Barcoo Independent 080208

INDEPENDENTTHE BARCOO

Page 24 - The Barcoo Independent, Friday, February 8 , 2008

Australia’s youngest CEO? -- page 6Flood photos -- pages 12 & 13

Blackall’s own community newspaperFebruary 8, 2008 ISSN 1832-6129 RRP $2.00 Contact: [email protected]

Sport on the Barcoo

Record floods south of Blackall --by Sally Cripps

An offshoot of the system which dumped extraordinary amounts of rain on the Central Highlands in the middle of January brought a combination of heartache and hope to landholders in the Blackall district.

Properties to the south of Blackall along the Adavale Road registered between six and nine inches (150-225 mm) of rain during the evening of Thursday, January 17, prompting urgent phone calls to people downstream.

The Butler family at Athol, situated between Hope and Ravensbourne Creeks, bore the brunt of the flash flooding with water inundating their homestead complex to a level of one metre inside their home and station buildings.

“We heard the news at about a quarter to six on Friday morning and we were still trying to put things up with a foot of water in our house a few hours later,” Danielle Butler said.

“We just didn’t know where it was going to stop so we had to make the decision to leave.”

The helicopter called in to assist was unable to land close to the house so the Butlers and their employees had to make their way through water ranging from waist to chest height to a nearby earth ramp, piggy-backing their children.

Three trips were needed before everyone was removed to safety.

Blackall itself experienced only moderate flooding, recording a peak of 5.2 metres in the Barcoo River on Friday afternoon, January 18, reaching the edge of the business district but remaining out of shops and residences.

Blackall SES controller Don Wheeler described it as a friendly flood to ABC Radio, saying his men had four days of flood duty which had been a good exercise.

A total of 220 people, two bikes and two dogs made use of the flood boat service in the days when the

water began receding and people were able to move around again.

Blackall mayor Les Wheelhouse noted that the council’s Raise and Relocate program, begun after the 1990 flood had helped alleviate problems in the town by raising or shifting 23 homes.

“We still have four or five houses to do, which were marginal in the 1990 flood, but local business houses will feel the first effects now, because there’s not much you can do for those.”

Further downstream at Melrose, the Barcoo River floodwaters equalled the 1990 record, peaking at about 2pm on Saturday, January 19.

The Butlers said the flooding at Athol was a record as far as they knew.

Their cleanup began on the Sunday after the evacuation.

“It’s just a shame that something like this had to happen at the end of what was a wonderful rainfall event for us,” Danielle said.

continued on page11

Athol hom estead, B lackall em erges from the floodwaters of Hope and Ravensbourne Creeks a fte r hav ing one m etre o f w ater th rough the bu ild ings. (P hoto - K D avison)

Sunday, February 3 saw two games of competition bowls played in Blackall.

A hard-fought game was played between Ross Browning and Dally Holden in A singles with Dally leading 20-18 after 23 ends.

Ross raced away to win 31-22 on 32 ends, after a couple of unlucky shots by Dally plus some good bowling by Ross to give him an edge.

In handicap singles Gary Whitfield proved too strong for an out of practice Alf Cameron to win 31-16.

The 2008 season starts on Sunday February 10, with all

players asked to make a special effort as we are already behind schedule.

Games are handicap singles final 2007 – L Kelly v G Whitfield, spotter C Pfingst; B singles 2008 – D Daly v D Carter, spotter R Black; L Alexander v M Gray, spotter D Holden, and R Doyle v G MacNamara, spotter J Bowyer.

A singles will be played between J Carter and A Cameron with spotter T Hayward.

Skippers are requested to submit their team for trebles and rinks so the draw can be done.

Play will commence at 8:30.-- by Dally Holden

The Barcoo Country Cricket Club was recently re-started for 2008 when interested persons rejoined or joined the club.

There are exciting plans to hold more games of cricket this year to take advantage of the great pitch out on the claypan of the club’s grounds on the Jericho Road.

Ray Aspinall was re-elected president while Ian Macdonald remained the vice president.

Virginia Wacker continued as treasurer. Ros Wood is the club secretary with Donald Isaac the club captain.

Committee members include Mike Wacker, Glen Harvey, Dwayne Kangan, Lindsay Russell, Danny Allan, Stew Campbell and

Bill Cripps.The club is hoping to hold games

more regularly and involve both town and country cricket teams.

It is keen to join up people who are new to the district and looking for ways to mix in with the locals, for a $20 subscription fee.

A spokesman for the club said the grounds contained a tennis court, children’s play equipment and barbecue facilities, ensuring entertainment for all and a social event, usually finishing with a meal and a few drinks.

The first game was held on February 2 and the next is on Saturday, March 1.

-- by Helen Aspinall

On February 2, the Blackall Junior Cricket Club and the Barcoo Country Cricket Club met at the Country Cricket grounds for their monthly match.

Blackall Junior Cricket went into bat first and was all out for 155.

Highest scorers were Steven Bird on 43, Glenn Harvey on 29 and Bradley Hayes on 18.

Danny Allen managed to take 3 for 9 in four overs.

The Country Cricket Club scored 95 runs before being all out.

Mark Duffy scored 47 runs while Don Isaac and Danny Allan scored 11 and 9 runs respectively.

Bowler Justin Johnstone took 2 for 11 in four overs while Mitchell Horsten took 1 for 8 in three overs.

There was a small hold-up at one stage as members of both teams searched for the ball in the green grass.

All had a great day and the next match will be held on March 1.

All spectators are welcome. -- by Cindy-Lee Harvey

Unlucky shots lose game

B arcoo C ountry C ricke t C lub rev ived

Juniors win against Country

The Blackall Pony Club is alive and active for the forthcoming season with a keen new committee.

Members joined together in a working bee recently, cleaning up the grounds after the storm season, as well as setting up equipment ready for a busy year.

Competitions for 2008 have been given the green light after the equine influenza shutdown that unfolded in 2007, so shield days, pony club camps, other competitions and the state titles in Winton are all set to go.

The club rally days start on Sunday, February 10 at 8.30 am, finishing anytime after 1 pm, with members being encouraged to learn basic horsemanship, have fun and make new friends.

This year the club will start a new section called ‘Adult Riding Group’ which will be held every third Tuesday night under lights or every alternate weekend, depending on the activities planned.

New members or interested persons are encouraged to come along to be introduced to the world of horse riding. Any enquires please ring Helen Aspinall.

Blackall Pony Club resumes in 2008

Glenn Harvey and Bradley Hayes wait for play to recom m ence at the B lackall cricket clubs m onth ly m atch

Page 2 - The Barcoo Independent, Friday, February 8 , 2008 The Barcoo Independent, Friday, February 8 , 2008- Page 23

Please send your contributions to: Email: [email protected] Post: PO Box 195, Blackall Q Phone/fax: 4657 6966 or in person: The Blackall Visitor Information Centre, 108a Shamrock St, Blackall

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DATE CLAIMERS

Contributions

Advertising Rates 2008

AND THEY’RE OFF AND RACING!!!1ST RACE MEETING FOR 2008

SATURDAY 1STMARCH

BLACKALL RACECOURSE SKYCHANNEL BOOKMAKERS “FASHIONS OF THE FIELD”

“BEST HAT” BAR & P&C CANTEEN

STAY FOR BAR & BBQ AFTER THE RACES!!!

LETTERS TO THE EDITORC ollins w ar m eda l query

My hobby is returning lost medal to veterans or their families. I do this free of charge and so far I have returned 323 medals.

I am currently trying to locate the family of Robert Collins who was from Blackall. Collins enlisted on November 30. 1915 in the 42nd Battalion and was invalided back to Australia in 1918 after suffering a gun shot wound. His next of kin was listed as Mrs Mary Collins, and his father’s name was George.

I would appreciate any information that can be provided about Robert Collins. My contact details are [email protected] or 0414 649 079. My web site address is www.lostmedalsaustralia.com and my postal address is 40A Chelsea Dve, Condon QLD, 4815.

Lieutenant Colonel Glyn Llanwarne

FEBRUARY12 S pring le igh na tu ra l resources fie ld day14 Va len tine ’s D ayMARCH1 R ace m eeting2 C lean U p A ustra lia D ay4 A gforce m eeting8 In te rna tiona l W om en’s D ay14 B lacka ll sh ire com m unity fa rew e ll party15 S t Joseph ’s S choo l fe te

APRIL19 C W A sta ll25 A nzac D ay

MAY3 W oo lscour d inner and tour4 B lacka ll show7 W oo lscour d inner and tour12 P oet in res idence s ta rts14 W oo lscour d inner and tour16-18 B lack S tum p cam pdra ft

16-31 H eartland Festiva l21 W oo lscour d inner and tour24 /25 W oo lscour cen tenary w eekend28 W oo lscour d inner and tour31 M atilda H ighw ay race m eeting

JUNE1 H eartland Festiva l conc ludes4 W oo lscour d inner and tour7 W oo lscour d inner and tour11 W oo lscour d inner and tour18 W oo lscour d inner and tour25 W oo lscour d inner and tour

JULY2 W oo lscour d inner and tour5 N oe l A llom M em oria l C up race m eeting5 W oo lscour d inner and tour9 W oo lscour d inner and tour16 W oo lscour d inner and tour23 W oo lscour d inner and tour

24 60+ B ette r C hris tm as in Ju ly30 W oo lscour d inner and tour

AUGUST2 W oo lscour d inner and tour6 W oo lscour d inner and tour13 W oo lscour d inner and tour18 V ie tnam Veterans D ay20 W oo lscour d inner and tour27 W oo lscour d inner and tour

SEPTEMBER6 F low er S how6 W oo lscour d inner and tour20 S pring tim e A ffa ir

OCTOBERTB A R ace m eeting

NOVEMBER11 R em em brance D ay

DECEMBER24 C hris tm as E ve stree t party

W eb S upports C om m unities in the ir R ecoveryI grew up in rural South Australia and have family

living in Queensland. The destruction caused by the floods after many years of drought is heart wrenching to watch. I know how important rural communities are to the Australian economy and how difficult it is to maintain their sustainability, particularly when such adverse climate conditions test the strength of every business trying to make a living in these communities. The clean up from the floods is one thing to be considered, another is the coordination necessary to make it happen swiftly and with ongoing support. A website which offers an interactive communication tool to assist communities in such times is www.imthinkingofyou.com.au It allows organisations to coordinate volunteers and allocate tasks and resources very quickly and efficiently. It is a world first. Those most affected will need all the help they can get.

Kathy Elliott

Classified $5 for 3 lines plus $1.25 per extra line

LONGRANGE WEATHER PREDICTIONS FOR BLACKALL 8 FEB 2008 – 6 MARCH 2008(BY THE MOON) from Ken Ring of www.predictweather.com

A mostly dry month, with rain chances about the 12th and then 29th-6th. Average temperatures for maximums may be around 37C and for minimums around 22C. Around 6 days may see temperatures of 40C or above. Humidity may be about 48% on average, so fire risks are still high. The barometer may average 1011mbs.

Allow 24 hour error for forecasts.At a Glance

Estimated rain times

02468

101214

2008

FEB

8th

2008

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10th

2008

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12th

2008

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14th

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28th

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MAR

1st

2008

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3rd

2008

MAR

5th

Temperatures max and min

05

101520253035404550

2008

FEB

8th

2008

FEB

10t

h

2008

FEB

12t

h

2008

FEB

14t

h

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16t

h

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h

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20t

h

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22n

d

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24t

h

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26t

h

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28t

h

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MAR

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2008

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5th

© K en R ing 2008 w w w.pred ic tw eather.com K en R ing ’s book “P red ic t W eather fo r A ustra lia 2008” is ava ilab le em ail enqu iries@ pred ic tw eather.com

Ergon Energy crews swung into action to restore power as quickly as possible to Blackall customers following a series of severe storms in December.

