FREE Tel: 08 86725 920 http://cooberpedyregionaltimes.wordpress.com Thursday 26 May - 8 June 2011 REMOTE AREAS TRAWLED TO PATCH LABOR BUDGET HOLE NICK XENOPHON GIVES REMOTE PEOPLE A VOICE page 1

POWER SUBSIDY CUTS ANGER OUTBACK RESIDENTS

Remote area businesses and citizens representing the RAES communities protest against the State Government’s subsidy withdrawal for an essential service to help patch Labor’s budget hole

An urgent Remote Areas meeting was held in Coober The people's champion, Federal Independent Senator Nick Pedy on Sunday 15 May to protest against the Xenophon MLC who travelled from Adelaide for the implementation of a staggering electricity tariff meeting called for comments from the crowd and heard imposed on 13 remote communities in the state's Far a broad range of angry concerns from business owners North. and residents in the region.

The meeting opened by Mayor Steve Baines was attended Everyone had the same thing in common - the withdrawal by Independent Senator Nick Xenophon MLC, the of the RAES subsidy now touted to be phased out over Honorable John Darley MLC, Federal Member Rowan three years. Ramsey MP together with business operators and community members of the broader far north region. "Slow or fast, it's still a ripoff", said Senator Nick 100 FOR NATIONAL HIGHWAYS Xenophon. AND INCREASED FINES page 3, 7 Friday preceding the meeting Minister for Energy Michael O'Brien released a statement saying the state government Both Coober Pedy's Mayor and Senator Nick Xenophon would now phase out the RAES subsidy over three years spoke about equalisation of electricity as in other states. beginning in the new financial year (less than a month away). "Why is it that South Australia is the only state in the Commonwealth of Australia that doesn't have equalisation of power prices?" asked Nick Xenophon. Minister for Energy’s recent tirade on the regional constituents projects a fallacy that the rest of the state "Why is it that South Australian people in remote areas are funding outback resident’s decision to live in remote pay double or more in power than the rest of the country?" areas. Mayor Steve Baines said, "we should not be paying any It is not evident that the city people are calling foul on the more than our on grid counterparts, and this state remote citizens whereas the minister in his comments government should reverse the decision to increase tariffs may be seeking to incite the city voting population! for off grid sites whilst working out how they are going to implement a policy of equalisation". Residents of the Far North believe that remote area taxes are being 'hijacked' to subsidise extravagant projects in A few days later on ABC Radio Minister O'Brien came the city, with remote citizens now targetted for pillage to back with, "equalisation would be too costly"! help patch up the impact on the state's budget. Page 9 SERVING THE OPAL CAPITAL OF THE WORLD SINCE 1982 The COOBER PEDY REGIONAL TIMES available ‘WORLD WIDE’ READ Newspaper FREE online at: http://cooberpedyregionaltimes.wordpress.com PO Box 275 Coober Pedy SA 5723 Editor Coober Pedy Child Care Links Youth & Social Ph: (08) 8672 5920 Margaret Mackay Sue Britt Tanya Lauder Rose Temple Email: [email protected]

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Advertising Rates Black & White Display $6.50 per cm/col Classified $8.00 per cm/col Colour on Application Inserts on Application Helen Williams Charlie-Paris Lynnie Plate Veronica Hartnett Nilpinna Stn. Regional Dog Reporter Oodnadatta/Outback Mintabie/Outback DISTRIBUTING 4,500 + to Electricity crisis continues IS YOUR STORY SA : ADELAIDE CENTRAL & IMPORTANT ? Suburbs. Also Cavan, Bute, Pt. Pirie, Dublin, Minlaton, Pt. Broughton, PT. Simple Tips AUGUSTA, Snowtown, Pt. Wakefield, 1.) WEDNESDAY - FRIDAY is the LATEST material can be accepted * Bute IGA 9 High St, Bute, SA * Snowtown IGA 36 Railway Tce, 2.) DO NOT send information on * Port Broughton IGA 27 Harvey St MICROSOFT PUBLISHER * Dublin BP Lot 7 Port Wakefield Rd, 3,) DO NOT attach photos to * Port Wakefield BP Truckstop MICROSOFT WORD documents. 22 Snowtown Rd Port Wakefield 4.) Attach photos to email using “paperclip” (do not reduce photos) Ceduna/Thevenard, Pt. Lincoln, Woomera, Roxby Downs, Hawker, 5.) Include captions with names Leigh Creek, Arkaroola, Marree, with all photos to avoid Copley, Parachilna, Nepabunna, disappointment Lyndhurst Quorn and Stations, Innamincka, Andamooka, Pimba, 6.) Deadline dates are on the RHS Glendambo, Kingoonya, Tarcoola, of this page (check first) Tel: 08 86725 920 Cook, Prominent Hill Village, Photo: Coober Pedy Regional Times COOBER PEDY, Cadney Park and Email: [email protected] Stations, Marla, Mintabie, Disappointed locals attended the Electricity Crisis Meeting Oodnadatta, William Creek and in Coober Pedy disgusted with the pressure the State SUBMISSIONS not received by Friday, Stations, Witjira - Dalhousie Government is imposing on their lives. Local people were prior to printing may or may not appear in encouraged by the visit from Nick Xenophon, John Darley and All Communities: APY LANDS, a future edition. Rowan Ramsey. The communities will continue their fight Deadline dates are on left side of page. NT : Kulgera, Erldunda, Yulara Stuart Well, ALICE SPRINGS, Aileron, FAR NORTH - 7 DAY WEATHER COMMENCING from 24/5/2011 Kings Canyon, Tennant Creek, 23 km/h WED Most ly Su nny . C ool. Crisp . - 42% 9 17 http://cooberpedyregionaltimes.wordpress.com SSE 12 km/h THU Most ly Su nny . C ool. Crisp . - 42% 9 17 SE Copyright Notice 13 km/h We’ve been working hard to provide you FRI Morning Clouds. Cool. Crisp. - 40% 9 16 with interesting, useful and newsworthy SE 14 km/h information. Please remember that all of the SAT Most ly Su nny . C ool. Crisp . - 35% 9 17 content published by CPRT, including ESE articles, photos, images, graphics, 15 km/h SUN Most ly Su nny . C ool. Crisp . - 37% 9 17 advertising, layout, printing plate content SE and related material, is owned by CPRT, or 17 km/h by other information providers who have MON Sunny. Cool. Crisp. - 35% 9 17 SSE licensed their content for use in this 9 km/h TUE Most ly Su nny . C ool. - 36% 9 17 publication. Additionally, the entire content ESE of the Coober Pedy Regional Times past and present is copyrighted as a collective work under Australian copyright laws and Coober Pedy Oodnadatta Tarcoola Andamooka may not be reproduced without written Disclaimer: Opinions and letters published in The Coober Pedy Regional Times are not necessarily the views of the Editor, or authorisation. The owner of the collective Publisher. The Coober Pedy Regional Times reserves the right to edit or omit copy, in accordance with newspaper policies. work is the Coober Pedy Regional Times Letters to the Editor must be attributed with a name, address and contact phone number - names and town of origin will be Newspaper. printed, or may be withheld at the Editor’s discretion. During the course of any election campaign, letters to the editor dealing with election issues or similar material must contain the author’s name and street address (not PO Box) for publication.” Page 2 Coober Pedy Regional Times Thursday 26 May 2011 HIGHWAY SPEED LIMITS SET TO DROP BUT FINES WILL INCREASE

