Etheridge Shire Council
Inform Newsletter
www.etheridge.qld.gov.au Edition 1, January 2020
The Australia Day Awards Winners
Mrs Terry Ann Cranwell Chase Tansey Kristy Bethel Alana Young Lexus Melbourne Cup Tour to Georgetown
MESSAGE FROM THE MAYOR
A hearty hi to all…. Well the New Year is well and truly in full swing and I can’t believe the first month is nearly over!
I trust you all enjoyed your break (if you got one that is!) and wish all of you all the best in this New Year.
It is fantastic to see some rainfall within the Shire after months of enduring the impressive heat. It has been welcomed by all and especially those who battled fires during November and December last year and the early part of January.
Council has submitted an application to the Minister for Fire & Emergency Services seeking and requesting a declaration for the Etheridge Shire under the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA) for Category B & C assistance for the recent fires.
A quick update on the Charleston Dam in regards to the wet season. The contractors were successful in completing the keyway preparation works (clay core) within the main waterway, also constructing a main embankment approx. 8m high then constructing a temporary spillway on the left hand side looking downstream. This temporary spillway has been constructed from compacted general fill, geofabric then rock armored. This has been designed to divert the water during the wet season. Construction will recommence after the wet season around the beginning of April.
ESC crews are all back at work, continuing the restoration roadworks throughout our shire.
I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate our 2020 Australia Day Award recipients and also a big thank you to the Einasleigh Progress Association for hosting the 2020 Australia Day on behalf of Council and the community.
Australia Day Citizen of the Year – Mrs Terry Ann Cranwell Australia Day Young Citizen of the Year – Chase Tansey Australia Day Organisation of the Year – Georgetown Bush Races – Lexus Melbourne Cup Tour to Georgetown Australia Day Senior Sports Medallion – Kristy Bethel Australia Day 2020 Mayoral Award – Alana Young
Wishing everyone a healthy and prosperous 2020.
Take care when driving during this wet season.
Until next month,
Warren Devlin | Mayor
FROM THE CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER DESK
Welcome back everyone, and the start of a new decade.
I hope you all enjoyed spending Christmas and New Year with family and friends and I hope you didn’t over indulge in Christmas pudding.
Resuming work after a relaxing break can be quite an interestingly challenging experience. In those few days/weeks after getting back to work, the day never seems to end, and you make extra demands on your mind and body to live in the moment, and on that note I would like to welcome back the staff of Etheridge Shire to the sweet comfort of work! I know you have missed it.
2020 QUADRENNIAL LOCAL GOVERNMENT ELECTIONS This week I received correspondence from the Department of Local Government, Racing & Multicultural Affairs in relation to the upcoming Quadrennial Local Government Elections. The details of this correspondence is summarised below:
Proposed election dates The Electoral Commission of Queensland has now published proposed key election dates. Candidate nominations will open with the Notice of Election on Saturday 22 February 2020 and close at midday on Tuesday 3 March 2020.
For more information about the proposed election dates visit the ECQ website. https://www.ecq.qld.gov.au/elections/election-events/2020-local-government- elections
Election disclosure reforms in effect On 20 January 2020, changes to the Local Government Electoral Act 2011 come into effect for real-time disclosures of electoral donations and campaign expenditure including: improved real-time donation disclosures improved disclosures of real donation and gift sources real-time expenditure disclosures requirement for candidates to submit one-off transitional returns to the ECQ by 3 February 2020. The changes are part of the Queensland Government's rolling reform agenda to improve equity, transparency, integrity and accountability in the system of local government and elections in Queensland.
If you are a candidate running for council in March 2020, it is recommended you visit the ECQ website to check that your details are up to date and ensure you know your disclosure and other election requirements.
https://www.ecq.qld.gov.au/donations-and-gift-disclosure/disclosure-of-political- donations/published-disclosure-returns
More information For more details about legislation covering candidate election requirements you can: view the How to stand for election web page (http://www.dlgrma.qld.gov.au/so- you-want-to-be-a-councillor/how-to-stand-for-election.html) view candidate fact sheets on the Resources for councillors and candidates page (https://www.dlgrma.qld.gov.au/resources/councillors-and- candidates.html) visit the ECQ website. (https://www.ecq.qld.gov.au/candidates-and-parties/candidates)
Reminder – mandatory training If you are a candidate and haven’t already, complete the mandatory candidate training now. (http://www.dlgrma.qld.gov.au/so-you-want-to-be-a-councillor.html)
Key election dates There are several stages to the election process. The proposed dates for the key stages of the 2020 local government elections are listed below. These dates are subject to change and will be formally confirmed upon publication of the Notice of Election.
