Diamantina Shire Council
Desert Yarns
Volume 4 Issue 56 Upcoming Events October, 2012 Distributed free to all residents.
Ordinary Council Meeting - Message from the Mayor October 15 The Simpson Desert Racing wound up for 2012, at Bedourie with a huge crowd, the biggest Youth Council Meeting - October I’ve seen I think. All three meetings were a roaring success and it was great to see the revival 22 of the crowds, who saw some terrific racing.
Melbourne Cup - November 6 The CEO, Scott Mason, and I attended the Western Local Government Conference in Bedourie Swim Camp - November Barcaldine. It was not long after the State budget so all the Department speakers were full of doom and gloom, but I say let’s just get on with things and do the best we can with what we 12-15 have. As far as roads funding is concerned the shire hasn’t actually lost any future projects, NAIDOC Celebrations - November but most have been put off for several years. We have fared better than some shires who 16 have lost funding for some projects.
Diamantina Triathlon - November At the conference, Diamantina had two motions which were both successful. One that the 18 low cost funding for housing be restored and the second being that the State Government do more to fund our health services. This means that the WLGAQ will now help lobby the State Bedourie Bikekhana - December 1 Government for us. The CEO and I will be meeting with the relevant State Ministers in Brisbane later this month to put our case forward for both these matters.
With the health services, I believe it to be unfair for the shire to have to help fund the day to day running of our clinics when it is the responsibility of the state government. Diamantina is the only shire that has to help fund its own clinics. Also while in Brisbane the Barcoo and Diamantina Mayors and CEOs will be meeting with the Minister for Local Government to update him on progress in our attempt to get optical fiber to our two shires. Message from the Mayor 1 Next Friday, October 12, the Councillors and senior staff will be commencing a road run of Writings from the CEO 2 all the shire roads over three days. We will be calling at all stations along the way, for about a half an hour each. So if anyone has any issues or comments be ready as we will be more than Tourism & Community 3 happy to hear you out. Mayors Message 1 Manager Report With the raising of the dingo bounty, it has been brought to my attention that some people
have not been doing the right thing and have been bringing scalps in from out side the shire. WorksHousing Report News 4 4 Just a reminder that this bounty is for dingos destroyed within the shire only.
CouncilLibrary News News 4 5-10 I had the pleasure of attending the L-R Rob Dare, Cr Geoff Morton, Barry Gaffney, Joyce Crombie Wet Fest held in Birdsville. This and Cr Garth Tully at the Outgoing Councillors Dinner. MediaPositions Releases Vacant 4 11-12 event turned out to be an enjoy- able day, a big thank you to all the Police News 13 Youth Councillors who organised Fundraising Walk from Gulf the day. Community Catch Up 14-16 to Gulf 5 Local Advertisements 18 As the days start to warm up Health News 6 again I would like to remind Event Flyers travellers, local and visitors alike, Community Notice Board 7 19 to take all precautions when Bedourie Races/Ute Muster driving in the area. Heat can kill 20-21 both man and machine.
Wet Fest Results 22 Mayor Cr Geoff Morton
Diamantina Shire Council 07 4746 1202 17 Herbert Street 07 4746 1272
BEDOURIE QLD 4829 [email protected] www.diamantina.qld.gov.au
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Writings from the CEO
Wild Dog and Feral Pig Control
A second wave of aerial baiting utilising ‘pig-strength’ 1080 baits will take place during November, 2012. For further information, contact Council’s Land Protection Officer, Mr Peter Pidgeon on 4658 6915. The recent first wave was successful. Councils thanks all participating cattle stations and makes special mention of Sandringham who were very well organised for the campaign.
Western Queensland Local Government Association (WQLGA) of Queensland Annual Conference
The Mayor and I represented Council at the WQLGA Annual Conference which was held in Barcaldine from September 17 to 18, 2012. The membership of the WQLGA is 11-strong.
Barcaldine Regional Council Barcoo Shire Council Blackall-Tambo Regional Council Boulia Shire Council Central Highlands Regional Council Diamantina Shire Council Flinders Shire Council Isaac Regional Council Longreach Regional Council Richmond Regional Council Winton Shire Council
A variety of information relevant to Councils was presented by government representatives and legal experts.
