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Page 16- The Barcoo Independent, Friday, November 11 2011 SPORT ON THE BARCOO Distance Education kids hit the pool Longreach School of Distance Education students from the local area gathered in Blackall early this week for their annual swim camp. Fourteen students attended the camp, spending Monday and Tuesday at the Blackall Aquatic Centre. The young swimmers practiced a wide range of swimming skills including kicking, holding their breath and using kickboards and other floatation devices. Sienna Bettridge was working hard on her swimming skills on Monday afternoon at the Longreach SODE swim camp. Longreach SODE students hit the water at the Blackall Aquatic Centre for their swim camp on Monday. Kyle Batkins balanced his pool buoy on his head in one of the activities at the Longreach SODE swim camp Maddy Sparrow nears the wall in the pool buoy challenge. Zoe Rose and Nathan Lloyd race towards the finish line in the noodle relay race.

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Page 1: Barcoo Independent 111111

Page 16- The Barcoo Independent, Friday, November 11 2011

SPORT ON THE BARCOODistance Education kids hit the pool

Longreach School of Distance Education students from the local area gathered in Blackall early this week for their annual swim camp.

Fourteen students attended the camp, spending Monday and Tuesday at the Blackall Aquatic Centre.

The young swimmers practiced a wide range of swimming skills including kicking, holding their breath and using kickboards and other floatation devices.

Sienna Bettridge was working hard on her swimming skills on Monday afternoon at the Longreach SODE swim camp.

Longreach SODE students hit the water at the Blackall Aquatic Centre for their swim camp on Monday.

Kyle Batkins balanced his pool buoy on his head in one of the activities at the Longreach SODE swim camp

Maddy Sparrow nears the wall in the pool buoy challenge.

Zoe Rose and Nathan Lloyd race towards the finish line in the noodle relay race.

Page 2: Barcoo Independent 111111

INDEPENDENTTHE BARCOO

Blackall’s own community newspaper

In brief....November 11 2011 ISSN 1832-6129 RRP $2.00 Contact: [email protected]

Exploration finds significant coal deposits in Blackall region

Blackall could be connected to the rail once more with East Energy resources planning to develop a line from Alpha to Blackall. This photo shows the old Blackall railway station circa 1910.

Recent coal explorations in the Blackall region point towards a future in which the mining industry could play a substantial part, with significant coal deposits confirmed throughout the southern parts of the region.

Coalbank CEO Bruce Patrick made a presentation at Wednesday’s meeting of the Blackall Tambo Regional Council about the findings of its recent explorations on the Ravensbourne Road.

Mr Patrick said significant amounts of coal had been found in the area with the potential for very large tonnages, though he couldn’t yet confirm quantities.

“We started drilling down towards the south and came in towards the town in 2 kilometre spacings,” Mr Patrick said.

“We are finding the same continuation of the coal that exploration companies have found further south,” he said.

“In a couple of places we found up to 10 metres of coal cumulative in the hole.”

“We’ll be starting to at least make approaches to significant bodies that will be able to help us with infrastructure like rail in the area.”

Mr Patrick said the hole closest to town yielded no coal and that the company wouldn’t drill closer to town.

“We wouldn’t do it on the results we got,” Mr Patrick said.

Coalbank has currently completed half of its proposed exploration of 82 holes, with two rigs in operation, including one south of Tambo.

Mr Patrick said one reason for his current visit to Blackall was to monitor the clean up of the drilling holes.

“I wanted to make sure the proper reclamation is happening,” Mr Patrick said.

“The standard that we’ll be going back and finishing up with is to cut the casing off a metre underground, cement it up and cover it up.”

Mr Patrick said that the exploration was only the first step of the process and no guarantee that mining would actually occur in the Blackall region.

“It’s a misinformation and misunderstanding issue- there’s a lot more water to pass under the bridge,” Mr Patrick said.

continued on page 10

by VICTORIA NUGENT

Page 3: Barcoo Independent 111111

Page 2 - The Barcoo Independent, Friday, November 11 2011

1/8 page: $16.501/6 page: $27.501/4 page: $34.651/3 page: $47.851/2 page: $68.75 Full pg/Insert: $137.50

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

Please direct enquiries, suggestions, stories and letters to the editor: Victoria Nugent

[email protected]

or post or call at Blackall Visitor Information

Centre, 108a Shamrock St, Blackall Phone/

fax: 07 4657 6966

Advertising Rates 2011 Contact

Editorial

The last of the work on the Water and Sewerage at the Blackall Industrial Estate has all but been completed. This has been a significant project for the community of Blackall to have a reliable and safe water supply for the foreseeable future. The sewerage upgrades are essential to the progression of the Industrial Estate as we have several enquiries for blocks on our books at present.

I am also delighted to see private construction has commenced on at least three new dwellings in Blackall. This is a definite vote of confidence in the future of our town and our region.

I was able to attend a meeting of the Ram Park Advisory Committee at Ram Park on Thursday afternoon. Repairs and maintenance will commence this week to upgrade the former Blackall Railway ticket office into the new Visitor Information Centre. There is a lot of work to be done to bring the present buildings up to speed and a lot more to be spent to create a plan of action to make this area into a “must see” Tourist Attraction. The Blackall Tambo Regional Council will continue to seek State and Federal funding to assist with the repairs maintenance and upgrades.

I have heard nothing but good reports of the Blackall Tambo Regional Council’ s Halloween Trick or Treat night held in both Blackall and Tambo on November 5. A hundred children and 29 houses participated in Blackall with 65 children and 20 homes involved

in Tambo. Time to put all the witches hats and cloaks away for next year’s fun should the community wish Halloween to be an annual fun event.

The Blackall Tambo Regional Council has stated in its Community and Corporate Plan their aim to engage with the youth of the region to ensure they feel valued members of our community.

Gallery Night in Blackall at the Living Arts Centre was a well supported annual

pre-Christmas event with loads of great hand made items to tempt you. It was also a celebration of the 20th anniversary of Regional Arts Development Fund Program in Queensland. Members of the Blackall Cultural Association and the Tambo Arts Council provided an impressive display of Art created from workshops which were funded by RADF. The range was enormous from books to hats, sculpture, sewing, patchwork and wonderful wood work to delight the eye. RADF has meant a great deal to our communities over the 20 years of its operation.

A brief visit to Blackall by the Officers of the Queensland Reconstruction Authority Flood Plain Mapping Unit was most informative and will be of great value to council in regard to its town planning for the future. The entire Queensland river systems have been mapped since the early 2011 flood events, a major undertaking in anyone’s language.

--Jan Ross

FROM THE MAYOR’S DESK

I would like to thank Blackall community for the proliferance of letters to the editor that the Barcoo Independent has received in recent months. I can assure you that publishing your concerns about local issues makes a difference.

