Community collaborations are the cornerstones of a fishing grant recently announced by the Department of Primary Industries (Fisheries).
The No. 7 Dam Fish Improvement program was applied in November 2024 and grant recipient, Mount Morgan Promotion and Development Inc (MMPAD) was officially advised at the end of April that the grant was successful.
This project value-adds to the works that were undertaken by the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries (now DPI) mainly between 2020-2022 and finalised after the dam filled in 2024.
MMPAD has engaged Capricorn Catchments, Golden Mount Nursery, That Truck and Bobcat Bloke, and Marmor Quarry to assist with project delivery. Mount Morgan High School students will assist with erosion control aspects of the project.
The new project work will implement the following:
• Artificial fingerling reefs
• Erosion control through planting lomandra grasses, native trees near the dam high water mark
• Plant water snowflake to assist and promote saratoga breeding
MMPAD had contracted Golden Mount Nursery to cultivate lomandra
histrix grass, native trees and water snowflake especially for this project, while local contractor, That Truck and Bobcat Bloke will place the rock for the extension of fingerling reefs.
“MMPAD, Capricorn Catchments and Mount Morgan State High School students and community volunteers will undertake planting, monitoring and maintenance with some assistance from Golden Mount Nursery,” MMPAD President, John Steinberger said.
Mr Steinberger said the main reason for the project’s application was due to planned commissioning of the Mount Morgan Water pipeline in September 2025, which means the dam is no longer required for the town’s water supply ensuring the dam water levels only change with rainfall and evaporation.
“The aim of the project is to establish a true recreational fishing experience at No. 7 Dam for community and visitors.” Mr Steinberger said.
MMPAD has held the stocking impoundment permit since 2008 for the No 7 Dam and has for many years, purchased fingerlings in accordance with the permit’s requirements. MMPAD did not restock from 2019-2023 due to successive low rainfall years resulting in low dam water levels. Restocking during this time was not allowed in accordance with impoundment specification.
The proposed project will improve the microhabitats of the dam and enhance the riparian vegetation around the dam thereby protecting against erosion, promotion of water filtration improving quality,
Continued on Page 3
Discussing the community partnership above are James Lye (Mount Morgan State High School Principal), Michelle McCrae (Capricorn Catchments Chair), Murray Hare (Golden Mount Nursery) and John Steinberger (Mount Morgan Promotion and Development Inc).
MOUNT MORGAN ARGUS DISCLAIMER
regulation of water temperature through shade and cover, proving food sources from debris and insects and provide logs, roots, branches and eaves that form fish habitats.
Mr Steinberger said the project would start soon.
He said monitoring the success of these improvements is a must for the success of recreational fishing at No. 7 Dam.
In October-November of this year, MMPAD hopes to release more fingerlings.
MMPAD was unable to procure fingerlings from its usual supplier due to the failure of fish to spawn. However, an alternate supplier has been found and it is hoped that the fingerlings will be ready later this year.
MMPAD is one of 25 commercial operators, community groups, or schools from all over Queensland that received a share of the Queensland Government Fishing Grants Program, focused on ensuring the long-term sustainability of Queensland’s fisheries.
Half of the grant funds were allocated to commercial
and charter fishing initiatives that aim to address ecological risks, trailing alternative apparatus, industry modernisation and promotional campaigns of Queensland’s sustainable fishing practices.
The other half was allocated to recreational initiatives that provide a benefit to recreational or traditional fishing in Queensland. Minister for Primary Industries Tony Perrett said the grants were a direct investment in the future of the State’s fisheries.
“The Crisafulli Government is committed to empowering commercial, community, and Indigenous fishers to trial innovative fishing methods, restore habitats, and increase participation in social inclusion fishing programs,” Minister Perrett said.
“This funding will also help businesses to invest in equipment to expand seafood production and processing, leading to job creation, improved services, and a boost to Queensland’s renowned lifestyle”.
MMPAD is seeking additional funding to further develop this work in collaboration with the High School, Capricorn Catchments and Golden Mount Nursery.
FESTIVAL FARE A CROWD PLEASER
Celebrating 48 years, the 2025 Golden Mount Festival offered up an array of entertainment and activities that proved to be crowd pleasers.
The 2025 Festival was officially opened by Cr Edward Oram after the Welcome to Country performed Natalie Forder (nee Waterton) and accompanied by Donna Anderson and Rosie Hoffman (nee Toby). Rockhampton Regional Council was a major sponsor of the event.