Many regional contemporary issues were debated and decisions were taken to progress a variety of positions to benefit local government. Key issues included: More support from the State Government for plant pest management and animal pest management Changes to broadcasting regulations to permit television to be re-broadcast in MPG4 format Parking of refrigerated trucks in urban areas Support for the kangaroo industry Support for fibre optic telecommunications Funding for stock route infrastructure Increased compensation for shire road flood damage restoration works Encouraging the Queensland Government to reconsider the closure of rural fire service offices Retention of funding to local governments for native title negotiations Support to the Member for Gregory for his advocacy on issues facing western Queensland including areas outside his electorate
Diamantina was successful in gaining regional support for increased funding for the Diamantina Health Service and for a low interest capital loan to construct dwelling accommodation in Birdsville and Bedourie.
Scott Mason
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From the Tourism Desk
Many of you will have noticed the public artwork which is currently under construction in Birdsville, Bedourie & Betoota. The Sculptures of the Dreamtime project (Dust, Sand & Gibbers) has received funding from both State and Federal Governments and artists Glenn Romanis and MarkTrinham have created a sculpture in Bedourie, a meeting place in Birdsville and are busy working on an installation in Betoota. There are photos below of the work so far and the project has been driven for council by our Community Development Coordinator, Jo Lewington. Jo will also be driving the development of an Arts and Culture Policy for Diamantina Shire. Two members of the Tourism & Community team are are currently visiting the Australian Camp Oven festival in Millmerran to look at opportunities for a similar event to be held in Bedourie. Both Diamantina Visitor Centres have now changed to low season opening hours which is 8.30am to 4.30pm Monday to Friday (with the exception being charter flights and event weekends where the centres will open as needed) Council at their September meeting approved the Economic Development Plan and profile for the Shire and this will sit alongside the Tourism Development Plan as the recommendations are progressively implemented over the coming years. Whilst the busy season is slowly coming to an end as we move towards summer there are still plenty of visitors travelling through and last week we had no less than 3 different Variety Bashes in Birdsville in less than 4 days. We are very close to finalising our Destination Branding for the shire and hope to be able to present these in the next edition of Desert Yarns. Our Parks and Gardens teams have been busy both distributing plants to residents and finalising the landscape work at both airport Terminals. Council has also been nominated for several awards at the forthcoming Outback QLD tourism awards to be held in Longreach and congratulations to staff members Jeff Smith, Ali Angus and Kim Wildman for their work on the submissions. The Wirrarri Visitor Information Centre, Vaughan Johnson Lookout and the Bedourie Ute & Travellers Muster are all in the running for the awards in November. Until next month Steven Baldwin Tourism & Community Manager Bedourie Parks and Gardens Crew delivering the five
plants that every shire household is entitled to.
Left: The sculptures in Bedour- ie stand approximately six me- tres high and depict the dust storm.
Right: The commencement of the Birdsville sculpture.
Left: The Bedourie airport terminal prior to the commencement of work.
Right: The Parks and Gardens Crew after the makeover.
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Works Report The races season this year is now completed, successfully with huge crowds in attendance. We have received a very positive feedback from the tourists. All the Crews have done tremendous work to make these events successful.
CONSTRUCTION CREW
The Construction Crew have been working on base widening of the bitumen stretch from King Creek intersection to Cluny Sandhills in preparation for road widening. They have almost completed road shoulders reinstatement of the road between the end of “9 Mile” and the end of the bitumen near Glengyle Station.
GRAVEL CREW
This Crew has almost completed work on the sub-base for the Durrie Overtaking Opportunity Pave and Seal.
D10 AND CRUSHER
The Crusher has completed crushing at the town pit and is back crushing at the Old Roseberth Pit to establish stockpiles for future works.
CONTRACTOR CREWS
One Crew is progressing well at the Mulligan on the Sandringham to Ethabuka Road completing re sheeting. This Crew will then move on to the Kamaran Road for road repairs. The other Crew has successfully completed the re-sheeting of the Springvale to Coorabulka Road. They have worked on the restoration of Diamantina Lakes air strip at Diamantina lakes. They are currently working on re sheeting of the Coorabulka to Boulia Boundary Road.
FRANCIS WARREN CREW
This Crew is helping the Art Work project. They are also working on the preparation of Browns Creek floodway, they will then move on to install the grid at the Betoota By Pass Realignment Road. This Crew has received a new CAT 962 Loader.
MULTIPURPOSE CONTRACTOR CREW
This Crew is proceeding with the road patching contract commencing at Nappabillie.
