Somerset Sentinel News 28 Sept 23

Henry Somerset

Snakes alive - watch out

THE lady thought the snake on the fence was plastic and went to grab it.

In an instant I saw its head move, so grabbed the lady and kicked her fluffy white dog out of the way.

She obviously thought I was assaulting her - and was about to launch a tirade about my rough treatment of her beloved pet.

But I had to calmly point out that she was about to put her hand on a very alive red

bellied black snake.

Another city tourist to our area who had no idea about how to live with snakes about.

After dissolving into tears and cuddling her dog, she thanked me.

Just part of the life of a country gentleman last week.

My interest, after seeing her welfare was safe, was that such a big red bellied black snake was happy to

sun itself in a very public part of town.

You expect them under the wood pile or the dark back corner of the shed, but on a fence on a well trafficked main street of town was unusual.

Certainly a sign that in this dry, warm spring, the snakes are about.

I’d seen plenty of snakes growing up.

We had Ralph the python in the roof of our kitchen

annexe, but we left him in peace because he kept the mice out of the kitchen - and they kept him a healthy size. My first interaction with a seriously dangerous snake was as a teenager when I took a young lass I had seriously fallen for on a bush walk.

Leading her along a bush path, with my mind much more on her than my surrounds, I heard her, a few yards behind, scream.

I turned to see a tiger snake I’d just stepped over.

It had lifted its head a foot above the ground ready to strike.

Fortunately Dad’s bush lore kicked in and I stamped the ground, on the spot I stood not moving forward.

The tiger snake, one of the most venomous in our region, gave a spit, then turned and crawled off into the bush.

The young lass rushed to me and gave me a warm cuddle. So that was a very good result!

Over the years I’ve come across a few snakes, mainly browns and red bellies, but I’ve never wanted to be too close to these venomous creatures because many of these snakes can move fast, especially those which know how to strike.

The best advice is to keep your eyes open, obviously in town as well as the bush, and especially moving into

dark or undisturbed territory where snakes like to hide.

If you see one, or suspect one is about, step back and stamp your feet.

Ground vibrations are how snakes hear, so a heavy foot stamp sends a rumble that, generally, sends a message for the snake to move away.

Don’t move towards the snake because firstly you are getting within their strike range, and secondly most snakes can move faster than a lumbering human.

Don’t let children or dogs near snakes. Somehow they get entranced by those snake eyes and beautiful colours.

And if anyone is bitten, don’t waste time trying to work out if it is venomous or not. Follow snake bite first aid.

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.

Somerset’s best gardens on show

GREEN thumbs were abound in the Somerset region, with judges having a tough job picking winners in the 2023 Somerset Garden Competition.

The judges were Somerset Deputy Mayor Helen Brieschke and Councillor Sean Choat, and Lockyer Valley Regional Councillor Janice Holstein,

The competition is an annual event organised by Somerset Regional Council, and this year it was sponsored by Searles Garden Products.

Cr Choat said the biggest challenge was getting to see all the gardens and keeping to the itinerary.

“In every garden there was so much to see, and we found each one had something of special interest, whether about plants, special features or tricks of the trade. There were moments when judges had to be dragged away from one garden in order to get to the next one.”

Judges weren’t limited to looking at the gardens.

Cr Choat met his daily intake of vitamin C by trying out homegrown citrus fruit, and judges were wary when offered edible nightshade to try, placing their trust in the grower that it wasn’t the deadly variety!

Cr Brieschke thanked all the garden competition entrants for their dedication and effort put into their gardens.

“While it was difficult to be in a judge’s position, I thoroughly enjoyed walking through these lovely gardens.

“It takes skill, time and energy to build and maintain a successful garden, one that’s beautiful to look at, or one that reflects its owners’ particular passion. I congratulate everyone who entered, you should all be very proud.”

Entrants and award winners were recognised at a special

celebration at Esk on Tuesday September 26, with awards presented by Mayor Graeme Lehmann and competition judges.

Competition winners were:

Best Rural Garden – Faye Craddock, Rosevale, 1548 Crows Nest Road, Biarra.

Best Urban Garden – Cheryl and David Parker, 7 Nidus Court, Fernvale.

Best Business Garden –Esk Caravan Park, 16 Hassall Street, Esk.

Best Community Group Garden – West Moreton Landcare, Lowood Section of Brisbane Valley Rail Trail.

Best Edible Garden –Roman Spur, 8 Osmund Court, Fernvale.

Best Native Garden – Linda and Rick Austin, 4 Hinze Road, Minden.

Best Waterwise Garden –Vivienne Hay, 149 Windsor Drive, Mount Hallen.

Best Upcycled/Repurposed Garden – Michele Rowse, 37 Francis Terrace, Esk. Encouragement Prizes were awarded to:

Best Rural Garden – Carol Blacklock, 822 Kangaroo Creek Road, Moore.

Best Urban Garden –Heather Shelton, 36 Ethel Street, Kilcoy.

The gardens will be showcased to the community via an open garden weekend held on October 7 and 8 between 9am and 2pm on both days.

Cr Choat thanked the entrants for opening their gardens to the public for viewing during the open garden weekend.

“An immense amount of time and effort goes into preparing these gardens and I commend everyone for sharing their love and passion for their gardens with the broader community,” he said.

The Somerset Garden Competition Best Upcycled/Repurposed Garden winner was Michele Rowse with competition judges Cr Helen Brieschke (Somerset), Cr Sean Choat (Somerset) and Cr Janice Holstein (Lockyer Valley).

Best Urban Garden winners in the Somerset Garden Competition were David and Cheryl Parker with judges Cr Helen Brieschke (Somerset), Cr Sean Choat (Somerset) and Cr Janice Holstein (Lockyer Valley).

Excellence Bursaries

FIVE residents have been awarded Somerset Council Excellence Bursaries to participate in competitive events, including a young golfer representing Australia later in the year.

Councillor Kylee Isidro said she was impressed with the talent and skill of Somerset residents as evidenced by the current round of applications, and especially with the amount of talented young sportspeople being selected to compete outside of regional competitions.

“This round of bursaries sees some of our younger residents representing Somerset and the wider sporting communities in their chosen fields,” she said.

“It’s very exciting to know that they are chasing goals and achieving at a high level. Knowing the effort they would be putting into becoming the best competitor they can be, I think

they should be proud of their achievements.

Ryder Cochran was awarded $750 to represent Australia in the Australian Junior Masters U9’s division in Melbourne in December.

Joshua Lehmann was awarded $500 to represent Queensland in the Australian Cross Country Championships in Canberra in August.

Jesse Heck was awarded $500 to represent the Queensland U21 soccer team at the State Titles at Palmview in October.

Isla Mawer was awarded $250 to represent Darling Downs region at the School State Athletic Championships for long jump and triple jump at Brisbane in October.

Lucy Bennett was awarded $250 to represent Brisbane in the State Softball Championships in Mackay in September.

Winner of Best Rural Garden in the Somerset Garden Competition, Faye Craddock (second from left) with judges Cr Sean Choat, Cr Janice Holstein (Lockyer Valley) and Cr Helen Brieschke.

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.

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

$1,780 fine for speeding at Toogoolawah

TOOGOOLAWAH

POLICE detected a vehicle travelling at 141km/h on the Brisbane Valley Highway at Cressbrook on September 17.

The driver was issued with an infringement notice for $1,780 and a total of 8 demerit points.

At 1.10pm on September 20, Esk Police intercepted a vehicle on the Brisbane Valley Highway at Biarra.

The driver, a 38-year-old Moore man was issued a notice to appear in court for unlicenced driving.

At 9pm on September 21, Esk Police intercepted a vehicle on Angledale Lane, Toogoolawah.

The driver was identified as having a disqualified licence.

A 17-year-old female was dealt with under the provisions of the Youth Justice Act.

On September 23, Police intercepted a vehicle on Esk Hampton Road, Redbank Creek.

As a result, a 64-year-old Sunshine Coast woman was

issued a notice to appear in court for drug driving and possessing dangerous drugs.

Safe driving key focus for Police

AS the warmer months are fast approaching, and the school holiday period is upon us, a significant increase in holiday traffic is travelling through the area.

This is a reflection on the location and all the local Somerset area has to offer.

This however is a timely reminder for everyone to focus on their driving behaviours behind the wheel.

Esk and Toogoolawah Police remind drivers that everyone has a responsibility to ensure they are driving safely and to the conditions of the road; that their vehicles are roadworthy and registered and they are not impaired at the time of driving.

Police from Esk and Toogoolawah will conduct random and targeted enforcement over the coming

months, particularly in key areas with a view to keep all road users safe.

Decreased open hours at Esk Police Station

THE Esk Police Station administration is currently operating on reduced hours with decreased days being open to the public.

For the short term, Esk Police Station will be open to the public on Friday mornings between 8am and noon.

Police will continue to be available to respond to incidents 24hrs a day, seven days a week.

Residents are reminded that the most efficient and direct way to contact Police is to call Triple Zero for all urgent matters. For non urgent or follow up enquiries, contact Policelink on 131 444.

This will then generate a notification for local officers to contact you when available.

RACQ LifeFlight Rescue airlifts woman after vehicle runs off road

THE Sunshine Coast-based RACQ LifeFlight Rescue helicopter crew has airlifted a woman to hospital after a single-vehicle crash in the Somerset Region last Sunday. The rescue chopper was tasked to assist at about 2pm and the pilot was able to land

in a clearing, near a highway, close to the accident scene.

It is believed the driver lost control of her vehicle which veered off the road into a culvert.

Queensland Ambulance Service (QAS) paramedics were first on the scene.

They treated the patient before transporting her to the chopper.

The woman, aged in her 60s, was flown to the Sunshine Coast University Hospital in a stable condition suffering neck and chest pain.

Council extends discount period for January 2024 rate notices

RESIDENTS of Somerset region will have almost double the time to benefit from the rates discount period when

notices are next issued in January 2024.

In a bid to offer financial relief to ratepayers, Somerset Regional

Council will extend on a trial basis, the standard six-week discount period to 11 weeks.

