Surat basin news june by News Corp Custom Publishing

NEWS

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SNAP OF THE MONTH

◗ THIRSTY WORK: A steer takes a drink at the Chinchilla Show.

From the editor

Bumper 40-page Surat Basin News this month HELLO and welcome to the June edition of the Surat Basin News. If you’ve picked up this august organ and noticed it to be somewhat heftier than usual - that’s because it is! And what a treat you’re in for this month. As temperatures plunge, many of us here on The Downs and further afield look to escape to warmer areas of the country, more plentiful in sand. As such, we’ve included a special eight page holiday feature in this month’s edition, starting from page 12. Then, from page 20-28 it’s onto our Healthy, Wealthy and Wise feature, which covers everything from diets to ageing and much more. Make sure you take a squiz. Returning to normal programming, on page three we bring you the shock Land Court decision to rebuff New Hope’s application to expand its New Acland mine, recommending the State Government reject it. It’s an interesting recommendation, but what will be more interesting is the Government’s response. Jobs are important to the region, as is quality of life, and quality of groundwater. Let’s hope the government gets the balance right. On page five is an interesting look at the solar boom occurring in the Western Downs right now - and the planning conditions that brought it about. Of course, this is just a small selection of what we’ve got in this month’s volume. I’ll let you get on with it. Until next time. — Matthew Newton

Contents

IN THE NEWS

Court rejects New Acland...........................................................3 Western Downs Ice Forums .......................................................4 Solar boom’s dark side...............................................................5 Museum gets $500k in grants...................................................6

DOWN TO BUSINESS

Enzed Surat Basin.......................................................................7 CMT Haulage...............................................................................11

PHOTO: MATTHEW NEWTON

HOLIDAY FEATURE

....................................................................................................12-19

HEALTHY, WEALTHY AND WISE

.................................................................................................20-28

OPINION

.................................................................................................29-32

PLACES AND FACES

.................................................................................................34-35

The newspaper The Surat Basin News publishes every month and will be delivered via the four dominant newspapers of the region: the Chinchilla News, Western Star, Dalby Herald and The Chronicle. It will reach the homes and offices of almost 50,000 people living, working and playing in the Surat Basin, connecting the business and mining communities thought the booming region. Surat Basin News is a necessity. It was born out of a passion for Australia’s fastest growing communities – a passion for a region of unbridled potential and a future of vast economic growth and opportunities. The newspaper, professionally designed and regionally topical, will be a must read for anyone associated with the exciting Surat Basin. ONLINE: Surat Basin News has gone online to ensure our readers in every corner of the country has the latest news sent directly to them. Go to: www.suratbasin.com.au. PURCHASE FROM: Newsagents in Chinchilla, Roma, Dalby, Gladstone, Moura, Toowoomba, Calliope. VISION: Surat Basin News will allow local businesses to network and communicate with everyone in the 1200 sq km basin, providing unprecedented access to new clients and markets. It will give a revealing insight into major industry while lifting the veil on current and proposed developments. It will be there for each and every announcement shaping the region’s future while profiling the colourful characters.

The team GENERAL MANAGER Erika Brayshaw, Chinchilla Phone 4672 9921, email manager@suratbasin.com.au ADVERTISING TEAM Bobbie Gorring, Chinchilla Phone 4672 9930, email advertise@suratbasin.com.au Greg Latta, Roma Phone 4672 9927, email Greg.latta@romawesternstarnews.com Nicole Boyd-Taylor, Dalby Phone 04672 5500, email nicole.boyd-taylor@dalbyherald.com.au EDITORIAL

Matthew Newton, Chinchilla

Phone 4672 9926, email matthew.newton@chinchillanews.com.au SURAT BASIN NEWS 12 Mayne Street, Chinchilla Q 4413 PO Box 138, Chinchilla Q 4413 The Surat Basin News is published by Chinchilla Newspapers Pty Ltd, 12 Mayne Street, Chinchilla Q 4413 The Surat Basin News is printed by News Corp Australia.

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IN THE NEWS

◗ SHOCK RULING: A court has recommended New Hope's controversial New Acland stage three expansion be rejected.

PHOTO: CONTRIBUTED

New Acland Expansion

Land Court rejects New Acland Impacts on local landholders behind court recommendation to State Government not to approve New Acland stage three A COURT has recommended New Hope’s controversial New Acland stage three expansion be rejected. The Queensland Land Court recommended the Queensland Government not allow the mine, near Oakey, to be expanded. Environmental groups and residents of the Acland area had challenged the expansion which they argued would damage their water and air quality and impact their quality of life. The court agreed and urged the Government to refuse the expansion. Despite acknowledging the mine would have significant economic benefits and despite dismissing environmental

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concerns, Land Court member Paul Smith on Wednesday recommended the Queensland Government not allow the expansion. Environmental groups and residents of the Acland area challenged the mine’s expansion, arguing it would damage their water and air quality and impact their quality of life. In a 459-page judgment, Mr Smith agreed the expansion had the potential to “adversely affect” groundwater for “hundreds of years to come”. He said this was a breach of “intergenerational equity” and was reason to refuse the proposal. Mr Smith said even New Hope’s water experts raised concerns about the impact on water supplies. Outside court, landholder Noel Wieck broke down as he called on the government to uphold the court’s decision. “We knew the groundwater was under threat (from the proposed expansion),” he said. “This will be my 58th year farming that property. My family’s

roots in the area are pretty deep. “I never thought I’d be cross-examining someone in court, but I reckon I did pretty well.” Mr Smith ruled the mine expansion should not go ahead although it would likely provide “significant economic benefit” to the area, state and nation. “I am concerned as to the impact on groundwater of neighbouring properties but, on an economic level alone, the revised Stage 3 project is of greater value than agricultural pursuits, even over the long term,” he said. Mr Smith said he did not believe the expansion would have impacted climate change as coal from other parts of the world would be burnt in its place. Queensland Resources Council CEO Ian Macfarlane slammed the decision, describing parts of the Land Court’s judgement as “difficult to follow”.

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IN THE NEWS

suratbasin.com.au Thursday, June 15, 2017

◗ STEP FORWARD: Debra Green is hopeful something will now be done about Chinchilla’s ice problem, following a forum organised by David Littleproud.

PHOTO: MATTHEW NEWTON

Ice Forums in Dalby and Chinchilla

‘No one was listening to us’ WHEN Debra Green left Chinchilla’s Ice Forum on Monday, it was the first time in a long time she felt assured something might be done to tackle the region’s ice scourge, having battled blindly for more than five years to find help for a drug addicted family member. “People have this thing that they’re a drug addict and just walk by, but they’re not a drug addict they are a person first and they’re not bad people, no one is born bad,” Mrs Green said. Mrs Green said while the close family member had struggled with addiction for many years, there was simply “no comparison” between ice and other drugs. “It is through the roof level. It’s terrible and you know, they’re good people but something happened and they’re gone.”

Mrs Green has campaigned to state and federal governments for help to tackle the ice epidemic in Chinchilla and said currently there is nothing being done to assist addicts or families who have fallen victim to the drug, but that the ice forum meant “making phone calls and banging on doors” had finally paid off. “I started because someone in our family is a drug addict and I found there was no help. I struggled with getting them the help they needed, everything had to be done in Toowoomba,” Mrs Green said. “I got involved with it and gathered information and started contacting local, state and federal government and just kept getting nowhere. No one was listening.” Mrs Green said to solve the problem funding was needed and

community members, health services and government had to work together. Mrs Green disagreed with suggestions made by a community member during the forum school based drug education is the solution to the problem. “The most important thing to come out of today is that we all work together and we talk. “The main thing I struggled with when we were going through it... is that there was no help and there was no one person – you know, you go to the community centre and they’d say ‘here’s a couple of numbers’ or you’d talk to someone else and they’d say ‘well have you tried this?’ “It got me nowhere and I’d make calls and no one would call me back.”

Startling lack of investment in drug programs across Western Downs ICE forums hosted by Member for Maranoa David Littleproud has revealed a startling under-investment by the Federal Government in services aimed at helping drug addicts in Chinchilla and Dalby. The forums also highlighted a degree of confusion in the community as to what services were available and how to access them, a lack of integration between health services, and minimal support and education for carers and people around those using drugs. But it didn’t end there. Those present also heard there are no detox facilities – both in the Western Downs and in Toowoomba, where the only live-in residential rehabilitation clinics exist, minimal drug education for school students, at least a six-week wait time to see the town’s only private psychologist, and a non-existent security presence for the region’s front-line hospital staff, who deal with drug-affected individuals at their lowest point. With these issues identified, Darling Downs and West Moreton Primary Health Network CEO Simone Finch gave an undertaking to hopefully have a lead agency in place in Chinchilla by July to co-ordinate services for addicts. The DDWMPHN is the Federal Government’s local healthcare funding facilitator, and Ms Finch admitted there was currently no spending on any drug services in Chinchilla. Mr Littleproud said the forum had highlighted an

“under-investment” in Chinchilla. “Look, we’ve been in government for four years, we’ve got to take an uppercut for that,” he said. “But that’s why I’m sitting here to say let’s try and fix it.” Mr Littleproud will meet with Federal Minister for Health Greg Hunt next week, with the aim of establishing a Local Drug Action Team in Chinchilla, comprised of local organisations and individuals who wish to take part. As well as highlighting many issues around helping those addicted to drugs in Chinchilla, the meeting on Monday morning heard heart-breaking and inspiring tales of addiction and its effects on families and individuals. One man said his biggest issue was “who’s looking after the kids”. Debra Green, who struggled to get help for an ice-addicted family member, upon hearing no money had been spent in Chinchilla on services, said: “I’ve been knocking on doors for two years and like you say, there has been no money spent here yet – it makes me so angry”. Mrs Green has become a point of contact for others who are suffering the effects of ice addiction, either personally or within their family. “We have people dying and families crashing. I see now young children going to primary school with no food... mum and dad don’t care because they’re so off their face,” she said. Danny Tomkinson, himself a former ice addict who has been

clean for 27 months, said that despite being quite public about his reformation, was yet to be asked to speak to any high school or church groups about his struggle. “I’m willing to help in this town, but if you’ve been a drug addict, they look down on you and you’re not worthy to help anyone,” he said. “Do I need a piece of paper to talk to these people? “I’ll go to schools and talk to them for free – I don’t want money. “I think it’s the community’s responsibility.” As the stories of dysfunction and families broken by ice addiction piled up, several in the room began wiping away tears. Mr Littleproud said the reality of the situation was that the lives of people in Miles and Chinchilla were just as precious as those in metropolitan areas where drug addiction services were more plentiful. “I could have sat in Canberra today and done nothing, but I decided to come here, and I agree,” he said. “I passionately believe we are being done over in the bush. “This is my hometown and let me tell you, it’s changed since I’ve left and I want it to go back to the way it was, where it was a great place to live and everybody was safe.” He promised the people of Chinchilla, Miles and Tara would not be forgotten.

