SM99_Shift Miner magazine by Shift Miner

SHIFT MINER BIG WET Monday 8th November 99th Edition 2010

The Queensland mining communityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s best source of local news

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M A G A Z I N E

Miners face cyclonic summer WEATHER experts are warning this yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s outlook is worse than 2008, when central Queensland floods plunged Ensham mineâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s $100 dragline metres under water. On Australia Day 2008, 315 millimetres of rain fell in 24 hours at Emerald, and central Queensland weather forecaster Mike Griffin said it could easily happen again. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The wet season has started a month earlier than usual, and CQ has already experienced one of the wettest Septembers on record,â&#x20AC;? he said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Rockhampton alone has received 147mm, the highest rainfall for that month in 134 years.â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x153;Emerald isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t far behind recording a total of 168mm, not a record but close to it.â&#x20AC;? The early onset of the wet season is already affecting mining operations. In the Bowen Basin, production at Cockatoo Coalâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Baralaba open cut mine dropped by a third last quarter because of wet weather. The flooded Dawson River prevented miners from getting to work, and the mine lost 14 days of operations during September. Further north near Townsville, and the fledgling gold producer Maximus Resourcesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Willheim project lost 15 days to rain. Acting managing director, Nick Corlis, said he expects more disruptions as the wet season progresses.

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News 9000 workers needed in LNG Âť page 5

News Qld exploration hub by 2020 Âť page 10 Around Town Fun & frivolity at the Claytonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Cup Âť page 15

Huge gold nugget found in NQ Âť Â Â Page 6

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CQ Business Retailers battle with the mines Âť page 12 Money Matters Vacant CQ land a mixed bag Âť page 26

News

99th EDITION. 2010

Mt Morgan’s gold no closer to the surface

IN the hills of Mount Morgan, under eight million tonnes of tailings dams and mullock dumps, there’s gold, at least 25,000 ounces of it, but it may never see the light of day. Almost three years ago, Norton Gold Fields acquired the old Mount Morgan mine, with plans to establish a tailings retreatment plant. Despite gold prices hitting record highs since then, there has been next to no action

since the initial announcement. In its September quarterly report just released to the Australian stock exchange, Norton said it had delayed work on the mine because of issues sourcing funding. The company is looking at joint venture arrangements and other options as a way to fund the project. The ongoing delay is disappointing news for the Mount Morgan community who had

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expected the mine to employ 50 locals and boost property prices. Mount Morgan Promotion and Development Group (MPDG) Coordinator David Tank said they support any project that will deliver economic, training and employment benefits to the town. “A large number of residents are for the project, definitely, but more so out of town property investors I think,” Mr Tank said. “There’s an expectation that it [the gold mine] would do great things for the land values here.” “They [Norton] continue to keep contact with the community through their support of events like the fireworks at the Golden Mount Festival, but we haven’t heard anything directly from them,” he said. And it’s not for lack of trying. “We’ve tried on a number of occasions to contact the group both directly and through their PR people about some of our concerns but we’ve had no reply.” “Our president went to a briefing at the end of last year, said they were looking at opening in February 2010, obviously that

hasn’t happened,” Mr Tank said. And with very little information coming out of Norton, some interesting rumours have developed about the mine. “We came across a guy who was looking at buying out the lease from Norton’s about two months ago, a small organisation from Coppabella, not sure if that was genuine or not,” Mr Tank said. “The other rumour that we’re hearing is that the reason that the mine keeps changing hands is because there are tax advantages to holding it and not developing it.” However, a spokesperson for Norton has dismissed both rumours. “We can’t speculate on the strategy of previous owners we can confirm Norton’s committed to identifying potential funding partners to unlock value from the Mt Morgan asset for our shareholders,” a spokesman told Shift Miner Magazine. With the company recording a $32.8 million net loss in the last financial year, due primarily to an unrelated court matter, the project may be on hold for a lot longer yet.

“In its September quarterly report just released to the Australian stock exchange, Norton said it had delayed work on the mine because of issues sourcing funding.”

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Page 2 - Shift Miner Magazine, 8th November 2010

CONTENTS 99th EDITION. 2010

23 TASTY THAI

IMPRESSIVE APOSTLES

MORANBAH RELAY

MINERâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S TRADER

winds and torrential rain? Where are the safest areas to bunENSHAM mineâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s $100 dragline sub- ker down and wait out the storm? merged in floodwaters is the lasting The mines inspectorate will release image of the 2008 Emerald floods. a safety alert later this month to The effects of that devastating refresh memories. flood were felt within the central The regionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s fragile supply chain Queensland region for months, as will also be put to the test - it only locals continued the long and ardu- takes one train to derail and access to ous clean up process. port can be blocked for many mines. The ramifications for industry were It will be interesting to see how all long lasting, with de-watering regulations parties fare. overhauled in the wake of the flood. Some mines in the region, like Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s startling to think the region Cockatoo Coalâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Baralaba mine, have could again bear the brunt of severe already experienced production lossweather, with all forecasters pointing es as a result of wet weather. to a cyclonic wet season. From the sounds of the predictions, Advice for mine workers, and there could be lot more lost produclocals, is to prepare now. tion time to come. Do you know what you should do if you are on site during high-speed

FROM THE EDITOR

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Page 3 - Shift Miner Magazine, 8th November 2010

News

99th EDITION. 2010

FROM PAGE 1

Mines urged to prepare for the worst “The more water that gets into the ground the longer that production is stopped, there were periods last year when we couldn’t get through to the mine because of the Burdekin Dam,” he said. “We’re really at the mercy of the rain.” In the coal industry, underground mines often capitalise on the pain of open cut mines during the wet months. As open cut mines struggle to fulfil shipping schedules, underground operations have a chance to boost their bottom line. “If floods the scale of January 2008 happen again, some companies could be forced to declare a force majeure on sales contracts, freeing them up from penalties,” one industry insider told Shift Miner Magazine. “Obviously that significantly affects their bottom line and reduces the amount of coal available on the market.” “That’s good news though for the underground operations because it could put additional train and port allocations up for sale that wouldn’t previously have been available.” “Traditionally at this time of the year most underground ops have fulfilled their annual contracts, so any coal that’s sold now would be on the spot market where a premium price can asked.” The Queensland Resources Council chief executive, Michael Roche, has highlighted the fragility of the Bowen Basin mine to port supply chain, particularly during the wet. “It only takes one linkage under stress to have a domino effect on throughput,” Mr Roche said. “Almost a thousand kilometres from the Port of Townsville, Mount Isa knows from bitter experience last wet season the impacts of losing rail transport for weeks on end.” With the weather bureau predicting as many as six cyclones off the Queensland coast over the coming months, the ports will bear the brunt of mother nature’s fury. But the general manager of operations

GONE UNDER: Ensham’s dragline was the victim of the 2008 floods, and forecasters are predicting worse to come this wet season

at the Dalyrmple Bay coal terminal, Greg Smith, is not concerned. Mr Smith said the terminal can lock down for a cyclone in three hours and is designed to withstand even a category 5 system. “Cyclones affect the shipping queue more than the terminal, our delays stem from waiting for the ships that have vacated the anchorage due to the cyclone to return to port,” he said. Mr Smith said the terminal is also well equipped to protect stockpiles from the rain. “Our stockyard has been designed to facilitate water drainage during/after heavy rain events, small delays may occur, but generally speaking, this does not cause signifi-

cant throughput loss.” The QRC has also hinted at the difficulties faced by mine mangers during the clean up phase if another Ensham style flood were to occur. “The circumstances confronting mine managers are expected to be far more challenging than in January 2008, as state government regulations covering the dewatering of mines have changed significantly,” Mr Roche said. At the time, Ensham was able to pump water from its flooded pits back into the river system, under the supervision of environmental authorities, but concerns about salinity levels led to wide-sweeping changes.

According to the Sustainability Minister more than 20 mines in the region have been inspected in the lead up the wet season, to check flood-proofing is being carried out. The mines inspectorate will release a safety alert to all miners at the end of the month, reminding them of the hazards associated with significant rain and extreme winds. Weather forecaster, Mike Griffin, said mines should be seriously looking at putting measures in place for the worst-case scenario. “We could be looking at destructive winds, flooding and storm surges damaging homes in coastal communities, and causing flooding and rain of up to 250 mm,” he said. “All the signs are there for a big wet.”

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Page 4 - Shift Miner Magazine, 8th November 2010

News

99th EDITION. 2010

Do you have LNG skills? FAST NEWS MORE than 9000 construction workers are needed to build central Queensland’s coal seam gas (CSG) infrastructure and competition for labour will be fierce, according to a new report. Late last week construction and CSG industry representatives met Queensland’s Training Minister in Brisbane to launch a workforce plan. The BG Group’s official announcement that it will proceed with its $15 billion LNG project in Gladstone has triggered a flurry of excitement in the port city. Investor interest in the area has skyrocketed, and a spike in real estate enquiry is also being felt right through the Surat Basin (see our story on page 24). In terms of the new industry’s workforce, a new report put together by Energy Skills Queensland Construction Skills Queensland has found 40 occupations will be in high demand including welders, pipe fitters, construction workers and electricians. In March this year the state government invested $10 million into an industry training fund to address the skills shortage anticipated when the LNG workforce kicks in.

In full swing, more than 18,000 are expected to be employed in the sector. The Training Minister, Geoff Wilson, said the construction jobs are welcome relief for an industry still bruised by the GFC. “We know the construction industry has been doing it tough in the wake of the global economic crisis,” Mr Wilson said. “This plan signals new construction jobs, and industry with the support of government will be prepared when that upturn happens.” “Skills Queensland will work closely with industry to ensure we’re skilling Queenslanders for the jobs of future.” The Queensland Resources Council’s Michael Roche said the new CSG industry was like nothing before it. “Queensland has never seen a financial investment and technology uptake of the magnitude surrounding the birth of this new export pillar for Australia’s

future,” Mr Roche said. “A coal seam gas-based export industry has moved literally from pipedream to economic reality in less than a decade, but with all the built-in safeguards that the community expects from a 21st century industry.”

More ambassadors to bring exploration

“Forty occupations will be in high demand including welders, pipe fitters, construction workers and electricians.”

are digging deeper than every before, and there are so many projects on the go or ramping up to capitalise on the big bucks.” “But eventually supply catches up with demand, and it will in this case.” Mr Richardson said eventually new investment will slow, and that will curb growth and expansion in the sector. He has also warned against believing China will be the golden-egg laying goose forever. “China is more volatile than I think people give it credit for, and the big lesson is there is no miracle economy, the US certainly wasn’t, Japan wasn’t and neither are Chi-

The state government is holding a series of information sessions this month for people who may still be confused about the new land access laws. The forums will explain how the new code relates to conduct and compensation, dispute resolution and contract complaince between landowners and resource comapnies. Sessions will be held in Dalby, Roma, Quilpie, Longreach, Emerald, Moranbah, Townsville, Mount Isa and Mareeba between 15-26 November. To register for the information sessions call 13 25 23 or visit www.deedi.qld.gov.au. .....................................................................