“This decision reflects our

commitment to supporting our community during these challenging economic times. This extended discount period

will provide valuable breathing room for ratepayers to manage their finances more effectively,” Mayor Graeme Lehmann said.

Rate notices for January 2024 will be issued on Tuesday, January 16, 2024, and will not be due until April 2, 2024.

Have your say on how to unleash the potential of our health workforce

FEDERAL Member for Blair

Shayne Neumann has called on local health professionals to have their say as part of a major review of Australia’s health workforce.

The independent review announced by Health Minister Mark Butler will explore opportunities and barriers to Australia’s health professionals working to the full scope of their practice in the primary health care system.

Led by Professor Mark Cormack, the Unleashing the Potential of our Health Workforce Review was a recommendation of the Strengthening Medicare Taskforce.

Mr Neumann said extensive stakeholder consultation and engagement will inform the review, with findings to be provided to the Albanese Government in the second half of 2024.

“Making sure Australia optimises its health workforce across a stretched primary care sector will improve health access and equity across all communities, including regional, rural and remote areas,” he said.

Professor Cormack is a highly accomplished health system and public policy executive. He was appointed Honorary Professor at the

Australian National University (ANU) College of Health and Medicine in 2020 and has recently established the National Centre for Health Workforce Studies at ANU. This follows a long public service career including as the CEO of Health Workforce Australia.

His professional background also covers early work as an allied health professional, and health services manager.

Professor Cormack has served as Chief Executive (ACT Health) and Deputy Secretary (Commonwealth Departments of Health, Veterans’ Affairs and Home Affairs).

Submissions to the review can be lodged up until October 16.

More information on the review and how to make a submission is available at https://consultations.health. gov.au/pccd-communication/ scope-of-practice-review/

Mr Neumann said that for too long, too many of our health workforce have not been able to work to their full potential, and he urged health professionals in the Somerset Region to make a submission.

“The Federal Government is committing to making sure that our hard-working and highly educated health workforce can work to the full extent of their

skills, experience and training,” Mr Neumann said.

“Whether it is nurses, pharmacists or allied health professionals, in a global health workforce shortage we need everyone working as close as possible to the top of their scope.

“The review team, led by Professor Mark Cormack, will consult widely with stakeholders and analyse the available evidence before providing its recommendations to the Government.

“This is the first of many opportunities for input into this important review, so I invite everyone to provide feedback and have their say.”

Mr Neumann hosted a regional health roundtable in Fernvale last month with Federal Assistant Minister for Rural and Regional Health Emma McBride where there was a strong focus on health workforce challenges, including in allied health.

“This health workforce review is an opportunity to make sure we optimise our health professionals in regional, rural and remote areas,” he said.

“So, I’m encouraging local stakeholders to make a submission to the review addressing this issue, including stakeholders from the Somerset Region and surrounding areas.”

Federal Member for Blair Shayne Neumann hosted a regional health forum in Fernvale in August with Assistant Minister for Rural and Regional Health Emma McBride (third from left) and health stakeholders. He is calling on local health professionals to have their say as part of a new health workforce review.

KILCOY Community

Small business workshop focuses on financial resilience

SMALL business owners often find the accounting side of their enterprise the most stressful.

To help build financial literacy and grow business capability, Somerset Regional Council is offering financial resilience workshops to small business owners to upskill them in this area.

Facilitated by Bloom Money, the 3-hour evening workshop will look at finance essentials to ensure small businesses are running efficiently, are compliant and are using relevant technology tools.

To get the most out of the session, participants are encouraged to bring a laptop

and their bookkeeping records.

Economic Development and Tourism Committee member, Councillor Bob Whalley, said businesses would gain practical benefits from the workshop.

“Five key areas will be covered, including step by step calculation to determine business breakeven points, a cashflow/budget activity, discussions about the different kinds of taxes application to your business, an accounting software overview and risk management planning,” Cr Whalley said.

Attending the Small Business Financial Resilience Workshop can be a valuable educational opportunity for

Small Business

small business owners to focus on financial strategies and practices to strengthen their business’s ability to survive challenges and uncertainties.

To register, go to businessfinancialresilience. eventbrite.com.au

The workshop will include sandwiches, tea and coffee and will be held on Tuesday October 17 at Kilcoy Visitor Information Centre.

Somerset Regional Council acknowledges the support of the Australian and Queensland governments under the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DFRA) through which this workshop has been jointly funded.

Races at Kilcoy today

NINE races are expected at the Kilcoy racecourse today (Thursday) following more than 160 nominations for the race day.

The first race is scheduled for 12.15pm while the last is scheduled for 5.10pm as the itinerary comprises four 1200m

races, three 1500m races, a 1900m race and a 2076m race.

Kilcoy Race Club chairperson Con Searle said there should be a reasonable crowd, especially with the school holidays and families staying at Kirkleigh Camping.

Entry will be free while cold

Financial Resilience

A WORKSHOP PRESENTED BY

5.30 - 8.30pm Kilcoy Information Centre 41 Hope Street Kilcoy

This workshop covers financial business essentials to ensure your small business is running efficiently and have the ability to continue operations during disruptions.

Topics covered:

Breakeven Point

Cashflow & Budget

Taxes

drinks, steak sandwiches and cafeteria food will be on offer.

There will also be the usual Pick the Card $500 prize, raffles, and the $100 members draw.

Patrons are reminded that no food or alcohol can be brought to the venue.

Accounting Software

Risk Management and more...

Tea, coffee and sandwiches will be provided at this event.

Kilcoy Konvoy is back!

Trucks will be judged, truckies challenge, jumping castle, trade stalls and food stalls. SEE YOU ALL THERE!

Follow our Facebook page ’Kilcoy Konvoy’ to find entry form and ticket sales!

KILCOY State High School

An Independent Public School

Year 5 Kilcoy State School Visit

ON Monday, September 4, the Year 5 cohort from Kilcoy State School became high schoolers for half a day, experiencing some of what Kilcoy State High School has to offer.

The “Spark your Interest in High School” program,engaged students in some handson Science activities using Brainboxes to build simple circuits, teaching principles of electronics and electricity. This built on students’ Year 5/6 Science unit from this term. In the kitchen, chocolate

Year 6 High School Experience Day

YEAR 6 students who are enrolled to attend Kilcoy State High School in 2024, visited our school in the last week of Term 3 for a high school experience day.

The experience day is designed to allow primary students to get familiar with subject classes, school grounds, teachers and fellow students.

Students were invited to spend a full day at Kilcoy State High School while accompanied by our junior school leaders as they participated in 4 subject classes. Students attended Science, Art,

Design and Technology and Food Technologies in groups and completed interactive activities and experiments. During lunch breaks, students were welcome to participate in games and activities in the library and undercover games area. At the end of the day, the Year 6 students assembled to say farewell to a fantastic day full of experiences that will give them confidence during this transitional period. We look forward to welcoming the students back on Monday December 4 for our final transition day before beginning high school in 2024.

coconut energy balls were created (and eaten), as students became familiar with the utensils and procedures of a commercial style kitchen.

A highlight of the day was a tour through the Agriculture Department, greeting animals and checking out the progress of planted crops. Students also observed in the incubators where some baby chicks are just starting to break through their egg shell.

This opportunity familiarised students with the physical space of Kilcoy

State High School and gave students a taste of what being a secondary student feels like. Students will be invited back

as Year 6 students as part of their transition into high school for 2025.

School Watch

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

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

New work placement program to bolster agricultural technologies sector

A NEW program can connect entrants in the fields of agriculture and information technology (IT) with work placements in AgTech and agronomy related agribusinesses throughout Queensland.

Delivered by the Queensland Farmers’ Federation (QFF), the Agricultural Digital Support Work Placement Program will place 20 AgTech Officers with host agribusinesses to support the digitisation of the agricultural sector and the uptake of new technologies throughout the regions.

The 12-month placements will provide AgTech Officers with mentorship, accredited training, access to specialist knowledge and networking opportunities.

QFF CEO, Jo Sheppard, said the program was an important step forward in the development of pathways into Queensland’s AgTech sector.

“This program is providing pathways that will support our sector as it continues to take advantage of the latest digital technologies,” Ms Sheppard said.

“This cohort of AgTech Officers will help bridge knowledge gaps and ensure

that Queensland agribusinesses remain at the forefront in their regions.

“Queensland farmers and agribusinesses are celebrated for standing at cutting edge of agriculture and with this being a work placement program I expect that we will see a twoway transfer of knowledge that will really be of immense benefit to the careers of these AgTech Officers.”

QFF is currently seeking applications from both agribusinesses and potential AgTech Officers looking to participate in the program.

“This is a great opportunity for agribusinesses to meaningfully contribute to the development of AgTech in Queensland while developing their digital capacity,” Ms Sheppard said.

“For the AgTech Officers this will certainly be an excellent opportunity to share and develop your skills, while gaining industry knowledge and connections that will be relevant for the rest of your careers.”

Agribusinesses will receive resources to help build their mentorship capacity to enable a smoother transition of knowledge between parties. AgTech officers will create a Professional Development Plan

Rural Aid offers relief to varroa-affected beekeepers

that will provide structure to their experience and fast track their AgTech skill sets.

Minister for Training and Skills Development Di Farmer said the Queensland Government continued to support the agricultural workforce by providing more opportunities to enhance skills and provide world-class training.

“We have a strong workforce with great momentum and we are making sure that we support our emerging industries that will help drive Queensland’s innovation economy, including the agricultural digital sector,” Ms Farmer said.

“I am pleased that we partnered with Queensland Farmers’ Federation and am thrilled to launch the new initiative, the Agricultural Digital Support Work Placement Program.

“Not only will this program provide us knowledge to upskill but it will also help bridge the gap between employers and jobseekers within the industry.”

For more information about the program and to express interest either as a host or AgTech Officer, visit https:// www.qff.org.au/projects/agtechofficer-placement-program/

AUSTRALIA’S most trusted rural charity has restated its support of commercial beekeepers as concern mounts over the continuing spread of the invasive varroa mite and its devastating impact on the nation’s honeybees.

More than 260 outbreaks of varroa mite have now been detected since June 2022, when the alarm was first raised at the Port of Newcastle.

