Southern Free Times - 18th June 2020

THURSDAY, 18 JUNE, 2020 13,200 COPIES DELIVERED WEEKLY

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ISSUE 1,011

NEWS BORDER LINES PAGE 3

BUDGET UPDATE PAGE 10

COVER STORY

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MORE TO LOVE The editor’s desk It was wonderful to enjoy some rain last weekend, however short-lived, although some rural districts reported up to 40mm and more in places.

Leaving aside COVID-19 for a moment - if that’s possible - our region remains drought-declared, but I think it’s important to realise there is plenty of positive news coming from our local rural sector, and there are plenty of reasons for optimism.

We hear a lot about businesses adapting to COVID-19 - and so many of them have done so successfully - but it’s also well worth considering that primary producers have long been a sector where adapting to change is a normal state of affairs. Changing consumer demand and expectations is constant when it comes to both food and fibre production, and our region’s ag sector has for a long time shown great flexibility and a willingness to try new methods of production, and to seek out new markets.

We know not to set too much store in long-term weather forecasting but a wetter-than-average winter would do wonders for many.

Jeremy Sollars

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GORGE TALKS...

Council says consultation on the Condamine Gorge continues - story page 8. ●

LOCAL HISTORY Popular military researcher and historian DEB WHEELER puts out a call for information - and looks at the region’s Honour Boards - pages 16-17.

•฀ And history writer JOHN TELFER remembers our Anzacs - page 19.

GARDEN TIME Free Times gardening guru BEATRICE HAWKINS shares her thoughts on gardening in the winter months, and daylilies - page 19.

CASEY’S SPIN Sports columnist CASEY O’CONNOR brings us the latest in local sport from around the ridges - pages 20, 21, 23.

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NEWS

BORDER RE-OPENING MOVES...

JEREMY SOLLARS & TANIA PHILLIPS Political point-scoring over the re-opening of Queensland’s border continues with Prime Minister Scott Morrison declaring after a National Cabinet meeting last Friday 12 June that the Queensland Government had “re-affirmed” Friday 10 July as the date.

Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk says the re-opening will still be dependent on a “review” of the border issue ahead of Friday 10 July - the date originally indicated when Ms Palaszczuk revealed her COVID-19 ‘Roadmap to Recovery’ back in mid-May. The Premier has been adamant a Friday 10 July re-opening would be subject to a review of medical advice and any new COVID-19 developments, having also suggested some weeks ago that dependent on those factors the border could remain closed “until September”.

In any case Queensland businesses - and those in our region - are planning ahead on the basis of a 10 July re-opening, even though some locals are wary of the risk of any new COVID-19 outbreaks brought.

The border issued has been a political free-for-all for weeks on end, with Gold and Sunshine Coast and north Queensland tourism operators pleading for an earlier border re-opening to let in southern tourists.

In our own region views have been mixed, with some local tourism operators relatively unfazed by the continued border closure, in some cases arguing it will encourage Queenslanders to visit the Southern Downs and Granite Belt since unlimited travel within the state was announced at the end of May. Scott Morrison last week flagged significant further easing of restrictions in July, with potential increases in size of weddings, funerals, restaurants and other indoor gatherings and some large festivals and sporting events.

But individual states would need to agree to apply any new easing of restrictions.

‘Stage 3’ of the Queensland ‘Roadmap to Recovery’ currently proposes the following measures from Friday 10 July, “subject to further review”, with such a review likely either in late June or early July Interstate travel (ie border opening) and a maximum of 100 people will be permitted for: · gatherings in public spaces and homes · dining in: restaurants, cafes, pubs, registered and licensed clubs, RSL clubs,

food courts and hotels · indoor cinemas · places of worship and religious ceremonies · museums, art galleries and historic sites · pools and community sports clubs · community sport · gyms, health clubs and yoga studios · outdoor amusement parks, zoos and arcades · concert venues, theatres, arenas, auditoriums and stadiums · weddings · funerals · saunas and bathhouses · open homes and auctions · casinos, gaming and gambling venues · pubs, registered and licensed clubs, RSL clubs and hotels nightclubs · beauty therapy, tanning, nail salons and

spas, tattoo parlours and non-therapeutic massage parlours · libraries · hiking, camping and other recreational activities in national and state parks.

VIEW FROM THE ‘SOUTH’...

Tenterfield Mayor Peter Petty has welcomed the Queensland Government proposal to open the border on July 10.

This will allow people to flow both ways across the border with ease for the first time since March 24 and take pressure off the drought and fire ravaged border area.

“We get a lot of Queenslanders who come across the border to visit National Parks or come to Tenterfield for the weekend but it was the fact that they couldn’t go back unless they had a good reason or a certificate of some sort,” he said.

“The closure basically just shut the show down.

“But things are starting to pick up a bit, I’ve seen that in the past couple of weeks - especially from the long weekend on - it was pretty busy in town, there were a lot of people getting around. I’m seeing a lot of people around this week too.

“Once we get these borders lifted we can get back in the swing of things.

“I actually supported the border closure.

I think NSW should have done it the other way too.

“At the height of the Corona it needed to be stemmed.

“Australians need to be proud of themselves they’ve done a wonderful job I thought, to only lose a bit over a hundred people.”

Mayor Petty admitted it had been a tough time over the past two years with the Corona virus just the latest challenge to face the people of Tenterfield.

“It has a been bit of a trying time but I think most people just rolled with it, once you got your permit - people going across the border for medical appointments as we do they had a certificate from their doctor.

“I just live down the road from the border I cross it, sometimes twice-three times a day. I have my permit - we actually got three of them as we went.

“It all worked, we just had to do what we had to do.

“We have been through a lot in the past year and just when we looked like we had a break in the season and the dam was full, we were getting things going and talking festivals and then the Corona hit and that locked the whole show down again.

“We lost all of our festivals. The show’s campdraft was going to happen that weekend, the Oracles were only weeks away and then obviously leading into the Peter Allen Festival later on this year.

“We hope to still have the Peter Allen Festival in a revised form in September.”

He said the Council was currently looking at the town’s tourism calendar for the rest of the year and trying to work out what will and won’t go ahead over the next few months as the town attempts to get back on its feet again.

However he said it hasn’t been all doom and gloom during the virus lockdown with the two local supermarkets doing well as the locals stayed in town rather than heading up to Queensland to do some of their shopping. ●

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SOUTHERN FREE TIMES 3

COVER STORY

The Schmidts - Claire, Amelie, Toby and Stephen - have been awed both by how welcoming the community has been, and also how “close” everything is, compared to Charleville.

EYES ON

THE FUTURE

BY JEREMY SOLLARS

earning to adapt has been a much-touted feature of COVID-19 but the concept has long been a prominent feature of agriculture in Australia and a new venture in our region is good example.

The Schmidt family - Stephen and Claire and their children Amelie and Toby - have recently chosen to call the Southern Downs home and are in the process of establishing

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what is expected to be Queensland’s largest sheep feedlot, in the Victoria Hill area north-west of Allora.

The Schmidts last year purchased a property on Talgai West Road - near the Southern Downs-Toowoomba council boundary - formerly run as a smaller-scale lamb feedlot which they’re now developing into a large intensive feeding facility in three stages, with an eventual projected capacity of 16,200 head.

Stephen’s family hails from the Charleville region and for four generations

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Thursday, 18 June, 2020

have been in sheep and wool but, largely due to the damage done to the western Queensland sheep industry by wild dogs, have chosen to diversify and adapt to meat production.

Such is their commitment to the project the family moved to their Victoria Hill property last Christmas, earlier than they had expected, but they’ve welcomed the change and have quickly become part of the local community.

Amelie and Toby attend St Patrick’s School at Allora and Claire, a GP, has joined the team at the Allora Medical Practice where she’s a more than welcome addition.

Work on the new feedlot is well underway, with earthworks complete, concrete feed bunks - locally-manufactured - under delivery, new silos in place and fencing construction soon to start.

The Schmidts’ intention is for the feedlot to be best-practice and they’ve engaged expert help including a specialist feedlot designer, with an early decision being to orient the feeding pens north-south on the site for drainage purposes.

They’re also looking to progressively introduce more recent methods such as in-pen weighing of lambs - crossing scales between water trough and feed bunk - to allow more efficient monitoring of weight gain and animal health.

But just as important are the relationships the Schmidts are building with local material suppliers, and those they hope to build with ‘supply-chain’ businesses,

including breeders, grain growers, transport operators, agents, processors and both domestic and export buyers.

The weekly sheep sale at the Warwick Saleyards is Queensland’s only sheep buying and selling centre and attracts processors and buyers for the domestic Australian butcher trade, and export buyers like Fletchers and Thomas Foods International (TFI) and the Schmidts expect to be a regular presence at the Warwick Saleyards down the track.

The proximity of Wellcamp Airport at Toowoomba from an export perspective was also a factor for the Schmidts.

Intensive feeding of lambs in Queensland at present is mostly done on a small-scale basis, invariably as an ‘add-on’ to farming operations and as a response to drought conditions, but there are large-scale feedlots in southern states. Overall it’s a reflection of decades of change in the sheep industry, with meat now the bigger slice of the market rather than wool as in the past.

“Like all sheep producers in western Queensland we’ve felt the impact of wild dogs in particular, and that’s a big part of what drew us to the feedlot option,” Stephen says.

“It’s our hope to be able to return sheep to our country out west but obviously that’s a long-term goal - at Charleville currently we’re a straight cattle enterprise.

“We were looking around at a few properties with the aim of setting up a feedlot operation and we found this one. freetimes.com.au

Warwick’s John and Jenny Jacob are supplying pre-cast concrete feed bunks to the Schmidts. The Jacobs’ regular business is irrigation services but the feedlot has given them the opportunity to “keep diversifying”.

FORECAST “WELCOME” ...

On the Granite Belt there are mixed feelings - again some areas received a useful 50mm of rain last weekend but across the board the region remains short on irrigation water.

February’s rain fell heaviest in pockets south of Stanthorpe, particularly around Ballandean, and means tomato and capsicum producers in those areas are reasonably well set-up for spring and summer planning.

But to the north and west of Stanthorpe farm water storages are looking shakier and tree-crops such as apples may require producers to re-commence large-scale carting in of water - for already stressed trees which is a costly exercise.

Granite Belt Growers Association president Angus Ferrier told the Free Times the BOM winter outlook is a “very welcome forecast, but we need to be real”.

“To get 50mm in June is obviously really helpful but realistically I think there’s an expectation that many tree-crop producers such as apple growers are going to find it necessary to truck in water over winter,” he said.

“And that’s a very daunting prospect for those people.

“The rain back in February has been very beneficial for some people south of Stanthorpe, it means some of the vegetable growers can have confidence in terms of knowing what seedlings to order and preparing for next spring and summer.

“So effectively you could say we’ve got about a third of the (Granite Belt) region back in business, which is great.

“I’ve tended to take the view that freetimes.com.au

working out how everything’s going to run.

“The second stage we expect to complete in mid-to-late 2021 and the third stage the following year.

“We’re really focused on using local suppliers as much as possible and we’ve already built up some terrific relationships locally, it’s been quite amazing really.

“One thing that’s really blown us away is just how close and convenient everything is - Allora, Warwick - compared to being out west.

“We can order something and it’s here the next day and not weeks away.

“We’re not used to that.”

From a family perspective the move to the Allora area has also been a positive one, with Claire saying they’ve found the local the Granite Belt isn’t necessarily worse off with the drought than anywhere else, but you’d be pressed to find anywhere that is doing it harder.

“But this is a very diverse agricultural region, and people here are just bloody enthusiastic.”

Angus said the drought continues to “re-define” how producers look at long-term water security and as well as welcoming the continued drought declaration - announced by the Queensland Government in May - both state and federal governments need to look at meaningful support for dam evaporation measures.

“The technology exists, it basically involves shade covering over farm dams, which can reduce annual evaporation by up to 9o per cent, but it’s expensive, like all capital works,” he said.

“And at present it’s very much under-adopted.

“But evaporation control can and should be a big piece of the strategy going forward - again it’s about introducing measures to help with long-term sustained economic activity.

“I think the Future Drought Fund could be an opportunity to include measures like that, we certainly need to start a conversation with government.”

Tenders for the construction of Emu Swamp Dam south-west of Stanthorpe are expected to be released in July.

The dam will provide irrigation water to 51 producers, with private contributions committed to the projected totalling $23.4 million. · MORE ON EMU SWAMP DAM NEXT WEEK ... ●

community “really embracing”.

