Electorate News (25)
Changes to Carrington Street - Central Avenue intersection will dramatically increase traffic through the quiet residential streets in Mount Lawley - 17 April 2012
Written by Michael Sutherland
Media Release
Changes to Carrington Street - Central Avenue intersection will dramatically increase traffic through the quiet residential streets in Mount Lawley
Michael Sutherland, MLA for Mount Lawley, has brought to light the City of Stirling’s plan that could impact on some of the most beautiful residential streets in Mount Lawley. A Street meeting was held on Sunday 15 April 2012 which was attended by approximately 150 residents.
Michael Sutherland said, “The plan is to remove a ‘traffic block’ at the intersection of Carrington Street and Central Avenue which has been in place and worked successfully for more than 25 years. This traffic block has stopped vehicles using adjoining residential streets as an alternative route to Beaufort Street and Railway Parade.
‘It is now proposed that it be replaced with a roundabout; all restrictions to enter Carrington Street from Central Avenue will be removed. This would funnel traffic through Carrington, Clotilde and adjoining quiet family friendly streets.”
“What has astonished local residents is that this represents the exact opposite of Stirling Council’s stated objectives for traffic management in Mount Lawley which is to reduce traffic volumes along residential streets, by ensuring that ‘through traffic’ uses arterial and district distributor roads.”
“The Council’s traffic engineers have stated that the roads are designed to carry seven thousand cars per day and that three thousand vehicles per day on the roads was acceptable. There is no way of ensuring that the numbers will be below three thousand which in any event is an eighty percent increase in traffic. Currently about 1740 cars use Carrington Street daily, south of Central Avenue. It makes the mind boggle to imagine that up to 7,000 cars could use the roads daily. This increased traffic will be on residential streets that have bends, hill crests, restricted access intersections and roadside parking.”
Long-time resident Dr Ian Merker, who lives on Clotilde Street and who has served on the local management steering committee that supported the creation of the Central Avenue traffic block in the early 1980s, expressed his dismay at the lack of consultation on the part of Stirling Council.
“The Council says it has a vision for our neighbourhood, now it’s trying to tear it up, and make one of the most beautiful parts of Perth look like downtown Beijing, with residential streets clogged with commuters 24/7, in cars, vans and trucks. It is a betrayal of all of us who have worked so hard to make Mount Lawley a monument to Perth’s heritage.”
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17 April 2012
State liberal MLA’s call for mandatory sentences for those who attack the elderly and the infirm - 13 April 2012
Written by Michael Sutherland
Media Release
State liberal MLA’s call for mandatory sentences for those who attack the elderly and the infirm.
State Liberal Party Members, Ian Britza, Morley and Michael Sutherland, Mt Lawley, have been appalled by the frequent and never ending attacks on the elderly and vulnerable, very often in their own homes.
They have both been approached by seniors requesting that the government introduce mandatory sentences for thugs and criminals who prey on the elderly and vulnerable.
Michael Sutherland said “I have had two recent assaults in my electorate which have made my blood boil. The first one involved the robbing of Debbie, a wheelchair bound lady in a park in Yokine.”
“Debbie was sitting in her wheelchair eating her lunch when she was accosted by a group of youths who swore at her, made fun of her disability, tried to push her out of her wheelchair and then stole $300.00 from her handbag. These thugs have not been apprehended”
“The second abhorrent attack was on an 89 year old pensioner Mr Brady in Grand Promenade, Dianella. Mr Brady was looking after his daughter’s house when he was brutally attacked by two young men with dumbbell’s who were intent on robbing him. He lost his eye and was hospitalised for two months”
“The Criminal Law Amendment Act 2001 increased maximum penalties where the victim is sixty years and over or is suffering from a significant intellectual or physical disability. In the case of assault from 5-10 years, 14-20 years for robbery and 18 to 20 years for burglary. The courts should deal with these thugs who terrorise the elderly or infirm accordingly”
Ian Britza said, “Several seniors have contacted me concerning the increase of aggravated burglary happening in their homes and neighbourhoods. I share their absolute disgust and frustration that it appears the offenders, even when caught, get away with their crime without the appropriate punishment.”
“Mr and Mrs Dunstan of Noranda shared their fear and sense of personal violation on realising that burglars recently broke into their house while they were at home. These seniors are simply echoing the concerns of many people who are just fed up with the increase in home invasions,” Ian Britza said.
Ian Britza declared that this issue needs to be acknowledged and adequate solutions found to alleviate the worry and concerns of the community at large.
“It is discouraging that the courts do not seem to uphold the values of the community when these criminals are caught and stand trial,” said Ian Britza.
Both MP’s are disgusted with this gratuitous violence aimed at the elderly and vulnerable and say that the low lives who think that they can perpetrate these deeds and get away with them should be severely punished.
