Southern Free Times - 19th December 2019

THURSDAY, 19 DECEMBER, 2019 13,200 COPIES DELIVERED WEEKLY

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ISSUE 996

COVER STORY

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DR NATALIE SMITH - DR BELLA CHEYNE - DR CHONG CHU - DR BERNARD TSANG - DR JIE ZHANG - MRS SUE FLEMING - MISS RUBY WITTKOPP The team at Granite Belt Dental would like to wish our valued patients and their families a safe and merry holiday season.

We will be closed from Monday, 23rd December 2019.

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MORE TO LOVE The editor’s desk It is heartening to know that Queenslanders on the 'other side' of the Great Dividing Range are showing generosity to locals in the Southern Downs and Granite Belt areas (see cover story, pages 4&5).

It may be a cliche, but no-one around here needs to battle the drought alone - there are many wonderful people and groups working in support roles in our community, and our city and coastal cousins are showing great understanding of our plight.

As 2019 draws to a close, the Free Times will take a three-week break in between this week's print edition and our first back in the new year, on Thursday 16 January.

I'd like to take this opportunity to thank our many valued readers and advertisers for their continued support throughout 2019. It has been one tough year for this region, but 2020 can only better. As a community we are drawing on reserves of strength we perhaps didn't know we had, and that's something to reflect on - and be proud of.

On behalf of everyone here at the Free Times I wish a happy and safe Christmas and New Year season to all.

Jeremy Sollars

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The Warwick Turf Club kindly provided the Free Times with five entry double passes for the 2019 Boxing Day Races 'Beach Party' at Allman Park to give away to lucky readers - these were won by Kate Gordon, G Tyburczy, Paula Haynes, Mitch Lyons and Wendy Whittaker. Congrats - and look out for more giveaways in the New Year! ●

SALEYARDS SECRECY? Southern Downs Regional Council refuses access to new master plan for the Warwick Saleyards - pages 8-9.

WHAT'S ON ...

Check out our weekly 'Community Diary' listings for events coming up around our districts - page 25.

CELEBRATE ...

Plenty of celebrations happening over Boxing Day and New Year's Eve & Day details pages 28-29.

CASEY'S SPIN Free Times sports columnist CASEY O'CONNOR brings us all the latest in local sport from around the ridges page 31.

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2 SOUTHERN FREE TIMES

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Thursday, 19 December, 2019

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THIS WEEK WE’RE TALKING ABOUT…

NEXT STAGE OF REVAMP Queensland Health says stage one of work to bring Warwick Hospital up-to-date with new fire safety requirements has been completed.

Warwick Hospital Director of Nursing Anita Bolton said the first stage of the project included completion of fire compartmentation works and setting up a temporary ward on level one of Warwick Hospital.

"We are now progressing into stage two of the project with Phillips Ward relocating into the temporary ward to allow level two to begin fire compartmentation works," Ms Bolton said.

"There will be clearly visible signage in place throughout Warwick Hospital to provide directions to patients and visitors and while we will try to minimise disturbances, ear plugs will be available.

"We encourage patients and visitors to follow the signage and use the ward lift for access to level one.

"Phillips Ward is expected to be on level

one until early February 2020.

"Upon completion of the works the ward will move back to level two.

"The project is expected to be completed

by March 2020."

Ms Bolton said the health service had "worked with Queensland Fire Emergency Services on the project to ensure the

KEEP UP TO DATE OVER THE BREAK...

hospital was compliant with the latest fire safety standards".

"All Warwick Hospital buildings were built to conform with legislation at the time of construction and are regularly reviewed to ensure they comply with changes to the building code, and to ensure patient and staff safety is maintained," Ms Bolton said. ●

NEW HIGHWAY INTERSECTION OPENED Motorists travelling on the Mount Lindesay Road at Legume are enjoying a safer and more efficient journey, following the official opening of a new intersection at Killarney Road.

Federal Member for New England Barnaby Joyce joined Tenterfield Shire Council Mayor Peter Petty, Chief Executive Terry Dodds, councillors, community members and the Woodenbong Road Stakeholders Group to help cut the ribbon on the $952,000 intersection last week.

"This is part of the $24 million upgrade of the Mount Lindesay Road, between Legume and Woodenbong - money which was jointly funded by the Federal and NSW Governments," Mr Joyce said.

"Within the New England Electorate, I have been concentrating on east to west roads - Legume to Woodenbong, Kempsey to Armidale, and Gloucester to Scone.

"This is on top of the major road arterial spine - the New England Highway - where we are racing ahead with the completion of the Bolivia Hill upgrade, the Tenterfield Bypass, and Scone Bypass, as well as an extra $140 million yet to be allocated to the New England Highway "The intersection at Legume and a section of road immediately to its east, comprise the second major works to be

MURDER CHARGE A murder charge against former Warwick resident Vincent O'Dempsey was mentioned in the Brisbane Magistrates Court on Monday of last week, 9 December.

O'Dempsey was charged in August of this year with the alleged 1964 murder of Vincent Raymond Allen and he first appeared in court on Tuesday 20 August.

Last Monday the matter was adjourned for further mention in the Brisbane Magistrates Court on Monday 2 March 2020.

O'Dempsey has not yet been required to enter a plea. ●

(From left): Former Member for Lismore Thomas George, Tenterfield Shire Council Mayor Peter Petty and Member for New England Barnaby Joyce cut the ribbon on the upgraded Mount Lindesay Road intersection. completed under this round of funding.

"In December last year, 2.4 kilometres of road 27 kilometres east of Legume, was upgraded at a cost of $3.5 million."

Cr Petty said he was honoured to have been Mayor all through the current Legume to Woodenbong Road project.

"This work has always had the full support of Council, with the NSW and Australian governments both working

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This week's print edition of the Southern Free Times is our last for 2019 - our first print edition for 2020 will be out on Thursday 16 January. We'll keep readers up to date with breaking news over the Christmas-New Year break - particularly on latest developments with the region's water situation - online at www.freetimes.com. au and on Facebook. For editorial and any other urgent SFT enquiries over the break please call editor Jeremy Sollars on 0427 090 818. · Please note our office at 94 Palmerin Street (next to Wade Real Estate) will be closed from today, Thursday 19 December and re-opening on Thursday 9 January 2020. ●

together as they should," Cr Petty said.

Work began on the Legume intersection in May this year and was completed in September. Development work is continuing on the remaining sections of Mt Lindesay Road, including Legume East, Koreelah Creek and Big Hill, with the start of work subject to availability of an adequate water supply. ●

Vincent O'Dempsey.

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SOUTHERN FREE TIMES 3

COVER STORY

Tankers filling up from the new standpipes just off the New England Highway south of Warwick, near Connolly Dam Road. Between 40 and 50 truckloads of water will be moved each day once full-scale carting to Stanthorpe commences. Motorists are urged to mindful of the water tankers on the highway. Storm King Dam at Stanthorpe is forecast by the council to run dry by "early January", if not sooner.

THE ROADS TO WATER rom today - Thursday 19 December - water restrictions for town water in the Southern Downs Regional Council area move to the 'emergency' level of 80 litres per person per day, down from the 'critical' level of 100 litres.

The introduction of the new restrictions comes as the council prepares for the fullscale carting of water by road tanker from Connolly Dam in Warwick to Stanthorpe's Storm King Dam, a dam which is forecast, without significant rainfall, to fully deplete sometime between now and "early January" at the latest, according to the council's latest reports.

In a statement released last Friday 13 December the council said it is about to begin "the largest water carting project ever to be undertaken by a local government in Australia's history".

"Residents will need to reduce water consumption to 80 litres per person per day and this applies to all residents across the Southern Downs and Granite Belt, including rural residents who purchase water from Council," the statement said.

Mayor Tracy Dobie "assured the community that Council is ready to deliver

F

New turning lanes are in place at the junction of Rosenthal Road and the New England Highway where tankers will be entering and exiting. tanks with the water to be blended with the remaining water in Storm King Dam. "Blending of water will occur until late December/early January until Storm King Dam water is no longer able to be used.

"The water carting project is fully funded by the State Government and once in full operation will be at a cost of $800,000 per month.

"It is important for residents to remain vigilant in their water use as all use impacts on the amount of water to be trucked.

"There are resources available to residents to assist them manage water now, such as the showerhead exchange program and into the future with the water tank rebate.

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and residents will not run out of water".

"The infrastructure is in place, a trial run has been conducted and now we are ready to commence the water carting," Cr Dobie said, referring to a trial of the new water infrastructure for Stanthorpe carried out late last week.

"We know the water predicament has caused concern in the community and we are determined to keep drinking water supplied through taps and water stands," she said.

"Residents across our region are emotionally, physically and financially fatigued by this lack of rain, but we are all in this together.

"Trucks will cart water daily from Connolly Dam to Storm King Dam water

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"Residents are encouraged to visit www. sdrc.qld.gov.au for up to date information on water supply and storage.

"Information on Council's website is updated each Monday.

"Council's website site also includes a water usage calculator.

"Ideally residents should read their meter at the same time each week to calculate and monitor their water usage.

"If residents are unsure about which activities are permitted under emergency water restrictions or would like to access water saving tools and tips, they are encouraged to contact Council on 1300 697 372 or visit www.sdrc.qld.gov.au."

The new infrastructure to enable the emergency water supply for Stanthorpe includes two new one-megalitre holding tanks at Storm King Dam, a new section of poly pipeline to carry the water from the tanks to the dam outlet, and an upgrade to the Mount Marley water treatment plant to treat the Connolly Dam water to drinking standard.

Also completed in recent weeks are new secure filling points and standpipes just off the New England Highway on Rosenthal Road, near the intersection with Connolly Dam Road.

94 Palmerin Street, 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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DISTRIBUTION AREA: Distributed to homes and businesses in Warwick, Stanthorpe, Tenterfield, Wallangarra, Killarney, Allora & Texas. Bulk dropped to newsagents, corner stores, motels & other businesses in Warwick, Stanthorpe, Tenterfield, Wallangarra, Killarney, Allora, Texas, Dalveen, PROUDLY AUSTRALIAN Amiens, Karara, Inglewood & Bonshaw.

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COVER STORY The new filling points tap into the existing pipeline running from Connolly Dam to the Warwick Water Treatment Plant on Glen Road, with Connolly Dam under 'normal' circumstances a secondary supply for Warwick, after Leslie Dam. Also in place are new turning lanes to allow water tankers to move off and back onto the highway after filling before heading to Stanthorpe.

All up the new systems for Stanthorpe's emergency water supply have cost the State Government $2.4 million.

With between 40 and 50 "truck movements" expected every day on the New England Highway once full-scale water carting starts, motorists are urged to take extra care on the road, especially in the vicinity of the new turning lanes where the trucks will be entering and exiting.

The council has also installed security cameras to monitor activity at the new filling points, which are also controlled electronically to allow only officiallycontracted water carters access to the Connolly Dam water.

It is understood negotiations between the council and existing private rural users of water from Connolly Dam - between the dam itself and the new filling points - are continuing, but the council has said the water in Connolly Dam has been "sequestered" for Stanthorpe's use for the foreseeable future, ie, until it rains.

TRIAL “A SUCCESS” The council issued a separate statement after last week's trial of the new water carting infrastructure in which it hailed the test of the systems as "a success".

In a statement released last Thursday 12 December, a council spokeswoman said the trial "tested the schedule that water carting vehicles would run to, the route that vehicles would use, as well as testing the infrastructure to the full capacity".

Cr Dobie said the trial "was conducted with the utmost attention to detail".

"The trial could not have gone better and I am incredibly proud of all involved for the dedication and innovation they have shown throughout all stages of planning, construction, and execution," Cr Dobie said.

"The water carting contractors demonstrated an exceptional attention to detail and we couldn't be more impressed with their performance.

"The success of this trial means we are now fully ready to commence water carting when the need arises."

The council said as part of the trial "14 different water carting vehicles, doing 42 trips, successfully deposited 1.3 megalitres of water into the waiting tanks at

Storm King Dam".

"Once carting commences, water will flow through the new pipeline to the Mount Marley Water Treatment Plant where it will be treated by SDRC staff to initially create a blend of water between Connolly Dam water supply and the Storm King Dam water supply until the levels in Storm King Dam are too low and full water carting commences," the council statement said.