DTEI seek comment on new road safety plan

A Department of Transport, Energy and Dan van Holst Pellekaan MP, Member for Stuart The questionnaire to be Infrastructure (DTEI) media release and said, "I believe that reducing the speed limit on commented on includes: accompanying advertisement (page 7) has the Stuart Highway to 100kph would be a very been issued to the Far North and gives until poor decision. 1.) What are your thoughts about 10 June to respond to a Draft South the Safe System approach to road Australian Road Safety Strategy called 2020 safety outlined in the strategy? – Towards Zero Together and outlines a proposal to reduce National Highway speeds 2.) Do you have any comments on to 100km per hour in South Australia. the key strategies for achieving Safer Roads, which are are: The Draft Strategy can be accessed on the DTEI • Integrate safety into all stages of website www.dtei.sa.gov.au/roadsafety or by urban / rural and transport / corridor calling 1300 557 316 planning processes. • Form stronger partnerships According to DTEI the new draft strategy, between State and local government designed to make roads safer, takes into account to apply safe system principles input from 18 community road safety forums held when improving the local road somewhere across the State late last year. 5.) Do you have any comments on network. the key strategies for achieving Safer The draft strategy, suggests the speed limit for • Target infrastructure safety Vehicles, which are: National Highways may drop to100k/ph coupled investment with the most effective •Promote adoption of safest vehicle with increased fines. safe system treatments at locations fleet buying policies by public and with the highest volumes of private fleet owners. The draft says the state government will lobby crashes. •Continue to support and promote for increased Commonwealth funding for safety ANCAP and UCSR in cooperation programs on national highways and local road 3) Do you have any comments on with other national initiatives, networks and will work with the Commonwealth the key strategies for achieving including the promotion of pedestrian to seek a mechanism for local government to Safer Speeds, which are: safety initiatives. access increased safety funding. •Accelerate the introduction of a Member for Stuart Dan Van Holst range of new vehicle technologies The DTEI Strategy says, “High use motorcycle Pellekaan looks to realistic solutions for • Align speed limits to the function, such as frontal collision avoidance routes will be identified and the feasibility of road safety standard and use of the road and and intelligent speed adaptation. removing hazards assessed. Possible funding for apply consistently across the State. this infrastructure investment is outlined as a • Strengthen public information 6.) Do you have any comments on the key strategies for achieving Safer motorcycle registration levy”. “I can see merit in reducing it to 100kph at night, explaining the impact of speed and People, which are: but actually think it should be increased to 130kph speed limits on crashes. The draft doesn’t indicate what the projected cost away from towns and during daylight only. • Enhance the Graduated Licensing • Target speed limit reductions for Scheme to further protect young may be to relevant taxpayers for the motorcycle roads according to crash rates and registration levy. “I lived at Pimba for 7 years and in that time did road users. countless call-outs to accidents on the highway a functional road hierarchy. • Reduce the involvement of alcohol • Increase the use of new South Australia’s National Highways are Main including many injuries and some fatalities. While and drugs and non restraint use in some accidents were due to excessive speed, the technologies to boost speed limit crashes through increased North Road (Adelaide to Gepps Cross),Grand compliance. Junction Road (Gepps Cross to Regency Park). people involved in those accidents would very enforcement measures integrated likely speed and eventually get themselves into • Increase the penalties for with public education campaigns, South Road (Regency Park to Wingfield), speeding to better match the risk Salisbury Highway (Wingfield to Mawson Lakes), strife regardless of where the official speed limit and supported by new technologies. posed and comparability with drink Port Wakefield Road (Mawson Lakes to is set. • Strengthen policing resources and driving. Snowtown), Princes Highway (Snowtown to Port deploy enforcement effort to areas Augusta), Stuart Highway (Port Augusta to SA/ “The vast majority of accidents are due to of high crash risk. NT Border), Eyre Highway (Eucla to Port sleepiness, boredom and inexperience. 4.) Do you have any comments on • Align road safety education with Augusta) the key strategies for achieving safe system and best practice “Of course it will always be true to say that any Safer Speeds, which are: education principles. accident at a lower speed is likely to result in less • Align speed limits to the function, damage than the same one at a higher speed. standard and use of the road and For more information and to submit apply consistently across the State. comments visit www.dtei.sa.gov.au/ UNDERGROUND “Some people will always argue that the speed • Strengthen public information roadsafety or call 1300 557 316. limit should be lower, regardless what it is. explaining the impact of speed and Comments close Friday 10 June. BOOKS However, the highway is for travelling – for speed limits on crashes. Post Office Hill Road getting from one place to another as efficiently • Target speed limit reductions for as possible. roads according to crash rates and OUTBACK MAILRUN TOUR a functional road hierarchy. “Drivers need to take responsibility for their Don’t miss your Cards & Stationary • Increase the use of new passengers, for other road users and for technologies to boost speed limit Computer Supplies themselves and dropping the speed limit to protect Desert Parks Agent & other tours compliance. themselves from themselves is not the answer. • Increase the penalties for opportunity to Maps & Books on the area speeding to better match the risk “Having experienced and responsible drivers in Local Information/Road report posed and comparability with drink safe vehicles is the answer,” said Mr. Van Holst Information driving. respond Pellekaan. Phone: (08) 8672 5558 Coober Pedy Waste ROWAN Transport Pty. Ltd RAMSEY * Liquid Waste Removal (Shafts, Septic Tanks) Local agent for Aprilla Grids * Crane Truck Hire (Pickup and delivery) SMOKY BAY • Domestic • Rural • Civil • Mining Sector * Portable Toilet Hire * Skip Bins MP * Heavy Vehicle and Machinery storage Australia’s leading manufacturer Coober Pedy’s * Demolition and Landscaping of steel reinforced pre-cast concrete grids. Federal Our grids are used for a wide variety of applications and our design service allows you to custom build a Representative grid for your specific requirements. (Whyalla) 1300 301 651 Local agent: Mantaworks 0429 677 782 (Port Pirie) 1300 301 742 email: [email protected] Call Stojan on 0409426242 or Australia Wide Freecall: 1800 447 437 [email protected] Milan on 0437424834 [email protected] Thursday 12 May 2011 Coober Pedy Regional Times Page 3 DISTRICT COUNCIL OF COOBER PEDY Lions Information Bay Re-Development In June 2009 Council adopted the ‘Coober Pedy Future Some work already undertaken includes the Gazebo (90% Prospects – Urban Design Project’, funded under the complete), a make-over of the Wishing Well, additional Places for People Program administered by Planning SA. paved walkway along section of Oliver Street, and an This report was prepared by consultants Viesturs Cielens exposed aggregate walkway from the public toilet, passing and Martin Corbin and provides a plan for the future the gazebo and joining up with the existing paved walkway development of the central town precinct. in Hutchison Street.

Two of the numerous recommendations in the plan Additional work will include the construction of sections identified the creation of a Family Recreation Hub adjacent of low curved walls that will feature Aboriginal artwork to and incorporating the skate park. Partial funding for as murals, installation of a number of interpretive signs, a this project has been received and tenders for the work drinking fountain, landscaping and we still haven’t lost are currently being assessed. hope of getting an old tunnelling machine as a centrepiece in the landscaped area. The second recommendation relates to the re-development of the Lions Information Bay in Hutchison Street. Council We look forward to completion of the project, which will was delighted to have been approached by the Indigenous hopefully be around the end of June. Coordination Centre in Port Augusta, which provided Lions Information Bay Re-development in $80,000 funding to undertake this project. progress Trevor McLeod, Chief Executive Officer Active Boys and Girls Group Update New Visitor The group has been involved in a lot of fun and exciting Coordination is a big factor in running this group and I activities that will help them develop during their teenage pass on my sincere thanks to the following agencies that Information lives. This is beneficial for their personal growth and will continue to support the group: hopefully stand them in good stead for their future lives. • Chris Durdin, Country Health SA • Tanya Lauder, Child Care Links Officer • Uniting Care Wesley Desrey Jones is Council’s new Visitor Information • Umoona Health Services Officer, having commenced with us in early April. • SAPOL • Umoona Council Hi - my name is Desrey Jones and I am the new Visitor • Coober Pedy Area School Information Officer with the District Council of Coober • Flinders and Far North Division of Pedy, having taken up the position in early April. General Practice • Aboriginal Family Support Services I am a local girl (born and bred) and completed all of my schooling here and have really enjoyed my time growing Paul Maduro, Youth Development Officer up in Coober Pedy. Since leaving school I have worked various businesses, including Lucas Supermarket and the Opal Inn. When I was 17, I completed my Age Care Certificate and worked at the Coober Pedy Hospital for 4 Left: Chris Durdin with a captive audience years. I then decided to pack up and set off on an adventure to Western Australia, where I continued to do my Aged Care work for 9 months; what a great Change of direction experience. for Carmelo Crisa Carmelo Crisa known to everyone for his Outback Coober Pedy Council in 2010. Communications business in Coober Pedy and as the Saints Coach has taken on the role of Far North Economic Previously, Carmelo completed his year 12 at the Coober Development Manager with the RDA. Pedy Area School. He then joined Telstra as a technician, and worked servicing the outback of South Australia from 1985 to 1989. .

Married in 1989, Carmelo joined the family business for a further 5 years until 1994 when he decided to move to Adelaide with his growing family.

In Adelaide Carmelo went back to his trade and worked for several communication companies; Skilled Communications, Commander Communications and Satelco until 2004 when he saw an opportunity to return to Coober Pedy to start his own communication business “Outback Communications”. Desrey Jones, Council’s new Visitor Information Officer “It was this venture that opened my eyes to the amazing opportunities that the outback offers to those who are prepared to take on the challenge”, said Carmelo. I returned to Coober Pedy for a holiday and was offered my job back at the Hospital, which then led me to buying “I didn’t have the support of the like of the RDA and I a home in town. It really is great being back in Coober was fortunate that the business has been successful from Pedy, close to my family and friends who still live here. the start, and still is.” I am really enjoying the position so far, the staff members “I joined the RDAFN because I’m passionate about the have been very welcoming and supportive. It is great outback and its future direction, and I want to help in the meeting all the visitors to Coober Pedy, from all parts of future direction in any possible way and keep the viability the world and being able to tell them about our unique Carmelo Crisa Far North Economic of the communities”, said Carmelo. town. I have already gained a great understanding of tourism and why it is so important to the town and its Development Manager Anyone needing to enquire about the RDA services in the survival. Carmelo who already spends considerable time coaching Far North can contact Carmelo by phoning 86725 579 or the Saints Footy Team in Coober Pedy was elected to the emailing [email protected] Desrey Jones, Visitor Information Officer Page 4 Coober Pedy Regional Times Thursday 26 May 2011 DISTRICT COUNCIL OF COOBER PEDY MAYORS REPORT from Council Mtg 17th May 2011 Council Another Opal festival is over and from everyone It is interesting to note that the state government has who spoke to me it was a great success. I commissioned a tender to review the RAES scheme to receives congratulate Prue Fargher who did a tremendous determine the opportunities for connecting towns to the job as the coordinator given the short amount of national electricity grid, while also considering incentives time that she was given to put it all together. to reduce energy use, the potential for alternative and renewable energy and to identify possible technical and cheque for I thank the Coober Pedy Retail Business and Tourism financial interactions and synergies. The identified towns assoc for once again putting the Opal Festival together. are Coober Pedy, Andamooka, Parachhilna, Blinman, I acknowledge that it is a lot of work for a small number Marree, Nundroo, Yunta and Mannahill. The scope of $2.481 million of people. works calls for a high level business case be undertaken for each town identifying the costs to government, benefits The Gem trade show was also on over the Easter to customers, and any federal funding available to undertake the work. Council has been trying to recoup money from the weekend and by all accounts it was also a great success. state government since 2003 when the old power There is a report and letter further in the agenda so I We still argue that the government should not be raising station fell over and we had to run on hire gensets. will not go into great detail only to say a sincere thank tariffs until the final outcomes of the tender are known We have argued that the RAES subsidy should you to all involved in organising and running the event. and the government sits down with us to identify and have covered the additional expense of hiring the agree on the best way forward. In the interim Council generators and the added costs of fuel. The consent determination ceremony was held at the and the Business association continues to lobby for a Coober Pedy oval on the 11th May. My thanks to Cr reversal of the decision to increase tariffs and continues These costs were borne by Council and expended all of Crisa for representing me at the event. I was approached to use the media and parliament as an effective tool to Councils cash reserves. In 2003 Council was forced to a couple of days prior to the event by the crown solicitors place pressure on the government. To this end we have take out a $1.5 million line of credit to cover the additional office wanting me to hold a special council meeting in Nick Xenophon visiting Coober Pedy on the 15th May to costs of running the power station, including the additional order that council could resolve to agree to the signing discuss ways on which he can assist us at a federal level. cost of fuel. We have been endeavouring to claw this of the Breakaways ILUA. I did not think it was Senator Xenophon will be accompanied by a contingent money back ever since. appropriate or fair to expect the new council to be briefed of media so we will take the opportunity to conduct media and absorb the complexities of the ILUA, management interviews on the subject. I will be in a position to report I am happy to report that after six years of negotiating further at the council meeting. plan, funding plan, etc in the space of two days so I the state government conceded that these funds were declined to call a special meeting. I indicated that it would Media Interviews this month: actually owed to Council and agreed to make a be more appropriate to hold a special meeting of Council reconciliation payment. On the 20th May Council in the week of the 23rd May after the business of the received a payment of $2.481 million dollars from the ordinary council meeting is concluded. I also want 12/4/11 Channel ten news re electricity tariff increases 20/4/11 ABC radio SA re electricity tariff increases government which is the full amount that Council claimed Councils native title solicitor to attend the special meeting it was owed. to answer any questions that council may have. 23/4/11 CAAMA radio re promotional interview 23/4/11 CAAMA radio re electricity tariff increases 23/4/11 Imparja television re electricity tariff increases Unfortunately the celebration was short lived as the The fight relating to electricity tariff increases is 24/4/11 ABC regional radio re electricity tariff increases money immediately went to paying back the line of credit continuing with many media interviews and meetings 24/4/11 ABC regional radio re IMX/Exact mining and paying EnGen the past two months payments totalling having been conducted in the past month. 09/5/11 ABC Adelaide radio re electricity tariff increases $1 million. Electricity: District Council continues the fight

