FOCUS - June 2020

JUNE

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No better time to get out and explore the Sandstone Wonders

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Mayor’s Message

COVID-19 Recovery Plan

New Councillors Team

Dog Registration

COVID-19 Community Recovery Contacts

Biloela I Moura I Taroom I Banana I Baralaba I Dululu I Goovigen I Jambin I Thangool I Theodore I Wowan I Cracow

Mayor’s Message TO SAY THE PAST FEW MONTHS HAVE BEEN EXTREMELY TRYING WOULD BE UNDERSTATING THE SITUATION SOMEWHAT. THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC HAS CAUSED CHAOS AND FINANCIAL HARDSHIP TO MANY PEOPLE – INDIVIDUALS AND BUSINESSES ALIKE.

CONTACT COUNCIL P (07) 4992 9500 | F (07) 4992 3493 E enquiries@banana.qld.gov.au Postal Address: PO Box 412, Biloela Q 4715

CUSTOMER SERVICE CENTRES Biloela Shire Chambers 62 Valentine Plains Road Biloela QLD Australia 4715 8am to 5pm Mon-Fri Moura Administration Office Gillespie Street Moura QLD Australia 4718 8.30am to 4.30pm Mon-Fri Taroom Administration Office Yaldwyn Street Taroom QLD Australia 4420 8am to 5pm Mon-Fri For after hours emergencies visit www.banana.qld.gov.au/contact-us

ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES Contact Michael at Interactivink 07 3334 8000 michael@interactivink.com.au

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t is unprecedented times that we are currently living in.

by supporting each other, shopping locally

But I must congratulate the residents of all our communities. By adhering to the disruptive restrictions put in place by the State and Federal Governments we have, so far, been able to keep the virus out of the Shire.

outlined by the government, we will come

I also want to extend my gratitude to our CEO Tom Upton, Council’s senior leadership team and all staff on the outstanding work they have put in during this troublesome time to ensure all the proper precautions and processes were put in place to ensure there was no disruption to the delivery of Council essential services.

and continuing to follow the guidelines through this pandemic.

While most of the attention has been on the coronavirus, I want to dedicate some space here to thank all the candidates who contested the 2020 Banana Shire Local Government Elections and congratulate and welcome those candidates who were duly elected.

While it will be difficult to replace the wisdom and experience of retiring councillors David Snell, Warren Middleton and Pat Brennan it is exciting to bring on

A special mention must also go out to medical professionals across the nation for their efforts in testing and treating people unfortunate enough to fall ill to the virus and to our police force who have done an incredible and measured job enforcing the restrictions.

board the fresh ideas and thoughts of the

It is reassuring to see some of the restrictions eased, which has allowed some of our local businesses to reopen their doors, even if only to carry out reduced trading.

communities and once we get over

It is only the initial steps towards what we hope will be a return to the lifestyle we enjoyed at the start of the year.

We are a resilient community – recent natural disasters have proven this – and

newly elected Councillors John Ramsey, Judy Pender and Philip Casey, who join returning Councillors Colin Semple, Brooke Leo and Terri Boyce.

This is an exciting time for our the hurdles created by COVID-19 I look forward to working towards the future growth and prosperity of the Shire with our new look team.

It will certainly be a baptism of fire, as Council is already heavily into preparing its 2020-21 budget.

Nev Ferrier | MAYOR

Contact your Councillor

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Mayor Nev Ferrier

0448 011 814

Division 1 | Cr John Ramsey

0478 198 499

Division 2 | Cr Judy Pender

0429 922 859

Division 3 | Cr Philip Casey

0499 043 719

Division 4 | Cr Colin Semple

0437 740 189

Division 5 | Cr Brooke Leo

0438 110 325

Division 6 | Cr Terri Boyce

0427 283 202

ON THE BANANA SHIRE

JUNE 2020

COVID-19 Recovery Action Plan PLANS AND PROCESSES HAVE BEEN PUT INTO PLACE TO ENSURE BANANA SHIRE AND ITS COMMUNITIES ARE BEST POSITIONED TO RECOVER FROM THE DISRUPTION CAUSED BY THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC.

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n 26 March 2020 Council closed all of its parks, playgrounds and gardens as a public health precaution.

Council also closed its libraries and art gallery and started providing non-contact and online services to ratepayers including virtual video sessions of its popular Storytime and Baby Bounce programs.

On 15 May the State Government implemented a staged easing of restrictions. The first stage allowed Council to reopen its parks and playgrounds. To improve public hygiene

Council increased its sanitising and disinfection programs at these facilities.

