Bulloo Buzz 01 March 2019 MAYORS MESSAGE ……………..………….……………………….

Congratulation to Councils new CEO Mr Lew Rojahn. Council and Lew made this appointment official at the February Council Meeting by signing a 3 year contract. Mr Rojahn has been involved in Local Government Administration and State Government administration for over 38 years as a Chief Executive Officer and other Director appointments. He has worked in very strategic roles with the elected bodies whilst ensuring the organisation was as efficient and effective as it could be when utilising public and government funds. Mr Rojahn is a qualified Local Government Clerk and his specialist skill is the implementation of governance across public service organisations. In the past he has worked in South East with Laidley and Mundubbera Shires, both now amalgamated, and went on to spend more time in North Queensland in Cape York working with Indigenous Shires. From here he was appointed to the State Department of Local Government and later joined the Etheridge Shire located near the Gulf. For the last four and a half years he has worked as a consultant to northern and mainly south western Shires finally being appointed to Bulloo Shire in 2019. Mayor John (Tractor) Ferguson

YOUR Cr Donna Humphris Cr Shirley Girdler Ph: 0427 553 145 Ph: 0459 980 869 COUNCILLORS E: [email protected] E: [email protected] Cr John (Tractor) Ferguson, Mayor Cr Allison Petty Cr Jon Cobb Ph: 0427 418 438 Ph: 0428 593 386 Ph: 4655 4366 E: [email protected] E: [email protected] E: [email protected]

Bulloo Shire Council PO Box 46 4492 T: 07 46218000 Fax: 07 46553131 A/H Emergencies: 0429 611 872 Email: [email protected] Website: www.bulloo.qld.gov.au A WORD FROM THE CEO ……………….……………………….

After all the rain events in North Queensland and the bittersweet outcomes, it is a case of careful what you wish for. Certainly we could do with some rain out here but we’d like to control the tap if only we could. In the meantime though it continues to pour sunshine.

Council is currently working through all the “Works for Queensland” (W4Q) projects around town, namely the walking track, the upgrade of the old Gaol with the Anzac Park amphitheatre about to commence shortly. We have had the Kerb and Channelling work approved and also $250000 for the restorative work to be carried out at the DIG tree.

As mentioned last month, Council has also been advised of the release of new funds for the 2019/21 period for “Works for Queensland” (W4Q) programme. We have been lucky to receive $1,040,000 in funding for community projects that will help increase employment in the community but can’t be applied to any part of Council’s ordinary work programme. To follow through with this, Council needs to be submitting projects before the 15 March 2019 and as such Council will be having a workshop on Monday 4 March 2019, to provide a decision on what projects should be submitted. These types of grants have been incredibly advantageous to Councils like Bulloo because they have the opportunity to extend employment but to provide amenities that would not necessarily be on any priority list.

I will be attending a SWRRTG meeting (Regional Roads Group that decides the allocation of funding across the region) and a SWRED (Regional Economic Development group for the South West who seek to define the best way forward for the region as a whole and how can we all benefit from this) meeting in Charleville this week. On the 7th March, there is a “5 Issues” Forum” being held in . This has been organised by the RDA (Regional Development Authority) who manage Federal funds for the larger projects of Council that can have regional benefits. Council currently has an application with them for $10 Million dollars for work on the Warri Gate road.

Our RMPC expenditure has been increased to $296000 for the month. This will be in line with us meeting the rate of expenditure as defined by the Transport and Main Roads Dept. This programme along with all the other grants mentioned above, need to be expended by 30 June 2019. Whilst this appears we have been put under pressure we have also planned out the activities to ensure we meet these deadlines.

Council is currently speaking with the DLGRMA to change the scope of our original geothermal programme. It was found that our bore water was too cool to generate the required energy economically so we are in the process of now changing the scope of that original programme to include, solar on our buildings, a large solar farm and a small geothermal plant all combined with batteries to power the Council infrastructure and some of the town. The intent being to reduce our brown outs, reduce the cost to the community and ensure the security of the supply to us. Obviously Ergon is on board because it will provide an opportunity to provide a consistent supply that would have cost a lot of money if they were simply going to upgrade the existing lines etc. It’s still about getting power out here.

Our biggest news though is our recent Work Health and Safety audit that was carried out on the whole of Council. We have a requirement to achieve at least 70% to meet compliance for TMR and other government contracts. Its looks like we will well and truly exceed that. My congratulations to all our staff who work hard to make Bulloo a safe workplace. Again I don’t hesitate to say that Bulloo Shire punches above its weight!!