Central West area operations manager Steve Harris said that 21 customers on the Lilydale SWER lost power and, despite the efforts of crews working into the night in wet conditions, the fault was not located until a helicopter patrol identified lightning damage to equipment around the Woodbine Road.

Mr Harris said that in a previous severe storm on November 27, two power poles on the Tarves SWER, mainly serving customers off the Isisford-Blackall Road, were destroyed by lightning and another two were damaged by high winds.

The power supply to 16 customers was interrupted at 3.25 pm and was restored to all apart from two customers at “Ramsay Park” by 8 am the next day, and they came back on line at 2 pm.

A helicopter was deployed to locate the damage because the boggy conditions made fault-finding difficult for ground crews.

Ergon Energy crews then attended to damage which included seven poles, a cross-arm, five transformers, five lightning arrestors and an insulator, affecting customers on the Terrick, Lorne, Milparinka, Tarves, Blackall West, Lilydale, Warringah and Romulus SWER lines and the Tambo three-phase line.

Ergon busy during December

W inner o f the B arcoo Independent’s C hris tm as P roperty S ign com petition w as the B utle r fam ily a t A tho l, w ith the ir tinse l-w rapped bu ll. A year ’s subscrip tion to the paper is head ing the ir w ay.

The Barcoo Independent, Friday, February 8 , 2008- Page 3Page 22- The Barcoo Independent, Friday, February 8 , 2008

Phone 46 576 220Proud to support the Barcoo Independent.

THE BARCOO INDEPENDENT

LASSIFIEDSC ADVERTISE IN THE CLASSIFIEDSOnly $5 per minimum of 3 lines - $1.25 each

extra line * For Sale * Happy Birthday * * In Memoriam * AGM *

DEATH NOTCEMcMahon, Beryl Joyce passed away peacefully on the 16th of December 2007 aged 64 years. Loving wife of Jim. Devoted mother of Cassie, Andrea and Matt, Amber and John. Grandmother of Matthew. Sister of Brian Hauff. Beryl will be sadly missed by all.

On behalf of Gary and Hazel Harlow ...

Andrew and Leanne McInnerney of “Ularunda” Morven are delighted to announce the engagement of their eldest daughter, Rebecca (Lea??) to Harvey James Harlow 2nd son of Garry and Hazel Harlow of 9 Orchid Street Blackall. Best wishes from both families.

Thank youBlackall Newsagency would like to thank the people of Blackall who kindly let us know they were available to help in case of flooding. Best wishes for 2008.

Blackall Shire honoured four individuals and two organisations which brought together volunteers from the across the shire at its Australia Day awards ceremony this year.

David Jackson received the Citizen’s Award for more than 10 years service to the Blackall Rotary Club, working tirelessly to ensure the continuation of the club.

He is also active in many community projects and the Blackall Fire Brigade.

He is an official and player at the Tennis Club, organising tournaments and encouraging junior players.

The Young Citizen Award was presented to Lisa Goodman who has organised a number of events and facilities for young people.

These events have included the completion of the new Girl Guides building, sporting clinics for young children in all sports, is committed to helping the Swimming Club on club nights and at carnivals; and at the Blackall Show Ms Goodman was involved with the Young Rural Male Alcohol tent, organising the dunking machine and rock climbing venues.

The Anglican and Combined Churches Christmas Tree Festival was awarded the Community Event of the Year.

Kellie Harlow took out the Senior Sports Award for her involvement with Pony Club over many years.

She has held the positions of President and instructor, spending many volunteer hours learning the skills to help pony club members.

She is both secretary and a competitor in the Blackall Campdraft.

The Junior Sports Award went to Matthew Wemyss who completed 12 rodeos during 2007, while studying Year 12.

During this time he came second in the Dubbo National Titles, was a member of the Australian High School team and competed at the final rodeo in America.

The Heartland Festival Committee received the Cultural Award for the many hours volunteers have spent to ensure the festival has grown to become a major event in the Queensland Cultural Calendar.

Reprinted from the Longreach Leader, February 1, 2008

Blackall awards excellence

David (Jacko) Jackson gives a speech looked on by M ayor Les W hee lhouse

Left: B lacka ll S ta te School Y rear 12 students w ith teacher M rs Lynch and principal M r Lund celebrate Australia Day after cooking for approximatly 180 people a t the A ustra lia D ay b reakfast.

Above: M atthew W em yss accepts Junior S ports Aw ard from M ayor W hee lhouse.

C harley and Leroy B row n proud ly fly the flag a t the A ustra lia D ay Aw ards a t the W oo lscour.

P hotos - K im Avery

Dec Jan

Date Min Maxtemp (°C)

Rain (mm)

Dir Speed (km/h)

max wind gust

Date Min Maxtemp (°C)

Rain (mm)

Dir Speed (km/h)

max wind gust

1 17.3 30.8 0 SSW 35 1 21.8 34.1 0 E 41

2 18.5 29.7 0 SE 39 2 21.7 34.4 0 ESE 46

3 19.7 32.7 0 NNE 39 3 20.7 35 0 ESE 39

4 23.2 38.3 0 N 48 4 20.2 33.2 0 SE 46

5 21 37.1 0 NW 44 5 20.4 33.7 0 SSE 37

6 19.7 37.9 0 NNE 35 6 20.4 35.6 0 NNW 35

7 25.1 36.6 0 N 39 7 23 37.5 0 E 24

8 25.8 37.4 0 SSW 46 8 24.8 36.7 0 SSW 56

9 20.6 35.6 16.8 SSE 63 9 26 31.9 1 SE 54

10 23.2 34.5 2.2 WSW 56 10 24.4 33.5 0.4 E 46

11 22.7 35 1.8 SSE 59 11 21.4 26.2 17.4 ENE 35

12 21.9 34.9 11.6 WNW 35 12 21.9 29.4 0.2 ENE 31

13 22.6 33.3 1.2 WSW 37 13 22.7 32.4 0 NNE 39

14 22 32.3 11.2 N 37 14 21.5 32.9 0 NE 26

15 23.1 33.4 0 NE 35 15 24.1 29.9 0 SSE 39

16 22.5 33.9 0.6 N 35 16 22.6 27.6 104.2 E 41

17 23.6 35.6 0 SW 37 17 21.4 23.1 39.2 SSE 43

18 24.3 37.3 0.2 N 35 18 20 26.5 70.6 NW 33

19 26.5 35.4 0 NNE 41 19 21.1 32.1 0.6 SW 30

20 26.8 36.3 0 SW 48 20 21.5 33.6 0 SSE 37

21 23.4 34.7 18 SW 35 21 20.6 33.3 0 S 35

22 24.7 30 0.4 SSW 50 22 21.6 34.3 0 ESE 31

23 22 31.6 3.2 S 33 23 23 32.7 0 ENE 37

24 19.1 31.5 0 SE 41 24 22 33.1 0 SE 37

25 22.4 29 0 ENE 37 25 22.2 33.6 9 SSE 80

26 19.3 26.1 15.8 E 43 26 20.3 32.4 13.4 SSW 50

27 19.3 22.6 14.6 E 50 27 21.2 33.7 7 S 31

28 16.3 27.6 19.8 ESE 43 28 21.4 34 0.2 E 28

29 17.5 31 0 SSE 37 29 22.6 34.5 0 N 28

30 18.6 32.8 0 ESE 41 30 21.2 33.6 0 E 31

31 18.9 33.4 0 SSE 41 31 21.5 33.5 0 NE 35

Mean 21.7 33.2 Mean 21.9 32.5

Lowest 16.3 22.6 Lowest 20 23.1

Highest 26.8 38.3 19.8 Highest 26 37.5 104.2

Total 117.4 Total 263.2

Observations were drawn from Blackall Airport {station

Substantial rain falling in December and January in Blackall, while causing wide-ranging floods, has also contributed to a feeling of widespread joy that the drought has broken.

December brought 462 points (117.4 mm) of rain while January more than doubled the amount with 1036 points (263.2 mm).

Both amounts were significantly lower than the records of 972 points (246.8 mm - 1965) for Dec and 1556 points (395.2 mm - 2004) for January.

The highest mean temperatures, in December of 33.2 degrees, and 32.5 degrees for January, were considerably cooler than the recorded average of 36 degrees for both months.

The lowest mean temperature for December was 21.7 degrees, fractionally warmer than the recorded average of 21.4 degrees, while January’s lowest mean temperature of 21.9 degrees was lower than the long-term average of 22.4 degrees.

A warm start to December saw the month’s highest temperature of 38.3 degrees on the 4th, considerably cooler than the high of 44.6 degrees on December 13, 1979.

December’s warmest night of 26.8 degrees was recorded on the 20th and was cooler than the 30.1 degrees recorded on Dec 29, 1957.

The festive part of December was the coolest part of the month with 22.6 degrees being recorded on the 27th, which was higher than the 19.4 degrees recorded on Dec 25, 1960.

The coldest night for December followed on the 28th with 16.3 degrees, quite warmer than the 10.7 degrees recorded on December 11, 1964.

January saw its hottest day on the 7th with 37.5 degrees and its coolest day of 23.1 ten days later on the 17th.

January’s hottest day on record in Blackall was January 28, 1990 with 44.6 degrees while the coolest day was recorded on January 30, 1997 with 21.9 degrees.

Twenty degrees on the 18th was January’s coolest night while the 9th recorded 26 degrees.

The coolest night ever for that month was on January 3, 1970 with 12.9 degrees, and 29.3 degrees saw the hottest January night ever recorded on January 2, 1982.

December/January rain brings hope

HARLOW-McINNERNEY

The Barcoo Independent, Friday, February 8 , 2008- Page 21

Barcoo Independent TV Guide - February 17 - 23ABC SEVEN Imparja SBS

Wednesday February 20

4:30 Movie: Blood On The Moon (Pg,1948)6:00 Children’s Shows11:00 Naked Science 12:00 Midday Report12:30 National Press Club Address1:30 Talking Heads2:00 Parliament Question Time3:00 Children’s Shows6:00 Rick Stein’s French Odyssey6:30 The Cook And The Chef7:00 ABC News 7:30 The 7.30 Report 8:00 The New Inventors8:30 Spicks & Specks9:00 Stupid Stupid Man9:30 That Mitchell And Webb Look9:55 At The Movies10:25 Lateline11:00 Lateline Business11:25 Taggart12:35 Parliament Question Time1:40 Movie Stage Door (G,1937)3:25 National Press Club Address

6:00 Sunrise9:00 The Morning Show11:00 Raggs11:30 News12:00 Movie: McBride: Anybody Here Murder Marty (M)2:00 All Saints3:00 Infomercial4:00 Backyard Science4:30 News5:00 M*A*S*H5:30 Deal Or No Deal 6:00 Seven News6:30 Today Tonight7:00 Home & Away7:30 RSPCA Animal Rescue8:00 The Real Seachange8:30 Lewis10:30 Forensic Investigators11:30 Born To Kill?12:30 Room For Improvement1:00 Auction Squad2:00 Guthy-renker Australia4:00 NBC Today

6.00 Creflo 6:30 Today 9:30 Mornings With Kerri-Anne11:30 News12:00 Fresh Cooking With AWW12.30 Movie: The Gathering Storm (M,2002)2.30 Days of our lives3.30 Entertainment Tonight4.00 Here’s Humphrey4.30 Lockie Leonard5:00 News5:30 Bargain Hunt 6:00 Antiques Roadshow6:30 News 7:00 A Current Affair 7:30 Two And A Half Men8:00 The Chopping Block9:00 Underbelly10:00 TBA 11:00 TBA 12:00 Nightline12:30 Water Rats