Claire and Stephen met out west back in 2008 while Claire was a “generalist” medic with the Royal Flying Doctor Service (RFDS), working both as an outback GP and emergency doctor - a long way from where she grew up in south-west England.

“The children were a little bit homesick for Charleville at first and obviously we’ve had the challenges of COVID-19 but they’ve settled into St Patrick’s really well and made new friends,” Claire said.

“I was also fortunate enough to find a GP job at the Allora Medical Practice - I walked in one day and asked if they needed another doctor and they said they did so that’s also worked out really well.

“They’ve been really welcoming as has the whole community so we’re just really happy to become a part of it.”

FEEDLOT FACTS ... · Lambs ‘inducted’ into the feedlot at around the 35kg mark, ‘finished’ at around 50-55kg, average feeding 60 days; diet primarily comprised of barley but also silage - working with animal nutritionists to develop the ration mix · The Schmidts envisage primarily feeding Dorper lambs - Dorpers are a ‘meat’ sheep, but also plan to experiment with Merinos, traditionally a wool breed · Feedlot capacity approved for 20,000 head · Along with a number of farming enterprises in the Southern Downs and Granite Belt region’s the Schmidt’s operation has been the recipient of a Queensland Government Rural Economic Development (RED) Grant to assist with establishment of the feedlot. For more information about the RED Grant scheme visit www.qrida.qld.gov.au

GOOD FALLS ...

While producers on the Southern Downs and Granite Belt aren’t exactly betting the bank on a Bureau of Meteorology forecast of a wetter-than-average winter, falls of up to 50mm in parts of the region last weekend will generate some optimism.

It’s important to understand however that ‘above-average’ winter rainfall means above the average of the lower end of the scale received in the cool months, but some locals believe the relatively warmer temperatures through last week could be a portent offering some hope.

Warwick area producers who dry-sowed winter crops such as oats leading up to the start of June may see a spark from last weekend’s rain and the winter planting window remains open. Some newer oat varieties lend themselves to later planting and some farmers may take something of a gamble on wheat.

Many locals believe ‘true’ winter over the last decade or more has been a month later than ‘normal’ in any case, with one corresponding phrase heard that “there’s not much spring in September”.

Cattle producers in the wider Warwick area have seen some limited pasture growth resulting from the heavy rain in February and with the falls from last weekend there’s hope for winter herbage growth, but many of those producers have de-stocked particularly breeders - so it remains a ‘wait and see’ exercise.

The Free Times has been told one animal on the rise at least in districts east of Warwick is the wild dog population - fresh pups and younger dogs in packs have been spotted in many locations, again seen as a by-product of the February rain. Trapping is subsequently on the rise, and the council is expected to pay out at least $50,000 worth of wild dog bounties for the current financial year. ● Continued Page 6 12451893-SN25-20

“We had a look at it and we saw the potential and what we could do with it and it all just sort of fell into place.

“It was previously run as a lamb feedlot so there’s handling infrastructure here we’ll be able to utilise but we’re putting in new feeding pens and grain storage and so on.

“We also intend to grow some of our own grain, the property has the capacity to do that.

“We have good water security, we’ve got a 30MG licence and bores on the property are holding up well currently.

“So we’re looking at development over three stages - the first stage we expect we’ll complete in the next few months and we’ll have lambs on feed here by September, we’ll start off with some feeding trials and just

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SOUTHERN FREE TIMES 5

State-wide outlook - Queensland farm confidence takes COVID-19 hit: Rabobank COVID-19 may have derailed the heady optimism Queensland farmers enjoyed early in the year, with the latest quarterly Rabobank Rural Confidence Survey showing a distinct decline in farmer sentiment.

After experiencing the strongest rebound in the survey’s 19-year history last quarter, farmer confidence has now retracted, although sentiment remains higher than during 2019, and in line with levels last seen in late 2018.

Those Queensland farmers expecting agricultural economic conditions to improve in the coming year dropped to 24 per cent - from 57 per cent in the previous survey - while those expecting conditions to worsen rose to 27 per cent - from just 13 per cent last quarter.

Specifically questioned in this survey about the impact of COVID-19, 42 per cent of Queensland producers believed the repercussions on their business were negative.

Those in the sugar and dairy industries were most affected, with commodity uncertainty cited as a main concern.

This is in line with the overall survey, which pinned the wavering Queensland rural sentiment on commodity price and global market disruption nominated by 37 per cent of survey respondents as key reason conditions were expected to worsen.

Rabobank regional manager for Northern Queensland, Trent McIndoe said confidence was down across all commodity sectors - particularly amongst sugar and grain producers.

“Only 11 per cent of sugar producers are expecting business conditions to improve over the next 12 months, which is well down on 48 per cent with that view last quarter,” Mr McIndoe said.

Despite a mild wet season in key cane-growing regions such as the Burdekin, he said the price impact of COVID-19 was behind the downturn in sentiment, with commodity price uncertainty cited by Queensland farmers as the reason conditions were likely to worsen.

After rallying last quarter, sentiment among Queensland grain growers has slumped, with just six per cent expecting business conditions to improve in the coming year - well down from 55 per cent with that view last quarter.

While 56 per cent of croppers expect little change from last quarter, 28 per cent believe conditions will worsen over the next 12 months - primarily on the back of drought concerns and commodity prices.

Mr McIndoe said widespread rain early in the year helped replenish soil moisture profiles, but in regions such as the Darling Downs and Central Highlands, grain growers were once again looking to the skies.

“By and large, Queensland cultivators had a reasonable soil moisture profile, generally there was a good start to the season, allowing most producers to begin their sowing program, however sufficient follow-up rain didn’t eventuate in some areas, and is now needed,” he said.

On the positive side, as barley is not a significant crop rotation in Queensland, Mr McIndoe said, the impact of China’s recent tariff announcement would be minimal.

While sentiment in the state’s beef industry fell from early-year highs, optimism prevailed, with 32 per cent of the state’s beef producers expecting better conditions ahead - down from 61 per cent last quarter - and a further 46 per cent expecting little change over the next 12 months.

With the survey revealing confidence was tempered by concerns about overseas markets, Mr McIndoe said the Queensland industry remained strong in the face of COVID-19.

“Cattle are still trading at high levels and, while survey respondents expressed frustrations over not being able to go to sales or view stock during lock down, there has been very little impact on farm finances so far,” he said.

“Domestic markets are very buoyant indeed, prices and demand are strong as restockers, and those seeking to source the finished article, compete for product.”

China’s suspension of four Australian meatworks fell narrowly within the survey period and, while it may not have impacted results

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Granite Belt Growers Association president Angus Ferrier (right). generally, Mr McIndoe said, it could have broader ramifications if the suspensions were expanded or prolonged.

Producers in Northern Queensland recorded the largest downturn in confidence in the state, and, with areas around central and north western Queensland remaining dry, he said this was reflective of the continuing poor season in the region.

Areas devastated by 2019’s flood have also received little relief, after some of the country failed to respond to rain early in the season.

Mr McIndoe described Queensland’s season as ‘a mixed bag’, with producers in the Channel Country enjoying timely autumn rain and abundant pastures - and, although confidence in the region retreated sharply from early-year highs, sentiment remained strong.

While the percentage of Queensland cotton growers expecting conditions to improve almost halved to 32 per cent, sentiment remained well above levels reported last year.

Seasonal conditions and commodity prices were cited as reasons for concern, with early-year rainfall in the Central Highlands and Darling Downs failing to fill dams.

Prices were also back considerably, Mr McIndoe said, with cotton consumption dropping sharply as stores closed their doors through COVID-19 restrictions.

He said Rabobank was forecasting a 12 per cent drop in global cotton consumption in 2020.

Queensland farmers revised down gross farm income projections considerably for the next 12 months,

with just 23 per cent expecting incomes to improve - down from 38 per cent last quarter.

Whilst beef producers’ forecast incomes were downgraded, it was by a lesser extent than their counterparts in other industries, and the sector reported the strongest expansionary intentions.

Overall, Queensland farmers’ investment intentions were down - 16 per cent of respondents now looked to increase investment over the next 12 months - although spending on on-farm infrastructure and increasing livestock numbers was predicted to be higher than last quarter.

“After devastating floods and droughts across much of Queensland, producers are now looking to restock and renew on-farm infrastructure such as fencing and yards. Further property purchases also provide an opportunity to mitigate future events,” Mr McIndoe said.

He said the story for rural Australia was a unique one during COVID-19, with low interest rates, strong commodity prices and a good season in parts of Queensland placing the various ag sectors in a sound position.

“A large number of Queensland producers are still doing well, yet the overriding unease of COVID-19 is no doubt impacting sentiment,” Mr McIndoe said.

A comprehensive monitor of outlook and sentiment in Australian rural industries, the Rabobank Rural Confidence Survey questions an average of 1000 primary producers across a wide range of commodities and geographical areas throughout Australia on a quarterly basis. ●

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Thursday, 18 June, 2020

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TANK REBATE OPENS ...

Expressions of interest are now open for the Southern Downs Regional Council’s Rural Water Tank Rebate Scheme.

A spokeswoman this week said residents who wish to take advantage of the rebate have until close of business on Friday 10 July 2020 to submit their expression of interest.

Mayor Vic Pennisi said residents should review the Expression of Interest process on Council’s website to ensure they follow the correct procedure.

“I want to remind people that they shouldn’t rush out and buy a tank right away,” Cr Pennisi said.

“Council understands people will be keen to take advantage of this rebate but they must remember that there is a process we have to run to allocate the available funds fairly and equitably.”

The spokeswoman said to be eligible for the rebate, expressions of interest must be received by COB (close of business) Friday 10 July 2020.

“Council anticipates that the $1,050,000 of available funding will be oversubscribed,” the spokeswoman said.

“All expressions of interest that meet the eligibility criteria will be included in a ballot to randomly select successful applicants.

“Successful applicants will be

Expressions of interest are open for the council’s Rural Tank Rebate Scheme. notified in writing and only then should they order their tank.”

Cr Pennisi said “the last thing we want to see is people left out of pocket if they jump the gun and buy a tank without having their application approved”.

“I ask people to be patient and let the process run its course.” · The online and downloadable expression of interest form and terms

and conditions of the Rural Water Tank Rebate Scheme can be found at www.sdrc.qld.gov.au/doing-business/ plumbingdrainage/rural-water-tankrebate, along with frequently asked questions. · If residents have any questions about the Rural Water Tank Rebate Scheme they should refer to the frequently asked questions, call 1300 MY SDRC (1300 697 372) or email tankrebate@

sdrc.qld.gov.au · Funding for the Rural Water Tank Rebate Policy comes from funding allocated to Southern Downs Regional Council as part of the Australian Government’s Bushfire Recovery Exceptional Assistance Immediate Support Package, delivered by the Queensland Reconstruction Authority. ●

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SOUTHERN FREE TIMES 7

NEWS

GORGE ‘STILL UNDER CONSULTATION’

BY JEREMY SOLLARS The Southern Downs Regional Council says it has not allocated any funds for culvert works on the river crossings in the Condamine Gorge in the draft budget for 2020-2021 but is continuing to consult the community over the issue.

Controversy over the future of the crossings on Condamine River Road through the Gorge near Killarney continues, with some local property owners having advocated for the construction of concrete culverts over the crossings to improve vehicular access for Gorge residents.

Other Gorge residents remain adamant the crossings should be left in their natural state due to the environmental sensitivity of the Gorge. The popularity of the Gorge with four wheel drive enthusiasts from across South East Queensland is an added issue, with some concerned about the damage those vehicles create, even though such visitors serve as a boost to the Killarney area economy.

The Free Times asked the council for an update on the Gorge crossings issue, with a spokeswoman this week saying the council “has not allocated funds in the 2020/2021 Budget for any major works such as culverts along the Condamine River Road”.

“Council continues to liaise closely with all stakeholders and property owners along the road, and is currently arranging individual meetings in the coming weeks with these parties,” the spokeswoman said this week.

Managing traffic of the four-wheeled variety is one of the complex issues related to the Condamine Gorge crossings.

“Once the feedback is collated and considered, the next step will be to present a report to Council with a suggested way

forward for this unique and special region.”

The 2020-2021 council budget is yet to be finalised - community consultation on

the draft budget closed last week - with councillors expected to adopt the final budget by the end of June. ●

OWNERS DRAG OUT APPROVAL CHALLENGE

BY JEREMY SOLLARS Negotiations between the Southern Downs Regional Council and the owners of Cherrabah Resort over the former council’s approval of a commercial water extraction operation at the Elbow Valley property remain ongoing.

