Administrator of Christmas
and Cocos (Keeling) Islands 
Community Newsletter

Issue 18 – 17 September 2020

In this issue:

Administrator’s Message

Latest News

• Home Island Fire Station Extension Project
• Wastewater COVID support for IOT businesses
• First meeting of the IOT’s new health community advisory committee
• Bowel Cancer awareness – IOTHS community health message
• Community Health – free fitness fun for females
• Visiting Specialist – Gastroenterologist
• Visiting Specialist – Speech Therapist
• Visiting Specialist – Occupational Therapist
• Visiting Specialist – Paediatric Physiotherapist
• Visiting Specialist – Physiotherapist

Community Bulletins

• Australian Government extends current support for IOT electricity customers
• AM Marino Media Release – CI Economic Stimulus Projects
• AM Marino Media Release – CKI Economic Stimulus Projects
• Assistant Minister Media Release – Christmas Island Solar
• Watercorp major fixtures COVID relief extended to IOT
• RDO Projects put IOT tourism in the spotlight
• AM Marino Media Release – IOTHS Five Year Strategic Plan
• Christmas Island Public Holidays 2021
• Cocos (Keeling) Islands Public Holidays 2021
• Landside mitigation works bulletin
• Additional IOT air services
• Joint Ley Marino Media Release – CI National Park tourism infrastructure

Community Activities

• 24 Festive Drum and Silk Fans competition

Public Announcements

• JobKeeper payment extended

Job Opportunities

• IOOC Casual Fuel Attendant
• CIMS Fire Technician

Christmas Island Outdoor Cinema

• Upcoming Movies

It has been another non-stop month which of course has involved the ongoing COVID-19 response to keep our Indian Ocean Territories (IOT) protected from coronavirus as we also work to address the economic impacts of the pandemic on our local economies. It has been fantastic to see residents, visitors and businesses alike benefit from the travel zone now established between the IOT and Western Australia, removing quarantine requirements and seeing a significant boost in our traveler volumes.

I visited the Cocos (Keeling) Islands where I discussed the various projects which will be delivered through the more than $3 million of tailored COVID-19 economic stimulus funding from the Australian Government. It was great to engage with the Shire, community and businesses on these initiatives which will include the construction of new public housing, critical power infrastructure upgrades, community facilities improvements and biosecurity investment.

While on CKI, I also met with the contractors for the Defence runway upgrade project as part of their stakeholder consultations and other activities to progress this important initiative.

Back on Christmas Island, I want to thank everyone who has taken the time to provide feedback on the draft Landscape Master Plan for Flying Fish Cove, through the community survey and consultation sessions. I will report back to you in the near future on the outcomes of your contributions and next steps. Improvements to Flying Fish Cove are part of the $5.15 million investment on CI through the economic stimulus projects, which also include improvements to community facilities, the bringing forward of strategic power infrastructure upgrades, airport improvements and upgrades to public housing.

The refreshed membership of the IOT Regional Development Organisation, of which I am Chair, met to progress a range of exciting new tourism projects funded by the Australian Government to help the IOT tourism sector recover from COVID-19. These range from a Destination Management Plan and strategic marketing investment to seed funding for new events, an investment prospectus focused on accommodation and mountain bike trails. I will provide you with further information as these projects progress.

Please continue to stay COVID-safe as we take our pathway through our new normal.

If you would like to find out more about anything in the newsletter, or you would like a hard copy, please contact my office. Let us know if you want us to include your upcoming community event or activity in the newsletter. Stories (including photos) about recent IOT community events are very welcome and can be emailed to belinda.vanzundert@infrastructure.gov.au in my office. 

Mrs Natasha Griggs
Administrator of Christmas Island and the Cocos (Keeling) Island

Initial planning meeting for an Australian Army language tour on Cocos (Keeling) Islands.

IOT Regional Development Organisation meeting.

At Cocos Keeling Islands discussing various project initiatives with the Shire, community and businesses.

Latest News

Protection of key Cocos emergency service asset

I am pleased to announce the completion of the Home Island Fire Station Extension Project.

This important project has ensured the building is now large enough to fit the new Volunteer Fire Brigade truck, keeping this critical vehicle secure and protected from the elements.

