Mungindi Matters W H a T ' S I N S I D E

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MUNCaGre IfoNr oDur oIw nM comAmTunTityERS

The Latest Local news, updates and announcements

LEVEL 2 WATER RESTRICTIONS NOW IN PLACE FOR MUNGINDI, p03

Local Businesses Christmas Trading Hours, p05, 15, 16 SCAM ALERT, p08 Mungindi Servo Has Moved to QLD, p09 | Transwest Mungindi New Announcement, P11 2020 Mungindi Harvest Collection Photos, p28 02 Mungindi Crackin' Christmas Carnival - RSVP Required For Catering

03 Level 2 Water Restrictions NOW In Place For Mungindi S

04 Mungindi Community Store Update T N

05 Mungindi Community Store Christmas Trading Hours E T

06 Adam Marshall MP - Covid-19 Update | Scam Alert! N O 07 Brand New Truck Wash At Moree Saleyards Officially Open C

08 Travel Advice: The Latest On Border Closures F O 09 Moving Mungindi Servo In A Week: Elrene's Letter to the Mungindi Community E

12 Transwest Mungindi NEW Announcement L B

13 ICPA-NSW Delivered Two Computers to The Mungindi Community Preschool A T

Save the Date: 10-11 March 2021 ICPA State Conference

14 ICPA AGM - New Executive Team elected | Uplift Free Concert At Christmas

15 Christmas Trading Hours: Mungindi Tyre & Battery | Mungindi Mechanical

17 MPSC - Delay for Water Notices

18 MPSC - Finding Funding Is Now Easier Than Ever

20 MPSC - Calling all Stall Holder for Christmas At Twilight Event

21 MPSC - Christmas At Twilight Registration Form: Closes 10 December 2020

22 MPSC - Mighty Moree On Track For Its Share Of $1 Billion

23 BSC - Council Seeks Proposals For Dirranbandi Outer Airfield

24 BSC - Environmental Projects A Testament To Regional Councils' Capability

26 St. Joseph's Learning Newsletter

28 2020 Mungindi Harvest Collection Photos

29 Local Christmas Shopping Ideas

31 Get Involved

32 Community Calendar

33 Mungindi Businesses

WATER RESTRICTIONS IN PLACE

Level Two DOMESTIC WATER RESTRICTIONS Hoses and Buckets anytime WaterWater ofof lawnslawns andand gardensgarden of law Sprinkler Systems 6am-9am & 7pm-10pm (Odds & Evens)

These surfaces are not to be washed down during water Washing down of paved concrete surfaces restrictions

Swimming Pools Pools may be topped up with a hand held hose. Pool covers are mandatory

Car Washing Car washing with trigger hose and bucket only

Home Extensions and landscaping Only trigger hoses are to be used during these works

Water Carters Water can only be carted from a secure water source

Washing of Clothes Residents to be encouraged to wash only in full loads

Shower and Baths No restriction

Animal Washing No restriction

Use of Evaporative Air Coolers No restriction

Fountains and Ponds All fountains are to be turned off but ponds may be topped up

Odds and Evens scheme: ・Households with odd street numbers are permitted to use their sprinklers on odd dates during the times prescribed; ・Households with even street numbers are permitted to use their sprinklers on even dates during the times prescribed.

PO Box 420, Moree NSW 2400 [email protected] (02) 6757 3222 www.mpsc.nsw.gov.au F: @MoreePlainsShireCouncil T: @MoreeShire I: moreenplains Mungindi Matters Issue 029 07 December 2020

MUNGINDI COMMUNITY STORE UPDATE

Where do we begin! What a crazy 10 weeks we have had.

We cannot thank you the community enough for supporting us during this time, be it physical help in coming in on load nights, to the wonderful ladies and gentlemen that never fail to arrive at 9am every Tuesday and Friday to help pack the stock onto the shelves. To the contractors and public that continue to support us by purchasing all their grocery needs from us. We thank you!!

We have had many kind donations to the Store, and there are too many to mention here, but we are slowly purchasing some much-needed items for the Store from these donations. Next time you walk in you will notice that the Fresh Produce area is much cooler now due to a new air conditioner, and we have installed an air curtain to keep that hot summer heat away from the front entrance and registers.

We have had some very lucky people over the last 8 weeks with our weekly draw of $250 in Store Vouchers, and also the runner-up vouchers are pretty good too thanks to GIVIT who were so kind and donated vouchers to the Store from all of our Business houses. Remember you need to spend $50 in store to go into the draw and we only have 2 weeks left, so keep shopping!

And we would also like to introduce our new Manager Scott Brown to the team! Scott has come out from Brisbane to show us the ropes and will be here for a few more months and cannot wait to experience a Mungindi summer! Please make him feel welcome and say hi next time you are in, especially on a Sunday as we are now trading 7 days a week.