In December last year the previous council gave approval for Cherrabah owners Wenxing and Wenwei Ma to extract up to 96 megalitres of underground water annually from bores on Cherrabah for commercial plastic bottling on the Gold Coast.

The approval generated strong community opposition and the application was not publicly advertised prior to the council vote last December, with an earlier application by the Ma brothers - submitted in 2018 but later withdrawn - deemed to be still current by the council.

Neighbouring property owners and primary producers in the Elbow Valley region objected to the commercial water extraction on the grounds of the risk of depletion of the their own underground water supplies, and many in the wider community questioned the granting of the approval during a time of severe drought.

The council approval last December included a requirement that the Ma brothers upgrade a section of Keogh’s Road leading to Cherrabah to allow for increased truck movements.

The Ma brothers are disputing that condition and negotiations over the issue have been ongoing for the last six months and are no closer to resolution, with council officers granting the Ma’s an extension of time to make representations to the council.

The Ma brothers were also reported in early 2020 as saying that they intended to 8 SOUTHERN FREE TIMES

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“donate” water from Cherrabah to Elbow Valley producers but the Free Times understands no such water donations have taken place.

A spokesman for the Ma brothers has not responded to several calls and emails from the Free Times in recent weeks seeking comment on the water donation proposal, and on the status of negotiations over the council’s approval conditions. The brothers and their spokesman also declined to comment to the Free Times after the December council meeting, which they attended in person.

A Southern Downs Regional Council spokeswoman this week said “negotiations are continuing with the Cherrabah owners regarding the specific conditions of the approval granted by Council at its 18 December 2019 General Meeting”.

“A report will be presented to Council in the coming months to decide the formal change requests,” the spokeswoman said.

SEEMS LIKE A LONG TIME AGO ...

During a visit to Warwick in January - where she announced plans for a water pipeline from Toowoomba to Warwick - Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk said the Cherrabah water extraction proposal was “not appropriate” during a drought.

The Premier also suggested at that time the state government would consider “calling in” the application, meaning the state could make its own assessment of the Cherrabah proposal and potentially overturn the council’s approval, but this did not eventuate.

Of the former council, voting in favour of the application last December were Mayor Tracy Dobie, Deputy Mayor Jo McNally

Thursday, 18 June, 2020

and Councillors Rod Kelly, Sheryl Windle and Neil Meiklejohn. Against were Crs Vic Pennisi, Cameron Gow and Yve Stocks, with Cr Marika McNichol absent from the meeting.

Ms Dobie stated at the time that the council could only deal with the ‘operational’ aspects of the application, such as the placement of pumping equipment and truck movements and that the council had no control over water allocations, which she said were granted by the Queensland Government.

But some neighbouring landholders pointed out at the time that the council’s planning rules allow councillors to refuse applications that are contrary to the wider interests of the local community, and believed a refusal by councillors could have been legally defended on that basis.

Disputes over council development approvals can potentially escalate to the Planning and Environment Court of Queensland if they cannot be resolved through out-of-court negotiations. ● freetimes.com.au

NEWS RESCUE EQUIPMENT The Warwick State Emergency Service (SES) last week received new specialised rescue equipment from the Queensland Fire and Emergency Service, funded under the ‘Energising QLD’ Grant Program (pictured right).

The specialised rescue equipment consists of a Ferno ‘Mule II’ litter wheel with handles and a Ferno Split Basket Stretcher, and is designed to assist in the rescue and extraction of injured persons in remote and inhospitable terrain.

A Southern Downs Regional Council spokeswoman said the Warwick SES “previously fundraised to purchase their first rescue stretcher and it has already been widely used to assist Queensland Ambulance Service in recovery of injured people”.

TWO CHARGED

BRANCH PRAISED Moves to continue to offer community support by members of the Stanthorpe branch of the Queensland Country

Womens’ Association (QCWA) are understood to be ongoing following the closure of the branch and its tea and function rooms in the first week of June.

QCWA State President Christine King told the Free Times last week reasons for the closure included a lack of new members in the branch in recent times and a lack of willingness of existing members to “step up” into leadership roles, and declining income

from function room hire.

She described the branch closure as “regrettable” but also moved to reassure the wider community that no other QCWA branches in the Granite Belt and Southern Downs regions are at risk of closure.

Many locals in the Granite Belt community have praised the Stanthorpe QCWA branch members for their community outreach work - including

drought assistance - and members are believed to be examining options to continue as a group without the auspices of the QCWA. Members have been prevented from speaking publicly about the branch closure.

GOT A STORY? Do you have a local story we need to tell?

Call Southern Free Times editor Jeremy Sollars for a confidential chat on 0427 090 818. Protection of sources is guaranteed. ●

AU S T AUST RALIAN STEE RALIAN M L AD E

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Thursday, 18 June, 2020

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Two people have been charged with alleged theft of money from the Wattles Warrior Rugby League Football Club.

Detectives from the Warwick Police Criminal Investigation Branch (CIB) charged the man and the woman in recent weeks following an investigation into missing club funds. They have not yet appeared in court in relation to the charges, with the matter listed for the Warwick Magistrates Court on Wednesday 16 September.

Police are still wishing to speak with anyone who may have further information about the matter. Contact the Warwick CIB on 4660 4444.

SOUTHERN FREE TIMES 9

NEWS

BUDGET ADOPTION ON TUESDAY 30 JUNE

BY JEREMY SOLLARS The Southern Downs Regional Council will adopt the finalised 2020-2021 budget at a Special Council Meeting scheduled for Tuesday 30 June.

Feedback from the community received over a two-week consultation period ending last Friday 12 June has been compiled and councillors spent part of yesterday and Tuesday of this week hearing presentations from the public and community groups at special council meetings in Warwick and Stanthorpe.

The agenda for this week’s presentations stated that “due to current COVID-19 restriction measures no public information sessions were scheduled for Warwick and Stanthorpe”.

“However two online information sessions have been held with the Mayor to answer any questions posed in relation to the 2020/21 draft budget.

“As part of the Budget consultation process, the community was given the opportunity to provide feedback and make budget submissions on the Draft Budget through various platforms.

“These included submitting a form on Council’s Website, directly to the Community Contact Centre in writing, by email to Councillors and/or by making a presentation to Council.

“A total of 55 submissions were received from the public during the comment periods which are attached to this report for information.

“Full submissions are confidential as they contain personal information of the submitter, in accordance with the Privacy Act. “The following individuals/groups have taken up the opportunity to present their submission to Council at the Special Council Meetings (held this week) · Diane Walsh - Kerbside collection for Tannymorel/Mt Colliery · Norma O’Hara Murphy - Bony Mountain Festival · Bette Bonney - Jumpers and Jazz in July Incorporated

· Dennis Wood - Maryvale Progress Association · Gerard O’Leary - Warwick Show and Rodeo Society Incorporated · Ben Usher - Wildash Coordinated Wild Dog Control Syndicate · Warwick Art Gallery · Sarah and Drewes Jannenga · Granite Belt Motel 1.45 pm Granite Belt Wine & Tourism · Granite Belt Music Council - Kelvin Johnston · Wild Dog Trapping - John Pratt · Exclusion Fencing Steering Group - John Pratt · Granite Belt Sustainable Action Network · Stanthorpe Art Gallery · The draft 2020-2021 budget proposed a zero rate increase for the region and halfyearly general and utility rates. · Between now and Tuesday 30 June councillors and council officers will finalise the detail of the 2020-2021 budget - more in the print edition of the Free Times next Thursday 25 June and online at www.freetimes.com.au · Draft budget documents are available for viewing at www.sdrc.qld.gov.au

The draft budget was adopted at a special council meeting on Friday 29 May. At that time the council released the following statement on the draft budget “In the Friday 29 May 2020 Special Council Meeting, Southern Downs Regional Council adopted its 2020-2021 Draft Budget, delivering the lowest general rate rise in more than a decade,” the statement said.

“Amidst the challenge of COVID-19, staff have faced the challenge of planning for unknown future circumstances surrounding border closures, enforced business closures, low tourism, and many more.

“However, staff are committed to producing a Draft Budget which continues to meet the community’s needs while still being financially prudent.

“General rates will increase by just 1.9% per cent, the lowest rise since 2008, and Council will continue to extend the early payment discount period from 30 to 60 days to assist residents impacted by ongoing drought and COVID-19 conditions.

“Utility charges for water, sewer and waste will rise by only 1.9% which is less than the previous increase within the 2019-

2020 Financial Year.

“In light of the ongoing COVID-19 restrictions, Council will apply a COVID-19 concession of 1.9% to the general rates and all utility charges for water, sewer and waste, effectively delivering a 0% rate rise.

“The 2020-21 Draft Budget forecasts an operating surplus of $63,000 and will further reduce Council’s debt by $1.6 million.”

Mayor Vic Pennisi said the 2020-21 Draft Budget “looks towards the region’s future and will build on Council’s strong financial foundation to help the region grow and prosper”.

“This Council’s sound financial management and careful planning over the course of the last term means we are able to deliver the lowest rate rise in more than 10 years, and with the COVID-19 concession, it effectively means a 0% rate rise,” Cr Pennisi said.

“A $40.8 million Capital Works Program will maintain and upgrade the region’s ageing infrastructure, investing in our communities for the long-term.

“The Draft Budget strikes a balance between working towards long-term financial stability and delivering the key services and projects the region needs to continue to grow, prosper and reach its full potential.

“Council will also continue to support many community initiatives, including our vibrant arts and events scene, providing funding through our Community Grants Program.

“Council’s improving financial position has also led to Council successfully securing millions in grants and funding that will allow Council to deliver key projects.

“Council channels these grants and government funding into projects that enhance the liveability of the region, while assisting the region to bounce back after the effects seen through the continuing drought and the COIVID-19 pandemic.

“This funding also encourages more people and businesses to relocate here and invest in the Southern Downs. ●

EFFLUENT INVESTIGATION CONTINUES

BY JEREMY SOLLARS The Southern Downs Regional Council is continuing to “investigate and monitor water quality” following an effluent overflow into the Condamine River and says it has installed new measures at the Warwick Sewage Treatment Plant to avoid the recurrence of similar incidents.

As reported last week an “operational malfunction” at the treatment plant at the far western end of Victoria Street caused a volume of partially-treated sewage to overflow into the Condamine River on Wednesday 3 June.

Councils can face significant Queensland Government fines for effluent spills into waterways and the SDRC is still working with the Department of Environment and Science in relation to spills in 2018 involving both the Warwick and Stanthorpe sewage treatment plants.

In a council statement released this week a spokeswoman said the council is “doing everything possible to confirm the cause of the incident, minimise the impact of the overflow and prevent similar incidents after an operational malfunction at the plant 10 SOUTHERN FREE TIMES

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caused partially treated water to spill into the river”.

“Council is talking with the Department of Environment and Science and independent contractors and has implemented new prevention measures and alarms at the plant,” the spokeswoman said.

“The Department has been fully briefed about the incident and visited the site this week to review the operations and conduct a drone survey.

“Preventative measures have been put in place to divert stormwater from the erosion site and we have also installed a new high level alarm on the equipment that overflowed.

“Geotechnical engineers have reviewed the site and recommend that we continue to regularly monitor the site until further investigation and rehabilitation work can be undertaken.

“Water quality results are as expected and show higher levels of E.coli and suspended solids in the contained section of the river.

The nutrient levels are relatively low as is also expected for secondary treated effluent.

“Council will continue to monitor the water quality in the river at the site and will

Thursday, 18 June, 2020

undertake any remedial actions required by the Department.

“Residents are advised to avoid accessing or using the waterway near the Warwick Sewerage Treatment Plant and to avoid fishing or consuming fish caught near the spill site.

“Any residents or businesses with concerns regarding the overflow can contact the Customer Service Centre on 1300 697 372.

“Council will continue to keep the community informed as more updates become available.”

A spokesman for the Department of Environment and Science said its officers are “working with the Southern Downs Regional Council regarding its sewage treatment operations”.

“Specifically, the department is working with the Council to ensure its sewerage network is operating in a way that minimises environmental impacts and complies with environmental obligations,” the spokesman said.

“The department recognises ongoing drought and critical water supply issues in the Southern Downs area are significantly

impacting on the Council’s sewage network.

“To reduce risks to the environment, the department required an Environmental Evaluation be conducted on the Stanthorpe system and the Council will seek an amendment to the relevant Environmental Authority regarding how the sewage treatment plant is to be operated and managed.

“The department is currently investigating the cause of an incident related to the Warwick sewage treatment plant that occurred on Wednesday 3 June 2020.” ● freetimes.com.au

NEWS MINERS MOVE ON? Goomburra locals have noted the relinquishing of a coal exploration lease over part of the valley north of Warwick.