You would have all heard of the issues relating to I met with Minister O’Brien on the 17th of March to We have unprecedented support from our city cousins, the huge increases in electricity tariffs for those explain the effects that these tariff increases would have who also believe that we should not be paying any more communities that are not connected to the National on our communities, and asked for three things. for this essential service than what they are. But still the Grid. What I want to do here is try to explain how State Government refuse to listen or accept what we are the subsidy scheme works and what has happened In the immediate term…a reversal of the decision to saying. since the 18th February this year. increase commercial electricity tariffs. The new tariffs are now in place and the first commercial Historically, the management, operation and maintenance In the medium term….a complete revisit of the way the electricity accounts have been issued. As we said would of the Coober Pedy Electricity Supply has been subsidised RAES scheme is administered and funded with a view to happen it has resulted in increases to commercial tariffs by the state government. This subsidy program is known equalisation, South Australia is the ONLY state or territory by up to 120%. as the Remote Areas Energy Supplies Subsidy, or RAES. in Australia where off grid communities pay more for I am aware that the Rann government has now recently electricity. The relationship with Council has been one whereby the called for tenders asking for a review of the RAES scheme State Government subsidises the total reasonable costs specifically in relation to the costs and benefits of of the electricity supply minus revenue which is based In the longer term……….an investigation into the cost connecting 8 of our communities to the National grid. upon agreed tariffs. and feasibility of connecting the larger RAES sites to the grid. On Friday 13th May at 3.30pm I received a telephone call The process for determining tariffs would normally from Minister O’Brien who advised that the State commence at around Feb/March at which time council No commitment was given at the time of the meeting. Government had reconsidered their decision and had now would provide DTEI Energy Division with a draft budget. agreed to stage the tariff increases over the next three I then received a letter dated the 23rd March from Minister years with the first increase of 50% to be implemented in On Friday the 18th Feb Council received by way of an O’Brien stating that due to difficult state budget position the 2011/2012 financial years and the following increases email, a Media Release from Energy Division advising of the tariff increases will have to be implemented. NO in the ensuing two years. It appears that our local member a tariff increase and that the new tariffs would be effective COMPRIMISES AT ALL WERE OFFERED. Lyn Breuer has been told something different, and from the 7th March, some 10 working days notice. The according to an email I received from the Ministers office tariff increases, apply to all communities encompassed Council and the Business Assoc then began to meet with last night, there is a third version of arrangements. within the RAES scheme, which are made up of 13 other members of parliament to make them aware of this I believe that although the government has tried to be communities in regional and remote South Australia. ridiculous decision and the effects that it would have on seen as compromising at the 11th hour, the tariff increases our communities. will still be implemented over the next two or three years After some modelling by Council it was apparent that the and are totally unacceptable and unmanageable. proposed increases would result in an increase in domestic A media campaign was embarked up and several electricity tariffs of up to 25%, and an increase in discussions took place on Adelaide and local radio between It is the view of District Council of Coober Pedy and the commercial tariffs by up to 150%. Also of concern was Minister O’Brien, Robert Coro and myself. Coober Pedy Retail Business and Tourism Assoc that the effect that the increase would have on the price of Coober Pedy residents and businesses, as well as those the towns water, as Council Desal plant is the largest within the other off grid townships, should not be penalised A fighting fund was established and several full page for living outside of the metropolitan area, therefore we user of electricity within the town. It soon became obvious advertisements were placed in the Advertiser, along with that based on current consumption there would be an will continue to fight for equalisation and use whatever comprehensive talk back radio coverage, and television means available to us to achieve this. unbudgeted increase in costs to Council of $186,000 a news coverage. year or $0.77 per kilolitre, which obviously needs to be My sincere thanks to everyone who attended the protest passed on to the consumer. This would raise the price of A multitude of questions have been asked on our behalf water to $6.38 per kilolitre, compared to $1.29 per K/L in on Sunday the 15th May and offered their support. The in the Legislative Council by opposing political parties. Adelaide. fight continues. Thursday 26 May 2011 Coober Pedy Regional Times Page 5 Carters - New owners, new theme! ‘CellarbratiOns’ Curious locals have been asking, when is “Lucas” so focusing on the Bottleshop going to reopen? supermarket hasn’t left us much time and I made the On Monday of this week Carters Fresh Food Supermarket statement to many locals opened the bottle shop under a very soft opening but in that the bottle shop won’t about 3 - 6 weeks they will have a major opening when open until it was ready and the Liquor store is totally refurbed. Tim Carter said he it fitted in with our total hoped to combine the opening with the completion of refurbishment I know we the refurbishment of the IGA Fresh supermarket and can have lost big turnover assure everyone that it will be a big two weeks for the bucks by not having it open but we were not going to IGA Fresh Supermarket and Cellarbrations Liquor store open it under the state it was in Now it will be a Questions frequently asked of Tim. pleasure to shop in for our How long has it taken to renovate? ladies and men”.

