The People's Advocate | Issue #3

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The

People’s Advocate

“Locals supporting locals for 60,000 yrs. +”

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ISSUE #3

WANT TO BE FEATURED IN THE LOCAL DIRECTORY?

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Local Bylaws Read on Page 44

BUSINESS ISSUE 2021

“Locals supporting locals for 60,000 yrs. +”

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FEBRUARY 2021

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Welcome to the Business Issue The People’s Advocate: Mareva Cook

Thank you to all the businesses, residents and community that have got on board with this issue, without your support we would be unable to publish. This is an exciting issue as it is all about doing business in East Arnhem Land and what our future may or may not hold. We have some great content in relation to how businesses operate here, how they manage to overcome many obstacles and swiftly diversify to remain afloat through adversity in 2020 + the 2021 aftermath.

Post pandemic, we saw out the year with uncertainty around who will be driving the township come 2030, post Rio Tinto as there has been no further communication in this space. In early 2019 Rio Tinto engaged consultants to carry out a Social and Economical Baseline and Impact Assessment. Which covered some important points, however, there has been no follow up or further communications since, so where does that leave us? Should we all pack up and leave? May I suggest that next time our future is being determined, local business should be engaged to carry out the face to face consulting, not an interstate workforce who consult by email to plan out our livelihoods.

The wider community regularly write into The People’s Advocate and are most concerned about the inconsistencies regarding the township governance, education and health options for all, moving forward, airline reliability and affordability. Community regularly discuss the blatant and increased nepotism amongst governing bodies, with regards to employment, securing housing for staff and funding support for small businesses. How are small private businesses supposed to invest in training, staff, housing, or forward plan and expand if there is no communication and no certainty on what the future holds?

Commonly asked questions from the community; Who and how will town services be managed? (The rumour is Shire will take over?)

Will medical services decline? (No bulk billing + 6 week wait looking grim?)

What will happen to housing prices? (Last curtailment saw a massive drop?)

Will the airline be subsidised to attract tourism? (Or offer locals fair pricing or affordable reliable services) Will the track be upgraded before closure? (Locals require safe connectivity) Will any of the schools close?

What funding support will be open to small private businesses?

What additional health and education services will be offered?

November gave some hope as we were invited by Traditional Owners, Gumatj and Rirratjingu, to attend a preliminary community meeting, this was to discuss their vision for the township post Rio Tinto. In general the Traditional Owner groups wish to grow on existing infrastructure, address town governance, continue the delivery of essential services and support the community.

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Introduction

Rio Tinto Gove Operations PO Box 21 Nhulunbuy Northern Territory 0881

In 1968 Nabalco and the Commonwealth of Australia formed the Gove Agreement which provided for the Commonwealth to grant a Special Mineral Lease (SML) and a number of Special Purpose Leases (SPL’s) over certain land on the Gove Peninsula for the purpose of facilitating the establishment and operation of the Gove bauxite mine, alumina refinery and township of Nhulunbuy.

19 May 2020

During 2018 and 2019, Rio Tinto engaged consultants to undertake a Social and Economic Baseline and Impact Assessment (SEIA) study to assess the potential impacts of post mine closure.

Following the enactment of the Aboriginal Land Rights Act (ALRA) in 1976, all land underlying the tenure held by Gove Operations was identified as Aboriginal Land. A deed of grant of freehold title to that land is held in escrow by the Northern Land Council (NLC) until such time as the Dear Community Member leases expire on 29 May 2053 or unless terminated earlier.

Following closure of Rio Tinto’s bauxite operations, leased Rio Tinto Gove Operations Social and Economic Baseline and Impact Assessment land will be returned to the Traditional Owners.

The SEIA undertaken by Rio Tinto reviewed demographic and other data such as employment, essential service provision (health and education), recreational facilities, housing and community services. It also assessed the potential impacts of a change in Rio Tinto’s economic contribution to the region.

In 2014, Rio Tinto suspended alumina production at the Gove alumina refinery and in 2017, announced it would not restart the refinery plant. Rio Tinto is now progressing plans to demobilise the refinery infrastructure and rehabilitate the Residue Disposal Area (RDA).

As wa en so s n se o loc me ote f o ba al b of t d am ptim cu sed us he on ism rta on ine g ilm p ss en ost es t

As you may know, work has commenced to prepare for the closure of Rio Tinto’s Gove Operation bauxite mine and to work towards leaving lasting benefits to the community.

The purpose of an SEIA is to help understand the potential range of impacts of change, and the likely responses of those impacted.

-w ha tw eh ea rd

In late 2018 and 2019, Rio Tinto engaged consultants to undertake a Social and Economic Baseline and Impact Assessment (SEIA) study to assess the potential impacts Rio Tinto is expected to cease mining bauxite on the Gove Peninsula in 2030, and work has commenced to relating to the closure of the Gove Operation. Thank you to those community members prepare for closure, working towards a positive legacy who took part in the consultations.

This document summaries the SEIA undertaken for Rio Tinto in 2018 and 2019 and the findings over the study period. Rio Tinto commits to updating the data in this document periodically through to mine closure in 2030, to assist both Rio Tinto and the local communities manage this change.

for our Traditional Owners and the community.

The purpose of an SEIA is to help understand the potential range of impacts of change, and the likely responses of those impacted. The SEIA undertaken for Rio Tinto reviewed demographic and other data such as employment, essential service provision (health and education), recreational facilities, housing and community services. It also assessed the potential impacts of a change in Rio Tinto’s economic contribution to the region.

Refinery in closure since 2017

Please find enclosed hereto a summary of the SEIA findings and recommendations.

Rio Tinto will revist the SEIA data periodically until mine closure in approximately 2030, to assist both Rio Tinto and local communities manage this change.

Work has commenced to prepare for closure, working towards a positive legacy for our Traditional Owners and the community.

Alicia Sherwood Manager External Relations Northern Australia

Th th ank ss ar rvie ke n un e SE yo es tic w ho wa cr der IA u to re ipa s. 8 lde s in ite st st sp te 5 rs t ria an ud the He fo din y. T bu on in bu w eg cu g s re h din an sin er rat i se of e c nes is d o ho on se g. on es e co ed as w s s n um lin ses ns into clo the ulta an d Aw m t e s w ult th su re io s ar t n r ar s a e ur ere ed e yo po pr ke en a n o h n ve in vi fw d t de ce old es y, vi a so ha he nt ss er wi te tw fc fu s ra wa s w th d s t lo t eh ur ed d ho su e. e p e ac sig a re ar ro ne rtic d: ss d ip a n to ate um elic d i Th be it a n er ro n Bu ew f a h sin as ah im igh ess e p ig s d th ac ir h ro ts ec tha Bu ugh of t d t w leve lo on sin div min epe ere fa e n d er e c d to Rio ss ire w s e e l i to wn Tin s wh fica osu ncy ctly are po to d o a tion re to on con nes A R sf pu id re t o or po sen lat no no f go the io T ract i i t e s r s i n t o o dir t c e ds bu to d b min n full dir e u o a e s

We encourage you to take the time to read this summary document and should you have any questions, please feel to contact myself or email the commuities team at govecommunities@riotinto.com.

Kind regards

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Co n St s SE ake ult fac IA p hold via e t roc er a 49 em o fa ess con t bu ai ce . 3 su i o l l 5 i tat sin to nt s n e p e ta io

Demographics

Impact assessment

Rio Tinto Aluminium Limited. Registered office: 123 Albert Street Brisbane 4000 Australia The 127 for the SEIA has taken into consideration Rio Tinto’s 009 679area 51study ABN

social, cultural and economic area of influence and the location of potentially affected social and community infrastructure supporting Rio Tinto’s operations. As such, the study area includes Nhulunbuy, Gunyangara and Yirrkala. The SEIA also incorporates the broader area of East Arnhem, in recognition of the social and economic networks of people living and working in the wider region.

Population and age

3088

Indigenous: 10.6% Non-Indigenous: 77.9%

Median age 32

18%

15%

14%

12%

6%

Mining

Health care and social assistance

Public administration and safety

Education and training

Construction

21%

15%

12%

10%

1%

Education and training

Health care and social assistance

Public administration and safety

Retail trade

Mining

East Arnhem region

9026

Indigenous: 93.5% Non-Indigenous: 5.4%

Median age 25

Mobility

30.7%

Education

60.9%

Lived at the same address 5 years ago

85.7%

People aged 15 years and over who completed Year 12

Housing and accommodation

4

$2366

33%

14%

Rio Tinto owned properties

Government owned properties

$1342

Median weekly household income

53%

Third party owned properties

In summary, the study noted the following themes.

• The current Nhulunbuy town is perceived as a vibrant community that is generally cohesive and well integrated, with ample services and employment opportunities for the community to access.

• Overall there was a high level of awareness of the upcoming mine closure among all stakeholders and general community, which was accompanied with a high level of uncertainty about the future of the town and region beyond mine life.

• There is a strong commitment to regional development and sustainability of the town and region beyond mining from key regional development stakeholders, particularly from the Northern Territory Department of Chief Minister, Department of Trade, Business and Innovation, Commonwealth National Indigenous Australians Agency and Developing East Arnhem Limited.

• There is a strong recognition and understanding of various regional and town development challenges for Nhulunbuy and the Gove Peninsula among key regional development stakeholders.

Key challenges to future growth includes: Isolation of the town and need for transport connectivity.

Need for economic diversification.

Need for certainty regarding land tenure.

Primary impacts

Income

83.4%

Findings

• Nhulunbuy is a regional hub forming a base of various government services for the East Arnhem region.

Employment data in town shows approximately equal proportion of jobs in mining (29%) and government services (22%) in town.

Key industries of employment

Nhulunbuy

Mine 10 year mine life through to 2030

Residue Disposal Area in closure since 2017

Predicted social impacts are subject to change due to the changes in the socio-economic and political context, changes in the perception of the stakeholders and as more information about mine closure becomes available.

Closure of the mine is expected to result in the following primary changes to the town of Nhulunbuy: • Loss of Rio Tinto’s employment and economic contribution.

• Reduction in town and regional population due to outmigration of Rio Tinto’s direct and indirect workforce and their families.

Impacts were assessed in categories related to the issues and impacts to the town of Nhulunbuy and to the social fabric of the community. These are detailed in pages 11–13.

Loss of employment / economic contribution

Reduction in population

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WHAT THE PEOPLE HAVE TO SAY

Feedback Mini Supporter Just thought Id send you this cheeky photo of my son. Its his favourite book to carry around and has an absolute melt down if its not in his bag at all times ahaha.

Cheap Therapy Hi, You don’t know me, But I just wanted to write and say thank you for the latest mag! Esp the article you wrote about The Porthole. I loved it and so needed to read it!

I feel overwhelmed by the GGG! But it was like therapy reading your article and I loved your explanation of the FFFB. Thank you again. Cheapest therapy ever!!!

Share your Feedback! All

Welcome

Male Karen So that is an extra $36 to pay as an admin fee or 20% per month……that is ridiculous by any standard…even a bank doesn’t charge that…I will be very interested to see what the rest of the small business world in Gove thinks about this ludicrous offering of service ….especially in a remote site…..perhaps the notice board can help us vote on this decision…on top of that…the “web” site you are referring us to is not secure……it is not compliant with global cyber security standards and quite frankly is an embarrassment for todays world. I will not be paying via that site and if I cannot pay via direct debit or debit transfer you will need to provide another way to take my money. You are running a business….getting clients… keeping clients and getting paid should be a priority.

Please come back with a sensible response this time.

Positively Narrow As a business person and retailer I am always looking for ways to advertise my service and offerings, if that vehicle meets with our standards and appeal to the public at large. Your newly launched magazine has the potential to fill a communication gap in the community and region.

It is certainly colourful and of good quality, and I commend you for having a go. From my perspective the content is very narrow and would appeal to limited parts of the community, and I also consider some of the language unnecessary and unappealing. I would also be interested to hear if you plan to incorporate the wider region. At this stage I do not believe that the magazine would benefit my business as an advertiser, and therefore decline that option.