PATROL GRADER CREW
This Crew has commenced heavy shoulder works on the Monkira to Davenport Road with the help of the hired scraper.
Harin Karra Assistant Works Manager
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DIAMANTINA SHIRE COUNCIL
TENDER 2012/16A (RE-ADVERTISED) TENDER 2012/16B (RE-ADVERTISED) Playgroup Toy Library
In the accordance with section 177(7) of the Local Government (Finance, Plans and Reporting) Regulation 2010 council has amend- Bedourie and Birdsville Playgroups ed the tender specifications and tender closing date. now have the Toy Libraries for shire residents to borrow toys.
Diamantina Shire Council invites tenders in accordance with section 177 of the Local Government (Finance, Plans and Reporting) Regu- Toy Libraries offer a range of toys and lation 2010 for the following: equipment for use in playgroup sessions and at home. The toys Tender 2012/16A – Supply and Delivery of Road Furniture complement playgroup activities. Tender 2012/16B – Installation of Road Furniture If you are interested in borrowing Tenders close in Bedourie at 2pm on Thursday, October 11, 2012 please contact the Early Childhood and should be submitted by post with tender number clearly marked on the envelope. Facilitators Mrs Kylie Scott in Birdsville or Mrs Anna Karra in Bedourie. Further particulars and tender documents can be obtained from Council’s website or by contacting the Council’s Technical Officer, Mr Dinesh Shrestha on 07 4746 1202.
Diamantina Shire Council reserves the right to invite all tenderers to change their tender to account for changes in the tender specifica- tions prior to awarding the contract. The lowest or any tender may not be accepted.
Scott Mason CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
17 Herbert Street, BEDOURIE QLD 4829 ( 07 4746 1202 Ê 07 4746 1272 * [email protected] ü www.diamantina.qld.gov.au
COUNCIL MEETING DATES
Council Meeting - October 15 Council Meeting - November 19 Council Meeting - December 14
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Staff Profiles
Name: Seven Ryan Name: Dinesh Shrestha
Family: Two Children: Sascha five years old and Sheridan Family: Wife and Two beautiful girls. One four years and two years. one just two months.
Where have you come from to join the shire? Where have you come from to join the shire? Long Gully Station, near Forsayth in the Etheridge Shire, I come from Nepal, landlocked country in between India and Far North Queensland. China, where lord Buddha was born (Buddhism) and where Mt Everest is. It is a small country compared to the neigh- Occupation with the shire: bors and also a different country with temples everywhere, Executive Assistant to the Chief Executive Officer so it can be called “The country of temples” as well. It is also a multicultural country with all different people with Can you describe what your occupation involves? their own religions living together. Providing administrative support to the Chief Executive Officer and Councillors. Coordinate meetings and projects, provide research assistance and liaise with other staff members, businesses and departments to achieve effective outcomes for the Shire.
What enticed you to work for DSC? I enjoyed my previous employment experience with Ether- idge Shire Council, and after being a jillaroo for the last 5 years wanted a change and to re-enter service with a local government authority. Occupation with the shire: I work as a Technical Officer. What do you like most about the shire? The landscape is incredible and the communities are friend- Can you describe what your occupation involves? ly and welcoming. My occupation involves assisting the Works Department and support with technical and administration works as assigned. Interests and hobbies: Movies/ Theatre What enticed you to work for DSC? Stamp collecting I started work in DSC in May 2012, I was looking for Public Speaking something better by assisting with the development works Sports including tennis, softball, swimming, track and field within the shire to compete with other shires in the hope NRL and Cricket that more people will decide to come and live here.
Talents or skills: What do you like most about the shire? Juggling Well management of properties and infrastructures although Music – guitar, piano, flute, songwriting it’s far from big and developed towns.
Interests and hobbies: Travelling to new places and photography.
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Outgoing Councillors Dinner
On Wednesday, September 5, the Council hosted its first ever testimonial dinner for outgoing Councillors. The formal sit-down dinner attended by around 90 invited guests was a fitting tribute to former Mayor Robbie Dare, Deputy Mayor Barry Gaffney and Councillor Joyce Crombie. With current Councillors Mayor Geoff Morton, Deputy Mayor Garth Tully and Councillors Don Rayment, Steve Cramer and Jody Barr looking on, the three former Councillors were presented with a clock and original painting by local artist Wolfgang John to honour their time served with the Diamantina Shire Council. The night was highlighted by delicious set menu prepared with flair by the Bedourie branch of the Sporting Shooters Association of Australia and served proficiently by members of the Youth Council, setting a new standard for service in the Shire.
