SPORT ON THE BARCOO

Blackalls Natalie Dendle is currently working her way through a large program of events at the Queensland swimming championships in Brisbane. Natalie, who swims with the Fairholme club in Toowoomba, has registered for 10 freestyle and butterfly events. If she makes finals in each of them, that could mean swimming up to 20 races. At the time of writing, Natalie had competed in the girls 17-18 years 400 metre freestyle, coming 10th in the preliminaries, which put her in the final where she was 9th.

Big program for Nat at State swimming titles

On the same day she took part in the womens 400 metre individual medley, once again making the final, against competition from interstate and New Zealand. The following day it was on to the girls 17-18 years 400 metre individual medley final, where she was seventh. Other races in her schedule include girls 17-18 years 200 metre freestyle, 100 metre freestyle, 800 metre freestyle, Natalie Dendle and former Blackall Swim Club 200 metre butterfly, 100 friends enjoying a day out at the Blackall races. metre butterfly, 200 metre individual medley, and the womens 100 metre freestyle.

INDEPENDENT
THE BARCOO
ISSN 1832-6129 RRP $2.00

Blackalls own community newspaper

December 16 2011

Contact: barcooindependent@gmail.com

Police investigating arson attempt at Thrift Shop

Longreach Criminal Investigation Bureau and Scene of Crime detectives are investigating a fire at the Uniting Church Thrift Shop in Shamrock Street on Wednesday night. According to QPS sergeant Bruce Trickett, police are treating the incident as arson. The fire was deliberately lit, he said. It began at the front of the building. A small fire was noticed in the doorway of the shop at around 11:30 pm by a passerby, who phoned 000, notifying the Blackall fire brigade. According to Fire Captain Matthew Richardson, the Blackall QFS was able to avert a major incident. The fire was extinguished prior to entering the awning of the building, which would have enabled it to spread to an adjoining three shops. Fire Captain Richardson said that if the flames had fully engulfed the building the service would have been fully stretched in its efforts to extinguish them. A crime scene was established by Sergeant Trickett, who spent the night in the main street protecting the integrity of the scene. Uniting Church spokesperson Vonnie Klein said the incident wouldnt deter the volunteers or the business.

Billy cart buzz for Heartland

Billy cart racing is the latest fun idea to roll out of the minds of the creative folk planning the 2012 Blackall Heartland Festival. Alan Hinds and Mardi Noonan came to the festival committee with their thoughts for a family friendly day out and it has gone ahead in leaps and bounds. While its early days organisers arent sure of categories or age groups yet all the elements are coming together for some good creative fun. Blackalls Short Street hill the closest the community comes to an incline will be the venue and the date will be Sunday, May 27. This is at the tail end of the first weekend of the festival and will tie in with the Heartland Art Show and Shockwave, the youth-run festival with a music, dance, performance and arts focus. Heartland Festival president Danielle Butler said plenty of people were already talking about how to decorate their billy cart, adding that an inter-town challenge may even be on the cards. Weve got the specifications and templates to build the carts, and weve been getting business houses on board with making their own entries too, she said. We would love to hear from other groups and businesses whod like to join in. Weve been thinking of spray painting and other creative ideas to finish the carts off being the

-- Sally Cripps

Police crime scene tape ropes off the Thrift Shop, awaiting the arrival of detectives from Longreach. We had closed last Saturday and taken most of our old stock out, she said. We do a lot of work over the holidays preparing a fresh new lot of things, so we should still be able to do that. She wasnt able to give an estimate of the cost of the damage but said she didnt believe any of the Uniting Churchs stock had been damaged. People drop bags off at the front occasionally and people have come along and put clothes all over the street, or poured beer on them, but not this, she said. Vonnie added that people could now leave donations with her at 83 Rose Street or with Flo Moore at 1/11 Bedford Street. We do a good business there and it all goes to charity, she said. We will definitely be reopening on January 17. In another incident on Wednesday night, a wheelie bin was set alight at the skate park at around 9.30, completely destroying it. Geoff Fry saw the bin alight and contacted local police who attended the scene and extinguished the fire.

Heartland Festival, good design is very important! All carts will race with people power, not with animals. Danielle said it was all aimed at making a family atmosphere, complete with arts activities and good food. Poetry and yarns are planned as well, and other novelty events. Every year we try something new and and I think this day will have something for everyone, said Danielle. The 2012 Blackall Heartland Festival will run from Friday, May 25 to Sunday, June 3.

This is the final edition of The Barcoo Independent for 2011. The first issue for 2012 will be released on Friday afternoon, January 27, due to the Australia Day public holiday on Thursday January 26.
Page 20- The Barcoo Independent, Friday, December 16 2011

This is the final edition of The Barcoo Independent for 2011. The first issue for 2012 will be released on Friday afternoon, January 27, due to the Australia Day public holiday on Thursday January 26.

Every few years another university puts out a paper questioning the sense in funding projects in rural communities, and its happened again this week. The National Institute for Rural and Regional Australia at the Australian National University says there needs to be more frank discussion about the value of keeping small towns afloat. According to the institutes director, Dr Anthony Hogan, money is pouring into our area via the federal governments $10 billion Regional Development Australia Fund but it wont necessarily stimulate long-term economic development. The researchers seem to be very out of touch with the areas they are talking about, as no RDA

