Southern Free Times - 21st December 2017

THURSDAY, 21 26 DECEMBER, OCTOBER 2017 2017 13750■COPIES XXXX XXX DELIVERED WEEKLY

■

ISSUE 899

NEWS GRANT RAISES COOL CASH PAGE 3

PEST SCHEME EXTENDED PAGES 6-7

COVER STORY

CROSS

OF LOVE PAGES 4-5

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MORE TO LOVE The editor’s desk It’s been a big year for all of us here at the Southern Free Times, and like you, we’re looking forward to a bit of a break over Christmas.

One of the big changes this year was our move to a gloss paper format - and the feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, from both readers and advertisers.

We remain committed to being a free publication serving the Warwick and Stanthorpe regions, and with grassroots, community-based journalism.

As the editor, I’d sincerely like to thank the Free Times team - our advertising sales executives Natasha Sheahan and Tanya Ryan, and our administration and distribution manager Lisa Crouch for their efforts in 2017.

And, of course, our regular columnists - gardening guru Beatrice Hawkins, our arts and events writer Sue Keong and our sport columnist Casey O’Connor. Thanks to our distribution team - who are too many to name here - but in particular Vicky Thompson and Kay Politch.

To all of our valued readers and advertisers, we wish you a very merry and safe Christmas and New Year season from all of us at the Free Times - and our first edition back in the New Year will be out on Thursday 11 January.

Jeremy Sollars Editor ●

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LENSCAPE

NEWS The Southern Downs Regional Council has moved to extend its controversial Invasive Pest Control Scheme ... read all about it on pages 6 and 7 inside today ...

A LOOK BACK AT 2017 Check out a ‘retrospective’ pictorial feature in today’s edition, our last for 2017. Celebrating the people and the events that make the Southern Downs and Granite Belt great - from page 12.

PROPERTY VIEW Keen for a change of view? Check out the properties listed in our property View section, pages 14 to 16 ...

WARD SHOOTS A STORM

SPORT

Gale Ward sent us this evening storm shot from Saturday 9 December of Mt Sturt east of Warwick, taken from Lonsdale Road - can you see the ’face’ in the cloud? Send your nature, sunset, landscape, pets or other favourite snaps for Lenscape to newsdesk@freetimes.com.au

Casey O’Connor gives us his wrap on The Ashes and a sporting Christmas message to wrap up ‘Spin’ for 2017 plus the latest in sports coverage from across the region on page 23.

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Thursday, 21 December, 2017

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NEWS

GRANT RAISES COOL CASH Miss Rodeo Australia (MRA) 2018 entrant Ashleigh Grant is fund-raising big time ahead of the judging on Friday 19 and Saturday 20 January, to be held in Warwick.

Ashleigh - who was the 2016 Warwick Rodeo Queen - said contestants would be judged on horsemanship, personal interviews/knowledge, personality and appearance.

“We will have to deliver three speeches throughout the judging,” Ashleigh told the Free Times.

“I am fund-raising for Blush Cancer Care Inc. “Their objective is to raise funds that will enhance the care of breast cancer patients in Toowoomba and the Darling Downs.

“At the New Year’s Eve Rodeo, I will be holding a campdraft for the volunteers, committee members and cattle sponsors who are involved with the Warwick Rodeo and Campdraft.

“It is a way I can give back to our hard working volunteers who often miss out on having a run during the week in October.

“I will also have a feature steer ride at the Rodeo and a $1000 Board - so one lucky person will go into the New Year, $1000 richer.”

For more information, contact Ashleigh on 0437 003 752. ●

The main occupants of the home lost everything in the October blaze.

COMMITTAL HEARING FOR ARSON CASE

BY JEREMY SOLLARS

Ashleigh Grant is a contender for Miss Rodeo Australia 2018.

MOVES TO PROTECT SHELTER

BY JEREMY SOLLARS

A public meeting held at the Swanfels Pioneer Memorial Park east of Warwick last Sunday discussed options for coating the timbers on a new shelter constructed by the Southern Downs Regional Council.

The original shelter sheds in the park were demolished by the council in January this year after it deemed them unsafe due to termite damage, despite not carrying out any community consultation.

The meeting on Sunday was attended by about 30 locals and interested parties, and resolved to nominate two representatives to liaise with the council to discuss how the shelter timbers can be protected.

A Back to Swanfels Day is planned for Sunday 10 February 2018 with past ‘elders’ of the valley to cut a cake and those who initiated the rebuild will reveal a new ‘past and present dated’ plaque.

The original timber and iron-roofed

Around 30 people attended last Sunday's meeting at the new Swanfels Pioneer Memorial Park shelter shed. sheds had formerly been a tennis shelter and a play shed at the old Swanfels State School.

They were moved to the district’s Pioneer Park in the early 1980s.

Apprentices or trainees from All Trades Queensland (ATQ) were to have been engaged to construct the replacement shelter as a one-off project to give them

work experience at no cost to the council, and $25,000 was set aside in the 2017/18 council budget for materials.

But ATQ was unable to locate a locally based registered training supervisor for the project, and the council was forced to engage a contractor to complete the construction at an additional cost to the council of “approximately $13,000”, a council spokeswoman said earlier this month.

Current and former local residents and former students of Swanfels State School were furious when the council razed the shelter sheds on Friday 20 January, less than 72 hours after announcing the sheds were to go.

The park itself is hallowed ground in the Swanfels district, with plaques and trees commemorating early settlers and later families alike, and in some cases marking the site of their ashes.

It is also popular with passing tourists. ●

A man has appeared in the Warwick Magistrates' Court over a fire which largely destroyed a local residence on the morning of Saturday 21 October.

Timothy Guy Clift, 29, appeared in the court on Monday of this week charged with one count of arson, along with other unrelated charges including stealing and drug possession.

Clift was arrested a short time after fire tore through the residence on the corner of Wood Street and Stewart Avenue, next to Roses Chinese Restaurant, shortly before 9am on the day.

The arson matter was adjourned to a committal hearing set down for Friday 12 January in the Warwick Magistrates' Court.

Firefighters had arrived quickly on the scene, but the timber dwelling was well alight and was internally gutted, with the fire crews ensuring the blaze did not spread to neighbouring properties.

The occupants of the home were a 55-year-old woman - who had lived in the home for the last seven years - and her son, along with another resident who had been living there temporarily for a few days.

None of the occupants was in the home at the time.

The mother and her son lost everything in the fire, including their beloved Jack Russell terrier cross ‘Visho’ and a pet bird. ●

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Thursday, 21 December, 2017

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SOUTHERN FREE TIMES 3

COVER STORY Lieutenants Zak and Dee Churchill of the Warwick Salvos are asking our communities to be caring ones this Christmas.

SALVOS’ MESSAGE

OF HOPE

BY JEREMY SOLLARS

W

arwick’s ‘Salvos’ have a simple message for those doing it tough in our community this Christmas - “there is hope”.

Without wishing to diminish the joy of the festive season, the stark reality is that many among us will be finding this Christmas more of a burden - both financially and emotionally - than a time of celebration.

New research released this December - commissioned through Roy Morgan as part of The Salvation Army’s Christmas Appeal - shows that 1.6 million Australians with children under the age of 10 will not be providing a Christmas present to their children this year.

It’s an increase of more than one million compared to last year’s figures.

And not only are presents a struggle for many local families, putting a Christmas meal on the table will also be looming as a challenge this year.

Local Salvation Army ministers and Lieutenants Zak and Dee Churchill work at the coalface of disadvantage in our

community, but they continue to be overwhelmed at the generosity being shown by many around here.

The local Salvos’ Christmas Appeal will provide Christmas gifts for more than 50 local kids, with hundreds of toys donated by those keen to help out those less fortunate.

And it’s not too late to make a donation - the Salvos will welcome more items right through until the end of this week, with donated toys to be distributed to families in need on Saturday.

“The response has just been incredible,” Zak told the Free Times.

“I’ve filled the boot of my car several times over.

“Christmas just creates this massive expectation for so many people - parents can feel they’ve failed their kids if they don’t have the best of everything at Christmas.

“After Christmas can be the worst - when kids compare what they got with others.

“I think there’s an unrealistic standard which gets set, and can just end up being a huge financial burden for a lot of people.

“Our message this Christmas is that ‘there is hope’, which

is what Christ came to bring - the Salvation Army message is about ‘hope where it’s needed most’.”

The Salvation Army Australia Eastern Territory spokesman Major Paul Moulds said people living on marginal incomes and tight budgets were already carefully managing how they spent their money.

“But with power prices escalating, housing affordability getting worse and more Australians struggling to get enough paid work, it’s getting harder and harder for many people to keep their head above water,” Major Moulds said.

“This research is extremely disturbing and is precisely why we ask the public to dig deep and support our Christmas Appeal.

“Over Christmas, we will help over 300,000 people, serve over 10,000 meals and distribute more than half a million gifts and toys to Aussies in need.

“But the Salvos are struggling to keep up with this demand.

“Additionally, the face of loneliness is changing and is affecting people from all walks of life - more and more people in our community are facing isolation at Christmas.”

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COVER STORY · Donations of toys to the Warwick Salvos Christmas Appeal can be left at collection points at Rose City Shoppingworld, Granite Belt Dental, Suncorp Bank and at the Salvation Army Red Shield Family Store on Grafton Street, and at their church on Guy Street. · The Salvos will hold a free Christmas Fair this Saturday 23 December from 11am to 2.30pm for everyone in the community, at their headquarters at 25 Guy Street - come along for face painting, coloured hair spray, games, free new clothing, food/barbecue, jumping castle and giant slide. Emergency supplies, gifts and assistance will also be available for those in need. · On Christmas Day, The Salvation Army invites the public to gather to celebrate the hope and joy of Christmas. The Salvos Christmas Day service will be held at 25 Guy Street from 8.30am, and everyone is welcome to attend.

Help is at hand for those struggling with the festive season this year.

Be kind to your mental health this festive season that’s the message from Beyondblue Financial hardship, family conflict and loneliness can increase stress for people with anxiety and depression in the lead-up to Christmas and New Year celebrations.

Beyondblue clinical adviser Dr Stephen Carbone says people with mental health conditions should be thinking about coping strategies for Christmas.

“Common triggers for people with mental health conditions during the holiday period include budget stress, being invited to more social engagements or being left on your own, and the pressure of living up to expectations,” Dr Carbone said.