"As the treated water will be coming from a different source, it is expected that there may be a variation in colour or taste.

"The carted water will have a new taste, this is normal."

WHAT ABOUT WARWICK? The council has said it continues to investigate "alternative" sources of emergency water supply for Warwick in the event Leslie Dam depletes fully, which is still forecast to happen in "mid to late 2020" without significant rainfall.

Underground bores, including at Allora, are one identified option but the council has so far released few specific details about emergency measures for Warwick.

In late November the State Palaszczuk Government announced a million dollars to fund a 'feasibility study' into a pipeline

to Warwick from Cressbrook Dam in Toowoomba, which if constructed would allow access in turn to water from Wivenhoe Dam. Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk said water agency Seqwater would report to the government by April 2020, but it remains unclear if such a pipeline would be a shortterm solution for Warwick in the event that Leslie Dam runs dry.

’OVER THE RANGE’ Some good falls of rain over the last couple of weeks - however scattered - helped to lift spirits in places, but what is also significant is that the drought is breaching the traditional 'city versus country' divide.

No fewer than eight large metropolitan and coastal councils across southern Queensland have now joined the list of drought-declared parts of Queensland, with just over 67 per cent of the State's land-mass now under a drought declaration.

With dams forming part of the South East Queensland (SEQ) Water Grid now at just under 60 per cent of capacity, the Fraser Coast, Gympie, Moreton, Sunshine Coast and Noosa Regional Councils and the Gold Coast, Logan and Redland City Councils are now drought-declared, although the kind

of water restrictions to which we've become accustomed in our region are yet to bite in those areas.

In a statement released on Tuesday 10 December Queensland Minister for Agricultural Industry Development Mark Furner said he had "accepted the recommendations of the local drought committees based on the significant lack of rain, depleted pasture reserves and escalating concerns about agricultural water supply".

"Local drought committees usually meet at the end of the wet season in April, but due to the deteriorating conditions since then, these committees decided to recommend the areas be drought declared from 1 December," Mr Furner said.

"There are now 41 councils and four part council areas drought declared.

"In these regions, local drought committee members have observed extreme rainfall deficiencies, above average temperatures, poor pasture growth, low soil moisture profiles, failed winter grain, forage and horticultural crops, little to no planting of summer forage and grain crops, and significant concerns about stock, irrigation and rural water supplies." ● Continued page 6

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Thursday, 19 December, 2019

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SOUTHERN FREE TIMES 5

COVER STORY From page 5

THE ROADS TO WATER Our city and coastal Queensland cousins are showing in meaningful ways they are sympathetic to our plight - which at least 'officially' they have now joined as a result of the new South East Queensland drought declarations.

Among the many recent examples of assistance being given to locals

HELP IS HERE In addition to Granite Belt Drought Assist there are a number of drought relief groups working across the Southern Downs and Granite Belt to assist rural residents.

Their work includes being a contact and collection point for the many generous donations - particularly of bulk and bottled water - which continue to flow in from outside our region from generous Queenslanders on the other side of the Great

was the first delivery into the region of 25,000 litres of water leftover from brewing operations at Australia's largest beer-making operation, the Carlton and United Breweries (CUB) Yatala brewery in the Gold Coast region.

CUB has partnered with trucking company McColl's to make a weekly trip to the Warwick and Stanthorpe areas to deliver a free load of water to a rural family.

The non-potable - not suitable for

Dividing Range.

Remember - there is help on offer so don't be afraid to ask.

As well as Granite Belt Drought Assist, rural residents across the region can also contact Granite Belt Water Relief on 0439 420 289.

In the Warwick area a new group - Southern Downs Community Relief Group - is being established to help coordinate donations of water and other assistance. They can be contacted on 0491 614 748. ●

drinking - water is used in the brewing process, water that would otherwise go to waste, and will be used for stock watering purposes locally.

Greg and Sue Free at Womina just outside Warwick were the delighted recipients of the first load of CUB water last Friday 13 December.

Their family farming enterprise in good times is primarily based around cropping but in the present conditions their property is still holding a small

beef cattle herd of around 40 cows and calves.

The McColl's tanker arrived last Friday morning and Greg Free enthusiastically fired up the pumps to receive the donated water, watched by Sue and their grandchildren.

Local rural residents wishing to receive water donations through the CUB/McColl's initiative can contact Granite Belt Drought Assist on 0459 447 595. ●

Greg and Sue Free and grandchildren Dominic, Dimitri, Isla, Leticia and Darcy with Glenda Riley (right) of Granite Belt Drought Assist and CUB regional sales director Mick McKeown (left). Water On Wheels will bring leftover water from the brewing process at CUB's Yatala brewery into the region to help local rural residents.

NEWS

VOTE ON CHERRABAH WATER PLAN

BY JEREMY SOLLARS A plan by the Chinese owners of Cherrabah Resort at Elbow Valley east of Warwick to extract up to a million litres of underground water annually from the property is back on the table, almost a year to the day after it was first withdrawn by the owners.

Brothers Wenxing and Wenwei Ma sought approval in late 2018 from the Southern Downs Regional Council for their plan to extract the water, which was to have been transported to the Gold Coast for bottling for human consumption.

The Ma brothers' application had been due for consideration by councillors at their December 2018 general meeting but was unexpectedly withdrawn by the Ma's prior to that meeting.

As reported online by the Free Times earlier this week the application was resubmitted to the council in recent weeks by the Ma brothers and was on the agenda for

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brothers.

This is despite the Southern Downs and Granite Belt regions being in the grip of the worst drought on record.

The original 2018 application was lodged through a commercial entity owned by the Ma brothers - Royal Duke Holdings but the new application has been lodged under their Cherrabah property holding entity 'Joyful View Garden Real Estate Development Resort Co Pty Ltd'.

The Ma brothers have a current

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this week's December 2019 council meeting, the last general meeting for the year - held yesterday, Wednesday 18 January - with a recommendation from council officers for it to be approved.

Council's planning officers last year recommended councillors refuse the original application but this time around have changed their tune, with a report to councillors stating the council has no power to dispute or challenge the State water allocations currently held by the Ma

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Cherrabah Resort at Elbow Valley east of Warwick.

licence to extract up to 96 megalitres of underground water per year from Cherrabah, until the year 2111.

A number of surrounding and nearby property owners in the Elbow Valley area lodged formal objections to the new application, as was the case in 2018.

In 2018 many Elbow Valley locals did question the actual availability of the allocated water on Cherrabah due to drought conditions but in 2019 still remain aghast at the proposed water-grab by outside commercial interests.

The Ma brothers were also behind a much earlier proposal to develop Cherrabah into an international tourism venue, plans which to date have remained shelved since 2016. · THE FREE TIMES THIS WEEK WENT TO PRINT AS THE DECEMBER COUNCIL MEETING WAS BEING HELD YESTERDAY. FOR UPDATES ON THE CHERRABAH WATER VOTE VISIT www.freetimes.com.au ●

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Thursday, 19 December, 2019

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SOUTHERN FREE TIMES 7

NEWS

Times may be tough in the livestock industry but producers look ahead to better days – and are entitled to know about future plans for the Warwick Saleyards. Competition in the saleyards sector is growing, with a $1.25 million redevelopment of sheep selling facilities at the Glen Innes saleyards having commenced in November of this year.

SALEYARDS MASTER PLAN RELEASE REFUSED

BY JEREMY SOLLARS The Southern Downs Regional Council has refused to release a copy of a new 'master plan' for the Warwick Saleyards to the Free Times under Right To Information (RTI).

As reported last week, the Free Times lodged an RTI application in October seeking to obtain a copy of the new master plan, which was endorsed by councillors during a confidential session at their September meeting this year.

The development of the new master plan followed a long-running controversy throughout 2017 and 2018 over a proposal considered by the council to outsource management of the saleyards to a private operator, understood at the time to be RLX Regional Livestock Exchanges, which operates numerous saleyards in the eastern states.

After facing fierce opposition to such a plan from the region's primary production sector the council shelved the idea in June 2018, with Mayor Tracy Dobie ruling out future consideration of private management

of the Warwick Saleyards, at least during the current term of councillors.

Given the previous interest in matters related to the Saleyards the Free Times felt it was in the public interest for details of the new master plan to be reported.

Instead, in a letter to the Free Times dated 9 December 2019, the council advised access to the "entire document" would be refused on the following grounds, that public release of the master plan could · Prejudice the professional, commercial or financial affairs of entities · Prejudice trade secrets, business affairs or research of an agency · Prejudice the competitive commercial activities of an agency · Prejudice a deliberative process of government The Free Times will appeal the decision to publicly release the new Saleyards master plan - we'll keep readers informed of the progress of this matter.

It is known that the new master plan was compiled by business consultants Wiley &

Co, commissioned by the council to develop the last master management plan for the Warwick Saleyards, which was presented to the council back in March 2014.

That 2014 master plan recommended a $4.5 million upgrade to the Saleyards - including workplace health and safety improvements - involving a new 'draft and receivals' area adjacent to the existing canteen, new cattle and sheep sale pens and a new ring road around the complex.

WHAT WE DID GET...

As part of our RTI application in October, the Free Times also requested access to the minutes of a meeting of the council's Saleyards Advisory Committee held on Thursday 29 August 2019.

A copy of the minutes was released to us under RTI, but with key sections 'redacted' or blocked out, again due to 'commercial in confidence' 'reasons'. Below are key excerpts from the minutes, also showing material which was 'redacted' or removed from release under RTI. Continued next page

Merry Christmas!

The Management Committee and all of the staff from the Warwick RSL Memorial Club would like to wish all of our wonderful members, patrons & visitors a very Merry & Safe Christmas.

Your continued support is sincerely appreciated and with out it, we would not have a Club, so THANK YOU! We look forward to bringing new, positive and wonderful changes to the club in the New Year and cannot wait to share them with you all!

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Thursday, 19 December, 2019

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NEWS MEETING ORDER 12.07 pm Welcome to attendees 12.10 pm Saleyard Master Plan presentation completed by (redacted) Senior Project Manager, Wileys & Co. It was advised to all attendees following the presentation that the presentation document remains in commercial confidence until Council endorsement is received. It was requested that all hard copies of the presentation remain in Council Chambers.

General discussion arose relating to: · Utilisation of existing site located at corner of McEvoy Street and Bracker Road Warwick (remainder redacted) · Query relating to cattle capacity and selling pen quantities (remainder redacted) · Potential to integrate additional income streams onsite for example; 24 hour truck stop, camper sites, service station, cafes. · Use of multi-use pens to increase sustainability and increase saleyard operating days · Spelling yard allowance · Soft flooring options, types and costs and yard service regularity · Roof catchment area for repurposing of water and regularity of yard drenching · The necessity for the completion of a survey of actual economic and community impact of the region for lobbying of state and federal representatives in relation to funding

opportunities within the next twelve months. · An analysis is needed of if no restructure is completed of the saleyards the impact it would have in comparison to other yards and their progress moving forward.

Discussion ended 1.14 pm.

MINUTES OF THE SALEYARDS ADVISORY COMMITTEE, Held in the Warwick Council Chambers on Thursday 29 August 2019 at 12.00pm PRESENT Chair: Graham Kirkland Committee members: Cr Jo McNally, Cr Marika McNichol, Blake Doro, Bill Jubb, Fran Thompson, Andrew Williams, Matthew Grayson. Observers David Keenan, (Chief Executive Officer), Joanne Morris (Director Corporate & Community Services), Peter Gribbin (Manager Corporate and Commercial Services), Andrew Page (Manager Finance and Information Technology), Bernie Brosnan (Saleyards Coordinator), Leanne Limacher and Dianna Keir (Minute Secretary).

APOLOGIES Les Fraser MATTERS ARISING Saleyard in-house TV: As a follow up from the previous meeting it was noted that a draft agreement provided by GR Professional for the installation of the system has been forwarded to the SDRC Procurement team on the 14th August for their approval.

We are still waiting on a response from Procurement Branding and Agents Association - Cattle marking: It was also queried if any developments regarding branding and the Agents Association had

occurred. It was noted that due to differing software systems and the risk to remove paint branding the best process is yet to be reviewed.