Editorial

Barcoo Independent TV Guide December 18- December 24 ABC SEVEN Imparja SBS
better direct government funding to stimulate economic growth to ensure their viability, especially as we face the prospect of Fly In Fly Out mining in future years. Industries happening beside us but not part of us wont help. But we can do some things to help ourselves too. One of the main ways we can do this is to SHOP LOCALLY! Otherwise we will wake up one of these days and discover more and more of our businesses closing down through lack of custom. Theres a week left until Christmas I urge you all to do what you can to keep the doors open locally. We need to show funding bodies that we value what we have here by giving it our support.
5:00 A Very Specky Christmas 6:00 ABC News Breakfast 9:00 ABC News 9:30 ABC News 24 Mornings 10:00 Bens Zoo 11:00 How Earth Made Us 12:00 Midday Report 12:30 Henry VIII: Mind Of A Tyrant 1:30 Bush Slam 2:00 Bed Of Roses 3:05 Childrens Programs 6:00 Country House Rescue Revisits 6:50 Miniscule 7:00 ABC News 7:30 7:30 8:00 Outnumbered 8:30 QI 9:00 The Thick of It 9:35 Absolutely Fabulous 10:05 The Trip 10:35 ABC News Late Edition 10:45 Michael McIntyres Comedy Roadshow 11:30 5 Lost At Sea 12:25 Ten Minute Tales 12:35 Absolutely Fabulous 1:05 The Trip 1:30 The Chasers War On Repeats 2:00 Football: W-League: Melbourne Victory Vs Brisbane Roar 4:00 rage 5:00 Island Life 5:30 Treasure Hunt 6:00 ABC News Breakfast 9:00 ABC News 9:30 ABC News 24 Mornings 10:00 Willies Perfect Chocolate Christmas 11:00 Country House Rescue Revisits 12:00 Midday Report 12:30 Tess Of The DUrbervilles 1:25 My Family 2:00 First Tuesday Book Club With Jennifer Byrne 3:00 Childrens Programs 6:00 River Cottage Christmas Special 7:00 ABC News 7:30 7.30 8:00 Jimmys Food Factory 8:30 Gordon Ramsays Ultimate Christmas 9:25 Greatest Cities Of The World With Griff Rhys Jones 10:10 ABC News: Late Edition 10:20 Bastard Boys 11:20 Live From Abbey Road 12:10 Gordon Ramsays Ultimate Christmas 12:55 Jennifer Byrne Presents 1:30 Hungry Beast 2:00 Basketball: WNBL: Logan Vs Townsville 4:00 rage 5:00 Can We Help? 5:30 The New Inventors 6:00 ABC News Breakfast 9:00 ABC News 9:30 ABC News 24 Mornings 10:00 River Cottage Christmas Special 11:00 Chopper Rescue 11:30 One Plus One 12:00 Midday Report 12:30 Land Girls 2:10 The Art Of Fun 3:00 Childrens Programs 6:00 Compass 6:30 Kung Fu Panda Holiday 7:00 ABC News 7:30 7.30 8:00 My Family 8:30 Midsomer Murders 10:05 The Old Guys 10:35ABC News: Late Edition 10:50 Adam Hills In Gordon St Tonight 11:45 rage 5:00 rage 10:00 rage FIFTY 11:00 Rick Steins Christmas Odyssey 12:00 Pohs Kitchen 12:30 My Family 1:00 Movie: Its A Wonderful Life 3:05 Skellig 4:50 Ten Minute Tales 5:00 My Family Christmas Special 6:00 Carols From St Andrews 6:30 Gardening Australia 7:00 ABC News 7:30 Going Postal 9:05 The Jonathan Ross Show: Christmas Special 10:20 Wil Anderson - Wilosophy 11:15 Doctor Who 12:15 rage FIFTY 5:00 Sunrise Extra 5:30 Seven Early News 6:00 Sunrise 9:00 The Morning Show 11:30 Morning News 12:00 Movie: A Grandpa For Christmas 2:00 Dr Oz 3:00 Find My Family 3:30 Childrens Programs 4:30 Seven News 5:00 Discover Tasmania 5:30 Deal or No Deal 6:00 Seven News 6:30 Today Tonight 7:00 Highway Patrol 7:30 Worlds Strictest Parents 8:40 Criminal Minds 9:40 The Pacific 11:40 30 Rock 12:05 Sons and Daughters 1:00 Infomercials 3:00 Home Shopping 3:30 Room For Improvement 4:00 NBC Today 5:00 Sunrise Extra 5:30 Seven Early News 6:00 Sunrise 9:00 The Morning Show 11:30 Morning News 12:00 Movie: The Christmas Card 2:00 Dr Oz 3:00 Find My Family 3:30 Childrens Programs 4:30 Seven News 5:00 Discover Tasmania 5:30 Deal or No Deal 6:00 Seven News 6:30 Today Tonight 7:00 Movie: The Santa Clause 3 9:00 Happy Endings 9:30 Movie: Surviving Christmas 11:40 30 Rock 12:00 Trauma 1:00 Infomercials 3:00 Home Shopping 4:00 NBC Today 5:00 Sunrise Extra 5:30 Seven Early News 6:00 Sunrise 9:00 The Morning Show 11:30 Morning News 12:00 Movie: Five Children And I 2:00 Childrens Programs 4:30 Seven News 5:00 Discover Tasmania 5:30 Deal or No Deal 6:00 Seven News 6:30 Today Tonight 7:00 Drug Bust 7:30 Better Homes and Gardens Summer 8:30 Lewis 10:30 Maneaters 11:30 Perfect Couples 12:00 Australias Endangered Species 2:00 Auction Squad 3:00 Infomercials 4:00 NBC Today 6:00 Childrens Programs 7:00 Weekend Sunrise 9:00 Saturday Disney 11:00 Childrens Programs 1:30 Movie: The Adventures of Charlotte and Henry 3:10 Movie: Karrolls Christmas 5:05 Creek to Coast 5:30 Queensland Weekender 6:00 Seven News 6:30 No Leave No Life 7:00 Off the Eaten Track 7:30 Christmas Special: Prep & Landing 8:00 Hannah Montana: The Movie 10:05 Movie: Blue Crush 12:05 Broken Lizards Club Dread 2:20 Mamas Gone A-Hunting 4:30 Home Shopping 5:00 Style by Jury 5:30 Christmas Special: Tigger and Pooh: Super Sleuth Christmas 5:00 Early News 5:30 Today 9:00 Kerri-Anne Summer Series 11:00 Morning News 12:00 The Ellen DeGeneres Show 1:00 Danoz Direct 2:00 Days of Our Lives 3:00 Entertainment Tonight 3:30 Childrens Programs 4:30 Afternoon News 5:30 Hot Seat 6:00 National News 6:30 A Current Affair 7:00 The Big Bang Theory 7:30 RBT 8:30 TBA 10:30 True CSI 11:30 Live At The Chapel Presents Eskimo Joe/PNAU 12:00 Take 40 Live Lounge 12:30 Entertainment Tonight 1:00 Skippy the Bush Kangaroo 1:30 Danoz Direct 3:00 Newstyle Direct 3:30 Good Morning America 5:00 Early News 5:30 Today 9:00 Kerri-Anne Summer Series 11:00 Morning News 12:00 The Ellen DeGeneres Show 1:00 Danoz Direct 2:00 Days of Our Lives 3:00 Entertainment Tonight 3:30 Childrens Programs 4:30 Afternoon News 5:30 Hot Seat 6:00 National News 6:30 A Current Affair 7:00 The Big Bang Theory 7:30 Getaway 8:30 Unforgettable 9:30 CSI NY 10:30 Nothing Trivial 11:30 Rubicon 12:30 The Baron 1:30 Danoz Direct 3:00 Newstyle Direct 3:30 Good Morning America 5:00 Early Morning News 5:30 Today 9:00 Kerri-Anne Summer Series 11:00 Morning News 12:00 The Ellen DeGeneres Show 1:00 Danoz Direct 2:00 Days of Our Lives 3:00 Entertainment Tonight 3:30 Childrens Programs 4:30 Afternoon News 5:30 Hot Seat 6:00 National News 6:30 A Current Affair 7:00 The Big Bang Theory 7:30 TBA 8:30 Movie 10:40 Movie 12:30 TBA 2:30 The Avengers 3:30 Danoz Direct 4:30 Good Morning America 6:00 Childrens Programs 7:00 Weekend Today 9:00 Childrens Programs 2:00 Danoz Direct 2:30 Movie: The Year Without Santa Claus 4:30 The Garden Gurus 5:00 Getaway 5:30 4WD TV 6:00 National News 6:30 Australias Funniest Home Videos 7:30 Kung Fu Panda 8:00 Carols by Candlelight 11:00 Little Britain 12:40 Movie: Snow Wonder 1:35 Movie: A Carol Christmas 3:10 Spyforce 4:05 Danoz Direct 5:30 Dora the Explorer 5:05 International News 1:00 Movie: The Keys to the House 3:00 Letters and Numbers 3:30 Al Jazeera News 4:00 The Journal 4:30 PBS Newshour 5:30 Global Village 6:00 Letters and Numbers 6:30 World News Australia 7:30 Explore 8:30 One Born Every Minute 9:30 World News Australia 10:00 Movie: Tulpan 11:50 112 Emergency