“Like everyone involved in agriculture, Rural Aid is enormously concerned for our beekeepers and our ‘littlest livestock’,” Chief Executive Officer, John Warlters, said.

“Rural Aid is supporting beekeepers with an offer of $1,500 of financial assistance and rural counsellors on standby to provide emotional support.”

The detection of varroa mite in hives in the Sunraysia region of southern New South Wales – one of the most heavily bee dependent regions for the pollination of crops – has further heightened concerns for the industry.

NSW DPI said Sunraysia was currently hosting the largest concentration of

managed European honeybee hives in Australia to provide pollination services for almond orchards.

Rural Aid has provided more than $500,000 to beekeepers since 2015 and is ready to again provide a ‘hand up’ to producers when it was needed most.

“Our thoughts are with beekeepers and their families at this time. It must be soul destroying to see precious hives euthanased on top of the significant financial impact,” Mr Warlters said.

“Rural Aid has experienced an increase in calls from distressed beekeepers who are

understandably upset that their livelihoods and livestock are in jeopardy.

“Our counselling team is specially trained to help primary producers navigate crisis and encourage apiarists to reach out to Rural Aid,.”

“We are urging affected beekeepers to get in touch with Rural Aid at this distressing time.”

Varroa-mite affected beekeepers can apply for assistance at www.ruralaid. org.au/services-provided/

Donations can be made at https://varroamite.ruralaid. org.au/

Australia’s festival of pre-loved stuff is back

SOMERSET Regional Council has once again partnered with Garage Sale Trail, which supports and promotes garage sales around the country over two weekends in November.

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Distribution: Kilcoy, Jimna, Mt Kilcoy, Linville, Moore, Colinton, Harlin, Toogoolawah, Somerset Dam, Esk, Fernvale, Lowood, Coominya and surrounds.

In 2022, 300,000 Australians participated in the nationwide garage sale bonanza that supports the principles of reuse and recycle, extending the life of over 3 million kg of “stuff” and saving it from landfill.

Councillor Kylee Isidro said selling or shopping at garage sales was a fun and simple way to help reduce our carbon footprint.

“Garage Sale Trail helps neighbours connect, make some money and keep items that still have life left in them out of landfill,” she said.

“The program offers free registration, howto guides, promotional resources and even touch-free PayPal QR code payments. It’s an eco-friendly way to make garage sales easy for sellers over two weekends in November.”

Before the sale weekends there will be a series of free online talks featuring an all star cast of experts and familiar faces sharing their sustainable living tips that are kind on both planet and pocket.

Featuring presenters Barry du Bois and Veronica Milsom alongside experts in secondhand selling, styling and the circular economy, Trail Tutorials are hosted online and are free to

attend.

Coordinated garage sales across Australia will take place on November 11-12 and 18-19,

offering people the chance to turn stash into cash in an eco-friendly way.

Register for free at garagesaletrail.com.au.

Calls for reform to rent assistance

NATIONAL housing campaign Everybody’s Home is calling on the federal government to reform rent assistance as the recent increase is set to be eclipsed by high rents.

The maximum rate of Commonwealth Rent Assistance for singles has increased by $27.60 to $184.80 a fortnight. The payment for a family with one or two children has increased by $32.34 to $217.28.

Everybody’s Home spokesperson, Maiy Azize, said rents in many areas have increased

by hundreds of dollars a week in the past three years and were set to continue to grow.

“This increase to Commonwealth Rent Assistance is welcome but it will be swallowed by the high cost of rents and further hikes,” she said.

“This increase to the payment won’t be enough to lift many renters out of housing stress and many vulnerable people will miss out on the rise entirely.

“As rents have soared since the pandemic,

rent assistance has not been keeping pace. On top of this, the payment excludes many of those on the lowest incomes, with two in three people on JobSeeker ineligible.

“Rent assistance needs a major shake up - it must be indexed to better reflect rent paid, and help people who need it the most.

“Reforming the payment will provide immediate relief to renters but the key solution to fixing the rental crisis is building enough social housing to end the huge shortfall.”

Garage sale trail supports the circular economy while reducing landfill.

Under My Skin

When does not acting become a “criminal act”?

AFTER reading the exposé of the actions of former and resurrected Minister for Justice and Attorney General Yvette D’Ath, and other Ministers, in relation to grotesque, gut-wrenching crimes involving abuse and neglect of children, I felt emotionally, almost physically, ill.

To refresh your memory, according to the media report “timeline”, the public first heard of this sorry saga soon after May 25, 2020, with the finding of a dead child.

Two days later two children with autism were found severely malnourished, wearing nothing but soiled nappies, locked in a bare room with no access to food, water or toilets, while their father lay dead in the next room.

Can you believe there is still no end to this sickening chain of events? It is one of the worst examples of Ministerial and government neglect you could expect to see — something a society with a little bit of soul and a pinch of integrity would never tolerate.

When thinking about this, keep in mind we are talking about badly neglected children — neglected by adults and the government bureaucracies charged with their care.

Claims about political decisions being made in relation

to scrapping investigations, hiding reports, and political interference have been made and denied.

Those issues need sorting out but more serious questions have to be answered.

For example, if the kids were in “care”, who cared? Who did the “carers” care about? Certainly not the children being battered, bruised and neglected.

If the Justice Department was involved, where was the justice? Did anyone actually receive justice? Certainly not those bruised, battered and neglected children.

I’m not saying it happened in this instance but, if Ministers make decisions on child neglect reports and investigations based mainly or even partly on political ramifications, where does criminality start and finish?

Could, or should, it be that not acting, postponing intervention, or hiding information is, in itself, a criminal offence? Is there a line between Ministerial responsibility and political decision making when lives, in these cases young lives, are at stake?

When does neglect of duty become a criminal offence?

When does a wilful act, or wilful failure to act, take on the air of criminality?

Should we be asking for action against those who fail

to do their job properly — who refuse to act legally, responsibly, ethically, humanely, and/or decently?

If it wasn’t for the media, how much of this horrible saga would we have known?

If Ministers were trying to hide the truth, why weren’t the Premier and her Deputy demanding action? They knew all about the cases of vile neglect but the government’s loud and frequent claims about open government and integrity seemed to become sounds of silence.

Were they not concerned about justice for children? Were their claims about responsible government abandoned when the need for, and timing of, serious investigations became apparent?

We really need more answers — honest answers — to the multitude of questions being posed.

Gastro girl

I KNOW this is a strange thing to say but I like my gastroenterologist. She has a good sense of humour, a trait I can imagine as being essential when you think about what she does day in day out — a bit like a dentist but often at the other end.

During a recent consultation she used the term “pain in the arse”. I laughed.

But she has her weak points.

Saturday opening hours trial for Kilcoy and Lowood libraries

SOMERSET Regional Council will trial Saturday morning opening hours at their two busiest libraries for six months from October 7.

Councillor Jason Wendt said public libraries were increasingly seen as safe, inclusive community spaces, with visitor numbers across the Somerset region rising by up to 45 per cent over the past year.

“Community feedback indicates that Saturday opening hours would be strongly

supported and would enable busy families and residents to make use of the library service outside of weekday business hours.

“There is a reasonable expectation that libraries should open at times that suit the majority of customers, and we believe this six-month trial will see a further increase in the number of visitors to our libraries,” Cr Wendt said.

“Council has received quite a number of requests for weekend

For example, she went into detail about how I could expect a longer, healthier life if I gave up alcohol.

I replied, “I could expect to spend the rest of my life behind bars if I commit murder and I don’t intend to do that either.”

So we agreed that, if I’m looking for a happier life, I’ll just keep on doing what I’m doing now.

Lost love

SHAKESPEARE’S famous line: “How do I love thee, let me count the ways”, certainly doesn’t apply to a growing number of Queenslanders and their “love” of our education system.

We’ve heard numerous stories about the desperate need for more teachers, especially males, and the fear that teaching as a profession is no longer on the radar of most students.

We have also learnt it’s not only teachers leaving the system. The number of Queensland students finishing Year 12 has drastically dropped in the past three years, with current rates now below those seen a decade ago.

Maybe if the education system concentrated on the three Rs and dropped social engineering from the curriculum, more teachers and students would again fall in love with their school years.

Just briefly

YOU have to feel sorry for the “image makers” charged with “rebranding” Federal Opposition Leader Peter Dutton. Environment Minister Tanya Plibersek likened him to the Harry Potter villain Lord Voldemort so that gives some idea of the scale of the task.

“I Guess the Lord Must Be in New York City” is a song written and recorded by singersongwriter Harry Nilsson in 1969. After what we’ve seen about The Big Apple on TV recently I think the Lord has taken the Devil in as a boarder.

I’m still trying to make sense of the newspaper heading “Architects see lasting legacy in temporary pool”. Of course it involves 2032 Palaszczuk Olympics planning so it was probably meant to be a taxpayerfunded joke.

Do you wonder how experts can claim to accurately estimate the multi-billion dollar benefits a major sporting event will generate in 10 years’ time, but can’t get within a gnat’s nut of the actual cost of building a public toilet in the next 10 months?

Business guides

TOO many business leaders, just like politicians, are showing an alarming arrogance in the face of corporate scandals

By SKINHEAD

and it’s time many company shareholders checked the packaging on their executives for a use-by date.

Moral blindness accurately describes the scandals enveloping these companies but the big wigs don’t seem to realise help is readily available — “business guide dogs” waiting to help.

The names of some of these guides immediately spring to mind, Right and Wrong for example. Others include Honesty, Truth, and Decency.

Cancel that

SURELY there’s no truth in the rumour that the old saying “a two-horse race” is now deemed offensive and about to be cancelled.

Gossip says the term has upset People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA), Animal Liberation Queensland, the Greens, the Teals, Greenpeace, vegans, LGBTQQIP2SAA+, Extinction Rebellion, and one of my neighbours.

There’s also word that, if dogs are more broadly associated with the term, Snoopy, Rin Tin Tin, Lassie, Scooby Doo, Toto and Dorothy will join the protest.

Thought for the Week: The first five days after the weekend are the hardest.