SALEYARD REPORT - Bernie Brosnan - A copy of 2018/2019 YTD sales figures was presented to the Committee and a general discussion took place regarding the impact of the ongoing drought on future sales numbers. It was noted that the selling fence and loading ramps have been well received and that a request to replace the 'smoko' shelter had been raised. No major workplace health and safety issues were recorded.

FINANCIAL REPORT - Andrew Page - A financial report was presented outlining current impacts on revenue including loss of the truck wash and lack of rain. It was reported to the committee that an expression of interest for the upgrade of a treated truck washing facility had been submitted through the Building Our Regions Fund. Funding outcome is anticipated for December 2019. Currently the pipeline is scheduled to be delivered in 2020.

MASTER PLAN - Following the Master Plan presentation it was noted that Council endorsement of the Master Plan and report is yet to be confirmed. General discussion arose regarding: · Presented land cost as outlined in the presentation will most likely double. · The grade of steel used in construction to ensure that posts remain rust resistant to ensure longevity and reduce ongoing maintenance costs.

· The promotional value of educational tours; western corridor youth, saleyard tours, produce education tours.

It was requested that a communications plan be commenced. Committee members maintained collective responsibility that open communication between the Saleyards Advisory Committee and Council be adopted in relation to the future of the Saleyards in the form of joint meetings. The Committee noted the significance of ensuring that the general public are educated of the Committee's commitment to this project. It was suggested that media communications could include quotations from Committee members. (It was moved) - THAT the Saleyards Advisory Committee endorse the Master Plan and submit to Council for their acceptance. THAT the Saleyards Advisory Committee recommend that Council approve the development of a detailed business case to inform which option is most feasible to progress the project. Carried FUTURE MEETINGS - Proposed Saleyards Advisory Committee 2020 Meeting Schedule · 9.00 - 11.30am Thursday 27 February 2020 · 9.00 - 11.30am Thursday 28 May 2020 · 9.00 - 11.30am Thursday 27 August 2020 · 9.00 - 11.30am Thursday 26 November 2020 ●

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Thursday, 19 December, 2019

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SOUTHERN FREE TIMES 9

NEWS work and creativity of our peers." · For more information and to download an entry form visit www. queenslandshows.com.au · All entries must be submitted via email by Friday 31 January 2020 to qldshowsnextgen@gmail.com

FRIENDLY TOWN The Campervan and Motorhome Club of Australia (CMCA) has recognised Goondiwindi as an 'RV Friendly Town™'.

Goondiwindi Regional Council, Goondiwindi Show P & A Society and CMCA have together acknowledged a mutual understanding for Goondiwindi town to be part of the CMCA's RV Friendly Town program. The program is recognised by many travellers across Australia.

The CMCA requires towns to meet a list of strict criteria in order to be classed as RV-Friendly. Goondiwindi exceeded all of the required points except for low-cost camping: Goondiwindi Regional Council does not own any suitable freehold land that would meet the CMCA's criteria, and so Goondiwindi had previously been unable to gain RV-Friendly accreditation.

To tackle this, the Goondiwindi Show P & A Society has agreed to allow shortand long-term overnight parking (for up to one week) at a reduced rate in order to meet the required criteria. Mayor of the Goondiwindi region Graeme Scheu said the Show Society's contribution and the town's subsequent recognition as RV Friendly would be a great boost for the town's visitor economy.

"Obviously the issue of free and low-

A JOYOUS CHRISTMAS AND A HEALTHY NEW YEAR TO ALL OUR READERS, CLIENTS AND SUPPORTERS The Southern Free Times management and staf would like to thank everyone for their continued support of a local independent newspaper during 2019.

We wish you fun times with family and friends over this coming festive season and look forward to engaging with you in 2020.

First publication 2020 January 16th

Oice Closed from Thursday 19th December to Thursday 9th January 2020 94 Palmerin Street Warwick Phone 07 4661 9800 sales@freetimes.com.au www.freetimes.com.au 12436545-LB51-19

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Thursday, 19 December, 2019

PHONE SMART Smart phones are becoming popular Christmas gifts, but Legal Aid Queensland is warning consumers to do their homework before signing their contracts.

Legal Aid Queensland senior consumer lawyer Paul Holmes said he was expecting calls after Christmas from people wanting help with contract problems including debt management and termination fees.

"The biggest problem we see is with lock-in contracts," Mr Holmes said.

"Most contracts have no cooling-off period, so people need to ensure they've done their homework, have checked the fine print and know their rights before they sign anything.

"People usually come to us after they've found themselves trapped in mobile contracts and the problems usually start when they've got behind with their monthly payments.

"In many cases we see, their debt has kept building and, because of the contract's terms and conditions, it's nearly impossible for them to afford to pay their contract out and walk away."

Mr Holmes said most people put

the contract pay-out in the "too-hard basket".

"People need to know some phone providers have specific hardship policies, so they may be able to negotiate a more workable payment plan.

"We encourage people to at least ask their phone company for financial hardship provisions if they're struggling to make their payments - the worst they can say is 'no'."

Mr Holmes said consumers should also know the difference between prepaid and post-paid contracts.

"Pre-paid phone contracts are where you buy the phone and then purchase phone credits to use, while post-paid phone contracts are where you pay for the services you've used at the end of each month," he said.

"Many people don't realise that for some of these contracts they're only leasing the phone and will not own it at the end of the contract."

Mr Holmes said people with a mobile phone contract problem should talk to their service provider first but if they can't resolve the problem, they can contact Legal Aid Queensland on 1300 65 11 88, or a financial counsellor on 1800 007 007, or the Australian Communications Consumer Action Network on 02 9288 4000. For more information about making a complaint about a telecommunications provider visit www.tio.com.au ●

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cost camping has been an ongoing issue in Goondiwindi, so it's really good to see the community working together and I can't thank the Show Society enough for their assistance and contribution," Cr Scheu said.

"This is about attracting as many visitors to the town as we can and to have them stay overnight is even better."

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Queensland Ag Shows volunteers who consistently demonstrate commitment to innovation and excellence are set to be recognised when the Queensland Shows Awards (QSAs) return in 2020.

An initiative of the Queensland Ag Shows Next Generation Committee, the QSAs serve to acknowledge the contribution of not just show societies and their events, but also the grassroots people whose tireless efforts embody the values of the agricultural show movement.

Winners will be announced at the Queensland Ag Shows Gala Dinner on Saturday 14 March 2020 in Rockhampton, in conjunction with the 2020 Qld Ag Shows Annual General Meeting.

Awards categories include · Outstanding individual contribution · Emerging leader · Best innovation in a local event Next Generation president, Brianna Hockey said the awards, which are sponsored by Sandstream Etching, encouraged teams and individuals to innovate and maintain their commitment to achieving excellence.

"With more than 580 agricultural shows held across Australia each year, the movement boasts the largest volunteer base in the country and a combined annual economic value in excess of $965 million," she said.

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NEWS

SERVO DECISION AT SPECIAL MEETING

BY JEREMY SOLLARS

The servo at the intersection of Wallace and Locke streets, opposite Warwick Hospital.

The application was originally considered by councillors at their November monthly meeting on Wednesday 27 November but it was deferred for further consideration.

Council officers in November recommended that any extension of operating hours - beyond the 'existing' 7am to 7pm seven days a week - and the above-ground fuel storage be refused by councillors due to non-compliance with the rules of the council's planning scheme.

Neighbours had previously complained to the council in mid-2018 about unlawful

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out of hours operation of the service station, increased fuel deliveries, traffic queuing, health and safety concerns and reflection of noise, light and odour.

The council served a 'show cause' notice on the operators in October last year, foreshadowing enforcement action if the site continued to operate after 7pm or if the operator did not submit a development permit to seek approval of the extended hours.

Neighbours who objected to the application stated in their submissions that

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the operators of the service station had "used the system" and had "played a clever game of brinkmanship with the council, local residents and ratepayers" by waiting some 12 months for the 'Show Cause' notice to be served on them by the council.

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Southern Downs councillors last week approved a development application to extend the operating hours of the Metro Petroleum service station at the corner of Wallace and Locke Streets in Warwick.

The operators had also applied for approval to store diesel fuel in an aboveground tank but this was refused.

As a result the service station will now be allowed to operate from 6am to 8pm seven days a week. The operators had applied for approval to operate from 6am to 10pm Monday to Saturday, and 6am to 9pm on Sundays.

A report to councillors stated that the 'existing use rights' allowed operation from 7am to 7pm seven days a week.

A number of local residents made formal submissions on the development application which went before a Special Council Meeting held on Monday 9 December.

All councillors voted in favour, with the exception of Cr Yve Stocks who declared a potential conflict of interest due to her personal association with two of the neighbours of the site who made submissions, with Cr Stocks leaving the meeting chamber when the vote was taken and not participating in the discussion.

The operators had applied for council permission to store 25,000 litres of diesel in an above-ground 'self-bunded' tank on the northern boundary of the site, which was refused.

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Thursday, 19 December, 2019

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SOUTHERN FREE TIMES 11

NEWS

ANGLICANS WELCOME NEW RECTOR

BY JEREMY SOLLARS The 'Christmas message' of goodwill and hope will resonate as the Southern Downs and Granite Belt communities wind down towards the end of what for many has been a long year, and one in which individual and collective resolve has been sorely tested in the face of drought.

One person joining - or more accurately, re-joining - the Warwick community during one of its toughest times is the new Rector of the Anglican Parish of Warwick, the Reverend Lizzie Gaitskell.

Some of the longer-time locals will recall her dad, The Reverend John Pryce-Davies, who was a one-time curate at St Mark's Anglican Church from 1987 to 1988, where Lizzie found her first job - as a bell-ringer - while completing her senior schooling at The Scots PGC College.

But Lizzie's path to the priesthood was not taken until the late 1990s - after an initial career in town planning, and extensive overseas travel - when she decided it was time to embark on her own 'spiritual journey'.

This also followed a move back to Queensland to start a family.

"My dad was a priest and my mum was a teacher - the two things I once told myself I'd never look at, which proves God has a sense of humour," Rev Gaitskell told the Free Times.

"I was ordained as a deacon in 2003 and then as a priest in 2004, when I was pregnant with my first child.

Rev Lizzie Gaitskell is the new Rector of the Warwick Anglican Parish, pictured here in St Mark’s Church.

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NEWS "My first curacy was at Buderim, followed by St James' Parish in Toowoomba, during which my second child was born, and later at St Paul's at Ipswich.

"It was Archdeacon Matthew Jones from St Paul's who suggested I look at ministry in schools and for the last 10 years or so that's where I've been - including almost eight years at West Moreton Anglican College and the last three years at Matthew Flinders Anglican College on the Sunshine Coast.

"The youngest of my children was born during my time in Anglican Schools.

"The opportunity here in Warwick came along to transition back into a parish role and that's something I'm really relishing and looking forward to.

"The welcome we've had from the parish 'family' has been wonderful.

"Parish ministry offers a different set of challenges and opportunities to school ministry.

"It's also really nice to be back in Warwick - it's wonderful to see that vista as you drive into town with the spires of the churches.

"Warwick has noticeably grown in the time I've been away, with new subdivisions and new residential pockets we've noticed."

With her three children, Isaac, 14, Joshua, 12, and Mair, 8, part of Rev Gaitskell's immediate focus - along with celebrating Christmas in the Warwick Anglican Parish and getting to know the locals - is settling the family into their new home and preparing the children for school in the new year at Assumption College and St Mary's Primary School, with the help of their father Stuart, who has also re-located to Warwick.

"As far as the parish is concerned it's really about me getting my feet on the ground and getting a handle on everything and meeting people - it's a case of 'hastening

slowly'," Lizzie said.

Rev Gaitskell is acutely aware she's beginning her Warwick parish ministry at a time of unprecedented drought and

believes the Anglican and other churches in the region play a dual role in supporting the community, both on a spiritual level and a practical one, when it comes to connecting those in need with on-the-ground support services.

"While I was at Matthew Flinders (Anglican College) we established a rural partnership with the Anglican Parish of Leichhardt-Chinchilla, and the students had the opportunity to visit those communities this year and also offer fund-raising support over the past few years," Rev Gaitskell said.

"We worked in a close partnership with the Murilla Community Centre and that gave the students an insight into the stresses of the drought and the heartbreak in those communities and families.

"It's really important that people living in the cities don't live in a 'bubble' and that they understand the widespread nature of this drought.