5:30 UEFA Champions League: Liverpool v Inter Milan7.55 Overseas News 3:00 If Only3:30 Classical Destinations: Prague4:00 Business Report4:30 The Journal 5:00 Newshour 6:00 Global Village6:30 News 7:30 Food Safari8:00 Inspiring Teachers: Ms Nirupa Badve8:30 Dateline9:30 News 10:00 Movie: Together12:05 Movie: Alexandria... New York

Thursday February 21

4:30 Movie: The Informer (Pg,1935)6:00 Children’s Shows11:05 Battleplan12:00 Midday Report12:30 Pie In The Sky 1:30 Collectors2:00 Parliament Question Time3:00 Children’s Shows6:10 Grand Designs7:00 News 7:30 The 7.30 Report 8:00 Catalyst8:35 Life On Mars (M*)9:35 Soul Deep10:25 Lateline11:00 Lateline Business11:30 Live From Abbey Road12:20 Bodies1:20 Parliament Question Time2:20 Joseph, Cardinal Ratzinger3:25 Movie: Rider From Tucson (Pg,1950)

6:00 Sunrise9:00 The Morning Show11:00 Raggs11:30 News12:00 Movie: No Higher Love (M,1999,R) 2:00 All Saints3:00 Infomercial4:00 Backyard Science4:30 News 5:00 M*A*S*H5:30 Deal Or No Deal6:00 News6:30 Today Tonight7:00 Home & Away7:30 The Amazing Race8:30 Out Of The Question9:00 Family Guy9:30 Lost10:30 Amercian Dad11:00 Stargate Atlantis12:00 Room For Improvement1:00 Auction Squad2:00 Guthy-renker Australia4:00 NBC Today

6.00 Creflo 6:30 Today 9:30 Mornings With Kerri-Anne11:30 News12:00 Fresh Cooking With AWW12.30 Movie: The Stranger Beside Me (M,2000)2.30 Days Of Our Lives3.30 Entertainment Tonight4.00 Here’s Humphrey4.30 Lockie Leonard5:00 News5:30 Bargain Hunt 6:00 Antiques Roadshow 6:30 News 7:00 A Current Affair 7:30 Two And A Half Men 8:00 Getaway9:00 RPA10.00 Kitchen Nightmares USA11:00 Amazing Medical Stories12:00 Nightline 12:30 Comedy Inc-The Late Shift

5:30 UEFA Champions League: Arsenal v AC Milan 7.55 Overseas News2:30 Dateline3:30 German News4.00 Business Report4:30 The Journal 5:00 Newshour 6:00 Global Village 6:30 News 7.35 Inspector Rex8:30 Unit One9:35 News 10:05 The Movie Show 10:15 UEFA Champions League Hour11.15 Movie: The Giraffe’s Neck12.50 Movie: El Bonaerense

Friday February 22

4:30 Movie: The Locket (Pg,1946)6:00 Children’s Shows11:00 Wild Europe12:00 Midday Report12:30 MDA1:30 Spicks & Specks2:00 The Way We Were3:00 Children’s Shows6:00 Message Stick6:30 Can We Help?7:00 News7:30 Stateline 8:00 Collectors8:30 Dalziel And Pascoe (M*)10:15 My Family10:45 Lateline11:35 Little Miss Jocelyn (M*)12:00 Triple j tv12:30 Good Game1:00 rage triple j’s hottest 100: Part 1 (M)

6:00 Sunrise9:00 The Morning Show11:00 Raggs11:30 News12:00 Movie: Redemption Of The Ghost (M,2000,R)2:30 According To Jim3:00 Infomercial4:00 Backyard Science4:30 News 5:00 M*A*S*H5:30 Deal Or No Deal6:00 News6:30 Today Tonight7:00 Home & Away7:30 Better Homes & Gardens8:30 2008 NAB Cup11:30 Famous Presents Hollywood Uncensored12:00 Movie: Flashdance (M,1983,R)2:00 Auction Squad3:00 Guthy-renker Australia4:00 NBC Today

6.00 Creflo

6:30 Today

9:30 Mornings With Kerri-Anne

11.00 Here’s Humphrey

11:30 News

12:00 Fresh Cooking With AWW

12.30 Holiday Showdown

1.30 Cricket - Australia v Sri

Lanka

5:30 News

6:00 Cricket - Cont.

9.30 TBA

11.30 TBA

5:20 Overseas News 1:00 Wine Lover’s Guide To Australia 1:30 To The Other Side 3:00 The Prodigal Son3:30 Inside Australia: Footprints In The Sand4.00 Business Report4:30 The Journal 5:00 Newshour 6:00 Global Village 6:30 News 7:30 Who Do You Think You Are?8:30 French Beauty9:30 News 10:00 Queer As Old Folk 11.00 Summer Clouds12:45 Movie: Delivery

Saturday February 23

5:00 rage8:00 rage: triple j’s Hottest 100 Favourites9:00 Triple j tv With The Doctor 10:00 The Best Of Live At The Basement11:00 Bowls World Championships 200812:00 Stateline 12:30 Australian Story12:30 Foreign Correspondent1:30 Can We Help?2:00 Andes: The Dragon’s Back3:00 Bowls Australian Open 20084:00 Basketball: WNBL 2007/08: Semifinal6:00 Goodnight Sweetheart6:30 Gardening Australia7:00 News 7:30 Doc Martin8:25 News8:30 The Bill10:05 News10:10 Murphy’s Law 11:40 rage (M)

5:00 Children’s Shows12:00 Famous Presents Hol-lywood Uncensored 12:30 Seven’s V8 Supercars 20085:00 Creek To Coast5:30 Queensland Weekender6:00 News6:30 Movie: Monsters Inc (G,2001)8:30 The Vicar Of Dibley9:00 The Inspector Lynley Mysteries11:00 Movie: Too Good To Be True (M)2:00 Camel Train Down Stream3:00 Room For Improvement3:30 It Is Written 4:00 Guthy-renker Australia5:00 Dateline NBC

6:00 Christian City TV

6:30 Children’s Shows

12:00 George Lopez

12.30 Horseracing

4.00 2008 Ironman Round 4

5:00 Discover Downunder

5:30 Talk to the animals

6:00 Antiques Roadshow

6:30 News

7:00 Australia’s Funniest Home

Video Show

8:00 TBA

10.30 Movie: The Missing

(M,2003)

5:20 Overseas News 1:00 One Flat Thing Reproduced1.30 Musical Renegades2.30 Chopin Piano Music2.35 Robert Capa3:35 Looking For Mr Gill4:30 Newshour 5:30 Mythbusters 6:30 News 7:30 Top Gear 8:35 Big Love10:30 Movie: The Closet12:00 SOS…Shorts On Screen 1:00 Swordsmen Of The Passes


A chief executive officer and three directors is the recommended structure for the executive section of the interim Blackall-Tambo regional council.

This was adopted at the January meeting of the Blackall-Tambo local transition committee and will be recommended to the incoming council.

One director would be responsible for finance and administration and be in charge of the Blackall office, while a second director would manage corporate and community services and manage the Tambo branch office.

The third director is to be in charge of works and would be the overarching supervisor of all roads, streets and plant.

Blackall-Tambo interim CEO Brenda Kelly said the meeting decided to recommend that Blackall and Tambo community advisory committees be set up, to be attached to the mayor and council structure.

“At our next LTC meeting in February we expect to have recommendations on how these committees would be formed and how they would operate,” she said.

The current Blackall shire administration office will become the interim administration office from the commencement date of the new council, on March 15.

The January LTC meeting also resolved to recommend to the new council that it remain as a member of RAPAD, the Remote Area Planning and Development board.

People wishing to nominate for the position of mayor or councillor on the new Blackall-Tambo Regional Council have until noon on February 19 to submit their nomination.

Lew Kelly, at the Blackall Court House, has been appointed as the returning officer for the local government area and is responsible for the conduct of the election here, on behalf of the Electoral Commission of Queensland.

The new regional council has four internal divisions and one councillor is to be elected from each division, in addition to a mayor.

The mayor and councillors are elected for a four-year term.

Candidates can be nominated either by six or more people who are enrolled within the division being contested, or by the registered officer of a political party that has endorsed a candidate.

A candidate in a division need not be on the roll for that particular division but must be enrolled for the Blackall-Tambo council area

and must reside in the council area.

A person cannot stand as candidate for both councillor and mayor, and cannot be a candidate for more than one division in a council area.

When a nomination form is lodged a $150 deposit in cash or bank cheque must also be paid to the returning officer.

For councils such as Blackall-Tambo, which are divided into separate divisions, elections will be conducted using the optional preferential voting system, in which a candidate requires a majority of the formal votes in the count to be elected.

This means electors mark their ballot paper by placing a 1, a tick or a cross in the square next to the candidate of their choice. They may vote for as many other candidates as they wish.

The local government elections are due to be conducted on Saturday, 15 March.

Enquiries can be made by ringing 1300 881 665.

In the community plebiscites on council amalgamations finalised last December, 91 percent of those returning ballot papers in the Blackall shire voted ‘no’.

This equates to 674 people voting against the amalgamation of Blackall and Tambo shires.

There were 63 ‘yes’ votes and 1 informal vote.Sixty-four percent of those eligible to vote returned

ballot papers.In Tambo the opposition to the amalgamation of

the two shires was even more marked.Eighty percent of the ballot papers were returned,

with 98 percent registering a ‘no’ vote.This was one of the highest negative votes in the

state.Statewide, 55 percent of eligible voters took part in

the plebiscite, registering a 77 percent ‘no’ vote.Local Government Minister Warren Pitt said the

plebiscite results were largely of incidental interest only, as they were not part of the reform process and would have no bearing on the amalgamations that were in train.

“These plebiscites were facilitated by the former federal coalition government in an attempt to subvert the Queensland government reforms,” he said.

Come and visit Landmark

Blackall We service the Blackall District with our team of experienced

Staff in:

Opening Hours: Mon - Fri 8am - 5pm Sat 9-11am - 103 Shamrock St, Blackall

Phone 0746 574299Fax 0746 574176

Merchandise, Livestock, Finance,

Insurance, Wool,

Rural Property Sales

Blackall-Tambo interim structure adopted

Council nominations close on February 19

Blackall returned 91 percent ‘no’ vote

Page 20 - The Barcoo Independent, Friday, February 8 , 2008 The Barcoo Independent, Friday, February 8 , 2008- Page 5


Sunday February 17

5:00 rage6:30 Children’s Shows9:00 Insiders10:00 Inside Business10:30 Offsiders11:00 Asia Pacific Focus11:30 Hymns Of Glory12:00 Landline1:00 Gardening Australia1:30 Message Stick2:00 The War: A Very Fearful Time3:00 The Genius Of Photography4:00 The Michelangelo Code4:50 Flickerfest: Slim Pickings5:00 Sunday Arts6:00 At The Movies6:30 The Einstein Factor7:00 News 7:30 Robin Hood8:15 Creature Comforts8:25 News8:30 Miss Marple: Ordeal By Innocence10:05 Compass10:55 The Dali Dimension11:50 Order In The House 12:50 Movie: The Mad Miss Manton (Pg,1938)2:10 Ted’s Evolution3:20 Message Stick

6:00 Choices6:30 Children’s Shows7:30 Weekend Sunrise10:00 Kochie’s Business Builders10:30 Infomercial11:00 Australia’s Deadliest Destinations12:00 Movie: Dirty Dancing: Havana Nights (Pg,2004)1:55 Movie: Beaches. (Pg,1988,R)4:30 Trinny & Susannah Undress5:30 Great South East6:00 News6:30 The Zoo7:00 Bush Doctors7:30 Kath & Kim8:00 Samantha Who?8:30 Grey’s Anatomy9:30 Brothers & Sisters10:30 Suburban Secrets11:00 The First 4812:00 Movie: Breathless (MA,1983,R) 2:00 Where The Volcanoes Roared3:00 Guthy-renker Australia4:00 NBC Today5:00 NBC Meet The Press

6:00 Rise and Shine

6:30 Children’s Programs

8:00 Sunday

10:00 Business Success

10:30 2008 Planet X Summer

Games

11:00 NBL - South Dragons v

Sydney Kings

12:00 Speed Machine

12.30 Do It

1:00 The Boutique

1.30 Cricket - Australia v India

5:30 News

6:00 Cricket - cont.