Chinese-owned Kaili Resources had an exploration lease enabling them to search for coal resources in the Goomburra area but Queensland Government records show the lease is no longer current. It is understood Kaili has relinquished the lease and is instead focusing on coal and mineral projects in Western Australia.

A local action group known as ‘Guardians of Goomburra’ had sought to raise public awareness of Kaili’s activities which over the past several years included exploratory drilling in some areas - and urging locals to ‘Lock the Gate’ against mining interests.

FUNERAL CHANGES Up to 100 people can now attend funerals in Queensland as the government moves to further ease restrictions.

Deputy Premier and Minister for Health and Ambulance Services Steven Miles this week said the revised direction on funerals took effect from Tuesday. Under the current

public health direction, the maximum number allowed is 50.

“I sincerely hope that lifting the number of people allowed at funerals from 50 to 100 will provide some level of comfort for people in mourning,” Mr Miles said.

“This has been an incredibly tough time for everyone, let alone those grieving the loss of a loved one. This latest easing of restrictions is yet another indication of how well Queenslanders have responded to our directions and advice.”

Chief Health Officer Dr Jeannette Young said limiting attendances at funerals was the most difficult direction she had to impose.

“There have been occasions where I have had to decline exemptions because of the COVID-19 risk,” she said.

“These are tough, heart-wrenching decisions to make but they’ve unfortunately been necessary to prevent transmission of this disease, particularly among gatherings that include a lot of vulnerable people.”

“I’m relieved that we have contained COVID-19 to the point where we can begin lifting limitations on important events like funerals.

She said funeral organisers needed to

keep were a record of attendees for eight weeks in case contact tracing was necessary at a later date.

Dr Young said weddings remained capped at 20 guests because they could be postponed, unlike funerals. Note up to 100 people can attend a wedding if the wedding venue opts into the relevant industry safe plan.

The 100 attendees only applies to funerals, it does not apply to wakes. Wakes are considered a gathering and therefore are subject to the relevant requirements for the venue.

POOL CLOSED Southern Downs Regional Council and YMCA have taken advantage of the recent COVID-19 lockdown to undertake necessary winter maintenance on the Warwick Indoor Recreational and Aquatic Centre pool.

While the gym facility has now reopened following the easing of social distancing restrictions, the pool remains closed during continued works.

WIRAC Manager Karen Peters said that it was prudent and necessary to conduct regular and routine maintenance of the facility.

“The pool facility and WIRAC as a whole is a hub for the local community and maintaining our facilities ensures they are available for members and visitors to enjoy,” she said.

“The COVID-19 closure gave us a head start to undertake some winter maintenance works and minimise the down time to the community.

“The pool will reopen as soon as maintenance is completed.”

The YMCA and Council are working closely together to ensure the pool will be operating safely and at full capacity as soon as possible.

The YMCA is committed to ensuring all important measures are put in place to ensure everyone’s safety, and that we meet the Government guidelines via a COVID Safety Plan. ●

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SOUTHERN FREE TIMES 11

FOCUS ON ‌ Warm up for Winter

FEEL THE WARMTH AT MWF Imagine sitting by a blazing wood fire this winter or enjoying the instant warmth that comes with gas heating.

MWF Plumbing, Stanthorpe are the people to see to make those winter warming dreams come to fruition whether you are putting in a whole new system or just ready for an upgrade.

This family-owned business has been serving the needs of the region for more than half a century bringing a wealth of both local and professional knowledge to everything they do - but still with an eye to the future. The MWF Plumbing team are currently working hard on their new premises (right next door to their old location) with a new larger showroom aimed at allowing their customers to view a wider range of styles and products.

It is hoped to have the premises fully operational by the end of the year but even before that they still have a huge range of wood heaters with modern designs to choose from and suit any home decor and any space.

Kent, Saxon, Cleanair, Scandia and Jet Master/Kemlan - the trusted names in heating, MWF stock them all.

And the nice thing about buying from MWF is that they not only sell the products they can also fit and install the gas and woodheaters themselves which

Tony Ezzy and Phil Testa from MWF have all your winter heating needs covered. makes them a one-stop shop cutting down the need to visit too many premises - something that has become important

against the backdrop of Corona Virus.

Come check out the whole range of winter warmers at MWF Plumbing, 64

Maryland Street, Stanthorpe, email them on adminmwf@mwfplumbing.com.au or follow them on facebook. â—?

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FOCUS ON … Warm up for Winter

WOOD HEATERS = STYLE + WARMTH

BY TANIA PHILLIPS THE recent Covid 19 lockdown has been a time for many in the community to finally get around to those much talked about renovations and now that winter’s here the finishing touch might just be a stylish wood heater.

Hot Copper is a reputable Home Improvement and Home Decor shop that has been servicing Stanthorpe and surrounding communities for more than 30 years.

They offer furniture, homewares, blinds, unique, novel, stylish, functional and affordable giftware to suit any occasion and budget but this time of year, for store owner Walter Mattarollo, it’s all about wood heaters.

Hot Copper stock Nectre, Masport, Jindara, Blaze and Kemlan just to name some of the brands they have in store, with Walter choosing to stock the styles and sizes best suited to the region’s climate, house size and type.

Supplying the right wood heater that does the best possible job for the customers needs is something Walter prides himself in and something he’s worked on perfecting during his 32 years in supplying wood heaters to Stanthorpe and surrounds.

He offers an in-house measurement and assessment to size up the house and help the customer choose the appropriate heater in both size and style so it meets their heating needs and still looks great.

He follows all the Australian standards

to the tee - “It’s the bible -it’s what we go by,” Walter explains and he also always uses the same plumber to install all of the wood heaters he sells.

“He probably knows as much about our range as I do now,” he laughed.

Drop in and talk to Walter about your heating requirements and get him to explain the options. You can find Hot Copper at 2 Maryland Street, Stanthorpe, call on (07) 46811209 or follow them on Facebook. ●

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SOUTHERN FREE TIMES 13

RURAL LINKS

POULTRY, SHEEP, GOATS, BACK SOON Warwick’s popular and iconic Pig and Calf Sale will return to something more like normal on Wednesday 15 July when poultry, sheep and goat sales are due to resume.

The yards on Lyons Street in Warwick will once again be alive with the sounds of poultry - however the ‘sundry’ goods auction is still on hold until further notice.

Pig and Calf Sale auctioneers McDougall & Sons say “subject to further planning and review we will re-open the poultry, sheep and goat auctions from Wednesday the 15th of July 2020 at our Lyons street Pig and Calf Yards pending the Queensland governments implementation of stage 3 in easing restrictions”.

The following conditions will apply to all persons attending · All vendors and buyers will be required to sign in providing your name, address, contact phone number and signature.

(This is required by the Queensland government for ease of tracking if there was to be an outbreak of covid-19) · Physical distancing must be adhered to staying 1.5 meters away from others. · Genuine buyers within buying areas only.

If you do not intend to bid on a particular head of stock, please step away from the selling area. · Dropping off and booking in of poultry will be strictly between 6.30am and 8.30am. This will allow for buyers to view what is available before the auction commences at 9.30am.

McDougall and Sons management also ask that if you are feeling unwell to please not attend.

Multiple sanitising stations will be made available throughout the selling centre.” ●

Poultry sales at ‘‘The Pig & Calf’’ have been missed by buyers and sellers alike...

MLA WARWICK CATTLE SALE SUMMARY Warwick cattle sale - MLA Summary from Tuesday 16 June 2020 ... · Yarding this week - 491 (- 397 on previous week).

Good falls of rain across parts of the supply area reduced numbers by 397 head to 491 at Warwick, MLA’s report said.

“A fair panel of exporters was present and operating plus the regular feeder and trade buyers, and restockers.

“Prices generally responded to the rain with most classes experiencing some improvements.

“Restockers were very active on light weight classes with both steers and heifers in demand.”

SUMMARY ... · Medium weight yearling steers to feed for the domestic market gained over 20c/kg. · Yearling heifers to feed improved in price by 5c to 12c/kg. · Cows sold to a dearer trend to gain 3c to 6c/kg. · Steer calves returning to the paddock made to 522.2c to average 490c/kg. · Vealer heifers to local butchers made to 400c to average 398c/kg. · Light weight yearling steers sold to restockers at an average of 456c with sales to 490c/kg. · Medium weight yearling steers to feed

made to 439.2c to average 420c/kg. · A small selection of heavy weight yearling steers to feed made to 437c to average 391c/kg. · Poor condition heifers under 200kg made to 492c, while yearling heifers under 280kg made to 420c to average 405c/kg. · A handful of medium weight yearling heifers to feed made to 397c to average 367c/kg. · Heavy grown steers to export processors made to 354c to average 339c, and some full mouth bullocks made to 330.2c/kg. · Medium weight 2 score cows averaged 240c, and heavy weight 3 scores averaged 275c/kg.

· Good heavy cows averaged 289c with a couple of sales to 310.2c/kg. · Heavy bulls made to 329.2c/kg. ●

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NEWS

SAM’S SAY...

BY SAMANTHA WANTLING You hear it all the time... “there is nothing like being a grandparent”, “being a grandparent will change your life” and my favourite, “grandchildren are the greatest gift your heart will ever know”.

Guess what - they are all true, maybe a little understated, but definitely all true.

I recently read an article about a woman who became a grandmother and this particular lady’s Jewish friends were wishing her “Mazel Tov”.

When she looked up the meaning she found that “Mazel” is a drip of inspiration from above.

So, Mazel Tov is a blessing.

The definition says “may this drip of inspiration not dissipate, but rather have a positive and lasting effect that from the event onwards you should live your life with higher consciousness”.

It has been over four years since I heard those words and they still pack an almighty punch.

I am now blessed to have four grandchildren, 3 perfect boys and one strong willed beautiful little girl. They are all so very different, but the one thing they share in common is the impact their birth had on my life.

I was jolted, blind-sided by a smack in the face of a love more intense than anything I could have ever imagined.

I am not taking anything away from the love I felt when all three of my daughters

were born, but there is something so insanely different when it is your grandchild. As a grandparent you feel none of the anxiety or responsibility that comes with being a parent. You are just flooded with love.

All of a sudden the learning curve starts all over again, but it is a different kind of learning. There is very little structure and a

multitude of smiles. You have to remember what it is to be a kid again. Days spent with your grandchildren are full of laughter and playtime. It is almost all fun and no work.

They make the worst day so much better and being with them puts everything into perspective.

Facetime becomes one of your best friends (and your phone company loves you for it) and you look forward to the morning phone call and that little smile that melts your heart.

Suddenly you look at your daughters a little bit differently and there is an overwhelming pride as you watch her become the parent you always hoped she would be.

And then there is the spoiling, because I am sure that grandparents are put on this earth to spoil their grandchildren.

I have to admit, after feeling such overwhelming love when my first grandchild was born, I was always worried how I would ever be able to reciprocate this love, or even have room in my heart for another grandchild. But what I quickly learned was that grandchildren make your heart expand. Just when you think it is completely full, it grows to enable it to hold the depth and width of unending love that goes hand in hand with being a grandparent.

My mother once told me, tongue in cheek, that if she could do it all over again, she would skip the kids and move straight to the grandkids - never a truer word was spoken. ●

FREE DIARY ENTRIES ARE BACK...

The Free Times is keen to re-start our weekly ‘Community Diary’ section for community groups and not-for-profit organisations to list upcoming events, free of charge. We know COVID-19 has disrupted many local groups and their regular activities, but we also know that won’t be forever, and many organisations are re-activating and looking ahead. Email your ‘Community Diary’ notes to - newsdesk@ freetimes.com.au Warwick Over 50s Social Club - Contact warwickssc@gmail.com or phone Jen 0400 505 943 · Sunday 28 June, noon, RSL Club, Stanthorpe · Sunday 12 July, noon, Steele Rudd Pub, Nobby · Sunday 26 July, noon, Heritage Estate Wines, 9 Watson Rd, Cottonvale. ●

Monday of this week was ‘World Elder Abuse Awareness Day’, with Dementia Australia urging all Australians to know the warning signs of elder abuse and to be alert to vulnerable Australians, including people who live with dementia.

Dementia Australia CEO Maree McCabe said elder abuse is a serious issue that is likely to have become even more prevalent during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Based on international indicators, it is likely that between two per cent and 14 per cent of older Australians experience elder abuse in any given year, with the prevalence possibly higher during a time when people living with dementia were isolating at home,” Ms McCabe said.