Share your Feedback! All

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Welcome

Update: Latryce Pearse Arnhem Artist

Arnhem Artists: Featured in TPA Issue #2 A well deserved win and a huge congratulations to our very own homegrown talent, Latryce Pearse!

One of Australia’s largest recruitment companies held a competition for employees to submit a piece of art with the theme, “Always Will, Always Will Be.” Latryce entered a submission along with several other entrants and was unanimously awarded the prize!

Her piece will now feature on work uniforms and digital marketing nationwide! Latryce has only recently discovered her artistic flare for painting on canvas, yidaki’s and shells. However, it looks like she is going in the right direction for her hobby to grow. Latryce’s artwork is very impressive, each piece unique with a contemporary feel. She draws inspiration from her Polynesian Yolgnu heritage, love of vibrant colours and her passion for telling a story.

Later in 2020 Latryce kindly donated her artwork on the seashells to be auctioned to raise money for Mental Health.

For your custom piece contact: 1800 MAR EVA (627 382) or mareva@mds247.com.au

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David Jnr

Dale

6

6

Candice

Glen

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HISTORY OF NAIDOC WEEK AND HOW WE CELEBRATE 1920 – 1930 Before the 1920s, Aboriginal rights groups boycotted Australia Day (26 January) in protest against the status and treatment of Indigenous Australians. By the 1920s, they were increasingly aware that the broader Australian public were largely ignorant of the boycotts. If the movement were to make progress, it would need to be active. Several organisations emerged to fill this role, particularly the Australian Aborigines Progressive Association (AAPA) in 1924 and the Australian Aborigines League (AAL) in 1932. Their efforts were largely overlooked, and due to police harassment, the AAPA abandoned their work in 1927.

In 1935, William Cooper, founder of the AAL, drafted a petition to send to King George V, asking for special Aboriginal electorates in Federal Parliament. The Australian Government believed that the petition fell outside its constitutional responsibilities.

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1938 On Australia Day, 1938, protesters marched through the streets of Sydney, followed by a congress attended by over a thousand people. One of the first major civil rights gatherings in the world, it was known as the Day of Mourning.

Following the congress, a deputation led by William Cooper presented Prime Minister Joseph Lyons with a proposed national policy for Aboriginal people. This was again rejected because the Government did not hold constitutional powers in relation to Aboriginal people.

After the Day of Mourning, there was a growing feeling that it should be a regular event. In 1939 William Cooper wrote to the National Missionary Council of Australia to seek their assistance in supporting and promoting an annual event.

More information about the Day of Mourning can be found at the AIATSIS website.

1940 – 1955 From 1940 until 1955, the Day of Mourning was held annually on the Sunday before Australia Day and was known as Aborigines Day. In 1955 Aborigines Day was shifted to the first Sunday in July after it was decided the day should become not simply a protest day but also a celebration of Aboriginal culture.

1991 – Present With a growing awareness of the distinct cultural histories of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, NADOC was expanded to recognise Torres Strait Islander people and 1956 – 1990 culture. The committee then became known as the NationMajor Aboriginal organisations, state and federal governal Aborigines and Islanders Day Observance Committee ments, and a number of church groups all supported the (NAIDOC). This new name has become the title for the whole formation of, the National Aborigines Day Observance Comweek, not just the day. Each year, a theme is chosen to reflect mittee (NADOC). At the same time, the second Sunday in July the important issues and events for NAIDOC Week. became a day of remembrance for Aboriginal people and their heritage.

During the mid-1990s, the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Commission (ATSIC) took over the management of In 1972, the Department of Aboriginal Affairs was formed, as NAIDOC until ATSIC was disbanded on 15 April 2004. a major outcome of the 1967 referendum.

Over the period from 2004 to 2005 there were interim arIn 1974, the NADOC committee was composed entirely of rangements, with former Senator Aden Ridgeway chairing the Aboriginal members for the first time. The following year, it Committee until 2008. was decided that the event should cover a week, from the first to second Sunday in July.

Anne Martin and Ben Mitchell served as co-chairs of the National NAIDOC Committee from 2008 to 2018, when Patricia In 1984, NADOC asked that National Aborigines Day be Thompson and John Paul Janke were elected the Co-Chairs. made a national public holiday, to help celebrate and recognise The National NAIDOC Committee has made key decisions on the rich cultural history that makes Australia unique. While national celebrations each year and has representatives from this has not happened, other groups have echoed the call. most Australian states and territories.

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On 11 November 1918, the guns of the Western Front fell silent after four years of continuous warfare. With their armies retreating and close to collapse, German leaders signed an Armistice, bringing to an end the First World War. From the summer of 1918, the five divisions of the Australian Corps had been at the forefront of the allied advance to victory.

Beginning with their stunning success at the battle of Hamel in July, they helped to turn the tide of the war at Amiens in August, followed by the capture of Mont St Quentin and Pèronne, and the breaching of German defences at the Hindenburg Line in September.

By early October the exhausted Australians were withdrawn from battle. They had achieved a fighting reputation out of proportion to their numbers, but victory had come at a heavy cost.

They suffered almost 48,000 casualties during 1918, including more than 12,000 dead.

In the four years of the war more than 330,000 Australians had served overseas, and more than 60,000 of them had died. The social effects of these losses cast a long shadow over the postwar decades.

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1 M IN 11 AM 11 NOV One Minute’s Silence

Remembrance Day 2020 Each year on this day Australians observe one minute’s silence at 11am, in memory of those who died or suffered in all wars and armed conflicts.

Although Remembrance Day is different this year, the Australian War Memorial’s website includes different ways to help us commemorate wherever we are – at home, school or work.

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Check with your local council whether you house is built to withstand cyclones

Install shutters or metal screens on windows and doors

Identify the strongest part of your house for shelter

Restrain outdoor objects that may become flying objects

LOCAL EMERGENCY CONTACTS • EMERGENCY 000 • NHULUNBUY POLICE STATION (08) 8987 1333 • NHULUNBUY FIRE STATION (08) 8987 1000

• NT EMERGENCY SERVICES VOLUNTEER UNIT – NHULUNBUY (08) 8987 2727 • POISONS INFORMATION 13 1126 • ST JOHN AMBULANCE – NHULUNBUY 000

REGISTERED CYCLONE SHELTERS Repair any loose roof tiles or sheeting

Clean out gutters and downpipes of debris and leaves

Trim branches away from roof and house

Create an evacutation plan and locate your shelter

Pack and store emergency kit with canned food, drinking water and first aid

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• NHULUNBUY - GOVE DISTRICT HOSPITAL • GALIWINKU - SHEPHERDSON COLLEGE • GROOTE EYLANDT UMBAKUMBA SCHOOL • GROOTE EYLANDT - ANGURUGU SCHOOL • MANINGRINDA – SCHOOL LIBRARY BUILDING • MILINGIMBI (COMMUNITY OPERATED SHELTER)

1800 MAR EVA (627 382)

• BESWICK - WUGULARR SCHOOL • RAMINGINING - RAMINGINING SCHOOL (MULTI-PURPOSE HALL) • CROKER ISLAND – MAMARUNI SCHOOL • SOUTH GOULBURN ISLAND – WARRUWI SCHOOL • BICKERTON ISLAND - MILYAKBURRA CYCLONE SHELTER

mareva@mds247.com.au

mds247.com.au

Recently hosted Sell Out Show !!!

First show since Gove Arts Theatre new renovation

NOW TAKING BOOKINGS FOR EVENTS

T

his organization is one of six different user groups that use the 4Cs building to conduct their business. Others include, Gove Fishing Club, Gove Toy Library, Ministry of Faith, Gove Playgroup and East Arnhem Regional Arts. GAT is an organization run by volunteers who hold a monthly committee meeting.

This meeting is to assist in the running of GAT and to organize future events. The Theatre has been in existence since the 1970s with yearly stage productions. Some of the productions include; Pajama Party, The Removalists, Oklahoma, Cosi. This year the committee of GAT is running

MDS247

a Showcase Gala event on the 30th of August. This Showcase Gala has been organized to demonstrate the need for local theatre companies in remote parts of Australia. To highlight the depth of local talent to an urban audience, ti is hoped that more people will take an interest in remote theatre.

Some of the acts include; the local youth dance group, an Yolgnu dance group, and a local duet consisting of a singer and guitarist. The committee has produced this show in only 6 weeks and it is a credit to all concerned that this event is going to occur in this short time frame. It is hoped that this event will draw more volunteers to the GAT committee.

Want to share something with the community? Email us at mareva@mds247.com.au

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What will happen if COVID-19 comes to Gove Peninsula and nearby homelands?

Summary of the Nhulunbuy district local coronavirus outbreak plan Currently there is no COVID-19 in East Arnhem Land. But someone might bring the coronavirus into the NT and into East Arnhem Land. We need to be ready to protect ourselves and control the virus if that happens.

The Northern Territory Government, the Land Councils and Aboriginal Medical Services Associated of the NT (AMSANT), working with many local organisations like Miwatj Health, Laynhapuy Health, Rirratjingu, Gumatj and East Arnhem Regional Council, have made two plans about what to do if coronavirus comes to the region. You might hear people talking about the ‘Remote Communities Outbreak Management Plan’ or ‘Local Pandemic Plans’. These are the names of two plans which are connected – we will think of these combined plans as one ‘local coronavirus outbreak plan’.

Each of the five communities and nearby homelands have their own local coronavirus outbreak plan, because local people will help run the plan. The people who worked on the Nhulunbuy district plan are sharing this summary of the plan so that everyone is informed and prepared.

The plans might change if the people steering the plan make new decisions about the pathways to keep people safe. The last time new information was added to this summary was on 13 August 2020.

Goals of this plan      

Keep COVID-19 out of East Arnhem Land.

Talking and listening to Balanda and Yolŋu about what is happening, so everyone knows what to do if someone brings coronavirus to East Arnhem.

Plan for testing people who might have the virus, and looking after them until the test results are known.

Plan for taking the people who have the virus to hospital in Nhulunbuy or Darwin Plan for quickly finding people who might have come into contact with the person who has the virus, looking after them and keeping them away from other people.

Plan to keep the rest of the community safe and stop the spread of the virus.

Who is this plan for?

Everyone (Yolŋu and Balanda) living in Nhulunbuy, Yirrkala, Gunyaŋara, Barrkira, Birany Birany, Birritjimi, Baniyala, Barraratjpi, Bukudal, Dhälinybuy, Dhaniya, Djarrakpi, Garrthalala, Gikal, Gurkawuy, Gurrumuru, Gutjangan, Rurrangala, Wandawuy, Yanungbi, Buymarr, Mata Mata, Yinyikay and Rorruwuy.

Page 1 of 5

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Who will steer the plan?

Police officers and a worker at the NT Government Department of Health will steer the plan. In the Nhulunbuy district, the Local Controller of the plan is the Officer-in-Charge at the Nhulunbuy Police Station. He will work with the Gove District Hospital to steer the plan. They will lead five groups with different jobs in the plan. Each group has its own leaders in the Gove Peninsula, who are workers for different NT Government Departments. These workers will work together with local organisations. These are the five groups:

Medical Group Lead Agency Assisting organisations

What do they do?

Public Information Group

Top End Health Service

Department of the Chief Minister

Miwatj Health, Laynha Health, Marthakal, Careflight, St Johns, Gove Pharmacy

Miwatj, Laynha, East Arnhem Regional Council, DEAL, Nhulunbuy Corp and others

Test people Tell everyone for the what is virus. happening. and what we Lead need to do. contact tracing.

Plan to have enough medical staff and resources.

Get people to hospital and provide medical care.

Try to make sure the right information is heard, not rumours and misinformation which can create panic.

Transport Group

Critical goods Group

Department of Infrastructure, Planning and Logistics

Department of Trade, Business and Innovation

Territory Families

Make sure we don’t run out of things we need, like food, medicine, fuel and other supplies.