The libraries were also reopened and to ensure appropriate social distancing, introduced a one hour time limit and placed a cap on the number of users permitted into each branch.

In response to the COVID-19 pandemic the Local Disaster Management Group also activated the Banana Shire Community Recovery Taskforce to facilitate the establishment of a Recovery Action Plan. The Banana Shire Community Recovery Taskforce has established a base at the Banana Shire Council’s Administration Complex in Biloela and will service all urban and rural areas affected by the COVID-19 Pandemic.

The Local Recovery Group has two key strategic priorities:

The Banana Shire Community Recovery Taskforce is made up of several subgroups which include representatives of local, state and federal government, insurance, council, community, rural and business stakeholders nominated by the Banana Shire Council.

Over the past two months the Taskforce has been sharing information with key stakeholders and the general public on what financial, social and health assistance is being made available by government and other agencies.

Banana Shire Council has launched a COVID-19 Community Information Hub on our website.

The website collates information from Council, government agencies and support agencies to provide residents

• Human Social recovery • Economic recovery

with a centralised point of information.

Banana Shire Mayor Nev Ferrier has urged residents to visit the Hub and look for the type of information they are chasing.

Please visit www.banana.qld.gov.au/ covid-19/community-information.

Another way to keep up to date with the latest information from Banana Shire Council is to follow us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/Banana-ShireCouncil-339832622722521.

Concrete Recycling

“By taking this material out of the waste stream we are increasing the space available at our landfill sites, which means less cost to ratepayers,” Cr Ferrier said.

COUNCIL HAS STARTED CRUSHING AND RECYCLING 15,000 TONNES OF WASTE CONCRETE AND BITUMEN.

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he recycling program will reduce the volume of waste going into Council’s landfill sites and provide a recycled product suitable for use in construction, earthworks and road works projects.

In April Council started collecting and stockpiling waste concrete and bitumen at several locations within the Shire. This material is segregated, based on quality, and broken down to a manageable size before being fed into the concrete crushing plant where it is reduced to 20mm sized pieces.

Any waste steel within the concrete and bitumen is separated during the process and stockpiled for future sale as scrap.

Banana Shire Mayor Nev Ferrier said the concrete recycling project would have a significant benefit.

JUNE 2020

“We are also producing a product that can be reused in some of our projects.

“Council will also investigate the potential for the material to be used by other local industries,” Cr Ferrier said.

Following the success of the concrete recycling program, Council is also identifying the potential use of other common wastes including green waste, scrap metals, e-waste, oil and hydrocarbons, biosolids, glass, paper, and cardboard and plastics.

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CRC Poised for Growth THE BANANA SHIRE COMMUNITY RESOURCE CENTRE GREW FROM A DESIRE TO MEET THE NEEDS OF PEOPLE IN THE BANANA SHIRE.

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ince opening its doors in 2003, the CRC has made a significant difference to the lives of hundreds of people, not just in Biloela, but across the whole Shire. It has demonstrated innovation, vision and longevity and now it is poised once again for growth, allowing its services to continue to meet the Shire’s needs.

The CRC Extension Project, funded by the Community Development Fund and Banana Shire Council, and with the ongoing support of Callide Dawson Special Needs Support Group Inc. (CDSNSG), will extend the existing building to provide increased resource library storage; reconfiguration of the existing workspace to improve the efficiency and security in the work environment and reduce overcrowding; additional space for therapy services to meet community need; and improved flow of people and resources through

CRC Extension Project Committee: Melissa Kerr (CDSNSG), Marion Meissner (CDSNSG), Tom Upton (CEO, BSC), Venkata Peteti (BSC), Pam Semple (BSC), Don Morris and Simon Graham (BSC).

the building. The project will be guided by a steering committee including the Project Manager, Council staff, CDSNSG and invited community members.

The construction is expected to occur between July and November 2020, necessitating temporary relocation of staff and resources. The construction site is likely to encompass part of the carpark shared by the CRC, Panthers Rugby League and Valleys Soccer Club. Project planning is well underway and updates will be provided directly to schools, families and organisations who use the Community Resource Centre and the nearby sporting organisations whose members may be impacted by the construction process.

The Banana Shire Council website and Facebook page will also be updated regularly.

NEW Banana Shire Councillors Team

BANANA SHIRE’S NEW TEAM OF COUNCILLORS WAS SWORN IN ON 15 APRIL 2020 AND HAS ALREADY STARTED WORK ON THE 2020/21 BUDGET.