"Having said that, there's an enormous amount of goodwill pouring out of the cities towards people in the bush.

"I think we need a better national response to drought - we seem to be able to network around so many other things effectively at a national level.

"From a church perspective you want to offer more than just platitudes when people are experiencing really difficult times.

"You want to be doing things that make sense and the parish here is doing a lot of support work behind the scenes, serving and building relationships in the community, and connecting to groups who are part of the efforts to provide relief and care.

Ivy would like to thank all her clientele for their support during 2019.

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Thursday, 19 December, 2019

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SOUTHERN FREE TIMES 13

NEWS "I think at this time of year, at Christmas, it's a time to reflect on God acting in ways we don't expect, and that God is with those who are vulnerable and are hurting - that paradox threads its way through the Bible.

"Jesus challenged those who thought they'd got everything sorted, or whose priorities didn't go beyond their own power, success or rightness.

"We're reminded that uncertainty and endurance can form part of life's experience but that God doesn't keep us at arm's length - he's in the midst of the muck and toil.

"His love, hope and joy are there in the people we meet or the situations we find ourselves in - the unexpected conversation, the random act of kindness, the helping hand."

HOPE SPRINGS...

Father Franco Filipetto of St Mary's Catholic Parish in Warwick shared Rev Gaitskell's thoughts at Christmas, saying as the region prepares for the season "we might not have the same enthusiasm as in previous years because the drought and bushfires have, in some way, overshadowed our preparation".

"Indeed, many may be celebrating Christmas this year with a heavy heart because of the threat to farmers' livelihoods and also to business," Fr Franco told the Free Times.

"I am always struck when someone, even in these difficult times, says it will rain!

"I think that this is very much a reflection of God, who has great faith in us.

"As we reflect on the Christmas story the birth of Jesus - we are moved because God did not give up on humanity.

"Instead, God made a gift of his own Son

and became human.

"As I drive around the country and see the new-born calves and lambs, I find it exciting mainly because of the beauty of the new-born, but also because of the potential they represent.

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"A very happy and holy Christmas to all and best wishes for a prosperous New Year." ●

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Stanthorpe Season’s Greetings 116฀high฀st฀•฀stanthorpe

The team at Burton & Sons Bi-Rite wish you all the best for the season.

The team at MWF would like to thank you for your patronage throughout 2019 and wish you all a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.

We will be closed for Christmas Day but will reopen on Boxing Day from 9am - 12noon. Friday 27th will be trading as per normal but we will be closed on Saturday 28th.

Licensed Plumbers, Drainers, Gas Fitters & Plumbing Supplies

We will also be closed on New Years Day, ready to start fresh for 2020 trading.

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With Christmas comes peace, hope and joy. I wish you and yours a memorable holiday season filled with great company and good cheer.

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Josh and Cara wish everyone a safe and festive holiday season.

They will be closed from close of business Friday 20th December and reopen Monday 6th January.

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Thursday, 19 December, 2019

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For all urgent enquires phone 0447 598 161.

SOUTHERN FREE TIMES 15

Stanthorpe Season Greetings

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We will be closed from 2.00pm 24th December and re-open Monday 30th December. We will also be closed on January 1st.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year from all the team at JSI Motorcycles. We are thankful for all your patronage in 2019, and look forward to an even better and wetter 2020.

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We wish you all a VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS AND HOPE WE ARE ALL IN FOR A WET NEW YEAR.

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Scott and all the team wsh you a very Merry Chrstms and a safe and happy New Year.

Phone

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Michael and the team would like to take this opportunity to thank all our valued customers for their support over the last year.

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Thursday, 19 December, 2019

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Stanthorpe Season’s Greetings Grace and all the staff wish all their clients the very best Christmas and New Year surrounded by all their loved ones.

We will be closed Monday 23rd of December and re-open Monday 6th January.

Mal and staff would like to wish all their customers a very happy festive season and look forward to helping you all again in 2020.

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Pierpoint Motors will be closed for the Christmas break from 5:00pm 24th December, 2019 and will reopen 8:00am 6th January, 2020.

Allora QCWA Rooms, arwick St, Allora 9am-10am

We would like thank our customers for theirGoomburra Hall ongoing support during 2019 and wish everyone a safe and happy Christmas.

10.30am-11am angan Hall 12.30pm-1pm

Maryvale Hall 11.30am-12pm

JAMES LISTER MP Member for Southern Downs

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“Belinda and I wish everyone in Southern Downs a Merry Christmas and a drought-breaking new year.”

Thursday, 19 December, 2019

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We look forward to seeing you in 2020.

SOUTHERN FREE TIMES 17

Stanthorpe Season’s Greetings

WEDNESDAY 1

ST

JANUARY 2020 11AM – 5PM Local legend band Whiskey Gully will be entertaining you all along with Cole Train and this year’s new addition Nine Year Sister.

The bands will keep the music going from 11am to 5pm, sometimes ‘jamming’ together but always entertaining.

Tickets are $35 each which includes entertainment and a glass of wine on arrrival. $10 from every ticket sold will be donated to the Rural Fire Service. Children FREE. 12437387-FA52-19

BYO food and nibbles with water, soft drinks, beer and wine available for purchase on the day.

For those not quite organised cheese and fruit platters can be booked ahead online, otherwise bring your Christmas and New Year’s Eve leftovers.

Book your tickets, platters and bus transport at trybooking.com/BGLCM 18 SOUTHERN FREE TIMES

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Thursday, 19 December, 2019

freetimes.com.au

NEWS

SAM CELEBRATES A MILESTONE

Sam cutting his cake. with just the simplest things.

On behalf of Sam he would like to thank his daughters - Carmel, Virginia, Madeline and Geraldine as well as their families for helping put on a fantastic celebration.

As well as his family and friends who travelled far and wide to be with him for this momentous achievement. Each one of you means so much to Sam and his 90th Birthday celebration was as much for him as it was for you as well. ●

From our Management team and Staff

AND NEW YEAR GREETINGS

Wishing all our valued customers and their 4 legged friends all the best for the festive season.

Closed from 1pm Tuesday 24th December 2019 Re Opens Monday 6th January 2020 2/36 Wood St (Cunningham Highway) Warwick, QLD 4370

Closing 5pm Tuesday 24th Dec. Reopening 9am Monday 30th Dec. Closed New Years Day

Ph: 07 4661 3144

All Warwick Credit Union branches will be CLOSED on:

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Wednesday 25 December 2019 Thursday 26 December 2019 Wednesday 1 January 2020 *normal trading hours otherwise apply

Wishing everyone a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year

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

Shop 4/109 PALMERIN STREET, WARWICK Ph: 0409 065 850 www.crossdraw.com.au in-store & online

12435430-LB52-19

94 Palmerin Street Warwick Phone 07 4661 9800

sales@freetimes.com.au www.freetimes.com.au

www.wcu.com.au

TILKEY “The Blue House on the Hill” Christmas Closures: Close: Friday 20th December 2019 Re-Open: Monday 13th January 2020

ROSEWOOL UGGS & RUGS WISHING EVERYONE A MERRY CHRISTMAS AND HAPPY & SAFE NEW YEAR Closed Public Holidays

www.tilkey.com.au 103 Alexandra Drive, Warwick

Rosewool Uggs & Rugs PH 0438 615 321 111 Palmerin St (opposite the Post Office) Warwick, Q, 4370

07 4661 7794

12435442-LB51-19

Sam’s Fruit 44 Middleton Road, Cottonvale Ph 4685 21 56

IVY ST, KILLARNEY QLD 4373 (07) 46641188 www.killarneycoop.com

62 Maryland Street | Stanthorpe 07 4681 3608

12436524-FA51-19

vegs in store now for Christmas

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and cherries plus 90 lines of fruit and

Last edition 2019: 19th December First edition 2020: Thursday 16th January

Killarney Co-op would like to wish their customers a safe & Happy Festive Season

CLOSED PUBLIC HOLIDAYS ONLY

Full range of local stone fruit, berries

The Southern Free Times office will be closed from Friday 20th December 2019, and will reopen on Thursday 9th January 2020.

12437162-CG52-19

Wishing all our valued clients an enjoyable Christmas and a healthy New Year

1300 724 433 12437059-LB52-19

SOUTHERN FREE TIMES OFFICE CLOSURE TIMES

Wishing Everyone a Happy and Safe Christmas and New Year from the Betta Bilt Team.

We will be closing Friday 20th December and re-opening Monday 13th January 2020

48 Albion Street, Warwick

Ph 07 4661 8111

CABINETS

freetimes.com.au

Wishing all customers a

Warwick Rosenthal Road 07 4661 1827 Stanthorpe Texas Road 07 4681 3138

12434245-FA52-19

12436984-LB44-19

65 Albion St, Warwick T: 4661 1229 warwickrsl.com.au

12436818-SN51-19

WALLS SAND & GRAVEL PTY LTD WALLS CONCRETE PTY LTD

We would like to wish everyone a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

12437635-SN52-19

Christmas

Story and photos contributed by Sam's family.

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year CLOSED PUBLIC HOLIDAYS

www.wallssandandgravel.com.au

0439 619 644 | 4661 9544

Email: wallsandgravel@gmail.com We will be closing at 12pm on 21st Dec and will reopen on 6th Jan 2020.

Shed 1/105 McEvoy Street, Warwick Qld 4370 neal51@bigpond.com

12434038 LB51 19 12434038-LB51-19

Salvatore 'Sam' Cristina celebrated his 90th birthday on Sunday the 8th of December with his loving family and close friends from around the community.

Some may know Sam from his family business 'The Highway Store', while others may know him from his most recent endeavours such as walking from Stanthorpe to Warwick for Cancer, opening St Joseph's Church and helping Father Connelly, as well as doing the local paper run in the street.

Many will know Sam as 'Father Christmas', which he has dedicated most of his life to bringing joy the Stanthorpe community every December and some Julys too. However you know Sam, he always leaving a beautiful lasting impression and you become family from that moment on.

The day was spent hearing lovely stories about Sam and was topped off by Sam and Dawn, his wife, singing a beautiful rendition of 'Forever and Ever'. There was not a dry eye in the house - this alone shows how Sam touches everyone's lives

Wishing Everyone Merry Christmas and a Happy and Safe New Year in 2020

61 Grafton Street, Warwick  4661 2418

Thursday, 19 December, 2019

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SOUTHERN FREE TIMES 19

NEWS

BIG 2020 AHEAD FOR MATT CAMPBELL Porsche has promoted talented Australian Matt Campbell, who hails from Warwick, to full "factory driver status" for 2020.

The German marque confirmed last week that Campbell and Frenchman Mathieu Jaminet have been elevated to the full works squad having been operating as Porsche's young professionals this year.

Announced at Porsche's annual Night of Champions, the pair will replace the experienced Jorg Bergmeister and 2015 and 2017 World Endurance champion Timo Bernhard.

Campbell's factory program for next year has been revealed with the 24-year-old set to contest the five round Intercontinental GT Challenge campaign in one of two factory entries.

He will join a driver line-up that includes

Jaminet, Patrick Pilet, Dirk Werner, Thomas Preining and Matteo Cairoti.

The news confirms Campbell's return to the Liqui-Moly Bathurst 12 Hour after helping Porsche to victory in this year's event driving for Earl Bamber Motorsport alongside Werner and Dennis Olsen.

In addition to his IGTC drives, Campbell will also join Porsche's IMSA WeatherTech Championship 2020 squad for the long distance Daytona 24 Hours, Sebring and Petit Le Mans events.

The Warwick native will team up with Nick Tandy (Great Britain) and Frederic Makowiecki (France), while the second 911 RSR will be piloted New Zealand's Earl Bamber, Laurens Vanthoor (Belgium) and Jaminet.

Well done to Matt and best wishes for 2020! ●

YOUR COMMUNITY CLUB...

Community clubs are not-for-profit, membership-based and communityorientated association of people. They are established by people with common interests to pursue and promote those interests.

The Warwick RSL Memorial Club is Warwick's premier venue. The club is your one stop for dining, entertainment, gaming and event and functions. With four state of the art function rooms, each containing projectors and full AV equipment, whatever your function might be - corporate or casual - we have something to suit everyone's needs. The Club offers free live music every

Friday night in the main bar from 8pm, Karaoke the first Saturday of every month and DJs every second Saturday night.