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13 April 2012
Criminals will suffer anxiety with many eyes watching them - Cash Rewards for Identifying Criminals - 4 April 2012
Written by Michael Sutherland
Media Release
Criminals will suffer anxiety with many eyes watching them - Cash Rewards for Identifying Criminals
The Liberal Member for Mt Lawley, Michael Sutherland, has sought support from the Liberal led government to set up a web site which will be available to the public to publicise all photographed or filmed criminal activity in order for the public to help the police identify criminals.
Michael Sutherland said, “There has recently been a great response from the public to the third phase of Operation Eraser. Photos of graffiti vandals were widely published causing many to be arrested and charged.”
“Crime Stoppers has just launched a version of its crime reporting website which will allow photographs taken on smartphone or tablet to be uploaded onto the mobile version of the web site. The person reporting the incident will remain anonymous”
“I want the government to tap into this sense of civic duty on a continual and wider basis and get the community to help to identify criminals.”
“To entice the community to maintain their interest, I am proposing that a cash reward be paid to those identifying criminals. This will keep people interested in viewing the site and will let the criminals know that they cannot sleep easily while their photos remain on the site until they are caught.”
Michael Sutherland’s plan would incorporate material from any camera for example cameras in public places- on street, at railways stations, in malls and private cameras, in shops and homes and from phone and tablet cameras.
“There are so many cameras around capturing images of criminals in action yet little is done with much of that material. This will be a way to get criminal activity into the public arena and have the community help the fight against crime and criminals who think they are invisible once they flee the crime scene.”
“The rewards could be scaled according to the type and viciousness of the crime with a minimum $500 reward for identifying criminals involved in crimes such as shoplifting, property damage and graffiti vandalism. “
“I have contemplated this idea for some time and I am convinced that it would be very beneficial for the community, helpful to the police and would make life a lot more stressful and unpleasant for the criminals.”
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4 April 2012
Upgraded Station enhances amenity of Mount Lawley - 3 April 2012
Written by Michael Sutherland
Media Release
Upgraded Station enhances amenity of Mount Lawley
Michael Sutherland today inspected the $2 million upgrade of Mt Lawley Train Station which has not only given it a facelift but also provides significantly improved access for all passengers.
Michael Sutherland said “Mount Lawley station was very old, this upgrade has improved its appearance and functionality significantly”.
“Upgrading the station to disability standards was a significant reason for the work. The upgrade also created the opportunity to construct of a new shelter, install CCTV cameras, bike lockers and bike rails.
“The station has also had three pieces of artwork installed to beautify it. The works were done by the renowned Perth sculptor Gordon Mitchell.
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3 April 2012
40km/h Electronic School Speed signs for Beaufort Street - 30 March 2012
Written by Michael Sutherland
Media Release
40km/h Electronic School Speed signs for Beaufort Street
Michael Sutherland, MLA for Mount Lawley, along with the Hon Donna Faragher MLA and students from Perth College today inspected the new electronic speed signs on Beaufort Street.
Michael Sutherland said “Beaufort Street is a very busy street, carrying approximately 25,000 vehicles daily. It is particularly busy in the morning rush hour which coincides with the start of school.”
“Earlier this month, before the installation of these signs police issued twenty one infringements to motorists, travelling in excess of the forty kilometre an hour limit, in a single morning. This included a Transperth Bus, the second in two days, a recycling truck and a mobile crane. It is a concern that this many motorists were caught in a single morning, but it is particularly concerning that these heavy vehicles were caught speeding.”
“I hope these signs will improve the visibility of the forty kilometre zone which can be missed by motorists as the south end of Beaufort Street is a forty kilometre zone, before returning to a sixty kilometres zone after Walcott Street and then slowing again to forty kilometres for the school zone a short distance later.”
Perth College is the latest school in Mount Lawley to receive 40km/h electronic signs after Coolbinia Primary School has the signs installed last month.
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30 March 2012
West Australian Plumbers Celebrate World Plumbers Day - 12 March 2012
Written by Michael Sutherland
Media Release
West Australian Plumbers Celebrate World Plumbers Day
The West Australian plumbing industry celebrated World Plumbers Day on Sunday the 11th March 2012. World Plumbing Day is supported by the World Health Organisation. It highlights the important role plumbing plays in the health and safety of our modern society. Modern plumbing allows people to live together in large communities as fresh water is readily available and waste water can easily be removed.
Michael Sutherland the MLA for Mt Lawley said, “I pay tribute to the excellent work done by licenced plumbers that contribute to the wellbeing of our society. We often take it for granted that our water supplies and waste removal happen as a matter of course. It is however only by enforcing health regulations of a high standard and by professional workmanship by licensed plumbers through apprenticeships and training that we can be assured of this vital service”.
For more information about World Plumbers Day visit the Master Plumbers & Gasfitters Association - http://www.masterplumbers.asn.au/
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12 March 2012
Local victory for “Stationmasters House†- The State Government to give property to City of Vincent for Community Use - 13 March 2012
Written by Michael Sutherland
Media Release
Local victory for “Stationmasters House” - The State Government to give property to City of Vincent for Community Use
Michael Sutherland who has been working with the Norwood Neighbourhood Association on a proposal for community use of the old “Stationmasters House” recently notified by the Minister for Lands, Brendon Grylls that the property will be transferred to the City of Vincent for Community use.
