Barcoo Independent 171210

The Barcoo Independent, Friday, December 17, 2010

SPORT ON THE BARCOO INDEPENDENTTHE BARCOO

Blackall’s own community newspaper

December 17, 2010 ISSN 1832-6129 RRP $2.00 Contact: [email protected]

Sara competes in MalaysiaSARA Aspinall (pictured) is back from Malaysia Pony Club Championship Games with another first place win.

Sara was a part of a four-rider team who competed in Dressage, Jumping and Mounted Games.

She rode in the Mounted Games section with her team winning all events. The trophy remains in Malaysia for contesting next year.

It was an honour for Sara to be picked a second time; she was again selected from the State Titles for her ability, sportsmanship and social skills all of which are equally important in representative sport.

BLACKALL may set a new annual rainfall record.

In 1890 the township had 1295.9 mm or 51.83 inches. So far this year 1162 mm (46.48 inches) has fallen.

The December average is 67 mm. This year, 203.6 mm has fallen already.

More rain

....Page 3

In brief....

....Page 5

....Pages 23, 24, 25, 27, 28

THE Barcoo Independent invited our churches to submit a Christmas message to showcase the real meaning behind Christmas.

Messages

BLACKALL’S SES volunteers have been busy helping properties resupply this week, once floodwaters cut access to town.

On Monday they ferried 47 people across the river, and on Tuesday this rose to 98 people.

Local controller Don Wheeler said they expected to be offering the service most of Wednesday as well.

“As well as people, we took about two tonnes of supplies over yesterday,” Mr

Wheeler said.“We are doing our usual community

service. We’ve been doing it for the last 35 years with the full support of council.

“I think it’s a really essential thing to be doing for a community.”

Mr Wheeler said Blackall’s flood boat had been in the water five or six times this year.

Once the Kargoolnah Bridge at Blackall becomes uncrossable to vehicles, the SES sets up its base beside the river.

Floodwaters keep Blackall SES busy

....Page 32

SARA Aspinall is back from Malaysia Pony Club Championship Games with another first place win.

Win in Malaysia

David Carter mans the Blackall SES boat for another trip across the flooded Barcoo River, ferrying people and supplies.

THREE major tributaries in the Blackall-Tambo region – the Barcoo River, Ravensbourne Creek and Wooroolah Creek – have been identified in this week’s proposed nomination of the Cooper Creek Basin as a wild river area.

They have been named as being of major importance, either in terms of size, stream flow or ecological significance, to the region’s ecosystems.

Wild Rivers

SPECIAL 32 PAGE CHRISTMAS EDITION OF YOUR LOCAL NEWSPAPER

continued on page 4

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Wet weather delays bowls

NO bowls again last Sunday due to the green being too wet to mow.

Next week’s games: Social bowls only next Sunday. All bowlers and visitors welcome. The start time is 9.30am.

– Dally Holden

By SALLY CRIPPS

....Pages 16, 17, 19

As 2010 draws to a close, The Barcoo Independent looks back at the major events in the region.

Looking back

- The Barcoo Independent, Friday, December 17, 2010

Barcoo Independent TV Guide December 19-25ABC SEVEN Imparja SBS W

ednesday Decem

ber 22

4:00 TBA4:30 Shortland Street5:00 Something in the Air5:30 TBA6:00 Children’s Programs12:00 Midday Report12:30 Pilot Guides1:30 The Wild Gourmets2:00 The Bill3:05 Children’s Programs6:00 My Family6:30 Nigella Express7:00 News7:30 The 7.30 Report 8:00 QI8:30 The Trophy Room9:00 Outnumbered9:30 Summer Heights High10:00 Review With Myles Barlow10:30 News10:40 Party Animals (Final)11:30 Little Devil1:10 Movie: Storm Over The Nile (PG)3:00 National Press Club Address

6:00 Sunrise9:00 The Morning Show11:30 News12:00 Sally Bollywood - Super Detective12:30 Staines Down Drains1:00 Erky Perky1:30 Zeke’s Pad2:00 Go Go Stop2:30 Backyard Science3:00 Master Raindrop3:30 Toybox4:00 Spit It Out4:30 News 5:30 Deal Or No Deal6:00 News6:30 Today Tonight7:00 How I Met Your Mother7:30 Medical Emergency8:00 Under The Hammer8:30 Criminal Minds9:30 City Homicide11:30 The First 4812:30 Sons And Daughters1:00 Infomercials4:00 NBC Today5:00 Sunrise Extra

6:00 Today9:00 Mornings With Kerri-Anne 10:00 Magical Tales10:30 Lab Rats Challenge11:00 National Morning News12:00 The Ellen Degeneres Show1:00 Danoz Direct2:00 Days Of Our Lives3:00 Entertainment Tonight3:30 Til Death4:00 The Shak4:30 News5:30 Hot Seat6:00 News6:30 A Current Affair7:00 Australia’s Funniest Home Videos7:30 Two And A Half Men8:00 Customs8:30 CSI: Miami9:30 CSI: NY10:30 CSI: Miami 11:30 Deadly Surf12:00 Eclipse Music Tv12:30 20/20

5:05 International News1:00 Movie: Silence... We’re Rolling (G)3:00 Classical Destinations3:30 Letters and Numbers4:00 The Journal4:30 PBS Newshour5:30 Global Village6:00 Letters and Numbers6:30 World News Australia7:35 Rex In Rome8:30 East West 1019:30 World News Late10:05 Movie: Paris 12:20 Anna Pihl1:10 Movie: A World Without Thieves (M)3:10 Weatherwatch Overnight

Thursday Decem

ber 23

4:00 Catalyst4:30 Shortland Street5:00 Something In The Air5:30 TBA6:00 Children’s Programs12:00 Midday Report12:30 Robin Hood1:30 Echo Beach2:00 The Bill3:05 Children’s Programs6:00 My Family6:30 Compass7:00 News7:30 The 7.30 Report8:00 Sleek Geeks8:30 Rake (Final)9:25 Breaking Bad (Final)11:00 News11:10 Star Of Bethlehem: 12:05 Movie: A Kid For Two Farthings (PG)1:45 Movie: Two O’Clock Courage (PG)3:00 Movie: Road Agent (G)

6:00 Sunrise9:00 The Morning Show11:30 News12:00 Sally Bollywood - Super Detective12:30 Staines Down Drains1:00 Erky Perky1:30 Zeke’s Pad2:00 Go Go Stop2:30 Backyard Science3:00 Master Raindrop3:30 Toybox4:00 Spit It Out4:30 News 5:30 Deal Or No Deal6:00 News6:30 Today Tonight7:00 How I Met Your Mother7:30 Beat The Star8:30Movie: Surviving Christmas (M)10:30 30 Rock11:30 That ‘70s Show12:00 Grey’s Anatomy1:00 Infomercials4:00 NBC Today5:00 Sunrise Extra

6:00 Today9:00 Mornings With Kerri-Anne 10:00 Magical Tales10:30 Lab Rats Challenge11:00 News12:00 The Ellen Degeneres Show1:00 Danoz Direct2:00 Days Of Our Lives3:00 Entertainment Tonight3:30 Til Death4:00 The Shak4:30 News5:30 Hot Seat6:00 News6:30 A Current Affair7:00 Australia’s Funniest Home Videos7:30 Top Gear8:40 Warnie9:40 Movie: Rogue (M)11:40 Take 40 Live Presents12:05 20/201:00 Entertainment Tonight1:30 Danzo Direct3:00 4wd Tv

5:05 International News1:00 The Food Lover’s Guide To Australia1:30 Changing Climate, Changing Times3:10 Iron3:30 Letters and Numbers4:00 The Journal4:30 PBS Newshour5:30 Global Village6:00 Letters and Numbers6:30 World News Australia 7:30 Luke Nguyen’s Vietnam8:00 Gourmet Farmer8:30 Food Additives9:30 World News Australia 10:05 Movie: Half Nelson (MA)12:00 Movie: Silmido (MAV)2:25 Weatherwatch Overnight

Friday Decem

ber 24

4:00 Can We Help?4:30 Shortland Street5:00 Something in the Air5:30 TBA6:00 Children’s Programs12:00 Midday Report12:30 Movie: It’s A Wonderful Life 2:40 Children’s Programs6:00 Scared Shrekless6;30 The Gruffalo7:00 News7:30 Carols From St Mary’s Cathedral 20108:30 A Very Specky Christmas9:30 Catherine Tate Christmas Special10:20 Christmas Lights10:45 World Champion Santa11:15 Rage

6:00 Sunrise9:00 The Morning Show11:30 News12:00 Sally Bollywood - Super Detective12:30 Staines Down Drains1:00 Erky Perky1:30 Zeke’s Pad2:00 Go Go Stop2:30 Master Raindrop3:30 Toybox4:00 Spit It Out4:30 News 5:30 Deal Or No Deal6:00 News6:30 Today Tonight7:00 How I Met Your Mother7:30 Better Homes & Gardens Summer8:30 Movie: Hey Hey It’s Esther Blueburger (M)10:35 Movie: The Ice Harvest (MA)12:20 Movie: Meredith Willson’s The Music Man (G)3:00 Infomercials

