Croydon Shire Council
Safety,NewAttractions, andCouncilEngagement
HiallinincredibleCroydon,
Aswemoveintothehottermonths,theweather hasalreadybeenheatingup,andthewindsare picking up speed. We all know it’s going to get even hotter in the coming months, so I’d like to remind everyone that with cyclone season just around the corner, it’s time to get your yards and kerbs cleaned up Please remove any rubbish, vehicles, and debris to help prevent hazardswhensevereweatherstrikes
Council inspections will take place during the lasttwoweeksofOctober,solet’sworktogether tokeepourcommunitysafeandtidy.
Onabrighternote,I’mhappytoannouncethat the Splash Park is now up and running! It’s the perfectwayforresidentsandtouriststocooloff, though there’s still a bit of work and finishing touchestobedonebeforethegrandopening A huge shout-out to the crew who worked tirelessly to get the park up and running – your effortsareverymuchappreciated
Unfortunately, with the season changing, bushfiresarestartingtocreepback.Sunday,22 October,weexperiencedalargebushfireabout 30 kilometres out of town, past the turn-off on RichmondRoad.
Our amazing firefighters were kept busy until Tuesday, and as always, we’re incredibly gratefulfortheirhardworkanddedication
Councillors undertook Elected Member Update (EMU) training on Tuesday, 12th of September with LGAQ representative Nathan Ruhle (Intergovernmental Relations), Samantha Dean (Campaign Manager) and Brett Johnson (Member Support & Engagement). Councillors had the opportunity to provide feedback on a number of key initiatives including LGAQ State Election Platform, Advocacy Plans and Cost Shifting This valuable training assists Councillorsinadvocatingforthecommunity
Croydon Shire Council
StandingUpfortheBush: AdvocatingforFairSupport
As promised in the last Bush Tele, I’d like to share more about my recent delegation to Parliament in Brisbane. One issue that really stood out was how small councils like ours are oftenoverlookedwhenitcomestofundingand grants. Time and time again, it’s the bigger councils that walk away with the lion’s share, while we in the bush are left scrambling for what we can get I made it clear to those in power this has to change We face just as many,ifnotmore,challenges,andit’shightime wegotourfairshare
AlongsideLGAQandotheradvocates,I’vebeen pushing for improved infrastructure to ensure we can “build back better” after local disasters. The upgrade of the Gilbert River bridge is a key project I’ve been fighting for, as it’s critical to ourregionbuthasbeenleftonthebackburner forfartoolong.
Another important issue we discussed was closing the digital divide In this day and age, reliable internet connectivity is no longer a luxury it’s a necessity It’s crucial not only for our everyday lives in the bush but also for improvingtheexperiencefortouristsvisitingour incredibletown.
*picturessoucedfromLGAQandvoteforlocalwebsites
Ibelieve,slowlybutsurely,ourissuesarefinally being recognised as small councils and others unite. But change won’t happen overnight, and it won’t happen without all of us standing up and making our voices heard. This is where we can make a real difference in the upcoming elections.
I encourage everyone to make informed choices about which parties genuinely support local priorities Join over 12,000 Queenslanders already checking how the major parties stack up by visiting wwwvoteforlocalcomau You’ll also find a snippet from FNQROC’s August advocacy requests further in this Bush Tele, which links directly to the site so you can makeaninformeddecisionforourfuture.
To those who love this place as much as I do, I ask you to stand by me as I continue fighting forabetterdealforthebush.
Stay safe, stay strong, and let’s keep Croydon thespecialplaceweallknowandlove
Cheers,Trevor.
Our Records Officer In the heart of the Mallee district of Victoria, on a farm buzzing with sheep, cattle, and wheat, Jan Neander’s journey began. She’s not your average records officer no, Jan’s life reads more like an action-packed novel sprinkled with outback adventures and a dash of humour.
Jan, the eldest of six, was destined to defy expectationsrightfromthestart.Drivingtractors at the tender age of six and acquiring a special licensetohandletrucksby16,shequickly earned the reputation of a pioneer in her own backyard.Despiteheraspirationstodelveinto agriculture, her mother steered her towards ‘girlie’studiesatBendigoTAFE,whereshe reluctantlymasteredtheartof businessadministration
Her career took her across the vast Australian landscape from Charlton’s TAFE campus to the Commonwealth Bank in Deniliquin But it was in Emerald, Queensland, where Jan’s inner adventurertrulyblossomed Whileadministrating at a haulage company, she casually picked up truckdrivingandevensnaggedanMClicense
Interstaterunsbecameroutine, withstorieslikebravingthe Tanami Desert storms and chainsawing dead treestofuelcampfiredinners askillthatearned herthemoniker“Janofthejungle”
Both now grown and working in WA Mines, they clearly inherited their mother’s penchant for tacklingchallengeshead-on.
