Caitlyn and Sara attend QLD Pony Club Titles

During the recent school holidays, Sara Aspinall and Caitlyn Johnson attended the Queensland State Pony Club Titles which was hosted by Chinchilla over four days. The first day was the State Formal Gymkhana with Caitlyn coming fourth in the Time Trial and Sara placing seventh overall with a second in the Half Hitch, a fourth in the Taroom Time Trial and several seventh places. The second day of competition was the State Sporting Championships with Sara placing eighth overall with a third in Flag, fourth in Barrels, fourth in Sporting Figure of Eight and two seventh places. The third day of competition was State Campdraft Championships in which Sara placed seventh overall with a fourth in the first out of two rounds. Finally the last day of competition was the State Mounted Games Championships with Caitlyn and her team of competitors from Blackall, Barcaldine, Aramac and Longreach who placed a fifth in the

SPORT ON THE BARCOO

Pony Club Race and Saras team, which was a mixture of competitors from Blackall, Longreach and Townsville, placed sixth overall with a fifth in Postmans Chase, fifth in Two Flag, fourth in Pony Club Race and second in Pony Express. Overall the girls enjoyed a great week making friends from around Queensland. They enjoyed the opportunity to see how their riding had improved and see the level of competition around Queensland.

--Sara Aspinall

The Blackall Pony club held their end of year break up at the Blackall Aquatic Centre on Saturday afternoon. The children were presented with hand crafted silver necklaces made by former Blackall resident Louise Lehman of Silver Lily Jewellery. The children received the gifts this year in recognition of all the hard work, travel, and team spirit and good sportsmanship displayed Back: Kaitlyn McErlean,Cooper Wheeler, Arena Wheeler, Caleb Fanning, Codie Fanning Front: Jaimie Lee Morris, Taylah Wheeler, Shauna Kangan. throughout the year. Page 16- The Barcoo Independent, Friday, November 4 2011

Pony club end of year break up

The Zone 14 representatives at the Queensland Pony Club Titles held in Sara Aspinall competing Queensland Pony Club Titles. Chinchilla recently.

in

the

INDEPENDENT
THE BARCOO
ISSN 1832-6129 RRP $2.00

Blackalls own community newspaper

Blackall celebrated at outback tourism awards

by VICTORIA NUGENT
Blackall had plenty to be proud of on Saturday night when it played host to the Outback Queensland Tourism Association (OQTA) awards, transforming the Cultural Centre into a bush themed venue for the gala event and taking out several accolades. Approximately 120 people attended the event, with tourism delegates enjoying a host of events and workshops in Blackall in the lead-up to the awards dinner. The evening started with a charity Quick Shears competition amongst local shearers with David Lipsett coming out as the overall winner. Other highlights of the event included guest presenter country music singer and OQTA ambassador Tania Kernaghan, a charity auction and entertainment provided by Brisbane duo Who Killed Kenny. Blackalls Shockwave youth festival was one of the local big winners on the night, taking out the Festivals and Events award with mayor Jan Ross accepting the award. Cr Ross said she was extremely excited that Shockwave had won the award and felt that it was well deserved. We want our youth to feel theyre valued members of our community and this is the kind of event that does that, Cr Ross said. It has been extremely successful partnering with Human Ventures to do this. Blackall resident Stewart Benson was also recognised, winning the category for Outstanding Contribution by a Volunteer or a Volunteer Group. Former Blackall resident Alan Smiths Longreach business Outback Aussie Tours was also a winner on the night, taking out the award in the Tourism Marketing category. The Barcoo River Camp and Tambos Stubby Bend River Camp were also recognised, receiving judges commendations in the Most Significant Council Tourism Initiative category. Other winners included the Dalrymple Tourist Van Park in Charters Towers, the Birdsville Hotel, the Waltzing Matilda Centre in Winton and Kinnon and Co, Longreach, which won four categories.

November 4 2011

Contact: barcooindependent@gmail.com

Country music sensation Tania Kernaghan with the local shearers from the Quick Shears competition at the Outback Queensland Tourism awards on Saturday evening.

Editorial Lately there has been

one thing that really bothers me. Im constantly running up against the opinion that living and working in a rural area limits ones chances of success. This assumption irritates me, particularly in light of some of the great achievements by those who come from rural areas. Just last weekend, rural people and businesses were recognised at the Outback Queensland Tourism Awards. The award winners were

perfect examples that a rural location is not an obstacle to illustrious achievements and success. In many cases, coming from a rural area can boost your chances of achievement. There are countless competitions, opportunities and bursaries targeted specifically at people from a rural background. It has often been said that one year of experience in a rural area is worth three years experience in

the city. Forgive me for climbing on my soapbox but I think that sometimes we all need a gentle reminder that location isnt the greatest factor in success. If you have the passion and drive to achieve your dreams, you will do so wherever you are. The most important thing is to chase those ambitions. Start small and it will often lead to greater things.