6:00 Today9:00 Mornings With Kerri-Anne 10:00 Yamba’s Christmas Surprise10:30 Lab Rats Challenge11:00 News12:00 The Ellen Degeneres Show1:00 Danoz Direct2:00 Days Of Our Lives3:00 Entertainment Tonight3:30 Til Death4:00 The Shak4:30 News5:30 Hot Seat6:00 News6:30 A Current Affair7:00 Funniest Home Videos7:30 Shrek The Halls (G)8:00 Carols By Candlelight10:30 Movie: This Christmas (PG) 1:00 Movie: Friday After Next (MA)2:35 Mad TV3:30 Danzo Direct4:30 Movie: A Carol Christmas (PG)

5:05 International News

1:00 The Food Lover’s Guide To

Australia

1:30 Inspector Rex

3:30 Letters and Numbers

4:00 The Journal

4:30 PBS Newshour

5:30 Global Village


6:30 World News Australia

7:30 Tropic Of Cancer

8:30 As It Happened


10:05Movie: Monkey Magic (M)

12:15 Movie: 7 Dwarves (PG)

2:00 Weatherwatch Overnight

Saturday Decem

ber 25

4:00 Rage10:00 A Very Specky Christmas11:00 Christmas Mass12:55 San Francisco Ballet: Nutcracker2:30 Clash Of The Santas4:05 Sydney Symphony With Human Nature5:35 Creature Comforts6:00 Kung Fu Panda Holiday6:30 Robbie The Reindeer7:00 News7:20 The Queen’s Christmas Message 20107:30 My Family: Christmas Special8:30 Movie: Miss Potter10:00 The Graham Norton Show10:45 Sergei Prokofiev’s Peter And The Wolf11:20 The State Within 12:20 Rage

6:00 Movie: Twas The Night... (G)7:30 Ignite Film Festival 20108:00 Should We Cancel Christmas?8:30 Carols Then And Now With Natalie Cole9:00 Saturday Disney11:00 Hannah Montana11:30 Master Raindrop12:30 Sea Princesses1:00 Zeke’s Pad2:00 Movie: Street Football 3:40 Movie: Eloise At Christmastime (G)5:30 The Outdoor Room With Jamie Durie6:00 News6:30 No Leave, No Life7:00 Off The Eaten Track7:30 Movie: Anne Of Green Gables – The Continuing Story (PG)11:30 Movie: Adventures Of Priscilla: Queen Of The Desert (M)1:40 Grey’s Anatomy3:35 Room For Improvement4:00 Infomercials

6:00 Rise & Shine6:30 Go, Diego, Go7:00 Hercules8:00 Prince Of The Nile 9:00 Joseph & The Coat Of Many Colours10:00 A Miser Brothers Christmas11:00 Movie: A Christmas Story (G)1:00 Til Death 1:30 Carols By Candlelight 4:00 Movie: The Year With Santa Claus (PG) 6:00 News 6:30 Australia’s Funniest Home Videos 7:30 Movie: National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation (PG) 9:30 Movie: The Marriage Of Figaro (M) 11:30 2010 Queen’s Christmas Message 12:00 Movie: A Love Song For Bobby Long (M)2:00 Movie: Michael (PG) 4:00 Danoz Direct

5:05 International News1:00 La Boheme2:55 The Gospel According to Giotto4:05 Following Fryderyk Chopin4:30 PBS Newshour5:30 The Legends Of Santa6:30 World News Australia 7:30 Mythbusters8:30 Iron Chef9:20 RockKwiz Christmas Special10:50 Movie: Asterix At The Olympic Games1:00 SOS2:05 Drawn Together2:30 Movie: Immortal Ad Vitam (MAV)4:15 Weatherwatch Overnight

The Barcoo Independent, Friday, December 17, 2010 - TV GUIDE

Send your dates in!WHATS ON in 2010

DECEMBER24 Christmas Eve Mardi Gras,

Blackall24 Christmas in the Park, Tambo

FROM THE MAYOR’S DESKTHE year 2010 is drawing to a close and what a year it has been for us all in the Blackall-Tambo region.

Constant rainfall has made rainfall records register some of the highest recorded falls on properties in the district in history. The Barcoo River in flood has been a familiar sight throughout the entire year for both Blackall and Tambo. This year has been a complete opposite of the severely dry conditions in 2009.

The last council meeting for the year was held on December 8. Parks and Wildlife officers made a deputation in regard to the cypress forests, which supplies the NK Collins Mill in Tambo. Queensland Health representatives were also in attendance to give the council an update on the rollout of fluoride for communities such as ourselves. A video conference link to Tambo gave us an opportunity to speak with Tambo Race Club secretary Bill Rogers regarding difficulties the club is experiencing. A Department of Infrastructure and Planning Longreach Branch officer was also in attendance. The meeting also gave us an opportunity to meet representatives of consulting engineers, Brandon’s and Associates, who have recently been appointed by the council.

Amongst the listed agenda items for discussion were Blackall-Tambo Regional Council Advisory Committees. The committees were carried on from the former shire councils and were in need of a review as to the Local Government Act 2009, regarding which advisory committees the council wishes to appoint and also which processes will be in place

for appointing a chairman and a council representative.

The council adopted the Blackall-Tambo Regional Council Procurement and Disposal Policy for the acquisition and disposal of goods, as well as a policy for the use of credit cards.

The council agreed to support financially the campaign by the Local Government Association of Queensland in their pursuit of Constitutional Recognition for Local Government; a National Referendum on the issue is likely in the future.

The council meeting also agreed to “Kargoolnah Funerals” as the most suitable name for our funeral services.

I would like to thank our staff each and every one of them for their input into the successful operations of this Local Government. I believe our staff endeavour to ensure at all times community members are attended to in a polite, pleasant and effective manner.

On behalf of the council, I would like to take this opportunity to wish everyone a very happy Christmas and a wonderful New Year.

Jan Ross

WHATS ON in 2011JANUARY25 Dance Sign OnFEBRUARY19 Johnny Cash Tribute Show

It’s on again!IT might be raining every week but The Barcoo Independent Christmas mailbox/signpost competition is on again!

And this time people in town can join in and get creative with their mailbox. To be in the running for one of two prizes of a year’s subscription to The Barcoo Independent in 2011, email a photograph of your decorated property sign/mailbox/front gate to [email protected] before Christmas Day. The winner will be announced via email before the New Year and in the first paper for 2011 on January 28. 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 don’t know anyone from Blackall for selection.

We suggest that decorations be of the waterproof variety!

Christmas specials Santa has comeearly to Blackall investors!

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138 THISTLE ST FROM $180,000 NOW

ONLY $160,000

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16 ACACIA ST FROM $130,000 NOW $120,000

CHECK OUT OUR NEW LISTINGS AT RAY WHITE RURAL BLACKALL PHONE: (07) 4657 4355 FAX: (07) 4657 6261 EMAIL: [email protected] HELEN ASPINALL 0428 316 289PHONE: (07) 4657 4355 FAX: (07) 4657 6261 EMAIL: [email protected] HELEN ASPINALL 0428 316 289

The Barcoo Independent, Friday, December 17, 2010 - TV GUIDE - The Barcoo Independent, Friday, December 17, 2010

Barcoo Independent TV Guide December 19-25ABC SEVEN Imparja SBS

Sunday Decem

ber 19

4:00 Rage6:30 Children’s Programs9:00 Surfing The Menu9:00 Mountain With Griff Rhys Jones10:30 Beachcomber Cottage11:30 Songs of Praise12:00 Best Of Landline1:00 Best Of Gardening Australia1:30 Message Stick2:00 Travel Oz2:30 Why Ancient Egypt Fell3:30 The Whitlams And The Sydney Symphony Orchestra5:00 Barockstar: George Frideric Handel6:00 My Family: Ho Ho Ho7:00 News7:30 The Best Of Mr Bean8:30 Midsomer Murders10:10 The Private Life Of A Christmas Masterpiece11:00 The Armstrong And Miller Show11:30 Movie: Bush Christmas (PG)1:00 Movie: Holiday Inn (G) 2:45 Movie: Mexican Spitfire’s Baby (PG)

6:00 My Friends Tigger And Pooh6:30 Yin Yang Yo!7:00 Weekend Sunrise10:00 Kochie’s Business Builders10:30 Rolex Spirit Of Yachting11:00 Sally Bollywood - Super Detective12:00 Dive Olly Dive12:30 Zeke’s Pad1:00 Go Go Stop1:30 Dive Olly Dive2:30 It’s Academic3:30 Home Improvement4:00 Special: 2010 Variety Bash5:00 Special: Focus On Christmas 5:30 Great South East6:00 News6:30 The Vicar Of Dibley7:30 Border Patrol8:00 Coastwatch8:30 Bones9:30 Castle10:30 Crimes That Shook The World11:30 The First 4812:30 Alan Sugar: The Apprentice2:00 nfomercials3:00 NBC Today4:00 NBC Meet The Press5:00 Sunrise Extra5:30 News

6:00 Red Boots For Christmas6:30 Christmas At The Sisters7:00 Weekend Today10:00 Cybershack (Final)10:30 IGA Lord Mayors Carols In The City12:00 The Ashes: 3rd Test - Australia V England2:30 The Cricket Show3:00 The Ashes: 3rd Test - Australia V England5:00 News 5:30 The Ashes: 3rd Test - Australia V England7:30 60 Minutes8:30 The Mentalist9:30 Chase10:30 Chase11:30 Primetime: Family Secrets12:25 Movie: Hunger Point (M)2:30 Danoz Direct3:30 4WD TV4:00 Good Morning America - Sunday5:00 News5:30 Today


10:30 UEFA Europa League

Highlights

11:00 Les Murray’s Football

Feature

12:00 FIFA Futbol Mundial

12:30 Speedweek

2:00 Celtic Woman

4:00 Mythbusters

4:50 Chicken Of God

5:00 Cycling Central

6:00 Thalassa


7:30 Who Do You Think You Are?