Lew Rojahn Chief Executive Officer.

SPECIAL PROJECTS …………..…………….……………………….

You may have noticed that a few projects have already commenced with contractors working around the town on the following:

Walking Track Stage 3: Contractors arrive in Thargomindah next week to commence work for the concrete pathways. This will add approximately 3.5km to the current pathways to enjoy all year round. Please see image below for the proposed pathways around town.

Old Jail: Renovations to the Old Jail have commenced this month allowing a connection to the walking track for tourists and locals to explore on their walk around our community.

Memorial Park Amphitheatre: Work is also underway and is to be completed in April. This new modern amphitheatre will be shelter covered and attached with an ablution building for public use all year round.

Chris Woodland Project Design and Construction Manager Special Projects

…………..…………….………………………. INFRASTRUCTURE Here is a short note on the current works that is happening within Infrastructure on the Bulloo Shire Council.

Thargomindah: A grant application had been lodged for the upgrade on the Main from Bore 01 and the connection to the Cooling Ponds. This work replaces the deteriorating Main currently supplying water to the town and introduces Cooling Pond #2 which is now in the process of being completed.

Hungerford: Hungerford reticulation upgrade was successfully completed earlier this month. This work has allowed existing mains, valves etc. to be located, repaired and replaced where required.

Public Notice: Council is again seeking feedback to the type & amount of rubbish to be removed from your properties. Tourism season is once again approaching us and Council is always looking at keeping our town clean and tidy. To enable Council to allocate the days and resources for collecting large items of rubbish (i.e. Trucks, Loaders etc.) to carry out this project efficiently, please assist by advising Council of the large rubbish items you would like collected on 4621 8000. Date to be confirmed.

Wayne Mills

VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRE ....….………….………… HEALTH & EVENTS NEWS The tourist season is fast approaching and while there aren't many visitors at this time of year, staff do have a list as long as a piece of string, of things to do to continue moving forward. Tourism staff work hard for both the community and our visitors, providing health promotion, events, library programs and of course a visitor experience.

LIBRARY Last month Council submitted two grant applications to bring the library into the 21st century. The first submission was for a multi-touch hub which will be able to send you to the moon and the rest of the world through virtual reality. The other was to apply for a First Five Forever grant which will develop a brand new program and resources for all of our new mums and their babies - so fingers crossed that at least one of them will be approved.

IMPROVING THE VISITOR EXPERIENCE This year Council will be running weekly movie nights in conjunction with the Explorers Caravan Park. One movie will be held outdoors at the caravan park and the other will be held in the town hall. This will also provide opportunities for community groups to raise some money by providing catering and selling movie snacks. Another new part of our tourism program is to run a series of trivia and bingo happy hours at the Hotel and Oasis Motel. We are also offering community groups the opportunity to run these mini events and to sell raffle tickets in order to raise some money for their organisation. The last part of Councils new tourism program is a weekly River Walk & Talk tour. Tours will be conducted every Tuesday morning and then head over to the Roadhouse or Café for morning tea.

EVENTS A huge part of the tourism staff’s job is event management and they have been flat out organising Clean Up Australia Day, Rural Men’s Night, ANZAC Day, Channel Country Quick Shears and the Channel Country Music Muster. A lot of organisation, administration and physical work is required to achieve quality events that can be enjoyed by both the local community and visitors.

TOURISM STRATEGY & DIRECTION During her first 12 months of employment, Tourism Coordinator, Gillian Strong, developed a three year strategy for Tourism. The strategy was created as a working strategic document that gave Council direction with clear and achievable actions. Tourism staff are now heavily involved in the ‘doing’ to implement this strategy and spend a lot of time on the ground actively completing tasks that align with our three year tourism strategy. Their daily grind of achieving the little things, which are very dependent upon time, staff and funding is slowly winning the race and getting us closer to the big picture. Through the strategy, Council have created the brand ‘Visit Bulloo’ and have reconnected our towns and community groups. Bulloo Shire is becoming well recognised for our history, National Parks, friendliness, events, characters and our sense of humour. Bulloo Shire have also put ourselves on the digital map with all of our products now bookable and payable online. This is the first stepping stone in ensuring our products can be packaged up and included in itineraries with major airlines and travel agents.

TOURISM ASSET UPGRADES Council is also exploring ideas to create more of an experience around the Hydro, Old Hospital and Old Jail. This new technology will automate our tours and we will be free to create more personal experiences in and outside of the Visitor Information Centre. This project will be finalised and built by the 30th June 2019. ………………………….……………………...……. OPERATIONS The operations department have received some new plant including a CAT Grader, CAT Roller, Fork Force Forklift & two International Trucks. Staff are enjoying having some new toys to play/work with.

