Somerset News Online 21 Sept 2023

Henry Somerset

Green lesson - Somerset style

“WHY do we have to dig these holes so deep?” asked my granddaughters.

We were planting trees, part of Grandpa’s holiday activities.

The granddaughters are very environmentally conscious.

In fact, one is deeply negative about her future given her dystopian view that climate change is going to turn everything around us into a burning desert.

This appears to be a mix

of negative environmental messages in school lessons and the flurry of burning landscapes on the futuristic video games they seem to play endlessly.

I have to avoid getting grumpy when I’m asked why I have a diesel ute and tractor as if I, alone, am burning a hole so big that we are all going to be decarbonised.

(Answer: there’s no affordable, workable electric ute or tractor and no electric vehicle fast charging stations

around these parts).

So being a practical Grandpa, I decided the girls should do some actual good for the environment - plant trees where we had cleared (by diesel dozer, but don’t tell them) lantana and other invasive weeds along the creek.

I wasn’t going to let them get away with the usual political tree planting (hole already dug, water on tap).

We were going to do the full environmental hard

yakka.

First pick up the sticks, especially bits of lantana that could quickly regrow.

When they started some low level whinging, I mentioned we could just nuke the area with industrial chemicals. That was definitely not on, so they continued to pick up sticks.

Then we looked up the details of the size of the trees we were to plant and marked out a planting design (they were happy with that because

it was just like school, except Grandpa used a pencil and paper not a computer).

Then we started digging in the largely loamy lantana soil.

They messed around digging barely the size of the pots, into which Grandpa had months earlier planted up with seedlings he’d found along the creek of native lillypillies and grevillias. As I pointed out, we were planting what grew here naturally, not introduced species.

“Keep digging, girls,” I said, while still swinging my spade.

“But why?” They pleaded as the first beads of sweat appeared on their cheeks.

I asked if they wanted the trees to grow big and strong to suck on all the carbon emitted from Grandpa’s ute and tractors and their parents’ 4WD.

Of course, they chorused.

Well, we have to keep digging until we hit moist subsoil. This led to a lesson they didn’t hear at school. We would only get a good

survival of these trees if their roots could get down to moist subsoil, which in this dry year would be deeper than average.

So we kept digging at least half a metre down.

We planted the trees firmly, making a ring of dirt to hold water around the roots.

Finally we staked (to stop the deer running over the new plants) and watered.

The girls just sprinkled a bit of water around the trunks.

But Grandpa explained these trees needed a “real good drink”, so they’d have to haul more buckets of water. More sweat, more whinging.

Finally the job was done properly.

As I said to the girls, if you want to be a real environmentalist, you’ve got to break a sweat and do the tree planting properly.

Chatting over biscuits and billy tea afterwards, I think they got the green lessonSomerset style.

Henry Somerset, born in South Africa and educated in England, came to Australia to manage rural properties in the 1880s. After time in central Queensland, he managed properties in this region and took up a holding near what is now Somerset Dam. That water storage is testament to his work, after the 1893 floods which devastated Brisbane, to have a dam built at Stanley Chasm. He fought for this as a parliamentarian from the region from 1904 to 1920.

He was so popular for his work on behalf of the region and its pioneering people that he was elected seven times, often unopposed, to Queensland Parliament.

He believed that water storage would not only prevent floods, but also attract population to develop the Brisbane Valley. As reward for his far sighted promotion of the valley, the dam, the region, the council (and this newspaper) take the Somerset name.

EMAIL HENRY SOMERSET : henrysomerset@sentinelnews.com.au

Cost of living relief on the way for families and seniors

FAMILIES and seniors from the Somerset Region received an increase to their income support payments and pensions when indexation took effect yesterday (September 20).

This increase is in addition to the boost to income support announced in the May Budget as part of the $14.6 billion cost of living package, coming in on the same day, as well as access to cheaper prescription medicines that commenced on September 1.

Changes effective September 20

* Single JobSeeker Payment recipients received a base payment of $749.20 per fortnight, reflecting a $56.10 increase. This is the largest permanent dollar increase ever to the main adult unemployment benefit in Australia. Adult ABSTUDY recipients also received this boost.

* Parenting Payment Single recipients received a base payment rate of $942.40, reflecting a $20.30 increase. For single parents transferring

to this payment as a result of the Government’s change in the Budget to extend eligibility until their youngest child turns 14 (up from age eight), they received an extra $227.50 per fortnight compared to their current rate, including supplements.

* Those on a partnered rate of JobSeeker and Parenting Payment received a base payment rate of $686, reflecting a $54.80 increase.

* As a result of indexation, recipients of the Age Pension, Disability Support Pension and Carer Payment also received an increase to their payments. The single pension rate increased by $32.70 to $1,096.70, and the rate for couples combined increased by $49.40 to $1,653.40. These figures include Pension Supplement and Energy Supplement.

* Single veterans on a service pension received an additional $32.70, bringing their service pension to $1,096.70 a fortnight, while veterans on the Disability Compensation Payment (Special Rate), known as the Totally and Permanently Incapacitated Payment received an additional

Pension boosted but more required for those in need

CHIEF ADVOCATE Ian Henschke said while people who rely on the Age Pension will welcome the increase, under the current system pensioners are still behind, especially when inflation is unusually high.

“It’s a good start but more needs to be done to help renters,” Mr Henschke said.

“We recently heard from a couple paying $920 a fortnight in rent. As pensioners, this leaves them with only $907.40 a fortnight to pay for food, fuel, utilities, and other expenses.”

Income limits for eligibility for the Commonwealth Seniors Health Card are increasing by $5,400 to $95,400 per annum for singles and by $8,640

to $152,640 for couples combined. With deeming rates frozen for two years, more self-funded retirees could now be eligible for concessions.

“More can be done to support older people doing it tough. As recent National Seniors research showed, a greater proportion of people with low incomes and those who are renting are suffering from cost-of-living pressures,” Mr Henschke said.

“For example, 39% of older renters told us they were experiencing severe cost-of-living impacts compared to only 11 % of older homeowners.

“What we need is additional targeted support for people with limited means

and to stop punishing those who need to work.

“In our Employment White Paper Submission we have called on the government to simplify the tax and transfer system to boost workforce participation, and with it income and savings.

“We want a change to income test rules for pensioners who want to work and work more. This could be achieved by reducing the taper rate from 50c to 32.5c in the dollar to align with the tax system. It’s simple, fair, will help solve critical workforce shortages, and boost the budget bottom line.

“We will continue to fight for a system that improves people’s lives.”

$53.00 a fortnight, increasing their payment to $1,729.20.

* Income support recipients who are renting also received an increase to the maximum rates of Commonwealth Rent Assistance, as a result of both the Government’s 15 per cent increase in the Budget and regular indexation. For single recipients without children, the maximum rate increased by $27.60 to $184.80 per fortnight. For family payment recipients who have one or two children, the maximum rate increased by $32.34 to $217.28 per fortnight.

* Income limits for Commonwealth Seniors Health Card recipients was also indexed, increasing by $5,400 to $95,400 per annum for singles and by $8,640 to $152,640 per annum for couples combined.

* Other supplementary payments including Telephone Allowance and Utilities Allowance are also being indexed.

Federal Member for Blair Shayne Neumann said the Federal Government recognised Australians are continuing to grapple with cost-of-living pressures.

“Indexation is a vital mechanism to safeguard the purchasing power of social security payments, ensuring they keep pace with the cost of living,” he said.

“Higher inflation is being felt most within households on low fixed incomes and these payments will help ease the financial burden for many locals who are doing it tough or may need some extra support.”

Mr Neumann said there was a large veteran community in his electorate and the Government was making sure they and their families were looked after following their service.

“Not only will the indexation of these payments

help veteran families with the cost of living, some fortnightly education allowances will also increase, ensuring veteran families are better supported,” Mr Neumann said.

As a result of payment rates being indexed, income and asset limits will increase.

More details regarding September 2023 indexation is available on the Department of Social Services (DSS) website https://www.dss. gov.au/about-the-department/benefits-payments/ previous-indexation-rates

More details regarding the cost of living package announced at the 2023-24 Budget is available on the DSS website https://www.dss. gov.au/sites/default/files/documents/05_2023/ payments-cra_budget_fact_sheet_fa_0.pdf

This includes for those payments also receiving the $40 increase: Youth Allowance, Austudy, ABSTUDY Living Allowance (aged under 22), Special Benefit (aged under 22) and Disability Support Pension (aged under 21 with no children). These payments are indexed in January each year.

Mr Neumann has Seniors and Pensioners information booklets available for constituents, which also have details on a range of government payments and benefits.

These cost of living relief measures follow changes to pharmacy dispensing rules that commenced on September 1, meaning patients can now access two months’ worth of prescription drugs in a single purchase, instead of one months’ worth.

The Federal Government’s cheaper medicines policy will benefit more than 28,500 patients in the electorate of Blair initially and will eventually apply to more than 300 drugs on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme.

Federal Member for Blair Shayne Neumann talks to a local pensioner about cost of living issues and government assistance for seniors.

A FAIR SHARE FOR REGIONAL NEWS

Local independent newspapers still connect more than 80% of the country, but currently the commonwealth government invests close to 0% of its advertising budget here. The federal government could help secure the future of regional news with zero extra cost by simply allocating a fairer share of government advertising to local and regional news services.

One page per week of important government information in regional newspapers would be a great start. This shouldn’t be controversial. It’s a simple and fair solution for the future of regional news.

Authorised by A Schreyer, Country Press Australia, 163 Epsom Road Flemington 3031

Regional Australian communities deserve local news as much as our big cities do.

Child Protection Award for Esk Playgroup operator

JUDY-ANN ROBERTS of Esk has been recognised with an Ipswich and West Moreton Region Child Protection Week Award for her efforts in establishing a playgroup at the CWA Hall in Esk.

Ms Roberts won the Troy Salton Memorial Award at the 12th annual Ipswich Region Child Protection Week Gala Dinner and Awards Night on earlier this month.

The accolade was for exceptional service, dedication, commitment and compassion to child safety, and for support for families and children through the playgroup.

The playgroup, for children aged 0-3 years, is held twice monthly on Thursday mornings at the Esk CWA Hall and has grown rapidly since Septem ber 2022 to include 21 local families.

The service started after Ms Roberts identified a need for more childcare services in Esk, where she lives, drawing on her background as an early educator.

The group members aim to connect and support young

mums and parents who may be new to the district, as some of these families could be often isolated from other supports such as family, friends or services.