Tim says, “Before we purchased Lucas, Penelope and Are you enjoying our myself felt that the first thing we needed to do was to put town? our new Liquor store, formerly Lucas liquor into a banner and buying group that suited the Coober Pedy area. We Tim says, “Penelope and shopped around spoke to other Bottle Shop owners in the myself are loving the town city and country and decided that the Cellarbrations and people. Thank you for Banner was the best suited for our new venture at Coober Photo: welcoming us and making Pedy. AS the supermarket in which we choose IGA John Di Donna us part of your community FRESH that also suited COOBER PEDY’s location these days people look for brand name. Buying groups in Phil Caruso Business Development Manager for Cellarbrations joins in the “very soft At the end of the day return can allow us to buy better and pass on the savings opening” of Carter’s new Liquor Store with Penelope Carter and dad Tim Carter Coober Pedy amd district to our customers. It doesn’t matter that we are 700+kms are going to have a modern Supermarket and Liquor from the big smoke Have the prices changed? Is all going according to plan? Store to equal to any country Town around and What changes have Carters made in the Liquor Tim says, “By joining the Cellarbrations group/banner it some of the locals have Store? gives us better buying power, weekly catalogues and Tim says, “Yes we are starting to focus on the asked me if aim investing ranging. Bottle Shop now as the to much in Coober Pedy. Tim says, “First up plenty of hot water and soap, a repaint public have been on to us then a timber look floor, new fixtures, cool room still to The Cellarbrations group are very professional and with to get it opened, as I think My reply to them is that my be refurbed to bring it up to what is needed to become a that our store will have to comply to their strict guide that some of the regulars only regret is that I didn’t member of the Cellarbrations group and big, new range lines to be a member and our pricing will be very keen, were worried that it may make the move to Coober of wines, spirits and beers etc. something that Coober Pedy hasn’t had for a long time. not open again. But being 20 years ago”. “Shakespeare’s lessons relevent today” says Mintabie Principal The prestigious Bell Shakespeare Company, arguably The four day workshop provided for a great deal of A little known fact about Shakespeare is that he actually the premier theatre company in Australia, annually practical activities and group interaction. As the teachers invented many words which are part of the English award 12 teachers from regional and remote Australia came from both an English and Drama background it language. 2,035 words were first used in his work, a scholarship to spend 4 days in an intense workshop. was useful to compare different methods of teaching including such common words as Leapfrog, Watchdog and Assassination. This is the only national Professional Learning opportunity Shakespeare to students. specifically for remote and regional teachers and is aimed Perhaps the most value in studying Shakespeare’s works at expanding the teacher’s awareness of how to teach The overall theme of the workshop was that no longer is the insights he is able to give into human nature. While Shakespeare and empowering them with practical skills is Shakespeare something that teachers and students we live in a completely different world to that inhabited and knowledge in teaching English and Drama. are required to ‘do’ by opening a text book, having kids by Shakespeare he is able to hold a mirror up to us in read in turn and with a relieved sigh consider that order for us to be able to make connections and realise curriculum requirements have been met. that the same forces which drove Elizabethan men and women still drive us today. Shakespeare’s plays speak to all people and are increasingly relevant to contemporary society. His plots Julius Caesar is a classic example, where members of the leaders own party conspire to overthrow him because have been borrowed from the 17th Century to today in they believe he has lost direction. His loyal deputy Brutus plays, movies and television shows and many of his has to be persuaded to join the conspiracy, which only phrases are scattered throughout our language, in occurs when he is convinced it is the right thing to do for common use everyday without most being aware of their the nation. Does any of this sound vaguely familiar? origin. Our group was fortunate enough to be taken to the Opera House on the Saturday evening to watch the final night’s performance of the play Much Ado About Nothing, which has been running for some time. Directed by John Bell himself, the play featured renowned actors Robert Alexander, Blazey Best, Max Gillies and Tony Llewellyn- Mintabie “Belle” Veronica Hartnett, at the Bell Jones. The director had opted to set the play in 1950s Shakespeare Company in Sydney May 2011 Italy which seemed the perfect setting for the gender issues portrayed and provided scope to highlight the humour I was fortunate enough to be the sole South Australian and wit of the characters. chosen to participate and on Thursday 12th May I excitedly drove to Alice Springs and caught my flight out to Sydney. Our farewell dinner at the Opera House outdoor restaurant All expenses were met by the Company and their sponsor, was memorable as we wined and dined gazing at the the Vincent Fairfax Family Foundation. glorious sight of the Harbour Bridge adorned with coloured lights. We were each provided with accommodation in a suite of rooms at an hotel just off Pitt Street, within walking As we set out Tuesday morning to fly to all parts of this distance of Circular Quay and the Bell Shakespeare Veronica working in “pairs” reenacting the scene huge country we were all inspired to produce units of Company’s Education unit in The Rocks, that picturesque when Julius Caesar is told by the soothsayer to work aimed at engaging our students and developing in and historically fascinating section where the first 'Beware the Ides of March' them a love and appreciation for the timeless works of settlement of Australia began. the world’s greatest playwright, William Shakespeare. Page 6 Coober Pedy Regional Times Thursday 26 May 2011 LETTERS Adventure Tours Australia Group Plan to lower speed limit on proudly supports the Stuart Highway Coober Pedy Regional Times The state government is considering a strategy I urge people to read the draft plan and to send projected increase in & Outback Communities to reduce road accidents by lowering speed a comment either online at dtei.sa.gov.au/ income from the We are a small groups tour operator who limits. roadsafety or by mail to measures suggested in has the greatest variety of tours catering for Draft Road Safety Strategy 2020 - this plan. the adventurous traveller. Since motorists will be slow to appreciate the Towards Zero Together GPO Box 1533 benefits of lower greenhouse gas emissions, If you agree, As well as many exclusive features we ADELAIDE SA 5001 offer tours at different levels of fitness. improved fuel efficiency, reduced impact stress, please make your Accommodations from swags under the stars to etc, these lower speed limits will be opinion known snug beds and trip lengths from one day to I believe the government's concern for revenue accompanied by increased penalties for before it is too several weeks – the choice is yours! speeding. raising is probably greater than its concern for For full details visit our website public safety. late. www.adventuretours.com.au or phone our friendly reservations team A key strategy is to make speed limits more Sue Britt (within Australia) consistent across the state - 50 kph in built up I would be interested in seeing the statistics on on 1300 654 604 money raised from traffic fines and the Coober Pedy Group charters are our speciality areas and 100kph on highways. Fatigue caused For further enquiries please email: by lengthening journeys is not considered other [email protected] than to say the only cure for fatigue is rest.

I believe the lowering of the speed limit to 100kph on the Stuart Highway will cause more accidents as it will increase the time to get from Coober Pedy to Port Augusta by nearly an hour. The longer journeys may entail travel in the dark, when many accidents happen. Fatigue and boredom are already major causes of run off the road crashes and rollovers. A lower speed limit will increase fatigue and boredom. Marla Travellers Rest I wonder, how does the accident rate of the Fuel - Meals - Accommodation South Australian section of the Stuart Highway Ph/Fax (08) 8670 7001 compare to that of the Northern Territory http://www.marla.com.au where the speed limit is 130kph? The Draft South Australian Road Safety THE MINERS Strategy 2020 Towards Zero Together is TRANSPORT CO P/L available for comment now and until Friday 10 June 2011. Servicing the Outback since 1961 See Towards Zero Together General Carriers advertisement Road Trains - Flat Tops - below: Curtain Siders Departing Adelaide - Wednesdays & Fridays - or as required (full loads) Servicing Coober Pedy - Prominent Hill - Surrounding Areas Depot - Adelaide 12 Myuna Street Regency Park Ph: 82681795 Coober Pedy: C/- Miners Store ph: 86725051 We Transport Almost Anything VOLUNTEER GRANTS 2011 Thumbs Invitation to Apply for Funding The Australian Government’s Volunteer Grants Program recognises the valuable work of volunteers. Volunteer Grants 2011 is part of the Australian Government’s Up ongoing commitment to supporting volunteers, strengthening communities and assisting not-for-profit organisations across the country.

To the wonderful Eligible not-for-profit organisations are invited to apply for grants of between Coober Pedy $1,000 and $5,000 to support the work of their volunteers. The Volunteer Grants 2011 Application Form and Application Guidelines Hospital staff - are available at www.fahcsia.gov.au or by telephoning the toll-free Volunteer Grants 2011 Hotline on 1800 183 374.

“best hospital in the A TTY service is available for persons who have a hearing or speech impairment world” on 1800 555 677. Applications close on Wednesday 8 June 2011 at 5pm AEST. AG43194 Tim Carter www.fahcsia.gov.au Thursday 26 May 2011 Coober Pedy Regional Times Page 7 COMMUNITY NEWS ANTAKIRINJA MATU-YANKUNYTJATJARA NATIVE TITLE RECOGNITION

Attorney-General, Robert McClelland has welcomed the Federal Court’s recognition of native title rights in the Antakirinja Matu-Yankunytjatjara claim around Coober Pedy in South Australia.

The Antakirinja Matu-Yankunytjatjara native title consent determination hearing was held in Coober Pedy, South Australia.

The consent determination covers approximately 75,991 sq kilometres, and is the first South Australian native title settlement to which the Australian Government has been a party.

The determination recognises the traditional owners’ native title rights and interests, such as the right to access the area, camp, hunt and fish and conduct ceremonies on the land.

Mr McClelland congratulated all parties in reaching this agreement.

“Today’s settlement is a significant achievement for all involved, and an important recognition of the Antakirinja Matu Yankunytjatjara people’s ongoing relationship with their traditional lands,” Mr McClelland said.

“The Australian Government supports the resolution of native title by agreement.

“Native title agreements demonstrate the enduring benefits that can be achieved through native title when parties choose to negotiate, rather than litigate.

“Today’s settlement, along with the recent landmark of the 500th Indigenous Land Use Agreement registered with the National Native Title Tribunal, demonstrates that the native title system is capable of delivering a range of outcomes, including economic opportunities.”

Below: some of the crowd outside the tent on the Members of the Antakirinja Matu-Yankunytjatjara William Lennon, David Brown and Ian Crombie Coober Pedy Sport’s Oval with the official signing party at the Native Determination ceremony in Coober Pedy

Above: Following the signing there were speeches. Below: Everyone gathered for lunch outside the Saints Football Club Rooms

The ceremony concluded with a song composed by David Crombie

Page 8 Coober Pedy Regional Times Thursday 26 May 2011 Minding Your Money By Kevin Woon Financial Counsellor Coober Pedy Financial Counselling Service Gambling It might surprise some people to know that 98% of people Of course it isn’t just poker machines that have problem keep a job and struggle to maintain relationships. Problem who play poker machines do not have a gambling problem. gamblers. It applies to the entire racing industry, the TAB, gamblers are six times more likely to get divorced. They That does mean that 2% of those who play the pokies do keno, cross lotto and scratchies. This article isn’t just are four times more likely to suffer alcohol abuse. have a gambling problem. That doesn’t sound many in about those addicted to poker machines; it applies to the overall scheme of things. However, those 2% problem gamblers of all forms. The government estimates the social cost of problem gamblers put in 43% of the revenue into poker machines gambling in Australia to be $4.7 billion dollars annually. which is completely disproportionate to other gamblers. Problem gamblers don’t just bet with their discretionary Sadly only 15% of problem gamblers seek professional money, that is money remaining after the essential expenses help. and outstanding accounts are paid. If they did, it wouldn’t be a problem. Once their discretionary income has gone, There is help available. they use the money for the telephone account, for the rental or mortgage payment and even food money. Once Email www.gamblinghelponline.org.au if you’re that’s gone, they borrow money from friends or relatives concerned about your gambling or the gambling habits of and in about twenty five percent of cases, actually resort somebody you’re close to to criminal acts to feed their gambling habit. Telephone 1800 858 858 for information on the signs of problem gambling and to find local help services In South Australia, in the past five or six years, two Contact a Financial Counsellor if you’ve been affected by problem gamblers have been jailed for embezzling over somebody’s gambling for assistance with calculating your twenty million dollars from their employers. A considerable budget, negotiating with creditors and working through number of others have been jailed for stealing lesser sums options regarding outstanding debt. of money including a thirty three year old mother of two children who stole over six hundred thousand dollars from their employers. They are extreme cases of course but Contact Details indicate the length some problem gamblers are prepared Financial Counsellor: Kevin Woon to go. Coober Pedy Financial Counselling Service The more common results of problem gambling are PO Box 584, Coober Pedy SA 5723 Financial Counsellor Kevin Woon children going hungry and lack of proper clothing, legal Telephone: (08) 8672 3519 actions to collect debts, evictions from rented properties, Fax: (08) 8672 3242 Secondly, each problem gambler negatively affects bank foreclosures on rented properties and bankruptcies. between seven and ten other people; either relatives or Note that bankruptcy is only an option to those affected Email: [email protected] close friends. That insignificant two percent of poker by problem gambling, not to the problem gamblers Address: Lot 5, shop 7 Hutchison St, machines problem gamblers suddenly becomes a much themselves. In Australia, it is illegal to file for bankruptcy Coober Pedy (Opposite Post Office) more significant number of people affected by problem is the debts are due to gambling. gambling. It isn’t just the problem gamblers themselves; Office Hours: 9AM to 5PM it’s friends, families, colleagues and victims of their criminal Problem gamblers suffer mental and physical health Monday to Friday acts to feed their habit. problems as a result of their addiction, find it difficult to Electricity Crisis Meeting Continued from 1 able to afford anywhere near that price I've got to put all my staff off and therefore I can't Adam Plate business owner and tourism survive," George told the attending politicians. operator at Oodnadatta said the problems South Australian were experiencing with the SA Energy Minister Michael O'Brien told ABC government was a syndrome of a political party Radio that he consulted key businesses and they who had been in office too long. wanted a phase-in period to give them time to adjust. "The state government is not catering for the needs of pastoralist, some of whom contribute Businesses in the area are not aware of any such consultation and Mayor Steve Baines said he was millions of dollars annually to the countries not aware of any businesses requesting a phase- economy and depend heavily on services from in period for an energy tariff. places like Coober Pedy, Oodnadatta and other towns", said Adam Plate.