22 February – Notice of Election The ECQ proposes to publish the Notice of Election on Saturday, 22 February 2020. The caretaker period for all councils will start upon publication of the notice on the ECQ’s website. For more information about the caretaker period, please see the Department of Local Government, Racing and Multicultural Affairs website.
22 February to 3 March – Candidate nominations Nominations for candidates for election as mayors and councillors will be open from the publication of the Notice of Election on 22 February, until midday on Tuesday, 3 March 2020. Details of candidates will be published on the ECQ’s website.
New requirements apply for candidates, political parties, third party campaigners and political donors for the 2020 local government elections. For more information, see Candidate requirements – 2020 local government elections.
28 February 2020 – Close of electoral roll Electors have until 5pm, 28th February 2020 to either update their enrolment to a new name or address or to enrol for the first time. This will ensure their eligibility to vote in this election.
4 March 2020 – Ballot paper draw The ECQ will conduct a random draw to determine the order in which candidates appear on ballot papers on Wednesday, 4 March 2020.
4 March to 19 March 2020 – How-to-vote card review The ECQ must accept all how-to-vote cards before they can be distributed to voters during local government elections.
The ECQ will review candidates’ how-to-vote cards from Wednesday, 4 March to Thursday, 19 March 2020. How-to-vote cards accepted by the ECQ will be available on the ECQ’s website.
16 March 2020 – Postal Vote applications close Postal vote applications close at 7pm Monday, 16 March 2020. Voting must be completed by 6pm on Election Day. The ECQ must receive your postal vote no later than 5pm Tuesday, 7 April 2020. Please note that we are unable to send postal votes until after the ballot paper draw on Wednesday, 4 March 2020.
From 16 March 2020 – Early voting commences Early voting will be conducted between 16 March and Friday, 27 March 2020. The timeframes for early voting will vary in different locations, and detailed information about early voting times will be published on the ECQ’s website prior to the election.
28 March 2020 – Election day Election day is on Saturday, 28 March 2020, and polling booths will be open from 8.00am to 6.00pm.
Counting and declaration of results The day after Election Day, the ECQ will start the official vote count and publish results on the ECQ website. The official count process can take up to 10 days for postal votes to be returned. Election results for individual councils will be declared progressively. For more information, see how are the votes counted?
13 July 2020 – Election summary returns due Candidates, groups of candidates, registered political parties and associated entities must give the ECQ an election summary return detailing gifts or loans received and electoral expenditure incurred during the election disclosure period.
This return must be lodged within 15 weeks of Election Day which, for the 2020 local government elections, will be Monday, 13 July 2020.
For more information about disclosure obligations, please see Disclosure of political donations and Handbooks, fact sheets and forms for candidates and parties.
Full postal ballot councils Under the Local Government Electoral Act 2011, councils may apply to the Minister for Local Government for an election to be conducted only by postal ballot, either for the full local government area (full postal ballots), or part of the area (hybrid ballots). The ECQ provides recommendations to the Minister, who decides which councils may conduct full postal or hybrid ballots.
The Minister for Local Government has approved that Etheridge Shire will be via a full postal ballot for the 2020 local government elections:
Council Type of Voting
Etheridge Shire Full postal ballot Council
Information for voters Before the elections, voters are encouraged to: Ensure your enrolment details are up-to-date. To enrol to vote or update your enrolment details, see Enrol to vote or visit the Australian Electoral Commission’s website. Check your local government area and division or ward (for divided councils). For local government elections, you must vote within the local government area you are enrolled in. To check your council area, see the interactive map on Local government area boundaries. Consider how you intend to vote at the election, which could include early voting, postal voting, or voting on polling day. More information about voting options be published closer to the election, but to find out more, see How to cast your vote or the Step-by-step guide to voting. (https://www.ecq.qld.gov.au/how-to-vote/how-to-cast-your-vote)
Learn about how to cast a formal vote in the local government elections. To find out more about the voting systems in use (optional preferential voting and first-past-the-post voting), see voting system. (https://www.ecq.qld.gov.au/how-to-vote/voting-systems) If considering whether to nominate for election as a mayor or councillor at the local government elections, check the eligibility, nomination and other requirements that apply. For more information, see Candidate requirements – 2020 local government elections. (https://www.ecq.qld.gov.au/candidates- and-parties/candidates/2020-local-government-elections)
NATURAL DISASTER RELIEF & RECOVERY ARRANGEMENTS (NDRRA) I refer to the recent unprecedented weather events that have occurred over the past 6 months which have had an impact on communities throughout Australia which has included the Etheridge Shire. I am talking about the devastating Bush Fires. The Shire did not escape from fires; however the impact has been compounded by the lack of seasonal rainfall that the Shire normally receives from Storm events and from early monsoonal events.