Teddies beat the heat with an indoor picnic

opening and we are very pleased to offer this trial as a way to confirming community interest for its possible continuation.”

The libraries in Kilcoy and Lowood will open between 9am and 11.30am on Saturdays beginning October 7 for the six-month trial. At the end of the trial, Council will assess the change in user numbers to determine whether to make Saturday opening hours a permanent addition to Somerset library services.

RADF now open for funding applications

FUNDING for arts, cultural and heritage development opportunities in the Somerset region is now available through the current round of the RADF program.

Regional Arts Development Fund (RADF) Chair Councillor, Cheryl Gaedtke, said Somerset Regional Council was committed to promoting the arts as a tool for cultural expression, place making, development and encouraging cultural engagement and participation

to build community capacity.

“RADF works in partnership with the Somerset Regional Council Arts and Cultural Policy to realise three main priorities. Applicants should address at least one of these in their project description to ensure their eligibility,” Cr Gaedtke said.

“The three priorities are Somerset Stories, Wellbeing and Placemaking. In addition, funding is also available to promote artistic excellence

through skills development activities and the person and places activation program. Successful applications will align with one or more of these five categories.”

Applications for the current round of RADF funding closes on November 2.

For full eligibility details and information about applying for RADF, including activities that are not supported, go to Council’s website and type RADF in the search bar.

THE annual Teddy Bears Picnic in Esk was a great way to escape the heat on Thursday September 21, with over 200 people attending the mainly indoor event at the Somerset Civic Centre.

Children (and many teddy bears) who joined the fun

enjoyed plenty of free activities along with a special teddy bear parade led by Blazer Bear and Cluedo the Police Dog. Face painting and snow cones proved popular, with outside temperatures rising to 35 degrees, making the indoor location a great venue choice.

The popular family event is held by Somerset Regional Council every September to coincide with school holidays. As well as fun for the children, a range of community service providers host information stalls to share information about services available in the Somerset region.

Emmalee and Amelia Kitzelmann from Braemore had fun at the annual Teddy Bears’ Picnic last week.

Grant applications open for women and girls

COMMUNITY groups and organisations across Queensland can now apply for $270,000 in grants through the latest round of the Investing in Queensland Women grant program.

The grant program provides one-off grants of up to $15,000 for projects that benefit women and girls from all backgrounds.

Applications are now open to support projects that address sexual, domestic, and family violence prevention, mentoring and leadership opportunities as well as projects that strengthen respectful and healthy relationships, women’s health, and career pathways into male dominated fields.

The grants will be awarded for projects that work to improve the lives of Queensland women and girls and are aligned with Queensland Government initiatives including the recently announced Women and Girls’ Health Strategy, and Queensland Women’s Strategy 2022-27.

These initiatives aim to inspire and encourage the community to respect women, embrace gender equality, and protect the rights and wellbeing of women and girls.

Applications close on October 20.

Further information about the grant program and how to apply

is available at https://www. justice.qld.gov.au/initiatives/ grants-for-queensland-women

Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk said she wants Queensland women and girls to get the hand up they need – whether that’s support, empowerment or better opportunities.

“We put the call out for Queenslanders to get involved in shaping our Women and Girls’ Health Strategy, and now we’re backing projects tailored to this important cohort,” she said.

“Women make up 56 per cent of Queensland’s population so I am proud to back the organisations improving the outcomes of women and girls around our state.

“I encourage all our fantastic Queensland organisations to get involved and apply for these important grants.”

Minister for Health, Mental Health and Ambulance Services and Minister for Women, Shannon Fentiman, said the Investing in Queensland Women grants program is a great opportunity to make a difference in the lives of women and girls across the state.

“There has already been $1.25 million invested over 140 projects since the State Government introduced the

program in 2021,” she said.

“These projects work to end violence against women, empower women, and create a more gender-equal future for women and girls.

“As Minister for Women, I am committed to addressing the range of issues faced by Queensland women and girls, and these projects play an important role in achieving that vision.

“I encourage all community groups, community leaders and not-for-profit organisations to apply, and together create a better future for all Queensland women and girls.”

New laws to crack down on cosmetic cowboys

THE Queensland Government has passed an amendment to the Health Practitioner Regulation National Law Act 2009 aimed at safeguarding Australians against “cosmetic cowboys”.

Changes to the national law — which is hosted by Queensland — will protect the title of ‘surgeon’ within the medical profession.

These changes mean only

qualified doctors with significant surgical training can use the title ‘surgeon’ when promoting and conducting their services.

Doctors who use the title without having completed the appropriate accredited surgical training will face up to three years in prison and a $60,000 fine.

Other measures being taken to better regulate the cosmetic

surgery industry include new licensing standards for private facilities and establishing a credentialing system to endorse qualified providers.

The Australian Health Practitioners Regulation Agency is also moving to introduce stronger laws around advertising and the use of online influencers and brand ambassadors to promote cosmetic procedures.

10 acres water views and sheds galore

WELCOME to your private sanctuary on 10 acres of tranquillity, nestled on a quiet no through road in the heart of nature’s beauty in Crossdale.

This is not just a property; it’s a lifestyle waiting to be embraced.

For the first time in more than 3 decades, this unique property is available for purchase. The sellers have reluctantly decided it’s time to downsize and are motivated to sell at or before the auction so invite all genuine offers for consideration prior to auction day.

Step inside this charming 4 bedroom, 2 bathroom ranch-style home, where rustic elegance meets modern comfort. You’ll fall in love

with the spacious wrap-around verandas, perfect for sipping morning coffee or watching the sunset over the lake.

Entertaining is a breeze on the expansive deck that offers breathtaking water views - an idyllic backdrop for gatherings with family and friends.

Experience the best of both worlds with reversecycle air conditioning for those scorching summers and a slowcombustion woodfire heater for cosy winter nights. The fenced boundaries and established pastures make this property ideal for horses or livestock, and a permanent creek frontage invites you to take a refreshing dip or try your luck at fishing - all without leaving your property.

10 acres water views and sheds galor living

The auction will be held on October 21 at 10am, onsite.

Hot dry summer prediction sparks Get Ready reminder

WITH the Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) declaring El Nino and positive Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD) events were underway earlier this month, warmer and drier conditions are likely this spring and summer in parts of Australia.

Somerset Deputy Mayor Helen Brieschke said it was concerning that the concurrent weather events were likely to increase the chance of below average rainfall and higher

temperatures.

“We know that El Nino can increase the risk of heatwaves and hotter days. The IOD reduces the chance of rainfall and often results in warmer weather. The combination of the two could have very dangerous bushfire impacts on parts of regional Australia, and we need to be well prepared,” Cr Brieschke said.

“Recently we had a 35-degree day here in Somerset, and we are still two months away from the

BEE SEEN!

start of summer. I encourage all residents to be prepared by doing whatever they can ahead of the upcoming bushfire season.”

As well as preparing their families and properties, residents who are able could consider volunteering for their local SES or rural fire brigade.

Contact your local rural fire brigade or the SES Local Controller on 5424 4000 during business hours, or visit the QFES website.

WEASEY’S PROPERTY REPORT

A JOURNEY down memory lane, as requested.

Readers of this column have kindly reached out to share their memories and so I have discovered that my ancestors in this beautiful region go back an extra generation. The family history tells the story of how my passion for people and property developed.

From as far back as I can remember, I was immersed in the world of property matters because my father Kerry was a Real Estate agent in Woodford. The office was situated next to the cattle sale yards and little did I know then that this would also shape my future.

My fascination with auctions was sparked by a true gentleman, the legendary Doug Nichols who was an esteemed

Livestock and Property Auctioneer. Weekends were filled with property auctions and farm clearance sales, and I had the role of putting lot numbers on items. The part I cherished the most was calling and pointing out bidders in the lively crowd to help the auctioneer along. The energy of an auction, the subtle body language cues, the reactions of people – it was like theatre, and I was hooked. It wasn’t just business, these sales were social events where farmers and their families caught up and community bonds grew stronger.

This was a time when the internet and fax machines were not even imagined. Property details were gleaned from old paper cadastral maps or

Insights into the local housing market

with

a contraption known as a microfiche. These small slides, no bigger than a postcard, transformed into legible property information when magnified by the machine. Oldschool developed photographs were glued to window cards with handwritten descriptions and prices, then taped to the office window for buyers to browse.

I still remember the day we got our first mobile phone. It was a behemoth with an antenna the size of a fishing rod.

Dad’s commitment to his clients meant he’d drive for hours to meet them in person for paperwork to be signed. That’s how I learned the art of patience – sitting in the back of the car for literally hours,

listening to cassette tapes to keep the boredom at bay.

My paternal grandparents were Roy and Gladys Wease (nee Hubner). They raised my dad Kerry and his siblings on their dairy farm at Villeneuve.

Pop’s parents, Victor ‘Dick’ and Ethel Wease ( nee Greensil), were registered as living at various farms in Mount Kilcoy, Sandy Creek and Bellthorpe. Their children were Ernest – m. Ethel Kunde; Amy – m. Doug Walker; Ellen – m. ‘Nake’ Walker; Roy – m. Gladys Hubner; Ailsa – m. 1 Joe Meloni (dec. 1964) 2. Jack Carter; Jean – m. Colin Lougheed; Oliver (sadly drowned 1953); and Archie –m. Gloria Jenkinson.

From 1941 the family were known to share-farm

in Somerset and later at ‘Wynulla’ Mt Kilcoy.

Dick’s parents were William and Sarah Wease who were among the early settlers in the Kilcoy area.

Fast forward across the years, and here I am – a 5th Generation local. As I ventured into adulthood, I left to work as a tour guide in the Kimberleys and Kakadu National Park for a few years. Those remote, rugged landscapes taught me resilience and the importance of adaptability. Eventually, a deep love of this region called me home.

In the past 17 years as your local real estate agent, there have been extraordinary technological advances in the Industry. I’ve faced challenges, celebrated successes, and

never stopped learning. It’s been a remarkable journey, and I owe a lot to the foundations laid by my ancestors, my father and the broader Somerset and Moreton Bay communities.

Thank you for your incredible support over the years, and I look forward to being of service in the future.