Thursday, June 15, 2017 suratbasin.com.au

IN THE NEWS

Western Downs’ solar boom

An imbalance of power Solar project shines light on concerns

“This is one of the last opportunities we’re going to see in getting major utilities and power generation within our region,” he said. “We made that decision to try and make a pathway to success and get another string to the bow within our community, creating an opportunity for both jobs and wealth generation.” The mayor also noted the impact of renewable energy facilities was “very minimal compared to other major infrastructure that is impact assessable”. But Mr O’Leary said while he understood development was important, the needs of the community should also be considered. “We can understand the need for development but just to make it easy to come to our region – is that going to be for the betterment of our community in the long term?” he asked. Mr O’Leary said there should be a requirement for solar farms to be a minimum distance from houses, along with buffer zones around the perimeter, and any developments should not impact on waterways. “There’s also a high probability of these projects devaluing adjacent land,” he said. “Who’s going to want to live next to a great big industrial electricity plant?” When the Chinchilla News put it to the mayor that residents had a right to know what was going on in their own backyard and should be made aware of any large solar projects proposed near their homes, he said it was up to the development applicants to initiate a conversation with residents. “Council certainly encourages applicants to have discussions with residents neighbouring their proposed developments,” Cr McVeigh said.

◗ NEED TO KNOW: Darryl O'Leary, with his horse Trevor, at home on his melon-growing property on the Pelican Back Rd, says residents should be made aware of new solar projects near people’s homes. PHOTO: MATTHEW NEWTON

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STARING down the barrel of hundreds of millions – if not billions – of dollars of investment in solar projects across the region, the Western Downs is on the cusp of a new wave of prosperity and opportunity. But nothing comes for free. Despite the incredible scale of development on the horizon, residents of the Western Downs will have little recourse when it comes to being notified or objecting to projects that arrive on their doorstep. With a 264ha 100-megawatt solar project proposed in close proximity to his home, it’s an issue Chinchilla melon farmer Darryl O’Leary believes the community needs to be aware of. As it stands, solar projects proposed outside industrial areas are code assessable under the new Western Downs Planning Scheme, adopted by the Western Downs Regional Council in March. This means there is no public notification required – regardless of a development’s size – and residents have no right to appeal once a development application is approved. That is something Mr O’Leary said needed to change. Although he is happy with how the council listened to his concerns and he’s had the opportunity to work through his issues with First Solar’s proposed solar project, he still believes future projects should be impact assessable. An impact assessable development application legally requires a public notification period and the public have the right to appeal a decision in the Planning and Environment Court. “I think the community needs to know where these developments are,” Mr O’Leary said. “And council needs to somehow take control of it and put it in areas where it does not impact on neighbouring properties, the environment or anything else.” It wasn’t always like this, though. In the amended draft Western Downs Planning Scheme that went out for public consultation last year, “renewable energy facilities” were to be impact assessable if not located within specialised industrial areas. In a confidential submission made by council officers to the amended draft planning scheme in December, the council argued for, and accepted, a change to make “renewable energy facilities” code assessable in the final version of the planning scheme. It should be noted that before the Western Downs Planning Scheme was adopted, four of the six previous regional planning schemes had renewable energy facilities – or public utilities as they were then termed – deemed as code assessable, with only two planning schemes requiring an impact assessment of such developments. According to Mayor Paul McVeigh, code assessing development applications for renewable energy facilities is the “best and smoothest pathway” for developers of solar farms and other renewables, and it will encourage development in the region. Making it easy for renewable development was essential, he said, because with the Federal Government’s Renewable Energy Target to generate 33,000 gigawatt hours of additional renewable energy by 2020, time was of the essence. Cr McVeigh said if development applications took too long, developers would go elsewhere, which was why the council switched to code assessing the renewable energy facilities.

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IN THE NEWS

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Dalby Innovation Forum “IT’S about being ahead of change, and thinking five or ten years ahead, so we can be in control of where we are going to be.” These are the words of Dr Colin Russo, Director of Engaging Futures, a business that is ‘shaping tomorrow today’. Dr Russo was one of the panellists at the Dalby Chamber of Commerce’s Innovation Forum dinner on Thursday night. The forum was designed to enlighten and inspire business owners and individuals to utilise all of the infrastructure developing in the region to its full potential. Other panellists included the General Manager of Brisbane West Wellcamp Airport Sarah Hales and CEO of InterLinkSQ Michelle Reynolds. Dr Russo believed that business owners, particularly farmers, have an opportunity to expand their businesses like never before if they stay ahead of the game and engage the sleeping Asian giant. “As their economies become stronger and they get the internet, it’s going to open up greater trade opportunities for us,” Dr Russo said. “You’re only two hours from Melbourne, soon to only be two hours from Brisbane, you can fly to Asia; as a community, you’ve never been closer to the rest of the world.” Ms Hales said it’s one thing to have ideas, but something else to pursue it. “It’s the drive and hunger to achieve something that is the most important ingredient,” Ms Hales said.

◗ MAKING PLANS: Miles Historical Village Museum’s Anne Croft, president Kylie Bourne and vice-president Kerry Mulholland. PHOTO: JULIA BAKER

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◗ FINDING A WAY: Dr Colin Russo, Sara Hales, Michelle Reynolds and Bryan Gray at the Innovation Forum at the Dalby Leagues Club. PHOTO: SAM FLANAGAN

Miles museum has secured thousands of dollars worth of funding across separate grants MILES Historical Village Museum is set to undergo a major transformation to tell the story of the Great Artesian Basin as well as those of the district’s war time heroes after securing almost $500,000 worth of funding across separate grants. The money will be used to fund three major projects including refurbishing the Great Artesian Basin and Coal Seam Gas Interpretation Centre; updating the What War Meant to Miles: Heroes, Hardships and Heartfelt Stories, and the Anzac Park World War One Remembrance Interpretation Project. The new and improved museum will create a sense of place for the Miles and district community and is important for the economy, museum president Kylie Bourne said. “It really helps with the tourism and economy within this community and within this region. It is known as one of the outstanding regional museums in Queensland, if not Australia.” Plans to update the Great Artesian Basin and Coal Seam Gas Interpretation Centre have been in the works since 2009. A funding application made through Origin Energy’s Community Grants Program in 2016 was successful, enabling

the engagement of i5 Consultants to develop initial concept plans. In addition to recommendations for refurbishment of the building and a curatorial update, the plans also investigate options to allocate $250,000 worth of seed funding secured through the Western Downs Tourism Investment Project. “It’s about getting the essence of the gift of the Artesian Basin right. The water underneath us is vital for agriculture, industry and living, so they are really keen to showcase that story because no one is telling it,” Mrs Bourne said. “It’s telling all sides and the consultants will be independent in that process, they will develop through consultations and discussions. “As a museum we have an obligation to tell that story and CSG, whether you like it or you don’t, it’s very much a part of our history. “As as a museum we have a responsibility to educate and capture the stories when they’re happening and here is a unique opportunity to be able to do it.”

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DOWN TO BUSINESS

Enzed Surat Basin

No job too big or too small for Enzed WHEN Managing Director of Enzed Surat Basin Shannon McDermott moved from Toowoomba to Chinchilla back in 2010 to establish his own business all he had was a second-hand truck and $25,000 in the bank. Almost seven years later and with plenty of ups and downs, Mr McDermott and his team have grown Enzed Surat Basin into a thriving hydraulic supplies business with five full time staff and two franchisees. It is currently one of the top five performing Enzed franchises in Australia. "We have two franchised Hose Doctors now, they lease our trucks... one is based in Roma and he’s really kicking some goals out there, he recently won an award for the best performing hose doctor in the country for the last quarter," Mr McDermott said. While it may have been a slow and steady growth for Enzed, Mr McDermott, who trained as a marine technician in the Navy, now supplies to QGC and Origin. But despite doing business with the big end of town, he said he wants people to know: no job is too small for his local team. "We have one of the biggest ranges of hose and fittings west of Toowoomba, without a doubt, and if we don't have a part we can get almost anything out here overnight," he said.

◗ ON THE JOB: Enzed Surat Basin workshop assistant Charlie Malone with a hand-held grease gun. There's more to Enzed than hose and fittings. PHOTO: MATTHEW NEWTON

"Hose and fittings are predominantly what people know us for and what the core of our business is, but we do a lot of other hydraulic and pneumatic system component supplies, and repairs as well. "We supply components for all aspects of fluid transfer applications from large industrial and agricultural type applications to individual fuel and oil transfer pumps and hand-held grease guns. "When people come to our store they are quite surprised at the range of products we have to offer." Mr McDermott said as a premier distributor of major corporation Parker Hannifin's products, Enzed is uniquely positioned to supply top-quality products locally. "Parker Hannifin is the world’s leading motion and control company; it offers such a diverse range of products," he said. "ENZED's hoses and fittings are only a snippet of the range and with the opportunities the local resources sector offers we

are providing access to Parker's diverse range locally." Extended opening hours and specialized staff training are also areas of focus for Mr McDermott. "A lot of what brings people to us and keeps them coming to us is that we have great staff who are available 24/7," he said. "Someone rings us at 10 at night or two in the morning with ‘hey my machine’s broken’ and depending on drive time, we’ll be there straight away. We always have someone on call 365 days a year. "We go the extra mile here in the shop too. Our business hours are 7.30am-5pm but some of our staff love the place and are usually here from 6am-6pm most weekdays. "We focus a lot on staff as well, we put a lot of effort into training them and improving on their skills. We have been nominated for the training and education awards for small employer of the year and we’ve made the finals."