Also please remember that if we don’t have something in stock that you need, all you have to do is ask one of our friendly staf and we will do our very best to get it in for you.

Thank you for shopping local!

Mungindi Community Store Staf

4 Christmas Trading Hours

Monday 21st 8am - 7pm Tuesday 22nd 8am - 7pm Wednesday 23rd 8am - 7pm Thursday 24th 8am - 6pm Friday 25th CLOSED Saturday 26th CLOSED Sunday 27th 8am - 1pm

Monday 28th 8am - 1pm (Public Holiday) Tuesday 29th 8am - 6pm Wednesday 30th 8am - 6pm Thursday 31st 8am - 6pm Friday 1st CLOSED Saturday 2nd 8am - 1pm Sunday 3rd 8am - 1pm

Wishing you a safe and happy Holidays from the Community Store Team!! Mungindi Matters Issue 029 07 December 2020

COVID-19 UPDATE

Friday, 4 December 2020 Source: Adam Marshall MP Weekly News

fter 26 days without a case in NSW, the announcement yesterday (3 December) of a new case of COVID-19 in a hotel quarantine worker at a Sydney hotel complex is a timely and A important reminder that we must not become complacent with COVID safety and personal hygiene as we head into the holiday and festive season.

It is critical that even in the Northern Tablelands, people continue to come forward for testing even if there are the most mild and seemingly insignifcant of symptoms and practice COVID- safe behaviour when out and about and catching up with family and friends.

In good news, the NSW Government is still pressing on with the further easing of restrictions in the lead up to Christmas. From Monday, 7 December 2020, changes to current rules will allow:

Venues including hospitality venues, retail and places of worship:

• 1 person per 2sqm (with 25 people permitted before the rule applies), except for: gyms and nightclubs (1 person per 4sqm, with a maximum of 50 people allowed in gym classes or on the dancefoor at nightclubs)

Stadiums and theatres:

• outdoors: 100% seated capacity, and 1 person per 2sqm rule for unstructured seating areas • indoors: 75% seated capacity. Gatherings in outdoor public spaces:

• up to 100 people for outdoor gatherings (up from 50) • up to 5,000 people for outdoor events that are fenced, ticketed and seated (subject to the 2sqm rule)

• up to 3,000 people for other organised outdoor events i.e. community sport and outdoor protests (subject to the 2sqm rule).…Read More

SCAM ALERT!

There have been some recent reports of scam phone calls being received. The scammers may claim to be from the Australian Taxation Ofce, Roads and Maritime Services, the Police and/or Government Agencies telling you to get tested for COVID-19. You may be contacted by phone, text message or email.

6 Mungindi Matters Issue 029 07 December 2020

Do not open suspicious texts, pop up windows or click on links or Australians attachments in emails. Government agencies such as the Police, lost over 15 RMS or ATO will never ask for your personal banking details over the phone. No legitimate Government agency will tell you to million dollars communicate via a social media site such as whatsapp or via scams in Facebook messenger.

October 2020 If you are unsure if you are being scammed please feel free to ALONE! contact us at the Police Station.

For more information and to report a scam, please visit the ACCC website, scamwatch.gov.au

Information provided by Kelli Hall Senior Constable New England Police District, Mungindi Sector

BRAND NEW TRUCK WASH AT MOREE SALEYARDS OFFICIALLY OPEN

LINES of dried efuent on the streets of Moree from unwashed stock trucks will now be a distant memory, with Northern Tablelands MP Adam Marshall this week joining representatives from Moree Plains Shire Council to ofcially open the $640,000 new saleyards truck wash.

Mr Marshall said in this calendar year the truck wash had already serviced more than 900 trucks.

“There’s nothing pleasant about coming up behind an unwashed cattle truck on the open road in the middle of summer or experiencing the odd ‘splash’ of efuent down a country town main street,” Mr Marshall said.

“Whether you’re a contractor, casual hauler or livestock owner, this new system will make it much easier to decontaminate trailers between loads, improving cleanliness and efciency.

“Designed to meet current environmental standards and in consultation with local trucking companies and livestock agents, the project has seen the replacement of the water supply tank, relocating and upgrading sewage pumps and stations, construction of two separate dry beds for solids to be treated.

7 Mungindi Matters Issue 029 07 December 2020

“Duplicate wash spaces will improve the waste water collection system, making it easier for a broader range of trucks to be able to use the site to improve the welfare of animals, make sure roads are safer, and take care of environmental pollution.

“The addition of lighting at the site will allow the facility to be used at night while pressure pumps have been upgraded and the site has been partially re-fenced.

