Diamantina Shire Council

Desert Yarns

March, 2013 Distributed free to all residents. Volume 4 Issue 60 Upcoming Events  Ordinary Council Meeting - March 18 Message from the Mayor  Hawaiian Night Golf - March 23 Well things have been fairly quiet as far as mayoral duties go for the month.  Outside Council Easter Break - March After the last council meeting, councillors and senior staff underwent another local 23 - April 1 government training session. Seems the local government laws are changing almost on  4WD Action Bash Birdsville - March 30- a daily basis. April 1 As you would probably know the shire has applied to have the shire drought declared.  Betoota Gymkhana - April 6/7 I'm not sure how we'll go with this one, as there are a few stiff guidelines which as a  ANZAC Day shire may be hard to meet. I believe that individual properties would stand a better chance applying on their own.  Big Red Run - July 8/13 There was a Lake Eyre Basin Forum in Longreach, which was attended by Cr Rayment.  Birdsville Bronco Branding - May 11/12 It seems this forum was all for stopping all development within the Basin. It is the  Birdsville Gymkhana - June 22/23 view of the seven councils within the basin that some controlled development should be allowed. Everyone wants to keep our waterways clean and healthy, no-one more  Bedourie Rodeo, Campdraft & than me, but councils should be able to source sand and gravel from within the basin. Gymkhana - June 28/30 Also small scale irrigation for things like market gardens and orchards should be allowed. Of course no-one wants to see cotton farms and ring tanks but a certain level of common sense must prevail. Message from the Mayor 1 Writings from the CEO & Tour- 2 The council is in the final stages of preparing a report on our health system, when it is ism & Community Desk done the CEO and I will head off to meet with the State and Federal governments to see if we can source some more funding. Works Report 3 Council is also undertaking a upgrade of the two town rubbish dumps. The council has Positions Vacant 4 Mayors Message 1 hired consultants who have inspected the sites and will report to the next council meeting. Public Flyers 5-6

The Assistant Commissioner of Police met with council representatives in Birdsville CouncilHousing News News 7-10 4 on February 8. The police force is considering changes to the police area boundaries, Library News 4 which will shift our area from Mt Isa/Townsville to Longreach/Toowoomba. Media Release 11-13 Positions Vacant 4 March 8 is International Women's Day with events being held in both towns, so hope Arts News 14 all go to support these events.

HealthFundraising News Walk from Gulf 15-16 Easter usually marks the start of the tourist visits for the year, this year the 4X4 maga- zine is celebrating their 200th issue in Birdsville which will be a great boost to the Policeto NewsGulf 175 industry in Birdsville. I wish the organisers all the best for the event and hope Health News 6 everyone has a great time. Community Catch-up 18-20 Community Notice Board 7 Gardening Products for Sale 21 Geoff Morton Mayor Events Flyers 22 - 28

DSC Events 29

Diamantina Shire Council 07 4746 1202 17 Herbert Street 07 4746 1272

BEDOURIE QLD 4829  [email protected]  www.diamantina.qld.gov.au

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Writings from the CEO From the Tourism & Community Desk

Fibre Optic Funding Application to Regional The Diamantina stand was launched in Adelaide last week Development Australia and thousands of visitors popped in to say Hi. There was strong interest in visiting the shire with many people

indicating they were going to attend the 4WD Action Bash The Fitzroy/Central West branch of Regional at Easter in Birdsville. Thanks to Troy & Margie Minett for Development Australia (RDA) recently assisting on the weekend, and also to former resident Don- announced the line-up of successful na Rowlands for helping out. The Melbourne Caravan & Expressions of Interest to go forward to full Camping Show gets under way this week and will be fol- application stage for RDA funding under lowed by the Brisbane 4WD Show next week. If you are in Round Four. Unfortunately, the joint Brisbane or Melbourne and would like to assist in pro- application by Barcoo and Diamantina Shire moting the Shire give me a call as you’re very welcome to Councils just missed out. It was ranked fourth on the list with only the first three permitted join us! to proceed to full application stage. This is the first time we have attended the consumer shows as a council and there was a significant amount of work Nonetheless, both Councils are as determined involved in the preparation. We needed a new brochure, as ever and will continue to develop the presentation folders, banners, stickers and posters. All of application should one of the other projects fall these items were produced in time for the shows and will be over or should Councils be successful in available from the visitor centres in both towns. The attracting other funding. posters in particular look fantastic and you will see them shortly at both the Bedourie and Birdsville Airport terminals Tenders to build the two fibre optic tails close The 4WD Action Bash now has over 750 vehicles on March 8, 2013 where more will be known registered as attending and so we are expecting around regarding the actual build cost of the 1500 people to descend on Birdsville over Easter. The infrastructure. organisers have a range of activities planned which centre around the Birdsville Oval and Hotel. If you would like to know more contact Kim Wildman, Council Events Rubbish Bins Coordinator on (07) 4656 3050 With the prevalence of wily Crows being prolific, please ensure that the lids on wheelie Speaking of Events don’t forget the Event Calendar Fridge bins are fully closed. I’ve witnessed an magnets which Kim has produced. Grab your calendars at employee having to spend nothing short of the Visitor Centres. This year we welcome Barbara Mason three days picking up strewn and wind-blown as the new Permanent Tourism Officer at the Wirrarri Visitor rubbish as a result. If your lid is missing or Centre and Jean Barr as the new seasonal Tourism Officer. damaged, please contact the Town Services Both centres will be commencing seven day operations Foreman in your town. from Good Friday (28th March). Congratulations to the Wirrarri Visitor Centre in Birdsville and the Bedourie Outback Visitors Centre for their wins at Scott Mason the recent QLD Visitor Centre of the Year Awards. The Wirrarri Centre won best Business Development and Marketing and Bedourie was runner -up in the profession- al development cate- gory. Until next month! Steven Baldwin Tourism & Community Manager