I know for a fact that letters to the editor about recent exploration concerns have been noticed by various mining companies. Other issues raised in letters to the editor have also been discussed at council meetings.

This just shows that the Barcoo Independent is a great forum for

raising your concerns in a way that is likely to get noticed.

If there’s something that you believe needs further coverage or investigation in the Blackall region, do not hesitate to inform me.

Tambo State School students made their voice heard recently by writing letters to the council about their suggestions for the future of the Tambo dam, which were then discussed at Wednesday’s meeting. Yet another example of the value of expressing your opinions.

In next week’s Barcoo Independent:

* Blackall State School presentations

* Council news*Zine workshops

* Plus much, much more

Don’t miss it!

Page 4: Barcoo Independent 111111

The Barcoo Independent, Friday, November 4 2011 - Page 15

Barcoo Independent TV Guide November 13- November 19ABC SEVEN Imparja SBS

Wednesday N

ovember 16

5:00 Strictly Speaking5:30 Spicks And Specks6:00 ABC News Breakfast9:00 ABC News9:30 Business Today10:00 For The Juniors10:15 Our Animals10:20 Cyberchase10:45 Behind The News Special11:00 Big Ideas12:00 Midday Report12:30 National Press Club Address1:30 Bush Slam2:00 Bed Of Roses3:05 Children’s Programs6:00 Country House Rescue6:50 Miniscule7:00 ABC News7:30 7:308:00 Poh’s Kitchen on the road8:30 Spicks and Specks9:00 Gruen Planet9:35 The Hamster Wheel10:05 At the Movies10:35 Lateline11:10 Lateline Business11:35 South Pacific12:30 Country House Rescue1:15 Gardening Australia1:25 Secrets Of The Forbidden City3:00 Big Ideas4:00 rage

5:00 Sunrise Extra5:30 Seven Early News6:00 Sunrise9:00 The Morning Show11:30 Morning News12:00 Movie: Family Sins2:00 Dr Oz3:00 Border Security USA3:30 Children’s Programs4:30 Seven News5:00 Guide To The Good Life5:30 Deal or No Deal6:00 Seven News6:30 Today Tonight7:00 Home and Away7:30 The One- Australia’s Most Gifted Psychic8:30 Criminal Minds10:30 Great Escapes11:30 Gangs of Oz12:30 Sons and Daughters1:00 Infomercials3:00 Home Shopping3:30 Room For Improvement4:00 NBC Today

5:00 Early News5:30 Today9:00 Kerri-Anne11:00 Morning News12:00 The Ellen DeGeneres Show1:00 Danoz Direct2:00 Days of Our Lives3:00 Entertainment Tonight3:30 Children’s Programs4:30 Afternoon News5:30 Hot Seat6:00 National News6:30 A Current Affair7:00 The Celebrity Apprentice8:00 Young Doctors8:30 CSI9:30 Prime Suspect10:30 TBA12:00 Eclipse Music TV12:30 Entertainment Tonight1:00 Skippy the Bush Kangaroo1:30 Danoz Direct3:00 Newstyle Direct3:30 Good Morning America

5:00 Weatherwatch and Music

5:05International News

1:00 Movie: The Lady of the

Camellias

2:45 Naiade

3:00 Letters and Numbers

3:30 Al Jazeera News

4:00 The Journal

4:30 PBS Newshour

5:30 Global Village

6:00 Letters and Numbers

6:30 World News Australia

7:30 Amazon with Bruce Parry

8:30 One Born Every Minute

9:30 World News Australia

10:00 Movie: Bad Habits

11:45 112 Emergency

1:15 Weatherwatch Overnight

Thursday Novem

ber 17

4:55 National Press Club Address6:00 ABC News Breakfast9:00 ABC News9:30 Business Today10:00 Take On Technology10:20 Designers10:30 Behind The News11:00 Baroque12:00 Midday Report12:30 Hope Springs1:30 Mother and Son2:00 Bed Of Roses3:00 Children’s Programs6:00 River Cottage Spring6:50 Miniscule7:00 ABC News7:30 7.30 8:00 QI8:30 The Slap9:30 Crownies10:30 Lateline11:05 Lateline Business11:35 Live From Abbey Road12:25 QI1:00 Lilies 3:10 To The Manor Bowen4:00 rage

5:00 Sunrise Extra5:30 Seven Early News6:00 Sunrise9:00 The Morning Show11:30 Morning News12:00 Movie: We’re Here To Help2:00 Dr Oz3:00 Border Security USA3:30 Children’s Programs4:30 Seven News5:00 Guide To The Good Life5:30 Deal or No Deal6:00 Seven News6:30 Today Tonight7:00 Home and Away7:30 Beauty and the Geek Australia8:30 The Amazing Race9:30 How I Met Your Mother10:30 Outsourced11:30 30 Rock12:00 Trauma1:30 Infomercials3:00 Home Shopping4:00 NBC Today

5:00 Early News5:30 Today9:00 Kerri-Anne11:00 Hi 5 11:30 The Presidents’ Cup 20114:30 Antiques Roadshow5:00 Alive and Cooking5:30 Hot Seat6:00 National News6:30 A Current Affair7:00 The Celebrity Apprentice7:30 The Big Bang Theory8:30 Unforgettable9:30 TBA10:30 CSI Miami11:30 Rubicon12:30 The Baron1:30 Danoz Direct3:00 Newstyle Direct3:30 Good Morning America

5:00 Weatherwatch and Music5:05 International News1:00 Food Lovers’ Guide to Australia1:30 The Coca-Cola Case2:30 The Squiz3:00 Letters and Numbers3:30 Al Jazeera News4:00 The Journal 4:30 PBS Newshour5:30 Global Village6:00 Letters and Numbers6:30 World News Australia7:30 My Sri Lanka with Peter Kuruvita8:00 Luke Nguyen’s Vietnam8:35 Anthony Bourdain: No Reservations9:30 World News Australia10:00 Big Love11:05 Movie: Fear Me Not12:50 Movie: The Axe3:00 Weatherwatch Overnight

Friday Novem

ber 18

5:00 Can We Help?5:30 The New Inventors6:00 ABC News Breakfast9:00 ABC News9:30 Business Today10:00 Animalia10:25 Telling Tales10:30 Noah and Saskia10:55 Ace Day Jobs11:00 Good Morning Kalimantan11:30 One Plus One12:00 Midday Report12:30 Agatha Christie’s Miss Marple2:10 The Genius of Design3:00 Children’s Programs6:00 Choccywoccydoodah6:25 The Good Cook7:00 ABC News7:30 7.30 8:00 My Family8:30 Midsomer Murders10:05 The Old Guys10:40Lateline11:20 Tracey Ullman’s State Of The Union11:45 rage