“This truck wash is a practical step towards reducing bio-security risks while ensuring the clean and efcient supply of trucks to move cattle to and from local markets.”

The State Government provided $560,000 for the project with Council and the Moree Saleyards co-funding the remaining $80,000.

Moree Plains Shire Mayor Katrina Humphries said with Moree’s unique geographic position, an upgrade was necessary to accommodate the demand and limit the spread of …Read More

Source: Adam Marshall MP

RAVEL ADVICE: THE LATEST ON T BORDER CLOSURES Thursday, 3 December 2020

Australia is mostly open internally, so now's the time to head out on your next adventure. Picture Source: Internet Mungindi Matters Issue 029 07 December 2020

Travel restrictions within Australia are fnally easing but border controls can change quickly so check before you book and be prepared to do extra paperwork.

The big news this week was that Western Australia announced it would reopen to travellers from New South Wales and Victoria on December 8, since closing its border to both states on March 24. 8

Unfortunately a positive test result for a hotel quarantine worker in Sydney on Thursday threatened to disrupt those plans. WA Premier Mark McGowan said the NSW border decision would be deferred until Monday, after further consideration - and further COVID testing results came in. South Australia will continue to be considered a "medium risk" jurisdiction until at least December 11. No one will be allowed into WA if they have been in South Australia....Read More

Source: Moree Champion

MOVING MUNGINDI SERVO IN A WEEK TO: 126 BARWON STREET, MUNGINDI QLD

Most people thought it would be impossible and only a miracle would make it happen!

I am immensely proud to say WE’VE did it. Everybody was on board and more than 100% dedicated to get the move over and done with.

Step1: Inform Frankie Handyman Services that the new location needs a major renovation ASAP. Francois and Frankie worked very long hours to make the new shop trade ready and I will always be very grateful for all the late nights and long days the Henning family has put in, so much so that little Frankie fell asleep at school many a times and sometimes even at work, but dedicated he defnitely was. Mungindi Matters Issue 029 07 December 2020

STEP 2: Get Callum & Deidre from Mungindi Freight to start the move. However, I must warn you, if you employ their services, be ready to go they have no time to wait. Sorted and unsorted they hit like a whirlwind and moved most of the inside of the shop on Saturday and Sunday. While Amy did the hard yards looking after all the kids. Updating us all on Snapchat on the kid’s escapades. 9

Step3: Then Groundspray came in with guns blazing and moved all the outside gear from 30 ST George Street Mungindi, an overfull yard to a ghost premises in a matter of days, while spraying crops at night-time. Go big or go home.

Step4: Have an amazing team of staf ready to pack and unpack, while keeping the shop running at the same time. To all my dedicated staf you are amazing. THANK YOU so much for giving that extra on top of your usual hard work.

A big thank You to all the tradies installing and or removing equipment, electrical work, plumbing painting and renovating on a very tight schedule.

Daniel & Jamie from Advance ERA

Dave from Goondiwindi Security and Surveillance

Jim Barton -gravel and loader

Tim from Energy Options

Francois & Frankie from Frankie Handyman Services

Tony McMillan – forklift and particularly good advice

Bluey from O’Connelly Waste

Brett from BN Air Conditioning

Maintence on yard -Bruce & Christine

Cleaning- Fijian Crew

As well as Graham, GI and Toontjie, for muscle work when moving the rangehood

While I was still trying to get my head around the move, they worked together to make the miracle come true.

Well folks, big changes are coming for Mungindi Servo. It is a time of enormous change in the way we do business, the way we interact with one another, the way we shop and consume goods, and the way we identify with our community. This move has forced us all to dig deep and take a hard look at what is most important in our lives, what our purpose is and how we want to be moving forward. We will move forward. Things will be diferent when we emerge from our old way of doing business and it is my fervent hope that the changes, we make will be benefcial for us all. I am encouraged by so many who have stepped up and ofered their help encouragement and support on the move. Mungindi Matters Issue 029 07 December 2020

One of the things I have focused on is to make changes to my business. While experiencing difculties in getting a landline established, we have put mobile messaging on (04 5815 2391) for orders into action, which will be cutting away on waiting times on food. You can still ring 02 6753 2688 to reach us. Mungindi Servo social media page are being used more and the most important development in this whole experience is for me personally. Even though I am very tired10 at nighttime- but I am dreaming, creating, planning and are driven to develop a spot for the Mungindi community to use and enjoy.

A brand-new location, a brand-new look, and some exhilarating new ideas for our future.

Lowes Petroleum is fully committed to keep the Mungindi Community fuelled up and giving some freebies out to thank you for your patience with hiccups occurring. Drop in at the Servo to grab some before it is all gone.

Please note: You can buy fuel with cash during opening hours, just see the great staf.