Before enjoying our excellent entertainment be sure to treat your tastebuds in our bistro with our famous Friday and Saturday night buffet. And be sure to catch FUGARWIE live at the Club to see you into the New Year.

The Warwick RSL would like to wish all of our members and guests a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! Keep up to date with what is happening by visiting our Facebook page and at www.warwickrsl. com.au ●

Your Guide to Building & Renovating Made from Bluescope Australian Steel

See The Display Sheds in McEvoy Street.

Talk to Neal about your shed needs.

12425603-SN35-19

Full service - Slab, Erection & Councils Phone Neal Simpson on

07 4661 9835 833

Specialising in Commercial, 1300 737 Industrial and Domestic Sheds.

Servicing the Warwick | Stanthorpe | Tenterfield districts

FLOOR COVERINGS CARPET | VINYL | TILES | LAMINATE | BLINDS | SHUTTERS

16 Betta Place, Warwick Ph: 4667 1471 Mob: 0418 717 851 20 SOUTHERN FREE TIMES

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Thursday, 19 December, 2019

NSW237076c

12402484-RC44-18

FULLY INSTALLED OR SUPPLY ONLY •฀Awnings,฀Blinds฀&฀Shutters •฀Patios฀-฀Inclosures฀&฀Patio฀Kits •฀Verandahs฀&฀Decks •฀Fencing,฀Gates,฀Retaining฀Walls฀&฀Screening •฀Gazebos,฀Pergolas฀&฀Shade฀Structures www.warwickoutdoorimprovements.com.au Email฀admin@wckoi.com.au QBCC฀-฀1005229

0422 153 397

• Carpet • Vinyl • Vinyl Planks • Shutters • Blinds • Floating Laminated Floors • Ceramic Tiles for Floors, Walls & Outdoor • Carpet Rugs & Runners made to order

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WARWICK OUTDOOR IMPROVEMENTS

QBCC1197750

warwick@rfsteelbuildings.com.au

freetimes.com.au

NEW YEAR’ShEVE party at t e inter club IN AID OF

FOR OUR COMMUMITY

Live Band “Lodi” Lucky Door Prizes Lite Supper included Tickets $30 each $60 Family (2 Adults/ 3 Children) $5 extra child

Major Sponsor

Hurry!

Only 200 Tickets Sold

chillimillimusic.com

TICKETS AVAILABLE FROM: Qld Country Credit Union • Gracious Giving Maddie’s Git Gallery • Pink Poppies 12437575-SN52-19

freetimes.com.au

Thursday, 19 December, 2019

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SOUTHERN FREE TIMES 21

property VIEWS FROM THE DECK A brick and tile home reduced to $240,000. Three bedrooms with built in cupboards and ceiling fan. The twoway bathroom with bath and shower has entry from main bedroom and hallway. A convenient kitchen with pantry, breakfast bench, good cupboard and work area.

The open plan living has wood heater and reverse-cycle air conditioner, ceiling fans and security doors.

A covered outdoor area has views to TAFE and toward the south. The single lockup garage has a remote door. Fenced 805sqm backyard includes a lockup garden shed.

For further information and inspection please contact Joan Mullins on 0409 403 258. Agent in conjunction. ●

HOME ESSENTIALS Address: 27 Walker Street, WARWICK Price: $240,000 Description: 3 bedrooms, 1 bathroom, 1 garage Inspect: By appointment Contact: Joan Mullins 0409 403 258, WARWICK REAL ESTATE

Great Value

REDUCED!!!

3A 1B 2C Very afordable 3 bedroom timber home surrounded by established trees and shrubs only a short stroll from the CBD. Huge 1012m2 block zoned Medium density residential with potential to subdivide subject to SDRC approval. Property is fully fenced with a double colorbond garage. Fantastic opportunity to renovate or invest with a great long term tenant.

128 Percy Street Neil Carney 0419 768 423

$179,000

Stately Family Home Set on 7015m2 4A 3B 2C This rare to ind residence with space for the whole family. Features 4 bedrooms master with ensuite, timber kitchen, casual dining, spacious formal dining/lounge room with granite stone open ire place, family room, rumpus/games room and oice. Front verandah with views, rear covered private outdoor entertainment area overlooking established landscaped grounds and tennis court. Even has it's own bore for domestic use, 2 carports.

9 Anna’s Place Doug Rickert 0437 618 360

$489,000

Comfortable Family Home 4A 2B 2C

Great First Home or Investment 3A 1B 2C

There is room for the entire family in this 4 bedroom home with 2 living rooms. A formal lounge room is of the front entry plus there is an air conditioned open plan kitchen, dining and living room that opens to an undercover entertainment area. All bedrooms have built in wardrobes and the master has ensuite. Double lock up garage has internal access to the home. A garden shed is also on the 782sqm fenced block. Located in a great location in Cinema Heights. Don’t miss your opportunity

This neat three bedroom home sits on easy care 602sqm block handy to the town centre. The open plan kitchen and dining area is air conditioned and the lounge room has wood heater. All bedrooms are good size, 2 have built in wardrobes, 1 has air conditioning. A double lock up garage and garden shed are also on the block. A great starter home, investment, or perfect if you are looking to downsize.

33 Flynn Drive

1 Grafton Street

Scott McLennan 0418 588 884

$299,000

Scott McLennan 0418 588 884

$215,000

3 ACRE LIFESTYLE PROPERTY 3A 1B 4C

4 Bedroom Brick and Tile Home 4A 2B 2C

Conveniently situated only 6km from the CBD of Warwick. 3 bedroom brick home with kitchen, dining, lounge and family room with wood heater, Huge under cover north facing rear deck with rural views, large double carport attached plus a 6mx6m colorbond shed with power. With established trees, fully fenced, townwater and rainwater tank.

This well maintained 2005 built brick and tile home situated in the popular West Warwick close to West School, Hospital and Westside Shopping Centre. 4 builtin bedrooms master bedroom with r/c airconditioning ensuite and walk in robe, large open plan kitchen, dining, family room with r/c airconditioning plus a separate lounge room. Covered outdoor entertainment area overlooking the family friendly backyard with and gardens. Double lockup garage, fenced 813m2 block.

172 Warner Street

10 William Street

Doug Rickert 0437 618 360

$339,000

Doug Rickert 0437 618 360

$310,000

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 22 SOUTHERN FREE TIMES

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Thursday, 19 December, 2019

freetimes.com.au

HOME FOCUS

ONE ACRE WITH RIVER FRONTAGE THIS well maintained timber home with four bedrooms plus large sleepout/music room or office. Situated in a great position with views of the city and Condamine River. Eat-in kitchen with slow combustion wood stove and gas stove, lounge room with r/c airconditioning, family bathroom and spacious laundry.

Rear covered deck overlooking established gardens with double garage and workshop plus plenty of sheds, chook pens and aviaries. River water pump, solar power and set on a 4047m2 block, this home is only minutes from the CBD in a quiet street. This property is well worth your inspection to appreciate all it has to offer call today to arrange your inspection.

Contact Doug Rickert on 0437 618 360. $295,000 Neg ●

HOME ESSENTIALS Address: 5 Bakon Street, WARWICK Description: 4 bedrooms, 1 bathroom, 2 garage Price: $295,000 Neg Inspect: By Appointment Contact: Doug Rickert 0437 618 360, WARWICK REAL ESTATE

Near New 4 Bedroom 3 Bathroom Brick & Tile Home 4A 3B 2C Built by Richard Adams Homes in April 2018. Features 4 built-in bedrooms 2 ensuites and main family bathroom, modern stylish kitchen with open plan dining and family room plus separate lounge room. Reverse cycle airconditioning main bedroom, solar power 22 panels, covered outdoor entertainment area, fenced on 3 sides, 770m2 block situated in Griiths Estate Stage 3.

12 Derby Drive Doug Rickert 0437 618 360

$349,000

Neat 2 Bedroom Brick Home 2A 1B 2C Neat two bedroom brick home both with large built in cupboards * oice * lounge dining * kitchen with electric stove * covered outdoor area * double lockup garage * fully fenced 882sm block* agent in conjunction

21 Sturt St Joan Mullins 0409 403 258

$229,000

Immaculate Home On Large Block 4A 2B 2C Residence providing ample space & comfort with 4 spacious bedrooms + study nook, master bedroom has walk in robe & ensuite, remaining bedrooms have built-ins. Large lounge room has wood heater and is open plan with dining & kitchen. Ducted a/c throughout, double lock up garage has intyernal access. Undercover entertainment area with rural outlook positioned conveniently next to inground heated swimming pool.

Approx. 15m x 6m shed on fenced 1,464sqm block.

11 Johnson Street Scott McLennan 0418 588 884

$425,000

A B C

LAND FOR SALE MARYVALE

LAND IN LOTS 4046sm, 4047sm, 3.02ha, 3.28ha. Superb elevated building sites, 360 degrees mountain views, frontage to Millar Vale Ck, Short walk to primary school, high school bus, hotel, parks,, new identiication survey, water licences authorised for both irrigation & commercial purposes on some lots.

• Lot 1: 4046sm,Gravel road frontage,Electricity available, dual access. $89,000 • Lot 2: 4047sm Gravel road frontage, electricity available $69,000 • Lot 4: 3.02ha Gravel road frontage,120 metre, creek frontage, electricity available, 5 megalitre water licence $189,000 • Lot 5: 3.28ha Sealed bitumen road frontage,150 metre creek frontage, electricity available,2 megalitre water licence $199,000

Lot 1,2,3,4,5 Ramsay Joan Mullins 0409 403 258

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 freetimes.com.au

Thursday, 19 December, 2019

|

SOUTHERN FREE TIMES 23

OPINION THE POWER OF WORDS...

BY JEREMY SOLLARS As someone who makes a living from words, their use in all aspects of human interaction is of endless fascination to me, no more so than in the political realm.

In a previous working life and prior to being a journalist I worked for various politicians for a time and regularly wrote media statements which, while not always necessarily helping to explain away mistakes and errors of judgement made by my political masters - as well as the odd, old-fashioned cover-up - were sometimes what one might quaintly call 'economical with the truth' - here I'm channelling Sir Humphrey - or 'spin'. As a result, I like to think I can spot political BS when I see it, and in my present job that happens on a regular basis.

Political language tends to be the most abused and mis-used form of language. It has its own peculiar tone and 'feel' - almost always hollow, often double-edged, at times threatening - and the use of certain words makes me cringe. 'Committed' is one of them, and 'stakeholder' is another. Both words are invariably used as part of a political or bureaucratic strategy to, at best, convey an attempt to 'engage' the community - such as through 'public consultation' exercises, where the decision is almost always made long before any 'consultation' is carried out, and usually in secret - and at worst, to give advance warning that someone, somewhere, is about to lose out on something. Or in some cases, to be properly 'done over'.

In recent times we have seen political language employed by the present Prime Minister, Scott Morrison - aka 'The King of Cronulla' - who speaks of the 'Quiet Australians' - and last week, the 'Quiet Brits', who didn't seem all that quiet - prompting some, myself included, to wonder if 'quiet' is just how he likes us to be, and how we should all remain, because government has everything 'under control'. Except in Hong Kong, perhaps, but that's another issue. Quiet people, and quiet journalists, don't ask troubling, irritating questions all the time. Saves everyone a lot of bother.

But closer to home, our own local council uses political language in much the same way as higher levels of government. I am in no way having a crack here at the council's media officers - they are professionals and they do a professional job, and dare I say we enjoy the odd bit of media-type banter - but like anyone who works for government they are constrained, indeed, directed, in the way they are allowed to use language. As an ex"Public language confronts most of us every day of our lives, but rarely when we are with friends or family. Not yet, at least. It is not the language in which we address lovers, postmen, children and pets. So far.

True, in the households of young professionals they will say sometimes that the new dog 'adds alpha to their lifestyle'; that they need 'closure' with their orthodontist or mother; that they are 'empowered' by their Nikes. There is seepage from the public to the private. But that's all it is. 'At this point in time'.

Public language is the language of public life: the language of political and business leaders and civil servants official, formal, sometimes elevated language. It is the language of leaders more than the led, the managers rather than the managed. It takes very different forms: from shapely rhetoric to shapeless, enervating sludge, but in 24 SOUTHERN FREE TIMES

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ample of how political language infects all levels of our democracy, take the following statement released by the council the week before last, about a current controversy surrounding the use of road base laid over the Condamine River crossings at Killarney.