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our Councillors were re-elected unopposed. This included Mayor Nev Ferrier, newly appointed Deputy Mayor Colin Semple, Division 5 Brooke Leo and Division 6 Terri Boyce.

Division 3 Councillor Philip Casey was elected unopposed and replaces the retiring Pat Brennan.

Councillors John Ramsey and Judy Pender make up the team and were elected following tight contests in the March 2020 election.

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ON THE BANANA SHIRE

JUNE 2020

Sandstone Wonders OVER THE LAST COUPLE OF MONTHS, RESIDENTS HAVE EMBRACED THE “SUPPORT LOCAL” CAUSE.

Moura Miners’ Memorial

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s restrictions are lifted and without our many events bringing visitors into the Shire, it is now more important than ever not to lose sight of the goal to keep our local businesses operating. Are you aware of the many things you can do right here in our Shire?

Residents of the Banana Shire are lucky enough to have spectacular ancient sandstone cliffs and mountain ranges scattered throughout the region as well as an abundance of water sources for exploring or fishing. As well as National Parks the region offers a variety of other attractions such as adrenaline-pumping 4WD tracks, peaceful fishing spots, free and low-cost camping areas as well as a number of picturesque or historicallysignificant landmarks. These natural attractions provide opportunities for a day of family fun without the hefty price tag.

Theodore – Dawson River sunset

Kroombit Tops – Razorback Creek

If you are looking for a leisurely Sunday drive admiring the scenery, visiting the region’s historical sites or taking in murals and street art, have a look at our Sandstone Wonders website for a whole collection of drive trails around the Shire.

There is plenty to offer in each of our towns and plenty more to see in between.

Look out for the free brand new Sandstone Wonders booklet available in your local businesses and Visitor Information Centres or visit www. sandstonewonders. com.au to download a digital copy. Don’t forget to follow Sandstone Wonders on Facebook and Instagram.

JUNE 2020

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New Hobbies or Home Based Food Business Food Safety Tips THE FOOD SAFETY INFORMATION COUNCIL HAS PROVIDED SOME USEFUL TIPS ON FOOD SAFETY FOR ANYONE CONSIDERING THE START-UP OF A NEW HOME BASED BUSINESS OR NEW HOBBY AS A RESULT OF THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC. KEEP IT CLEAN: Before you start any food preparation wipe down kitchen surfaces using detergent and warm water to remove surface dirt. You can then sanitise the surface, if necessary, with a storebought household disinfectant product or diluted household bleach. Always follow the instructions on the product label about how it should be used, including how much it should be diluted with water, what types of surfaces it can be used on, and whether it needs to be left on the surface for a certain amount of time. Don’t mix different types of cleaning product as they may create fumes that can make you ill. Keep all cleaning products and hand sanitisers out of reach of children. After cleaning surfaces wash your hands with soap for 20 seconds and dry them thoroughly.

PICKLING VEGETABLES: Making pickles, relishes and chutneys is something that people have been doing for generations. Ensure clean jars are used; they can be sat in hot water, then drained and left to dry upside down, or washed in the dishwasher. Ingredients usually include salt, vinegar (acetic acid), sugar, spices and water. Where possible, use Australian recipes as US and European vinegars are stronger than ours. The pickles should be placed in the jar, topped up with vinegar or a vinegar mixture containing at least 50% vinegar. Pickles can be stored in the fridge or, to store at room temperature they must be pasteurised. Chutneys and relishes

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can be hot filled straight from the pot at a temperature greater than 85 deg C., sealed and the jars inverted to sterilise the lid. For more information on how to make and pasteurise pickles see CSIRO advice.

MAKING VEGETABLES IN OIL: When making vegetables and herbs in oil it is really important to get the recipe correct to prevent the growth of dangerous bacteria such as Clostridium botulinum which causes botulism. Vegetables and any fresh herbs should be soaked in vinegar overnight with a ratio of 300g of vegetables and any fresh herbs to 100ml of vinegar. This ratio should provide a sufficient level of acidity to control botulism. Drain the liquid, then you can add oil. Jars are best stored in the fridge to minimise the risk of spoilage. Dried vegetables, herbs and spices can safely be added to oil without the vinegar soak and then stored at room temperature.