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IN THE NEWS

suratbasin.com.au Thursday, June 15, 2017

Aaron Ryan profile

Rodeo bloke finds his voice for the big three THE scariest night of Aaron Ryan’s life came two years ago: he was looking for the pick-up man in the ring having just hit the eight second mark when the arena lights went out. Ryan found himself with his microphone still live riding bareback in complete darkness. “So she’s black and I’m still on the horse still talking, so I bailed out and managed to survive but no one could see me but they could still hear me, I was still on. I couldn’t see anything but I got to the ground and landed on my feet and let everyone know: we’re still alive and we live to fight another day! And everyone cheered. You’ve got to be on the edge of your toes.” It’s a tale befitting a rodeo announcer who has been working the circuit since stumbling upon his talent at the Chinchilla Show rodeo 10 years ago, and who said the secret to his success was simply having fun. “If I’m not having fun they’re not having fun. You’ve got to make it entertaining, you’ve got to keep it sharp... and if you can

‘‘

You’ve got to keep it sharp... and if you can relate to something that’s happening in the world at the moment... Clive Palmer always gets a fair chewing.

◗ QUICK WIT: Announcer Aaron Ryan works more than 20 rodeos a year, but still loves a home crowd.

relate to something that’s happening in the world at the moment... Clive Palmer always gets a fair chewing.” Since then Ryan’s “hobby” has taken him far and wide, from Chinchilla to Charleville, to Sydney, Darwin and Moree, to name a few, and this year he’s finally managed to land the big three. “This year they approached me to go to Mt Isa to do it and that’s ticked off the bucket list a bit. I always wanted to do three big ones which was Cloncurry, Mt Isa and Warwick so this year will be the year I get them,” he said. But no matter how far he ventures from Chinchilla, Ryan said he still gets the most buzz out of announcing in front of a home crowd. “My favourite rodeo is the Melon Fest rodeo because it’s such a massive crowd and the bigger the crowd the easier it is to work with,” he said. “You get some shows where there is 200 people there and they’ve been on the sauce all afternoon and they’re just full of fun. “You can do anything with them. “I’ve told people ‘if you ever want to move me, you’ll have to move Chinchilla’. I wouldn’t change it for anything.” PHOTO: JULIA BAKER

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IN THE NEWS

◗ REGIONAL GROWTH: CEO of Balonne Matthew Magin, Deputy Mayor of Balonne Fiona Gaske, Regional Development Australia CEO Glenys Schuntner and Paroo Mayor and chair of SWRED board Lindsay Godfrey. PHOTO: SARAH DIONYSIUS

Regional Economic Development

Outback tourism on the agenda South West RED teams up with councils to provide training to tourism operators to lure dollars to the regions TOURISM operators in south-west Queensland are currently polishing up on their skills and knowledge as part of a renewed focus on tourism in the region. Eight tourism operators have spent the past few months working towards a Certificate IV in Travel and Tourism with Brisbane Business and Hospitality Training. The training is a result of a partnership between South West Regional Economic Development (South West RED), the Maranoa, Balonne, Quilpie, Murweh and Bulloo councils, as well as the Department of Education and Training and regional

tourism operators. Deputy mayor of Balonne and chair of the steering committee for tourism Fiona Gaske said South West RED recognised that tourism was a key economic driver in the Outback. “The economic opportunities it can provide for our communities shouldn’t be underestimated,” she said. “Therefore South West RED, in conjunction with the state department, has prioritised and invested in this project so that we can realise the benefits and outcomes for tourism in the outback.” John Wagner, chairman of the Wagner Group, made a brief visit to the meeting, which Mrs Gaske said was inspiring. “It was very exciting to hear John Wagner speak about Darling Downs Tourism Ltd and the opportunities that tourism operators in the south-west may have to leverage off the work he is doing in the Darling Downs,” she said.

USQ’s Regional Community Development Professor Jim Cavaye will be visiting the region next week to meet the community, business owners and councillors. “His visit will help tourism operators identify barriers, realise opportunities and add value to their business in such a way that can attract tourism,” she said. Murweh marketing and events coordinator Monique Johnson said the training had been invaluable and timely, given the renewed interest in tourism in the region. “We have always been a great destination and we need to make sure everyone in Australia knows that,” Ms Johnson said. “Queensland’s southern Outback is a great brand for us to continue to build and profile as the ultimate tourism destination and as with training for our core stakeholders, we then have a great vision for developing packages and direct marketing our product.”

IN THE NEWS

suratbasin.com.au Thursday, June 15, 2017

Roma business awarded major contract

◗ NEW PROJECT: Senex chief operating officer Darren Greer with Flower Earthmoving operations manager Byron Flower. PHOTO: MARGUERITE CUDDIHY

Foztrax owners call it a day, looking to join the grey nomads

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CHINCHILLA | ROMA | TOOWOOMBA

SENEX Energy has awarded a $3 million contract to Roma’s Flower Earthmoving as part of its Western Surat Gas Project. The contract will see the family-owned business complete civil earthworks on Senex’s gas tenements, located 30 kilometres north-east of Roma. The work involves the preparation of lease pads, the forming of new access roads and the refurbishment of an existing dam. Flower Earthmoving operations manager Byron Flower said he was proud to win the competitive bid on price and capability. “This contract with Senex will generate ongoing work for approximately 20 locals in the next four months and we look forward to delivering the project,” Mr Flower said. “It’s a big privilege to be recognised by such a large company.” Senex chief operating officer Darren Greer said the award to Flower Earthmoving, which has operated in Roma since 1983, was all about putting Senex’s local content policy into practice. “Our whole focus on contracting is giving a preference to locals,” Mr Greer said. “When we say ‘locals’, we don’t mean Australians, we mean the Roma postcode.” Senex Energy managing director Ian Davies said the award to Flower Earthmoving reflected the company’s competitive procurement process. And Mr Davies echoed Mr Greer’s enthusiasm for supporting local businesses. “Our Surat local content policy favours suppliers based in the region and who can provide the services we need at the right price,” Mr Davies said. “We plan to be part of the community for many years, and supporting local businesses who can deliver the work we require ensures we are contributing to a sustainable and economically vibrant Maranoa.” Senex is progressively appraising and developing its Western Surat Gas Project, north-east of Roma. The next phase of the project involves a 30-well drilling program and construction of water and gas handling infrastructure in the eastern area of the permits.

AFTER 43 years in the transport and land development business, it's time for Graham and Viv Foster to find some travel time. The successful couple are retiring, putting their thriving earthmoving business - Foztrax - up for sale. The last 13 years working in the resource industry have been successful. “We get a buzz out of having happy clients which can only come from having a good professional team of staff,” Mr Foster said. Foztrax saw the need and developed Environmentally friendly blast bins. They were developed and built by our professional staff for unloading of gas wells, a process of using high pressure air to clean out wells. These bins are now on regular hire to the major companies in the gas industry. Foztrax has a high reputation for providing a reliable service. For more information phone Graham on 4669 8553 or 0427 630 640.

www.brandoneng.com a 3rd generation trusted family business. est: 1935

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For accident towing assistance

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3-5 Instow street, toowoomba

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Thursday, June 15, 2017 suratbasin.com.au

DOWN TO BUSINESS

CMT Haulage

Haulage business continues to grow CRAIG and Mandy Turner started CMT Haulage with a five-year plan: pay off what they had and purchase another truck and tanker. But plans often fall by the wayside, and as the gas industry burgeoned, so too did their growing business. Since staring out in 2011, their business has expanded to include an impressive fleet of prime-movers, Jamieson water tankers, a vacuum tanker, side-tippers, step-deck and flat top trailers, and a newly acquired 950 CAT front-end loader. You might have seen the loader on display at the Miles show last month! With the new front-end loader and its attachments, Craig is now making good use of his 10 years’ experience in dam construction, desilting and stick-raking, with these services added to the ever-expanding repertoire of CMT Haulage. To keep pace with what the industry wants, CMT Haulage offers a diverse range of services from bulk water haulage, dust suppression and vacuum excavation, to in-field wash downs and weed & seed certification. They have also recently extended their haulage options to include log carting. On-the-spot wash downs are available at their McNulty Street depot in Miles and qualified personnel mean you can obtain a weed & seed certificate while you are there.

◗ NEW SERVICES: CMT Haulage owners Mandy and Craig Turner.

Craig and Mandy oversee a staff of 20 employees and pride themselves on staying local. From humble beginnings in a home-office, the business has grown to necessitate a number of administration staff, a field supervisor and multiple truck drivers. A fully qualified diesel fitter mans the depot workshop and keeps the CMT fleet in top condition. As for the secret to the Turner’s success, their advice is simple. “Do what you do well and don’t stress over things you can’t

PHOTO: MATTHEW NEWTON

control,” Craig said. The Turners have been living in the Miles district for over 20 years and believe in supporting local business as well as our local community. They have been major sponsors and supporters of the Miles State School, Miles Trail Ride, Miles Show and the Beef Bells and Bottle Tree festival to name but a few. For more information, contact CMT Haulage on 1300 856 815 or 0417 710 125, or visit www.cmthaulage.com.au.

Think waTer Think CMT! Specialising in everything ‘water’

Family owned and operated in the Surat Basin since 2011

24/7 SERVICE FROM MILES Surat Basin Industry Specialists in:-

1300 856 815

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• 24 hr Rig Support • Dam Construction & • Infield Wash Downs/ Desilting Weed Hygiene Certs • Stick-raking • Potable Water • Dust Suppression • Bulk cartage Solutions

0417 710 125

www.cmthaulage.com.au

HOLIDAY FEATURE

suratbasin.com.au Thursday, June 15, 2017

Coolum Holidays

Escape the winter cold and bask in the sun AS the weather starts to cool, it’s time to start thinking about your winter getaway. With a wide variety of houses and apartments, Coolum Holidays can help you find the perfect home away from home. Coolum Holidays’ range of units, townhouses, and houses are found all around Sunshine Coast in the Coolum, Mount Coolum, Mudjimba, and Marcoola areas. Starting from two bedroom apartments, such as the Coolum Baywatch Luxury Style Penthouse in Central Coolum, some properties offer accommodation for up to ten people with five bedrooms, making them ideal for family holidays or group getaways. The five bedroom Beachway Parade property in Marcoola is a fine example. Sporting five bedrooms, three bathrooms, and a solar heated pool, this property offers a relaxing holiday destination before even considering the multitude of activities and eateries within a short distance. Those wanting to be close to shops, and restaurants, and be within walking distance of the beach will love staying in and around Coolum. Marcoola offers a quieter getaway with more of a small town coastal feel to relax and rejuvenate in. The variety of the

◗ WINTER ESCAPE: The sun-drenched pool area at Coolum Holiday Apartments.