“Most people find the Christmas and New Year period stressful, but if you have anxiety or depression, an increased level of stress may cause an escalation of the condition.

“Stress is a fuel source for anxiety or depression, so the more stress there is the more those conditions flare up.

“Some people might start putting too much pressure on themselves about what they should buy or do for others.

Others might dread catching up with family because it may

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season,” Dr Carbone said.

“A team of moderators and 18 community champions who have been affected by depression, anxiety and suicide monitor comments as they come in.

“It’s a great way to speak about issues you might find difficult raising with a friend or family member, and there will always be someone who can offer support and guide you on the right approach.”

The CHRISTMAS 2017/NEW YEARS Chillout Lounge thread is one of many beyondblue forums available online at beyondblue.org.au/get-support/online-forums Mental health professionals are available 24/7 at the Beyondblue Support Service - 1300 22 4636 or viabeyondblue.org.au/get-support for online chat (3pm12am ADST) or email responses (within 24 hours). ●

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end in conflict.”

Dr Carbone said people with mental health conditions should reduce the expectations on themselves so they can deal with the stress of Christmas and New Year.

“Be kind to yourself when you’re planning what you will do at this time of the year. It’s OK to look after yourself and say no to some things to reduce stress and keep things enjoyable,” he said.

“People who may be alone at this time of year should also start planning ahead.

“If you don’t want to be on your own during the festive season, you can contact organisations where you can connect with people.

“Community groups offer many opportunities to meet others in friendly and enjoyable settings.”

Beyondblue has created an online forum thread titled CHRISTMAS 2017/NEW YEARS Chillout Lounge where people can seek support, join conversations or learn coping strategies.

“Forum users can post anonymously about how they are feeling and share tips on how to cope during the festive

What the Roy Morgan Christmas research reveals ... · A massive 735,000 Australians know 10 or more families who will experience financial hardship/poverty this Christmas. · 69 per cent of those surveyed - equating to 13.2 million people - say Australians are losing the true meaning of Christmas. · Eight million say the general public isn’t doing enough to help Australians in need at Christmas. · A huge 13.1 million Australians know people who will be lonely this Christmas. · 9.5 million Australians revealed ‘paying for Christmas is getting harder and harder every year’.

The Salvation Army urges anyone in need of assistance this Christmas to reach out. For anyone who would like to donate to The Salvation Army’s Christmas Appeal, a gift of $29 will allow the Salvos to put food on the table and presents under the tree for Aussies in need.

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Thursday, 21 December, 2017

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SOUTHERN FREE TIMES 5

NEWS

‘SUCCESSFUL’ PEST CONTROL SCHEME

BY JEREMY SOLLARS

Boxthorn is one of the most common declared weeds in the Warwick area.

Advisory Committee following its last meeting in November”.

“The extension of the scheme was recommended to continue to align with the funding opportunities which have been

12360622-CG32-17

The Southern Downs Regional Council will make its controversial Invasive Pests Control Scheme (IPCS) a permanent measure until at least 2020, the council announced after its December general meeting last week in Warwick.

The scheme, which was introduced as part of the 2017-2018 budget, was to have been reviewed at the end of the current financial year.

But councillors have decided the $15.4 million scheme has been such a success that no review will be required, and landowners will need to submit annual pest control plans for at least the next three years.

Cr Vic Pennisi was the sole voice of opposition, voting against the motion to extend the scheme.

Landowners who fail to comply with or complete their ‘control works forms’ for management of pest weeds and animals will be fined in the form of a supplementary rates notice.

But many farming and other landowners remain sceptical about the scheme, with some having previously labelled it a “money grab” and have raised questions about the practical ability of the council to physically inspect all rural and commercial properties in the region to determine compliance.

A statement released last week by the council said councillors resolved to extend the scheme “based upon recommendations put forward by the Pest Management

received and anticipated,” the statement said.

Other reasons included the need to “provide certainty to all stakeholders that the scheme will continue until at least 14 June 2020 and assist with the backfilling of local

laws positions to ensure adequate council resources are allocated to the scheme.

The council has conceded it has had “difficulty in filling these roles for short term employment” and is currently advertising for a Pest Management Local Laws Officer, a role carrying a salary of just under $60,000 a year.

The council would not bend to demands from the community that the scheme be introduced as a trial only in its first year, with no financial penalty on non-compliant landowners.

Last week’s statement said the IPCS “was approved by council at a Special Council Meeting in June, with the scope of the current policy being until 2018”.

“Since its implementation, the scheme has proved highly successful with close to a 50 per cent increase in baiting program participation and the return of native flora and fauna to the local environment,” the statement said.

“As of late November, a total of 5180 Control Works Forms were received by council from 5814 that were issued, a return rate of 89 per cent.

“A total of 1714 Control Works Forms have been assessed by the local laws team with 442 requests being received from landowners for council officers to inspect their properties.

“Council has garnered interest from other local governments about the initiative, many of them expressing interest in establishing similar schemes in their respective areas.

Shop 6/70 Fitzroy Street, Warwick QLD 4370 PO Box 749, Warwick QLD 4370 Phone: (07) 4661 9800 Fax: (07) 4661 8881 admin@freetimes.com.au www.freetimes.com.au Editorial: Jeremy Sollars jeremy.sollars@freetimes.com.au Phone: 0427 090 818 Advertising: (07) 4661 9800 sales@freetimes.com.au Classified Advertising Phone: 1300 666 808 sales@networkclassifieds.com.au FREE community newspaper published every Thursday Circulation – 13,200* Readership – Over 22,000* Delivered FREE to households, businesses & farms throughout the Southern Downs region.

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NEWS

The IPCS covers both plant and animnal pest species. of Control Work Forms to be completed annually.

“Council has officers experienced in the control of local invasive pests are available to provide advice to landowners on the most effective and economical control methods.

“Landowners with extensive infestations will be given adequate time for comprehensive and targeted treatment over several years, which works to reduce the impacts of pests on neighbouring landowners.”

FUNDING BOOST A report to the December council meeting stated the Queensland Department of Agriculture and Fisheries (DAF) has approved $280,000 to employ an IPCS officer for three years.

The report said a “separate $285,000” worth of state funding for council pest management included a $90,000 component “that is being administered by the Queensland Murray-Darling Committee for education and support to local landowners, including running field days”, and the

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“The success of the scheme is being closely monitored by these councils as well as the Local Government Association Queensland (LGAQ) and the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries (DAF).

“Eligible property owners are able to receive a rebate on their rates if they meet the requirements of the Environmental Enhancement Rate Rebate Policy.

“Council will work closely with local landholders to continue to build upon the success of the scheme and its effective implementation, including the distribution

council has also submitted an expression of interest for $50,000 in funding from the State Government’s Land Protection Fund “for a project to analyse the social and economic benefit of the scheme”.

Scheme a boost for contractors Toowoomba-based weed contractor John Smith - who is working extensively for landowners in the Warwick area - said his phone has been ringing off the hook with inquiries about his services since the introduction of the IPCS. Mr Smith and his crews use rubber-tyred rather than tracked excavators for mobility among weed infestations on properties, with boxthorn the most common weed being removed by ‘rippers’ mounted on the front of the machines.

He told the Free Times this week that most landowners accepted they had a requirement to manage pest species on their properties.

“There is a minority of people who feel that it should be up to the government to remove weeds if the weeds were already on the property when they bought it,” he said.

“We’re charging a per acre rate and it all depends on the density of the infestation the cheapest job we’ve done was $30 an acre and the dearest was $300 per acre.”

Mr Smith said he was mindful of contamination risks when moving his machinery from property to property and said that if his excavators are “travelling any distance down the highway” they remove any potentially contaminating material with air compressors or high-pressure gurneys.

But he pointed out that many weed species like boxthorn are spread by birds “who don’t normally carry competency tickets”. ●

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SOUTHERN FREE TIMES 7

NEWS

WATER FEE INUNDATES MORE HOMES

BY JEREMY SOLLARS More Warwick ratepayers connected to the Southern Downs Regional Council’s ‘restricted flow’ water supply have come forward in protest at a $720 disconnection fee charged by the council.

As reported a fortnight ago in the Free Times, a Rosenthal Heights ratepayer contacted us to vent frustration at the cost of the restricted flow service, saying they were completely self-sufficient when it came to water and objected to paying nearly $400 a year for water they don’t use.

Numerous properties in the Rosenthal Heights and surrounding areas on the fringe of Warwick are supplied with town water through the ‘restricted flow service’ - a small-gauge poly pipe network which delivers town water at a lower rate than town-based residences.

The council currently charges $386.70 per year for each restricted flow connection, and the owner of any unconnected block within 100 metres of the pipe network is hit up for $290.

But if ratepayers choose to disconnect from the supply, they are slugged with a fee of $720.

The first Rosenthal Heights resident, who spoke to the Free Times on the condition of anonymity, said they installed three 5000 gallon rainwater tanks on their property since building their house in 2007.

“I am a single person, and I am completely self-sufficient for water,” the resident said.

“I am totally confident that even in extreme drought conditions, I would have sufficient water.

“So why should I have to pay $193 every six months for a water service I don’t need and don’t want?

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“The only time I have ever used the water was when I first built and moved into the house and I filled up one of my tanks.

“I have 350 square metres of catchment from the house and the sheds - this gives me all the water I require.

“I would disconnect (from the restricted flow supply), but I’m not going to pay $720.”

Since our original story, two more Rosenthal Heights ratepayers have contacted the Free Times saying they too wish to disconnect from the restricted flow service, but are baulking at the disconnection fee.

Both have recently moved to the area from out of town - one from the Gold Coast hinterland and another from Brisbane both live by themselves and are staggered not only at the water charges but council rates in general.

The former Brisbane resident said they had only paid $160 half-yearly for water - after receiving a pensioner discount not offered here - and both said they had sufficient rainwater capacity to be able to do without the restricted flow service.

The former Gold Coast resident said they “just about died” when they opened their first water bill recently, and that their general rates on the Coast were $800 annually, compared with around $2000 a year for similar properties.

They both also agreed that the $720 disconnection fee was excessive.

For the original story, a council spokeswoman confirmed the supply and disconnection fees in a statement to the Free Times. * We’d like to hear from any other interested ratepayers on the restricted flow network - if you have similar views or concerns, call Free Times editor Jeremy Sollars on 4661 9800. ●

Our office will be closed for the Christmas period from 5pm Thursday 21st December 2017 and will re-open 9am Monday 8th January 2018

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Thursday, 21 December, 2017

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SOUTHERN FREE TIMES 9

NEWS

No showing off in front of the kids this Christmas, please.