5:00 Weatherwatch and Music

Wednesday December 21

money came west of the Great Divide in Queensland. I have a feeling we are not even part of their calculations and are beyond saving. Nowhere between Mt Isa and Toowoomba has a larger population than 15 000, which the researchers say is the critical mass needed before viability is more likely. When I posted this on my Facebook page, people from around the state and overseas all spoke out in support of little towns, the supportive community lifestyle we have, the value our towns offer in supporting the nations food producers, all the things you cant measure economically. I think our leaders need to get hold of the discussion paper and find out how it proposes to

It is great to see the new notice boards in operation for both Blackall and Tambo. The Blackall board is situated in Short Street; the board in Tambo is located in the courtyard of the Multi Purpose Centre. Work has been completed at the Blackall showgrounds Multipurpose Sport and Recreation building. Cementing of walkways and seating will give patrons easier and safer access to the catering and the bar area. This was a project commenced by the Blackall WORC detainees and completed by the Blackall-Tambo Regional Council workforce. There have been letters of congratulation sent in to council regarding the Christmas tree in Blackall Memorial Park and the spirit of Christmas it represents. The Blackall-Tambo Regional Council community Christmas party will be held at the Blackall showgrounds from 6pm on Friday 16th December with lots of entertaining activities plus a free barbecue and fireworks. Weather permitting, the side track at Dismal Creek will be opened by the end of the week to 4WD

FROM THE MAYORS DESK

vehicles only. Heavy vehicles are unable to use the crossing and I request residents to adhere to this to ensure the continuation of the access. The declaration of the Cooper Creek as a Wild River was expected but nonetheless a disappointment. The state government is dissatisfied with the stewardship of local landholders and has resorted to the imposition of punitive legislation to preserve areas which have been actively explored and mined for the past 25 years at least. No funding for pest management has been allocated. Just what are they preserving??? The Commonwealth Banking Corporation has operated a branch in Blackall for 55 years. Yesterday an announcement was made that the branch will, as of

next January, be trading from 10.30am until 2.30pm Monday to Friday, reducing the available hours for banking by half as well as halving the hours of employment of the staff. I have written to CBC managing director Ian Narev and to the area manager Donna Doyle. I have also contacted local member Vaughan Johnson. If you feel strongly enough about this issue please contact the banks customer relations department. There are forms available at the branch. I cant help but recall the Dickens tale of Scrooge at Christmas.what a time to make an announcement of this nature!! 2011 went from flooding to fires and back to rain in the space of 10 months. Tremendous community spirit has grown out of all that has transpired. On behalf of the Blackall-Tambo Regional Council, I would like to wish everyone in the region a wonderful Christmas and may it be spent with family and friends. May the New Year be all you could possibly wish for, filled with good health, wealth and happiness.

Jan Ross

Page 2 - The Barcoo Independent, Friday, December 16 2011

1:20 Weatherwatch Overnight 5:00 Weatherwatch and Music 5:05 International News 1:00 Food Lovers Guide to Australia 1:30 Inspector Rex 2:30 The Squiz 3:00 Letters and Numbers 3:30 Al Jazeera News 4:00 The Journal 4:30 PBS Newshour 5:30 Global Village 6:00 Letters and Numbers 6:30 World News Australia 7:30 My Sri Lanka with Peter Kuruvita 8:00 One Man and His Campervan 8:30 The Family 9:30 World News Australia 10:05 Movie: 36 Quai Des Orfevres 12:00 Movie: The Woodsman 1:35 Weatherwatch Overnight 5:00 Weatherwatch and Music 5:05 International News 1:00 Food Lovers Guide to Australia 1:30 Inspector Rex 2:30 The Squiz 3:00 Letters and Numbers 3:30 Al Jazeera News 4:00 The Journal 4:30 PBS Newshour 5:30 Global Village 6:00 Letters and Numbers 6:30 World News Australia 7:30 Coast 8:30 As It Happened 9:30 World News Australia 10:05 The Pirelli Calendar Saga 11:10 Movie: The Manual of Love 2 1:20 Movie: Heartbreak Hotel 3:10Weatherwatch Overnight 5:00 Weatherwatch and Music 5:05 International News 1:00 La Grande-Duchesse de Gerolstein 3:45 The Chopin Preludes 3:55 The Chopin Etudes 4:00 Tim Marlow Meets 4:30 PBS Newshour 5:30 The Legends of Santa 6:30 World News Australia 7:30 Big, Bigger, Biggest 8:30 Mythbusters 9:30 RocKwiz Christmas Special 10:55 Movie: Iznogoud 12:40 SOS 1:40 Movie: Jade Warrior 3:35 Weatherwatch Overnight

