Council agrees to look into new shade and fencing options at Geraldton water park

The City of Greater Geraldton will consider two capital works initiatives aimed at improving safety at the foreshore water park in response to concerns raised by residents. A list of 713 signatures of people calling for the installation of sun shades and fencing at the water park was submitted to the City last month. Geraldton mother Christi Jerovich organised the petition, saying parents felt wary using an unfenced facility so close to foot, bike and car traffic, and with little shade. Councillors on Tuesday voted to accept the list, despite the document not meeting the City of Greater Geraldton’s requirements for a petition. City chief executive Ross McKim said local government should be responsive to advances in the way petitions were generated. “Traditionally council has had a very strict arrangement around petitions ... they have to have your name, age, you have to be over 18, and you have to sign it all in hand,” he said. “But with the changes in modern technology and apps and things, it has moved on.” Fencing around the foreshore water park was extended in May 2017 after a Facebook campaign gained more than 700 supporters. The fencing and shade projects will be considered in the draft 2021-22 capital works program. Early estimates suggest the work could cost about $100,000.