SPORT ON THE BARCOO

The opening of the $500 000 Mayne Pavilion at Tambo last Saturday night was the final chapter in an upgrade for the towns combined sports centre begun in 2004. Blackall-Tambo Regional Council mayor Jan Ross and Member for Gregory Vaughan Johnson combined to unveil the plaque and celebrate the opening with the community. The building, which contains cooking and bar facilities as well as an amenities block, was made possible by a $450 000 grant from the state government Rural Living Infrastructure Program. The Tambo Campdraft and Rodeo Association and Tambo Senior Football Club each contributed $10 000 to the project and the council itself put in $30 000 plus project management and planning costs. It is indeed another true partnership, Cr Ross said. Upgrades to the sport and recreation reserve were broken into three stages after consultation with clubs using the area. The first item delivered was a new shower and toilet block, followed by a new campdraft and rodeo yard, then the joint catering facility. Cr Ross said the aims of the upgrades were to increase participation in the sports represented and to provide access to high quality facilities for larger events, and to help the volunteers who stage the events. She said the latest addition would also accommodate the needs of Tambos Pony Club and Polocrosse Club from time to time. It was given the name of the Mayne Pavilion in recognition of the tireless efforts of Ray and Sue Mayne and family members over many years for the Tambo Campdraft Association. Mr Johnson said it was good to see councils such as Blackall-

Mayne Pavilion opening at Tambo completes sports centre upgrade

Tambo trying to make their communities livable to encourage people to come here. Tambo, give yourselves a pat on the back for having this magnificent facility, he said. Cr Ross also told the gathering that the catering facility was part of long-term planning for the urban renewal of Tambo, begun by the former Tambo Shire Council and continued by Blackall-Tambo. She identified the multipurpose building and Grasslands complex as other features of this. It is my intention and the intention of council to continue the revitalization of Tambo to its full potential, she said. Few towns in western Queensland have so successfully wrought as many changes in a few short years which have had such beneficial and far reaching effects on the residents and visitors to the town.

-- Sally Cripps

Brendan Barsby and Fia Hobbs took part in the Tambo sports complex opening.

Kathy Rule and Pam Pullos were amongst the crowd attending the opening on Saturday night.

Watching the opening of the Mayne Pavilion were Janelle and Grahame Schluter, Joan Noonan and Brendan Johnson. Page 16- The Barcoo Independent, Friday, October 14 2011

Tambo campdraft enthusiast Trevor Christianson caught up with Vaughan Johnson at the opening.

INDEPENDENT
THE BARCOO
ISSN 1832-6129 RRP $2.00

Blackalls own community newspaper

Springtime festival raises funds for hospital auxiliary

by VICTORIa NugeNT
The Blackall Hospital Auxiliary held its annual Springtime Festival on Saturday with a cheerful crowd rolling up to enjoy the festivities in Banks Park. The final count of the takings has not yet been completed but Blackall Hospital Auxiliary president Veronica Driver said the group was hoping to clear approximately $14 000. A crowd of over 300 joined the festivities with activities including stalls, raffles, a cent sale and an auction, with Barcaldine band The Ballistics providing live music going throughout the night Jack Burgess, Tim Ludgate and Ann Russell from Grant Daniel and Long ran the auction, which raised over $2300. Blackalls children were well entertained with side show alley, a jumping castle and a chance to take a whirl around the park in a miniature fire and rescue truck.

October 14 2011

Contact: barcooindependent@gmail.com

There was a wide range of food on offer including a barbecue dinner, fresh popcorn, cupcakes, fairy floss, donuts and an open air coffee shop serving hot beverages and cakes. Margaret Turner was the winner of the lucky gate prize, while in the multi-draw raffle Charlie Prow was first, Louise Campbell second and Gary and Wayne Dendle third. Veronica said she had received a lot of positive feedback about the evening. It was a lovely night with lots of families there, Veronica said. The band said they had a great time and it was the nicest event theyd performed at for a while. Veronica said the auxiliary were very grateful to the volunteers who helped set up and clean up. Its a really big thing and its really hard to get people to do, Veronica said.

Barcaldine band The Ballistics kept the crowd entertained at the Blackall Hospital Auxiliarys Springtime Festival on Saturday night.