Phone 0427 536 725 anytime.

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

Farmer and Grazier

Cattle markets

WOODFORD

163 HEAD were sold at

Stariha Auctions Woodford cattle sale on Monday.

The market remained unchanged to previous sales.

Some cattle are starting to show the effects of the dry conditions with a plainer

quality yarding presented. Alberton Investments, Bald Hills, sold a pen of Droughtmaster steers for $1,300.

TOOGOOLAWAH STORE SALE

Karen Miles and Peter Maunders, Harlin, sold pens of Speckle Park male calves for $460 and $350.

Michael Christie, Stanmore, sold young Charbray store steers for $510.

Barry Gartshore, Maleny, sold Droughtmaster vealer males for $450.

Brian Hausman, Mt Delaney, sold Charbray heifers for $620.

Darrel Fogg, Mt Samson, sold Droughtmaster heifers for $610, $600 and $540.

Sarah Fankhauser, Kilcoy, sold a Droughtmaster cross heifer for $1,110.

Michael Green, Neurum, sold a line of Droughtmaster store cows for $830.

MORETON

FIND US ON FACEBOOK

PLEASE USE OUR FACEBOOK PAGE AND WEBSITE FOR UP-TO-DATE DETAILS WWW.SHEPBOYD.COM.AU

BOOKINGS STILL OPEN

352 HEAD. Export cattle maintained last week’s rates with all major processors present. A plainer condition run of cattle came to hand this week as people are left with no option but to sell or feed and with commodity prices being at record highs, most are choosing to sell and accept the current prices.

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

AGENTS Boyd, O’Brien and Bartholomew yarded 352 cattle at their weekly live weight cattle sale on Tuesday.

Export cattle maintained last week’s rates with all major processors present.

A plainer condition run of cattle came to hand this week as people are left with no option but to sell or feed and with commodity prices being at record highs, most are choosing to sell and accept the current prices.

Vealer heifers: L and S Reinke (Charbray X) 152.2c $266.

Background steers: R and S

Henderson (Hereford X) 235.2c $696.

Grain assist steers: Peter Day (Charolais X) 265c $1,245.

6 tooth heifers: Corey Dowling (Charolais X) 210c $1,344.

6 tooth ox: P and V Gordon (Santa X) 220c $1,331.

Medium cows: Usher Pastoral (Droughtmaster) 194.2c $986.

Heavy cows: G and L Nugent (Droughtmaster) 194.2c $1,330.

EUMUNDI

188 HEAD were yarded at Stariha Auctions Eumundi cattle sale on Tuesday September 19.

The market was firm to slightly stronger, with local competition strengthening the market.

A Jackson, Mt Kilcoy, sold Brahman cows for $1,100, light Charbray weaner steers for $690 and vealer heifers for $490.

LC Livestock, Lowood, sold Charolais cows for $1,280 and light feeder heifers for $790.

Popplewell Composites, Kidaman Creek, sold Composite males for $680 and $590.

Gary Pratten, Kilcoy, sold Charbray heifers for $500.

Wade Johnston, Bollier, sold Illawarra cows for $1,060.

FOR MARKET INFORMATION AND ASSISTANCE WITH CARTAGE ARRANGEMENTS CONTACT

THESE RESULTS

Consign your cattle to Moreton Saleyards. Cartage arranged for any numbers of livestock. Selling every Tuesday 8am.

For further enquiries phone any time

Weather bureau confirms what farmers are already experiencing - it’s getting hot and dry

FARMERS for Climate Action is calling for urgent action to limit climate change as it emerges farmers are officially facing an El Niño weather pattern after three years of La Niña.

The Bureau of Meteorology declared Australia is officially in an El Niño weather pattern, meaning warmer drier conditions are more likely for south-eastern Australia, and this will be made more extreme by climate change.

Already some farmers, including Farmers for Climate Action member Peter Lake who farms near Grafton on the NSW North Coast, are officially in drought conditions after battling floods 12 months ago.

“It turned from mud to

concrete in a couple of weeks and suddenly everything was just dry. From flood to drought, climate change is making the changes more extreme," Mr Lake said.

Farmers for Climate Action Chair Brett Hall, who farms in the Derwent Valley in Tasmania, said many farmers were concerned about the possibility of warmer, drier conditions and increased weather variability for eastern Australia this spring and summer.

“Although some farmers have had reasonable conditions recently, we know things can change in a few months.”

Mr Hall said that Australian farmers are great at adapting, but that ultimately we need to

Rural Aid encourages farmer registrations as El Nino is declared

address the driving cause of climate change - emissions.

“Farmers are always looking three steps ahead to the next event but there are limits to their adaptation. While we adapt and mitigate on-farm, we need to know the rest of the economy is doing its bit to reduce emissions and tackle climate change, which is causing more frequent and severe weather events.”

Farmers for Climate Action, an organisation representing 8,000 farmers, hosted a webinar “El Niño explained” in July bringing together a range of speakers, including from the BoM and Birchip Cropping Group to help farmers prepare. That presentation is available at https://farmersforclimateaction. org.au/portfolio/2023-el-ninowebinar/

Strong gains in agricultural exports

QUEENSLAND’S agriculture sector delivered a surge in exports to record a record high of $12.51 billion for the last financial year.

Data released by the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) marked the second consecutive year of increasing exports, cementing the industry’s position as a vital contributor to the state's economy.

The $12.51 billion figure was a 16.8 per cent increase over the previous financial year, representing an increase of $1.79 billion.

The ABS data shows the total export value of the state’s agriculture sector has surged by an impressive 25.16 per cent compared to the average value of the past five financial years.

The record-breaking export levels were underpinned by robust prices and a surge in export volumes, which lifted

by 18.26 per cent to reach 7.87 million tonnes.

Key growth commodities for 2022/23 were:

* Cereals and Cereal preparations up 53.64% to $2.54 billion.

* Chickpeas up 37.26% to $369.12 million.

* Live cattle up 53.94% to $147.96 million, accompanied by a 9.83% increase in export volume.

* Beef up 11.05% to $6.28 billion, with volume up 7.38% to 598,765 tonnes.

In the horticulture sector the volume of fruit and vegetables exported rose 3.25 per cent.

Avocados were a notable winner, with exports up 38.5% to $38.21 million, with volume up 24.09%.

In 2022-23, Queensland's top three agricultural trading partners were China ($2.73 billion), South Korea ($1.82

billion), and Japan ($1.71 billion).

Key markets where exports of Queensland agricultural products increased were:

* China: Up a remarkable 53.5% in value.

* Indonesia: Up 40.1%.

* USA: Up 19.9%.

* Vietnam: Up 19.6%.

* South Korea: Up 13.2% increase.

The latest Queensland export data can be viewed in an interactive dashboard at www. daf.qld.gov.au/datafarm

Minister for Agricultural Industry Development and Fisheries and Minister for Rural Communities, Mark Furner, said Queensland’s global reputation for clean, green and great-tasting produce is serving the state well, and this reputation is backed up by Queensland farmers every single day.”

AUSTRALIA’S most trusted rural charity is encouraging farmers to reach out for assistance as the Bureau of Meteorology officially declares an El Nino event.

The El Nino weather pattern means hot, dry seasons that trend towards drought.

Rural Aid CEO John Warlters said the Bureau’s announcement confirmed many producers’ fears.

“The announcement of the El Nino weather pattern will bring a lot of unwelcome memories to the surface for our farmers, who’ve been anxiously watching land and waterways dry up,” Mr Warlters said.

“Thousands of farmers are already managing their land with a view to drought, but this announcement makes that approach all the more important.”

“The past drought was regarded as the worst in living

memory for the majority of the country, and it’s understandable that many farmers are scared of going through that again,” Mr Warlters said.

“We’re encouraging farmers to reach out and register with Rural Aid now.”

Rural Aid offers primary producers a range of assistance measures including financial, hay, drinking water, counselling and volunteer assistance.

“We’ve already seen a huge increase in requests for emergency hay and household drinking water from farmers right across the country,” Mr Warlters said.

“In the past four months, requests to Rural Aid for emergency drinking water have increased by 240 per cent, and our free water tank offer was exhausted in just four hours with more than 95 applications. We’re aiming to deliver another 50 water tanks by the end of this year to meet demand.”

“Rural Aid helps farmers with hay, drinking water, financial assistance, counselling and volunteers; all at no cost to our primary producers, thanks to the generosity of the Australian public and our corporate partners.”

“This El Nino declaration is a particularly upsetting moment for our farmers. It means conditions are likely to get worse before they get better,” Mr Warlters said.

“I’m encouraging farmers who are finding themselves overwhelmed to give our rurally-based counselling team a call for a free chat, to make sure they’re in the best possible position they can be to take on the upcoming seasons,” Mr Warlters finished.

Primary producers are urged to register online at www. ruralaid.org.au or by calling 1300 327 624.

Rural Aid’s counsellors can be reached at 1300 175 594.

Meat labelling to test Federal Govt

THE Federal Government must show consumers the respect they deserve, by improving labelling regulation to make a clear distinction between meat and plant-based alternatives according to Cattle Australia.

Cattle Australia Interim CEO, Adam Coffey said the current labelling standards had been exploited by some alternative protein manufacturers to trade off the reputation of Australia’s highquality meat standards.

“Consumers should be able to eat the food they think they’re buying,” Mr Coffey said.

“Disguising plant-based products to look like meat can take that choice away from consumers.

“The ALP promised to

resolve this issue during the election, now they must deliver.

“An extensive Senate inquiry led by Senator Susan McDonald recommended images of animals and terms such as ‘beef’ or ‘veal’ be reserved for the genuine article.

“This is about ensuring food labelling has integrity, and shoppers know what they’re getting.

“You shouldn’t have to read the fine print to know if you’re buying beef.

“There is no reason for the Government to hold this up.

“We would expect to have labelling issues resolved in Anthony Albanese’s first year of Government.

“There has been broad support across the Australian

Don’t sideline agriculture

AGRICULTURE has provided a strong steady backbone to Australia’s prosperity, and food security.

Yet in recent years, I feel that centuries-long tradition is being overlooked, particularly by government.