Advertising Rates 2011

1/8 page: $16.50 1/6 page: $27.50 1/4 page: $34.65 1/3 page: $47.85 1/2 page: $68.75 Full pg/Insert: $137.50

Contact
Please direct enquiries, suggestions, stories and letters to the editor: Victoria Nugent barcooindependent@gmail.com or post or call at Blackall Visitor Information Centre, 108a Shamrock St, Blackall Phone/ fax: 07 4657 6966

Classifieds: $5 for 3 lines and $1.25 per extra line. Contact Victoria Nugent for colour advertising rates

As mayor of the Blackall Tambo Regional Council it is with deep regret I have to announce I have been found guilty of a traffic offence, driving with a blood alcohol level over the allowed limit. A fine has been imposed and my license suspended for a period of three months. I deeply regret my error of judgment which resulted in this matter and I sincerely apologise to the community. I will continue to serve the community of the Blackall Tambo Region as I have for the past four years. The Outback Queensland Tourism Awards which were held last weekend were deemed a great success by all attending with the Blackall Tambo regions Shockwave Festival successful winners for the Festival and Events category. Blackall Tambo also attained the Judges Encouragement Awards for Stubby Bend Camping in Tambo and the Barcoo River Camping in Blackall. Congratulations to all our staff who were involved. Council made a successful submission to the Natural Disaster Resilience Program seeking funding for a project to install at least 5 automated rain gauges in strategic locations, which met the specific objectives of the NDRP including community vulnerability to natural hazards. Council will work closely with the Bureau of Meteorology to identify the optimal locations with the Blackall Tambo Region to install the automated rain gauges. The Blackall Tambo Regional Council also investigated

FROM THE MAYORS DESK

partnerships with adjoining Councils of Barcaldine, Central Highlands, Murweh, Quilpie and Longreach to contribute to the maintenance of the equipment as the timely warnings provided by this equipment will greatly assist all the respective communities in times of intense rainfall events. I am delighted to announce Quilpie Shire has agreed to contribute $1500 per annum for this purpose. It is my great pleasure to announce a successful submission to the Department of Sport and Recreation Infrastructure Funding Program has generated $119,000 for the Blackall Tambo Regional Council to create a walking trail along the Barcoo River in Blackall with exercise stations along the trail and a concrete path connecting the Town to the walking trail. This is the second time we have submitted the submission which was originally developed by Lisa Goodman in 2009. QANTAS Community Forum was held on October 26 when representatives of the company as well as Department of Transport and Main Roads Officers met with those interested members of the community who attended. The constant lack of capacity for community members to access seats on Monday and Friday was a major concern, for the Blackall Tambo Regional Council and also for Doctor Vinnie Joshi who was unable secure seats for patients needing urgent specialist treatment.

--Jan Ross

Page 2 - The Barcoo Independent, Friday, November 4 2011

BLACKALL MENS SHED MEETING A meeting to learn more about what MENS SHEDS have to offer and to form a MENS SHED COMMITTEE is being held at the BLACKALL CLUB on FRIDAY 11TH NOVEMBER 2011 at 5pm. All interested people including those interested in sharing their knowledge and skills with future participants are encouraged to attend this meeting. If you are unable to attend but would like to be kept informed, please register your apology with Virginia Wacker, Councils Community Development Officer on (07) 4657 4440 or via email cdo@btrc.qld.gov.au prior to the meeting. This Mens Shed project is an initiative of the Barcoo Retirement Village with support from Blackall-Tambo Regional Council Community Services.

PO Box 21 Blackall Qld 4472

KL Timms Chief Executive Officer

BLACKALL IGA BIG BRAND SALE

Starts this Friday 4th Nov to Sunday 6th Nov
Cavendish Bananas only $5.99kg Premium Beef Mince $6.99kg Nile Perch Fillets $7.94kg Golden Circle Cordials 2ltr $2.49ea Sorbent Toilet Roll 16pk $7.44 ea
The Barcoo Independent, Friday, November 4 2011 - Page 15

Clearing Sale Gydia Park Isisford

Sunday 13th November 10am

(Property Sold)