9.30 Underbelly

11:30 Movie: Play It To The

Bone (AV15+, 1999)

6:55 Overseas News 11:00 Treasures Of The World11.15 Raising The Dead12:00 2008 Australian Track Cycling Championships1:00 Speedweek 2.00 World Rally Championships 20083.00 Football Asia3:30 UEFA Champions League 2007/2008 4:00 Les Murray’s Football Feature5:00 The World Game 6:00 Thalassa 6:30 News 7:30 Who Do You Think You Are? 8:30 First Flower9:30 Movie: Salaam Namaste12.10 Preservation

Monday February 18

4:30 Movie: Rachel And The Stranger (Pg,1948)6:00 Children’s Shows11:00 Landline12:00 Midday Report12:30 Pilot Guides1:30 The Cook & The Chef2:00 Parliament Question Time3:00 Children’s Shows6:00 Landline6:30 Talking Heads7:00 ABC News 7:30 The 7:30 Report8:00 Australian Story8:30 Four Corners9:20 Media Watch9:35 Thunderheads10:35 Lateline11:10 Lateline Business11:35 Dragons Alive!12:35 Parliament Question Time1:25 Movie: The Hunchback Of Notre Dame (Pg,1939)3:25 Bowls World Championships 2008

6:00 Sunrise9:00 The Morning Show11:00 Raggs11:30 News12:00 TBA2:00 All Saints3:00 Infomercial4:00 Backyard Science4:30 News 5:00 M*A*S*H5:30 Deal Or No Deal 6:00 News6:30 Today Tonight7:00 Home & Away7:30 Border Security: Australia’s Front Line8:00 Desperate Housewives9:30 Dirty Sexy Money10:30 Boston Legal11:30 3D Rock12:00 TBA1:00 Auction Squad2:00 Guthy-renker Australia4:00 NBC Today

6.00 Creflo 6:30 Today 9:30 Mornings with Kerri-Anne11:30 News 12:00 Fresh cooking with AWW12:30 Movie: Defending Our Kids (M,2003) 2:30 Days Of Our Lives 3:30 Entertainment Tonight4:00 Here’ Humphrey4:30 Lockie Leonard5:00 News5:30 Bargain Hunt 6:00 Antique Roadshow 6:30 News 7:00 A Current Affair 7:30 Two And A Half Men8:00 A Year With The Royal Family9:00 CSI10:00 CSI: NY11.00 Nip/Tuck12.00 Nightline12.30 Stingers

5:20 Overseas News 1:00 Food Lovers Guide To Australia 1:30 Endgame2:30 Dateline3:30 Cirque Du Soleil’s Solstrom4:30 The Journal5.00 Mythbusters6.00 Global Village: Flavours Of France6:30 News 7:30 Top Gear 8:30 The Movie Show8.35 South Park9:00 Drawn Together9:30 News 10:00 Skins10.55 Movie: Ong-Bak12:45 Movie: Tears Of The Black Tiger

Tuesday February 19

4:30 Movie: The Magnificent Ambersons (G,1942)6:00 Children’s Shows11:00 Grand Designs12:00 Midday Report12:30 The Einstein Factor1:00 The New Inventors1:30 Catalyst2:00 Parliament Question Time 3:00 Children’s Shows6:05 Time Team7:00 News7:30 The 7:30 Report8:00 Chopper Rescue8:30 Brat Camp9:30 Foreign Correspondent10:00 Artscape: IOU: Lloyd Rees10:30 Lateline11:05 Lateline Business11:35 Four Corners12:20 Media Watch12:35 Parliament Question Time 1:30 Psychic Investigators 2:25 Movie: Sinbad The Sailor (G,1947)

6:00 Sunrise 9:00 The Morning Show11:00 Raggs11:30 News12:00 Movie: The Spring (M,1999,R)2:00 All Saints3:00 Infomercial4:00 Backyard Science4:30 News5:00 M*A*S*H5:30 Deal Or No Deal6:00 News6:30 Today Tonight7:00 Home & Away7:30 It Takes Two9:30 All Saints10:30 Life Begins11:30 Cheaters12:30 Six Degrees1:30 Room For Improvement2:00 Guthy-renker Australia4:00 NBC Today

6.00 Creflo 6:30 Today9:30 Mornings with Kerri-Anne11:30 News12:00 Fresh Cooking With AWW12:30 Movie: Quick Change (M,1990)2.30 Days Of Our Lives3.30 Entertainment Tonight 4.00 Here’s Humphrey 4:30 Lockie Leonard5.00 News5.30 Bargain Hunt6.00Antiques Roadshow6:30 News 7:00 A Current Affair7:30 Two And A Half Men8:00 Monster House9:00 Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles10:00 CSI: Miami11.00 Sensing Murder12.00 Nightline12.30 The Avengers

5:20 Overseas News

1:00 Movie: Sugar Times

2:55 Mum’s The Word

3:25 Delicious Orient

4:00 Business Report

4:30 The Journal

5:00 Newshour

6:00 Global Village

6:30 News

7:30 Extraordinary People

8.30 Indonesia

9:30 News

10.00 The Anatomy Of Evil

11:40 Movie: Breaking Up

1:45 Saturn’s Return

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


Judy Atkinson is the person in charge of the Barcoo Pastoral Society for the 2008 show, taking over from Martin Lloyd at the annual general meeting last year.

Judy had been the Society’s vice president, a position which is now unfilled.

Staying on as secretary and treasurer are Kerry Lloyd and Lesley Heatley.

In his outgoing report, Martin told the Society that hosting the state sheep show had been a highlight for the year.

Another shining light was the introduction of a new section, the commercial replacement heifer trial, the brainchild of Ashley Loveday.

“Ashley and Mark already have ideas on how to improve and extend it for the future,” Martin said.

The prime lamb section was also commended for its new look which attracted exhibitors from all round the region.

The Society was heartened to see stud cattle exhibiting again and an improvement in sideshow numbers, despite rising fuel costs.

“It was also pleasing to note more trade displays in attendance,” said Martin.

The Blackall Show may go ahead this year with one of its major attractions mothballed if no steward can be found to run it.

Barcoo Pastoral Society president Judy Atkinson said the pavilion would not open at this year’s show if no-one offered to be head steward.

“This will be very disappointing for many members of the community,” Judy said.

“It means the school children won’t be able to display their work.

“All the creative people in the district miss out on showing their talents, and for the many people who really enjoy ambling through

the pavilion admiring the entries, this won’t happen.”

If anyone, or even a couple of people, in the community are interested in taking on the position as head steward of the pavilion, they should contact Judy Atkinson, show president on 4657 5985 or Kerry Lloyd, show secretary on 4657 5007.

Showtime is fast approaching in other areas. Judy said preparations were well underway for the 93rd annual show.

This year’s show will be on one day, Sunday, May 4.

Entertainment for the younger show participants will be provided by The Rainbows, whose activities

include face painting, a workshop for all the budding circus performers to perfect their circus skills, and for those who like to boogie it up on the dance floor, there will be a dance competition with prizes.

Radical Reptiles will be bringing a collection of snakes and lizards for viewing at a safe distance, but still close enough to send a shiver up your spine.

The evening entertainment also promises to be exciting, according to Judy, with a motorbike demonstration, a fashion parade, a bull ride and music.

Judy takes show society reins

No pavilion for Blackall show

Blackall CWA fired upThe Blackall CWA is fired up for

another busy year and are hoping to host the Ian McNamara – Say G’Day tour in Blackall on Monday, February 18 at the CWA Hall.

March 8 will be another big day for the group when it celebrates International Women’s Day.

Due to the large success of Stalls Day last year the CWA has decided to hold another one this year on Saturday, April 19, which it sees as an opportunity for buying birthday presents, Mothers Day gifts, or to do early Christmas shopping.

People wishing to have a stall should contact either Lavina Anderson or Rebecca Parry.

Each year the CWA puts a country under the microscope to endeavour to learn a little about other countries. This year members will be learning about Mongolia and the 2009 country of study is Madagascar.

The CWA is also promoting the UN International Year of the Potato, as this humble vegetable will play a huge role in improving food security and poverty alleviation.

In less than two decades, China has become the world’s top potato producer, ahead of Russia, Europe and the US. (Sourced from the Dec/Jan edition of The Queensland Countrywoman).

Bill Glasson’s commitment to rural and remote health, and to the eye health of Indigenous people, has seen him appointed an Officer (AO) in the General Division of the Order of Australia.

Dr Glasson, who owns Coopers Run in the Blackall shire, is based in Brisbane but has been running a clinic covering Blackall, Barcaldine, Longreach and Winton for 14 years.

He is actively involved in many professional medical organisations which, along with his chairmanship of the Regional Telecommunications Independent Review Committee, displays his passionate belief that the bush should have equal or better services to people in the cities.

Dr Glasson told the Longreach Leader upon receiving his Australia Day honour that the bush was still the heart of the country.

“If the people in the bush don’t have equity in access to services such as health, education or telecommunications, it’s like they are second class citizens, so if we don’t stand up for them, they’ll get second class services.”

Honour for Bill Glasson

The Barcoo Independent, Friday, February 8 , 2008- Page 19

Barcoo Independent TV Guide February 13 - 16ABC SEVEN Imparja SBS

Wednesday February 13

4:30 Movie: Room Service (G,1938)6:00 Children’s Shows12:00 Midday Report12:30 National Press Club Address1:30 Talking Heads2:00 Parliament Question Time3:00 Children’s Shows6:00 Rick Stein’s French Odyssey6:30 The Cook And The Chef7:00 ABC News 7:30 The 7.30 Report 8:00 The New Inventors8:30 Spicks & Specks9:00 Little Britain Aboard9:35 That Mitchell And Webb Look10:05 At The Movies10:35 Lateline11:10 Lateline Business11:40 Taggart12:50 Parliament Question Time1:50 Movie: Pan-Americana (G,1945)3:25 National Press Club Address

6:00 Sunrise9:00 The Morning Show11:00 Raggs11:30 News12:00 Movie: McBride: Tune In For Murder (M)2:00 All Saints3:00 Infomercial4:00 Backyard Science4:30 News5:00 M*A*S*H5:30 Deal Or No Deal 6:00 Seven News6:30 Today Tonight7:00 Home & Away7:30 RSPCA Animal Rescue8:00 The Real Seachange8:30 Lewis10:30 Forensic Investigators11:30 Cheaters12:30 Room For Improvement1:00 Auction Squad2:00 Guthy-renker Australia4:00 NBC Today

6:00 Creflo 6:30 Today 9:30 Mornings with Kerri-Anne11:30 News12:00 Fresh Cooking with AWW12.30 Movie: The Hollywood Mom’s Mystery (M,2004)2.30 Days Of Our Lives3.30 Entertainment Tonight4.00 Here’s Humphrey4.30 Lockie Leonard5:00 News5:30 Bargain Hunt 6:00 Antiques Roadshow 6:30 News 7:00 A Current Affair 7:30 Two And A Half Men8:00 The Chopping Block 9:00 Underbelly11:00 Ramsay’s Kitchen Nightmares12.00 Nightline 12:30 Water Rats

5:20 Overseas News 1:00 Movie: Children Of The Marshland3.00 Nest3:30 Classical Destinations4:00 Business Report4:30 The Journal 5:00 Newshour 6:00 Global Village6:30 News 7:30 Food Safari8:00 Inside Australia: Inspiring Teachers8:30 Dateline9:30 News 10:00 Movie: The Son Of The Bride12.10 Movie: Old New Borrowed And Blue

