MOUNT MORGAN ARGUS
UNWAVERING COMMUNITY COMMITMENT
After an extraordinary 41 years of unwavering dedication to the safety and well-being of the Mount Morgan community, Kevin Porter will retire from the Queensland Fire Service on 14 June 2025.
A truly familiar and respected figure within the Mount Morgan Fire Brigade, Kevin has been an unwavering presence, responding to countless emergencies and offering invaluable support to residents throughout his nearly four-decade tenure.
His profound commitment has undoubtedly shaped the safety and resilience of Mount Morgan, and his departure marks the end of a truly significant era for the local fire service.
Born and raised in Mount Morgan, primarily in the suburb of Baree, Kevin's journey into emergency services was inspired by a desire to help his community.
"I always wanted to help people and our community," Kevin reflects, recalling his teenage years in Baree. The sight of his older brother, Edwin, who joined the Fire Service as an Auxiliary in 1972, racing into town at the sound of the fire siren, left a lasting impression.
"I said that I was going to do that one day and become an Auxiliary," he recounts.
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And he did, with a passion. Kevin joined the Queensland State Emergency Service (SES) in 1978, followed by the Fire Service on 10 July 1984. Not content with just two vital roles, he also joined the Queensland Ambulance Transport Brigade as an Honorary Officer in 1985. This multifaceted commitment to public service has defined much of his adult life.
Kevin's retirement from the Fire Service aligns with the Queensland Fire Service policy of retiring at age 65, a milestone he reaches on 14 June. Over his nearly 41 years as an auxilliary firefighter, he has attended an extensive range of incidents, including many house fires, serious car accidents and large grass fires. While many of his memories are positive, he acknowledges that some incidents, particularly fatal road accidents, "leave unpleasant memories to say the least."
Despite the challenges, Kevin emphasizes the immense satisfaction derived from his roles.
"I have enjoyed the mateship and friendship of other Auxiliaries and the respect that our community of Mount Morgan has shown to
the Fire Service and also other Emergency Services," he said.
He also cherished the lighter moments, particularly "dressing up in the 'Blazer Bear' outfit and going to the local schools to do fire education and making the children and also the teachers laugh. His dedication was recognized when he was appointed to a Lieutenant's position in 2009, a role he found deeply fulfilling.
Kevin has witnessed significant evolution within the Queensland Fire Service over his tenure. He began his service with the Mount Morgan Fire Brigade Board (MMFB) which underwent several name changes over the years: The Queensland Fire Service (QFS), the Queensland Fire and Rescue Authority (QFRA),The Queensland Fire and Rescue Service (QFRS), the Queensland Fire and Emergency Service (QFES) and is now known as the Queensland Fire Department (QFD).These changes reflect the dynamic nature of emergency services in Queensland.
Interestingly, Kevin's initial career aspiration was to be a career firefighter, but a 20/20 vision requirement, due to his glasses, prevented him from achieving this. This led him to the Ambulance Service instead. However, if forced to choose a favourite among his many emergency service roles, he points to the SES, having undertaken two courses at the prestigious Australian Counter Disaster College in Mount Macedon, Victoria, during his 36 years with the service.
While stepping back from the Queensland Fire Department, Kevin's commitment to helping others remains. He has served almost 40 years in the Queensland Ambulance Service and, along with his wife Wendy, has now joined the ranks of "Patient Transport Officers" based in South Rockhampton. Unlike the Fire
Service, there is no mandatory retirement age of 65 in the Ambulance Service, allowing him to continue his valuable work.
Family has also played a significant role in Kevin's life of service. His parents, Alan and Dawn Porter (both deceased), raised him and his six siblings (three older brothers and three older sisters, one deceased) in Mount Morgan. Both his daughter and son have been involved in emergency services, and his wife, Wendy, was an SES member for many years. Demonstrating the continuation of a proud family tradition, Kevin's son, Blayne (pictured left) is now applying for his Lieutenant's position in the QFD, having also been an auxiliary fire fighter for many years.
Beyond emergency services, Kevin also served two terms on the Mount Morgan Shire Council, running for election in 1988. He aimed to "make a difference and improve the town," and though facing political challenges, he was "instrumental in establishing the Big Dam Fish restocking program," a project he is very proud of. Reflecting on his nearly 65 years in Mount Morgan, Kevin speaks fondly of his hometown. "Going to school in the Mount was awesome and most of the people in town were fantastic and I loved every minute of it."
While he completed a four-year apprenticeship as an Electrical Fitter and Mechanic with Mount Morgan Limited, he never considered a long-term career at the mine but describes as “an extremely interesting time for me to complete my apprenticeship and set me up for bigger and greater things in life."