In 2014, Jan met Terry in Townsville, sparking a new chapter that led to Cairns, where she traded hauling tales for dangerous goods licenses and transportingaviationfuelacrossthe Tablelands Georgetownsawherwearing manyhatsataminingcompany,fromcrunching numbersinfinancetomanoeuvringawatertruck throughruggedterrains
With Terry by her side, the couple eventually settledinCroydon,wherethey’recurrently laying roots and preparing for their dream home Amidst gardening, baking (thanks to her loyal chooks), and fishing expeditions to Karumba or Lake Belmore, Jan finds time to ponder what’s next More adventures around Australia beckon, butthistime,shevows,withoutthesteeringwheel inhergrip.
Jan’s life wasn’t just trucks and storms;shemanagedtoraisetwo childrenamidstherescapades.
As Jan Neander continues to chart her course throughlifewithunwaveringspiritanda knack for turning every detour into a delightful story,onethingisclear:theworldneeds moreJanofthejungletales.Her resilience,humour,andzestforlife areaninspirationtousall.
The Newest Addition to Our Mechanical Workshop
Born in the small town of Mt Surprise, Dave Fitzgerald’s journey led him to Croydon when he was just a young boy in grade 2.
He finished high school at All Souls in Charters Towers before heading back to Croydon, where he landed a job with council as a loader driver and water truck operator. But it wasn’t long before Dave’s knack for all things mechanical saw him take on an apprenticeship as a mechanic It was during this time that he met Claire, a council administration trainee who wouldbecometheloveofhislifeandhisgreatest supporter “Ifitwasn’tforClaire,I wouldn’thaveachievedhalfofwhat Ihave,”headmitswithacheekygrin
Thelovebirdsgotmarriedin2009 andtogether,DaveandClairedecidedto explorenewhorizons,travellingacross the Tablelands and beyond, where Dave took on varioustruck-drivingroles In2013,hejoinedM&G Crushing, where he oversaw operations at quarriesinHughenden,Richmond,andWinton,all whilecompletinghismechanicalapprenticeship
Eventually, the family relocated to Atherton, buyingahomesotheirtwokids oneboyand one girl could attend high school without the hassleofboarding.Familyhasalwaysbeenat thecenterofDave’slife,andheandClairemade thebolddecisiontostarttheirownventure.
Theypurchasedawatertruck,butnotwantingto compete with the family business, Dave relocatedtoCroydon,leavingClaireandthekids in Atherton. It wasn’t easy being away from his family,butwithClaire’sunwaveringsupport,they madeitwork.
“CominghometoCroydonislikehittingthereset button,”Davesays “Ilovetherelaxedlifestyle,the friendly people, and the sense of freedom this town gives you” The couple wasted no time securing two blocks of land, with plans to build a house where the whole family can reunite once thekidsfinishhighschool
WhenDaveisn’tburiedunderthehood of a car or fixing up machinery, you’ll likely find him fishing with 12-year-old John or enjoying camping trips and bush walks with his family And where does he see himself in 10 years? “Running the workshop and relaxing in my nice house overlooking the creek,” he says with a laugh
Withhispassionformechanicsanddeep-rooted family values, Dave Fitzgerald is a welcome addition to our mechanical workshop and a greatexampleofhardworkanddedication.
ORDINARY COUNCILMEETING SCHEDULE2024
InaccordancewithSection2548oftheLocal GovernmentRegulation2012,CroydonShireCouncil advisesthatitsOrdinaryCouncilMeetingswillbe heldattheCouncilChambers,63SamwellStreet, Croydoncommencingat9.30amunlessotherwise notified,onthefollowingdates
Thursday,17October2024
Thursday,21November2024
Friday,13December2024
Mayor Trevor Pickering tpickering@croydonqldgovau 0427456188
Councillor Mandy Pickering mpickering@croydonqldgovau 0429672058
Councillor Leslie “Frosty” Pickering lpickering@croydonqldgovau 0407178528
Councillor Wayne Bing Chew
Meetingagendasandminutesareavailableon Council’swebsitewww.croydon.qld.gov.au
Councillor Jonathan Evans jevans@croydonqldgovau 0429577603
CEO Jacqui Cresswell jcresswell@croydonqldgovau (07)47487100
BUSH TELEGRAPH
NEWS ITEMS FOR CROYDON’S BUSH TELEGRAPH
Ifyouhaveanynewsitemsfor ournewsletterpleaseemailto: admin@croydon.qld.gov.au
Itemswillbeapprovedat Council’sdiscretion COUNCIL IS COMPILING A CROYDON SHIRE EVENTS CALENDAR AND NEED YOUR INPUT!