I have received correspondence from various landowners within the Shire explaining how much land has been burnt, stock losses and infrastructure damage from the current fires within the Shire.
Therefore, based on the information received and also evidence collected I have lodged an application to the Minister for Fire & Emergency Services (Hon Craig Crawford) seeking and requesting a declaration for the Etheridge Shire under the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA) for Category B & C assistance.
Council’s submission was lodged on the 21st January 2020.
DROUGHT DECLARATION At the December 2019 General Meeting, Council resolved to request the Chief Executive Officer to write to the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries to commence the process for Drought Declaration for the Etheridge Shire.
Prior to Council’s Christmas closure, I wrote to the Minister for Agriculture & Fisheries (Hon Mark Furner) to consider and commence undertaken its due diligence on Etheridge Shire to seek a drought declaration.
Council was aware of the main criterion for declaring a drought affected area. a rainfall deficiency in the last 12 months that is likely to occur no more than once every 10 years; other criteria, such as pasture and water availability, frequency of supplementary feeding and the condition of stock are also considered.
On the 23rd January 2020 I received a letter from the Minister regarding this matter, which stated the following:
Therefore, as a property owner you have the ability to apply for an Individually Droughted Property (IDP) declaration, and if approved will provide the same access to drought assistance for primary producers as an area declaration.
AUSTRALIA DAY 2020
On Sunday 26th January 2020, the Etheridge Community gathered at Einasleigh to celebrate what’s great about Australia and to congratulate the Shire’s 2020 Australia Day Award recipients. Australia Day Citizen of the Year – Mrs Terry Ann Cranwell
Australia Day Young Citizen of the Year – Chase Tansey
Australia Day Organisation of the Year – Georgetown Bush Races – Lexus Melbourne Cup Tour to Georgetown
Australia Day Senior Sports Medallion – Kristy Bethel
Australia Day 2020 Mayoral Award – Alana Young The 2020 Australia Day Award recipients are shown above, and on behalf the Council and the Community we congratulate the award recipients for 2020.
It would be remiss of me not to mention and personally thank the Einasleigh Progress Association for hosting the event. On behalf of Council and the Etheridge Community we sincerely appreciate the Associations support with this community event.
Council would also like to thank Dr Tim Baker for being the Shire’s Australia Day Ambassador and from the feedback I have received from Dr Tim he and his family thoroughly enjoyed their time (albeit short) in the Shire.
SHIRE ROAD WORKS
Council will have six (6) road crews in operation over the next few months with three crews working on Main Roads Projects and three crews to be undertaking Flood Restoration Works from the 2018 Monsoonal Event Main Roads Project Crew 1 - Undertaking Flood Damage Restoration work on the Kennedy Development Road Crew 2 - Undertaking Flood Damage Restoration work on the Gregory Development Road Crew 3 - Undertaking Flood Damage Restoration work on the Gregory Development Road Council Works Crew 4 - Undertaking 2018 Flood Damage Restoration work on Long Gully Road, North Head Road, Townly & Robin Hood Station Roads Crew 5 - Undertaking 2018 Flood Damage Restoration work on Abingdon Downs Road & Beverley Hills Road Crew 6 - Undertaking 2018 Flood Damage Restoration work on O’Brien’s Creek Road
David Munro Chief Executive Officer
EXPRESSION OF INTEREST – HOME CARERS FOR ETHERIDGE SHIRE
The Advisory Committee for Aged and Disability Care for the Etheridge Shire is calling for Expressions of Interest for Home Carers and Home Care Assistance.
We are seeking persons who are passionate about working with seniors and or people with a disability, are sensitive to the needs of families in crisis, reliable, experienced and dedicated.
Home Carers may need to have a current Police check, Working with Children check and First Aid as well as a Certificate in Aged Care, Home
Care and/or Disability Care.
People with backgrounds in nursing, disability and mental health services and specialised care areas are encouraged to consider this role.
For more information please contact Ian Kuhn – Director Corporate & Community Services on 4079 9090.
2020 LOCAL GOVERNMENT QUADRENNIAL ELECTIONS / LOCAL GOVERNMENT REFORM
The Queensland Government is pursuing a rolling reform agenda in the local government sector.
New reforms since October 2017 address issues of integrity and accountability in local government, and follow the release of the Belcarra report and other input from local government stakeholders.