Thursday December 22 Friday December 23 Saturday December 24

The Barcoo Independent, Friday, December 16 2011 - Page 19

Barcoo Independent TV Guide December 18- December 17 ABC SEVEN Imparja SBS
5:00 Rage 6:30 Childrens Programs 9:00 ABC News 24 Mornings 9:30 The World This Week 10:00 ABC News 24 Mornings 10:40 Christianity: A History 11:30 Songs of Praise 12:00 Beachcomber Cottage 1:00 7:30 1:30 Message Stick 2:00 The Story Of India 3:00 La Boheme 4:55 Dance Academy 5:25 Sergei Prokofievs Peter And The Wolf 6:00 Yellowstone 6:50 Miniscule 7:00 ABC News 7:30 The Schools Spectacular 2011 8:30 Upstairs Downstairs 9:35 When Teenage Meets Old Age 10:35 Wuthering Heights 11:45 Movie: Bush Christmas 1:10 Ten Minute Tales 1:25 Carols From St Pauls 2:25 Three Faces Of Christmas 2:55 When Teenage Meets Old Age 4:00 rage 5:00 Stuff 5:30 Collectors 6:00 ABC News Breakfast 9:00 ABC News 9:30 ABC News 24 Mornings 10:00 Bens Zoo 10:30 Penguin Island 11:00 Best Of Landline 12:00 Midday Report 12:30 Monarch of the Glen 1:25 Catalyst Bytes 1:30 Annabel Langbein: The Free Range Cook 2:00 Bed Of Roses 3:00 Childrens Programs 6:00 Grand Designs 6:50 Miniscule 7:00 ABC News 7:30 7:30 8:00 Whos Been Sleeping In My House? 8:30 The Hour 9:30 Kevin McClouds Grand Tour 10:25 ABC News: Late Edition 10:35 Silent Witness 11:30 Darling Buds Of May 12:20 The Hour 1:20 Agatha Christie: Poirot 3:00 Bowls: Australia v RSA 2011 4:00 rage 5:00 Gardening Australia 5:30 First Tuesday Book Club With Jennifer Byrne 6:00 ABC News Breakfast 9:00 ABC News 9:30 ABC News 24 Mornings 10:00 Bens Zoo 10:30 Penguin Island 11:00 Rivers With Griff Rhys Jones 12:00 Midday Report 12:30 National Press Club Address 1:30 Meerkat Manor 2:00 Bed Of Roses 3:00 Childrens Programs 6:00 Turn Back Time: The High Street 7:00 ABC News 7:30 7.30 8:00 Nigella Kitchen 8:30 Rick Steins Cornish Christmas 9:35 The Grumpy Guide to Christmas 10:35 ABC News Late Edition 10:45 Spooks 11:40 The Pursuit Of Excellence 12:40 Carols From St Patricks 2:30 Movie: Holiday Affair 4:00 rage 6:00 Childrens Programs 7:00 Weekend Sunrise 10:00 Kochies Business Builders 10:30 The DaVincibles 11:00 Childrens Programs 2:00 Movie: Miracle 4:30 Martin Clunes: A Man And His Dogs 5:30 The Great South East 6:00 Seven News 6:30 Special: The Vicar Of Dibley 7:30 Dog Patrol 8:00 Coastwatch 8:30 Bones 9:30 Castle 10:30 Royal Pains 11:30 Love Bites 12:30 : Auction Squad 1:30 The Real Seachange 2:00 Home Shopping 3:00 NBC Today 4:00 NBC Meet the Press 5:00 Sunrise Extra 5:30 Seven Early News 6:00 Sunrise 9:00 The Morning Show 11:30 Morning News 12:00 Movie: All I Want For Christmas 2:00 Dr Oz 3:00 Find My Family 3:30 Childrens Programs 4:30 News at 4:30 5:00 Destination New Zealand 5:30 Deal or No Deal 6:00 Seven News 6:30 Today Tonight 7:00 Megastructures 8:10 Highway Patrol 8:40 Criminal Minds 9:40 Air Crash Investigations 10:40 Royal Pains 11:35 Keeping Up With The Kardashians 12:00 Auction Squad 1:00 Infomercials 3:00 Home Shopping 3:30 Room For Improvement 4:00 NBC Today 5:00 Sunrise Extra 5:30 Seven Early News 6:00 Sunrise 9:00 The Morning Show 11:00 Morning News 12:00 Movie: What I Did For Love 2:00 Dr Oz 3:00 Find My Family 3:30 Childrens Programs 4:30 News at 4:30 5:00 Discover Tasmania 5:30 Deal or No Deal 6:00 Seven News 6:30 Today Tonight 7:00 Megastructures 8:10 Highway Patrol 8:40 Movie: Love Actually 11:15 Keeping Up With The Kardashians 12:10 House Calls To The Rescue 1:00 Home Shopping 3:00 Home Shopping 4:00 NBC Today 6:00 Childrens Programs 7:00 Weekend Today 10:00 Pyramid 10:30 Kitchen Whiz 11:00 Australian Fishing Championships 11:30 Australian Masters Golf 4:30 Antiques Roadshow 5:00 The Wildlife Man 6:00 National News Sunday 6:30 TBA 7:30 60 Minutes 8:30 The Mentalist 9:30 The Underbelly Files 11:30 Flashpoint 12:30 The Baron 1:30 Spyforce 2:30 Danoz Direct 3:30 Newstyle Direct 4:00 Good Morning America 5:00 Early News 5:30 Today 9:00 Kerri-Anne Summer Series 10:00 TBA 11:00 National Morning News 12:00 The Ellen DeGeneres Show 1:00 Danoz Direct 2:00 Days of Our Lives 3:00 Entertainment Tonight 3:30 Childrens Programs 4:30 National Afternoon News 5:30 Hot Seat 6:00 National News 6:30 A Current Affair 7:00 The Big Bang Theory 8:00 Hot in Cleveland 8:30 The Mentalist 9:30 Harrys Law 10: 30 Extreme Makeover 11:30 Undercovers 12:30 The Avengers 1:30 Entertainment Tonight 2:00 Danoz Direct 3:00 Newstyle Direct 3:30 Good Morning America 5:00 Early News 5:30 Today 9:00 Kerri-Anne Summer Series 10:00 TBA 11:00 National Morning News 12:00 The Ellen DeGeneres Show 1:00 Danoz Direct 2:00 Days of Our Lives 3:00 Entertainment Tonight 3:30 Childrens Programs 4:30 National Afternoon News 5:30 Hot Seat 6:00 National News 6:30 A Current Affair 7:00 The Big Bang Theory 8:00 The Middle 8:30 Two and a Half Men 9:00 Mike and Molly 9:30 Survivor: South Pacific 10:30 Nothing Trivial 11:30 The Unusuals 12:30 20/20 1:00 Entertainment Tonight 1:30 Danoz Direct 3:00 Newstyle Direct 3:30 Good Morning America 5:00 International News 8:30 PopAsia 10:30 UEFA Europa League Highlights 11:00 Les Murrays Football Feature 12:00 FIFA Futbol Mundial 12:30 Speedweek 2:00 Al Jazeera News 3:00 Celtic Woman: Songs from the Heart 4:00 Life on Fire: Volcano Doctors 5:00 Cycling Central 6:00 Thalassa 6:30 World News Australia 7:30 The Bible: A History 8:30 The Promise 10:30 Movie: Shall We Kiss? 12:15 Movie: Dhoom 2:35 Weatherwatch Overnight 5:00 Weatherwatch and Music 5:05 International News 1:00 Arc of Fire 2:00 Deepwater Disaster - The Untold Story 3:00 Letters and Numbers 3:30 Al Jazeera News 4:00 The Journal 4:30 Futbol Mundial 5:00 The Crew 5:30 Global Village 6:00 Letters and Numbers 6:30 World News Australia 7:30 Mythbusters 8:30 Man vs Wild 9:30 World News Australia 10:00 Housos 10: 30 The Mighty Boosh: A Journey Through Time and Space 11:30 The World Game 12:35 Movie: Keane 2:20 Weatherwatch Overnight 5:00 Weatherwatch and Music 5:05 International News 1:00 Movie: Not By Chance 3:00 Letters and Numbers 3:30 Al Jazeera News 4:00 The Journal 4:30 PBS Newshour 5:30 Global Village 6:00 Letters and Numbers 6:30 World News Australia 7:30 Desperately Seeking Doctors 8:30 Go Back to Where You Came From 9:30 World News Australia 10:10 Thriller in Manila 11:50 Movie: Casanegra 2:10 Weatherwatch Overnight

Commonwealth Bank to reduce its trading hours in Blackall

The Commonwealth Banking Corporation has announced that trading hours at its Blackall branch will be from 10.30 am to 2.30 pm as of January 30 next year. Operating hours have been from 9 am-4 pm from Mondays to Thursdays and 9 am to 5 pm on Fridays. Commonwealth Bank media and issues management advisor Nichole Willson said this decision was made following a review of some of its smaller branch operations following a reduction in transactional banking levels. These smaller branches generally have two to three staff and some have closed at lunchtimes to give staff a break, she said. Following the review and in order to continue to provide service to our customers five days a week, we are reducing the hours of operation in some smaller branches nationally. Blackall is the only branch in Queensland to be affected by the changes. The change in hours means that we will be able to open during the peak lunch period when normally the bank would, for staff security reasons, be required to close, Ms Willson said. The Commonwealth Bank believes it is important to maintain a presence in regional and rural Australia and by reducing its hours of operation it can continue to do this. Customers wanting to make a transaction outside these hours will be directed to Australia Post. Ms Willson added that the bank was working with staff to discuss options, including moving from a full-time to part-time position or redeployment to a larger branch. Our primary objective is to keep service open for our customers and to retain our staff wherever possible, she said. The announcement has provoked an angry response from Blackall-Tambo mayor Jan Ross, who said it would be a huge blow to the area. As well as reducing the number of hours that the public can conduct face to face banking by three hours on most days, Cr Ross said it would reduce the hours of employment for the staff at the branch. I feel this is the thin edge of the wedge, she said. I cant help but recall the Dickens tale of Scrooge at Christmas what a time to make an announcement of this nature. Cr Ross also noted that the corporation had made another large profit this year.