Thursday February 14

4:30 Movie: The Body Snatcher (Pg,1945)6:00 Children’s Shows12:00 Midday Report12:30 Rocket Man (F)1:30 Collectors2:00 Parliament Question Time3:00 Children’s Shows6:10 Grand Designs7:00 News 7:30 The 7.30 Report 8:00 Catalyst8:35 Life On Mars9:35 Soul Deep10:25 Lateline11:00 Lateline Business11:30 Live From Abbey Road12:20 Bodies1:20 Parliament Question Time2:20 Land Of The Morning Star3:20 Israel And The Arabs (F)

6:00 Sunrise9:00 The Morning Show11:00 Raggs11:30 News12:00 Movie: Love, Murder & Deceit (M,1996,R) 2:00 All Saints3:00 Infomercial4:00 Backyard Science4:30 News 5:00 M*A*S*H5:30 Deal Or No Deal6:00 News6:30 Today Tonight7:00 Home & Away7:30 The Amazing Race8:30 Out Of The Question9:00 Family Guy9:30 Lost10:30 Amercian Dad11:00 Beauty And The Geek12:00 The Marvels Of Madagascar1:00 Auction Squad2:00 Guthy-renker Australia4:00 NBC Today

6:00 Creflo 6:30 Today 9.30 Mornings with Kerri-Anne11:30 News12:00 Fresh Cooking With AWW12.30 Movie: Girl With A Pearl Earring (Pg,2003)2.30 Days Of Our Lives3.30 Entertainment Tonight4.00 Here’s Humphrey4.30 Lockie Leonard5:00 News5:30 Bargain Hunt 6:00 Antiques Roadshow6:30 News 7:00 A Current Affair 7:30 Two And A Half Men 8:00 Getaway 9:00 RPA10:00 Kitchen Nightmares USA11.00 Amazing Medical Stories 11:30 Rapid Response12:30 Comedy Inc The Late Shift

5:20 Overseas News 1:00 Australian Biography: Bill Mollison1:30 Big Men; Bigger Dreams: Australian Wrestlers2:30 Dateline3:30 Missing: Red Cross Trace4.00 Business Report4:30 The Journal 5:00 Newshour 6:00 Global Village 6:30 News 7:35 Inspector Rex 8:30 Unit One9:30 News 10:05 The Movie Show 10:15 Movie: Movie: Kissed By Winter11:40 Movie: Les Boys III

Friday February 15

4:30 Movie: The Life Of The Party (G,1937)6:00 Children’s Shows12:00 Midday Report12:30 MDA1:30 Spicks & Specks2:30 Vivian Bullwinkel: An Australian Heroine 3:00 Children’s Shows6:00 Message Stick6:30 Can We Help?7:00 News7:30 Stateline 8:00 Collectors8:30 Dalziel And Pascoe (M*)10:15 My Family10:45 Lateline11:35 Little Miss Jocelyn (M*)12:00 Triple j tv12:30 Good Game1:00 rage (M)

6:00 Sunrise9:00 The Morning Show11:00 Raggs11:30 News12:00 Movie: Captain Corelli’s Mandolin (M,2001,R)3:00 Infomercial4:00 Backyard Science4:30 News 5:00 M*A*S*H5:30 Deal Or No Deal6:00 News6:30 Today Tonight7:00 Home & Away7:30 2008 NAB Cup10:30 Famous Presents Hollywood Uncensored11:00 Movie: Mr Majestyk (M,R)1:00 The Living Will Envy The Dead2:00 Guthy-renker Australia3:00 NBC Today

6:00 Creflo 6.30 Today9:30 Mornings with Kerri-Anne11:00 Here’s Humphrey11.30 News12:00 Fresh Cooking With AWW12.30 Holiday Showdown1.30 Days Of Our Lives2.30 Entertainment Tonight3.00 Cricket - Australia v Sri Lanka6:30 News 7:00 A Current Affair 7:30 Cricket - cont.10.45 Nightline11.15 Movie: A Divided Heart (M,2005)

5:20 Overseas News 1:00 Wine Lovers’ Guide To Australia1:30 The Education Of Shelby Knox2:45 Panorama3.00 Always A Visitor3:30 The Lore Of Love4.00 Business Report4:30 The Journal 5:00 Newshour 6:00 Global Village 6:30 News 7:30 Donkey In Lahore8:30 The Bunker9:30 News 10:00 Do Communists Have Better Sex?11.00 Movie: Sexy Boys12:35 Movie: 4th Floor

Saturday February 16

5:00 rage8:00 rage: Guest Programmer9:00 Triple j tv With The Doctor 10:00 Of Live At The Basement11:00 Bowls World Championships 200812:00 Stateline 12:30 Australian Story12:30 Foreign Correspondent1:30 Can We Help?2:00 Movie: Fighting Man Of The Plains (Pg,1949)3:30 Agony Aunts With Clive Robertson (F)4:00 Basketball: WNBL 2007/08: Adelaide Vs Christchurch5:30 Tycoon Toys (F)6:00 Goodnight Sweetheart6:30 Gardening Australia7:00 News 7:30 Doc Martin8:25 News8:30 The Bill10:05 News10:10 Murphy’s Law 11:40 rage (M)

5:00 Children’s Shows12:00 Famous Presents Hollywood Uncensored 12:30 King Of The Hill1:00 V8 Xtra2:00 Seven’s Motorsport5:00 Creek To Coast5:30 Queensland Weekender6:00 News6:30 Heartbeat x 28:40 The Vicar Of Dibley9:10 The Inspector Lynley Mysteries11:10 Movie: Dark Blue (AV,2003)1:30 Movie: Anybody’s Nightmare (M,2001,R)3:30 It Is Written 4:00 Guthy-renker Australia5:00 Dateline NBC

6:00 Christian City TV 6:30 Children’s Shows 12:00 George Lopez12.30 Surf Sport 2007 ASP Tour Review1.30 Lightning Strikes2.30 2008 Ironman Round 34.30 Malcolm In The Middle5:00 Discover Downunder5:30 Talk To The Animals6:00 Antiques Roadshow6:30 News 7:00 Australia’s Funniest Home Video Show 8:00 Movie: The Sundowners (G,1960)10.45 Movie: Two Weeks Notice (Pg,R)

5:20 Overseas News 1:00 Elektra3.00 The Devil’s Music4.00 Click! A Short History Of Cameras:4:30 Newshour 5:30 Tribe: Sanema6:30 News 7:30 Mythbusters8:30 Iron Chef9:20 The Movie Show9.30 Movie: Mr Average11.10 Roll12:00 SOS…Shorts On Screen 1:00 Swordsmen Of The Passes

On October 3 last year Blackall primary school student Xenobia Martin flew to Melbourne as one of six children chosen Australia-wide to be on the ‘pre-school board of directors’ for the toy giant Fisher-Price.

Xenobia won the competition to become a board member after seeing it on television, and wanted to become a part of the decision-making process for the toy-making giant.

In her entry form she stated that “adults really don’t know what toys kids love because they’re just not kids,” and after a few phone interviews she was informed that she had been chosen to perform the prestigious role of CEO for 2008.

Xenobia and the five other youngsters aged from four to six arrived in luxury at the Fisher-Price headquarters in a stretch Hummer fully equipped with chocolates, lollies and soft drink.

After arriving they walked the red carpet in front of camera crews where they then met

with Kate Langbroek, a media personality from The Panel who held the board meeting, and the managing director of Mattel from the United States.

They presented their own toy ideas and a model of their own creation and spent the rest of the day testing out the new range of toys for 2008.

After interviews with Today Tonight and giving their opinions on which toys they thought were going to be a hit, the tired but excited youngsters were presented with a $1000 cheque for their work on the day.

The competition will be held again in 2008 where new board members will be chosen for 2009.

Fisher-Price marketing manager Megan Reay said it was crucial there were children on the company’s board.

“Having child members on the board will help the company listen more closely and better represent its core market,” Ms Reay said.

-- by Jo Martin

Xenobia jo ins pre-school board of d irectors

X enob ia p repares fo r a busy day a t

the o ffice as C E O o f toy g ian t F isher-

P rice .


BLACKALL IGA

24 pack 10 Coke $14.99 each

ETA 5 Star Marg 500g 89c each

Chicken Breast Fillets

$11.97 kg

Dandy Bacon Middle

Rashers $8.98 kg.

The Barcoo Independent, Friday, February 8 , 2008- Page 7Page 18- The Barcoo Independent, Friday, February 8 , 2008


Sunday February 10

5:00 rage6:30 Children’s Shows9:00 Insiders10:00 Inside Business10:30 Offsiders11:00 Asia Pacific Focus11:30 Songs Of Praise12:00 Landline1:00 Best Of Gardening Australia1:30 Message Stick2:00 The War: A Necessary War 3:00 The Genius Of Photography4:00 The Michelangelo Code4:50 Deluge5:00 Sunday Arts6:00 She Sells Seashells6:30 The Einstein Factor7:00 News 7:30 Robin Hood8:15 Creature Comforts8:25 News8:30 Miss Marple: Towards Zero10:05 Compass10:50 Josephine Baker In Colour11:45 Movie: Call Out The Marines (G,1942)12:55 Movie: On Dangerous Ground (M*,1952)2:20 Movie: Angel Face (Pg,1953)3:50 Songs Of Praise

6:00 Choices6:30 Children’s Shows7:30 Weekend Sunrise10:00 Kochie’s Business Builders10:30 Infomercial11:00 According To Jim11:45 Movie: How To Steal A Million (G,1966)2:30 Movie: Serendipity. (Pg,2001,R)4:30 Trinny & Susannah Undress5:30 Great South East6:00 News6:30 The Zoo7:00 Bush Doctors7:30 Kath & Kim8:00 Samantha Who?8:30 Grey’s Anatomy9:30 Brothers & Sisters10:30 The First 4811:30 Movie: Another Pretty Face (M,2002) 1:10 Movie: Holiday Heart (M,2000,R)3:00 Guthy-renker Australia4:00 NBC Today5:00 NBC Meet The Press

6:00 Rise & Shine (G,R)

6.30 Childrens Programs

8:00 Sunday

10:00 Business Success (G,R)

10:30 NBL: Townsville Crocs v

Brisbane Bullets

11:30 TBA

12:30 Movie: Tarzan & The

Trappers (G,1958,R)

2:00 Cricket: Australia v India

5:30 News

6:00 Cricket: Australia v India

9:30 Movie: Hostage

(M,2005,R)

11:45 Movie: Word of Honor

(M,2003)

6:55 Overseas News 10:00 WeatherWatch & Music10:30 Croatian News11:00 Our Bush Wedding12:00 Australian Mountain Bike Championships12:30 UCI Track Cycling World Cup Beijing1:00 Speedweek 3:00 Football Asia3:30 FIFA Futbol Mundial4:00 Les Murray’s Football Feature5:00 The World Game 6:00 Thalassa 6:30 News 7:30 Who Do You Think You Are? 8:30 Creative Disorders 9:30 Movie: Dhoom11:45 Dogville Confessions 12.45 The Storm Rages Twice

Monday February 11

4:30 Movie: A Likely Story (G,1947)6:00 Children’s Shows11:00 Landline12:00 Midday Report12:30 Pilot Guides1:30 The Cook & The Chef2:00 The Bill3:00 Children’s Shows6:00 Landline6:30 Talking Heads7:00 ABC News 7:30 The 7:30 Report8:00 Australian Story8:30 Jihad Sheilas9:35 Apollo 11: The Untold Story10:30 Lateline11:05 Lateline Business11:35 Dragons Alive!12:25 Movie: Mary Of Scotland (G,1949)2:30 Movie: Stagecoach Kid (G,1949)3:30 Bowls: Champion Of Champions 2007 : Men’s Final