Keeping everyone well fed - Adrie Den Ronden, Tim and Enjoying the evening - Rob Dare, Barry Gaffney, Scott Mason and Rachel Farran. Narelle Gaffney.
L-R Back Row: Cr Don Rayment, Rob Dare, Cr Mayor Geoff Morton, Barry Gaffney, Joyce Crombie, Cr Garth Tully, Cr Steve Cramer, Cr Jody Barr.
L-R Front Row Youth Councillors - Cr Arron May, Cr Nerissa Parsons, Cr Yarryn Lewington, Cr Breeanna Monaghan, Cr Cody Cramer.
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Telephone: (07) 4746 1202 All correspondence addressed to: Facsimile: (07) 4746 1272 The Chief Executive Officer ad- 506 Herbert Street [email protected] BEDOURIE QLD 4829 www.diamantina.qld.gov.au
MEDIA RELEASE
The Simpson Desert Racing Carnival reaps rewards for the Queensland economy
The 2012 Simpson Desert Racing Carnival has drawn to a close, with this years’ Carnival being bigger and better than previous years.
All races in the Carnival, which includes the Betoota, Bedourie and iconic Birdsville Races, experienced a surge in crowd numbers with racegoers, trainers and jockeys converging on the Diamantina Shire in Outback Queensland from all across Australia.
Birdsville Race Club Event Coordinator Prue Fargher said that near record crowds rolled in to town for the Birdsville Races held on August 31 and September 1.
“The racetrack withheld the pressure of 3500 race goers on Friday, an overwhelming increase from the year before,” Ms Fargher said.
“The crowd increased to over 5000 on Saturday and punters were treated with fine sunny weather to see Roma horse Dancefloor Prodigy snag the 2012 XXXX Gold Birdsville Cup just ahead of Betoota Cup winner Grey’s a Rockin.”
The Royal Flying Doctor Service benefited from donations of over $8000 by patrons on the shuttle buses operated by Kangaroo Bus Lines, and for a short while Birdsville Airport became one of the busiest airports in Australia with nearly 140 aircraft flying in for the event. Seven of these aircraft belonged to the Australian Defence Force with the RAAF Roulettes putting on two stunning displays over the racetrack.
The economic significance of the Simpson Desert Racing Carnival, in particular the Birdsville Races, to the Diamantina Shire is enormous.
In 2011, the Diamantina Shire Council commissioned an economic assessment of the Birdsville Races which found that whilst the races had $1m - $1.4m in direct value-added impacts in the shire, it also contributed between $4.2m - $5 m in value-added impacts in regional Queensland. The race meet also helped increase employment in the Diamantina by 8.6% to 10.4% and created 52 to 61 full time equivalent positions in Queensland.
General Manager of the Central Western Remote Area Planning and Development Board (RAPAD), Mr David Arnold said that what the Birdsville Races Economic Impact Assessment (EIA) helps identify is the value of the races in hard economic terms.
“This is quite important not only for the Diamantina Shire Council but also for the whole Central West region when seeking support from Government on priority areas like roads and infrastructure.” Mr Arnold said.
“For example, when the shire or region lobbies on these matters, State and Federal Governments want to see hard data and this EIA adds to the collection of data needed to support lobbying efforts,” he added.
With the Simpson Desert Racing Carnival done and dusted for another year we look forward to doing it all again in 2013.
