6 The Coalfields EXPRESS
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EMERALD received a return visit from Delores Enns from sister city Altona, 30 years after she was crowned Altona Sunflower Queen and won the trip as part of an exchange program. This time she brought daughter Kate (the current title-holder) who was named after an organiser of Emerald’s festival in 1984, Kate Dunbar. Delores, Kate and the rest of her family stayed with 2013 Central Highlands Sunflower Queen, Marita Hales.(pictured) BLAIR ATHOL MINE is another step forward in re-opening, with New Emerald Coal, subsidiary company of Linc Energy who took over the mine from Rio Tinto last year, receiving Government approval for the transfer of its mine lease. The Plan of Operations was expected to take a further three weeks to be assessed and approved. NEC Executive GM, Jason O’Rourke said mine operations are expected to begin later this year. “We are committed to employment agreements and will continue to keep short-listed employees informed.” EMERALD Show Society’s Jess Crawford has great taste in shoes. Local store Stiletoes provided her footwear when she met the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge as a rural ambassador and representative of regional shows. “They’re nice shoes” said Kate. Take a bow Stiletoes! BANDANNA ENERGY’S SPRINGSURE CREEK coal mine hasn’t totally convinced local landholders it will be an example of how underground mining and agriculture can co-exist. Five objections were lodged on behalf of nearby owners who aren’t satisfied with plans regarding underground water supplies and subsidence. “Even though the miner says “The proposals don’t make provision for returning the land to its cropping capability – the mines say “yes we’ll do it but we won’t tell you how because we’ll work it out as we go along.”
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Sunny souvenirs locally made Fridge magnets and stubby holders are facing stiff competition in Emerald’s Visitor Information Centre as the first port of call for travellers now boasts an impressive range of unique, locallymade merchandise, some inspired by the town’s famous Van Gogh Sunflowers painting. Other items include bags of sapphire wash, coasters inspired by Emerald’s mosaic walk and miniature replicas of the Sunflowers complete with mini easel. “Key rings and stickers will always be popular but the Central Highlands has so many distinctive attractions that it makes sense to also offer an authentic memento of those,” said Co-ordinator, Robyn McGovern. “It’s also a way of highlighting the talented people in our community – crafts people, wood workers, and helping them promote their product to a wider audience.” The push to stock locally-produced items began when the Central Highlands Development
Volunteer Judy Dexter displays some locallymade souvenirs. Corporation took over management of the Visitor Centre last year. It has since employed a Tourism Development Officer and undertaking volunteer recruitment and training as part of a commitment to better meet the tourism industry’s needs. Anyone wanting to stock their products or volunteer can phone Ms McGovern on 4982 4142.
High profile speakers at conference Michael Pascoe, one of Australia’s most respected and experienced business and finance commentators will be MC and special guest speaker at the Investing In Our Future conference in Emerald on May 20 and 21. BMA’s Asset President Lucas Dow will join Mr Pascoe to provide the latest update on their activities including Caval Ridge Mine and Hay Point Expansion Stage 3, along with G V K Hancock’s new CEO, Darren Yeates. The Conference includes site visits, keynote addresses, panel discussions and trade exhibition all focusing on the economic pillars of agriculture, resources, tourism and construction. “Analysis of the size, turnover and nature of businesses in the Central Highlands indicates that these sectors are driving broader economic activity and growth,” said CHDC General Manager, Sandra Hobbs.