Support people who need to quarantine, including old and vulnerable people, and make sure they are safe and have everything they need.

YBE, East Arnhem Regional Council, SeaSwift and others Help bring people who are sick, or who might be sick, to where they need to go.

Welfare Group

Housing, Anglicare, Miwatj Woolworths, Health, ALPA, Centrelink Laynha, YBE and others. and local businesses

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What can we do to prepare now?

There are things everyone can do to prepare, now. If we do these things, and someone brings the virus here without knowing it, fewer people will get the virus.

People who feel unwell If you feel unwell with:  Fever, chills or sweating  Sore throat  Dry cough  Runny nose  Shortness of breath Don’t go directly to the clinic or doctor  Phone the hospital or clinic to arrange a test. Some ‘point of care tests’ are available that take only a few hours.  Each clinic has set up a special process for COVID-19. If you are sick and need to go to the clinic, call them and they will tell you what to do.

People who feel unwell If you are sick, call your clinic or the hospital and they will tell you what to do.

Phone numbers:  Gove District Hospital: Monday to Friday 8.30am to 3.30pm: 0476 828 005. This number is just for people wanting to get a test for coronavirus, not anything else.

After hours, call the Gove District Hospital 8987 0211  Miwatj Health Nhulunbuy Clinic: 8939 1999  Miwatj Health Yirrkala Clinic: 8987 2650  Miwatj Health Gunyaŋara Clinic: 8987 3800  Arnhem Allied Health Centre: 8919 4727  Laynhapuy Health: 8939 1800  Marthakal Homelands: 1800 758 854

Everyone Physical distancing:  Stand 1.5m away from people, unless you live with them  Don’t spend a long time with big groups of people  Don’t share drinks or ŋarali’ Hygiene:  Wash your hands with soap often  Clean surfaces that people touch often  Cough into your elbow.

Everyone Think about people who are old or unwell.

Do they need a place to stay by themself?

Download the COVIDSAFE app Search for COVIDSAFE in the iPhone or Android store Listen to the loudspeaker or radio for news about about coronavirus.

If you cannot contact your clinic, call the NT COVID-19 hotline on 1800 008 002.

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What happens when doctors think someone has COVID-19 in East Arnhem?

What will the sick person do?   

Call the Miwatj clinic or hospital to get tested. Homelands residents will call Laynhapuy Health or Marthakal Homelands.

If health staff are worried that person has COVID-19, they might take them to Gove District Hospital or Royal Darwin Hospital.

If health staff are waiting for a test to know if that person has coronavirus, they will help that person stay in a room by themself. This could be at the clinic or hospital, at their home, or somewhere else in community. The test results might be available within two hours but it could also take up to two days.

What will the sick person’s family do? 

 



If doctors find out a person has the virus, health staff will start ‘contact tracing’. This means they will try to find all the people the sick person usually stays with, and any other people they have been close to in the past few days.

If any of those people look sick, Careflight or St John’s will take them to Gove District Hospital or Royal Darwin Hospital.

The other people who have been close to the sick person will be taken to Nhulunbuy Town Hall because we will not know if they have the virus or not. If they go home, they could get someone else sick and that coronavirus could spread to many other people.

After staying in the Town Hall for a few hours, they will be taken to a place like a motel in Howard Springs near Darwin. They will then stay here for two weeks and maybe longer.

Workers will bring food, drink, medicine and other things to their door. They can buy tobacco and other things online from shops like Coles and Big W, which will be delivered to their room. They will have TV and wifi, but will need to bring their own phones and chargers. No visitors are allowed. They will call to see a doctor or speak to one on the phone. They can ask for a Yolŋu interpreter to help over the phone or face-to-face, when they want to speak to a health worker or someone else. They are allowed to sit on the verandah for fresh air, and they are allowed to walk around a small area outside for 20 minutes two times a day.

We will hear instructions and news through:        

Loudspeakers in each community Yolŋu Radio 88.9FM Gove FM 106.9FM Police Miwatj Health, Laynhapuy Health and Marthakal Health Gove Notice Board (Facebook) SecureNT Facebook Nhulunbuy Corporation website Page 4 of 5

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What will everybody else do?

In Yirrkala, Gunyaŋara, Birritjimi, Baniyala, Barraratjpi, Bukudal, Dhälinybuy, Djarrakpi, Garrthalala, Gurkawuy, Gurrumuru, Gutjangan, Rurrangala, Wandawuy, Yanungbi, Buymarr, Mata Mata, Yinyikay and Rorruwuy 

     

If someone in a community or homeland has coronavirus, the police and Northern Territory Government might ask everyone to stay at home. This could be for a long time, maybe 14 days.

This way of protecting everyone only works if everyone stays at home. If you leave your home or community, you might make your family in another place sick.

The police, army and many health workers will come to the community and work with Yolŋu organisations to help everyone through this difficult time.

Health staff will test everyone for coronavirus. Sick people will fly to Gove or Darwin Hospital.

Well people will stay at home. If a house is overcrowded, some people might stay in tents.

Food, drink, medicine and other things will be brought to houses in communities and homelands. Health staff with Yolŋu workers will visit sick people at home.

In homelands, healthy residents might stay on country if it is safe.

Old and sick people might be taken to Darwin or Nhulunbuy to keep safe.

In Nhulunbuy: 





If someone in Nhulunbuy has coronavirus, there might be some pathways that are different forResearch Nhulunbuy township. This is because Nhulunbuy has lots of important services – like the hospital, shopping (e.g. Woolworths and other shops), and NT Government services – which might need to stay open to help other communities or homelands if people there get sick with coronavirus.

The police and Government might ask everyone or some people in Nhulunbuy to stay at home. This could be for a long time, maybe 14 days or even longer. The police, army and health workers may come to the community and help residents through this difficult time.

Because many people live in Nhulunbuy, health staff will test many people for coronavirus but not everyone. In the communities and homelands, everyone will get tested. But in Nhulunbuy, medical staff might only test people they are worried about, people who call up to ask for a test, and people who are in quarantine.

Public information contact: eastarnhem.covid19@nt.gov.au NT COVID-19 Hotline: 1800 008 002 National Coronavirus Health Information Line: 1800 020 080 Secure NT Updates: https://coronavirus.nt.gov.au/ Australian Government Department of Health: www.health.gov.au Information in Yolŋu Matha: www.ards.com.au, Yolŋu Radio Facebook and 88.9FM and www.amsant.org.au/covid-19/ Page 5 of 5 MDS247

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Nhulunbuy’s New Celebrant Looking to get married in or around Nhulunbuy? The town’s newly authorised civil marriage celebrant, Barbara Zalunardo, is ready and waiting to assist you. Barbara’s long-held dream to become a civil marriage celebrant came true on 22 October 2020 when she received notification from the Commonwealth Attorney-General’s Department that her application to become a celebrant was approved. She is now officially able to take bookings and conduct marriage ceremonies as well as a range of other ceremonies and celebrations.

So what led Barbara down this path? “I’ve been thinking about becoming a marriage celebrant for the past 15 years or more,” Barbara explained. “Before coming to the NT I was a Justice of the Peace in NSW for 30 years and knew my natural progression would be to become a celebrant. I thought of applying many times but I suppose it was never the right time as I was working full time etc. Each time I attended a civil wedding I thought ‘I could do this’ and of course, I do love a good wedding.”

Barbara’s decision was further fuelled by the knowledge that Nhulunbuy’s two existing celebrants, Sharon Norris and Lyn Even, were leaving town in 2020.

“Early in 2020 it came to my attention that Sharon would be leaving town and also Lyn would be retiring, therefore the town would not have any celebrants,” Barbara said. “I decided this was a sign to get my act together and finally become a celebrant.”

In a year where COVID-19 derailed many people’s plans, particularly the ability to travel, Barbara completed the first

part of her mandatory celebrant training in Queensland just one week before the borders closed.

“I flew back into Nhulunbuy on the weekend before the lockdown started. It was a close call,” Barbara said. The remainder of her training was completed online and she then applied for registration in July 2020.

To further prepare for her new role, Barbara found information and inspiration from a range of online sources including YouTube, joined the Professional Celebrants Association and conducted a non-legal ceremony on the beach for a local couple.

“I recently performed a Commitment Ceremony on the beach here in Nhulunbuy,” Barbara explained. “I went through the whole interview and preparation procedure as per my training. I prepared a beautiful ceremony and re-read it and re-jigged it several times to get it to the best standard possible. As it was my first ceremony I found myself constantly thinking about how to deliver the best wording and make it really memorable for the couple and their guests. It was a pleasure and a privilege and I was determined that everyone should enjoy it, including myself.

I did. I’m looking forward to creating and performing many future ceremonies.”

In becoming a Commonwealth-authorised civil marriage celebrant, Barbara joins a select group of about 8,000 celebrants providing marriage services across the length and breadth of Australia. She is also one of just 50 celebrants currently registered in the Northern Territory. And with less than 50 celebrants providing marriage services in remote spaces across the country including the NT, Barbara joins an even more select group as she prepares to conduct her first marriage ceremony in Arnhem Land in late November 2020.

“I am very excited to be a remote celebrant,” Barbara said.

“I feel that I will be able to contribute in a professional and responsible manner that will add to the group’s reputation.”

If you’ve been thinking about tying the knot, renewing your marriage vows or expressing your love and commitment to your partner in or around Nhulunbuy, Barbara Zalunrado is able to assist you with these special occasions. She is also available to assist local religious organisations with marriage ceremonies where they do not have an authorised celebrant among their congregation.

By Sharon Norris

Barbara Zalurnado 0407 061 896 | bmzalunardo@gmail.com 19

E R I U

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M RO

TF AR ST

M* 2P

$7

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W O N Q N E

The People’s Advocate say THANK YOU to their Local Stockists

(08) 8987 3259 kamayancafe@gmail.com Chesterfield Crt & Franklyn St, Nhulunbuy NT 0880

6 Arnhem Road, Nhulunbuy NT 0880

TO ADVERTISE TODAY Contact us at mareva@mds247.com.au Phone: (08) 8987 1748 @govetackleworld Email: govetackleoutdoors@bigpond.com Location: Endeavour Square

Phone: 0418 838 452 Address: Matthew Flinders Grassed Area Facebook: Propellerz Coffee & Cream

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What’s happening 

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NHULUNBUY REGIONAL FISHING SPORTS CLUB

All Events are held at ​The NRSFC Clubhouse​ located in the Captain Cook Community Centre opposite the Bakery.

Email : ​fishingclubgove@gmail.com​ Facebook : Nhulunbuy Regional Sports Fishing Club (​ rev 9/11/2020)

All Events are held at ​The NRSFC Clubhouse​located in the Captain Cook Community Centre opposite the Bakery.

Date

January February

March

2021 Events Calendar

Details

5​

th

Monthly General Club Meeting

Members & Guests welcome 7:30 pm ​NRSFC Clubhouse

2​nd

Monthly General Club Meeting

Members & Guests welcome 7:30 pm ​NRSFC Clubhouse

Junior Fishing Holiday Competition Presentation

6​th

Members & Guests welcome 7:30 pm ​NRSFC Clubhouse

2​nd

Monthly General Club Meeting

10​th

Airnorth Ladies Fishing Classic Briefing

All Teams and Sponsors welcome 6:30 pm at ​The NRSFC Clubhouse

13​th​ & 14​th

Airnorth Ladies Fishing Classic Tournament

Ladies 2 Day Fishing Tournament

20​th

Airnorth Ladies Fishing Classic Presentation

All Teams and Sponsors welcome 6:30 pm TBA

Monthly General Club Meeting

Members & Guests welcome 7:30 pm ​NRSFC Clubhouse

5​

th

April

Presentation BBQ 4:30 pm ​NRSFC Clubhouse

17​ -18​ th​

th

28​th

Briefing 4:30 pm Wed 14​th​ April & Presentation BBQ 4:30 pm Saturday18​th​ April.