Growth warning: Access Economics MINING activity in Queensland is expected to ramp up over the next 18 months, to capitalise on stratospheric commodity prices. The latest economic snapshot released by Access Economics has predicted the global hunger for Queensland’s resources will only strengthen in the short term. But Access Economics director, Chris Richardson, said “Boom 2” won’t last forever. “The big story of 2009 was China recovering faster than anyone expected, and that was the big saviour for the resources industry here,” he said. “The big story of 2010 isn’t on the front page of any newspapers - it is that miners

Understanding new land access laws

na and Australia.” “Having said that, Chinese demand will continue to grow on average, and India will follow up behind it.” Mr Richardson said the skill shortage will continue to plague the industry, but it will initially be more of a problem in Western Australia than Queensland. “Queensland has been slower to recover [from the GFC] but in 12 months or so will see the WA skills shortage problems in Queensland.” “The emerging gas industry will be a big part of that ongoing story and will be part of the skills shortage problem.”

Two more resource industry ambassadors have been appointed by the state government, to help raise Queensland’s profile in the international and domestic exploration community. The chief of CSIRO resource engineering division, Dr Mike McWilliams, and the director of mining and geology research centre at the University of Queensland, Dan Wood, will take on the new roles. There are now 16 ambassadors working to champion exploration in Queensland bring in investment dollars. .....................................................................

Remote areas open to exploration New areas of remote land in north-west Queensland will be opened up by the state government for mineral exploration. The areas were selected after the use of new airborne geophysical and ground gravity survey data which indicated rocks may contain mineralisation. The greenfields sites are in the north-eastern section of the resource-rich North West Queensland Mineral Province, close to Croydon and 270 kilometres north-east of Mount Isa. The greenfields land, presently covered by Restricted Areas 361, 362, 363 and 364, will be released early next year, allowing companies to apply for exploration permits for minerals.

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News

99th EDITION. 2010

$17K gold nugget is a looker! IT’S a nugget that once would’ve sparked a gold rush. A 404-gram gold nugget has been found at Maximus Resources’ Willheim Project -

in the Jack Patch production area, 200 kilometres south-west of Townsville. “The nugget is a substantial find at today’s gold prices, if you do the maths it’s

worth around $17,000,” said Maximus acting managing director, Nick Corlis. “It’s on its way back to Adelaide where it will be cleaned and photographed.”

The nugget is the largest ever found by the company. “I suspect it will be put up for auction, if that is the case we will put a company announcement on the ASX and it’s likely to be an online auction,” Mr Corlis said. “We haven’t made a firm decision yet.” More impressive still, it’s not the only gold found recently - in the same week another 280 grams of nuggets were also unearthed. “The area is quite well endowed, because of the way the nuggets are formed we get a lot in that area.” And it seems the nugget is also quite a looker. “Not all nuggets are so attractive, this one’s quite good looking so it’s worth giving someone the opportunity to buy it rather than melting it down,” he said. Despite the valuable finds, the mine isn’t anticipating a ramp up in production or staff. “It would make us happy if that was to happen but given how the alluvial deposits are it’s not likely at this stage,” Mr Corlis said.

“Not all nuggets are so attractive, this one’s quite good looking so it’s worth giving someone the opportunity to buy it rather than melting it down.”

400 new zinc jobs in Mt Isa XSTRATA Zinc’s George Fisher mine near Mt Isa will need to find 400 new workers over the next two to three years to build and run its $274 million expansion. The approval is set to create 250 new jobs during the construction phase, and 120 full-time jobs at the mine. The Queensland government has ticked off on the expansion that will increase production by a third to 4.5 million tonnes per annum from 2013. The mine covers one of the world’s largest zinc deposits, with 76 million tonnes of the metal buried in the area. Xstrata Zinc Australia chief operating officer, Brian Hearne, said while an increased production rate had decreased the life of the mine, a long term strategy was in place. “While the increased production rate will reduce the life of mine by five years to 21 years, the orebody remains open at depth to the north of the mine,” he said.

“The additional production capacity built into the expansion project and our ongoing exploration program will ensure the mine remains a key part of our long term strategy for Mount Isa.” Work on the expansion is set to start immediately, with equipment arriving to begin ventilation work this month. Xstrata Zinc has announced $407 million of mining projects in Mt Isa this year; the George Fisher expansion follows the approval of the $133 million Black Star Deeps open cut mine.

“The approval is set to create 250 new jobs during the construction phase, and 120 full-time jobs at the mine.” Page 6 - Shift Miner Magazine, 8th November 2010

News

99th EDITION. 2010

NSW scoops CQ at mines rescue comp IT just wasn’t CQ’s day at the Australian Mines Rescue Comp held last month at Anglo Coal’s Grasstree mine. The Queensland Mines and Rescue Service’s Lindsay Creighton said the New South Wales teams were too strong for CQ with NSW’s Western Districts, Hunter Valley and Southern taking out first, second and third respectively. “Our guys came after NSW, with Anglo Coal Grasstree fourth, BMA Broadmeadow fifth, Xstrata Coal Oaky No.1 sixth and Rio Tinto’s Kestrel bringing up the rear.” “The NSW teams paid attention to detail in their procedures better and they managed their time better. “They also attacked the fire a little better,” Mr Creighton said. The overall scores for the competition were well down on previous years, perhaps reflecting the tough course the teams were battling through. “I’m used to 700/780 out of 1000, the winning team got 620 out of 900, so that give you an idea of the challenge that faced the teams.”

“It’s the lowest score we’ve had for the comp in a while, but we need to test to them to put them through what could happen and I don’t apologise for that,” Mr Creighton said. “The underground exercise was really about procedure, procedure, procedure, and it was a realistic scenario that could happen in any underground coal mine.” The competition was held at Anglo’s Capcoal mine, and the mine’s John Rowe, who has 35 years of mines rescue under his belt, said all competitors should be congratulated. “These guys are giving up their time to train to become the best and that kind of dedication and passion for safety is infectious,” he said. “The number one reason why they train in emergency response is to be able to look after their mates if they are ever found in a dangerous or life-threatening situation.” “Their commitment helps build a culture of safety, with their safe practices flowing through to others around them.” And there’s no rest for the wicked, with Mr Creighton already off training the Goonyella boys for the International

Anglo’s Grasstree team competing in the national competition

Mines Rescue Competition (IMRC) being held in mid this month. “We won in the last IMRC in Reno, Nevada and I’m confident, we’re going to win this time too, we’re not just there to

make up the numbers.” “And Crinum will be there too,” Mr Creigton said. The team will compete against the USA, China, India, Poland, the Ukraine and Russia.

“The number one reason why they train in emergency response is to be able to look after their mates if they are ever found in a dangerous or life-threatening situation.”

Put a lid on it WHAT weighs 48 tonnes, sits 42 metres in the air and requires 18 personnel and a 600tonne crane to lift it into place? No, it’s not yo mamma. It’s the new lid of a 60,000 tonne alumina silo at Rio Tinto Alcan’s Yarwun facility near Gladstone. It’s all part of the site’s $1.8 billion expansion, which is now almost 60 per cent complete thanks to the hard work of more than 1000 personnel. The lid, which weighs around the same as 126 family-sized cars, was lifted into place late last month, with the help of 18 crew and a 600-tonne Demag crane.

Yarwun 2 general manager, David Yeoman, said the complicated job went off without a hitch. “This was a team, which even under the adverse conditions of the weather, kept focused and ensured safety was at the forefront of their thinking,” he said. “They were planning ahead; using foresight to identify the challenges in their path and working out solutions.” “I would like to congratulate the team for their outstanding work.” Once completed in mid-2012, the expansion will more than double the refinery’s production.

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Page 7 - Shift Miner Magazine, 8th November 2010

Last chance to vote for

Bachelor &

If you haven’t voted already, get in quick! You can vote once in both categories, but

Hotrite ou fav

What’s the most romantic thing you’ve ever done? A candle lit dinner .. I cooked roast pork n veg with flowers and a big teddy bear for Valentines day ... Do you believe in love at first sight - why or why not? Yeh kinda, but it hasn’t happened to me yet lol ...

Hotrite ou fav

Allan McDonald (aka PODGE), 36

To vote for Jaime, text 9404 to 0412 055 255

HSE Mining, Ensham

What’s the most romantic thing you’ve ever done? Wrote a love letter and sent flowers with the letter Do you believe in love at first sight - why or why not? Yes people can just have a chemical reaction to each other

Daniel Brunner, 23

Why should people vote for you? Because I’m down to earth and a good bloke

Clermont Coal

Why should people vote for you? Because I am a good representation of what this competition is all about.

Dirk Irsch, 45

To vote for Daniel, text 9406 to 0412 055 255

North Goonyella, underground miner

What are you looking for in a partner? Someone that’s a bit of a thrill seeker, outgoing, with a good sense of humour that doesn’t take everything too seriously

Why should people vote for you? I think I am a nice fellow so why not. To vote for Dirk, text 9405 to 0412 055 255

Yongala ESS, assistant manager

What’s the most romantic thing you’ve ever done? Rented a beachside bungalow, set up a table for two with flowers, candles and lit a fire. Because I’m a chef I cooked a delicious three course meal and had a waiter friend serve us while we enjoyed the sunset. Followed by cocktails and a fantastic night of ....:)

What’s the most romantic thing you’ve ever done? Taken a lady to dinner while skiing in Switzerland at the chalet, had dinner over an open fire place and watched the sun set.

If you had a catch phrase, what would it be? To be honest i do not have one.

Brian Puckey, 26

What are you looking for in a partner? Compatibility, intelligence and a passion for life.

What are you looking for in a partner? Honest, fun loving, genuine, to be my best friend

Do you believe in love at first sight - why or why not? Yes I do most definitely, when I look into her eyes and my heart starts beating wildly, because the eyes are the window to the soul.

Jaime Ward, 27 Rolleston mine, operator

To vote for Jay, text 9407 to 0412 055 255

Do you believe in love at first sight? No, because you have to know someone to love someone. If you had a catch phrase, what would it be? Live each day like its your last.