Current and upcoming works include:  Hungerford Road - re-sheeting which should be completed by the start of March  Bundeena Road - heavy shoulder grading  Innamincka Road - preparation for seal which will be happening mid March  Cunnamulla Road - heavy shoulders grading

Val Shannon Operations Manager

THARGOMINDAH REMOTE SECONDARY LEARNING FACILITY The Thargomindah Remote Secondary Learning Facility was a joint project developed from concerns raised by the community about the impact of children having to attend boarding school for an additional year due to the introduction of year 7 into high school. The issue was raised by Council initially through the South West Regional Planning Coordination Committee and a brief was presented to the Minister to approve the first school where Education Qld, School of Distance Education and the Bulloo Shire formed a collaborative to deliver education in the bush. This model was the first in the Queensland and took many years to convince all parties involved that this would be a success. Our initial community meeting was held in 2010. The Thargomindah Remote Secondary Learning Facility was opened on 13 February 2012 by Queensland Governor-General, Ms Penelope Anne Wensley AC. Makala Byrne attended the class of 2012, the very first year the centre was operating. Makala graduated year 12 at the centre with three Certificates and has gone on to undertake work in education, child care and local government.

Mrs Clay, Kaitlin (new student), Makala Byrne Class of 2019 (former student) & Mayor Ferguson L-R Mayor Ferguson, Kyra, Henry, Jordyn, Mrs Clay and Kaitlin 2019 DATE CLAIMERS …………………………………………………….. 9 March RURAL MEN’S NIGHT - Thargomindah - Contact the VIC on 46 218 095

20 - 25 April COOPER CREEK TO CUNNAMULLA BIKE RIDE - For more information contact 0407 785 785 25 April ANZAC Day - Thargomindah - Contact the VIC on 46 218 095 21 - 25 May CHANNEL COUNTRY QUICK SHEARS SHINDIG - Thargomindah - Contact VIC on 46 218 095 7 June HUNGERFORD FIELD DAY - Enquiries to Moc Parker (07) 4655 4064 or [email protected] 13 - 14 July THARGOMINDAH POLOCROSSE - Helen Taylor Ph: 0419 553 421 20 - 21 July CHANNEL COUNTRY MUSIC MUSTER - Thargomindah - Contact the VIC on 46 218 095 3 - 4 Aug CHANNEL COUNTRY CHALLENGE - Thargomindah - Alison Petty Ph: 4655 3385 21 - 22 Sept THARGOMINDAH MOTORBIKE GYMKHANA - Daryl Byrne Ph: 0499 698 056\ 5 - 6 Oct HUNGERFORD MOTORBIKE & HORSE GYMKHANA - David & Stacey Keane Ph: 4655 4828 12 - 13 Oct CAMPDRAFT AND RODEO - Jackie Degamouis Ph: 4655 4315 18 - 20 Oct CHANNEL COUNTRY LADIES DAY - Thargomindah 11 Nov HUNGERFORD REMEMBRANCE DAY - Sheree Parker Ph: 4655 4064 31 Dec CAMERON CORNER NEW YEAR’S EVE PARTY - Cheryl Miller Ph: 08 8091 3872

PUBLIC NOTICES …………….……………………………….….… RATE NOTICES Ratepayers of the Bulloo Shire are advised that rate notices for the period 1 January to 30 June 2019 were issued 27 February 2019. Rates are due FRIDAY 29 MARCH 2019. Discount will be allowed if payment is received by 5.00pm on the applicable due date. Interest is applicable after this date. It is the responsibility of the property owner to advise Council of any change of address. Ratepayers who have not received their rate notice should contact the Council office immediately on PH 07 4621 8000 Payment options are outlined on the back of the rate notice as well on the Rates Information Brochure.

Thargomindah Community Advisory Network Annual General Meeting

7:00pm Tuesday 5th March 2019 Thargomindah Clinic - Dowling Street, Thargomindah

The Thargomindah Community Advisory Network is a group of Community members who contribute to the health needs of the Thargomindah and District Community by giving feedback to the District Health Service and assisting with future direction and planning of health issues. If you would like to be a part of this you are welcome to attend our Meeting. For more information contact Julie Stewart on 0473 246 208

Thargomindah Hospital Auxiliary Annual General Meeting

7:30pm Tuesday 5th March 2019 Thargomindah Clinic - Dowling Street, Thargomindah

The Thargomindah Hospital Auxiliary is a group of community members who endeavour to support our Local Health Service by fund raising for equipment and financial support for community members in need. You are invited to attend our meetings and help us reach our goals.