Briefing 7 pm Wed 28​th​ April NRSFC Clubhouse

Family Fishing Competition EARE Fishing Briefing

1​ -31​

EARE Barramundi Championship

31-day barramundi fishing comp

8​

Annual General Meeting

All members & interested anglers welcome 4:30 pm at The NRSFC Clubhouse

1​st

Monthly General Club Meeting

Members & Guests welcome 7:30 pm ​NRSFC Clubhouse

5​th

EARE Barramundi Championship Presentation

Presentation BBQ 4:30 pm Saturday 5​th​ June NRSFC Clubhouse

26​th​ Jun 18​th​ Jul

Junior Fishing Holiday Competition

Briefing 4:30 pm Wed 23​rd​ Jun

6​th

Monthly General Club Meeting

Members & Guests welcome 7:30 pm ​NRSFC Clubhouse

24​th

Junior Fishing Holiday Competition Presentation

Presentation BBQ 4:30 pm Saturday 24​th​ NRSFC Clubhouse

August

3​rd

Monthly General Club Meeting

Members & Guests welcome 7:30 pm ​NRSFC Clubhouse

7​th

Monthly General Club Meeting

Members & Guests welcome 7:30 pm ​NRSFC Clubhouse

September

23​rd​ sep 10​th​ oct

Junior Fishing Holiday Competition

16​th

Junior Fishing Holiday Competition Presentation

Presentation BBQ 4:30 pm Saturday 16​th​ NRSFC Clubhouse.

5​th

Monthly General Club Meeting

Members & Guests welcome 7:30 pm ​NRSFC Clubhouse

20​th

Walkabout Lodge John Jones Memorial Billfish Challenge Briefing

23​rd​ & 24​th

Walkabout Lodge John Jones Memorial Billfish Challenge

2 Day Billfish Tournament

30​th

Walkabout Lodge John Jones Memorial Presentation

Tournament Presentation Dinner Poolside at The Walkabout Lodge from 7pm

9​th

Monthly General Club Meeting

Members & Guests welcome 7:30 pm ​NRSFC Clubhouse

17​th

Gove Game Classic & NTGFA Championships Briefing

Briefing from 6:30 pm at ​The NRSFC Clubhouse

19​th​ to 22​nd

Gove Game Classic & NTGFA Championships Tournament

4 Day Game Fishing Tournament

27​th

Gove Game Classic & NTGFA Championships Presentation

Presentation from 6:30 pm at The NRSFC Clubhouse

6​

Monthly General Club Meeting

Members & Guests welcome 7:30 pm ​NRSFC Clubhouse

11​th

NRSFC Christmas & Club Annual Awards Party

Presentation & Dinner at The NRSFC Clubhouse​ from 5:00 pm

18​th​ Dec. to 30​th​ Jan

Junior Fishing Holiday Competition

Briefing BBQ 4:30 pm Wed 8​th​ Dec 2021 Presentation BBQ 4:30 pm Saturday 5​th​ Feb

st​

May

June

July

October

st

th

November

th

December

Briefing BBQ 4:30 pm Wed 28​th​ Sept.

Tournament Briefing Poolside at The Walkabout Lodge from 7pm

Email : fi ​ shingclubgove@gmail.

Facebook : Nhulunbuy Regional Sports

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GOVE SQUASH CLUB CALENDAR

Calendar Key Bar Open 5-7pm Cpmp Weeks, Tues & Thurs 5-7pm Comp Premlims, Semis & Finals Club Open 12-4pm Bar Closes for the year Mid-year Round Robin

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History

JJMFC

Congratulations to the winning team Site Dogs with 2 Marlin Congratulations to the Champion Angler Anthony Bergamo with 1 sail and 1 marlin Cheers and watch out for the next competition Cato Billfish Challenge run by Gove Tackle and Outdoors. February 20 and 21, 2021.

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John Jones Memorial Fishing Competition This fishing competition has been held over the past 17 years and has been supported by the Nhulunbuy Regional Sportfishing Club and The Walkabout Lodge.

Well Saturday was the nicest day on the water we have had in a while. Just a shame there was not a sign of any billfish about. We worked the outer reaches of Higginson and back to the Bromby’s. But not a show of any billies. We had a few mackerel come up and wreck 3 lures. That hurt.

Sunday Morning was a little breezy on the water which made for a perfect day to run our lures. Well we cruised on out to Nuna and could not find a bird or any bait balls. We decided to just follow the beautiful blue water and suddenly, a big black marlin was on and Brett was fighting away. It was a big blow to the pride as the fish spat the lure and we were back to trolling around aimlessly looking for bait. Needless to say I had picked up the radio to say Brett was needing somewhere to stay after dropping a big marlin. We listened on the radio to others who had ventured to Cape Arnhem and were hooking up to Billfish.

We toughed it out wide of Higginson and around 10.30 a big black marlin came up and took the lure (Catbo). So excited I wanted Brett to Tag his first Black Marlin (and to redeem himself). After 20 mins the beautiful marlin was up beside the boat with Tag in and ready to be released. What a magnificent creature.

Well there was 14 teams and 53 entrants in the comp. 5 Black Marlin were tagged, and 4 Sailfish were tagged and a good time was had by all.

By Chris Arnold.

Send in your fishing stories to mareva@mds247.com.au

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East Arnhem Eats

Smoked Mullet for Mens Health By: Jacko

Ingredients Silver Mullet - Whole (Wakun - Yolngu name) Salt Tbsp soft brown sugar

Utensils: Webber (oven); or fish smoker Alfoil (for fish & Hickory chips) Heat beads & fire starter; or dry pandanus nuts & gurtha (fire to get nuts burning for coals)

Method

01 02 03 04 05 06 07

Butterfly mullet (no need to scale fish) Clean gizzards – wipe off black skin membrane on fish insides Sprinkle salt over interior Rub sugar over interior (of fish) – place on Place heat beads in webber or smoker – get hot Place hickory chips above/alongside coals Place fish in smoker (cover) – cook for 30 minutes

Eat more mullet & shellfish As a young boy growing up in Darwin a lot of my time was seizing any opportunity to go fishing, in amongst my other passion – playing sports (Aussie Rules, Rugby League, Soccer & Basketball – being the main ones). But ‘fishing’, whether it be using a throw net, or dragging a much bigger net (in deeper water), hunting in the mangroves, or heading out in a dingy, was always an exciting adventure!

Our diet in the old days, when money was scarce consisted of a high consumption of fish and shellfish (plus other tucker from the bush). A lot of the foods I consume today have much less of this healthier ‘staple diet’ from long ago, but I still try to include as much as I can. I now reside in Nhulunbuy – the fishing is much better and more plentiful here than my old hometown of Darwin (and how it used to be).

My grandfather taught me the predatory skills of stalking, using a throw a net (targeting certain fish & prawns), as he did with the rules and precautions of dragging a net. I mean we live in crocodile country (in the top end) so whilst we were both fish hunters, there was an element of respect we had for one another, and tried to keep our distances and ‘territory’ from any possible conflict. Crazily enough, I am still here to tell this lifetime story, so something must be working (?) – touch wood!

But if you measure ‘today’ against yesteryear, back then… you hardly heard about anyone getting cancer; never really heard about type 2 diabetes, kidney disease, heart disease or strokes!

People just seemed to be so much healthier back then?

Today, unfortunately and sadly, there is an increasing number of people on dialysis (renal failure), people are contracting a range of cancers; heart disease seems to be a common ailment; and multiple amputations from diabetes is another illness of grave concern.

28

One factor could possibly be from coming off a more traditional diet, onto an increasing type of a more westernised diet?

If we can somehow (with greater effort – minus excuses) I have worked in health settings for over a 25 year period; and within that time, worked in health research for over 13 years. You get to read quite a lot of health information and or get exposed to quite a lot of diversity of what people say, recommend or do (themselves).

In a lot of the literature (which you are able to source) they talk about the diet of other cultural groups around the globe and their resulting health status. One is the seafood diet of the Mediterranean region. Another that comes to mind is the ancient (and still today…) staple diet of the Inuit People of the Arctic Region. It has been reported that these people have very low cholesterol levels and their resulting heart disease and caner rates are at corresponding low levels as well. Their staple and main diet – as has been for many years – consists of eating fish, other sea foods, and varying types of shellfish.

Likened similarities (of the Inuit) can be seen in past photos of Yolngu, Aboriginal hunters & gatherers, Torres Strait Islander peoples, plus peoples of the south pacific island regions (from the ‘old days’), which shows some very healthy and fit looking people, with beautiful skin tones and physiques.

‘Today’ however, shouldn’t be frowned upon as all dire, doom, & gloom, as there are still those opportunities where we are able to turn back the clock in some capacity, to lessen or to take better control some of our possible projected health outcomes.

It involves an increase of a healthier diet change and less consuming of ‘the bad dietary behaviours’.

consume those foods with far greater preventable and medicinal qualities, as well as drink more water, increase our exercise regime and have a good nights sleep, then we can begin to start feeling good about ourselves. Yes, it also involves our mental capacity and state of wellbeing as well.

If we feel happy about what we are doing, knowing that our health state is on a greater level of improvement, and our bodies are on a repair mission – then our future can look brighter, and ourselves and those who care about us, can start to feel happier!

Last but not least, this piece is not just for Indigenous people (even though health statistics determine that we fare worse off than our other brothers & sisters), this message is for everyone – about how we all can support one another and do this as a community effort.

And not leaving you on a dour note, I will try to dress up the 1 or 2 star level mullet, and give you an easy recipe that may advance its status up to maybe a 4 star! Enjoy !

Some of the health benefits from a more/regular staple diet of fish & shellfish: Mullet is high in omega 3 – good protein food Clears blood vessels; stops blood clots; improves the heart Gives you brain power; increases memory; prevents depression; and lessens the onset of dementia Eases symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis (joint pain) Improves eyesight; boosts night vision Makes your lungs stronger; prevents asthma in young children

Want to share your favourite recipe? Email to mareva@mds247.com.au.

Please include good quality photos, ingredients and method

29

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30

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Dictionary

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Aggregator reveals record-breaking lodgements Australian Finance Group has revealed its brokers lodged more loans in the second quarter of the 2021 financial year than ever before, nearing the $20 billion for the first time.

Australian Finance Group (AFG) has released its latest AFG Index, revealing that its network of brokers lodged $19.9 billion of mortgages across the Q2FY21, exceeding the record set in the prior quarter.

In the three months to December 2020, AFG brokers also lodged a record number of home loans, writing 36,583 loans in the quarter.

According to AFG’s Index, the average loan size written by brokers was therefore at its highest level in Q2FY21, hitting a record high of $544,359.

Speaking of the $19.9 billion record, AFG chief executive David Bailey, said: “The national figure represents an increase of 9.5 per cent on the first quarter of the 2021 financial year and an increase of 30 per cent on the corresponding quarter last year.”

According to Mr Bailey, the increase can be partly attributed to movement restrictions, as a result of COVID-19.

“With travel off the agenda for many, the home has become even more important and 42 per cent of lodgements were for those upgrading their homes,” he noted.

More than a fifth (22 per cent) of lodgements were for those entering the property market for the first time, as record lowinterest rates, government incentives and a strong savings trend

acted as a calling card for first home buyers.

Mr Bailey also noted that Q2FY21 had seen a record high loan-to-value ratio of 73 per cent. He attributed this to the “high proportion of first home buyers who typically have smaller deposits”.

While owner-occupiers were out in force in the last three months of 2020, the percentage of investor loans has remained at a record low of 21 per cent.

According to the data, standard variable rate home loans (59.7 per cent) were the top product type for the second quarter of 2021, although fixed-rate home loans in Q2 (29.2 per cent) have spiked since 2020, as “the market is well aware that low interest rates are likely bottoming out,” Mr Bailey said.

“Low interest rates on offer has also meant that homeowners are taking the opportunity to pay down their debt faster with a record 88 per cent choosing a principal & interest product over an Interest Only loan,” Mr Bailey noted.