6:00 Sunrise9:00 The Morning Show11:00 Raggs11:30 News12:00 Movie: Thicker Than Water (Pg,2005)2:00 Desperate Housewives3:00 Infomercial4:00 Backyard Science4:30 News 5:00 M*A*S*H5:30 Deal Or No Deal 6:00 News6:30 Today Tonight7:00 Home & Away7:30 Border Security: Australia’s Front Line8:00 The Force: Behind The Line8:30 Desperate Housewives9:30 Dirty Sexy Money10:30 Boston Legal11:30 3D Rock12:00 The Secret World Of Twins1:00 Auction Squad2:00 Guthy-renker Australia4:00 NBC Today

6.00 Creflo 6:30 Today 9:30 Mornings with Kerri-Anne11:30 News 12:00 Fresh cooking with AWW12.30 Movie: The Royal Scandal (M,2001)2:30 Days Of Our Lives 3:30 Entertainment Tonight4:00 Here’s Humphrey 4:30 Lockie Leonard 5:00 News5:30 Bargain Hunt 6:00 Antiques Roadshow 6:30 News 7:00 A Current Affair 7:30 Two And A Half Men8:00 A Year With The Royal Family9.00 CSI10:00 CSI: NY11.00 Nip/Tuck12.00 Nightline12.30 Weeds

5:20 Overseas News 1:00 The Food Lovers Guide To Australia 1:30 Enemies Of Happiness2:30 Dateline3:30 Cirque Du Soleil’s Solstrom: Twin Winds4:30 The Journal5.00 Mythbusters6.00 Global Village: Flavours Of France6:30 News 7:30 Top Gear 8:35 South Park9:00 Drawn Together9:30 News 10:00 Skins10:55 Movie: Frostbite12:40 The Boy Who Saw The Wind

Tuesday February 12

4:30 Movie: Playmates (G,1941)6:00 Children’s Shows12:00 Midday Report12:30 The Einstein Factor1:00 The New Inventors1:30 Ice Shelf2:00 Parliament Question Time 3:00 Children’s Shows6:05 Time Team7:00 News7:30 The 7:30 Report8:00 Chopper Rescue8:30 Brat Camp9:30 Foreign Correspondent10:00 Artscape: IOU: Mary Hardy10:30 Lateline11:05 Lateline Business11:35 Jihad Sheilas12:40 Parliament Question Time 1:40 Psychic Investigators 2:10 Movie: Kitty Foyle (Pg,1940) 4:00 NSW Land Council In Review

6:00 Sunrise 9:00 The Morning Show11:00 Raggs12:00 Movie: Making Of Hollywood Madam (M,1996,R)2:00 All Saints3:00 Infomercial4:00 Backyard Science4:30 News5:00 M*A*S*H5:30 Deal Or No Deal6:00 News6:30 Today Tonight7:00 Home & Away7:30 It Takes Two9:30 All Saints10:30 Life Begins11:30 Six Degrees12:30 Room For Improvement1:00 Auction Squad2:00 Guthy-renker Australia4:00 NBC Today

6.00 Creflo 6:30 Today9:30 Here’s Humphrey 10:00 Cricket - Sri Lanka v India1:00 Entertainment Tonight1:30 Cricket - cont.5:30 Bargain Hunt6:00 Antiques Roadshow6.30 News7:00 A Current Affair7:30 Two And A Half Men8.00 Monster House9.00 Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles10.00 CSI: Miami11.00 Sensing Murder12:00 Nightline12:30 The Avengers

5:20 Overseas News

1:00 Movie: Mongolian Ping-

Pong

2:50 The Movie Show

3:00 Mum’s The Word

3.30 The Art Of War

4:00 Business Report

4:30 The Journal

5:00 Newshour

6:00 Global Village

6:30 News

7:30 Extraordinary People

8.30 Indonesia

9:30 News

10.00 Going For The Kill

11:25 Movie: Autumn Spring

1:10 Cold Turkey

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


New five-year contracts provided under the Queensland government’s regional transport initiative - qconnect – were announced by Transport Minister John Mickel this week.

Most of the contracts commenced on January 1 but the new central Queensland services would start on April 1.

“Through qconnect, long distance bus services will be better integrated with other passenger transport services - such as regional air routes, QR trains and other buses - to make it as easy as possible to travel around regional Queensland,” Mr Mickel said.

“The government will contribute more than $2.9 million each year to the cost of operating these services - a 21 percent increase over the contribution for the expiring contracts,” Mr Mickel said.

“Many small towns and villages have no other means of public transport. Someone living in those communities who doesn’t drive a car would rely on the coach service to get to a major regional centre for shopping, medical, education or other services.

Greyhound Australia has been awarded the contract to continue with the Mount Isa - Brisbane route and

will use 56 seat Scania long distance coaches which are wheelchair accessible.

Paradise Coaches has been awarded the contract for Emerald-Rockhampton, Emerald-Mackay and Emerald-Longreach routes, replacing Emerald Coaches from April 1.

QantasLink has been awarded new air service contracts by the Queensland government, which will allow the company to continue to serve western and far north Queensland communities for a further five years.

Qantas Group general manager, Regional Airline, Mr Narendra Kumar said the contracts, which were being renewed for the third time, covered services from Brisbane to Longreach, Barcaldine and Blackall, among others.

Over the past five years QantasLink has increased capacity and passenger numbers on Queensland regional routes by over 50 percent in response to strong growth from both the state’s tourism and business sectors, according to Mr Kumar.

The announcement is good news for locals such as Simon and Christine Campbell, who have been regular users of the service for a number of years.

In a submission to the state government, they commented on the importance they saw it bringing to the business, economic, social and medical lives of western

residents, particularly those in smaller towns.

“We strongly support the continuation of daily or alternate daily air services to the ports of Blackall and Barcaldine and regard these as an essential part of ongoing community and business development, permitting rural residents with skills or needs to fully engage with the rest of the Australian community,” Simon said.

He added that well-trained local agencies to take bookings and turn aircraft around on the ground were critical to the maintenance of the system.

QantasLink has committed to increased services and capacity, the introduction of new resident fares and some fare reductions, and reduced travel times with the introduction of new 72-seat Bombardier Q400 aircraft on key services to Longreach.

Under the new five-year contract, the Longreach/Barcaldine/Blackall route will see an 18 percent increase in capacity or an additional 159 seats per week, and one additional return service

per week, increasing the number of return services per week from Brisbane to nine.

The Q400 aircraft will operate three direct weekly return services from Longreach to Brisbane, reducing flight time by 20 percent to less than two hours, while return services from Brisbane to Barcaldine and Blackall will be retained at three per week each.

There will be new residents-only fares, reducing the lowest fare from Barcaldine and Blackall to Brisbane to $139.

The changes take effect from April 1.

State government Minister Desley Boyle said the government would invest $4.8 million every year to ensure that fares are kept at affordable levels on all routes and to guarantee services are viable in areas of low demand. Ms Boyle said that because of improved route viability and increased patronage, five of the 10 routes would not require government subsidies. This compared with the existing contracts where all but two routes required subsidies.

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Page 8 - The Barcoo Independent, Friday, February 8 , 2008 The Barcoo Independent, Friday, February 8, 2008- Page 17

BLACKALL SHIRE COUNCILPOSITION VACANT

BLACKALL WORK CAMP FIELD OFFICER / LOCAL LAWS OFFICER RE-ADVERTISED

An exciting opportunity exists for a unique position within Blackall Shire Council as the Blackall Work Camp Field Officer and Council Local Laws Officer.As a Field Officer you will be working with Officers from the Department of Corrective Services supervising, working with and providing guidance to Offenders based at the Blackall Work Camp who are undertaking a vast array of community based improvement projects.The Local Laws Officer is responsible for assisting with monitoring of compliance with Council’s Local Laws and procedures relating to animal control and nuisances.A position description detailing responsibilities, qualifications and work conditions should be obtained from the Council Office.Further details can be obtained from Brenda Kelly, at the Council Office.Applications close with the undersigned on 4.30pm Monday, 25 February, 2008.

Tricia Gleeson ACTING CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICERPO Box 21 BLACKALL QLD 4472Phone: 07 4657 4222Fax: 07 4657 4726Email: [email protected] www.blackall.qld.gov.au

Notice of Intention to Acquire Valueless LandLocal Government Act 1993

Notice is herby given that Blackall Shire Council resolved at it’s Ordinary Meeting on 9 January, 2008 to acquire the valueless land described in the Schedule below and remove the said land from Council’s land record pursuant to Chapter 14, Part 7, Section 1051 and 1051A(1) of the local Government Act 1993.

Pursuant to Chapter 14, Part 7, Section 1052 of the Local Government Act 1993, at the expiration of six (6) months from the date hereof Blackall Shire Council will acquire the valueless land described in the Schedule below and remove the said land from Council’s land record.Registered Owner:

Property Description:

Period: 01/7/2004 to 30/6/2008

Interest: Total:

Peter Cambell as trustee

Lot 3 on Registered Plan 604199, County of Tambo, Parish of Blackall. Area 304m2

01/7/2004 to 30/6/2008

$1,122.00 *$172.13*accruing daily at 11%pa

$1,294.13

Tricia Gleeson ACTING CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICERPO Box 21 BLACKALL QLD 4472Phone: 07 4657 4222Fax: 07 4657 4726 Email: [email protected]

Prizes have been awarded in Blackall’s inaugural walking challenge, in which participants were issued with a free pedometer and asked to record their steps for an eight-week period.

Forty-six intrepid residents signed on for the Great Pedometer Challenge back in September 2007.

Those recording the most steps were to be awarded a new pair of sports shoes. There were two age categories in the challenge – 18 to 60 years and the over 60s.

Unfortunately some eager participants had false starts with faulty pedometers. These people were issued with improved equipment and restarted their challenge.

At the end of eight weeks, 18 persistent people returned their step logs. Eleven of the competitors exceeded the recommended 10 000 steps per day or 560 000 steps for the eight weeks.

The section winners made truly commendable efforts.

In the over 60 category these were Ingrid Cantwell (687 432 steps), Terry Kingston (718 919 steps) and Gloria Thompson (871 533 steps).

For the 25-60 years age group, winners were Norman Weston (1 175 880 steps), Wilma Pitt (1 240 979 steps) and Wayne Richardson (1 057 606 steps).

A special mention also goes to Larry Marks who achieved 283 556 steps over the eight weeks.

All those that participated should be congratulated in taking steps towards improving their health.

In Australia 8000 deaths per year are attributable to physical inactivity.

More than 60 percent of Australian males and 70 percent of Australian females are not physically active enough to gain health benefits.

Technology reduces our level of physical activity, so we need to find ways to bring activity back in to our daily life.

Everyone is busy. Yet being

more active doesn’t have to be something you go out of your way to do - you can increase physical activity in lots of small ways each day.

Do at least 30 minutes of physical activity on most, preferably all, days.

You can break it down into three lots of ten minutes of moderate-intensity activity.

Kids need to do more physical activity than adults - they need at least 60 minutes of moderate to vigorous activity each day. Physical activity is important for their growth and development.

The Great Pedometer Challenge was made possible by funding from the Community Partnerships Grant program and reciprocal contributions from Queensland Health, Blackall Shire Council and Blackall 60+ Better. -- by Sue Swanson, Healthy

Lifestyle Program Coordinator

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Thank you for supporting your local newspaper The Barcoo Independent in 2007...


Students are settling into school routines with the recommencement of school for 2008 at St Joseph’s. The school is operating four classes again this year with the new Prep/1 students getting used to school life under the care of Miss Munro and Mrs V. Miss Suthers is teaching year 2/3 and enjoying her third year in Blackall. Mrs Kent has settled into year 4/5 and her students are busily collecting insects and maggots as they investigate life cycles this term. In year 6/7, we welcome a new teacher, Miss Emma Martin. Emma is a graduate teacher who comes from Manilla near Tamworth.