Sunshine Coast makes it an ideal holiday destination for couples and families of all ages. With each unit and house being fully self-contained, and supermarkets close by, you don’t have to spend all your time eating out. Quite nights in your coastal getaway are an option as well. Rates vary depending on season and length of stay, with short term two night stays available for casual holiday takers, and

long terms arrangements for those wanting to escape the cooler months by heading to the coast. To view the range of properties on offer and check availability, visit www.coolumnholidays.com.au. Bookings can be made online via coolumholidays.com.au, or by calling their knowledgeable and helpful team on 1300 303 423.

PUT YOURSELF IN THIS PICTURE

and have a perfect holiday

Book your next getaway with Coolum Holidays online at www.coolumholidays.com.au or call us on

Phone 07 5446 3788

PHOTO: CONTRIBUTED

Free Call 1300 303 4223

Thursday, June 15, 2017 suratbasin.com.au

STAY RELAX UNWIND

Maroochydore Riverfront Holiday Accommodation

Just metres from your door, you’ll love the serenity of the adjacent park and absolute riverfront location at the peaceful end of a cul-de-sac. Fish from the secluded sandy riverbank, hire a boat and explore the river or stroll along the walking track. The kids love playing at the sandy beach and the parks near-by. Maroochydore’s patrolled surf beach is only a few minutes drive.

1 BEDROOM APARTMENTS

Holiday Apartments

Cafes, restaurants, clubs, cinemas, boat hire and the Sunshine Coast’s major shopping complex The Sunshine Plaza at Maroochydore are all within walking distance or short bus ride. Visit the many attractions the Sunshine Coast has to offer including Australia Zoo, Underwater World and the Eumundi Markets. Take a drive to Noosa, wine-taste at the wineries and explore the quaint townships in the hinterland. For the more adventurous, kayaking, diving at the HMAS Brisbane, golf, whale-watching, deep-sea fishing and jet-skiing are all accessible from the central location of Maroochydore.

SPECIAL

STAY 7 PAY 5 JUNE 2017 ONLY 2 BRM $690 P/W 2 BRM SPA/RooFToP $820 P/W 3 BRM $790 P/W 3 BRM SPA/RooFToP $930 P/W MUST BE QUICK TO SECURE THESE EXCELLENT PRICES... CALL NOW *Conditions Apply, Not valid for school holidays. Must mention this advert for Specials,valid June 2017 only.

FACILITIES

LOCATION

• Private balconies with outdoor table setting • Fully equipped kitchen with refrigerator, oven, microwave & dishwasher • Washing machine and dryers in each apartment • Air-conditioning in all apartments, ceiling fans in all apartments • Single lock-up garage and off street parking behind security gate • All linen provided, fresh linen weekly • DVD players in all apartments • Broadband internet access • Austar

• No road between apartments and beach and river • Secluded location • Great fishing • Great family area • Near major shops • Courtesy buses to clubs in area • Safe swimming, bikeways, bike hire, kayak hire, • Closest complex to Chambers Island

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3 BEDROOM APARTMENTS

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Enjoy the stunning views of the beautiful Maroochy River from your north-facing balcony at the heart of the Sunshine Coast, Maroochydore. Experience cool sea-breezes in summer and sunny days in winter.

HOLIDAY FEATURE

suratbasin.com.au Thursday, June 15, 2017

◗ HOLIDAY JEWEL: Reflections Holiday Apartments is the ideal place to take a break this winter.

PHOTO: CONTRIBUTED

Waterside getaway at Maroochydore ON THE Picnic Point Esplanade in Maroochydore is the ideal coastal getaway to escape the cold this winter. Reflections Holiday Apartments offer one, two, and three bedroom self-contained apartments. With a pool and spa, barbeque areas and water views from your balcony, Reflections has it all. Some units even have their own private rooftop heated spa. No road separates you from the water, just a park, creating the perfect area for a picnic or a spot of fishing. For those wanting to get out on the water, kayaks are availed for hire and

the on-site boat ramp will let your get your own craft into the water. The fully gated complex has plenty of space to safely secure your vehicle and trailer. Onsite managers will give you piece of mind as you make use of the many facilities. For those who want to explore, the front desk can organise tours to the zoo or markets, complete with bus transport. All you have to do is ask. Setting out on foot, or by hiring a bike might be more your style. Peruse the shopping along Ocean Street and Sunshine Plaza, or just explore the beauty that is Maroochydore.

STAY 3 NIGHTS, * SAVE 50% This offer available for 1, 2 and 3 bedroom apartments, and includes? free wifi, breakfast on the first morning, late checkout. We have further discounts available on our no frills “Room Only” rates.

Eating out is easy with the Surf Club close by, and the Maroochydore RSL. The RSL’s courtesy bus will even pick you up and drop you back to your home away from home at the end of the night. Nearby Chamber Island is a popular destination for weddings and other functions, so keep Reflections Holiday Apartments in mind to get a good night’s sleep before your big events. Bookings can be made by visiting reflections-apartments.com, or by calling (07) 5443 9707.

Don’t miss out on a LUXURY ESCAPE!

*Valid for stays to 17 September, 2017

www.trilogygoldcoast.com.au Email: reservations@trilogygoldcoast.com.au 21-31 Cypress Ave, Surfers Paradise, Gold Coast Q 4217

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Warm Winter Sunshine and Whale Watching! Call now or book online (07) 5584 0700

HOLIDAY FEATURE

Thursday, June 15, 2017 suratbasin.com.au

Tweed Ultima Holiday Apartments

Enjoy the ultimate winter getaway IN THE bustling centre of Tweed Heads, the Tweed Ultima Holiday Apartments offer great accommodation, whatever the reason for your trip. Tweed Ultima’s range of one and two bedroom apartments share the site with their two function rooms. The smaller of the rooms can seat up to 60 people for a sit-down meal and 100 people theatre style, and the larger can accommodate 120 people banquet style, and up to 200 theatre style. Half and full day delegate packages, great for seminars or work meetings / training, are also avalible. Tweed Ultima Function Centre is equipped with its own kitchen and licenced bar to cater for any type of event or function. Being located in the apartments makes it convenient for any guest whom need accommodation. (Please ask about the discounted conference rate for delegates attending an event at Tweed Ultima. Must book direct through Tweed Ultima). With a pool and spa on-site, and the beach within an easy walk, time by the water is easy to come by. Secure on-site parking means you can leave your car and take a stroll to the main shopping district is, with a wide array of local shops and eateries just waiting for you. In addition to shopping and eateries, Tweed Ultima guests will

◗ ULTIMATE GETAWAY: Tweed Ultima Holiday Apartments offer a unique holiday experience.

find themselves only a short drive from multiple golf courses, the Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary, and Tropical Fruit World. The winter months also mark the start of whale watching season. The Tweed Ultima Tour Desk staff can help you choose and book

the best holiday activities for you. For a quote on the Tweed Ultima function rooms, or to book your Tweed Heads getaway this winter, visit tweedultima.com.au or call 5599 3500.

Ultimate Getaway

Your

Special

Ultimate Venue

Just minutes from the gorgeous beaches of Coolangatta and Greenmount, Tweed Ultima is the ideal wedding venue for your wedding reception.

PHOTO: CONTRIBUTED

Affordable packages available for up to 200 people

Take a break at Tweed Ultima Apartments and enjoy the sun soaked beaches of the Tweed Coast, located close to many local attractions, we have something for everyone.

Fully self contained apartments, some with water views, for the discounted price of:

• Weddings • Functions • Special Events • Accommodation Packages

1 BEDROOM APARTMENTS 3 NIGHTS 5 NIGHTS 7 NIGHTS ONLY $449 ONLY $649 ONLY $799

For more information contact our Functions Team today

Upsize for ONLY $50 per stay for a 2 bedroom, 2 bath. • Enclosable Private Balconies • Large Pool with Spa • Full Security • Function Rooms • Public Fitness Centre • Public Day Spa

20 Stuart Street Tweed Heads, NSW 2485 P: 5599 3500

For more information please contact our team today:

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E: functions@tweedultima.com.au www.tweedultima.com.au

*Excluding school holidays. Subject to availability. Terms and conditions apply.

20 Stuart Street, Tweed Heads NSW 2485 P: 07-5599 3500 E: info@tweedultima.com.au www.tweedultima.com.au

HOLIDAY FEATURE

suratbasin.com.au Thursday, June 15, 2017

White Crest Luxury Apartments

Pure bliss at Tourquay Beach FOR Hervey Bay accommodation on the Esplanade at Torquay, look no further than White Crest Luxury Apartments. White Crest’s range of one, two, and three bedroom self-contained apartments sport spacious balconies, free Wi-Fi, and televisions with Foxtel. While staying here, guests will also have access to the large swimming pool, spa, tennis court, and games room. Undercover parking and additional parking under security camera surveillance means you can leave your car with piece of mind while you explore the beautiful and vibrant Hervey Bay area on foot. With its location on the Esplanade, White Crest Luxury Apartments offers guests easy access to Torquay Beach. The Esplanade and surrounding areas are also home to a wide array of shops and restaurants. Hervey Bay is home to many whale watching tours during the late winter and early spring. Ask the White Crest staff about the tours in the area, including whale watching, Fraser Island tours and more. These tours can be booked online, or through the friendly staff at White Crest. To organise you Hervey Bay getaway this winter, book into White Crest Luxury Apartments Hervey Bay by visiting whitecrest.net, or calling (07) 4297 6800.

Luxury Self Contained 1, 2 & 3 Bedroom 2 Bathroom Apartments • Fully equipped Kitchen and own Laundry • Solar heated Swimming Pool & Spa • Full size day / night Tennis Court • Games Room with Pool Table & Play Stations • Secure underground car parking • Tour Desk for information & bookings

Tourism and Events Queensland / Vince Valitutti

◗ BEACH GETAWAY: White Crest Luxury Apartments Hervey Bay is a great place to get away. PHOTO: CONTRIBUTED:

397 Charlton Esplanade, Torquay, Hervey Bay FREECALL: 1800 100 808 | Ph: 07 4197 6800 | www.whitecrest.net

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White Crest Luxury Apartments 

Thursday, June 15, 2017 suratbasin.com.au - Advertorial -

Experience Magical Mooloolaba at 84 the Spit Holiday Apartments By Shannon Hardy

For beachfront and ocean view apartments on Mooloolaba, look no further than 84 the Spit. As the weather starts to cool, why not make your escape to one of the few seaside vacation towns on the eastern coast with a north facing beach. This 10 storey complex of two and three bedroom apartments sits right on the beach, with no road to cross. Each unit is self-contained with its own kitchen and laundry. Free wi-fi, televisions with Foxtel, and a heated pool, there is plenty on offer. The secure undercover parking means you leave your car and explore the surrounding area on foot.