Federal member for Grey Rowan Ramsey said, “One point I'd like to make is equity. I consider Coober Pedy to have a significant aboriginal community and power to remote aboriginal IMPORTANT DATES communties on APY Lands is supplied at a much better rate”. EXCEPTIONAL CIRCUMSTANCES INTEREST RATE SUBSIDIES “Tourism operators here have to compete with Farm businesses and farm dependent small every other state.for prices which makes our Above: Rowan Ramsey MP, John Darley MLC, Yanni businesses that have been experiencing financial Athaniasadis, Senator Nick Xenophon MLC, Mayor Steve Baines hardship due to the impact of the drought, and tourism much more expensive in comparison. are located in the North West Rangelands and When Adam Plate for example wants someone Central North East Pastoral (including Annexure) to come and work in Oodnadatta, the costs are "$167 Million was BHP royalty's IGA owner Penelope Carter said, "we EC declared areas, may be eligible for an interest built into their charges”, continued Ramsey. contribution last year", said were completely unaware of the rate subsidy on their business debt. Andamooka businessman Rob imminent electricity rises when we Those businesses that are considering lodging “This government is in seize mentality and is Hancock! With the first power bill bought the supermarket in Coober an Exceptional Circumstances (EC) Interest Rate in March the Andamooka Liquor Subsidy application are encouraged to prepare saving the furniture ie city seats for the next Pedy and now we have to just deal their applications now and ensure that all election. Labor is very big saying mining boom Store's electricity bill rising to with it. information is lodged by 15 June 2011. This is the is going to save South Australia but nothing is $25,000 a quarter compared to We are now looking at annual final year of EC support for pastoralists. going back into the areas the mining is focused $16,000 the previous year. increase of $70,000 that we hadn't Note: There will be no written notification to on”, said Rowan Ramsay. budgeted for. All of a sudden it's there individual farm businesses as a reminder of the "Andamooka Pensioners are too and inevitably will have to be passed above closing date. on," said Penny. The Honourable John Darley MLC a former scared to turn on their Application Support: Rural Financial Counselling airconditioners or heating", said Rob Service SA, 1800 836 211. Valuer-General who worked with government George Russell who owns the Oasis departments during his career said it wouldn't Hancock. "Food prices and petrol Caravan and Tourist Park said Further information: will subsequently skyrocket, and Visit www.pir.sa.gov.au/pirsa/drought or take him long to find $5 million dollars admist powerwill be unaffordable. "It's phone PIRSA, 1800 182 235. the government waste. tourists will bypass the town", he absolutely going to kill Coober Pedy said. and the only thing is for me to be PRIIND013373 www.pir.sa.gov.au Thursday 26 May 2011 Coober Pedy Regional Times Page 9 WESTPAC RUBY HONOURS

Richelle Borrett presenting First Runner up Trish Turner Richelle Borrett presenting Second Runner up Richelle Borrett Presenting Third Runner up Broni Lesue Beverley Staines. Marree to host one of Australia’s Richest ever Bronco Branding Australian Championships

Marree is set to come alive from June 11 – 13 2011 when the town’s Picnic Race Club hosts one of Australia’s richest ever Bronco Branding Championship, in conjunction with the annual Oz Minerals Picnic Races and Gymkhana.

Competitors will be vying for over $40,000 in prize money over three days of competition.

Photo: Helen Williams

Tony Williams ropes a steer at the last Marree Races Bronco branding is the traditional method of branding cattle in the bush. The sport of bronco branding keeps these skills alive and competitions are rotated annually between South Australia and Queensland.

Competitors will travel from Queensland, Northern Territory, New South Wales and South Australia to compete for the title of Australian Bronco Branding Champion.

Marree Picnic Race Club President David Bell said “The support we have received from sponsors has been outstanding.

Queensland Bronco Branding secretary, Mick Bichsel from Longreach said “I can speak for all Queenslanders when I say we are all very excited about heading south for the Australian Bronco Branding Champs this year. We’re competing for some fantastic prize money. Let’s just hope we can get our horses over the mighty Cooper!”

The Picnic Races and Gymkhana will kick off at 9am on Saturday 11th June, and the Australian Bronco Branding Championship Sunday 12th June at 8am, continuing into Monday. Be entertained Saturday night with the BC Boys at the community Hall.

Tickets can be purchased at the gate. Prices are $10 for Adults per day and $5 for children under 16 years. Part proceeds will be donated to the RFDS.

Event & Media Information: Prue Fargher Ph: 0407 718 643 [email protected] Page 10 Coober Pedy Regional Times Thursday 26 May 2011 LOCAL CELEBRATIONS Westpac finds Coober Pedy’s ‘Local Ruby’ Westpac Coober Pedy has marked the 100th First runner up was Trish Turner for her commitment anniversary of International Women’s Day by and dedication towards her job as a Child Youth Health announcing Judy Underwood and Richelle Borrett as Nurse. the Local and Internal Rubies. Second went to Beverley Staines who has re-enrolled as On March 16th 2011 The Westpac branch in Coober Pedy a mature aged student to finish her Year 12 studies to held an afternoon tea to celebrate and recognise these pursue a career in law. women for their contributions to the local community. Finally the third Nomination went to Broni Lesue who Westpac’s SA Country Regional Manager Rod Fuller works at the Coober Pedy Area School canteen. Broni started the evening with a quick introduction to the Local was nominated for her dedicated work changing and Ruby Awards, then went on the announce Richelle Borrett implementing a healthy eating regime at Coober Pedy Area as the Internal Ruby winner. Richelle Borrett is a teller at School. the Coober Pedy Westpac bank, she was nominated for the volunteer work that she does outside of Westpac as To mark the occasion the Winners and Nominations were an SES/Mine Rescue member. presented with framed certificates.

“On Behalf of Westpac I am thrilled to announce Richelle More about the Ruby Connection Borrett as Coober Pedy Westpac’s internal ruby,” said Rod Fuller. As the only Australian bank with a unit exclusively dedicated to supporting women our Westpac Women’s Being announced as the Internal Ruby for Coober Pedy Markets team works alongside women to help them build Richelle went on to proudly announce and present the sustainable and profitable futures. Local Ruby Award to Judy Underwood. Richelle Borrett presenting Local Ruby Winner Judy Underwood. The aim of the team is to provide women with education, Judy was nominated for her many years of Volunteer information and networking opportunities through a services with SES/Mine Rescue, Hospital Auxiliary, national program run across both metro and regional Historical Society, and also for her many hours of extra Australia. work she put into helping organise and run Coober Pedy Area School’s 50th birthday celebration, along with countless other volunteer activities. We’ve created www.rubyconnection.com.au - An interactive online community designed to inspire, promote “I would like to thank Judy Underwood for her tireless and connect Australian women no matter what you do, volunteer work over many years. Her contribution has where you are and who you bank with. We provide an made a big impact in the local community, and the Ruby opportunity for all Australian women to learn from each recognition is one small way as a community, that we other. can repay her dedication”, said Richelle Borrett” Ruby is all about women. As part of the Local Ruby presentations there were many Australian women. local women nominated however there could only be one Women who want to be educated. winner and three ladies were chosen as runner ups. These Women who want to be connected. ladies were all presented with certificates for the work Women you want to be inspired. they do in our community. Ruby is about you. Right: Ruby Winners and Westpac Staff: Rhonda, Richelle, Rod Fuller, Judy Underwood, http://www.rubyconnection.com.au/ Misty, Broni Lesue, Bev Staines and Diane Hoad Les Hoad turns 70 Les Hoad turned 70 on 24 May with his whole family Later, Les took on work at the District Council where he wanting to say a BIG Happy Birthday Les! remained for 17 years. Les became the Waterworks Manager for 11 years taking over from Kevin Hunt. In Les’ wife Maxine and their 5 children Robert, Diane, Cathy, 2007 when Les turned 66 he retired from the position, Erica and Mark, 13 Grandchildren and one Great Grandson with his “son-in-law” Phil Van Poorten taking over the send their special wishes for Les’ celebration at home on Waterworks Manager’s position. Tuesday night. Phil Van Poorten said this week, “Les was a very hard act to follow. Happy Birthday Les!”