“While not all people living with dementia will be vulnerable to elder abuse, COVID-19 and self-isolation may have increased the risk factors including financial stress within families with the loss of employment, and unchecked family conflict in confined living circumstances, similar to the experience of women and children who

are experiencing increased family violence.

“People living with dementia are already at an increased risk of elder abuse due to their cognitive impairment and dependency on others, and the COVID-19 pandemic may have exacerbated this risk.

“An estimated 459,000 Australians live with dementia and 70 per cent live in the community.”

Some of the warning signs of elder abuse to look out for include · Unnecessary levels of isolation that go beyond government restrictions · Changes in the older person’s behaviour, with the person disengaging from family members, health, aged care and other services, or making threats of self-harm or expressions of hopelessness · The older person being prevented access to potential supports and modes of communication (such as phone or internet) · Large sums of money to pay for unspecified items are being requested or spent.

“Often older people living with dementia, as with others who are abused, will not

necessarily tell people what’s happening and for some, cognitive decline can impair their ability to raise the issue,” Ms McCabe said.

“That’s why we are calling on Australians to understand the warning signs and to look out for their family member, friend, neighbour or client, and to know who to call for help.

“If you know or suspect someone may be a victim of elder abuse, please contact your state or territory Elder Abuse Hotline or call the National Dementia Helpline on 1800 100 500. · The Elder Abuse Hotlines for Queensland (Elder Abuse Prevention Unit) is 1300 651 192 · Dementia Australia is the national peak body and charity for people, of all ages, living with all forms of dementia, their families and carers. It provides advocacy, support services, education and information. · National Dementia Helpline - 1800 100 500, and more information at www. dementia.org.au ●

MAJOR SHOWGROUNDS UPGRADE

BY TANIA PHILLIPS Tenterfield Showground is set for a $13K upgrade as part of the NSW Government’s Showground Stimulus Funding Program.

The money will include $4620 to remove dead trees from the grounds with a further $8600 to repair white ant damage to the tool shed and toilet block.

The ground is one of five in the Lismore electorate sharing a total of $301,100 in stimulus upgrades with nearby Bonalbo receiving almost $47K for a variety of projects including electrical connection and power installation, a kitchen fit out, freetimes.com.au

barbecue and bar building and to install horse stall panelling.

Murwillumbah, Nimbin and Lismore showgrounds will also benefit from this round funding.

Member for Lismore Janelle Saffin said the showground was an important part of the Tenterfield community acting as a “great equaliser where all come together for traditional and contemporary events and gatherings” and was a “safe harbour in times of trouble, supported by armies of volunteers”.

She said the $25-million program, rolling

out over two financial years, was aimed at getting money ‘out the door’ for longoverdue maintenance and improvements of showgrounds, simultaneously keeping local tradespeople in work.

“I was very pleased that these five showgrounds got up and would hope that some of the smaller ones in the electorate could get a look in in the next round. I backed all of them in,” Ms Saffin said The Showground Stimulus Funding program is part of the NSW Government’s $2.3-billion Health and Economic Stimulus Package (COVID-19 Stimulus). ●

12360622-CG32-17

RAISING AWARENESS ON ELDER ABUSE

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Thursday, 18 June, 2020

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SOUTHERN FREE TIMES 15

FOCUS ON … Local History

Warwick military researcher and historian - and good friend of the Free Times - Deborah Wheeler.

Welcome to our latest feature giving an insight into our local military history both past and present. This regular fortnightly section will feature stories from local ‘accidental’ historian DEB WHEELER and her unit of co-writers and contributors.

WE ARE TOMORROW’S HISTORY...

Deb is a local writer and military history advocate who has written and published five locally-based military works, and supports many service-related groups and individuals.

“We are tomorrow’s history and I envision my legacy as recording the stories of our servicemen and women both past and present,” Deb says.

“It is because of the actions of our past ANZACS and our current members of the Australian Defence Force that we have the privileges we enjoy today and the ability to live in a free country.

“Their legacy is something many take for granted today but we must never forget the rights and privileges we enjoy today were often gained by those prepared to sacrifice much for the benefit of others to enjoy in the future.

“Their stories deserve to be told.”

Another regular co-contributor is wellknown local writer and strong campaigner of ANZAC legends, former member of the Australian Air Force, John Telfer. Many of you may be familiar with John and read 16 SOUTHERN FREE TIMES

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ANZACS who have links relating to our local region. Deb is a strong supporter and frequent user of the marvelous facilities at the NAA Brisbane office. More on that in the future.

Do you have any photos or war related stories which you would like to submit or have a question about? Send your inquiries to read@deborahcwheeler.com What will your legacy be?

And as one of the early employees of the Southern Free Times, Deb will also be sharing another regular review piece based on our paper’s past history. What happened in the SFT, ‘Why was this news at the time and what was the outcome?’ Keep an eye out for more ...

LOCAL HONOUR BOARDS & ROLLS ... and enjoyed stories he has written on local military identities in the past. · We look forward to John sharing his wealth of knowledge with our community into the future - his first contribution, on Aircraftman Marcus Mahony - is on page

Thursday, 18 June, 2020

19 of this edition.

GET IN TOUCH ...

This week Deb and some of her team of researchers are in Brisbane at the National Archives of Australia (NAA) busily undertaking research on over fifty WWI

The first Honour Board we will be looking at this week is the Swan Creek Hall WWI Honour Board. Are you related to, have photos of or have information about any of the soldiers on this board? If you can help fill in some gaps in these histories please contact me by email. freetimes.com.au

THEY ANSWERED THE CALL ...

In April 2019, I visited the Swan Creek School of Arts during the Heritage Festival. There was an impressive variety of memorabilia on display and the event was well supported by locals and visitors to the region.

Ever watchful and on the lookout for information in connection to my own family history, I had invited my brother Bill, to come up from Brisbane for the weekend. We were not to be disappointed with our visit to the hall.

After making a few inquiries we made contact with distant relations from the area and learnt a little more about my own family connections with the Swan Fells, Tannymorel and Killarney areas.

As I was walking around the hall I spotted two very impressive Honour Boards listing names of locals who had enlisted in the 1914-1918 and 1939-1945 wars. You never know where you will find information about our military personnel and this was an opportunity too good to miss for me.

It took no time at all to seek and be granted permission to take a couple of photos of the boards.

Before we left I talked with Ann Maree Cutmore and Rhonda Gresinger and discovered they were keen to undertake research on the locals whose names appeared on both boards. As it transpired, I was

conducting military based talks at my home during the Heritage Festival, I invited them to join me the following week to see what we might be able to uncover. Before they arrived I took the liberty of looking up military records to see if I could find information which may be a help to them. Well that was the start of a good working relationship between myself and the committee members from the hall.

When Ann Maree and Rhonda arrived I was able to present them with a USB loaded with basic information on the majority of their soldiers. We were able to sit and go through the process of how I came to find these records and guide them on their way to research journey to finding further information. Rhonda was recently visiting at my home and has given me the following statement to publish.

“In April 2019 after perusing history of Swan Creek, obtained in an auction, the committee of the Swan Creek Hall decided to preserve the History and Service Records of all the men listed on the WWI Honour Board at the Swan Creek School of Arts Hall.

“To do this we have undertaken much research with the help of Deb Wheeler and as a result, been able to obtain a copy of the soldier’s service records and photos to place them in the hall for the community to be able to access.

“Photos and general information are to be displayed around the Honour Board. We have also displayed commemorative certificates of soldiers killed in action who are buried overseas.

“We have obtained photos of most of our soldiers, however there are three that we are missing. We would appreciate if anybody has photos of the following soldiers in their possession if they would kindly donate copies of the photos to us so we may complete our process.”

Photos still required •฀ Henry William George GILLESPIE 3356 •฀ William Alfred GREENWOOD 490 •฀ Thomas Ronald Wallace (Ronald) JOHNS 5058 Being able to help the committee achieve their goal has been a very satisfying experience and I firmly believe the reward for helping someone is then having the ability to help someone else.

The World War One Honour Board is almost complete, however work on the World War Two Honour Board is a work in progress. We wish them all the very best with their research and their goal of making this information available to the whole community and visitors alike.

Incidentally, while I was researching

The Swan Creek Hall WW1 Honour Board. the soldiers for the committee I came across the name C DUNSTAN. Memory clicked in and once again I was back looking through my files and low and behold there was E C DUNSTAN. Dunstan had been a patient at Kyoomba - more on his story at another time.

Funny how one thing leads to another ... ● DEB WHEELER

PUZZLES

1.

SUDOKU

No.4

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

How to Sud

4

5 2 2 4 6 3 9 3 CRYPTIC PUZZLE NO. 7638 DOWN 8 1 2 3 1. Dog (8) 2. Rodent (6) Neighbourhood (8) 3. Bad (6) 1 3 7 2 4. Indication (4) 5. Seize (6) 6. Picture (5) 9 6 1 8 11. Writer (8) 13. Dislike (6) 14. Indigenous (6) 1 5 1) 15. Rush (6) 16. Nude (5) 18. Diplomacy (4) 5 1 9 8 YPTIC PUZZLE NO. 7638 DOWN ACROSS Dog (8) 4 2 3

Fill the gr every row 3x3 squar the digi 3 8 7 2 9 4 1 6 5

Cryptic Clues

4

8

1 9 5 5 4 6 3

7 6

2

6 2 3 4 7 8 5

8

CRYPTIC PUZZLE NO. 7638 - SOLUTIONS Across - 6, Sleeping-bag. 7, Cast. 8, Drea-d’i-ng. 9, Shower. 10, Th-re-at. 12, Stalls. 15, S(or)-her-ry. 17, Merchant. 19, Stay. 20, Clear profit.

Down - 1, Best-owal. 2, Spi-de-r (rev) 3, Un-rest. 4, Abed. 5, Age-nda. 6, S-ma’s-h. 11, Reels off. 13, Tren-ch.

14, Sta-i-rs. 15, Sat-i-re. 16, Ro-as-t. 18, Crew.

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2 1 4 6 8 5 3 9 7

SOUTHERN FREE TIMES 17

2

9

4 9 3 5 6 1 7 8 2

1 8 5 9 2 7 4 6 3

8

8 2 1 7 5 9 3 4 6

3 4 7 1 8 6 2 5 9

9 5 6 2 4 3 8 1 7

5 1 4 6 7 2 9 3 8

2 6 8 3 9 5 1 7 4

Solution No.4301

7 3 9 4 1 8 6 2 5

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

Thursday, 18 June, 2020

3 2

6 7 2 8 3 4 5 9 1

DOWN 1. Giving the champion a low crack (8). 2. The boy tears out, coming back with a creepy-crawly (6). 3. Disquiet that makes for a lack of sleep? (6). 4. A sailor boy in his bunk? (4). 5. The programme will take a lot of time and trouble (6). 6. Break the silence when the mother’s come in (5). 11. Says something rapidly and dances away (5,3).

13. Rent out to the church in a depression (6). 14. The lights take one through and they take one up (6). 15. Didn’t stand by one again, which is funny (6). 16. Like to go off about cook (5). 18. A shipping company! (4).

2

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somme? (5,6).

8

ACROSS 6. A case of fatigue, evidently (8-3). 7. Throw things at the actors (4). 8. Afraid I’d go to pieces in danger, wrongly (8). 9. Someone taking one on a guided tour in the rain?

(6). 10. That “through the heart again” is intended to frighten (6). 12. Stops getting expensive seats (6). 15. Sorry or not, take her in for a drink (6). 17. With a French sea shanty, he’s in business! (8). 19. Don’t go off to get the prop (4). 20. What a soup manufacturer makes from consomme? (5,6).

DOWN 1. Giving the champion a low crack (8). 2. The boy tears

QUICK PUZZLE NO. 7638 - SOLUTIONS Across - 6, Imprecation. 7, Taxi. 8, Vicinity. 9, Beggar.

10, Dinghy. 12, Barren. 15, Havana. 17, Dictator. 19, Like.

20, Uncivilised.

Down - 1, Springer. 2, Beaver. 3, Rancid. 4, Sign. 5, Snatch. 6, Image. 11, Novelist. 13, Animus. 14, Native.

15, Hurtle. 16, Naked. 18, Tact.

CRYPTIC PUZZLE NO. 7638

Solution

7

ACROSS Curse (11)

How to solve Sudoku!

ACROSS Curse (11) Vehicle (4) Neighbourhood (8) Mendicant (6) Boat (6) Sterile (6) Cigar (6) Tyrant (8) Enjoy (4) Barbarous (11)

4

6.

7.

8.

9.

10.

12.

15.

17.

19.

20.

6.