Mayor and councillors from the north west, central west, south west and central highlands are concerned about the impacts that rising rural leasehold rents will have on their communities. The group met while at the Local Government Association of Qld annual conference on the Gold Coast last week to discuss the affects these rises would have on both rural enterprises and rural communities. Under the current methodology for leasehold land rent most rural lessees are experiencing 20% rent increases per year with 66% of Queensland under rural leases. Blackall Tambo Regional Council mayor Jan Ross was instrumental in initiating the discussion, bringing the issue to RAPAD due to her concern about potential effect on the Blackall Tambo community. Cr Ross said with most rural lessees experiencing 20% rent increases per year under the current methodology, there are bound to be significant impacts on rural communities. Thats going to be a big chunk out of anyones bottom line, Cr Ross. Its something thats been an issue for us in the Blackall Tambo region, so I took it to RAPAD. Mayors and councillors believe that the rental methodology for leasehold land needs to be reviewed to ensure that rents are tied to the income able to be generated on those leases. Councils are keen to partner with other affected stakeholders like AgForce to work towards a more appropriate rental methodology to ensure the continued viability of rural communities. Cr Ross said a review would give rural residents a chance to discuss the impacts of rising leasehold rents. Im sure that there will be ample opportunity to put forward their views throughout the review, Cr Ross said.

Rising rural leases concern council

From the Editor palsy as you might by Monday marked World Mental cerebral
Health Day. People with mental illness often suffer in silence rather than risk being stigmatised by revealing it to those around them. People dont feel uneasy about other conditions in the way that they do about mental illness. You are hardly likely to elicit the same social shaming by talking about diabetes, haemophilia or

talking about mental illness. Mental illness has one important similarity with all these conditions however. Its victims cant help being unwell. Theres a terrible stereotype that people with mental illnesses could be better if only they would try harder or toughen up. Its a dangerous myth to perpetuate as it leads to sufferers

feeling like theyre weaker than those around them, just because they have a condition that is difficult to control. Shame can lead to sufferers going undiagnosed, because of fear of other peoples reactions. It shouldnt be this way. Mental health needs to be a topic that we can discuss. By talking about mental health, we can bring it out of the shadows.

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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

It is great to be back in the west after being away for the Local Government Association of Queensland Conference. The venue of the conference this year was the Gold Coast Convention Centre which is very well appointed and well used. The conference was themed Dare to be Different and was a paperless conference which was a real change for all delegates with iPads the order of the day for the agenda and for voting. The agenda was available on over head screens as well as on the iPads. The voting was another matter with the delegates resorting to hand held cards and the votes manually counted after each vote as the electronic system to vote failed. There were 21 resolutions left on the agenda which was a concern. Governor of Queensland Penelope Wensley officially opened the event with an insightful address to the delegates praising the work of Local Government generally and especially in the time of disasters such as those experienced earlier in the year. Special Minister of State and Minister for Local Government Paul Lucas addressed the conference in the absence of the Premier Anna Bligh. The Blackall Tambo Regional Councillors met in a deputation with Minister Lucas informing him of our most pressing concerns. These were the urgent repair of the Barcoo River Bridge, continued funding of the rail replacement program, fluoride exemption, and the question of more councillors as well as the decision on divided or undivided elections. Leader of the Opposition Campbell Newman gave a forceful overview of the intentions of the LNP should they assume power after the state government election. Delegates questioned Mr Newman about the lack of representation for Rural and Remote Queensland in the LNP Cabinet ranks. During the conference a meeting on escalating state government rentals being levied on leasehold land

FROM THE MAYORS DESK

holders was hosted by the Remote Area Planning and Development Board. 30 local government areas were represented and together with Ag Force discussed various issues and solutions to the ever growing problem for local government and landholders. The liaison will continue to work towards a more appropriate methodology to calculate rentals and to ensure viability of rural communities. Councillors also met with the Re-numeration Tribunal to request Blackall Tambo Regional Council be made a Class 2 Council. As we are the only amalgamated Council deemed Class 1, with only 4 councillors and a mayor, the work load from amalgamation is still an issue. Together with the sheer lack of councillor numbers around the table representing the community and contributing to the debate, we were keen to bring this to the tribunals notice. There were other issues discussed including divided or undivided elections for our region. A highlight of the gala dinner was the presentation, by Special Minister of State Paul Lucas and President of the LGAQ Cr Paul Bell, of a 25 year Service to Local Government Award to deputy mayor Cr Peter Skewes. Council made the nomination earlier in the year in recognition of the dedication of Cr Skewes to the community of Blackall. The opening of the combined sports complex Mayne Pavilion at Tambo was a great pleasure indeed. Together with Member for Gregory Vaughan Johnson MP the building was named and opened in front of a large crowd of invited guests and campdrafters who were there to enjoy all the complex had to offer and great drafting with cattle from Mt Enniskillen and Tambo Station. The campdraft was held as a benefit for the Tambo Race Club. Tambo is well known for its Lets Do It! generosity of spirit. Congratulations to all concerned.