Les will be having a hip replacement 6 days after his 70th Birthday, because he is getting frustrated not being able to ‘ride his motorbike’ (above) or play his favourite sport table tennis (right)

Les and Maxine’s life is full of stories. Their daughter Diane recalls that she and her sister Cathy, both presented grandchildren on the same day. Diane had twins, Kimberley and Donna and Cathy had a boy, Russell. 20 years later Mark and Chevahn Hoad presented their new son Mitchell to the family, also on 17th February. Mark had always mused that the 17 February had been the longest day of his life waiting for his sister’s babies to be born.

Les and Maxine first came to Coober Pedy in 1984 after they sold their farm at Tailem Bend. The couple had decided to take a trip to the centre of Australia and stopped in at Coober Pedy to visit one of Les’ mates. Les was taken on an extensive tour of Coober Pedy which later Above: Les cutting his 60th birthday cake is now influenced him to relocate his family to the Opal Capital Les and Maxine Hoad playing doubles at the about to cut his 70th cake and try his hand at opal mining. Masters Games Thursday 26 May 2011 Coober Pedy Regional Times Page 11 WHAT’S ON & VISITING SERVICES DENTIST DATES PinkPink RRoadoadhousehouse OodnadattaOodnadatta Coober Pedy Dental Clinic Tel: 86723 096 Tel: Caravan beside School (08) 86 707 822 Freecall: 1800 802 074 www.pinkroadhouse.com.au Monday - Friday 09th - 13th May Fax: Email: 30th May - 03rd June (08) 86 707 831 27th June - 01st July 25th July - 29th July 22nd - 26th August 19th - 23rd September 17th - 21st October 14th - 18th November 12th - 16th December Dr. Harry Craven - Coober Pedy Dental VETERINARY DATES Roger the Roving Vet – Coober Pedy 28th February/1st March 16th/17th May 4th/5th July 5th/6th September 14th/15th November Roger will email clients before each visit, highlighting specials for that visit. Tel: 0428426619

Redgum Pet Boarding, 24 Woodcock St, Port Augusta SA 5700 WHAT’S ON in COOBER PEDY ? (08) 8642 3308 MONDAYS WEDNESDAYS SATURDAYS PAUL NAUGHTON HEALTH COMMUNITY LIBRARY & TOY CRAFT GROUP 7.30 - Mine Rescue Training SERVICES - DATES LIBRARY 9.30pm Catacomb Church - (Alternate Saturdays) Monday to Friday 8.30am – 5pm Quilting or BYO Acupuncturist and a manipulative remedial LEGO CLUB 10am—12pm All Sundays 11am – 4pm Tel: Joy Palmer 8672 5038 or masseur. Back and neck correction, 5 year olds and up Lions Club Located at Coober Pedy Area School June Maclean 86725029 sciatica, and other remedial therapy Paul consults at the Desert View Motel BOYS GROUP 12-17 year olds CINEMA PROGRAM Friday 3nd of June BABY BOUNCE RHYME & 6.30-9.30pm. Every 2nd Boys Group 3pm – 4.30pm Saturday 4rd June Home Economics TODDLER STORY TIME Saturday 10am Library Catering for 0 to 5 Tina mobile: 0488 208 747 or phone 0417 492 065 year olds ph:8672 5642 [email protected] CP SHOOTERS CLUB OUTBACK EVENTS TUESDAYS THURSDAY 9am and 11am Pistol ART & CRAFT PLAYGROUP LITTLE MUSICIANS 11 June 2011 10.30am—11.30am Lion’s Hall 10.30am—11.15am GOLF CP Golf Course Marree Picnic Races & Gymkhana Caters for 2-4 year olds & caregivers Coober Pedy Area School Music Room 12/13 June 2011 TJITJI TJUTA INKANYINI PUKULPA Caters for 3 to 5 year olds Outback Cinema Australian Bronco Branding Championship 12pm—2pm A Playgroup for 0-5 year FAST & FURIOUS 5 [M] olds and caregivers. FOOTY TRAINING: 6 pm - SATURDAY 4 JUNE For further enquiries, contact David Bell on Home Makers, Umoona Community, Oval (08) 8675 8203 [email protected] Lunch & Activities OPEN 7:00PM—MOVIE 16 July 2011 STARTS 7:30PM ZUMBA 3.30pm Kids 6pm Adults FRIDAYS Ozminerals Oodnadatta Bronco Brand- Umoona Gymnasium ing & Campdraft SUNDAYS contact Tony Williams on 86707961 TINY TACKER PLAYGROUP CHEERLEADING 3.15 - 4.15pm CP SHOOTERS CLUB 0 - 2 year olds 10am—12.30pm Coober Pedy Annual Races School Gymnasium 5-12 year olds Rifle 10am - Community Health Meeting 6/7 August 50c per session $2 joining fee (not on Golf (CP Golf Course Room (behind Dr. Kami’s) over School Holidays) SA STATE SCHOOL TERM DATES United Bowling Club CRICKET 5.30pm to 6.30 pm SOCCER Workshop 4.30pm – 6pm at School Gym Lawn Bowls 1.30 pm 2011 School Oval 10-16 year olds T/1 31 Jan - 15 Apr ACTIVE GIRLS GROUP CFS Training 2- 5 T/2 02 May - 8 Jul FOOTY TRAINING: 6 pm - Oval 3pm – 4.30pm age 10 -15 y/o Alternate Sundays T/3 25 Jul - 30 Sep MUSIC/HOME ECONOMICS T/4 17 Oct - 16 Dec DISTRICT COUNCIL MEETINGS room at school PLAY GYM 3nd Tuesday each month at 7pm Catering for 0 to 5 year olds 2012 CP SHOOTERS CLUB 2.30pm—4.30pm T/1 30 Jan - 5 Apr AMBULANCE TRAINING Friday night shotgun 7pm - 7.30pm Umoona Road School Gymnasium T/2 23 Apr - 29 Jun every Tuesday except school holidays T/3 16 Jul - 21 Sep GREEK CLUB - Bingo 7.30 pm T/3 08 Oct - 14 Dec

Page 12 Coober Pedy Regional Times Thursday 26 May 2011 What’s On in COOBER PEDY? Local police seek support for Cando4kids Three riders are We are seeking your Pedy Police Station, or completing the trip. Two support in donating to this direct to Cando4kids. members of Coober Pedy very worthy charity who Police Station have ‘undertake to support We believe that this is a nominated to complete the families and children with suitable and fitting way to show our support and ride, being Senior Sergeant opportunities to realise their commitment to Nadine, Greg Burns and Detective developmental potential’. Dillon and Hayden. Senior Constable Mick Clark. Inspector Ian All donations to the charity Senior Sergeant Humby of Port Augusta is are tax deductable, and can Greg Burns also riding. be made at the Coober Coober Pedy Police Station

Det Mick Clark, S/Sgt Greg Burns and Insp Ian Humby preparing for a training ride

Dillon and Nadine LEWIS are long term They do not want any personal residents of Coober Pedy and both live and donations toward medical costs. work in the area. Their son Hayden has recently been diagnosed with cancer behind We, at the Police station wanted to one eye, and as a result has had that eye do something to assist and after removed. consultation with them they expressed a wish that any money While Hayden has made a full recovery, significant raised should be donated to medical costs were and will continue to be ‘cando4kids’ who have given them incurred by Dillon and Nadine. great support so far, and will continue to offer this support into Coober Pedy Lions Club the future. ‘Cando4kids’ is South Australia’s oldest registered charity, who focus Trash & Treasure on Deaf and blind children. They is on the last Saturday assist over 800 children each year.

of each month 28 May Members of Nadine’s workplace, the Coober Pedy Police Station have discussed ways to raise money for The Delicious BBQ Breakfast ‘Cando4kids’, and have settled on a is on again charity bike ride from * 28th May from 9 am Alice Springs to * Cold Drinks available Coober Pedy, * Stall holders welcome commencing on * Tourists, visitors & locals are Sunday the 26th of June, most welcome with the ride to conclude * Jumping Castle located inside in Coober Pedy on for the kiddies, fully supervised! Friday the 1st of July * Rain, hail or shine, we will be there! **Hope to see you all there, for a delicious breakfast and great stalls!** **Come along and enjoy the food, stalls and great, friendly atmosphere - fun for all! The Outback Open Air Cinema has not changed the entry fee since we reopened the The Lions Club are always cinema back in 2001. Sadly, due to rising costs, we can no longer avoid a modest needing new members. price rise. The new prices are as follows: Car $20, Adult $10, Child (under 16) $5

Thursday 26 May 2011 Coober Pedy Regional Times Page 13 FAMILY MATTERS - Child Care Links

Tanya Lauder Child Care Links Officer District Council of Coober Pedy

“Child Care Links is funded by the Australian Government under the Family Support Program”.

Page 14 Coober Pedy Regional Times Thursday 26 May 2011 THE PROMISE! The X Factor comes to town If you think that talent scouts from that popular TV program have been in Coober Pedy looking for people to sing and dance you would be wrong.

The X Factor I am talking about comes in a very different form. MP Nick Xenophon was in Coober Pedy. He was here to listen to what the local people had to say about the increase in power charges.

Nick Xenophon has a reputation for getting results and making a difference. In 2006 one in five South Australian voters backed him at the polls. Since then he has been a force that other politicians envy or are afraid of. Numbers count.