ACT LIKE AN ADULT Doctors are pleading with Queensland’s adults to act their age this Christmas and keep out of the state’s hectic emergency departments.

ED admissions are increasing by 3.2 per cent a year in Queensland and typically spike over the Christmas break.

Last December Queensland ED admissions were 3 per cent higher than the monthly average for 2016 - meaning doctors and nurses treated an extra 3,500 patients.

Emergency physician Dr Jennifer Williams said a dangerous combination of alcohol and immaturity was partly to blame for the December hike.

“Australians drink three times more at Christmas than they do at any other time of the year and that inevitably leads to more accidents, fights and cases of alcohol poisoning,” Dr Williams said.

“As well as drinking more, some grown-ups get as carried away at

Christmas as their kids.

“They can’t wait to hop on new skateboards and scooters to show the kids how it’s done - and then end up in ED with fractures.

“Parents and relatives should be aware that some toys are best left to real kids, not big ones.”

Dr Williams said it was doubly important for adults to stay in control because of the risks faced by young children over summer.

There were 291 drowning deaths in Australia in 2016/17, a 3 per cent increase on the previous 12 months.

Seventy-three people drowned in Queensland, with December and January the peak months for fatalities. ●

DOG LAWS UNLEASHED Southern Downs Regional Council consultation on proposed changes to its Animal Management Local Law closes tomorrow, Friday 22 December.

If passed the proposed changes

would give council officers the power to remove and euthanise problem animals such as barking dogs after community complaints.

As reported earlier this month, councillors at their November meeting voted in favour of giving animal control officers the ability to issue ‘removal notices’ to the owners of nuisance animals if the owners fail to comply with earlier compliance directives.

In a media statement the council said a removal notice “may require the owner to destroy the animal, or permanently remove the animal from a specified area”.

“It will be an offence to not comply with a removal notice,” the statement said.

“If the owner fails to comply with a removal notice, an authorised person may seize the animal and dispose of the animal.”

Submissions by any person in support of, or objecting to, the proposed local law are due in by 22 December stating the grounds of the submission and the facts and circumstances relied on in support of the grounds.

The proposed local law is available for viewing on the council’s website at www.sdrc.qld.gov.au.

Written submissions are to be made to Southern Downs Regional Council, PO Box 26, Warwick, Qld 4370, or mail@ sdrc.qld.gov.au ●

POOL TENDERS SINK At its December meeting, the council resolved not to accept the tender

submissions made for the management and operation of the Stanthorpe Fitness Centre, Stanthorpe Aquatic Centre, Killarney Pool and Allora Pool.

Tenderers were given the option of applying for one or more contracts, with commencement dates set down as January 2018 for the Stanthorpe Fitness Centre and April 2018 for the Stanthorpe Aquatic Centre and the other pools.

A council statement released this week said there were four nonconforming tender submissions.

“The tenders were evaluated but the submissions did not conform to the criteria and therefore could not be assessed effectively,” the statement said.

“Council will liaise with the tenderers and provide feedback on why their tenders were nonconforming.

“Council is seeking to make best use of rates by ensuring the swimming pools and other facilities are run as cost effectively as possible, while delivering a standard of service that meets community expectations.

“Council resolved to again call for tenders for the management and operation of the four facilities, which will occur early in the new year.

“Council will continue to manage the Stanthorpe Fitness Centre for a further 12 months or a lesser period should a suitable contractor be identified.

“The swimming pools will continue to be managed by the lessees until the completion of the next tender process.” ●

MERRY CHRISTMAS Management & Staff wishes all clients, readers and supporters a Joyous Christmas and a Happy New Year.

Now Serving

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It has been a huge year and we thank clients and readers for their loyal support.

Look out for our first edition on Thursday 11th January 2018.

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Thursday, 21 December, 2017

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Office Closure: Friday 22nd December 2017 to Monday 8th January 2018.

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Southern Free Times will not be publishing an edition on 28th December 2017 & 4th January 2018.

For Further Details Contact: Southern Free Times Shop 6/70 Fitzroy Street, Warwick, Qld, 4370 Email: admin@freetimes.com.au or sales@freetimes.com.au Phone: 07 4661 9800 freetimes.com.au

NEWS Warwick on a future date. The District Court is next due to visit Warwick in the last week of January 2018.

She did not apply for release on bail and remains in custody. ●

WASTE NOT The Southern Downs Regional Council at its December meeting last week voted in favour of terminating existing contracts held by Granite Belt irrigators for the use of recycled water from the Stanthorpe wastewater treatment plant.

The council will now seek tenders from potential new users of the recycled water.

Mayor Tracy Dobie and councillors Rod Kelly, Neil Meiklejohn, Yve Stocks and Sheryl Windle voted in favour of terminating the contracts, while councillors Vic Pennisi and Marika McNichol voted against the motion.

Deputy mayor Jo McNally and Cr Cameron Gow were not present for the vote after declaring real and perceived conflicts of interest respectively in

MICHAEL, MEL AND STAFF FROM NOWLAN STOCK AND STATION WOULD LIKE TO WISH YOU AND YOUR FAMILY A VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS AND A HAPPY, HEALTHY AND PROSPEROUS NEW YEAR. NOWLAN STOCK AND STATION’S OFFICE WILL BE CLOSED OVER THE CHRISTMAS BREAK ON THE 22/12/2017 AND WILL RE-OPEN ON THE 08/01/2018 ‘TOGETHER AS A TEAM WE CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE’

Wishing Everyone Merry Christmas and a Happy and Safe New Year in 2018

Fax: 07 4661 3155 E: saddlerysupplies@hotmail.com

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17 Alexandra Dr, Warwick

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We would like to wish all our clients a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.

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Closing Thursday 21ST December at Midday Re-Opening Monday 8th January Warwick Scrap Metal wish all their clients a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

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WISHES EVERYONE A SAFE & HAPPY CHRISTMAS & NEW YEARS Open daily 9am to 5pm Closed Christmas & Boxing Day For more info call: 07 4683 2181

Steve, Fay and staff wish you a safe and Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.

Cnr Sullivan Drive & Gourlas Court Stanthorpe Industrial Estate

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The Team at Mal Wood Automotive would like to wish all our valued customers a very Merry Christmas & a Happy New Year

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CA$H FOR $CRAP We will be closed all Public Holidays.

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Merry Christmas & A Happy New Year!

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. We will closed for Public Holidays only

All Warwick Credit Union branches will be CLOSED on the following dates:

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While New Year’s Eve is one of the most exciting nights of the year for humans, it can be one of the most stressful nights for our pets.

Dog’s Queensland is reminding dog owners to plan ahead this New Year’s Eve to ensure pets and people are ready for the celebrations. ●

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MERRY CHRISTMAS & A HAPPY NEW YEAR!!

Merry Christmas & A Happy New Year!

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Our office closes at 5pm on Friday December 22nd 2017 and will reopen on Wednesday January 3rd 2018

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The council, at its December general meeting, resolved to endorse a community consultation program for its draft Economic Development Strategy.

A statement said the Southern Downs Region “has the potential to increase its contribution to the Queensland economy”.

“The region is well located, being two hours from Brisbane and at the junction of two highways, with ample land that is appropriately zoned, access to water and very safe and liveable communities,” the statement said.

It said there are three goals in the Economic Development Strategy, which are to increase our population

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DEVELOPMENT STRATEGY FEEDBACK

by 10 per cent, attract $300 million of investment and 1500 new jobs, all by 2020.

“Those sectors targeted by the strategy include agriculture, the region’s primary industry, food processing, health and aged care, transport and logistics, education and tourism,” the statement said.

The Draft Strategy will be up on the SDRC website in the coming days.

Community members, businesses and organisations can are invited to send written submissions to mail@sdrc.qld. gov.au. ●

AND NEW YEAR GREETINGS

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Wishing our customers all the best for the festive period.

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Christmas

the matter, and leaving the council chamber.

It is understood the irrigators are considering legal action against the council to enforce their contract rights. ●

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Two teenage girls charged over the assault of a 15-year-old Warwick girl in October will spend Christmas behind bars after court mentions this week.

Shannon Angela Williams, 18, and a female juvenile who cannot be named due to her age, had their charges of assault causing grievous bodily harm heard in the Warwick Magistrates Court last Tuesday, 19 December.

The assault is alleged to have taken place at the corner of Canning and Percy streets in the early hours of Tuesday 10 October, which left the victim with severe head injuries.

The victim is still progressing with her recovery after emergency surgery in Brisbane on the day of the assault.

Williams was remanded in custody to next appear for mention in the Warwick Magistrates Court on Monday 12 February.

Her juvenile co-accused was committed to stand trial in the District Court, sitting as the Children’s Court in

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TEEN ASSAULT HEARING

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Edith, Sal and Vid would like to wish everyone a safe and Happy Festive Season!

Looking forward to a healthy and prosperous 2018 12374204-LB50-17

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THE YEAR IN PICTURES FOCUS ON … Christmas

LAMB ROAST, CHARGRILLED VEGETABLES

Killarney's Ralph Affleck brought his legendary sawmill 'log skidder' back to the Allora Heritage Weekend again this year by popular demand.

THE YEAR THAT WAS

BY JEREMY SOLLARS As 2017 draws to a close, we at the Free Times decided to take a look back on the many and varied local events we’ve covered this year - it’s been another year of success for our region’s shows, winter and heritage events, the Warwick Rodeo and Campdraft, local sport, social gatherings and the arts.

And with a few controversies thrown into the mix just to make it interesting...well done to the Southern Downs and Granite Belt communities for a top 2017! ●

Don Lock, Kev Armstrong and Paul Crowe of the Stanthorpe Men's Shed with the group's colourful horticultural display in the Exhibition Centre at this year's Stanthorpe Show.

It was a big year for drag racing at Morgan Park.

Swanfels residents, past and present, met at the Swanfels Pioneer Memorial Park in March after the council demolished the park's original shelter sheds.