Kindlyshareyour2024event details,includingconfirmed dates,withusat: library@croydon.qld.gov.au
FOR THE BUSH TELEGRAPH ADVERTISING RATES, PLEASE CONSIDER:
¼page: $15.00perissue ½page: $20.00perissue Fullpage: $30.00perissue
Ifyouwouldliketoreceiveour newsletterviaemailpleasesend yourrequestto: admin@croydon.qld.gov.au
wwwcroydonqldgovau
CroydonShireCouncil
admin@croydon.qld.gov.au
47487100
CROYDON’S BUSH TELEGRAPH
Dog&Cat registrationsfor2024
Croydon Shire Council would like to remind all owners of cats anddogstoregistertheirpetswithCouncil.
Registrationsarevalidfor12months(1Julyto30June)and mustberenewedeachyear
Registrationfeesare:
$11.50perentiredog/cat
Freefordesexeddog/cat(evidencemustbeprovided)
Permitfeeforkeepingmorethan2dogs-$48.55pereach additionaldog.
RegistrationscanbemadeattheCroydonShireCouncilAdministrationOffice between8.30amand4.30pm,MondaytoFriday.
Ifyourequireanyfurtherinformation,pleasecontactCouncil’sRecordsand AdministrationOfficer,JanNeanderon(07)47487100oradmin@croydon.qld.gov.au.
Early Childhood Teacher
Working with the Croydon Child Care Centre
CroydonShireCouncilisseekingtheservicesofanEarly ChildhoodTeachertoworkwiththeCroydonChildCare Centre.
TheEarlyChildhoodTeacherwillneedtoworkwiththeservice foratleast20percentofthetimethattheserviceprovides educationandcare.Thiscalculatestoeightandahalf(8.5) hoursperweek.
UndertheEducationandCareServicesNationalRegulations theEarlyChildhoodTeachermaybeworkingwiththeservice bymeansofinformationcommunicationtechnology,this maybecalculatedonaquarterlybasis.
Theserviceislicensedfor21approvedplaces. Pleaseemailyourexpressionofinterestto admin@croydonqldgovauincludingacopyofyour qualificationandworkingwithchildrenbluecard.
Forenquiriesabouttheposition,pleasecontact, StephenFrost,BusinessManageron47487100
NEWS UPDATES && Progresson
Council’skeyprojects
Thewaterparkfeaturesareinlinewithour GoldRushthemeandutilisetheCroydon ShireCouncil’scolourpalette Wearelooking forwardtotheofficialopeningonceallwork iscompleted
Thedesign,inspiredbyourgoldheritageand theironmetalsheetsusedinthepast,isan eye-catcherbydayandstunningatnightwith itslightfeature.Itisstillunderconstruction, andlandscapingwillenhancethedesign.
Constructionforthisimpressivearchaeological siteisinfullswing,revealingmoreofthedesign. CombinedwiththeHeritageFestival2025,itwill featureanunmissableopeningceremony.
Croydon Shire Council
CroydonSplashPark
CroydonEntranceSign
ChineseTempleSite
STAYINFORMED,STAYSAFE, STAYCONNECTED
EmbraceasaferfuturewiththeCroydonCommunitySafety Network,anewsystemdesignedtodeliverreal-timeemergency alertsandkeepyouconnectedduringunforeseenchallenges. Registerforpeaceofmindandbepartofaresilientcommunity thatstaysonestepaheadofadversity
DIDYOUMISSTHERECENT UNPLANNEDWATEROUTAGE NOTIFICATION?
InstantAlerts
Ournewsystemsendsreal-timenotificationstoyour mobiledevice,ensuringyou'realwaysup-to-datewith importantinformation.
NotificationsforUtilitiesandRoadIssues:
Stayinformedaboutdisruptionstoessentialservices, suchaswater,power,androadaccess.
CommunitySupportinSevereWeather:
Unitewithyourneighbourstofacechallengeslikestorms andfloods,fosteringresilienceandcamaraderie.
SimpleRegistrationandPeaceofMind:
Registeringisabreeze Emailyourfirstname,lastname,andmobile numbertoadmin@croydon.qld.gov.auorcall0747487100. WiththeCommunitySafetyNetwork,youcanrelax,knowingyouandyour neighboursareconnectedandpreparedforanyemergencyorimportant updates.
Croydon Shire Council
ColdCallingScams
Whatarecoldcallingscams?
These scams involve fraudsters calling customers, pretending to possess prior knowledge about them or their accounts. Scammers often falsify information and convincingly engineer the call to seem legitimate. Sometimes, an SMS is sent prior to the call, appearing as if it's from a reputable business, like your bank. They use a method called CLI overstamping, which displays a different numberfromtheonetheyarecallingfrom,makingitseemlikealocalcall.
Warningsigns:
Asenseofurgencyorthreatiscreated (eg,accountaccess,lockedaccount, unauthorisedpayments).
You'reaskedtoprovidepersonaloraccount details(eg,passwordsorPINs)
You'reaskedtotransferfundsintoa"safe" account.