5:00 Sunrise Extra5:30 Seven Early News6:00 Sunrise9:00 The Morning Show11:30 Morning News12:00 Movie: Bird On A Wire2:00 Dr Oz3:30 Children’s Programs 4:30 Seven News5:00 Guide To The Good Life5:30 Deal or No Deal6:00 Seven News6:30 Today Tonight7:00 Home and Away7:30 Better Homes and Gardens9:00 Movie: New In Town11:00 Movie: Derailed1:10 October Road3:00 Infomercials4:00 NBC Today

5:00 Early News5:30 Today9:00 Kerri-Anne11:00 Morning News11:00 Hi 5 11:30 The Presidents’ Cup 20114:30 Antiques Roadshow5:00 Alive and Cooking 5:30 Hot Seat6:00 National News6:30 A Current Affair7:00 The Celebrity Apprentice7:30 The Big Bang Theory8:30 Movie: The Da Vinci Code11:30 Movie: Dr T and the Women1:50 Nine Presents Chris Brown2:00 Spyforce3:00 Skippy the Bush Kangaroo3:30 Danoz Direct4:30 Good Morning America

5:00 Weatherwatch and Music5:05 International News1:00 Food Lovers’ Guide to Australia1:30 Crocodile Dreaming2:00 Living Safely: Preventing Accidents and Injury in Indigenous Communities2:30 Living Black3:00 Letters and Numbers3:30 Al Jazeera News4:00 The Journal4:30 PBS Newshour5:30 Global Village6:00 Letters and Numbers6:30 World News Australia7:30 Town with Nicholas Crane8:30 As It Happened 9:30 World News Australia10:05 Thinking XXX11:00 Movie: Cold Showers12:45 South Park2:10 Weatherwatch Overnight

Saturday Novem

ber 19

5:00 rage10:00 rage Guest Programmer: The Jezabels11:00 Choccywoccydoodah11:20 Miniscule11:30 The Good Cook12:00 Foreign Correspondent12:30 Australian Story1:00 Basketball: WNBL: Dandenong Vs Townsville3:00 Football: W-League: Canberra United Vs Newcastle Jets5:00 Bowls: Australia v RSA 20116:00 Monty Don’s Italian Gardens6:30 Gardening Australia7:00 ABC News7:30 Doc Martin8:20 Agatha Christie’s Miss Marple9:50 The Graham Norton Show10:40 Penn And Teller: Fool Us11:25 rage Guest Programmer: The Jezabels

6:00 Children’s Programs7:00 Weekend Sunrise9:00 Saturday Disney11:00 Children’s Programs1:00 V8 Supercars4:30 High Road, Low Road5:00 Creek to Coast5:30 Queensland Weekender6:00 Seven News6:30 Movie: The Nutty Professor 8:30 Movie: Enemy Of The State11:15 That 70s Show12:15 Grey’s Anatomy1:15 Movie: Dangerous Attraction3:15 Room For Improvement4:00 Home Shopping5:00 Dr Oz

6:00 Weekend Today

8:00 The Presidents’ Cup 2011

4:30 Antiques Roadshow

5:00 Getaway

5:30 4WD TV

6:00 National News

6:30 Australia’s Funniest Home

Videos

7:30 Movie: Kung Fu Panda

9:25 Movie: Angels and Demons

12:15 Movie: The End of the Affair

2:15 Danoz Direct

3:30 Nine Presents John Farnham

3:45 Four Nations Rugby League

5:00 Weatherwatch and Music5:05 International News1:00 Black Music: An American (R)evolution1:55 Wayne McGregor: Across the Threshold2:50 Chopin: The Women Behind the Music4:30 PBS Newshour5:30 Who Do You Think You Are?6:30 World News Australia7:30 Big, Bigger, Biggest8:30 Mythbusters9:30 RocKwiz10:20 Movie: Van Diemen’s Land12:10 SOS1:10 South Park2:10 Weatherwatch Overnight

Page 5: Barcoo Independent 111111

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

Barcoo Independent TV Guide November 13- November 19ABC SEVEN Imparja SBS

Sunday Novem

ber 13

5:00 Rage6:30 Children’s Programs9:00 Insiders10:00 Inside Business10:30 Offsiders11:00 Asia Pacific Focus11:30 Songs of Praise12:00 Landline1:00 7:301:30 Message Stick2:00 The Marriage Of Figaro5:00 Art Nation6:00 Life6:50 Miniscule7:00 ABC News7:30 Restoration Home8:30 The Secret Diaries Of Miss Anne Lister10:05 Compass10:30 Pride And Prejudice11:25 Ladies Of Letters11:50 Order In The House12:55 Restoration Home2:00 Lilies: The Chit Behind King Billy3:10 To The Manor Bowen4:00 rage

6:00 Children’s Programs7:00 Weekend Sunrise10:00 Kochie’s Business Builders10:30 Under the Hammer11:00 Movie: Curse Of The Pink Panther1:00 V8 Supercars4:30 Three In A Bed5:30 The Great South East6:00 Seven News6:30 Sunday Night7:30 Wild Boys8:30 Bones9:30 Castle10:30 Royal Pains11:30 Forensic Investigators12:30 Grey’s Anatomy 1:30 The Real Seachange2:00 Home Shopping3:00 NBC Today4:00 NBC Meet the Press

6:00 Children’s Programs7:00 Weekend Today10:00 Wide World Of Sports11:00 Australian Fishing Championships11:30 Cybershack12:00 Pyramid12:30 Kitchen Whiz1:00 The Celebrity Apprentice4:30 Manly Surf5:00 National News5:30 MX TV6:00 National News6:30 Frozen Planet7:30 60 Minutes8:30 TBA9:30 Prime Suspect 10:30 Person of Interest 11:30 Flashpoint12:30 The Baron1:30 Spyforce2:30 Danoz Direct3:30 Newstyle Direct4:00 Good Morning America

5:00 International News8:30 PopAsia 10:30 Football Asia11:00 Les Murray’s Football Feature12:00 UEFA Champions League Magazine Program12:30 Speedweek2:00 Al Jazeera News3:00 The Conspiracy Files: Lockerbie4:00 A Fork in the Road4:30 Living Black5:00 Cycling Central6:00 Thalassa6:30 World News Australia7:30 Lost Worlds8:30 Mother of Rock: Lillian Roxon9:30 JFK: 3 Shots That Changed America11:10 Movie: Bon Voyage1:10 Movie: Yella2:50 Weatherwatch Overnight