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Works Report

The Bedourie town levy bank is getting an upgrade, the Scraper is being used in conjunction with the grader and roller for the project. We have started the new sub-division bulk of earth works, this project is progressing well.

CONSTRUCTION CREW Construction Crew have completed resheeting and repairing of the Carcoory – Stoney Crossing Road. They have now started resheeting the Lake Machattie Road and are installing guide posts on the Birdsville – Bedourie Road.

GRAVEL CREW The Gravel Crew have completed work on the Durrie Access Road. They have started on the Cordillo access road for re-sheeting and then they move on to Big Red access road. There has been good progress on installing guide posts on the Birdsville – Windorah Road.

MULTI SKILLED CREW The Multi Skilled Crew is doing concrete works in Bedourie town. They have completed retaining wall for the Visitor Information Centre car park. They have started margin work and installation of road furniture on Bedourie – Windorah Road

PATROL GRADER CREW This Crew has finished patrol grading on the Lake Machattie Road from the northern end. They have now started on the Coorabulka – Griffiths Tank Road. We have received two new four bedroom camps. We purchased them from Ken Fox Homes Pty Ltd. They both have costed approximately $252,000. They are very spacious. One is for Super camp and the other for Gravel camp.

We have received two new four bedroom camps. We purchased them from Ken Fox Homes Pty Ltd. They both have costed approximately $252,000. They are very spacious. One is for Super camp and the other for Gravel camp.

HEALTH & WELLBEING SESSIONS Council organised health and wellbeing sessions in the Super Camp on February 18, 2013 and in then in the Gravel Camp on February 19, 2013 followed by a session in Birdsville on February 20, 2013. Above/Below: DSC employees and visitors at the Paul Mazdon, from The Alcohol and Drug Foundation Queensland (ADFQ) based health sessions. in Longreach, David Kerrigan and Parker from Central West Health & Hospital Service conducted one on one sessions and brief talk on health and wellbeing. CEO, Scott Mason, Works Department and Patrol Grader Camp Crew joined in on the session at the Super Camp. Medicare Local Indigenous Outreach Worker, Joyce Crombie with Traditional Owners, Jean Barr and Betty Parker attended and supported the sessions in both camps.

These sessions have been beneficial and were appreciated by everyone. CEO promised that more sessions like these would be organised in the future. Council organised a BBQ dinner at the respective camps.

Harin Karra Assistant Works Manager Below: L/R Upgrading the levy bank in Bedourie. Moving the old camp out and replacing with the new camp.

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Vote of Thanks... COMMUNITY

HOUSING Subject: Hosting: Bedourie/Birdsville - Australia Day Ambassador - Tour APPLICATIONS Dear Kim, Diamantina Shire Council is the How can I thank you so much for hosting my entire visit to your provider of Community Housing most beautiful and outback region of the world over last weekend! for both Birdsville and Bedourie. All applicants are I hope like me, that you deem the whole weekend to be a huge success from the Australia Day Celebration in Bedourie to the placed on the formal waiting list for consideration by lecture presentations in both Bedourie and Birdsville. Council. For information and application forms please To me, there was a tremendous amount of public interest and it was very gratifying that people for the Birdsville talk drove or call Maggie den Ronden, Property Officer on 4746 1202 flew for over three hours. Very humbling indeed. (ext 110) or email mag- After the Birdsville talk, and the same with Bedourie, I made a number of 'house-calls' advising on individual gardens etc. etc. [email protected]. The greatest thing for me was meeting the locals and having a Alternatively please see Maggie at the Bedourie Council yarn. I even hear that some of the girls have my photo now on their Administration Centre, or Mrs Barbara Mason at the Facebook pages!! Wirrarri Visitors Centre in Birdsville. Maggie and It was just great to meet you all and thank you so much again for all of your organisation for the whole weekend. Not too many Barbara can both assist in the completion of any forms people know how much skill and effort is required on your part to and submit the forms on your behalf. 'pull it off'. By the time you receive this I will almost be away again for another fortnight and out of contact until the 18th February. Station Radio Call Signs Warmest regards and every good wish in all of you endeavours for 2013.