Raising his family with Wendy in Mount Morgan has been the highlight of his life. "The Mount is an awesome place with great services and lovely people," he
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MOUNT MORGAN ARGUS DISCLAIMER
affirms. Kevin is immensely proud to be called a local and wholeheartedly recommends Mount Morgan to anyone considering making it their home.
Kevin Porter's retirement from the Queensland Fire Department marks the end of an era, but his enduring legacy of service, community spirit, and unwavering dedication will undoubtedly continue to inspire generations in Mount Morgan.
Following is a tribute to Kevin by Mount Morgan Brigade Captain, Darren Barnicoat.
Having known and worked with Kevin Porter for over 40 years – 30 of those as an Auxiliary Firefighter and Captain at the Mount Morgan Station – I can say that Kevin is not just a colleague, but a truly good friend. His impending retirement from the Queensland Fire Department on 14 June 2025, marks the end of an extraordinary era of service to the Mount Morgan community.
Kevin’s commitment extends far beyond the fire station. He’s been a long-term Local Controller with the SES and a Paramedic with Queensland Ambulance, alongside his over 40 years as an Auxiliary Firefighter, currently holding the rank of
Auxiliary Lieutenant. Whether it was with the SES, Fire Department, or Ambulance Service, Kevin has always approached his tasks with the utmost professionalism, compassion, and unwavering commitment. His dedication to the community is truly remarkable. Kevin has been an excellent mentor to many, and a person we all look up to, drawing on his many years of invaluable experience across all the emergency services. As a community, we’ve been incredibly fortunate to have not only Kevin, but also his wife Wendy, as first responders. They both bring a compassionate touch to their professional attitudes, a trait they’ve clearly passed on to their children. From the Fire Service side, these qualities are especially evident in their son, Blayne, who we hope will take over Kevin’s position as Auxiliary Lieutenant.
It’s with a heavy heart that we see Kevin retire from the Fire Department on 14 June, 2025. This isn’t by choice, but a compulsory directive within the Queensland Fire Department. On behalf of the entire team and our extended family, we want to express our deepest gratitude for your dedication, your commitment to the Fire Service and our community, and for your invaluable guidance and friendship. We wish you all the very best in your next chapter.
A SLICE OF NOSTALGIA ON THE MOUNT
Wattle Bee Next to Serve Up a Slice of Nostalgia with Iconic Cake Coins
For generations of Australians, the spine-cracked, batter-stained pages of the Australian Women’s Weekly Children’s Birthday Cake Book have been a source of birthday magic. Now, families in Mount Morgan and Central Queensland can capture that nostalgia in a whole new way.
Mount Morgan Wattle Bee Next, as a newsXpress outlet, will release a commemorative coin collection celebrating the book’s most beloved creations. This makes the local newsXpress outlet the only retailer between Gladstone and Sarina where collectors and fans can get their hands on these unique keepsakes.The Royal Australian Mint coin collection immortalises the cakes that sparked decades of birthday wishes, from the legendary Choo-Choo Train to the jelly-filled Swimming Pool and the charming Cuddly Koala.
Wattle Bee Next owner Kerrilyn Page said it’s exciting to be the only
store in the region with these coins in stock.
“The Cookbook has been an integral part of many children’s birthdays since the 80s, and as kids or adults, or both, we’ve had and made cakes from it”
Wattle Bee Next has been a registered coin dealer with the Royal Australian Mint since late 2024 and tries to receive stock of new releases when they become available.
“This release has been over 18 months in the planning and development,” she said.
To ensure no one misses out, Wattle Bee Next will be opening its doors on the Rockhampton Show Holiday, Thursday, 12 June, from 8.30 am to 12.30 pm. The collection is available in several formats, including individual $1 coins, a 10-coin collection with a chance to find a rare “chase” coin, and a deluxe 12-coin set presented in a recipe
box. A special limited-edition hardcover version of the famous cake book, bundled with a proof $1 Choo-Choo Train coin, will also be available.
Whether you remember the taste of victory or the comical chaos of a kitchen mishap, this collection is a wonderful tribute to a cherished piece of Australian culture.
Wattle Bee Next staff Stephanie and Brooke proudly display the famous cake books and coin posters
Mount Morgan Teen Sets Sights on Naval Culinary Career
A chance encounter in Townsville has set 16-yearold Zac Dobson, a Year 11 student at Mount Morgan State High School, on an unexpected course toward a culinary career in the Royal Australian Navy. What began as a trip to see the Tigers take on the Cowboys on May 31, 2025, quickly transformed into a pivotal moment for the young man, who until recently, was at a career crossroads.
Zac’s journey into the world of professional cooking is a relatively new development. For years, his fascinations lay elsewhere. “I always considered forensic science because it fascinated me,” Zac explained, adding that he also thought about a law career as he “wanted to be able to help people.”
However, an unexpected detour ignited a new passion. About 12 to 18 months ago, Zac’s father, Paul Dobson, who works as a cook at the Grand Hotel, called him in to wash dishes. It wasn’t long before Zac found himself drawn into the bustling kitchen environment.