Ms Roberts was nominated by Somerset Regional Council’s Community Development Coordinator Lyn Buchanan and the late Detective Senior Sergeant Troy Salton’s widow Yvonne Salton.

The awards were established

by the Ipswich District Child Protection Week Committee, which includes representatives from the Queensland Police Service, Ipswich Community Youth Service (ICYS), Child Safety Services, Somerset Regional Council and Ipswich City Council, to promote the safety and wellbeing of children.

They are adjudicated by an independent judging panel and acknowledge successful

individuals, services and programs that are working for the protection of children and young people in the Ipswich region.

Other award winners included Brooke Staff from Mission Australia (nongovernment organisation category), Kokoda Youth Foundation (youth engagement category), Queerswich (community volunteer category) and Kambu Health

(cultural award).

RainbowChaos, a peer social group and innovative partnership between headspace Ipswich, the YMCA Ipswich Community Centre and ICYS, won the LGBTIQ+ category.

National Child Protection Week ran from September 3 to 9, and this year's theme was “Where We Start Matters”.

Federal Member for Blair Shayne Neumann attended the

awards night and thanked all of the winners and nominees for their work supporting children and young people across the region; and the committee who selected the award-winners.

“I want to commend JudyAnn Roberts, who won the Troy Salton Memorial Award for her tireless work in establishing the playgroup at the CWA Hall in Esk. Well done, Judy-Ann,” Mr Neumann said.

“These awards raise awareness and highlight the importance of child protection, and recognise the efforts and achievements of people and organisations in the sector who look out for some of the most vulnerable children in our community.

“Too many kids are not growing up safe and supported. This must change.

“There are many opportunities to change the trajectory for these children, by working together to make sure that every child in every community has a fair go. That was the key message for National Child Protection Week.”

Federal Member for Blair Shayne Neumann with Judy-Ann Roberts, Lyn Buchanan and Yvonne Salton. Ms Roberts received the 2023 Troy Salton Memorial Award for establishing a playgroup at the CWA Hall in Esk after being nominated by Ms Buchanan and Mrs Salton.

TOOGOOLAWAH Community

Junior Cattle Camp auction Sept 30

THE Toogoolawah Junior Cattle Camp Auction is on during the Junior Camp on Saturday night September 30 at 7pm after Dinner in the Pavilion.

This is open to the public and will include (but is not limited to) items such as Stock feed, Cattle drench and dip, hay, herbicides, wire, dog food, halters, show gear, jewellery etc. We would be happy to receive any contribution towards the Auction.

Proceeds from the Auction

are to be contributed to the Youth Development section of the Toogoolawah Show Society.

This year the Toogoolawah Junior Cattle Camp Committee has decided that the funds from the Auction will be put towards the development and upgrading of facilities that we use during the Junior Cattle Camp to make future camps safer and more enjoyable for all participants involved.

Items that have already been donated to the Auction include – Engel Fridge, Jewellery, Multimin, Cattle feed and hay

and much, much more.

The meat for the meal again is being very generously donated by Australian Country Choice. Dinner is available from 5:30pm at a cost of $25 per person.

Please RSVP by Thursday September 28 2022 for catering purposes on 0429 639 787. Please come along to support the Auction, it’s a great night for all.

Your support will help ensure we are able to provide this educational weekend for 2023.

Shop and short-term accommodation approved

SOMERSET Regional Council has approved a development application for a shop and two self-contained units in Toogoolawah, in walking distance from the Brisbane Valley Rail Trail (BVRT).

Councillor Bob Whalley said the development would be a welcome addition to the town when completed.

“This kind of development supports our future vision for tourism in the Somerset region, offering small, self-contained accommodation for users of the BVRT who are looking to explore more than just the scenery on the trail or the challenge of the ride,” he said.

“There is a shortage of this

kind of accommodation along the trail and Council has been deliberate in setting policy to encourage this type of growth, so it’s gratifying to see the applicant has progressed this development application.”

“Toogoolawah has unique

sights and experiences for visitors, from exhibitions at the Condensery to movie nights in Alexandra Hall. Creating more opportunities to stay over will create more economic benefit for our region, and I look forward to seeing this project move forward.”

An impression of the shop and short-term accommodation development approved for construction in Toogoolawah.

Work underway in Highland Street, Esk to upgrade NBN Fixed Wireless network

WORK has started in Highland Street, Esk on the upgrades to the NBN Fixed Wireless network, which will benefit households and businesses in Somerset region, providing access to faster speeds and extending the coverage of the NBN Fixed Wireless network.

The $750 million investment in the NBN Fixed Wireless and NBN Sky Muster satellite network – $480 million from the Australian Government and $270 million from NBN – is on track to be completed by around December 2024.

When complete, the investment will expand the reach of the existing NBN Fixed Wireless footprint by up to 50%, as well as enabling two new high speed fixed wireless plans – Fixed Wireless Home Fast and Fixed Wireless Superfast.

The additional capacity and reach available on the upgraded network will also enable approximately 120,000 existing Sky Muster satellite-only premises to access NBN Fixed Wireless for the first time.

Work has begun to enable the upgrades, including NBN introducing new technology and replacing some hardware on fixed wireless towers. NBN will use 4G technology and software enhancements as well as introducing 5G mmWave technology to help deliver more coverage, minimise congestion and offer access to higher speed tiers on the NBN Fixed Wireless network. NBN will

be among the first in the world to deploy 5G mmWave technology at this scale for a dedicated fixed wireless network.

The tower upgrades will mean some planned outages may impact homes and businesses and their ability to use their NBN service while the work is underway. NBN will take all reasonable efforts to minimise service interruptions; however, there are occasions where towers will need to be taken offline.

The upgrade work is scheduled to begin in the coming weeks.

Impacted homes and businesses should be notified of any outages via their retail service provider. Information will also be available via the NBN website: www.nbnco.com.au/support/ network-status. The tower works will not impact NBN fixed line or NBN Sky Muster satellite services.

Head of NBN Local Queensland, Kylie Lindsay, said there is increasing demand for faster internet from homes and business across Australia and continued investment in the NBN network to stay ahead of demand.

“We are excited to have begun work upgrading the NBN Fixed Wireless network in Esk, which will be a game changer for households and businesses.

“This work to towers is critical to the delivery of

our program but will mean some planned outages may affect homes and businesses and their ability to use their NBN service while the work is underway.

“After the tower works are completed, we expect that faster download speeds during the busy period will become available across the NBN Fixed Wireless network.

“We are asking the community to prepare for these outages and have back up connectivity if they need it.

“We encourage people to check the network status page (www.nbnco.com.au/support/networkstatus) on the NBN website and watch out for communication from their retail service provider about how the planned outages may impact them.”

In addition to tower upgrades, homes and businesses may also need to update their NBN devices at their premises to get the benefits of the upgrades. NBN will contact those impacted directly. Not all devices will need to be replaced.

NBN continues the full roll out of the program and in April 2023 announced the start of moving 120,000 eligible premises currently in the NBN satellite footprint to the expanded NBN Fixed Wireless footprint – with around 25,000 of these homes and businesses now able to access fixed wireless for the first time.

For more information and to register for

updates, customers are encouraged to visit NBN’s Fixed Wireless and Satellite Upgrade Program: https://www.nbnco.com.au/blog/the-nbn- project/ delivering-a-better-broadband-experience-forthe-bush

Increased policing on school holidays to target road safety

EXTRA police will be patrolling busy roads as part of a major state-wide road safety operation coinciding with the school holidays.

The Queensland Police Service (QPS) launched Operation Spring Break which involves high-visibility enforcement patrols to reduce high-risk driving behaviour to make roads safer for all road

users.

From last until October 2, police will be out enforcing speed limits, conducting roadside drug and alcohol tests while urging motorists to drive safely.

So far in 2023, 196 people have lost their lives on Queensland roads.

This year, police are focusing on vulnerable road users such as pedestrians, cyclists, e-scooter

riders and motorcyclists.

Research indicates motorcyclists are 30 times more likely to be killed in a crash than occupants of a car.

Although motorcyclists make up only 5 per cent of vehicles registered on Queensland roads, riders and passengers make up nearly one third of lives lost.

Police also remind road users of the Fatal Five: speeding, drink

Toogoolawah and Esk police

A 24-YEAR-OLD male from Toogoolawah was issued a Notice to Appear in relation to a drink driving offence.

A 17-year-old male from Toogoolawah has been provided an official caution in relation to entering a premises and stealing property in Brisbane.

A 27-year-old male from Laidley has been arrested in relation to approximately 20 offences, including two separate break and enter offences at Toogoolawah Tyre and Battery.

The man was remanded in custody with bail refused.

New police officer

SERGEANT Matthew Dean is the new Officer in Charge of Esk Police Station.

Excessive speeding

the past few weeks Police from Esk have attended five significant traffic crashes resulting in significant injuries. On each of these occasions, an element of excessive speed was present.

Police remind drivers to drive to the conditions of the road, which at times may be below the posted speed limit.

Police also remind drivers that if detected speeding, drivers can face penalties

up to and including fines of $1,653 and a suspension of your drivers licence.

Police would like to see all drivers reach their destinations safely with no injuries or crashes on local roads.

Hooning a problem

ON June 10 Esk Police located a number of vehicles engaged in hooning related activities in the Dundas area.

Whilst disrupting the hooning activities, Police allege one vehicle failed to stop for Police during an attempted intercept.

As a result of subsequent investigations, an 18-year-old Laidley man was charged with evading police.

This matter has since been finalised in court with the male receiving a $7,187 fine and a two year disqualification from driving.

Police remind the community that drivers who fail to stop for Police are liable for prosecution and can be subject to significant penalties similar to this matter.

On August 26 at approximately 9.30pm Esk Police located a number of vehicles involved in hooning related activities in the Dundas area.

Police subsequently located and arrested four males

at the scene with ongoing investigations continuing to identify other drivers.

A 22-year-old Kalbar man and a 21-year-old Raceview man have been charged with participating in a hoon event and are set to appear in court for these offences.

A 16-year-old male and a 17-year-old male were also dealt with under the provisions of the Youth Justices Act regarding this incident.

Police remind the community that anyone present at or found to be promoting or filming these types of hooning activities are liable for prosecution for offences that came into effect in May 2023.

Stolen property, drugs and weapons

ON September 1 Esk Police intercepted an unregistered vehicle on Wills Road, Coominya.

Police subsequently located a number of items within the vehicle including stolen property, drug related items and weapons.