September 14, 2012
Page 12 Desert Yarns MEDIA RELEASE The Hon Bruce ScoƩ MP
FEDERAL LNP MEMBER FOR MARANOA
September 26, 2012 Delivered: September 19, 2012 Member Statements: Royal couple to Scott committed to the Maranoa visit Longreach and will nominate again I am absolutely thrilled with the news that Their Royal Highnesses the Prince of Wales and the Duchess of Federal LNP Member for Maranoa Bruce Scott Cornwall will visit the electorate of Maranoa this year. today confirmed he will nominate to stand for the seat at the next Federal election. As announced by the Prime Minister, the royal couple will visit Longreach during their six-day visit to Australia from 5 November to 10 November as Her Majesty the Queen's Mr Scott said he received very strong support personal representatives in this diamond jubilee year. across the electorate to continue providing a steady hand to ensure the Coalition wins the next To borrow the words from Clancy of the Overflow in that election. wonderful poem by Banjo Paterson:
And he sees the vision splendid of the sunlit plains “I have received very strong encouragement from extended, constituents, the business community and senior colleagues as we head towards the next must-win And at night the wondrous glory of the everlasting stars. Federal election,” Mr Scott said. That is where Longreach in Western Queensland is
centred, right in the heartland of that sort of scene as “I’m absolutely committed to getting the best for penned by Banjo Paterson so long ago. the electorate and will do everything I can for a change in government in Canberra. Let me take you through a quick tour of Longreach, which is set among the vast Mitchell grass plains of outback Queensland, with star-studded night skies and people with “As a previous minister in the Howard Government a very firm handshake. and an experienced representative of rural and regional Australia, I am keen to make a significant Longreach is home to the Qantas Founders Museum and contribution to an Abbott/Truss Government the Australian Stockman's Hall of Fame and Outback Her- restoring the confidence of Australians in the itage Centre. economic management and direction of our nation. The Prince of Wales has a very special connection with “I’m a team player of a strong Coalition team and I the hall of fame as he has been patron there since 1998. will spend my time and energy on how we can defeat this dreadful Labor government at the next Longreach is not far also from where Banjo Paterson election.” penned our unofficial national anthem, Waltzing Matilda, at Winton in 1895 and in the other direction is the Labor Party's foundation at Barcaldine, the Tree of Knowledge.
The Prince of Wales last visited Australia in 2005 and this will be the first visit to Australia by the Duchess of Cornwall.
This is a wonderful announcement and the outback communities of Maranoa and across many parts of rural Australia, including the people of Longreach, I know will give the royal couple a welcome they will never forget.
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Police News
Bedourie Police news Hello,
This month a large traffic operation is underway. It As many of you would know, Neale McShane is aims at reducing the September holiday road toll. currently away on holidays, and I am the relieving During this next month I will be targeting several Officer at the police station for a month. traffic offences. These will include seatbelts, drink driving, speeding Thank you to the many people who have already and fatigue. warmly welcomed me here, and if I haven’t already met you, please feel free to drop in to
the station or say “hello” when you see me Last month Shawn the camel man had one of his around. camels shot whilst it was on Durrie Station. It appears to be a deliberate act and anyone with any information can contact either Neale or myself. Neale will be back on approximately the 20th October. I would also like to warn everyone again about the upcoming Summer. There are a lot of new people in In the meantime, if there is anything that needs town now and this will be their first summer in the my attention, please let me know. desert. When you are travelling take plenty of water and a bit of food. Also carry an extra spare Lost Property: tyre with you. A lot of the roads in the off season may not see cars Some equipment has been handed in to the for several days. If you are on one of these roads police station: and breakdown, you may be stuck for a couple of days. If this belongs to you or you know who it does Always let someone know of your travel plans belong to can you please let me know. and keep in contact with them.
That way if you do get stranded someone can raise the alarm and we know roughly where to look for you.
Till next month.
The Bedourie Sherriff.
Stay safe on our roads. Regards,
Mathew Seneviratne The (relieving) Birdsville Cop
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New Arrivals to the Shire Did you know......
Isla is Marianne and Frogs can't swallow with their eyes open. Wallace McCarthy’s little Elephants are the only mammal that cannot jump. ratbag. A 1/4 of your bones are in your feet. She was born on the Your tongue is the fastest healing part of your body. 13th March at 2.25pm, A 'jiffy' is actually 1/100th of a second. in Mount Isa On your birthday you share it with 9 million others. Weighed 3150grams 1 googol is the number 1 (one) followed by 100 zeros. and was 52cms long. A 1 minute kiss burns 26 calories. You burn more calories sleeping than watching TV. Frogs don’t drink. (they absorb water through their skin) At birth dalmations are always white. Hummingbirds are the only bird that can fly backwards. A duck can't walk without bobbing its head. A hummingbird's heart beats at over a 1,000 times a minute. Dragonflies have six legs but can not walk. A crocodile can not move its tongue. A strawberry is the only fruit which seeds grow on the outside. That the first MTV video played was 'Video killed the radio star' by the Buggles. In 1878 the first telephone book made contained only 50 names. Jahkai Michael Robert Francis Purcell was born in Mount Isa The safest car color is white. on May 20 weighing 10 pounds 14 ounces with a length of The most commonly forgotten item for travelers is 56 cms. Jahkai is first child to Richard Purcell and Melissa their toothbrush. Gadsby of Birdsville. Coca Cola launched its 3rd product Sprite in 1961. Apples are more effective at waking you up in the morning than coffee. Room temperature is defined as between 20 to 25°C. (68 to 77°F) An octopus pupil is rectangular. The hyoid bone in your throat is the only bone in your body not attached to any other. The Australian aircraft carrier QANTAS stands for Queensland And Northern Territories Aerial Service. The movie Pulp Fiction cost $8 million to make with $5 million going towards actor's salaries. The oldest word in the English language is 'town'. Cats can not move their jaw sideways. If you have any community news/articles or Grapes explode when you put them in the microwave. It is physically impossible for pigs to look up at the sky. photographs that you wish to see in the Your most sensitive finger is your index finger. (closest newsletter please contact Mrs Jo Lewington. to your thumb) Venetian blinds were invented in Japan.