Cunnamulla Doctor Visits for 2019

25 - 26 March 15 - 16 April 20 - 21 May 24 - 25 June 29 - 30 July 2 - 3 September 30 Sept - 1 October 25 - 26 November 16 - 17 December

The bend in the road is not the end of the road, unless you fail to make the turn. Helen Keller Outstanding Animal Registrations

There are a number of animals for whom owners have not renewed registration. Please be aware that if Council’s Authorised Officers inspect your residence and you have not renewed your animal registration, then your animal is not registered and you will be issued with an infringement notice for each unregistered animal.

Animal Inspection Program The annual Bulloo Shire Animal Inspection Program will run from Monday 18th February through to Friday 31st May 2019. Authorised Officers will be inspecting all residences to ascertain ownership of all unregistered animals, to enforce registration and permits; and ensure all animal enclosures comply with requirements Fines will be issued for any animals that are unregistered or do not have a permit and any animals that are over the total limit as per the Subordinate Local Law No.6 (Keeping and Control of Animals) during the Inspection Program.

NOTICE TO RURAL LANDHOLDERS ..……………………….….….…

LOCALITY NAMES

There are currently nine (9) localities within Bulloo Shire. These were formally named and bounded on 28 March 2002 in accordance with the Act. The localities are: Thargomindah Hungerford Dynevor Norley Bulloo Downs Cameron Corner Nockatunga Durham Feedback received from property owners in localities has been that the current locality names only add more confusion to what they say is an already confusing addressing system which was put in place some twenty years ago. They also believe that the current addresses are incorrect and do not give a true indication of their property especially when the locality name is the same as a property name within in that locality (in some cases is the neighbouring property). Council recently considered a report recommending that Council make a suggestion to DNRME to have the following changes to locality names and boundaries for localities within the Bulloo Shire:-  Alter the boundary of the locality Thargomindah and discontinue the localities of Dynevor, Norley and Bullawarra  Amend to locality boundary of Bulloo Downs to remove Mirintu Station, Wonpa Station & Tickalara Station.  Include Mirintu Station in the locality of Hungerford  Include Wonpa Station & Tickalara Station in the locality of Cameron Corner  Change locality name of Nockatunga (includes Nockatunga Station and Noccundra Township) to Noccundra The proposal would result in six (6) localities within the Bulloo Shire – Thargomindah, Hungerford, Cameron Corner, Noccundra, Bulloo Downs and Durham (with approx. 28 rural properties, 1 National Park (Lake Bindegolly) and the Township of Noccundra to be affected). The proposal is aiming to address community concerns around confusion with addressing in the provision of services. The proposed changes will help to eliminate the confusion for postal, mapping services and emergency services as locating some properties that share the same name as a locality has become a recurring issue. Council may lodge a suggestion with the Department to alter a locality boundary. To do this there is critical documentation required before a place name suggestion can be assessed in accordance with the Act. Part of the required documentation for a suggestion to change a locality boundary is: Documentation of widespread support from affected property owners, including acknowledgement that they may need to change their location and postal address details. To address this criteria Council have forwarded an information sheet including a Table and Map detailing proposed suggested changes together with Survey Letter (that demonstrates support or objection, and acknowledgement of the need to change locality and postal address details on gazettal) to the affected landholders.

If you receive one of these notices PLEASE RETURN BY FRIDAY 15 MARCH 2019. If you require any further information please contact our Corporate and Governance Manager, Miss Sally Byrne on (07) 4321 8000 or email [email protected] SPORT AND RECREATION ....….………...……….………… Swimming Lessons are all up and running again, groups as follows:

GUPPIES FROGS Lilith Sabrina GUPPIES 2:00pm Saturday Parents required in the pool Ayla Nate INFANT LESSONS Paisley Cheyanne FROGS - 2:30pm Saturdays Riley Parents required in the pool Shyla Elizabeth