A 35-year-old Coominya man was charged with nine offences and is due to appear in the Ipswich Magistrates Court regarding the incident.

and drug driving, seat-belts, fatigue and driving distracted (including mobile phones).

Last year, during Operation Spring Break, police conducted 65,839 Roadside Breath Tests (RBTs) and 2,345 Roadside Drug Tests (RDTs). Police issued 1,036 tickets for speeding, 114 tickets for drivers or passengers not wearing a seatbelt and 115

tickets for drivers using their mobile phone.

Acting Assistant Commissioner, Chris Stream, reminded motorists about the importance of taking necessary precautions when setting out on your road trips.

“Motorists should be conscious that there will be more families out and about, taking

advantage of the outdoors.

“It is particularly important that motorists remain on the look-out for vulnerable roadusers, including motorcyclists, cyclists and pedestrians.

“Always drive to the conditions, check your blind spots and make sure you indicate before changing lanes or turning.”

Federal government halving medicine costs for patients

MORE than 28,560 patients in the electorate of Blair living with an ongoing health conditions are now able to get two months worth of

www.sentinelnews.com.au www.sentineldirectory.com.au

medicines for the price of one, saving money and time with 60-day prescriptions.

From September 1 everyone with a Medicare card taking one of these medicines will save up to $180 per year, per medicine. Concession card holders will save $43 per medicine.

Patients will benefit from the freeing up of millions of much-needed GP visits so doctors will have more time to diagnose and treat conditions, instead of simply issuing routine, repeat scripts.

60-day prescriptions mean less time on the roads for locals living in rural and regional areas, such as the rural parts of the Somerset Region, and surrounding areas, who have had to make long trips to purchase the medications they have been on for years.

Australians have already saved $138 million this year on more than 12 million cheaper prescriptions, after the Federal Government cut the maximum cost of a script on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme from $42.50 to $30.

POSITIONS VACANT DUFFYS

Since January, patients in Blair have saved around $816,350 on more than 65,000 prescriptions. 60-day prescriptions were first recommended in 2018 by the independent Pharmaceutical Benefits Advisory Committee.

A full list of medicines available in the first tranche of 60-day prescribing is available at https:// www.health.gov.au/our-work/60-day-dispensing/ pbs-medicines-current-item-codes .

Mr Neumann said cheaper medicines through 60-day prescriptions will be life-changing for so many patients living in the Somerset Region.

“This will halve medicine costs for people living with chronic health conditions, including heart conditions, Crohn’s disease, high cholesterol, osteoporosis and high blood pressure, and provide important cost of living relief.

“I appreciate these changes will impact some individual pharmacies and I have met with local pharmacists to hear their concerns about the changes.

OFFICE sales@sentinelnews.com.au

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Position Vacant Duffys Mitre 10 Kilcoy requires an experienced person for customer service and sales. Sound knowledge of hardware supplies. Regular 3 days per week and half day Saturdays (flexible).

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Federal Member for Blair Shayne Neumann says local patients will save money and time with 60-day prescriptions.

“However, every dollar the Government saves with this measure will be reinvested into pharmacies, because we know pharmacies play a vital role in local communities and we support a sustainable community pharmacy sector.

“We’re also providing more support for regional, rural and remote pharmacies to transition to 60-day prescriptions as they start to provide a broader mix of services and play an even more central role in the healthcare of Australians.”

Containers For Change to continue in Somerset

REGULAR users of the Containers for Change pop ups in Esk, Kilcoy and Fernvale are being assured that collections will continue to be offered in all three centres following the withdrawal of Anuha from the container refund scheme.

Somerset Mayor Graeme Lehmann welcomed the news in the wake of Anuha’s withdrawal from the recycling initiative and acknowledged the transition had not resulted in any missed collection dates.

“We understand how much the community values this service and we’re thankful that Containers for Change have found an interim solution as they plan ahead for the future,” Cr Lehmann said.

“It’s great that Somerset will retain this valuable recycling program.”

A Container Exchange (COEX) spokesperson said they were delighted to confirm there will be no interruption in accessing the Containers for Change scheme for residents in the region.

“Alternative providers have stepped in to take on the services previously operated by Anuha.

This may result in some slight changes to times and days of operation and customers will receive direct communication regarding any changes to their local refund point.

“The level of service in the Somerset region will be maintained and COEX will continue to work with Council to explore any opportunities for future growth.

“Somerset locals have enthusiastically embraced Containers for Change, earning 10-cent refunds for eligible drink containers returned.

“The region has benefitted by sharing in the more than $4 million returned to the pockets of locals, with almost 41 million containers saved locally from ending up as litter or landfill since 2018.

“Soon Somerset residents will be able to make an even bigger change through container recycling, with the scheme expanding to include glass wine and pure spirit bottles at their local collection points from November 1.”

For times and dates of collections go to containersforchange.com.au/qld/where-toreturn.

Community Assistance Grants and Rates Remissions

AN OUT of round application from Toogoolawah Local Ambulance Committee (LAC) for $1,000 in funding for an event to mark 100 years of service to the community has been approved by Council under the Community Assistance Grants program.

The LAC hosted a celebratory dinner dance in September which highlighted the history and dedication of the Toogoolawah Queensland Ambulance Service (QAS) and LAC members over the past century.

The Toogoolawah LAC formed in 1923 and has served the Toogoolawah, Esk, Colinton, Mount Stanley,

Linville and Somerset Dam districts continuously since that time.

In addition, thirteen applications for rates remissions were received and approved in round 1 of 2023/24 Community Assistance Grants. The grants policy allows eligible community organisations to apply for an annual remission of rates for the properties they operate on.

Councillor Jason Wendt said, “I can’t praise the people who volunteer for these organisations highly enough. The time and effort they put into our communities helps form the character and liveability of our towns.

“The region would not have the same vibrancy and cohesiveness without the invaluable work of volunteers.”

The successful applicants for rates remissions were Brisbane Valley Pony and Hack Club; Esk Bowls and Community Club Inc; Folk Art Cooperative; Glamorgan Vale Tennis Club Inc; Hopetoun Masonic Lodge; Linville Progress Association; Lions Club Duckadang; Lowood and District Golf Club; Lowood and District Memorial Bowls Club Inc; Lowood Masonic Lodge; Moore Soldiers Memorial Hall; Returned Service League Esk and Returned Services League Lowood.

Under My Skin

EMAIL SKINHEAD : skinhead@sentinelnews.com.au

COMMENT

Ultimate revenge — getting square and a giggle

DON’T get angry — get square. That’s my motto when dealing with nuisance phone calls, and it’s paying handsome dividends.

I’m less stressed out by these bloody pests and enjoying myself. As they say, if you can’t beat ‘em, join ‘em, and that’s what I’ve done. Here’s my modus operandi.

Like you I’m sure, I get several calls a week from mobile numbers, usually showing up as coming from a particular suburb or city in Australia, sometimes from overseas.

During the pandemic I had fun, accusing callers of deliberately trying to give me Covid, but I’ve expanded my repertoire now.

I look forward to receiving the calls and love hearing (or not hearing) the reactions. When I’m sure it’s a nuisance call I have off-the-shelf responses ready. If I’m not sure, I bide my time.

I get the most enjoyment out of the obvious pests. I simply answer, “Fraud Squad”. Most of these calls end quickly so if I’m busy, that’s the response

I use.

However, if I have more time and want a good laugh, I answer, “Hello, can you call me back on my work number? I want to talk to you but my wife is expecting an urgent call on this line.”

With a bit of luck the caller agrees and asks for my work number. I give any number that comes into my head and then add, “If I’m not available one of the other Fraud Squad detectives will take a message for me. Just leave your full name, number and home address.”

That’s usually the end of that, but for a bit of a variety I sometimes say, “If the desk Sergeant wants to know why you’re calling, just tell him it’s in relation to nuisance callers and you want to know how to get them locked up.”

When I’m feeling a bit mean it goes something like: “Hello”.

“Hi, this is Annie, how are you today?”

“I’m great. Can I assume you are ringing in relation to our call for witnesses to the double murder in Queen St. Can I have your full name and residential

address so homicide detectives can come and interview you?”

You’d be surprised how often the call ends there. If it continues I go through the “I have to caution you that anything you say…….” etc. That always results in me having no one to talk to.

If I answer politely and find out it’s a pain-in-the-derriere caller, I interrupt the initial spiel with, “Before we start can you give me your private mobile number?” The response is always, “Why?”

“Well, you have my private number and I have your work number. It’s only fair we each have the full set and then we can ring each other any time. I love making late night calls.”

Yes, I know, small things amuse small minds, but why not have a bit of a giggle now and again?

Count Cameron

TREASURER Cameron

Dick: “I am now one of the Three Queensland Cabinet Musketeers — Miles, Bailey, de Brennie and me.”

Journo: “But that’s four.”

Dick: “That’s why the Premier made me Treasurer — I can do anything with numbers.”

Past or present?

ARTICULATE Annastacia has done it again — rewritten the English language.

Remember how our Premier totally changed the meaning of the phrase “lock, stock and barrel” to “nothing at all”? Well, now she’s giving us a “pre-legacy” for the 2032 Palaszczuk Olympics.

A legacy is, of course, the long-lasting impact of particular events or actions that took place in the past.

But according to Stacia, “It’s the legacy, and this (accelerating the building of the athletes’ village) is going to be a pre-legacy of the Games”.

So now we get the prelegacy, the event, then the legacy. How lucky can we be?

When she said “It’s the legacy”, I wonder if she had the movie The Castle in mind and thought, “It’s the constitution. It’s Mabo. It’s justice. It’s law. It’s the vibe. No, it’s the prelegacy.”

Imposing limits

WHEN I heard the State Government was drafting new liquor laws to clamp down on online alcohol sales, it had my support even without knowing the details.

I’m not sure but I think anyone can order alcohol at any time and get it home delivered — no questions asked and no regard for any dangers associated with serving more booze to intoxicated people.

As if we don’t already have enough problems with the harm being done by excessive alcohol consumption.

But will we see this philosophy extended? Health experts recently told us Queensland children born over the next 10 years could lose five years in life expectancy if the State’s current obesity rate was not reduced.

We were also told the annual financial burden of obesity in Australia is estimated to be $11.8 billion.

So will there be any laws to reform online food orders and delivery, given obesity is apparently a monumental

By SKINHEAD

scourge, like booze?

Will the government tell people of all ages when they have had enough to eat, in a similar way to saying they have had enough to drink? Will bathroom scales be deployed along with breathalysers?