8:30 Secrets Of The Human Body

9:30 Warriors: Cortes

10:30 Movie: Fanfan la Tulipe (M)

12:15 Movie: Ashura (MA)

2:25Weatherwatch Overnight

Monday D

ecember 20

4:00 First Tuesday Book Club with Jennifer Byrne4:30 Shortland Street5:00 Something in the Air5:30 TBA6:00 Children’s Programs12:00 Midday Report12:30 The Forsyte Saga1:30 Once a Soldier2:00 The Bill3:05 Children’s Programs6:00 My Family6:30 Nigella Express7:00 News7:30 The 7.30 Report8:00 Family Confidential8:30 Stephen Fry In America9:30 Willie’s Chocolate Revolution10:20 News10:30 The Nutcracker Story11:20 Dirt Game12:20 The Clinic1:25 Movie: Radio City Revels (G) 3:00 Bowls: NSW Open 2010

6:00 Sunrise9:00 The Morning Show11:30 News12:00 Sally Bollywood - Super Detective12:30 Staines Down Drains1:00 Erky Perky1:30 Zeke’s Pad2:00 Go Go Stop2:30 Backyard Science3:00 Master Raindrop3:30 Toybox4:00 Spit It Out4:30 News 5:30 Deal Or No Deal6:00 News6:30 Today Tonight7:00 How I Met Your Mother7:30 Animal Squad8:00 ICU8:30 Criminal Minds9:30 Outlaw10:30 Journey To The Edge Of The Universe11:30 Parks And Recreation12:00 Grey’s Anatomy1:00 Infomercials4:00 NBC Today5:00 Sunrise Extra5:30 News

6:00 Today9:00 Mornings With Kerri-Anne10:00 Magical Tales10:30 Lab Rats Challenge11:00 News12:00 The Ashes: 3rd Test - Australia V England2:30 The Cricket Show3:00 The Ashes: 3rd Test - Australia V England5:00 News 5:30 The Ashes: 3rd Test - Australia V England7:30 Home Cooked! With Julie Goodwin8:00 Motorway Patrol8:30 The Mentalist9:30 CSI10:30 Embarrassing Bodies11:30 Movie: The Shoot Divas, Don’t They (M)1:00 Deadly Surf1:35 Entertainment Tonight2:00 Danoz Direct3:00 4WD TV3:30 Good Morning America5:00 News5:30 Today


1:00 Food Lovers’ Guide to

Australia

1:30 Spellbound

3:15 The Letter


4:00 The Journal

4:30 FIFA Futbol Mundial

5:00 The Crew

5:30 Global Village



7:30 William Shatner’s Weird or

What?

8:30 Man v Wild


10:00 Shameless

11:00 Entourage

11:30 The World Game

12:30 Movie: G.O.R.A


Tuesday Decem

ber 21

4:00 The Cook and the Chef4:30 Shortland Street5:00 Something in the Air5:30 TBA6.00 Children’s Programs12:00 Midday Report12:30 Time Team1:20 Gavin Stamp’s Orient Express2:00 The Bill3:05 Children’s Programs6:00 My Family6:30 Nigella Express (Final)7:00 News7:30 The 7.30 Report8:00 The Old Guys (Final)8:30 Museum Of Life9:35 To the Manor Bowen10:20 News10:30 Rick Stein’s Christmas Odyssey11:30 The Lost World Of Communism12:25 The Chaser’s War on Everything1:00 Movie: The Fountain (G)2:25 Movie: Hitting A New High (G)

6:00 Sunrise9:00 The Morning Show11:30 News12:00 Sally Bollywood - Super Detective12:30 Staines Down Drains1:00 Erky Perky1:30 Zeke’s Pad2:00 Go Go Stop2:30 Backyard Science3:00 Master Raindrop3:30 Toybox4:00 Spit It Out4:30 News 5:30 Deal Or No Deal6:00 News6:30 Today Tonight7:00 How I Met Your Mother7:30 Minute To Win It8:30 I Shouldn’t Be Alive9:30 Most Shocking: Top 2010:30 Scrubs11:00 That ‘70s Show11:30 Parks And Recreation12:00 Mercy1:00 nfomercials4:00 NBC Today5:00 Sunrise Extra5:30 News

6:00 Today9:00 Mornings With Kerri-Anne10:00 Magical Tales10:30 Lab Rats Challenge11:00 News12:00 The Ellen DeGeneres Show1:00 Danoz Direct2:00 Days of our Lives3:00 Entertainment Tonight3:30 Til Death4:00 The Shak4:30 News5:30 Hot Seat6:00 News6:30 A Current Affair7:00 Australia’s Funniest Home Videos7:30 The Big Bang Theory8:00 Top Gear 9:30 Survivor: Nicaragua10:30 Ramsay’s Kitchen Nightmares11:30 Deadly Surf12:00 You Saved My Life12:30 Entertainment Tonight1:00 Skippy the Bush Kangaroo1:30 Danoz Direct3:00 Alive and Cooking3:30 Good Morning America5:00 News5:30 Today


1:00 Movie: Offside (PG)

3:00 Classical Destinations


4:00 The Journal

4:30 PBS Newshour

5:30 Global Village



7:30 The Trouble With

Sleepwalking

8:30 Extreme Cleaners


10:00 Hot Docs

11:25 Movie: The Paranoids (MA)

1:15 Countdown To Delirium


Programs correct at time of printing but may change owing to unforeseen circumstancesCLASSIFICATIONS: G GeneralClassificationM MatureClassificationRecommendedforviewingbymatureaudiences.PG ParentalGuidanceRecommendedMA MatureAudienceNotsuitableforpeopleunder15yearsofage. AV AdultViolenceClassificationNotsuitableforpeopleunder15yearsofage.

Blackall close to breaking annual rainfall recordBy SALLY CRIPPS

BY December 12 Blackall was 133.9 millimetres (535 points) away from setting a new annual rainfall record.

In 1890 the township had 1295.9 mm or 51.83 inches. So far this year 1162 mm (46.48 inches) has fallen.

The December average is 67 mm. This year, 203.6 mm has fallen already.

The total was boosted last week by a fall of over five inches (511 pts or 127.8 mm) in the early hours of December 8, causing localised flooding and overflowing stormwater drains.

While that set river and creek levels soaring for properties downstream, it was storms that dropped 80mm on Tambo and properties to the east of Blackall on Friday night that put the Kargoolnah Bridge at Blackall out of action by Sunday morning.

The Barcoo River reached a height of 5.2 metres at 7pm on December 13, which put the flood in the moderate bracket.

Upstream at Gillespie, the Landsborough Highway was open to four wheel drives and trucks only by Sunday afternoon when the river reached a peak of .4m over the bridge.

The road reopened to all traffic early on Monday morning.

The highway between Blackall and Barcaldine was closed for a period on Saturday at Home Creek.

Blackall had earlier set a new record for November rainfall, 228 mm or 914 pts.

This is five and a half times the long-term November average of 42.9 mm.

The previous record of 203.6 mm (814 pts) was in 2000.

Properties in the district also experienced record or near record rain events last month.

According to Rhonda Banks at Springleigh, their November total of 236.6 mm (946 pts) was the highest since their records started in 1933.

“We are loving every minute of it, even if there is a lot to do to make sure the sheep are in good order, but they are strong and healthy and we don’t normally sell at this time of year so we are not badly affected financially,” she said.

Judy Atkinson at Lisburne, 120 km south of Blackall, said they had 944 pts for November, bringing them to 34 inches for the year.

“Last year’s total was 15 inches, seven of them in December. Talk about a contrast,” she said.

At Dumfries, south of Blackall on the Ravensbourne Road, David Hardie tipped out 1313 pts in November, including 510 pts on November 21.

“Livestock movements have been difficult but we had a window of opportunity and brought forward all our December sales,” David said.

“This season is just magnificent. Memories of what it was like 12 months ago are not pleasant.”

He added that he was glad he was in the grazing

Brian and Riley Davison having fun in the Barcoo River floodwaters at the edge of Blackall on Sunday.

industry and not an agricultural farmer at present, where people are coping with ruined crops and major income losses.

Bill and Sally Cripps at Melrose, north west of Blackall, had 1068 pts in November, giving them a new monthly record.

The property’s highest November total before then was 966 pts in 1917.

Towards Jericho, Fred Rich at Tilbury recorded 680 pts last month. His November record of 796 pts, in 2007, still stands.

“Wet mud is better than dry dirt any day,” he said.