Vehicles: 15tonne GVM1998 Hino truck 110,000kms Tipping body, stock crate(1deck cattle, 2decks sheep/goats); 1991 Toyota Cruiser 200,000kms; Series II A 1968 Land Rover 50,000miles; Allis Chalmers Grader; MF 65 tractor with Proline Posthole digger; MF 135 Tractor with Front Bucket; 2 x Yamaha Big Bear Quad bikes; Yamaha XT250N Motorbike; 3x Suzuki DR 350 motorbikes; Suzuki DR 250 motorbike; 1973 Diesel Land Rover Sundry: Tandem Trailer with Stock Crate; CHIZOU Metal Bench Lathe; Sheep /Goat Handling crate; Goat Milking Bale; Portable Sheep/Goat Equip incl Loading Ramps, crate/Elec Scales & Classing Crate; Portable 240v generators; Elec Mono Pumps; Lincoln Tractor Pak Welder; Petrol Mono Pump on trailer; Elec Wheel Balancer; Workshop shelving; MF PTO pulleys and Blade; Lister Pump; Villiers Posthole Borer; Lister Motor; Cooper motors; PTO driven Circular Saw/Bench; Elec Grinder; Elec Parts Washer; New cement Stock Trough; Round Poly Trough; F/glass Tank; Norprim Urea water Dosers; Shearers beds/mattresses, Long wooden stools & table; Qty Combs &Cutters; Elec Shearing Stand; UHFs; Metal chairs /tables; Large Qty Poly Pipe & ttings 40-50mm; Steel Rack; New Steel; Used Steel; Weldmesh; App 10 tonne Cottonseed; New Fencing Materials; Sundry other items, nuts, bolts, trough oats, etc Household Items & Furniture Ofce desks & chairs; Cupboards; Wardrobes; School desk; Lounges; Beds; Chests of Drawers; Old style sideboard & kitchen cabinet; Cane Chairs; Kitchen Chairs; Bookcase; Shelves; Singer Sewing Machines; Freezer; Fridge; Vac Cleaner; Elec Fan; Fax; BRAND NEW Kelvinator Refrigerated Air Con; Bonaire Evap Aircon; Gas BBQ; Weaving Looms; Spinning Wheel; Tennis Court Net; 8 x 4 Slate based Pool Table; Ping Pong Tabletop; Other household items too numerous to mention. BID CARD SYSTEM OPERATING ID REQUIRED PAYMENT TERMS: CASH OR APPROVED CHEQUE ON DAY OF SALE REFRESHMENTS AVAILABLE Longreach 07 4658 3777 DIRECTIONS: AT THE ISISFORD POST OFFICE, TURN ONTO THE YARAKA ROAD. Peter Cavanagh: 0448 855 750 TRAVEL 15KM AND TURN LEFT AND CROSS THE BARCOO RIVER. Owner: Joey Owens 0427 588 133 CONTINUE 22KM TO GYDIA PARK SIGNBOARD ON THE LEFT. Full item listing available from www.grantdaniellong.com FURTHER 3KM INTO HOUSE. SIGNS WILL DIRECT ON DAY. www.ruralcoproperty.com.au

Plant and Equipment

Page 14- The Barcoo Independent, Friday, November 4 2011

Blackall flood warning system

The Blackall Tambo Regional Council is set to install five alert rain gauges and base stations as an early flood warning system. Emergency Services Minister Neil Roberts announced last week the State and Federal Governments will partner with the BlackallTambo Regional Council to deliver the $104,000 project aimed at enhancing disaster resilience. Mr Roberts said council would receive more than $60,000 through the Natural Disaster Resilience Program for its On the Roof Top project with council set to contribute around $40,000 to the project. These gauges and base stations will provide an early warning system that will raise community awareness and enhance community preparedness of potential floods, Mr Roberts said. They will deliver information that is current, relevant, readily available and easily accessible to the communities of Blackall, Tambo and the surrounding regions of Murweh, Quilpie, Central Highlands, Barcaldine and Longreach. Blackall Tambo Regional Council

Tambo mill closes

companies for employees. NK Collins Industries

CEO Ken Timms said council would start working on establishing the system as soon as possible with discussion underway regarding locations for the rain gauges and base stations. Were not sure on the actual locations as we are discussing it with the Bureau of Meteorology so we can get the most useful locations, Mr Timms said. Weve been talking to other councils because were at the headwaters of the Barcoo and we want to try to use locations that can help them out too. Mr Timms said the alert rain gauge system would allow automated information about rainfalls to be sent to mobile phones. The alert system allows people with mobile phones to receive SMS warnings when theres a flood risk, Mr Timms said. Well be working with the providers to work out what suits this area best. The project was one of 56 projects statewide to receive funding through the third round of the Natural Disaster Resilience Program.

Another local operation has

lost the battle against mining has

been forced to close down its Tambo sawmill due to labour shortages. At full capacity the Tambo sawmill employed 14 people, but competition from mining companies has made it difficult to staff the mill, general manager Sean Gribble told the ABC. Mr Gribble said difficulties in obtaining visas for overseas workers also contributed to the closure. The company Toowoomba had based previously

shut down its Augathella and Mungallala mills. At the time of going to print, The Barcoo Independent had not yet been able to speak Mr Gribble about the closure.

Perfect Christmas Shopping Opportunity

Gallery Day and Evening Living Arts Centre Corner Rose and Hawthorne St Blackall Friday 4th November from 5.30pm $10 Entry per person including Light refreshments
This years feature artist is Alison Shaw with her beautiful handmade glass art.