The Australian Government-funded project was managed by JLL via through our Service Delivery Arrangement with the WA Department of Finance and completed by local tradespeople.

I want to thank everyone involved in the project, and extend a special acknowledgement to all the Home Island volunteer fire brigade members for their continued service.

Registration extended for wastewater COVID support for IOT businesses

The Australian Government is implementing relief measures to support wastewater customers in Indian Ocean Territories (IOT) businesses on Christmas Island and the Cocos (Keeling) Islands, as part of the ongoing response to COVID-19 (Coronavirus) and its economic impacts.

I recently approved the extension of the Water Corporation’s COVID-19 major fixture relief package for eligible businesses, which are receiving JobKeeper payments, to the IOT.

This financial relief for sewer service charges is available for two meter-reading cycles from 1 May to 31 August 2020. Accounts will be credited in the next billing period.

Eligible businesses with four or more major fixtures (toilet, urinal or pan washer) will not be charged for their fourth to 200th fixture inclusive. Normal charges will apply for the first three fixtures and any additional fixtures greater than 200, as shown in the table below.

Owners, managing agents and tenants can apply for the Major Fixtures Waiver. The closing date for eligible business customers to apply online is now 30 September 2020.

Further information regarding the eligibility criteria, and how to apply online, is available at https://sitecore9-cm-prod.watercorporation.com.au/Help-and-advice/Business-customers/Business-bill-and-account/Major-Fixtures-Waiver

First meeting of the IOT’s new health community advisory committee

Last month, I chaired the inaugural meeting of the Indian Ocean Territories Health Service (IOTHS) Community Advisory Committee, which allows local people to have their say in the design and delivery of our health services.

This first meeting was an opportunity to acknowledge the good work of the previous health advisory committee and welcome the new Committee members, setting our focus and responsibilities going forward.

The Committee was briefed on a number of matters including accreditation of the health service, aged care and disability service delivery and the IOTHS’ ongoing response to the COVID-19 pandemic. The Committee provided feedback and recommendations on improvements to reporting and community engagement for the health service to consider.

The new committee will meet quarterly. Community members are encouraged to engage with their local representatives, who are:

Christmas Island

• Vanessa Bennett
• Paul Maberly
• Vicky Watson
• Rafi Borchart

Cocos (Keeling) Islands

• Levi Fowler
• Kelly Edwards

There are still places available on the Committee for interested community members from the Cocos (Keeling) Islands. People interested in discussing this opportunity should contact the Administrator’s office via email IOTAdministrator@infrastructure.gov.au

Bowel cancer – digest the facts and know the signs

Australia has one of the highest rates of bowel cancer in the world, with 1 in 13 Australians developing bowel cancer during their lifetime.

Bowel cancer is the second most common cause of cancer-related death in Australia after lung cancer.

The Indian Ocean Territories Health Service (IOTHS) this month is working to increase the island’s bowel screening rates.  Bowel screening is offered to every person, aged between 50-74 (or earlier if needed).

Symptoms of bowel cancer could include:

• change in bowel habits
• thin stools
• blood in stools
• abdominal pain or bloating
• anal pain, finding lumps in your anus
• unexplainable weight loss
• blood in urine.

The treatment goal for bowel cancer relies heavily on early detection. The earlier the cancer is found, the more quickly it can be removed – reducing the chance that it will have time to spread to other parts of your body.

Currently, only about 40 percent of Australians complete and return their bowel screening test.

The IOTHS staff want to know what would encourage more of you to participate in collecting stool samples, every two years – samples that could detect cancer, and potentially save your life.

If you’re between 50 and 74 years old (or younger, if you have had any of the above symptoms), go and see one of the health service team, return those stool pots that have been in your bathroom for a while and enjoy the peace of mind that you’re doing what is best for your body.

To read more information, head to www.cancer.org.au, or talk to us at your Indian Ocean Territories Health Service.

Free fitness fun for females

The Indian Ocean Territories Health Service wants to know if you have heard about Community Health’s new 5 Fs Women’s Wellness Program.