On Sunday the 15th May there was an urgent public meeting at Umoona Opal Mine. “Don’t Leave Coober Pedy in the Dark” was the big issue of the day. If you couldn’t get there, you missed the start of something big. There was a press release to say that the government had made verbal promises about the power cost, but nothing is confirmed or in writing. Until all the promises are in writing and everything is signed off on, you can not consider that this issue is finished.

So what is there for us to do as a community?

If there is public meeting turn up for it, this will affect Charlie Paris secures a “Promise” for positive action from Senator Nick Xenophon after the you, your budget and your day to day life. Numbers Electricity Crisis Meeting. “Can we shake paws on that Nick?”, says Charlie count I was pleased to see all Don’t let up on the politicians as they are your voice. my friends at the Don’t believe anything that isn’t in writing: a promise Electricity Crisis is not good enough. Meeting. My daddy Duncan was up there Coober Pedy is not the only place that will be shouting, “Enough is affected, 13 communities will be paying outrages Enough”... costs for power and water. Adam Plate roared in If you can’t email a politician, or you feel you can’t from Oodnadatta to talk to anyone in that position ask someone else to have his say and I was do it for you. Numbers count. happy to see Leanne who makes my Pizza’s Nick Xenophon would love to hear from you. there yelling “Power Bills Have Doubled”! Contact his Electorate Officer [email protected] Phone 82321144 Everyone was on TV that night, right across The National Grid the country.

What are the choices the government have as far as the power is concerned? All my friends who are being slugged were at the They could be realistic and continue to subsidise Crisis Meeting , urgently appealing for help to lift the production of power with OUR TAXES. the financial burden from their families

The government could also think about connecting us to the National Grid. Prominent Hill is connected to the national grid and if I am to believe the rumours around town, IMX Resources at Cairn Hill is also connected to the national grid.

If Cairn Hill is connected, that is only 50 kilometres away in a straight line.

OMG, I may be just a silly dog but 50 kilometres is not far at all. I think my dad has an extension cord that long in the shed.

Woof Woof Right: My mate Charlie Paris Duncan had a go and got his Labs and Libs mixed up! [email protected] I wuv you Duncan! Dog Reporter, Charlie Paris Thursday 26 May 2011 Coober Pedy Regional Times Page 15 CLASSIFIEDS ADVERTISING See page 2 for Rates, Deadlines & Publishing Dates

DUGOUT FOR SALE POSITION VACANT POSITION VACANT

EXECUTIVE FOUR B/RM DUGOUT I can tackle large projects that make the Coober Pedy Multicultural Community Forum Inc situated on Tom Cat Hill with best use of my skills to motivate me. great views. The sheer complexity of the issues I face ensures I’m always fascinated. Program Coordinator for Multicultural Older People * Quality professionally built At SA Health, how my career develops large kitchen/dining area, is up to me. With diverse career pathways We are a not-for-profit community organisation and have a vacancy for part time and lots of opportunities to shine, there’s large lounge and games room no limit to what I can achieve. employment (20 hours/week) coordinating support services for the multicultural elderly * One of Coober Pedy's finest in Coober Pedy. $210,000 Clerical Officer Coober Pedy Hospital & RING: Peter (Adelaide) 83820202 Health Services This is a unique opportunity to establish and coordinate a new support service for aged Mobile 040 8820802 Job Ref: 495641 multicultural people in Coober Pedy. The coordinator will manage a small team of RING: Ross (Coober Pedy) support workers and be responsible for the effectiveness of the service. www.health.sa.gov.au/careers 86 723023 (nights) 1300 882 992 Position Descriptions: and enquiries Mrs Tina Boyd 0419416824 or email McARDLE [email protected] Applications to: Attention Chairperson, PO Box 584 Coober Pedy SA 5723 marked FREIGHT ‘Confidential’ Provides a Weekly Service to Coober Pedy & ...do something (Applications must address Position Description and include a current resume and the Surrounding Areas more meaningful details of three current referees) Applications close Friday 3rd June 2011

POSITION VACANT POSITION VACANT

BlazeS006412 Truckin’ Frozen, Perishable and General Freight. Mineral Leases Also Specialising in Livestock, Construction and Construction and Wool and Bulk Cartage Maintenance Worker Maintenance Worker

Adelaide: (08) 82805033 Grader Operator – Northwest 2 Patrol Front End Loader/Truck Operator – Mining Act 1971 Ongoing Northwest 1 Patrol Mobile: 0408 859 037 Vac No: 2946/2011 Ongoing Notice is hereby given in accordance with Vac No: 2942/2011 Fax: (08) 82805788 Section 28 (5) of the Mining Act 1971, that the $846.60 - $857.80 per week (CMW6), Minister for Mineral Resources Development plus allowances and overtime as $822.60 - $832.60 per week Address: 397 Burton Road proposes to grant an Exploration Licence over the applicable (CMW5), plus allowances and undermentioned area. This is an exciting opportunity to join a overtime as applicable Burton SA Debnal Pty Ltd Applicant: progressive unsealed road construction This is an exciting opportunity to join a Location: Eucolo Creek area – approx and maintenance team working in the 25 km west of Woomera progressive unsealed road construction unique outback environment, operating Wirraminna, Arcoona and maintenance team working in the Pastoral Leases: modern, well-maintained plant equipment unique outback environment, operating Two years Term: on a daily basis. modern, well-maintained plant equipment Area in km²: 299 You will be a member of an Outback Roads on a daily basis. Ref: 2010/00369 Gang working throughout the remote areas You will be a member of an Outback Roads Plan and co-ordinates can be of the state. The gangs work an 18/10-day found on the PIRSA website: Gang working throughout the remote areas http://www.pir.sa.gov.au/minerals/public_notices roster – 18 days work and 10 days break. of the state. The gangs work an 18/10-day or by phoning Mineral Tenements on 08 8463 3103. Single rooms are provided in mobile camps roster – 18 days work and 10 days break. in upgraded caravan style accommodation. J. Martin Single rooms are provided in mobile camps Mining Registrar A current Class HC licence and appropriate in upgraded caravan style accommodation. Department of Primary Industries Grader Operator experience are essential. A current Class HC licence, previous and Resources Please refer to the duty statement for experience in Front End Loader operation, PRIIND013379 www.pir.sa.gov.au details of essential requirements and and a Front End Loader competency special conditions. certifi cate are essential. Please refer to Enquiries to: Ms Juanita Roe, Field the duty statement for details of essential BUSH LOGISTICS COPPER CITY HAULAGE Logistics Offi cer, Outback Roads, requirements and special conditions. telephone: 08 8648 5231. Enquiries to: Ms Juanita Roe, Field TRANSPORT Applications to: HR Customer Support, Logistics Offi cer, Outback Roads, TRANSPORT & Level 14, 77 Grenfell Street, (GPO Box 1533), telephone: 8648 5231. Adelaide 5001, telephone: 8343 2600, email: Applications to: [email protected] HR Customer Support, Freight Needs Level 14, 77 Grenfell Street, (GPO Box 1533), Carriers to Outback SA. Please visit www.dtei.sa.gov.au/careers for Adelaide 5001, telephone: 8343 2600, email: General & Heavy further details and duty statement. [email protected] Adelaide - Coober Pedy- Applications close: Please visit www.dtei.sa.gov.au/careers for Carriers 5.00pm 3 June 2011 further details and duty statement. APY Lands twice weekly The SA Government is an equal opportunity Applications close: employer and safety is a core value. Out of Areas TRANSA013751 5.00pm 3 June 2011 The SA Government is an equal opportunity CARRIERS FAR NORTH Locations www.dtei.sa.gov.au employer and safety is a core value. Flinders Ranges area TRANSA013752 email: Lee Payne Including: Hawker, Leigh Indemnity: www.dtei.sa.gov.au [email protected] Creek, Arkaroola, Marree, Advertising agencies, advertisers and other Copley, Parachilna, contributors accept full responsibility for the contents of advertisements and other submitted, Need to advertise? Tel: 08 82626313 Nepabunna, Lyndhurst, signed material and agree to indemnify the Tel: 08 86725920 Quorn and Stations publishers against any claim or proceedings out fax: 08 82625143 of the publication of such advertisements or Ring for a quote Ph: material. Keep the Twice weekly from Adelaide to (08) 82859999 Provision of material or copy for publication Email constitutes acceptance by advertisers, Outback Coober Pedy and APY advertising agencies and other contributors of Beautiful [email protected] this condition. Page 16 Coober Pedy Regional Times Thursday 26 May 2011 COMMUNITY Social event fast tracks job hunt process Social events – including barbeques – are helping Coober Pedy job seekers meet with Left:The Salvation potential employers. Army Employment Plus and Bungala The Salvation Army Employment Plus (TSAEP) in Aboriginal Corporation Coober Pedy recently held a networking event which at a recent sausage included a barbeque and show bags. sizzle. Pictured are: Close to 100 people attended including Jodie, Stephen, representatives from Centrelink, Bungala Aboriginal Sophie, Lorraine, Ben, Corporation and Umoona Tjutagku Health Service. Adrian & Gregory

“It was a great opportunity for local people looking All visitors to the sizzle for work, as well as employers looking for people enjoyed a great cook- who are job ready, to come together and meet each up and took away other. It is certainly a great way to break that initial ‘show bags’ barrier,” said TSAEP’s local consultant Sophie Kiosses. Below: Bungala staff TSAEP opened a new office in Coober Pedy earlier attending the sausage this year, providing free employment services for the sizzle during a lunch local community. break Centre: Noelani Below: Jodie from TSAEP serves community enjoying her sausage members at the sausage sizzle

