Brand Award for Tourism:  Augusta Margaret River Tourism Association

·              Sir David Brand Medal:  Chris Pye

·              Sir David Brand Young Achiever Medal:  Jasmine Meagher

·              FACET Golden Guide Award:  Paul Sofilas

 

Minister's office - 9222 9699
Date: 22/11/2009
Minister: Constable
Portfolio: Tourism
Region: All
]]> Arbouin, Shane Mon, 23 Nov 2009 02:17:10 GMT http://www.mediastatements.wa.gov.au/Lists/Statements/DispForm.aspx?ID=132811 Promoting higher standards in higher education regulation http://www.mediastatements.wa.gov.au/Lists/Statements/DispForm.aspx?ID=132790 Content:

Legislation passed through the Legislative Assembly last night to ensure that applications to establish a new university or university college in Western Australia are assessed using nationally recognised criteria and standards.

 

Education Minister Liz Constable said there had been a rapid expansion in the number of Australian institutions offering higher education.

 

“It is critical that we strengthen our quality assurance framework to maintain our education industry’s reputation for quality,” Dr Constable said.

 

“This legislation will implement national protocols for higher education approval processes that had been developed after extensive consultation with the Commonwealth, States, Territories and education providers.”

 

The Minister said the national protocols would provide the framework for the:

 

·           establishment and recognition of Australian universities or university colleges

·           operation of overseas universities

·           approval of non-university higher education providers to operate and to offer accredited courses in WA.

 

Amendments to the Higher Education Act 2004 would allow institutions such as Raffles Education to have their proposal to establish a university college in WA fully evaluated.

 

“Higher education is a significant export earner, bringing in $15billion nationally and approximately $1billion into this State,” Dr Constable said.

 

The final decision to grant university or university college status is made by the Western Australian Parliament.

 

The Minister said the amendments would also provide extra protection for students against fraudulent or negligent providers.

 

Minister's office- 9222 9699
Date: 18/11/2009
Minister: Constable
Portfolio: Education
Region: Eastern Metropolitan
]]> Stratford, Pamela Wed, 18 Nov 2009 01:07:47 GMT http://www.mediastatements.wa.gov.au/Lists/Statements/DispForm.aspx?ID=132790 Minister opens new $34million Ashdale Secondary College http://www.mediastatements.wa.gov.au/Lists/Statements/DispForm.aspx?ID=132729 Content:

Education Minister Liz Constable today officially opened the $34million first stage of the new Ashdale Secondary College in Darch.

 

The college opened in February with its first intake of 143 Year Eight students on a temporary site at Madeley Primary School, and moved to its new buildings in July.

 

Dr Constable said the college’s outstanding facilities would ensure the best possible education for generations of students.

 

“Ashdale Secondary College’s futuristic facilities and buildings are ideal for the information and technological age, and will help ensure students are well prepared for the challenges of 21st century life,” she said.

 

“The college already has a number of unique programs in partnership with education providers, industry and business, including Microsoft, Apple, SciTech and Edith Cowan University.”

 

Principal Carol Strauss said the opening was the culmination of hard work by students, staff and parents.

 

“Today’s opening heralds our emergence as a science and technology school and with specialist teachers in each area, we are ensuring every child has the skills and knowledge to achieve their potential,” Ms Strauss said.

 

Ashdale Secondary College, and Ashdale, Landsdale and Madeley primary schools have been selected to form a cluster of independent public schools.

 

The Minister said this selection would give the four schools greater freedom to make decisions that best suited the local communities.

 

“The partnership between the four schools will give students in Ashdale and surrounding areas a seamless education from Kindergarten to Year 12,” she said.

 

Designed by Donaldson and Warn Architects and built by Broad Construction Services Pty Ltd, the school’s facilities include:

 

·                learning community block

·                administration area

·                Year 10 music and media facilities

·                visual arts and performing arts block

·                library and cafe block

·                design technology.

 

Planning is under way for the school’s second phase, which will enable the school to offer Year 11 and 12 courses.