Christmas fare - Roasted lamb rack with chargrilled vegetables and mashed potato Ingredients: · 4 220g lamb racks, Frenched, cap off · 800 small Desiree potatoes, peeled · 1/2 cup milk, warmed · charred lemon wedges, to serve; · Char grilled vegetables · 2 zucchini, sliced thinly lengthwise · 1 red capsicum, trimmed, sliced into strips · 1 small eggplant, sliced into thin discs · 2 tbsp finely chopped basil · 2 tbsp finely chopped oregano · 2 cloves garlic, crushed · 2 tbsp olive oil Method: 1. Preheat oven to 200C and line a large oven tray with baking paper. Place racks on oven tray and brush evenly two tablespoons of oil over each rack; season to taste. Roast for 25 minutes for medium or until cooked to your liking; rest for 15 minutes covered loosely with foil before serving.

2. Meanwhile, boil potatoes in saucepan of boiling salted water for 30 minutes or until cooked. Drain and transfer to a large heatproof bowl. Using a potato masher or ricer, mash potatoes with milk and remaining 2 tablespoons olive oil. Season to taste.

3. Preheat a lightly greased large char-grill

pan or barbecue to high. Place zucchini, capsicum, eggplant, herbs, garlic and oil in a large bowl; season to taste and toss well to combine. Cook capsicum for 5 minutes turning frequently or until charred and cooked. Cook eggplant for 3 1/2; minutes each side until charred and cooked. Cook Zucchini 2 minutes each side until charred and cooked.

4. 4. Divide mash, char-grilled vegetables and Lamb Racks among plates. Serve with charred lemon wedges. ●

Give her the best gift ever!!!

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John Gordon, left, and Roy Smith were on main gate duty at the Allora Show in February.

Always the perfect colour, shape & size!!!

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Another big year for the Warwick Horse Trials.

12 SOUTHERN FREE TIMES

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Action from the Barastoc Interstate Polocrosse series at Morgan Park in April.

Thursday, 21 December, 2017

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The Haystack Mountain Hermits won hearts at the Busking Stanthorpe event back in February.

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FOCUS ON … Christmas

ERGON’S POSTER BOY SANTA LOOK The world’s most loved man is also the perfect poster boy for Ergon Energy’s Look Up and Live high-voltage safety campaign.

Despite steering his sleigh over millions of air miles every Christmas Eve, Santa has never once had an incident of striking powerlines.

Although more than 1000 reports of powerline strikes each year occur in Queensland, Santa said his unprecedented run of safety was not a case of luck.

“I’ve been asked in the past how I can visit so many homes in one night, dodging barking dogs, avoiding air traffic and preventing powerline strikes," Santa said.

“Pets love me - they aren’t a problem and I am usually flying too low for other pilots to be bothered by me, but I must always remain vigilant of powerlines in every country I visit.

“Like me, anyone who works at heights or operates a vehicle near powerlines must remember Ergon’s message of Look Up and Live because coming into contact with high voltage electricity can ruin anyone’s Christmas, not just for this year - but potentially for life."

Santa also warned that many modern presents have the potential of reaching great heights and contacting powerlines.

“More and more I am seeing gifts such as drones and other remote controlled aircraft under the trees in homes I visit, and I hope parents explain the dangers of flying them near powerlines to their children," he said.

“I once saw a child in the North Pole hit powerlines with a drone and not only did it cut

power to my workshop, it brought the wires down, creating a much higher level of danger.

“One of my elves actually witnessed this and immediately called our power company and kept everyone well away knowing that powerlines on the ground could still be live."

Santa added that children should also remember more traditional Christmas gifts,

such as kites, can also carry the same risks as drones and should only be flown in an open area away from electricity infrastructure.

Santa said powerline safety should be at the top of everybody’s list and knowing what to do if the worst did happen was important.

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to anyone working around powerlines is to keep away and be aware of your surroundings above and below, if someone sees an emergency such as powerlines down, they should always call Ergon on 13 22 96," he said.

“Or, in the case of a life-threatening emergency, calling triple-zero should always be the priority." ●

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Trading hours as normal leading up to Christmas.

CHRISTMAS / NEW YEAR TRADING TIMES CLOSING - 20TH DECEMBER 2017 / RE-OPENING - 8TH JANUARY 2018

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Thursday, 21 December, 2017

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SOUTHERN FREE TIMES 13

SOUTHERN FREE TIMES PROPERTY

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STAND-ALONE UNIT-STYLE, AND NO FEES NO Body Corporate fees here!

Near-new home in an estate where comfort is king. Features include rendered exterior, three built-in standard bedrooms and two bathrooms on an elevated site.

Main bedroom has an en suite and mirrored robes.

Family bathroom has a shower over the bath with glass half screen, vanity and toilet. The hallway features linen storage cupboards.

Airy, air-conditioned open plan living has sliders to the undercover entertaining.

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Investors - currently renting at $265 per week. ●

HOME ESSENTIALS Address: 41 Rangers Road, Warwick Description: 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 1 car Price: $230,000 Inspect: By appointment Agent: Helen Harm, 0408 457 496

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4 bay colorbond garage, hayshed, timber floor barn & stables. INVESTORS:- Currently rented at $350 per week.

SOLAR POWER (self-sufficient) – Rural elevated site, 3 bedroom home, 2 built in, on 32.37 ha. Small timber deck at the front entry to the open plan living area. North facing Kitchen has gas cooking, range hood, timber cupboards and four double power points for multiple appliances.

New bathroom has shower over bath, vanity, and toilet.

Stand alone 6 KVA Solar and batteries mean you are off the grid, saving money.

$ 350,000

$ 450,000

For Rent: 4661 3663 2 Brm Duplex, renovated, 1 bath, undercover area, 2 car, fenced ..............................................$ 230 p.w.

FREESTONE - 2 Brm, good kitchen, living, fireplace, decks, parkland.......................................$ 250 p.w.

3 Brm Timber in CBD, 1 bath, open living, 1 car, fenced .............................................................$ 255 p.w.

3 Brm Timber, aircon + woodfire, kitchen, bath, lounge, storage under home, fenced..............$ 260 p.w.

4 Brm Brick,air con, mod kitchen, open dining/living, storage, built ins, fenced ........................$ 330 p.w.

4 Brm Brick, office, 1 bath, new kitchen, air con, 2 living, security, 3 car, u/cover, ..................$ 370 p.w.

WILDASH 2Ac, 3 Brm, bath, deck, 2 car, fenced, Solar power ...................................................$ 300 p.w.

Fully Furnished, Resort Style, Sep Unit, 5 Brm, aircon, 4 bath, 2 living, built ins, 2 car .............$ 700 p.w.

WARWICK - 809 m², elevated views, water, sewerage, ready to build ....................... $ 89,000 WARWICK - 854 m², power, town water, curb & channel, 3 Bay SHED................... $ 100,000 WARWICK - 748 m², elevated views, cul de sac, estate, ready to build ................... $ 109,000 WARWICK - 1120 m², Horsman Rd, power, water, sewer, ready to build ................. $ 120,000 ELLINTHORP - 1012 m², only 7.2K or 7 min to Allora, power next door .................... $ 28,000 LEYBURN - 2023 m², all weather road, power nearby, School, Shops....................... $ 25,000 MARYVALE - 2023 m², power available, close to school, VIEWS ............................... $ 47,000 DALVEEN - 2.39 Ha, off all weather road, rural fenced, power nearby........................ $ 69,000 DEUCHAR - 8 Ha, bitumen road, 3 bay shed, power, pone, country views ............. $ 150,000 See ..... www.heleharm.com ..... for more listings

www.helenharm.com

0408 457 496 14 SOUTHERN FREE TIMES

|

Thursday, 21 December, 2017

Helen Harm Licenced Principal

freetimes.com.au

LAND FOR SALE HISTORIC MARYALE VILLAGE Located: 25 minutes’ drive North East of Warwick 45 minutes Boonah 1 hour Toowoomba 2 hours Brisbane 2 ¼ hours Gold Coast

•฀Superb฀elevated฀building฀sites •฀360฀degree฀mountain฀views •฀Extensive฀frontage฀to฀Millar฀Vale฀ Creek •฀Short฀walk฀to฀primary฀school,฀high฀ school฀bus,฀shop,฀hotel,฀parks฀and฀ church •฀New฀identiication฀survey •฀Water฀Licences฀authorised฀for฀both฀ Irrigation & Commercial purposes

LOT฀1:฀ 4046฀m2 ฀

2฀titles,฀dual฀road฀frontage,฀electricity฀available฀

$79,000฀

LOT฀2:฀ 4047฀m

2

฀

gravel฀road฀frontage,฀electricity฀available฀

$65,000

LOT฀3:฀ 7841฀m

2

฀ ฀

2฀titles,฀gravel฀road฀frontage,฀80฀metres฀of฀creek฀frontage, electricity฀available,฀2฀megalitre฀water฀licence฀

$99,000

LOT฀4:฀ 3.02฀ha ฀ ฀

8฀titles,฀gravel฀road฀frontage,฀120฀metre฀creek฀frontage, electricity฀available,฀5฀megalitre฀water฀licence฀

$179,000

LOT฀5:฀ 3.28฀ha ฀ ฀

Please contact Stuart Bond on 0419 677 775 or 4661 3462 www.stuartbondrealestate.com.au sbondrealestate@bigpond.com

2฀titles,฀sealed฀bitumen฀road฀frontage,฀150฀metre฀creek฀frontage, electricity฀available,฀2฀megalitre฀water฀licence฀

$179,000

STUART BOND REAL ESTATE & AUCTIONEER WARWICK, QLD, 4370 12375890-HM52-17

BRICK HOME WITH SUPERB PRIVACY ONLY MINUTES WALK TO TOWN

What an opportunity for a career and business minded person to continue this already well established business. You may be the perfect person who is so keen to have their own prestigious business supplying wholesalers + builders + tradies + retail. This business caters for everything: carpets + tiles + vinyl looring + vinyl plank looring and the list goes on. The selection available is enormous. And……what a wonderful opportunity to make this business grow even further.

Are you young and energetic knowing you have entrepreneurial skills? This could be for you being the right place at the right time. Don’t hesitate to contact one of us for that all important inspection: Phone Mrs Carinka Connew 0417 002 351 or Alan Connew 0417 002 352

This light and bright maintenance free home with three bedrooms, all with built-ins, is a well-constructed home with one large bathroom and internal laundry.

The kitchen/dining room is big enough to invite the extended family for those birthdays and fun times.