"Yesterday, senior Council staff met on site with representatives from Department of Environment and Science (DES) to inspect every crossing along the Condamine River Road," the statement read.

"The focus of the meeting for DES was gaining a better understanding of the local environment, the specifics of the works undertaken and the material used.

"The department is investigating the works and determining a way forward.

"Council remains focused on working proactively with the Department to address matters arising from their advice.

"As soon as Council has more information, a timeframe and an understanding of the best way forward, this information will be shared with the community.

every case it is the language of power and influence.

The difference between a dictatorship and a poll-driven democracy is that dictators kill or incarcerate their own citizens for political reasons. Dictatorships will not stand doubt: propaganda is used to create certainty, with terror in reserve. Democracies don't do this.

But the language of modern politics is

Thursday, 19 December, 2019

"Once more information is at hand a date will be set for the stakeholders meeting to be held in Killarney."

As well as the old chestnut of "stakeholders", the statement also uses other common political gems like "focus", "better understanding", "determining a way forward", "matters arising" and "working proactively".

"Committed" was somewhat disappointingly missing. Reading all these words collectively, you get the impression there's a lot more going on here than it seems, and you'd be correct. More on that later.

My point is that words have power. And used in certain ways they can cover up all manner of underlying political strategies, mis-deeds and downright cock-ups. I guess part of my job as a journalist involves attempting to interpret and translate political language for the benefit of readers. Lucky me.

And if you're in any doubt as to the power of words - and whether in fact we indeed truly 'value' freedom of speech in this country

increasingly ruthless about doubters, or even people with imagination.

Parties stay 'on strategy', leaders 'on message', and the 'message' and the 'strategy' are both drawn from the polls; which means that anyone who thinks differently may be interpreted as resisting the will of the people.

The language is constructed so that it never leads the mind to those places minds naturally go: towards mysteries,

- look no further than the Israel Folau saga. I do not share his view that homosexuals - or for that matter drunks, adulterers, thieves, liars, atheists and idolators, don't forget he rounded up all of them too - will burn in eternal hellfire. But I sure as hell do defend his right to say that, as well as defending my own right to say I think he is wrong, maybe even a bit of a dick. What in God's name - so to speak - did the man do, other than express an earnestly-held opinion, in a supposedly free country? I'll leave that with you.

And I'll also leave you with this to ponder over the Christmas-New Year break, in between copious eating and drinking, subsequent resting, the diffusing of family tensions and the nursing of grudges and the vague introspection this time of year inevitably brings. Don Watson was Paul Keating's speechwriter and while I may not share his political views - I don't share anyone's - he hit it on the head back in 2002 in his book, 'Death Sentence - The Decay of Public Language', it's one of my 'handbooks'... â—? contradictions, multitudes.

Modern political language has this much in common with propaganda.

And something in common with war, which is also conducted according to strategies. As with defence forces (or bureaucracies - wherever careers are carved out) political practitioners are prone to believe their own bullshit.

Words and phrases that began life as convenient catch-alls for skating over complex problems become indisputable truth, the last word in human understanding. Almost talismanic powers are ascribed to ridiculous words like 'aspirational'.

'Aspirational' voters, we are told, are people who want a better life for themselves and their families. And we wonder if we have ever met someone who wanted a worse life. â—?

- Don Watson, 'Death Sentence The Decay of Public Language' (2002) freetimes.com.au

COMMUNITY DIARY SENIOR CITIZENS

Marsh Street, Stanthorpe, at 11am.

Warwick Senior Citizens monthly activities are at 13a Albert Street, Warwick. First Monday each month - Hoy (cards) from 2pm. First Tuesday each month - Friendship morning from 9am.

Every Monday - 500 (cards) from 9am11.30am. Every Tuesday - TAI CHI from 9am. Every Wednesday - Indoor bowls from 9.30am-11.30am. Every Friday Crazy Whist (cards) from 9am-11.30am.

Yoga every Monday. Subscription $10 per year and covers all activities. Phone Margaret on 0458 444 101, or Col 0407 131 050.

LIFE LEARNING U3A Provide short courses for older people who enjoy learning but prefer the freedom to study where and when they choose. Inquiries to Neil Bonnell on 4661 8221 or visit www.u3awarwick.org. au

SING IT UP

HEART SUPPORT

Christmas cheer...

The Warwick Heart Support Group meets the last Monday each month (except December and January) in the Southern Cross Room at the Warwick RSL, 11.30am. Lunch after a short meeting.

Every second meeting a guest speaker attends. A warm welcome awaits any person who may have experienced a Heart issue. Phone Norm on 4661 5421 or Jenny on 4664 8173.

LEAGUE SPREADS CHRISTMAS CHEER

SPEAK UP At Warwick Toastmasters Club meets every 2nd and 4th Tuesday at the CWA Hall, Grafton Street, from 7pm - 9pm.

Everyone is welcome to attend as a guest (free), meet new friends, hone your public speaking skills and build your confidence in a friendly atmosphere. For more incall Alice on 0402 032 502.

NAVY CADETS Navy Cadets TS Kookaburra Cadets Stanthorpe meet every Sunday at the Red Bridge Circuit from 12pm to

The Warwick Pensioners and Superannuants League recently celebrated its Christmas Party at the Warwick Cowboys Clubhouse. All present enjoyed the day with entertainment provided by four members of the Travelling Country Music Club and poetry and song by Greg Dillion.

The group provides social interaction for older people and as well as regular meetings and social get-togethers regularly hold bus trips to interesting destinations.

The first meeting of the League will be held on Thursday 23 January at the Cowboys Clubhouse. For further information please contact Michael Holland on 0408 982 157.

4.30pm. For more information call PO ANC Peter Beacroft on 0418 673 298.

Yvonne on 4667 3194 or 0427 673 194.

GET CRAFTY

HAVE A HIT

The Sew Crafty Chicks hold their craft morning every Friday at the Warwick Bowls Club, Fitzroy Street, Warwick from 9am to 11.30am. Everyone welcome, come and enjoy good company, morning tea, work on your own projects, or learn new ones. Cost $5. For more info call

Social Table Tennis is every Monday at the Stanthorpe Fitness Centre, Talc Street, from 10am to 12pm. $5, everything provided. Call 4681 2411.

The Granite Belt Junior Choir meets every Tuesday of school terms, at 3.30pm, at The Stanthorpe Little Theatre , 20 Connor Street, Stanhtorpe.

Great opportunity to learn singing and experience performing in public. All school aged singers welcome to come and give it a try before joining.

For more information email granitebeltjuniorchoir@gmail.com or follow @granitebeltjuniorchoir on Facebook for updates.

KIDS' MUSIC 'mainly music' - a music and play program for preschool children and their families - held at the Warwick Uniting Church, Guy St. Thursdays 9:15 - 10:45 during school terms.

FREE MEALS The Warwick Community Van mobile food van is in Warwick's Leslie Park every Sunday from 5pm to 7pm. Meals at no cost, along with pre-loved clothing and other items available. A good place to meet people and find company.

THURSDAY 19 DECEMBER

PLAY BRIDGE Stanthorpe Bridge Club meets every Thursday at the Senior Citizens Rooms,

Carols in the Chapel Thursday 19th December 7:30pm The Scots PGC Chapel Oxenham Street Warwick.

Supper to follow. All welcome.

PUZZLES Quick Clues

ACROSS 1. Fish (8)

2.

SUDOKU

MED No.4

How to solve Sudoku!

ACROSS Fish (8) Kill (4) Injure (4) Plea (8) Begin (5) Upright (6) Nursery (6) Fisherman (6) Help (6) Hand (5) Scholarly (8) Dry (4) Practical joke (4) Strangle (8)

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

6

7 9 3 6

9

How to Sud

2

Fill the gr every row 3x3 squar the digi

7 5 6 CRYPTIC PUZZLE NO. 7605 3 4 6 2 DOWN ACROSS 2. Unsuitable (5) 3. Material (7) 6 4 1 8 4. Port (4) 5. Native of Holland (8) 6. Gloss (5) 2 9 4 5 7. Performer (7) 12. Vegetable (8) 14. Italian dish (7) 2 6 5 4 16. Brave (7) 18. List (5) 20. Lifeless (5) 5 7 Practical joke (4) 21. Emperor (4) DOWN Unsuitable (5) YPTIC PUZZLE NO. 7605 5 6 4 9 ACROSS

5 1 3 8 9 6 4 7 2

Cryptic Clues

3 7

5

8 4 9 3 7

1 3 7 4

2 9 2 6 3 1

8 3 9 5 2

CRYPTIC PUZZLE NO. 7605 - SOLUTIONS Across - 1, As good as. 6, St-em. 8, C-lad. 9, In-flames.

10, Denim (rev.) 11. Spring. 13, As-tern. 15, Augurs (anag.)

17, Deb-ate. 19, Drill. 22, Contract. 23, (riv)er-ne(edless).

24, Stun (rev.) 25, Do-nation.

Down - 2, Sol-v-e. 3, Old-ti-me. 4, Da-i-s (rev.) 5, Softsoap. 6, Sta-i-r. 7, Elean-or (anag.) 12, On dem-and. 14, Seen out. 16, G-arm-ent. 18, An-to-n. 20, Lent-o. 21, Stan.

2

6 2 9 1 7 8 4 3 5

5 4 8 3 6 2 9 1 7

3 1 7 4 5 9 6 2 8

8 3 2 9 4 7 1 5 6

7 5 1 8 2 6 3 9 4

9 6 4 5 1 3 8 7 2

1 7 5 6 9 4 2 8 3

4 9 3 2 8 5 7 6 1

Solution No.4267

2 8 6 7 3 1 5 4 9

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

DOWN 2. Only about five get the right answer (5). 3. Outmoded, foolishly I told myself (3-4). 4. Stand up, disconsolate, when I enter (4). 5. Say something flattering about the soggy cake? (4-4). 6. The light captures one. It’s in flight (5). 7. Is it an eel swimming, or a person? (7). 12. When asked to, exorcised the demon as well (2,6). 14. Having watched to the end, is escorted off the premises (4,3). 16.

A fellow member comes in with something to wear (7).

18. The woman has admitted to identifying him (5). 20.

Advanced to the ring slowely (5). 21. Will he, with a little sun, go brown? (4).

5 2

freetimes.com.au

people (8).

1 9

ACROSS 1. A match for - or very nearly (2,4,2). 6. Stop me turning on the street (4). 8. Dressed for the cold, the boy is (4). 9.

How something that is so excites an arsonist? (8). 10.

Having gone back, dug up the stuff (5). 11. Well, that means winter’s over (6). 13. Behind, like the rent may be (6). 15.

Means to give us a rug to wrap up in (6). 17. Having remade the bed, had a meal and an argument (6). 19. Go through the training excercise (5). 22. Shorten by agreement (8). 23. A bird from the river, needless to remark (4).

24. Turn mad from shock (4). 25. A gift given by the same people (8).

DOWN 2. Only about five get the right answer (5). 3. Outmoded,

9 6 7 2 4 5 8 1 3

QUICK PUZZLE NO. 7605 - SOLUTIONS Across - 1, Pilchard. 6, Slay. 8, Maim. 9, Entreaty. 10, Start. 11, Honest. 13, Creche. 15, Angler. 17, Assist. 19, Flush. 22, Studious. 23, Arid. 24, Hoax. 25, Throttle.

Down - 2, Inapt. 3, Cambric. 4, Aden. 5, Dutchman. 6, Sheen. 7, Artiste. 12, Beetroot. 14, Risotto. 16, Gallant.

18, Index. 20, Still. 21, Tsar.

CRYPTIC PUZZLE NO. 7605

Solution

Thursday, 19 December, 2019

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SOUTHERN FREE TIMES 25

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8.

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25.

SUDOKU No. 4267

6

QUICK QUICKPUZZLE PUZZLENo. NO. 7605 7605

4 8 2 1 7 3 9 5 6

8 4 6 9 3 7 5 2 1

CHRISTMAS MESSAGES GIBSON’S

Daryl Hockings

WINDOW TINTING

Quality Window Film with Lifetime Warranty

Upholstery & Furniture Repairs

DARKEST LEGAL TINT Cut GLARE Decrease HEAT Reduce FADING Improve COMFORT Increase SAFETY

Closing from the 20th Dec and reopening on the 6th January.