It wouldn’t personally worry me if they did because I don’t order anything online. But how far can a government go in controlling how citizens live their lives?

Gambling is creating huge financial and social problems so we are legislating controls in some areas to try to limit the damage being done and the huge financial cost to individuals and the taxpayer.

So think about this. After booze, food, and gambling, what’s next? We’re told the ageing population is creating huge financial burdens on the economy. Could age limits be considered at some future date?

Don’t laugh. Strange things are happening these days.

Esk land auction set for 22 September

SOMERSET Regional Council will hold a rates-arrears auction of an 18.86-hectare property located at 5220 Brisbane Valley Highway, Esk on Friday, September 22.

Somerset Mayor Graeme Lehmann said auctioning land for overdue rates is a last resort for Council and is only enacted when a property has more than three years of rates owing.

“This upcoming auction marks the sixth rates auction held by the Council in the past 12 months. The rates and charges which are recovered as part of the auction process plays a crucial role in supporting and sustaining essential services that benefit our community,” Cr Lehmann said.

“Council’s commitment to providing essential council services like roads, parks, and waste management is unwavering. These rates auctions

Sergio Gonzalez

Matthew Zahalka

Louise Dunn

are necessary to ensure the continued delivery of these vital services. We have seen spirited bidding and success in our previous auctions, and I hope this trend continues."

The auction will be held at the Simeon Lord Room of the Esk library building in Heap Street from 11.30am on September 22.

Heel and Foot Pain

Hip and Knee Pain

Digital Gait Analysis

Orthotic Therapy

Embracing R U OK Day in Lowood

FREE cuppas sparked conversations on mental health at Rudy and Ada’s Café in Lowood on Thursday, September 14.

Local non-profit HealthWISE donated more than $6,500 to 29 cafes throughout southern Queensland and northwest New South Wales to shout the morning rush for R U OK? Day.

HICAPS

DVA and Workers Comp welcome

Sports Injuries / Prevention

Children’s Foot Problems

A national initiative which reminds Australians to check in on friends and family, customers were also offered R U OK? Day resources on starting conversations about mental health.

Owner of Rudy and Ada’s, Jason Klee, said that people often share their personal stories with hospitality workers.

“At the moment people are doing it tough both financially and emotionally,” he said.

especially if the answer is no.

She said you don’t need to be a health professional to help someone who’s struggling, and it can be as simple as lending an ear.

“You can absolutely save someone's life just by listening. Just being there with them, showing them that you care, maybe offering to sit down and have a cup of tea with them,” she said.

“It is really important to genuinely listen to the person and give them your full attention. Be prepared, because it may be a long conversation,” she said.

Tanya recommended visiting the R U OK? Day website to learn more about how to respond when someone tells you they are not ok.

twice as often as the general population.

Recover, Adapt, Connect team leader, Susan McGuire, said as part of the HealthWISE Recover, Adapt, Connect Black Summer Bushfires program, we’re working with people around preparedness for natural disasters, and first responders are front and centre in that.

Susan believes checking in with one another and learning more about mental health is the first step in preparing for times of crisis.

She said people who are prepared for uncertain events are more able to cope with the aftermath.

“We have also put together a presentation for emergency services around mental health resources that are available to them and their families,” Susan said.

OPEN

Monday to Wednesday

OPEN Tuesday to Thursday

Ph: 3425 1777

Growing Pains / Night Pains

Ankle Problems

Ingrown Toenail Surgery

WOODFORD DAYBORO

“Taking time to catch up socially over a coffee is very important for people and R U OK? is a good opportunity to check in with others.”

HealthWISE Mental Health team leader, Tanya Hague, recognised that it can be daunting to ask a loved one if they’re okay,

HealthWISE also supported emergency workers with coffee vouchers and targeted mental health resources, as part of ‘Are They Triple OK?’.

The companion campaign was developedby R U OK? in response to research by Beyond Blue which found that police and emergency service workers report suicidal thoughts more than

HealthWISE presentations for emergency services workers can be requested by emailing RAC@healthwise. org.au.

Call Lifeline on 13 11 14 for 24/7 crisis support and suicide prevention services. Always call 000 if a life is in danger.

KATHY Sweeney is excited to present this fantastic opportunity to its newest owner.

Uncover this charm at Kilcoy - a delightful home radiating Queenslander-style character. Nestled right in the centre of the tranquil town of Kilcoy, this retreat combines homely appeal and modern conveniences, ready for you to move in, rent out or transform with a personal touch.

Discover the welcoming ambience of this inviting home, featuring large bedrooms, a huge living space and a roomy bathroom complete with a bath,

shower, vanity, and abundant storage.

Timber-look flooring enhances the shared spaces, while high ceilings add a sense of spaciousness.

A fireplace combustible oven brings a cosy element to the home, and ceiling fans in two bedrooms & the main living area ensure comfort throughout the year, or read a book in the sunroom.

Experience the charm of this Queenslander-style property today. Call Kathy or Will on 0427 374 117 to view this fantastic opportunity.

Peaceful Queenslander-style retreat in charming Kilcoy living

More tradies offered pathway to teaching

AFTER a successful pilot program, the State Government is set to support more tradies to become teachers.

Education Minister Grace Grace said an expansion of the $20 million Trade to Teach Internship program, supports qualified and experienced tradies to transition to teaching careers.

Trade to Teach offers successful applicants a $20,000 scholarship, a paid internship, and a guaranteed permanent teaching position specialising in Industrial Technology and Design in a Queensland state secondary school.

Launched in 2022, there are currently 38 participants in the pilot cohort of the program. Tradies started their education degrees this year and will head to the classroom as an intern with a half teaching load from

2024. Successful applicants in this round will start their studies in 2024 and head to the classroom in 2025.

The program is being delivered in partnership with the Central Queensland University and the University of Southern Queensland.

Education Minister, Grace Grace, said Trade to Teach attracts highly experienced tradespeople to Queensland classrooms so students can benefit from real life industry experience.

“Industrial Technology and Design subjects are in demand in our secondary schools and this additional $10 million investment will support even more tradies to become teachers.

“Trade to Teach is just one of many ways we are getting more teachers in the classroom along with our new Teacher

Aide pathway, our Turn to Teaching internship program, and of course our excellent, nation leading EBA.

“Applications close on October 2 so if you’re a tradie with a passion for your craft and a desire to pass your knowledge onto the next generation – get online and apply.”

Minister for Training and Skills Development, Di Farmer, said workforce attraction and retention is a key focus of our Good People. Good jobs: Queensland Workforce Strategy 2022-2032.

“It’s important that we take new approaches to recruitment to ensure we have the right people, in the right jobs, and that’s what programs like Trade to Teach are doing,” she said.

“This program is a great example of upskilling Queenslanders to get them into good jobs, with the added

WEASEY’S PROPERTY REPORT

UNDERSTANDING GST on property sales in QLD.

Now, I know taxes can be a bit of a snooze-fest for some, but understanding the basic ins and outs of GST can save you a lot of time and money when you’re buying or selling that prime piece of farmland or undertaking a commercial transaction. When it comes to property, there are some unique considerations.

In QLD, the sale of existing residential properties is usually exempt from GST.

For new residential properties, GST is generally included in the purchase price and is payable by the buyer to the developer at the standard 10%, however, if the property

is to be used for long-term residential rental purposes, the GST may be reduced to 5.5%.

But when it comes to farms and commercial properties, the rules can get a little more complex.

If you’re selling a farm, you typically won’t need to worry about GST. The ATO states: Supplies of farmland will be GST-free under section 38-480 of the GST Act if two requirements are met. The requirements are:

• the land is land on which a farming business has been carried on for at least five (5) years preceding the supply; and

• the recipient of the supply

intends that a farming business be carried on, on the land.

The critical issue is - of all the activities on the land (including private use), is farming the predominant activity? Or are the other activities so significant that the land cannot be considered just farmland?

For eg, if your farm includes non-farm assets like a café or a shop, GST may apply to those specific parts of the property.

This is because when it comes to commercial properties like offices, shops, or warehouses, GST is usually applicable unless the sale is considered a ‘ going concern’ ( the sale of a business as a going concern means that the

benefit that they’re sharing their skills and knowledge with our future workforce.”

Trade to Teach pilot participant Krystien Bennett, a plasterer from Gympie, said for tradies looking for a career change she encouraged them to consider a career in teaching.

“The internship is an amazing paid opportunity, and a chance to learn on the job which is a style I am used to,” she said.

“As a former plasterer, I’m now making the change to teaching and by doing this I hope to inspire students to be lifelong learners and show them your career can take different pathways.”

Trade to Teach pilot participant Dion Kingi, a carpenter from the Sunshine Coast, said Trade to Teach has been a godsend as he was looking to get off the tools or

change career.

“It’s been decades since I’ve done study but I’m in the groove now. I’m studying with like-minded people who also want to teach, and the support from the program team and the university is fantastic,” he said.

“I highly recommend the program – the study is hard work but a different type of hard work to being on the tools all day, and I’m loving that

Insights into the local housing market

with Chris Wease, Senior Sales Agent at Remax Living, Woodford.

seller is selling an enterprise, including any assets used in that enterprise, to the buyer).

When you’re buying or selling a farm or commercial property, there are two common contract options:

1. GST-Inclusive Contract: The sale price already includes GST. The seller is responsible for remitting the GST to the ATO. The buyer will know the full cost upfront.

2. GST-Exclusive Contract: The sale price doesn’t include GST. The buyer will need to pay an additional 10% on top of the purchase price. The seller is still responsible for remitting the GST to the ATO.

If the buyer is registered for

GST they can usually claim a credit for the GST included in the purchase price.

For commercial properties, sellers have another option called the GST Margin Scheme. This can be beneficial if you’ve owned the property for a while and its value has increased. Under this scheme, GST is only payable on the margin – the difference between the purchase and sale price.

The caution here of course, is that tax laws can be a maze and change over time. This column only provides general information and readers are encouraged to always seek professional advice for their specific situations.

If you have any questions,

Applications for the next round of Trade to Teach are open at www.qld.gov.au/ tradetoteach and close on October 2.

The Good People. Good jobs: Queensland Workforce Strategy 2022-2032 is available at https://desbt.qld. gov.au/employment/supportemployers/workforce-strategy.

living

or if can assist you in any Real Estate matters, I would be delighted to help. Please call 0427 536 725 anytime, or email cwease@remaxliving. com.au.

I can still use my carpentry skills.”