Monday N

ovember 14

5:00 Art Nation5:30 At The Movies6:00 ABC News Breakfast9:00 ABC News9:30 Business Today10:00 Backyard Science10:25 Waterworks11:00 Landline12:00 Midday Report12:30 Monarch of the Glen1:25 A Poet’s Guide to Britain2:00 Bed of Roses3:00 Children’s Programs6:00 Breathing Fire: Secret Weapon of the Somme6:45 Animal Rites7:00 ABC News7:30 7:308:00 Australian Story8:30 Targeting Bin Laden10:00 Miss South Sudan Australia10:30 Lateline11:05 Lateline Business11:35 Darling Buds Of May12:30 Targeting Bin Laden2:00 Stealing Rugby3:00 Bowls: Australia v RSA 2011 Women’s Pairs4:00 rage

5:00 Sunrise Extra5:30 Seven Early News6:00 Sunrise9:00 The Morning Show11:30 Morning News12:00 Movie: Murder In Greenwich2:00 Dr Oz3:00 Border Security USA3:30 Children’s Programs4:30 News at 4:305:00 Guide To The Good Life5:30 Deal or No Deal6:00 Seven News6:30 Today Tonight7:00 Home and Away 7:30 The X Factor9:00 Body of Proof11:00 Dual Suspects12:00 Adventures With The Cropp Family1:00 Infomercials3:00 Home Shopping3:30 Room For Improvement4:00 NBC Today

5:00 Early News5:30 Today9:00 Kerri-Anne11:00 Morning News12:00 The Ellen DeGeneres Show1:00 Danoz Direct2:00 Days of Our Lives3:00 Entertainment Tonight3:30 Children’s Programs4:30 Afternoon News5:30 Hot Seat6:00 National News6:30 A Current Affair7:00 The Celebrity Apprentice8:00 The Big Bang Theory8:30 The Mentalist9:30 CSI Miami11:30 Undercovers12:30 The Avengers1:30 Entertainment Tonight 2:00 Danoz Direct3:00 Newstyle Direct3:30 Good Morning America

5:00 Weatherwatch and Music

5:05 International News

1:00 Age of Terror: Terror

International

2:00 Insight

3:00 Letters and Numbers

3:30 Al Jazeera News

4:00 The Journal

4:30 Futbol Mundial

5:00 The Crew

5:30 Living Black

6:00 Letters and Numbers

6:30 World News Australia

7:30 Mythbusters

8:30 Man vs Wild

9:30 World News Australia

10:00 Housos

10: 30 Skins

11:30 The World Game

12:30 Living Black

1:00 Movie: Cold Light

2:40 Weatherwatch Overnight

Tuesday Novem

ber 155:00 Gardening Australia5:30 First Tuesday Book Club With Jennifer Byrne6:00 ABC News Breakfast9:00 ABC News9:30 Business Today10:00 Behind the News10:25 Australia’s Heritage10:30 Australian Prime Ministers10:35 Naturally Australia10:50 Our Animals11:00 Big Ideas12:00 Midday Report12:30 Breathing Fire: Secret Weapon of the Somme1:20 The Cook And The Chef Moments1:35 Meerkat Manor2:00 Bed Of Roses3:00 Children’s Programs6:00 The Private Life Of7:00 ABC News7:30 7.308:00 Foreign Correspondent8:30 Dinosaur Stampede9:30 United States of Tara9:55 Jennifer Byrne Presents10:25 Lateline11:00 Lateline Business11:30 U Be Dead1:05 Monarch of the Glen2:00 Invasion Of The Crocodiles3:00 Big Ideas4:00 rage

5:00 Sunrise Extra5:30 Seven Early News6:00 Sunrise9:00 The Morning Show11:00 Morning News12:00 Movie: The Dive From Clausen’s Pier2:00 Dr Oz3:00 Border Security USA3:30 Children’s Programs4:30 News at 4:305:00 Guide To The Good Life5:30 Deal or No Deal6:00 Seven News6:30 Today Tonight7:00 Home and Away7:30 The X Factor8:30 Australia’s Got Amazing Talent9:30 Parenthood10:30 Dinner Date11:30 Parks and Recreation12:00 House Calls To The Rescue1:00 Infomercials3:00 Home Shopping4:00 NBC Today

5:00 Early News5:30 Today9:00 Kerri-Anne11:00 Morning News12:00 The Ellen DeGeneres Show1:00 Danoz Direct2:00 Days of Our Lives3:00 Entertainment Tonight3:30 Children’s Programs4:30 Afternoon News5:30 Hot Seat6:00 National News6:30 A Current Affair7:00 The Celebrity Apprentice7:30The Big Bang Theory8:30 Two and a Half Men9:00 Mike and Molly9:30 Survivor: South Pacific10:30 Embarrassing Bodies11:30 TBA12:00 20/201:00 Entertainment Tonight1:30 Danoz Direct3:00 Newstyle Direct3:30 Good Morning America

5:00 Weatherwatch and Music5:05 International News1:00 Movie: An Enemy of the People2:40 Halfway Home3:00 Letters and Numbers 3:30 Al Jazeera News 4:00 The Journal 4:30 PBS Newshour5:30 Global Village 6:00 Letters and Numbers6:30 World News Australia7:30 How Many People Can Live on Planet Earth?8:30 Immigration Nation: The Secret History of Us9:30 World News Australia10:05 How to Start a Revolution11:05 Movie: Native Dancer12:40 Rough Aunties: Saving Children’s Lives 2:40 Weatherwatch Overnight

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

Page 6: Barcoo Independent 111111

The Barcoo Independent, Friday, November 11 2011- Page 3

Tambo sawmill unable to compete with mining companies

NK Collins Industries has shut down its sawmill at Tambo in the face of insurmountable competition from mining companies for labour.

General manager Sean Gribble said although the mill employed 14 people at full capacity it had been operating with only 6-8 workers in recent months.

“The only reason we shut the Tambo sawmill was that we physically cannot get the staff,” Mr Gribble said.

“It’s been an increasing problem in the last 12-18 months as we’ve been losing staff to the mines,” he said.

Mr Gribble said the mill shut on Friday October 28 after two more staff left the mill after being employed by the Blackall Tambo Regional council.

“On half staff and therefore only half production, we were starting to ask if it was even viable to keep the mill open,” Mr Gribble said.

“When we lost the last two men, we really couldn’t keep going.”

Mr Gribble said he believed the labour shortages were caused by the increasing number of workers leaving other industries to work for mining companies.

“Council’s faced with exactly the same problem and they’ve got

to do whatever it takes to get the workers,” Mr Gribble said

“If the mines don’t get the workers, council does.”

The company had already shut down its Augathella and Mungallala mills, leaving only its Mitchell and Surat mills in operation.

Mr Gribble said he believed that the government was focused too much on mining companies to the detriment of other industries.

“We’ve been talking to federal and state government about getting in overseas workers, but it falls on deaf ears,” Mr Gribble said.

“They’re not interested in talking to us because we’re not the mines.”