“I started helping out in the kitchen and found I liked the kitchen environment, the pace it moves at,” Zac said.
Over time, this initial exposure blossomed into a genuine passion for cooking. He now believes he possesses a “natural flair for the culinary art,” a talent he’s been honing through a school-based apprenticeship, a Certificate II in Cookery, which he commenced in February 2025.
His newfound culinary interest took a significant turn during his recent trip to Townsville. Spotting an Australian Defence Force recruiting office, Zac decided to “call in.” That spontaneous visit led to an application for a civilian apprenticeship to become a chef in the Navy. He’s already cleared the first two hurdles of the rigorous selection process and has a few more tests remaining. If successful, Zac could find himself on a navy ship by the end of the year, embarking on an eight-year commitment to the Australian Navy.
While his cousin serves in the Air Force, Zac’s preference for the Navy stems from his love for the ocean and boats. He envisions the naval lifestyle as a positive experience, offering ample opportunities for travel and personal growth. However, Zac is also pragmatic about the journey ahead. If he doesn’t pass the remaining naval tests, he plans to return to school to finish his Senior Year but will continue applying until he achieves his goal.
Beyond his academic and budding culinary pursuits, Zac was also a participant in Season Two of Blue Eagle’s Production, Koch and Boules.
As he prepares for a potential future in the Navy, Zac, currently sporting a distinctive mullet, is well aware that his locks will have to be cut once he officially enlists – a small sacrifice for a young man ready to embark on a grand adventure.
LOCAL AMBULANCE COMMITTEE
Mount Morgan’s Local Ambulance has been with running raffles over the past month with the following lucky winners:
Mothers’ Day Raffle -1st prize - Julie (red ticket A20) and 2nd prize - Kathy (blue ticket B55). The money tree was won by Caroline with black ticket B29 and Rodeo raffle was won by Sophia with orange ticket B54.
Pictured: Zac (right) with proud dad, Paul.
Bernie Slattery’s Sentimental Journey
Just a few weeks ago, the familiar streets of Mount Morgan welcomed back Bernie Slattery, a native son whose roots run deep in the town’s rich history. His recent visit was a poignant journey, reflecting on the profound changes and enduring constants of his childhood home – a place now viewed through the kaleidoscope of time and experience.
Born in 1935, Bernie lived in Mount Morgan between 1941 and 1944, a formative period dominated by the shadow of World War II. His family’s connection to the town stretches back generations. His grandfather, Len Courtenay, was a builder of considerable ingenuity, even once dismantling two houses, transporting them 30 miles from Mackay on a flatbed rail wagon, and reassembling them. Len also worked in the Mount Morgan mine and at “The Works.” Bernie’s mother, Thelma Courtenay, was born and raised in Mount Morgan, residing on Coronation Drive.
His father, Frank Slattery, played a crucial role in the war effort as a plant operator in the Civil Constructional Corps (CCC). Formed in 1942, the CCC was a conscripted Australian wartime labour force, comprised of men aged 18 to 60 not serving in the regular armed forces. Their vital task was to construct essential infrastructure like airfields, gun emplacements, barracks, and roads, crucial for the Allied war effort.
Bernie vividly recalls the presence of American soldiers in Mount Morgan during those wartime years. The American barracks were situated in what is now the local museum building. He remembers soldiers throwing money over the verandah rail to the children below, a pre-enclosure gesture of goodwill. He also points to the site of an American Hospital, located halfway between the current doctor’s practice (once Chenery’s hardware) and the
Rainbow Café. The main street also held a chemist owned by Miles Parsons, a familiar fixture in his young life.
The Slatterly family home was at the base of hospital hill, at the intersection of Dee and Royal Lane. Straight across the road stood the Royal Hotel, a landmark built in the early 1900s by James Flaherty, who used his mine accident payout to fund its construction. Adding to the family’s legacy, Bernie’s paternal grandfather, David Slattery, was the licensee of the Shamrock Hotel from 1917-1918 which was situated near the Tipperary Flat suspension bridge. David Slattery’s brother, Thomas, resided for many decades .on top of what was known as Slattery’s Hill. The house was relocated in 1949 and the hill now features one of the towns water reservoirs. One of Bernie’s most distinct childhood memories is the dramatic crash landing of a glider being transported by a C-47 Douglas on 4 September 1943. He remembers the aircraft circling the town in distress.
In bad weather and with visibility practically zero due to low cloud, the glider was cast off at approximately 200 feet and crashlanded on rough ground adjoining the Mount Morgan Railway Station at 12:05 pm. Miraculously, there were no major injuries. The glider was subsequently stripped of its instruments and destroyed by fire.