The reforms further strengthen the transparency, accountability and integrity measures that apply to the system of local government in Queensland.
Stage 2 reforms On 16 October 2019 Parliament passed the Local Government Electoral (Implementing Stage 2of Belcarra) and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2019.
Background The Crime and Corruption Commission’s Belcarra report found that good government requires elections to be held on a level playing field, with equal participation available to all.
The report also stressed the need for complete transparency about who candidates are, how their campaigns are funded, their interests and affiliations, and their relationship with other candidates.
The Department of Local Government, Racing and Multicultural Affairs released an information paper in March 2019 outlining proposed legislation amendments. Following consultation with mayors, councillors and stakeholders, the department proposed key changes to the reforms prior to legislation being drafted. Regulation changes were also proposed to reflect recommendations and suggestions received from the Queensland Audit Office, Queensland Law Society, Ombudsman and the Local Government Association of Queensland.
Important notes for candidates Election candidates for 2020 now need to keep records of all election expenditure from 1 May 2019, in addition to keeping records of gifts and donations during the disclosure period.
If you have previously been a candidate for a local government election within the past five years, your disclosure period starts 30 days after your last election or by- election. If you are a first-time candidate, your disclosure period starts on the day you first publicly announce you are intending to be a candidate.
The disclosure period for all candidates ends 30 days after the election.
It will be compulsory for all candidates to complete 2020 election candidate training. Register now to be kept up to date on when the training is available.
https://www.dlgrma.qld.gov.au/so-you-want-to-be-a-councillor.html
Details of the changes
Stage 2 reforms passed by Parliament include:
mandatory training for election candidates transparent candidate bank accounts and financial returns new restrictions on decisions during election caretaker period new requirements for candidates in groups Right to Information laws to cover Brisbane City Council civic cabinet meetings (in effect 18 November 2019) expanded councillor rights to access council information (in effect 18 November 2019) clarified responsibilities for councillors in preparing budgets (in effect 18 November 2019) changes to mayoral powers to direct CEOs and senior executive officers (in effect 18 November 2019) changes to the appointment of senior executive officers (in effect 18 November 2019) improved real-time donation disclosures (in effect 20 January 2020) improved disclosures of real donation and gift sources (in effect 20 January 2020) real-time expenditure disclosures (in effect 20 January 2020) Offices of Independent Assessor to investigate councillor conduct complaints for Brisbane City Council (in effect 30 March 2020).
Future regulatory amendments under consideration:
Limits on the size of councillor ‘discretionary’ funds and new requirement to publicise spending (proposed to take effect from 30 March 2020) Ban on new decisions to use discretionary funds from 1 January in election years.
For those of you who are contemplating standing at the next Local Government Election in March 2020, I would encourage you to check out the Department of Local Government, Racing & Multicultural Affairs website for all the current information and also to keep up to date with any proposed changes during this Reform period. http://www.dlgrma.qld.gov.au/resources/local-government-reform.html
Below is a sample of the information that can be found at the above website regarding this subject matter.
FIRST POINT OF CONTACT IN AN EMERGENCY CONTACT PERSONNEL: Council’s Chief Executive Officer, David Munro is nominated as the first point of contact. PHONE: 0448 621 231 or SATELLITE PHONE: 0147 184 794.
If the LDMG (Local Disaster Management Group) is activated by the Chairperson (The Mayor) the Controlling Officer will be David Munro PHONE: 0448 621 231
SUGGESTION BOX
A suggestion box is available for the staff and public in the foyer of the Etheridge Shire Council Main Office and within the Engineering Services.
All suggestions are welcome including anonymous or otherwise.
Let’s work together to make the Shire better!
Special Disaster Assistance Grant
ETHERIDGE SHIRE PRIMARY PRODUCERS & SMALL BUSINESSES affected by the monsoon trough in early 2019 are now eligible to apply for SPECIAL DISASTER ASSISTANCE RECOVERY GRANTS.
- Grants of up to $75,000 for Primary Producers
- Grants of up to $50,000 for Small Business
Applications close on 28 February 2020.
If your primary production enterprise or small business suffered direct damage as a result of the North and Far North Queensland Monsoon Trough, 25 January - 14 February 2019, grants are available from QRIDA to assist your enterprise to pay for costs of clean-up and reinstatement activities. Visit the links below to find out more.