Sunday December 18 Monday December 19 Tuesday December 20

BLACKALL IGA CHRISTMAS CLUB

We will be running our Christmas Club again in 2012 Just ask instore for your application and start saving. Club members enjoy the convenience of fixed payments and control over when and what you purchase. Every member will receive their Christmas Club card in December and this can be used over the next 12 months. All Club members also receive double loyalty group points on purchases made with their Christmas Club card.
EXCLUSIVELY OFFERED AT YOUR LOCAL IGA

Programs correct at time of printing but may change owing to unforeseen circumstances
CLASSIFICATIONS: G M Mature Classification Recommended for viewing by mature audiences. PG MA Mature Audience Not suitable for people under 15 years of age. AV

General Classification Parental Guidance Recommended Adult Violence Classification Not suitable for people under 15 years of age.

Page 18- The Barcoo Independent, Friday, December 16 2011

The Barcoo Independent, Friday, December 16 2011- Page 3

WHATS ON in 2011
DECEMBER 16 Blackall Community Christmas Party 16 Christmas Night Markets 16 Blackall Memorial and Sports Club Members Christmas Party 17 Blackall Clay Target Christmas Shoot 24 Christmas in the Park, Tambo 31 Blackall Memorial and Sports Club New Years Eve Costume Party

Grassland pre-loved art sale

The Grassland Art Gallery in Tambo will host the opening for its pre-loved art and jewellery sale on January 16. The free event will start at 5pm with nibbles provided and a gold coin bar operating. People interested in attending are asked to RSVP to Alison Shaw at cfo@btrc.qld.gov.au.

Christmas Sign Competition

WHATS ON in 2012
JANUARY 16 Pre-loved Art/ Jewellery Sale Opening Grassland Gallery Tambo 16-17 Matisse Drawing Workshops Grassland Gallery Tambo MARCH 3 Blackall Races 16-18 Blackall Campdraft APRIL 21 Blackall Races 23 Angelflight Trailblazer Henley on the Barcoo MAY 5-6 Blackall Show 25 Blackall Heartland Festival Opens 26-27 Shockwave Festival
The Barcoo Independent Christmas mailbox/signpost

competition is on again! Rural and town residents alike can join in and get creative with their mailbox. To be in the running for a years subscription to The Barcoo Independent in 2011, email a photograph of your decorated property sign/mailbox/front gate to barcooindependent@gmail.com before Christmas Day. The winner will be announced via email before the New Year and in the first paper for 2012 on January 27. The prize is worth $141 to have your community newspaper posted to you each week. Photographs must be digital as they are emailed out of the district to judges who dont know anyone from Blackall for selection.

Harbinger consultants John Armstrong and Linda Corelli are powering ahead with the feasibility study for the Tambo Shear Power project. The feasibility study will refine the idea into a workable project with specific aims and actions of how Tambo will grab the visitors attention and epitomize our town and community lifestyle. Utilising the prominent location, Shear Power will be the beginning of the story and the pivot that will enable curating a whole of town visitor experience, as well as evoking nostalgic feelings of Tambos shearing and pioneering past. The identified five stand shearing shed was re-visited, measured and photographed from every angle. The shed is a beautiful example of a bush timber built structure, totally authentic and will be a positive expression of community identity and our past. Within the scope of the study,

Tambo shearing shed project powers on

measurements and images will be worked into plans by an architect and the best method of relocation identified. The relocated building will be more than a shed it will become a source of community pride, a snap shot of history, and a point of connection for the town and community. Mayor Jan Ross attended a reference group meeting with community and government tourism representatives and stated, This is an exciting concept, it has the potential to be as large as we want to go and we are capable of making it happen. As the feasibility study becomes more refined and detailed there will be community meetings to garner feedback and input. This project is to benefit and attract our local community and the Blackall-Tambo Region as well as tourists, so your reactions and comments are welcome.

--Alison Shaw

A glimpse of the shearing shed that could be relocated to Tambo for the Shear Power project.

Vicky, Missy, Ruth, Jo-lene, Cass and Andrea of the Commonwealth Bank of Australia would like to wish everyone a Merry Christmas and a safe New Year.
Trading Hours 26th December - Closed 27th December - Closed 28th December - 9:30am - 4:00pm 29th December - 9:30am - 4:00pm 30th December - 9:30am - 5:pm 2nd January - Closed 3rd January - 9:30am and back to regular trading hours We are looking forward to seeing you all in 2012!

Hippos Outback Pest Control

Qualified Termite and Pest Technician
BSA: 1192762 PEST LICENSE: PMT-0-14703

David and Michelle Rogers would like to thank their valued customers for the support during 2011.

0428465800

We wish our valued clients a Merry Christmas and a happy and safe New Year. We look forward to being of service to you in 2012.
Page 4 - The Barcoo Independent, Friday, December 16 2011

The Barcoo Independent, Friday, December 16 2011 - Page 17

New arts projects for region

Projects including an innovative strategic initiative, contemporary collections, woodworking, dance and silver smithing workshops are among the five projects in the latest arts grant round from Blackall Tambo Regional Council. In this round of funding from the Regional Arts Development Fund (RADF), a partnership between the Queensland Government and regional councils, we will see workshops in silver smithing and woodworking presented by the Blackall Cultural Association, mayor Jan Ross said. Dance Blackall will be arranging hip hop dance workshops in Blackall and Tambo, and local tutors Luke Sweeney and Birrali Schefe will be mentored and trained by visiting tutor Bekky Carter. The Blackall Tambo Regional Council will employ the regions Museum Development Officer, Bronwyn Roper to undertake significance assessments of Councils collections held at Ram Park, the Tambo Heritage Precinct and the recently purchased antiques collection in Blackall. Council in partnership with the Tambo Arts Council Inc. will also be the recipient of funds for their strategic initiative, Art in the Grasslands, a public art concept design project to be held in Tambo next year. The committee noted during their assessment that applicants need to be conscious that their project is leading to further development and new innovations in the arts and not be accessed recurrently. The Regional Arts Development Fund is a partnership between Blackall Tambo Regional Council and the Queensland Government through Arts Queensland to support local arts and culture. The successful and long-running RADF program gives communities the flexibility to shape their own arts and cultural priorities.

christmas message... is there rOOm iN the iNN? I have always been struck, reading the Christmas story, at the seemingly unbelievable act of the innkeeper. Who could turn away someone pregnant with Christ? The story doesnt suggest that the innkeeper was malicious or inhospitable. It says only that there was no room in the inn. No room! No place for more guests! Booked up! No space for hospitality! In these expressions, I see the real reason why there is so little of Christ left in Christmas. It is not so much, our excesses in shopping, decorating, or partying that deprive Christ of a place, as it is our busy-ness, preoccupations, hurriedness, and agenda which fill the inn and leave no place for him. Our hearts and lives are too full for Christ to have a place. Looked at from the outside, our lives often do look selfish, inhospitable, idiosyncratic, and un-Christian. However, we are not bad people, nor are we, deep down, inhospitable. Beneath all the hurry, pressure, and preoccupations, our hearts are warm, unselfish and welcoming. Then why arent we more warm and hospitable? In brief, because we havent the time! Love and hospitality are not abstract. To have Christ in our lives, to put him back into Christmas, involves something much more than protesting commercialism. It involves creating time for him, time for the poor, time for hospitality, time for celebration, time for prayer, time for the itinerant couple who show up unannounced on a busy night. To make a holiday is to, ultimately, make a holy day. (An excerpt from an article by Fr Ron Rolheiser omi) May our prayer be that we create some room in the inn and welcome again those who are special to each of us, especially our families and friends, as well as the guest who comes unexpectedly this Christmas. May the blessings and peace of the Christ Child be with you all this Christmas and may 2012 be filled with many new and wonderful possibilities. Merry Christmas from the Blackall Combined Churches... Rev Scott Ballment, Rev Beth ONeill, Fr Ronaldo Rodriguez Fr Matthew Moloney