Mr Gribble said N K Collins was not putting the sawmill up for sale and in fact hoped that reopening the facility was one day possible.

“We have a very good order intake, if only we could get the staff,” Mr Gribble said.

“We haven’t discounted the idea of reopening before Christmas but the reality is where would we get the staff?”

At the November meeting of the Blackall Tambo Regional Council held on Wednesday mayor Jan Ross said that the closure of the sawmill would have a detrimental

effect on Tambo. “We need that business

operating in Tambo to ensure that we continue to grow and prosper,” Cr Ross said.

“One family leaving will take three children away from the school.”

Cr Ross said council is not responsible for the closure and would campaign for the continued operation of the sawmill.

“The blame was laid at our feet but it is a free world and people will go where they want,” Cr Ross said.

“All we can do is apply political pressure.”

“I feel that we as a council have a responsibility to try to avoid this sort of thing.”

Suggestions raised for ensuring the continuation of the sawmill at the meeting included the provision of single and family accommodation for workers by N K Collins Industries, and the possibility of finding another group to take over the operation of the mill.

Council resolved to discuss means of keeping the sawmill operating with N K Collins Industries, DERM Forest Products and DEEDI.

-- Victoria Nugent

Work ceased at the Tambo sawmill on Friday October 28 after the loss of two more workers exacerbated labour shortages to the point where the mill was forced to close.

Page 7: Barcoo Independent 111111

WHATS ON in 2011NOVEMBER12 Dance Blackall Annual Concert13 Music/ Zine Workshops14 Blackall State School Dream Extreme15 Blackall State School Awards Night17 Blackall State School Formal18 Anglican Ladies Guild Street Stall20 Blackall Clay Target Monthly Shoot26 Blackall Races26 St Patrick’s Christmas Fete 27 Christmas Tree Festival 29 Christmas Under the Stars Blackall State

School

DECEMBER5-7 Creative Pathways Theatre Workshops7 Shockwave Community Gathering9 Tambo Community Christmas Party 16 Christmas Night Markets16 Blackall Memorial and Sports Club

Members’ Christmas Party16 Blackall Clay Target Monthly Shoot24 Christmas Eve Mardi Gras, Blackall24 Christmas in the Park, Tambo31 Blackall Memorial and Sports Club New

Year’s Eve Costume Party

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

Wedding Bells

FAMILY FRIENDLY LUXURY BEACH APARTMENT - MUDJIMBA, SUNSHINE COAST

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

For further details, and bookings, ph: 07 5450 6847, or email

[email protected]

Blackall and Tambo residents can gain financial skills with a free workshop being held in Blackall this month.

The workshop is entitled Financial Management: Back to Basics and is being held by the Department of Employment, Economic Development and Innovation (DEEDI)

Topics covered will include an introduction to key business accounting statements and related terminology and concepts, financial management “must-do’s” for businesses and understanding and interpreting key financial statements.

The workshop will be held on November 16 from 6-9pm at the Blackall council chambers with light refreshments to be provided.

The workshop will be simulcast live at the Tambo council chambers using the video conference facilities.

Anyone wishing to reserve seats is asked to contact the Rockhampton Service Centre of DEEDI on 4938 4572 or by email at [email protected].

Financial management workshop

Cameron, son of Frank and Shirley Russell of Blackall, and Kayla, daughter of Andrew and Lean Cecil of Tamborine QLD united in marriage on October 22 at Blackall Memorial Park. They were attended by best man Dwayne Kangan and maid of honour Natasha Murtagh.

Zine workshops hit BlackallDIY publishing and music management will be the theme of

the day this Sunday with workshops being held as part of a regional tour by the team from Toowoomba based zine, Bizoo.

The team will run zine and gocco print workshops and a Shockwave music event planning session to help celebrate the launch of retrospective zine book Bizoo: The Best, The Worst and the Trash that Never Made It.

Zines are self-published mini magazines usually reproduced via photocopier while gocco printing uses the Japanese Print Gocco machine to create DIY print images.

The workshops will run from 12-5pm at the Blackall Memorial Hall with a free barbecue lunch, vegetarian and vegan snacks and a travelling zine fair available.

Bizoo: The Best, The Worst and the Trash that Never Made It will also be available for free at the workshops.

The workshops will be run by Bizoo editor Jeremy Staples, owner of the Smell Like Zines store in Toowoomba, Eloise Quinlivan and musician Steve Towson.

Dance Blackall will hold their annual concert this weekend, entitled Alice Through Time.

The concert will be held at the Blackall Cultural Centre on Saturday and will be based on the classic literary work, Alice in Wonderland.

Doors open at 5pm with the concert commencing at 6pm.

A bar and meals will be available on the night.

Tickets are available from St Joseph’s Primary School and Blackall State School.

Dance Blackall concert

Page 8: Barcoo Independent 111111

The Barcoo Independent, Friday, November 11 2011 - Page 13www.ruralcoproperty.com.au

Clearing Sale Gydia Park Isisford (Property Sold)

Sunday 13th November 10am

Plant and EquipmentVehicles: 15tonne GVM1998 Hino truck 110,000kms Tipping body, stock crate(1deck cattle, 2decks sheep/goats); 1991 Toyota Cruiser 200,000kms; Series II A 1968 Land Rover 50,000miles; Allis Chalmers Grader; MF 65 tractor with Proline Posthole digger; MF 135 Tractor with Front Bucket; 2 x Yamaha Big Bear Quad bikes; Yamaha XT250N Motorbike; 3x Suzuki DR 350 motorbikes; Suzuki DR 250 motorbike; 1973 Diesel Land RoverSundry: Tandem Trailer with Stock Crate; CHIZOU Metal Bench Lathe; Sheep /Goat Handling crate; Goat Milking Bale; Portable Sheep/Goat Equip incl Loading Ramps, crate/Elec Scales & Classing Crate; Portable 240v generators; Elec Mono Pumps; Lincoln Tractor Pak Welder; Petrol Mono Pump on trailer; Elec Wheel Balancer; Workshop shelving; MF PTO pulleys and Blade; Lister Pump; Villiers Posthole Borer; Lister Motor; Cooper motors; PTO driven Circular Saw/Bench; Elec Grinder; Elec Parts Washer; New cement Stock Trough; Round Poly Trough; F/glass Tank; Norprim Urea water Dosers; Shearers beds/mattresses, Long wooden stools & table; Qty Combs &Cutters; Elec Shearing Stand; UHF’s; Metal chairs /tables; Large Qty Poly Pipe & fi ttings 40-50mm; Steel Rack; New Steel; Used Steel; Weldmesh; App 10 tonne Cottonseed; New Fencing Materials; Sundry other items, nuts, bolts, trough fl oats, etc