Bernie’s last visit to Mount Morgan was just before the main street underwent its refurbishment in 2018, making this most recent trip a fresh look at familiar surroundings.
On their way into town, he and his sister Anne, even stopped in Baree, a small, nearby locality.
Bernie’s maternal grandmother Elizabeth Cahill hailed from Baree where generations of Cahill’s lived before and after Elizabeth. further cementing the sense of a homecoming.
“I love going back,” Bernie affirmed, his voice tinged with the warmth of nostalgia. His fond memories, woven with threads of family history, wartime experiences, and the enduring spirit of Mount Morgan,
Pictured: Bernie with sister Anne at the Mount Morgan Railway Museum.
ROTARY SUPPORTS YEAR 10 CAMP
The Rotary Club of Mount Morgan continues its important work in supporting local youth, recently funding a three-day trip for Year 10 high school students to the Kanomie Island Environmental Education Centre. Under the leadership of Guidance Officer, Raelene Robinson, (pictured with Billy Zane above), students had an enriching and enjoyable experience.
This immersive trip allowed students to explore the island's natural beauty, with perfect weather providing unparalleled views of coral, fish, turtles, and sea cucumbers in the clear waters.
Beyond the stunning scenery, the program focused on practical skills, with students learning teamwork by building and testing rafts. They also forged new friendships and gained valuable insights into the history and customs of the island's original inhabitants.
During a presentation to the Rotary Club on Thursday, 6 June, students shared their positive experiences. Rotarians were particularly pleased to learn that, thanks to Raelene's encouragement, Mount Morgan students maintained their impressive track record of having the tidiest rooms at the camp.
Craig Edmonston, spokesperson for the Rotary Club, emphasized the club's eight-year dedication to this "very important project," stating that the student reports consistently reinforce the profound impact of the experience, which for some, is truly "life-changing."
Submitted by Craig Edmonston
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Come down and see the friendly people at MMPAD. Contact us on 4938 2312 for prices or for further information visit us at the Railway Museum.
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Sandi Wood (nee Inslay) from Mount Morgan was born and raised within the Mount and is well aware of the needs of the Mount Morgan community.
Sandi is Mount Morgan’s funeral consultant and is available for all funeral advice.
Contact Sandi for more information and competitive prices with burials, cremations or prepaid funerals.
Sandi Wood your local consultant Phone: 4922 1269 fmckfunerals@live.com.au
PROGRAM CREATES PATHWAYS FOR FUTURE
Four Mount Morgan Women graduated from the “Prosperous Pathways” program on Thursday, 6 June.
The program is coordinated by Girls Time Out [GTO] and is making a significant impact on the lives of Indigenous women in Central Queensland.
The four girls were Paige, Savannah, Jessica and Lilly.
Jessica completed her Bachelor of Environmental Science while doing the program and gained employment while Paige started a job a week ago.
Savannah hopefully will do some valuable work with Mount Morgan Promotion and Development and Lilly will continue working remotely with GTO.
All girls are with Community Solutions in Mount Morgan.
This free, six-week initiative is designed to equip Indigenous women aged 15-35 with the skills and confidence needed to secure employment or pursue higher education.
The comprehensive program offers a blend of face-to-face and remote sessions, valuable work experience opportunities, outdoor learning experiences, and insightful industry tours, along with other tailored elements.
Participants gain crucial knowledge about various avenues to success, including Skilling Queenslanders for Work programs, job providers, education facilities, volunteer opportunities, community organizations, and essential networking within the employment sector.
A key component of "Prosperous Pathways" is the cultural mentoring provided, which focuses on individual strengths and needs, preparing participants for the demands of the workforce.
The program is open to school leavers seeking community support, job seekers, or mothers looking to re-enter the workforce, with the only requirement being that participants are no longer enrolled in school.
Girls Time Out provides in-depth guidance on crucial job-seeking skills, such as job searching strategies, tailoring resumes, developing essential employment skills, building a professional online profile, finding online vacancies, and securing work experience placements
of their choice. The program also offers assistance with enrolling in tertiary education.
The "Prosperous Pathways" program boasts a rich array of activities designed to foster personal and professional growth. Participants engage in cultural days, including visits to Mount Morgan Dam with Natalee Forder to learn the Gungulu language, and the Darumbal Dreamtime tour. Practical skill development includes developing vision boards for goal setting, completing research projects on significant Indigenous figures, role-playing individual interview processes, event planning, and public speaking exercises. An etiquette class and many other enriching activities are also part of the curriculum.
Through these activities, the young women learn vital skills including personal communication and behaviour styles, how to manage nerves, shyness, and other uncertainties, stress management in the workplace, self-regulation when triggered, preparing necessary identification for job interviews or employment, updating and tailoring resumes, writing compelling cover letters and addressing selection criteria, professional introductions, understanding Superannuation, TFN, myGov, and Medicare updates.
