Desert Yarns

Diamantina Shire Council

Desert Yarns

December, 2012 Distributed free to all residents. Volume 4 Issue 58 Upcoming Events  Council Meeting - December 14 Message from the Mayor  Council Christmas Break-up - It was an honour, as Mayor, to represent the Diamantina Shire at the Diamond December 14 Jubilee Community Barbecue in Longreach for their royal Highness's Prince of Wales  Council Office re-opens - January 2 and the Duchess of Cornwall (Prince Charles and Camilla). My wife and I were privileged to speak to Prince Charles for some time and we found him entertaining  Visitor Information Centres re-open - and humorous. He said he preferred the 39 degrees heat in Longreach to the January 2 humidity of PNG "which made one perspire badly".  Council Employees Resume - The event was also attended by Her Excellency Ms Penelope Wensley, AC, Her January 15, 2013 Excellency Ms Quentin Bryce, AC Governor-General of Australia, and The Hon.  Australia Day Ceremony Bedourie - Campbell Newman, MP Premier of Queensland. About 300 people attended a very January 26 pleasant evening.

The next day was Melbourne Cup day, and cup day at the Longreach Races was a slightly different affair. Hope you backed a winner because I didn't!

The CEO Scott Mason and I attended a series of meetings over two days in Message from the Mayor 1 Longreach. These meetings included Remote Area Planning and Development (RAPAD), Outback Regional Road Group, (ORRG) Outback Regional Water Group Writings from the CEO 2 (ORWG) and the Central West Regional Pest Management Group. The State Government is making legislative changes to return some of the authority From the Tourism Desk 3 to council. It would be an exciting time to be in the Department of Local Government. DSC Media Release 4-5 This weekend is Bikehana day in Bedourie so I hope a cooler day is forthcoming. I Works Report 6 wish organisers and competitors well. Mayors Message 1 Council News 7-9 As the wet season approaches I urge all stations and towns to prepare for extended Health News 10 wet periods by stocking up on fuel and supplies, remember you may be cut off for Housing News 4 week at a time. Emergency Services will always assist if necessary, but do not be like the place that got two pallets of supplies helicoptered in only to have the Manager PoliceLibrary News News 11-12 4 drive out two days later for holidays! CommunityPositions Catch-upVacant 13-15 4 As this is my last report before Christmas, I would like to wish everyone a great Christmas and a wet New Year. Don't overdo the good things and avoid the bad The Outback Loop Cel- 16 things. ebrationsFundraising Walk from Gulf Christmasto Gulf Flyers 175 Mayor Cr Geoff Morton

SchoolHealth News News 18-19 6 DiamantinaCommunity Triathlon Notice Board 20 7 Cr Garth Tully, Cr Jody Barr, Ladies Day Durham Downs 21 Cr Geoff Morton and

Tourism & Community Calendar of Events 22 Manager Steve Baldwin

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

On behalf of Council I take this opportunity to with everyone a safe and fun-filled Christmas. I sincerely thank all staff and contractors for their efforts this year. A lot has been achieved again this year due to the efforts of all workers. Council’s last Ordinary Meeting for 2012 will be held on December 14 which is also break up day. All being well, our meeting will finish at lunch time where we can join you all in celebrating the achievements of 2012.

Scott Mason

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From the Tourism Desk

It’s now Summer and the flow of visitors has slowed to a trickle. We launched the new Destination Brand for ‘the Diamantina’ in Longreach last month and in Birdsville at the November Council meeting. We have gone with ‘The Diamantina’ as the destination with the tagline being ‘where the Desert meets the Channel Country’. The new brand will be used to promote the shire externally and to provide consistency in our marketing approach so you’ll see it appearing in our 2013 advertising. Council has provided a submission to the Department of Tourism, Major Events, Small Business & the Commonwealth Games on their draft Drive Tourism Strategy. This is especially important given that the majority of visitors to the Diamantina come by vehi- Richard Cooley, Jeff Smith and Steven Baldwin at the 2012 cle. Outback Qld Tourism Awards in Longreach November 17. Council staff break for Christmas on the 14th December but there will be reduced town services staff operating in both Bedourie and Birdsville over Christmas. At the November council meeting in Birdsville council inspected the playgroup facilities and agreed to renovations which will allow playgroup to continue operating when the Birdsville Hall is in use. At the same meeting council approved a trial which will provide access to the Birdsville State School Swimming Pool for one day a week over Summer. We are now seeking community members with either Bronze Medallion or first aid qualifications to fill the roster on Saturdays. Contact me for further information We now have a large number of new display cabinets that arrived in Birdsville this week. The majority will be used in Birdsville but several are earmarked for Bedourie. These new cabinets are lockable and backlit so we are asking for anyone who has any historic or significant items to contact the Wirrarri Visitor Centre staff as we’re seeking items for display The new artwork installed as part of the ‘Dust, Sand & Gibbers’ project has been extremely well received and Jo is currently preparing signs which explain a little bit about the art and the artists.