AFTER SCHOOL LESSONS Learn to Swim Mini Squad Squad Training Bullfrogs Shrimps Yabbies Crocodiles Yellowbellies Carp Tues & Thurs Tues & Thurs Tues & Thurs Mon & Wed Mon & Wed Mon & Wed 3:30pm 4:00pm 4:30pm 3:30pm 4:00pm 4:30pm Cabe Parker Matilda Kendra Dean Craig Erin Isla Jesse Hailey Rebecca Kain Conrad Liliana Charlize Faria Jack Stevie Savannah Madeline Mohammed Hayden Gordon James Samantha Grace Flynn Abby Anna The Waterslide is now available for use in all General Public sessions !!! Lap Sessions - Mon - Fri 6:00-8:00am Gentle Aqua Exercise - Friday 10:00-11:00am Water Aerobics - Wednesday 6:00-7:00pm Dance Aqua - Saturday 12:00-1:00pm

JACKPOT BOWLS - February Twenty three (23) people attended bowls on Thursday night. It was fantastic to see the concreters participating in the local competition. Congratulations to our winners Dan and Helen and to Alison who took out the one bowl wonder. Next Jackpot Bowls Night 7th March @7:00pm

Looking to improve your health and fitness come and join: Healthy Month Challenge - Monday 6:00 - 7:00am - Pelican Point Walk and Weights - Tuesday 6:00 - 7:00am - Community Centre Punch Fit - Thursday 6:00am - 7:00am - Community Centre Weeds in Feed These are only some of the weeds commonly transported in stock fodder

Sticky Florestina Range: Isolated infestation from Longreach to Charleville.

Note: Very similar to Parthenium. Sticky Florestina is a member of the Asteraceae family and grows up to a 1 metre high. The entire plant is covered in very short sticky white hairs.

Mesquite Range: North of Australia from the east coast of Queensland through the Northern Territory to the west coast of Western Australia. *

Note: All species of Mesquite are very similar to each other. The foliage is usually dark green but can vary to a blueish green twigs with smooth red to green bark. As a plant matures it goes rough and dark in colour. Flow-ering starts in late spring to summer with

Devils Claw Yellow Flower Range: Isolated parts of Queensland, New South Wales and Victoria.

Note: The weed has a bulbous capsule containing numerous seeds. Each plant bears 10 flowers which contain 100 seeds per capsule, resulting in 1000 seeds per plant. Devil's claw (yellow flower) is an annual and only produces propagules once a year.

Parthenium Range: Commonly and widespread in water ways from Cairns to . Notes: Parthenium can drop seeds year round. Has been known to cause lung problems in humans and stock after long exposure. Noogoora Burr Range: Commonly found in Queensland water ways.

Notes: Like disturbed soil creeks and flood plains. Seeds are carried by animals and flowing water. Controlled seasonally by bio control rust.

Coral Cactus Range: is common in the inland and sub-coastal regions of Queensland and New South Wales. It also occurs in north-west Victoria, South Australia and the southern drier parts of the Northern Territory

Note: Coral cactus grows as a branching shrub 1-1.5m high. The stems of coral cactus are divided into green cylinder-like pads that are fist-like and obtuse at their apex. Mature coral cactus pads widen, become distorted and wavy and resemble a piece of coral. Areoles along the pads have a number* of short white spines.

Common Thornapple Range: Commonly found in eastern parts of Queensland, New South Wales and Victoria.

Note: Likes to grow in disturbed soils and creeks. Up to 30,000 seeds have been recorded from one plant. All parts of the plant, particularly seeds, are toxic to livestock.

Bulloo Shire Council 53 Dowling Street Thargomindah Qld 4492 Phone: 07 4621 8000 Fax: 07 4655 3131 Email: [email protected]

CONTRACT T2018-2019-114

Tender for the Supply and delivery of:

 One (1) New 4WD Dual Cab Utility

Tender for the Trade or Sale of:

 One (1) Used 4WD Dual Cab Utility

All tender prices MUST include GST.

Tender documentation and photographs of vehicles/items can be obtained from Council’s website or by contacting Council’s Finance Officer, Helen Taylor on 07 4621 8000

Vehicle inspections can be arranged with Council’s workshop supervisor if required.

Tenders for each vehicle/item will be considered separately.

Highest or any tender not necessarily accepted.

