The Reporter Rewind

The Harvey-Waroona Reporter has been published for 40 years. In Reporter Rewind this week, Briana Fiore looks at what was making news in April, 1995.

The Stirling Dam hit an all time low, with water levels at the lowest level the town had ever seen. Farmers were warned the dam had only three weeks of water supply left and many were on the last of their watering quotas.

A number of farmers had used their watering quota for the season and the dam was expected to be completely dry in less than five weeks.

However, a small reserve of water would be retained for environmental reasons and to supply the Harvey townsite.

Argentine ants plagued Harvey and caused a hassle for many residents. Extremely hot conditions caused the issue and several complaints were received.

One man reported waking up to find the ants all over his bed.

Several properties were treated by pest control companies, however, later became re-infested.

To remove the ants, people were encouraged to use a teaspoon of borax and one cup of sugar mixed with water.

Apex Park in Harvey received a basketball backboard worth $800.

Apex club members raised the funds and spent many hours doing a busy bee to get the job done.

A gifted and talented program was established at the Harvey Agricultural Senior High School.

Students were selected in the extension program based on their mathematical ability.

Several students visited the University of Western Australia to take part in physics and engineering experiments.

The school also opened a new gymnasium.

The Harvey Recreation and Cultural centre received a $33,000 upgrade.

The projected was funded by the Night of Stars event and the Harvey Shire Council.

Harvey-Brunswick-Leschenault Football Club was titled “one of the best teams in the South West”.

Former Carlton champion Brad Shine was in charge of the team development.

The team was preparing for the Hungry Jack’s pre-season carnival.

The team was predicted to have a very successful season from early on in the year.

Underground power was considered in Waroona.

A pilot project was proposed by Western Power and local authorities were encouraged to submit expressions of interest.

New slogans were wanted in the Waroona shire.

For many years Waroona was known as the “doorway to the South West”.

Waroona number plates were also issued.

Hocart Lodge in Harvey installed fire alarms to help save resident in case of a fire.

The project was funded by a special $9000 Federal Government grant. Australia was considered a world leader in the care of the elderly.

A new child health care clinic was opened in Harvey. A morning tea was held to celebrate.

Former AFL star Wally Matera was recruited to the Harvey Bulls Football Club.

He was seen training with the team and was set to be a valuable asset to the club.

The Benger Cricket Club won their third consecutive grand final.

They beat Lescehnault to take out the title.