Pilot participants Krystien Bennett and Dion Kingi.

Charolais cross weaner steers $830 at Toogoolawah

SHEPHERDSON AND BOYD yarded 710 head of cattle at their fortnightly Toogoolawah store cattle sale last Friday.

Quality feeder steers and heifers remained unchanged, whilst the secondary feeders improved slightly in value with all major buyers in attendance.

The weaner and backgrounder cattle market remains tough but did improve in value slightly on the sale held the previous fortnight.

Cows and cows and calves remained unchanged on the previous weeks reduced rates.

Charbray feeder steers

18mths old account Frantoio Pty Ltd from Boonah sold for $1,090.

K and J Cormack sold

Brangus feeder steers 16mths for $1,000.

B and A McLaughlin of Gatton sold Charolais cross weaner steers 6-8mths for $830.

Rathcool Ent. of Fernvale sold Charolais cross steers 8mths for $800.

P and F Eggleston of Toogoolawah sold Charolais cross weaner steers 8mths for $790.

K and J Cormack of Mundubbera sold Brangus weaner steers 8mths for $780.

Mark and Emma Dennehy sold Charolais cross weaner steers 8mths for $750.

K and C Dobson from Wamuran sold Droughtmaster cross weaner steers 8mths for $740.

L and P Haynes of Linville

sold Charolais cross weaner steers 6-8mths for $740.

Ben Hardy of Emu Creek sold Bazadais cross weaner steers 6mths for $670.

N and K Green of Kilcoy sold Limousin cross weaner steers 6mths for $650.

D and F Williamson of Linville sold good quality, light weight Charolais cross weaner steers 6mths for $690.

L and E Golinski of Colinton sold Charbray cross feeder heifers 16mths for $820.

Jimna Grazing of Jimna sold Charolais cross light weight feeder heifers 14mths for $710.

K and J Cormack of Mundubbera sold Brangus feeder heifers 16mths for $670.

N and K Green of Kilcoy sold Limousin cross weaner

heifers 6-8mths for $540.

Sarger Pty Ltd of Linville sold Droughtmaster weaner heifers 8mths for $500.

Aserlay Farm of Maleny

sold Charolais cross weaner heifers 8mths for $480.

B and A McLoughlin of Gatton sold Charolais cross weaner heifers 6-8mths for $480.

S and S Gedda of Maleny sold Charbray weaner heifers 6 mths for $460.

D and F Williamson of Linville sold a run of quality light weight Charolais cross weaner heifers 6mths for an average of $400.

M Barnes of Anduramba sold Black Simmental cross weaner heifers 6mths for $420.

Rathcool Ent. of Fernvale sold Charolais cross weaner heifers 6mths for $420.

R amd J Freeman of Tallegalla sold Charolais bulls, two years old, for $4,400 and $3,500.

Heart E Grazing sold aged Charbray cows in forward store condition for $1,000.

O’Briens Pastoral of Taloorum sold Simmenatl cross Braford six tooth heifers for $1,090 and young store condition Braford cows for $670.

Aged Angus cross cows and calves account J and L Caffrey sold for $1,030 and Charolais cross cows for $940.

Young Brahman cows with Brahman calves at foot account R and L Perkins sold for $720.

TUESDAY 19th SEPTEMBER, 2023

313 HEAD. With one processor absent, export cattle failed to maintain last weeks improved rates. Cows sold firm with export heifers and bullocks 10 cents cheaper. Bulls also fell in price by 20 cents. Insufficient weaner steers came to hand to quote. Most of the weaners consigned were heifers and sold to local restockers in line with last week’s rates.

For Sale Details, Market Reports and more info visit our website www.moretonsaleyards.com.au or find us on Facebook @ Moreton Saleyards

Shepherdson and Boyd thank all their vendors, buyers and underbidders for their valued support.

The next Toogoolawah Store Sale is Friday September 29.

LAIDLEY

309 HEAD were sold at Stariha Auctions Laidley cattle sale last Thursday.

In tough times the market held up well, with cattle firm to dearer.

The introduction of a southern buyer, particularly for all descriptions of stores, saw those plainer types much improved.

The majority of weaner and backgrounder steers were purchased by western buyers.

GC Pastoral, Peranga, sold Charolais steers for $1,330 and cows for $1,250.

Kevin McKenzie, Laceys Creek, sold Charolais cows for $1,270 and $1,000.

Maurice Harrington, Helidon, sold milk tooth Santa feeder heifers for $1,010 and a pen of cows for $990.

LC Livestock, Lowood, sold a Charbray bull for $2,000. Gordon and Vicki Brewster, Glamorganvale, sold Santa cows to $1,290.

Valerie Sparks, Blenheim, sold Droughtmaster feeder heifers for $950 and $850.

Charolais cross weaner steers, 6-8mths old, account B and A McLoughlin of Gatton sold for $830 at Toogoolawah last Friday.

KILCOY State High School

An Independent Public School

RUOK? Day

EACH year Kilcoy State High School celebrates RU Ok? Day.

Staff and Students were invited to wear yellow to mark this important date. This year we started celebrations with a BBQ breakfast outside the office for all staff to come together and enjoy before the day begins. At morning tea, our Student Support Centre hosted lawn games and RU OK

Hoof and Hook

THE 2023 Annual Gympie District Beef Liaison Group

Wide Bay Interschool Hoof and Hook Competition began on Tuesday, September 12.

17 schools within the Wide Bay, Burnett and Sunshine Coast areas came together to compete over the 3-day competition hosted by Kilcoy State High School together with Victory Christian College, Kilkivan State School, Gympie State High School and Noosa District State High School.

Kilcoy State High School

Principal, Boris Croft, Mayor Mr Graeme Lehmann and Councillor Cheryl Gaedtke welcomed the Hoof and Hook competitors, staff and parents to the Kilcoy Showgrounds where the event was held.

Students were responsible for the handling, feeding and cleaning of the cattle and stalls and did a great job caring

for the cattle. 78 cattle were entered in the competition between all schools and at the end of the competitionwere loaded and takenbyHLE Smith & Co transportto Nolan’s Abattiors in Gympie.

Former Kilcoy SHS students Meagan Nugent, Emma Natoli, Sinead Lockley and Kaylia Sippel came down to help and support our students and staff during the day.

Congratulations to our Kilcoy SHS students who achieved amazing results and feedback

over the course of the event. In the handling section of the competition, Lilly C placed 1st (11/12 Novice Handler), Chanelle F placed 5th (Yr 10 Experienced Handler), Elijah B placed 1st (Yr 10 Novice Handler), Tahlia G placed 4th (Yr 10 Novice Handler), Leila M placed 5th (Yr 9 Novice Handler) and Abbie S placed 1st (Yr 8 Novice Handler). In the judging section, Maddie P placed 1st (Yr 12 Experienced Judging), Lilly C placed 2nd (Yr 11/12 Novice Judging), Chelsea F placed 5th (Yr 11 Experienced Judging), Lucy B placed 4th (Yr 9 Novice Judging) and Abbie S placed 2nd (Yr 8

giveaways at a display outside the tuckshop. At lunch, students enjoyed a free sausage sizzle and went on to gather under the COLA for a competitive Staff VS Students Netball game. Students raised $118.55 through donations which will go towards the Chaplaincy.

Thank you to all staff and students who wore yellow to celebrate and had conversations around this important cause.

Fleur Adams and Craig Simpson, Mulgowie, sold Droughtmaster steers for $1,100.

Anthony Naughton, Grantham, sold Droughtmaster weaner steers for $780.

Ron Monro, Mt Tarampa, sold Santa backgrounder steers for $990.

Darren Rowe, Blenheim, sold Santa cross steers for $820.

Daryl Herschell, sold Brahman light feeder steers

for $890 and $800. CAP Genomics, Moore, sold a line of Senepol steers for $780.

WOODFORD

A LIGHTER yarding of 119 head were sold at Stariha Auctions Woodford cattle sale on Monday. All descriptions sold in line with the current market trend.

Val Hinckley, Cedar Creek, sold young Simmental steers for $615, Droughtmasters for

$500 and vealer heifers for $430.

Baker and Haseler Estates, Dayboro, sold Charolais cross steer calves for $600 and cows for $1,150.

Marty Malt, Beerburrum, sold Brahman cross steers and males for $475.

Brett Klein, Cedarton, sold Brangus male calves for $400.

MORETON

Novice Judging). Thank you to our judges, Don McConnel, Sarah Peters, Jak Livingston, Stewart Russell, Ben Wieland and Chris Anderson for their support and efforts over the 3 competition days and to Kym Modistach, Tony Martin and Tony Woodrow for their help with weighing, tagging and mouthing of cattle on day 1.

Thank you to the Kilcoy District Progress Alliance who ran the canteen during the event, serving snacks and drinks to participants and visitors. Kilcoy SHS would like to thank the following sponsors for their support; Bills Tyres, BP Kilcoy, Christensen’s Bus and Coach,

Coff and Co Bakery, Cow Horse Group, CTC caps, Don and Andrea McConnell, Fredrickson’s, Kilcoy Quality Meats, Riverina Stockfeeds, Elders’ Real Estate, Emma Natoli, Gympie District Beef Liaison Group, Goode Family, Hobarts’s Garage, IGA, Kilcoy Global Foods, Kilcoy Rural, McClure Family, Mt Brisbane Droughtmaster, Mitre 10, Palmview Red Angus, Pizza 82, Running Creek Camping Stanmore, Sarah and June Eaton, Smith’s Transport, Somerset Regional Council and Nedloh Rural Goomeri.

Special thank you to Chris and Patricia Andersen of Pacan Murray Grey Stud for the use of their cattle and transport and thecontinuous support they show our Agriculture

School Watch

PLEASE keep an eye on our school during the school holidays.

department. Lastly, an incredibly big thank you to Ms Carter, Mrs Martin and Mr Wilson for all the hard work and dedication shown to our students and school in the organisation and execution of this successful event.

AGENTS Boyd O’Brien Bartholomew yarded 313 cattle at their weekly live weight cattle sale on Tuesday. With one processor absent, export cattle failed to maintain last weeks improved rates. Cows sold firm with export heifers and bullocks 10 cents cheaper. Bulls also fell in price by 20 cents. Insufficient weaner steers came to hand to quote. Most of the weaners consigned were heifers and sold to local

School resumes on Tuesday October 3, 2023.From the staff at Kilcoy State High School, we wish you all a safe and happy holiday.

restockers in line with last week’s rates.

Weaner heifers: M Thornton (Charbray) 173.2c $430.