Submissions close: 5:00pm, Wednesday 20th March 2019

Contract “T2018-2019-114” Chief Executive Officer Bulloo Shire Council PO Box 46 THARGOMINDAH QLD 4492

Council have received recent complaints of dogs wandering and causing a nuisance. Local Law No.6 Keeping and Control of Animals Section 20: Animal to be under effective control 1) A person must not bring or permit an animal to be brought into a public place unless the animal is under the person’s effective control. 2) If an animal in a public place is not under effective control, an authorised person may seize and impound the animal. Section 24: Duty to provide proper enclosure 1) A person who keeps an animal must— a) Construct and maintain a proper enclosure to keep the animal on the person’s land and prevent the animal from wandering or escaping from the land, and to prevent any part of the animal from encroaching onto a public place; and b) Ensure that the animal is kept within the enclosure at all times. 2) For the purpose of section 24.(1) of this local law, a proper enclosure is a fenced area as required by local law policy Section 26: Dog attacks A person must not cause, encourage or permit a dog to attack or worry another person or an animal. Section 27: Declared dangerous dogs 1) An authorised person may declare a dog to be a dangerous dog— a) If the dog has caused serious injury to a person or animal by biting, attacking, worrying, rushing at or chasing that person or animal Section 28: Power to seize and destroy dangerous dog 1) An authorised person may seize and destroy a dangerous dog if - a) The dog is found wandering at large; 2) An authorised person may also seize and destroy a dog (whether or not it is declared as a dangerous dog) if it— a) Attacks a person or animal; or b) Causes injury or damage; or c) Creates a serious risk of injury or damage Fines

Animal within a public place not under effective control. $24100 Failure to keep a proper enclosure so as to prevent an animal’s escape from land and wandering. $241.00 Animal found wandering at large. $241.00 Encouraging, permitting or causing a dog to attack or worry another animal or person. $1,205.10 Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Time

Healthy Life Walk and Training @ Punch Fit @ 6am Weights @ Pelican Point Community Community (4/11/19 Centre Centre March) Aqua 10am Aerobics @ Pool Craft Craft 11am activities @ activities @ Library Library

12pm Aqua Dance

@ Pool

5.30pm Yoga Class @

Kullilli Room

Aqua 6pm Aerobics @ Pool Every second Thursday until the June/July Holidays

7

Thargomindah QGAP Office

Our friendly, well-trained staff are able to assist you by providing the right information and delivering services promptly and efficiently for you.

We represent 54 state, local and federal government departments, making it a convenient one-stop-shop for all departments.

Our services include: Opening hours  Justice of the Peace Mondays 8:00am – 12.00 midday  Driver Licensing  Vehicle and Vessel registrations (DTMR) Wednesdays 8:00am – 4:00pm  Births Deaths and Marriages services Fridays 8:00am – 4:00pm  Public Trustee  Seniors Card and Carers Card  SPER (State Penalties Enforcement Registry) Contact Us  Office of Fair Trading  Liquor Licensing Police Station, Dowling Street,  Office of State Revenue Thargomindah QLD 4492 Suncorp CTP  PH 4655 3291 (QGAP Office)  Workplace Health and Safety QLD  Natural Resources and Mines services PH 4655 3200 (Police Station)

We give information and referrals for:  Building Services Authority  Carer Card and Companion Card programs  Department of Primary Industries  Justice and Attorney General  Industrial Relations  Legal Aid Queensland  Queensland Ombudsman  Rental Tenancy Authority …and many more...

We also provide Australian Government information for:  Veterans Affairs  Australian Competition and Consumer Commission  Australian Electoral Commission

MEDIA RELEASE

20 February 2019

Ann Leahy’s February 2019 Funding Update

Drought Community Support Initiative Not-for-profit organisations The Salvation Army, St Vincent de Paul Society and Rotary Australia World Community Service are providing financial support to people in drought-affected areas through the Australian Government’s $30 million Drought Community Support Initiative. Eligible households will receive practical support of up to $3000, including $2000 to help pay bills and $1000 in vouchers. To apply for assistance contact one of the following not-for-profit organisations directly. The Salvation Army - 24 hour assistance line: Ph 02 8757 8088 or 1300 551 030, or visit www.salvos.org.au/drought; St Vincent de Paul, Assistance Line: Ph 13 18 12 or visit: www.vinnies.org.au; or Rotary Australia World Community Service, visit: www.rawcs.org.au.

The Rural Financial Counselling Service (RFCS) Provides free financial counselling to farmers, fishers, forest growers and harvesters and small related businesses who are suffering financial hardship. It’s a confidential, independent, mobile service available in all states and territories. The service offers personalised agri-business expertise to deal with hardship, help clients identify options and maximise the value of their assets. For more information call 1800 686 175 or visit www.agriculture.gov.au/rfcs.

Farm Liaison Officers Connects farmers and graziers, businesses and communities with available assistance. Tahna Jackson is based in Longreach and travels between the regions. Contact 0409 357 211 or email: [email protected].

Australian Government Support and National Services Individuals, families, farms, and rural and regional communities can access a range of services and support to help them manage during times of hardship, including drought, and prepare for future conditions.