We as industry have innovated and thrived in the face of many challenges, from pandemic disruptions to our supply chains, to climate vulnerability affecting productivity and many more.

I’m passionate about raising the profile of the incredible

work of agriculture, so we are included at the table of consequential decisions affecting our industry and country.

Such as recent revelations from the Federal Environment Minister, Tanya Plibersek, that environmental laws will not be overhauled until next year - despite business and green groups urging swift action.

It is a source of continued frustration that agriculture continues to be marginalised from these negotiations.

But we can turn this into a

positive.

This delay has provided an opportunity to call for agriculture and rural communities to have stronger representations in these critical discussions.

There is plenty of common ground - AgForce agrees with the Federal Minister for Environment that “Australia’s environmental laws are broken”.

It’s undeniable - agriculture has and will continue to contribute to environmental outcomes powerfully and

positively.

So why is it then, in the media release announcing these delays in environmental law reform, that the minister has singled out organisations across mining, environmental groups and state environmental protection authorities, but failed to mention agriculture?

The minister advised she had 57 meetings relating to the proposed reforms – how many of them were with agriculture?

We also have the opportunity for concurrent reform across state regulations – a confluence

of events we will lobby to be an integral part of.

We must get through to governments at all levels that it is also upon them not to miss the opportunity of investing in our landscapes, environment, and biodiversity by sidelining one of its strongest contributors.

Our industry contributes strongly whilst ensuring we have healthy, locally grown food on our supermarket shelves 365 days a year. That is a privilege a lot of the world does not share.

community for not just meat, but all food labelling to be accurate.

“Australia’s beef industry has spent decades building community trust as a healthy, clean, ethical and sustainable option.

“Alternative proteins simply haven’t proven themselves to many consumers and they need to put in the work themselves.

“Further, some consumers need to eat meat because of its nutrient-dense qualities – this is something alternative proteins cannot deliver.

“This should be an easy decision for the government and Cattle Australia urges them to take swift action.

“The Senate inquiry has done the work, now it’s time to get on with the job.”

Michael Guerin, AgForce Chief Executive Officer

Silver for Fernvale resident

Nicole said the weather was perfect at King Edward’s School where the preliminary matches were played, before rain hampered the decider at the prestigious Edgbaston Stadium.

“We were fortunate to play in spectacular English weather, with lovely temperatures and nice breezes,” she said.

Nicole said the pitch at King Edward’s School looked perfectly manicured and felt great.

“Just running out onto the field, the grass was perfect, it was beautifully flat and maintained green and lush,” she said.

In the crunch clash to decide who claimed gold medal status, Australia tallied 8/114 before wet weather reduced India’s target to 42 in nine overs, and then the Indians passed the requirement in just 3.3 overs for the loss of one wicket.

Although she didn’t play in the decider, Nicole said one of her highlights of the tournament “was competing for a gold medal in the grand final against India at the historic Edgbaston Stadium”.

Another highlight which Nicole identified was singing the Australian national anthem with

the Australian players, coaches and manager.

“The condition of the field at Edgbaston was immaculate and just perfect in every way,” she said.

“It felt so professional – the outfield was so spongy and perfectly flat, and the players all ran with an added confidence.

“It really gives you an extra pep in your step.

“It was such an amazing feeling walking out onto the ground, and was really a ‘wow’ sensation, that made me think ‘Wow we’re really here!’

“Because of the ground itself, its history, and the gravity of the moment, you could feel the excitement in the air.

“At that moment, it really sunk in that our team had got there, and I felt proud of our achievements.”

Nicole said regardless of the result in the rain-affected decider, the Australians had shown resilience.

“We tried our best,” she said.

“We wouldn’t go all that way and not put our best foot forward.

“We came second in the world, which is a really positive result, considering we had only one

From back page

session together before arriving in Birmingham.”

Afterwards, the Australian players and staff walked along the boundary and thanked the fans for attending.

“There were people from all over the world watching the game, and everyone was so warm and friendly,” Nicole said.

“There were a lot of Indian cricket fans watching the gold medal game, and it was lovely to see how supportive and congratulative they were towards us, even though we were the opponent.

“Throughout the tournament, it was great having support of the Australian men’s (blind) cricket team, the Australian team staff, and family members of both

teams’ players.”

Nicole gave credit to the victors, as she said the Indian team was amazing and was the best team in the tournament.

“Australia and England only recently formed their teams, so India’s experience playing together as a group really shone through and was a difference maker,” she said.

“They were a very polished team and the results showed that.”

Nicole said she also had a great time away from the cricket arena, as the players enjoyed their downtime.

“When we had rest days, a group of us enjoyed exploring the city of Birmingham,” she said.

“We visited Warwick Castle which was lovely to have the opportunity to be a tourist for a little while.

“I really enjoyed meeting all the other athletes from around the world, and seeing all the colours of athletes representing their respective countries.”

Nicole said there was one particularly interesting meeting with a group of athletes who didn’t speak English.

“We were trying to figure out what sport each other played,” she said.

“I ended up googling a photograph of someone playing cricket, and showed it to them.

“They said ‘Oh…cricket? Cricket!’

“We all had a laugh at the language barrier, and we eventually worked out they were Judo athletes from Uzbekistan.”

Nicole said she had a goal to play in the World Blind Games again, and would strive to earn selection for the 2027 Games

although the host city wasn’t yet known.

“There’s no guarantees for myself personally that I will be selected again, but our hope is that we’ll have more young players taking up the sport, which will provide healthy competition for spots in the team in 2027,” she said.

“I’m really excited about the future of women’s blind cricket in Australia.

“With more young vision impaired athletes coming through, it will give young women and girls with vision impairment role models and something to aspire to.

“The future of women’s blind cricket is looking bright.”

Nicole said she also looked forward to any games or tournaments in which she could participate in the near future.

Time to get serious on odometer fraud

A RECENT investigation into crime syndicates performing odometer wind-backs aired on local news has once again brought to light the urgent need for regulatory change and an overhaul of penalties related to odometer fraud in Queensland.

As the peak industry body representing businesses in the automotive industry, the Motor Trades Association of Queensland is well aware of the

devastating impacts the unlawful act, which amounts to consumer fraud performed by unscrupulous and unlicensed individuals, has caused to the state’s law-abiding automotive dealership businesses, as well as to consumers.

Frustratingly, despite ongoing campaigning from MTA Queensland, and despite the issue once again emerging in the mainstream media, very little continues to be done at the policy

level in the way of taking odometer fraud seriously and introducing sufficient preventative measures.

In an effort to help combat the issue, MTA Queensland launched an online odometer tampering reporting platform in late 2022, delivering critical information and evidence from consumers to assist the Office of Fair Trading (OFT) in their investigations.

MTA Queensland CEO Rod

Camm said for too long now, dodgy backyard operators have been left largely to do as they please when it comes to tampering with vehicles prior to sale, with the

Nicole Rowling (back row far right) and her Australian teammates achieved silver medals in the women’s blind cricket division in the World Blind Games, staged in England last month.

BOWLS Kilcoy

Friday September 15 –

Member’s Draw: #122 Geoff Smith (not present) $140 this Friday.

Saturday September 16 semifinals Moreton Bay District Divisions 7, 8 and 9 Pennants. Division 7 – Brighton defeated Kallangur 35-30 and went on to win the final against Pine Rivers 40-38 at Kallangur the next day. Division 8 – Narangba defeated Pine Rivers 44-34 and went on to win the final against Aspley 38-29 at Brighton the next day. Division 9 – Pine Rivers defeated Dayboro 47-30 but lost the final to Brighton 40-39 the next day at Brighton. There was some really good bowls played and enjoyed by plenty of spectators.

Tuesday September 19 – Star of the Green: Michael Dunn defeated Col McGrath and will play Noel Lanes on October 3. We had a great day with 30 players including visitors from Bundaberg and Auckland.

Winners Pam Taylor, Rhonda Cochran and Wendy Zunker (one of our Bundaberg visitors) who defeated Bill Edwards, Gerry Carseldine and Lyn Chandler 24-14.

Other Scores: Lester Bechly, Sharon Walker and Neil Barradeen defeated Bill Watts, Marg Worrall and Lee Montgomery 22-8; Micheal Dunn, Greg Staniforth and Ross Kerr defeated Joe Hasson, Sharon Carseldine and Michael Saltmarsh 17-12; Renie Lauchlan, John Pratt and Col McGrath defeated Harold Alford, Mari Hannan and Trevor Stewart 18-14;

Trudi Pratt, Denis Bleakley and Kalvin Zunker defeated Jenny Edwards, John Hannan and Tom Hunter 19-10.

The jackpot did not go off and stands at $254 on October 3.

B Ladies Singles, Mel Harrison defeated Phyl Coffee in a very friendly game.

Wednesday September 20 –Kilcoy hosted the semi finals and final of the Moreton Bay District Ladies Bowling Association Triples Championship. In the semis Pine Rivers (skip J Carlish) def Kallangur (skip J Healey) and Bribie Island (skip I McLaren) def Pine Rivers (skip P Wales).

In the final, Pine Rivers (Julie Carlish, Bev Wise and Ineke McQuirk) def Bribie Island (Isobel McLaren, Megan Garfield and Linda Williams) in the closest of matches.

With one end to play the scores stood at 21-all. The shot changed hands throughout the last end with Julie drawing the winning shot with her last bowl. Unfortunately Isobel narrowly missed taking it back with her last bowl, leaving Pine Rivers the winners 22-21. Great game, ladies!

Coming events: Thursday September 28 – Mac Patterson final round at Samford. Teams are on the Pub Day board.

Social bowls every Tuesday - names by 8.45am for 9.15am start. Everyone is welcomeexperience is not necessary and we can loan you some bowls if needed. Flat soled shoes are the only requirement.

All members are invited to attend at 9am and to help in the running of the club by participating in discussions.

Runners-up in the Moreton Bay District Ladies Triples hosted at Kilcoy Bowls Club Isobel McLaren, Megan Garfield and Linda Williams with District President Helen Lightfoot.

of the Moreton Bay District Ladies Triples played at

on September 20 Ineke McQuirk, Julie Carlish and Bev Wise with District President Helen Lightfoot.