He has begun his normal joining program, with the only difference being that he is using horses rather than trucks.

Blackall-Tambo is one of a number of shires now covered by joint state and federal disaster relief and recovery arrangements, activated last week by the state government.

This means the council can now access assistance to cover the cost of counter disaster operations and to restore damaged public assets.

Premier Anna Bligh said the current damage estimate across the state is $151 million, but this figure could increase in the coming days and weeks as more damage is identified.

“The Natural Disaster Relief and Recovery Arrangements were established to ensure local councils aren’t burdened with the cost of restoring damaged assets.”

Councils will now be able to apply for funding from the state and federal governments to not only cover the cost of repairs but also any costs associated with managing counter disaster operations.

Members of the public experiencing personal hardship due to flooding can contact the Department of Communities on 1800 173 349 for support.

- The Barcoo Independent, Friday, December 17, 2010 The Barcoo Independent, Friday, December 17, 2010 - Page 29

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CHRISTMAS CROSSWORD

Across2 Mother of Jesus (4)4 Baby’s bed (4)9 Holiday ___ (3)10 Rudolph’s nose (3)12 Tend the flock (9)14 Santa’s sackful (4)15 Caravan beast (5)16 Innocent (6)18 _____day (5)20 Rapture (3)

Down1 God (4)2 “The Gift of the ___” (4)3 Helps pull a sleigh (6)5 Leads the way (7)6 One of Santa’s Reindeer (7)7 A kiss under the ________ (9)8 One of the Magi’s gifts (4)11 The celebration of the Eucharist (4)13 Led the way (4)17 ___ the angels sing (4)18 Newborn (4)19 Sacred (4)

Across: 2 Mary, 4 Crib, 9 Inn, 10 Red, 12 Shepherds, 14 Toys, 15 Camel, 16 Cherub, 18 Birth, 20 Joy.

Down: 1 Lord, 2 Magi, 3 Donner, 5 Rudolph, 6 Blitzer, 7 Mistletoe, 8 Gold, 11 Mass, 13 Star, 17 Hark, 18 Baby, 19 Holy.

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4 5 6

7 8

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12 13

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It operates from 7am to 4pm, unless there is a life-threatening emergency, which is attended to immediately.

Mr Wheeler has two crews which relieve each other, a total of eight people.

“I could probably get 16 if I needed them – the boys are keen and it’s really good training for them, handling the boat in these sorts of conditions.”

The majority of the volunteer crew members are council staff. Mr Wheeler said the ones that weren’t put in the same hours.

“The people that need to use the boat give us good feedback,” he commented.

“I don’t want to see inexperienced people out there trying to cross their own boats in conditions like this.

“It’s better for us to manage it.”

Floodwaters keep Blackall SES busycontinued from page 1

The Blackall SES base beside the Barcoo River.

The Barcoo Independent, Friday, December 17, 2010 The Barcoo Independent, Friday, December 17, 2010 -

THREE major tributaries in the Blackall-Tambo region – the Barcoo River, Ravensbourne Creek and Wooroolah Creek – have been identified in this week’s proposed nomination of the Cooper Creek Basin as a wild river area.

They have been named as being of major importance, either in terms of size, stream flow or ecological significance, to the region’s ecosystems.

The proposal covers about 243 000 square kilometres and includes the Thomson River and tributaries.

Natural Resources Minister Stephen Robertson said the announcement was about ensuring the Cooper Creek basin’s natural biodiversity and cultural heritage is protected, and that any developments are undertaken responsibly, without detriment to the natural values of the river system.

Christine Campbell, a grazier on the Barcoo River and convenor of the Concerned Producers of the Upper Barcoo group, said it was a disappointing decision as legislation was not needed.

“We accept that it’s happened, but now we need to push for property scale mapping.

“We want to see that these are ground-truthed and accurate before any declaration is made.”

Mrs Campbell noted that there was a poor level of trust amongst graziers, based on previous experiences with vegetation management laws.

“There have been something like 11 significant changes to those laws in 10 years, and people are concerned that the same thing will happen here.”

She also said the four and a half month consultation period, coming over summer months, would make it extremely difficult for people to get together to discuss the issue. Mr Robertson said the period would take into account any impacts the wet season may have on community participation. Submissions on the proposed Cooper Creek basin wild river declaration proposal close on 29 April 2011. Details can be found at: www.derm.qld.gov.au or by phoning (07) 4222 5532.

Blackall creeks named in Wild Rivers proposal

CLASSIFIEDSTHE BARCOO INDEPENDENT

BIRTH NOTICE

AnikaCameronandClaytonSmithhavewelcomedthebirth of their baby girl,

KeelyAvy-MaySmith,bornonthe24thNovember,2010.

SheisthesecondgrandchildforKevinandKerrieCameronofBlackallandthirdgrandchildforJosieand

ArbSmith,Tambo.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY!

Guesswho’sturning70!HappybirthdayfromLola,Ernieandfamilies

HAPPY BIRTHDAY!

Happy70thbirthdayonthe19thHaveagreatdayIan

Lovefromallyourfamily

The Barcoo Independent wouldliketowishallofourclientsandreadersavery

MerryChristmasandaHappyNewYear!

Townhouse Bursary

The Blackall Student Hostel Townhouse Bursary is now open for 2010. The bursary provides financial

assistance to one student from either Blackall or Tambo to further their education at an accredited

educational facility. The bursary is valued at $2500.

Applicants must be 19 years of age or younger,

have successfully completed years 10, 11 or 12 and have a residential address in the Blackall Tambo

Regional Shire for the 12 months immediately preceding their application.

Applicants will be selected on the basis of a desire

to further their education, the need to live away from home to do so and their success in gaining a

position in a recognised full-time course.

Application forms and criteria can be obtained by contacting Sally Campbell on 4657 4693 or by

writing to the Townhouse Bursary management committee, C/- “Clarenden”, Blackall 4472.

[email protected]

Closing date: Friday, 28th January 2011.

Ian, Di and Nick Kinsey and staff of Ian KinseyOutback Chemist, Outback Emporium and 5 StarSupermarket would like to wish you a very Merry

Christmas and a joyful New Year! We look forward todoing business with you in 2011!

CHRISTMAS can be a great time for celebrating with family and friends, for holidays and for relaxing but for some it can be a time where there is loneliness, grief, hurt, poverty and brokenness. The central message of Christmas can bring love, hope, peace, comfort and joy no matter what your circumstance.

Christmas is a time to remember that God sent Jesus into the world to be our Saviour and offer forgiveness of sins and new life with God. The arrival of Jesus was an incredibly generous gift to us. His life is an example for how we can live everyday with joy and peace in our hearts, not just at Christmas.

Please take time this Christmas to remember that God’s arms are outstretched with His gift of love, Jesus.

To everyone in Blackall we hope and pray that this Christmas is a time where you know the true Peace that comes from God.

– Uniting Church of Blackall


advertising.By SALLY CRIPPS

Rob, Marg, Will, John, Kimberley and staff at

Central Star Wish you a Merry Christmas and a

prosperous New Year. We thank you for your support throughout the

year.Trading Hours Over The Festive

SeasonChristmas Day: 9am-11am and 4pm-

6pmBoxing Day: 9am-12pm and 4pm-7pm December 27: 8am-2pm and 4pm-7pm December 28: 8am-2pm and 4pm-7pm January 1: 9am-12pm and 4pm-7pm


BlackallIGA

Just shop at your local IGA store this month and swipe your lucky buys card to be in the draw for an MP3 Player and shopping

vouchers in time for Christmas.

For the kids we have a Christmas colouring-in

competition.Entries available in-store.

Prizes for 7 & under and 8-12 years. Winner announced on

December 22.All entries on display in-store.

LONGREACH REGIONAL COUNCILPositions Vacant

Longreach Reg

Position Branch Closing Date

ional Council is seeking enthusiastic people with a passion for Local Government and the community to join a vibrant team in a progressive council.

Plant Operator/Truck x 2 Yaraka 14.01.11

pplications a nine day fortnight, and superannuation of up to 12% of salary is

ongreach Regional Council team, please contact Ms

ACouncil offersavailable upon commencement.

If you would like to join the LJackie Doyle on (07) 4658 4126, mobile 0428 716 580, email [email protected] visit the Council website at www.longreach.qld.gov.au and download a copy of the Position Descriptions and Information Kits.

Chief Executive Officer PO Box 472

Longreach Regional Council is an equal opportunity employer.

96A Eagle Street Longreach QLD 4730

The Blackall Newspaper Groupthanks the community for its excellent support in 2010

We especially thank regular advertisers

Blackall-Tambo Regional CouncilIan Kinsey

Southern Cross ShedsTop End TanksRay White RuralUniting Church

Outback Pest ControlMary Neal

Retravision

We look forward to giving you the opportunity to advertise your product in colour in 2011.

Our thanks to all who bought and contributed to our community newspaper this year.

Have a safe holiday season and we will look forward to bringing you all the news again in 2011.

Merry Christmas

Rob, Chris and staff from Blackall Retravision and Parnaby’s

Refrigeration would like to wish all their valued customers a very Merry

Christmas and a prosperous New Year!