Saturday 5th November 10.00am3.00pm Gold Coin Entry

The Barcoo Independent, Friday, November 4 2011- Page 3

WHATS ON in 2011
NOVEMBER 4-5 Gallery Day 5 Halloween Trick or Treat 5 Halloween Blue Light Disco 7-8 SDE Blackall Swim Camp 12 Dance Blackall Annual Concert 13 Music/ Zine Workshops 14 Blackall State School Dream Extreme 15 Blackall State School Awards Night 17 Blackall State School Formal 18 Anglican Ladies Guild Street Stall 20 Blackall Clay Target Monthly Shoot 26 Blackall Races 26 St Patricks Christmas Fete 27 Christmas Tree Festival 29 Christmas Under the Stars Blackall State School DECEMBER 3 Your Amazing Race Gala Dinner 16 Christmas Night Markets 16 Blackall Memorial and Sports Club Members Christmas Party 16 Blackall Clay Target Monthly Shoot 24 Christmas Eve Mardi Gras, Blackall 24 Christmas in the Park, Tambo 31 Blackall Memorial and Sports Club New Years Eve Costume Party

Rural families push for better education outcomes

The new president of Queensland Isolated Childrens Parents Association, Andrew Pegler is keen to ensure schools in rural areas are not disadvantaged because of insufficient funding allocations. Mr Pegler, who is from the Yaraka/Isisford ICPA area, said it was imperative to ensure funding was improved to ensure a smooth transition period and the successful ongoing sustainability of government reforms. Commonwealth Grants Commission data assesses the amount of funding each state will require for its educational needs, and funds are apportioned on this basis, he said. At no stage in the past decade has Queenslands spending on government schools met the Grants Commission assessed expenditure levels. Queensland is the only state for which this is the case. In the 2008/09 financial year the deficit was $336m in Queensland. Mr Pegler said all proposed future changes must be fully funded. Our students learning outcomes will only improve if schools and school staff are adequately supported and resourced. More than 250 people from rural and remote areas of Queensland gathered in Rockhampton for ICPA Queenslands 40th annual state conference in mid-October. Current issues include the Year 7 move into secondary, small school sustainability, students with special learning needs, including dyslexia, and the challenges of implementing the Australian curriculum in small schools and Schools of Distance Education in 2012. Delegates also debated the potential loss of access programs with the abolition of the Priority Country Area Program, inequitable access to broadband through the National Broadband Network (NBN), attraction and retention of quality teachers, pre-service practicums, and the widening gap between allowances and boarding school fees. Attendees included representatives from Education Queensland and the Education Shadow Minister Bruce Flegg.

Bull sales results

--Sally Cripps

FAMILY FRIENDLY LUXURY BEACH APARTMENT - MUDJIMBA, SUNSHINE COAST

Enjoy our luxury penthouse 3 bedroom apartment at Mudjimba (between Maroochydore & Coolum) on the Sunshine Coast. This large apartment features luxury ttings and includes 3 spacious bedrooms which sleep 7 people. There are 2 bathrooms, and 2 large entertaining balconies which o er unrivalled ocean views. There is a bakery, co ee shop and newsagent within strolling distance, and the safe patrolled beach is a 3 minute walk from the apartments. Add to this your own rooftop terrace, with BBQ and heated spa bath what a great place to unwind! For further details, and bookings, ph: 07 5450 6847, or email info@mudjimbaholidayrentals.com.au

October saw bull sale season come around once more in the Blackall district with the Strathmore, Barcoo Breeders and Swan Hill sales. The Swan Hill bull sale was held on October 17 with 90 bulls sold for an average price of $4,144 with a top price of $11,000. The Strathmore bull sale was held at Ravensbourne on October 18 selling 99 bulls for an average price of $4874. The sale was followed by the Australian Agricultural College Corp (AACC) Longreach Horse sale which saw 12 horses bred and trained at the AACC sold for a total of $45,500 with an average price of $ 3,791.67. The Barcoo Breeders bull sale was held on October 19 selling 95 bulls from the Forest Park Santa Stud and Nive River Pastoral Co Pty Ltd. The Forest Park average price was $4,659 with a top price of $11,000, while the average for Nive River Pastoral Co Pty Ltd was $5,302 with a top price of $16,000. The overall average price at the sale was $4984.

Page 4 - The Barcoo Independent, Friday, November 4 2011

Blackall thinks pink at Daisy Cottage

Over 60 people donned pink on Saturday morning to attend the Blackall CWAs Think Pink morning tea with over $800 raised for breast cancer. The annual event was held at Daisy Cottage with attendees enjoying morning tea with various prizes drawn on the morning. Beris Harrison and Janelle Schluter were raffle winners, Gloria Thompson won the lucky door prize and Veronica Law received the award for prettiest hat. CWA member Pauline Goodwin said they were really pleased with the attendance and atmosphere at the event. Its really good the effort people are willing to go to for this cause, Pauline said. Pauline said Daisy Cottage had proved to be a great venue for the event. Normally we have it in someones backyard but we decided to have it here and the ladies were very helpful, Pauline said.

Veronica Law received an award for the prettiest hat at the Think Pink morning tea.

Anne Hauff, Longreachs Helen Dempster and Leah Baillie CWA members Helen Hansen, Pauline Goodwin and Rebecca Parry were pleased with the events success. caught up at the Think Pink morning tea.