Ocean View Beachside Apartments As its name suggests, 84 the Spit is located of the famous Mooloolaba Spit. Along the same stretch you will find the Yacht Club, among many other sights. With shopping galore and places like the Surf and Bowls Clubs, and Underwater World, there’s

plenty to see and do on a day out. If you are visiting during whale watching season, why not take advantage of a tour out of Mooloolaba to see them. Australia Zoo is also only a short drive away to continue your fix of animal fun.

If you book and stay during the month of June, 84 the Spit has some fantastic winter deals. Stay five nights and only pay four, or make it a week long break with their pay five, stay seven offer. Book online at 84thespit.com, or call (07) 5444 1642.

MAGICAL MOOLOOLABA 84 THE SPIT HOLIDAY APARTMENTS

Absolute lute Beachfront Loca Location No Road To CRoss This June Stay for 7 Nights and Pay for 5!

• Direct boardwalk & beach access • Spacious 2 & 3 bedroom apartments • Upper floors with spectacular views • Short stroll to Cafes, Surf & Yacht Clubs Subject to availability. Not valid during school holidays or peak periods.

Phone: 07 5444 1642 E: info@84thespit.com – W: www.84thespit.com

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Contact: 84 The Spit & La Mer, Mooloolaba

HOLIDAY FEATURE

suratbasin.com.au Thursday, June 15, 2017

Clubb Coolum

Private retreat is your own piece of paradise

◗ BLISS: Clubb Coolum is a great place to have a winter getaway.

PHOTO: CONTRIBUTED

UNINTERRUPTED ocean views from your own private balcony in the heart of Coolum: What more can you ask for? Clubb Coolum’s 65 self-contained two and three bedroom units each offer their own private balcony; the perfect place from which to sit back and enjoy the amazing ocean views. During your stay, you will also have access to all that the 11 storey Clubb Coolum has on offer. With a heated pool, spa, sauna, gym, tennis court, games room, and free wi-fi on site, you will hardly want to leave this luxurious holiday destination. But if getting out and about is what you like, Clubb Coolum is an ideal destination. Opposite Clubb Coolum is a popular surf beach, patrolled year round. With a number of golf courses nearby, it easy to spend a morning playing a round. Or lace up your sneakers and hit the track up Mount Coolum or just go for a long walk along the beach and boardwalk. The Coolum area is also home to fantastic shopping allowing for the perfect winter getaway. When it’s time to eat, take your choice from making use of your unit’s own kitchen for quiet nights in, one of the barbeque areas around the property, or Clubb Coolum’s own licenced restaurant. If going out is more your style, Clubb Coolum’s location in the heart of Coolum Beach’s esplanade means you’re only a short walk from Coolum Surf Club and a wide array of eateries the Coolum area has to offer. With low season prices continuing during the school holidays, now is the perfect time to book. Contact Clubb Coolum via clubbcoolum.com.au, or on (07) 5446 3888.

Magical June!!!...... $165.00* per night min 3 night stay Valid until 23rd June 2017 *Terms and conditions apply

Luxury 2 & 3 bedroom ocean front apartments • Heated pool & spa Full size tennis court • Wi-Fi • Gym & games room On site restaurant • Barbecues & undercover parking

enquiries@clubbcoolum.com.au

www.clubbcoolum.com.au

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5446 3888

Thursday, June 15, 2017 suratbasin.com.au

HOLIDAY FEATURE

Noosa Pacific Resort

Relax in style in beautiful Noosa NOOSA Pacific Resort offers luxury accommodation in the beautiful surrounds of Noosa. With two and three bedroom apartments offering both water front and garden side views, Noosa Pacific Resort is a true one-stop-shop for your vacation location. Within the privacy of the resort you’ll find barbeques, a pool, gym, sauna, tennis court and a jetty where guests can moor their boats. Spacious balconies from which to enjoy the Noosa sunset complete the package. Secure undercover parking means you can explore the area on foot with piece of mind. These self-contained units range from two bedroom single floor spaces to luxurious two-storey penthouses and a town-house style apartment. The larger spaces make for the ideal long term stay location. Getting out and about in Noosa is well worth your time. The iconic Hastings Street is close by for a great shopping experience. Four and five star restaurants are all over the Noosa area, and Gympie Terrace is a popular ‘eat street’ with tastes from all over Australia and the world. Being located in Noosa means an abundance of attractions nearby. The Eumundi Markets, open every Wednesday, Friday,

◗ IDYLLIC: The glittering waterfront of Noosa Pacific Resort.

PHOTO: ORIN O'ROURKE

and Saturday, offer food and fresh produce stalls, original and handmade artworks, furniture, toys, jewellery, and much more. Animal lovers can visit Australia Zoo or, during the later winter months, can join a whale watching tour. Noosa National Park and the Sunshine Coast Hinterland offer

a great outlet for the more adventurous holiday-goers. Pack a picnic and take in the picturesque landscapes. During the month of June, Noosa Pacific Resort is offering a stay five, pay four special to kick start your winter holiday. To book, visit noosapacific.com.au or call (07) 5449 9444.

For June Bookings Stay 5 Pay 4 or receive 10% off a booking of 3 nights or more.

Email: info@noosapacific.com.au Web: www.noosapacific.com.au

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Ph: 07 5449 9444 Free Call: 1800 671 544

Noosa Pacific Resort

HEALTHY WEALTHY AND WISE

suratbasin.com.au Thursday, June 15, 2017

Healthy weight loss program turns 12

Chocolate Frog Diet is unlike any other

◗ BIRTHDAY BASH: Red Frog Diet founder, Monica Siemsen, will celebrate 12 years of business. PHOTO: CONTRIBUTED

INNOVATIVE weight loss program, the Chocolate Frog Diet, is turning 12 years old and founder Monica Siemsen is teaming up with Price Attack Grand Central to celebrate. To celebrate the Chocolate Frog Diet and Price Attack Grand Central’s combined 12th birthdays, a birthday prize package valued at over $1200 will be on offer. “Our friends Sonny and Kat from Sonny and Kat Photography, and fashion stylist Carolyn Taylor-Smith are helping us make our gift even bigger than first planned,” Mrs Siemsen said. The prize will be a program with the Chocolate Frog Diet plus four sessions with Mrs Siemsen, a full hair makeover with Price Attack Grand Central, a two-hour personal fashion styling session with Carolyn Taylor-Smith, and a before-and-after glamour experience with Sonny and Kat Photography. If you would like to win this wonderful prize for yourself or someone you know, head to the Chocolate Frog Diet Facebook page, like and share their page, and tell them why you or your friend should win. The prize winner will be contacted personally and announced on the Chocolate Frog Diet Facebook page on Friday, June 30 at 10am. The Chocolate Frog Diet is unlike most other weight loss programs on the market because as its namesake suggests, people are still allowed to enjoy a sweet treat. “It’s about real food for real people, so if people want to have a chocolate frog every

day, they can,” Mrs Siemsen said. “People need to know they can still have the foods they love while they’re losing weight. “The Chocolate Frog Diet has no shakes, no pills, and no potions,” she said. Mrs Siemsen recognises that many people don’t have a lot of time to spare, so she customises her weight loss plans for each individual. “Everyone’s time-poor these days, so I fit the program into (the clients’) lives, not the other way around,” Mrs Siemsen said. “Each program is specifically designed for them, taking into account their age, personality, home life, work life, responsibilities, body type and general health,” she said. Price Attack Grand Central owners Peter and Janelle McManus are also looking forward to celebrating their twelfth year in business this November. “Last year we moved our store into a bigger and better place – our customers are loving having more room to move and it’s easier to look at our large range of haircare products,” Mrs McManus said. “We also love our new-look salon. Our stylists are really happy being able to create in such a wonderful space. “Customer service, good advice and well-trained staff are really important to us. “We also offer a courier bag service for those clients who can’t get in to see us, we can always send products out to them,” she said.

CALL MONICA 0407 738 620 chocolatefrogdiet.com.au

Nutrition Emotional & Ongoing Support

Lifestyle Changes Weight Management Nutritional Supplement Advice

Begin your healthy weight loss journey with Chocolate Frog Diet

Celebrating their 12th year of being in business! Come in and see our brand new shop!

HEALTHY WEALTHY AND WISE

Thursday, June 15, 2017 suratbasin.com.au

Local doctors for local business in Roma

Friendly service at Maranoa Medical LOCAL doctors are what you’ll find at Maranoa Medical Centre, located just up from the Roma CBD in their fully air-conditioned, purpose-built surgery. Practice Manager Diane Stone said the local business is run by Dr Rosie Geraghty, who has worked in Roma for over 20 years. “We are a local business (...) and we pride

ourselves on our high level of professional care and patient care,” Mrs Stone said. “We see patient for all aspects of general practice including antenatal, immunisations, skin checks, women’s health, men’s health, chronic disease, workplace medicals, and more. “We now have online bookings and are happy to see new patients,” she said.

◗ WAY FORWARD: Life without Barriers' Judith Dempsey and Karen Currie.

PHOTO: CONTRIBUTED

Breaking barriers

PHOTO: CONTRIBUTED

~MMC~

Currie, said they are always working hard to ensure they are offering the highest quality services. “We provide quality friendly service, we’re flexible, and we listen to our participants,” Ms Currie said. “We’re open, transparent and honest, and we try to keep the communication open to allow for feedback. “We’re quite flexible with the hours – we can work with clients and fit into their day,” she said. Life Without Barriers are looking to recruit more staff across the Darling Downs. If you would like to join the team, give them a call at 4616 3106 or email agedcaredarlingdowns@lwb.org.au.