Adria Downs, Muncoonie 8 Duplex, UHF 14 Yours sincerely, Ross McKinnon Arrabury 1 Duplex, UHF 8 Curator, Asset Services | Brisbane Botanic Gardens Mt Coot-tha Clifton Hills UHF 12 Brisbane Infrastructure | BRISBANE CITY COUNCIL

Cluny UHF 9

Coorabulka UHF 21

Cordillo Downs UHF 6 & 2

Davenport

Durrie Duplex 3

Glengyle UHF 4

Kamaran Downs

Monkira

Mount Leonard Duplex 8

Pandi Pandi Duplex 8

Roseberth UHF 24

Sandringham

Springvale

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Community Contact List Council maintains a private electronic database of Community Contacts for both Birdsville and Bedourie which is used to distribute important information such as public notices, upcoming medical visits, community event posters etcetera. If you would like to be included on these lists, please email your details to the Community Development Officer, Mrs Joanne Lewington on email [email protected]

Council endeavors to provide information to shire residents and visitors via their webpage www.diamantina.qld.gov.au and via social media site Facebook https://www.facebook.com/DiamantinaShireCouncil?ref=hl

Community members are encouraged to utilise these services.

Council Staff Extension Numbers Provided below are a list of extension numbers for Council office staff. Community members, business owners and external agency contacts may use these extension numbers to be transferred direct to the officer you are calling, without being transferred through reception.

Diamantina Shire Council – Staff Telephone Extension List

Name Position Phone Number Ext Number 07 4746 1202 Alex Clowes Bedourie Tourism Officer 112 1300 794 257

07 4746 1202 Alison Angus Bedourie Tourism Officer 109 1300 794 257 Adrie den Ronden Overseer 07 4746 1202 119 Linda Welldon Reception 07 4746 1202 100 Dinesh Shrestha Technical Officer 07 4746 1202 117 Dominique Wells Finance Officer 07 4746 1202 116 Donna Gilby Stores Assistant 07 4746 1202 140 Vacant Storeman 07 4746 1202 113 Francis Warren Multi Skilled Crew Foreman 07 4746 1202 117 Gary Mills Workshop Foreman 07 4746 1202 120 Workshop Cordless 07 4746 1202 152 Harin Karra Assistant Works Manager 07 4746 1202 121 Vacant Work Place Health & Safety Advisor 07 4746 1202 122 Ines Korycik Creditors Officer 07 4746 1202 114 Vacant Payroll / Debtors Officer 07 4746 1202 106 Jo Lewington Community Development Officer 07 4746 1202 108 Jodie Girdler Bedourie Town Foreman 07 4746 1202 118 Kim Wildman Events Coordinator 07 4656 3050 N/A Barbara Mason Birdsville Tourism Officer 07 4656 3300 N/A Lyn Rowlands Birdsville Tourism Officer 07 4656 3300 N/A Maggie den Ronden Property Officer 07 4746 1202 110 Matt Schofield Maintenance Officer 07 4746 1202 118 Matt Young IT Technician 07 4746 1202 111 Paul Veal Birdsville Town Foreman 07 4656 3350 N/A Rachel Farran Administration Officer 07 4746 1202 103 Richard Cooley Grants Officer 07 4746 1202 115 Scott Mason Chief Executive Officer 07 4746 1202 125 Seven Ryan Executive Assistant 07 4746 1202 101 Steven Baldwin Tourism and Community Manager 07 4656 3020 N/A Trevor Stewart Works Manager 07 4746 1202 123 Terry Morris Manager Corporate Services 07 4746 1202 129

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Emotional Assistance Program Travel Tips...

WHAT IS THE EMOTIONAL ASSISTANCE PROGRAM Travelling in the Diamantina Shire The Diamantina Shire Emotional Assistance Program is a A few recent incidents have called for a quick reminder to free and confidential counselling service offered to employees all those people wishing to travel within Diamantina Shire. and immediate family members of employees of the Diamantina Shire Council. Inexperience in driving in outback conditions can become fatal. We all love to get out of town for day fishing or The program provides access to a Clinical Psychologist both visiting other towns or camping, but if you are not familiar over the phone and face to face. with the roads and the country you could get into a lot of All you need to do is call Central West Psychology, let them strife. know that you are connected to the Diamantina Shire Council and an appointment for a phone counselling session will be Follow these few simple rules and you cannot go wrong. arranged. Face to face sessions will then be arranged if 1. Always ask what the road conditions are. Roads can required. become closed overnight out here. It might not be raining The council is not informed that you have made contact, and where you are but it could be raining 20km down the road. the content of all counselling sessions remains confidential. This is in place to assist and support the employees of the 2. Carry at least 20 litres of water always. If you break Diamantina Shire Council and their families down water becomes liquid gold. No Water and you can perish. WHAT CAN THE EMOTIONAL ASSISTANCE 3. Tell someone where you are going. It is not a hard PROGRAM HELP WITH? thing to do. If you do not tell anyone where you are going Manage depression and anxiety and when you expect to return no one will go looking for