Looking at the states, the AFG Index showed that gains were up across the country, with only the Northern Territory recording a drop, of around 10 per cent, in the quarter.

Loan value ratios were significantly higher in NT (77 per cent) compared to its corresponding year (66.8 per cent), with Western Australia (76 per cent), Queensland (73.3 per cent), Victoria (72.5 per cent), South Australia (71.5 per cent), and NSW (69.3 per cent) following.

By: Sarah Barker (The Advisor)

32

FOR SALE: 8 KLYN CIRCUIT INVESTOR SPECIAL

Contact Mareva today on 0487 228 976 mareva@mds247.com.au

PRICED TO SELL: $369,000

3 BEDROOMS

1.5 BATHROOM

•3 bedrooms, carpeted with built ins, window coverings and split air conditioning systems •1.5 toilets, bathroom, shower, laundry •Spacious kitchen, new stove

Rental Income: $600.00 per week Rates: $3,293 pa A1 Tenants Since: 2019

COMBINED LIVING AREA •Combined lounge and dining room, with deck leading out to huge backyard •Large driveway, enough side access for a boat or camper trailer

33

2020 CHRISTMAS We have lived in Nhulunbuy for 10 years and have been doing Christmas lights for around 18 years. We skip any years when we are on holidays. The best part of setting up the lights is seeing the smiles and happiness it brings to kids and adults and just something to help our community celebrate Christmas. The worst part is definitely packing lights away and the repair job.

There are many man hours involved in setting up, packing down including repair and maintenance of the lights each year. Santa and the Grinch are always popular on Christmas Eve along with the lollies for the kids. Approx. 300 350 lolly bags each year!

34

Year 12 Formal

Saying goodbye to 2020!!

35

NHULUNBUY | RATE PAYERS ASK QUESTIONS

The People’s Advocate

Where do my rates go?

How are my rates calculated?

Why are my rates 3x higher than other mining towns?

In the shire of Wyndham East Kimberley all land, other than exempt land, and mining tenements are rated according to the value provided by the Valuer Generals Office.

How are my rates calculated?

The Nhulunbuy Corporation uses an equity-based system to charge rates.

Generally, the principle is that higher value properties pay a higher share of rates. All rates are calculated based on the Unimproved Capital Value (UCV) of a property which is determined through a valuation process every three years. The UCV is then multiplied by the Rate in the Dollar.

PRICE PER ANNUM

$1,112.00 $1,112.00 $1,112.00

Does this also apply in Nhulunbuy?

UCV Assessments The basis for valuations for statutory purposes in the Northern Territory of Australia Valuation of Land Act as set in force at 2 June 2014. Under the Act, the unimproved capital value of land is defined as “the capital sum which the ‘leasehold’ of the land might be expected to realise, assuming that any improvements had not been made.

This valuation is based on the analysed Sales Movement methodology by zone, if offered for sale on such reasonable terms and conditions as a seller in good faith would require. UCV assessments are current for 3 years. The last assessment was undertaken in 2019 for application to the 2020, 2021, 2022 years.

What are the Rubbish Service Charge and the Tip Levy?

A Rubbish Service Charge is applied to all properties where a kerbside waste collection service is available, including vacant land. A Tip Levy Charge is applied to all commercial

36

Rate payers would like to know what legislation is the Board’s decision making compliant with?

Statistics from: swek.wa.gov.au

What are my rates used for?

Each year as part of the budget process, we decide the rates and charges for the financial year. The level of rates that sub-lease holders must pay is at the discretion of the Corporation with approval granted by the Board of Directors.

Rates are not reflective of the services used by any particular property but contribute to the whole communities use of Nhulunbuy Corporation services just like the taxes paid to the Australian Government contribute to a range of government activities.

Rates funds are used to maintain, improve and provide services and facilities for Nhulunbuy, Gove Airport and the Industrial Estate. Rates are a tax that is usually based on the values of properties being a and industrial properties, per unit.

The revenue from these charges is used to provide kerbside collection at residential properties, waste management services and to maintain the Gove Peninsula Waste Management Facility.

Statistics from: swek.wa.gov.au

tax the rates paid may not relate directly to the services, infrastructure or facilities used by each ratepayer (eg not all ratepayers will use parks, the Nhulunbuy Aquatic Centre or cycle paths) and it is not possible for many services to be charged out on an individual basis (eg walkway lighting).

However all residents and businesses in the town make use of our services, infrastructure or facilities at some point in time regardless of where they live (eg driving on roads, using parking space, putting rubbish in a public bin, benefitting from walkway lighting)

53% of Rate payers would like to know how the other 47% of nonrate payers contribute to the town facilities and services.

1 Gove

2 Kimberly

MINIMUM DIFFERENTIAL GENERAL RATES Minimum differential general rates will be made and levied for each of the above Categories.

PRICE PER ANNUM

$3,293.20

The minimum differential rate is intended to ensure that all property owners make an equitable contribution towards the costs of administration, governance, common services and the basic infrastructure provided by Council.

RATING SCHEDULE The following table provides details of the rate and minimum applying to each of rate categories. differential theStatistics from: swek.wa.gov.au

3 Emerald Category

Rate in $ (cents)

Minimum p/a

1a. Residential Principal Place of Residence - Emerald < $60,000

0.020833

$829

1b. Residential Principal Place of Residence - All other Townships < $60,000

0.020833

$633

1c. Residential Principal Place of Residence - Tieri < $60,000

0.020833

$1,250.00 $829

2a. Residential Principal Place of Residence - Emerald > $60,000

0.020501

$1,250

2b. Residential Principal Place of Residence - All other Townships > $60,000

0.020501

$1,250

2c. Residential Principal Place of Residence - Tieri > $60,000

0.020501

$1,250

3. Residential Principal Place of Residence Blackwater

0.124157

$829

4a. Large Urban Home-sites Principal Place of Residence - Emerald <$80,000

0.017948

$829

4b. Large Urban Home-sites Principal Place of Residence - All other Townships <$80,000

0.017948

$633

4c. Large Urban Home-sites Principal Place of Residence - Tieri <$80,000

0.017948

$829

5a. Large Urban Home-sites Principal Place of Residence - Emerald >$80,000

0.016123

$1,436

5b. Large Urban Home-sites Principal Place of Residence - All other Townships >$80,000

0.016123

$1,436

5c. Large Urban Home-sites Principal Place of Residence - Tieri >$80,000

0.016123

Statistics from: swek.wa.gov.au

COMPARISON 0.009843 6. Large Urban Home-sites Principal Place of Residence Blackwater MINING TOWN’S TAX RATES

Rate payers would like to know who carries out land evaluations, when and how frequent?

$1,436 $829

7a. Multi-unit (flats) - 2 units - Emerald and Blackwater

0.025812

$1,990

7b. Multi-unit (flats) - 2 units – Other Towns

0.027649

$1,522

8a. Multi-unit (flats) - 3 units - Emerald and Blackwater

0.034377

8b. Multi-unit (flats) - 3 units – Other Towns

0.027649

9a. Multi-unit (flats) - 4 units - Emerald and Blackwater

0.037820

9b. Multi-unit (flats) - 4 units – Other Towns

0.027649

10a. Multi-unit (flats) - 5 units - Emerald and Blackwater

0.029142

10b. Multi-unit (flats) - 5 units – Other Towns

0.035478

$1,250.00 $3,803

11a. Multi-unit (flats) - 6 units - Emerald and Blackwater

0.029142

$5,970

11b. Multi-unit (flats) - 6 units – Other Towns

0.035098

$4,565

12a. Multi-unit (flats) - 7 units - Emerald and Blackwater

0.057082

$6,965

12b. Multi-unit (flats) - 7 units – Other Towns

0.035478

$5,324

13a. Multi-unit (flats) - 8 units - Emerald and Blackwater

0.057916

$7,960

13b. Multi-unit (flats) - 8 units – Other Towns

0.035478

$6,084

14a. Multi-unit (flats) - 9 units - Emerald and Blackwater

0.029458

$8,953

1 WYNDHAM EAST KIMBERLY 2 NHULUNBUY, GOVE 3 EMERALD, QLD

$2,985

$2,281 $1,112.00

$3,980

$3,043 $3,293.20

$4,975

15

37

FATALITIES & FRUSTRATIONS | CENTRAL ARNHEM HIGHWAY

Central Arnhem Highway Community concern

By Editor

I think it is fair to say that the community understands that projects of this magnitude take time. What the general community struggles with is why is there is never any follow up communication on the progress of such projects? It has been 14 months post announcement of Central Arnhem Highway upgrades, and no public updates to local communities since, maybe the people incharge caught covid. Is it because there is no progress? Maybe the announcement was merely an election campaign stunt to follow the voters and will not proceed? Local residents of East Arnhem are accustomed to being minimised, treated as mushrooms, kept in the dark and fed (insert poo emoji). So I guess why not treat us the same at a state or federal level as well?!

Since 2015 we have had over eight (8) fatal accidents on the Central Arnhem Highway, how many more lives will be taken if action is not made to make a start on the more dangerous and high risk areas of the track, at a minimum.

The fact is that communities frequently hear government announcements, however, the taxpayers who foot the bill are never included in transparent decision making, or favorable outcomes and updates as to where their financial contributions are being allocated and how they will be benefited in the process. Generally, communities find out by driving the streets and seeing numerous out of town contractors who are ‘bum bud-

Photo: 2021 Salvage Squad ready to cross the Wilton

38

Statistics from: swek.wa.gov.au

HOW LONG DO THE COMMUNITY HAVE TO WAIT? dies’ with major stakeholders and have swiftly absorbed the opportunities that we, the community, have essentially invested in and laid the platform for.

Why aren’t the community spoken to about what sections need fixing first ? Afterall it is the community that travel the Central Arnhem Road on a regular basis and know which sections are dangerous and need urgent attention, not some desk jockey who hasn’t been on the road besides looking at Google Maps.

NT Government restriction currently 4.5T

The People’s Advocate | Business

Project Description The Central Arnhem Road is a 710km road connecting Katherine via the Stuart Highway to Nhulunbuy. The route links Nhulunbuy to the National Network, services a large number of Indigenous communities and is a key tourism drive and freight route for the mining and pastoral industries.

The Central Arnhem Road Upgrade will involve sealing, reconstructing, widening, and flood immunity improvements to priority sections of the route to a fit-for-purpose standard. Early works cover planning and investigations to prioritise sections of the road for a rolling series of upgrades over coming years, as well as two proposed early works packages to upgrade high priority sections of the road (chainages 59.8-66.0km near Beswick and 363.6-377.0km around the Goyder River).

BENEFITS The Central Arnhem Road Upgrade is expected to deliver the following benefits across the route: Improved Freight Efficiency, Connectivity and Travel Time: • Improved travel times along the corridor • Improved flood immunity along the corridor • Improved access to remote communities Increased Safety: •Provide safer overtaking opportunities • Reduce crash frequencies • Increase weight and height limit for heavy vehicles Support Regional and Local Economic Development: • Support inter-regional connections to and from Nhulunbuy and Katherine • Support the growth of rural populations and the agricultural and tourism industries

How many more deaths will there be before they take action?

The PROMISE WAS..

Central Arnhem Road Upgrade Expected Start/Finish: Late 2020-Mid 2026 Estimated Project Cost: $225 Million

Australia Govt Contribution: $180 Million

39

TAX PAYERS | YOUR INVESTMENTS

ARE YOU HAPPY WITH YOUR RETURN ON INVESTMENT T A X & D E A T H | Two things in life your parents drummed into you that you will never avoid. I am ok with death, but taxes? Maybe on a fairer system and here is why. How many times have you ever wondered what return you get for your investment, for example the years of tax dollars that you have paid? Yes, we have a healthcare system, some drivable roads, some free education, a welfare system and other general needs to survive. HOWEVER, sometimes these services are not inclusive, equally accessible or of high standard, especially to the ones paying taxes, which I find mind boggling. It doesn’t seem to make sense or be a fair system nor does it send a clear message.