--Jan Ross

Page 2 - The Barcoo Independent, Friday, October 14 2011

Rare opportunity to purchase the Ex Black Stump Medical Centre. This building has a spacious three bedroom residence upstairs, downstairs has a reception area, 3 rooms and a kitchenette all of this set on a 1206sqm parcel of land close to CBD. 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 Site6 Violet Street Blackall View By appointment contact Helen Aspinall 0428 316 289 Email: rural.blackall.qld@rayhwhite.com Office: Ray White Rural Blackall 07 46 574 355

The Barcoo Independent, Friday, October 14 2011 - Page 15

Registered Droughtmaster bulls hit a $14,000 high at Mondays annual Artesian Droughtmaster Bull Sale, Blackall. Sustained demand saw the sale average climb by $11 per head when compared with the 2010 result. The result was further bolstered with an extra six bulls marketed compared to the previous years result. Six vendors combined to again clear the entire catalogue after the one bull that failed to sell at auction was sold immediately after the sale. Buyers came from the local region, in addition to other areas of the state and Western Australia. Market topper was the $14,000, Yaralla Lenny (P) offered by Ken and Kerry McKenzie, Yaralla Stud, Blackwater. Lenny, a 20month, 745kg son of Tapiola 1116 (S) (Swan 399) with an EMA measurement of 118cm sq sold to the Childs family, Glenlands Stud, Bouldercombe.

artesian Droughtmaster Bull Sale hits a high

Taking home the $1000 Bulk Buyer Bonus donated by TJO Grassroots Consulting was the Cloncurry based Lorraine Pastoral Company Pty Ltd taking 14 head to average $3786. Top of their selections was the $6000, Glenlands 7892 (P) (26-months) from the Glenlands Stud. Ian Scholes, Mena Park, Blackall returned taking 11 to average them $4136, topping at $6000 for Yaralla Leroy (P) (23-months) from the McKenzie stable and the 24-month, Fairhaven 10/141 (P) from the Hewitt familys, Fairhaven Stud, Emerald. Another of the Mena Park purchases was a $5000, 20-month-old herd bull from the McCormack familys, Clonlara Stud, Glenmorgan. Bill Chandler, Hillalong, Barcaldine took home the $8500, Western Red Dom Perignon (P) (23months) from the Allen familys, Western Red Stud, Longreach. Another at $8000 was the 23-

month, Medway 10229m (P) from the Donaldson family, Medway Stud, Bogantungan selling to Dick and Sue Ferguson, Garfield, Jericho. Garfield ended with a pair to average $7250. Another $8000 was the 36-month, Glenlands D 09/1038 (D) offered by the Glenlands Stud, Bouldercombe and selling to the No.27 Pastoral Company, Eurolie, Barcaldine who accounted for six to average $6167. Butch and Hazel Howard, Locharnoch, Jericho returned taking six to average $5167, topping at $7500 for a 34-monthold Glenlands entry. Adams and Brennan, Stratford, Blackall took two to average $6000 while Ian and Debbie McDonald, Bloomfield, Blackall signed off on two to average $6250 including a $6500 Medway herd bull aged 21months.

--Kent Ward

Ken McKenzie, Yaralla Stud, Blackwater (right) with his top selling 20-month-old, $14,000 Yaralla Lenny (P) at Mondays annual Artesian Droughtmaster Sale, Blackall. With the pair is purchaser, Jason Childs, Glenlands Stud, Bouldercombe.

Regional Fuel Watch BARCALDINE BLACKALL 156.9 159.5 LONGREACH 153.9 157.9

Unleaded Diesel

153.9 154.9

Page 14- The Barcoo Independent, Friday, October 14 2011

Central west battles lightning strike fires

A number of grass fires have been burning throughout the central west this week which were lit when a storm passed over the region on Monday afternoon, according to Alan Johnson of Queensland Rural Fire Service. The fires were lit from lightening strikes and some fires were contained, although some are still burning around Jundah, Tambo, Blackall and Isisford. Mr Johnson also said the Drummond Range was lit on fire earlier in the week due to a lightning strike and the QRFS were still fighting the fire to contain it. According to Sally Cripps, there was seven separate strikes at Maree Downs plus a fire at Juray and another at Alton Downs west of Blackall. To the east of Blackall there were fires at Champion, Northampton and Gillespie. The Blackall-Tambo Regional Council road construction crew were working on the Emmet road and so were able to supply graders and water trucks at short notice to help control the fires. Mr Johnson said the QRFS were still identifying places which needed fire breaks to help control the fires. A lot of owners are managing extremely well, although some still need to get in and get fire breaks done and clear around structures