Maranoa Medical Centre

 Care Plans  Antenatal Care  Excisions  Prescriptions  Online bookings  Friendly staff

27 Quintin Street Roma QLD 4455 Operating Hours: Monday - Friday: 8:00 am - 5:00 pm Saturday: 8:00 am - 11:00 am

High level of professional care for every patient. maranoamedicalcentre.com.au

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◗ HOME GROWN: Maranoa Medical Centre in Roma, Queensland.

LIFE WITHOUT Barriers is helping make lives easier right across the Darling Downs region. While the DD service is based in Toowoomba, they are currently offering domestic assistance to three people in Chinchilla and are hoping to expand their services further. Disability coordinator for Life Without Barriers, Judith Dempsey, said the Darling Downs office offers a range of services. “We offer transport, domestic assistance and personal care,” Miss Dempsey said. “We’re now able to take on packages too, which offer a range of different services. “We receive package referrals through My Aged Care,” she said. LWB Darling Downs support worker, Karen

HEALTHY AND WISE HEALTHYWEALTHY WEALTHY and WISE

suratbasin.com.au Thursday, June 15, 2017

City convenience meets country charm

Join the family at Grange Country Villas

◗ FAMILY BUSINESS: Doug and Diane Cattell are the owners at Grange Country Village.

PHOTO: PICASA

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IT’S A family affair at the Grange Country Villas with husband and wife team, Doug and Diane Cattell, owning and operating the village for the past eleven years. Building a family-owned business, the Cattells welcome all their residents to embrace the community that has become like a close-knit family. According to their daughter Kay Bauld, Mr and Mrs Cattell strive to deliver a level of personal service and establish close relationships with all the residents of the village. “The retirement village is family-owned and operated, so there’s a real family feel,” Mrs Bauld said. “Because we’re country people dealing with country people, we deal with our residents on a very personal level. “We get to know the residents very well and they get to know our families too. “They’re all a part of our family,” she said. Located in Pittsworth, the Grange Country Villas offer all the convenience of being close to Toowoomba City, but retains the country charm. “It’s good for people who need to live closer to the city, but it still has that country feel,” Mrs Bauld said. “We’ve got 23 units so it is a small retirement village and everyone knows each other really well. “My parents are very hands-on at the village and like to spend a lot of time with the residents,” she said. Grange Country Villas also offers the security of a 24-hour medical call service, and all villas are designed with mobility assistance in mind, featuring wheelchair-accessible bathrooms, doorways and halls.

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Thursday, June 15, 2017 suratbasin.com.au

HEALTHY WEALTHY AND WISE

It’s more than just a place to live

Enjoy your time at Village on the Downs WHILE many retirement villages focus solely on providing a place to live, the philosophy behind the Village on the Downs is to provide a place for residents to really enjoy their retirement. Sales manager for Village on the Downs, Mary Goodall, attributes this aspect to the group’s founder, who wouldn’t settle for anything less when his mother was heading into retirement. “Our founder, Michael Harrison, was looking for a retirement village for his mum and couldn’t find one that fit the bill,” Mrs Goodall said. “And he responded to that by developing retirement villages that he believed would have made his mum proud. “His drive was to develop places that over 65s could feel safe and secure, where they could remain physically and socially active, and where they could truly enjoy the third phase of their life,” she said. For residents at Village on the Downs, life is all about staying independent and socially involved and there are a range of activities on offer to keep their bodies and minds active. Whether it’s joining Tai Chi or music appreciation groups, playing cards or Mahjong each week, going out on a day trip, singing in the choir, playing indoor bowls, or enjoying a book in the library, there’s an activity for most interests.

◗ ACTIVITIES: Residents at Village on the Downs enjoying themselves with regular activites.

“In the years before Village on the Downs was founded, the retirement village model wasn’t as focused on enjoying your retirement,” Mrs Goodall said. “Because most of them were add-ons to church facilities or other care centres, they were really more about providing a place to live, rather than a retirement lifestyle. “But Village on the Downs really focuses on residents living and loving their retirement dream,” she said. Located in Harristown, Village on the Downs offers convenience and accessibility to shopping centres, leisure activities, medical centres, and more. “Selecting the right location for all of our villages is an important factor,” Mrs Goodall explained.

PHOTO: CONTRIBUTED

“People want to remain close to the communities they have built, close to their friends and family, and close to the transport and medical services they know. “And while the variety of on-site activities and proximity to shops means our residents are essentially in a self-contained village, they are also only 3.5km away from central Toowoomba where they have easy access to everything else they may need or enjoy.” Village on the Downs can also assist you in accessing services through government-subsidised home care packages and other community services, such as daily meals, cleaning, laundry, medical and nursing, transport, and allied health care like physiotherapy, podiatry and audiology.

Life is full of ups on The Downs Retire in style and comfort at The Village on The Downs. The Village on The Downs is a thriving, integrated retirement

community located just 3.5 kilometres from the Toowoomba CBD. For our residents, life is all about remaining independent and socially involved. There is a number of regular activities for residents – whether it’s joining a Tai Chi class, playing cards, enjoying a day trip, singing in the choir or playing indoor bowls – there’s bound to be something that appeals to most interests. With spacious 2 & 3 bedroom villas, 24 hour security, prizewinning landscaped gardens, and a handily placed shopping centre next door, you’ll feel right at home amongst our warm, vibrant group of like-minded Villagers. Call Mary today on 4636 7777 to discuss your villa options.

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HEALTHY WEALTHY AND WISE

suratbasin.com.au Thursday, June 15, 2017

Debunking age old myths about aging LET’S be honest; we’re all getting older. Ageing begins on birth and continues over our lifetime. Each person experiences the ageing process in a different way, depending on their gender, culture, education, geographical location, economic situation, environment and the culmination of life events. Every generation has an opinion on the ones before and after it, and as you get older, you may start to come across some negative attitudes about ageing. Rather than conforming to these myths and stereotypes, defy them and remind people those in the over-50s age bracket are still in the prime of their lives.

Myth one: all old people are unwell.

This myth is mostly untrue, as the majority of older people are healthy and active, particularly those between 50 and 80 years.

Myth two: older people are an economic burden on society.

The older generation give so much more to society than common myths assume. This myth is not only untrue, but the complete opposite, with older people making a significant contribution to the economy. Each year they spend $895 million on domestic travel, they donate generously to charities and their unpaid work as carers and volunteers is valued at almost $39 billion per year.

Myth three: older people are unable to learn or change.

◗ BUSTED: Myths about aging are often only partly true.

PHOTO: PATRICK GORBUNOVS

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■ Know what you need

You may have a big house that you no longer really require. Maybe consider selling up and moving into a smaller, cheaper home.

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Over 50s are defying this myth in large numbers, with increasing numbers of older people pursuing university or community class studies. Many seniors have embraced learning new things and understanding these skills will allow them to take part in new activities and leisure interests.

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Your Pharmacy Chinchilla

They’ll take the time to meet your needs PATIENTS and customers will always have their personal needs met in a friendly way at Your Pharmacy Chinchilla, owned by Mark and Julie Woodward. A recent addition to the team is pharmacist manager, Katie Porteous, who said she will always be available to speak with patients one-on-one. “Something that is really important to us is taking time with everybody to understand their personal needs,” Miss Porteous said. “Everybody has the opportunity to discuss medication-related issues and they’ll always have an opportunity to speak with me as a pharmacist. “We have a really happy environment here at the pharmacy and I try to make sure that coming in here is an easy and valuable experience (for customers and patients). “I know that people may not always be 100 per cent coming in here – they may have chronic pain or other sorts of serious health issues – so I always make sure to take that on board and be understanding of that,” she said. Miss Porteous said Your Pharmacy Chinchilla are still providing flu vaccinations at the pharmacy. “For the last couple of years, flu vaccines have been available

◗ FRIENDLY FACES: Your Pharmacy Chinchilla pharmacist manager Katie Porteous with owners Mark and Julie Woodward. PHOTO: CONTRIBUTED

to get through the pharmacy,” Miss Porteous said. “It’s a service we offer to patients over 18 years, and it just provides a lot of convenience and affordability for people who don’t have time to go the the doctor,” she said. While the first peak period for colds and flus may be almost over, Miss Porteous said vaccinations are still available. “We’re in flu season now and we also get a peak in October, so it’s definitely not too late if people want the protection for later in the year,” she said. The team at Your Pharmacy Chinchilla are also happy to help with medication checks as part of a Government initiative. “Many patients are eligible to have an appointment with their pharmacist to discuss medication-related issues,” Miss Porteous

said. “People who are on five or more medications, or who have recently had a medication change in hospital, can have a one-on-one appointment in a private area with their pharmacist. “It’s a great opportunity for people who may have questions about why they’re on certain medications, or how their medications may interact between each other and their lifestyle,” she said. Your Pharmacy Chinchilla currently have one full-time pharmacist and are looking to expand their services with an additional pharmacist. If you would like to join the team at Chinchilla, please call 4662 8588 or email yourpharmacy32@optusnet.com.au.

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OPINION OPINIONS

Thursday, June 15, 2017 suratbasin.com.au

Worksite deaths should be punished DAN MCGAW

ETU South West Queensland State Organiser

ANOTHER week another worker killed on a worksite in Australia. This time two workers were crushed to death when a concrete panel fell on them while they ate their smoko. How in this day and age can we sit back and continually ignore workplace deaths? Workplace Health and Safety is everyone business. Workers, supervisors and companies managers all have roles to play to ensure that every worker goes home safe every day. But unfortunately there are businesses that ignore simple WH&S procedures and recklessly put workers lives at risk. We do not live in the 3rd world. We cannot put a value on a workers life, nor should businesses budget for safety breeches. How do we curb the disturbing number of workplace deaths? The government needs to introduce Industrial Manslaughter. If a company knowingly puts a worker at risk and the worker is killed, someone needs to go to jail. If I drink drive and then kill a pedestrian, I go to jail. Why shouldn’t the same laws apply to businesses? Until managers and company directors are held accountable for workplace deaths, the issue will not be taken seriously. Currently if a company fails to comply with the Workplace Health and Safety Act and a worker is killed, the maximum fine for the corporation is $1.5 million and $300 000 for the individual. Is this all human life is worth? $1.5 million is a few hours production for big corporations, so when these fines are so low, why would they care? We need industrial manslaughter introduction now. Kill a worker… Go to jail.