LINK TO PRIMARY PRODUCER GRANT http://www.qrida.qld.gov.au/…/special-disaster-assistance-p…
LINK TO SMALL BUSINESS GRANT http://www.qrida.qld.gov.au/…/special-disaster-assistance-s…
Please direct queries to the friendly QRIDA team via: Phone on Freecall - 1800 623 946 Email QRIDA - [email protected]
WATER ZONES - GEORGETOWN
WATER ZONES - FORSAYTH
Etheridge Shire Council Community Consultation Meeting Dates 2019/2020
Month Date Venue Time February Wednesday 5 February 2020 Georgetown 7:00pm
Etheridge Shire Council Public Notice of General Meetings for 2020
In accordance with Section 277(1) of the Local Government Regulation 2012, Etheridge Shire Council General Meetings for the 2019/2020 calendar year are to be held on the following dates at Council’s Chambers;
Month Date Venue Time February Wednesday, 19 February 2020 Georgetown 8.00am March Wednesday, 18 March 2020 Georgetown 8.00am April Wednesday, 15 April 2020 Georgetown 8.00am May Wednesday, 20 May 2020 Georgetown 8.00am June Wednesday, 17 June 2020 Georgetown 8.00am July Wednesday, 15 July 2020 Georgetown 8.00am August Wednesday, 19 August 2020 Georgetown 8.00am September Wednesday, 16 September 2020 Georgetown 8.00am October Wednesday, 21 October 2020 Georgetown 8.00am November Wednesday, 18 November 2020 Georgetown 8.00am December Wednesday, 16 December 2020 Georgetown 8.00am
David Munro PO Box 12 CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER GEORGETOWN QLD 4871
Croydon Carneys Vs Georgetown Joes
On the 18th of January the Croydon Carneys once more made the trip to Georgetown to play cricket against the Georgetown Joes at the Gregg Bethel memorial oval. A game that was played in the right spirit and a great day had by
all. The Carneys were restricted to 144. Clem Needham retired 50 and with 32 extras. The wickets were shared two each for Trumby, Harry and Clayton. The Joe’s got off to a shaky start being 6 for 40 at drinks. Jake Bethel retired 50 Harry Terry - 24 Wade Jenkins - 22
With a bit of help from a couple of the old Joe’s they got across the line. Brenton - 3/10 James - 3/25 So till we meet next time, let the rain begin!
From the Georgetown Police desk
Sadly, 2019 ended with a number of vehicle crashes in our shire, one involving a fatality. I’m sure most of you are aware of the event that occurred just outside Mount Surprise before Christmas. Unfortunately, this occurs too often, so let’s move forward and work towards a safer 2020 on our roads.
Speaking of roads, it has come to my attention that some motor vehicles are being driven/ridden on our roads that are not registered. If it has an engine (electric or otherwise) and wheels, it’s a motor vehicle. This includes any buggy, mower, tractor, motorcycle, quad-bike, forklift, car, or truck, and this includes trailers or anything being towed by a motor vehicle.
“I’m just going up the road” or “It’s only Georgetown” or “We’ve always done it this way” are not valid excuses. If a vehicle is operated on a road or a road related area, it must be registered, or at the very least have a proper permit or authority.
A road-related area is any of the following – a) an area that divides a road; b) a footpath or nature strip adjacent to a road; c) an area that is not a road and that is open to the public and designated for use by cyclists or animals; d) an area that is not a road and that is open to, or used by, the public for parking vehicles. e) any shoulder of a road; and f) any other area that is a footpath or nature strip as defined in the dictionary.
In the event of an incident or crash occurring, and your motor vehicle is not registered, you may become personally liable for any damage or injury your vehicle causes. Register your vehicles for your own sake and safety, not just because you could receive a fine. Driving unregistered and uninsured = $800+ in fines.
If you are unsure as to whether or not you can operate your vehicle on a road or a road related area, come and see me. Cherie at the QGAP Office can also tell you if you are eligible for limited or concessional registration. Here to help, not hinder.
There is only so much discretion that I am willing to extend when people are moving unregistered motor vehicles on our roads, please don’t test it.
Helmets. There might be some confusion about where and when it is appropriate to wear a helmet, so let me help to clear that up. Under our current legislation, “a person riding a motorbike or quad bike or driving a utility off-road vehicle must wear an approved motorbike helmet securely fitted and fastened on the person’s head.”
This law does not separate on or off a road, it means at all times.
“I’m only going slow” or “It’s only Georgetown” or “I’m just going down the road” are not valid excuses. Wear a helmet for your own sake and safety, not just because you could receive a fine. Fail to wear helmet = $400 and 3 demerit points.
On February 01, 2020 new laws will come into effect in relation to the use of mobile phones in or on motor vehicles (including pushbikes). The fine for using a mobile phone will increase from $400 to $1000 and will attract 4 demerit points. It appears that the Government is getting quite serious about distracted driving.