Help with workplace dissatisfaction you. 4. Drive to the conditions of the road. You are not in Overcome fears, phobias and panic attacks the Bathurst 1000 so there is no need to drive flat out. Dirt Recover from trauma or abuse roads are unpredictable and if you have never travelled on Cope with grief, loss or unwanted change them before GO STEADY. Even people who have travelled on dirt roads all their lives get unstuck sometimes. Manage eating and weight control problems 5. If you see a truck coming, get off the road and Reduce the impact of addictions stop and wait until it goes past. Remember it is a lot Improve relationships easier for a small car to get off the road than a triple road Build self confidence and self-esteem train and your windscreen will remain intact too. If a road train has to get off the bitumen, rocks and stones are going Encourage personal growth to go flying everywhere, what‟s more logical? Getting off the

road for 5 minutes or a shattered windscreen? I know which There is no cost for the Emotional Assistance Program, this is one I would prefer! a service that is funded by the Diamantina Shire to ensure 6. If you have an unfortunate break down or have an that the emotional being of its employee’s is serviced adequately. accident, stay at the scene. It is an offence under the Traffic Act to leave the scene of an accident. If you had HOW TO GET HELP completed step 3 then someone will eventually come Call Central West Psychology on looking for you. 0427 260 580 7. And finally, if you have been away and are You should be able to speak with a Clinical Psychologist travelling back to Diamantina, ring us. It will save directly. If no one is available to answer your call, leave a everyone worrying about where you are. If you are on the message with your name and contact details and someone receiving end of the phone call it would be a good idea to will get back to you within two working days. pass the message around just in case you are unavailable later on. Extracted from Workplace Health and Safety newsletter „Under Construction‟.

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Clean Up Australia Day Youth Councillors

DIAMANTINA SHIRE YOUTH COUNCIL Diamantina Shire Council is seeking membership for the 2013 Diamantina Shire Youth Council. As part of the Youth Council you will:

 Be a member for a one year term.  You will attend meetings in either Bedourie or Birdsville.

Birdsville  Undertake youth projects that are aligned with to the Diamantina Shire Council Birdsville locals collected three ute loads of rubbish including beer cans, plastic bottles, metal sheeting and Corporate Plan. even a kettle and frypan as part of the 24 annual Clean Up  Develop your skills as a future leader. Australia Day on Sunday 3 March. The group split into three to cover the main approaches into If you are interested in becoming a Youth Councillor town taking in camping areas along the Diamantina River, the cemetery and the Waddi Trees. While small in number, please contact Mrs Joanne Lewington, they did a fantastic job and were amazed by how much hidden rubbish there was once they ventured off the main Community Development Officer on telephone road. 4746 1202 at the Administration Centre in Thank you to all the volunteers and we look forward to an even bigger clean up next year. Bedourie or email Jo- Bedourie [email protected] for any Bedourie put in a great effort with a total of 18 people giving further information. a helping hand. A barbecue was held after the clean up.

Promotion & Advertising

Local Business Information Maps and Tourist Information maps have been installed in Birdsville and Bedourie. These maps have A4 holders designed to promote local businesses, coming events and activities. Council is providing these spaces free of charge to assist local operators. If you would like to display information on the signs please contact the Bedourie or Birdsville Visitor Centres call (0477) 680 700 or email [email protected]

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MEDIA RELEASE 24 January 2013

Community Landcare Grants NOW AVAILABLE - Helping you care for Country

Community Landcare Grants have just been launched by the federal Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) Caring for our Country Program. Grants of between $5000 and $50 000 (GST exclusive) are available to help local community-based organisations and groups take on-ground action as well as build their capacity and skills to manage their natural environment and productive lands. Grants are available to: Increase adoption of sustainable land management practices that increase productivity and improve quality of ecosystem services whilst building resistance to climate change; Reduce the spread of pest species; Encourage trialling innovate practices for improved natural resource management; Provide opportunities for land managers to share leanings and improve their knowledge and skills in managing natural resources to deliver ecosystem services; Increase the capacity of regional community leaders, including women, young people, Indigenous Australians and culturally diverse communities involved in the protection of natural resources; and, Increase community participation and engagement in Landcare and managing natural resources. Who can apply? Community Landcare Grants are open to local community-based groups and professional farming systems groups, actively involved in natural resource management or sustainable agricultural activities. Individuals are not eligible to apply for these grants. Applications close 20th March 2013.