FERMENTED FOOD: If you fancy trying to make fermented food like kefir, kimchi, kombucha or homemade yoghurt remember to follow good hygiene practices and use clean containers so food poisoning and food spoilage bacteria don’t grow during the fermentation process. A commercial starter culture is recommended and follow the manufacturer’s instructions including fermenting at the recommended temperature. Use a new starter culture for each batch and don’t be tempted

ON THE BANANA SHIRE

to ‘backwash’ a starter culture from an existing batch to make a new one as you could transfer undesirable microorganisms. Only use pasteurised milk for fermented dairy foods and never try to make your own fermented meats at home as this is far too risky.

BACKYARD CHOOKS: It’s great to have fresh eggs and for your kids to learn about where their food comes from but backyard chooks and ducks have been linked to salmonella infections in people. Make sure you and your children wash your hands after handling poultry or cleaning their environment. If your chickens lay eggs, the eggs can also be a source of salmonella. To minimise the risk, keep the nesting materials and litter clean and dry and change it regularly. Gather eggs from their nesting places daily.

Carefully check any eggs and discard if cracked or excessively dirty, wipe off any visible dirt with a dry cloth or paper towel but don’t wash the eggs in water – this can transfer the contamination into the egg contents. Always wash your hands after collecting eggs and don’t use the eggs in raw egg dishes like mayonnaise.

Most home based food businesses are required to obtain a Food Business Licence from their local Council. Further details on starting a home based food business can be found on Council’s website or you can contact Council on (07) 4992 9500 to discuss your individual requirements.

JUNE 2020

Infrastructure Services CURRENT PROJECT STATUS ■ Rural Construction • Flagstaff Road, Taroom – Gravel Resheeting – Complete • Glenmoral Roundstone Road, Theodore – Gravel Resheeting – Complete • Malakoff Road, Theodore – Gravel Resheeting – Complete • Jambin Dakenba Road, Biloela – Rehabilitation, widen and seal – Complete • Dee River Road, Wowan/Dululu – Rehabilitation and seal – Complete • Deearne Road, Taroom – Complete • Wowan Westwood Road – Gravel resheet – Complete

Quarrie Road Drain Replacement

• Eriksens Road – Gravel resheet – Resheet complete, section of dust suppressant to be applied. Held up due to travel restrictions • Injune Road, Taroom – Gravel resheet – currently underway • River Road, Moura – Rehabilitation and seal – Complete • Smiths Road, Taroom – Rehabilitation and seal – work commenced • Theodore Moura Road – Rehabilitation and seal (including Blackspot area) – work scheduled to commence

■ Urban Construction • Raedon Street, Biloela – Development Project Road Works (3A) – Complete • Quarrie Road, Biloela – Rehabilitation, widen and seal – Complete • Dunn Street, Biloela – Rehabilitation, widen and seal – Pavement works nearly complete, asphalt schedule in • Maynard Lane, Biloela – Pavement repair and seal – construction started 5 May • Asphalt and line marking in Biloela and Moura streets – work scheduled to commence

■ Rural Drainage • Goovigen Connection Road, Goovigen – Callide Creek Bridge Repair – Complete • Theodore Moura Road, Moura – Floodway upgrade – complete – still under side track as approach works to commence • Argoon Highway/Callide Creek, Biloela – Work scheduled to commence • Defence Road Oxtrack Creek Bridge, Theodore – Complete • Saleyards Road, Moura – Table drain works – work scheduled to commence

■ Urban Drainage

Callide Street Footpath

partially completed. Minor asphalt works outstanding, line marking to be completed.

• Yaldwyn Street, Taroom – kerb and channel replacement – work commenced • CCTV inspection and drainage repair, Biloela – nearing completion • Sixth Avenue, Theodore – kerb and channel replacement – Complete

■ Private Works • Works on Injune Road on behalf of Santos have commenced with a formation grade of the road complete. Gravel resheeting will commence late May with works to carry over into the 2020/21 financial year

■ Community Infrastructure • Irrigation works at Moura Skate Park – Complete

• Western Lane, Theodore – Stormwater replacement – Complete

• Callide Street, Biloela replacement of existing asphalt pathway with a concrete pathway – Complete except signage

• Barrett Street – kerb and channel replacement and on street bikeway –

• Baralaba Netball Court – work in progress

JUNE 2020

• Magavalis Netball Court – Complete • Thangool Memorial Park skate park slab – Complete • Wowan Multi-purpose Centre generator – generator purchased, waiting for slab and to be connected