Merryfor your continued support throughout Christmas Blackall Thank you

2011 & Happy New Year for 2012
.... gotta be better than eleven! from... Max & Staff SEYMOURS Department Store.... My special thanks to some very special people... To Cathy D, Amanda-Kate, Kiah-Maria and ole Sox... I would like to publicly mention and thank especially for their unselfish time, dedication, loyalty and maturity displayed - at all times, but more particularly during my time of absence and sickness early this year. Their help was appreciated by us all. Thank you also to the many people who enquired after my wellbeing - sent floral arrangements, cards, messages and made visitations while I was hospitalised away - the strength you gave me during a desperate time was immeasurable- just the best drug! Getting better was the easy part. Max Seymour

BLACKALL CHURCHES CHRISTMAS SERVICE TIMES

ANGLICAN: Holy Trinity Church Coronation Drive Christmas Eve 9pm: Coffee & Cake 9.30pm Communion Christmas Day 9am Communion ASSEMBLIES OF GOD HEARTLAND CHURCH Leek Street Christmas Day: 8am Christmas Service CATHOLIC: St Patricks Church Thistle Street Christmas Eve: 9 pm UNITING: Uniting Church Clematis Street Christmas Day: 7am Christmas Service

TAMBO CHURCHES CHRISTMAS SERVICE TIMES

ANGLICAN: St Michael & All Angels Christmas Eve 5.30pm Communion CATHOLIC: Our Lady of Victories Christmas Eve 5.30pm Mass COMBINED CHURCHES CHRISTMAS IN THE PARK 6.15PM

Page 16- The Barcoo Independent, Friday, December 16 2011

The Barcoo Independent, Friday, December 16 2011 - Page 5

Alison explains lane closure

An appeal has been made to the Blackall public to respect the occasional closure of the access lane commonly referred to as Barcoo Lane in times of wet weather. The lane is private property and has been closed a few times lately by one of its owners, Alison McNall. Its only been in the last year, since its been very wet, she said. I just want people to respect my need to close it when its so wet, and explain that they dont have the right to move the barricade I put up. This is deliberate damage and trespass on private property. Alison said not many people realised the lane wasnt a council road. My address is actually 62 Thistle Street this is an easement, she said. Theres no street sign for Barcoo Lane because it doesnt belong to the council. She has taken to rolling out drums and erecting barricade tape when it looks as though the weather is setting in, for a number of reasons. Our water pipe runs down the lane and twice trucks have caused breaks when the lane is wet, she said. Deep wheel ruts left by traffic in wet weather affect her 92-year-old fathers ability to use his gopher to visit 60s+ Better, and the ruts also have to be filled at Alisons cost. She was upset last week to find that someone had moved the drums and slashed and taken the orange safety mesh. If there was no other access to get to where they were going, fair enough, but there is still access to the Barcoo Hotel from a number of other roads. Alison said she was unwilling to put up a fence and gate with a padlock as recommended by local police, as it was only for a few days every now and then. That would be a bigger nuisance as my portion would not allow access by a truck if need be, she said. I hope this will clarify the situation. She added that the easements co-owner, Jeff Pohlner had told her he had no objection to her actions. The postman thinks its a good idea too as the lane stays reasonably smooth. Page 6 - The Barcoo Independent, Friday December 16 2011

The Blackall Memorial and Sports Club

CLASSIFIEDS
BEREAVEMENT THANKS Elizabeth Christine Langdon 25 June 1943 - 29 November 2011

THE BARCOO INDEPENDENT

LETTER TO THE EDITOR

The RSL Senior Citizens Club wishes to express its thanks to the following businesses and individuals for their generous donations and support towards our end of year function. Our thanks go to Barcoo Butchery, Schluters Bakery, Jenny and Barry Muir (Universal Garden Gallery), Neville Dolinski (Prince

Thanks from the Senior Citizens Club

extends season greetings to all members and their families.

REMINDER TO MEMBERS

the Club Christmas Party is tonight - Friday, the 16th December Starting at 6pm with free fingerfood until 7.30pm.
Buffet Dinner available. Members Lucky door prize.
Members and their guests only

Ray, Kirsty, Marion, Brett, Toby and Jock would like to extend a heartfelt thanks to Dr Viney Joshi, the nursing and domestic staff at the Blackall hospital for their care and compassion while Christine was in hospital. We would also like to thank everyone for the flowers, phone calls, emails, meals and all the support shown to us during this sad time. Thank you to everyone who attended Christines funeral and to those who intended to but couldnt make it. Please accept this as our personal thanks.

of Wales Hotel), Caltex Central Star, Lea Mansell, Sharkys Fish, Chip and Pizza Shack, Blackall Newsagency, Outback Chemist, Daisy Cottage, IGA Supermarket and Seniors Club members who have donated or helped in any way.

--Anja Moss and Alma Osborn

Stop littering our town

My usual walk to the shops covers three blocks down town. In the last few months I have gotten into the habit of taking a plastic bag with me, as it disgusts me to see all the litter around the footpaths. Blackall has plenty of rubbish bins. I dont mind picking up the empty bottles of Coke, the broken beer bottles, rum and cola cans, even filthy nappies, putting them

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in my plastic bag and disposing of it all in my own rubbish bin, but there is no need for this garbage to be thrown about, in a town that tourists often comment on, as being one of the cleanest areas they have travelled through. Stop rubbishing this beautiful town.

The team at Ray White Rural Blackall would like to thank all Clients and Buyers for their support in 2011. We would like to take this opportunity to wish everyone a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. The office will be closed from Monday 19th December and reopening on Monday 16th January.

--2 Weldmaster MIG2505 welders $700 ea --2 Diesel Lincoln Welder (trailer mounted) $700 --1 Dirt King Bob Cat Backhoe Attachment $3000 -- 4 Honda Concrete Vibrator Motors $400 ea --1 Honda Concrete Trowel Machine $500 --1 Electric Cement Mixer $200 --1 Concrete --Vibrating Screed (4m x 6m) $500 --100 1 SHE Bolts, Plates & Nuts POA --12 Sets RMD Super Slim Turn Buckle Jacks POA -- 10 x 17.3 Clear Span Trusses $1000 ea. --1 Ruddweigh 600 Cattle Crush Scales $1,200- 2 Ruddweigh Platform Scales $200 ea --1 St George Supermatic Stove $200 --1 Show Saddle Johs Stubbens $900 Ph: 46575952.

Surplus to Requirement

Elizabeth Allen Co-Caretaker of Ram Park

Interested in advertising in the Barcoo Independent?