If you had a catch phrase, what would it be? Fair dinkum stuffed if I know

Hotrite ou fav

Why should people vote for you? I’m just a young down to earth guy who is on the look out for Ms Perfect and because I’m going to put a $250 bar tab on at Coppabella Mac Camp If I win

What are you looking for in a partner? A girl who is comfortable in her own skin, loves the outdoors, can laugh at herself, someone who is willing to try new things and someone to share new experiences with. What is the most romantic thing you have done? Organised a surprise weekend away.

What are you looking for in a partner? Their personality, sense of humour and family values

To vote for Allan, text 9403 to 0412 055 255

Do you believe in love at first sight - why or why not? I do but have not experienced it yet If you had a catch phrase, what would it be? Do first what you fear the most!

If you had a catch phrase, what would it be? You’re in luck at the moment I’ve got a 2-4-1 deal ... 2 of you for 1of me hahaha ; ) Why should people vote for you? I’m a fun sort of a bloke... I only entered for some fun and a laugh and I have definitely got that : ) but I’m sure if I was sent to Airlie I’d brighten someone’s day haha

I once flew my ex girlfriend over to Rome, Italy for a romantic get away

Do you believe in love at first sight - why or why not? Maybe! I believe without lust you have a hard time loving.

Jay Beattie, 23 Millennium mine, shotfirer What are you looking for in a partner?: Passion, personality, pizazz and they’ve got to love the beach What’s the most romantic thing you’ve ever done?:

If you had a catch phrase, what would it be? CRICKEY...did I just hear a cliché Why should people vote for you? Because I’m a genuine, good quality Aussie bloke ! To vote for Brian, text 9408 to 0412 055 255

THE TWO LUCKY WINNERS WILL RECEIVE: SHIFT MINER’S MOST ELIGIBLE BACHELOR - Summit Apartments & Fantasea Cruising Award* · 3 nights for up to 4 people in a 2 Bedroom Luxury Ocean View Apartment at Summit Apartments Airlie Beach

SHIFT MINER’S MOST ELIGIBLE BACHELORETTE - Summit Apartments & Fantasea Cruising Award*

· Chocolates and Australian Sparkling wine on arrival · 2 pm late check out to sleep in and spoil yourself

· Chocolates and Australian Sparkling wine on arrival

· 3 nights for up to 4 people in a 2 Bedroom Luxury Ocean View Apartment at Summit Apartments Airlie Beach · 2 pm late check out to sleep in and spoil yourself

PLUS - 2 Island Whitehaven Beach Trip for 4 people with Fantasea Cruising

PLUS - Yellow Sub Bali Hai Snorkelling Adventure for 4 people with Fantasea Cruising

PLUS - $500 spending money thanks to Steve Taylor & Partners

CALL 07 4921 4333 WWW.SHIFTMINER.COM Page 8 - Shift Miner Magazine, 8th November 2010

Shift Miner’s Most Eligible Bachelor & Bachelorette is proudly sponsored by:

Shift Miner’s most eligible

Bachelorette

the competition closes midnight Friday 12 November. The winners will be unveiled next edition! wonder and amusement in everyday life. A love of reading and travel doesn’t go astray either.

Someone who is thoughtful, makes me laugh and always shops at home.

What’s the most romantic thing you’ve ever done? I’ve just teamed up with my sister to send the parents on a romantic ‘foodies’ holiday to New Calidonia. Although it’s not for me, I think that’s pretty romantic!

Nicole Sempf, 27 Train Driver, QR National Bluff What are you looking for in a partner? I’m looking for someone social and outgoing to enjoy the fun and simple things in life with. A best friend with that extra spark. What’s the most romantic thing you’ve ever done? Arranged a night time picnic at a lookout under the stars with some nice candles. Do you believe in love at first sight - why or why not? I believe in having an intense connection with someone at first sight/meeting, whether that is love, only time will tell. If you had a catch phrase, what would it be? “It’s all good!”

Do you believe in love at first sight - why or why not? I believe in attraction at first sight, not love. It’s the glances across the room, the common interests and that bit of ‘magic’ for want of a better word, that make me fall for someone. If you had a catch phrase, what would it be? Make your own destiny and smile as you’re going about it. Why should people vote for you? The man of my dreams might just be waiting at Airlie Beach...Please help me get there! :) To vote for Diana text 9410 to 0412 055 255

Hotrite ou fav

Do you believe in love at first sight - why or why not? I believe in attraction at first sight, maybe followed by love If you had a catch phrase, what would it be? True love is hook line and sinker.

Oliviah Thelan, 22

Goldings Contractor, BMA Blackwater

Karen Hirt, 49 Carborough Downs, lab rat What are you looking for in a partner? Someone who has a positive outlook on life, is fun and caring, energetic, light-hearted with a good sense of humour and happy. What’s the most romantic thing you’ve ever done? Booked a nice room for the weekend and filled it with his favorite foods and drinks. Sprayed the bed with his favorite perfume and lit candles. Bought some new lingerie, and massage oil.

To vote for Nicole Murray text 9413 to 0412 055 255

What are you looking for in a partner? I am looking for a guy that has the same goals in life as I do who is a lot of fun and accepts me for me.

Hotrite ou fav

What’s the most romantic thing you’ve ever done? I shouted my ex-partner a PNO cruise for a week overseas for our fourth year engagement anniversary. I am not really the romantic type... plain and simple is the way to be

Why should people vote for you? Been through a very rough brake up. So now I am just out to live life, have fun meet new people, and go new places. And as I have that outlook on life I think a nice little holiday would just suit me perfectly... To vote for Oliviah text 9412 to 0412 055 255

Hotrite ou fav

Why should people vote for you? Because my girlfriends and I really want this.

What are you looking for in a partner? Someone with a sense of adventure who finds

To vote for Karen text 9411 to 0412 055 255

Train driver, QR National Bluff What are you looking for in a partner? Honest, loyal, tall country guy with old school values.

Do you believe in love at first sight - why or why not? Yes... If the wow factor is there on first sight don’t run from it, chase it. If you had a catch phrase, what would it be? Live like u mean it.

If you had a catch phrase, what would it be? A day without laughter is a day wasted.

Environment & Community Officer, Xstrata Coal

Noela Burke, 46

What’s the most romantic thing you’ve ever done? A guy played his guitar and sang romantic songs to me and he could sing.

Do you believe in love at first sight - why or why not? Yes but it depends on the depth of love you mean. Lust at first sight is more likely.

Diana Barnes, 25

Why should people vote for you? Because I am good value and very single...

Do you believe in love at first sight - why or why not? Mmmm I don’t think it’s love at first sight i’ts more lust, until you get to know the person then it turns into love. If you had a catch phrase, what would it be? Hey man how are ya ... :)

Why should people vote for you? I believe I’m just a down to earth girl looking to find someone to enjoy life with. To vote for Nicole Sempf text 9409 to 0412 055 255

What’s the most romantic thing you’ve ever done? Spa on the eleventh floor of a penthouse suite

Nicole Murray, 27 Ensham mine, HSE mining What are you looking for in a partner?

Why should people vote for you? Because I am an honest caring fun gal who works hard and deserves to have a bit of rnr with some good mates. To vote for Noela text 9414 to 0412 055 255

HARLEY NOW OR IN THE FUTURE? Bert’s been mining for 20 years. 19 years ago he sold his beloved Harley to start investing for the future. He took money to Steve Taylor and Partners in Emerald.

TODAY HE HAS 6 HOUSES, NO DEBTS - AND A HARLEY What’s your future going to be like?

Call Steve Taylor on 0749807733 or google “Steve Taylor”

Page 9 - Shift Miner Magazine, 8th November 2010

News

99th EDITION. 2010

Qld world class exploration hub by 2020 BRISBANE should be the exploration capital of the world by 2020 - that’s the goal of the Queensland Resources Council (QRC). QRC chief executive Michael Roche outlined his vision at a breakfast for the exploration industry in Brisbane last week, and unveiled a new document entitled Discover Queensland: A 2020 Exploration Vision. “Queensland’s historical position as a preferred destination for new exploration has been slipping and there is simply not enough new investment to ensure that the economic prosperity from resource production is self-sustaining,” he said. “Right now, the state and the nation are living off the proceeds of historical exploration milestones like Cannington, Ernest Henry and Century.” According to the QRC, more than 70 per cent of Queensland’s exploration expenditure is targeted at proving up known reserves, rather than greenfield projects. It’s this greenfield exploration that Mr Roche said is critical for a sustainable resources sector.

“Exploration is the R&D of resource production, because for every commercial resource development, around 1000 greenfield exploration prospects must first be investigated.” Mr Roche said junior explorers are akin to research scientists and while their work is high-risk, those who succeed generate remarkable wealth for the state and investors. He also believes the level of spending is off-kilter, with Queensland spending about $16 per $1000 of mining output, compared with Western Australia’s $37 and a national average spend of $25. “It’s about changing a mindset that currently deems Brisbane a branch office for Melbourne or Sydney headquarters and as a distant second to Perth as an exploration hub.” “Allowing this to continue will mean that Queensland continues to export valuable head office jobs and the flow-on economic benefits from exploration in Queensland to cities such as Perth, Melbourne, Sydney, Toronto, Santiago and London.”

Mine brings men back to traditional roots Kestrel Mine’s new Indigenous trainees Malcolm Brown, Harrison Blair, Matthew Malone and Darryn Nimock.

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THE Traditional Owners of the area surrounding Kestrel mine have described an Indigenous trainee program at the site as “bringing their people back to their country”. Malcolm Brown, Darryn Nimock, Harrison Blair and Matthew Malone have moved from various parts of Queensland to take up traineeships at the underground coal mine in the past month. It’s all part of Rio Tinto’s Indigenous recruitment campaign, and Elder of the Western Kangoulu people, Patrick Malone, said the training opportunities are attracting these men back to their traditional roots. “Since the turn of the last century, Western Kangoulu people have been moving off our land, off country,” he said.

Page 10 - Shift Miner Magazine, 8th November 2010

“The traineeships will up-skill our people, bring more wealth into our community and provide us with access to the benefits of mining,” Mr Malone said. In the coal handling and preparation plant, Mr Blair and Mr Malone are both working towards a Certificate two in resource processing. Mr Brown and Mr Nimock are both working at the mine’s warehouse, undertaking a Certificate two and Certificate three respectively in warehousing. “Mining is something I have wanted to get in to, so I hope this traineeship helps me secure a permanent job in the mining industry,” Mr Brown said. “I also have a lot of family and friends in the area, so I’m looking forward to moving

my family up here before the end of the year.” The Indigenous recruitment drive is part of Rio Tinto’s broader strategy to help close the gap between Indigenous and nonIndigenous Australians. “According to the Australian Government, there is a 17-year life expectancy gap between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians,” said Rio Tinto’s CQ human resources manager Daryl Calvert. “As an industry leader and major Australian employer, Rio Tinto is working to close that gap by providing Indigenous people with opportunities to participate in the financial and other benefits of employment in mining, as well as by providing better services, facilities and infrastructure to the communities in which we operate.”