to be prepared. Lightening strikes cannot be avoided, although the fires can be prevented with the right preparation. We are still able to conduct hazard reduction burns as long as proper fire breaks are in and the fires are contained within the permit area. Remember to Prepare, Act, and Survive this fire season. More information is available at the rural fire services webpage www.ruralfire.qld.gov.au.

Melbourne Cup on the big screen

--Jessica Miller The Longreach Leader

Punters will be able to enjoy a better view when the Melbourne Cup is shown on the big screen at St Josephs Primary School. The St Josephs P and F committee will host a Melbourne Cup luncheon on November 1 from 11am-4pm at the schools MacKillop Centre. The event will cost $20 for adults for chicken, salad, a bread roll and glass of wine while children will enjoy assorted hot foods and an ice block for $5. The day will feature organised activities for the children, as well as a fashions of the field competition. The race itself will be shown using equipment purchased with the leftover funds from the development of the MacKillop centre, including a drop down screen, a projector, DVD player. The screen will make its debut for the October 22 screening of movie Red Dog at the Blackall Tambo Regional Council Community Services Feel Good Feel Better Day, with plans to use it for other future Teacher Katie Patterson-Kane operates the big screen at St Josephs MacKillop Centre. events such as State of Origin nights.
Halloween time Prizes for best prop or costume

For your costume needs call Tracey on 07 4657 6311.

The Blackall Hospital Auxiliary would like to officially thank all the people who supported the 2011 Springtime Festival by attending, volunteering and donating generously. The success of the event would not be possible without your contributions.

Save Ourselves Swim School

Book soon for LTS & Squad. Starting 4th of October Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday & Friday: LTS starts @ 3:15pm. Squad @ 4:30pm to 6:00pm. Tuesday Thursday & Friday: Squad @ 6:15am LTS starts @ 8:30am Saturday: LTS 9am to 12pm

AUSTSWIM, First Aid & CPR Courses coming soon.

Blackall Aquatic Centre Salvia Street. Blackall QLD, 4472. Phone: 07 4657 4975 Fax: 07 4657 6867

E-mail: so_saveo@bigpond.net.au

The Barcoo Independent, Friday, October 14 2011- Page 3

WHATS ON in 2011
OCTOBER

Wedding Bells

14 Blue Light Disco 15 Blackall Races 15 Elvis Presley Tribute Show 22 BTRC Community Services Feel Good-Feel Better Day 28 Red Dog Screening Tambo 29 Outback Tourism QLD Awards

Rebecca Haughton and Luke Callow were married on Saturday October 1 at The Strand, Townsville in front of 100 guests with the reception held at the Townsville Yacht Club. Rebecca is the eldest daughter of Stan and Shelley Haughton, Blackall and the granddaughter of Jean and Beaver Dendle, also of Blackall. Luke is the son of Robyn Lound and Bruce Coward, Tambo, grandson of Bronwyn Lound, Townsville and greatgrandson of Norma and Bill Lound, Townsville. The wedding party consisted of Megan Schrag, Anna Haughton, Richard Muir, Bradley Hayes and flower girls Jocee Coward, Hayley Callow and Zoe Callow.

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 18 Anglican Ladies Guild Street Stall 26 Blackall Races 26 St Patricks Christmas Fete 27 Christmas Tree Festival

DECEMBER 3 Your Amazing Race Gala Dinner 16 Christmas Night Markets 16 Blackall Memorial and Sports Club Members Christmas Party 24 Christmas Eve Mardi Gras, Blackall 24 Christmas in the Park, Tambo 31 Blackall Memorial and Sports Club New Years Eve Costume Party

In handicap singles last weekend, R Blucher defeated J Bowyer 31-18 with John trailing for most of the game. Rolands game has improved substantially, with this year marking his first year to make a final. In pairs G MacNamara and G Whitfield defeated P Fry and Gumby 22-14 in a game that was exciting to watch. In social bowls J Evers and C Pfingst defeated L Cahilll and B Carolan 16-11 and Leroy, Tracy and Roy defeated Ky, Hazel and Woody 15-10. Next week the handicap final and pairs will be played at the Blackall Bowls Club from 9am with social play available and visitors welcome. In the handicap final R Blucher to play Woody with spotter T Brown. In pairs G Macnamara and G Whitfield to play D Daly and J Carter. From next week, all games will start at 9am.