We will be open this Saturday from 8.30am to 4pm and Sunday from

8.30am to 12pm

AS you check off your lists of people to whom you send cards, buy presents for or make an effort to contact at Christmas time, is the list complete or is there one name missing?

Is the name of the One whose birthday we celebrate at Christmas to be found in your address book? Will Jesus be invited to your celebration? Will there be space for Him at your table or a present for Him under the tree?

If you can’t think of something to give Him he has left us a list even though he really is “The One who has everything”.

Jesus came to earth that we may know God’s love in our lives. That’s his greatest gift to us. Our gift to him is to acknowledge that love. If this Christmas we can mend a quarrel, help the hurting, welcome a stranger, laugh with people and not at them or take pleasure in the beauty and wonder of the earth, Jesus will be well pleased and our celebrations will be blessed.

May Jesus be with you this Christmas-time and always.

– Rev’d Beth O’Neill, Anglican Parish of Barcoo

THIS is not only the last newspaper of 2010 but it’s my last ever Barcoo Independent.

Although I’ve only been in Blackall for about five months, I am saddened by the move, but I have received an amazing job offer that I would have been crazy to knock back. So, much to my dislike I am back packing again, and getting ready for my new adventure as an editor in Warwick.

It’s hard to describe the feelings and thoughts about leaving this town. In some respects, I feel like I’ve been here forever; I have made some great friends that I know will keep in touch and visit me in my new home, but Blackall is such an amazing, welcoming and friendly town that I sincerely feel like I’m leaving ‘home’. People often rate how good a town or city is by the services that are provided but it really is the residents that make a place so special. The first time I stepped onto Blackall soil, I felt a different vibe to the area; one that I’ve never felt so strongly before.

You are greeted by warm smiles, a wave from someone passing by, or stopped by a resident to have a chat. People are genuinely interested in you here and it does make you feel right at home. So a big sincere thank you to the residents of Blackall; I will be leaving with fond memories of this area and have enjoyed my time here as managing editor.

But I must say that I’m over the moon that I’ll be able to watch my netball again with more digital television channels available in Warwick. Go the Melbourne Vixens!!!!

Rebecca Brown

FROM THE EDITOR


Incredible display of local talentMORE than 70 people attended the Creative Pathways ‘BIG Showcase’ at the Memorial Hall on December 2.

The showcase was an incredible display of local talent in the areas of performance, visual art, computer game making, film and food. The night included performances by Dance Blackall, Blackall’s Sing Australia choir, Melinda and Bree Wells, Hard Style Kandy, Coleman Wakefield and young singers from Blackall State School.

“To see a turnout as big as this is very satisfying,” Creative Pathways program coordinator Brooke Newall said.

“Young people in Blackall are valued by their community and it’s evident by the amount of support surrounding the BIG Showcase,” Brooke said.

Young photographer Jess Walker began selling her original postcards on the night. Successfully selling all her cards, with buyers including Blackall-Tambo Regional Mayor Jan Ross, Jess is now looking to continue her enterprise with the support of Creative Pathways.

“Jess’ postcards and the work presented by others out seeded any of my expectation; it was a great showcase of our local talent,” Blackall-Tambo Regional Council youth officer Lisa Goodman said.

Visual art made by young people and presented on the night included photography, computer games, illustrations and a giant Christmas elf. An exiting new project emerged between young people from Blackall and Tambo and the Uniting Church Women’s Guild. With the guidance of Creative Pathways school students designed labels for a range of jams and sweets made by the ladies. They were sold on the night with all proceeds donated back to the church.

“We aim to connect different areas of the community and our events are a great platform,” Brooke said.

The Creative Pathways team will be back in early 2011 and will be preparing for the Shockwave Festival in June. If you’d like to be involved in the festival please contact Lisa Goodman at Blackall-Tambo Regional Council.

Blackall Tambo Regional CouncilRegional Arts Development Fund (RADF)

Round 2 Grant Funding Closing date 24th January 2011

The RADF program is funded by both Arts Queensland and Blackall Tambo Regional Counciland is a Queensland Government initiative, which supports development of the arts andculture at a local level throughout regional Queensland.

The Blackall Tambo Regional Council invites any person or organisation in Blackall or Tamboto apply for RADF grant funding to help with the cost of cultural development projects oractivities for the period 1st July 2010 to 30th June 2011.

Funding is available through RADF forDeveloping regional skills,Building community cultural capacityInterest free arts loansCultural tourismContemporary collections/storiesRegional partnershipsConcept development, arts policy development and implementation

As there have been a number of changes to the forms and funding, could you please call to discussyour application prior to lodgement of the application.Application forms are available by contacting the RADF liaison officer Lisa Kings on 4654 6481 oremail [email protected]

Completed application forms to be forwarded to:

Mr Ken Timms Chief Executive Officer Blackall-Tambo Regional Council P O Box 21, BLACKALL QLD 4472.

For further information contact:BTRC RADF Liaison Officer,Lisa Kings,P O Box 21,BLACKALL QLD 4472Phone: 4654 6481Email: [email protected]

BLACKALL FURNITURE ONE

OPENING SOONLOUNGE SUITES TABLES/CHAIRS DINING ROOM BEDDING ENSEMBLES BUFFETS

HUTCHES TV UNITS OUTDOOR FURNITURE OCCASIONAL FURNITURE RUGSMANCHESTER MATTRESS PROTECTORS PILLOWS

Mary NealRemedial Massage

TherapistThursday from 8:00am

At Barcoo Living MPS2A Coronation Drive

BlackallPh: (07) 4651 0955

Mobile: 0429 309 111

Young photographer Jess Walker sells some of her postcards to Blackall-Tambo Regional Mayor Jan Ross.


Lease of Stock Trucking Reserve R88 Blackall And

Stock Holding Paddock Reserve R130 Tambo

Tenders are invited for the three (3) year lease of the Stock Trucking Reserve R88 located off Evora Road, Blackall – Lot 124 on SP175953 and/or the Stock Holding Paddock Reserve R130 located Charles Street, Tambo – Lot 38 on TB207.

Further particulars, including a copy of maps of the land, regarding the lease may be obtained from Mrs Donna Richardson, commercial services officer, during normal office hours.

Tenders endorsed “Lease of Stock Trucking Reserve” and/or “Lease of Stock Holding Paddock Reserve”, close at 4.30pm on Friday, 21 January, 2011 at the Blackall Council office, 6 Coronation Drive, Blackall, Qld 4472.

Prospective tenderers are advised that the lease will provide for the grazing of stock and the accepted applicant must obtain public liability insurance.

Tenders received after this date will not be accepted. The lowest or any tender not necessarily accepted.

PO Box 21 BLACKALL Q 4472 Fax (07) 4657 8855

K L TimmsCHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

Phone (07) 4621 6600

POSITION AVAILABLEBlackall’s local newspaper, the Barcoo Independent, is looking for a

person who is interested in journalism and photography The Position

You will be responsible for writing stories, taking photos and sourcing advertising for Blackall’s weekly newspaper. You will learn to use creative programs to design the layout, and undertake the

newspaper’s printing and distribution with assistance from the newspaper committee. Guidance and training will be provided to familiarise you in all tasks.

YouMust be enthusiastic and self motivated, capable of meeting deadlines, willing to work flexible

hours and looking to build a career in writing or journalism.Basic photography skills and/or experience using Adobe InDesign would be an advantage.

ApplyingEmail [email protected] with your resume and cover letter or send to the Blackall

Newspaper Group, 108a Shamrock StreetFor further enquires contact Sally Cripps on (07) 4657 5955.

Applications close December 31, 2010

Event Coordinator Blackall Heartland Festival

The Blackall Heartland Festival committee is seeking the services of a highly motivated, enthusiastic and well organised person for the position of Event Coordinator for the 2011 Heartland Festival.

The Blackall Heartland Festival runs from May 27 to June 6. This is a part-time position commencing immediately upon appointment with hours of work expected to be flexible according to need and timing of activities.

Interested persons should obtain a copy of the position description and key selection criteria by phoning 4657 5955.

Written applications including a resume are to be received by Friday, 31st December 2010

C/- PO Box 122 Danielle Butler BLACKALL QLD 4472 Chairperson

Blackall Heartland Festival Inc

Email: [email protected] Phone: 4657 5955 Fax: 4657 5929

POSITION VACANT AS we wind down for Christmas, it

is timely to remind everyone for the need to be vigilant for our own safety and for the safety of others.

The Queensland Police Service is committed to reducing the road toll and as such random breath testing and targeted speed patrols over the Christmas period are a major priority for all police districts, including Blackall. This community has had its fair share of grief and tragedy this year and no-one wants to experience the grief of road trauma and loss. Please enjoy your Christmas gatherings and parties but leave the car at home.

Blackall has experienced some opportunistic crimes this year. Whilst these are isolated incidents, it is always wise to ensure you secure your property and belongings. The community was hugely inconvenienced by the wilful damage to the Commonwealth Bank ATM. A person of interest has been identified and investigations are

continuing. This person is not a local but one of the large number of transient individuals who pass through Blackall en-route to other destinations. Our police station is not open 24 hours, however, there is an officer rostered on call after hours each and every day/night of the year. If someone or something doesn’t look right, it probably isn’t. We strongly encourage you to ring through your concerns immediately; any time of the day or night.