News

99th EDITION. 2010

Mayor’s ‘dollar a tonne’ for Alpha rejected A western Queensland mayor is disappointed his proposal to see mining companies pay upfront for infrastructure, instead of waiting for coal royalties to flow back into mining towns, has been knocked on the head. Barcaldine regional mayor Rob Chandler is in charge of the region that encompasses much of the Galilee Basin, and the town of Alpha that will see huge growth if any of the region’s mining projects go ahead. The town lacks any infrastructure to cope with the growth, and Cr Chandler’s proposal was for mining companies to directly pay $120 million into a fund for much needed upgrades. Those funds would then be returned through a state government rebate on royalties over five years. “The forecast here is 120 million tonnes mined annually so I said give us a dollar a tonne up front over three years which is 40 million dollars a year.” “The government would then team with with the mining companies to offer them a rebate post production,” he said. But the Queensland Treasurer Andrew

Fraser has rejected that proposal. That’s infuriated Cr Chandler, who believes it was a novel idea to tackle the same old problems that plague mining towns. “It’s just a simplistic idea but why don’t we shake the stick and do things a little differently to what we’ve done in the past?” “The government needs to have some

MINING community advocates say the state government is deliberately silencing Blackwater and Moranbah locals, after giving them ten days to respond to new town planning drafts. The Urban Land Development Authority has marked out new plans that will govern development and land availability for the next decade; public comment on the plans closed last Friday. The Blackwater plans outlines areas for more mining camps at a time when some in the Bowen Basin community are fighting the increased numbers of

fly-in fly-out workers. Union-sponsored mining communities advocate, Jim Pearce, said it’s not fair that locals don’t have enough time to submit a detailed response. “It just doesn’t make sense, it appears like it’s a deliberate move to limit the say of locals on the draft plan,” Mr Pearce said. “The main concern for locals is there are significant areas of land to be allocated for future development of camps and the people of Blackwater are saying no, we’ve had enough, no more camps, put them somewhere else.”

faith in local government, that we have the ability to be able to build this community in a very structured and sensible way.” “The one billion dollars tipped to come from the Galilee Basin is not in any government estimates yet and here is a simple way we could build the infrastructure without having the argy-bargy between, councils, mining companies and every government department,” he said. But a spokesman for the Treasurer said the government would ensure mining companies contribute to social infrastructure as resource towns grow. They said companies are made to detail plans to minimise the social impact on communities, and that includes building new infrastructure, in the planning process. “These reforms have seen two LNG proponents required to construct 440 dwellings for the Gladstone region, as a condition of

the project’s approval,” the spokesman said. “It is the government’s view that royalties belong to all Queenslanders.” “In the same vein, the majority of payroll tax is collected in Brisbane’s CBD and I don’t think anyone would argue that that money should only be invested there.” Cr Chandler said Alpha is expected to grow from a population of 400 to 2000 and infrastructure requirements include a hospital, an aerodrome, sewage treatment plant, connecting roads to the mines and the development of residential land - all of which could be funded directly by the mines. “I’m saying let’s do it nice and clean cut, all up front, and sit down with one government department instead of six or eight or 10 and talk about what these towns need and talk about how we are going to go forward.”

“It’s just a simplistic idea but why don’t we shake the stick and do things a little differently to what we’ve done in the past?”

No say for mining locals: Pearce Meanwhile, in Moranbah, locals have until November 15 to respond to BMA’s big plans to relocate and increase the capacity at its Buffel Park accommodation camp. Moranbah Action Group chair, Kelly Vea Vea met the Infrastructure and Planning Minister Stirling Hinchliffe recently to lobby the government about BMA’s plans. “We let them know how the region feels

“The main concern for locals is there are significant areas of land to be allocated for future development of camps and the people of Blackwater are saying no.”

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about being abandoned by BMA and that people are also losing faith in the government,” she said. “The social impact process just isn’t delivering for our region and they were really open to our thoughts.” “We do see the camp proposal as BMA furthering their 100 per cent FIFO agenda and the Moranbah Action Group will be putting in a submission against the camp.”

Afternoons

Tune into the Michael J. Breakfast show from 7:35 am every Monday for 4RO's CQ Mining Update, with special guest Angus from Shift Miner.

Alan Jones - Weekdays 1pm - 2pm

SALES ENQUIRIES: (07) 4920 2000

Page 11 - Shift Miner Magazine, 8th November 2010

CQ BUSINESS 99th EDITION. 2010

Mackay retail businesses battle mines to fill 3000 jobs FOR Mackay businesses it’s a double edged sword - massive mining growth in the region means opportunities for new businesses but leaves retailers competing with mines for staff and no-one to man the tills. This time next year will see the $210 million expansion of the Caneland Central shopping centre complete. That means a new Myer store and more than 100 speciality shops will be looking to fill more than 1000 retail positions. “Those 1000 staff will be required in 2011 which is huge and when you add the number of other projects in Mackay,” said Mackay Chamber of Commerce chair, Kylie Porter. “In total there is around 3000 staff required over the next two to three years just in retail positions alone.” “It’s very, very hard to attract people to your region which aren’t necessarily involved in the mining industry as an alternative source of employees.” Ms Porter said the solution to get more people behind retail counters in Mackay is

a “broad multi-layered approach” and one local organisation has a project underway to attract people to retail positions. The Retail Employment Partnership is a joint project between Lend Lease, which owns Caneland Central, and the Regional Economic Development Corporation and aims to address the staff shortage in the retail sector. The project will provide assistance and advice to retailers on best practices in workforce management, and address issues such as staff recruitment, rostering and staff retention. It will also create a one-stop-shop for retail employment in the region, using the region’s job search website www.coaltocoastjobs.com.au.

Ms Porter said the project is incredibly important to the region, because everyone is playing catch up after such a long period of growth. “The growth has been very positive but from a business perspective as a community it doesn’t come without it’s challenges.” “We have some infrastructure and social issues which come from a high period of growth and it’s a continual battle for business to stay on top of those issues, but we are all working together with government to address these challenges.” She said improved social infrastructure like childcare facilities all contribute to making the region more appealing and competitive and easier for people to fill retail roles.

“It’s very, very hard to attract people to your region which aren’t necessarily involved in the mining industry as an alternative source of employees.”

Sarina skills centre flings doors open Daryl Watson Engineering

THE Sarina Rural Skills Centre (SRSC) is opening its doors to the wider community in a bid to boost skills in the Mackay region. The centre, in the small town just south of Mackay, is owned by the the local high school, but will now be open after school and on weekends for personal and business training. SRSC community board president Ron Gurnett said the aim is to provide a training space for everyone. “The centre is a well-equipped engineering, rural skills and computer training facility,” Mr Gurnett said. He said the centre was originally built to Former students Ryan Creber and Blair Heath work on a milling machine with school teacher Kerry Penola.

Springsure Creek coal reserves doubled THE quantity of coal believed to be contained in Bandanna Energy’s Springsure Creek project in the Bowen Basin has doubled. The company’s latest statement puts the amount of coal at 324 million tonnes, including 252 million tonnes of inferred resources and 72 million tonnes of indicated resources. That represents an 108 per cent increase in the indicated resources compared to the last resource statement released in March. The new estimates follow the detailed analysis of 17 chip and 20 cored boreholes. Additionally, geological consultant, Resolve Geo, has conducted a seismic review and has confirmed there is no discernable faulting within the resource. The Springsure Creek project is owned Bandanna subsidiary Springsure Creek Coal. Springsure Creek is found within Bandanna’s so called ‘Golden Triangle’ of projects - their close proximity to each other and other major infrastructure are critical factors as the company decides whether to develop the province. Bandanna recently announced it had secured four million tonnes per annum (Mtpa) export capacity through stage one of the Wiggins Island Coal Export Terminal (WICET) at Gladstone. “This resource increase at our Springsure Creek project clearly vindicates Bandanna’s successful participation in the WICET allocation process,” said managing director, Ray Shaw.

give students an alternative to standard academic courses in agriculture and engineering. “But this new program means that businesses and the general public can use thecentre’s facilities to conduct training or complete personal projects like repairing property.” “We also aim to offer a range of training courses for people who want to update or learn new skills.” “For example, we’ll soon begin running two separate 12 week courses in gas welding and stick welding.” The centre currently offers training in areas like horticulture, mechanics, animal handling, aquaculture, and hydroponics. Rio Tinto’s Hail Creek mine has contributed $11,000 to provide an administration officer during the first year of the new program.

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Page 12 - Shift Miner Magazine, 8th November 2010

p 07 4927 3789 f 07 4927 3705 m 0408 625 532

CQ BUSINESS 99th EDITION. 2010

Traffic jams growth in Mackay’s industrial hub

TRAFFIC congestion is the biggest obstacle to growth in Mackay’s industrial precinct of Paget, according to businesses in the area. Paget has more than doubled in size in the last quarter of its lifetime, with more than 7,000 people now working in the area. Strategic Paget Group spokesman Allan Ruming said that means there is double the demand on infrastructure and it’s absolutely not up to standard given the expected growth in the future. “We have very serious problems that all impact on our ability to grow at at time where it is crucial,” he said. “Paget will grow again and we are going to see 7000 people working here increase to 8000 or 9000 and unless that road infrastructure is fixed they are just not going to be able to get in there.” “The road system is totally in inadequate, we have only two major access points and these roads aren’t up to standard.” He said the group has been working closely with the Mackay Regional Council, which has committed to upgrading the roads.

However, it has come at enormous cost to businesses in the area. “The council needs extra funding for the improvements and have had to turn to businesses and we have to pay a 30 per cent increase in rates.” “While we don’t look at it as a cost that can be made up easily we are also realists and unless we get these things done we can’t go ahead.” Mr Ruming said the challenges Paget faces are wider than just the transport issues, with the group identifying a total of twenty issues that need attention and five absolute priorities. Power, telecommunication, water, skills and roads are the group’s main focus. “They are the five that sit at the top of the pile that, if addressed, will increase the accessibility to the area.” “It’s a unique estate because there is such a concentration of capabilities here, as mining grows so will Paget and we want all these things in place to make it a great place to work.”

“Paget will grow again and we are going to see 7000 people working here increase to 8000 or 9000 and unless that road infrastructure is fixed they are just not going to be able to get in there.”