Transport and Main Roads (TMR) have also come down hard on the issuing of driver licenses. You must reside in 4871 to qualify for the issuing of some drivers’ licences. If you are only working in 4871, then we are to direct you to the nearest TMR office where you live. If you are unsure, by all means, give me a call for clarification.
Wherever possible, Wednesday’s are my station open days to take care of your inquiries and driver licensing needs. This is subject to days off, leave and/or priority jobs that I might be called out to. I have mentioned before that I am also a Justice of the Peace (Qualified), so if you need documents certified, or signatures witnessed, I will be able to facilitate that for you.
As always, if you are in need of urgent assistance, or there is an emergency occurring, immediately call 000 and ask for the appropriate agency.
If you do not require an immediate response by Police, call Policelink on 131 444. If you would like to make an appointment or need some advice, you can leave a message at 4062 1209 and I will be happy to get back to you.
If you plan to drive, don’t drink. Wear your seat belt. Leave the phone alone. Drive to the conditions and speed limits and arrive alive.
I realise that this month’s article has quite a lot of don’ts, please take them how they are intended, for awareness and to ensure that you are properly informed.
Senior Constable Drew FINLAY OIC Georgetown Police
RFDS Doctors Days 2020
th Thursday 30 January Thursday 6th February
th Friday 14 February Thursday 20th February Thursday 27th February Thursday 5th March Friday 13th March Thursday 19th March Thursday 26th March Thursday 2nd April
Occupational Therapy (Telehealth and Outreach Service) Do you need an Occupational Therapist?
Do you have trouble using your hands? Is it difficult to open jars/taps, do you have arthritis or a repetitive injury like carpal tunnel syndrome? Is it hard to use your hands as much as normal after a broken hand/wrist? Have you had a burn or hand injury that required medical treatment? Do you have swollen arms/legs or have a slow healing wound? Do you have a swollen or heavy/achy limb after cancer treatment? Do you have trouble getting on and off the toilet, or feel unbalanced when having a shower? Do you need to rock to get off your lounge chair or bed? Would you like to trial a shower chair/toilet frame/commode/bedstick to make things easier at home? Are you a carer for someone with dementia or a physical impairment? Would you like some tips on how to make it safer to do so? Do you find it difficult to see things around the home? Have you had falls around the home or are scared of falling? Have you had a stroke or a heart attack recently? Would you like some rails or a ramp at your home to increase your safety or independence? Do you have a pressure sore? Are there things you would like to do that you can’t due to injury, frailty or illness?
If you’ve answered yes to any of the above questions, an Occupational Therapist may help!
Please talk to your clinic nurse or RFDS about a referral to the visiting Occupational Therapy service.
Who Can Refer to Occupational Therapy?
Parent, carers or individuals Doctors – hospital or GP’s Medical specialists Other Allied Health e.g. Physio, Speech Therapist Community nurses Community agencies A doctor’s referral is necessary for hand and compression therapy (swollen limbs).
If you would like to make or discuss a referral, please phone Atherton Hospital Occupational Therapy on 40910274
Who Can We Help? Our service is available for all people need help with: Arthritis Amputation Hand injury Fractures Burns Cancer Recent surgery (e.g. Joint replacements) Cardiac conditions Age related problems Neurological conditions e.g. Stroke, multiple sclerosis Head and spinal injury Visual problems Dementia Emotional/psychological issues Learning or developmental delays
OUTREACH PHYSIOTHERAPY The outreach physiotherapist visits Mt Surprise, Einasleigh, Forsayth, Georgetown and Croydon on a 3-day trip about 5 times each year.
As a general overview, physiotherapists provide individual assessment and management for a range of conditions including: musculoskeletal/sports injuries including fractures and muscle/joint pain balance/mobility difficulties recovery post-surgery respiratory conditions including pneumonia, COPD paediatric development neurological conditions such as stroke, nerve damage, spinal injury burns
Physiotherapy treatment generally consists of: Rehabilitation and facilitation of correct movement patterns Exercise prescription Manual therapy Patient and carer education Mobility aid prescription Injury prevention Pain relief Strapping/taping
If you think you may require physiotherapy intervention, please discuss it with the visiting RFDS Doctor or your local Clinic nurse and if indicated, they will send a referral to us to follow up at our next visit. There is also Telehealth available where consults can take place via videoconferencing as appropriate.
Do you have Plans to develop a Tourism Business?
Does Your Business Welcome Visitors?