All the same services are still available at the new site including Mungindi Freight, Mungindi Hydraulics, CMH Lights, Gas bottles, Automotive, Groceries Food and Drinks

Lastly, but most importantly to all our customers, thank you for all the support, patience, encouragement, and smiles. This is what I love mostly about Mungindi!

Drop in at Mungindi Servo, 126 Barwon Street Mungindi QLD (just over the bridge) and enjoy a happy meal made with love.

Moving Specials for the month of December 2020

Bacon & Egg Roll only $6 or add a med. coffee for $10.00 Sunday Lunch $10.00

Elrene De Ber

11 Mungindi Matters Issue 029 07 December 2020

TRANSWEST MUNGINDI NEW ANNOUNCEMENT

From early December(TBA), Ben and Sam Clifton from Transwest Fuels Pty Ltd will be operating the Mungindi Service Station. By way of introduction, Ben & Sam (Brothers) are the two harding working blokes behind The North Store (Kootingal, Tamworth, Manilla & Walcha stores), Apsley Motors Walcha, Walcha Stihl Shop and New England Polaris. They will also be establishing a new central bulk fuel distribution business in Mungindi as they have done so in the Tamworth, Gunnedah, Armidale and Walcha areas.

Whilst they are in their early 30's some locals may have already run into them throughout the region, whether it be their schooling at Farrer and TAS, or on the sporting felds in the North West/New England in Cricket, Hockey, Tennis and Rugby.

Whilst they have a passion for service station retailing and supporting local communities through their kind donations to sporting and community events, they're favourite job is delivering bulk on-farm fuel and providing much needed support to over 1000 agricultural customers in regional NSW. Sam and Ben pride themselves on quality service, approachability in the community and being a family owned business.

At present, Ben and Sam are often found on weekends delivering bulk fuel to local farmers during this bumper harvest. Previous to returning home to the North West and New England several years ago, Ben and Sam both worked extensively in remote indigenous communities in the Northern Territory providing freight and bulk fuel services.

They look forward to meeting you and contributing to the local community.

“We are 3rd generation fuel distributors and have the 4th already in APPLY YOUR training “

FUEL CARD/ Now is a good time to get in and apply for your fuel cards to use at BULK FUEL Transwest Mungindi. These fuel cards are all created in-house and don't attract any monthly or transaction fees. Best of all, every time ACCOUNT: you use your card at Transwest Fuels, you are ensuring your money is CLICK HERE staying local. Stay tuned for some upcoming promotions and sponsorship opportunities.

Source: Ben Clifton Managing Director Transwest Fuels Pty Ltd/ Transwest Mungindi Facebook 12 Mungindi Matters Issue 029 07 December 2020

This week ICPA-NSW State Councillor Libby McPhee was pleased to be able to deliver two computers to the Mungindi Community Preschool which were gladly received.

“These were very generously given through the NBN co. And the local ICPA. We would like to thank Mrs Libby McPhee for including us!” from the Mungindi community Preschool.

Many thanks to NBN Australia for refurbishing the computers and asking ICPA to help facilitate the distribution to various educational facilities in regional, rural & remote parts of the state.

Source: ICPA NSW Access to Education Mungindi Community Preschool

13 Mungindi Matters Issue 029 07 December 2020

Monday, 30 November 2020 ICPA COLLARENEBRI MUNGINDI BRANCH ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

The branch held its AGM on Saturday 17th October at the Jolly Swagman Hotel. Members found it interesting to hear from Mr Mark Doran our Guest speaker from Calrossy Anglican school in Tamworth who spoke about the e-calrossy program. The following members were elected to the executive of the branch.

President: Virginia Thomas

Vice President: Vic Fasen

Secretary: Libby McPhee

Treasurer: Pauline Lawson

Annual Membership fees are due by 1st January 2021. Invoices will be sent to members shortly.

Members enjoyed a scrumptious afternoon tea with compliments to drought resilience who sponsored the afternoon tea. Givit also donated some fuel vouchers to members.

The ICPA NSW State conference organisation is forging ahead. Please save the date, it will be great to visit Hay and experience what there is to ofer there.

Information provided by Libby McPhee Secretary ICPA Collarenebri Mungindi Branch

UPLIFT at Christmas We could all use a little uplifting this Christmas, which is why we're pleased to announce our UPLIFT at Christmas concert special.

Join us on Saturday 19 December for some musical theatre, Christmas songs and the opportunity to sing along to some of your favourite carols, in a concert suitable for the whole family. For more information Here

MEDIA RELEASE

DELAY FOR WATER NOTICES

By now, water notices for the first quarter of the 2020/2021 financial year would usually have arrived in mail boxes across the Shire.