According to statistics, there are 12,577,100 (approximately 66%) of Australians employed, and by the time you are 39 you have paid around $455,000 in taxes. Collectively, the country has paid on average, approximately 5.722 trillion in taxes. However, we are continuously penalised, but do the right thing.

I wholeheartedly accept my taxation responsibilities and the supporting of the fellow population who are unable to support themselves, whether it be via financial benefits or concessional discounts etc.

However, when you have been a taxpayer for most of your life and are declined financial assistance due to your income or asset pool being too high, is this something that needs reviewing? Are the administrators and public servants of these benefits forgetting that if those incomes

40

were not high, taxes would not have been paid, and therefore there would not be a welfare system in the first place? This confusion and frustration takes me back to my original question: are you happy with your return on investment when it comes to paid taxes? ‘Hell, no!’ is my answer!

This is where more of our hard-earned tax dollars go, and it is most definitely not an investment I am impressed about.

By Mareva The independent Remuneration Tribunal has given all members and senators a 2 per cent pay rise, in recognition of what it describes as a need to “provide competitive and equitable remuneration” for prospective politicians “sufficient to attract and retain people of calibre”.

The timing of the pay rise will be hard to accept for some of the nation’s lower-paid workers, as it coincides with the next round of penalty rate cuts ordered two years ago by the independent Fair Work Commission.

Minimum pay for federal politicians set to surpass $211,000 thanks to 2 per cent increase Scott Morrison’s prime ministerial pay to grow $11,000 to more than $549,000 New Labor leader Anthony Albanese will take home around $390,000. A backbench

member or senator was on an annual salary of $207,000. That will increase to more than $211,000 next year.

They receive more money if they have extra roles, such as chairing any parliamentary committees. The pay rise is above inflation, which was 1.3 per cent in the first quarter of this year.

Fresh from his election victory, Prime Minister Scott Morrison will pocket an extra $11,000, taking his annual salary to more than $549,000. As he balances the nation’s books, Treasurer Josh Frydenberg’s own coffers will be around $8,000 healthier. His salary will rise to more than $433,000.

Taking the reins of the Labor party has not only fulfilled Anthony Albanese’s professional ambitions, but it has also improved his financial standing.

As a senior Labor frontbencher, Mr Albanese would have been earning about $259,000 a year. As Opposition Leader, he will earn around $390,000 from July 1.

The Remuneration Tribunal makes decisions about all pay rates for public officers.

Some government departments and agencies have also agreed to a 2 per cent pay rise for their staff.

One of its main considerations is ensuring salaries for public roles can be competitive with the private sector.

Article: News.com.au

The People’s Advocate | Business

Chief Minister’s taxpayer-funded $7k trip to Nhulunbuy with family revealed

Mr Helms featured in a story Ms O’Brien wrote for the ABC in 2018 that was highly critical of Mr Guyula for voicing his concerns around the proposed Nhulunbuy space base project that Mr Gunner has heavily promoted as crucial to the region’s economic success.

Ms O’Brien copped criticism in national media earlier this year for appearing to be campaigning for Mr Gunner while on maternity leave with the ABC and for writing stories for the public broadcaster that appeared to further her husband’s political interests.

Instagram photo of Mr Gunner’s baby while in Nhulunbuy.

Chief Minister Michael Gunner charged taxpayers more than $7,000 for a onenight trip to Nhulunbuy in the lead up to the NT general election that included costs for his wife and newborn baby, newly released government travel records show.

Mr Gunner and ABC journalist Kristy O’Brien flew to Nhulunbuy in late June and brought their then-two-month old baby to the region, who featured in photos posted to the couple’s social media accounts, including a picture of the baby in a healing ceremony held by Indigenous elders.

According to government records, Mr Gunner charged taxpayers $316 for one night’s accommodation in Nhulunbuy and nearly $4,000 for a charter flight.

He also charged taxpayers nearly $3,000 for unknown purposes on the trip, listed on government expense documents as “other”.

Mr Gunner’s media manager Maria Billias did not offer an explanation for the mysterious expense when questioned.

The official reason for the trip is listed only as “meetings with stakeholders” and fails to identify the “stakeholders” with whom he met or what precisely they hold a stake in.

According to the few social media posts unrelated to his baby at the time, Mr Gunner also met with then-Labor candidate for the electorate of Mulka (formerly Nhulunbuy) Lynne Walker. Ms Walker was then seeking to re-claim the seat from independent MLA Yingyia Mark Guyula in what was expected to be a close contest.

The trip also coincided with a planned fundraising event for Ms Walker at the Gove Country Golf Club, but it could not be confirmed if the event went ahead as originally planned or if donations were collected.

While in Nhulunbuy, Mr Gunner appears to have also attended a regional economic forum hosted by Klaus Helms, the chief executive of the Gumatj Aboriginal Corporation and chair of the East Arnhem Regional Reconstruction Commission.

Less than a week after the Nhulunbuy sojourn, the couple took the baby on a taxpayer-funded eight-day road trip to Alice Springs, stopping in communities along the way at a cost of $2300, travel records show.

The official reason was again listed as meeting with “stakeholders” and to attend a “Covid Thank-you Function” and open the Tennant Creek family centre.

Partners and children are permitted to travel at taxpayer’s expense to accompany Members of the Legislative Assembly on official business, provided it’s approved by the Chief Minister. It’s understood Mr Gunner’s request for his wife and baby to accompany him on the two trips would have been approved by either the Speaker or head public servant Jodie Ryan. His office declined to comment for this story.

Mr Gunner was elected in 2016 on a commitment to “restore integrity to government” that included pledges to reform public reporting requirements around taxpayer-funded politician travel that did not eventuate.

By. The Independant www.ntindependant.com.au

41

Workers

vs.

Wankers

Ever wondered which you may be?

In every workplace, there is a cast of certain individuals that don’t care about anybody or anything around them. They’re the ones that you just wish would be fired already, but always stick around one way or another.

Having worked in many a melting pot myself I discovered that these sad excuses for humans tended to populate every workplace ever. As a result, I have devised a list of delightful peers that I, and undoubtedly you, have come across in our years in the workplace.

The boss of everyone guy or gal

E-mail guy or gal

As a mid-level employee, I have always had the pleasure of working with co-workers on the same scale as me, thinking that they are the boss of me/ everyone around them. Usually been employed for 5 minutes or are the most stupid of all.

There is always that one co-worker who lacks the proper ability to function cognitively. The ones that neglect to use their brain to problem solve/think thoughts.

Consequently, they insist on emailing you 305 times a day asking you the same question that could easily be solved with one phone call.

Those co-workers who decide that since their voice is the loudest they have the authority to devise how projects roll out. No, you’re not showing initiative.

You’re being really f**king annoying.

I would often receive emails from co-workers asking me to email the client something they wanted to say.

As in, they took 10 minutes out of their time just to email me to email someone else, instead of merely e-mailing the client themselves. Makes total sense?

What is it about other employees who have been there longer than you that think they can dole out job responsibilities to you? Is it because they are too busy putting effort into their smoking or e-mails about other emails? Who knows. Either way, it’s really bloody annoying.

42

I’m not sure which I hate more. The e-mail person, or the one who stands at your desk every 10 minutes asking the dumbest questions to ever be uttered.

Both, incredibly annoying and unnecessary in the workplace.

Victimisation in the workplace Victimisation is the unlawful treatment of a person because they have made a complaint about the way they have been treated at work. The main feature of victimisation is that it punishes a person for speaking out and/or stops them from complaining.

What is considered unfair treatment in the workplace?

What Constitutes Unfair Treatment? It is illegal to harass or discriminate against someone because of so-called “protected characteristics” such as age, disability, pregnancy, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, religion, color, nationality and sex.

The forgetful guy or gal

The blame guy or gal

Oftentimes, I find myself having to beat my own common sense down with a bat, because the Boss has insisted I go about a task in their way. (Because who needs staff to think for themselves? AmIright?!)

In my working life, it seems like not one, but multiple people tend to assume this role in the workplace.

More often than not, I have had instances where I’ve known certain elements of a project have been incorrect, but the Boss has insisted I keep them anyway. Only to have them turn around to me the very next day and tell me off for doing said task incorrectly.

If you have any sense of a brain, you’ll know that it’s smarter just to correct the problem, rather than argue that they were wrong. Remember, in most company’s the Boss thinks they’re above the law and therefore are always right. 😉

If anything at all goes wrong that has either been picked up by the client or by a senior, suddenly the entire department has washed their hands of the project and knows nothing of it. When all else fails, said co-workers tend to blame the following to cover their own asses: • The most junior member on the team (who has probably been out on Vacation) • The employee who doesn’t speak English • The client for being so dumb/out of touch with modern technology - where is the accountability & responsibility?

These people are so desperate to play the blame game that they will even cover their own tracks by sending a department-wide e-mail, calling attention to the problem. Because there’s no way that the issue at hand will be traced back to them if they’re the ones pointing it out, right?!

Send in your toxic workplace stories Privacy & Confidentiality 100% guaranteed. stories to mareva@mds247.com.au

43

Oi Crab pot bait, stay inside, start paying rego & stop pissing on my boat.

When it comes to policies, procedures and By-laws there is a lot to be desired in this field. Lets get it straight from the beginning that personal interpretation on policies, procedures and By-Laws is not LAW!!!! These documents are written in a way that are easy to understand and in place for a reason. When company/corporation employees act on personal interpretation of the Policies, Procedures or ByLaws this is where the water gets muddy.

Not only are these employees trying to act outside their boundaries by enacting such personal interpretation, but they are trying to force community members to follow suit and so the community believes that the employees interpretation is correct.

This is so far from the truth and is displayed around the country when companies/corporations put these documents in place thinking no one will ever question the company/corporation. Alongside this they put these in place and don’t train staff on what the said policies,

44

Haven’t you heard, cats are above the law. I can pee, poop and kill whatever I want with no consequences. #catlifeingove

procedures and By-Laws actually mean and or how to act upon any breaches leaving their employees out in the cold to act on “what they think the interpretation of the policy, procedure and by-law actually is”. This may leave employees, companies and corporations out in the cold when it comes to a community member actually standing up and calling out the employees interpretation and could end in litigation if there is an incorrect interpretation to which causes damage.

Once such By-Law that has been in the spotlight for a while now in the town is the Animal Control By-Law which the last update was in 2015. I’m pretty sure that most people will agree that a dog is a dog, a cat is a cat and a cat and dog are in fact living animals and should be part of the Animal Control By-laws equally to make it more consistent and easy to follow for all involved including community mem-

What if my dog identifies as a cat or even a unicorn?

LAW BY-LAWS NEED TO BE REVISED

bers. The whole issue where dogs are under the microscope because of the By-Laws in place and dealt with differently to say a cat is so far left it is not funny anymore. This is blatant discrimination to dog owners as they are made to pay and adhere to rules that cat owners are not.

What if my dog identifies as a cat or even a unicorn? Do I need to register it? What if my cat identifies as a DOG ?

Is it discrimination that people in this day and age make community members register a dog but not a cat?

The old saying that if it smells like a dog, barks like a dog, looks like a dog and feels like a dog, then it is a dog.

By Community Advocate.

45

We’ve survey Oi Crab got pot a bait, stay &inside, letterstart signed by paying 68 people, should rego & stop pissing onI hold my my breath? boat.

cats are NoHaven’t holding you yourheard, breath won’t abovea the law. I canyou pee,know poop make difference, andslow kill whatever I want with how things move around consequences. here! Ino should be safe until 2030... #catlifeingove

Nhulunbuy Corporation Limited Westal Street, Endeavour Square Nhulunbuy NT 0880 Attention: Chris Arnold chrisarnoldgove@gmail.com NCL Board Member Meeting: 25 August 2020

24 August 2020

RE: DOGS V CATS REPRESENTED EQUALLY IN THE CORPORATION BY-LAWS Dear Chris It has come to the attention of many Nhulunbuy residents that there is a large difference in the regulations and costs associated with owning a dog on town lease as there is if you own a cat on town lease.