The average golf ball has 336 dimples. The word 'Strengths' is the longest word in the English language with just one vowel. The movie 'Wayne's World' was filmed in two weeks.
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Our ‘Dress the Desert in Pink’ weekend kicked off on Friday 7th September at our fortnightly RFDS Clinic. We had a BBQ, accompanied by pink damper & bread. There were also Pink cupcakes and a guitar shaped cake made especially for the day. With the help of Meegan Brad- bury, our RFDS Flight Nurse from Mt Isa & with kind donations from Anne from Genius Crea- tions, for a donation towards Breast Cancer everyone could have a go at painting their own silk scarf. This was a very successful event with $302 raised.
With permission from Garth & Kathi Tully and the Bedourie Race Club the finishing post at the racetrack was repainted to support the cause. Thanks must go to Jody Barr, Bill & Shaz Riddi- ford for their help painting, in less than ideal conditions.
On Saturday Joyce & I set up our stall and were very busy as soon as people began entering the track. The locals & tourists were especially generous with their donations & no one hesitated to put their hand in their pocket for the raffle (thanks to Lyndall!!) or guess the jelly beans in the Jody Barr, Sharon Fong & Bill jar. Riddiford We sold almost all of our merchandise & after the auction was over & everything added up the total raised for the National Breast Cancer Foundation & West ‘n Breast in Longreach was $8409. Joyce & I can not say thank you enough to everyone who helped make our day a great success.
Joyce Crombie & Lauren Hart
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SPORTING SHOOTERS ASSOCIATION BEDOURIE BRANCH INC.
The Bedourie Branch of the Sporting Shooters Association held their 2nd Annual General Meeting on Friday 28 October. A new Manage- ment Committee was elected. President Tim Farran Vice President Geoff Lewington Secretary Maggie den Ronden Treasurer Alana Donovan
The club will be approaching Diamantina Shire Council for the allocation of land behind the Racecourse for the gun club Range. Weapons Licensing demands that the parcel of land be 3k long and 1k wide and the area we are requesting is more than adequate.
On 5 September, the club catered for the Diamantina Shire’s Outgoing Councillors Dinner. This was a fully catered three course meal served by members of the Junior Youth Council. Our special thanks go to Nerissa Parsons, Bree Monaghan, Yarryn Lewington, Cody Cramer and Aaron May. The event was very successful with the club members giving their time to make this the success it was.
If anyone would like to join this exciting club please contact the Secretary and we will send you the necessary paperwork. Our next meet- ing will be held at the Royal Hotel on Friday 26 October at 5.00pm. All new members are welcome.
Contact for new members Maggie den Ronden – email [email protected]
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MEDIA RELEASE 12 September 2012
Have diabetes? Keep your feet in check…
New research shows a staggering 85 per cent of diabetes- related amputations in Australia are avoidable, prompting Diabetes Queensland to call for people with diabetes to prioritise regular foot check-ups.
The statistics, presented as part of a national diabetes conference on the Gold Coast this month, reveal Australia has one of the highest rates of lower-limb amputations globally. 85 people with diabetes have a foot or part of their leg removed each week.
With the news that around 3,600 diabetes-related amputations can be prevented each year, Diabetes Queensland CEO Michelle Trute is encouraging people with diabetes to check their feet on a daily basis, and visit a podiatrist regularly.
“Knowing how to care for your feet can prevent low-risk feet from developing to high-risk feet, and help avoid potential amputations in the future,” Ms Trute said.