Moree Plains Shire Council would like to advise water users that the Quarter 1 water notices have been delayed due to unforeseeable interruptions with the final roll-out of smart water meter readers throughout Moree.

It is anticipated that the first water notice received this financial year will relate to water consumption for a period commencing in June 2020 through to November 2020.

Notices are currently being processed by Council, with the mail-outs to be finalised in the coming weeks.

Payment for these notices will not be due until the end of January 2021, with interest not applying on these bills until after this time.

Council encourages any business or residence who might encounter issues satisfying their obligations for payment for the first water notice or who is otherwise experiencing financial hardship to contact Council’s Rates Department (02) 6757 3222.

- ENDS -

Date of release: 13 November 2020 Authorised by: Andrew Probert, Acting Director of Corporate Services For further information contact: Council’s Customer Service Centre on 02 6757 3222

Moree Plains Shire Council Writer: Harriet Coutts Page 1 of 1 PO Box 420, MOREE NSW 2400 [email protected]

MEDIA RELEASE

FINDING FUNDING IS NOW EASIER THAN EVER

Finding funding for community projects and business development is now easier than ever, following the launch of the Moree Plains Funding Finder free online grants database. Funding Finder will take the guesswork out of searching for grants and help groups and businesses across the Shire navigate the process, by bringing hundreds of grants together in a central location.

Moree Plains Shire Council is committed to supporting local businesses and community groups to grow and thrive, and has joined forces with Australia’s most powerful grant search engine to deliver a free one-stop-shop website for business and community grants.

Funding Finder has been designed to highlight the grants available to local businesses, community and sporting groups, not-for-profits and individuals specifically within the Moree Plains area. A remedy to the headache that often accompanies finding and applying for grants, Funding Finder eliminates grants not relevant to the Moree Plains area and identifies funding available from all levels of government as well as commercial and private entities.

Council’s Economic Development and Grants Team Leader, Susannah Pearse is optimistic about the various opportunities businesses and community groups across the Moree Plains will be able to easily uncover through the Moree Plains Funding Finder.

“We know that external sources of funding are absolutely critical to the functioning of local community groups and facilities. And in addition, there are unprecedented opportunities for businesses to access funding to support innovation and job creation.

“Comprehensive grants databases are usually a fee-for-service platform, so it is exciting for Council to be able to provide an extensive resource of Federal, State and Council funding programs to local users free of charge.

“Funding Finder is as easy as a Google search for grants. Using the search bar on the home page, you can easily search for grants either as a business or community group. Narrower searches can be conducted by applying filters relating to the industry, activity and grant status too.

“In addition to searching for grants, Funding Finder also offers an email subscription platform, alerting subscribers when new grants open or change that are specific to their needs.

“Registering means you can also save grants that interest you, prioritise grants, diarise opening and closing dates of grants and keep track of your grant applications”, explained Mrs Pearse.

Director of Planning and Community Development, Angus Witherby noted that the launch of the Moree Plains Funding Finder was going to put the power back into the hands of local businesses and community groups in seeking funding.

“The platform enables businesses and community groups to thrive in their area by offering a simple way to search and apply for grants.

“Funding Finder even offers tips for grant writing, explains their purpose and, if time is limited, provides a list of businesses that specialise in grant writing”, said Mr Witherby.

Start the journey by registering to receive email alerts about available grants. The Moree Plains Funding Finder is now live and can be accessed at https://mpsc.grantguru.com.au/ or accessed through the front page of our website.

Moree Plains Shire Council Page 1 of 2 PO Box 420, MOREE NSW 2400 [email protected]

MEDIA RELEASE

Calling all Stall Holders for Christmas at Twilight event

The festive cheer continues to spread across the black soil plains with confirmation that Moree’s Christmas at Twilight event is going ahead from 5pm on Friday 18 December.

Local businesses, community groups and general stall holders are invited to participate in the annual Christmas at Twilight event.

To confirm your participation and reserve a spot for your stall, complete the registration form and submit this along with a copy of your public liability insurance and COVID Safety Plan to Council’s Community Development Team [email protected] or via fax on 02 6752 3934.

All vendors will be required to submit a COVID Safety Plan along with their registration form.

Food vendors COVID safe plan template: https://www.nsw.gov.au/form/covid-safety-plan/restaurants-cafes-food- courts.

Ride vendors COVID safe plan template: https://www.nsw.gov.au/covid-19/covid-safe/theme-parks-and- amusement-centres.

Forms must be submitted no later than Thursday 10 December 2020.

To download a registration form, visit: https://www.mpsc.nsw.gov.au/hot-topics/docman/forms/1715-christmas-at- twilight-vendor-form-1/file.