Roland for bowls final

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

--Julie Blucher

Edition 30

To the Communities of Blackall & Tambo:

The Official Opening and name unveiling of the Tambo Combined Sports Complex was held and on Saturday 8 October 2011. The new name for the Sports complex is Mayne Pavilion. Thank you to Vaughan Johnson MP for assisting with the opening and to the community members and volunteers who made the event so successful!
ELVIS TRIBUTE SHOW Tomorrow Night Saturday 15 October 2011 Come from the Races to the show with your mates! Bar operating TICKETS AVAILABLE AT THE DOOR! Adults: $25.00 Children: $15.00 CASH ONLY Blackall Cultural Centre Doors open at 7pm Show starts at 8pm See you there!

14.10.2011

Most community organisations need more money. In this workshop you will learn: How to develop and implement a budget to ensure a profit Funding schemes that are available to your own organisation, no matter what your focus Modern fundraising options that actually raise funds When and where: Wednesday 19th October 2011 6.00pm 9.00 pm Tambo Shire Hall ,Arthur Street, Tambo RSVP: 14th October 2011 Register online at: www.sportrec.qld.gov.au/workshops For more information contact the Department of Communities, Sport and Recreation Services, Emerald by phoning (07) 4982 1510 or email srcentralqld@communities.qld.gov.au

FREE Tambo Financial Management

TAMBO GARDEN COMPETITION RESULTS Thank you to all 26 entrants in the 2011 Tambo Garden Competition. The winners were: Champion Town Garden Jane Turner Champion Country Garden Penny Wagstaff - Mt Enniskillen Best Flower Garden Cassie Swanson - Bexhill Best Landscaped Garden Marilyn Hobbs Best Native Garden Randall Ellison Best Edible Garden Christine Bradshaw Best Water Wise Garden Nathan Frazer Best Senior Citizen Garden (65+) Lynne Sargood Best Non-Domestic Garden - Tambo Mill Motel Neatest yard by any Group Tambo Sate School Jane Turner s Front Garden

Penny Wagstaffs Roses

Go to the below link to listen to a story on the ABC radio with John and Ray Mayne http://www.abc.net.au/local/ stories/2011/10/10/3336264.htm ?site=westqld

Council is hosting a Halloween Trick or Treat for the children of Blackall and Tambo on Saturday 5 November, 2011. If you would like to register your kids to be a trick or treater, or register as a Halloween house. Please contact the Council Office on 4621 6600 or visit the Blackall o r T a m b o Of fi c e .

Unconfirmed minutes are available for perusal 10 days after the Council Meeting date (Local Government Act 2009) at both offices and on the Council website. Adopted policies are on website. Next Council Meeting 9th November 2011 Blackall. Ken Timms Chief Executive Officer

Tambo hosts campdraft

Your local taxation specialist will be attending their Blackall Office in Woods Arcade on Wednesday 19 October 2011.
For all your Accountancy & Taxation needs contact Prue Button on 07 4657 4144 or email admin@rbca.com.au

The Tambo campdraft was held last Saturday night in conjunction with the official opening of the new $500 000 Mayne Pavilion. Taking out prizes in the novice section were Brendan Harrison, Kimberley Johnson, Pete Comiskey, Mick Caskey, Kelly Zahl, Ray Mayne, Karen McNamara and Ashley McKay. In the juvenile section winners were Hayden Zahl, Myles McDonnell, Joel Hurley, Christy Russell, Allyson Russell and Jenna Russell.

Ross BakeR Woolpool

Ross is the person to call when it comes to your small clips (20 bales) and leftover bulk class bales and butts Merino and some XB Wool. I even shear small mobs to help keep your paddocks clean Give Ross a call on 0429 017 660

Wool Growers

Novice winners Brendan Harrison, Kimberley Johnson, Pete Comiskey, Mick Caskey, Kelly Zahl, Ray Mayne, Karen McNamara and Ashley McKay.

Juvenile winners Hayden Zahl, Myles McDonnell, Joel Hurley, Christy Russell, Allyson Russell and Jenna Russell.