Feeder heifers: RD Ladbrook (Limo X) 187.2c $809.

Feeder steers: RAAU Pty Ltd (Santa) 255.2c $1,066.

4 tooth heifers: R and M Ruhland (Bazadais) 216.2c $1,524.

Medium cows: Doolan (Charolais) 188.2c $1,092.

Heavy cows: M and E Dennehy (Droughtmaster X) 207.2c $1,122; R and M Ruhland (Euro X) 203.2c $1,320.

Cows and calves: Kelly Brothers (Simmental X) $875. Pen of 2-year-old bulls: Yimin Cattle Trust (Droughtmaster) 205.2c $1,380.

Bulls (heavy): J and L Kraut (Santa) 175.2c $1,437.

Urgent review commissioned into Camera Detected Offence Program

TRANSPORT and Main

Roads have commissioned an independent review into the Camera Detected Offence Program after a design fault was uncovered in the mobile phone and seatbelt camera system.

The fault has resulted in drivers having double demerit points incorrectly applied for a passenger seatbelt offence captured by the cameras between November 1, 2021 and August 31, 2023.

The fault was identified during an analysis of offences issued by the system and was immediately rectified.

For a small number of Queenslanders, this has resulted in their licence being suspended incorrectly or drivers serving a “good driving behaviour period”.

Transport and Main Roads will contact all impacted drivers and there will be a full and urgent independent review of this matter.

A driver is only impacted when:

* They have committed two or more seatbelt offences within a period of 12-months; and

* One of those offences was a camera-detected offence where

a passenger was not correctly wearing a seatbelt.

A dedicated hotline has been established on 1800 740 786. Drivers who believe they have been impacted are encouraged to get in touch.

More information, including a self-assessment criteria are available on the Transport and Main Roads website.

If your licence is currently suspended or disqualified, do not drive.

If you are currently serving a 12-month good driving behaviour period, continue to follow the conditions of the good

driving behaviour period.

Double demerit points can still be incurred for passenger seatbelt offences where the passenger is under 16, when recorded roadside by a Queensland Police Officer.

Transport and Main Roads Minister, Mark Bailey, said this should never have happened and he was sorry to every person impacted by this.

“My department is receiving urgent legal advice on the swift reissue of incorrectly suspended licences.

“For the remaining licence holders who have retained

their licence but incorrectly lost some points, Transport and Main Roads will reverse the incorrectly issued double demerit points.

“All offences were correctly recorded and financial penalties have been correctly issued – the design fault is solely in the application of double demerit points in specific circumstances.

“I expect the review will be complete in the coming months.

“The message remains clear –seatbelts save lives. If you’re not wearing one, it can’t save you.”

Acting Director General, Transport and Main Roads, Sally

Stannard, said the Department has corrected this error and is now contacting impacted customers.

“The current status of your licence remains in place until the Department works with you to review individual circumstances.

“We have also established a dedicated phone number for customers who are concerned this may impact them and details are available on the Department’s website.

“Drivers are reminded that they must ensure their passengers are buckled up before starting their journey or risk serious injury or worse.”

Mining tyre rubber meets the road in new trial

IN A Queensland first, crumb rubber created from giant mining tyres has been used in a trial to resurface a major highway.

The trial aims to show mining tyres can be successfully recycled to add value to road construction.

The project team wanted to investigate if a crumb rubber modified binder made from OTR mining tyres could construct a spray seal for Queensland roads.

Two giant mining tyres supplied by BHP, each over 4 metres high and weighing 4.2

tonnes, were used in the trial.

The giant mining tyres were crushed to produce 7.1 tonnes of small crumbs which was added to bitumen used to construct road surfacing.

The trial occurred as part of a reseal project on the Peak Downs Highway in December 2022.

Since completion, the road surfacing has performed well in the central Queensland summer heat under the intense mining traffic and continues to be monitored.

Mon to Fri: 8am - 5pm

The project was supported by the National Asset Centre of Excellence (NACOE) research program in collaboration with the Australian Road Research Board (ARRB). NACOE undertake various projects enabling the use of crumb rubber bituminous binder in Queensland roads.

The successful construction of trial road surfacing was achieved through collaboration with industry and peak bodies. BHP supplied the tyres, AfPA rallied their members support, Carroll Engineering crumbed the tyre rubber, Ixom and Bituminous Products manufactured it, and Queensland Central Bitumen sprayed it onto the highway.

Transport and Main Roads Chief Engineer, Dennis Walsh, said this exciting project is a

Queensland first. The crumb rubber laid down as road surfacing on a high volume stretch of highway means it has returned full circle to a location close to its working origins.

“Although OTR tyres make up to 25 per cent of ‘end of life’ tyres in Australia each year, they make up only four per cent of recovered tyre waste rubber.

“This collaboration between TMR and our industry partners supports the Queensland Government’s commitment to a more sustainable future through our Environmental Sustainability Policy and Waste to Resource Strategy.”

Executive Director, Technology and Leadership, Australian Flexible Pavement Association, Anna D’Angelo, said they are pleased to be collaborating with the Queensland Government to reuse OTR tyres which would previously have been a waste

product ending up as landfill.

“Through our members, AfPA is keen to promote the sustainability of our industry by protecting the environment and moving toward a circular economy.

“AfPA is proud that its members mobilised in positive support of this exciting environmental project. On behalf of our members, we were involved right through the project, from arranging supply of the crumb rubber, to being involved in the research process, to providing technical guidance and feedback.”

Asset President BMA, BHP Mitsubishi Alliance, said this collaborative approach provides the mining industry a sustainable way to reuse tyre waste that would otherwise end up in landfill.”

“It will have a positive impact on the environment, as more than 6,000 tonnes of tyres

can be used to seal roads.

“This is a great example of how the by-products of mining can be used to positively affect the local communities where we operate.

“We look forward to exploring how we can now further expand this trial to other road surfaces around the country.”

* One giant mining tyre provides 3.55 tonnes of crumb rubber.

* One giant mining tyre weighs 4.2 tonnes (8 kilograms for a standard tyre).

* One giant mining tyre can be used to seal up to 3.5 kilometres of rural highway.

PIPE, RHS, FLAT BAR, ANGLE, ROUND BAR, TOPHAT, PURLINS, CORRUGATED IRON, SHEET METAL (MILD, ALUMINIUM, STAINLESS, BISALLOY, CORTEN)

PUBlic

KILCOY RSL SUB BRANCH

5497 1788

clearing sales

CLEARING SALE

10am This Saturday

23rd September 2023

A/C: Symbol D 51 Overlander Ave, Woolmar 4515

NO RESERVES - PROPERTY SOLD

Agri Boss 8824 Tractor (1490Hrs) – Fiat 640 Tractor

2WD (2650Hrs) – Kubota B7510 Tractor 4WD

(1680Hrs) – Affordable Loader 1Ton Forks/Bucket

(620Hrs) – M.Benz 1517 Truck & Stock Crate

(7Mtr,unreg) – Hino Econo Diesel Truck & Stock Crate

(5.4Mtr) – Hino Diesel GD Truck – 630A Acco Truck &

Tray – 1980 Landcruiser Ute (486000 Km) – Yamaha

200 Ag Bike (7000Km) – Horse Float – 4x4

Bombardier Outlander Quad (2730Km) – 4x4 Yamaha

350 Bruin Quad (9580Km) – F.G Boat & Evinrude

350/B – 3.5Mtr Slasher (Gentmower) – ES60

Highspeed Slasher (1500) – 3T Field Bin (PTO Drive) –

Hayline Grab – Soft Finger Grab – NH SD Rake –

SP460 Vicon Baler – Vicon Flail Mower – High Row

Scarifier (7T) – 3PL Scarifier – Diamond Harrows –

Old Hay Trailers – Box Trailers – 3PL Back Blade – Jib

– Carryall – CIA Vet Crush – Qty Port Panels & Gates

– Head Bail – NS Calf Cradle – 4 Grain Bins (V Sizes) –

RB Feeders – Port L/Ramp – 3PL Hay Spear – PTO PH

Digger – Fert Spreader – 100Ltr Silvan S/Tank –

Cattle Scales – 1/2 Ton Engine Lift – 100Ltr Silvan

Tank (Vanguard Motor) – SC Irrig Pump 3x2 & Elect

Motor – Metal Lathe (Colchester Triumph 2000) &

Tools – 2 Wooden Lathes & Planers – Router – Saw

Bench – Holden Motor – Spear Gate – Compressor –

Grinders – HD Drill – Cut off Wheels – Drop Saws –

Welders & Welding Gear – Style side Tray (To Suit

Hilux) – Meat Saw & Mincer – Press – Stock & Dyes –

Ramset Fastening Gun – RO Mower – Dunlite Porta

Power – DD Chaff Cutter Parts – Tracta Pack

(15Amps) – Lister Motor & SC Pump – Tyre Roller –

Qtys of Hand & Garden Tools, Pipe, Dressed Pine

Slabs, Sawn Timber, Poly Troughs, P/Pipe & Fittings, Bath Tubs, E/Fence Energisers, Saddles & Saddlery, Steel, Heavy & Light Plate, Turnbuckles, Wire Rope, Copper, Chains, Leads (3P), Cor Iron, Pumps, Steel Trusses, Elect Motors, Steel Posts, Poly Tubs, Tyres & Rims – Plus much, much more.

All for sale. We recommend your attendance. Photos on website: www.bartholomew.com.au (Clearing Sales) Bid Card System – Photo ID required (e.g. Drivers Licence). Payment on day by cash, cheque or eftpos. Signs will direct. Light refreshments available.

For further information, contact agents:

Beaudesert: 5541 1144 – Boonah: 5463 1699

Roy Bartholomew: 0437 411 144

Garth Weatherall: 0438 793 100

Rhys Bodey: 0418 740 157

for sale

caraVans anD caMPing caraVan Jayco 13’6’, sleeps 2, some storm damage. Call for further info. $2,750 ono. PH 3203 1073. Burpengary. farM, foDDer & liVesTocK

PINE HAVEN PROPERTY POWER POLES

CCA TREATED - ALL SIZES

Delivery & pole erection can be arranged. Pole inspections, underground power & tree trimming.

12 ton tilt tray, 8 ton excavator & 13.5m cherry picker for hire.

for sale

farM, foDDer & liVesTocK

HAY FOR SALE

Rhodes Grass 4x4 $50 ea, Forage Barley small sq. $15 ea at Melton Farms.