• Are you a woman?
• Do you wish you could be a bit healthier and less stressed? 
• Do you keep making excuses because it all just seems too hard to get started? 
• Do you want it to be a gentle introduction to health and wellness? 
• Do you hate being so sore the next day after a fitness class that it puts you off coming to the next session? 
• Do you want it to include the 5 Fs? (be free in cost, include fun, friendship and a bit of fitness for females?)  Then the “5s Fs Women’s Wellness Program” is made for you to try!

Please register for the FREE, FUN, FRIENDSHIP & FITNESS Women’s Wellness Program every Thursday from 3.30pm to 4.30pm at the CI recreation centre.

This will be a nurturing environment to go at your own pace, with 30 minutes of stretching and gentle exercise and 15 minutes of relaxation/meditation followed by 15 minutes of healthy tips for the coming week. 

Please wear comfortable clothes to exercise in and bring a towel to lay on. 

To register for the program or if you have any questions, please call Nicola on 9164 8333 or email Nicola.Coleman@infrastructure.gov.au

Visiting Specialist

Physiotherapist (treatment by therapeutic ultrasound, mobilisation and exercise)

There will be a Physiotherapist available for consultation at the Christmas Island Health Service from 23/10/2020 - 30/10/2020.

Patients requiring an appointment are requested to contact the Christmas Island Health Service reception (Telephone:9164 8333) to arrange an appointment.

KUNJUNGAN AHLI FISIOTERAPI (PENGUBATAN DENGAN CARA TERAPI ULTRASOUND, MOBILISASI DAN LATIHAN SENAMAN)

Seorang Ahli Fisioterapi boleh didapati untuk konsultasi di hospital Pulau Krismes daripada 23/10/2020 - 30/10/2020.

Pesakit yang harus mendapat rawatan susulan oleh Fisioterapi di minta untuk menghubungi bahagian administrasi di hospital (Talipon: 9164 8333) untuk mengaturkan jadual masa pertemuan.

理疗科服务 (按摩,手技与体操治疗)

一位理疗师将从 二零二零 年十月二十三 日至二零二零 年 十月

三十日在圣诞岛医 院提供理疗咨询 服务. 病人需与医院 接待处联系预约, 请拔电 9164 8333. 

Community Bulletins

• Australian Government extends current support for IOT electricity customers
• AM Marino Media Release – CI Economic Stimulus Projects
• AM Marino Media Release – CKI Economic Stimulus Projects
• Assistant Minister Media Release – Christmas Island Solar
• Wastewater COVID support for IOT businesses
• RDO Projects put IOT tourism in the spotlight
• AM Marino Media Release – IOTHS Five Year Strategic Plan
• Christmas Island Public Holidays 2021
• Cocos (Keeling) Islands Public Holidays 2021
• Landslide mitigation works bulletin
• Additional IOT air services
• Joint Ley Marino Media Release – CI National Park tourism infrastructure

Community Activities

Public Announcement

https://business.gov.au/news:

• JobKeeper payment extended

Job Opportunities

CASUAL RELIEF FUEL ATTENDANT AT SERVICE STATION

We are seeking a capable and reliable person to fill this casual fuel attendant role on a relief/on-call basis within our small team at Indian Ocean Oil Company. This position will require an immediate start. 

Main Role & Responsibilities 

The successful person will be required to ensure the smooth and efficient operation of the service station in compliance with IOOC Quality Assurance procedures. 

The main responsibilities will include cash handling and end of day reconciliations, fuel stock monitoring and communication with the IOOC Supervisor. 

A successful candidate should be comfortable working with computers and be able to complete basic data entry tasks accurately and quickly. 

Knowledge and experience working with safe work procedures in compliance with Australian standards including OHS & Environmental would be highly regarded. 

Skills/Experience 

• Confident using basic software such as Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook;
• Accurate attention to detail with regard to cash handling and reconciliations;
• Previous administrative experience in a similar role and fuel environment will be well regarded;
• Ability to prioritise work and work within timeframes is essential;
• Ability to communicate effectively internally within IOOC and externally with public;
• Oral/Written communication skills – essential;
• Excellent customer service – ability to deal with public;
• Current Driver’s Licence;
• Current Apply First Aid Certificate;
• Ability to speak other community languages and/or dialects would be desirable.