This year we farewelled Constables Johnson and Bew. We look forward to welcoming our two new officers who arrive after Christmas and will start duty in mid January.

On behalf of myself, Brent and Helen, we thank you all for your support and assistance this year and wish you a happy and safe Christmas and New Year.

– Sergeant Bruce TrickettOfficer-in-charge

Blackall Police Station

Ryan graduates from university

Proud grandparents Peter and Doreen Womersley of Blackall were delighted when their eldest grandson Ryan O’Dempsey (pictured) graduated as a doctor (MBBS Hons) on December 10.

The Barcoo Independent, Friday, December 17, 2010 - Page 24 - The Barcoo Independent, Friday, December 17, 2010

BLACKALL-TAMBO REGIONAL COUNCIL

Public Notice of Proposed Amendment of theTambo Planning Scheme

Notice is hereby given of the amendment of the Tambo Planning Scheme to include a Priority Infrastructure Plan.

Information about the proposed planning scheme amendment may be obtained by contacting the Chief Executive Officer on (07) 4621 6600.

The proposed planning scheme is also available as a download from the Council’s website (www.btrc.qld.gov.au) or for inspection and purchase at the Council offices from 13 December 2010, located at Tambo Administration Office, Arthur Street, Tambo for a period of 30 business days after the first publication of this notice.

Written submissions about any aspect of the proposed planning scheme may be made during this period to the Council by any person. A properly made submission must be addressed to: Tambo Planning Scheme PIP Submissions, Blackall-Tambo Regional Council, PO Box 21, Blackall Qld 4472 and must include at least the name and contact particulars of the submitter.

KL Timms CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

COMMUNITY NEWSNews on the mining front is that Exoma Energy has written to the councilsaying it will start drilling for goal seam gas in the northern part of the Councilarea in early 2011. For more details of their plans seehttp://www.exoma.net/index.php?/projects Also, as announced on 9December, Exoma has sold a 50% stake in their company to a major Chinese oilcompany so presumably things will go ahead rapidly. The council will beworking with the company to try and make things go as smoothly as possible.

The Queensland Government has released its Coal Plan 2030. The Blackall CoalProject is not mentioned but this Plan only includes projects where thecompany concerned has told the Government that it has definite plans. It isassumed that the prospecting by the Blackall Coal Project is incomplete.

Companies looking at potential new business linked to the coal mines shouldattend a workshop in Blackall on 7 March on tendering for projects. Thisworkshop will provide a range of helpful tips.

Further small business workshops are being planned for 2011; watch this spaceand the council website.

For people concerned on the Wild Rivers issue, the Remote Area Planning andDevelopment Board (RAPAD) in Longreach will be organising the consultationfor the Queensland Government on exactly how the legislation will beimplemented. This will be of vital importance. Again, watch this space and thecouncil website.

Comments on the Cooper Creek Water Resource Plan Stage II have beenrequested. The council urgently requests comments from anyone who wasimpacted on by the first Plan that came out in 2001. If you have anycomments please send to the council’s economic development officer, JohnHine, at [email protected]

FOR us today Christmas time is an awareness of Jesus in our world and in our midst again. He is born again when we see each other; when we hear each other; when we take time to be with each other; when after all is done we sit at a table together as families and friends.

May we be for our families the love which Christ brings to our world and our communities. But let’s not simply leave it for this day, but make it a part of our lives, make it a part of who we are as a people of faith. Let’s make each day a time to make a difference. At Christmas God is saying to each and every one of us: “I feel at home with you. I am close. Take me in.” And these are your words to someone

that you love: words to a friend, perhaps to your own child, an elderly parent, to your adult children, it may be to a stranger seeking recognition or it may be you to your God.

May the blessings of the Christ child fill you with his peace and love – fill you with his trust and joy – fill you hearts again with a renewed hope for life and love – and may each one of you be touched by the grace and love of God in your families and with those you hold dear.

Merry Christmas everyone!

– Fr Matthew MoloneyCatholic Parish of

Blackall - Tambo


BLACKALL-TAMBO REGIONAL COUNCIL

Public Notice of Proposed Amendment of theBlackall Planning Scheme

Notice is hereby given of the amendment of the Blackall Planning Scheme to include a Priority Infrastructure Plan.

Information about the proposed planning scheme amendment may be obtained by contacting the Chief Executive Officer on (07) 4621 6600.

The proposed planning scheme is also available as a download from the Council’s website (www.btrc.qld.gov.au) or for inspection and purchase at the Council offices from 13 December 2010, located at Blackall Administration Office, 6 Coronation Drive, Blackall for a period of 30 business days after the first publication of this notice.

Written submissions about any aspect of the proposed planning scheme may be made during this period to the Council by any person. A properly made submission must be addressed to: Blackall Planning Scheme PIP Submissions, Blackall-Tambo Regional Council, PO Box 21, Blackall Qld 4472 and must include at least the name and contact particulars of the submitter.

KL TimmsCHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

Blackall 4657 6366www.topendtanksqld.com.au [email protected]

Queensland owned and operated family company. Our tanks have a fully self supporting roof, are food gradecompliant and are a one piece construction.

CHEMICAL GRADE – WATER GRADE – MOLASSES GRADE – CONICALTANKS and STANDS

IGA GIFT CARDS

Gift cards now available at Blackall IGA. Any amount from $30 to $400 valid

for 12 months.Cards are redeemable at any IGA store

including your local Blackall IGA. Recipient can use card as often as

liked with no minimum purchase until credit balance runs out.

Suitable for any occasion – Birthdays, Thank You & Christmas gifts.

COMING SOON!Blackall IGA's own 'Christmas Club'.

For as little as $5.00 per week you can enjoy a hassle free Christmas 2011 and choose what and when you buy for the

whole year. Details soon.


advertising.CHRISTMAS is such a wonderful time of the year! It’s a great time for relaxing and catching up with family and friends, partying, and exchanging gifts but there is more to Christmas.

I hope that over this time, in the midst of the festive season, we’ll also reflect on the true reason for Christmas. That some 2000 years ago God sent His only Son, Jesus, born to be the Saviour of the world, born in a stable and laid in a manger. That’s the message of Christmas - celebrating the birth of Jesus.

From our family at Heartland Church, we wish everyone a very happy and safe Christmas.

– Pastor Mark WhysallHeartland - an Assemblies

of God Family Church

More Christmas

messages on pages24,25,27and28Creative arts, music

awards for SamuelLOCAL resident Veronica Laws has travelled to Brisbane and Sydney to see three of her grandsons perform recently; one of them being awarded for his efforts.

Performing at the Nudgee College Awards night were Jed, who sang twice with a small group and also solo, and Samuel who played with four other musicians.

Samuel also received the Michael Oldbury Memorial Award for “Outstanding Contribution in Music” and the Award of Distinction “Creative Arts Award – Cultural Events for Excellence in the Arts” at the awards night.

In Sydney younger brother Ben, who lives in Warialda, NSW, performed at the NSW ‘School Spectacular’, singing a duet and in a group.

Samuel Nelson proudly shows his awards for music at the Nudgee College Awards night.


Wishes everyone a Merry

Christmas and a Happy

New Year

9am to 2pm this Saturday and Sunday!

Get in quick for all your Christmas

shopping!!

UNIVERSAL GARDEN CENTRE

53 Shamrock St., Phone: 4657 4344

BLACKALL. Fax: 4657 4435

We can offer you a large range of shade trees, plants & tube stock, plus many established feature plants including Frangapani (Red "Darwin Blood")Cordylines ("Sundance" & "Torbay Dazzler") Weigela (Apple Blossom) Syzygium (Big Red) PhilodendronsFerns (Silver Lady) Ficus (Flash); as well as - Giant YUCCA; Succulents; FRUIT TREES; Palms and Grasses.

GIFTS - For CHRISTMAS which are different..................

WINDMILLS; FEATURE WALL PLAQUES (different types); PLANTER BUCKETS; Terracotta POTS; BIRD BATHS; CHOOKS; DUCKS & PIGS etc. as well as BIRD FEEDERS; PEWTER ITEMS - Belt buckles; JACKIE HOWE figurines and a host of other items. Of course there our unique JACKIE HOWE Singlets, sizes 4 - 14 (kids)and 14 - 26 (adult)

We wish you the compliments of the season and sincerely thank you for your valued support over the last twelve months and we look forward to helping you with your gardening questions and to assisting you in any way that we can. MERRY CHRISTMAS & A HAPPY NEW YEAR.

BARRY & JENNY MUIR.