PUblic noTices

KILCOY RSL SUB BRANCH

Opening

clearing sales

ONLINE CLEARING SALE

For sale

hoUsehold

h andcraFT ed gi FT s Sharyn’s colourful crochet rugs. Cash lay-by available. Text ‘rugs’ to 0421 202 617 for a return call. Made in Kilcoy.

MachinerY

20-24th October

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.

deaTh noTices

sTePhenson, Janice

Late of Hazeldean, passed peacefully on 13th September 2023.

Aged 74 years

Adored wife of Craig. Much Loved Mother to Pauline and Caraline. Cherished Grandmother and Great Grandmother.

A Private Funeral was held for Janice on 20th September 2023. No flowers by request, donations to the RSPCA is preferred.

KilcoY FUneral direcTors Ph 07 5497 1196 www.kilcoyfuneraldirectors.com

dressMaKer

“Lilac Time” Couture dress maker Ph 0432 121 654

For sale

FarM, Fodder & liVesTocK

laMbs Male and female Dorper lambs, 4 weeks to 4 months, for sale. Good condition. Great as grasscutters or for eating. Free if picked up from Sandy Creek, near Kilcoy. Text 0411 722 680. 24 d or P er ewes Self shedding, drenched for 3 months, regrettable sale (feed shortage) due to drought, perfect opportunity to add quality ewes to your herd for less $$. Ewes have been running with Australian White ram. $75 each or $1,000 for the group. PH Cindy 0438 208 895. Esk Kilcoy Rd, Coal Creek.

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

Micro To MaTo MaTUre P lan Ts

Flowering and fruiting, grow indoors, several varieties. $10. Mature flowering Tigerella plants, produce around 20kg. $15. PH 0408 504 683.

FUnerals

JUdge, Patrick John known as “Pat”

Late of Narrabri formerly of Toogoolawah Queensland, passed away peacefully on Thursday 21 September 2023 at Narrabri.

Aged 89 years

Dearly loved husband of the late Josephine Judge. Loving father and father-in-law of Cathy & Allan, Joseph (Dec) and Patricia (Dec). Cherished pop of Tammy, Sarah, Amanda and Joan. “Little Pop” of his nine great grandchildren and four great great grandchildren.

The relatives and friends of the late Pat Judge are respectfully invited to attend his funeral. The graveside service is appointed to commence at 1:30 pm (AEST) on Tuesday 3 October 2023 in the Dirranbandi General Cemetery, Whyenbah Road, Dirranbandi Queensland.

narrabri FUnerals

Ph 0427 410 429 info@nbrifunerals.com.au

MarKeTs

Northern Gateway to Somerset TM Saturday 30th September

Enquiries: please call 0438 927 964

PUblic

Ph: 07 5422 0564

18 Kennedy St, Kilcoy QLD 4514 www.kilcoyrsl.com.au or find us on facebook

PosiTions VacanT driVer / loader

We are seeking a casual employee as primarily a driver/loader for our landscape yard. Must be prepared to work some Saturdays.

A minimum requirement is an L.R. Licence to operate our bigger truck.

Please forward application to kilcoysbackyardbling@gmail.com

QUaliFied hairdresser or barber

Full time, part time, casual and management opportunities available. Located in Kilcoy. Colour specialist highly regarded. Be part of a fun and motivated team.

Please email your resume to: eve444@live.com For more information, please contact: Evelina on 0400 177 444.

PUblic noTices

CAN'T STOP DRINKING? we can help. aa works! Call 1300 222 222

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

raFFle resUlTs drawn at the rsl club rooms

Friday 22nd september, 2023

seafood Norma Hooper (Orange E82) Kilcoy butchery Andrew (Orange D33) Kilcoy second hand Butcher(Orange E33) stanley hotel Andrew (Orange D35)

Plush lifestyle Paul (Purple B05) MeMbers draw

# 2379 – Beverley Hill (not present)

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 , bU rP engar Y e as T https://www.remaxliving.com. au/21217690

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

call re/MaX living on 07 5496 1922

BOWLS

Toogoolawah

Sunday September 24 it was round two of the annual Webster Shield at Kilcoy. With another great day in cool weather all bowlers put their best foot forward and had a very good game.

Even with the best efforts from all the Toogoolawah bowlers, Kilcoy were the very deserved winners on the day.

Well done Kilcoy and thank you for an as always enjoyable day in great company.

Winners on the day were Michael Dunn, Sharon Walker and Trudi Pratt for Kilcoy; and Phil, Linda and Pete for Toogoolawah.

Coming events:

Brian Loveland’s Cancer Charity Day Sunday October 1, 10.30 for an 11am start.

Toogoolawah Bowls Club

75th Anniversary Sunday October 8, 10am for a 10.30am start.

Next club meeting Sunday October 15.

GOLF

Esk

Tuesday September 19: Gerry Maloney Memorial Day sponsored by Ian and Barb Macintyre, Single Stableford overall winner D Milasas.

Division 1 winner S Brown. Division 2 winner C Nielsen.

NTPs: Mens Div 1 - 9/18

2nd B Farnham, Mens Div

2 - 3/12 3rd H Knubel, Ladies 6/15 4th G Lockett.All in: 4/13

C Nielsen, 8/17 2nd B Tumney. Long drive closest to centre line B Moore.

Good turnout for the annual

memorial to Gerry Maloney who passed away four years ago. He was a long time member of several local clubs and started this competition 10 years ago to keep interest in weekly golf at the Esk Golf Club.

After his passing Macca and Barb carried on with sponsoring the event as Gerry helped many of the young and not so young players along the way.

Many thanks to Macca and Barb for providing all the prizes and putting on the food.

Saturday September 23: Patrons Day sponsored by Bernie Moore, single Stableford.

Division 1 winner T Adams 38pts, r/up D Lee 37. Division 2 winner S Lerm 35, r/up H Knubel 34.

NTPs: Mens H/C 0-181/10 3rd P Cook, 9/18 2nd B Farnham, Mens H/C 19+ 2/11 3rd G Smith, 3/12 3rd S Lerm, Ladies 6/15 3rd J Lee. All in: 4/13 B Tumney, 8/17 2nd R Weier.

Good turnout again for our Patron’s Day, Trevor Adams winning Div 1, runner-up David Lee; Div 2 winner Stevie Lerm, r/up Heinz Knubel and Julie Lee winning the Ladies prize after Sandra (Trev’s wife) had 22pts on the front nine but only 9pts on the back nine.

Another top day, many thanks to Patron Bernie Moore for sponsoring the day, and providing heaps of prizes.

Sunday September 24 nine hole Chooky winner C Pettet 28 nett, r/up G Ray 34.

Rundown: V Scott 34; S Wilson, D Back 35; J Humphrey, P Cook 37; I Macintyre 40; G Punch 43. Putting competition: Col Pettet 15. NTPs: 4 S Wilson, 8 2nd S Wilson.

Small but happy field, finally Col getting a clear win and the putting comp. Gordon in r/up spot and Shaun pinching both pin shots.

Points on the board for the Annual Championship, which is pretty tight at the moment.

Lowood

Tuesday September 19: single Stableford. Men’s winner D Sharp 37, r/up D Sheraton 36.

Men’s BRD: L Cocco 35; C Petrohilos 34; P McGuigan, M Stafford, J Luxford 33; P Harmon 32 on a count back.

Ladies winner J Hines 35, r/ up Peta Dwyer 33.

Ladies BRD: Y Jones 33; L Sheraton 31.

NTPs: 2 G Winter, 5 B Victor, 11 C Smale, 14 Shane Kopelke, 14 Ladies 2nd shot Peta Dwyer, 9/18 2nd shot Div 1 M Wellings, Div 2 D Sheraton.

Thursday September 21: two-person Ambrose. Winners A Kingdon and J Harrison 62.25, r/up D Lund and D Olsen 66.5.

BRD: C Gleeson and R Mancktelow 66.5; S Henshall and S Butler 67; S Webb and D Sharp 67.25. NTPs: 2 G Winter, 5 P Dwyer, 11 S Henshall, 14 J Luxford.

Saturday September 23: single Stableford. Winner E Hoger 40, r/up B Lowe 38 on a count back.

BRD: A Wieland 38; D Johnstone 37; L EmmersonSmale, J Harvey, S Mahoney, Sue Kopelke, C Smale, B Wieland, J Burrett, Shane Kopelke 36.

NTPs: 2 D Gray, 5 A Wieland, 11 H Buckley, 14 A Wieland, 14 Ladies 2nd shot N Coles, 1/10 2nd shot Div 1 Shane Kopelke, Div 2 A Skinner.

Toogoolawah

Wednesday September 20 ladies morning winner Lorraine Bittossi 19 points on a count back from r/up Manuela Laycock. Third Pat Dennis 17 points. NTP Manuela Laycock.

Afternoon Chook Run winner Bob Marshall on a count back Peter Eldridge.

NTP: 1 Geoff Murtagh, 4 Craig Granzien.

Saturday September 23: inaugural trophy day for Sandy Gleeson and Blair Broad, single

Stroke and Monthly Medal for September and what a display of trophies.

Overall winner Manuela Laycock 68 nett. Well done Manni showing up the guys.

Men’s winner Richie Marschke 69 nett on a count back from Jeff Yeo.

Ladies winner Ailsa Richter 74 nett on a count back from Enid Faulkner.

Long drive on number 9 only - Abel Cruz and Ailsa Richter.

Least putts for 18 holes Michael O’Connor and LeaJayne Marschke.

Encouragement awards Craig Granzien and Robyn Edmonds.

Congratulations Richie and Manuela on winning the September monthly medals.

NTPs: 3/12 Blair Broad, 4/13 Brian Loveland, 6/15 Manuela Laycock (Manni showing the guys up again, well done), 7/16 Blair Broad and Ailsa Richter.

What an awesome day thank you Sandy and Blair.

Coming events:

Saturday September 30: Vern Doyle, Brian Loveland, Des and Carol Shields Cancer Charity Day, a two-person Ambrose, names by 10.30am for an 11am hit-off.