SUDOKU No. 4301

Quick Clues

6

QUICK QUICKPUZZLE PUZZLENo. NO. 7638 7638

5 6 9 7 3 1 2 8 4

9 4 5 8 1 2 6 7 3

1 7 2 3 5 6 8 4 9

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FOCUS ON … Local History

REMEMBERING OUR ANZACS...

BY JOHN TELFER My last locally-published story on the tribute to those brave airmen of World War 2 who qualified for membership of “The Caterpillar Club” and, the equally famous “Gold Fish Club”, (WDN 22nd April), stirred up a lot of memories for some readers. It appeared that I had unknowingly missed one Southern Downs man who was also a Caterpillar Club member. Thanks to Jenny Rauchle, President of the Leyburn Historical Society - I will attempt to correct my earlier story. The man I overlooked was Warrant Officer Marcus Mahony, an Air Gunner from Leyburn, who qualified over Germany in November 1943, when he bailed out of a Wellington bomber on his 7th mission. So, with apologies, here is his unique story of bravery and survival.

MARCUS MAHONY - ‘THE ONE THAT GOT AWAY’...

Marcus Mahony was born in Toowoomba, Queensland on 16th April 1921, the only son of Mark and Ethlene Mahony, a Stock and Station Agent at Leyburn, a small country town on the Darling Downs. Later, a sister named Alexis completed the family.

Marcus received his early education in the small, one-teacher, Leyburn State School where he passed his scholarship exams and was then enrolled at Brisbane’s Nudgee College to complete his secondary education. Marcus never liked the boarding school environment and endured the harsh discipline while he stayed to complete his Junior Certificate unsuccessfully, before leaving school at 15 to take up employment in a timber mill, and later hay bailing, a very physical type of work where bales of wheat

Marcus Mahony. had to be manually hurled on to the trucks for transport to the flour mills. He later met a man from Dubbo who had purchased ‘Boonidoon’, a sheep and cattle station at Toolburra, near Warwick, who gave him employment working as a Jackeroo.

In 1941, with Australia now involved in World War 2, Marcus, like many young men answered the call to serve. When Marcus went to Brisbane to enlist, he brought home the enlistments papers for his parents to sign but at first they did not want to sign them, as he was only 19 and had to get parental permission Eventually, Marcus persisted and they reluctantly signed them and, while waiting for his call up he worked for a short time in a Toowoomba foundry.

He was finally accepted into the Royal Australian Air Force on 18th July 1942 as a trainee Wireless Operator.

Marcus was first posted to RAAF Sandgate for his initial training before going

to RAAF Maryborough, for wireless training.

Marcus found the complexities of Morse code difficult and was re-mustered to Air Gunner and posted to the air gunnery school at Evans Head in northern New South Wales, where he qualified and was promoted to sergeant. After a short time, back to Sandgate and Bradfield Park in Sydney, before sailing overseas to England for combat duties.

After landing in San Francisco in the United States and a great trip overland, Marcus and his group were sent back overseas to Scotland before finally heading to a staging camp in Brighton, England.

After a period of training on Wellington bombers Marcus was mustered into aircrew with 49 Squadron considered ready for combat duties. However, owing to the hazardous flying conditions in England it was not an easy task. Weather conditions such as fog, rain and icy periods, many Wellington aircrews had to fly using FIDO (Fog and dispersal operation) when attempting a landing in dense fog and only guided by two parallel bars of fire, one on each side of the runaway. Sometimes these fire guides reflected on the pilot’s windscreen which made it difficult to see as their aircraft approached the runaway and could overshoot the landing.

On 3rd November 1943, Marcus was involved in a serious landing incident under heavy fog when a member of a Lancaster crew piloted by Australian Sergeant R.J. Richardson. They crashed on landing with Marcus and another member the only survivors. Marcus, fortunately, only suffered injuries to his hand.

Marcus’s luck ran out when on his 7th mission over Germany, the Lancaster bomber he was in, collided with another of the 27 Lancasters on the mission. Forced to bail out, Marcus managed to free himself, but

GARDEN TIME

on reaching the ground got caught up in a tree. In freeing himself, Marcus fell 30 feet out of the tree and seriously injured his back.

With German search parties sent out to look for downed airmen, Marcus was forced to surrender himself as his back injury seriously affected his attempt to evade his captors.

After receiving medical treatment for his back, Marcus was sent to Lubeck near the Baltic sea and after other forced movements to other POW camps in Hamburg, Dulag Luft, and finally, ending up in Stalag Luft IVB at Mullenberg, on the Elb River, near Saxony. Marcus stated that the treatment was not too bad and that the Red Cross parcels helped sustain him in his period as a prisoner of war. Marcus recollected that in his camp there were about 600 Air Force personnel and around 25,000 men of various allied nations incarcerated there.

When Marcus’s freedom came about by the Americans in 1945, he, along with many other POW’s were flown back to Brussels, then by Lancaster to England.

After arriving back in Australia in January 1946, Marcus was discharged from the RAAF on 15th February 1946, and went to work with the Commonwealth Department of Works as a carpenter and stayed there until his retirement. In 1947 he married Mamie Reibelt in St Mary’s Catholic church on 18th October 1947, and together they raised three boys in Barry, Patrick and Shaun.

Marcus was a true Anzac and certainly a member of the caterpillar club. Like all those many heroes who passed before him, Marcus deserves his place in Australian military history. After his beloved wife Mamie passed away in 1987, Marcus lived on until his death on 24th October 2016, and now both lie at rest in the Toowoomba General cemetery.

LEST WE FORGET. ●

BEATRICE HAWKINS

DREAMING AHEAD - TO SPRING As I wrote this early in the week the whole town was enveloped in the most amazing and beautiful fog. So long as I don’t have to drive in it I love fogs, especially where my current house is situated. From my spot on the hill I can’t see or hear anything of town and even my close neighbours are barely visible! The only sounds are magpies singing as they start the day and the cooing of doves - wonderful! Later as it lifts the spire of St Marys will poke through and gradually all will be revealed again. Dressed warmly and with a hot drink in hand, it is one of my life’s pleasures to watch unfold from the front patio.

The rain at the weekend was great and my gauge said 20mm, so my garden says a big thank you and so do I - it certainly beats carrying shower water onto it.

One of the joys of winter in the garden is being able to read catalogues and gardening books and dream of what is to come in Spring!

Daylilies have captured my attention this week as the ones in my garden are still growing well and did flower well during the summer. I have decided I need more of these very hardy perennials so started reading and dreaming. freetimes.com.au

Capturing my attention...daylilies.

There are three types of daylilies evergreen, semi-evergreen and dormant and two genetic forms, diploid and tetraploid. Now the types are pretty self explanatory, but the genetic description left me scrambling! Apparently a “tetraploid” is more vigorous and has larger flowers.

Daylilies form clumps of strappy leaves and then spikes of flowers with many buds along them. Each flower only lasts a day, hence the name, but with as many as 20-plus buds per stem and many stems per clump, you’ll have a long period of enjoyment.

They come in an amazing array of colours, sizes and shapes from the simple plain orange ones that were my introduction to them many years ago, to doubles, bi-

colours, spiders and miniatures and some varieties are even perfumed.

Evergreen varieties will grow almost anywhere in Australia, semi-evergreens like to have cooler winters and dormant varieties like cold winters and frequent frosts. They really are a flower that has a place in any garden in our area with probably the semievergreens being the most suitable. They are remarkably drought-tolerant, so once again are ideal for our area with our limited water supply.

They can be planted at any time of the year, but it is best to get them in between March and October, so now is ideal. Full sun is best, but part shade is alright so long as they get at least six hours of sun a day.

As with most plants, good friable, compost rich soil is best and mulch around them.

Depending on their final size they can be planted anywhere from 30-90cm apart.

Water once a week until established but be careful not to over water in the early weeks as they can rot. Even though they are drought tolerant, watering once a week when they are flowering is recommended and once a month during the winter.

While it is nice to see them in bloom when you are buying them, you’ll have to

rely on the accuracy of the catalogue or tag just now.

From my experience they are fairly pest and disease free with my major problem being the ever present snails and slugs that can make the leaves look messy - constantly working on getting rid of these pests!

After 3 or 4 years if the clumps become too large, or if you need a new clump in another spot, they can be split, preferably between about April and September, using a sharp shovel. The relocated clump may take a while to flower in the new spot, so be patient and feed them in the spring and they will delight you.

I have been looking in catalogues and on the internet and my big problem now is which ones do I choose! The range of colours, shapes and sizes is amazing and some of the bi-colours and ruffled edge ones are spectacularly fabulous and flamboyant.

As I don’t have a lot of room to fill it will be a very difficult decision.

With the rain at the weekend that seems to have been fairly consistent in the area, our gardens have been given a much needed boost.

Once again - don’t forget to plan for the annual garden competition in October! ●

Thursday, 18 June, 2020

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SOUTHERN FREE TIMES 19

THE SPIN

MORE COVID-19 FALLOUT...

The fallout of the COVID-19 Pandemic is being felt right across all levels of sport.

At the local level many winter sports will not be returning while others are still trying to dissect the requirements placed on them by the State Government and their individual governing bodies.

In some areas some codes seem better prepared to handle what is required than others. Much hinges on the number and commitment of volunteers in an organisation.

With volunteer numbers on the decline in recent years this has come back to bite many sports.

At the State and Senior level we see teams uprooted and relocated and in the last week have seen the disruption that occurs when someone in a players sphere tests positive to the virus. Aiden Tolman from the Canterbury Bulldogs for example. He now finds himself sitting out two weeks of competition after a teacher at the school attended by his child returned a positive test.

There are some up sides. When this happened games were rescheduled in the bat of an eye and without any great disruption to teams players TV networks - all the important people. Previously the thought of rescheduling a rugby league game would have required weeks of planning preparation and discussion. In the new normal - it just gets done.

In the new normal it seems that CEO’s of top sporting organisations are required to perform. Dissatisfaction and perceived underperforming or over reacting to the current situation will not be accepted.

This was borne out on Tuesday when the board of Cricket Australia moved to sack CEO Kevin Roberts amid growing dissatisfaction with his handling of the game’s response to COVID-19.

Roberts found himself offside with the board, states and players after he made the call to stand down 80 per cent of staff early during the coronavirus pandemic.

CA chairman Earl Eddings confirmed Roberts had tendered his resignation and it had been accepted by the board.

Seems not every sport has the luxury of a Peter V’Landy’s who by his actions in Racing and the NRL has apparently set a very high bench mark for other mere mortals to live up to.

- Casey JUNIOR RUGBY LEAGUE SEASON ANOTHER VICTIM The 2020 Warwick and District Junior Rugby League season is one of the latest sports in the district to fall victim to COVID-19.

The WDJRL Executive committee and representatives from all 11 junior rugby league clubs met late last week to discuss if a return to rugby league in the 2020 season was a viable option.

After much discussion and careful consideration of what a return to play, would require those present voted seven to four in favour of cancelling the remainder of the season.

It is not the outcome hundreds of junior players and their parents would have been hoping for. It is however a realistic approach to the requirements put in place by the QRL in their recently released Return to Play Handbook.

All parties present at the meeting have taken several weeks to digest the requirements set out by the QRL. In 20 SOUTHERN FREE TIMES

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addition to the State Government restrictions, the main concerns expressed centred around the lack of available volunteers and the inability to host all teams.

There have been many meetings with the QRL and within the clubs to The WDRJL and all options had been thoroughly explored before the vote.

Announcing the decision on the WDJRL Facebook page, President Ms Deb Scanlan said she would like to thank everyone involved for their patience and understanding. She said, “I’m sure this will be disappointing news to some, but we look to forward to having everyone playing footy again next year”.

Unfortunately, clubs simply do not have the pool of available volunteers to commit to restarting the season under the guidelines the QRL and government requirements.

It is a disappointing but realistic outcome.

Hopefully a season of no footy will ignite the passion for the game in the kids who are missing out. Let’s hope the QRL and NRL do not forget grass roots footy and our kids during this period. Bring on 2021 AFL JUNIORS FEEL THE BITE Low registration numbers for the Junior AFL season has bitten the Warwick Redbacks hard. Club President, Vince White announced that the club has reluctantly withdrawn all junior teams from the 2020 season.

With the potential for only five games in a reduced season, there was not the necessary level of support prior to the June 10 cut off date.

The focus will now turn to winning back the interest of the juniors for the 2021 season.

The club will be working hard to renew the interest of the juniors in the game and they will be working with AFLQ and Auskick to reignite interest in the AFL. Hopefully hte club will be able to field full sides in Under 12’s, 14’s and 16’s next season.