CARS TRUCKS

ABN 51 025 951 368

HOMES OFFICES 12433204-SN52-19

PHONE: 4661 5632 GIBSON’S WINDOW TINTING Shop 3, 57 Grafton Street Warwick Qld 4370

Top Beat Entertainment Hire INSTALL / REPAIR Speaker Systems Data Projectors Hearing Loop Lighting 100V Systems

TOP BEAT 07 4681 0681

info@topbeat.com.au www.topbeat.com.au

Hawk’s H20 on the go You’ll see the difference 12406688-RC51-18

HIRE Jukebox, Karaoke Jukebox P.A. Systems Disco Lights Portable Stage Show P.A. Systems

We would like to wish everyone a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year 3 Glenhaven Crt Rosenthal Heights Qld P: 0417 745 667 Email: hockingsupholstery@bigpond.com Household furniture repairs & recovering Ute canopies/tonneau covers Car seat repairs Roof linings

12372722-ACM49-17

our ish all We w ustomers c d value appy aH d as an Christm w Year. e N safe

Deliver loads up to 28,000 Litre Truck 13,000 Litre. Dog 15,000 Litre.

Supply and delivery of water for: ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀

Glenn Hawkswell 0407 028 317 Food License: EH/1403/food

Thank you to all my clients.

Wishing you all a Merry Christmas and a happy and safe New Year.

TRACE 0419 707 779

Toilet & cistern repairs Gas fitting Roof & gutter repairs Blocked drainage Drain camera inspection

Hot water systems (gas & electric) Backflow plus TMV installation & testing

12433265-NG52-19

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STANTHORPE SEPTIC SERVICE Wishes everyone a Merry Christmas and Safe & Happy New Year

Septic Tanks Cleaned by Your Local Man 4685 2396

0407 634 221

Wishing all my clients a Merry Ph Darren 0407 614 332 QBCC 15014147 Christmas and a happy New Year.

Available Seven Days a Week

12372752-LB47-17

Wishing Everybody A Very Merry Christmas & Happy New Year

We fix & fit all things TV, Digital Antennas, Digital Satellite 12433420-FA52-19

Over 20 years experience Servicing The Southern Downs, Warwick and Tenterfield & Districts Robert Partington

Electronics

Ph: 0418 760 615 12433340-LB52-19

฀ ฀ ฀

฀

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At outrite computers and gaming we specialise in: ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀

Our phone number 07 4681 3003

Enjoy the holidays with our Christmas Gaming Range

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Ph 4681 3003

Sheds Carports

Garages Patios

In-House Supply, Installation, Concrete and Councils

FRUIT FLY NET VEGENET BIRD NET SHADE CLOTH

Wishing You The Very Best This Season Protect from heat and drying winds. Reduce evaporation.

1300 NETPRO (638776)

www.netprocanopies.com

07 4681 6666

12434548-SN52-19

Servicing Aratula, Warwick, Stanthorpe, Tenterfield & Surrounds.

Email: warwick@rfsteelbuildings.com.au

Wishing everyone a Merry Christmas, a Happy New Year and some much needed rain for everyone.

12433269-SN52-19

26 SOUTHERN FREE TIMES

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Thursday, 19 December, 2019

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From plumbers to pest control, carpet cleaning to building services, dry cleaning to computer repairs, lawn mowing and more, Network Classifieds has been connecting local businesses with the local community with our Trades and Services each week.

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cils and Coun Concrete unds. stallation, field & Surro Supply, In er se nt ou Te , -H In m.au Stanthorpe Warwick, fsteelbuildings.co a, ul at Ar Servicing Email: warwick@r

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12419866-RC24-19

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Gibson’s Window Tinting

07 4661 5632

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0430 540 438

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Rose City Constructions

0407 582 394

12406403-RA49-18

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07 4661 9835

TIMBER FLOOR SERVICES 2 EXP 0 YEAR ERI S ENC E

TERMITE SPECIALIST

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George Cassar Floor Sanding & Polishing

0402 521 961

Technician - Mark Grosskopf C1104663-BM50-13

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1300 459 150

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DEADLINES All Classifieds: 10am Tuesday

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0417 745 667

ALL TYPES OF PEST MANAGEMENT!

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Thursday, 19 December, 2019

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SOUTHERN FREE TIMES 27

GARDEN TIME

BEATRICE HAWKINS

REFLECTIONS ON YEAR IN GARDENS The year is almost over and it is time for reflection.

As I have once again just come home from a trip away I keep thinking of the words of one of my favourite old Slim Dusty songs: "I've been, I've seen and I've done that!"

Over the last 2 years I've done a lot of miles by car and by plane and seen a lot of this country and you have heard about most of what I've seen along the way.

How vast and diverse this spectacular country of ours is ... and how I love it!

Even on this trip I've seen devastatingly dry bare paddocks - but then a few miles further on there was green grass and fat stock.

Tenterfield had devastating fires but has obviously had rain as there are green paddocks and grass on the roadsides. The result of the fires was incredible to see but the ability of our wonderful gum trees to regenerate has always fascinated me. The areas that were burnt earlier have new bright green leaves sprouting up the blackened trunks and branches.

I guess what I am saying is that this wonderful country of ours is diverse and resilient. It will rain again and it will bounce back and so will the people. Aussies are too tough to be defeated by the weather but I hope and trust that we will all have learnt some lessons with regard to our efficient use of that essential commodity: water.

The trip through the Riverina earlier

A very Aussie Christmas... in the year was interesting and was so dry but then contrasted with the beauty of the irrigation area and the town of Mildura with its majestic native trees shading the streets.

In Broken Hill down came the rain, dams were filled and the Warrego River ran into the Darling. The speed with which the country responded was astounding. I had to extend my stay until the red dirt roads became passable to the area I was visiting and by the time they were, the roadsides and surrounding paddocks were already green.

Each day when I got up and looked out the window the grass was visibly higher.

In September, Western Australia was wonderful, with mile upon mile of golden canola and growing cereal crops. Such a change from the devastating drought conditions on this side of the country.

The wild flowers were a spectacular treat. I remember one area where there was a huge water pipe bringing water from the coastal fringe to the drier inland.

Growing alongside it in profusion were hundreds of the most spectacular green

and red Kangaroo paw in full glorious flower. Banksias of all colours and sizes were everywhere. Paper daisies and blue Leuchenaltia growing along the roadsides providing brilliant colour with white native Clematis and red "running postman" twining through the trees.

On my trip away last week I was back in the area of the central coast of N.S.W. where I grew up. I must admit I had forgotten in 50 plus years since I left, just how majestic the black butts were and how stunning the bark on the spotted gums. I had not forgotten however, the beauty of the N.S.W. Christmas bush native to that area or the majestic red Gymea lilies abundant in the surrounding bush.

One thing I didn't find that I used to pick each Christmas, was the Australian native Christmas bell. I loved them as a child and would pick a bunch for my mum each year.

Christmas bush, Christmas bells and red gum tips were my mum's all-time favourites and abundant in the area.

Christmas Bush, Ceratopetalum gummiferum, is recognised as the N.S.W. Christmas flower. The flowers are actually small and white. It is the red calyx that is seen as the "flower". It prefers full sun and well-drained soil. It grows particularly well in the sandstone country north of Sydney.

In WA the Christmas bush, nuytsia floribunda, has brilliant yellow/orange flowers, is semi parasitic needing grass as a host, is frost resistant and likes sun.

General Classifieds V

For Sale

BOOKCASE Handcrafted, solid polished timber. 268cm x 82cm, 3 shelves and divider. $200 ono.

Phone 4667 0334.

CAMERA NIKON P900 digital camera. Very good condition. $450. Phone 0408 564 816 or 0491 018 226.

DINNER set. Royal Doulton Signature Platinum 24 piece, white with trim. $650.00 Phone 0409 439 272 EXERCISE bike. Pro-form 775.

Heart moniter and more.

Good condition. $250. Phone 0409 439 272

Employment V

Garage Sales

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ENDEAVOUR RE-USE SHOP. Warwick Waste Facility, open Wednesdays 12pm-4pm and Saturdays 8.30am-4pm. Rifle Range Rd, Stanthorpe, open Thursdays 12pm-4pm and Saturdays 8.30am-4pm

V

Massage Therapists

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

Travel Advisor m: 0437 344 312 p: 1300 365 688 Ext 292 e: lbruggemann@mtatravel.com.au www.mtatravel.com.au/lbruggemann ATAS A10541 IATA 0235190-4

The Victorian Equal Opportunity Act 1995 makes it unlawful for an advertiser to show any intention to discriminate on the basis of sex, pregnancy, race, age, marital status, political or religious belief or physical features, disability, lawful sexual activity/sexual orientation, HIV/AIDS status or on the basis of being associated with a person with one of the above characteristics, unless covered by an exception under the Act. As Network Classifieds could be legally liable if an unlawful advertisement is printed, Network Classifieds will not accept advertisements that appear to break the law. For more information about discrimination in advertising, contact your legal advisers or the Equal Opportunity Commission.

Delivering the Free Times Various Areas Available Casual work with flexible hours Will suit Adults, Retirees, Families and no experience is required.

Trades & Services section of Network Classifieds.

Phone 4661 9800 or 0409 271 874

12400498-CG38-18

12425226-CG35-19

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Accommodation

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

Budget accommodation from $180 per week. Includes use of kitchen and laundry. Linen supplied. Ph: 4661 1146.

To Let

Find your Local Specialist in our

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Positions Vacant

NEED

WARWICK Clean comfortable farm house for rent, 6km from Warwick, long lease available, reduced rent includes some caretaking, suit reliable retiree or similar. Ph: 0412 916 760.

NEW STAFF? 12400545-LB38-19

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Professional

DISCRIMINATION IN ADVERTISING IS UNLAWFUL

For Warwick GET PAID WHILE YOU WALK!

Find your Local Professionals in our

Garage Sales

V

Positions Vacant

WALKERS WANTED Leon Bruggemann

POWER tool kit in case. Matabo Professional. As new condition. $450. Phone 0409 439 272

V

Travel

12408848-CG03-19

V

Queensland's Christmas flower is calanthe triplicata or Christmas orchid. It is an evergreen and ideal for pots in heavy shade and moist soil. It has beautiful spikes of white flowers up to 1.5 metres long.

Victoria claims Prostanthera losianthos and it is either a shrub or small tree up to about 3 metres and will grow and bloom in heavy shade or full sun. It can have either white, mauve or pink blossoms.

In Tasmania it is my favourite, the Christmas bell, Blandfordia punicea. I didn't know it grew there. I had believed it was native only to NSW. It prefers sandy soil and full sun. My dad used to tell me of them being picked in an area north of Newcastle near Williamtown airport during the depression and the Second World War in large quantities for the Sydney markets.

South Australia's Christmas bloom is Bursaria spinosa or native blackthorn. It is a small tree that produces masses of white flowers and thrives in light shade and welldrained soil.

This year it really is that "I've been, I've seen and I've loved that!"

My prayer is that by the time I write the next column in the New Year, we will have had widespread, drought breaking, rain and the new 80 litre water restrictions that commence in Warwick this Thursday the 19th will be able to be lifted and lawns will be green and need cutting!!

Thanks for reading and a Safe and Happy Christmas and New Year to everyone. ●

Motoring V

Get 10% Discount

Caravans & Trailers

ZZZ QHWZRUNFODVVL´HGV FRP DX

Celebrations

section of Network Classifieds.

networkclassifieds.com.au 28 SOUTHERN FREE TIMES

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Thursday, 19 December, 2019

Caravans & Trailers

Use code: EMPDISC

Fill your position online Find your special occasion needs in our

V

Buy, Rent & Sell in the

Real Estate

CAMPER TRAILER Oztrail 9.

2 burner plus grill, sink, water tank plus pump, battery plus solar, stereo and lights.

Registration DP8252. $5500.

Phone 0401 195 040.

CARAVAN, 1993 Viscount Sports Poptop. Solar panel and batteries, porta potti, TV, clothes line and kitchen, ramps, hoses, mirrors, full awning and gas bottles. Other accessories. Reg to 12/19 251UCA. $10,000. Ph: (07) 4666 3953

section of Network Classifieds.