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around town 99th EDITION. 2010

PANDAS DAY ON THE FIELD The second annual Panda’s charity rugby league match was played between Wesfarmers Curragh miners and the BMA Blackwater boys recently. Panda was the nickname of a great mate of the miners, Andrew Curtis, who passed away in 2008 after a battle with motor neuron disease. Andrew lived in Blackwater from 1986, married Linda Curtis and had two children Hudson and Laney. Originally the game was held to raise money for treatment but Andrew passed away before

it was realised, so the day is now held by his mates to remember him and in the process raise money for the local community, this year to purchase air conditioning units for the Blackwater North State School.

Noel always encouraged and supported Junior sport in Blackwater and to commemorate this, an annual game of junior league between Blackwater State School and Blackwater North State school is held for the Noel McCallum Memorial Shield.

Noel McCallum is another well-respected local who unfortunately lost his battle with cancer in 2006. Noel’s children Dallas, Cameron and LisaAnn attended school in Blackwater and they and Noel’s wife Julie, participated in local sports.

This year Junior Crushers under 15s and under 17s combined for a thrilling game, followed by the Memorial shield game then the Senior game. It was an emotional game between the two mines with not one player forgetting just why they were there.

Ray Callanan and Trevor Kelly

Alex, Tyrone, Caitlin and Brodie

The cheer squads

Brodie, Joshua, Lisa and Cameron Scales

Donnie, Aston and Emmerson Millar

Jock O’Keeffe and Landon Dare (Principal of BNSS)

Angela Elliott

April Cochrane and Stacey Anderson

Niandros, Geoff, Celine & Nalini Eri, & Aiden Leishman

Grubby Grady and Butter Bean

Sammy Joe and Andrew McGregor

Joe and Jo Coppo and Mark Dalton

Shane Chalk, Pat O’Hanlon and Matt Page

Maddison and Jasmine Weaver

Melissa and Peter Bell

Mikayla and Michelle Broom

Tyler Lousick and Kerrin Hessell

The Curtis family presenting the Panda Cup to Captain of BMA’s team, Kent Booker

The combined Under 15 and Under 17 teams which opened the night

Julie McCallum presenting the Blackwater State School Georgia, Keely, Kym, and David Smith, Piper captain with the Noel McCallum Memorial Shield Dare, Shay Gibson and Kerry Norden

Wesfarmers Curragh miners team

Michelle Whitechurch, Melissa Weber andJo Strohfeldt

The winning BMA Blackwater team. They won by 6 points

Holding a social event you want photographed?  Call the Shift Miner office on 4921 4333 to let us know.  You can also give our office a bell if you’d like a copy of any of the photos in this edition.

Page 14 - Shift Miner Magazine, 8th November 2010

around town 99th EDITION. 2010

Clayton’s Cup was the brainchild of Moranbah’s shoe diva Ruth Boal - who started the day so the town’s ladies had a reason to dress up when races were cancelled across the nation because of the horse flu epidemic. More than 280 women attended (and about 20 brave men) to watch hobby horse races at the Moranbah Community Centre. More than $20,000 was raise for the local hospital - and fancy hats and fascinators were aplenty. This year the event was extra special as it was held in memory of local Moranbah resident, Rachael Middleton, who died unexpectedly earlier this year.

Melanie Price, Belinda Hay and Shayne-Lee Langdon Abby Kay and Kylie Creighton

Rebecca Hammer - Winner of ‘Best Hat’ competition

Tracey Hocking & State Member for Dalrymple, Shane Knuth Krystal Linderberg and Montoy Antwerp

FABULOUS FROCKS BUT NO HORSES? Phillipa Engel, Shelley Hansen and Jessica Murray

Josie Thornberry and Katie McGilvray

Anita Moore, Cally Brunker and Rebecca Hammer

Bev Guymer, Ruth Flynn and Karyn Looby

Karen Baker and Avril Drewett

Phillipa Engel and Leanne Kettleton

Jockeys: Dr Ben Chapman riding ‘Paris Hilton’ and Robyn Chapman riding ‘Mel Gibson’

Boalywood staff: Leeanne McClymont, Leanne Kettleton, owner Ruth Boal, Dannielle Blair

Kimberly Bean, Tina Savage, Katrice Murchie, Chelsea Hahn and Susan Anderson

Tracey Mellor, Camille Hannay, Kym Crofts and Kelsie Hastie

Donna Williams, Amanda Burgess, Mary Mumby and Joy Simms

SPOOKY FUNDRAISER

Mother Nadene Stone and her four-year-old daughter Ella Read held a fundraising event for the Leukaemia Foundation at Moranbah Bowls Club. The day involved a game of bowls, a smorgasboard of Halloween nibbles (all made by Nadene), sausage sizzle and raffle.

Carol Stone

Back: Nadene Stone, Gary Arrowsmith, Carmel Kirwin. Front - Ella Read.

Event organizer, Nadene Stone

Winners of the bowls match, Mitchell Connolly, Daniel Shaw, Rhonda Watts and Mark Read

2nd place in the bowls match Shane Mulgrew, Rob Williams, Dave Neill and Leonie Mulgrew

‘Wooden spooners’ - Jeanette Williams, Luke Williams and Brian Cook

BUY THIS AND MANY OTHER IMAGES AT

www.shiftminer.com Shift Miner magazine – bringing the mining community closer together Page 15 - Shift Miner Magazine, 8th November 2010

stuff to the editor 99th EDITION. 2010

â&#x20AC;&#x153;SUN & SHADEâ&#x20AC;?

Stuff to the Editor

sent in anonymously

R E N I M T F I SH

Last editionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s front page story on Australian mining jobs heading overseas sparked a strong reaction:

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Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s just slack on the part of government and business that we donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have enough skilled workers here to man the boom. Everyone knew it was gunna happen, so why didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t we act earlier? Matt, Mackay

2010

Z I NURE M A G A YO IX

S BUILT O tminer.com

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98th Edition

n made er Australia gâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s no long Why minin

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The Macâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s dare to miners to lose weight this summer has people talking:

nothing Telstra. L.W, Moranbah

First Shift Miner brought up The Miner Wants a Wife. Now we have The Coalfields Biggest Loser! I love it! Jacqui, Mackay

This is your last chance to vote in Shift Minerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Most Eligible Bachelor and Bachelorette competition. There are some clear favourites!

Go boys, get moving and lose that weight! T.R, Coppabella

We love you Noela! GO YOU GOOD THING! Anon, Bluff

Telstraâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s slow response to the Moranbah black spot has locals seeing red:

Podge is number one, vote 1 Podge! S.T, Emerald

AND THE WINNER IS JENNIE JOHNSON

Telstra. Why I arenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t I more surprised? T.Y, Moranbah

Congratulations Jennie, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve won a pair of Argyle safety boots! Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s been 15 years since Steel Blue first introduced the Argyle, and itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s now their most popular boot!

Nicole Murray has my vote. Whatta girl. Wayne, Mackay

Out here we need internet more than

To claim your prize please call the Shift Miner Magazine office on 4921 4333.

Got something to share? Send us your text messages or phone photos to 0428 154 653 Or email to shift.miner@gmail.com

Your boots will be posted out to you.

GET PREPARED FOR THE MINING Numbers You Numbers Numbers Can CountYou On** You

SEEN SOMETHING WE HAVENâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;T?

Can CountCan OnCount On*

*When audited by the CAB Numbers You

Can Count On

* by the CAB *When audited by the *When CAB audited

3 WAYS WE CAN HELP

*When audited by the CAB

1. GET INFORMED - Subscribe now and get 12 MONTHS of FREE* classified ads

PRIZES FOR THE BEST MINING PHOTOS.

(* maximum 1 per edition and must be item for sale)

2. GET KNOWN - Has your business got the profile it needs across Queensland - let us build your brand 3. GET SKILLED PEOPLE - Become a Shift Miner member - and enjoy UNLIMITED jobE Eads for 12 months. www.shiftminer.com M AMGA AG ZA I Z NI N M A G A Z I N E www.shiftminer.com www.shiftminer.com

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TAKE IT ON YOUR PHONE OR CAMERA AND SEND IT IN

M A G A Z I N E

35,000 MINERS WITH AN Proudly Audited by Proudly Audited by AVERAGE WAGE $110,000 IS AN Proudly Audited Proudly Audited by by For more information visit www.auditbureau.org.au ESSENTIAL PART OF YOUR MARKET!

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call 07 4921 4333

Page 16 - Shift Miner Magazine, 8th November 2010

Text to 0428 154 653 Email shift.miner@gmail.com

FAIR DINKUM 99th EDITION. 2010

Fair Dinkum! IN JAPAN - if you thought the wages in mining were pretty good, check out what you can earn delivering pizza in Japan. To celebrate 25 years of Dominos in Japan, the company is going to hire one lucky person at the rate of $31,030 for one hour’s worth of work in December. Anyone over the age of 18 can apply, and no experience is necessary. In another promotion, anyone born on September 30 this year (the date Dominos first opened in Japan) will receive a free pizza on their birthday every year until they turn 25. IN AMERICA - two Pennsylvanian dentists are offering a “candy buyback program” to save the teeth of young trick-or-treaters and boost the morale of US troops in Iraq and Afghanistan. Parents or children who hand in their bounty will be paid $1/pound, and all the proceeds will be sent to serving troops. The dentists behind the tooth-saving scheme say it’ll help stop dental rot and cheer troops all at once. Novel, to say the least. IN ENGLAND - the land that invented “smoko” is now turning on people who still dare to puff. Workers at a district council in eastern England now have to clock off and back on if they take a cigarette break. It’s part of a “fairness for all” strategy nutted out by the council, after non-smokers complained smokers

received extra breaks. But smokers have described the new ruling as tyrannical. BACK IN AMERICA - and a sleep walker woke up to a bang - literally when he shot himself in the kneecap. The 63-year-old man who keeps a 9mm handgun near his bed had taken prescription medication for pain - but no other drugs or alcohol. The poor bloke was taken to hospital, but his injuries weren’t too serious. IN NEW ZEALAND - an Aussie icon has been at help keeping Kiwi kids on their toes. An escapee emu, which had run free from a farm on the South Island, chased a group of children down a main road. It’s believed the bird was travelling at about 30 kilometres an hour - the kids slightly faster! IN AUSTRALIA - she’s known as “pigzilla”. A giant sow is on the loose scaring residents and stalking horses in the top end. The tiny town of Virginia, near Darwin, has been on giant pig standby for more than week. The 50-year-old porker has so far escaped all attempts to be caught - and will approach people when offered food, but then scarpers if a friendly feed turns into a case of entrapment. Some locals are claiming it’s the biggest pig they’ve ever seen, and others say it has always lived in the area with an old horse.