Community Consultation
Draft Operation of Council Cemeteries Policy
In order to provide a systematic and equitable process for dealing with operational matters relative to Council controlled cemeteries, a draft policy has been developed. Council now seeks input from interested members of the Community regarding this draft policy prior to finalisation and adoption. A copy of the Draft Policy is available on the Blackall-Tambo Regional Councils website www.btrc.qld.gov.au and is open for inspection at the Councils public offices at 6 Coronation Drive, Blackall and 21 Arthur Street, Tambo. Further enquiries can be directed to the Council Manager of Business Enterprises, Mr Murray Hilton, who can be contacted by telephone on 4621 6600. Written comments regarding the draft policy will be received until the close of business on Friday 18th November 2011 and are to be forwarded to:The Chief Executive Officer, Blackall-Tambo Regional Council, PO Box 21, Blackall Q4472

The Barcoo Independent, Friday, November 4 2011 - Page 13

Melbourne Cup at St Josephs

Fashions of the fields winner Alan Hinds and Caroline Schrag at the St Josephs Melbourne Cup Day

Lynette Davison got her fingernails painted at the Pamper Patch by Sammy Donnelly.

Monique Seymour, Clare Large, Liz Baillie and Alana Wulf caught up on Melbourne Cup day.

Kate and Ava Franzmann enjoyed attending the Melbourne Cup luncheon at St Josephs.

Gaye Crawford, Sally Suthers, Linda Povis and Erin Treston celebrated Best dressed colts Rowan Davison and Bill Turner were congratulated by Mardi the Melbourne Cup at the luncheon at St Josephs. Noonan. Page 12- The Barcoo Independent, Friday, November 4 2011

Bushfires continue to burn out Blackall country

Blackall landholders are looking to the skies for rain as lightning strikes continued to set thousands of acres of country alight in the last week. Volunteers have spent up to 30 hours at a time controlling blazes in all parts of the region and it is estimated that some properties have lost up to 70 per cent of their pasture. On Sunday afternoon a derelict cottage at Ansgrove was destroyed when a grass fire surrounded the building. Although members of the Blackall town fire brigade and rural volunteers were able to control the fire, embers beneath the cottage set it alight later and it wasnt able to be saved. On the Landsborough Highway north of Blackall last Friday a bushfire burnt down a high voltage pole at Mayfair station late that afternoon, cutting power to 147 customers on the Home Creek, Evora, Tarves and Lilydale SWERs. According to Ergon Energy spokesman Bob Pleash, supply was reinstated by 11.36 on Saturday morning, after crews replaced the pole and carried out repairs. Volunteer firefighters say the central organisation of fighting rural fires seems to be working well, where people are required to call 000 to report fires that have started. They are 500 kilometres away and dont know everything but it does mean that everyone can be in the loop, said Ian Scholes of Mena Park, north of Blackall. Weve been to a lot of fires now and everyone seems to be working as a team, which is what you need. Bruce Alexander said some of the grass fires were moving at incredible speed and stressed the need for safety, especially for those driving graders. The flames at my place were leaping 50 metres at a time; it felt like the fire had moved two kilometres in about five minutes, he said. It just left us for dead. We were very lucky that we had a lot of help arrive in a short space of time. Grader operators have to take great care in situations like that, and be able to find reverse pretty quickly. Wendy Quilty, who lives at Thornleigh, west of Blackall, said recent experiences had brought home the need for a water unit to be following graders to give added protection. In some of the fires that weve had, two graders have been essential to get them under control, she said. The one at Maree Downs we couldnt have handled at all without the help of nearby council gear. In the time it would have taken for a grader to come an hour out of town, the Moorlands house would have been under threat, so having the machinery on the spot was a

great bonus. Wendy believed the central control should be equipped with the most up-to-date maps and data on airstrip coordinates. Even having our property numbering system in their database would solve a lot of things, she said. The North Australia Fire Information website proved invaluable for Simon and Christine Campbell and neighbours just to the west of Blackall on Monday night. A quick check at 9 pm revealed three pink hotspots nearby, which became a line of fast-moving flames along a shade line when the Campbells went out in a vehicle to check. Nobody knew that the fire had started, nobody had seen it from town or the Isisford Road, and just about everybody that I called was in bed, she said. At about 3 am somebody was heard saying they wished Simon hadnt checked the website! Graziers say they are expecting to continue fighting fires for some time yet. Wendy believed the true locals were as prepared as they could be. We are all paying the price of the loss of manpower though; people are getting weary. We have to be thankful that there hasnt been any loss of livestock or personnel.

--Sally Cripps

Regional Fuel Watch BARCALDINE BLACKALL 159.9 159.5 LONGREACH 154.9 157.9

Unleaded Diesel

153.9 154.9

1st Sunday of month Sunday Night Live Sunday Night Live 1ststSunday of month 1 Sunday of month Sunday Night Live rd rd 3 Sunday of month 3 rdSunday of month FunFun Social Event Social Event 3 Sunday of month Fun Social Event

Worship services Sundays 9am PLUS...... Worship services Sundays 9am PLUS......

BLACKALL LUNIITIITIGGCHURCHH BBservices KAL 9amNN INN CCHURC Ballment LLAC ALL UU PLUS...... ACK Sundays T NG HURCH Contact: Rev Scott Worship
6pm 6pm 6pm 6pm 6pm 6pm

Kids Club Monday 3:30 5pm. Kids Club Monday 3:30 5pm. All All welcome. Kids Club Monday 3:30 5pm. Allwelcome. welcome.