“It’s important for people with all types of diabetes to attend an education session to know what to look for when assessing their feet. Washing, drying and looking at your feet every day – especially between your toes – is vital to keep them in a healthy condition. Being aware of irregular sensations, bruising and redness and decreased blood flow are all important too.”
“Health experts will check your foot shape, toenails, footwear, circulation and nerves during regular check-ups. Often low-risk feet can become high-risk feet without symptoms, and you may need to be referred to a specialist or high-risk foot clinic.”
Damage to the nerves and blood-supply of the feet is more likely in people who have had diabetes for a long time, high blood glucose levels for an extended period of time, if the person smokes or is inactive.
Research from the Queensland University of Technology also shows diabetes is responsible for 6 out of every 10 lower extremity amputations. 53 per cent occur due to type 2 diabetes, while 7 per cent are a result of type 1 diabetes.
Diabetes Queensland recommends people with diabetes make contact with their GP and take proper steps to manage their diabetes. Checking and recording blood glucose levels regularly, being physically active and eating well are all essential measures to prevent diabetes complications.
People can access more information about diabetes and their feet via an online fact sheet at www.diabetesqld.org.au/about-diabetes.
Information about the Australian Podiatry Association in Queensland can be found at www.podiatryassociationqld.org.au.
More information about Diabetes Queensland, and reducing your risk of preventable diabetes, is available at www.diabetesqld.org.au.
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Diamantina—Get your teams together Bus will be departing Bedourie around 10am Wear your best pink Bring your swag Need more info contact Alex - 1300 794 257 or [email protected]
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Bedourie rounds off racing trifecta
The Simpson Desert Carnival trifecta rounded off with the Bedourie Races on the second weekend in September. Re- nowned for its strong focus on country spirit and hospitality, more than 400 racegoers packed the dusty track to watch as Just a Touch beat Streetson to the post to take out the 1600m George Bourne and Associates/Cluny Station Open Bedourie Cup.
Three proved a lucky number for trainer Kylie Geran from Oakey whose horse Jam Tin, won the McInnes Wilson/IOR Energy Bracelet Class 3 Plate as well as the Diamantina Shire Triple Bonus with wins at each of the Simpson Desert Carni- val’s three races – Betoota, Birdsville and Bedourie.
Other race winners included:
GW Murphy Builder/G&J Lewington Maiden Plate – Legal Lim- it trained by Neil Byrne, Mt Isa
The Outback Loop & Kamaran Downs Open Handicap – Gesink trained by Richard Simpson, Longreach
Toby and Gem Harris/KAB Contracting Class B Handicap – Master of Reality trained by Neil Byrne, Mt Isa
Cava Hydraulics/MAS Mechanical/Bedourie Hotel Class C Handicap – Whispering Death trained by Garth Tully, Bedourie
Off track heads were turned by Fashions on the Field entrants with Jahni Garland taking out the title of the best dressed “filly” of the day and Shay Booth awarded the “spunky buck” title.
To add to the festivities, this year racegoers were encouraged to dress the desert pink to help promote awareness of Breast Cancer. All funds raised from merchandise and raffle tickets sold on the day went to West ‘n Breast in Longreach support- ing Breast Cancer suffers in Western Queensland and the National Breast Cancer Foundation who provide funding for a cure.
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Bedourie Ute & Travellers Muster Winners The fourth annual Bedourie Ute & Travellers’ Muster was another huge success for the Diamantina Shire. With travellers coming from as far away as Shearwater in Tasmania and Perth in Western Australia to take part in the event. With much pride taken in motor vehicle ownership – especially among local ute owners – categories such as Best Outback/Station Ute, Best Chick’s Ute, Best Travellers’ Wagon and Best Travellers’ Motorhome were hard fought.