Christmas at Twilight is an alcohol-free, family friendly event to celebrate the festive season; the event will include carols, stalls and a fireworks display. We have received confirmation that a very important guest from the North Pole has received a special COVID-19 exemption to attend the event, should his pre-Christmas schedule permit.

Christmas at Twilight will be held at the Ron Harborne Oval on Friday 18 December from 5.00pm – 9.00pm.

ENDS

Date of release: 27 November 2020 For further information contact: Community Development on (02) 6757 3222. Authorised by: Angus Witherby, Director of Planning and Community Services

Moree Plains Shire Council Written: Harriet Coutts 27/11/2020 Page 1 of 1 PO Box 420, MOREE NSW 2400 [email protected] Christmas a t Twilight

Friday 18 December 2020 5PM – 9PM Community Groups and Stall Holders

Council wishes to invite ALL local businesses, groups and stall holders to be involved, by setting up a stall on Ron Harborne oval for our community Christmas at Twilight event.

Please confirm your participation by completing the form below, by no later than Thursday 10 December 2020.

Completed forms can be faxed to Council on 02 6752 3934 with a copy of your public liability insurance and COVID safe plan or emailed to [email protected].

Food vendors COVID safe plan template: https://www.nsw.gov.au/form/covid-safety- plan/restaurants-cafes-food-courts

Ride vendors COVID safe plan template: https://www.nsw.gov.au/covid-19/covid-safe/theme-parks- and-amusement-centres Entertainment

A fun-filled night for families wanting to get into the festive spirit with musical performances from choirs and town band, Santa, fireworks and more.

For further enquires, please contact Community Development on 02 6757 3268.

R E G I S T R A T I O N F O R M

Closes Thursday 10 December 2020

Name: ______

Telephone: ______Mobile: ______

Stall/Club/Group/School: ______

Type of stall/group e.g. food, drinks, singing: ______

Copy of Public Liability attached? YES NO

Copy of COVID Safe Plan attached? YES NO

Our Ref:

27 November 2020 MEDIA RELEASE

COUNCIL SEEKS PROPOSALS FOR DIRRANBANDI OUTER AIRFIELD

The Balonne Shire Council is inviting proposals from community groups within the Dirranbandi community to provide and maintain native Mitchell grass cover around the outer Dirranbandi Airfield.

Mayor Samantha O’Toole said a native Mitchell grass cover on the outer airfield would improve the visual amenity, reduce erosion and ensure an open approach for aircraft.

Cr O’Toole said Council wanted to engage a community group to maintain the grass cover.

“The community group will be responsible for the cost and maintenance which includes sowing, an annual cut and, preferably, the removal of the cut material,” she said.

“This program will be at no cost to Council.”

More information, including the required elements of the proposal can be obtained by visiting https://www.balonne.qld.gov.au/news/article/422/invitation-for-proposals-dirranbandi-outer-airfield

Proposals must be received by 5 p.m. Monday 21st December 2020.

Further information is available by contacting Council’s Director Environment and Regulatory Services, Digby Whyte, on 07 4620 8888.

ENDS For more information: Nigel Tapp, Corporate Communications Co-ordinator-Balonne Shire Council T: 07 4620 8804 M: 0476 660 047 E: [email protected]

ENVIRONMENTAL PROJECTS A TESTAMENT TO REGIONAL COUNCILS’ CAPABILITY

Balonne Shire Council has shown the capability of small local governments to make positive environmental change, hosting the Environmental Health Australia (Darling Downs and South West Group) conference in St George today.

Headlined by major projects from both Balonne Shire Council and Southern Downs Regional Council, the conference was a chance for all regional member Shires to share their innovative plans which are improving environmental health across the Downs and South West.

Current projects presented at the conference included Balonne Shire Council’s pilot Tyre Recycling Scheme, aimed at combatting the major (and widespread) problem of illegal tyre dumping.

Council’s Director of Environmental and Regulatory Services Digby Whyte also updated members on the landmark Wild Dog Exclusion Fencing Project.

While still in its early stages, the WDEF project has not only improved landholders’ prospects for rearing sheep and goats in the Balonne, but protected large tracts of land from damage caused by other pest animals such as wild pigs.

Mr Whyte said Balonne was leading the way for smaller Councils by showing they can make wide- ranging and lasting changes.

He credits the small but forward-thinking teams and Council for making a major difference.

“Projects like the Tyre Recycling Scheme and the Wild Dog Exclusion Fencing are truly a testament to what we as small rural Councils can do with some foresight and people who are passionate about making positive, tangible change,” he said.

“We are thinking five, ten, and even twenty years ahead when it comes to these projects and more to ensure our natural environment is rehabilitated from the devastating effects of drought, and that rehabilitation can be sustained in the long term.”