■ Parks and Gardens • Sanitising of public toilets and playgrounds, barbecues, tables and chairs • Spraying of weeds in open spaces • Installation of basketball hoop and line marking at Thangool skate slab • Softfall in Engle Park and Lions Park in Moura replaced • Maintenance of graves in Biloela and Jambin cemeteries which had sunk following rain • Tree lopping along Thangool, Lookerbie, Drumburle and Meissners Roads • Tree Lopping in Moura Recreation Reserve, Lions Park and Rotary Park • New LED lights installed at Rotary Park and Miner statue in Moura

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Dog Registration DOG OWNERS ARE BEING REMINDED TO KEEP AN EYE OUT FOR THE POSTMAN WITH ANNUAL DOG REGISTRATION RENEWAL NOTICES BEING SENT TO RESIDENTS IN JULY 2020.

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anana Shire Council will be posting more than 2,500 renewal notices to dog owners in the region, with payment due on 31 August.

Banana Shire Mayor Nev Ferrier said the cost of dog registration contributed to a number of important services.

“Animal registration contributes towards the costs of Council providing animalrelated community education programs and our animal control service,” he said.

“Registration also goes towards our stray animal (including stock) pick-up service, investigating animal complaints including excessive barking and dog attacks and maintaining Council’s animal management facility.”

Cr Ferrier said the cost of dog registration varied and depended on a number of factors.

“Costs vary depending on the intended use of the dog,” he said.

“Also, discounts are provided when dogs are desexed and microchipped and there

is also a pensioner discount offered.”

Cr Ferrier reminded dog owners that registration was a requirement and fines applied to unregistered dogs.

“Dog registration is a compulsory requirement by the State Government under the Animal Management (Cats and Dogs) Act 2008,” he said.

New residents to the Shire must also register their dog within 14 days of moving to the Shire.

Registration can be completed by visiting one of our Shire offices (Biloela, Moura or Taroom) or the application form can be found on our website (online forms and services tab) and emailed to the Council.

Residents were also reminded that there are restrictions on the number of dogs you can keep on allotments in town. In most town allotments, you may keep two registered dogs without an excess dog permit. If you would like to keep more than two dogs you must acquire an excess dog permit.

Banana Shire Council Community Grants Program COMMUNITY GROUPS ARE INVITED TO MAKE APPLICATION FOR FUNDING AND ASSISTANCE VIA COUNCIL’S COMMUNITY GRANTS PROGRAM. Remaining closing dates for 2020 are:

• 5pm Friday 31 July • 5pm Friday 30 October Applications under this program will be accepted throughout the year but will only be processed after the closing date for each round.

Note these dates in your calendars to ensure your application is submitted in the most appropriate round with enough time for processing prior to your project/event commencing.

For assistance in completing the forms and for any enquiries regarding the program, applicants are encouraged to contact Melinda Petty – Community Development Advisor – on (07) 4992 9500

Application forms and further information on the Community Grants Program can be found on Council’s website: www.banana.qld.gov.au/community-grants

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ON THE BANANA SHIRE

JUNE 2020

PLEASE CONTACT

BANANA SHIRE

Council Rates and Property Officers on 07 4992 9500 if you have not received your notice

RATES

COUNCIL’S RATES AND CHARGES FOR THE PERIOD 1 JULY 2020 TO 31 DECEMBER 2020 WILL BE ISSUED IN AUGUST WITH A DUE DATE IN SEPTEMBER. CONFIRMATION OF THE EXACT ISSUE DATES AND DUE DATES FOR THE 2020/2021 YEAR WILL BE PUBLISHED IN THE MINUTES OF THE JUNE ORDINARY MEETING TO BE HELD THURSDAY 25 JUNE 2020.

THE RATE NOTICES ISSUED WILL INCLUDE WATER CONSUMPTION CHARGES FOR WATER USED IN THE PERIOD 1 JANUARY 2020 THROUGH TO 30 JUNE 2020.

I HAVE CHANGED MY MAILING ADDRESS; HOW DO I UPDATE THIS WITH COUNCIL? If you have changed your mailing address please notify Council in writing of your new address, so your details can be updated.

Residents who have changed their mailing address and have failed to notify Council run the risk of not receiving their rates notice and possibly missing out on any discount offered.

All changes MUST be received in writing and MUST be signed by at least one owner. Address changes will not be accepted over the telephone.

REGISTER WITH BPAY VIEW TO RECEIVE, PAY AND STORE YOUR RATES NOTICE Take control of your bills with BPAY View. With BPAY View, you can have your Banana Shire Council rates notice delivered directly to your online banking on the issue date – so you can view, pay automatically, or with a single click, knowing the bill will be securely stored in one place.