The 50-year-old porker has so far escaped all attempts to be caught - and will approach people when offered food, but then scarpers if a friendly feed turns into a case of entrapment.

Time Management Management of Priorities

People Management . Project Management . Focus on goals

Plan - Organise - Delegate - Control

“Craig Martini Time Management Diary” Visit website: www.timeman.co.za or Call (07) 5471 3222

Frank the Tank’s

“Streakin” good love advice Dear Frank, I have recently started dating a really great girl, the only problem is, she’s moving way too fast for me. We’ve only been together a month and already she’s talking about moving in together. I really like her, but how can I tell her to slow down without ruining the relationship? Tony, Mackay Tony, my friend, you have become the victim of one of the oldest tricks in the female handbook. Once a woman feels she’s got you on the hook, there’s a good chance she’ll attempt to strong arm you into any number of undesirable situations. I’m ashamed to admit that in my youth I was taken in by a buxom beauty, and much to my retrospective disgust, found that I had become totally entranced by the proverbial siren’s song. I found myself waking up early on Sunday mornings to attend brunch, going on tandem bike rides, and shopping for hideous antiques, it was one of the lowest points in my life. How did I dig myself out of this pit of despair, you ask? My significant other planned an overseas trip with some friends, and in a misguided attempt to enrage her I placed a good quantity of ‘space grass’ in her boogie board bag. How was I to know the Balinese were so touchy about these things?

Sensible Susan Tony, For starters I can’t stress how poor an idea it is to take secret footage of your girlfriend while she sleeps. If you really like this girl, but you think things are moving

There are, however, better ways to slow the pace of your relationship without landing your partner a hefty prison sentence for international drug trafficking (although I will stand by the effectiveness of the aforementioned technique). An excellent way to create space between you and your lady friend is to simply disappear for a week or two. Wait until she falls asleep and take a week’s vacation, then upon your return make no mention of the fact that you’ve been gone. This will both confuse and arouse your partner and no doubt result in an all too pleasing ‘welcome home’. If you’re unable to get time off work another highly effective strategy is associating yourself with some exceptionally shady characters. For example, if your girlfriend returns home from work to find you hosting a cock-fight for heroin addicted Vietnam vets, she is quite unlikely to want to spend every waking moment with you. In the extremely unlikely event that the techniques I have outlined prove ineffective I have an ‘ace up my sleeve’, but I warn you, if you employ this technique you may gain more space than you’d hoped for and wind up looking for a new girlfriend. Head to your local electronics store and purchase a webcam. Wait until your girlfriend goes out and install it in your bedroom, make sure it’s not visible. Allow the cam to run for a week or two and then tell your girlfriend you’ve got a surprise for her. She’ll be so horrified to see herself as the star of ‘Watch my Girlfriend Sleep.com’ that she’ll no doubt suggest your relationship move a little more slowly. Frank

too fast the only way she’s going to know is if you’re honest with her. She may think that you’re happy with how the relationship is progressing, but at the same time may not mind if things move a little slower. I would suggest talking with your girlfriend and telling her that you just want some more time to get to know her, if she really likes you, she won’t mind compromising and easing back a little. Susan

If you have a question for Frank and Susan Email Us at: franksusan.shiftminer@gmail.com

Page 17 - Shift Miner Magazine, 8th November 2010

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BOAT FOR SALE Stessl Mako tri-hull 6mtr, 150 Ocean pro Johnson, solas stainless prop, 2x120ltr fuel tanks, lowrance gps, garmin sounder, electric trim tabs, cb marine radios, safety gear, trailer in good cond., rego Gracemere $25,000 0439 021 500

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CAR FOR SALE 2005 Toyota Landcruiser, turbo diesel, charcoal grey, 5 speed manual, 112,000 kms, excellent condition, far too many extras to mention, one owner $55,000 ONO Ph: 0438 035 478

honda 4 stroke,,boat and motor have only 25hrs,,also comes with heaps of extras,, $26,000 0429 841 205 HOBBY FARM FOR SALE

ACRES FOR SALE

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(19.62 Acres) 46 ML

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BIKE FOR SALE

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Excellent condition,

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wedding.

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at Airlie Beach

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WHITSUNDAY HOLIDAY RENTAL Impress your girlfriend,family or mates & book this spacious f/furn beachfront home - 30mins Nth Airlie Beach. Ideal affordable getaway from $160/nt View www.stayz.com. au Property ID 25669 wallerjen@westnet. com.au Ph 07 49461628

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0405 180 724 BIKE FOR SALE Harley-Davidson 2011 Wideglide.$28,895.00 Ride Away. 1 yr Rego & 2 yr warranty. $153.11 per week over 5 years with $1,000 deposit. Helen @ Bundaberg Motorcycles 07 4152 1121 BOAT FOR SALE Keith Brown 30. Pro. built solid f/glass half cabin ﬁshing vessel.length 9m, beam 3m, drft 1.2.210hp 3208 cat deisel. 500l fuel. Cruise 13 knots. HF & VHF radios,plotter, 6”sounder.All safety gear & ground tackle.Twin berth, covered back deck.Ideal ﬁshingor Island cruising. Yeppoon PH 49 392 182, 0409491024 $59,000 neg HOUSE FOR SALE QUEENSLANDER 15 Paskins Road, Yalboroo Q 4741 3 bed 1 bath closed-in verandahs A/C Modern kitchen/dining 26,000 litres rainwater Good domestic bore Fenced 75 k toMackay Leased till 25.01.2011 $245,000 ONO m.0438 153 660

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Page 18 - Shift Miner Magazine, 8th November 2010

5 minute fiction

Off shift 99th EDITION. 2010

by Bernard S. Jansen

Harden Up

ACROSS

1. Chewing

5. Hurls out

9. Identification symbols

10. Spread of eight notes 12. Huge election win

13. Stoop

14. Sharp twinge

17 19

16. Dabbles

21 22

19. Cowboy movie

21. Moved through air

24. Florida city 25. Exaggerate

27. Baghdad natives 28. Sea floor (5,3) 29. Lubricant 30. Scaled

4 9 3

7 1 1 9 2

DOWN

7 9

4 8 3

4 9 5

8 2 1 7 6 2

1. To wit 2. Revealing 3. Pork cuts 4. Scolding repeatedly 6. Fold (of truck & trailer) 7. Fearfully 8. Having no pips 11. Amount owed 15. Public facilities 17. Doing breast-stroke 18. Increase rapidly

20. Naked

5 3

k.pdf 2010 MEDIUM

21. Betrothed men 22. Blow-up mattress (3,3) 23. Hoed 26. Ease off

# 90

LAST EDITION’S SOLUTIONS GR A B B I NG U N I O T H I NN E S T T M G T E N AMOUR E R L I A B E L S G R P L A C A RD A N I A WAGON ME N R W S I C E C A P Q N N V GR E T E L C

E D I T

R E X S T R A D H I T U E

D R A T B C E U E A L R A ND

G A# R 89D N I AGE S R P B I D E E N R S T S T E T A A A L L S L T S I E R E A I D L Y

4 3 8 2 1 5 7 9 6

1 2 9 4 7 6 3 8 5

6 5 7 3 9 8 4 1 2

5 8 1 7 2 9 6 4 3

3 6 2 8 5 4 1 7 9

9 7 4 6 3 1 2 5 8

7 1 5 9 6 3 8 2 4

8 9 3 1 4 2 5 6 7

2 4 6 5 8 7 9 3 1

The sound of the alarm shattered Tim from the nothingness of deep sleep into the harsh, conscious reality of 4:30 am. He killed the sound with a fling of his arm and swung his legs out of the bed. He sat in silence, angry. Angry at being woken up so early, angry that he had no real option. The anger was normal – part of the ritual now – and helped him get up, get moving. Tim staggered to the en-suite and took a leak. He had a drink of water from the cup on top of the vanity. He moved silently in the dark. He never turned on the light. Light was offensive at this hour. Tim took his pants from their usual place and put them on. It was an effort. He didn’t want to go to work today – more than usual - even for the first day of a tour. He worked his arms into his shirt. As he did up the buttons he noticed that it hurt a bit to swallow. He thought about this, slowly. Perhaps he was sick, or would become sick part-way through the shift. He sneaked out of the bedroom. His wife hadn’t moved the whole time, since the alarm. Perhaps she’s dead, he thought. If I check, then I’ll be dead. Oh well, I’ll find out when I get home. He took the milk from the fridge and poured some into the bowl of cereal on the kitchen bench. Tim ate slowly, sitting on a bar stool. It was getting towards summer now, and a little pre-dawn light came in through the windows. That made it easier to get going; not easy, but easier. Tim didn’t think about much as he ate. He couldn’t think at this hour. He did decide he wasn’t sick, though. His throat was still sore, but the crew would need him. Two teaspoons of cement was all he needed. Tim left the empty bowl on the counter and grabbed his crib from the fridge as he put away the milk. He headed out the front door ten minutes after he’d woken up. He didn’t need to check his watch. He began to walk towards the bus

pick-up. It would take him seven minutes, maybe eight. The birds were awake now, flying around, making a racket and catching their worms, or whatever they did. Tim walked along the edge of the road, carrying his bag. He felt empty. It was like being sad, but worse, and different. He felt like that a lot lately. He tried not to think about how he felt. He was glad it wasn’t raining; that was something. He’d have stayed home, he thought, if it was raining. But stayed home for what?, he wondered. Better off at work. Rock and a hard place. Hard place. Harden up. He was at the bus stop in plenty of time. Some of the others nodded, said g’day. A few were smoking, while they could. A few blokes were telling each other dirty jokes, laughing. A year ago, Tim would’ve joined them. But he’d lost interest in that sort of thing. Like most things. Hate my job, and not interested in finding another one. For sure, not interested in learning a new mine, a new boss, new people. Only wish this job didn’t grind me down. Harden up Tim, harden up. “Hey Tim!” Tim fell out of his daydream. “Hey what?” “Coming?” The bus had arrived, and everyone else was on board. How’d I miss that? He climbed on board to head off for the first shift of the tour.