Sunday October 1: the cancer charity continues at the Toogoolawah Bowls Club, names by 10am for a 10.30am start.

Tuesday October 3 Toogoolawah Golf Club AGM for all members, 7.30pm.

Wednesday October 4: ladies morning golf - 18 holes 8am, 9 holes 8.45am. Coffee 10.45am. Afternoon Chook Run 3pm hit-off.

Kilcoy

Wednesday September 20: 18 hole Reverse Par 3, trophy donors: Steve Bichel and Barry Cobbin. Winner Jamie Mitchell 52 1/3 nett, r/up Arthur Kunde 52 2/3 nett.

Run-down to 56 1/3 nett.

NTP: 1/10 Eric McMillan, 2/11 Jamie Mitchell, 3/12 Doug Johnstone, 4/13 Eric McMillan, 5/14 Jamie Mitchell, 6/15 Troy Edwards, 7/16 Troy Edwards, 8/17 Arthur Kunde, 9/18 Troy Edwards.

Sunday September 24: 18 hole Stroke (FGQ)(MM), trophy donor Gary Barton. Winner Steve Hunter 67 nett c/b, r/up Dean Roberts.

Run-down to 70 nett.

MM winner: Sharon Hine

NTPs: 2/11 Greg Smith, 5/14 Lorraine Barrett, 6/15 Russell Benton, 9/18 Dylan Gardner.

Toogoolawah Golf Club Saturday September 23 for Sandy Gleeson and Blair Broad trophy day. Back Row: Robyn Edmonds, Richie Marschke, Sponsor Sandy Gleeson, Lea-Jayne Marschke, Sponsor Blair Broad,Jeff Yeo, Michael O’Connor and Craig Granzien. Front row: Enid Faulkner, Manuela Laycock, Ailsa Richter and Abel Cruz.

Arthur Kunde (runner-up) and Jamie Mitchell (winner) at the Kilcoy Golf Club Reverse Par 3 competition on Sep 20.

Dean Roberts, Gary Barton and Steve Hunter were prize winners at the Kilcoy Golf Club on September 24

The Kilcoy winners of the Webster Shield club competition on September 24 were Michael Dunn, Sharon Walker and Trudi Pratt.

The Toogoolawah winners of the Webster Shield club competition on September 24 were Phil, Linda and Pete.

The annual Webster Shield (between Kilcoy and Toogoolawah Bowls Clubs) was won by Kilcoy this year. Keith McWhirter (right) handed over the shield to Denis Bleakley last Sunday.

NRL GRAND FINALS PREVIEW

NRL grand final ready to rumble

WILL the Penrith Panthers achieve three successive National Rugby League (NRL) premierships?

On Sunday night, all will be revealed as the grand final takes place.

Standing in the way of a Panthers trifecta is a Brisbane Broncos outfit chasing its first premiership in 17 years and its seventh overall, while the Panthers

also chase their fifth premiership in the club’s history.

No team has won three straight premierships in the NRL era which began in 1998, after the previous occurrence of a team winning a hat-trick of premierships in the equivalent competition was Parramatta from 1981 to 1983 (in the then NSWRL competition).

GRAND FINAL: Sunday October 1

Penrith Panthers v Brisbane Broncos, 6.30pm at Accor Stadium (Sydney)

This will be the fourth straight grand final appearance for Penrith, which lost to Melbourne in 2020 before defeating South Sydney in 2021 and then winning against Parramatta last year.

The Broncos, meanwhile, finished with the wooden spoon in 2020 before missing the finals in the following two years as well.

Brisbane’s most recent grand final appearance was in 2015, when the Broncos agonisingly lost by a field goal in golden point extra-time against North Queensland.

Having finished on top of the ladder this year and then beaten the fourth-placed New Zealand Warriors 32-6 in week one of finals, the Panthers had a resounding 38-4 win over the third-placed Melbourne last Friday night.

Melbourne was well in the game after levelling the score at 4-all, before Penrith gained the upper hand.

The Panthers played some superb football as they took their chances, and they scored some brilliant tries.

The result nonetheless could have been much closer had Melbourne not bombed a couple of crucial scoring chances in the first half, before Penrith took an 18-4 lead into half-time.

The next night, the scoring went back-and-forth for a little while before the Broncos romped to a 42-12 victory against the Warriors to set the stage for a grand final featuring the teams that finished in the top two positions on the ladder.

Although the Broncos were too good overall, they had a bit

of luck considering their first try in the second half featured two blatantly forward passes which were undetected.

The 24-12 half-time score was also somewhat misleading considering Brisbane had scored four tries to three at this stage, with goal-kicking making a huge difference.

While the Broncos also scored some splendid tries, they also made some mistakes which would surely be a recipe for disaster if such errors occurred against Penrith.

The Broncos will also need to improve their defence for the grand final, as saving points will surely be as important as scoring them – for both teams.

Penrith’s team will contain plenty of players with at least one premiership ring, while the only Broncos in the squad of 17 with NRL grand final experience are likely to be captain Adam Reynolds and second-rower Kurt Capewell.

Interestingly, they were opponents in the 2021 grand final when Capewell played for Penrith while Reynolds played for Souths.

Reynolds also played in the 2014 grand final when Souths won its first premiership for 43 years.

Brisbane’s squad has included Corey Oates who played in the 2015 decider, but he hasn’t played in this year’s finals series so far.

Another point of interest is the father-and-son connection in

Tyre Centre

each team, with Penrith’s Ivan Cleary coaching his son Nathan in a grand final for the fourth straight year while Brisbane’s Kevin Walters coaches his son Billy.

Kevin Walters played in Brisbane’s five premierships from 1992 to 2000, after also being in Canberra’s maiden premiership in 1989. Walters now has the chance to become only the second coach to win a premiership with the Broncos, after Wayne Bennett guided the club to all six of its premierships so far.

There are plenty of interesting match-ups for this Sunday, particularly in the fullback, halfback, front-row and lock positions. Brisbane’s electrifying fullback Reece Walsh will oppose Dylan Edwards, who was the player of the match in last year’s decider Adam Reynolds and Nathan Cleary will go head-to-head in the halfback role, while Tom Flegler and Payne Haas oppose Moses Leota and James Fisher-Harris in the front-row.

In the lock position, Patrick Carrigan is set to oppose Isaah Yeo.

The Broncos edged out the Panthers 13-12 back in round one on March 3, before the reigning back-to-back premiers won the rematch 15-4 on May 18. But both of these matches will be a distant memory when the clubs go head-to-head this Sunday.

Silver for Fernvale resident at World Blind Games

NICOLE Rowling achieved a silver medal while fulfilling her lifelong goal of representing Australia in sport, as she competed in last month’s World Blind Games in the English city of Birmingham.

The Fernvale resident also had the honour of bowling the first delivery in the history of the International Blind Sports Federation (IBSA) World Games women’s blind cricket.

More significantly, Nicole held the first catch to bring about the first wicket in the history of women’s blind cricket at the World Blind Games event.

Nicole was limited to two appearances out of five due to injury, but she was all smiles afterwards as her dream of playing for her country had been realised while she could “tick it off the bucket list”.

“Receiving my baggy green was a really proud moment, not only for myself but for my teammates as well,” she said.

“I felt a great sense of pride and a final realisation that we’d made it.

“Receiving the baggy green helped it sink in that it was time to represent our country and showcase the commitment and hard work that got us here.”

With England batting first in the opening contest, Nicole sent down the first and third overs while conceding four runs in each. From the third ball of the second over, Nicole held a catch at mid-wicket off the bowling of Courtney Lewis to dismiss England captain Kathryn JelfsWhite.

A high sundries count contributed to England’s total of 8/128 in 20 overs, before the Australians also benefited from plenty of sundries as they cruised to a seven-wicket victory in 15.1 overs.

Nicole scored 14 off 27 balls at number three, and was adjudged lbw to Jelfs-White with the total on 102 in the 13th over.

Nicole later said the first catch was a memory that would stay with her.

“Because the player we got out was the captain of the English team, it really boosted our confidence to dismiss one of their best players so early in the match,” she said.

“If you asked me even last year, I wouldn’t have imagined I would take a catch against England, so it was a very special moment.

“It all happened so quickly, that I realised ‘Oh my gosh, I’m

holding the ball… I caught it!’

“We were ecstatic to beat England in our first ever game, which was also our first ever game together as the Australian team.

“It was great for our confidence going forward in the tournament.”

Nicole wasn’t selected for Australia’s second fixture, as India dominated the match and set the tone for the remainder of the tournament.

The Fernvale resident returned for Australia’s third match, with England making 2/112 before Australia lost seven wickets and fell 13 runs shy of the target.

Nicole conceded 12 runs in three overs as she again opened the bowling. She again played a role in the dismissal of JelfsWhite, this time as Nicole threw the ball to Queensland teammate and Australian wicketkeepercaptain Julie Neumann who broke the wicket to run out England’s skipper.

Nicole again batted at number three, and she made seven off 23 balls before being run out as Jelfs-White threw the ball to Jess Lowe who broke the wicket.

“I felt like my batting in the first game was quite good…The

second time we played against England, they made adjustments by bringing their field in close when I was batting, which made it difficult to hit the ball past their inner ring of fielders,” Nicole said.

“I’ve learned from that experience and have a good strategic plan on how to improve going forward.”

Although she didn’t capture a wicket, Nicole said she felt like she bowled quite well.

“I bowled consistently and their run rate off my bowling was kept to a minimum,” she said.

“At times I took a little pace off my bowling speed to make sure I was accurate and stayed on target.

“Next time, I’ll let loose a little more and increase my pace and speed.”

Unfortunately for Nicole, she sustained a high-grade tear to her medial collateral ligament (MCL) while diving for the ball when fielding and was consequently unable to play in the remainder of the World Blind Games.

Nicole watched the Australian women’s team sustain another heavy loss to India before the two teams met again in the decider. To page 16

Fernvale resident Nicole Rowling represented Australia in blind cricket at the World Blind Games in England, with Australia finishing runner-up to India in the women’s grand final at Edgbaston Stadium.