Headlining the stage entertainment was Australian Idol sixth place finalist, Jaymon Bob (pictured right), who drew a crowd.
Jaymon played at last year’s Golden Mount Festival and proved to be show stopper then, with his newfound Idol fame, his performance was transported into the stratosphere!
Mackenzie May, Pedro and Paige Hobson completed the entertainment lineup.
The Eden Bann Cuties (sponsored by Mount Morgan Promotion and Development Inc), Party Faces Face Painting and Meraki Circus (sponsored by Stanwell Power) all contributed to the day’s festivities.
The Heroes and Villains procession was colourful offering spectators a small glimpse into the world of super heroes and villains. The procession prizes were sponsored by Discover Real Estate.
Teams in the Heritage Minerals Junior and Senior Running the Cutter relay events were down, but
Continued on Page 6
WHAT A DAY IT WAS!
Council brings Small Business Month workshop to Mount Morgan
Rockhampton Regional Council continues its delivery of Small Business Month engagements across the region, with Advance Rockhampton bringing a Digital Skills Workshop to Mount Morgan.
Held on Thursday, 29 May, the free workshop will equip businesses with the digital tools needed to reach new customers and strengthen online access for their customers. Topics which will be covered include AI and tech tools, cyber security, the essentials of Google and the creation of social media content.
Mayor Tony Williams said the workshop will strengthen existing Mount Morgan businesses, and support startup ventures.
“Small businesses are the lifeblood of Mount Morgan, so its important Council through Advance Rockhampton, does what it can to set those businesses up for success,” Mayor Williams said.
“This workshop will cover a variety of topics, helping protect businesses from some of the threats in the digital world – but helping businesses grow by improving their social media strategies and online presence.
“The Digital Skills Workshop is the conclusion of a massive Small Business Month for Advance Rockhampton, which includes the CQ Small Business Expo, Creating Content for Social Media Workshop,
Skills in Focus Seminar and the Small Business Month Celebration.”
Division 5 Councillor, Cherie Rutherford, said now is an ideal time for businesses to assess their online presence.
“With so many exciting projects and developments underway, and new residents discovering the charm that comes with living in Mount Morgan, there are a lot of interested eyes on the community right now,” Cr Rutherford said.
“Small businesses have the perfect opportunity to seize the moment, building their online awareness to reach new customers, and Advance Rockhampton’s Digital Skills Workshop is a great way to get started.”
The Digital Skills Workshop is facilitated by Liam Fahey from LAD Social, a locally based digital media and online marketing agency. Participants will receive a workbook and templates to take home.
Event Details:
• Mount Morgan Digital Skills Workshop
• Thursday 29 May, 9:00am (for 9:30am start) to 12:30pm
Septic to Sewer Connections Blocked drains, leaking taps or any other maintenance issues
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Finlayson & McKenzie Funerals
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
BARRELS, BRONCS, BULLS AND BUSTERS
From Page 10
“We are also grateful that Platinum Rodeo Company was able to run the rodeo for us as well,” she said.
Platinum Rodeo Company co-owner Christy Engell said she was pleased with the turnout.
“It was a great day and we were glad we were able to help the community to get the rodeo back on track after the 2024 event,” Christy said.
“Hopefully, the community can see what a great event this is and help with sponsorship and more,” she said
Platinum Rodeo supplied the cattle and judges for the event. The stock are from Christy and her partner’s property at Mount Walter, near Ipswich. The horses were from Canoe Rock.
One hundred and forty-one entries were received for the nine events which included Barrel Racing, minibull rides, open bull rides, saddle bronc and bareback rides.
Above: Two year old Oaklee Davey was the youngest competitor (on the oldest horse) that competed at the Mount Morgan Rodeo.
Mount Morgan is often the forgotten cousin of Rockhampton, but with the history of the town, it has the potential to be the inland tourism destination of the region. With views unmatched elsewhere in the state, and historic buildings littered throughout town Mount Morgan has a uniqueness that is really hard to find anywhere else in the country.
We have a few offerings to help visitors understand what life was like in Mount Morgan in its heyday. With heritage listed buildings around town, the Historical Museum helps capture the history and story of the town, with the Railway Museum, an accredited information centre, helping provide insights into how important the railway was to the budding gold mining centre.
The views from the town’s lookouts and self drive tours provide great picture opportunities to visitors of the mine and the town, with scenes of the old mine buildings hard to find so easily elsewhere.
With regular events in town, like the Mount Morgan Show, the Wattle festival and the recent Golden Mount Festival. They help show off the community and reconnect with the history of the town with the iconic Running the Cutter race at the Golden Mount Festival, and plenty for the family to do.