If you are interested in applying, contact your local Regional Landcare Facilitator, Hayley Glover at Desert Channels Group to discuss your project ideas, obtain a copy of the funding guidelines and assistance with preparing the application. Desert Channels Group can be contact on (07) 4958 0600 or [email protected]

For more information on the work of Desert Channels Group, visit www.dcq.org.au.

Media enquiries: Hayley Glover Ph: (07) 4658 0600 Fax: (07) 4658 0122 Email: [email protected]

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MEDIA RELEASE FOR RELEASE: 18 February 2013

‘TRUE BLUE’ AND ‘BIG RED’ JOIN FORCES FOR CHARITY CONCERT

He’s sung for Prime Ministers and record rugby crowds, at the Sydney Opera House and the opening of the Sydney Olympic Games, but Australian music iconJohn Williamson will deliver one of his most memorable concerts yet when he performs atop the 40‐metre high ‘Big Red’ sand dune to raise funds for type 1 diabetes research.

One of Australia’s best‐loved musicians, Williamson will perform a special sunset concert in the Simpson Desert with the iconic dune as his stage on 8 July as part of a major new charity running event called Run.

Based out of Birdsville from 8‐13 July, the Big Red Run will become the annual fundraiser of the Born To Run Foundaon, a new charity founded by amateur runner Greg Donovan, whose on Stephen was diagnosed with the potenally fatal type 1 juvenile diabetes at age 14.

The who has penned Australian classics such as “True Blue”, “Cootamundra Wale”, “” and “Raining on the Rock” said he was happy to lend a hand to support people living with type 1 diabetes and excited to perform in an iconic Australian locaon.

“I’ve performed at Wilpena Pound, I’ve performed at Uluru, I’ve performed in Birdsville itself, but never on top of a sand dune. As far as I’m concerned, you don’t really know Australia or feel Australia if you don’t go to the centre, to the outback. It’s really what this country is all about,” said Williamson.

Happening on the eve of Naonal Diabetes Week, the Big Red Run also has the support of ultra‐marathon champion Pat Farmer, who is serving as event ambassador, and Outback Queensland Tourism Associaon andTourism and Events Queensland, who are developing a high profile media campaign to assist in the promoon of the event.

Red Run will give runners and walkers the chance to tackle the famous red sands of the Simpson Desert, parcipang in either the Big Red Run, a 250km six‐day stage race, the Born to Run 100km or the Big Red Dash 42km.

Those who aren’t compeng are sll invited to come for the concert, share in an unforgeable outback experience and support the more than 130,000 Australians living with type 1 diabetes.

Concert ckets, which include a souvenir concert photo signed by John Williamson, are $100 for adults, $50 for 12‐18 year olds and free for children under 12.

All money raised from the concert and the Big Red Run will go towards to type 1 diabetes research. The Born To Run Foundaon will work with the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundaon (JDRF), a charitable organisaon ded‐ icated to finding a cure for type 1 diabetes, to idenfy promising research projects for funding.

“With six new cases diagnosed every day and around a quarter of Australians affected directly or through family and friends, type 1 diabetes is the fastest growing chronic disease amongst Australian children. I know this first hand due to my son Stephen being diagnosed with the disease and I know the best thing I can do to help him is support clinical trials, improved lifestyles and awareness through iniaves such as the Big Red Run,”said Donovan.

“We’re thrilled to have a legend like John Williamson supporng our event in its inaugural year and I can’t wait to sit atop Big Red with a cold drink and take in John’s concert as the sun sets over the Simpson.”

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*** INTERVIEWS AVAILABLE WITH JOHN WILLIAMSON AND GREG DONOVAN ***

Media Contact: Avviso PR 02 9368 7277 Paul Fahy [email protected] 0413 162 724

Tessa Hawthorn [email protected] 0408 661 931

ABOUT JOHN WILLIAMSON One of Australia’s best‐loved musicians, John Williamson's impressive career spans more than 40 years. His unofficial anthems, tributes to legends and unsung heroes and tender ballads have captured the spirit of the naon in song unlike any other. He has been inducted into the presgious ARIA Hall of Fame, secured 3 ARIA Awards, 24 Golden Guitars, Planum and Gold albums and over 4 million album sales. In 2012, Williamson released his first all‐original album in almost four years, The Big Red. He will perform a free concert atop ‘Big Red’ itself on 8 July 2013 as part of the Big Red Run: www.johnwilliamson.com.au

ABOUT THE BIG RED RUN The Big Red Run is Australia's first and only 250km, mul‐stage desert running race, being held in the Simpson Desert from 8‐13 July 2013. Based out of Birdsville, the event will give runners and walkers the opon of parcipang ine th Big Red Run, a 250km six‐day stage race, the Born to Run 100km or the Big Red Dash 42km. All money raised will go to the Born to Run Foundaon to fund type 1 diabetes research: www.bigredrun.com.au