The senior Redback’s have returned to training with a shortened season set to kick off in July. Club officials are hoping when the senior competition returns it will help drive interest among the juniors.

Another driver could well be the success of the Brisbane Lions this season. If the Lions taste similar If you would like further information on playing AFL, hte Junior or Senior Redback’s Club contact Vince White on 0457 570 947.

FEDERER OUT FOR 2020 Fans of the great man of tennis, Roger Federer will not see him return to the world stage in 2020 after he suffered another injury setback.

While the mere mortals of the tennis world debated the safe resumption of the competition Federer announced he has recently undergone further surgery on his right knee and will not return to the court until 2021.

In a statement to his fans Federer said, “A few weeks ago, having experienced a setback during my initial rehabilitation, I had to have an additional quick arthroscopic procedure.”

The Swiss ace has vowed to return in 2021 and who would doubt him.

When many had written him off in 2017, he returned from a lengthy layoff to claim the Australian Open and Wimbledon.

His 2017 season is regarded as one of the greatest comeback seasons of all time. In

Thursday, 18 June, 2020

Trevor Ludlow (l) and Nathan Stibbard (r) enjoyed sharing a golf buggy last weekend now restrictions have been eased.

Racheal Hendry, pictured as she teed off on Saturday, finished runner up in the Ladies Stableford competition. addition to the two majors Federer won a total of seven titles and finished the year with a win-loss record of 54-5. Federer enjoyed his highest winning since 2006 and enjoyed his most successful in over a decade.

Federer, turns 39 in August and still holds the men’s Grand Slam singles title of 20. However his arch rival Nadal and Djokovic are circling.

It would be a brave person to suggest Federer who has such a wonderful rapport with the public can make a successful return in 2021.

BACK ON COURT Warwick Netball is bucking the trend and has confirmed a season start date for the 2020 Netball season.

Junior Netball players will be back on court on July18 pending the easing of government restriction and in line with the Return to Play Roadmap Stage 3.

The season is set to commence with

two Come n Try days on July 18 and July 25 and will run for eight weeks.

Linda Bunch Secretary of the Warwick Netball Association said the committee was extremely excited at the prospect of welcoming kids back to the courts.

They are hoping by the two proposed come n try days will kick start interest in the game. It will provide an opportunity for the kids to get a taste of Netball before their parents have to commit to fees for the season.

Recognising that many families in the community have suffered during as a result of COVID-10 the Warwick Netball Association has waived a large portion of their fees and uniforms will not be compulsory. These measures have been adopted to make it Netball an attractive option for families.

While kids count down to the start of the season officials are preparing for the strict CovidSafe regulations and requirements. freetimes.com.au

email: wickets-stpe@bigpond.com

The Association is hoping to see all those juniors, boys and girls who played in 2019 back on the court when play resumes.

With many sports forced to cancel, Ms Bunch is hoping Netball will be seen as an alternative for kids.

Netball is no longer seen as just a female sport and both boys and girls are welcome and encouraged to give the game a go if they have not played before. As the countdown to the first “ball up” begins, keep up to date with all of the news by visiting the Warwick Netball Association Facebook page.

EASING OF PROTOCOLS WELCOMED

BY GOLFERS Stanthorpe Golfers played a Stableford event sponsored by Keith and Helen Jones last Saturday.

It also marked another step in the easing of COVID-19 restrictions with golfers enjoying the new protocols which saw the clubhouse open a under strict conditions.

The competition results favoured several new arrivals at the club with Bruce Green and Nathan Stibbard returning equal points, 39 for the round. After the countback it was Green who received the nod with Stibbard settling for the runner’s up spot.

Featuring in the men’s rundown were several of the more experienced players David Burgess (38), Brady Morant (38) Keith Barnett (36) and Alan Kerr (36).

Sandra Morris won the Ladies event with a score of 35 points two points clear of runner up Racheal Hendry. Morris scored 17 points on the front nine and came home in 18.Her score could have been better but for a one washed hole. Runner up Racheal Hendry had to survive a count back to seal her spot after two others Trish Fittock and Linda Kelly also finished on 33 points.

Fittock and Kelly featuring in the run down.

This Saturday another Stableford event has been scheduled and with the clubhouse being open, a convenient nine hole stop for refreshments will be appreciated. Players must however arrange this prior to play.

Please follow the usual procedure to secure your tee time by entering names on the time sheet, or email or phone the club.

BOOST FOR STANTHORPE NETBALL Stanthorpe Netball players in Stanthorpe will be able to unleash their skills on four newly constructed courts, thanks in part to a $150,850 Building Better Regions Fund (BBRF) boost, which Maranoa MP David Littleproud announced recently.

The Netball courts in Railway Street are sorely in need of an upgrade to allow the Stanthorpe Netball Association to hold regular training sessions. In recent seasons because of the state of the courts games have been transferred to indoor venues.

Mr Littleproud said “You can ask any rural community and they will tell you how important top-notch sports facilities are. “These upgrades will enable the Stanthorpe Netball Association to hold regular training sessions both local and regional competitions which bring visitors to the Granite Belt. That’s a boost for hotels, restaurants and tourism.

“For people moving to the Granite Belt, they have an opportunity to get involved and make friends with locals on the courts.

The more part of a community you feel the more likely you are to stay.”

In addition to enhancing that community spirit, everyone needs to exercise and keep fit. Sport - netball in this case - acts as an enabler for these positive outcomes.”

The $150,850 investment will provide Stanthorpe’s youth with access to facilities that match those available in our bigger cities.

Just because you come from the bush doesn’t mean you can’t access top-notch facilities. freetimes.com.au

CASEY O’CONNOR

Racheal and Mark Hendry testing their social distancing rules before teeing off in Saturday’s competition.

In spite of this major announcement it has not yet been decided if a competition will proceed this season.

BIG NUMBERS FOR WARWICK SPORTERS Last week Sporters had 67 players face the starter in the Warwick Hotel trophy for June. Winner on the day, and again proving the adage of ‘feed the man meat!’, the Lion King burst from the pack with one of the higher scores recorded in recent months, an impressive 45 points, ahead of runner-up Dave Speedy who returned40 points.

Ball rundown: Greg Carey (39), Phil the Greek (39), Ron Munro (38), Ron Simon (37), Doug Rickert/Mick Payne/Stu Wade/Herb Bownds (36), Keith Clark/Sam McLennan (35) points, with Garry Adcock/ Eddie Raets and Peter Farrell bringing up the rear with 34 points.

Golf is slowly returning to normal, with the further concession of two-up in buggies proving a lot more social, and enhanced by being able to have a period of re-hydration in the clubhouse finally.

2020 STANTHORPE FOOTBALL SEASON CANNED After weeks of soul searching and studying State Government and Football requirements, the Executive Committee of Football Stanthorpe last week decided to cancel the 2020 competitive football season.

The announcement left many players and fans disappointed however President of the Association Cameron Gow said there were too many variables to consider proceeding with the season. Timing was one factor, with time fast running out to factor in two rounds grand finals etc.

As with many other sports when clubs investigated all the safe hygiene and social distancing requirements many found that the burden on a diminishing number of volunteers would be far too great. It is a story that has resonated across many sporting groups in the last few weeks as they unpack the requirements necessary to return to the playing field.

Gow said feedback had been invited from all clubs and the opinions of players

and members had been sought prior to the decision.

He also highlighted the lack of player numbers, saying there was not one club that could field teams in all grades. While the decision has been made it was far from unanimous. Again something we have seen in other sports.

At the end of the day the responsible bodies have to make a clear decision so everyone can move forward.

Since the announcement of the decision Mr Gow has stated that Football Stanthorpe wish to highlight that while the 2020 competition has been shelved, it is hoped local football is not over in Stanthorpe for 2020.

The Committee will continue to work with local clubs in an effort to see football return in some form that is still satisfying, effective, and safe.

How that looks at the moment no-one is quite certain, but football enthusiasts keep your eyes and ears open. Keep up to date with any developments on the Football Stanthorpe Facebook page.

UNITED FOTBALL CLUB QUICK TO REACT TO CANCELLATION The Stanthorpe United Redbacks reacted swiftly following the announcement last week that the 2020 Football Stanthorpe season proper had been cancelled.

The Stanthorpe United Committee swung into action to seek alternatives to allow local players to play elsewhere this season.

Following positive discussions with Nigel Fanning (Chairman of Football South West) last Friday and after receiving support and endorsement of Football Stanthorpe, the club has announced United will be nominating the following teams to play in the 2020 Football Toowoomba competition :-Senior Men; Senior Women and Senior Colts (16/17 year old boys).

Stanthorpe United have also extended the opportunity to all footballers on the Granite Belt to lodge an “expression of interest” to join these teams.

Players have been advised to carefully consider the following conditions before

putting up their hand. All games will be played at away venues (this is part of the agreement to ensure Stanthorpe is not a burden on the existing clubs in the competition) Men’s/Ladies games will be played mostly Sunday while the majority of the Senior Colts games will be played Saturday The Toowoomba season’s fixtures run until mid/late October with Grand Finals in early November.

Registration Fees are $250.00 per player.

The fees capped at this amount to assist those people who have been affected by the current COVID-19 pandemic, the drought or who are still recovering from the bushfires Stanthorpe United will be seeking financial support from Football Stanthorpe to help share the financial burden of providing this opportunity (club ground hire fees, electricity costs (training), referee fees, shortfall in registration fees, etc).

Uniform costs (socks and pants), jersey supplied will be $45.

Buses will be offered to transport teams to every game at a low cost and will be compulsory in the initial period.

President of United Redbacks, Mr Brian Westerhout said the club believes these are very different and unusual times and as such should be treated differently. The Redbacks Committee will promote these teams as a “United Stanthorpe” not “Stanthorpe United.” For players it will be a challenge as they get to experience different levels of football across the South West Zone.

It is hoped that this initiative will help to create new relationships between players and clubs, in much the same way Representative football did in previous times.

Mr Westerhout confirmed that this is a one off. He and his committee are hopeful all local clubs will return to full strength in 2021.

At the time of going to press we were unable to confirm what level of support there has been from other Stanthorpe clubs for this ground breaking idea.

Continued to page 23

Thursday, 18 June, 2020

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SOUTHERN FREE TIMES 21

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Round 52 Results Feature Total

77

3

33 17

6 6 76

3

15 30 12 29

Stanthorpe Keith & Nat’sSeptic 4x4 Helen Harm RE Service Stanthorpe Septic

66 55

11 26 10 25

Creed Lang Creed &&Lang Keith & Nat Criterion Hotel4 x 4

56 43

10 25 924

www.crossdraw.com.au

Phone: 0409 0655968 850 Phone: Phone: 4661

Ballandean Laney’s SteelTavern

46

923

Phone: 0409 065 850

Broncos Cowboys Panthers Rabbitohs Broncos Storm Raiders Dragons

Laney’s Steel Helen Harm

47

823

Cec Mann RE Cec Mann

56

720

Broncos Rabbitohs Storm Titans

Tigers Eels Sea Eagles Bulldogs

RobRoche Laney Frazer Crossdraw Laney’s Garages Western &Patios Emporium 73 Law Road, Warwick

www.crossdraw.com.au

Tigers Roosters Storm Eels Knights Raiders Eels Sharks

Helen Harm Real Estate

Broncos vsBroncos Eels Knights vs

Cowboys Eels Raiders Bulldogs

Friday Friday 29th 19th May June Cowboys vs Titans Rabbitohs vs Warriors Roosters Panthers vs vs Rabbitohs Storm Saturday 30th May Saturday 20th June Warriors Dragons Titans vs vs Dragons

Stanthorpe Septic Service stanthorpesepticservice.com.au Phone: 4685 2396 Cowboys Roosters Raiders Sharks

DD 00 00 00 10 10 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00

L L FB APDGD 0 0 1230 402083 1 0 980 581840 1 0 840 561428 1 0 1220 821040 1 0 1020 72 7 30 2 0 1510 47 6104 2 0 810 69 6 12 3 0 1230 1134 10 3 1 1050 114-4-9 3 1 920 102-6-10 3 1 610 92-6-31 3 1 740 152-7-78 4 1 860 108-10-22 4 1 740 112-14-56 4 1 520 108-18-56 4 1 580 161-20 -103

INFO TO COME

22 SOUTHERN FREE TIMES

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Cowboys Roosters Raiders Sharks

SueWatmough Friend KeithKeith Watmough Keith & Nat’s 4x4 Tyres & Tackle Stanthorpe Septic Service facebook.com/Fishing-Store/ Keith-Nats-4x4-Tyre-and-Tackle stanthorpesepticservice.com.au 4681 2396 3624 Phone: 4685