Please see the attached feedback from the community petition I recently ran. In the last four days I have received almost fifty responses and many left comments for your consideration.

Residents’ concerns in brief are; • Unfair and inconsistent costs for each animal • Cats endanger the environment and are a threat to native animals • Cats having no curfew and roaming around all night urinating on assets, which takes time and money to get rid of the smell and we don’t get compensated for this but the owner of the cat or the cat is not accountable or put out at all – doesn’t seem fair?!

• Cats not having to be in a cage or enclosure, like a dog, chickens, birds, rabbits, fish, turtles etc.

In the four days that the petition ran for, the residents have voiced that they are wanting the by-laws to be reviewed and the corporation to create a fair playing field for all animal owners regarding conditions and costs. For example, A. One of the considerations could be that the cost of registering dogs should be on par with other councils in the NT which one is currently $59.71 per year for a whole dog, this is half of what we are required to pay here. B. could be that dog registration is reduced and a cat registration introduced, as well as, enclosure requirements and penalties, especially when it comes to ruining assets etc C. Rate payers to have the dog registration built into their fees, as we did not seem to receive a pandemic concession and already pay the highest rates in the country for leasehold.

The residents that own dogs or other animals besides cats usually comply with the by-laws, pay fees and restrain animals appropriately, however, cat owners have minimal rules and costs to comply with, yet they are the most destructive to property and native animals. Cats have an extremely negative impact in many ways and this needs to be addressed with swift preventative measures.

We appreciate that this may take some time to implement new by-laws, however, everyone has been affected by the pandemic in some way and maybe a reduction in dog registrations for the next few months, could be considered, while you implement fairer conditions.

Regards, Mareva Cook 0487 228 976

46

20

20

Signatures Location

Date

Mareva Pearse

Australia

2020-08-20

Mihalia Giallouris

Nhulunbuy, Australia

2020-08-20

Richard Mika

Nhulunbuy, Australia

2020-08-20

Cassie Budja

Australia

2020-08-20

Shelley Ervine

Nhulunbuy, Australia

2020-08-20

Rhonda Palmer

Melbourne, Australia

2020-08-20

nicole o'hara

Australia

2020-08-20

Latryce Pearse

Nhulunbuy, Australia

2020-08-20

Anita Warnes

Kings Beach, Australia

2020-08-20

anthony Burge

Nhulunbuy, Australia

2020-08-20

JD

Gove, Australia

2020-08-20

Mache Collins

Nhulunbuy, Australia

2020-08-20

Rory Blah blah

Nhulunbuy, Australia

2020-08-20

Kate Pollard

Brunswick, Australia

2020-08-20

Christina Quong

Nhulunbuy, Australia

2020-08-20

Cheryle Chilton

Australia

2020-08-20

Craig Banyer

Darwin, Australia

2020-08-20

Stephanie celi

Auckland, New Zealand

2020-08-20

Petition Letter Community support

Comment "Cats have no place in Arnhem Land. They are not required to be desexed, they breed prolifically and are left to fend for themselves. Cats are adept at hunting and place great pressure on our reptiles and other native animals."

"If my dog is not allowed out of my yard and is required to be MC and registered, I can't see why cats too should not have to follow the same regulations. Cats cause far more destruction than dogs."

20

"There should be more equity between cat and dog fees."

21

"Fees and laws should cover both species of common household pets in animal management. Ensuring current NCL staff and the community have clear/safe procedures to comply to. Conflict resolution is difficult when laws are not clearly and fairly defined."

21

Name

"I have plenty of frustrated colleagues whose cars have been damaged, my own included, by the cats of careless owners. Not to mention the wildlife impact, so it's a firm 'Yes' here."

23

"Cats"

23

"Just for the simple fact that cats kill so much native bird life is enough for them to be under much closer scrutiny. I think we should have the same rules as Groote, where there are no new cats allowed, all of the current ones should only be allowed to be inside the house. The endangered Quoll population has sprung back to life since this was put in the place. We should do the same here."

Damien Spark

Adelaide, Australia

2020-08-20

Name Petilisa Mailangi

Location Nhulunbuy, Australia

Date 2020-08-20

Daniel Cook

Nhulunbuy, Australia

2020-08-20

Dannielle Andrews

Melbourne, Australia

2020-08-20

Danielle Tibbs

Cairns, Australia

2020-08-20

Christopher Veal

Nhulunbuy, Australia

2020-08-20

DEB COOK

Newstead, Australia

2020-08-20

Denise Hearne

Nhulunbuy, Australia

2020-08-20

Annemarie Van doorn

Australia

2020-08-20

Mark Quinlan

Australia

2020-08-20

Sharon Scarabello

Nhulunbuy, Australia

2020-08-20

Gayle Baylis

Darwin, Australia

2020-08-20

Henrietta Ofa

Nhulunbuy, Australia

2020-08-20

Joshua Carroll-Walden

Australia

2020-08-21

Lee Jensen

Australia

2020-08-21

Susan Statham

Perth, Australia

2020-08-21

Ryan Birchley

Australia

2020-08-21

Rayne Ellis

Nhulunbuy, Australia

2020-08-21

Kirstie-ann Shepherd Shepherd

Nhulunbuy, Australia

2020-08-21

Mitch Whitmore

Townsville, Australia

2020-08-22

Ghazal Ghahraman

Brisbane, Australia

2020-08-22

Caitlin Anderson

Brighton, Australia

2020-08-22

Name Glen Carrall

Location Australia

Date 2020-08-23

Shinade Pearse

Gove, Australia

2020-08-23

Cassandra Mann

Nhulunbuy, Australia

2020-08-23

Luke Silvester

Wollongong, Australia

2020-08-23

Harry Pitkin

Gove, Australia

2020-08-23

47

Mental Health Nurse

Christopher Veal

W H E R E I T A L L S TA R T E D As a Registered Nurse newly staffed at the Royal Hobart Hospital in Tasmania, I was expected to work wherever I was placed, typically turning up for work 15 minutes before the shift started and being allocated a ward/department for the day. One day, I was being allocated to the catheterization laboratory, and my job for the entire day was to wear a lead apron and hold a heavy lead pack as the radiologist conducted did 10 angiogram procedures.

hunting skills would have rendered us dead within the week. As I was telling this story, I felt the lady begin to relax by laying back into the pillows and letting her arms rest by her sides.

After what seemed like an eternity, Miguel returned with a crocodile in the boat. Miguel, clearly proud of himself, stood up the front with a five–foot crocodile, its snout wrapped in very thick rope. We cooked the crocodile tail and had a lovely meal on the banks of the river. The next day, we had an opportunity to attend a local Venezuelan dance where we, the ‘travellers from Australia’, received thunderous applause.

Just as I was finishing my story, the problem with the machine was rectified. I said goodbye to the lady and wished her well.

An angiogram involves the radiologist injecting a dye up patients‘ right femoral artery into the heart and surrounding vessels. In the following step, an X–ray is taken to check the patency of all three arteries, to determine blockages, occlusions, deformities in any of the arteries. The lead pack had to be held over the incision of the femoral artery for 30 minutes after the catheter was removed to stop any possible bleeding. It was brutally exhausting and particu- Months later, I received a card in the mail addressed to me, which larly mundane. After all, not all of nursing is fun and life-affirming. was surprising because I was living in a temporary accommodation and no one knew my address. The card was handwritten, but I My sixth patient, an older lady, appeared extremely nervous. As the didn’t recognise the handwriting. Only once I opened it did I realise procedure started, a problem occurred with the X–ray machine. it was from the same lady who I had treated. Along with the card The dye had been injected into the lady and then quickly removed. was what appeared to be a twig.

I was instructed to keep the heavy pack on the patient‘s artery and In her card, she thanked me for calming her down with my story. talk to her until the machine could be rectified.

Turns out she was a famous rose grower from Hobart and had sent My previous patients would often fall asleep while I held the pack me a cutting of one of her renowned rose bushes to show her apin place – but not this one. I now had to perform one of the most preciation. Touched by her gesture, I bought a book on how to tend basic nursing skills – talk to and reassure the patient. I decided to to roses but lacking in the skill, I could not salvage the flower. Altell a story about a crocodile I encountered travelling in 1995 on one though it saddened me to be unable to treasure her gift, I will never of the tributaries of the Amazon River. We were loaded into a Land forget the thought behind it.

Rover with and driven six hours to an unknown destination on our way to the tributary, with three guides in tow, and the only one that The reason I tell this tale is about the role nurses play, day in and spoke English used to be a Venezuelan Army Major, familiar with day out, in the lives of our patients. We meet so many people in through our work, our experiences with them are mostly fleeting. the wild jungle of the Amazon Basin and its peculiarities.

It‘s part of the job, and most nursing staff try not to get too atOn our first night, we were supposed to hunt piranha but between tached to patients. the whole group, all we could manage was one piranha. At this point, Miguel (the Major) stated that he would go and get us some The rose failed to grow into a lovely bush, but like dealing with my crocodile to eat. If we had been stranded, I am sure our primitive patients, I know I did my best.

48

It’s not always obvious,

GOOD HEALTH IS GOOD FOR YOUR WORKPLACE

WHAT IS A HEALTHY WORKPLACE? You can implement a successful health and wellbeing program How you do this

It’s no surprise

A workplace health and wellbeing program

To what degree does your workplace influence your employees’ health?

Article by NTG

In need of support in your workplace?

Privacy & Confidentiality 100% guaranteed. email: mareva@mds247.com.au

MDS247 SECURITY | Nhulunbuy

1800 637 247 49

LINKING HEALTH, SAFETY AND WELLBEING

HOW DO THESE LINK TOGETHER IN THE WORKPLACE? in

In response to recent updates

Act 2012

Work Health and Safety

Article by NTG

50

MDS247 SECURITY | Nhulunbuy

1800 637 247

HOW CAN I CALCULATE THE FINANCIAL BENEFIT TO MY ORGANISATION? WHY INVEST IN HEALTH AND WELLBEING?

Total annual savings in sick leave achievable by

$25 500

What might be the potential savings for your workplace?

Article by NTG

In need of support in your workplace?

Privacy & Confidentiality 100% guaranteed. email: mareva@mds247.com.au

MDS247 SECURITY | Nhulunbuy

1800 637 247 51

Mareva & Dan

Business Development & Operations

Peter

Compliance | Governance

Daniel

Finance | Accounting | Bookeeping | Payroll

MAREVA DIRECTOR DANIEL DIRECTOR

Anita

Business Admin Support

Luisa | Wes

Graphic & Web Designer | Social Media Management

Cassie

Customer Service Specialist

Casual Pool

O R G A N I S A T I O N

S T R U C T U R E

Staff hired as needed

WE HAVE BROUGHT TOGETHER A FANTASTIC TEAM OF PROFESSIONALS, WHO ARE EXPERTS IN THEIR FIELDS AND RESPECTED IN THEIR COMMUNITIES AND INDUSTRIES.

52

Peter is the most senior staff member on our team and a wealth of knowledge in general, but team this with his 25 years’ as a union representative, based in VIC, Peter possess an extremely strong moral compass and is the greatest advocate for the people he represents. Peter is most passionate about maintaining our professional integrity and ensuring we are accountable and responsible in accordance with our contractual and legal obligations

maintaining P&L statements, managing, and overseeing funds, banking and tax affairs. Daniel takes care of all the accounts, bookkeeping, time-sheets, payroll, and invoicing.

Daniel T is the accountant making sure finance compliance is managed correctly and seamlessly with his professional, detailed, and methodical approach to

Wes is our behind the scenes whiz, taking care of our social media and video editing. Wes has a huge social media presence and is seasoned gamer.

Luisa is an extremely talented, experienced graphic & web designer. Luisa’s attention to detail and creative flare has been instrumental in bringing together our branding across all of our print and media platforms.