THE NATIONAL OPAL Ireland’s Furey Bros in Alice SYMPOSIUM for ONE night only Twisting by the pool The 7th National Opal Symposium official dinner will be held around the newly opened diving pool on the Two of Irelands most loved performers come to evening of Tuesday 26 July 2011. Australian shores across May/June/July in a unique double bill. The Symposium committee is very keen to show off the new diving complex to visiting miners, researchers and For one night only on Sunday, 29th May the Furey Brothers government officers from NSW, Qld and SA. They believe will be at Alice Springs Araluen Arts Centre for locals the achievement of the Diving Pool committee fits in who fancy a night of top Irish entertainment. perfectly with the theme of the National Opal Symposium “The National Gemstone – Sustaining Regional Finbar Furey was, for many years, the lead singer and Communities” and illustrates beautifully what a community front man of The Furey Brothers. He’s an accomplished can achieve with the support of a strong opal industry. singer songwriter/banjoist/guitarist/flautist and tin whistler, The Diving Pool Committee approved the request earlier and is hailed as Ireland’s Prince of Pipers, having won this week. every known uillean pipe title, including 3 All Ireland Championships. The Symposium dinner will be catered for by Relish Catering from Narrabri and guests will be twisting by the Brendan Grace is perhaps best known for his role as pool to tunes from the Simmos. drinking, smoking, troublemaker extraordinaire, Father Fintan Stack, in the BBC’s series “Father Ted” - he is also A full Symposium ticket for $195 includes the dinner but one of Dublin’s funniest men, with his uncanny sense of there will also be some limited seats available for those timing and ability to read an audience, second to none. A Ireland’s most loved entertainers the Fury who wish to just attend the dinner. brilliant character actor, his 'Bottler' character is legendary Brothers in Alice Springs for one night only and is now featured at every performance. Dinner only tickets will be $65 and will be on sale in about To place an advertisement in the Coober Pedy a month’ time. Regional Times For enquires contact send material by email to Maxine O'Brien [email protected] Secretary/Manager Lightning Ridge Miners' Association Ltd Check the dates on page 2 to be sure bookings PO Box 177, Lightning Ridge NSW 2834 are within deadline period Ph: 02 6829 0427, Fax: 02 6829 0830 Mob: 0427 920 474 Tel: 89725 920 Email: [email protected] Thursday 26 May 2011 Coober Pedy Regional Times Page 17 More highlights from 121st OZ MINERALS OODNADATTA by Helen Williams and Gerri Nunn RACES 2011

Photo: Helen Williams

"The Tailer", ridden by Jamey Foster winning the Anna Greenfield, Billa Kalina Oodnadatta Pastoral Cup Photo: Helen Williams

Photo Gerri Nunn

The running of the Gretna Green Local Oodnadatta identity Rossy Finn won the Old Timers race Photo: Helen Williams Ben Rose and Kimberley Lane Photo: Helen Williams

Colin Greenfield , Billa Kalina and Ken Williams, Arnold and Gordon Warren. Hayley Nunn, Lana Field, Gerry Nunn, Narelle Coober Pedy Photo: Helen Williams Photo: Helen Williams Fullerton and Ross Field Photo: Helen Williams

The Marree contingent

Deon Khan, Robery Khan, "The Tailer", Donald Dodd and jockey Jamey Foster

Justin Nunn and Ian Johnson winning the Banner Hardware /MJ & E D Nicholls transport sprint with Regal Jest Photo: Gerri Nunn Thursday 26 May 2011 Coober Pedy Regional Times Page 18 COOBER PEDY SHOOTERS NEWS

COOBER PEDY SHOOTERS CLUB Inc. PO Box 1006, COOBER PEDY, SA 5723 John Di Donna The Coober Pedy Shooters would like to welcome Secretary all new shooters to our new club 0427 649 389 SHOOTERS RESULTS 14 -22 May

Shotgun Shoot Bracket Friday Night Shotgun Sponsored Elissa Sellers Shooter’s Club 20th May Winners Congratulation to Upgrades 1st Derek Rowe Scored 12 2nd Nigel Nona Scored 7 3rd John Di Donna Scored 6 SHOOTERS VS Results Pistol Shoot Bracket 25m Strongarm POLICE Sponsored Old Timers Mine Saturday 14th May Winners Saturday 18th June 2011 Congratulation to: ALL Welcome A Grade Dale Price Scored 478.6 B Grade John Di Donna Scored 434.1 C Grade NONE * Starting Time 1:30 PM D Grade Zeljko Mance Scored 232 1st With Handi Cap John Di Donna Scored 592.1 * Range Fees $15.00 per Work started at the shooting club, building a person Dinner Results back stop for an IPSC discipline - John Di Donna Pistol Shoot * $10.00 Adult (drinks not Bracket 25m Strongarm Sponsored Old Timers Mine included) Saturday 21st May Winners Congratulation to:

A Grade Dale Price Scored 453.1 John’s Pizza Bar & Restaurant B Grade John Di Donna Scored 481.4 * Presentation 6:30 PM C Grade Mick White Scored 457.4 D Grade Les Hoad Scored 224 Fun Shoot (Pistols / Rifle) 1st With Handi Cap Mick White Scored 673.4

Results Rifle Rim fire Shoot Sponsored By 50m Grouping 50m Rapid Fire John’s Pizza Bar & Restaurant Sponsored AU Internet & Computer Service Sunday 15th May Winners Congratulation to: The shooting club would like to thank M & W 50m Grouping Mining (Mark Absalom) for the cartage of clean 1st Dale Price 15.16mm + 16.59 Avg. 15.87mm fill to the club 2nd Steve Marjanovic 20.91mm + 23.03mm Avg. 21.97mm 3rd Harley Staines 21.13mm + 30.72mm Avg. 25.92mm Junior None

50m Rapid Fire 1st James Michie Scored 85 2nd Harley Staines Scored 77 3rd John Di Donna Scored 75.1

Junior None

Results Rifle Rim fire Shoot Cooper Pedy Shooters Club Would like to 50m Grouping 50m Rapid Fire thank TADA Opals (Dale and Tania) for the Another load, bound for the club Sponsored AU Internet & Computer Service donating there time and the loader. Also Sunday 22th May Winners supplying all the clean fill for the new range. by: John Di Donna Congratulation to: 50m Grouping 1st Steve Marjanovic 22.58mm + 18.63mm Avg. 50m Rapid Fire 20.42mm 1st Harley Staines Scored 83 2nd Les Hoad 19.52mm + 24.05mm Avg. 21.78mm 2nd Les Pollen Scored 80 3rd Dale Price 21.13mm + 23.58mm Avg. 22.13mm 3rd Steve Marjanovic Scored 79 Junior 1st Clint Indelcato 44.53mm + 26.16mm Avg. Junior 35.34mm 1st Clint Indelcato Scored 71 See ya at the shed

Thursday 26 May 2011 Coober Pedy Regional Times Page 19 121st OZ MINERALS

by: Helen Williams and OODNADATTA RACES 2011 Gerri Nunn

The Oodnadatta Racing & Horse Sports Committee, ably led by Eddie and Gerry Nunn staged another Photo: Helen Williams successful event on Saturday, May 14th

Over 200 patrons, both locals and visitors, attended the annual race meeting and gymkhana, and saw some great horsemanship shown in all events with the races all close calls.

The Khan family and associates from Marree were victorious in the two major events. They won the Elizabeth Crosby Memorial Bracelet with “Tica”, and then “The Tailer” was superior in the Oodnadatta Pastoral Cup. Both horses were well ridden by jockey Jamey Foster who also won Jockey of the Day.

Local lass Chloe Nunn, Macumba Station won the Richard Jones Memorial Dunjibar Cup riding “Matchbox”. Winner of the Elizabeth Crosby Memorial Sponsor Brian McArdle (McArdles Freight) with Bracelet, "Tica" with Lizzie's mother, Mrs Audrey children who participated on the day Another Oodna identity Rossy Finn took out the Old Stewart, Robert Khan and connections of "Tica" Timers race. Photo: Helen Williams

Joelwyn Johnson from Copley took out Gymkhana Rider Photo: Gerri Nunn of the Day.

In the Junior gymkhana division, sponsored by McArdle Freight, Bridie and Laura Greenfield were victors, while in the Motorbike events, Justin Nunn was senior rider and Bradley Jeffrees was junior rider of the day.

During the evening Community Nurse Lana Field and husband Ross were farewelled, they are leaving the district to live in Tasmania.

The committee would like to everyone for their generous sponsorship, and all those who helped and supported the day.

The next event on the calendar is the Oodnadatta Bronco Branding and Campdraft which will be held on Saturday, Photo: Gerri Nunn July 16th. For more information about this event, Some of the frontline volunteers, feeding the contact Tony Williams on 86707961 hungry, areTrisha Williamson and Linda Baldwin Pat and Wally Luscombe regular volunteers tourists from NSW from Adelaide, in the kitchen at the races Photo: Gerri Nunn Photo: Gerri Nunn

121st OZ Minerals Oodnadatta Races & Gymkhana Saturday 15th May 2011 Leading Riders

Champion Child Rider 9yrs & under - Bridie Greenfield

Kerry Bennett and Steven Landers managers at Champion Child Rider 10-15 yrs - Evelyn downs station enjoying the races Laura Greenfield Arnold Warren and Gregory Warren winners of Gretna Green on Sante Fe Photo: Gerri Nunn Leading Adult Gymkhana - J Johnson Photo: Helen Williams (Trophy donated by Greg Warren) Leading Horse - Jaz

Champion Motor Bike Rider 9yrs & under - Layla Johnson

Champion Motor Bike Rider 10-15 yrs - Bradley Jefferees

Champion Senior Motor Bike Rider - Justin Nunn

Leading Racehorse Trainer - Robert Khan

Leading Jockey - Jamie Foster

Tilly Plate, Leah Giles and Jack travelled to Leading Gymkhana Rider of the Day Joelwyn Oodnadatta for the annual races Johnson of Copley, pictured with Grace and Layla Page 20 Coober Pedy Regional Times Thursday 26 May 2011