PH 0459 960 965

garDening anD elecTrical eQUiPMenT

MoWer Scott Bonnar 17" reel mower, 5yo, Honda engine. $550. PH 3261 7043. Bracken Ridge.

sTiHl whipper snipper FS55, 2 stroke straight shaft as new $95. McCulloch hedger 2 stroke petrol motor 2' cut as new $85. Gardener’s Choice whipper snipper 2 stroke petrol motor as new $85. Bailey step ladder 7' and extending to 12'6" as new $85. Wheelbarrow 100L steel tub wooden handles $50. Rover mower and catcher 18" cut, 4 stroke Briggs and Stratton motor, $120. Victor mower & catcher 4 stroke B&S motor 18" cut $100. Edger “Poulan”

2 stroke petrol motor, straight shaft, steel blade, as new $75. Ryobi whipper snipper

2 stroke, petrol motor, as new $75. Skil electric saw 2 1/8 HP, 184mm, 60mm cut, as new $50. Bosch pressure washer electric 1100psi, as new $40. Weldmate arc stick welder 100amps with a sheild as new $60. GMC angle grinder 100mm, 650 watt, as new $50. Ryobi whipper snipper petrol motor as new $85. Metabo jigsaw with spare blades $40. Skill battery drill and impact driver 20v 2 x batteries and charger brand new $60. Gardenline blower, petrol motor, near new $45. Ryobi Whipper Snipper, electric 525W $50. PH 5495 2557. Caboolture.

HoUseHolD

Han D craf TeD gif Ts Sharyn’s colourful crochet rugs. Cash lay-by available. Text ‘rugs’ to 0421 202 617 for a return call. Made in Kilcoy.

MacHinerY

MasseY fergUson Massey Ferguson

- 2 disk plough with cutting disk, plus a spare new disk; Bonell Reversable Plough - large cutting discs. Napier Rippers - 3 tines ripper - heavy duty; Massey Ferguson Scarifier - 11 tines - 7 inch double bar; Massey Ferguson - Hydraulics Stabiliser arm - Tractor; Chain heavy duty, 5.20 mt long, 16ml thick; Howard Rotary Hoe - 70 AR Series, 2 large metal side wheels, heavy duty unit, as new; Tractor Air Pump - Air PTO Driven; Vital Chain Block with bearings, never used, 1.5 tons, lifts 3 mts; Load Binder - 2 available. Make an offer. PH 0416 276 763.

MoTor VeHicles & accessories

DriVing laMP KiT Narva Ultima 225 (P# 71700) Halogen Combination Beam, Ultima Blue with H.I.D. High Intensity Discharge. One broad beam, one pencil beam, two see-through lens protectors, two fitted 12V H1 100W globes, one driving light harness. Complete in original packaging. Swedish design purpose built for Australian Outback. $350. PH 0419 028 593. Caboolture.

DUnloP TYres 6 x brand new. Size: AT20 225/70R17C. 108/106S. $500. PH 0429 677 640.

PUBlic noTices

CAN'T STOP DRINKING?

Call 1300 222 222

KilcoY KrafTers

Craft, learn to sew, knit, crochet, patchwork and quilting. All welcome. Kilcoy Explore Centre, Hope St, 9am each Thursday.

KILCOY CANCER SUPPORT GROUP

BREAST & THE REST

Meets third Tuesday (monthly) @ 10am

Kilcoy RSL Rooms (Kennedy St)

Contact: Sandra 0429 382 724 or John 0403 336 263

The Kilcoy RSL Sub Branch has an aDVocaTe serVice for VeTerans anD THeir faMilies

Our Advocate is available on Tuesdays at the RSL. Due to the numbers that our advocate supports, you must book and make an appointment.

For bookings, please phone one of the following: PH 0400 727 026, 0400 713 917 or 0403 518 640.

VeTerans HealTH WeeK BarefooT BoWls

saturday 7 october 2023 at the Kilcoy Bowls Club

This event is funded by DVA and the Kilcoy RSL. All servicing and ex servicing personal, and their families are welcome to attend.

For further information please contact Shane Williams on PH 0400 713 917

VeTerans HealTH WeeK golf DaY

sunday 22 october 2023 at the Kilcoy Golf Club

This event is funded by DVA and the Kilcoy RSL. All servicing and ex servicing personal, and their families are welcome to attend.

For further information please contact John Robinson on PH 0403 336 263

Come

Friday 22nd

September 2023

Starts 10:00 AM

Everybody

gifts Geoff (Blue C71)

82 Kilcoy Rural (Blue C51) alands fruit shop Mandy (Orange C33) MeMBers DraW # 2367 – Lyn Earle (present)

PUBlic noTices

solar PoWer caraVan sPecialisTs free elecTrical insPecTions

Dual battery setups

12 volt camping specialists BaTTeries - solar PanelsinVerTers - conTrollersaccessories (30 Years eXPerience)

Look us up: www.solar2camp.com.au PH Brent 0414 800 751 325 Kropp rd, Woodford (2.5 k’s from police station)

To renT living

sTorage U niTs 40ft containers, 2 available, $240/mth and 20ft containers, 2 available, $150/mth.

3 PraTT sT, KilcoY https://www. remaxliving.com.au/21225209

6 HaYMan sT , B UrP engar Y e as T https://www.remaxliving.com. au/21217690

29 e cli P se c res, B UrP engarY e as T https://www.remaxliving.com. au/21053475

call re/MaX living on 07 5496 1922

67 William St, Kilcoy

Fill in the blank cells using numbers from 1 to 9. Each number can only appear once in each row, column and 3x3 block

GOLF

Esk

Thursday September 14 Club

Competition Single Stableford. Winner B Thorogood 35pts, r/ up C Nielsen 34.

Rundown: L Latter, C Pettet, I Macintyre 31; L Robson 30; S Lerm 29; G Wilson 27; D Lockwood 24.

NTPs: 4/13 B Thorogood, 8/17 2nd D Lockwood.

Managed to rustle up enough players for a competition. Bruce won and won a pin shot. Chris Nielsen runner-up.

Welcome back Spot after returning to live in Esk.

Saturday September 16

Dennis Richards sponsored Single Stroke. Winner S Wilson 72/67 (gross/nett). R/up R Weier 85/68.

Rundown: C Nielsen 92/68.

NTP: Handicap 0-18 1/10 3rd S Wilson, H/C 19+ 5/14 3rd I Knopke. All in 4/13 S Wilson, 8/17 2nd G Proctor (in hole).

Good turnout for Dennis Richards Day.

Captain Shaun had a great win with a 67 nett off a 72 gross, and a pin shot, well done. Rob Weier in runner-up spot. Many thanks to Dennis for providing all the prizes.

Sunday September 17 nine hole Chooky. Winner D Back 27 nett, r/up G Punch 30.

Rundown: BL Farnham 31; S Wilson, A Wieland, M Beetz, C Pettet, G Lockett (L) 33; B Farnham 34; J Humphrey, G Ray 35; B Glanville 36; V Scott 37; J Lumsden 39; P Cook 41.

Putting competition: Shaun Wilson 13.

NTPs: 13 P Cook, 17 2nd G Punch.

Great turnout for our Chooky.

Don had a good win, with Gary in runner-up spot just missing out on the putting competition on a count back with Shaun.

Friday September 15 Turkey Run. Gordon Ray (47/29) won on a beautiful afternoon for golf. Mario Beetz was runnerup (42/31) and also won the pin shot on 17.

Rundown: J Humphrey 44/32. G Punch 46/34. P Cook, M Scott 45/37. B Glanville

52/38. D Back 52/41. G Lockett 62/42. J Lumsden 63/45.

NTPs: 13 P Cook, 17 M Beetz.

Toogoolawah

Wednesday September 13

four ladies travelled to Gatton for their Open Day while four ladies played a single Stableford at Toogoolawah.

Afternoon Chook Run winner Len Smyth 23 points with Abel Cruz r/up (22).

NTPs: 10 Richie Marschke, 17 Bob Marshall.

Saturday September 16 members played for Patron Alan Roughan’s trophy. Ladies played for Patroness Marion Deane’s trophy. A single Stroke and Monthly Medal for August.

Men’s winner Richie Marschke 68 nett, runner-up Eric Cox 69. NTP 5/14 Michael O’Connor.

Ladies winner Lea-Jayne Marschke 64 nett, runner-up Manuela Laycock 71. NTP 2/11

Lea-Jayne Marschke.

Thanks Alan and Marion. 25 players a good field as well.

NTPs: 3/12 Tanner Granzien, 4/13 Peter Eldridge, 6/15 Tanner Granzien, 7/16 men’s Eric Cox, ladies LeaJayne Marschke.

Monthly Medal winners Richie Marschke and LeaJayne Marschke.

The golf was followed by a barbecue dinner and presentation of trophies. A great night.

Coming events:

Saturday September 23 Sandy Gleeson and Blair Broad’s Trophy Day. A single stroke event in conjunction with the monthly medal for September, noon tee-off.

Wednesday September 27

ladies Invitation Day sponsored by Judie Marschke, Robyn Edmonds and Rhonda Carroll. A two-person Ambrose, shot gun start at 9am. Afternoon Chook Run 3pm start.

Kilcoy

Wednesday September 13 an 18 Hole Stableford (BM). Trophy donors: Betta Home Living Woodford.

Winner Peggy McMillan 44 points, r/up Kevin Cook 38.

NTPs: 2/11 Barry Cobbin, 5/14 Troy Edwards, 9/18 Adam

Norriss.

Saturday September 6 nine hole two-ball Ambrose, trophy donors Exchange Hotel, Kilcoy.

Winners Rod Howard and Michael Gardner 31.25 nett,. Runners-up Neville and Jenny Runge 33.825 nett.

NTP: 9 Jenny Runge.

Sunday September 17 and 18 hole two-ball Ambrose Alternate Drives, trophy donors Scott and Janine Hauritz.

Winners Dan Sheehan and Jamie Mitchell 60.50 nett. Runners-up Adam Dennis and Ray Dennis 62.75 nett.

NTP: 2/11 Ray Dennis, 4/13 Jamie Mitchell, 5/14 Dan Sheehan, 6/15 Dan Sheehan, 9/18 Todd Gundry (hole in one).

Wednesday September 6 and 18 hole two-ball Ambrose, trophy donors Richard Bradbury and Dennis Ihle.

Winners Daniel Chamnderlain and Bill Reynolds 64.25 nett. Runnersup Troy Edwards and Blue Reidy 62.25 nett.