For the month of Movember, Shift Miner Magazine contributor Bernard Jansen is growing his mo to help raise money for men’s health, especially prostate cancer and depression. To help him raise much-needed funds, you can donate at http://au.movember. com/mospace/681088/

Bernard S. Jansen is 32, married has three young boys. He lives in Emerald, works as an engineer at a local coal mine and is active in his local church. Read more of Bernard’s writing online at surgebin.blogspot.com or email him at bernard.jansen@gmail.com GOT AN IDEA FOR A STORY? Let Bernard know - email him at bernard.jansen@gmail.com or hop on his blog surgebin.blogspot.com

Page 19 - Shift Miner Magazine, 8th November 2010

OFF SHIFT 99th EDITION. 2010

Moranbahâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s $20k donation G and Anita Eckard (G won â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;most lapsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; and Anita came 3rd in â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;most lapsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;)

ANYONE who has every taken part in a Relay for Life event knows it can be an evening of tears and laughter. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The memorial side of things - the survi-

Jimmy Fairbairn from Moranbah Scouts enjoys breakfast early Sunday morning

vorsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; lap and the candlelight ceremony can be very sad and teary,â&#x20AC;? said Moranbah fundraising organiser Lorelle Phillips. â&#x20AC;&#x153;But then you have the uplifting side of things as well, it is a fun event and everything is geared to be family friendly.â&#x20AC;? This year 250 walkers in 20 teams took part in the Moranbah event, that helps raise much-needed funds for the Cancer Council. While the numbers were well down on last year, organisers say it is still a popular event that will continue in the future. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I think it was a bit quieter than usual because there was just so much on in October and there had already been a couple of major fundraisers in town,â&#x20AC;? Ms Phillips said. But the folk out at Moranbah are a gen-

Moranbah Christian Fellowship â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Dream Teamâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;

erous bunch, and $20,000 was raised on the night - and thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s before matching giving donations from workplaces. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I have been around to all our sponsors with thank you certificates and everyone is already making preparations for next year.â&#x20AC;? Ms Phillips said the feel-good evening was good medicine for cancer survivors, their family and friends - and even those who have tragically lost loved ones. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Every single person I speak to has had someone affected by cancer, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s just the nature of the illness.â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x153;No-one is untouched and it just rings a bell with everyone, and then there is the underlying fear that people might have to one day face it themselves.â&#x20AC;?

John and Luci Muller

Gaylene Fuller and Brandon Lakotic-Fuller in front of their team sign. Al Fuller who the team is named after, lost his battle with cancer three weeks ago.

Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the third time Relay for Life has been held in Moranbah. The top fundraisers on the night were Moranbah Christian Fellowshipâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s â&#x20AC;&#x153;Dream Teamâ&#x20AC;? who raised $4500.

Team Captains

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Page 20 - Shift Miner Magazine, 8th November 2010

Emu Park

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OFF SHIFT

The 12 Apostles: One of Australia’s true tourism icons

A trip of biblical proportions! TOO often – as is my humble experience – tourist ‘hot spots’ and ‘must sees’ fail to live up to their much hyped reputation. Over crowding, over commercialising and over pricing soon leave the common punter with a sour taste in their mouth, a hefty hole in their pocket and a swift uppercut awaiting the next attendant with an attitude. But, might I add, nothing puts a broader smile on this freckled face than when a much vaunted destination lives up to its celebrity... and the Great Ocean Road fits snugly in this category! Recognised (and rightly so) as one of the most scenic drives on the planet, the Great Ocean Road stretches a muscular 243 kilometres along Victoria’s stunning south-west coastline from Torquay to Allansford, just east of Warnambool. Marnie (my lady friend) was given charge of ‘Henry the Hilux’ the day we descended on the iconic motorway while I – being the brooding artist that I am - was tasked with photographic duties. Despite the clouds threatening (and eventually opening up) overhead, the vistas from any number of the precariously placed lookouts that span the length of the road are well worth a peek. I can only assume that anyone that hasn’t seen a postcard or picture, or indeed a tea towel bearing the giant limestone stacks that are the twelve apostles has been living in some sort of cave, under a rock with their fingers in their ears and their eyes tightly closed. Around 20 million years ago, under the

careful eye of Mother Nature, the stormy southern ocean and blasting winds slowly began eating way the softer limestone cliffs that skirt the mainland, forming caves in the cliffs.

Eventually said caves became full blown arches and when they finally collapsed, the 12 Apostles were born. A few miles down the road, amidst the rolling surf and battered beaches, the names

Back in August, former Shift Miner staffer Lincoln “Linx” Bertoli decided to ditch the comforts of a steady pay packet and go and live the dream. Lucky bugger. For the rest of us stuck working to earn our keep in this cruel world, Linx will now taunt us with a regular column in “Off Shift”. If you can’t be there yourself, you might as well live vicariously through someone else... and just hope something unfortunate happens to him out there on the open road...

Tom Pearce and Eva Carmichael are soon etched in our frontal lobes. In 1878, the mighty Loch Ard, a 1693 tonne iron-hulled clipper en route from Mother England came to rest in the murky depths of Southern Victoria after tangling with a reef. As 54 crew and passengers perished around him, Tom clung to a lifeboat and and washed into a deep gorge that now bears the vessel’s name. Spotting Eva – who couldn’t swim just quietly – clinging to chicken coop in the raging swell, Tom braved the water and after an hour dragged her to safety. History lesson complete! In conclusion, children, the Great Ocean Road more than lives up to expectations. Indeed the lady school teacher and I are already planning a return visit... this time to walk (funnily enough) the Great Ocean Walk - “an idyllic 104 kilometre stretch of coastline from Apollo Bay to within sight of the 12 Apostles” - according to the Tourism Victoria. Time will tell...

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FOR AD BOOKINGS Page 21 - Shift Miner Magazine, 8th November 2010

OFF SHIFT 99th EDITION. 2010

Bait shop Banter FISHING IN YEPPOON It’s a ladies fishing day every Tuesday for Sia from Capricorn Coast Sport & Hobby Centre and her good friend, who ditched Melbourne Cup celebrations last week to have a punt on the fish.

Sia said she was out of luck out at Corio Bay but her friend reeled in a 43cm monster whiting, a 68cm flatty and snagged some nice brim as well. Big fishing news is a bit light on, but Sia said there have been reports that Coorooman Creek is the place to be. Recently it’s been fishing well and if it’s sand crabs you are after it seems like it is well worth a look.

He said the weather hasn’t allowed many to venture too far off shore but those who have managed to get out have reeled in some nice reds. Live bait and big chrome lures are the key to snag a few of the mackerel that are still getting around. Crabs have been slowing down of late, but with the warmer weather they should pick up again soon.

FISHING IN GLADSTONE

FISHING IN MACKAY

Around Gladstone and the harbour is where all the act is at. While it’s closed season for barra there are a few about the harbour, but if you want a fish to take home for dinner Dylan from Pat’s Tackle World reports that flathead and cod are out in numbers too. If the creeks are more your style, Dylan said there are plenty of jacks and nice big bream up Calliope River.

The full moon this month is November 21 and if you aren’t a superstitious character that will increase your chances of snagging a fish or two. Forget about the werewolves coming out to play on a full moon, Greg from Nashy’s Compleat Angler reckons that’s the time you should head to Peter Faust Dam (Lake Proserpine). Last month there was an invitation fish-

Tide Times

November

MACKAY Gladstone

Time Ht

If you have a good photo or fishing yarn send it through to our resident bait chucker-

angus.peacocke@shiftminer.com

Your weather forecast With Mike Griffin

Mon 8 Tue 9 Wed 10 Thur 11 Fri 12 Sat 13 Sun 14 Time Ht Time Ht

ing competition and Greg said 201 barra were caught and released over the two day comp - making it much better fishing than previous years. Can you hear that sound? No, nothing? Well it certainly wouldn’t be the sound of crabs running. Greg said it’s been pretty quiet but it should pick up over the next couple of weeks and Murray Creek and Constant Creek are the hot spots where you can wait for them to turn up. The wind hasn’t let up for the last month which isn’t great for getting off shore, but if you find yourself sheltered water there’s a good chance of getting some nice whiting. Greg and the crew went out recently at Cape Palmerston and nabbed some sheltered spots - and whiting too.

Time Ht Time Ht Time Ht

0354 0.53 0430 0.77 0501 1.04 0015 2.93 0107 2.78 0210 2.72 0325 2.77 1021 4.24 1106 4.05 1152 3.81 0532 1.30 0618 1.54 0745 1.71 0921 1.73 1647 0.71 1733 0.93 1821 1.15 1241 3.58 1335 3.40 1436 3.28 1542 3.25 2242 3.35 2327 3.13

1913 1.33 2013 1.44 2117 1.44 2219 1.34

0541 0.51 0021 4.30 0109 3.96 0203 3.69 0309 3.54 0430 3.57 0549 3.80 1159 5.72 0620 0.86 0700 1.26 0747 1.65 0849 1.98 1013 2.15 1140 2.09 1837 1.01 1243 5.40 1329 5.03 1422 4.69 1527 4.43 1644 4.33 1754 4.37

1925 1.31 2017 1.58 2119 1.76 2231 1.79 2341 1.66

MACKAY Gladstone

Mon 15 Tue 16 Wed 17 Thur 18 Fri 19 Sat 20 Sun 21 Time Ht Time Ht Time Ht Time Ht Time Ht Time Ht Time Ht 0439 2.95 0534 3.20 0618 3.45 0032 0.90 0108 0.78 0142 0.69 0215 0.65 1033 1.63 1130 1.48 1217 1.32 0655 3.67 0730 3.86 0805 4.01 0840 4.10 1645 3.27 1738 3.33 1824 3.38 1259 1.16 1338 1.03 1417 0.93 1457 0.86 2312 1.20 2355 1.04

1904 3.41 1943 3.41 2020 3.40 2056 3.36

0035 1.45 0119 1.24 0156 1.05 0230 0.91 0300 0.80 0331 0.74 0403 0.72 0647 4.13 0731 4.46 0809 4.76 0843 5.02 0915 5.23 0947 5.38 1019 5.48 1245 1.90 1335 1.68 1416 1.48 1455 1.32 1531 1.21 1608 1.15 1645 1.13 1848 4.47 1931 4.55 2009 4.59 2043 4.58 2116 4.54 2150 4.48 2225 4.40

Page 22 - Shift Miner Magazine, 8th November 2010

Cooler October than average

continue with most maximum temperatures modified by coastal breezes moving inland. Poor Boaties weekends have been punctuated with moderate to fresh winds.