The kitchen stove is near new. The hot water cylinder is near new…..what else could you want? The garage to rear of home also has a large workshop space. The alfresco is undercover for those BBQ summer lunches and dinners! Currently this home has an extremely good tenant that is willing to stay very long term. So if you are an investor or a retiree or a young family – this property could be perfect for you!! Only minutes walking to town + schools + day-care centres + doctors + everything else you probably need.

Phone Mrs Carinka Connew 0417 002 351 or Alan Connew 0417 002 352

$89,000 + SAV

$249,500

Stanthorpe

Alan Connew 0417 002 352 Carinka Connew 0417 002 351 freetimes.com.au

Stanthorpe

A MAGNIFICENT & PRIVATE & PRETIGIOUS BLOCK of LAND - , Lot 3 – 49 Tyrel With granite outcrops dispersed throughout this 3041m2 (approximately) block which also has cleared areas for that very speciic architecturally designed ultra-contemporary home. Very private setting that is so sought after and yet only a few minutes’ drive into town. Give us a call because this superb setting, is far superior. than what we could photograph. Come and have a look.

This block is very well priced at $219,500.

Phone Mrs Carinka Connew 0417 002 351 or Alan Connew 0417 002 352

$219,500

Stanthorpe

www.acarealestate.com.au Thursday, 21 December, 2017

|

12375985-EPJ52-17

GINO’S FLOOR COVERINGS….

WHAT AN OPPORTUNITY!!!

SOUTHERN FREE TIMES 15

SOUTHERN FREE TIMES PROPERTY

com.au

LANDSCAPED HIDEAWAY IS A BEAUTY THERE is a lot more to this property than meets the eye and an inspection is a must.

This private and well-presented home set among beautifully landscaped gardens has three bedrooms, all with built-in wardrobes.

The home also features a modern kitchen, dining room, large lounge and a huge rumpus/ family room with wood heater and air conditioning.

There’s a spacious, north-facing covered outdoor entertainment area, three carports, rainwater tanks and two garden sheds.

All this is situated on a fully-fenced 1040 square metre block close to schools and the CBD. ●

HOME ESSENTIALS Address: 6 Horsman Road, Warwick Price:$279,000 Description: Bed 3 Bath 1 Car 3 View: By appointment Contact: Doug Rickert, 0437 618 360

Stylish Brick and Tile

Quality 6.72 Acre Building Block with Views

This stylish rendered brick home situated on an elevated position in “Cinema Heights Estate”. Features 4 bedrooms master with ensuite and walk in robe, open plan kitchen, dining, family, separate lounge and reverse cycle airconditioning. Large covered outdoor entertainment area, double garage with remote door, garden shed, fully fenced on a 822m2 block .

This quality 6.72 Acre Building Block with excellent rural views to the border ranges and beyond only 6km from the CBD. Features a 12mx9m colorbond shed with shower and toilet, 3 phase power connected, townwater, bio cycle septic system installed, 5000gal rainwater tank and dam. Well positioned level homesite with a constructed all weather driveway. This rare to ind building block is well worth your inspection to appreciate all it has to ofer.

28 Flynn Drive Contact Doug Rickert 0437 618 360

5 Mayra Court Contact Doug Rickert 0437 618 360

$299,000

$327,000

Charming with Quality

Location with Charm!

• Richard Adams built • 4 bedrooms, main walk in robe and ensuite • formal lounge • open plan modern kitchen, meals, family, air conditioner • double garage with remote • covered spacious outdoor entertainment area • rainwater tanks • solar panels, fenced backyard • 900sm • walk to Scots College • agent in conjunction.

• Three bedrooms with built in robes • Separate entry • Separate lounge, reverse cycle air conditioner • Kitchen meals • formal dining room • Sunroom • One vehicle accommodation • Fully fenced 809sm block • Landscaped with established gardens • Walk to medical centre, schools and CBD • Agent in conjunction.

23 Reyburn Street Contact Joan Mullins 0409 403 258

91 Dragon Street Contact Joan Mullins 0409 403 258

$387,000

$253,000

Modernise and Capitalise!

Cute and Comfortable

Add your touch to this 4 bedroom home located in a quiet area handy to shops and school. Bedrooms are of good size, three have built-in wardrobes, main has air conditioning. Eat in kitchen is open plan with the large lounge room in the centre of the home. A lock up garage is at the front, shed for storage and workshop at the rear. Northerly facing patio for your morning cofee plus an outdoor entertaining area.

On an easy care 850sqm fenced block. Modernise and reap the rewards.

Nicely renovated 3 bedroom timber home with ensuite of the main bedroom.. Entertain your family and friends on the wide front verandah or the paved area out back.

This property features 12 foot ceilings, bamboo looring in the living area and a wood heater & reverse cycle air conditioner which make for year round comfort. There is room to move in the 933m2 fully fenced yard and car accommodation is a double carport. Call now to arrange your inspection!

5 Evenden Street Contact Scott McLennan 0418 588 884

42 Myall Avenue Contact Scott McLennan 0418 588 884

$189,000

$219,000

We know Warwick - let us share our expertise with you today!

Locals You Know. Experience You Can Trust.

View Hundreds of Properties For Sale or Rent on www.warwickrealestate.com.au 16 SOUTHERN FREE TIMES

|

Thursday, 21 December, 2017

12375717-EPJ52-17

freetimes.com.au

THE YEAR IN PICTURES

In November the 'Warwick Egg Throwing Incident' was re-enacted to mark the 100th anniversary of the event the formation of the Australian Federal Police.

Bareback action from the 2017 Warwick Rodeo.

The Warwick Cowboys in action in the 2017 season.

Some of the glamour on show trackside at the 2017 Warwick Picnic Races at Allman Park.

The Pontiac Nationals paid Warwick a visit during the 2017 Easter weekend.

Gareth Polzin crosses for the Killarney Cutters in the 2017 BRL season.

Footy greats got together for the Collegians 50th reunion in May.

Regency Park residents celebrated progress on the roof of their new community centre in June.

Hundreds of local producers and landowners met in mid-August at the Freestone Hall to protest the council's plan to lease out the Warwick Saleyards and the controversial Invasive Pest Control Scheme. freetimes.com.au

Warwick cadets hand out bottles of water to veterans at the 2017 Anzac Day service at the Leslie Park Cenotaph.

Governor-General Sir Peter Cosgrove opened the 2017 Warwick Show during his visit to the region this year.

Thursday, 21 December, 2017

|

SOUTHERN FREE TIMES 17

WHAT’S ON Catch the action at this year's New Year's Eve rodeo at the Warwick Showgrounds.

STEELE’S BAKERY NYE RODEO When: Sunday 31 December, gates open from 10am. Bar open from 2pm.

Where: Warwick Showgrounds.

How much: Adult $25 including two drink tickets; Families $40 (two adults and three kids); 15 to 17-year-olds $10; Kids under 14 free; Camping $20 including

CHRISTMAS CAROL EVENTS AROUND THE REGION * Tonight, Thursday 21 December Carols in the Chapel - The Scots PGC Chapel, Oxenham Street, Warwick,

breakfast and one drink ticket.

2pm (Brumby Catch) 4pm Rodeo Events ... · Brumby Catch, 2pm. · Rodeo from 4pm. from 7.30pm. The college and the Warwick Uniting Church invite the community to enjoy a program of carols and readings in the historic Chapel to foster a meditative approach to the celebration of Christmas. Supper will follow in the chapel hall. Inquiries to 0417 720 152.

· · · · · · ·

7 and under Barrel Race.

8-12 Barrel Race.

Junior Barrel Race.

Open Barrel Race.

Poddy Ride.

Ladies Steer Ride.

2nd Division Saddle Bronc Ride.

· Junior Steer Ride. · Open Bullock Ride. · Australian Station Buckjump Championship. · Open Bullock Feature Ride. · Live Entertainment by Mik Oberle till late. · Fireworks. ●

* Tomorrow, Friday 22 December Killarney Carols - from 6pm in Canning Park, Killarney. ●

dance floor this New Year’s Eve head

DANCE THE CARES AWAY

be a live band and supper, plus prizes

If you feel like cutting a line on the

dren are welcome. ●

on out to the Swan Creek Hall east of Warwick off the Yangan Road. There’ll and Luck Spots. From 7.30pm until late - $10 entry per person and chil-

12364981-CB37-17

18 SOUTHERN FREE TIMES

|

Thursday, 21 December, 2017

freetimes.com.au

COMMUNITY DIARY THURSDAY 21 DECEMBER Scots PGC Carols in the Chapel will be on Thursday 21 December at Scots PGC Chapel, Oxenham Street, Warwick, from 7.30pm. A programme of reading and carols to foster a meditative approach

to the Celebrations of Christmas.

Supper will follow in Chapel Hall.

Inquiries: 0417 720 152.

SUNDAY 31 DECEMBER New Year's Eve Dance will be on Sunday 31 December at Swan Creek Hall, East

will meet on Saturday 6 January at Steele Rudd Pub, Nobby for Lunch. Join us for social occasions regularly for friendship; meet new people, coffee, movies, and chat. Contact gerdabrack@ gmail.com. or Jen on 0400 505 943. ●

of Warwick, from 7.30pm till late. Live band, good supper, prizes and luck spots, $10 each, with children welcome.

SATURDAY 6 JANUARY Warwick Singles Social Club Over 50s

THE YEAR IN PICTURES

The Mary Poppins house opened its doors during the Allora Autumn Festival in May.

Troy Palmer riding Who's Divine to victory in the 2017 Warwick Gold Cup Campdraft.

The Killarney Picnic Basket Day at Melrose Station drew huge crowds back in April.

The Warwick Rodeo Street Parade made a welcome comeback in 2017.

Members of the RANGE Resident's Action campaigned to save the Warwick Town Hall Toilets in early November.

Jumpers and Jazz in July was another stunning wintry success for Warwick.

PUZZLES Quick Clues 1.

8.

9.

10.

11.

12.

14.

18.

20.

23.

24.

25.

1.

ACROSS Entertainer (13)

1.