ABOUT THE BORN TO RUN FOUNDATION With the mission of “fitness for fighng diabetes”, the Born To Run Foundaon aims to raise much‐needed funds for diabetes research. The registered charity was founded by amateur runner Greg Donovan, whose son Stephen was diagnosed with type 1 juvenile diabetes at age 14. All donaons to the Foundaon will go to research projects and finding a cure for type 1 diabetes. The Big Red Run is the major annual fundraiser of the Foundaon: www.borntorun.com.au

In an impressive career spanning more than 40 years, John Williamson has been inducted into the presgious ARIA Hall of Fame, secured 3 ARIA Awards, 24 Golden Guitars, Planum and Gold albums and sold almost 5 million albums.In 2012, he released his first all‐original album in almostr fou years, appropriately called The Big Red.

For concert cket bookings or for more informaon on the Big Red Run, which is open to all runners, walkers and their family and friends as supporters, visitwww.bigredrun.com.au

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Health News...

Bedourie:

RFDS Clinic: Friday, March 8 Friday, March 22 BEDOURIE AND BIRDSVILLE Birdsville: Clinic Opening Hours: RFDS Clinic: Wednesday, March 6 Wednesday, March 20 FROM NOVEMBER THROUGH TO APRIL Dr David Leslie Dermatologist: Tuesday March 5, 2pm - 5pm. Anyone wishing to see the visiting dermatologist will need to Monday - Friday obtain a referral prior to their appointment from the RFDS 9am - 12 noon Doctor. Please contact the Birdsville clinic to arrange appointment times. 2pm - 5pm Central and North West EMERGENCIES ONLY outside of Queensland Medicare Local these times. Allied Health Professionals visiting Birdsville - Tuesday, March 12 Telephone: Bedourie - Monday, March 11 Birdsville - 07 4656 3245 Podiatrist: Petra A Podiatrist is a health professional Bedourie - 07 4746 1226 qualified to diagnose and treat specific foot and lower limb (PLEASE PUSH EMERGENCY BUTTON – DO conditions. Common conditions a NOT GO TO PRIVATE RESIDENCE AS podiatrist would treat include bone ATTENDING NURSE MAY NOT BE HOME) and joint disorders, muscular, neurological and circulatory complaints, skin and nail disorders, corns, calluses, ingrown toenails and sporting injuries. Speech Pathologist: Brittany A Speech Pathologist provides assessment and intervention for children and adults with communication and/or eating, drinking and swallowing difficulties.

For referral information please contact the Birdsville Clinic- on 4656 3245 or Bedourie Clin- ic on 4746 1226

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We are heading for Cold Season

Colds, or upper respiratory tract infections, are the most common cause of illness in children and adults. Most colds are caused by a virus. The viruses that cause colds are spread by sneezing, coughing and hand contact.

Symptoms of colds The symptoms of a cold include various combinations of: • A stuffy or runny nose • Sneezing • Sore throat • Cough • Headache • Red eyes • Swelling of lymph glands • Fever (occasionally) • There may be loss of appetite and, sometimes, nausea and some vomiting. The actual symptoms will vary from person to person and from illness to illness. Usually, the symptoms will last from a few days to a week or more and the person recovers fully without any ongoing problems.

There is no cure but symptoms can be relieved There is no cure for the common cold. There is no specific treatment that will make the cold go away more quickly. Symptoms can be relieved in a number of ways: • Paracetamol (PANADOL) can be given in appropriate doses if fever is present. • Warm drinks will ease a sore throat and dry mouth. • Nasal drops or spray will ease a blocked nose. • Lozenges – the cheapest ones from the milk bar are equally as good as the expensive ones from the chemist.

Children with a cold don’t need bed rest There is no need for bed rest if your child has a cold – let the child decide how much activity they want to take part in. Although children are unlikely to be hungry, make sure they drink lots of fluids. Appetite will return as the child starts to feel better.

Don’t use medicaons These treatments are not necessary and should be avoided: Colds Page 1 of 3 • Anbiocs – colds are caused by a virus and antibiotics will not help, even though they are often prescribed. • Cough medicines – these are of no benefit. The cough is caused by irritation of the trachea (windpipe) or excess mucus, and cough medicine does not affect either of these symptoms. • Cold remedies and tablets – preparations that can be bought over the counter at the chemist are usually not helpful and should be avoided. • Aspirin – do not give children aspirin as it may lead to a serious acute illness called Reye’s syndrome.