Protect frontline services from assault

Independent CSG umpire in the works

PAT WEIR

RHYS TURNER Queensland Director APPEA

Member for Condamine

THE State Government is moving to establish an independent umpire to help resolve disputes between gas companies and landholders over negotiated agreements. The gas industry works with thousands of landholders across Queensland. In the past five years, more than 5000 land access agreements have been successfully negotiated and more than $238 million paid to landholders. While we don’t see evidence of any widespread issues, we believe the principle of an independent umpire is worth supporting. Legislation to establish the new Land Access Ombudsman is currently before Parliament. If passed, the new ombudsman will provide a free alternative to legal action between gas companies and landholders. The new ombudsman will help resolve disputes where a conduct and compensation agreement or make good agreement is in place. The former outlines the activities that can be undertaken by gas companies and any compensation that applies, while the latter outlines how gas companies will restore any water bores affected by their activities. The new ombudsman will also be able to give advice to both parties and recommend investigations by relevant government departments. As the Minister for State Development; Natural Resources and Mines Dr Anthony Lynham says, agriculture and resources are both critical sectors of the Queensland economy and the two must often co-exist. The gas industry certainly believes that good working relationships with landholders are essential. The timely and transparent resolution of any disputes in a fair and balanced way is in everybody’s interests. While APPEA is still reviewing the legislation in detail, it’s hoped that the new ombudsman will further strengthen co-existence between natural gas and agriculture. Queensland continues to show the way in ensuring that natural gas and agriculture work and succeed side-by-side.

PROTECTING frontline emergency workers from assault whilst carrying out their everyday duties is an important part of the LNP’s plan for a better Queensland. The hard-working men and women who work in our emergency services already have a tough job they don’t need the added worry of being physically attacked whilst on duty. There needs to be tougher penalties imposed upon those who treat emergency service workers as punching bags. What is of great concern is the increase in the number of violent incidents occurring against the very people whose job it is to protect us. There have been 176 ambulance officers assaulted state-wide in the first four months of 2017. Paramedics Australia released statistics indicating physical attacks on members across Queensland have increased by almost 20 per cent compared to five years ago. Paramedics now have to undergo self-defence training to better protect themselves from violent members of the community when simply doing their job by responding to an emergency situation when they should be helping people not defending themselves. The LNP policy to protect frontline emergency workers will include introducing minimum penalties for serious assaults, someone convicted of a serious assault will be sentenced to a minimum of seven days in jail. Stronger penalties are only part of the answer however they do re-enforce the message that it is not acceptable to assault our hard working emergency services workers. Police, paramedics and firefighters who are our frontline protection during an emergency will all be protected by this policy. Whilst in government the LNP increased the maximum penalty for serious assault on emergency service workers from seven to fourteen years. The LNP policy builds on those previous changes, if you are convicted of a serious assault on one of our emergency services workers you will go to jail full stop.

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OPINION

suratbasin.com.au Thursday, June 15, 2017

20,000 reasons to write-off assets DAVID LITTLEPROUD Member for Maranoa

DOES your small business need new computers, a website or car? Now’s the time to take advantage of the Federal Government’s $20,000 instant asset write-off to help grow your small business. As we’re coming to the end of the financial year, I really encourage small businesses in the Surat Basin to investigate the government’s instant asset write-off (IAWO) measure. Now, remember this amount isn’t cumulative – it applies to each and every purchase under $20,000. This is a huge increase from the former $1000 asset write-off

with the government recently announcing the $20,000 IAWO would be extended for another year and I want to make sure bush small businesses will take advantage of one of the biggest Federal Budget announcements for the sector. The write-off doesn’t have to be tangible, it can cover website development for your business – the cost just has to be less than $20,000. Whether you’re a barber needing new shop floor, a real estate agent who needs a car or a café owner who needs an industrial dishwasher – this initiative is not only great for updating equipment but also, if you buy locally, you’ll be helping out other businesses too. This Coalition Government was serious about growing rural small business There are more than 25,500 small businesses in Maranoa and I’d like to see this number grow because when small businesses

are doing well, we have more jobs in our region. Our tax cut to 27.5% backs small business and I’m proud this government is cutting red tape and has extended the IAWO to help small businesses pursue their dreams.

The $20,000 instant asset write-off – what it means:

■ The instant asset write-off allows small business – with a turnover of up to $10 million –to claim an instant deduction on capital equipment with a value up to $20,000. ■ The measure started on May 12, 2015, and was scheduled to finish on June 30 this year before it was extended in the 2017-18 Budget.

Rego on the rise again under the Palazczuk Labor government ANN LEAHY

Member for Warrego

Car Rego on the rise again

FOR the third year running the State Labor Government has increased the family car registration by 3.5 percent which is more than twice the inflation rate. The Katter Australia Party, One Nation and cross benchers voted with Labor in the State Parliament last week to ensure Queensland families are slugged with higher car registration. Contrast this with the LNP who in Government froze car registration costs for the three years. The LNP have committed that any future rises are kept in line with CPI – not double the inflation rate like we’ve seen under this State Government.

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Jail time for assaults on police, ambos and firies

Our frontline emergency services workers have a tough enough job protecting the community and they should not have added worry of being physically attacked on the job. All too frequently I hear reports of this happening. Under an LNP Government we have promised that those convicted of serious assault of police, paramedics or emergency service workers will serve a mandatory minimum sentence of seven days behind bars. This is about sending a strong message to the community – if you assault our frontline emergency services workers, you will go to jail under and LNP Government.

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r�e� y�� u � �� e � a e� s 3 4 � � �� Budget for Invest in y the long haul

your future

Be wary of scams

Plan your estate

Start thinking about insurance

Check your will

Check your will Without a valid will, an administrator will be appointed to manage your estate, which may cause your family plenty of problems. To save them the stress, ask a solicitor to draw it up for you and make sure you and two witnesses sign it.

Plan your estate Think of your estate plan as your family’s stress-free action plan that they can turn to for guidance when you pass away. It should cover all of your documents, contacts, debts, bills and assets so your family can easily figure out what to do with them.

Budget for the long haul Australians are living longer than ever – which means your retirement savings also need to last longer. Create a long-term budget that will help you live the lifestyle you want – and don’t forget about healthcare costs. Then comes the most important part of a budget – sticking to it.

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Invest in your future From boosting your superannuation to investing in shares, understanding your investment options can make a huge difference to your retirement savings. When you start investing – and you should start early – make sure you have a mix of investments to spread your risk.

Be wary of scams Investment scams are on the rise in Australia, with perpetrators directly targeting retirees to access their superannuation funds. Protect yourself by never giving out your financial details over the phone or by email. And be suspicious of anything that sounds too good to be true.

Start thinking about insurance Many insurance policies expire at a certain age, leaving you without cover. And if yours comes from your superannuation fund, it could be eroding your savings. From age-based insurance policies to products that cover funeral expenses, you should seek professional financial advice to develop a plan that is appropriate for you as you enter retirement.

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OPINION

suratbasin.com.au Thursday, June 15, 2017

Health in focus for Commission RUTH WADE Chair, GasFields Commission Queensland

ONE of the new tasks assigned to the GasFields Commission in the recent Scott review and now in draft legislation waiting to go before Parliament is a focus on health, particularly health matters related to Coal Seam Gas (CSG). The Commission convened a think tank on health issues and CSG recently in Toowoomba. The meeting brought together key community support groups, government departments and gas industry representatives with the aim of understanding the extent of existing data and information held by various entities and exploring mechanisms

to ensure a coordinated response to community health concerns regarding CSG. The Commission and Queensland health are working together to progress the outcomes of that session. The Commission will now facilitate a health stakeholder reference group to identify the specific questions remaining in the community about health and CSG and address areas where more information is needed. A technical working group will support the reference group by summarising the data we already have, responding to questions with factual information and initiating research as and where required. The Commission will convene and provide secretariat support to these groups. There is already a lot of work going on this area and the

Commission, members of the reference group and key organisations will play a central role in ensuring that the information is communicated to regional communities as it becomes available. The Commission will act as a conduit for the community on health and wellbeing issues related to CSG, providing information and referral services. By convening these groups the Commission can work closely with key stakeholders, including Queensland Health, service providers, academia and other experts to ensure those concerns are addressed. This is another way the revamped Commission is performing its functions to support communities living in and around the gas fields in Queensland.

Business confidence is on the rise across Surat Basin

FROM a business community perspective, it seems like there is some confidence returning to the market. I am not sure margins have returned to the state they were but we are seeing more activity in a whole range of fields. As always, I am glad we work and live in the region we do and we are travelling far better than some of our colleagues up north. To capitalise on some of this activity, TSBE is taking our events on the road for the next few months. On June 15, our

monthly Enterprise Evening, which are always focused on a theme of new opportunity, will be in Roma where we will hear from Santos and Senex about what they are up to in the year ahead. I am sure you will see increased activity in the CSG sector. Whilst in Roma we will also get an update from the Maranoa Regional Council on their Roma saleyards project. In August, we return to Brisbane at the State Library of Queensland before heading back out to Dalby in September. We are in a good space at the moment and we need to continue to work hard to ensure we capitalise on the opportunities. We have a range of renewable projects being spoken of, and we see lots of interest from people outside the region looking to

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relocate here because of the new infrastructure coming our way, our energy security, and our low cost of living. We are also seeing more enquiry and interest in intensive agriculture, and in value adding some of our products. It has been a tough couple of years for those involved in the CSG sector so it is pleasing to see more activity as the operations phase of the industry now start to show some more activity. I think what we are seeing now is what will consider "normal business" from here on in. Find out more about the Enterprise Evenings in Roma and Dalby in the coming months at www.tsbe.com.au/events.

The Queensland Murray-Darling Committee (QMDC) and the Millmerran Landcare Association invite community groups and individuals to a free workshop that aims to give confidence in writing cut-through grant applications. The workshop will focus on Common types of grants: government, corporate, philanthropic funding and what funding bodies looking for, reality checking project for eligibility and funding potential, turning a project idea into a plan and how to write a funding submission in just twenty minutes. The day is facilitated by Sam Morris from Wombat Creative, who host highly interactive workshops; participants are asked to come

with a sense of adventure and a willingness to jump in and learn. The workshop is supported by the QMDC and Millmerran Landcare through funding from the Australian Government’s National Landcare Programme. The National Landcare Programme is an initiative of the Australian Government Department of Agriculture. The workshop will be held at the Murilla Room at Dogwood Crossing in Miles on Thursday, June 20, from 9am - 2:45pm. RSVP by June 20 to Murilla Landcare Coordinator Claire York on contact 4627 2125 or email Murillalandcare1@bigpond.com For more information visit: www.QMDC.org.au.