It is important that those in need of support do not self-assess their eligibility for assistance and instead seek advice from an expert, like a rural financial counsellor. For more information on services available, please access the link (below). http://www.agriculture.gov.au/SiteCollectionDocuments/ag-food/drought/drought-assistance-information-pack.pdf

Gambling Community Benefit Fund (GCBF) The Gambling Community Benefit Fund (GCBF) round 100 is now open and closes at 11:59pm on Thursday 28th February 2019. Grants from $500 and up to $35,000 are available to eligible not-for-profit community groups. For more information contact the Coordinator Ph 3247 4284 or 1800 633 619, email: [email protected]; Ann Leahy’s Electorate Office Ph 1800 625 430 or visit: http://www.justice.qld.gov.au/corporate/sponsorships-and-grants/grants/community-benefit-funding- programs

FRRR - In a Good Place - Strengthening Mental Health in Rural Communities This program will be highly competitive. FRRR strongly suggests applicants make contact to discuss the suitability of projects before applying. In a Good Place is a national grants program that provides support for community-driven initiatives that reduce social isolation, increase social participation and connectedness, and encourage people in rural, regional and remote communities who are at risk of, or are experiencing, mental health issues to seek help. There are three objectives for this program: 1. Reduce social isolation; 2. Increase social participation and connectedness; and 3. Increase help-seeking. Applications are invited from not-for- profit community-based organisations with an ABN or Incorporation Certificate and must be submitted via FRRR’s Grants Gateway by 4pm on Thursday, 14 March 2019 with successful projects receiving funds in late July 2019. For more information contact FRRR Ph 1800 170 020, email: [email protected]; Ann Leahy’s Electorate Office Ph 1800 625 430 or visit https://www.frrr.org.au/in_a_good_place.php.

FRRR - Strengthening Rural Communities (SRC) - Small & Vital Small & Vital grants can be used for a wide range of purposes including: Delivering activities, programs and services; Purchasing or hiring equipment and materials; Community infrastructure projects; and Operational and administrative costs associated with a project will be considered. This could include wages, paying a skilled contractor, or paying for overhead costs incurred in the project’s delivery. Applications must clearly demonstrate a focus on one activity from the following seven activity areas. 1. Building community resilience; 2. Developing organisational resilience and capacity; 3. Enhancing environmental sustainability; 4. Fostering cultural vibrancy; 5. Lifelong learning and education; 6. Economic strength; and 7. Improving community health and social wellbeing. Further detailed information of activities that will be considered for funding can be found on the website. www.frrr.org.au; Applications close on 26th March 2019, however SRC –Small & Vital is a rolling grants program with applications accepted at any time. The cut-off for submissions and outcome advisory dates of successful applicants are listed on the website. If you have any queries or wish to discuss your project please contact FRRR on 1800 170 020, email: [email protected]; Ann Leahy’s Electorate Office Ph 1800 625 430 or visit: https://www.frrr.org.au/SRC_Small_Vital.php.

Outback Events Program - Round 1 Applications will be accepted until 1 April 2019 for new events or to extend existing events, which contribute to enhancing the profile of Outback Queensland and attract new or increase the number of visitors. Event and festival promoters, local governments, community organisations and local businesses are invited to apply and help grow tourism in their local communities. Funding from $1000 to $100,000 (exclusive of GST) is available per event, and may provide up to 50% of overall event costs. Events must be delivered on or before 31 December 2020. For further information Ph: (07) 3003 9200, email: [email protected]; contact Ann Leahy’s Electorate Office Ph 1800 625 430 or visit: www.qld.gov.au/outback

Get Started Vouchers - Round 13 Voucher applications opened on 6 February 2019 and provide up to $150 to those who can least afford to join a sport or recreation club. The predominate eligibility criteria for the program is for the child/young person, or the parent, guardian or carer, to hold a valid Centrelink Health Care Card or Pensioner Concession Card with the child/young person’s name on it. If there are significant issues that prevent the parent/carer/guardian from applying, a referral agent may apply on their behalf. Voucher applications will close on if not fully allocated as expected prior. For more information visit: https://www.qld.gov.au/recreation/sports/funding/getinthegame/getstarted/clubs-terms/#application or contact Ann Leahy’s Electorate Office Ph 1800 625 430 or if acting as a referral agent, visit https://www.qld.gov.au/recreation/sports/funding/getinthegame/getstarted/refer/