Mary Neal Remedial Massage Therapist

Thursday from 8:00am

At Barcoo Living MPS 2A Coronation Drive Blackall Now with a Certificate IV in Kinesiology Ph: (07) 4651 0955 Mobile: 0429 309 111
Page 12- The Barcoo Independent, Friday, October 14 2011

Katie gives up alcohol for a cause Blackall set to Blackall resident Katie Patterson- Education was a great charity as welcome dentist Kane is going sober for October it helps educate children about
to raise money for Life Education Australia. The teacher from St Josephs Primary School said she signed up for Ocsober as a way of supporting Life Education, a charity that educates Australian students about healthy habits. Mobile vans provided drug and health education programs at schools across Australia, with the help of Healthy Harold the giraffe. In 2008, the charity started Ocsober, an internet based initiative where participants challenge others to sponsor them for the month to abstain from alcohol. Participants are able to purchase a free pass to drink again for a day during the month for a cost of $25. Katie said she though Life important issues in an interesting way. When I was at school, I got really excited when Life Education and Healthy Harold came to talk to us, Katie said. Katie said she was finding Ocsober quite challenging but thought the experience would ultimately be rewarding. Just watching friends drink is hard, but I know Im benefiting my health and raising money for a good cause, Katie said. Katie aims to raise at least $60 for the charity with every $80 raised helping to educate 10 more students. Anyone wishing to donate can either contact Katie or donate online at http://www.everydayhero.com. au/katie_patterson__kane.

Katie Patterson-Kane enjoys a glass of water during her alcohol free month for the Ocsober initiative.

Blackall residents will have a better chance of fighting toothache next year, with a dentist set to open in February. Dentist John Wagner has operated a surgery in Beaudesert for the past 26 years and is set to expand to open a Blackall surgery in the building formerly housing the National Bistro caf. John plans to travel to Blackall every four weeks to run the dentist surgery for a week, with the possibility of increasing his time spent in the town depending on demand. John first visited Blackall five years ago for his brother-in-law Lance Parfitts 50th birthday and said he and his wife Dallas had enjoyed visiting frequently since then. I think Blackalls a fairly nice place with lots of really friendly people, John said. John said he was also hoping to attract other health professionals to visit the surgery. My dental technician thinks he wants to come out and we may be able to organise for a visiting orthodontist, John said John said he also hoped he would be able to provide opportunities for any Blackall youth interested in dentistry who wanted to gain their degree and return to the west. In country towns, if you encourage the kids to come back, then you have a chance, John said. John said he expects to find lots of work during his weeks in Blackall, but if not he has a back up plan. If I dont have to work the whole time, Ill go looking for opals, John said.

1st Sunday of month Sunday Night Live 1ststSunday of month 1 Sunday of month Sunday Night Live 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 Worship Contact: Rev Scott
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, October 14 2011 - Page 5

PROPERTY OF THE WEEK

BLACKALL RETRAVISION

IN STORE NOW VAST HD DIGITAL SATELLITE RECEIVERS $279.00EA

Rural Appeal This three bedroom home has space and functionality for all stages of family life. With its large open plan living area, new modern kitchen, the makings of a new bathroom + Extra Large five bay shed with lock up space, stables and spare land with dual access reasonably close to CBD what more can you ask for... $285,000.00

For all your Real Estate Enquiries Contact :Helen Aspinall - rural.blackall.qld@raywhite.com Ph. 46 574 355 Mobile0428 316 289

We are Jaycar Electronics Stockists Check it out Remote Controlled Helicopters Remote Controlled Cars plus much much more Layby now for Christmas
More Than Just The Best Price

Delivering Results

BTRC Community Services invites you to join them for an afternoon and evening of fun (In recognition of the importance of looking after our Mental Health) ZUMBA
Free Health Checks

TAI CHI

SNAP MASSAGES
BLUE LIGHT BOOT CAMP CHALLENGE WITH SERGEANT BRUCE
Dinner Available Popcorn Bar
MOVIE NIGHT

(PG)

When: Sat 22nd Oct 11 Where: Mackillop Centre, St Josephs Time:

School, Blackall Gates open 4pm ~ Movie starts 7:30pm

Proudly sponsored by:

aToDs

Page 6 - The Barcoo Independent, Friday,October 14 2011

OUTWEST Soil Tests. Prompt and

reliable service. PH 0458 532 155.

CLASSIFIEDS
Do you know of something you think The Barcoo Independent should cover? Contact Victoria Nugent. (07) 4657 6966 barcooindependent@ gmail.com

THE BARCOO INDEPENDENT

Liz Harvey was excited to meet country music singer Tania Kernaghan at the recent Winton Outback Festival. She also met premier Anna Bligh, singer Adam Harvey, world record holder Derek Boyd and Guiness World Record adjudicator Tim Sheedy.