 

Minister's office - 9222 9699
Date: 4/11/2009
Minister: Constable
Portfolio: Education
Region: Northern Metro & Perth CBD
]]> Arbouin, Shane Wed, 04 Nov 2009 02:51:15 GMT http://www.mediastatements.wa.gov.au/Lists/Statements/DispForm.aspx?ID=132729 Western Australia’s South-West named one of the top holiday destinations in the world http://www.mediastatements.wa.gov.au/Lists/Statements/DispForm.aspx?ID=132712 Content:

Western Australia’s South-West has today been internationally recognised as one of the world’s most desirable holiday destinations.

 

Tourism Minister Liz Constable said leading travel guide company Lonely Planet had chosen the South-West as one of the world’s top 10 regions to visit in 2010, in its prestigious ‘Best in Travel’ publication.

 

“This recognition elevates the South-West on to the world’s stage, alongside some internationally recognised destinations such as Bali, Alsace in France, the Lake District in England and Southern Africa,” Dr Constable said.

 

“As Tourism Minister, I’m thrilled a Western Australian destination has been chosen as it’s the only Australian region on the list and only the second time an Australian destination has featured.

 

“The inclusion of the South-West is testament to the region’s reputation as an exceptional destination and highlights the outstanding tourism experiences provided by its tourism operators.

 

“The region has the best nature can offer - hectares of tall timber forest and kilometres of pristine coastline with some of the world’s best beaches and surf breaks.

 

“Combine this with wineries, restaurants, breweries, day spas, family attractions and a range of accommodation from camping to luxury retreats, it’s no wonder the region has received this accolade.” 

 

Lonely Planet’s ‘Best in Travel’ (previously known as the ‘Blue List’), is a collection of the world’s best journeys, destinations and experiences for the year ahead.

 

Among the book’s recommendations are walking at sunrise on the Bibbulmun Track, canoeing under the forest canopy at Nannup, swimming with the dolphins at Bunbury, sampling local produce and climbing Pemberton’s magnificent trees.

 

The Minister said the South-West’s inclusion on the list would provide extraordinary exposure for the region and the rest of the State.    

 

“The Lonely Planet guide books are read by millions of travellers around the world and this provides the region with a promotional opportunity money can’t buy,” she said.

 

“Tourism Western Australia will increase exposure further through co-operative marketing activities with Lonely Planet.”

 

In stores today, ‘Best in Travel 2010’ is Lonely Planet’s fifth annual collection of the best places to go and the best things to do around the world for the year ahead.

 

Dr Constable said tourism was a key driver of WA’s economy, generating 80,000 jobs and injecting more than $2billion a year into regional areas.

 

Minister's office - 9222 9699
Date: 2/11/2009
Minister: Constable
Portfolio: Tourism
Region: South West
]]> Stratford, Pamela Mon, 02 Nov 2009 00:54:11 GMT http://www.mediastatements.wa.gov.au/Lists/Statements/DispForm.aspx?ID=132712 Striking addition promised for Ellenbrook http://www.mediastatements.wa.gov.au/Lists/Statements/DispForm.aspx?ID=132707 Content:

The community can catch a glimpse of the future of Ellenbrook Secondary College after artist impressions of extensions to the school were released today.

 

Education Minister Liz Constable said the $25million Stage Two project would transform Ellenbrook Secondary College into a senior high school for the first time.

 

“Ellenbrook is a fast-growing suburb with families who will benefit from the high-quality facilities being built at Ellenbrook Secondary College,” Dr Constable said.

 

“The school was designed to be an integral part of the townsite and its progression to a senior high school is yet another milestone for the community to celebrate.

 

“The artist impressions promise spectacular buildings which will be an attractive addition to the Ellenbrook town centre from early 2011 when construction is complete.”

 

The school has nearly 800 students in Years Seven to 10, with enrolments expected to increase next year when the school offers Year 11 courses, and again in 2011 when the first group of students reach Year 12.

 

Building contractor Universal Constructions Pty Ltd has already begun work on

Stage Two which includes:

 

·             seven science laboratories

·             materials technology facilities such as woodwork, metalwork and a technical graphics studio

·             eight upper school classrooms

·             three seminar rooms

·             resource/activity areas

·             a lecture theatre

·             four IT laboratories

·             additional tennis courts and car parking facilities

·             improvements to existing buildings, such as new food and visual arts studios.

 

The buildings were designed by T and Z Architects, the designers of Stage One of Ellenbrook Secondary College, which opened in 2007.