To the communities of Blackall & Tambo:

Points of interest: The Blackall and Tambo offices will be closed from Monday 27 December, 2010 to Monday 3 January, 2011. The Westpac Bank will be open from 10.00am to 3.00pm from Wednesday 29 December, 2010 to 31 December, 2010. The Depot in Blackall and Tambo will be closed from Monday 20 December, 2010 to Friday 7 January, 2011. Below is the list of emergency contact numbers during the closed period:

Blackall:Ross Collins 0488 574 107 Ross Browning 0488 574 035 Water and Sewerage 0428 507 532

Tambo:Francis McDonald 0439 532 155 (20/12/10 to 26/12/10) Ralph McLeod 0427 546 403 (27/12/10 to 02/01/11) Darren Webb 0439 532 022 (03/01/11 to 09/01/11) The Blackall Aquatic Centre will be closed Saturday 25 and Sunday 26 December, 2010 The Tambo Aquatic Centre will be closed Saturday 25 December, 2010 The council is currently undertaking a Systematic InspectionProgram pursuant to Section 134 of the Local Government Act 2009. The Systematic Inspection Program will assess all properties within the townships (as defined in the respective Administration Local Laws) of Blackall and Tambo. The Systematic Inspection Program will run from Monday 22 November 2010 until Friday 18 February 2011. Authorised officers of the council will visit all premises between the hours of 7.00am and 7.00pm on and including all days betwee Monday and Saturday.

n

Connollys State Waste will be making several pre-Christmas trips to Tambo, so for $185 for a clean out it is a very wise and cheap insurance for a problem free Christmas, also for people on properties they will only charge an extra $1 per km. For further information or a booking please contact Connollys on FREE CALL 1800 033 063. As from December 1, 2010 those who are selling their properties with residential pools will need to undergo a mandatory pool safety inspection and receive a compliance certificate within 90 days of the point of sale. Homes for rent will require a safety certificate before the property is leased. The new regulations will be reviewed within seven years. Key points for pool owners include:

Properties with a pool for sale or lease will be affectedfrom 1 December, 2010

A valid pool safety certificate is required for the sale and lease of properties from 1 December, 2010

All pools must be brought into line with the laws by 1 December, 2015 or sooner if sold or leased before that date

For non-shared pools, such as pools associated with houses, a certificate is valid for 2 years, or 1 year for shared pools, such as body corporate pools. Remember, you don’t need to hold a valid certificate unless you are selling or leasing your property

There is a register of pool safety inspectors on the Department of Infrastructure and Planning’s website. Currently, there are 458 licensed inspectors across the state

For more information or to find out how you might be affected please visit www.qld.gov.au/poolsafety

Johnny Cash Tribute Show will be playing at the Blackall Cultural Centre Saturday 19 February, 2011. Adults $20.00, children (12 & under) $10.00. Tickets are available at the Blackall and Tambo Council offices. A bus service will be running from Tambo for the Tambo residences for an extra $5 per person. For further information please call 4621 6600. Blackall-Tambo Regional Council is proud to sponsor the 2010 Christmas Lights Competition. Residents may nominate in any of the following categories: Spirit of Christmas $100.00 Best Decorated Business House $100.00 Best Decorated House $100.00 Best Novelty Theme $100.00 Most Creative Use of Lights $100.00 Good Neighbours Award $50.00 each (2 adjoining premises) Judging will be undertaken from 17 December to 22 December. Nominations can be made at the Blackall and Tambo Council offices.

Positions Vacant:Manager of Works – Full time located in Blackall closes Monday 10 January, 2011.

Positions Filled: Hilton Tomlinson started on the 6 December as the new plumber for Blackall.

Tenders: Vacant land Tambo located in Mitchell Street – closes 17 December, 2010 Bailing of grass on the road reserves and stock routes in the Blackall-Tambo area – closes 24 December, 2010 Expressions of Interest are being called for the operation of a taxi service for the Blackall-Tambo region – closes 17 December, 2010

The Blackall-Tambo Regional Council would like to wish everyone a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. We look forward to helping you in the new year.

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 – 9 February 2010 – Blackall.

Ken Timms Chief Executive Officer

Edition 11–17/12/10

Shamrock StreetFROM

Clematis Street to Violet Street

Christmas Eve 24/12/2010

5.30pm – 9.30pm

Gwynne Angela Stockwell – September 3, 1962 – November 18, 2010

GWYNNE Angela Wheelhouse was born at the Blackall Hospital on the 3rd September 1962 – the first child for proud parents Les and Del. The arrival of sister Alison caused a loosening of maternal control and Gwynne took the opportunity to become Dad’s right hand girl. The first major event in her life was her first day at kindergarten. Gwynne attended school at St Joseph’s, with her parents driving her to town each day. This involved side excursions to her grandparents for treats before coming home.

Gwynne completed her education at the Blackall State School and then began her employment career at Westpac. After some years she resigned from Westpac and commenced work at Elders, for whom she worked for 24 years. This was the start of a long relationship which resulted in her having a huge network of friends and clients across Australia. She broke in quite a few managers and mothered any number of ‘green stockies’.

Gwynne and Alison persuaded their father to allow a B&S ball in the Selvister shearing shed. It was a great success and so began

a series of four balls. The fourth was so well attended and so many people were doing the jumping up and down dances, which were in vogue that a number of the foundation stumps sank. After taking a day to level the floor it was announced that there would be no more B&S balls.

Gwynne and Robbie Stockwell were married on 11th June 1983 but as it happens, separated. Gwynne was a keen polocrosse player for many years and became well known, particularly as the PA announcer had to call her many times to come and get her cunning old horse who had a habit of escaping and eating other horses’ feed.

Gwynne’s greatest joy was the birth of her sons Alex and Ben. They were her life and became a very close unit. Her capacity to give was limitless and Ben’s propensity to accumulate stray animals nearly as good, but nothing fazed her – the more the merrier. Fairlea was home to dogs, cats, birds, cows and for a short time, rats.

The boys went off to boarding school and Gwynne must have found 10 minutes in her day free – so she decided to become president

of her beloved Blackall Magpies. She absolutely loved “her” league boys and worked tirelessly to keep the club going. Her excitement when they won was a joy to see.

Gwynne was always a committed worker for the community, beginning with her being an entrant in the Girl-in-a-Million quest to raise money for the RSL. She worked tirelessly for the convent school, Barcoo Rushes, camel races, Blackall Rugby League and anywhere help was needed.

Several years ago, Gwynne met and fell in love with John Pay. The boys also fell in love with Poppy John and Gwynne’s world was complete. Nothing gave her greater pleasure than watching the three kids doing stupid things – a wry smile, a shake of her head and a quiet word were the only reaction to their wildest antics.

Gwynne was an amazing person, her capacity to love extraordinary and limitless. No one who asked for help was ever refused and she took so much pleasure in being “the” turn-to person. She has left a huge void in our lives and we can only hope that our memories will get us through.

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Local Government Act 2009

PROPOSAL TO MAKE LOCAL LAWS & SUBORDINATE LOCAL LAWS

The Blackall-Tambo Regional Council has proposed to adopt the following Model Local Laws and has proposed to make the following Subordinate Local Laws—

Local Law & Subordinate Local Law No. 1 (Administration) 2010: The purpose of this local law and subordinate local law is to provide a legal and procedural framework for the administration, implementation and enforcement of the local government’s local laws, subordinate local laws and specified regulatory powers under legislation, and to provide for miscellaneous administrative matters by setting out requirements for the granting of approvals for prescribed activities; and

Local Law & Subordinate Local Law No. 2 (Animal Management) 2010 : The purpose of this local law and subordinate local law is to regulate and manage the keeping and control of animals in the local government’s area in a way that balances community expectations with the rights of individuals; and protects the community against risks to health and safety; and prevents pollution and other environmental damage; and protects the amenity of the local community and environment; by providing for—the regulation of the keeping of animals in terms of how many, what type, how, and where animals can be kept; and the prescription of minimum standards for keeping animals; and the proper control of animals in public places; and the management of dangerous or aggressive animals other than dogs; and the seizure and destruction of animals in certain circumstances; and the establishment and administration of animal pounds; and

Local Law & Subordinate Local Law No. 3 (Community and Environmental Management) 2010: The purpose of this local law and subordinate local law is to protect the environment and public health, safety and amenity within the local government’s area by providing for the elimination or reduction of risks and threats to the environment and public health, safety and amenity resulting from inadequate protection against animal and plant pests; and vegetation overgrowth; and visual pollution resulting from accumulation of objects and materials; and fires and fire hazards not regulated by State law; and community safety hazards; and noise that exceeds noise standards; and

Local Law & Subordinate Local Law No. 4 (Local Government Controlled Areas, Facilities and Roads) 2010: The purpose of this local law and subordinate local law is to protect the health and safety of persons using local government controlled land, facilities, infrastructure and roads; and preserve features of the natural and built environment and other aspects of the amenity of local government controlled land, facilities, infrastructure and roads by providing for—the regulation of access to local government controlled areas; and the prohibition or restriction of particular activities on local government controlled areas or roads; and miscellaneous matters affecting roads.

Written submissions for or against the adoption of making of the subordinate local laws are invited for a 21 day period commencing on 16 December, 2010 and ending on 17 January, 2011.

During the period for receipt of submissions, copies of the proposed local laws and subordinate local laws are open for inspection at the Council’s public office at 6 Coronation St, Blackall and may be purchased at a cost of 0.45¢ per copy.

Submissions must be received on or before 17 January, 2011 stating (a) the grounds of the submission; and (b) the facts and circumstances relied on in support of the grounds

Ken Timms PO Box 21 Chief Executive Officer Blackall Q 4472

Blackall 4657 6366 ring for your freewritten quote today – order your shed and

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RESIDENTIAL INDUSTRIAL–COMMERCIAL RURAL SHEDS CARPORTS HANGERS STABLES ARENAS PATIOS

THE Blackall Tambo Education Group is seeking applications from young people in the region that have finished their secondary schooling and are considering further education and training plans.