Requeststoclicklinksintextsoremails (e.g.,"checkyoursettings").
Protectyourself:
Don'tgiveintopressure
Neversharepersonaloraccountinformation, evenifthecallerseemslegitimate.
Contactyourbankorcompanydirectly, usingofficialphonenumbers.
Accessofficialwebsitesorappsdirectly,not vialinks.
Don'topenattachmentsordownloadapps. Don'tclickonlinksintextsoremailslegitimatesourceswon'tsendlinksinSMS.
Yourbankwillneveraskyoutotransfer moneyto"keepitsafe.
John, a resident of a small Outback town, receives a call from a supposed lottery representative informing him of a big win The caller asks John to share personalandbankaccountdetailsfor"verification" SCAMSCENARIO-Thebiglotterywin:
John wisely declines, contacts the official lottery organisation directly, and discovers it was a scam Remember: always verify such claims through official channels and never share sensitive details overthephone.
Croydon’s Croydon’s Mens Shed Mens Shed
Every Saturday morning When? Where? at the old mechanic workshop, on Samwell Street, Croydon
Ladies welcome... Ladies welcome...
in the mechanic workshop, or alternatively, we offer pottery activities
Join Ozzie at the rec grounds for morning or afternoon sports
Youth sports: Mon & Wed 4:30 - 5:30 PM
Adult fitness: Mon & Wed 5:30 - 6:00 AM Fri 6:30 - 7:00 PM
Adults practical self defence fitness: Mon, Wed & Fri 5:30 - 6:30 PM
Pottery Pottery withtheladies withtheladies
Next to the old mechanic workshop, on Samwell Street, Croydon Where?
Tuesday evenings Tuesday evenings
From 6:30PM
& &
Saturday mornings Saturday mornings
From 9:00AM
Indulge in an hour or two in the company of Kay & Sonya, as they illuminate the enchanting realm of pottery.
Immerse yourself in the artistry, drawing inspiration from others' masterpieces, or simply share tales over a cuppa.
There are soft drinks for sale and donations are most welcomed to keep the magic flowing.
Everyoneiswelcome; however, individuals under the age of 16 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian at all times. Those aged 16 to 18 are required to have a parent or guardian collect them from the premises for safety reasons.
BIG
HUSBANDJACK OF THE
GULFSAVANNAH GETAWAYPACKAGELUELLA&HER
The winner of our Big Gulf Savannah prize package, which we awardedinMay,wasLuellafromBrisbane SheandherhusbandJack enjoyedtheirgetawayrecentlyandhadatrulywonderfuljourney.
We extend their thanks to our partners for their unforgettable adventure. They enjoyed great experiences from one end of our region to the other: from soothing soaks courtesy of Unearth Etheridge and Talaroo Hot Springs to a Marrija Culture Tour led YagurliToursinBurketown
OverthreenightsinCroydontheyenjoyedprizesfromCouncil,Kickin’ Kitchen,TWT,andtheCroydonCafe&Supermarket.Theywerefuelled up courtesy of Gulf Gate Roadhouse and Gulf Savannah Development
Thegiftpackagewassofulltheycouldn’tfiteverythingin–havingto misstheOrderoftheOutbackBallandarideontheGulflander.
Carpentaria and Burke Shires were nonetheless enjoyable stops on their journey. Lu and Jack were even lucky enough to experience the “MorningGlory”cloudsrollinginovertheGulf.
It was a packed schedule – they’ll need a holiday homefromtheirholiday!
EXPERIENCED THE GULF SAVANNAH
Croydon Rural Library
The Croydon Shire Library has been bustling
with activity these past few months, offering a wide range of engaging events and activities for all ages. The afternoons have been filled with laughter and creativity as participants put their minds to work crafting marvellous works of art.
Speaking of art, the library recently hosted
a Paint and Sip event, which was enjoyed by all attendees Our CEO even managed to astonish us once again with her impressive masterpiece.
We eagerly anticipate many more exciting events in the coming months and hope you can join us. A hub of
In partnership with Indigenous Literacy, we were able to host a Book Giveaway, allowing every child to take home two books to enjoy with their families What a great incentive!
Please feel free to visit the Croydon Rural Library at the Matron Morrow Hall. We're open Monday to Friday, from 8:30am to 4:30pm, and closed on weekends and public holidays.
Croydon Croydon Swimming Swimming Pool Pool
Lifeguardonduty
Childrenunder10yearsofagewillberefusedentry unlessundertheactivesupervisionofaperson16years ofageorolder(thisdoesnotnotincludethelifeguard)
Free Entry
OPENING TIMES
12pm to 5pm every Sunday, Monday & Wednesday
Parentsmustcompleteapoolentryconsentformandprovidetothe poollifeguardforchildrenusingtheCroydonSwimmingPool
Parentsofyoungchildrenmustbepreparedtoswimwiththeirchildren
Stayhomeifyouaresick
Council reserves the right to close the pool at anytime.