 

Minister's office  - 9222 9699
Date: 29/10/2009
Minister: Constable
Portfolio: Education
Region: Eastern Metropolitan;Northern Metro & Perth CBD;South Eastern Suburbs;South Western Suburbs;Western Suburbs
]]> Antartis, Jill Fri, 30 Oct 2009 00:10:30 GMT http://www.mediastatements.wa.gov.au/Lists/Statements/DispForm.aspx?ID=132707 New focus as Governor Stirling Senior High School marks 50 years http://www.mediastatements.wa.gov.au/Lists/Statements/DispForm.aspx?ID=132699 Content:

Education Minister Liz Constable today marked Governor Stirling Senior High School’s 50th anniversary by announcing the new state-of-the-art facilities will allow for the provision of specialist engineering and arts/media programs.

 

Dr Constable said the educational and geographic context of Governor Stirling sees it uniquely placed to be one of the State’s premier schools.

 

“The specialist programs will cater to the needs of both academically gifted and vocationally oriented students,” she said.

 

“It will also provide a first rate education for all local students.”

 

The $63million new school will also be the permanent home for the Swan District Primary Extension and Challenge program, giving gifted and talented primary-age students access to the excellent secondary facilities.

 

“Governor Stirling Senior High School is on the verge of an exciting new era,” the Minister said.

 

“The school has a proud history and it now has a fantastic opportunity to build on its great traditions to become a flagship school for the eastern suburbs of Perth.”

 

The school plans to build on existing links with Swan TAFE and local industries, and the opportunities created by the new Defence Industries National Partnership to increase the number of students graduating in engineering-related subjects

 

“This will be made possible by the new facilities which will include science, design and technology laboratories and high-level information technology infrastructure,” Dr Constable said.

 

“The existing Gifted and Talented Education academic programs will also be expanded.”

 

Architects Donaldson and Warn are currently developing designs for the new school, with demolition of the existing site set to begin in December 2010.

 

The Minister said students would be relocated to nearby school sites until the 2013 school year, when the rebuild was scheduled for completion.

 

“Students in junior secondary school will move to the former Midland Primary School site, while those in senior secondary school will be accommodated at Cyril Jackson Senior Campus in Ashfield,” she said.

 

“Both sites are well-equipped to ensure there will be no disruption to students’ education during the rebuilding process.”

 

Minister's office - 9222 9699
Date: 28/10/2009
Minister: Constable
Portfolio: Education
Region: Eastern Metropolitan;Northern Metro & Perth CBD;South Eastern Suburbs;South Western Suburbs;Western Suburbs
]]> Antartis, Jill Wed, 28 Oct 2009 05:26:00 GMT http://www.mediastatements.wa.gov.au/Lists/Statements/DispForm.aspx?ID=132699 Western Australian events serve up a vibrant place to live and visit http://www.mediastatements.wa.gov.au/Lists/Statements/DispForm.aspx?ID=132690 Content:

The countdown has begun for the 2010 Hyundai Hopman Cup with Tourism Minister Liz Constable today launching the event at the official tournament draw.

 

Dr Constable said this year’s Hyundai Hopman Cup in January attracted around 570 interstate and international visitors to the State.

 

“These visitors generated more than 5,700 visitor nights and boosted our economy by $1.9million,” the Minister said.

 

“More than three million viewers in our key international markets tuned in for the television coverage, helping us show off our extraordinary State.”

 

The Minister said the Hopman Cup was a significant part of Western Australia’s events calendar and one of many diverse events supported by the State Government.

 

“It is diversity and vibrancy that make a city an exciting and appealing tourism destination, as well as a great place to live, and we’ve got to capitalise on WA’s potential to be such a place,” she said.

 

“The success of the recent One Movement for Music Festival demonstrated the importance of the Government striking a balance between its support of arts and cultural events, and sporting events.”

 

Dr Constable said an estimated 50,000 people attended the inaugural One Movement for Music Festival held in Perth recently.

 

“One Movement for Music Perth saw 174 acts perform on the Esplanade in Perth and on the city streets, transforming the city into a thriving cultural centre which was alive with music from all over the world,” she said.

 

“We’ve heard from Australian musicians now being courted by international record labels after their appearance at the festival and from international artists who say they will definitely come back to Perth and will be encouraging others to also.

 

“The potential of this new event for future years is very exciting.”