For your Enquiries Contact Ph. 46 574 355 Fax 46 576 261 Emailrural.blackall.qld@raywhite.com Paton Fitzsimons 0427 574 355 Andrew Turner 042 7584 166 Helen Aspinall 0428 316 289

Elwyn and Jenny Bethel will be at the Community Markets this Friday at the Blackall Showgrounds.

Delivering Results

We offer affordable and effective advertising. There are a range of sizes available as well as classifieds, insert options and scheduled colour advertising. Classifieds cost $5 for 3 lines and $1.25 per extra line. Contact Victoria Nugent on 46 576 966 or by email at barcooindependent@gmail. com to discuss advertising options for your business.

Christmas goodies, cakes, jams and other yummy things for sale
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.

The Barcoo Independent, Friday, December 16 2011 - Page 15

BLACKALL IGA
Your local IGA store will be open for extended hours Christmas week. Dont forget to order your Christmas hams, turkeys and barbeque chickens instore now! We would like to wish all our valued customers a very Merry Christmas and thank you for your support and loyalty during 2011. We look forward to being of service to you and the community in 2012

Volunteers acknowledged at Barcoo Living Christmas party

A number of volunteer helpers were recognised for their service at Barcoo Living Multipurpose Services annual Christmas party last week. Manager Bernice Leek said this was a highlight of the evening which also saw the launch of the book showcasing the people and services responsible for aged services in the region. It was an evening of celebration with the book launch and our annual Christmas Party for residents, community clients, volunteers and the community, Bernice said. We presented each of our volunteers with a certificate and chocolates as a token of gratitude from Barcoo Living for their dedicated and tireless efforts in sharing their lives and time with the community, she said. Members of the community choir and young people sang carols to all the guests. Over 100 people attended the event and enjoyed a barbecue on McLean Places verandah. Director of Churches of Christ Care David Swain also attended the event. I commend the community of Blackall for their strength and commitment in ensuring aged care in Blackall is the best, he said. Blackall has a long proud history of caring for its older citizens; a history that Churches of Christ Care is proud to be part of.

Amy MacNamara, Caitlin Johnstone and Rileigh Turlan performed for residents at the Christmas party.

Bob, Toni, Zoe and all the staff of Blackall IGA

Residents and volunteers gathered together to celebrate at the McLean Place Christmas function.

REGIONAL ARTS DEVELOPMENT FUND

EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST FOR FUNDING BETWEEN JULY 2012 AND JUNE 2013 The Regional Arts Development Fund is a partnership program between Queensland Government through Arts Queensland and Blackall-Tambo Regional Council to support art and cultural development in the community. Expressions of interest for intended projects between July 2012 and June 2013 are required to complete the bidding process to Arts Queensland for Regional Arts Development Fund. Expressions of interest including expected costs and description of activity for 2012/2013 projects are to be submitted by midday, Friday 1st February 2012 on the expression of interest form available from the RADF Liaison Officer. Projects must not commence prior to late August.
Further information contact: Alison Shaw RADF Liaison Officer Blackall-Tambo Regional Council Phone: 46 216 600 Mobile: 0428 546 107 Email: cfo@btrc.qld.gov.au

Volunteer Jess Eagle (left) was thanked for her assistance in 2011 at the McLean Place Christmas function. Bernice Leek, manager of the Barcoo Living Multipurpose Service, thanked Allen Soxsmith for his contributions during 2011 (right).

Page 14 - The Barcoo Independent, Friday, December 16 2011

The Barcoo Independent, Friday, December 16 2011 - Page 7

Blackall-Tambo offers photography opportunity

A photographic competition designed to fill a digital library with unique shots of the Blackall-Tambo region will get underway early next year. Tagged OUR Our Unique Region the competition is for images taken within the boundaries of the Blackall-Tambo region, which still gives people 30 000 square kilometres of diversity to play with. The final 180 images chosen will be part of a tourism resource library for the promotion of the area. A total pool of $3700 is available to photographers with all images selected being remunerated. According to a council spokesperson, the competition will close towards the end of April, and it is anticipated the winners will be announced during the Heartland Festival in late May. We hope to mount a digital display of the final images during the Heart and Soul photographic exhibition at the Grassland Art Gallery, she said. Organisers are after images that capture what is unique about the area and ones that will inspire visitors to want to come out and see it for themselves.

Promoting the areas day-to-day life is another aim of the competition, and portraying all this with images of landscape, architecture, people, activities and events, flora and fauna and animals. Terms, conditions and entry forms will be available from January 3rd at the council administration offices, Visitor Information Centres, Grasslands@tambo, and on the council website. For further information contact Alison Shaw cfo@btrc.qld.gov.au or 4621 6600.

Blackall gives thumbs down to Wild Rivers declaration

Blackall landholders have reacted negatively to the long-expected announcement on the weekend from state Environment Minister Vicky Darling that the Cooper Creek catchment would be declared a Wild River. The Georgina and Diamantina catchments will also be declared, which Ms Darling said will protect the Lake Eyre Basin from large dams and unsustainable industrial development. This declaration will protect the proud legacy of good land management across the basin, she said. Consultation on potential wild river declarations for the Cooper Creek catchment, which includes the Barcoo River, began in 2009 and has involved extensive engagement with more than 140 meetings. According to the government, the petroleum and gas sector emerged as a common concern throughout the consultation period, and Wild River declarations would impose buffer zones from watercourses for development within the most sensitive and valuable areas. However, grazier Christine Campbell, a vocal opponent of the legislation, said she understood mining activities would only be restricted in a small percentage of the catchment. I dont have a lot of detail yet but given the size of mining operations, I dont think this will restrict them greatly, she said. Ms Campbell said the planned legislation was a onesize-fits-all approach to environmental management where the area to be declared had totally different production systems in the top part to the bottom areas. I am certainly not happy, she said. Blackall-Tambo mayor Jan Ross also said her council was not happy with the announcement. I know its important to look after things, but people have been doing a good job here for a long time, she said. The more you try to protect things, the more you lose sometimes. It will be extra regulation we have to deal with. There was good news for Blackall graziers however, who were told that their submissions regarding alterations to various parts of the legislation had been approved. One came from a group of landholders objecting to a proposed Floodplain Management Area over their land north-west of Blackall. According to Sally Cripps, they had been notified that this area, from the Landsborough Highway to Birkdale, had been removed. We were told that the large grassland area was not characteristic of a floodplain after all. She understood that another submission requesting that the status of Ravensbourne Creek be changed from a high preservation area to a nominated waterway, had also been approved. Wild Rivers officers did ground truthing in our area in June, and the changes will make some difference to the red tape we will be exposed to under this new legislation, she said. The Environment Ministers announcement now has to be approved by the governor-in-council, which is expected shortly.

Panoramas of local scenes are encouraged with the new photographic competition being offered by Blackall-Tambo Regional Council, such as this one of Memorial Park in Blackall.

LUCERNE HAY FOR SALE

$16.50/BALE
CONTACT LEE

Tambo Christmas Lights Competition

The 2011 Tambo Christmas lights competition has been judged and this years winners are: Best Decorated Business - Tambo Food Works Best Decorated Home - Ben Johnson Spirit of Christmas - Tambo Caravan Park Novelty Theme - Tambo Childcare Good Neighbors - Ros Jarvis and Leah Dawson Most Creative - Randall Ellison and Michael Frazer There were many nominations this year, showing that the residents of Tambo have jumped at the chance to show their festive spirit. The winning business window, Tambo Food Works, complete with Santa. There were many colourful and creative decorations.