SPLASHPARK
The Splash Park is open and currently operating at limited hours Watch this space, more development is planned in the near future.
No glass permitted within the fenced area.
Alcohol is strictly prohibited in this area, and the Splash Park is officially classified as an alcohol-free zone.
Council reserve the right to close the park at any time without notice.
Keep an eye out for our Grand Opening Ceremony at the completion of works.
Mental Health and Wellbeing Grants available
TheCommissionisofferinggrantsofupto$150,000forinitiatives toenhancementalhealthandwellbeingoutcomesfor Queenslandcommunities.Ifyou’reanon-government,not-forprofit,orcommunityorganisationthathasaninitiativethat, Supportsandpromotesmentalhealthandwellbeing,Preventsthe impactofmentalill-health,Encouragesearlyhelp-seeking, Improvesmentalhealth,wellbeing,alcoholandotherdrugs,or suicidepreventionliteracyandunderstanding Thenyoucouldbeeligibletoapply!
Whats invisible and smells like carrots?
Rabbit farts
Jokes to Brighten Your Day Jokes to Brighten Your Day Jokes to Brighten Your Day
What’s the difference between a literalist and a kleptomaniac?
A literalist takes things literally. A kleptomaniac takes things, literally.
I finally realised that people are prisoners of their mobile phones, that’s why they’re called a cell phone!
I recently took a pole. And found that 100% of the people in the tent were angry when it collapsed.
Which celebrity is always ready for cereal?
Reese, With her spoon.
When Chuck Norris does a pushup, he pushes the Earth down.
EEvents vents UPCOMING UPCOMING 2024 2024
CHOOK WHEEL RAFFLES
AT THE AT THE CLUB HOTEL CLUB HOTEL
RUN BY RUN BY CROYDON CROYDON FISHING & BOATING CLUB FISHING & BOATING CLUB
EVERY 2ND FRIDAY FROM 7PM
FRIDAY NIGHTS
CHOOKWHEELRAFFLES
AT THE CLUB HOTEL
0 4 / 1 0 / 2 4
1 8 / 1 0 / 2 4
0 1 / 1 1 / 2 4
1 5 / 1 1 / 2 4
2 9 / 1 1 / 2 4
Link: https://www.fnqroc.qld.gov.au/files/media/original/005/ 5f7/5c6/830/State-Advocacy-Requests-Report.pdf
CURRENT REGIONALLY IMPORTANT ISSUES TO US INCLUDE:
Bridges
Roads
Housing Shortage
Digital Infrastructure
Income and Financial Sustainability
Regional Plan
Water (Agriculture)
Water (Dams)
Water (Urban Infrastructure)
Resource Recovery and
Waste Management
Mountain Biking
Disaster Recovery Betterment
Gravel Pits new ILUA requirements
BRIDGES
1
REPLACEMENT OF THE KURANDA BARRON BRIDGE
The replacement of the Kuranda Barron Bridge needs to have an expedited process before load limits are decreased further.
This critical infrastructure serves as a vital connection for residents and businesses, and any delay in addressing its structural integrity could have severe economic and social impacts. We urge the State Government to prioritise and fast-track the replacement process to ensure the safety and efficiency of this key transport link
2 GILBERT RIVER BRIDGE
Per previous requests, there has been a lack of support for developing a business case for upgrading the Gilbert River Bridge from a low-level single-lane bridge.
Department of Transport and Main Roads has not supported this initiative nor discussed whether they would undertake the business case if funding were received We request confirmation of a business case to be undertaken to understand the longterm view of the Gilbert River Bridge and possible upgrades to ensure the region’s infrastructure meets current and future needs
INCOME AND FINANCIAL SUSTAINABILITY
1
We propose reducing the amount of competitive grants and increasing the availability of noncompetitive grants for very small regional Councils.
Competitive grants often favour larger, more resourced Councils, while smaller Councils struggle to compete Non-competitive grants tailored for small regional Councils will enable them to focus on essential projects that drive economic growth in regional Queensland
2 REDUCING THE AMOUNT OF COMPETITIVE GRANTS
DELAYS IN GRANT PAYMENTS CAUSING COST BLOWOUTS
Significant delays between when Councils are informed of a successful grant application and payments are causing significant cost blowouts for projects.
This issue is exacerbated in Far North Queensland, where the wet and dry seasons dictate construction schedules Projects often can only be undertaken during the dry season, and delayed payments hinder timely project commencement and completion
We urge the State to expedite grant payments to align with the region’s unique climatic conditions, ensuring projects are delivered on time and within budget
REGIONAL PLAN
It is crucial to promote the Far North Queensland (FNQ) Regional Plan by initiating public consultations prior to the Queensland state election.