Looking at long term improvement doesn’t stop in the environmental space either; Director of Finance and Corporate Services Michelle Clarke gave updates on two of Balonne Shire Council’s major projects - the St George Library Hub and Country Universities Centre and the Digital Connectivity Project.

BALONNE SHIRE COUNCIL A: 118 Victoria Street, St George, QLD 4487 (POSTAL) PO Box 201 St George, QLD 4487 P: 07 4620 8888 | F 07 4620 8889 | E [email protected] | W: www.balonne.qld.gov.au Ms Clarke said all the projects – environmental and otherwise – go well beyond their direct benefits and contribute to a thriving local economy.

“Whether they are on the land or in our towns, residents will experience some kind of benefit from these long-term Council projects,” she said.

“There is a great deal of economic benefit projected to come back to the Balonne Shire from everything we are doing, and each of these projects contributes to making this region an even better place to live and work.”

The EHA (DDSW) conference also included speakers from Southern Downs Regional Council, Queensland Health, and the Department of State Development, Tourism and Innovation.

Delegates from Maranoa, South Burnett, Goondiwindi, Southern Downs and Western Downs Regional Councils and Environmental Health Australia attended the conference.

ENDS For more information: Jorja McDonnell, Media and Communications Officer T: 07 4620 8886 M: 0428 391 246 E: [email protected]

In Mathematics, we have been exploring patterns, algebra, volume, capacity and mass. The class have Learning Newsletter Ad been estimating the capacity of containers and testing their 3/4/5/6 predictions.

English In English, we have continued to explore Add Photo Here imaginative texts. Over the last two weeks, we have been learning about how to design and plan a storyboard. Last week, we have discovered by summarising a video how to format a storyboard. This week we are planning to create our own video using a storyboard.

Mathematics Day 1:Give a In Mathematics, we have been compliment to 5 exploring patterns, algebra, volume, Friends. The class capacity and mass. The class have Incredi-Bauble Kindness enjoyed been estimating the capacity of various This week we started an Advent Kindness complimenting shapes and volumes of 3D objects to Challenge that encouraged students to everyone at school. test their predictions. inspire joy and kindness within our school. “Mrs H I love your dress today” “You’ve done an amazing job” Day 2: Leave a happy note for someone to find. People found notes everywhere and Go Up Day bought a smile to On Friday, year 2 joined the 3-6 many peoples faces! classroom for the first time. We had lots “You’re a nice person” of fun exploring patterns in our world, “Thank you for being investigating what happens when we Day 1:Give a compliment to 5 Friends. The an awesome friend.” mix different substances and created an class enjoyed complimenting everyone at array of musical sound. 3-6 cannot wait school. for our next two go up days! “Mrs H I love your dress today” “You’ve done an amazing job” Day 2: Leave a happy note for someone to find. People found notes everywhere and bought a smile to many people’s faces! “You’re a nice person” “Thank you for being an awesome friend.” St Joseph’s Primary School

Learning Newsletter K/1/2

K/1/2 WRITING MATHEMATICS Last week, we started our Imaginative In Mathematics, we have been learning about Volume and Capacity. Students explored this Writing unit based on journeys. We are learning about: topic through a range of hands on activities. They measured different items using formal and informal units to find their capacities. K/1/2 - The structure of an Imaginative Text. thoroughly enjoyed learning about this topic. - How to write a sizzling start - Using onomatopoeia in our writing (BOOM! CRASH!)

For BIG WRITE last week, students created their own story based on the picture book ‘Into the Forest’ by Anthony Browne. They had to change the story using a sizzling start and onomatopoeia. This week, students will be writing about the ‘Naughtiest Reindeer goes South’, using the above learning intention as well as adjectives (Vinnie Vocabulary) to make their writing more exciting and engaging.

Into the Forest - Hope Picton Into the Forest - Rylee Into the Forest - Dominic Beatty (Year 2) Hohn (Kindergarten) (Year 1) One night I was woken up by a One night, I was woken up by a terrifying sound, BOOM! CRASH! One night I was woken up by ginormous BOOM! CRASH! BANG!. BANG! Something suddenly came out a ginormous, terrifying howl. It was a big, big monster in the of the sky. BANG! I called Mum “HELP” BOOM! BANG! CRASH! house! I ran down the stairs and I I was so scared but then Mum let me Suddenly I heard a voice hid under the bed. There was a sleep with her. Then in the morning scream “HELP” I called Mum big face staring at me and I ran everything was back to normal. Mum but before I called Mum, the out the window. I saw a scary face told me to bring some milk and bin moved side to side and I with sharp teeth and it was all cookies to Nan and Pop, they were got the knife and pointed it black and it had no legs and was very poor. I was on my way to Nan at the bin but nothing was in chasing me in the forest. and Pops, when Mum called “don’t the bin and I ran upstairs and go the short way, there are spiders. slept with Mum. Next, I woke Go the long way” but I didn’t listen as up and thought it was Mum I wanted to get back home faster but it was 100 spiders and incase Dad got back. So I went the Mum shot them away! short way and suddenly there were spiders everywhere. “Ahhh” there was dust coming and then after, it started to get quieter and there were more spiders. Then I saw someone's house. It was Nan and Pops house. We all ate cookies and milk and I told Nan everything! HARVEST 2020