Join Savannah Way Limited for a range of Support and Benefits! Savannah Way Limited promotes businesses and communities on the route. It is not-for-profit, independent of government, and the official Local Tourism Organisation for Queensland’s Gulf Savannah. Benefits of Bronze Membership ($220 per year) include: Membership Listing on www.savannahway.com.au Website Product Listings and Ads on www.savannahway.com.au SW Newsletter Promotion and Subscription, Social Media Linkages Grant Project Sourcing Regional Industry Workshops Priority Recommendations to Media Research and Industry Intelligence Voting Rights at AGM Lobbying and Advocacy $50 Discount on Australian Tourism Data Warehouse listing to appear on multiple marketing websites around Australia including official Queensland and Australia websites. Savannah Way Logo Use Gulf Savannah Visitor Guide Discount Friends of Savannah Guides Membership and Guide Training School discounts Membership Certificate
This year there is a major new bonus from our Regional Tourism Organisation, Tourism Tropical North Queensland! Tourism businesses who are members of Savannah Way limited can also join TTNQ at no cost to become an Ambassador of Tourism. This membership otherwise costs $250. It entitles operators to: a website listing on TTNQ’s corporate and consumer websites to drive bookings to the listed business attendance at TTNQ networking functions and industry events access to the image library receive social media and digital sharing opportunities invited to participate in familiarisations participation in the new TTNQ member card with access to exclusive member-only offers
Savannah Way Limited is YOUR organisation. If you are involved in Tourism, as most businesses in the Shire are, either directly or indirectly, you should be a member. Contact Bronwyn Jones for details on how to take advantage of these important opportunities E: [email protected] P: 1300 031 926 W: www.savannahway.com.au
A Message from the Gulf Cattleman’s Association
2019 is proving to be a year of unprecedented events for our industry here in the Gulf, across our nation and globally. We have witnessed parts of our industry being devastated by floods and droughts, watched the debate continue on our Live Export Trade and Global Markets adjust to new trade agreements.
As your northern industry representative, the Gulf Cattleman’s Association continues to advocate on your behalf by involvement in the political area and with associated industry bodies. Our continued presence in these areas ensures that your voice is heard and your representations are taken forward.
As we move into the future, a future that needs to be determined by us, it is important to build our membership numbers to put us in the best possible position to take our vision for our future to those who need to understand and accept our strategies to take our industry to where we want it to be.
One of the many criteria for funding is the number of members and so we must increase our membership so that we are eligible for funding. An increase in our funding will enable your industry representatives to collaborate with other organisations so that the northern beef industries messages continues to get to where it can and needs to be heard.
To achieve our vision for the future and achieve the best possible outcomes for our industry, the Gulf Cattleman’s Association needs your support. Own your tomorrow by becoming a Gulf Cattleman’s Association member today so that we can represent you and your needs.
Please join by completing the Membership form attached and then email to: [email protected]
THE CAMP COOK By Rick Tomkies
This short story is one of a number of stories selected for inclusion the E.S.C. Inform and previously published in one of the many books by this Author and released by Australianabooks.
Many tales told around a campfire in the Outback of Queensland, or for that matter throughout Australia, often have an element of truth or a basis of fact – sometimes they grow with the telling.
However, this particular tale has been told virtually without embellishment and has been verified by a relative as being completely true!
As with many mustering or mining camps, every camp had its cook, and this particular camp was no exception. Their cook, Jerry Franks – long since deceased – was, like many cooks, a hopeless alcoholic and a favourite drink when ‘out bush’ was a potent mixture of methylated spirits and orange juice, although it must be said, neat ‘metho’ did the job very nicely in the circumstances!
Since it was mustering time, the cattle station employed the services of a small helicopter and its pilot to assist with the mustering – very much a part of the mustering scene today, but back in the 1970s the majority of cattle stations up to then had not used them and many of their station hands had not even seen them before – let alone managing to get a ride in one!
One day, during the yearly muster a ‘local’ cattle station employed the services of a helicopter to help out with the mustering, and the pilot offered Jerry, still very much in his usual drunken state, a flight in the machine, to which the cook agreed.
The pilot took Jerry on a couple of mustering runs and, so his passenger could observe a mob of cattle from the air, began to hover above them. Jerry, however, drunk as he was, mistook the action of the pilot and believing that they had actually landed, opened the door and fell approximately twenty feet to the ground!
Luckily for Jerry Franks, being somewhat inebriated, must have helped his unplanned landing, for the sudden arrival on the ground resulted with nothing but a few bruises and a badly shaken and surprised cook, and no doubt more sober than when he went up!
It is said that nothing, however, would get Jerry back in a helicopter after that!