NTPs: Troy Edwards 2/11, Lorraine Barrett 5/14, Jamie Mitchell 7/16, Peggy McMillen 9/18.

Saturday September 9 a nine hole three ball Ambrose, trophy donors Ray White Kilcoy.

Winners Team Thrupp 27 nett. R/up Team Carr 28 nett, run-down to 59.5 nett.

NTPs: Neville Runge 2, David Tones 9, Bill Tones accurate drive.

Sunday September 10: course closed for Zone Junior Competition.

Lowood

Sunday September 10: Mixed Foursomes 36 holes. Gross winners Shane and Sue Kopelke 158, r/up G Milady and Y Jones 169. Nett winners Peta Dwyer and C Wieland 144, r/up P and E Jensen 156.

BRD: S Luxford and P Quirk 157; G and P Molloy, D and J Hines 159.NTPs: 2 C Wieland, 5 Shane Kopelke, 11 Sue Kopelke, 14 Peta Dwyer.

Tuesday September 12: Single Stableford. Men’s winner D Sheraton 40, r/up M Whitwell 39; Ladies winner S Luxford 34, r/up V Wright 28.

BRD: M Joyce 36; B Victor, J Luxford 35; S Webb 34; C Smale, R Smith 33 on a count back. NTPs: 2 D Sheraton, 5 S Webb, 11 D Sheraton, 14 I Dobbie, 14 Ladies 2nd shot Peta Dwyer, 9/18 2nd shot Div 1 C Smale, Div 2 A Skinner.

Thursday September 14: Single Stableford. Winner K Poultney 38 on a count back from r/up Peta Dwyer.

BRD: A Page 38; Shane Kopelke, M Joyce, W Hankinson 36; D Lund, B Lowe, V Bales, D Sharp 35.

NTPs: 2 C Smale, 5 A Page, 11 R Heathwood, 14 V Bales, 14 Ladies 2nd shot Sue Kopelke, 1/10 2nd shot Div 1 Shane Kopelke, Div 2 Peta Dwyer.

Saturday September 16: Single Stableford. Winner C Wieland 43, r/up L Gleeson

38 on a count back from 3rd D Hines.

BRD: N Halls 38; P Brown, L Emmerson-Smale, O Abakumov, Shane Kopelke, K Glover 37; C Mayne, C Smale, P Cattanach 36.

NTPs: 2 L Burton, 5 A Forbes, 11 C Wieland, 14 A Wieland, 14 Ladies 2nd shot D Zahnow, 4/13 2nd shot Div 1 Shane Kopelke, Div 2 A Jones.

BOWLS

Toogoolawah

Wednesday September 13

Gerrit Winkeler, John Greany, Kim Dorman and Phil Gregory travelled to Kilcoy for their pub day. Even with their best efforts two seconds were the best they recorded.

Sunday September 17 ten bowlers for highest winning score. Winners were Neville Finlay, John Greany and Keith McWhirter. The raffle was won by Gerrit Winkeler.

Coming events:

Round two annual Webster Shield between Toogoolawah and Kilcoy Bowls Clubs, to be played at Kilcoy on Sunday September 24. Please advise if you are available to play.

Brian Loveland Cancer Charity Sunday October 1. Club 75th Anniversary Sunday October 8. Club meeting Sunday October 15. All members please note the date change. All members are invited to attend at 9am and to help in the running of the club by participating in discussions.

Toogoolawah Golf Club prize winners on Saturday September 16 for Patron Alan Roughan and Patroness Marion Deane’s trophy day Lea-Jayne Marschke (ladies winner and monthly medal winner), Marion Dean (Patroness and sponsor), Richie Marschke (men’s winner and Monthly Medal winner). Eric Cox (men’s runner-up).

Kilcoy’s Peggy McMillan, Mark Bradshaw and Kevin Cooke with their prizes at Kilcoy Golf.

Scott Hauritz, Jamie Mitchell, Dan Sheehan and Janine Hauritz with their prizes at Kilcoy Golf.

Some of the winners at the Ray White Kilcoy sponsored event at Kilcoy Golf Club.

Which teams will reach the decider?

FOUR clubs remain in the hunt for the National Rugby League (NRL) premiership, with two of them about to drop out of contention after two others bowed out in the most recent round of the finals series.

Queensland, New South Wales, Victoria and New Zealand are represented in the upcoming preliminary finals as one club from each of these places has made it to the final four, after they were

the top-four placed teams on the points table.

Will the grand final comprise Penrith and Brisbane? Or Penrith and the Warriors? Or will it be Melbourne versus Brisbane, or Melbourne versus the Warriors?

The only one of those combinations to ever feature in a grand final was Melbourne and Brisbane, back in 2006.

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 22

Penrith Panthers v Melbourne Storm, 7.50pm at Accor Stadium, Sydney

The Panthers will continue their pursuit of three straight NRL premierships, while the Storm seek their first premiership for three years.

Melbourne’s most recent grand final victory was at Penrith’s expense, before the Panthers enjoyed successive grand final wins against South Sydney and Parramatta.

Penrith won both clashes with Melbourne earlier this year: 34-16 on June 30 and 26-6 on August 4.

The Storm have momentum on their side after snatching an 1813 win over the Sydney Roosters last Friday, while the Panthers return from a break after cantering to a 32-6 win over the Warriors on September 9.

The Storm were well below their best last Friday but they showed considerable improvement in the space of a week, having lost 26-0 to the Broncos in week one of the finals.

The Storm also showed their ability to hang in there, having gone from a 12-6 lead to a 13-12 deficit before scoring a spectacular try in the second-last minute to snatch victory from the jaws of defeat.

Melbourne’s win had its share of controversy, nevertheless, particularly after a knock-on was undetected in the lead-up to one of its tries.

The Storm missed Jahrome Hughes and Xavier Coates due to injury, and the duo will be racing the clock to return for this Friday’s showdown.

Likewise, it remains to be seen if Jarome Luai returns for Penrith

after an injury layoff.

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 23

Brisbane Broncos v New Zealand Warriors, 7.50pm at Suncorp Stadium, Brisbane

The Broncos and Warriors have continued to be two of the competition’s biggest improvers, with the Broncos not having made the finals for four years while the Warriors hadn’t made the play-offs for five years.

Having beaten Melbourne 26-0 in week one of this year’s finals series, the Broncos achieved their first finals victory since 2017, while New Zealand’s thumping 40-10 win over Newcastle last Saturday was its first finals win since 2011.

For the record, 2011 was the latter of two occasions that the Warriors reached the grand final; with both of their grand final appearances resulting in defeat.

The Warriors’ convincing win over Newcastle showed just what a difference a week could make, after they lost 32-6 to Penrith in week one of the play-offs.

Last Saturday’s showing also revealed what a huge difference halfback Shaun Johnson made to the team, after he was sidelined with injury against Penrith before returning against Newcastle.

After barely firing a shot in week one of the finals, the Warriors

Tyre Centre

came firing out of the blocks on home soil last Saturday as they shot to a 16-0 lead in the first 13 minutes, before going into a bit of a lull.

The New Zealand team had a shaky six-point lead after Newcastle scored from an undetected forward pass in the early stages of the second half, but the Warriors regained their mojo as they subsequently scored four unanswered tries.

Having played on Penrith soil in week one of the finals before enjoying their time on home soil last Saturday, the Warriors will need to adjust to playing away again.

The Broncos return from a week’s break and will have no time to settle in, if the Warriors’ start against Newcastle is anything to go by.

The battle of the fullbacks could be particularly interesting, with dynamic Broncos custodian Reece Walsh encountering his former club after Warriors No. 1 Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad had a blinder against the Knights.

The battle of the halfbacks and locks could also be eye-catching, with Johnson opposing Brisbane’s Adam Reynolds in the No. 7 role while Warriors captain Tohu Harris opposes Patrick Carrigan in the lock position.

The only time the Broncos and Warriors met this year was on May 27 when the Broncos prevailed 26-22.

Shayne Neumann is calling on local sporting clubs and organisations to apply for grants to cover the cost of new uniforms or sporting equipment.

The Australian Sports Foundation’s (ASF) 2023 Active Kids Grants are open. The grant is available for volunteer-run community clubs and organisations

Active Kids Grants open

Long term plan for upgrade of Toogoolawah Pool

SOMERSET Regional Council has confirmed a plan for the upgrade of the Toogoolawah Swimming Pool.

The plan will see Council undertake a staged redevelopment of the existing pool to increase the number of lanes from six to eight, add ramped access to the pool and further upgrade plant equipment.

Economic Development and Tourism Advisory Committee member Deputy Mayor Helen Brieschke said the plan is a significant milestone in ensuring long-term swimming access for Somerset residents following recent investment.

particularly since the Esk pool is not owned by Council,” Cr Brieschke said.

Recent work has included the installation of electric heat pumps, construction of a modern gym facility, a bespoke splash pad, and an increase in the size of the pool grounds. This offseason we’ve also converted the pool from liquid chlorine to salt-water and replaced the main filtration pump.

with members aged 20 or younger. These will be awarded in the form of sports equipment and on-field or training uniforms, to be supplied by ASF partners HART Sport and ISC. Active Kids Grants aim to improve the physical and mental health of children and young Australians by encouraging and increasing sports participation through the

provision of equipment to eligible community organisations.

The grant program is funded by the Dickinson Foundation in partnership with the ASF.

Mr Neumann said the grants were a practical way to help grassroots sporting clubs through in-kind support.

“If your child’s local team

needs new uniforms or equipment to kick off the season, then the Australian Sports Foundation’s 2023 Active Kids Grants may be for you. The new funding round is now open and closes at 5pm on September 29. So, get your applications in and get ready to gear up!”

More info at https://fundraise. sportsfoundation.org.au/grants

“While the swimming pool was opened in 1975, we’ve sought expert advice and have established that Toogoolawah pool will service this community with continued investment. Council has invested significantly into the facility over the past few years, on both maintenance and improvement works. We see the importance of maintaining and improving this facility going forward,

“We’ve seen the community respond positively to improvements, with the Toogoolawah Swimming Pool and Community Gym experiencing a record year in the 2022-2023 financial year, with over 27,000 attendances. This smashed the previous combined facility record by over 40 per cent. It’s great to see Somerset residents utilising our facilities.

“This plan is Council responding to the community demand and also enables Council to competitively source grant funding for the upgrade of the facility.”

FEDERAL Member for Blair

Federal Member for Blair Shayne Neumann is calling on local sporting clubs and organisations to apply for Active Kids Grants.