Confusion over unregistered pets

Blackall resident Graham Koffel was taken aback last week to receive a letter from council threatening him with a fine for having unregistered animals on his property, despite not owning any pets. The letter stated that it had been noted that Grahams property had a number of animals that appear to be unregistered, and requested that he register the animals within 14 days of receiving the notice and that failure to do so would result in a maximum penalty of $2000 and the impoundment of the animals. Graham said any animals on the property were strays or belonged

Date: Tuesday 1st November 2011 Time: 11 am til 4pm Location: McKillop Centre, St Josephs School Cost: Adults $20 (chicken, salad, bread roll and glass of wine) Children $5 (assorted hot foods and ice block) Races on the big screen Fashions of the Field Organised activities for the kids

St Josephs P&F Inaugural Annual Melbourne Cup Day

to someone else. I leave my gate open all the time so animals naturally wander in, Graham said Graham said he was quite upset by the unexpected arrival of the letter and would have preferred if the matter had been discussed with him before being threatened with a fine. Youre supposed to be innocent until proven guilty, but this is the other way around, Graham said. Graham said he had visited the council office the day after receiving the letter but was unable to get anyone to speak with him in person about the issue. workshops to the Blackall Tambo region on a whole range of topics if community members support and attend them. The workshop is being held on Wednesday October 19 from 6-9pm at the Tambo Shire Hall. Light refreshments will be provided. Blackall-Tambo Regional Council will provide free transport from Blackall to Tambo and back for the workshop, if enough participants sign up. For more information and to allocate a seat on the bus, please contact Kim Trickett BTRC Sport and Recreation Support Officer on 4657 4440.

Free financial management workshop

People involved in community organisations wanting to learn new financial management skills are invited to attend a free workshop in Tambo on October 19. The workshop will cover tips and tricks on banking and investments, budgets, fundraising strategies and more. The workshop is part of the Department of Communities Building Active Communities program and encourages sporting groups, parents, teachers and volunteers to attend and gain new skills and knowledge. The Department of Communities advises it will bring more

The Barcoo Independent, Friday, October 14 2011 - Page 11

Long service certificate for Cr Skewes

Peter Skewess lengthy contribution to local government in the Blackall district was recognised with the presentation of a long service certificate at the Gold Coast last week. Cr Skewes has served the Blackall Shire Council and Blackall-Tambo Regional Council for a total of 25 years, beginning with the 1985 elections. He missed out on being elected in 1988 but filled a council vacancy 10 months later, and has continuously been on council since then. He believes the region has come a long way in the last quarter of a century, citing the construction of the Aquatic Centre and Cultural Centre as good assets for the area. More recently, the changes to the way we operate are a step forward, he said. Going to a divisional structure has been a backward step in the eyes of Cr Skewes. Getting rid of financial divisions and divisions for voting was a good thing for Blackall. People like to have the opportunity to vote for all their councillors, he said. He expressed a similar concern for councillor numbers. When Blackall had 10 it was too many but 5 for an area double the size is just ridiculous. Cr Skewes was presented with his certificate at the Local Government Association of Queensland gala dinner by Local Government Minister Paul Lucas.

--Sally Cripps

Cr Peter Skewes was presented with a long service certificate by Local Government Minister Paul Lucas last week at the Gold Coast.

BLACKALL IGA
BIG BRAND SALE STARTS TODAY
Whole Economy Rump $5.99kg Wondersoft T/roll 8pk 2 for $4.00 Sunsilk Shampoo/Cond 400ml (large size) $2.99ea Cadbury Ice-Cream 2lt $2.99ea Many more specials in-store this FRIDAY,SATURDAY & SUNDAY ALSO Moulinex cookware promotion on now Just spend $20.00 to receive a stamp on your promotion card. 5 x stamps and you can pick from our range of cookware and pay less than price per item. (One full collectors leaflet per cookware item)