If you know anyone who would benefit from this Girls Time Out Prosperous Pathways program then please contact Diana, 0491 125 030, Christine, 0491 125 312 or our office, 4922 7236.
Pictured below left (from left to right) Diana Bryson, Program Coordinator, Lilly Griffiths, Savannah Alden, Shea Taylor (back) Girls Time Out CEO, Paige Palmes, Jessica Harkins – Capsanis and Christine Evans, Program Cultural Mentor.
FROM HUMBLE BEGINNINGS
Blossoming from humble beginnings the Baree Markets have been a vibrant hub in Mount Morgan for nine years now.
What started small has tripled in size, a testament to the incredible community spirit and the dedication of the Baree School of Arts Committee Inc volunteers. These markets aren’t just a place to shop; they’re a vital lifeline, with all funds raised going directly towards the upkeep of the Baree School of Arts hall.
Imagine a bustling scene, with up to 32 diverse stalls offering a treasure trove of goods. The aroma of fresh coffee wafting from a van is enough reason to pay a visit to Baree on the second Saturday of each month. There’s always a fascinating mix of bric-a-brac waiting to be discovered, vibrant plants ready for gardens, along with delicious fresh fruit and vegetables.
Local talent shines through with beautiful artwork and intricate jewellery, alongside shimmering coloured stones and unique cards.
For those with a sweet tooth, honey is a must-try, and the tempting smells of cooking fill the air. Bookworms will be delighted by the selection of novels, and no market day is complete without a sizzling sausage sizzle – and that’s just a glimpse of the many more stalls you might encounter!
The success of the Baree Markets is a real community effort, thanks to the amazing support from locals and visitors who travel from all over Central Queensland to experience the unique atmosphere.
If you’re curious to know more, or perhaps even thinking of having a stall yourself, you can easily contact Pam on 0438 584 377. For a sneak peek at the wonderful offerings each month, be sure to join their Facebook Group: Baree Hall Markets.
Digital Marketing Workshop Empowers Business
Small business owners and organisations in Mount Morgan gathered on Thursday, 29 May 2025, for an engaging and insightful digital marketing workshop. Organised by Advance Rockhampton as part of Small Business Month, the event aimed to equip local businesses with the tools and knowledge needed to thrive in today’s competitive digital landscape.
The workshop was led by renowned social media expert Liam Fahey from Lad Social, whose expertise in digital marketing and social media strategies drew ten enthusiastic participants to the half-day event. The intimate setting allowed for meaningful interactions and tailored advice for each attendee. Over the course of the workshop, participants delved into a wide range of topics designed to enhance their digital presence
and marketing capabilities. Key subjects included maximising the potential of Google Business Profiles, using social media effectively to grow a business, improving mobile photography and filming skills for better visual content and understanding cyber security basics to protect business assets
Liam Fahey highlighted the significance of adjusting to emerging digital trends.
“Platforms like TikTok and tools like AI are changing how businesses connect with their audiences. Workshops like these are critical for helping small businesses stay ahead,” he remarked during the event.
Advance Rockhampton’s initiative to host the workshop aligns with its ongoing commitment to supporting local businesses.
Soldiers Rooms
MOUNT MORGAN CITIZEN’S CLUB
What a fantastic time we had at the Big Kids Party last month! We played lots of games and saw some amazing costumes. It was a great laugh and fun to be a kid for a night!
Our next event is the Mid-Year Mardi Gras on 21 June at 7 pm.
Think vibrant Rio de Janeiro parades and lively New Orleans street parties, with banging percussion, samba music, and Latin dancing!
Karaoke Nights are continually improving, and the talent on display is truly inspiring. It encourages everyone to give it a go! Why not come and try out your favourite song?
You might just be a superstar! Join us on Saturday, 14 June 7 pm. Doors open for a gold coin donation entry.
Mark your calendars for these upcoming events:
• 26 July @ 7 pm: Men & Women in Uniform
• 20 September @ 7 pm: Gala Ball – Celebrating the Hall Anniversary, Mine Activity, and Pipeline Completion
• 25 October @ 7 pm: Boho Hippy Night
• 29 November @ 7 pm : Around the World To book the Soldiers Rooms Hall for your events, please call 0419 605 662.
For all other inquiries, including the Arts Precinct, please phone 0411 865 621.
Arts Precinct
At our last meeting, we established a day-to-day Management Committee. Faylyn Lamb is our new Exhibition and Workshop Co-Ordinator, and Loyandi De-Jager is our Social Media & Publicity Liaison Officer.
We also had enough interest from new volunteers to fill our roster, so we're thrilled to now be open 7 days a week, from 10 AM to 2 PM!