PK’S Mechanical
– Georgetown –
Available for Servicing and General Repairs to all makes of vehicles and light trucks.
Specialising in Toyotas Available to travel
Stockist of Direct Wholesale Tyres for all your truck, trailer
and 4WD tyre needs Workshop located in the Green Shed on Industrial Street,
GEORGETOWN
Contact Phillip Kernan - 0458 165 772
For Rent 3 bedroom half duplex Fully tiled and has air-conditioning units in the bedrooms Own carport and large yard No dogs as the unit is not fenced completely. Would suit working or older couple. Bond and refs required + two weeks rent to start the lease Will consider 3, 6 & 12 month leases to the right applicant.
To apply please ring and leave a message on 0409966970
FNQ Wildlife Rescue Chonie Lee licensed wildlife rescuer Call: 40621583
DUPLEX FOR SALE!
Excellent Investment Opportunity Yielding a high rental return
Property located in High Street Georgetown beside the Hospital.
Each unit has 3 bedrooms, split air-conditioning in one unit and other unit has box air conditioners. All fittings and fixtures are in
good condition with separate car ports and large yard. Perfect to
live in one and rent the other. Price has been drastically reduced
for a quick sale!!
If you are interested in further information on this property
please call owner on after hours. 0409 966 970
HOUSE FOR SALE
Large 3 bedroom house in quiet part of Georgetown right next to the Golf club and not far from the town pool.
Air-conditioning, modern kitchen with gas cooktop, bathtub and shower, French doors, large back veranda overlooking river, built in cupboards, fully fenced house yard with separate back paddock. Established gardens with nice big shade trees. Large undercover downstairs area with loads of potential. $198,000 neg Contact Kirsty on 0448 621 335 .
J
Phone: 0497 189 534 189 0497 Phone:
oe’s Townsville to Townsville Einasleigh Service Weekly
Townsville Townsville Departs Thursday Every (OrdersTaken:
O
utback
Greenvale
Mon, & Tue
E
Email: [email protected] Email:
xpress
Wed)
Lynd Junction Lynd
Kidston
S
ervice
Einasleigh
Volcano Potatoes
Ingredients: 4 Sebago potatoes Sour cream or crème fraiche, to serve Olive oil, to drizzle Hot chilli sauce, to drizzle 4 bacon rashers, rind removed Finely chopped fresh chives, to 85g (3/4 cup) grated four serve cheese blend
Method:
Step 1 Step 3 Preheat oven to 220C/200C fan forced. Line a baking tray with baking paper. Place Drizzle the potatoes with olive oil and toss the potatoes, standing upright, on the to coat. Wrap each potato in foil. Place prepared tray. Bake for 20 minutes. Sprinkle directly on an oven shelf and bake for 50 with the cheese and bake for a further 10 minutes or until tender. Set aside to cool minutes or until the cheese is bubbling and slightly. golden. Step 2 Step 4 Carefully unwrap the potatoes. Use a Serve the potatoes topped with sour cream, sharp knife to trim the pointy end of each drizzled with chilli sauce and sprinkled with to make a flat base. Cut a small slice from chives. the top of each potato and use a teaspoon to carefully scoop out a little of the potato from the centre (reserve the potato for another use). Wrap a bacon rasher around each potato and use toothpicks to secure.
Calendar of Community Events 2020
January March May 31 Craft Beer, Wine and 18 4 Cheese Tastings Night Etheridge Shire Council May Day /Labour Day General Meeting 23 – 24 February Georgetown Golf Club 5 Annuals Community Consultation April Meeting, Georgetown 7pm 20 10 – 13 Etheridge Shire Council 14 Easter at Einasleigh General Meeting Valentine’s Day Golf 25 Afternoon, Georgetown Golf June Club ANZAC Day 26 – 28 24 – 27 15 Etheridge Shire Council Mt Surprise Campdraft Rural Minds Courses and Leather Workshops General Meeting 17 throughout the shire Etheridge Shire Council 19 General Meeting Etheridge Shire Council General Meeting
It is our attitude at the beginning of a difficult task which, more than anything else, will affect its
successful outcome.
- William James
PUBLIC NOTICE OF MEETING
The next Council meeting will be held in Georgetown on Wednesday 19th February 2020 commencing at 8.00am.
INFORM ARTICLES The Inform will be distributed on the last Thursday of each month unless unforeseen circumstances prevent this. Articles need to be submitted electronically to [email protected] by no later than 1.00pm on the Wednesday prior. Late articles will not be published. Previous versions of The Inform can be found at www.etheridge.qld.gov.au