SUDOKU No. 4166

ACROSS Entertainer (13) Water lily (5) Unvarying (7) Soaked (6) Live (6) Subside (5) Sanctuary (5) Reluctant (6) Stationary (6) Clumsy (7) Amalgamate (5) Unnoticeable (13)

6 2 7 3 9 3 7 8 6 CRYPTIC PUZZLE NO. 7504 DOWN 7 2 3 4 1. Suitcase (6) ACROSS Entertainer (13) 2. Famous (5) 3. Esteem (7) Unvarying (7) 9 4. Boor (4) 5. Completely (5) 6. Worship (7) 1 8 6 4 7. Rage (6) Sanctuary (5) 13. Disintegrate (5,2) 15. Try (7) Stationary (6) 16. Sausage (6) 4 5 6 17. Plan (6) Amalgamate (5) 19. Step (5) Unnoticeable (13) 21. Beat (5) 9 2 22. Lazy (4) DOWN YPTIC PUZZLE NO. 7504 Suitcase (6) 3 4 7 5 ACROSS

Cryptic Clues

7

9 6 4

5

Fill the grid s every row and 3x3 square co the digits 1 1 4 6 2 5 8 9 3 7

Solution No. 5 2 8 7 9 3 1 4 6

CRYPTIC PUZZLE NO. 7504 - SOLUTIONS Across - 1, Just a few lines. 8, Split. 9, Mac-het-e. 10, Insis-t. 11, Asp-i-re. 12, As-pen. 14, Score. 18, Airily. 20, Spr-out. 23, Manager (anag). 24, I-ma-ge (rev). 25, Cryptic remark.

Down - 1, Just-in. 2, S-il-as. 3, Art-ist-e. 4, Em-ma. 5, Lacks (lax). 6, Need-i-er. 7, See-me-d. 13, Sp-ring-y. 15, Cap-size. 16, T-arm-ac. 17, St-r-eak. 19, Light. 21, O-maha (rev). 22, Eri-c (rev).

3 2 7 8

6 4 3 8

2 9 4 6 3 1 7 5 8

7 5 6 9 2 8 1 4 3

8 3 1 4 7 5 9 6 2

9 6 7 5 1 3 2 8 4

4 2 8 7 9 6 5 3 1

3 1 5 8 4 2 6 7 9

5 7 2 1 8 4 3 9 6

Solution No.4166

1 4 9 3 6 7 8 2 5

Fill the grid so that every row and every 3x3 square contains the digits 1 to 9

Thursday, 21 December, 2017

5

6 8 3 2 5 9 4 1 7

Sudoku!

freetimes.com.au

it give a clue as to what someone’s thinking? (7,6).

DOWN 1. He’s been home only a few minutes (6). 2. He’s the silly ass who admitted the Italian (5). 3. Including a first rate new performer (7). 4. She’s got me mad, mum (4). 5.

Doesn’t have to sound inattentive (5). 6. Must I be supported by Elizabeth, being poorer? (7). 7. Looked like Pip, taking me in (6). 13. Having a bouncy agent call in (7).

15. Upset to find how big one’s head is? (7). 16. On the surface, act strangely about the weapon (6). 17. A line that goes right through the meat (6). 19. Get down pale (5).

21. Having a ham and egg stand in America (5). 22. He’s caught Paddy up (4).

How to so Sudoku

1 6 3 9 5 2 5 4 8 7 4 6 6

ACROSS 1. A small part - of one’s correspondence? (4,1,3,5). 8.

Spill the beans about the share-out? (5). 9. Came out clutching the terrible knife (7). 10. “Is in, isn’t out,” you keep saying firmly (6). 11. Aim to hurl the spear and catch one with it (6). 12. Because Nick is very shaky (5). 14. Arrange, from scratch (5). 18. How you say “I like to keep all the windows open”? (6). 20. Come out and talk right through it (6). 23. A German has been made boss (7). 24.

For instance, am I to give back the picture? (5). 25. Does it give a clue as to what someone’s thinking? (7,6).

DOWN 1. He’s been home only a few minutes (6). 2. He’s the silly ass who admitted the Italian (5). 3. Including a first

QUICK PUZZLE NO. 7504 - SOLUTIONS Across - 1, Ventriloquist. 8, Lotus. 9, Uniform. 10, Sodden. 11, Reside. 12, Abate. 14, Haven. 18, Averse. 20, Static. 23, Awkward. 24, Merge. 25, Imperceptible.

Down - 1, Valise. 2, Noted. 3, Respect. 4, Lout. 5, Quite.

6, Idolise. 7, Temper. 13, Break up. 15, Attempt. 16, Salami. 17, Scheme. 19, Stair. 21, Throb. 22, Idle.

CRYPTIC PUZZLE NO. 7504

MEDIUM No.4166

How to solve Sudoku!

Fill the grid so that every row and every 3x3 square contains the digits 1 to 9

3

CROSSWORD No. QUICK PUZZLE NO.7504 7504

|

SOUTHERN FREE TIMES 19

7 3 9 4 1 6 8 2 5

6 8 3 9 7 4 2 5 1

9 5 4 1 6 2 7 8 3

2 1 7 3 8 5 4 6 9

networkclassifieds.com.au General Notices

Trades & Services V Builders & Building Services

V Public Notices and Event

V Shedding

DES’ GUTTER GUARDIAN

Business Directory

›› Reduce Fire Hazard ›› Extend Gutter Life ›› Keep Vermin Out ›› Maximize Water Catchment ›› Protect from Flooding Cause by Blocked Gutters

Specialising in Commercial, Industrial & Domestic Sheds Made from Bluescope Australian Steel Full service - Slab, Erection & Councils

Quality Aluminium Vermin & Bird Proof Product Phone Adam for an Obligation Free Measure and Quote

0407 582 394

Phone Neal Simpson & Lou Ots on

07 4661 9835

QBCC1197750 NSW237076c

Servicing the Warwick ı Stanthorpe ı Tenterfield districts e. lou.ots@hotmail.com

1169820-EG04-15

GARDEN SERVICES

United Tax & Accounting

07 4683 2483

ANTENNAS 0418 760 615

AUTOMOTIVE

V Public Notices and Event 1157076-RC40-14

Council advises the following waste facility closures over the Christmas period in 2017.

07 4661 5632

SJ Car Care

07 4661 1222

Stanthorpe Wreckers

07 4681 2744

C1082079-JL28-13

฀

฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ (Warwick, Stanthorpe, Allora and Killarney); and

m: 0418 153 584 f: 4661 5988

Servicing Warwick, Stanthorpe & Tenterfield.

V Garden Services

David Keenan Chief Executive Officer

P/L (QBSA 895165)

0403 868 047

07 4681 3003

V Pest Control

2 EXP 0 YEAR ERI S ENC E

TERMITE SPECIALIST

Offering Friendly Professional Service at Small Business Prices

C1104663-BM50-13

Technician - Mark Grosskopf

ALL TYPES OF PEST MANAGEMENT!

Ph: 07 4666 1001 Mob: 0438 623 734 V Septic Tanks C1104093-JL49-13

STANTHORPE SEPTIC SERVICE

The classifieds department will be closed from Tuesday, 19th December 2017 and will re-open from 8.30am Tuesday 2nd January 2018.

07 4661 1755

FLOOR SERVICES

HELP YOU Phone FREECALL NO.

1300 139 313

RAFFLE RESULTS Leukaemia Foundation Raffle Results Drawn Dec. 8th. 1st Prize J. Reibelt. 2nd Prize A. Kuyltjes. 3rd Prize Ann Smith. Thanks to our supporters.

20 SOUTHERN FREE TIMES

|

TREE SERVICES Dwan’s Tree Lopping

0407 562 317

UPHOLSTERY Daryl Hockings Upholstery and

Ken Odea Floor Coverings

07 4667 1471

Furniture Repairs

0417 745 667

1300 666 808 12369187-HM43-17

General Classifieds V Wanted

V Travel

WANTED TO BUY War Medals, Helmets etc. WW1, WW2 etc.

Private collector, cash paid, will collect. Phone 0411 581 221.

V Livestock

V For Sale

for Sale or Rental. All sizes. Delivery.

Warwick Containers & Towing V For Sale ANTIQUE BOOKCASE red cedar, 120 year old, valued at $6,000. Asking price $2,500.

Phone 07 4661 1445.

Leon Bruggemann Mobile Travel Agent

ADVERTISERS, in this section are qualified practitioners and offer non-sexual services.

V For Sale

PORCELAIN DOLLS Assorted Sizes. Various Prices from $50 Phone 0746617323 TRADES MANS powder coated, steel frame, 1800 wide x 900 high, 2 x 5 drawers, 1 with dividers. $250 ono. Ph: 0403 033 584.

HUSQVARNA 42" cut. Serviced and in good condition. $1,200.

Phone 0411 171 620.

TRUNDLE BED Solid Timber on casters with mattress. Excellent condition. $140. Ph: 4661 3604.

EP73047

Real Estate V Accommodation

PLACE YOUR GARAGE SALE AD ONLINE Anytime, Any place Get 10% Discount Use code: GSDISCOUNT

m: 0437 344 312 p: 1300 365 688 Ext 292 e: lbruggemann@mtatravel.com.au

www.mtatravel.com.au/lbruggemann

V Garage Sales

DINING TABLE laminated, 6 padded chairs, metal frame, good condition. $200. Phone 0409 439 272.

Thursday, 21 December, 2017

V Massage Therapists

AGISTMENT WANTED a paddock for approx. 10 small steers.

Long or short term. Closer to Warwick would be an advantage. Good feed, water & fencing. Would pay in advance.

Best to phone at night. Ph 4661 1453.

General Classifieds

Ph 07 4661 1550

section of Network Classifieds.

07 4661 1712

0402 521 961

MTD RIDE ON MOWER 6 speed, 13.5Hp Briggs Stratton, electric start, 38" cut. $1,150. Phone 0437 445 384.

0407 634 221

Trades & Services

07 4661 9835

Licence TAG903

V Public Notices and Event

CONTAINERS

Local professionals in our

0415 156 612

R and F Steel Buildings

Polishing

V For Sale

Let Pregnancy Help Line

Septic Tanks Cleaned by Your Local Man 4685 2396 Available Seven Days a Week

BJS Constructions

Zooma Signs

(Lic. No. 1537)

12340946-PB09-17

12376027-LB52-17

07 4685 2396

SIGNS

Styan & Lindenberg P/L

EP63509

PLEASE CALL 0499 935 513

Stanthorpe Septic Service

The first edition for the New Year will be Thursday, 11th January 2018. Network Classifieds would like to wish everyone a Happy Christmas and a safe New Year.

1152706-DJ36-14

FREE QUOTES

0430 540 438

SHEDDING

ELECTRICIANS

This is last edition of the Southern Free Times for 2017.