Engaging the community in the consultation process will ensure that the regional plan reflects the needs and aspirations of the local population.
This approach offers a clear economic development trajectory to support investment in the region and inform decision-making.
WATER (Dams)
POLICY CHANGE REQUEST FOR 30-YEAR ROI IN BUSINESS CASE EVALUATIONS:
The current policy of using a 30-year return on investment (ROI) framework to assess dam projects in Queensland is inadequate Dams, with lifespans of 100-150 years, offer benefits far beyond this timeframe, as seen in regions with long-standing dams that have experienced substantial economic growth and resilience
Key Points:
1 Long-Term Economic Benefits:
Regions with dam investments, like those studied in the report, show significantly stronger long-term economic performance compared to those without such investments These benefits often become evident decades after the initial investment.
2 Lagging Benefits and Market Evolution:
Benefits from dam infrastructure, such as shifts to high-value crops (e.g., avocados in Atherton Tablelands), typically emerge well beyond the 30year mark. Evaluations need to account for these delayed yet substantial economic impacts.
RECOMMENDATIONS
Extend the Evaluation Period: Extend the ROI evaluation period to at least 50 years to more accurately reflect the long-term benefits of dam projects
Broader Benefit Metrics:
Include metrics that capture indirect benefits, such as increased agricultural productivity and regional economic resilience
Long-Term Benefit Realisation Plans:
Implement frameworks for long-term benefit realisation and periodic reviews to systematically track and document extended benefits
Adopting these recommendations will enable better investment decisions, ensuring long-term prosperity and development for Queensland’s regional communities.
3
Indirect and Synergistic Benefits:
Dams spur the development of related infrastructure and industries, creating synergies that amplify their economic impact Current ROI frameworks often fail to capture these indirect benefits
HOUSING SHORTAGE
1 REGIONAL FUNDING TO IMPLEMENT IDENTIFIED ACTIONS
To address the ongoing housing crisis in Far North Queensland, it is imperative to secure regional funding to implement the identified actions from various strategic plans.
These actions are crucial for tackling housing shortages, improving affordability, and ensuring sustainable community growth
By allocating targeted funding, we can effectively address the specific needs of regional areas, support economic development, and enhance the quality of life for residents.
DIGITAL CONNECTIVITY
REQUEST
• More strategic governance of state funding to programs (such as Mobile Black spot Program and Regional Connectivity Program) to meet actual needs of remote people.
Mobile Blackspot Audit
FNQROC has undertaken a mobile blackspot audit on our heavy vehicle and tourism routes within the region. These routes totalled over 5,100km and it was found that 3,550km (~70%) was in a blackspot (3G and 4G). Within capital cities and the surrounds, this would be less than 1%, highlighting the continuing digital divide.
It is recognised that these blackspots will not be eliminated overnight, it is also recognised that a strategic prioritisation plan to reduce these blackspots is also required To develop this strategic prioritisation plan it would require working with (but not limited to):
• Telco’s to understand their future plans
• Dept Emergency Services to identify their priority areas for coverage
• •
• Transport/Agricultural/grazing/mining industries. Dept Transport to understand their future capital projects and incident cluster areas in blackspots Ergon/Powerlink to understand their future capital projects.
It is also understood there are a significant number of microwave tower/transmitter locations across the region, which are at the end of their life. The taxpayer paid for these assets and we are seeking to understand if these could be used to improve mobile communications.
AUSTRALIA’S LEAST DIGITALLY INCLUDED RURAL AREAS ARE NORTH WEST QLD (52.6) COASTAL QLD (55.4).1
RESOURCE RECOVERY AND WASTE MANAGEMENT
MINDFUL OF FUTURE IMPLEMENTATION REQUESTS:
As the FNQROC Resource Recovery Plan progresses to the next phases of implementation, we request that future implementation requirements be considered and supported
Support from the State in the form of funding, policy alignment, and technical assistance will be crucial to ensure the successful implementation of these phases
FOR DISCUSSION
STATE TARGETS AND REGIONAL CHALLENGES
The State’s waste management and resource recovery targets present significant challenges for the Far North Queensland region, which need to be considered when making policy and legislative decisions.
Key challenges include:
1 Low Economies of Scale and Large Transport Distances:
The FNQ region faces inherent difficulties due to its vast geographical area These factors result in low economies of scale for waste management operations and significant transport distances, which increase costs and complicate logistics State policies and targets must be adaptable to account for these unique regional characteristics
2 Regulation of PFAS and PFOS:
The regulation of polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) and perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) presents additional challenges for the region, particularly in managing green waste and biosolids These substances can be present in biosolids, which are used in agricultural applications, and in green waste, which is often composted and used to improve soil health. Stringent regulations are hindering Councils ability to process waste.