As momentum grows, we're seeing more people interested in displaying their work, offering items for sale in our retail market space, and expressing excitement for upcoming workshops and exhibitions. While ongoing works, scheduled around grant funding, will mean some short closures in the near future, for now, we encourage you to come in and have a look, sell your wares, or chat about any ideas that could help fulfill the potential of this amazing space.
Caption Photo above right - revellers at the Big Kids Party
Submitted by Kirra Swain - Secretary
Mount Morgan State High School Netball Season Highlights
The netball season has been full of highs for Mount Morgan State High School! Our Open Girls team showcased exceptional dedication and fair play in their recent game against Rockhampton Grammar School. Despite their valiant efforts, they narrowly missed out on a Grand Final berth. We are incredibly proud of their sportsmanship and commitment.
However, the excitement continues with our Year 8 netball team, who put on an amazing display against The Cathedral College, securing a well-deserved victory! This win propels them into the Grand Final, and we wish them the very best as they prepare.
We are so grateful for the strong community support. A big thank you to all the staff members who attended to cheer on our teams, and it was wonderful to see so many parents turning out to show their encouragement. Your presence truly lifts the spirits of our athletes.
Please note that the Netball Grand Finals have been rescheduled to 19 June, accommodating the Show Holiday next Thursday.
Celebrating Our Sponsors: MNG Hay!
We want to express our sincere appreciation to Matt and Nell Grange from MNG Hay for their incredible sponsorship of our netball team's new uniforms! These uniforms have been a huge hit with the girls, who are proudly wearing them this season. We've received overwhelmingly positive feedback about the comfortable fit, stylish look, and the enhanced confidence the uniforms provide on the court. Their support truly makes a difference!
Submitted by Mount Morgan State HIgh School.
ROTARY CLUB OF MOUNT MORGAN 1st & 3rd Thursdays of the monthGrand Hotel - 6 pm for 6.30 pm. Visitors Welcome! E: mount.morgan@rotary9560.org
MOUNT MORGAN RSL SUB Branch Inc Veterans Hub every Friday 10 am to 2 pm 1 Cornes Street, Mount Morgan.
DEE RIVER OLDIES
Suze Crane (pictured) was the lucky winner of the breakfast tray raffle at our May Morning Tea. There was a great turn out of members who enjoyed their morning tea and a cuppa. Dianne Coburn entertained us on the day. The music was enjoyed by all.
Dee River Oldies Group had their bus trip down to Footlights in Yeppoon and enjoyed their morning tea and a show. Afterwards we went to the Capricorn Tavern for a delicious lunch. It was a good day out with lots to see along the way.
For those members who haven’t filled in a new membership form these are still available. As we are a sub group of Rockhampton 60 & Better they have asked us to get these forms done and this year there is an admin fee of $5 which gets passed on to them.
Our June Morning Tea is on Wednesday 25 June, 2025. It starts at 10 am. The guest speaker is from the Public Trust. The cost is $5. Raffle and lucky door prizes. Our June Monthly Meeting is on 17 June, 2025 starting at 2 pm. Come along and catch up.
Check out ‘Save the Date’ on the back page of the Argus for upcoming dates for meetings and morning teas.
Stay happy and healthy.
The Dee River Oldies Group
Carol Glover 4938 1995
Colleen Constable 0427 161 131
Our region has had plenty going on over the past few weeks with issues that impact our area.
Rockhampton was host to a public consultation session on the draft Primary Industries Prosper 2050 Plan on May 26, with roughly 40 people in attendance to give feedback for the Queensland Government’s 25 year blueprint to help grow our primary industries. Agriculture is incredibly important for our region with $68 million worth of agricultural product coming out of our council area every year.
But there’s still plenty of growth opportunities and we want to make sure that we’re creating the right environment for the industry to grow not just locally but around the state.
Rockhampton was also host to a hearing on the upcoming Planning Amendment bill that will see Solar and Wind developments brought into the same planning structure as other large scale industrial developments.
The previous rules around wind effectively gave free reign to developers, and brushed away local communities, and we’re wanting to give those impacted by these developments back their say.
The hearing heard from a variety of locals about how the current laws weren’t working and that we needed to bring the community back into the discussion.
Roads are the veins and arteries of my electorate, but they’ve unfortunately not got the attention they require.
That’s why I invited the Minister for Main Roads and Transport for a two day visit to both ends of the electorate of Mirani. We started up north in Sarina, before showing him the work needing to be done on the Marlborough-Sarina Rd, and where work is soon going to begin to seal 7.2km of the May Downs Road.
In our local area,
I showed him concerns around the speed limits and risks around Bouldercombe, the guard rails on the way up to the mount that desperately need to be fixed, the changes to the Westwood speed limits that have helped with safety for that community, and concerns in Kabra around some of the high traffic turning areas.
I’ll continue to work hard to make sure that all the areas of Mirani, like Mount Morgan, are no longer forgotten, and continue to make sure the rest of the state knows how much our smaller communities contribute to our state.