Donations made to the new group during the year mean it can now assist local youth financially to achieve their career aims.

The group was formed mid-year to provide much-needed financial support to its young people, recognising that costs for rural students to train or study after high school are often much higher than they are for city students.

Even in a very tight year money-wise, the group managed to raise $6500, some of which has been matched by the Fairfax Foundation.

This included a donation from Landmark Blackall of $785, being part proceeds of their Beef Dinner.

“The weather has made it difficult for us to achieve a lot as a new group,” president Kaye Wood said, “but we’ve got lots of enthusiasm and desire to help our young people.

“We have also been very grateful for the mentoring we have received from Owen Stockwell in operating

a group like ours, which will have long-lasting benefits for the community.”

Grants are not awarded on an academic basis.

A diverse range of career pursuits, including apprenticeships, cadetships, degrees and certificate level studies, are supported, as well as entry careers such as jackarooing.

One such person to benefit from BTEG funding this year has been Tamara Hardie (pictured), who has begun a correspondence course with the Australian Institute of Fitness to obtain certificates 3 and 4 in a master trainer course.

“It’s quite an expensive course so the contribution to my fees has really helped me get started,” Tamara said.

“When I first came to Blackall I found there were no fitness classes I could go to at night, so this course seems like a great opportunity to fill a void for Blackall and give something back to the community.”

She has one year to do the course so is trying to do an hour or so of study early each morning before work.

Currently she is studying anatomy and nutrition but she expects the cert 4 to be more hands-on, with visits to Brisbane for practical work.

She also hopes to gain work experience in gyms to give her knowledge of running a business.

Rather than pay cash grants, BTEG reimburses students for a pre-agreed expense or pays goods and services providers directly.

Interested people can apply to the committee for assistance in 2011, by contacting Kaye Wood at the Blackall Club.

Forms can be downloaded from the internet at www.cef.org.au and submitted with supporting documentation.

All selection criteria and obligations of grantees are listed on the form.

Local Education Group calls for grant applicationsBy SALLY CRIPPS


Spend $50 in store for a free ticket in the draw for a $100 Meat Voucher to celebrate

Drawn 23/12/2010

Lynette, Brian, Dale, Glen, Wes and Matt

wish you a very

MERRY CHRISTMAS And welcome you back in the New Year

DAVISON FAMILY

CELEBRATE 21YEARS AT

BARCOO BUTCHERY

CONGRATULATIONS

THE BARCOO INDEPENDENT

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----The year that was...looking back on 2010----October....

Blackall-Tambo Regional Mayor Jan Ross is up in arms about Blackall’s Wednesday flight. The town continues to wait in desperation for the return of the much-needed flight.

November....

Tambo Sawmill’s John Skennerton hard at work. Tambo is set to lose one of its major employers and a large percentage of its population if a forestry proposal goes ahead.

December....

Families and businesses in the Blackall region are tightening their belts for Christmas as the effect of little or no income for up to three months starts to bite. Pictured is Brad Masters shearing.


NATIONAL COMPETITION POLICY REVIEW

The Blackall-Tambo Regional Council is undertaking a review of possible anti-competitive provisions contained in the following proposed local law and proposed subordinate local law as required by the Local Government Act 2009

Proposed Local Law No.1 (Administration) 2010 and Proposed Subordinate Local Law No.1 (Administration) 2010

The purpose of these reviews is to assess whether the possible anti-competitive provisions, as identified by Council, should be retained in the public interest or reformed in the public interest.

Written submissions regarding the public interest tests for the local law and subordinate local law are now invited and must be received on or before 17 January, 2011.

During the period for receipt of submissions, copies of the public interest test plan and the local law and proposed subordinate local law are open for inspection at the Council's public office at 6 Coronation St, Blackall and may be purchased at a cost of 0.45¢ per page.

Submissions must state:-

(a) the grounds of the submission; and (b) the facts and circumstances relied on in support of the grounds.

All submissions will be regarded as public documents unless otherwise requested.

Ken Timms PO Box 21 Chief Executive Officer Blackall Q 4472

PARTHENIUM WEED ALERT: In Queensland, Parthenium is a Class 2 declared plant.

Under the Lands Protection (Pest and Stock Route Management) Act 2002, Class 2 declarationrequires landholders to control pest on the land and waters under their control. A Local Governmentmay serve a notice upon a landholder requiring control of declared pests.

Parthenium weed is an annual herb with a deep tap root and erect stem that becomes woody withage. As it matures, the plant develops many branches in its top half and may eventually reach a heightof two metres.

Leaves: Leaves are a pale green and deeply lobed and covered with fine soft hairs.

Flowers: Small creamy white flowers occur on the tips of the numerous stems. Each flower containsfour or five black seeds that are wedged shape, two millimetres long with two thin, white scales.

Lifecycle: Parthenium weed normally germinates in spring and early summer, produces flowers andseed throughout its life and dies around late autumn. In summer, plants can flower and set seedwithin four weeks of germination, particularly if stressed.

Potential Damage: Parthenium weed is a vigorous species that colonises weak pastures with sparseground cover. It will readily colonise disturbed, bare areas along roadsides and heavily stocked areasaround yards and watering points.

Health: Parthenium weed is also a health problem as contact with the plant or pollen can causeserious allergic reactions such as dermatitis and hay fever.

Weed Seed Spread: Parthenium seeds can spread via water, vehicle, machinery, stock, feral andnative animals and in feed and seed. Drought conditions aid the spread of seed with increasedmovements of stock and fodder and transports.

Vehicles and implements passing through Parthenium infested areas should be washed down withwater.

Wash Down Facilities: Wash down facilities are located in Blackall and Tambo.

All infestation of Parthenium weed should be reported to the Blackall Tambo Regional Council RuralLands Officers on (07) 4621 6600


BBLLAACCKKAALLLL UUNNIITTIINNGG CCHHUURRCCHHAll December Church Services Sunday 9am PLUS......

5th Dec SNL Cafe Church Uniting Church Hall 6pm9th Dec SNL 70s night Skate Park 6pm25th Dec Christmas Day Church Service 9am26th Dec No service

All January Church Services Sunday 9am

Happy Christmaseveryone!

We wish you God’s blessings for 2011!!

COMBINED CHURCHES OF BLACKALL SERVICE TIMES CHRISTMAS/NEW YEAR 2010/11

ST PATRICK’S CATHOLIC CHURCH Enquiries – Fr Matthew Moloney – Ph. 4657 4105

Christmas Eve 5.30pm Tambo 11.40pm Carols Blackall

MIDNIGHT MASS Blackall Christmas Day 9.00am Mass Alpha Saturday 1st January 6.00pm Mass Barcaldine Sunday 2nd January 9.00am Mass Alpha

5.00pm Mass Blackall

HOLY TRINITY ANGLICAN CHURCH Enquiries - Rev Beth O'Neill – Ph. 4675 4141

Christmas Eve 5.30pm Tambo 9.00pm Coffee & Cake – Blackall 9.30pm Christmas Communion Christmas Day 9.00am Blackall Saturday 1st January 5.30pm Blackall Sunday 2nd January 10.00am Blackall

BLACKALL UNITING CHURCH Christmas Day 9.00am Blackall Sunday 2nd January 9.00am Blackall

HEARTLAND, ASSEMBLIES OF GOD Enquiries – Pastor Mark Whysall – Ph. 0437 941 607

Christmas Day 8.00am Blackall Sunday 2nd January 9.00am Blackall

----The year that was...looking back on 2010---- ----The year that was...looking back on 2010----January....

Celebrating Australia Day with enthusiasm, face paint and games were Aimee Donohoe, Danielle O’Brien and Chloe Kings.

February....

The Blackall SES were out on the river for the first time in two years, ferrying stranded residents from one side of the river to the other.

March....

Jason Smith and Colleen Morrison led a group of enthusiastic Clean Up Australia Day volunteers.

April....

Celebrating with the community at the opening and blessing of the MacKillop Centre at St Joseph’s were Catholic Education facilities coordinator Paul Bryant (left), principal building contractor Chris McErlean, assistant director of schools Western Region Ross Jones, Bishop Brian Heenan, principal Tim Franzmann, Federal Member for Maranoa Bruce Scott, Father Matthew Moloney, Catholic Education director Leesa Jeffcoat and St Joseph’s students.

May....

‘Miss Blackall’ of the Shockwave Youth Arts Festival Louise Ward (left) and her ‘Assistant’ Gemma Stone paraded the grounds of the festival.

June....

It was a strong vote by the 60 residents and ratepayers of Blackall at the community meeting to form an action group and elect a committee. Picture: David Alexander.

July....

Celebrity chef, Alison Taafe, shows her culinary talents at the Blackall Food Fight.

August....

Blackall State School year 11 student Ashlii Timms is the first student from Blackall to receive a place at the National Youth Science Forum.

September....

Gardening Australia’s Colin Campbell gives advice to Blackall residents at the 81st annual Anglican Flower Show.

Barcoo Independent 171210

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