Household Items & FurnitureOffi ce desks & chairs; Cupboards; Wardrobes; School desk; Lounges; Beds; Chests of Drawers; Old style sideboard & kitchen cabinet; Cane Chairs; Kitchen Chairs; Bookcase; Shelves; Singer Sewing Machines; Freezer; Fridge; Vac Cleaner; Elec Fan; Fax; BRAND NEW Kelvinator Refrigerated Air Con; Bonaire Evap Aircon; Gas BBQ; Weaving Looms; Spinning Wheel; Tennis Court Net; 8 x 4 Slate based Pool Table; Ping Pong Tabletop; Other household items too numerous to mention.BID CARD SYSTEM OPERATING – ID REQUIRED PAYMENT TERMS: CASH OR APPROVED CHEQUE ON DAY OF SALE REFRESHMENTS AVAILABLEDIRECTIONS: AT THE ISISFORD POST OFFICE, TURN ONTO THE YARAKA ROAD. TRAVEL 15KM AND TURN LEFT AND CROSS THE BARCOO RIVER. CONTINUE 22KM TO GYDIA PARK SIGNBOARD ON THE LEFT. FURTHER 3KM INTO HOUSE. SIGNS WILL DIRECT ON DAY.

Longreach 07 4658 3777Peter Cavanagh: 0448 855 750Owner: Joey Owens 0427 588 133

Full item listing available from www.grantdaniellong.com

Page 9: Barcoo Independent 111111

Page 12- The Barcoo Independent, Friday, November 11 2011

POSITIONS VACANTTraineeships

Blackall-Tambo Regional Council is seeking enthusiastic, highly motivated and committed people to join our workforce at the Blackall-Tambo Regional Council as Trainees. There are opportunities available in the following fields.

Rural Lands Management Information Technology StorepersonRecords Management HorticultureWaste & Water Management Civil Construction Conservation & Land Management

For information on any of the above positions please contact Graham Fairbrother – Human Resources Officer on 07 4621 6600 or email [email protected] or send your resume and a cover letter addressed- “Private and Confidential” Chief Executive Officer PO Box 136 TAMBO QLD 4478 Blackall Tambo Regional Council is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer.

Applications close Friday, 2nd December 2011 by 4pm Ken Timms Chief Executive Officer

Page 10: Barcoo Independent 111111

The Barcoo Independent, Friday, November 11 2011 - Page 5

Outback artists’ Italian painting adventure opened at Tambo

Nearly 70 paintings, including seven by Blackall artist Sally Campbell, were opened to the public on Saturday evening at Tambo when the Tuscan Dreamers exhibition went on display for the first time.

The exhibition consisted of works created by a dozen painters from around Queensland who took up the opportunity for “a trip of a lifetime” to travel to Tuscany in central Italy last year for a two-week watercolour workshop.

They were mustered up by fellow artist Metka Skrobar, who has tutored a number of times in western Queensland.

Part of her promise to the artists

involved was to organise an exhibition of their work upon their return to Australia.

“What better place to do this than Tambo,” she told the crowd gathered for the opening.

“I am very proud to present these little gems created by this group who once upon a time only dared to dream to travel and paint in Tuscany.”

Nine of the exhibitors were in Tambo for the exhibition opening on Saturday, including Di McIntyre from Chinchilla, who was enthusiastic about the experience.

“It was the most wonderful scenery that compelled one to

paint, and fantastic company,”

she said.

Tambo Arts Council president

Kim Davidson said the exhibition

was the culmination of a busy year

for the gallery sub-committee.

Nine exhibitions have been

hung this year, along with eight

openings, and the gallery has been

full since it opened two years ago.

The Tuscan Dreamers exhibition

will be open until December 15.

--Sally Cripps

Nine of the artists whose work was opened at the Grassland Gallery on the weekend were present, including tutor Metka Skrobar (third left) and Blackall’s Sally Campbell (centre).

Penny Wagstaff, Mt Enniskillen was pleased to catch up with one of her former governesses, Chris Kirby of Springsure, who was one of the artists exhibiting work at the Grassland Gallery on the weekend.

St Joseph’s P&F would like to thank people for supporting our inaugural Melbourne Cup luncheon. Thanks

also to our sponsors: Daisy Cottage, Barcoo Butchery, Prince of Wales Hotel, IGA, Hinzy’s Handy Help & to Blackall Retravision for donating our lucky door prize of a TV which was won by Penny

Allpass. Thank you for a very successful day, we look forward to next year’s event!

Page 11: Barcoo Independent 111111

Page 6 - The Barcoo Independent, Friday November 11 2011

Make 6 Violet Street your New Invest-ment. Don’t Miss Out! Auction: Friday 11th November @ 11am

On Site — 6 Violet Street Blackall View– By appointment contact Helen Aspinall 0428 316 289 Email: [email protected] Office: Ray White Rural Blackall 07 46 574 355

AUCTIONS - ‘Offer Rare Opportunities’

Make 8 Garden Street your New Investment. Don’t Miss Out! Auction: Friday 11th November @ 1pm

BLACKALL RETRAVISION

WEEKLY SPECIALS

HUGE DISCOUNTS ON FLAT PANEL TVS –

SAVE HUNDREDS OF DOLLARS – ONE

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SIX WEEKS AWAY

PVP MARKETING

Tools-Teng, Stanley, Sidchrome and Ampro

10% off all tools on presentation of this advertisement

Wool, towels, tea towels, giftlines and more

CWA HallMonday November 14- Saturday November 19

7am-5:30pm daily

Page 12: Barcoo Independent 111111

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

Birthdays

Blackall Clay Target Club AGM20November10amClay Target ClubhouseNewmemberswelcome

THE BARCOO INDEPENDENT

LASSIFIEDSOUTWEST SoilTests.Promptandreliableservice.PH0458532155.

C

Interested in advertising in the Barcoo Independent? Weofferaffordableandeffectiveadvertising.Therearearangeofsizesavailableaswellasclassifieds,insertoptionsandscheduledcolouradvertising.ContactVictoriaNugenton46576966orbyemailatbarcooindependent@gmail.comtodiscussadvertisingoptionsforyourbusiness.Classifiedscosts$5for3lines,and$1.25foreachextraline.

St Joey’s prepares for KAOSSt Joseph’s Primary School is preparing to show

their artistic side to the world on Friday night with Kids Art On Show (KAOS).

The evening will feature artwork displays, an art auction, and the performance of the school Christmas play with a disco to round out the night.

The event will be held at the Mackillop Centre and starts at 6:30pm.

Lyn Harlow celebrated her 60th birthday on Saturday night at the Blackall Cultural Centre with family and friends. Pictured here with husband John. Photo courtesy of Tony (Boppa) Horsten.