***Telephone lessons began this

week for Blackall cluster students with the Longreach School of Distance Education, and year six students are already preparing for their first mini-school of the year.

In a change from the usual schedule, LSODE students will be having their annual swim carnival in term 4 rather than this term, due to the redevelopment of the Longreach pool. Blackall families will join in with Family Day activities on February 15, with pool games after lunch at the AACC Longreach campus pool. Students will be able to try out for a school team then or use club times. Lochie Rooney is Boree house captain for 2008.

The first Blackall cluster for the year is on February 26.

The new principal of the Blackall State School, Peter Lund has expressed his delight in being appointed here, saying it was a good school and he had enthusiastic people keen to help students achieve their best.

Peter has had extensive experience in Education Queensland with several years in country schools, being qualified as a mathematics and history teacher as well as being mathematics Head of Department in three schools.

He has also worked as a deputy in middle and high schools, been an officer responsible for school improvement in a district with 61 schools, and worked in EQ’s head office for a year, collecting and reporting statistics on all state schools.

Highlights of his career include being the chief moderator for mathematics for the state, working on writing and consulting in mathematics syllabuses from P-10, being a teacher representative

for six years on the committee that implemented the OP system, as well as chairing district moderation processes.

Helping students achieve to the very best of their ability but having fun doing it is a passion for Peter.

“Learning should be an enjoyable process, setting up good habits for the rest of life where in this day and age we need to continue to learn throughout life,” said Peter.

“To this end I have established and encouraged initiatives to help students explore the areas of creativity and ability, usually based around mathematical ideas but not in a traditional context.”

Peter’s other interests include woodworking, photography and sport.

Joining Peter as new staff at the Blackall State School in 2008 are year 4/5 teacher Alison Fleming-Leach, Peter Ossipow for HPE, and Peter Ward as manual arts teacher.

Blackall State School welcomes new principal Around The Schools

M r P eter Lund, M iss A lison F lem ing-Leach and M r P eter O ssipow are new sta ff m em bers a t the B lacka ll S ta te S choo l

M iss S am antha M unro , M r Jam ie E m erick, M rs M o ira K ent (back) M iss S a lly S u thers and M iss E m m a M artin (fron t) a re the teach ing s ta ff fo r S t Joseph ’s in 2008.

G etting ready fo r p rep in 2008 a t the B lacka ll S ta te S choo l (P hoto - Jo M artin

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AUDIOLOGIST: Mrs. Jenny Stevens - Longreach 12th-14th March. Ph: Patti Smith Longreach Hospital 46 584735. CARDIAC SPECIALIST TEAM: Ph: 46 543 277 for an appointment. CHILD HEALTH AND ADULT/ CHILD HEARING TESTS: The Child Health Nurse - Blackall Monday 18th February & 3rd of March. Ph: Blackall Hospital on 46 50 77 00 Referrals required for hearing tests. COMMUNITY HEALTH – INDIGENOUS HEALTH, QIDDI & SOCIAL WORKERS: Ph: Longreach Community Health Service 46 583 344. CONTINENCE ADVISOR: Ph: Joanne de Vries on 46583622. DIETICIAN: Cancelled until further notice. DERMATOLOGIST: Dr David Leslie visiting in February 2008. Appointments at Black Stump Surgery on 46 574 677. EMOTIONAL & SOCIAL WELL BEING TEAM: Ph: 46 581 928 for details. ENT (Ears, Nose, and Throat): Dr Maurice Stevens visiting Longreach 12th-14th March, 2008. Ph: Patti Smith Longreach Hospital 46 584 735. GASTROENTEROLOGIST: Dr Stevenson -Referrals required. Ph: Patti Smith Longreach Hospital 4658 4735. GYNAECOLOGIST and OBSTETRIC: New Lady Doctor visiting Blackall 26th May, 2008. Referral required. Ph: Blackall Hospital for an

appointment. OPHTHALMOLOGIST: Dr Glasson/Dr Stark Blackall 25th February, 2008. Referrals are required. Ph: 46 50 77 00 for an appointment. OPTOMETRIST: Geoff Fitzpatrick Blackall Sunday 24th and Monday 25th February. Ph: 1800 008 020. ORTHODONTIST: Ph: Patti Smith Longreach 46 584 735. ORTHOPAEDICS: Dr Welsh Longreach 25th-27th February, 2008. Ph Longreach Hospital 46 584 735. MENTAL HEALTH NURSE: Ph: Longreach Hospital 46 584 700 to make an appointment. PAEDIATRICIAN TEAM (Child Psychiatrist and Paediatrician): Dr Helen Heussler- visiting Longreach 18th-20th February. Ph: Patti Smith Longreach Hospital for appointment 46 584 735. PODIATRIST: Ph: Maree Longreach Hospital 46584700. PSHCHIATRIST: Dr Richard Zimmerman Central West 27th- 29th February, 2008. Ph: Mental Health - Longreach Hospital 46 584 700 Referrals required. PSYCHOLOGIST: Ph: Longreach RFDS 46 581 928. PHYSIOTHERAPIST: Ph: Longreach Hospital 46584700. QUEENSLAND ILLICIT DRUG DIVERSION INITATIVE: Ph: Longreach Community Health 46 583 344. RELATIONSHIPS AUSTRALIA:

Visit Blackall on a needs basis. Phone 1300 364 277 RESPIRATORY PHYSICIAN: Dr Simon Bowler - Longreach 21st and 22nd February. Ph: Patti Smith Longreach Hospital 46 584 735. SURGEON: Cancelled until further notice. SPEECH THERAPIST: Ph: Erika Healy 46 527 951 WELL WOMENS CLINIC NURSE: Louise Cameron - Blackall 19th February. Ph: Blackall Hospital 46 50 77 00 to register on a waiting list. WELL WOMENS CLINIC DOCTOR: Dr Louise Russell - Blackall 5th and 6th March. Ph: Blackall Hospital on 46 507 700 to register on waiting list.

S pecia lis t D ates

Leonie Lyons from the ABC interviewing Bob W ilson outside the VIC on Tuesday January 26 . (P hoto - Zane B o jack)


BLACKALL TENNIS CLUB

ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

16 February 2008

3pm at the Clubhouse

PRAYER TO THE VIRGIN MARY

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

The Barcoo Independent, Friday, February 8, 2008- Page 15

The first recorded sighting of a cane toad in Blackall has been made.

On February 1 Bill Krieg found a dead toad in Cobb’s Paddock on the edge of town that had been run over the previous evening.

Bill, who grew up in areas infested with cane toads in north Queensland, said the specimen he found was a large female.

Local DNRW Lands Protection Officer Geoff Swan said he had heard reports they were close to Blackall but had not seen any in town himself.

“They have been moving steadily south, along the Alice River, so it was a matter of time until they came to Blackall,” he said.

Anne Sprague, who lives in the northern part of the Blackall shire, at Neverfail, said cane toads have been present there for around 10 years.

“I can’t say we’re inundated with them; they seem to get to a point,” she said.

“We always see a lot more around our dams.”

Anne said she used to see a lot of dead goannas which she attributed to them eating toads.

“It’s only in the last couple of years we’ve started seeing live ones again.”

She commented that the cold weather seemed to knock them around, noting that they often found toads comatose on their front lawn on winter mornings.

Geoff said the two main impacts cane toads were likely to have on Blackall were to dogs and cats, and to native wildlife.

“People should keep an eye on their pets, which might try and eat them,” he said.

“There is also concern that we may lose native species when they colonise an area.”

According to a DNRW pest fact sheet, animals that use water-holes as retreat sites during the dry season are especially vulner-able, as toads will congregate here in large numbers.

Bill Krieg said he had written to the council asking it to react immediately by trapping adults.

“I would suggest that council immediately start manufacturing traps and placing them in strategic locations in an effort to gauge the

Cane toad sighted in Blackall

B ill K rieg found B lacka ll’s firs t recorded s igh ting o f a canetoad on February 1 .

extent of the invasion,” he said.“Our particular environment

is generally not conducive to breeding, although the constant running water from the water treatment plant and the relief valve present a major problem.

“There is plenty of evidence suggesting communities that react proactively can prevent or at least delay the onslaught.”

Bill said he had drained his tailwater dam at his irrigation plot and couldn’t see any tadpoles, which is the only species in Australia that is pure black.

Up to 35 000 eggs at a time are laid in long strings rather than in the foamy clusters that frogs lay.

Geoff said that because Bufo marinus was not a declared pest it was hard for the department to do anything but encouraged local people to control them.

“Traps are one alternative – anything people can do would help,” he said.

“People should use humane methods of disposal such as freezing.”

A spokesperson for the Blackall Shire Council said the matter would be discussed at its February 12 meeting.

--by Sally Cripps

In 2008 we would like to focus on a theme a month for health promotion and information.

February 4 is World Cancer Day. I am sure cancer has touched many families and people we know. Useful fact sheets and resources are available from www.cancer.org.au

This fortnight we will be looking at health prevention for men.

Please read the information sheet and act on the relevant areas to improve your health and potential morbidity potential.

The health board located outside of the IGA (proudly sponsored by the Hospital Axillary) has information about visiting

specialists and services. This will also be published

fortnightly in the Barcoo Independent.

Pregnant women, don’t forget your antenatal care with your GP or obstetrician. We offer a midwives clinic at the hospital which can assist with care, education and the booking-in process.

Appointments can be made via the administration of the hospital on 4650 7700 or visit the administration department. Longreach Hospital does require you now to book in by 24 weeks. The midwives can assist with this process.

With school starting, just a

reminder about immunizations. This applies especially to 4 year olds. This is the most likely one that is forgotten by families. Immunizations are available at the Blackstump Medical Centre, Child Health clinics (fortnightly) ring 4650 7700 or the Blackall Hospital by appointment with Suzanne Russell or Glory Baker. There will be changes to the schedule after March 1, 2008.

School immunization will begin in February for year 8, 9 and 10. Information will be sent home via the school.

Keep well and healthy,Glory Baker, DON, Blackall

Hospital.

Keep an eye on yourselfFinding cancer early offers one

of the best chances to cure the disease. See your doctor straight away if you notice any unusual changes. Look for: • Lumps, sores or ulcers that don’t heal • Unusual changes in your testicles – changes in shape, consistency or lumpiness • Coughs that don’t go away or show blood, a hoarseness that hangs around • A loss in weight that can’t be explained • Moles that have changed shape, size or colour, or bleed • Blood in a bowel motion • Persistent changes in toilet habits • Urinary problems or changes. These symptoms can also be related to more common, less serious health problems.

The question of prostate screening

Prevention of prostate cancer is difficult as we don’t know what causes it. Currently, routine screening of men with no symptoms using the Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA) blood test is not universally recommended, however you may choose to have this test if you wish. A digital rectal examination (DRE) may also be used to feel the prostate for any changes. Before making a decision, discuss the benefits and risks of PSA testing with your doctor.

Prostate cancer is rare in men aged less than 50 years. Your family history and age will affect your risk of prostate cancer. If prostate cancer is diagnosed, men

are left with the difficult decision of whether or not to have treatment. Cure rates for prostate cancer are improving, but side effects from treatment can impact your quality of life.

Be aware of changes in your testicles

Although testicular cancer is rare, it is one of the most common cancers in young men aged

between 15 and 45 years. The causes of this cancer are unclear, but a man who has had an undescended testicle is at an increased risk. There are no screening tests offered, but it is

one of the most curable cancers if found early. Be aware of what is normal for you and if you

see or feel any differences in your testicles, see your doctor. Don’t let embarrassment get in the way.