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IN THE NEWS

Food Leaders Australia

Ben Lyons steps down from role as FLA CEO FOOD Leaders Australia CEO Ben Lyons has announced he is stepping down from his role with the company after accepting a private opportunity in the region. Dr Lyons returned from China in 2015 as Toowoomba and Surat Basin Enterprise CEO, before going on to direct the growth of then-newly formed Food Leaders Australia organisation as CEO. Dr Lyons said his time as FLA CEO had been marked by major milestones in the region for agriculture, producers, and agribusiness. He said some of the highlights included working alongside other stakeholders to establish the Cathay Pacific freight flights through Brisbane West Wellcamp Airport as well as the first international passenger flight from the airport to Shanghai last year for AccessChina’16. “Helping to convince Cathay Pacific to believe in the region as export capable, off the back of its agricultural expansions, is a great achievement that we see every Tuesday night as the plane comes in,” he said. “It’s been rewarding to see established companies like Oakey Beef crack their China market and overcome access issues. “To see all of the horticulture companies that came on

◗ NEW OPPORTUNITY: Food Leaders Australia CEO Ben Lyons has resigned from his role.

AccessChina’16 expanding and looking to export shows the power of our region’s capability. “There’s a lot of opportunities yet to be tapped and we’ve proven that with insight, private and public investment, collaboration and innovation, our region’s story is still developing.” Dr Lyons said the QGC/Shell Western Downs Eastern Opportunities project that further developed export pathways for producers was another highlight of his work with FLA. “It’s been amazing to assist in the journey for our smaller producers, finding their own path to the export market, and that project is one that has continued long past AccessChina’16.” He said the recent second annual 400m AgTech Investment

ExprEssions of intErEst

PHOTO: KEVIN FARMER

Forum was another strong indicator of what could be achieved in the agribusiness space. “I’m staying in the region with my family. I believe in the region and I’m a great believer in what TSBE/FLA can achieve and the work they still have to do,” he said. “We have a pan-regional approach to how we do business, and we need to think bigger than just Toowoomba. We have to build up the regions around us and to build the capability of the wider area.” Dr Lyons finished his role as CEO at FLA on May 31, but will continue to consult for TSBE and FLA on projects including Activate China and Access Hong Kong. A general manager will be sought to fill the position.

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◗ Joel Dreier, Brian Lowe, Andrew Davis and David Brereton.

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◗ Steve Hegarty, Cameron Littleton, Warren Patch, Dallas Gibb at the Food Leaders Australia Meat Up event at Vanderfield in Toowoomba. PHOTOS: CONTRIBUTED

◗ The Food Leaders Australia’s first Meat Up event was held at Vanderfield in Toowoomba. Pictured: Bruce Vandersee and Shane Charles. PHOTOS: CONTRIBUTED

◗ Aleicia Olm, Tanya Atkinson and Justin Holzheimer at the Food Leaders Australia Meat Up in Toowoomba.

◗ Gary King, Craig Leschke and Miles Noller.

◗ A like-minded group of agribusiness operators attended the event on June 1.

◗ Georgie Uppington and Bruce Vandersee.

◗ Kimberley Jessen, Marsha Schwenke at Food Leaders Australia Meet Up hosted by Vanderfield.

Thursday, June 15, 2017 suratbasin.com.au

◗ Sarah Due, Cr Andrew Smith and Tanya Atkinson attend the Political Leader Series in Toowoomba.

PLACES AND FACES

◗ Toowoomba and Surat Basin Enterprise (TSBE) invited state leaders to share their vision with residents and businesses ahead of the Queensland election. Pictured: Cr Nancy Somerfield.

◗ The Political Leaders Series was designed for business people and the wider community to understand how party policies could affect their business. Pictured: Mayor Paul Antonio.

◗ Danny Kreutzer and Ben Brettschneider.

◗ Craig Benadie and Matt Grant .

◗ LNP Leader Tim Nicholls set out his LNP policies for the Toowoomba and Surat Basin region at the Political Leader Series. L-R: Pat Weir, Tim Nicholls, Trevor Watts, Shane Charles and David Janetzki. PHOTOS: CONTRIBUTED

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suratbasin.com.au Thursday, June 15, 2017

Proposal from First Solar

New solar project planned for Chinchilla WESTERN Downs Regional Council is assessing a development application from First Solar Australia for a 100-megawatt, 264.2ha solar farm north of Chinchilla. The Chinchilla Solar Farm proponent is hoping to spend eight to 10 months on construction, pending approvals, creating 200 jobs in the process. A spokesperson for First Solar Australia said they hoped to begin building the farm within 12 months. As the project is being assessed against the former Chinchilla Shire Council Planning Scheme (2006) as a public utility, it is therefore “code assessable” and residents, while they can object to the scheme, have no avenues of appeal in the Planning and Environment Court if it is approved. The Chinchilla Solar Farm will be on a 642.9ha parcel of land bordering Butts Rd to the north and Pelican Back Rd to the east. There are two homes 140m to the east of the project’s proposed solar array, and one 50m away to the north. A fourth home is 790m south of the lease area on the same parcel of land. According to the proponent’s development application, the project is anticipated to operate for approximately 30 years and will require up to five full-time staff to manage day-to-day

◗ SUNNY SPOT: An aerial view of the land where the solar farm is proposed, with Pelican Back Road in the foreground and Butts Road heading off to the right. PHOTO: CONTRIBUTED

operations and maintenance activities. The DA also states construction and operation workers will be accommodated “in surrounding townships” and “a worker’s accommodation camp is not proposed”.

First Solar Australia has applied to the Federal Department of Environment and Energy for a permit to clear 25 Chinchilla White Gums, with a further 95 of the vulnerable species to be left on site.

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IN THE NEWS

suratbasin.com.au Thursday, June 15, 2017

Boundary Redistribution

Electoral outcry falls on deaf ears DESPITE numerous objections from people in Miles and Chinchilla, the two townships – and many others with them – will form part of the new Callide electorate after the next state election. The objections argued that the townships of Miles and Chinchilla had shared interests along the Warrego Hwy and therefore should remain in the electorate of Warrego. The distance between the towns along the bottom of the Callide electorate – also including Jandowae and Bell – and the town of Biloela, which is the current location of the member’s office, was another issue raised in the objections. But while the Electoral Commission of Queensland’s Queensland Redistribution Commission – the body charged with the task of rebalancing the state’s electoral quotas – found those arguments to be “in many ways compelling”, “the commissioners faced the somewhat intractable issue of trying to balance enrolment and community interests”. The Commission’s report went on to say that while the Act

‘‘

The Commission appreciates that it is natural for electors to prefer existing boundaries, representatives...

meant commissioners were entitled to weigh community interest concerns as they find appropriate, “in the case of Callide, there is an issue relating to the electorate’s enrolment that must take first priority”. “The Commission appreciates that it is natural for electors to prefer existing boundaries, representatives, and the communities with which they are familiar. However to accommodate the wishes of the objectors from Miles and Chinchilla, it would be necessary to make numerous changes to neighbouring electorates in circumstances where the electors in those areas had not raised any objection to the initial proposal,” the report stated. What this means is that the localities north of Bogandilla,

◗ SET IN STONE: The finalised Callide electoral boundaries.

Drillham, Miles, Columboola, Greenswamp Crossroads, Hopeland, Brigalow, Warra, Jimbour West, Jimbour East and part of the Nangram suburb north of the Condamine River are now part of the Callide electorate. One Nation Candidate Sharon Lohse will run for the seat of Callide, as will Katter Australia Party’s Robbie Radel.

PHOTO: ECQ

The LNP and ALP are yet to announce candidates for the seat of Callide. At the time of going to print, The Surat Basin News understands the LNP’s preselection process for the seat of Callide was to be completed on June 12.

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IN THE NEWS

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suratbasin.com.au Thursday, June 15, 2017

Surat Basin News Published by Chinchilla Newspapers Pty Ltd 12 Mayne Street, Chinchilla, Q 4413 Printed by APN Print Warwick General manager: Erika Brayshaw

The Flower Shed opens in Miles

Snake bite leads to a dream job WHEN Paula Toohey was bitten by a snake last year she decided it was time to follow her passion, and her dream of one day opening a flower shop began to bloom. “Last August I got bitten by a King Brown and I had conversation with the kids when I got to hospital in Toowoomba that I need to start doing something for me,” Ms Toohey said. “You become a mum and you pretty much lose your identity and it just went from one thing to another, I always had a passion for flowers so I started on the verandah at the cafe and it just went from strength to strength.” Ten months later Ms Toohey has swung open the doors to The Flower Shed in style, with a grand opening attended by more than 50 Miles locals and close family and friends, including Councillor Andrew Smith. Ms Toohey, an Irish native and single mum, also owns The Creek Cafe in Miles. Her new venture is the culmination of months spent renovating the cafe’s storage shed with the help of some skilful friends. “One of my friends, a builder from Origin, came here on his days off and he just did everything along with another friend. Lots of friends chipped in and helped,” she said.

‘‘

I always had a passion for flowers so I started on the verandah at the cafe and it just went from strength to strength. “I think there has been a market for a florist in Miles for a while and for me, after the gas boom, it’s what you have to do as a single parent - it’s survival,” she said. “It’s a family run business but the kids aren’t here much, they take care of everything at home. This is who I am, it’s my passion and I am doing something that is such a treat. When I’m stressed I come in here.” Ms Toohey’s travels to Brisbane to select fresh flowers for the business and said having no formal training in floristry works in her favour. “I don’t think I ever will do any training because when you do

◗ IN FULL BLOOM: Paula Toohey has officially opened the doors to her new business in Miles, The Flower Shed.

that it becomes so commercialised and I think you lose your sense of creativity. “I travel to Brisbane once a week depending on how busy it is and go to different suppliers and pick them fresh and try to get something unique which is really good.” She said she doesn’t know where she draws inspiration from

PHOTO: JULIA BAKER

when putting together bouquets but tries to ensure they are personalised. “I can’t explain it, it just happens. “When I know I have an order I ask who it’s for and if I know them, I take a bit of information from people who are ordering and get a feel for the person.”

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