Cassie is our customer service specialist and has extensive experience in mining industry policies and procedures. Cassie is also a strong advocate for children’s rights and workplace compliance to ensure employee safety.

Anita is our PA, based in QLD, she maintains all our business records, database management and administration, ensuring the I’s are dotted and it’s crossed.

Anita has 15 years of experience in the real estate industry and has a strong moral compass in relation to governance and compliance.

DS247

ARE PEOPLE WHO MAKE A DIFFERENCE

BENEFITS, WHY PARTNERING WITH MDS247 IS YOUR BEST CHOICE We are locals, supporting locals. In all our businesses, we succeed by delivering the best service at the best price. We have the knowledge, the experience, and the team on the ground. We look after people with integrity, trust and genuine care. Your business requirements are in good hands with MDS247.

GYM • SECURITY • MAGAZINE • PRINTING • ADVERTISING • FOOD VAN • An experienced team you can count on – and we have the resources and systems in place to scale service delivery up as needed during peak times and from business growth • Directors who are knowledgeable and accountable

• We are solutions focused • Business development strategy in place to grow any business • Clear communication processes

Mareva & Dan Cook MDS247 Directors

MDS247 stands for Mareva Dan Solutions 24/7 and our structure offers 1800 numbers that are answered by a service 24/7 which offers a round the clock answering service.

We are a local husband and wife team, who offer services both professional and industrial across our multiple businesses. We are supported by eight other professionals, all of whom are diverse in their fields of expertise, capable of working across multiple disciplines, possess acute business acumen and provide exceptional customer service. We pride ourselves on being dedicated and enthusiastic locals who have an optimistic outlook.

WE LOOK FORWARD TO BEING YOUR CHOICE IN BUSINESS! 53

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36 YEARS EXPERIENCE AS A NURSE

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CHRISTOPHER

JONNY

MICHAEL

Christopher has 36 years experience as a Nurse and also experience in working in remote areas.

Jonny is all about the science, physical performance and enhancing health.

Michael has an exercise and athletic background, who is passionate about health and well-being.

Counsellor

“As nurses, we often have experiences which, despite the demanding nature of our work, that reaffirm our faith in our capabilities and our profession, reminding us why we chose this line of work”.

Strength Coach/Physio

“My main focus is to teach you how to become lean and strong, to prevent injury, so that you do not have to spend exorbitant amounts of money on unnecessary and preventable physio or chiro visits; let along run the risk of often harmful medical imaging”.

Personal Trainer

“Michael is committed to helping the community through his current role as a youth worker. He is a qualified Personal Trainer and AFL Coach”.

55

Kids Corner Cyberbullying

There is always help if you feel like you or someone you know is being bullied please contact or visit the site below https://kidshelpline.com.au/teens/issues/bullying 56

people, their lives are flourishing, they are loved and healthy, and have opportunities to learn and participate. However, across many measures, the data also highlight a distressing story, as a disproportionate number of our children and young people face significant challenges from their early years. As they progress through life, they continue to fall behind.

This Story is underpinned by the national research of the Australian Research Alliance for Children and Youth and its development of The Nest outcomes framework with six key outcomes, or domains.

The Nest is a theoretical framework and one practical application of this is ARACY’s Common Approach (see figure below). It places the child at the centre, surrounded by circles of influence from family relationships to community.

The Nest refers to six outcome areas, or domains. Through the research, it was determined that for children and young people to be well, they need to be loved and safe, have material basics, be healthy, be learning, be participating and have a positive sense of identity and culture.

AFE DS Trusting AN

D VE LO Positive

HEA LTH Y

Health services available when needed

COMMUNITY

relationships with other adults

Support from friends and the community Mental and emotional Positive health family Family's Supported Emotionally interactions physical by family and mentally Community health well and Learning clubs Positive self supported activities and esteem Activities outside groups Physically with the of school Sense of healthy and Family family security active maximises Goes to learning school or Feels heard Internet Helps pre-school Sport or and social and is CHILD Opportunities outdoor media helped by Enjoys to have Spends play at home friends and learning a say quality neighbours Family time group Sense of with School decisions belonging, children Feels supports Social cultural identity, provided individual gatherings and spiritual for learning wellbeing Enough needs Family food and spends time clothes together Enough space at Family cultural, Access to home Working religious, or Connection transport or looking linguistic to community for work practices and culture Access to local AT U services ARACY's Common Approach® Child's identity LT ER Stable is respected and IA Source: Copyright ARACY 2019. All CU housing supported peer relationships

House is safe

FAMILY

Healthy eating

M

RE

PARTICIPATING

LEARNING

Feels supported and safe at school

LB

AS

IC S

IDE

TY N TI

AN

D

Common Approach resources are to be used following Common Approach® training. Please visit www.aracy.org.au for training details.

Reproduced with permission.

Story of Our Children and Young People | East Arnh

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Identity and culture underpins all other outcomes for children and young people’s wellbeing.

ARACY’s review of research found a ‘positive sense of identity and culture’ is fundamental to a child or young person’s wellbeing.

Identity and culture are broad reaching themes and are challenging to define for any child or community, as they are very personal, are dependent on a child’s awareness of their own identity, and change as a child progresses through life.

Identity is influenced by family, country, language, health, feeling loved and safe, involvement in the community and having access to other external influences. Each of these factors both define and are defined by identity and culture.

In this domain, three outcomes of connection to culture, spirituality and cultural diversity, are explored through six indicators.

6.1 Connection to culture 6.1.1 Language spoken at home

6.1.2 Aboriginal culture Aboriginal spirituality and a connection to country help to guide a child’s development, as well as teaching

57

REAL ESTATE | NT

Top End Property luring Investors & Locals alike Australia Property Investor: Writer Craig Francis

The Northern Territory is often seen as the canary in the coalmine when it comes to Australia’s economy.

The NT’s 245,000 people comprise just one per cent of the national population, but the territory’s economic reliance on natural resources, agriculture, and large public sector is a microcosm of Australia’s.

Darwin’s fortunes over the past six months are showing a remarkable resemblance to trends now emerging in the major capital cities like Sydney, Melbourne and Perth, with soaring government debt levels proving no deterrent to the property market.

House prices rose more than four per cent this year, while unit prices have climbed more than seven per cent in the September quarter in Darwin, where 60 per cent of Territorians call home.

September quarter performance: Houses (Greater Darwin) •Median Price: $480,000 – an increase on the June Quarter of 0.5% and an annual increase of 4.3% •Sales volume: up 2.5% for the September Quarter from June and up 10.6% annually.

Units / Townhouses (Greater Darwin) •Median Price: $300,000 – an increase of 7.1% from the June quarter and up 2.0% annually.

•Sales volume: up 34.6% in the September Quarter from June and up 14.4% annually.

While prices are still well off the peak of the market in 2014/15, sales volumes and a low rental vacancy rate point to a significant resurgence.

Real Estate Institute of Northern Territory chief executive Quentin Kilian said the 2020 recovery that was taking place in the face of stifling border closures, was “down to a bit of everything.”

“We have had very lean times for the last four years, which has meant a substantial fall in the median pricing on both

58

Photo: Cullen Bay, Darwin, Northern Territory

houses and units and resulted in substantial stock being available,” Mr Kilian told Australian Property Investor Magazine.

“Lower interest rates, and as such lower mortgage rates, have driven an uptake by first home buyers and we are also seeing the return of investors to the market – both local and southern – who are looking for the lower purchasing prices and high yields.

“Darwin still offers the highest rental yields of any capital city, with 5.1 per cent on houses and 5.9 per cent on units.

“Since July this year we have had more than 140,000 people cross the NT border, with some simply doing their quarantine and moving on, but a sizable number deciding to rent or purchase in Darwin,” he said.

While the property price rises were promising signs of a strengthening market, he dismissed media reports elsewhere that median house prices had risen 6.6 per cent to $539,463.

Business Manager at Habitat Real Estate, Jess Lee, said record low interest rates had seen new clientele trying to break into the property game.

“The recent purchasing trend has predominantly come from locals seeking more space, to fit that home office or extra bedroom in,” Ms Lee said.

“With overseas travel looking to be off the agenda for some time, many buyers have found themselves with some disposable income and are wanting to upsize.”

“Furthermore, since the borders opened up, we have also seen an influx of COVID refugees seeking our warmth, less crowded living and lured by the fact we have had no community transmission ever.”

Ms Lee said traditionally interstate families working in the NT would rent a property but with such uncertainty in other states have opted to purchase a property instead, creating competition at open inspections.

The People’s Advocate | Real Estate

Government, Grants & Growth

T

he Territory Home Owner Discount allows home buyers who have not had a property in the NT for the previous two years to save up to $18,601 in stamp duty for homes under $650,000.

First-home buyers are also eligible for grants between $2000 and $10,000 for expenses, including household goods and renovations, and all eligible people building in the state can take advantage of the Build Bonus Grant of $20,000.

Given the price limit, it was no surprise it was properties below this amount that were faring best.

Mr Kilian said activity was most pronounced in the $350,000 - $450,000 bracket and the $450,000 - $600,000 bracket.

“Palmerston has shown good activity in the house market and Inner Darwin and north coastal areas around Nightcliff were showing strong unit sales,” he said.

Ms Lee identified inner-city suburbs such as Fannie Bay, Nightcliff Parap, Larrakeyah and Stuart Park as the ones seeing quick sales with plenty of competition among families seeking more space.

The NT Government this week revealed it expects to spend $9.3 billion this financial year, far more than the $6.3 billion it forecasts it will receive in revenue.

Like the rest of the country, COVID has driven huge spending on supporting the community and economy, while hitting tax and other revenues.

Chief Minister Michael Gunner sought to convey a sense of optimism about the

Territory’s longer-term economic future for “the comeback capital”.

“This is the time to talk up the Territory,” he said in his Budget speech, noting the Territory’s economy expanded by 4.8 per cent last financial year, largely off the back of LNG exports.

The commercial property market, however, was not showing signs of a comeback.

Business activity and rental property demand slumped in 2018 when construction on the $40 billion Inpex gas plant near Darwin wound down.

Habitat’s Ms Lee said commercial property had continued to struggle and it was not due to COVID. “This will be another interesting one to watch to see what government initiatives are brought in to assist with our dying CBD commercial properties,” she said.

Rents luring investors With residential rental yields above 5 per cent, and nearly 6 per cent on apartments, Darwin is again a highly attractive place for investors.

It’s enough to make interstate investors salivate, with other cities around half that rate, including New South Wales’ 3.2 per cent and Melbourne (3.4 per cent, down over a year from 3.7 per cent).

REINT’s Mr Kilian said Darwin’s highly transient population meant there was always rental demand, particularly for nicely presented properties.

“Over the last two months we’ve seen rents starting to increase, many by upwards of $100 per week.

“The September quarter had the median

rent of a three-bedroom house at $475 per week, which is up 5.1 per cent from June and 34 per cent more than this time last year, while the median rent for a 2 bedroom unit was $341 per week, which is up 1.6% from June.”

Ms Lee said rental demand was buoyant across the city but identified Nightcliff, Rapid Creek, Fannie Bay and Parap as attracting quality applicants for prices not seen for years.

“We have seen vacancy rates fall from 8 per cent to below 1 per cent within a matter of months.”

“Interestingly, many of these rental applicants are coming from the local market and are pushing for the larger homes despite the increase in rent.

“Palmerston continues to track along as a place younger families are looking to settle due to the infrastructure that has gone out that way.”

Mr Kilian said the recovery certainly was not limited to Darwin.

Alice Springs lifted 72 per cent in volumes of house sales, but retreated slightly (-4.6 per cent) in median price to $450,000, he said.

“Katherine had strong sales, but as it and the Tenant Creek markets are very small the percentage movements can appear quite dramatic, however, there is very little stock available in either town and that is putting pressure on the pricing.”

The newly released NT budget also includes $1.75 billion for infrastructure projects, including $597 million for remote housing.

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