PENSIONER REMISSION A State Pensioner Subsidy and Council Pensioner Remission will be allowed to eligible pensioners on all current Council rates and charges as levied (excluding the Taroom Rural Water Connection Special Charge). The State Fire and Emergency Services will also grant eligible pensioners a discount on the State Emergency Management Levy.

Eligibility requirements include: ■ Must be a holder of a Queensland Pension Concession Card or a Veterans’ Affairs Gold Card (Senior Card holders are not eligible).

■ Must be the owner or life tenant of the property and legally responsible for paying local government rates and charges levied.

■ Subsidies can only be granted on the principal place of residence.

Application forms can be obtained from Banana Shire Council.

RECEIVE YOUR RATES NOTICE BY EMAIL Having issues with the mail getting to you? Are you travelling within Australia or abroad? Council can now send your rates notice to you electronically – anytime, anywhere – to your email account.

Application forms can be obtained from Banana Shire Council.

EMAIL

IMPORTANT NOTES: *Reminder options may differ between financial institutions. ^The process may vary slightly between financial institutions. **Scheduled payments are subject to systems and funds availability.

Visit www.bpay.com.au/Personal/Receive-bills.aspx for more information on how to register for this service.

■ Once you’ve signed up with BPAY View, you’ll receive a convenient email, SMS or bank message* when it’s time to pay your bill.

■ You can then pay the bill with one click^, schedule a later payment and even set up automatic payment for future bills**. How easy is that!

JUNE 2020

PLEASE ALSO NOTE THAT WHEN REGISTERING WITH BPAY VIEW, COUNCIL WILL NOT ISSUE A PAPER COPY OF YOUR RATES NOTICE

www.banana.qld.gov.au

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BANANA SHIRE | REGIONAL ART GALLERY Like us on Facebook Banana Shire Regional Art Gallery Follow us on Instagram bananashireregionalartgallery

VISIT THE GALLERY | FREE ENTRY 62 Valentine Plains Road, Biloela

COVID-19 Update: Banana Shire Regional Art Gallery has now resumed normal operating hours as part of Stage 2 easing of restrictions in Queensland.

Check the Banana Shire Regional Art Gallery website or facebook page for up-to-date exhibitions and programs information.

CONTACT THE GALLERY Shanna Muston | Arts and Cultural Advisor P: 4992 9500 | E: enquiries@banana.qld.gov.au www.banana.qld.gov.au

EXHIBITIONS: RECOVERING THE PAST | Ian Alderman Main Gallery continues to 10 July 20 This timely photographic exhibition documents the physical and psychological consequences of the Great War. Comprising a series of 25 thought-provoking images accompanied with poignant quotes sourced from Australia’s archives, the exhibition lays bare the plight of Australia’s war widows, grieving mothers and traumatised returning soldiers. Also documented, the Belgian army’s ongoing collection of the lethal legacy of unexploded ordinance from the Great War, routinely unearthed in Belgium’s fields, construction sites and backyards to this day.

HOMELAND | Auda & Cathy Maclean Palm Tree Room continues to 15 August 20 Homeland presents works by Auda and Cathy Maclean, mother and daughter exploring their family property ‘Coolum’ located at Baralaba. The soft pastel works evoke a sense of nostalgia, highlighting the importance of place and family while showing gratitude for the rural Australian lifestyle and the landscapes that surround us.

COMMON GROUND | Theodore - one place, many journeys | Main Gallery 17 July – 15 August 20 Common Ground presents works by artists from throughout the Theodore region. The exhibition presents multiple perspectives as each artist reflects on their connection to place and community.

Each artist tells their own story, but all are connected through their experiences in living in this part of the world.

PROGRAMS & EVENTS WEEKEND OPENING HOURS Saturday 20 June & 18 July 10am – 12 midday #Flanders 6950, Digital photographic print on archival paper, 594 x 841mm, 2018 – by Ian Alderman

Check the Banana Shire Regional Art Gallery website or Facebook page for up-to-date program & event information

Regional Arts Development Fund (RADF) SUPPORTING LOCAL ARTS AND CULTURE

Community Project Grants

he Banana Shire RADF Grant Program supports local arts and culture projects. Grants are available for community projects, as well as to individual practitioners to attend professional development opportunities. RADF has been supporting a variety of projects such as workshops, artist residencies, aged care visual arts programs and public artwork.