But there’s so much more potential here to attract visitors to the town. The No. 7 Dam will no longer be required for the town’s water supply by the end of this year, opening up the potential for more recreational opportunities to be enjoyed at the dam.
This has already been seen with the announcement of the new fossicking area around the dam, allowing people to have a hands on experience looking for gold to fossick in the area provided they have a fossicking licence and follow the relevant rules of the area.
Recreational fishing is next, with habitat construction having been ongoing for a 5 years now, and MMPAD receiving another $12,611.40 for further fish habitat improvements.
But there’s a lot of potential in the little town, and that was why as one of my election commitments I committed $50,000 to MMPAD to fund a feasibility study into tourism opportunities in the area. The study will explore ways to expand the tourism attractions on offer and the potential to provide avenues for innovative business and employment opportunities. This is a chance for Mount Morgan to be heard about what it can offer to bring in more visitors.
With the mine moving towards restarting of operations, and a secure water supply, Mount Morgan could have a second coming, and we need to make sure that there’s plenty of opportunity to achieve that.
The town went through a tough trot following the closure of the mine in 1990, and it’s important that we snatch the opportunity to build it back up to ensure that there is opportunity and reason for the next generation to remain in their hometown.
DEE RIVER OLDIES
So good to see the members of Dee River Oldies Group out and enjoying the May Day celebrations.
Catching up with family, friends and so many familiar faces from times gone by was awesome.
The effort by the team of volunteers to get the weekend events together is really appreciated.
Our May Musical Morning Tea is on Wednesday 28 May, 2025 starting at 10 am. Cost is $5. Music by Dianne Coburn. There will be raffle and lucky door prizes. We look forward to seeing you there.
Membership forms can be filled in and handed back at the morning tea. Members must be over 50 years of age and the cost is $5.
Our next Bus Trip is on Wednesday 11 June, 2025 travelling to Footlights in Yeppoon for morning tea and a show, then on to Capricorn Tavern for lunch. Cost is $50. Please pay at our May Morning Tea to secure your seat. Bus leaves at 8.30 am from the Morgan Street, Mount Morgan. Come and have a day out.
Our June Meeting is on 17 June, 2025 starting at 2 pm.
The meetings and morning teas are held in St Mary’s Hall, Gordon Street, Mount Morgan. (Behind the Anglican Church).
Stay happy and healthy.
The Dee River Oldies Group
Carol Glover 4938 1995
Colleen Constable 0427 161 131
GOLF NEWS
Twenty-two players competed in the annual Golden Mount Festival 2-Person Ambrose held at Mount Morgan Golf Club on Monday, 5 May.
Thanks to the Golden Mount Festival Association for once again sponsoring the event.
Winners were Josh and Shaun Antcliff (pictured) on 58.5 nett (gross score 56, 14 under par) and Runner’s up were Simon Moss and Garry Sbeghen on 62.25 nett.
Nearest the Pin prizes were - Holes 3 and 12 - Shaun Antcliff and Holes 6 and 15 - Shaun Antcliff.
LORIKEETS FLY TO VICTORY
It was unfortunate that Gladstone’s Rugby Union team, the Goats met reigning premiers, the Mount Morgan Lorikeets in their clash at Newman Oval on Saturday, 10 May.
The understrength Gladstone team were on the worst end of a punishing 90-8 defeat as the Lorikeets ran in try after try.
The lack of numbers and a bench for Gladstone was evident as their defence weakened and mistakes were made. This is the first time in five years that
Gladstone has entered a team in the competition and accolades should be given for the team to turn up despite being light on numbers.
Try-scorers for Mount Morgan were Noah Kielly (three), Josh McDougall (three) and Callum Van Dreumel (pictured below left), Kye Juan Leisha, Ceth Mann, Tyler Toby and Brayden Wilkes-Hayden all scoring one try each. Tyler Toby converted eight of his 10 attempts while Allan Tull failed in his conversion attempt.
The Lorikeets have a new captain - Tyler Toby and vice-captain - Shai Toby for the 2025 season. Coach is Kyle Dodd.
Kyle said he was happy with the end result of the game.
“I am looking forward to this year’s season going forward in an A-Grade/Reserve Grade competition,” he said.
The team take on the Dawson Valley Drovers on 17 May 2025 at Moura.
TRAGEDY INSPIRES FORMER LOCAL
Former Mount Morgan local, Sheryl Connolly (nee Bannah) has been inspired to raise funds in the memory of her Aunt, Katrina Ramm, who recently died from cancer.