Interest Free Loans and Grants for Solar Systems and Battery Storage Interest Free loans and grants are available for eligible applicants who meet the qualification requirements – as follows:

Solar Battery Only Rebate Assistance is available with grants of $3,000 and interest-free loans (subject to approval) of up to $6,000 repayable within 10 years. If you already have a solar system installed on your residential property but want the benefits of 24 hour solar and the safety of a backup supply in blackouts, you can apply for either a grant of up to $3,000, or an interest-free loan of up to $6,000, or combine the two. Eligibility criteria: Residential properties only, Must have a solar system already installed on the property, Not receiving the 44 cent feed- in tariff under the Solar Bonus Scheme, Installation must be through a Clean Energy Council (CEC) approved solar retailer. For details on how to apply and proof of income requirements, please visit: https://www.qld.gov.au/community/cost-of-living-support/concessions/energy-concessions/solar-battery- rebate and for application enquiries Ph (07) 3032 0595 freecall 1800 623 946 or Ann Leahy’s Electorate Office Ph 1800 625 430.

Solar and Battery Rebate Queensland homeowners, who do not have a solar system could be eligible to apply for the loan and grant for the combined solar and battery solution. You can apply for a grant of up to $3,000, or an interest- free loan of up to $10,000, or combine the two and apply for both. Eligibility criteria: Residential properties only, Must NOT have a solar system already installed on the property, Must not be financing through a solar power purchase agreement or solar lease; Installation must be through a Clean Energy Council (CEC) approved solar retailer. For details on how to apply and proof of income requirements, please visit: https://www.qld.gov.au/community/cost-of-living-support/concessions/energy-concessions/solar-battery- rebate and for application enquiries Ph (07) 3032 0595 freecall 1800 623 946 or Ann Leahy’s Electorate Office Ph 1800 625 430.

Commercial Rebate Small businesses, body corporates and trusts can apply for grants up to $3,000. For details on how to apply, please visit: https://www.qld.gov.au/community/cost-of-living-support/concessions/energy- concessions/solar-battery-rebate and for application enquiries Ph (07) 3032 0595 freecall 1800 623 946 or Ann Leahy’s Electorate Office Ph 1800 625 430.

Farm Management Grants - Succession Planning Rebates Access to rebates of up to $2500 are now available to help tackle family business and succession planning costs. Professional advice in relation to succession planning, or a family member wanting to acquire an interest in the family business, can apply for a rebate of up to 50% of fees paid for the advice, with a maximum of $2500 per applicant, per financial year. Advice must come from a suitably qualified professional adviser such as an accountant, financial planner or solicitor. For further information on how eligible applicants in receipt of professional advice can apply for a rebate on fees paid for the service, visit: http://www.qrida.qld.gov.au/ freecall 1800 623 946 or Ann Leahy’s Electorate Office Ph 1800 625 430.

If you do not have internet access please contact Ann Leahy’s Electorate Office Ph 1800 625 430 or [email protected] for further information regarding any of these grant programs.

WHY VOTE? …………….…………………….……………….….…

If you don’t vote for your own interests, who will? Australia is a representative democracy wherein we elect representatives by popular vote to make decisions on our behalf. Political participation is the basis of democracy and the right of all people to vote in elections, without any discrimination. Every Australian citizen who is aged 18 years or more can vote in an election if validly enrolled. Elected officials pay attention to who is taking the time to cast a vote. They see trends in different areas and populations that consistently vote and those who do not. If one community shows up in smaller numbers than another, politicians will pay less attention to them. They will not spend as much time hearing the interests of those people or appealing to them to gain votes. Instead, politicians will campaign for the causes, priorities and interests of those they can count on to go to the polls. Though the candidate a person votes for does not always win, the one who does or future candidates will hear those voices and concerns and use them to establish new policy

By voting we ensure that our elected representatives are genuinely those preferred by the majority of people within the electorate.

The different responsibilities of the three levels of government; Federal, State and Local Council.  Federal Government makes decisions about issues that affect all Australians such as: immigration, Medicare and health funding, national economy, defence, social services including pension & family support.  State Government makes decisions about issues that specifically affect Queensland such as: rural and regional service development, hospital and health service, education and training, transport and road safety.  Local Government makes decisions on a range of local issues such as: town planning, local roads and footpaths, animal registrations, child care, libraries and community centres, sporting and recreation facilities.

Enrol to Vote

Online at www.aec.gov.au/enrol (If you don’t have internet at home pop in to the Library and our friendly staff will be happy to assist you) or pick up an enrolment for from the Thargomindah Post Office.