Funding Categories: 1. Events & Festivals 2. Performances & Productions 3. Skills Development 4. Creative Generation Grant Amount: Up to $3000 | Application Due Date: 15 June

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Katrina Elliott was successful in her RADF application to initiate The Art Gallery Biloela Hospital project. This project has seen the installation of display frames in the Biloela Hospital with a rotation of exhibitions by local artists throughout 2020.

Do you have a creative idea for your community? Contact our RADF Liaison Officer for further information and assistance.

RADF applies to arts and cultural fields (music, visual arts, writing, history, dance etc.)

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ON THE BANANA SHIRE

Individual Professional Development Grants Grant objective: To nurture the creative and talented individuals in the Banana Shire and encourage growth in their practice.

Grant Amount: $500 or $1000 Application Due Date: 15 June www.banana.qld.gov.au/ regional-arts-development-fund P: 4992 9500 E: enquiries@banana.qld.gov.au

JUNE 2020

Covid-19CommunityRecoveryContacts

BANANASHIRE

ASSISTANCE AND SUPPORT 1300 MH CALL: Mental Health Access Line

1300 642 255

www.qld.gov.au/health/mental-health/helplines/1300-mh-call

• 24 hour mental health support, information advice & referrals

ADIS (Alcohol and Drug Information Service)

1800 177 833

www.adis.health.qld.gov.au

• 24 hour alcohol and drug support

www.anglicarecq.org.au

• Food, Fuel & Hardware vouchers (eligibility criteria applies) • Financial Resilience Worker available Mon-Thu • Mental Health support services available Mon-Fri • Youth workers • Disability Services Lifestyle Skills Support Program

Anglicare CQ – Biloela Moura

4992 2421 4997 3473

Banana Shire Support Centre

4992 3322

bseasc@bigpond.net.au

• Short term emergency accommodation • Loan items including white goods • Fuel vouchers • Free legal advice • No interest loans scheme • Domestic violence counselling & referral services

Beyond Blue

1300 224 636

www.beyondblue.org.au

• Emotional support & advice

Biloela Hospital (Mental Health)

4992 7000

www.health.qld.gov.au/services/central-queensland/biloela

• Acute/complex mental health issues • Consultancy & support • Mental health first aid

Blue Care

4992 2481

www.bluecare.org.au

• Cleaning assistance • Social support • Meals

Centacare CQ

1300 523 985

www.centacarecq.com

• Community services for the elderly and the disabled throughout Central Queensland

Central Queensland Mental Health Alcohol and Other Drugs Service (CQHHS)

1300 642 255 (1300 MHCALL)

www.health.qld.gov.au/services/central-queensland/mental-health

• Mental health support services

Central Queensland Rural Health

4992 1040

www.cqruralhealth.com.au

• Local mental health services • Telehealth services

Community Recovery Hotline

1800 173 349

www.qld.gov.au/community/disasters-emergencies/queensland-disasters/novel-coronavirus-covid-19

• Assistance for people who have been advised to quarantine at home and have no other mechanisms for support

Department of Housing

1800 004 495

www.hpw.qld.gov.au

• Housing assistance

DV Connect

1800 811 811

www.dvconnect.org

• 24 hour domestic violence helpline

Elder Abuse Helpline

1300 651 192

www.eapu.com.au

• Free assistance to anyone who experiences, witnesses or suspects the abuse of an older person

FairWork Ombudsman

13 13 94

www.fairwork.gov.au

• Employment advice • Workplace entitlements and obligations assistance

Gambling Helpline

1800 858 858

www.gamblinghelponline.org.au

• 24 hour counselling, information and support

www.givit.org.au

• Coordination of donations and supply of goods and services

Givit Gladstone Women’s Health

4979 1456

www.gladstonewomenshealth.org.au

• General women’s counselling • Counselling for victims of sexual assault (including men and children over 8 years of age) • Health & wellbeing and puberty workshops • Support groups • Trauma education programs

Headspace 24 Hours

1800 650 890

www.headspace.com

• Mental health tools and resources

HOA Drug Arm Australasia

1300 656 800

www.drugarm.com.au

• Free counselling programs for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and others living in the region • Counselling for those who need help with their own or a loved one’s alcohol, tobacco or drug use

Homeless Hotline

1800 474 753

www.qld.gov.au/housing/emergency-temporary-accommodation/homeless-persons-information-qld

• Information and referrals for where to find support, accommodation, meals and showers