7.50pm 8.00pm

Cowboys Knights Panthers Rabbitohs Broncos Panthers Raiders Dragons

6.00pm 6.00pm 7.55pm 8.00pm

Sharks vs Tigers West Tigers vs Cowboys

3.00pm 3.00pm 5.30pm

Storm vs vs Raiders Roosters Eels

7.35pm 7.30pm

Roosters Tigers Storm Eels Tigers Raiders Eels Sharks

Scott Mann Naomi Day CecBallandean Mann Real Tavern Estate ballandeantavern.com.au cecmann.com.au 4681 1044 4444 Phone: 4684

Sunday Sunday 31st 21th May June PanthersvsvsSea Knights Raiders Eagles

4.05pm 4.00pm

Sharks vs Bulldogs Sea Eagles vs Bulldogs

6.30pm

Knights Bulldogs Panthers Rabbitohs Rabbitohs Panthers Raiders Dragons

Cowboys Roosters Storm Eels Knights Raiders Eels Sharks

WEEKLY FEATURE MATCHUP

2020 NRL LADDER WW 51 41 41 31 31 31 31 21 20 20 20 20 10 10 10 10

Knights Rabbitohs Storm Dragons

28th June May Thursday 18th

Sue Friend

PP 51 51 51 51 51 51 51 51 51 51 51 51 51 51 51 51

Frazer Roche

Thursday ThursdayMay June 28th 18 to Sunday June May 31st 21

Phone: 0408 457 496

Knights Rabbitohs Storm Dragons

0

Tigers Roosters Storm Eels Knights Raiders Eels Sharks

Crossdraw Western Emporium

ROUND 6 3

www.helenharm.com

Knights Rabbitohs Storm Dragons

0

Knights Bulldogs Panthers Rabbitohs Rabbitohs Storm Raiders Dragons

Feature Matchups: 3 points for a win and 2 points for a draw

Helen Harm

CLUBS CLUBS KNIGHTS EELS RAIDERS RAIDERS STORM STORM TIGERS KNIGHTS BRONCOS PANTHERS EELS ROOSTERS PANTHERS SEA EAGLES RABBITOHS COWBOYS SHARKS WEST TIGERS ROOSTERS RABBITOHS BULLDOGS WARRIORS COWBOYS BRONCOS DRAGONS SHARKS SEA EAGLES DRAGONS TITANS BULLDOGS WARRIORS TITANS

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Crossdraw CondamineWestern Sports Emporium Criterion Hotel Condamine Sports Club Crossdraw Western Ballandean Tavern

PP 210 28 28 27 27 26 26 24 04 04 04 04 02 02 02 02

Condamine Criterion Sports Hotel Club

Criterion Hotel Keith & Nat’s 4x4 Tyres & Tackle

MATE

Kylie Jenner Keith Watmough & Karla Donjahn

BULLDOGS BRONCOS PANTHERS RABBITOHS RABBITOHS STORM RAIDERS DRAGONS

ROOSTERS COWBOYS STORM ROOSTERS TIGERS RAIDERS EELS SHARKS

MATE

Phone 4681 Phone: 4661 3624 1042 Facebook.com/criterionhotelwarwick/ facebook.com/Fishing-Store/Keith-Nats-4x4-Tyre-and-Tackle

Thursday, 18 June, 2020

COWBOYS KNIGHTS PANTHERS RABBITOHS BRONCOS STORM RAIDERS DRAGONS

ROOSTERS TIGERS STORM ROOSTERS TIGERS RAIDERS EELS SHARKS

Kylie Jenner Nathan Bell & Karla Domjahn

Phone: 4661 1042 1991 Phone 4661 www.condaminesportsclub.com.au Facebook.com/criterionhotelwarwick/

freetimes.com.au

THE SPIN

freetimes.com.au

GIVE OUR CASEY A CALL...

While local sport has been significantly ‘disrupted’ thanks to COVID-19 we know there’s still news happening on the local sporting scene - even if it’s what your club or sporting group has been up to during ‘hibernation’, and/or when you’re hoping to resume. Send your sporting news, results and information to Free Times sport columnist CASEY O’CONNOR at spinsft@gmail.com or give Casey a call on 0438 813 942!

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12366022-LB39-17

the starter in the fourth event the TopX Warwick QTIS Maiden over the 1100 metre journey.

Mail Train Maid is owned and bred by the Harvey family on the Granite Belt. The three year old filly from the Sears stable in Toowoomba will ridden

by Nozi Tomizawa and is having only her second race start after finishing down the track in an 800 metre Maiden in May. Brisbane visitor The Power of One may be hard to beat if he handles the Warwick track.

Very few of the 21 runners nominated have form on a soft track and the market maybe the punters friend here.

Chris Munce saddles up the second of his three runners in race five the 1500m Smith Farms Killarney Falls Maiden, Dreamace. The three year old is yet to flatter after seven race starts. Oakfield Tickets who has been racing in provincial company in NSW has had a change of stable since running second in a mile race on a soft track at Taree and should appreciate the conditions. Local galloper Minj A Star is one of the emergencies in a big field and will have to rely on scratchings to secure a start.

There are two Warwick trained gallopers in the 1500m Class One at set weights however both the Kellie Monckton trained Ethanol Girl and Scott Barker’s Tycoon Girl are both emergencies. Punters who invest in the top weight Addocarr will be hoping he shows the same speed as his namesake Melbourne Storm flyer the Fox. He has fair form on soft tracks and should be right in this race.

Race seven is the Killarney Coop Benchmark 52 over the 1100m journey. Shane Barker has accepted with two runners, Your Option and emergency Shadwell Flyer.

Chris Munce will step out the well credentialed Twerk who has had one previous start on the Warwick track.

At his last start finished fourth at Toowoomba and will be well in the market here.

After a very full day’s racing the meeting wraps up with the running of the Killarney Top Shop Ratings Band 0 Benchmark 55 Handicap over the 1350m journey.

Texas trainer Rod Hilton has Primmiscuous in the final event and will be well in the market. Locally trained Miss Makepeace will be looking to improve on her second place on the track back on May 27 while two other Warwick gallopers Miss Makepeace and Gets Smokin are among the emergencies in another big field.

With good prizemoney on offer the meeting has attracted many horses from the Gold Coast Sunshine Coast Brisbane and Toowoomba as well as country gallopers. The good nominations have created a bit of a headache for the Race club. With excellent nomination numbers (140) comes an increased requirement for tie up stalls and with only 74 available at present the club is exploring options to increase the number of stalls in the future.

The Committee will be hoping for fine conditions to further improve the track conditions. ●

EP67389

From page 21 WARWICK TURF CLUB SWTCHEROO Following the heavy rain last weekend the Warwick Turf Club in consultation with Racing Queensland postponed the scheduled Tuesday TAB meeting until today, Thursday 18 June.

The eight race programme will go ahead as previously advertised with unchanged fields and unchanged race times and it is anticipated the track will be a soft seven.

These uncertain times have seen a heightened level of cooperation in a variety of sporting fixtures and racing is no exception.

Following last weekend’s rain the Toowoomba meeting set down for Sunday had to be rescheduled.

Toowoomba picked up the Tuesday meeting set down for Warwick allowing the Allman Park track a few extra days to recover from the weekend downpour.

Today’s meeting will go ahead without on course punters and spectators but a return to the track for punters is not far off as Racing Queensland prepare to slowly open racing up to the public.

The eight race program has again been well supported by visiting and local trainers with strong nominations and acceptances. There is sure to be a great deal of interest in the opening race A QTIS 2 year old maiden over 800m. 12 of the 19 runners will be having their first race start.

Six of the runners are locally trained. Les Clarke will saddle up two runners, Peta Calada and Sheza Nuisance; both first starters. Sam’s Natural will also be gracing the track for his first start for local trainer Jack Brown and connections.

Another locally trained galloper Kicks Both Feet has had three previous starts.

While punters will be relying on the market as a guide in this race there are a couple of runners which will be closely watched.

The Toowoomba trained topweight Black Bean looks to have the best credentials with a second and fourth at his two starts but has not raced since February.

There will be eyes on the Brisbane visitor Tan Dinh from the Chris Munce Stable. The filly by Better Than Ready is out of an Exceed and Excel mare, Rebel Excel. Race Two is the XXXX Maiden Handicap also over the 800metre journey has also attracted a good field. An early scratching in this race is the topweight, Aonach Mor. Warwick trainer Garry Osborne has the three year old fill Seibhur and will be hoping for she can break through for a win. The filly who will be ridden by Minehiko Shimodaira is returning from a spell but was placed on the track back in July 2019 at only her second start. Special Flight rates well here.

Ten horses have accepted for the Class 4 XXXX handicap over the 1200m journey. Abb Roy another local runner steps out in this for the Michael Hemmings stable. The mare finished second at her most recent start in, Toowoomba after failing to flatter at the start before on his home track. She has some form on soft tracks and could be hard to beat.

Another big field looks set to face

SOUTHERN FREE TIMES 23

2018 mITsubIshI TrITon mr GLs PremIum

2016 hoLDen CoLorADo DuAL CAb 2017 subAru ForesTer 2.5I-s

2015 kIA sPorTAGe sI PremIum

PrICeD To CLeAr! WAs $29,999

DrIVe AWAy DrIVe AWAy

$42,999

•฀13,000kms฀only •฀Hard฀Cover฀etc.

2015 VW GoLF TsI hATCh

DrIVe AWAy

$15,999

•฀Auto฀ •฀63,000kms฀only

2018 mITsubIshI eCLIPse-Cross

•฀4฀x฀4฀

•฀Auto •฀Turbo฀Diesel฀ •฀100,000Kms฀•฀Towbar •฀Elect฀brakes฀•฀Log฀books฀

$24,999

2014 kIA sPorTAGe AWD PLATInum

$23,999

2013 VW AmArok TDI420 4x4 DuAL CAb

DrIVe AWAy

•฀Bull฀bar฀ •฀Tow฀bar฀ •฀Steel฀tray฀

$19,999

DrIVe AWAy

$27,999 •฀Auto฀

brAnD neW s 10 mAhInDrA 4x2 sInGLe CAb

$26,999

2017 mITsubIshI PAjero exCeeD

•฀Leather฀seats •฀Sun฀roof, •฀Tow฀bar •฀Electric฀brakes •฀UHF฀•฀20,000kms

$24,999

2013 ForD FALCon xr6 uTe

DrIVe AWAy •฀Alloy฀Tray •฀Tow฀Bar •฀One฀Only

$10,999

2018 kIA sPorTAGe sI

DrIVe AWAy

DrIVe AWAy •฀Diesel •฀49,600kms

•฀Hatchback •฀Only฀18,133kms

2017 mITsubIshI eCLIPse Cross exCeeD AWD

•฀Every฀Option ฀฀฀You฀Can฀Think฀Off!

DrIVe AWAy

$18,999

•฀Auto

2017 suzukI sWIFT GL – nAVIGATor

DrIVe AWAy

DrIVe AWAy

$29,999

noW $28,999 WAs $29,999

2011 mAzDA 2 neo 5D

2015 mITsubIshI PAjero GLx 4x4

DrIVe AWAy •฀Auto฀ •฀Only฀14,500kms฀

noW $27,999 WAs $29,999

DrIVe AWAy •฀57,000km฀ •฀Eyesight฀Technology •฀Heated฀Seats •฀Sunroof฀etc฀

•฀Auto฀ •฀Soft฀tonneau •฀Tubliner฀

DrIVe AWAy •฀AUTO

brAnD neW mAhInDrA DuAL CAb

•฀4x4 •฀Eaton฀Diff฀Lock •฀Alloy฀Tray •฀Tow฀Bar •฀Three฀Only

2016 mITsubIshI PAjero GLx

DrIVe AWAy

$32,999

2014 hyunDAI eLAnTrA PremIum

DrIVe AWAy

$19,999

$13,999

DrIVe AWAy •฀Auto

$15,999

2017 mITsubIshI TrITon GLs 4x4 DuAL CAb

DrIVe AWAy

DrIVe AWAy

DrIVe AWAy

$49,999

$29,999

$32,999

12451898-LB25-20

20 Alexandra Drive, Warwick QLD 4370 07 4661 2533 www.casselsauto.com.au

24 SOUTHERN FREE TIMES

**Based on commercial hire purchase. Payments in arrears. 10% deposit 60 months 30% balloon. To approved applicants T & C’s apply subject to lenders credit criteria. |

Thursday, 18 June, 2020

freetimes.com.au