Michael Sutherland said “I am pleased to say that after making representation on behalf of the Norwood Neighbourhood Association to Brendon Grylls, the Minister of Lands, that the old heritage “Stationmasters House” at 34 Cheriton Street will be transferred to the City of Vincent.”
“The transfer is conditional on the building being refurbished and in community use within two years. The house was originally to be sold by the government on the open market.”
“This is a big win for the local community and I look forward to seeing the restoration of the building and it being used by the community. It has been suggested that the uses include a community garden and “men’s shed.”
“The City of Vincent will now investigate community needs and service gaps in the area and use the house to fill those needs.”
“In addition the City will liaise with Central TAFE with a view to developing a “live work” programme with Aboriginal students who will assist in renovating the house.”
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13 March 2012
40km/h Electronic Speed signs installed at Coolbinia Primary School - 27 February 2012
Written by Michael Sutherland
Media Release
40km/h Electronic Speed signs installed at Coolbinia Primary School
Michael Sutherland, MLA for Mount Lawley, along with Principal Julie Bettany, parent AnneMarie and school children today inspected the new electronic speed signs installed at Coolbinia which will make the area safer for school children to cross the road.
Michael Sutherland has been campaigning for the installation of the signs since 2011 and is pleased that the signs have been installed to remind motorists that the 40km/h school zones are in force.
Michael Sutherland said “I am delighted that I have been able to have these Electronic Speed Signs installed.”
“Coolbinia Primary School is situated at the bottom of the very steep Bradford Street hill and many motorists inadvertently pick up speed coming down the hill. These signs will assist motorists as they are a highly visible reminder of the 40km/h school zone.”
“I wish to thank the Transport Minister for listening to my request on behalf of the wider school community and for having the electronic speed signs installed.”
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27 February 2012
Media Release
Minister meets locals in the Park
Last week Michael Sutherland convened a meeting with the Minister for Environment and Water, Bill Marmion and local citizens at Banks Reserve in Mount Lawley. In a ‘town hall’ style meeting under the shade of a giant Moreton Bay Fig the Minister invited questions and comments from the audience. There were many representatives from local community groups including the Banks Reserve Action Group, Mount Lawley Society, Urban Bushland Council, Maylands Business Association and Masters Plumbers Association together with local residents.
Bill Busby who is a plumber and long time resident of Maylands said that his main concern was the lack of filters on drains which went into the Swan River. The runoff water carried rubbish and effluent into the river adversely affecting the water quality.
Other issues raised by residents with the Minister included mosquito irradiation, joint use of the river by boats, water skiers and boats and their speed around the Maylands Yacht Club.
Michael Sutherland said “It has been fantastic that the Minister make himself available for a local forum with residents who had an opportunity to voice their views and concerns about the river and the matters which affect it.”
The meeting was part of a busy morning where Michael Sutherland and the Minister visited the West Morley Primary School to award a certificate in recognition of their 10 year participation in the Waterwise Schools as well as Coolbinia Primary School for a tour of the school’s environmental programmes, including installation of rainwater tanks, a waterwise garden, the zoo fodder garden, worm farm and composting area.
Lastly Michael took the Minister to the Western Australian Golf Club in Yokine to meet with the General Manager and Grounds Superintendent to discuss water conservation measures at the club.
21 February 2012
Michael Sutherland MLA seeks funding to extend Mt Lawley Senior High School Music Facilities - 17 February 2012
Written by Michael Sutherland
Media Release
Michael Sutherland MLA seeks funding to extend Mt Lawley Senior High School Music Facilities
On Wednesday 15 February 2012 the Premier Colin Barnett together with the Minister for Education Elizabeth Constable and the local Member for Mount Lawley Michael Sutherland were taken on a tour of the music facilities at Mount Lawley Senior High School by the Principal Milton Butcher.
Michael Sutherland said “Mount Lawley Senior High School provides an excellent music programme to approximately 350 students which represents about a quarter of the school’s population. Participating in the music programme has become increasingly popular placing significant strain on the existing rehearsal, classroom and instrumental storage facilities.”
“After meeting with the Principal and parents to discuss the need to extend the school’s current music facilities I arranged for the Premier and Minister to visit the school and see the problem first hand.”
“A funding proposal commissioned by parents has estimated that the cost of upgrading the facilities would be approximately $2.7 million.”
“As the local Member I will be fighting for funding to be included in the next State Budget to overcome the problems associated with the current overcrowded and inadequate music facilities.”
“Mount Lawley Senior High School delivers an exceptional music programme and the students’ talents are often showcased both within the school and at community events”.
“Mount Lawley Senior High School has an ongoing co-operative arrangement with WAAPA at Edith Cowan University, which allows the school to use their performing facilities. The possibility of studying further at ECU encourages students to keep up their study of music, is therefore imperative that the school’s music teaching facilities are adequate for the increasing student numbers and their needs”
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17 February 2012
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