MOUNT MORGAN SHOW SOCIETY
Meets on the second Sunday of every month at the Mount Morgan Showgrounds, Showgrounds Road
Jobs Expo: Wed 11 June
When you head to the Mount Morgan School of Arts for the Jobs Expo on Wednesday 11 June, 11am1pm, visit us at the library too – we’re just next door!
Library membership is FREE (just bring ID!) and with it you can access all our resources, including the LinkedIn Learning suite, Libby’s full range of digital magazines, and Haynes AllAccess Manuals. The library will close for lunch 1pm-2pm.
LinkedIn Learning
A personal account with this online learning platform would cost perhaps $60/month or more. With your library card, access is FREE. Resumes and interview tips, spreadsheets, AI, customer service, finance and accounting, sales, starting a business—all this and more, broken down in video courses taught by experts.
Haynes Manuals
Do you have a car project waiting in the backyard? Haynes Workshop Manuals cost $50+ each—or get them FREE online with your library card! The library even has physical copies of some older manuals— these can be sent to Mount Morgan Library or any branch if requested. Check the library catalogue to find specific models and years.
Author
talk: Angie Faye Martin
“A country town, a brutal murder, a shameful past, a reckoning to come...”
Angie Faye Martin was born in Toowoomba, Australia and now lives in Meanjin/Brisbane, proudly identifying as a Kooma-Kamilaroi woman. The setting of her writing is inspired by the country town in which she grew up. In her first book, Melaleuca, the injustices of the past and dangers of the present envelop Aboriginal policewoman Renee Taylor, when her unwilling return to the small outback town of her childhood plunges her into the investigation of a brutal murder.
This author talk is free and will be held on 20 June between 2-3pm. For inquiries call 4936 8043.
Mount Morgan Library Opening Hours
The library is open 9:00am-5:00pm (closed for lunch 1:00-2:00pm) on Monday, Wednesday and Friday. On weekends, Mount Morgan Library and Gracemere Library open 9:00am – 12noon on alternate Saturdays:
LIBRARY NEWS
Gracemere Library 1 Ranger Street Mount Morgan Library 31 Morgan Street 14 June 21 June 28 June 5 July 12 July 19 July
GOLF NEWS
Above: Michelle Green representing the Alpha Golf Club, was one of 76 women golfers from throughout Queensland to participated in the Queensland Women’s Sand Green Championships held at the Mount Morgan Golf Club on Sunday, 7-8 June 2025. Though dark clouds threatened rain, the two days turned out to be heaven-sent.
This is the first time that these championships have been held in Mount Morgan. Golfers travelled from Boyne Island, Yeppoon, Gladstone, Nudgee, Texas, Barcaldine, Sarina, Proserpine, Taroom, Winton and Hughenden for this event. A full report will be in the next issue of the Argus.
LYN PORTER WINS SES “TRAINER OF THE YEAR” AWARD
As part of National Volunteering Week, Queensland State Emergency Service conducted the annual SES Week Awards. This is an opportunity for our SES Volunteers and Groups to be recognised and rewarded for their contribution to the community.
Central Region conducted the Rockhampton ceremony on Sunday, 25 May 2025, which was broken into three tiers. Service Awards including National and SES Meritorious Service medals and clasps, SES Achievement Certificates and the SES Regional Awards.
These include SES Member of the Year, SES Unit/ Group of the Year, Operational Response of the Year, SES Trainer of the Year and SES Young Member of the Year. Winners in this category are automatically nominated for the SES State Awards.
This year Mount Morgan SES members were the award recipients for:
• Meritorious Service Medals/Clasps awarded by the State of Queensland, which are presented after 10 years of service and every 5 years of service thereafter.
Allan Law was presented with his second Clasp which recognizes 20 years of service.
SES Achievement Certificates – Mount Morgan Group was awarded a certificate for special contribution to the SES through exceptional professionalism and unwavering dedication.
Mount Morgan SES Group has consistently provided critical traffic control support to QPS and QFD, ensuring minimal disruption and safeguarding the community during emergencies.
SES Trainer of the Year was awarded to Lyn Porter. Lyn received this award for distinguished service to the SES through the delivery of training programs that significantly strengthen the membership and capabilities of Central Region. Lyn will now represent Central Region in the State SES Week awards in the coming weeks.
Congratulations to Allan for committing to 20 years of service and to Lyn for your dedication and commitment to not only the Mount Morgan group and community but to training in the Central Region. Also, congratulations to all the members of Mount Morgan group for your commitment to provide support to our Emergency Service partners.
Would you consider joining the SES? If so please visit www.ses.qld.gov.au or scan the QR Code below.
Above: Allan and Lyn proudly displaying their awards.