"FARMING IS MORE THAN FOOD PRODUCTION, IT IS DEVELOPTING A STRONG WORK ETHIC IN THE NEXT GENERATIONS"

"THE SUN HAS SET ON 2020 HARVEST.

It took 4 years to grow this crop, which makes it all the more special."

"Great things can only be achieved with great people working as an even greater team." -South Bunarba Agriculture

29 "DONE AND DUSTED!

A big shout out to all our crew, you all were amazing! Bring on next year!" -Emma Williamson

Local Christmas shopping ideas Mungindi Post Office

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O U R O W N L O C A L E - N E W S L E T T E R

N O T I C E S O R E V E N T S U P D A T E S P E C I A L C O M M U N I T Y D A T E C O M M U N I T Y A N N O U N C E M E N T O R S I M P L Y L I K E T O S U B S C R I B E

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31 UPCOMING EVENTS

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Moree Plains Shire Council Locals for Locals

Moree Plains Shire Council LIBRARY/SHIRE OFFICE (Mungindi Office & Library) Mon-Fri 9.30am-4.30pm 02 6753 2389 (closed from 1pm-1.30pm) Moree Plains Shire Council (Depot) RUBBISH TIP HOURS 02 6753 2359 Monday, Wednesday, Thursday Mungindi Hot Pool 8am-9.30am 02 6753 2347 Tuesday 3pm-4.30pm Friday Closed Mungindi Swimming Pool Saturday & Sunday 9am-11am 02 6753 2347 MUNGINDI SWIMMING POOL COMPLEX Winter Hours : TBA Agriculture, Livestock & Real Estate Contractors

B&W Rural - 02 6705 7000 Christiansen's Earthmoving - 0427 476 025 Big N - 02 6753 2631 Craig Sykes - 0428 881 165 HPS Machinery Parts - 0459 532 222 Groundspray - 0407 109 295 IOR Rural (Previous: Agstop) - 0427 521 593 G & M Rossiter - 0409 274 372 JBS Australia (Feedlot) - 02 6753 7203 Harrison Farming - 0409 532 358 Nutrien Ag Solution - 02 6753 2200 Precision Aerial Spraying - 02 6753 2532 Namoi Cotton Gin - 02 6753 2145 Steve Ramsay - 02 6753 2363 Prosser Hutton - 02 6753 2066 Smith Transport - 02 6753 2062 Queensland Cotton Gin - 02 6753 2600 Van de Watt Contracting - 0459 122 803

33 Clubs and Hotels Food

Jolly Swagman Hotel Motel - 02 6753 2022 Shafay's Cafe & Bakery - 02 6753 2775 Mungindi Golf Club - 02 6753 2148 Community Store: 02 6753 2865. Two Mile Hotel - 02 6753 2051 Retail Health and Wellbeing Curly Lou's - 0427 178 747 Hunter New England Health - Mungindi Newsagency - 02 6753 2392 02 6705 6000 Luxe & Humble - 0400 350 410 Home and Community Care (HACC) - The Bespoke Botanical Co. - 0429 661 230 02 6753 2070 The Felt Flower Company - Mungindi Hospital Doctors Surgery - [email protected] 02 6705 6158 Mungindi Chemist - 02 6753 2770 Services and Trades Mungindi Hospital - 02 6705 6100 Mungindi Post Office - 02 6753 2009 Mungindi Hot Pool - 02 6753 2347 Mungindi Aboriginal Lands Council - Mungindi Swimming Pool - 02 6753 2347 02 6753 2113 Service Stations Mungindi Electrical - 0427 532 177 Mungindi Tyre and Battery - 02 6753 2144 Mungindi Servo (QLD) - 02 6753 2688 Mungindi Mechanical Repairs - 02 6753 290 Schools Mungindi Bus Service - 02 6753 2383 Mungindi Freight - 0423 314 010 Central School - 02 6753 2207 Mungindi Hydraulics & Spares - Central Preschool - 02 6753 2692 0417 426 500 St Joseph's School - 02 6753 2627 North West Plumbing – 0428 521 084 Community Preschool - 02 6753 2220 Paulsen Electrical - 0447 073 710 Regional Australia Bank - 02 6753 2400