In B singles last Sunday Gary Whitfield flew out of the barrier to lead Peter Fry 6-0. After two ends Peter then got going to be leading 14-10 after 13 ends. Gary then got to 14-13 in an even game to that point. Peter then applied the pressure to gradually keep moving away finishing 31-19 in front.

In another B single, John Bowyer and Woody had a very hard fought game. John led all the way, the score being only 21- 17 after 26 ends and 24-20 after 30 ends and then won the next four ends to win 31-20.

In social bowls Lauretta and Wayne were a bit too solid for Julie and Roy, winning 24-11.

In another social game Leroy and Trevor were much too good for Kylie and Bradley winning 21-6.

Next week B singles and pairs will be played at the Blackall Bowls Club from 9am with social play available and visitors welcome.

In B singles, M Pfingst to play J Bowyer with spotter C Pfingst.

In pairs, D Daly and J Carter to play G Whitfield and G MacNamara.

Close games at bowls

AnglicAn lAdies’ guild street stAll

Friday 18 novemberin front of the

commonwealth Bankstarting 9am

BBLLAACCKKAALLLL UUNNIITTIINNGG CCHHUURRCCHHWorship services Sundays 9am PLUS......

1st Sunday of month Sunday Night Live 6pm 3rd Sunday of month Fun Social Event 6pm

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

Contact: Rev Scott Ballment

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

BBLLAACCKKAALLLL UUNNIITTIINNGG CCHHUURRCCHHWorship services Sundays 9am PLUS......

1st Sunday of month Sunday Night Live 6pm 3rd Sunday of month Fun Social Event 6pm

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

Contact: Rev Scott Ballment

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

BBLLAACCKKAALLLL UUNNIITTIINNGG CCHHUURRCCHHWorship services Sundays 9am PLUS......

1st Sunday of month Sunday Night Live 6pm 3rd Sunday of month Fun Social Event 6pm

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

Contact: Rev Scott Ballment

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

Page 13: Barcoo Independent 111111

Page 10 - The Barcoo Independent, Friday, November 11 2011

LOCAL EDUCATION GRANTS NOW OPEN

Blackall Tambo Education GroupDo you know of someone who needs a helping hand to achieve

their further education or career goals in 2012? The Blackall Tambo Education Group is currently calling for

applications for assistance The purpose of the group is to assist local youth, up to the age of

25, who need a financial helping hand and some extra encouragement to be able to go on and achieve their goals

We provide grants for such things as course fees, textbooks, tools, accommodation, travel, work-wear, etc

If you could really do with some support, we encourage you contact us for a nomination form

For all enquiries contact secretary Sally Cripps on 4657 5955 or [email protected]

Townhouse BursaryThe Blackall Student Hostel Townhouse Bursary provides financial assistance to one student from either Blackall or Tambo to further their education at an accredited educational facility. The bursary is

valued at $2500 Applicants must be 19 years of age or younger, have successfully

completed years 10, 11 or 12 and have a residential address in Blackall or Tambo shires for the 12 months immediately preceding

their application Applicants will be selected on the basis of a desire to further their

education, the need to live away from home to do so and their success in gaining a position in a recognised full-time course

Application forms and criteria can be obtained by contacting Sally Campbell on 4657 4693 or by writing to the Townhouse Bursary

management committee, C/- “Clarenden”, Blackall. 4472

Closing date for both grants: Friday, February 10, 2012

Blackall Tambo Education Group

Do you know of someone who needs a helping hand to achieve their further education or career goals in 2012?The Blackall Tambo Education Group is calling for applications for financial assistance.The purpose of the group is to assist local youth, up to the age of 25, who need a financial helping hand and some extra encouragement to be able to go on and achieve their goalsWe provide grants for such things as course fees, textbooks, tools, accommodation, travel, work-wear, etc.If you could really do with some support, we encourage you contact us for a nomination form.

For all enquiries contact secretary Sally Cripps on 4657 5955 or [email protected]

Townhouse Bursary

The Blackall Student Hostel Townhouse Bursary provides financial assistance to one student from either Blackall or Tambo to further their education at an accredited educational facility. The bursary is valued at $2500.Applicants must be 19 years of age or younger, have successfully completed years 10, 11 or 12 and have a residential address in the Blackall/Tambo region for the 12 months immediately preceding their application.Applicants will be selected on the basis of a desire to further their education, the need to live away from home to do so and their success in gaining a position in a recognised full-time course.Application forms and criteria can be obtained by contacting Sally Campbell on 4657 4693 or by writing to the Townhouse Bursary management committee, C/- “Clarenden”, Blackall, 4472

Closing date for both grants: Friday, February 10, 2012

Blackall coal mining future possiblecontinued from page 1“The Barcoo itself is a huge

obstacle to anything happening,” he said.

Mr Patrick said he was aware that the use of land for grazing in the region was also a key issue.

“You have to consider the value of a block of land for a particular purpose,” Mr Patrick said.

When queried if mining coal would effect the future productive value of land, Mr Patrick said it was a possibility.

“We aim to return the ground to a similar state as before and sometimes it even gains a land class,” Mr Patrick said.

“Often you’re likely to lose a land class.”

International Coal has also confirmed that it has intersected a significant coal seam structure at its South Blackall project, 80 km north east of Quilpie with analysis due to commence shortly of recent drill and logging results to calculate the volume of coal in the ground.

With the detection of coal

deposits, plans for infrastructure are starting to be explored with Coalbank and East Energy Resources both discussing the importance of a railway to Blackall if mining commences.

Mining companies Waratah Coal and Hancock Coal, are both investigating building a railway from Port Abbott to Alpha with community consultations being held throughout the central west by Waratah Coal.

The idea of an extension of the railway to Blackall has been raised by various mining companies with exploration sites in the district, including East Energy Resources.

East Energy chairman and managing director Mark Basso said a substantial amount of coal had been found in the Blackall region and it was now a matter of determining the viability of developing a mine.

“Quantity of coal is not an issue, it’s how much it will cost to get it out,” Mr Basso said.

East Energy Resources has commissioned Calibre Rail

to undertake a study about preliminary rail infrastructure options, including a 285 km extension of the Alpha line to Blackall.

The Queensland Department of Transport has also provided permission to access the existing rail corridor from Jericho to Blackall for a preliminary study.

Mr Basso said the recent purchase of a majority stake in Hancock Coal by Indian company GVK for $1.26 billion indicated the likelihood of the development of the Alpha mines and supporting infrastructure.

“I don’t think they would pay that much money without trying to get a rail in,” Mr Basso said.

Mr Basso said East Energy would then be able to use the Alpha railway line to transport coal to Port Abbott.

“If you build a railway line, third party access is a government requirement,” Mr Basso said.

Mr Basso said he would estimate 2016 as a potential date for a railway to Blackall.