Addressing these challenges through tailored policy measures, funding support, and flexible regulatory frameworks will be essential for the FNQ region to meet State waste management and resource recovery targets
DISASTER RECOVERY BETTERMENT
Publication by QRA reports that the 2023 performance data reveals that out of 423 betterment projects subsequently impacted by natural disasters, 79% experienced no damage or only minor damage. This resilience translates to substantial cost savings; for example, an investment of $174 million in these projects has resulted in approximately $397 5 million in avoided costs
FNQROC Councils would agree with the statement on enhancing community connectivity and resilience in a region’s economy that is affected each year with weather events. With this knowledge we are advocating for an increase in the amount of betterment going forward, this will reduce the Council’s reliance on DRFA funding into the future
In order to aid the State and Federal Government; funding to identify priority locations for betterment projects would be an initiative that FNQROC dearly needs and would support
GRAVEL PITS NEW ILUA REQUIREMENTS
FOR DISCUSSION
The State Government, which manages the hundreds of quarry licenses scattered across the outback, recently changed its interpretation of the Federal Native Title Act 1993.
It means Councils must form Indigenous Land Use Agreements (ILUA) with the native title holders for each individual gravel pit That process can take more than 12 months, but many Councils have been notified that their current permits will expire within months
According to the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries (DAF), the change was made in 2020 when native title interests conflicted with the Forestry Act 1959.
REQUEST
We request that the State Government grant an extension for Councils to secure Indigenous Land Use Agreements (ILUA) due to recent changes in the interpretation of the federal Native Title Act 1993. This extension will allow the State to better understand the impact on Councils and develop an appropriate plan for moving forward, ensuring that emergent works after events can continue without disruption
You’re invited to Gulf Savannah NRM’s GrazingForum for the Northern Gulf region. 9am–4pm Tuesday 19 November
Georgetown Shire Hall
Workshops and speakers on virtual fencing, safe stock handling, biosecurity, innovative tech, succession planning, and climate updates for the season ahead. Morning tea and lunch provided. Register your free place at bit.ly/gulf-grazing-forum.
Contact Vickie to book a free trade table: vickie.mylrea@gulfsavannahnrm.org or 4092 1088.
This project received grant funding from the Australian Government
JOIN THE ADVENTURE!
Scouts Queensland’s ScoutReach program provides flexible, virtual, and remote Scouting for young people in rural and remote Queensland, who wish to participate in Scouts by undertaking Scouting at home!
For more than 90 years, Scouts Queensland has provided a Lone Scouts program to support participation of Scouts in rural and remote areas, expanding over the years to welcome youth members who have personal and work circumstances make it difficult to regularly meet with a local Scout Group
From 5 to 26 years old, joining ScoutReach means you can still take part in a range of fun adventures Scouts has to offer, even if you do not have access to a local Scout Group If you have ever wanted to be a Scout but thought you lived too far away or had no fellow Scouts your own age, ScoutReach might be for you!
ScoutReach operates like a distance learning group with:
Program meetings provided via Microsoft Teams by experienced Scout Leaders (with communications via email, internet, and mail)
Regular program resources available so that members can make the most out of their Scouting
Overnight and holiday meetings, activities, and camps
Opportunities to participate in other Scout Group activities that are nearby
Opportunities to participate in Queensland, National and International Scouting Events
There is a set of criteria that applicants must meet to join ScoutReach:
Must live a minimum of 12 km from the nearest Scout Group, or
Cannot access their local Scout Group due to their personal needs or is attending a boarding school with after school activities that are prescribed, such as sport, extra specialist classes (eg. Music), or
Cannot participate locally due to work commitments (eg Shift work), or
Member of a regional Scout Group who cannot access their age program at a particular time, through their local Scout Group (ie No Scout, Venturer Scout, or Rover Scout Unit at their local group)
One Program
One Journey
From 5 to 25 years
To express interest in joining ScoutReach, please contact the Group Leader via email contact@scoutreach scoutsqld com au or visit our web site - scoutreach scoutsqld com au
What is Scouting?
Scouts is Australia’s largest youth leadership
people Surveys prove that
future How does this happen? Through the Scout
Scouting delivers to our community resilient
people who have gained leadership experience, are physically active and who care for others
Goodbye 3G. Good
bye 3G!
Try Telstra’s new SMS device checker tool. For Telstra customers: To find out if your mobile phone is impacted SMS 3 to 3498. The 3G network is shutting down from 28 October 2024. Act now to stay connected. If you need more help, talk to their experts.
IMPORTANT: EMERGENCY CALLS TO TRIPLE ZERO (000) IF YOUR DEVICE DOESN’T SUPPORT VOICE OVER LTE (VOLTE) EMERGENCY CALLING, YOU WON'T BE ABLE TO MAKE EMERGENCY CALLS TO 000 ON THE TELSTRA MOBILE NETWORK AFTER OUR 3G NETWORK CLOSES.