The 2012 winners included:
Best Town and Country Ute: Best Outback/Station Ute: First: Ross and Frances Morris First: Garth Tully Second: David Woods Second: Jody Barr Third: Quinton Parsons Third: David Woods
Best Chick’s Ute: Best Bullbar Ute: First: Beck Smith First: Jody Barr Second: Kristy Matthews Second: Kevin Barr Junior Third: Bree Monaghan Third: Max Smith
Furthest Ute from Home: Best Travellers’ Motorhome Name Adrian Wild – Shearwater, Tasmania John Horsley – Wheel Estate
Furthest Interstate Motorhome from Home: Furthest QLD Motorhome from Home: Fred Dew – Perth, Western Australia Ron Walsh – Keperra, Queensland
Best Travellers’ Motorhome: Best Travellers’ Wagon First: Gerald and Doreen Madeley Tied First: Diane McMaster Tied Second: Ian Barbour Tied First: David Garland Tied Second: Charlie and Yvonne Sorel Second: Col Wildman
Furthest Interstate Traveller from Home: Wayne Lyndon – White Beach, Tasmania
Many thanks to all the competitors and of course to our generous sponsors: The Outback Loop, Nissan, Ergon Energy, Diamantina Shire Council, Champion Contracting, Skytrans, Hastings Deering, Bedourie Hotel, Simpson Desert Oasis Roadhouse, Birdsville Caravan Park, PE & GC Harris Road Contractors, KAB Contracting, Parsons Transport, Minserv Pest Services, Birdsville Fuel Services, JP Barr Operator/Contractor, P & M Hindom, L&S Rosen- berg Plumbing & Drainage, MAS Mechanical, Butch Davie Contracting , A. Coulthard & Sons, Wild Writing & Photog- raphy, Mead Perry Group, Young Enterprises and Outback Waters.
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Images kindly supported by Shelley Dillon & Sharon Veal
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Diamantina Shire Events 2012
NAIDOC Celebrations Friday, November 16, 2012 A full day of activities starting at 9am with night time food and entertainment at the Mud Hut. Program to be announced. For more information contact Joanne Lewington (07) 4746 1202 or [email protected]
Diamantina Triathlon Sunday, November 18, 2012 Bedourie Aquatic Centre Kids commencing at 8am, Teams 9am, Individuals 10am
For more information contact Joanne Lewington (07) 4746 1202 or [email protected]
Bedourie Bikekhana Saturday, December 1, 2012
A great day of motorbike events for the whole family. For more information contact Joanne Lewington (07) 4746 1202 or [email protected]
BEDOURIE-BIRDSVILLE-BETOOTA Contact details: Name Position Business Hours After Hours Contact Contact
Cr Geoff Morton Mayor (07) 4746 3250 (07) 4746 3250
Cr Garth Tully Deputy Mayor (07) 4746 1219 (07) 4746 1219 Cr Jody Barr Councillor (07) 4656 3095 (07) 4656 3095 Cr Don Rayment Councillor (07) 4656 3321 (07) 4656 3321 Cr Steve Cramer Councillor (07) 4746 1236 (07) 4746 1236 Scott Mason Chief Executive Officer (07) 4746 1202 (07) 4746 1009 Trevor Stewart Works Manager (07) 4746 1202 (07) 4746 1021 Corporate Services Manager (07) 4746 1202 Vacant Jenny Neale Finance Manager (07) 4746 1202 (07) 4746 1109 Steven Baldwin Tourism and Community (07) 4656 3300 (07) 4656 3331 Manager
Paul Veal Birdsville Town Services (07) 4656 3350 (07) 4656 3069 Foreman Jodie Girdler Bedourie Town Services (07) 4746 1202 (07) 4746 1160 Foreman
Shire Profile
The Diamantina Shire is the second largest shire in Queensland, with an area of approximately 95,000 square kilometres and a population of 350 people. The 95,000 square kilometres includes three towns – Birdsville, Bedourie and Betoota. The shire is predominantly a beef producing area containing some of the best contaminant-free natural fattening country in Australia.
The Diamantina Shire shares borders with the Northern Territory and South Australia and lies within the region known as the Channel Country. The Diamantina and Georgina Rivers, Cooper and Eyre Creek are the main players in a network in western Queensland Rivers. These three great river systems draw water from an area of 556,000 square kilometres. In the regular dry periods these systems contain numerous waterholes that can vary in depth and length.
Points of Interests
Betoota Birdsville Bedourie
Deon’s Lookout Big Red Sandhill Aquatic Centre
Betoota Hotel Waddi Trees Mud Hut
Browns Creek Camping Area Simpson Desert National Park Diamantina National Park
The Bilby Way Cuttaburra Crossing
Carcoory Ruins Historic Hotel
Burke & Wills Campsite Vaughan Johnson Lookout
To add your name to the newsletter mailing/email list, or to change your contact details, please advise Mrs Jo Lewington on 07 4746 1202 or email [email protected]. Alter- natively, you may elect to remove your name from the mailing list and access the newsletter via the shire website at www.diamantina.qld.gov.au