 

The Minister said it is important to note around 90 per cent of the Eventscorp events budget is currently spent on sporting events, with less than 10 per cent dedicated to arts and cultural events.

 

“So while sports fans in WA can be reassured that we’ll continue to host world-class sporting events such as the Hopman Cup, 2011 ISAF World Sailing Championships, international rugby tests and Ironman WA Triathlon, we do believe it’s important to offer a range of events such as the One Movement for Music Festival and Sculpture by the Sea,” she said.

 

Minister's office - 9222 9699
Date: 27/10/2009
Minister: Constable
Portfolio: Tourism
Region: All
]]> Antartis, Jill Tue, 27 Oct 2009 04:59:08 GMT http://www.mediastatements.wa.gov.au/Lists/Statements/DispForm.aspx?ID=132690 Triathlon World Championship in Perth this weekend http://www.mediastatements.wa.gov.au/Lists/Statements/DispForm.aspx?ID=132675 Content:

The long distance triathlon world champion will be crowned in Perth on Sunday following the city spectacle of 600 athletes swimming, riding and running more than 100 kilometres.

 

Tourism Minister Liz Constable said the 29th International Triathlon Union (ITU) Long Distance Triathlon World Championships would showcase Perth to international visitors and boost the State’s economy.

 

“About 1,200 visitors, including interstate and international athletes from around the world, will visit our capital city for this prestigious event,” Dr Constable said.

 

“Athletes will navigate the Swan River, Riverside Drive, Mounts Bay Road and Kings Park Avenue, which will generate international media exposure for Perth’s picturesque scenery.

 

“The event is also expected to generate more than $1.6million in direct spending by visitors as they enjoy our State’s unique attractions.”

 

The Minister said the triathlon would see about 600 athletes from 25 countries swim three kilometres, ride 80 kilometres and run 20 kilometres.

 

“The main event incorporates a paratriathlon, and supporting events include an aquathon, schools triathlon and sprint distance triathlon,” she said.

 

“This series of races, held over four days, will be quite an accomplishment for all athletes and will also offer a superb spectacle for people viewing the event.

 

“The ITU Long Distance Triathlon World Championships provide a valuable tourism opportunity for Western Australia, and I welcome athletes, spectators and ITU officials to our State.”

 

For full event details, visit http://www.ldworlds.org.au

 

Minister's office - 9222 9699
Date: 23/10/2009
Minister: Constable
Portfolio: Tourism
Region: All
]]> Antartis, Jill Fri, 23 Oct 2009 03:53:10 GMT http://www.mediastatements.wa.gov.au/Lists/Statements/DispForm.aspx?ID=132675 Bunbury schools to choose respect http://www.mediastatements.wa.gov.au/Lists/Statements/DispForm.aspx?ID=132650 Content:

A highly successful initiative that has seen a significant improvement in student behaviour at Carey Park Primary School will be implemented in other schools across Bunbury.

 

The ‘Choose Respect’ initiative, which was introduced to Carey Park two years ago, uses a code of behaviour to develop and maintain a culture of respect.

 

Premier Colin Barnett and Education Minister Liz Constable visited the school today to acknowledge the program’s success.

 

Dr Constable said she was pleased the City of Bunbury would expand the program across other local schools.

 

“Carey Park Primary has successfully included the seven codes of behaviour into every part of the school day - from flying flags at the school entrance, to including messages on respect in the daily morning announcements,” she said.

 

“The program has been enormously successful with incidents of bullying falling by 30 per cent and episodes of bad behaviour declining by 40 per cent.

 

“When incidents of bullying do occur, the severity is much lower and the effect it has on the victim is greatly reduced.”

 

The seven codes are:

  • treat each other with respect no matter how others treat you
  • treat yourself with respect
  • forgive others that don’t treat you with respect
  • resist your natural desire to pay back or take revenge
  • apologise when you do not treat others with respect
  • support others who are not being treated with respect
  • ask for support when others do not treat you with respect.

Dr Constable said the State Government had placed a strong emphasis on behaviour and values in education.

 

Minister's office  - 9222 9699
 
Date: 20/10/2009
Minister: Constable
Portfolio: Education
Region: South West
]]> Antartis, Jill Mon, 19 Oct 2009 23:54:05 GMT http://www.mediastatements.wa.gov.au/Lists/Statements/DispForm.aspx?ID=132650