CLINICHOURS
Monday - Friday
Weekends & Public Holidays
"Please call 4748 7000 prior to attending to avoid delays "
Our phones are diverted to a message bank at close of business or if we are out on a call-out. Alternate options are:
•Leaveamessage
•Call000
•Call13HEALTH(13432584)
• Call Police Link on 131 444
• Call RFDS 4040 0500
When attending the clinic, please bring your Medicare card and concession card to all visits. Failure to do so may result in being charged full price for medication.
Medication must now be paid for at time of consultation. Croydon accepts EFTPOS cards only for payment. Prices are charged as per the CHHHS Schedule of Costs.
Croydon Clinic stock only a limited amount of medication We are not a pharmacy Pharmacy can be ordered from Karumba Pharmacy and delivered free to Croydon Clinic on Tuesdays 9AM - 12PM 2PM - 4PM 10AM - 12PM
Scripts
Please make sure you have enough medication on hand in case of cyclones and flooding. The clinic only stocks a selection of medications for emergency situations. Whilst we can organise replacement scripts, getting your medication to you can be an issue during severe weather.
Contact your pharmacy and make sure you have repeat scripts and ask for extra (if permitted) to have on hand This also includes over the counter medications like children’s Panadol, worm tablets etc.
Flu & Covid Vaccinations
Nurses
Nurses working in single nurse clinics are entitled to 10 hours fatigue after out of hour callouts whether in the clinic or via ambulance.
When a nurse is going on fatigue, it will be posted on the Croydon Primary Health Care Clinic Facebook site and a notice will be placed on the door
During these periods, ONLY emergencies will be seen. Call 000 for these emergencies. Our nurses need their rest periods, and it is essential you respect the nurses during this time.
Flu vaccinations are now available at the Clinic. Covid vaccinations are available every fortnight. Bookings are essential. RFDS will be continuing the Covid-19 vaccination program fortnightly. They will be administering Pfizer. Appointments are limited. Call the Croydon Clinic to register your interest. Please call 4748 700.
Patient Travel Subsidy Scheme
People living in rural and remote areas are entitled to patient travel to the nearest specialist. Travel referral forms are to be completed prior to travelling. If your referral has been provided by a doctor other than RFDS, that doctor will need to complete the referral form. Patient travel forms can be obtained at https://www.qld.gov.au/health/ services/travel/subsidies/ptss-forms or use our QR code. For more information, go to https://www.qld.gov.au/health/services/travel/subsidies
Outreach Visit
- PHYSIOTHERAPY -
From the Atherton Tablelands Allied Health Team
he outreach Physiotherapist visits Mt Surprise, inasleigh, Forsayth, Georgetown and Croydon on a 3-day rip 5 times each year.
hysiotherapists provide individual assessment and management for a range of conditions including:
Musculoskeletal injuries including fractures & muscle/joint pain
Balance/walking difficulties/falls prevention
Recovery after surgery, for example total knee replacement
Pelvic floor health / return to exercise after pregnancy
Lung conditions including emphysema and bronchiectasis
Neurological conditions such as stroke, nerve damage, spinal injury
Burns
Physiotherapy treatment generally consists of:
Exercise prescription
Mobility aid prescription
Strapping/taping
Facilitation of correct movement patterns
Patient and carer education
Manual therapy
If you think you may benefit from physiotherapy intervention, please discuss with the visiting RFDS Doctor or your local clinic nurse. If indicated, they will send a referral to us to follow up with you at our next visit. There is also Telehealth available where consults can take place via videoconferencing as appropriate.
Renee Silvestro (Physiotherapist)
McGregor (Social Worker)
0458 510 938 21st - 23rd October 2024
Mt Surprise, Einasleigh, Forsayth, Georgetown and Croydon on a 3-day trip 5 times each year.
Elouise
Social Work
WHAT IS SOCIAL WORK?
From the Atherton Tablelands Allied Health Team
Social Work is an Allied Health Professional Discipline.
Social Workers are dedicated to helping people achieve optimum levels of personal and social wellbeing.
This Atherton Hospital Social Work service provides support in the Health setting in the Community - Counselling, Education, Advocacy individual & group settings. Social Workers can be accessed in the Community setting, and can also be accessed in Rural & Remote Communities via Tele Health/Video conferencing.
Atherton Community Social Work can provide assistance for consumers in the Remote areas accessing:
Anti- natal care in the Outpatient setting, Consumers receiving Chemotherapy in an Outpatient setting, Consumers in a Community setting including youth to aged care needs.
Carer support.
Palliative care concerns.
Tele Health allows for consumers to have access to services sooner, removes the need to travel to another center for care and allows interaction with Social Worker in a familiar environment.