Page 14: Barcoo Independent 111111

The Barcoo Independent, Friday, November 11 2011 - Page 7

Got something on your mind? If there’s an issue that bothersyouorifyouhaveanopinionyouthinkthecommunityshouldknowabout,writealettertotheeditor.barcooindependent@gmail.com108aShamrockStreet,BlackallQLD4472

LETTER TO THE EDITORHalloween a real treat for Blackall

For Sale Asking price is $190,000.00

Contact Bernardine 07 4658 1122 / 0429 020 540

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

5 Walter Street, BLACKALL 47 Thistle Street, BLACKALLFreshly Painted, Older Style Queensland Home Ideally sited on a 2,036 sqm allotment and featuring three good size bedrooms.An enclosed verandah at front is fitted with modern aluminium windows & fittings.A covered outdoor living and entertainment area is located at the rear of the home together with a garden shed.A permanent tenant is in place if required.

For Sale Asking $170,000.00

Contact Bernardine 07 4658 1122 / 0429 020 540

Cosy Country Cottage This cute little cottage on a large 1,730 sqm allotment is just waiting for a “White Knight” to carry on the good work.Partially renovated with two bedrooms plus study/ officeOpen plan kitchen, dining and living with polished floorboards.A covered outdoor living and entertainment area.

For Sale Asking $170,000.00

Contact Bernardine 07 4658 1122 / 0429 020 540

85 Rose Street, BLACKALL

LJ Hooker 135 Eagle StreetPO Box 246Longreach QLD 4730

LJ Hooker 135 Eagle StreetPO Box 246Longreach QLD 4730

LJ Hooker 135 Eagle StreetPO Box 246Longreach QLD 4730

My name is Jemma Mobbs and I did trick or treating for the Halloween night and it was so fun, also the disco was a blast. I enjoyed every moment, from getting dressed up, to dancing the

night away at the disco. I would love to thank all the people that helped make this happen. I hope we do it next year!

--Jemma Mobbs

Barron Agencies opens its doors

Owner Jeremy Barron and receptionist Kellie Harlow were pleased to open Barron Agencies’ Shamrock Street premises this week.

This week marked another step forward for local business Barron Agencies as they opened the doors at their Shamrock Street premises.

The livestock and property sales business started up earlier this year and opened their premises on Monday after months of challenges.

Manager Jeremy Barron said Barron Agencies were happy about opening their premises and were keen to keep progressing.

“It’s been a good while coming but we’re here to stay,” Jeremy said.

“The next step is business as usual, bringing bigger and better things to Blackall.”

The business faced setbacks earlier in the year when they were denied membership to the Blackall Livestock Auction Association (BLAA).

The business then had applications to run first a fortnightly sale and then an irregular sale denied by council.

However Jeremy said the business was going well with several residential real estate properties on the books and plans to continue to pursue selling space at the saleyards.

“Hopefully in the new year we’ll be in the saleyards,” Jeremy said.

Jeremy said he felt that Barron Agencies was an important addition to the real estate and livestock scene in Blackall.

“It creates competition which is better for everyone

here in town,” Jeremy said. “It makes everyone want to work for their

business.” Jeremy said a good client base and support from

within Blackall and surrounding districts had been key factors in the business’ progress.

“We’d like to thank everyone who has supported us along the way,” Jeremy said.

Page 15: Barcoo Independent 111111

Page 8 - The Barcoo Independent, Friday, November 11 2011

Gallery Day a hit with local shoppers

Lesley Heatley and Lily Kent admired the goods for sale at Gallery Day on Friday night.

Tambo’s Carroll Nugent caught up with Angela Hardie at the Gallery Day opening.

Kirstie Davison and Sally Campbell caught up at the Gallery Day opening on Friday night.

Tamara Hardie and Paton Fitzsimmons attended the Friday night opening of Gallery Day.

Blackall’s artists are already keen for Gallery Day next year after excellent sales figures were recorded at the event run by the Blackall Cultural Association last weekend.

The annual weekend gives local craftspeople an outlet to display and sell items produced from sewing machines, easels, kilns and photography darkrooms all over the district.

The hand produced articles are always very popular and this year was no exception, according to BCA secretary Roslyn Wood.

“We had three big rooms alive with colour and full of things people had made,” she said.

“It’s amazing to see what’s

available from people in our little towns.”

Roslyn said some of the most popular items were small pieces of jewellery from Tennessee and Sarah Kay Harris, as well as glassware made by the weekend’s featured artist, Alison Shaw from Tambo.

“We had about 70 people through the doors on Friday night and another 30 on Saturday, which was quite busy in comparison with other years,” she said.

“Lots was sold, which makes people very keen to try out things for next year now.”

--Sally CrippsBridget and Danny Allan enjoyed an evening out at the Gallery Day opening.

Page 16: Barcoo Independent 111111

The Barcoo Independent, Friday, November 11 2011 - Page 9

Blackall Tambo RADF committee members cut a cake to celebrate 20 years of operation last Friday. From left, chairperson Kim Davidson, Lindy Hardie, Lorelei Kiernan, council liaison officer Alison Shaw, council representative Sally Cripps, Tracy Lewington and Kiralee Fox.

RADF celebrates 20th birthday

Blackall choir members and local schoolchildren revised the arm movements of “Y-M-C-A” to “R-A-D-F” much to the amusement of choir director Alison Mobbs.

A cake cutting last Friday was the culmination of the Blackall-Tambo Regional Arts Development Fund’s 20th birthday celebrations, which featured a showcase of work created.

The fund is a highly successful state and local government partnership that supports emerging arts practitioners living in regional Queensland, funding projects that offer groups and individuals the chance to develop their skills.

Councils bid for an annual allocation from Arts Queensland, which is then managed for the council by a committee of community volunteers.

Some of the activities undertaken in the last 20 years in Tambo and Blackall include leadlighting, hat making, a poetry residency, the publishing of Sons and Daughters of the Barcoo, woodworking, silversmithing, knitting, dance instruction, the production of the play Dimboola, hebel sculpture, resin craft, quilting and photography.

Individual artists have been able to travel away to receive professional instruction in things such as singing, glass fusing and painting, which has given them the skills they can share locally.

Many of the accomplishments were on display at the Blackall

Living Arts Centre last weekend, including songs from the RADF-funded and award winning Wine Women and Song event from earlier in the year.

The day before, the committee approved a further four applications for 2012 activities.

As well as hip hop dance, silversmithing and woodworking workshops being offered, the Blackall-Tambo council’s request for funding to develop statements of significance for its heritage collections in both towns was approved.

The council will also receive RADF funding for a public art strategic initiative based in Tambo.

Christmas is coming

Book now to secure your Christmas message advertisements.Contact Victoria Nugent to discuss rates and make a booking.

(07) 46 576 [email protected]