SAVE THE DATE! CLASSIFIEDS
JUN 11: Bus Trip to Footlights in Yeppoon for Morning Tea and a show, then on to lunch at the Capricorn Tavern. Bus leaves 8.30 am from the bus stop in Morgan Street, Mount Morgan. The cost to members is $50. Please pay at the May Morning Tea to secure your seat.
JUN 14: Baree Markets - held at Baree School of Arts between 8 am and 12 noon.
JUN 17: Dee River Oldies Group - June Monthly Meeting. It starts at 2 pm and is held in St Mary’s Hall, Gordon Street, Mount Morgan. (Behind the Anglican Church). Come along and put your ideas forward.
JUN 19: Old Time Dance, Alton Downs Hall, Ridgelands Road, Alton Downs. 7-11 pm. Phone: 0427 341 166.
JUN 21: Mount Morgan Citizens’ Club - Mid Year Mardi Gras @ Soldiers’ Rooms, Morgan Street, from 7 pm.
JUN 25: Dee River Oldies Group- June Morning Tea. It starts at 10 am and is held in St Mary’s Hall, Gordon Street, Mount Morgan. (Behind the Anglican Church). Cost is $5. Raffle and lucky door prizes.
JUL 7: Bingo @ Bouldy Doors open 9.30 am. Call starts 10 am @ Bouldercombe Recreation Hall.
JUL 12: Baree Markets - held at Baree School of Arts between 8 am and 12 noon.
JUL 15: Dee River Oldies Group - July Monthly Meeting. It starts at 2 pm and is held in St Mary’s Hall, Gordon Street, Mount Morgan. (Behind the Anglican Church). Come along and see what is on next.
JUL 23: Dee River Oldies Group - July Morning Tea. It starts at 10 am and is held in St Mary’s Hall, Gordon Street, Mount Morgan. (Behind the Anglican Church). Cost is $5. There will be musical bingo on the day. Raffle and lucky door prizes.
JUL 26: Mount Morgan Citizens’ Club Men and Women in Uniform @ Soldiers’ Room, Morgan Street from 7 pm.
AUG 9: Mount Morgan Show, Mount Morgan Showgrounds.
SEP 6: Mount Morgan Wattle Day - historic Railway Station.
SEPT 13: Baree Markets - held at Baree School of Arts between 8 am and 12 noon.
SEPT 20:Mount Morgan Citizens’ Club Gala Ballcelebrating the Soldier’s Room anniversary, Mine activity and pipeline completion. 7 pm @ Soldiers’ Rooms.
OCT 11: Baree Markets - held at Baree School of Arts between 8 am and 12 noon.
OCT 18-26: Solo Exhibition/visual artists 4714Nancy Liddle. Thousand Yard Stare, Baree Hall, Creek St, Baree. 10 am - 12 noon.
OCT 25: Mount Morgan Citizens’ Club - Boho Hippy Night @ Soldiers’ Rooms from 7 pm.
NOV 8: Baree Markets - held at Baree School of Arts between 8 am and 12 noon.
NOV 29: Mount Morgan Citizens’ Club - Around the World @ Soldiers’ Rooms from 7 pm.
DEC 13: Baree Markets - held at Baree School of Arts between 8 am and 12 noon.
: Semi-retired. W. Cruickshank Phone 0488 104 774 or 0488 105 257.
LIGHT ON THE HILL CHURCH
EVERY SATURDAY NIGHT Green Shed from 7 pm. Phone 0412 502 937
For Sale: King single bed, inner spring mattress, sheets - $100. Exercise rowing machine - $100. 120 W folding solar panel with carry bag - $80. 35 l 12V portable fridge on wheels, insulated, cover $150.00 phone 0438 882 590.
MOUNT MORGAN CITIZEN’S CLUB INC
Meets on the last Sunday of each month at 10.30 am. Soldiers’ Rooms, 18 Morgan Street, Phone - John Tuxworth 0429 055 165
MOUNT MORGAN MEN’S SHED INC.
Meets 9 am - 12 noon - Wednesdays & Saturdays Phone: John 0429 055 165
TRASH AND TREASURE
Trash and Treasure, 21 Gordon Street. Every Friday from 8.30 am to 12 noon. Every first Saturday of the month from 8.30 am to 12 noon. Clothing $1.00 unless otherwise marked. Any donations please leave at 21 Gordon Street during opening hours
Mount Morgan Promotion and Development Inc
Advises that its ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING will be held on THURSDAY, 19 JUNE 2025
AT 5.30 PM AT The Mount Morgan Railway Museum
Susan Debanon - Secretary
THE NEXT EDITION WILL BE PUBLISHED ON WEDNESDAY, 25 JUNE 2025
All inclusions required by: Tuesday, 17 June 2025 by 4 p.m. Ph: 4938 2312 Email: mmpad@mountmorgan.org.au
If you don’t receive your Argus, please contact us.