Council agrees to let Vibe get noisy

Vibe Nightclub will continue running outdoor events in their carpark after City of Greater Geraldton councillors agreed to extend the trial during last Tuesday’s council meeting.

The venue will be able to host eight events in their carpark over the next six months, with two events allowed to exceed assigned noise levels.

Last year in August councillors approved an initial six-month trial for just six events, two of which were granted noise exemptions.

According to council notes the City did not receive any noise complaints from surrounding residents.

Nightclub manager Jason Bertelsen said he was happy with council’s decision.

“It’s great to see the support from the councillors in getting more vibrancy, functions and events in Geraldton,” he said.

“Our main mindset is this is not just for club events, it’s for everyone events ... that will make people want to stay in, or travel to, Geraldton.

“We’re trying to be inventive and think outside the box about events that aren’t noisy and will not upset our neighbours.”

Earlier this month more than 600 people went to the inaugural Geraldton Night Markets, held inside the nightclub and its carpark.

Mr Bertelsen said the trial extension would allow them to continue running the popular event.

During Tuesday’s meeting, Cr Michael Reymond said he “reluctantly” supported the motion.

“I do have some underlying reservations and I hope the increase does not cause any problems,”he said.

“This is a substantial increase in the number of events, and I’m not too sure if it helps tourism but it’ll certainly help Geraldton’s night life.

“A trial is a safe way of protecting residents if the events get out of control.”

Mayor Shane Van Styn, who lives close to the venue, said he’s never had any noise problems with the nightclub.

“Other things that are noisier to me than the venue include the beach, the port and cars that drive past my window,” he said.

The trial events will have a 95-decibel limit at the venue’s sound stage.

The nightclub will also have to notify residents within a 200m radius of the noise limit-exceeding events at least 24 hours beforehand via a letterbox drop.