CARAVAN 1990, GC, solar fitted, ideal bush camper, Reg 6/2020, $6,600 offers considered.

Information, inspection phone 0477 197 540.

2016 AUSTRAC off-road Camper Trailer. Elect. brakes, inverter, 3 water tanks, elect. pump, sink, gas, etc. Reg 15/2/20. $3000 ono. Ph 0437 041 564

freetimes.com.au

NEWS

BOXING DAY AND NY PLANS SORTED BEACH PARTY Recover from the Christmas Day excess at the 2019 Boxing Day Races at Warwick's Allman Park Racecourse, brought to you by Maydan Livestock Transport and Freestone Feedlot.

Get in shape for the 'Beach Party' theme in your favourite Hawaiian shirt, with admission just $20 per person and gates open from 11am. Jumping castle for the kids, mechanical surfboard for the 'adults', prizes, cocktails at the 'Kiki Bar', beach volleyball and entertainment until late by DJ Wallace.

For more information visit www. warwickturfclub.org.au and on Facebook ... and don't forget the Free Times has five entry double passes to give away courtesy of the Warwick Turf Club - to enter simply visit www.freetimes.com.au and click on the 'Competitions' link ...

Bulls and broncs to see out 2019 and ring in 2020...plus live entertainment...

NYE RODEO Warwick's Boxing Day Races have a 'Beach Party' theme.

Get set to buck out 2019 and usher in 2020 at the Steele's Bakery New Year's Eve Rodeo

at the Warwick Showgrounds from 4pm on Tuesday 31 December.

Hosted by the Warwick Show and Rodeo Society, this National Rodeo

Association event will feature a full line-up of rodeo action, along with live entertainment to count down to the New Year.

Our high quality, modern homes are now even beter value with our $15,000 cash back and no fees for 6 months.* Featuring a new clubhouse and the luxury of a heated pool and spa, you can reire in style.

Regency Park ofers: • 2 and 3 bedroom high quality homes • Open plan living with modern kitchen and quality appliances

12432238-NG46-19

• Expansive, well maintained landscaped gardens

freetimes.com.au

Thursday, 19 December, 2019

|

SOUTHERN FREE TIMES 29

NEWS

Head to Warwick's Allman Park Racecourse on Boxing Day...

NYD LIVE New Year's Day 2020 marks the fifth year for Jester Hill Wines to host Granite Rockin' Blues.

Jester Hill Wines was the obvious venue to continue this well attended event after the closure of Lucas Estate who initially established the New Year's Day bash! Our regular band Cole Train will be entertaining you all along with Whiskey Gully. A little bit of 'Too Much Fun' will break up the blues and Rock'n Roll.

This year we welcome Nine Year Sister a local duo comprised of Australian singer/ songwriters, Jennie Wardle and Emma Wardle from Stanthorpe. In early 2019, 'Nine Year Sister' began live performances of their original music. Their first performance at a festival was at 'Snowflakes In Stanthorpe', held in July.

2020 promises to be a wild ride...

· · · · · · · · · · · ·

Events include Bull Ride Saddle Ride Barrel Race Novice Saddle Ride U18 Junior Barrel Race U18 Junior Bull Ride U15 Junior Steer Ride 7-U12 Poddy Ride Station Buck Jump Celebrity Barrel Race Jackpot 8-12 Junior Barrel Race U8 Junior Barrel Race

Chill out on January 1 at Jester Hill Wines.

The bands keep the music going from 11am to 5pm, sometimes 'jamming' together but always entertaining.

EVENT DETAILS...

Event Date: Wednesday 1 January 2020 Event Time: 11AM - 5PM Ticket Price: $35 - entry fee includes the entertainment and a complimentary glass of wine on arrival. $10 of every ticket will go towards Queensland Rural Fire Service. ● 12436544-SN51-19

Buck in the New Year at the Warwick Showgrounds...

FREE 2020 Wall Planner Collect your free 2020 Wall Planner from your preferred retailer.

Great to keep track of those holidays, special events and birthdays

limited numb availab ers le

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THE SPIN

email: wickets-stpe@bigpond.com

CASEY O’CONNOR

A BOXING DAY FEAST - OF SPORT

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If participation in Junior Rep Cricket is any barometer then the future of the game on the Southern Downs is in good hands. These four young lads are currently in Cairns competing with the Darling downs and South West Queensland Under 12 side. From left: Archie Brown (Allora), Jackson Haynes (Stanthorpe), Rory Farrell (Warwick) and Isaak Wallis (Liston). father in his father's footsteps behind the stumps - he is more comfortable as a medium paced seamer but obviously has inherited his Dad's good hands as I understand he is quite a gun fielder.

While the Under 12 boys are in Cairns, Ryan Hines and Rohan Brady and Warwick junior Sam Bourke have been in action on the Gold Coast playing in the Under 13State Championships for DD & SW. The carnival kicked off several days ago and DD & SW did not post a win until round four. The carnival finishes on Dec 20 with several more games to be played. Hines best score to date came in round four where he scored 35 not out. He is yet to take a wicket but has caught well. Brady has had a lean time with the bat but has taken wickets and held catches.

Warwick's Sam Bourke has had better luck with the ball in hand. He has taken seven wickets - his best performance 3/17.

The future of cricket on the Southern Downs looks to be in safe hands.

STORMS MAKE GOLFERS DELIGHT The recent storms brought a little joy to Stanthorpe golfers last weekend. Enough rain has fallen on the golf course to provide some good growth on the fairways and preferred lies were introduced. Players going around in the Individual Stableford sponsored by the Stanthorpe Community Bank delighted they were not required to hit off mats and good scoring was the order of the day.

Darryl Boekholt finished two points ahead of the field with 41 points. Four players tied on 39 points and there was plenty

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BEACH PARTY TIME If you're not into cricket or the yacht race on Boxing Day perhaps you will be heading to Allman Park for the Warwick Turf Club's annual Boxing Day races meeting. Many people take the opportunity to catch up with family and friends at the popular meeting.

This year make sure you go dressed in your favourite Hawaiian shirt and shorts with Beach Party the theme of the day.

Gates open at 11.00am and there will be something for everyone - even some horse races. There's a jumping castle for kids and a mechanical surf board ride for crazy adults and prizes to be won. There will be cocktails on offer at the Tiki Bar, a beach volley ball competition and after the last entertainment

by DJ Wallace until late.

The meeting's major sponsors are Mayan Livestock Transport and Freestone Feedlot.

With a $20 entry fee for adults it sounds like it will be a race meeting to remember (if you can).

YOUNGSTERS FLYING THE SOUTHERN DOWNS FLAG A group of young Southern Downs cricketers making their mark and are currently in Cairns representing the Darling Dows and South West in the QJC Under 12 State Development Championships. The local boys are Archie Brown (Allora), Jackson Haynes (Stanthorpe), Rory Farrell (Warwick), Isaak Wallis (Liston).

The team had their first hit out on Monday but it was not good news. They were soundly beaten by the Sunshine Coast team who are mooted as one of the teams to beat at the Carnival.

The DD&SW team were due to play Central Queensland on Wednesday followed by Metropolitan South West today (Thursday). The teams then cross over pools on Friday.

The selection and trip to Cairns is the culmination of many hours of travel by their families as they travel to and from Toowoomba for training, trials and games.

I spoke with Rodney Haynes father of Jackson prior to the team leaving for FNQ and he was thrilled with his son's selection and pleased his son had the opportunity to represent the region. He said he hoped Jackson and the rest of the boys enjoyed the experience.

I recall Rodney Haynes making a name for himself as a junior cricketer. Haynes was a keeper and once took a hat trick of dismissals behind the stumps. A rare and unusual feat not seen very often at any level of the sport. Jackson is not following his

of work to be done as officials grappled with the count back.

Club Junior Champion, Mat Burgess eventually got the nod, named runner up.

Burgess is now playing off a handicap of 16 and if he continues to progress at his current rate he will soon be challenging his father Dave who plays off seven. (Could make for some interesting dinner table conversations in the Burgess house in the future.)

A second runner's up prize was provided after the count-back and that was collected

by Mark McCosker. The other two players who finished on 39 points and several others on 38 received a ball in the rundown.

Kay Webb played inspired golf to be the clear winner in the Ladies competition also finishing with 39 points. The two runners up were Helen Jones and Nikki Waterworth.

Pin shots for the men were collected by Matt Waterworth (3), Barry Hughes (12) and recently crowned Stanthorpe Golfer of the Year, Scott Constable (17).

The ladies' approach shots were collected

by Linda Kelly (12) and Kay Webb (17)17.

Pro pins went the way of Greg Fraser (1/10), Matt Waterworth (5/14) and Andrew Burgess (9/18).

With the silly season hurtling towards us like an out of control Christmas sleigh there is just one more round of competition before the man in the red suit arrives. On Saturday Len Leigh sponsors an Individual Stroke competition.

If you are considering playing in the Boxing Day Classic, please get your name on the timesheet at the clubhouse. Places for the popular three person Ambrose are filling fast.

The event commences with a shotgun start at 9.00am.

A reminder also that RSL golf is taking a break - there will be no play Christmas week however normal transmission will commence on Thursday January 2 with tee off at the regular times.

ASSOCIATION GAMES HOLD COURT The Association Croquet group were on court on Tuesday morning. Carol Verwey and Heather Widderick played Joy Newman and Andrea Denkewitz. Although Verwey made a break of three hoops and a peel, it was Newman and Denkewitz who nailed the win 26-19. Newman had a peel while Andrea had a break of four hops.

Peter and Jenny Tunbridge had a 16-12 win in their game against Pat Schnoor and Grace Howard. The Tunbridges both played well. Jenny had a break of three and Pat a break of five hoops on their way to victory. ●

EP67389

'Tis the season to be reflecting on whether you've been naughty or nice in the hope that Santa delivers on Christmas morning.

It is also time for Spin and the SFT to take a Christmas New Year break and recharge the batteries ready for another big year of Sport in 2020.

I think even the biggest doubters must have been impressed with the performance of the Australian side in the Perth Test (remember if you shaking your head and saying NO WAY, Santa is watching; pen in hand ready to put a line through your name).

Marnus Labuschagne is one person who probably doesn't think he needs anything from Santa - all his Christmas have come together as he continues to impress so early in his international career. His good fortune coming in a truly sliding door moment in England when Steve Smith was ruled out with concussion. Unknown to many at that time he has now become a household name among cricket fans and earned the Lamb Shank title in our household.

As I put the finishing touches on the final Spin for 2019 I am looking forward to kicking back and watching the BBL series. You need to be in good watching form though as only the in-form well- tried armchair critics will last the distance. The BBL is certainly not a competition for the faint hearted sprinters.

Of course I will be hanging out for the iconic Boxing Day Test and heaven help any random telephone sales person who interrupts proceedings trying to sell me solar, fix the internet or hook me up to Broadband.

The MCG pitch will be under the microscope more than ever after the recent Shield debacle. Interesting to see how that wicket scenario plays out.

Who makes it into the Australian side to replace Josh Hazelwood is the next big question - will Siddle get a recall? Will Pattinson stroll back into the side or will Queenslander Michael Nesser get a guernsey?

As sure as Santa coming down the chimney, you can bet JL will be playing his selection cards close to his chest.

Pattinson must surely be the front runner but it would be great to see Nesser get his opportunity.

The other Boxing Day spectacle is the start of the Sydney to Hobart yacht race.

Hopefully the smoke haze covering Sydney dissipates by then allowing people to firstly breathe and to actually see the yachts on the harbour not just ghostly figures of boats. It will be a quick flick of the remote in our house to check who gets out of the Heads first.

Attention turns to the third Test on January 3 after we welcome in 2020.

Who needs turkey, pork, ham and all the trimmings - this is a veritable feast for the cricket lover. Might need to buy a bigger esky though.

No matter how you plan to spend you Christmas please stay safe. From the Spin team to your house we wish our readers, contributors and friends a very Merry Christmas and may Santa and 2020 bring us, if nothing else lots of soaking rain. It would be the greatest gift.

Thank you all for your support in 2019 and we will be back with the 2019 Sporting year in review in our first edition in the New Year.

Ho Ho Ho Casey

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