JobActive

13 62 68

www.jobsearch.gov.au

• Employer advice • Resume and interview assistance

JUNE 2020

www.banana.qld.gov.au

11

Kids Helpline

1800 551 800

www.kidshelpline.com.au

• Support for children aged 5-12, teens aged 13-17, young adults aged 18-25, parents/carers and schools

Lifeline Community Recovery (UnitingCare QLD)

3253 4000

www.unitingcareqld.com.au/services-and-support/counselling-and-wellbeing/disaster-relief-and-community-recovery

• Psychological First Aid • Counselling

Lifeline Crisis Support

13 11 14

www.lifeline.org.au

• 13 11 14 available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week • Lifeline Text 0477 13 11 14 operates 6pm – midnight (AEDT), 7 nights a week • Lifeline webchat operates 7pm – midnight (AEDT), 7 nights a week

Men’s Helpline

1300 789 978

www.mensline.org.au

• Emotional support & counselling

Mental Health (After Hours Service)

4920 6111

www.health.qld.gov.au/cq/gp/mental-health

• Acute/complex mental health issues • Consultancy & support • Mental health first aid

National Debt Helpline

1800 007 007

www.ndh.org.au

• Free financial counselling service

Office of Fair Trading

13 74 68

www.qld.gov.au/law/fair-trading

• Consumer rights, complaints and scans • Business advice, rights and responsibilities • Licensing and registrations • Fair trading services, programs and resources • Associations and charities advice and registration

Parentline

1300 301 300

www.parentline.com.au

• Telephone counselling service

Queensland Health

13 43 25 84

www.health.qld.gov.au/13health

• 13 Health – Speak with a registered nurse, medical advice

QLife (LGBTI)

1800 184 527

www.qlife.org.au

• 3pm – midnight • Peer support and referral for issues including sexuality, identity, gender, bodies, feelings or relationships

Relationships Australia Qld

1300 364 277

www.raq.org.au

• Mon-Fri 8am-8pm / Sat 10am-4pm

Red Cross

1800 733 276

www.redcross.org.au

• Recovery information & support • Emergency Relief for Temporary Visa Holders

Salvation Army

1800 371 288

www.salvationarmy.org.au

• Provide a variety of services to people experiencing hardship or injustice

SANE Australia

1800 187 263

www.sane.org

• Support for mental health issues

Seniors Enquiry Line

1300 135 500

www.seniorsenquiryline.com.au

• Statewide information service • Concession, activities, household assistance, retirement accommodation • Financial/Legal assistance • Transport assistance

St Vincent De Paul Biloela Theodore Moura

www.vinnies.org.au 4992 2808 4993 2111 4997 2678

• Essential items • Food vouchers & provisions • Furniture

Tenants Queensland

1300 744 263

www.tenantsqld.org.au

• Tenancy advice and assistance • Rental contracts assistance

ATSILS (Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Legal Service)

4927 5711

www.atsils.org.au

• Legal services for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people across Queensland

Centrelink – Services Australia

13 28 50

www.servicesaustralia.gov.au/individuals/ subjects/affected-coronavirus-covid-19

• Financial Support (eligibility criteria applies)

Department of Agriculture & Fisheries

13 25 23

www.daf.qld.gov.au; www.business.qld.gov. au/industries/farms-fishing-forestry/agriculture/coronavirus-support

• Agricultural coordination officers (ACO) are available to support producers, the agricultural industry and local governments to manage the impacts of COVID-19

Insurance Council of Australia

1300 728 228

www.insurancecouncil.com.au

• General information regarding the claims process

Legal Aid Queensland Legal Aid Indigenous Hotline

1300 651 188 1300 650 143

www.legalaid.qld.gov.au

• Free legal advice

National Debt Helpline (UnitingCare)

4927 5711

www.ndh.org.au

• Financial counselling, telelink and/or face to face (when permitted in the future)

QIFVLS (Queensland Indigenous Family Violence Legal Service)

4927 6453

www.qifvls.com.au

• Family violence and sexual assault support

QRIDA (Queensland Rural and Industry Development Authority)

1800 623 946

www.qrida.qld.gov.au

• Low interest loans for small business, primary producers and not-for-profit organisations (eligibility criteria applies)

Rural Financial Counselling Service

4622 4858 or 0448 124 016

www.rfcsqsw.org.au

• Financial Counselling • Small Business Advisory Service

The Salvation Army

0478 313 636

www.salvos.org.au

• Financial Counsellor

FINANCIAL/LEGAL ASSISTANCE