When to see the doctor Virtually all upper respiratory tract infections get better without any specific treatment. See the doctor if the child or adult: • Refuses to drink fluids • Vomits frequently • Complains of intense headache • Is pale and sleepy • Has difficulty breathing • Has a high fever that does not respond to paracetamol • Shows no improvement in 48 hours • Shows any other signs that you are worried about. • Pharmacist

Things to remember • There is no cure for the common cold but symptoms can be relieved. • Most people recover in about a week. • Don’t use medications like antibiotics or cough mixtures.

This page has been produced in consultaon with, and approved by: Royal Children's Hospital - Centre for Community Child Health Colds

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Bedourie Police News

Bedourie Police news

First off, I would just like to give everyone a reminder about smoking in vehicles. On the first of January 2010 a law came in about smoking with kids under 16 years old in the car and the bill is $220.

Vehicle registration QGAP is open on Mondays and Fridays. Don’t rely on me being around if you come in other than these days. Please pay your registration and renew you licence BEFORE it is due. It makes my life and Queensland Transports life a lot easier. When you pay your rego late I have to do a lot of extra paperwork to keep your vehicle registered.

This year we may not get the end of summer rain that we have been accustomed to in previous years. This means no feed for stock. I have noticed that some of the horses are dropping condition. I found three last month being so poor that they needed to be destroyed. There is a charge associated with animal neglect so those with horses on the common need to start either moving your animals or start feeding them.

Senior Constable Tim Farran Bedourie Police Station

Above: Images from the Farran’s Family Christmas holiday.

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Playgroup Did you know......

As of Monday, March 11,  There is enough petrol in a full tank of a Jum- Birdsville playgroup will be bo Jet to drive the average car 4 times around changing hours from 8.30am - the world. 12 noon to 11am -2.30pm. As  Sir Isaac Newton was 23 when he discovered part of this change a healthy the law of gravity. eating program for the children will be  The lie detector was invented in 1921. implemented where the children and  The world's knowledge is growing so fast that parents will be involved in preparing and 90% of what we will know in 50 years time serving their lunches. will be discovered in those 50 years.  The drinking straw was invented in 1886.  Red light has the highest wavelength. Birdsville Bedourie  Paper money was first used in China. Monday Monday  According to the old English time system a 11am to 2.30pm 8.30am to 1.30am moment is 1 and a half minutes. Tuesday - Friday Tuesday - Friday  Oxygen, carbon, hydrogen and nitrogen make up 90% of the human body. 11am to 2pm 8.30 to 12noon  Light is electro magnetic radiation.  A car travelling at 80kph (50mph) uses half its The prime objective of Diamantina Shire fuel to overcome wind resistance. Council Children’s Services is to provide a  Gunpowder is formed by mixing charcoal, playgroup environment that will meet the saltpetre and sulphur. needs of families, caregivers and children  Giraffes have no vocal cords. within our community and to be responsive  Most birds eat twice their body weight each to these changing needs. Diamantina Shire day. Council Children’s Services is committed to  A group of whales is called a pod. equality of educational, recreational and  Kiwi birds are blind. social opportunity.  Armadillos can walk underwater. Children must be supervised by the parent/  The bones of a pigeon weigh less than its carer at all times. It is your responsibility to feathers. watch your children. This includes mixing  The cheetah is the only cat that can't retract with other children, as well as when they it's claws. are using equipment, toilets and supplies.  Roosters can't crow if they can't fully extend For further information or to enrol your child their necks. in the Playgroup services please contact the Co-ordinators, Mrs Anna Karra in Bedourie or Mrs Kylie Scott in Birdsville. Let’s Get Active Everyone welcome to join in with recreational activities which will be held Communion every Wednesday evenings at 6.30pm to Parents of Catholic children who are 8pm at the Bedourie Community Hall. eight or older and wish their child to begin preparation for first Communion, If you have any ideas or please contact Sr Cath on 4651 2939 or suggestions please contact email [email protected] as soon Jade Smith on telephone as possible. 4746 1158.

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Sophie Dillon from Birdsville will be boarding away in 2013. Commencing year 8, Sophie is attending The Cathedral College in Rockhampton Above: Matthew Lorenz attends the Above: Birdsville boy, Henry Butler in his Scots PGC College in Warwick. “Keep your head high, keep your uniform is doing year 8 at St Brendans in Matthew is a year 7 boarder and is Yepoon, here he is pictured with Meg finding life a little different to that on chin up, because life's a Mason who is in year 10 at St Ursulas at Durrie Station. beautiful thing and there's so Yepoon, Meg is also a Birdsville resident. much to smile about.” Anon- ymous

Left: Cody Cramer is also attending The Scots PGC College in Warwick. He will be doing year 8 and boarding. Cody is photographed with Dad Steve and baby brother Jack. Jeena, (Mum) is quoted has saying, “He’s settled in really well too, thank god!”

Right: Yarryn Lewington is making his year 8 debut at Toowoomba Grammar School.

The Year That Was...