Ask about screening for bowel cancer. Early detection of bowel cancer significantly improves chances of successful treatment. Your risk of bowel cancer increases with age. About 15% of people have known risk factors which put them at increased risk. If you fall into this category your doctor will talk to you about regular screening. A national screening program using the faecal occult blood test (FOBT) for people aged 55 and 65 will commence in mid 2006. FOBT detects hidden blood in faeces.

Make lifestyle changes About 50 percent of cancers

including cancer of the lung, skin, bowel, mouth, throat and liver could be prevented by making positive lifestyle changes. Stop smoking - lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer death in Australian men. If you are a smoker, make a real attempt to Quit. Call the Quitline on 13 7848 (13 QUIT) for free advice.

Be SunSmart – protect yourself in the sun and take care not to burn.

Stay in Shape – aim for a healthy body weight

Move Your Body – be physically active for at least 30 minutes most days (preferably all)

Eat for Health – choose a varied diet with plenty of fruit and vegetables.

Avoid Alcohol – try alcohol free days and non-alcoholic drinks

The Cancer Council Helpline 13 11 20

Blackall Hospital Health News

Look after number one – a cancer prevention plan for men

Louise Cam pbell waitng to be interviewed by Leonie Lyons from the ABC. Jodie van de W etering, the online producer was posting pictures and text to the ABC website as they w ere go ing, w hich is the first tim e it’s been done from an outside broadcast in country Q ueensland . (P hoto - Zane B o jack)


THANK YOUThe Butler and Paton

families from Athol Station would like to thank the many

people who assisted in the clean up efforts

after the floods.Also thank-you to all who phoned to offer practical assistance

and to those that rang to support us

during this time.Please accept

our heartfelt thanks.

R ecord fa lls fo r January continued from page 1

Jo and Mandy Cripps, on board a speedboat, crossing the main channel of the Barcoo River at M elrose at the flood peak, w ith the river at a dep th o f 6 .8m a t tha t po in t.

G lenn Churchill’s National Party cam paign poster for the recent federal election sm iles on the Barcoo R iver flood on the outskirts of B lacka ll.

Queensland Governor’s VisitHer Excellency Ms Quentin

Bryce, AC will be visiting Blackall on Sunday March 2, 2008 and Monday March 3, 2008. A community reception has been planned for Sunday March 2, 2008 along with other community functions and a town tour.

Further information on the Governor’s visit will be available in the next edition.

Farewell to Blackall Shire Party – Expressions of Interest

Council will be hosting a Community Party on March 14, 2008 to recognise and farewell Blackall Shire Council and are seeking input from individuals and/or groups who may wish to hold an activity and/or stall at the party which will be held at the Blackall Showgrounds Complex. Expressions of Interest and further information can be obtained from the Council Office. Australia Day AwardsCouncil congratulates the winners of the 2008 Blackall Shire Australia Day Awards;Australia Day Citizen of the Year - David JacksonAustralia Day Young Citizen of the Year - Lisa GoodmanAustralia Day Community Event of the Year - Anglican and Combined Churches Christmas Tree FestivalAustralia Day Sports Person of the Year - Kellie HarlowAustralia Day Junior Sports Person of the Year - Matthew WemyssAustralia Day Cultural Award - Heartland Festival Committee Christmas Lights Competition Winners.Spirit of Christmas - Don HaymanBest Home and Garden - Lloyd Marsh

Best Illumination - Trevor and Tracy BrownBest Night Decoration - Harley Kowald-DawsonBest Decorated Business House - Molly’s Hair Design, Seymour’sHighly Commended - Col and Debbie Morris, Kenneth and Eleanor Lawson, Pam and Bob Carolan, Steven and Lorraine Bird

Shire RoadsFollowing the recent flooding

and heavy rainfall across the Shire, council asks residents to take extra care when driving on rural roads within the shire.

With an extensive road network it will take time to attend to damaged areas and residents are asked to be patient and drive carefully.

Rate Notices IssuedRatepayers are hereby notified

that notices for the half year ending June 30, 2008, have been posted to the registered owners of all land within the Blackall Shire.

Discount period will close on Wednesday February 20, 2008.

Any person not having received a notice may obtain a duplicate copy on application to Council’s Rates Officer.

Feral and Un-homed Cat Eradication Program

Council is undertaking a feral and un-homed cat eradication program around Blackall during the week February 25-29, 2008 to control the number of feral and un-homed cats. Please be advised that pet owners will need to keep pets in their own yard during this period and that Council recommends that a collar is worn by their pets as cats caught wearing a collar will be released. Further to this Council will also offer, during this period only, the opportunity for pet owners to surrender any unwanted pets

(not limited to cats) to Council, for removal at no charge to the owner.

Illegal Dumping in the ShireResidents of Blackall are

reminded that the only place legally available for the dumping of any waste including green waste (lawn clipping, branches etc) is at the Blackall Rubbish Dump situated along Evora Road – the dumping of green waste at Falliss’s Crossing along Daisy Street or along the Jericho Road or in any place other then the Council Rubbish Dump is illegal and Council will take appropriate action against individuals found to be dumping in this areas.

Water Restriction HoursFrom October 1 to April 30

sprinklers are banned between the hours of 10.00 am to 4.00 pm Monday to Friday. No water restrictions are in force over the weekends.

Be WaterWise – save money, energy and the environment

WaterWise Tip:Use a broom rather than a hose

to clean the driveway. Council MeetingsThe next Ordinary Meeting

of Council is scheduled for Wednesday, February 13, 2008 at the Council Chambers commencing at 9.15am.

Council meets every 2nd Wednesday of the month. Meetings are open to the public.

Blackall-Tambo Regional Council - Local Transition Committee

The next Meeting of the Blackall-Tambo Regional Council Local Transition Committee is scheduled for Tuesday, February 12, 2008 at the Tambo Shire Council Boardroom commencing at 2.00pm. Meetings are open to the public.

Council News

Left: Lisa Goodman celebrates winning on Australia Day with grandmother Dot M arks and aunt Anette R ichardson.

Right: Father Bruce Little and Rev Beth O’Neill accept the combined churches award from Mayor Les W heelhouse and M rs C athy W hee lhouse. (P hotos-K Avery)

Dear Residents,Due to the ever increasing prevalence of dangerous surf conditions in the Blackall region the council has appointed a surf life saver. He is available to discuss your fears and give general advice 24/7. Included in this notice is a photo to assist in recognising him in times of emergency. (Really, it’s Alan Soxsmith who’s probably let the aroma of the Barcoo River go to his head!)

The Walker family at Gowan tipped 808 pts (202mm) out of their gauge in the 12 hour period from 6pm on Thursday, January 17, making a total of 1696 pts (424mm) in 48 hours.

Colin and Roslyn Wood nearby at Koondoo measured 5 inches (125mm) in the six hours from 6 to 11pm and 9 inches for the whole day.

Further west, Terrick, owned by the Pearson family, had 816 pts (204mm) in 24 hours.

Colin Wood said the water level in Hope Creek was about 30 cm higher than 1990 levels at Koondoo.

He measured 1270 pts (317.5mm) for the week and said it was the first time he’d been able to tell people he’d had a foot of rain.

Blackall’s big rain event began on Wednesday, January 16, when Tilbury station north of Blackall measured 972 pts (243mm), a record fall for this time of year.

Kelley Walker described the storm at Gowan as relentless.

With no television or internet reception available by satellite because of the intense cloud cover she said they had no clear picture of what was happening.

“We thought we were on the edge of the rainband so what happened was a big shock,” Kelley said.

They recovered small fish from puddles around the house and from their gutters, which have been frozen for identification.

The Walkers were able to finish their shearing on the following Monday, with a shearing team of seven on site throughout the rain.

“We had the sheep close to the shed so the kids went out on foot and rounded them up,” Kelley said.

Cr Wheelhouse said it was too early to know the full extent of stock losses, infrastructure damage and damage to shire roads, but said that council staff had been busy making assessments.

“The flooding will be very beneficial in the long run, certainly better than a five year drought.”

The issue of longer term loans

has been raised with the both the federal and state governments by Agforce

Up to $100 000 for restocking and/or meeting carry-on requirements to a cumulative total of not more than $150 000 is currently available, but Agforce is lobbying for this to be lifted to $1 million.

“We are not asking for handouts – these loans will be repaid in full,” said AgForce chief executive officer Brett de Hayr. “All we are requesting is bigger loans that reflect the scale of modern agriculture,” he said.

A database to record lost and found livestock is now operating. The DPI&F’s biosecurity officers will assist with stock identification using the Brands Registrar and National Livestock Identification System.

To report lost stock, or for more information on disaster assistance for primary producers and animal welfare, contact the Disaster Recovery Hotline 1800 440 074 or visit www.thepremier.qld.gov.au


A bove cen tre : Th is pho to show s the B arcoo R iver-D oug las P onds junction on the northern boundary o f M e lrose , taken nearly 24 hours a fte r the flood peak. The w ater leve l had on ly d ropped 30 cm .

The D avison boys had a g rea t tim e p lay ing in the w ater in V io le t S tree t, just bes ide E lders. (P hoto - K D avison)

P addocks beg in to em erge from the com bined e ffects o f the flood ing o f the D oug las P onds C reek and the B arcoo R iver a t M e lrose , B lacka ll.

Jo and M andy C ripps on the ir boog ie boards, check ing ou t the flood m arker tree bes ide the M e lrose house. The pa in t lid m arks the 1990 leve l - the pho to w as taken about 3 hours a fte r it had peaked, equa lling the 1990 record .

The M e lrose hom estead, perched on the edge o f the flood, taken no t long a fte r the B arcoo R iver peaked there . A lthough the house dam w as to ta lly surrounded by w ater it w as a ca lm backw ater w ith no hard curren t so there w as no dam age to the bank. (P hoto - H H eath)

S couring on the A dava le R oad revea led a fte r the floodw aters receded.

B e low : O ne o f the ra ilw ay iron fenceposts ripped ou t o f the g round a t G ow an, desp ite be ing cem ented in to the g round.

L ie la H arvey w atches the B arcoo R iver creep tow ards B lacka ll from the sou thern bank.(P hoto - L H arvey)

Richard Moffatt’s scrap iron eagle, constructed for Blackall during the 2007 Heartland Festival, surveys the Barcoo River floodwaters. (Photo - L H arvey)

Road repairs were a priority for Blackall Shire C ouncil s ta ff once flood w aters receded. (P hoto - L H arvey)

A n ice w e lcom e hom e w as how Vynka G reenha lgh saw th is s to rm on Thursday afternoon, looking tow ards Jericho on the B lacka ll- Tam bo R oad about 10 km s ou t.

R igh t: B lacka ll S E S m em bers P eter D a llas and D on W hee le r w ere kep t busy fe rry ing peop le across the flooded B arcoo R iver.

A bove le ft: W ater en te red the yard o f C lem and Lou ise C am pbe ll on S ham rock S tree t.

A n aeria l v iew o f the B arcoo R iver th rea ten ing the ou tsk irts o f B lacka ll. (P hoto - K D avison)

Floods Hit Blackall Region

Left: C indy H arvey w aves as she se ts o ff across the B arcoo R iver in the B lacka ll S E S boat.(P hoto - L H arvey)

R igh t: The scene a t G ow an just as the freak ra insto rm began a t 6 .30 pm . The W alker fam ily had a lready recorded 132 m m tha t day bu t the s to rm dum ped another 202 m m there . (P hoto - K W alker)

A bove: The s ign sa id it a ll

F lood w aters cam e c lose to the Landsborough H ighw ay east o f B lacka ll a t the da iry. (P hoto - K D avison)

P e licans en joy ing the flood ing a t B lacka ll (P hoto - C S cho les)

Le ft: M illions o f litres o f w ater flow ing past B lacka ll w ere a w e lcom e s ign o f the end o f the five-year d rought in the a rea .

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Barcoo Independent 080208