DAYBREAK FODDER SUPPLIES

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Have you got something to say? Write a letter to the editor. barcooindependent@gmail.com
Page 8 - The Barcoo Independent, Friday, December 16 2011

Friends and 1998 Blackall Kindergarten students Stephanie Kelly, Meghan Doonar, Blake Wells and Nick Isaac, graduated from The Cathedral College, Rockhampton on November 17, 2011. The Barcoo Independent, Friday, December 16 2011 - Page 13

Elizabeth Christine Langdon

June 25, 1948 - November 29, 2011
Elizabeth Christine Langdon, better known as Chris, was born in Haddington, Scotland on the 25th of June 1943, the older of two children. She came over to Australia with her good friend Anne in 1966, and gained employment as a governess and jillaroo throughout Queensland and New South Wales. In 1970 she ventured up to Yaccumunda, Collinsville - a vast cattle station filled with often wild cattle and even wilder plant horses. It was here she met Ray, who was the overseer at the time. Ray and Christine were married in Brisbane on the 20th of December, 1975. Their daughter Kirsty was born on the 28th of November, 1977 at the Royal Womens Hospital in Brisbane, and they stayed on at Yaccumunda for a further nine months before packing up and moving most men, but it never slowed her down. In 1999 she had to Longway, Longreach to work for Warwick and Rosemary Champion. Longway was their another fall off a horse and broke all the ribs on her right side and also her collarbone. Kirsty nearly ran her over in a home for the next 15 years. Marion arrived at the Longreach hospital panic trying to find her. But not once did she ever complain. on the 15th of December 1979. Ray and the In 2007 she had another horse related accident where she two girls were the apples of Christines eyes. jammed her thumb between a gate and a horses ribs, and She just adored her little family. Ray and took it clean off at the knuckle. She walked up to the house Christine provided Kirsty and Marion with and told Ray she might have to go up to hospital and get a loving, nurturing home. They were both them to look at it. Again it was no big deal, and the main very accomplished horse people and have priority was getting fixed up in time for her daughters passed it on to their children, never missing an opportunity to watch them ride in events wedding. Toby arrived in July 2006, followed by Jock in April 2010, whenever they could. Christine had a heart and these two little boys were the love of her life. She just of gold and when one of the girls turned up with yet another poddy lamb, it would never adored them and they brought so much joy and good times be turned away, nor allowed to be turned into to the woman they affectionately called Mardie. They kept a Sunday roast. Chris loved all animals and her going through the tough times and on a bad day when countless dogs, cats, lambs and calves among one of them would turn up at Tiree, her spirits would lift other things were part of the family over the and the smile would return to her face. years. One in particular was her beloved Apart from Ray and the two little boys, another man that Tuppy, a little black and white hairy terrier. Kirsty and Marion would bring their friends held a special part in Chriss heart was her son-in-law Brett. out on weekends, and a lot of cherished They were like best mates and would often share jokes or memories were made. Many of their friends confide in each other, just the two of them. She thought the referred to her as their second mother. She world of Brett, as he did of her. made everyone feel at home and part of the Christine started having health problems back in 2004, but family, always opening the door when they never dwelled on them. She fought a long and inspirational turned up announced or unannounced. battle. As she would always say, there is always someone Ray and Chris bought Tiree on the outskirts of Blackall and moved there in January 1993, worse off in the world, so you just have to get on with it and along with a semi load of her pot plants. Chris do the best you can. And that she did. She was a friend to did a wonderful job of transforming the barren everyone, always lighting the scene with a warm and loving yard into a little oasis with lots of trees and smile. No matter what mountain was in front of her or what rock gardens, all of which she made with her heartache she bore, there was always an ear to listen, a bare hands, carting huge rocks and sand shoulder to cry on or warm words of advice for her family without the use of any type of machinery. Ray and friends. She put other people before herself always. started contract mustering and breaking in Christine leaves behind a devoted husband Ray, loving horses, and Chris was a huge help to him. She daughters Kirsty and Marion, son-in-law Brett and saved his life on countless occasions, when he would find himself in a spot of bother with a grandchildren Toby and Jock. She has left a big hole that will never be filled, but her family are honoured and very half mad horse. One word that comes to mind when thinking proud to be able to call her their wife, mother, mother-inof Chris was tough. She got thrown off horses law, Mardie, and mostly their best mate. She will be terribly a few times at Yaccumunda that would cruel missed. Page 12 - The Barcoo Independent, Friday, December 16 2011

BLACKALL TAMBO REGIONAL COUNCIL invitation to tender BLACKALL SALE YARDS UPGRADE RENEW SINGLE LOADING / UNLOADING RAMPS TENDER No. S02 2011-2012
Tenders are invited for the reconstruction of single loading / unloading ramps and associated gates and gateways at the Blackall Saleyards. For further enquiries please contact Mr David Carter, Saleyards Manager on 0428 574 887. Tender documents are available from the Councils Blackall Office at 6 Coronation Drive, Blackall or visit the Blackall-Tambo Regional Council website - www.btrc.qld.gov.au Suitably endorsed tenders addressed to the Chief Executive Officer must be received by 4:00pm on Tuesday, 3rd January, 2012 at PO Box 21, Blackall Q 4472. For the information of persons interested in tendering for the work, this project must be completed during January and February, 2012. The lowest or any tender may not necessarily be accepted.
Ken Timms Chief Executive Officer PO Box 21 Blackall Q 4472 Phone: 4621 6600 Fax: 4657 8855
The Barcoo Independent, Friday, December 16 2011 - Page 9

----The year that was...looking back on 2011---April.... January....

----The year that was...looking back on 2011---July.... June...

February....

Liz Harvey showing her patriotic spirit at the Australia Day celebrations in Blackall Shockwave organisers Brooke Newall, Lisa Goodman, Claire Rawlins and Rachel Walker were pleased with the sucess of this years festival. Producer Shane Gaunt, presenter Ben Dobbin, camera man Chris Forsyth and sound guy David McGregor-Jones from The Footy Show filmed a segment about the Blackall Magpies. Young Blackall dancers enjoyed the opportunity to be part of the Creative Generations showcase in Brisbane.

August....

September....

May....
QantasLink representative Tony Edwards, mayor Jan Ross and Captain David Harrison were excited about the first Q400 service into Blackall, which coincided with the return of the Wednesday flight.

March....

The Blackall Fire Brigade started backburning in response to grassfires around the Blackall district. Photo courtesy Robyn Adams.

October....

Bonny Lawrence, Jolene Dendle, Natalie Dendle, Alison Krieg, Valma Wood and Deni Benson strutted their stuff in the Back to Blackall fashion parade.

November....

Alison Mobbs, Naomi Dolinski, Frances Calleja, Fiona Ludgate and Janine Lawrence performed as the Western Women Divas at Wine, Women and Song.

Kirsten Russell, Pip Atkinson, Ingrid Wood and Michaela Russell kicked the show weekend off in style at the show ball held at the Blackall Cultural Centre on Friday night.

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

Page 10 - The Barcoo Independent, Friday, December 16 2011

Country music singer Tania Kernaghan with local shearers N K Collins closed their sawmill in Tambo as a result of after the Quick Shears contest at the Outback Queensland labour shortages. Tourism awards held in Blackall. The Barcoo Independent, Friday, December 16 2011 - Page 11