(Lic 1252320)

SEPTIC TANKS

Outrite Computers & Gaming

Christmas Office Hours

0407 614 332

Gordon Cooper Plumber 07 4661 8111

George Cassar Floor Sanding &

MITCHY’S MOWING & WHIPPER SNIPPER SERVICE

0438 623 734

0407 582 394

COMPUTERS

12375925-CG52-17

Rob Laney Ph: 4661 5968

If you require any further information or have enquiries, please contact Council on 1300 MY SDRC ฀ ฀

Inspector Pest Control

Rose City Constructions

฀

Insulated Patios Colorbond Patios

PEST CONTROL PLUMBERS

Velvet

฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ (Broadwater, Leyburn, Maryvale, Northern Granite Belt, Pratten, Wallangarra and Yangan).

0458 888 589

07 4661 5968

Condamine Plumbing & Drainage

CLAIRVOYANT ฀

Laney’s Steel P/L

1300 459 150

Betta Bilt Cabinets

ALL waste facilities will close on Monday, 25 December 2017, and will re-open as follows:

0414 576 944

LAUNDROMATS

Design Master Homes

CABINETS

Kerbside domestic waste collections provided by JJ Richards & Sons will continue as per usual.

V Decks/Pergolas

BSA 712053

Southern Downs Landscaping And Garden Services

PATIOS

Gibson’s Window Tinting

BUILDERS Waste Facilities Christmas Closure

QBCC No: 1210672

79 Oxenham Street, Warwick QLD 4370

ACCOUNTING

Robert Partington Electronics

General Notices

- New Home Construction - Extensions - Renovations - Bathrooms - Kitchens - Aluminium Gutter Guard

1300 666 808

The Laundry Room Laundromat

All aspects of building

Adam Nielsen Mobile: 0407 582 394 Email: at_nielsen@hotmail.com

1176792-HM11-15

ELIMINATE YOUR LEAF PROBLEM and

www.networkclassifieds.com.au

ROOMS, clean, comfortable, at O'Mahony's Hotel, Warwick.

Budget accommodation from $150 per week. Includes use of kitchen and laundry. Linen supplied. Ph: 4661 1146.

Real Estate

Call or visit us online! networkclassifieds.com.au freetimes.com.au

NEWS

BLIND EYE TO WEST PAPUA ‘GENOCIDE’

BY JEREMY SOLLARS When most Australians think of New Guinea they probably have in mind the eastern half of the island neighbour to the north, the sovereign nation of Papua New Guinea.

But thanks largely to a lack of coverage in the mainstream ‘big’ media in Australia and overseas, most are probably unaware of what’s happening in the western half of the island, known as West Papua - a province of Indonesia.

Since 1963 - when West Papua was forcibly annexed by Indonesia - its inhabitants have been fighting for their independence from what by many accounts is a brutal and authoritarian regime controlled by Jakarta, and it’s a fight to which the rest of the world is turning a blind eye.

And it’s also a fight in which Australians and other foreigners working in West Papua and expats routinely get caught up in, often with the very real risk of losing their own lives.

The Free Times this week spoke with a Warwick resident who has worked in West Papua routinely over the past four years, who says they are angered by the lack of Australian and international media attention given to the West Papuans’ desire for freedom and independence.

Speaking on condition of anonymity - saying the risk to their safety in West Papua is real - the local resident spoke of

Raising of the West Papuan Morning Glory flag is illegal. the “genocide” and “ethnic cleansing” of the West Papuan people being carried out by the Indonesian military.

And they believe the situation could turn even more bloody at any time, with grave risks for the many Australians, New

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SOUTHERN FREE TIMES 21

NEWS

Protests in West Papua are heavily suppressed by the Indonesian government and military.

First, some history ...

Up until the early 1900s, New Guinea was under the control of three colonial powers - Britain, which administered the south-eastern area of the island, Germany, which controlled the north-eastern portion, and the Netherlands, which controlled the western half, along with the rest of the Indonesian archipelago, known then as the Dutch East Indies.

In 1906 Britain transferred responsibility for its area to Australia and our forces seized the German territory of New Guinea during the World War I. Both Dutch western New Guinea and the Australian territories were invaded by Japan during World War II, at the end of which the territory of Papua New Guinea was returned to Australian administration, while western New Guinea remained under Dutch control.

After the war Indonesia declared its own independence from the Netherlands, which the Dutch initially refused to accept, finally granting it in 1949 but retaining western New Guinea.

In the following decade the Dutch began to prepare western New Guinea for independence, allowing elections in 1959 which created a ‘New Guinea Council’ which decided on the name of ‘West Papua’ and created its own flag - and in 1962 the Dutch handed the territory over to the United Nations, which did nothing to stand in the way of the Indonesian takeover the following year.

More cynical observers and historians have suggested that Western powers such as the United States did nothing to stop the Indonesian annexation due to their own economic interests, such as the territory’s vast mineral deposits in the form of copper, gold and silver - and it’s perhaps no coincidence that the biggest mining operation in West Papua is owned and operated by US-based Freeport McMoRan Inc. Ignored by the rest of the world, including Australia Since 1963, the West Papuan independence movement has been resisting the Indonesian occupation of their homelands through active civil disobedience, including the illegal raising of their flag, the Morning Star.

22 SOUTHERN FREE TIMES

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Amnesty International estimates that more than 100,000 Papuans have died at the hands of the Indonesian military, or TNI, and the Indonesian police, both of which stand accused of brutally suppressing the local population.

And things could be about to get worse in West Papua since the collation of an ‘illegal’ petition circulated earlier this year throughout the territory - from village to village and town to town - and smuggled out of the country and handed to the Australian Government, asking for our aid in their struggle for freedom.

But, save for making broad and vague references to the West Papuans’ plight at Pacific leaders meetings, Malcolm Turnbull and his government have shown no sign of wanting to upset Jakarta over the matter, somewhat in contrast to Australian efforts to help guide East Timor, a former Indonesian possession, to independence in the late 1990s.

The local who spoke with the Free Times said they fear the petition will produce “payback” from the Indonesian authorities against the West Papuan population - and that they are glad to be on home soil, with an already dire situation potentially about to escalate.

They said companies like Freeport are on high alert and are working frantically behind the scenes to ensure the safety of overseas employees.

“I worked in West Papua for four years and witnessed the treatment of the indigenous Papuans by the invading Indonesians,” they told the Free Times.

“The West Papuans got the petition together and silently took it all over West Papua without the Indonesians finding out, and collected tens of thousands of signatures.

“They then snuck it out of the country and approached the Australian Government as a member of the United Nations to assist them with their claim for independence.

“The Indonesians were obviously furious and payback is on the cards for the poor Papuans - they (the Indonesians) are going to come back more savage than ever.

“There is now a lockdown on travelling in standard vehicles and people are travelling on armoured buses, there are shootings everywhere.

Thursday, 21 December, 2017

Support is growing within Indonesia for West Papuan independence.

“Our media in Australia, unfortunately, has not kept onto it - they’ve been focussed on things like Manus Island, which is really nothing in comparison to what’s happening in West Papua.

“People here are bleating and whinging about Manus Island while you’ve got the West Papuans being slaughtered.

“It makes me angry - you have genocide taking place virtually on our back doorstep and our mainstream media is taking no interest whatsoever.

“Every now and then there’ll be a report of ‘rebels’ causing trouble in West Papua and getting shot - this just plays into the hands of Indonesia, it gives them the leverage to say they are just dealing with a few troublemakers.

“The Indonesian military hunt down (independence advocates) like animals - they pose for trophy shots with dead Papuans.

“The Indonesians are very pig-headed and arrogant, they just behave like it’s their country, like they have every right to be there and who are these black people to tell them anything different.

“They just treat them like shit.

“The situation could now very easily become a lot worse - I think any Australians and other overseas workers in West Papua right now would be very concerned for their safety.

“If I was over there at the moment and it all turned to crap I’d be seriously considering offering some of the locals a thousand bucks to get me to the Ok Tedi mine on the border with PNG and pass through safely.

“The overseas community and the expats had an international school there - a lot of them had partners and kids over there, but now there’s about eight kids left at the school, everyone else has got out.”

The local described the West Papuans as a “happy and hospitable people”.

“Over the years they have gradually become more educated and modernised but they do still retain some of their old cultural practices and tribal beliefs, like black magic, and ‘payback’ killings between villages, that type of thing, which is all about honour and pride.

“It’s a culture that we just find very hard to understand - it’s older than ours - but

when you spend time with them and you work amongst them you gain a whole new respect for their beliefs and their principles - they are a very highly-principled people and this is reflected in their stand for independence.

“It’s a very valid claim - they are losing their culture and their way of life.”

A leader in exile The West Papuans’ ‘leader in exile’ is Benny Wenda who was forced to flee the country after escaping from custody while on trial by the Indonesians in 2003, and was granted asylum by the British Government.

Writing on the website freewestpapua. org Wenda describes life in his homeland as “very hard”.

“We do not enjoy the freedoms that people in many democratic countries get to experience,” he writes.

“We cannot raise our national flag without risking imprisonment. We cannot express our political opinions without risking being found guilty of treason.

“We cannot hold peaceful protests without risking being arrested and tortured.

“This has been documented again and again. So many of us have died in our struggle for self-determination, but we have never lost our hope of a better future.

“We know we have a right of selfdetermination under international law because the decolonisation process following the end of Dutch rule was never completed.

“The truth is that journalists are freer to visit countries like Syria, Iraq, and North Korea than they are to visit West Papua.

“The Government of Indonesia continues to maintain West Papua as a closed territory so that their military can continue their campaign of killings away from the scrutiny of the international media.

“A handful of journalists have indeed managed to get into West Papua undercover, sharing footage showing untold suffering and bloodshed.

“The handful of foreign journalists that have been granted official access recount stories of being followed by Indonesian intelligence officials, heavily restricted in where they were able to visit, and unable to speak to West Papuans out of fear of reprisals.” ● freetimes.com.au

THE SPIN

email: wickets-stpe@bigpond.com

CASEY O’CONNOR

ASHES FOR AUSSIES IN FAREWELL TEST With not many sleeps until the arrival of that jolly big man in the red suit, this is our last edition before the Christmas break and also the final Spin in 2017.

Once again it has been quite a year in sport locally, nationally and internationally. It should come as no surprise that my highlight moment of 2017 has been the Ashes win by the Aussies at the WACA earlier this week.