Page 10 - The Barcoo Independent, Friday, October 14 2011

LETTERSdecision EDITOR TO THE Mining buffer misunderstood

Thank you for the opportunity to respond to comments about the Blackall-Tambo Regional Councils decision to opt out of the state governments temporary stoppage to the granting of mineral exploration permits. Firstly let me say that I love the lifestyle, landscapes, freedom and safety offered in the communities of Blackall and Tambo as much as anyone. All my deliberations in the council chamber are made with the welfare of our towns at heart. Your correspondents ask why council undertook no public consultation before making its decision. The government announced the temporary halt on August 16 and gave councils only until September 16 to respond. The advisory letter was received by council on August 24. This is an impossibly short timeframe in which to conduct any meaningful community consultation. Apart from this, I feel some important points have been overlooked. The two kilometre buffer zone only relates to exploration, not to mining itself, and it is only a short-term fix to the problem of balancing mining activities with urban living. Mines Minister Hinchliffe describes Restricted Area 384 as a temporary measure until a permanent state-wide solution has been developed, in consultation with the public, industry, and

local governments, and adds that if it requires legislative changes, they are likely to take effect by next March. What we are being offered by the buffer zone is, I feel, not much at all. Its due to last only six months, it doesnt apply to towns as small as Tambo, and it doesnt refer to mining activities, only exploration. Yes, we might find there is coal under our towns. I gather this is already indicated to some extent from existing water bore logs. If we keep exploration two kilometres away (only as far as the old railway line) and a rich coal deposit is found, it will probably be inferred that it extends to the town area anyway. I dont see the sense in hiding from a possible reality lying below. Lets empower ourselves with knowledge, find out what the heck were dealing with, and arm ourselves for the battles ahead. Any development of a mine that might follow exploration is where I feel we need to concentrate our energies. I welcome the interest shown by the community in this issue. As always, I am only a phone call away for anyone wishing to discuss these or any other matters.

-- Cr Sally Cripps

On a recent trip to Blackall it was very disappointing to see the town as it is today! Boarded up windows and old buildings that are so obviously in need of repair is not a good look for the towns main street. The showgrounds once so clean and tidy now feature washed out roads, overgrown gardens and buildings needing some TLC. Am I wrong in thinking that the gravesite of Jackie Howe is a local tourist attraction? It was untidy, overgrown and obviously not looked after. Why? Also at the cemetery you cant help but notice how barren and desolate the RSL section is. These men and women deserve better. There is a lovely lawn cemetery, how hard would it be to do the same for the returned men and women. A lot of art work has been done around town which is great, but when there are very noticeable things that need attention, shouldnt they take priority? For instance the pothole beside the supermarket for one, and even just cleaning the footpaths and drains of leaves and rubbish. What about the health side of things with these drains being as they are? I am sure I was not the only former resident to drive away with disappointment. I know times are hard but where has the PRIDE gone?

Blackall in disrepair

--Proud Past Resident

for being invaluable supporters of the Blackall State Emergency Service unit. Local controller Don Wheeler
The Barcoo Independent, Friday, October 14, 2011 - Page 7

IGA Blackall and Evolution

ThAnk yOu

Hospital auxiliary spring celebrations

Rebecca Reddy caught up with Elsie and Trent McKinlay at Saturday nights Springtime Festival.

Janine Lawrence and Grace Pocknee enjoyed sampling the cakes at the open air coffee shop.

Kaitlin Burton and Julie Russell enjoyed perusing the stalls at the Springtime Festival.

BLaCKaLL FLOORINg OuTLeT

Flooring The Outback
49 GARDEN ST. 46576886 0437419298 Andrew & Sam Shale.

Mardi Noonan and Kylie Banks were in high spirits as they ran a stall at the Springtime Festival.

CARPET - DOMESTIC STOCK SALE @ $119 L/M fully Installed, No Hidden Extras. Book it in now- OCTOBER ONLY Layby Available NOW. - COMMERCIAL CARPET - OUTDOOR CARPET FOR VERANDAHS, BOATS, CARAVANS. CERAMIC TILE NOW 30% OFF OCTOBER ONLY - BATHROOM KITCHEN OR ANYWHERE IN THE HOME. - CERAMIC TILE FOR FLOORS, WALLS, AND DECO FREIZES FOR THAT ADDED TOUCH. VINYL - LINO FOR THE HOME OR COMMERCIAL USE. COME AND SAY GDAY.
Page 8 - The Barcoo Independent, Friday, October 14 2011

Lea Mansell and Kim Driver found fairy floss was a popular Naomi and Leyna Dolinski were enjoying an evening out treat at the festival, selling out by the end of the night. at the Springtime Festival.

Blackall kids took a whirl around Banks Park in the small fire and rescue truck.

Catherine and Bella Parfitt lined up to get some fresh popcorn from Kim Trickett.

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, October 14 2011 - Page 9