If you require further information in regards to this position, please feel free to contact Natasha Gauci on 0459 020 982 during office hour (Mon – Fri 0700hrs – 1600hrs). Applications with a resume plus a covering letter must be submitted to the PRL HR via email at hr@cirp.com.

CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATIONS – Tuesday 15th September 2020

FIRE TECHNICIAN

CI Maintenance Services (CIMS) – fully owned subsidiary of Phosphate Resources Limited - is a local and community focussed Services Company located in the Indian Ocean Territories, providing a full range of facility, building and project management services. Our focus is on extending and improving asset lifecycle, reducing operating costs and making our clients’ sites safer and more efficient. 

This role is responsible for ensuring the customer’s Fire Systems and equipment is installed and maintained to the appropriate Australian Standard as well as accurate completion of any required documentation. Ensuring that the customer’s equipment operates as designed in the event of an emergency. This is a residential position based on the Australian Territory of Christmas Island. 

Duties 

As an experienced Fire Technician you will be responsible for: 

• Installation and Maintenance of all Fire protection systems, installation, diagnostics, servicing, repair and undertaking minor works on fire protection systems and equipment. 
• Complete maintenance tasks as directed by Supervisor/Facilities Manager to ensure efficient use of time and equipment. 
• To perform standby duties as per the company’s requirements on rotation and well communicated roster. 
• Fault-finding, diagnosis, repair and maintenance of equipment such as Fire Detection & prevention systems and Exit/Emergency Lighting. 
• Commissioning and decommissioning of equipment and machinery. 
• Record completed maintenance on Work Orders including comprehensive record of work performed and outstanding faults or requirements. 
• Report all corrective maintenance and repairs to the supervisor for recording into MEX. 
• Test and tagging of Fire & Electrical assets. 
• Undertake Maintenance & Repairs and end to end responsibility of fire alarm and control systems to the relevant Australian Standards.

To be successful in this role, you will have the following: 

Essential 

• Electrical/Electronic/Fire Trade or equivalent 
• Cert 2 in fire inspection and testing or equivalent 
• WA “A” Class Electrical Workers Licence 
• Construction Induction White Card 
• Open Cabling Registration (endorsements preferred) 
• WA ‘C’ Class - Manual Driver’s License or equivalent. 
• Australian Federal Police Clearance required 
• Enthusiastic about continuous improvement, safety, environment and maintenance systems

Desirable

• Low Voltage Panel Rescue (current)
• Qualifications and experience working in a Management or supervisory role
• Engineering qualifications or experience, specifically in the area electrical
• First Aid & CPR Certification (current)
• Working at Heights (current)
• High Risk Work License (EWP)

Benefits

• Lifestyle and balanced working arrangements
• Ongoing learning and development opportunities
• Opportunity to work within an evolving team

CIMS is committed to achieving a diverse workforce and strongly encourage applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

Please note this is a residential position and you will be required to relocate to Christmas Island. Relocation assistance may be provided for the successful applicant provided. Dogs and cats are prohibited on the Island.

If you require further information about this position, please feel free to contact HR on 08 9164 8400 or email hr@cirp.com.

Applications must be submitted to hr@cirp.com. 

CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATIONS – 30th September 2020

Community Announcements

Want to sponsor an upcoming movie?

You will receive 2 free passes, special seating, food platter with your favourite nibbles, drinks of your choice and a public announcement on the evening of the movie. We will advertise your company or individual message in the Islander, on our Website, Facebook Page, on the world’s most remote roundabout and one of the last remaining outdoor Cinema screens. (Your choice of movie and date will be dependent upon availability.)

Volunteers needed for projection, bucket collection and to assist on the Executive Committee.

To become part of this exciting club or enquire about sponsorship, Email: cioutdoorcinema@gmail.com or accounts@cinema.org.cx  

Rating information provided by http://www.classification.gov.au

The Christmas Island Cinema Club is proudly supported by: Freightshop, CI Removals, Shire of Christmas Island, CITA, Metro Solar, Territories Courier Services, CI Hardware Store and many local sponsors and volunteers.

* THE CHRISTMAS ISLAND CINEMA IS A SMOKE FREE AREA *