Contact: Rev Scott Ballment Contact: Rev Scott Ballment Ph 07 46512662 Ph 07 46512662 Ph 07 46512662 Local contacts: 46574740; Local contacts: 46574740; Local contacts: 46574740; 46574546; 46574884 46574546; 46574884 46574546; 46574884

The Barcoo Independent, Friday, November 4 2011 - Page 5

AUCTIONS - Offer Rare Opportunities

Make 6 Violet Street your New Investment. Dont Miss Out! Auction:

Friday 11th November @ 11am

Make 8 Garden Street your New Investment. Dont Miss Out! Auction:

Friday 11th November @ 1pm

On Site 6 Violet Street Blackall View By appointment contact Helen Aspinall 0428 316 289 Email: rural.blackall.qld@raywhite.com Office: Ray White Rural Blackall 07 46 574 355

Prince of Wales Hotel

Your local taxation specialist will be attending their Blackall Office in Woods Arcade on Wednesday afternoon and Thursday morning 9 - 10 November 2011.
For all your Accountancy & Taxation needs contact Prue Button on 07 4657 4144 or email admin@rbca.com.au

Cooks own beer battered fish and chips

Two pieces of fish and chips
Takeaway only Monday - Saturday 6pm- 8pm

$10

Meals 12-1:30 pm and 6-8 pm daily 63 shamrock street 46 574 731

Page 6 - The Barcoo Independent, Friday November 4 2011

OUTWEST Soil Tests. Prompt and

reliable service. PH 0458 532 155.

CLASSIFIEDS

THE BARCOO INDEPENDENT

Blackall State School celebrates World Teachers Day

Blackall State School was awash with colour last Friday as students dressed in shades of pink and red for a three fold occasion, marking Pink Ribbon Day, World Teachers Day and a Day for Daniel. The day kicked off with the Pink Breakfast held by the school for local breast cancer survivors cooked by principal Jason Smith and teacher Colleen Morrison with the Year Eleven students waiting on tables while teachers

Historical Woolscour Association Inc. AGM

Sunday 6th November 2011 2 PM Woolscour Visitor Centre Afternoon Tea Provided All Welcome

MACKENZIE, Maisie Gwendoline Meg.

deaths

Jo Timms and Avril Fazel provided decorations. Mr Smith said the school raised $515 for breast cancer research on the day. The breakfast was a way for our school community to recognise the ladies enormous courage and strength, Mr Smith said. World Teachers Day was also celebrated with each teacher presented with cupcakes and small gifts as tokens of appreciation.

Late of Toowoomba and formerly of Blackall, passed away peacefully on 25th October 2011. Beloved Wife of Alan. Dearly loved Mother and Mother-in-law of Anne and Jason. Loving Grandmother of Holly, Wilson and Georgia. A private Service was held in Toowoomba. T.S. BURSTOW FUNERALS - Est. 1900 Australian and Family Owned Toowoomba 07 4636 9600

For sale

19 clear glass casement windows in assorted sizes. Make an offer. Phone 46 574 615

The Blackall State School primary students were dressed up colourfully last Friday.

Notice to motorists Lane closure Toowoomba Range (Warrego Highway), 12 November 2011, 2pm to 6pm and 13 November 2011, 5.30am to 3pm
The Department of Transport and Main Roads advises there will be lane closures on the Toowoomba Range (Warrego Highway) on Saturday 12 November, between 2pm and 6pm; and Sunday 13 November 2011, between 5.30am and 3pm, as part of Operation Queenslander. One of the eastbound lanes will be closed to allow slope risk assessments, following damage to the Toowoomba Range caused by ooding earlier this year. These assessments will allow the department to determine slip and erosion risks and develop options for remedial works if required. Heavy vehicles will not be permitted to use the single open down-lane of the Range during these times to allow for safe inspections. Heavy vehicles will be able to wait in holding areas at Toowoomba Showgrounds on Glenvale Road or park elsewhere, or use the alternative route of Murphys Creek Road if they are regulation-size vehicles. Transport and Main Roads inspectors and the Queensland Police will be on site to enforce these changed conditions and ensure trucks are parked appropriately. In the event of wet weather, the lane closures will be postponed. Motorists are urged to drive to the conditions and obey all signage and trafc controllers instructions. Delays of up to 10 minutes may be experienced for passenger vehicles using the highway. Operation Queenslander is the largest reconstruction effort in the states history, rebuilding communities, xing infrastructure and restoring regional economies. The program of works is being delivered under the Natural Disaster Relief and Recovery Arrangements (NDRRA), a joint federal and state initiative. Under these arrangements, the Australian Government provides 75% of the funding, with 25% from the Queensland Government. For more information during business hours, or to receive email updates register at reconstruct_darlingdowns@tmr.qld. gov.au
BlazeQ016929

For up-to-date information on trafc disruptions please visit www.131940.qld.gov.au or call please phone 13 19 40.