I survived my first year of boarding school. Being a boarder is fun. I loved it, I got in so many acvies My first year was an interesting one. At first, I was so that I didn’t have me to think about home. I got really nervous about the size of the school and the involved with Orchestra, Middle school play, debang, netball, soccer and loads more. amount of girls attending....way bigger then

Tips: Bedourie! I settled into boarding really well and did not get a touch of homesickness until term three. I  Get involved in sports and anything you can. kept really busy with sports and school work, this  If you are homesick, have no contact with family for a week or so. helped keep my mind off home. Good luck to all the  Have fun and Good Luck to the new boarders. new boarders of 2013. You will have the me of you’re lives. Tearnee Lewington Cassandra Kath Year 9 Year 9 The Cathedral School Townsville The Glennie School

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Student Achievements

Well done to Tom Mason who was awarded a Prefect role for Social and Community Activities at St Brendans College.

Pictured left is Tom with his parents Mark and Barb Mason and sister Meg, they attended the Senior Commitment Mass where Tom was presented with his prefect badge.

Prep Student of 2013

Containers for Sale Shipping Containers have many uses ie: workshops, storage sheds, accommodation units, cool rooms, etc. Interested persons please telephone 07 4746 1201

Sascha Paige Young is the only student in the shire that will be commencing Prep at Bedourie State School in 2013.

Page 21 Desert Yarns SIMPSON DESERT OASIS HERBERT ST, BEDOURIE. QLD 4829 PHONE 07 47461291 FAX 07 47461208 Email: [email protected] Simpson Desert Oasis Agents for Searle’s Garden Products

Product Range:

Mulch plus Hibiscus/Bougainvillea Plant food

5 in 1 organic mix Kickalong Veg and herb

Peat 80 plus potting mix Water crystals

Native plant mix Pine bark

Herb & Veg potting mix Ant kill

Natural Gypsum Flourish plant food 500g

Lawn food Flourish plant food 4.5kg

Palm food 5 in 1 plus liquid fertilizer

Native plant food Penetraide

Kickalong fruit White oil

Kickalong Native Rootex

Kickalong complete Gloves

Watering cans

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BLACKALL HEARTLAND FESTIVAL ART EXHIBITION and PHOTOGRAPHY COMPETITION

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BEDOURIE-BIRDSVILLE-BETOOTA Contact details: Name Position Business Hours After Hours Contact Contact

 Cr Geoff Morton Mayor (07) 4746 3250 (07) 4746 3250

 Cr Garth Tully Deputy Mayor (07) 4746 1219 (07) 4746 1219

 Cr Jody Barr Councillor (07) 4656 3095 (07) 4656 3095

 Cr Don Rayment Councillor (07) 4656 3321 (07) 4656 3321

 Cr Steve Cramer Councillor (07) 4746 1236 (07) 4746 1236

 Scott Mason Chief Executive Officer (07) 4746 1202 (07) 4746 1009

 Trevor Stewart Works Manager (07) 4746 1202 (07) 4746 1021

 Terry Morris Corporate Services Manager (07) 4746 1202

 Steven Baldwin Tourism and Community (07) 4656 3300 (07) 4656 3331 Manager 0408 824 179

 Paul Veal Birdsville Town Services (07) 4656 3350 (07) 4656 3069 Foreman

 Jodie Girdler Bedourie Town Services (07) 4746 1202 (07) 4746 1160 Foreman

Shire Profile

The Diamantina Shire is the second largest shire in Queensland, with an area of approximately 95,000 square kilometres and a population of 350 people. The 95,000 square kilometres includes three towns – Birdsville, Bedourie and Betoota. The shire is predominantly a beef producing area containing some of the best contaminant-free natural fattening country in Australia. The Diamantina Shire shares borders with the Northern Territory and South Australia and lies within the region known as the Channel Country. The Diamantina and Georgina Rivers, Cooper and Eyre Creek are the main players in a network in western Queensland Rivers. These three great river systems draw water from an area of 556,000 square kilometres. In the regular dry periods these systems contain numerous waterholes that can vary in depth and length.

Points of Interests Betoota Birdsville Bedourie

 Deon’s Lookout  Big Red Sandhill  Aquatic Centre

 Betoota Hotel  Waddi Trees  Mud Hut

 Browns Creek Camping Area  Simpson Desert National Park  Diamantina National Park

 Dreamtime Serpent Sculpture  The Bilby Way  Cuttaburra Crossing

 Carcoory Ruins  Historic Hotel

 Burke & Wills Campsite  Vaughan Johnson Lookout

 The Meeting Place Sculpture  Dust storm Sculpture To add your name to the newsletter mailing/email list, or to change your contact details, please advise Mrs Jo Lewington on 07 4746 1202 or email [email protected]. Alternatively, you may elect to remove your name from the mailing list and access the newsletter via the shire website at www.diamantina.qld.gov.au