Sheryl has committed to colouring her hair pink if she raises $1500, shave her hair if she raises $2500 and if she raises $5000, her husband Mason will also shave his hair.
Sheryl is being helped in her endeavours to raise funds by her mother Teresa.Sheryl also hopes to spread the message that regular checkups are essential for early detection for all forms of cancer. All funds raised will go towards the Breast Cancer Foundation.
Sheryl is in the process of finalising an event to be held at the Botanical Gardens on 28 June. If you wish to donate you can contact Sheryl on 0484 342 311 for cash donations or go to https://fundraise. nbcf.org.au/fundraisers/cheerskatrina
MOUNT MORGAN CITIZEN’S CLUB
Our first week since opening has been a whirlwind. With expressions of interest from Artists coming in and Volunteers putting their names down, we look forward to collating regular hours and a roster and exhibition schedule. EOI’s close for the day to day management committee members on 23rd May, so if you would like a form, please pop into the Gallery at 78 East Street, or email mountmorganartsprecinct@ gmail.com. Keep an eye out for new stock on sale as the Gallery fills with local art and creations.
If you would like to volunteer in a restoration capacity, we are often holding working bees to bring these buildings back to their prime, and value highly any contribution from trades, handymen and women, as well as any suggestions or professional advice on our progress. Please call 0411865621 to find out about our next get together.
SOLDIERS ROOMS
What a treat we have, with the return of Hainian and Naomi Yu, for an evening of Opera on Friday 16th May, at 5:30pm. This is a free event, and was incredibly well received last time, so don’t miss out! With songs and duets from movies, why not treat yourself! Many thanks to the Regional Arts Development Fund for their support in providing these opportunities for our community.
On Saturday, 17 May, Amy’s Limelight Karaoke will be returning for a long-awaited Karaoke night. Commencing at 7pm. We look forward to catching up with all of our amazing regulars and extend an invitation to those who have always wanted to have go, or to just come along to watch the impressive talent this town has to offer. It‘s always a fun night!
Saturday 7pm on 24 May our dances recommence. “Once Upon a time in a Fairytale KIDS & BIG KIDS (ADULTS) PARTY!” is set to be a night where we can all step back in time and embrace our inner child, with party games, raffles and childlike wonder!
Our dance calendar is as follows:
21 June @ 7pm - Mid Year Mardi Gras
26 July @ 7pm - Men and Women in Uniform
20 September @ 7pm - Gala Ball - Celebrating Hall Anniversary, Mine Activity and Pipeline Completion.
25 October @ 7pm - Boho Hippy Night
29 November @ 7pm - Around the World.
To book the Soldiers Rooms Hall for your own events, please call 0419 605 662, all other enquiries including Arts Precinct, please phone 0411 865 621.
Submitted by Kirra Swain - Secretary
SAVE THE DATE! CLASSIFIEDS
MAY 18: Open Studio/visual artists 4714 - Nicholai von Tonslamann - 10 am 17 Kyonet Street, Baree.
MAY 20: Dee River Oldies Group - May Monthly Meeting. It starts at 2 pm and is held in St Mary’s Hall, Gordon Street, Mount Morgan. (Behind the Anglican Church). New and existing members welcome.
MAY 24: Kids and Big Kids (Adults) Party @ Soldiers’ Rooms, Morgan Street, from 7 pm.
MAY 28: Dee River Oldies Group - May 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. Come along and catch up.
JUN 7-8: Queensland Ladies Sand Green Championships. Mount Morgan Golf Club’s major event for 2025.
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 21: Mount Morgan Citizens’ Club - Mid Year Mardi Gras @ Soldiers’ Rooms, Morgan Street, from 7 pm.
JUL 12: Baree Markets - held at Baree School of Arts between 8 am and 12 noon.
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 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 25: Mount Morgan Citizens’ Club - Boho Hippy Night @ Soldiers’ Rooms from 7 pm.
OCT: Solo Exhibition/visual artists 4714 - Nancy Liddle. Thousand Yard Stare, Baree Hall, Creek St, Baree. Date to be advised.
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.
LIGHT
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.
MOUNT MORGAN SHOW SOCIETY
Meets on the second Sunday of every month at the Mount Morgan Showgrounds, Showgrounds Road
MOUNT MORGAN QCWA BRANCH
Meets every third Wednesday of the month at the Green Shed Thompson Ave 9.30 am meet for 10 am start.
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
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