The Barcoo Independent, Friday, November 4 2011 - Page 11

AUCTION - Offers Rare Opportunity

Longreach Veterinary Service

will be conducting a small animal clinic in Blackall in the third week of November. Phone 07 46 583 838 for appointments

This building has a spacious three bedroom residence upstairs, with open plan living and modern kitchen. Downstairs has a reception area + 4 rooms and a kitchenette and laundry. Set on a 1206sqm parcel of land close to CBD. Potential to make this your new business or renovate into a modern home. Make 6 Violet Street your new investment. Dont Miss Out! Auction: Friday 11th November, 2011 @ 11am On Site 6 Violet Street Blackall View By appointment contact Helen Aspinall 0428 316 289 Email: rural.blackall.qld@raywhite.com Office: Ray White Rural Blackall 07 46 574 355

Internet Ref Id. BLL3776684

Local Government Act 2009 BLACKALL-TAMBO REGIONAL COUNCIL MAKING OF LOCAL LAWS The Blackall-Tambo Regional Council adopted the following Local Laws based on Models by resolution dated 9 February 2011. (a) Local Law No. 1 (Administration) 2011; and (b) Local Law No. 2 (Animal Management) 2011; and (c) Local Law No. 3 (Community and Environmental Management) 2011; and (d) Local Law No. 4 (Local Government Controlled Areas, Facilities and Roads) 2011; and
A copy of each certified Local Laws is open for inspection at the Councils public office at 6 Coronation Street, Blackall and may be purchased at a cost of 30cents per page.

PO Box 21 Blackall Q 4472

Page 10 - The Barcoo Independent, Friday, November 4 2011

Ken Timms Chief Executive Officer

LETTERS TOdecisionDITOR THE E Councils mining seems odd

The councils decision to allow mining exploration in the township of Blackall seems strange. Exploration within 2km of Blackall at almost the same time the McKinley Shire Council asked for an increase to 5 or 10 km and requested that Julia creek be included in the embargo, even though it has less than the required 1000 people. I thought if the golf course, show grounds, pistol club and racecourse had a few test holes in them it wouldnt upset me, as I never or very rarely use them. However, other people do and why should their enjoyment be curtailed. A councillor is quoted as saying that it would be nice to know if Blackall is sitting on a rich mineral deposit. It is a shame we werent given an example of where a landholder was informed there was a rich mineral deposit under their land, but because After spending nine days in Blackall (my home town) for their recent reunion which I must add was very well organised and went off like clockwork, I find it hard to come to terms with the fact that Proud Past Resident could go back to Blackall for such a great event and find so many faults in the great little town.

they were nice people it wouldnt de developed and the company would go and look elsewhere. Another recent council decision that fascinated me was the provision of a cooling off period so council could rescind anything they adopted too hastily. What a shame this innovation wasnt used here, because after they left the over heated council chambers and their brains had cooled down they might have realised their decision on mining exploration could have similar results to inviting the the Pirates of the Caribbean aboard their ship to assist with a stock take of its valuable cargo and assess the family jewels - because they were nice chaps and ever so knowledgeable on such matters!

In response to Proud Past Resident

-- Ron Kent

We were invited to a youth camp on a property outside of your beautiful town, run by the Uniting Church on the weekend of August 19, held at West Hill. On August 21, we came into Blackall in the afternoon and stayed at the camping area down on the flat, behind the town. We really enjoyed the friendliness of the shopkeepers and the great facilities you have in Blackall for tourists. The hot shower near the main street was very appreciated. We just wanted to let you know that your town is doing a good job of catering for tourists, and the bakery and fish and chips were very enjoyable. I am a retired Christian truckie and a member of Transport for Christ, which is a Christian organisation worldwide, so Ive seen a lot of towns and yours is one of the best. Keep up the good work.

Praise for Blackall

-- John and Faye Matthews, Clermont

What I saw, was a great clean and tidy town, where houses have been well maintained. There were minimal vacant shops some under refurbishment to re-open soon and friendly townspeople some of whom I had not previously met. I would like to sincerely thank all of those great people who made

my stay very memorable and something I will never forget! As for driving away with disappointment all I can say is that I drove away with a great long lasting impression.

--Ex Blackall Resident Doug Powell

5 Walter Street, BLACKALL

Neat as a pin This sturdy and neat three bedroom home comes with refrigerated air, ceiling fan and polished flooring. Master bedroom also features a wall mounted aircon unit and a ceiling fan. Down stairs is the laundry and a second toilet together with a covered outdoor living and entertaining area. For Sale Asking price is $190,000.00

47 Thistle Street, BLACKALL

Freshly Painted, Older Style Queensland Home Ideally sited on a 2,036 sqm allotment and featuring three good size bedrooms. An enclosed verandah at front is fitted with modern aluminium windows & fittings. A covered outdoor living and entertainment area is located at the rear of the home together with a garden shed. A permanent tenant is in place if required. For Sale Asking $170,000.00 Contact Bernardine 07 4658 1122 / 0429 020 540