It is only fitting that the Aussies got their hands on that “Little Urn“ that holds so much mystique and gravitas in what was the final Test match played at the WACA. Cricket now moves to the new stadium - aka the “Cray Pot“. The spirits and souls of cricket games past were not going to allow anything less I am sure.

Steve Smith may look as though he should be in the back row of a Year 10 class, but he showed us all this week why he got the coveted Aussie Cricket captain’s gig when Michael Clarke retired.

His steely resolve, as much as the performance of an amazing bowling attack has set this team apart from the old enemy. In hushed tones and in large print, Smith is now being spoken about as the “best since Bradman“ surpassing even Ricky Ponting.

Not too sure about that, but it is hard to deny his statistics. His overall contribution to Australia regaining the Ashes in 2017 is now written into cricket folklore.

Well the urn has returned but there are still two games remaining in the Ashes series and they will be a long way from dead rubbers.

This team is hungry to make this a five-nil series and will be hunting for that as we head to the Boxing Day at the MCG and the final Test in Sydney.

Before that happens, of course, there is much to do and be done. The Big Bash is underway, but more importantly there are presents to buy, presents to wrap, food to be eaten, drinks to be consumed and a visit from Santa himself.

I hope Santa is kind to you, I’ll be looking (in vain I think) for Boxing Day Test tickets under our Christmas Tree, but hey since I’ve been nice, not naughty this year I should be in with a chance , shouldn’t I? If not, I’ll settle for a comfy chair close to a TV and esky to watch ball one, day one and of course that other Australian Christmas tradition, the spectacular start of the Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race.

Those two events spell Christmas in Australia even more than the six white boomers.

We would like to thank everyone who makes the job of bringing you Spin every week so much easier by contributing news on their chosen sport. Most importantly thank you to our readers. We hope you have a wonderful Christmas. If you are travelling to be with family and friends please stay safe.

From our house to yours a very Merry Christmas and I hope 2018 brings joy and happiness and a win for your chosen team.

See you in the New Year - Casey Footnote Don’t miss our first edition in the New Year when we will review all that made 2017 special. What challenged us, our sports and our teams and in turn what had us cheering and hollering.

HORNE A SHINING LIGHT We couldn’t close off for the year without a mention of the performance of Jeff Horne in his World Title defence. Another sportsman who looks like he should still be in the freetimes.com.au

Steve Smith and Jimmy Anderson went toe to toe on the pitch in Adelaide Smith had the ultimate last laugh after the Aussies win in Perth and regaining that 'Little Urn'. classroom and behind a desk not in front of the class, Horne is almost the ultimate baby faced assassin in the ring - certainly someone not to be underestimated. Just ask his latest victim Gary Corcoran.

How lucky were we to have him in Warwick just a few weeks ago and hear his story firsthand. Not just a great talent, but just a really down to earth and nice bloke.

In a sport not recognised for nice guys he shines as bright as Rudolph’s red nose.

CHRISTMAS TAKES A TOLL This is a busy time of year for everyone and like many other sports, numbers at the Mallet Sports games last week took a hit.

In golf croquet, Judy Lock and Di Wren had an 8-5 win while Sharyn Roser and Shirley Page played a 4-all draw in the early game.

After the break the group was joined by Shirley Page’s granddaughters who got their first taste of the game.

In a close finish, Shirley, Di and Lucy managed a 9-7 win and bragging rights over Justin, Liddy, Sharyn and Sophie. Sophie proved very accurate at the short distance and scored three hoops while her sister Lucy was strong on ht longer shots scoring one hoop.

Association croquet also found many of their members had been called to the higher duty of preparing for Christmas.

Pat Schnoor and Margaret Dickenson went head to head in a singles match with Schnoor scoring the maximum, 26 points and claiming a win.

In the only other game, Andrea Denkewitz and Val Shepherd played Grace Howard in what was a close game. Final result a 20-19 win to Grace Howard.

In gateball on Friday there were some close games among the small group.

Andrea Denkewitz and Sharyn Roser teamed up playing Margaret Dickenson, Jenny Tunbridge and John Draper. John Draper was in good form and played well in all the games.

Denkewitz and Roser recorded one win while Margaret Dickenson’s crew won three games.

Mallet Sports now recess for the Christmas break and resume from 9 January next year.

BOXING DAY MEETING If you are not interested in those frantic Boxing Day sales or maybe you are looking to recoup some of the Christmas costs or just looking for a great day out, the annual Boxing Day race meeting at Allman Park might be just thee place for you.

Nominations for the seven-event program had not been finalised as this issue went to press, however, race club officials were expecting the $30,000 Magic Millions Country Cup Qualifier (1200m) to draw a big field.

The six supporting events will all carry $11,000 prize money.

Boxing Day at the Warwick Races has become quite an institution with many taking advantage of the occasion to catch up with friends and family.

FITTOCK NAILS BACK NINE Chris Fittock led the field in Saturday’s Stableford competition sponsored by the Stanthorpe Community Bank. There were some impressive scores returned but Fittock who had a steady front nine and took control of the back nine and needed only 38 shots to card a 26 for the home journey and nail the win with a score of 43.

Second place was decided by countback with Lyle Bryant getting the nod over Matt Waterworth and Billy Webb after the trio each returned a score of 40.

Chris Fittock collected the pin at 12 and Graham Tonkin at 17. Stan Spencer held the pro-pin at 1/10 with Matt Waterworth holding 5/14 and John Spiller at 9/18.

Birdies nest at eight was shared by Billy Webb and John Spiller.

In the Ladies event, Linda Kelly also had a steady front nine but scored well on the back nine to for an overall score of 34 points. Annelle Batterham equalled that score but Kelly secured the win after a countback.

Time for one more round before Christmas, and on Saturday if you have all the preparations for Christmas squared away the club event is a single stableford sponsored by Alex Vale. The time sheet is available on the board and tee off from 11.30 am.

STANTHORPE BOXING DAY CLASSIC A reminder that like Christmas the Boxing Day Classic is fast approaching and there are limited spaces available. The annual event is a three-person Ambrose and the nomination sheet is on the board at the club house. If you have a team organised, get those names in soon to avoid disappointment.

POWDER AND PISTOL AT INGLEWOOD Glen Holmes out pointed Tom Donald and Swedish visitor Carolina Andersson in the Black Powder Pistol cap and ball event.

The Rimfire 25 metre standard was won

by Tom Donald from Rechelle Privitera and Allen Hudson.

Donald made it a double for the day with a win in the Black Powder Cartridge where he outscored Glen Holmes and Carolina Andersson. The range is open this week with no specific matches set.

BARKER HEADS THE SPORTERS FIELD Sporters bucked the numbers trend last weekend when a good field rolled up on a very warm Sunday morning for the penultimate Sporters round before Christmas.

Brendon Barker was in winning form and played well to claim the honours on Sunday and also the Best Gross for the round. Mark Lynam was forced to settle for the runner’s up spot, but did pick up the pin shot at the third. The run-downs went to Jim Mitchell and Terry Byrnes who also grabbed the pro pin and then added a meat tray to his booty. John Walsh was seen leaving in the company of the remaining meat tray.

If you need a break from the stress of Christmas preparations join the Sporters next Sunday with tee-off between 7.308am. Sporters wish everyone a very Merry Christmas, if you’re travelling stay safe on the road.

CHRISTMAS TREATS FOR VALLEYS AND RSL Two games were decided in Stanthorpe cricket fixtures last weekend before the

recess for the Christmas break. Both games were very one-sided affairs.

Despite a useful innings at the top of the order from Kirby Morunga (22), Valleys had a very shaky start to their game against Tenterfield. In what looked like a below par performance they slumped to 6/73. A lower order batting rescue launched by Linstrom (22) and Anthony Coup (26) showed their counterparts up the order how it should be done dragging the score to a more respectable total of 145.

Tenterfield bowler Danny Potter continued his good recent form and finished with 4/29. Simon Merchant also bowled well taking two wickets.

Defending only145, it was up to the bowlers to step up if Valleys were going to get the points. In a match-winning performance with the ball, Damian Anderson blew the game apart. He took 6/14 from just 7.2 overs. Tenterfield were bundled out for just 55 runs in only the 15th over. It was a with big win for Valleys after a not so solid start.

Wanderers will be hoping Santa brings them back some of their better players along with some batting form for those currently playing. With only eight players, Wanderers were always going to have problems against RSL and set RSL a meagre 61-run chase.

Dylan Lihou was the pick of the bowlers taking 4/4 from three overs.

It was not a matter of if RSL would win, but how quickly. Clearly the Dowie boys and were keen to get to their favoured watering hole. RSL made mince meat of the total in seven overs without the loss of a wicket.

MARYVALE HEAD TO XMAS UNDEFEATED Maryvale head to the Christmas break undefeated in the Condamine Cup and are sure to have a premiership win on their Santa wish list.

Michael Bourke opened the batting for Maryvale and hit the ball well for a solid 86.

He was well supported by Will Gordon (30) and Andrew Ryan (32no) as Maryvale set the Redbacks a 229-run chase. Coen Slatter was the best of the Redbacks bowlers.

The Maryvale bowlers had the upper hand in the second innings, dismissing Redbacks for a disappointing 81. Kieran Bourke was the best of the bowlers claiming four scalps while McConnell and Darton each took a pair.

WHEATVALE GOOD ENOUGH Wheatvale may not have been at their very best on Saturday but they did enough to get the points in a low-scoring game against Allora Rascals on Saturday.

Steve Jones’ form set his side up for victory with a fine performance with the ball, taking four wickets as Wheatvale dismissed Rascals for 73 runs .

Chasing small totals can sometimes prove tricky and there were some sweaty palms when Rascals Tom Morris took to the batting line-up claiming four wickets and with six wickets in the shed an upset looked on the cards. A sensible partnership between Steve Jones (14no) and Kieran Jordan (14no) got Wheatvale safely home.

ALL TIED UP It was a thrilling finish to the game between Allora and Sovereign Animals at Slade Park with the game finishing in a tie. Sovereign set up a good score with a fine opening partnership between Munro (41) and Drennet (45).

In reply, there were plenty of opportunities for Allora with several players getting starts but unable to go on with job thanks in part to some good bowling from the Sovereign attack. Munro took 4/32 from eight overs. In the end it came down to a tied game. ●

Thursday, 21 December, 2017

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SOUTHERN FREE TIMES 23

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Thursday, 21 December, 2017

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