Week 1 - After the record average rainfall for September in CQ, October was a lot drier across the Coalfields. Most rainfall was below average for the month but the maximum temperatures were generally more comfortable. The average temperature in Emerald this month was 29.1C, which was a huge 2.7 degrees below the long term average. In Moranbah it was 29.8C, which was 2.6C below average. Isolated storms passed through the region giving some good falls early November. Then a band of cloud covered most of the eastern part of the state (see image) giving good rain on the 4th November for the coast with some drifting into the north eastern Coalfields. The cooler trend should

Week 2 - The SOI 30 day average has recorded an October record +19.4. On the 3rd of November it has fallen to +18.2. The first cyclone for the season occurred on 1 November a good 1000km off the WA north coast. Tropical Cyclone Anggrek (Indonesian for orchid) came close to the Cocos Island. Pundits are saying 15 cyclones could occur across the northern Australian waters this summer, so watch the Coral Sea closely during the coming weeks. Temperatures could rise early in the week. If a trough develops then isolated thunderstorms with good falls are possible by mid week. Marine lovers – late week is a chance with late afternoon NE’ly sea breezes.

Your Health 99th EDITION. 2010

EXPERT ADVICE For those too busy or embarrassed to ask the important questions about their health It is Movember this month... thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s right fellas, time to grow your mos, and ladies, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s time to support your men and not run hiding from those hairy beasts. Movember in now a worldwide phenomenon, raising funds and the awareness of the not often talked about menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s health issues, specifically prostate cancer and depression. The month long campaign was first started by a bunch of Aussie mates, but last year had grown to include more than 128,000 participants. To date more than $21 million has been raised - what a fantastic effort! Why not get together with a bunch of friends or work mates and do your bit for menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s health, by logging on to the official Australian Movember website www. au.movember.com and registering to be part of it. All you have to do is simply grow your mo and ask friends, family, work colleagues and maybe even your neighbours to donate towards your â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;mo growing

effortâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; or you can simply donate for others to be growing their mos on your behalf. Money raised goes into supporting the Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia, the national depression iniative BeyondBlue and the Movember Foundation, helping to improve research, support, education and awareness. As the Movember boys say: â&#x20AC;&#x153;A little bit of hair can say so much about a man!â&#x20AC;? To celebrate the efforts on the Mo Bros and Mo Sistas there will be national gala parties at the end of the month, to thank everyone involved. There will be a number of titles to be won on the night, so make sure you have the mo that stands loud and proud. By helping to raise awareness about menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s health, you never know who you could be helping without even realising - your dad, your best mate or even your brother. Enjoy Movember and get on board! Stay healthy, stay informed!

Tammy Farrell is a registered nurse, nutritionist and author of â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;The Real Manâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Toolbox â&#x20AC;&#x201C; A DIY Health Manual for Menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;. Tammy grew up in the Hunter Valley with two brothers in the local coal mines. In 2007, she started to give health talks in the Hunter, and thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s when she began compiling the book, helping hundreds of men answer questions about their bodies.

Thai Style Grilled Chicken Serves 4 This Thai style chicken uses a great marinade that can also be used with ÂżVK RU VHDIRRG ,WÂśV D JUHDW VXPPHU VWDSOH WR JR ZLWK DQ\ W\SH RI VDODG XVLQJ IUHVK VHDVRQDO LQJUHGLHQWV For a nutritious boost, experiment ZLWK \RXU VDODG XVLQJ GLIIHUHQW W\SHV RI EHDQV DQG VSURXWV PXVWDUG FUHVV DQG ZDWHU FUHVV DQG GLIIHUHQW greens that you might not have used EHIRUH :KR NQRZV \RX PLJKW even be pleasantly surprised by the JUHDW WDVWH RI JRRGQHVV INGREDIENTS: &KLFNHQ %UHDVW )LOOHWV VNLQ RII 100mls Rice Bran oil or Canola oil 4 cloves Garlic, chopped 40g Ginger, peeled and chopped 1 Thai Red Chili, seeds removed and chopped

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Page 23 - Shift Miner Magazine, 8th November 2010

MONEY MATTERS 99th EDITION. 2010

LNG property wave washes west

THE ripple effect of QGC’s $15 billion liquefied natural gas (LNG) project in Gladstone is being felt as far afield as Jandowie, Chinchilla, Dalby and Wandoan in the Surat Basin. One of the less talked about consequences of QGC’s final investment decision is that it finally puts a real value on the vast gas reserves that have been explored in the Surat Basin. “I suppose the decision for us [Surat Basin] is just as important as it is for Gladstone,” said Western Downs mayor Ray Brown.

“Not only because it locks in this gas project, but it also brings into line a whole heap of other projects.” “QGC is just one of about 30 projects in the pipeline.” “It’s reassuring to hear them say the operational jobs will be located in our communities rather than fly-in fly-out.” Mr Brown said a number of local real estate agents had reported an enormous spike in enquiry since the decision to go ahead was announced on Sunday. “We already have more than 1000 peo-

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ple on the ground working on these projects, and the announcement has brought on a rush of enquiry from property investors.” “Not just residential, but industrial, commercial and a lot of contractors looking for somewhere to base their operations,” he said.

In Miles, real estate has been running hot for more than 12 months. “We haven’t seen a spike since this latest QGC decision,” said Laurie Strain from First National Real Estate. “But we have had really good sales over the last 12 to 18 months, because of the coal seam gas industry.” “It has been really strong in all the property categories, and the rental rate is just about running at 100 per cent.” Mr Strain said the big problem for the town will be an undersupply of residential land. According to Mr Strain, one developer recently sold 17 parcels of vacant land before it was even developed, with many of the buyers out-of-town investors from southern Australia. In the most recent sale, an 111m2 block of vacant land sold for around $150,000; that same block would have sold for around $60,000 five years ago. While the gas industry has been grabbing the headlines, the nearby development of some major coal mines is also adding to the region’s economy. Syntech Resources is about to export its first million tonnes of coal from its new mine near Miles. “The other rumour going around is that Xstrata will make a decision on the Wandoan coal mine early next year,” Mr Strain said. “That is a huge project, and if it gets the go ahead, its going to pave the way for lots of other mines to get going, because they will be able to utilise the new rail line to Gladstone.”

“We already have more than 1000 people on the ground working on these projects, and the announcement has brought on a rush of enquiry from property investors.”

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$ Page 24 - Shift Miner Magazine, 8th November 2010

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MONEY MATTERS 99th EDITION. 2010

Qld lags in housing Mackay bucks trend but there’s banker fury recovery MORE land should be released in Queensland by the state and local governments to speed up the housing recovering, according to the latest Access Economics report. The report found Queensland’s recovery from the global financial crisis has been lethargic and much slower than elsewhere in Australia. “It’s much harder to get money in Queensland than in other states - that’s the legacy of a reliance on the big four banks,” said Access Economics director, Chris Richardson. “Housing construction has fallen away notably, but we are in the early days of a recovery now.” Mr Richardson said there was a case for faster land release to help the recovery, and bring prices back to affordable levels. “Developer charges have also stacked up too high too fast, and while there is a case for those charges, Queensland has arguably overdone it.” There isn’t any short term pressure on

BLOCKAGE: Access Economics wants more land to be released quickly

the rental vacancy rate, which is now closing on four per cent, according to the report. That makes Queensland’s rental market the second weakest nationwide - behind Western Australia, although there are signs the rate has started flattening off.

MORTGAGE repayments on a $300,000 home loan will increase by nearly $100 a month, after banks raised interest rates last week. The raising of the official cash rate by 25 basis points to 4.75 per cent by the Reserve Bank on Melbourne Cup day caught a lot of people off guard. However the decision by banks to pass it straight on to consumers - and some with a little bit extra - has outraged the community. The Real Estate Institute of Queensland’s Dan Molloy has warned banks their decision will damage their brand. “The unseemly haste by some banks to top up this adjustment with their own rate hike will only reinforce the stereotype of greedy lenders,” he said. “The rate adjustment really is unfathomable given inflation is well-contained, house prices have stabilised and even eased in some areas, and international economic conditions

remain tentative at best.” “The biggest loser will be the Australian homeowner, plain and simple.” The Master Builders Association (MBA) says the outlook for Queensland’s housing industry is dire, with rising interest rates set to make matters worse. The latest figures from the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) show the number of new homes approved in Queensland was about 2000, down 2.3 per cent in September. MBA executive director Graham Cuthbert says the figures are not encouraging. “I would suggest now that interest rate rise has hit us, it will kill off any chance of a recovery in the short term,” he said. “It’s down all across the state - the only place that’s showing any positive movement is Mackay up from 93 to 145 a month,” he said. “It’s really been underpinned by the resources sector but the rest of Queensland is really struggling.”

“It’s down all across the state - the only place that’s showing any positive movement is Mackay up from 93 to 145 a month.”

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Page 25 - Shift Miner Magazine, 8th November 2010 17/9/10 2:16:35 PM

MONEY MATTERS 99th EDITION. 2010

CQ vacant blocks a mixed bag

THE latest Herron Todd White (HTW) monthly report on property values has painted a mixed picture for vacant land in central Queensland. According to HTW, vacant land is a more accurate indicator than developed land when it comes to making real estate comparisons. For this reason it is an excellent barometer of the underlying trends in the broader real estate market. Vacant residential land values in both

Mackay and Rockhampton have shown strong gains over the past five years, despite some slowing in the last 12 to 18 months. In Mackay, the median value for vacant land is down about five per cent since its peak in 2007; however, prices have still been very strong over the longer term. “This can be attributed to a number of factors, including a general slowdown in the residential market,” the report said. “But there has also been a tendency

toward smaller lot sizes, and new subdivisions being located further from the Mackay CBD - often at lower value levels.” “However the longer term trend shows around 50 per cent growth in median values over the past five years.” In the Whitsundays, despite there being a general fall in the value of vacant land, some areas have shown very strong growth. “It’s not all doom and gloom for vacant land in the Whitsunday region, with premiums still being paid for direct waterfront allotments,” HTW said. “A recent sale of a waterfront villa site on Hamilton Island has shown an increase of 40 per cent from mid 2008.” “Additionally there has been at least one resale in the ‘Port of Airlie’ development of the 15 waterfront allotments which shows an increase of approximately 47 per cent from

the original purchase price in early 2009.” In Rockhampton, HTW says southern investors have been paying up to 20 per cent more for vacant land in some suburbs than locals. This, in turn, has driven the value of vacant residential land upwards. “As local buyers leave the market, the median sale price for Gracemere has increased from $107,000 in December 2009 to $132,500 in June 2010,” the HTW report said. “The risk for non local investors in this market is the [lack of] potential for any capital growth upon resale to local purchasers in the future.” Elsewhere in the city, a shortage of land able to be developed on the southside of town has ensured that vacant land values have remained generally strong, while new developments on the northside have shown modest growth since falls during the GFC.

“It’s not all doom and gloom for vacant land in the Whitsunday region, with premiums still being paid for direct waterfront allotments.”

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