85 Rose Street, BLACKALL

Cosy Country Cottage This cute little cottage on a large 1,730 sqm allotment is just waiting for a White Knight to carry on the good work. Partially renovated with two bedrooms plus study/ office Open plan kitchen, dining and living with polished floorboards. A covered outdoor living and entertainment area. For Sale Asking $170,000.00 Contact Bernardine 07 4658 1122 / 0429 020 540

LJ Hooker 135 Eagle Street PO Box 246 Longreach QLD 4730

Contact Bernardine 07 4658 1122 / 0429 020 540

LJ Hooker 135 Eagle Street PO Box 246 Longreach QLD 4730

LJ Hooker 135 Eagle Street PO Box 246 Longreach QLD 4730

The Barcoo Independent, Friday, November 4 2011 - Page 7

Glitz, glam and good times at tourism awards

Bruce Wallace from Tourism Queensland, Karen Hanna Matt Bron and Tony Martin from Tourism Queensland were from TPD Media and Queensland Weekender presenter pleased with the awards night. Dean Miller.

Val and Mac Nichols from Dalrymple Van Park with Stewart Kelly Walker from QR Brisbane and Aldwin Quizon from AQ Consulting, Brisbane at the awards dinner. and Deni Benson.

Robyn Adams caught up with Clem and Louise Campbell at Amanda Kemp catches up with Marisse Kinnon from award winner Kinnon and Co. the OQTA awards.

PRAYER TO THE VIRGIN MARY (NEVER KNOWN TO FAIL) O most beautiful flower of Mount Carmel, fruit of the vine, splendorous of heaven. Blessed Mother of the Son of God, Immaculate Virgin, assist me in this my necessity. O Star of the Sea help me and show me herein you are my mother. O Holy Mary, Mother of God, Queen of heaven and earth I humbly beseech you from the bottom of my heart to succour me in my necessity. There are none that can withstand your power. O show me here you are my mother. O Mary, conceived without sin, pray for us who have recourse to thee (say three times). Holy Mary I place this cause in your hands (say three times). Thank you for your mercy towards me and mine. This prayer must be said for three days and after that the request will be granted and the prayer must be published.

Do you know of something you think Contact Victoria Nugent. (07) 4657 6966 barcooindependent@gmail.com

The Barcoo Independent should cover?

Page 8 - The Barcoo Independent, Friday, November 4 2011

New answers in battle against wild dogs

Research by Biosecurity Queensland in the Blackall district is revealing new information about the behaviour of wild dogs in areas where Maremma guardian dogs are used. Biosecurity Queensland zoologist Lee Allen has been working throughout western Queensland over the past years on a project to discover how Maremma dogs protect livestock from wild dogs. The hypothesis was that guardian dogs were acting like placebo wild dogs, keeping wild dogs out of their territory but having put satellite transmitters on them weve found thats not the case, Mr Allen said. We found that dingoes regularly went into the area that the guardian dogs were in which leads us to conclude that Maremmas dont actually keep the wild dogs out but keep them from attacking the livestock. In 2009 transmitters were fitted to wild dogs and Maremmas at Dunluce, a sheep property near Hughenden for the project. The project was expanded to Stratford in order observe the use of Maremmas on a cattle property, with transmitters placed on eight Maremmas and eight wild dogs. The project is now in its final stages with the transmitters being collected and the wild dogs destroyed. Mr Allen said although the best practice for using guardian involved neutering them, that hadnt been done at Stratford, raising fears of interbreeding with wild dogs. Thats a grave concern for using guardian dogs if they start interbreeding with the wild dog population, Mr Allen said. Maremmas are a 30 kilo plus dog and much bigger animals so its concerning if they breed with the wild dogs. As a result of these concerns, Mr Allen will take DNA from the destroyed wild dogs to test if they have any Maremma genes. Mr Allen said he will also extract the upper canine tooth from the wild dogs and x-ray them to calculate their age. Almost universally the age of

wild dogs is overestimated, often by years, Mr Allen said. The research also found that 15-20% of wild dogs dispersed up to 100 kilometres from their original location, with some wild dogs travelling distances of over 1000 kilometres over a three month period, posing a problem for producers trying to eliminate them. Even if you can get rid of 100% of the wild dogs on your property, youre getting dozens and dozens of them produced just down the road. Mr Allen said it would be more effective to use pulse baiting techniques during summer when the dogs were starting to disperse by baiting multiple times several weeks apart. Mr Allen also recommended that sheep and goat producers considered using net fencing on their properties. There used to be a lease condition to have netting fences. As thats been relaxed, its allowed wild dogs to get into areas they couldnt before, Mr Allen said.

Blackall Community Market Christmas Market

This year the Christmas night market will be held in conjunction with the Blackall Tambo Regional Council at the Blackall Showgrounds on Friday 16th December starting from 5.30pm. This is a chance for the community to sell their wares and raise money for their organisations or themselves. As the markets are being held in the Showgrounds the normal stall hire will be waived. To book a stall call Joy Smith on 4657 4210. This is the third year that the markets have been sponsored by the Barcoo Pastoral Society and they are happy to continue this community event.

The Barcoo Independent, Friday, November 4 2011 - Page 9