Have a great Xmas and drive safely. See you in 2013. Steven Baldwin Tourism & Community Manager

Lyn and Donna Rowlands

Outback Qld Tourism Awards

The Diamantina Shire Council’s Tourism Team recently joined some 300 industry leaders at the Outback Queensland Tourism Awards held in Longreach in 15-17 November. Sixteen categories were awarded, with the Birdsville Hotel sweeping the pool winning three categories including the Best Tourism Restaurant and Catering Service, Best Outback Queensland Pub and Young Achiever Award for Hotel Manger Kate McDonald. Congratulations Kate, Jo and the entire hotel staff on a job well done! Congratulations also to DSC staff- ers Jeff Smith, Alison Angus and Kim Wildman for entering submissions. The three day event included a symposium on tourism during which the Council’s new “Diamantina” branding was unveiled.

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Works Report We have come to the end of another successful year. In this year we have accomplished good improvements in road network. We have done few bitumen jobs making road networks more safer. We have carried out a lot of road network maintenance and re-sheeting work.

All the Crews have done a great job in completing projects on time. I would like to thank the members of all the Crews, Contractors, Suppliers, Freight Companies and Local Businesses for their support and co-operation throughout the year. Special thanks to the Workshop Crew for the fleet maintenance.

I wish you all a Merry Christmas and safe holidays. We will see you next year.

Harin Karra Assistant Works Manager

Above: Multi Skilled Crew doing culvert work at Browns Creek Above: Sealing the Durrie Horse Paddock on the Betoota to Birdsville Road. Betoota.

First Aid Course

Approximately 50 Diamantina Shire Council employees attended the First Aid training delivered by Alina Graham from Austswim. With the community hall utilised by the school camps the First Aid course was run out of the airport terminal building. In a classroom situation at the airport Above: Robert Butler gets bandaged up terminal. by Doug Sullivan.

Left: Cr Garth Tully who also did the training . Below: Garry Mills bandages Bryony Stewart and Dave Beardmore wraps Lea Woods while Alina Graham the trainer looks on to make sure it’s done correctly.

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Christmas Shutdown for 2012

Outside staff December 14, 2012 and return to work January 15, 2013

Office staff December 14, 2012 and return to work January 2, 2013

Workshop December 14, 2012 and return to work January 2, 2013

Staff on call Trevor Stewart 4746 1021 / sat phone 0424 211 815

Emergency contact numbers

Trevor Stewart 4746 1021 / sat phone 0424 211 815

Scott Mason 0428 461 202

Scott Mason CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

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Call for Nominations

Diamantina DIAMANTINA SHIRE YOUTH Shire Council COUNCIL NOMINATION Australia Day NOTIFICATION Awards 2012

Nominate now for 2013 membership of the Di- Nominations are now called for Australia amantina Shire Youth Council. Day Awards for 2011/2012. The categories are as follows: As part of the Youth Council you will:

 Citizen of the Year  Be a member for a one year term.

 You will attend meetings in either Bedourie or  Young Citizen of the Year Birdsville.  Community Event of the Year Award  Undertake youth projects that are aligned

with to the Diamantina Shire Council  Senior Cultural Award Corporate Plan.  Senior Sports Award  Develop your skills as a future leader.

 Junior Sports Award

 Sports Administrator of the Year Award To nominate please fill out one of the nomination forms that are currently available from the Due to the shortage of nominations in Wirrarri Visitor Information Centre in Birdsville or previous years, awards presentations are now held every second year in alternating the Shire Administration Centre in Bedourie. towns. The celebrations and award cer- Nominations close Friday, December 7, 2012. emony will next be held in Bedourie on Sat- urday, January 26, 2013.

Nomination forms are available from the Fax or post in your nomination forms to the Council Administration Centre in Bedourie or Bedourie Office: (07) 4746 1272 the Visitor Information Centres in Birdsville 505 Herbert Street and Bedourie. They are also attached to the Bedourie QLD 4829 back of this issue of Desert Yarns for Local Residents.

Please contact Mrs Jo Lewington, Nominations will be accepted up to Friday, Community Development Officer on telephone December 7, 2012 by 4.30 pm. All 4746 1202 at the Administration Centre in nominations must be forwarded to the Bedourie or email Council Administration Centre in Bedour- [email protected] for any ie. further information.

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Health News...

Summer is here and dehydration can be avoided! The early stages of dehydration usually have no signs or symptoms, but can include dryness of the mouth and thirst. Other symptoms in early or mild dehydration may include dry, warm skin; dizziness; or cramping in the arms and legs. As dehydration increases, signs may include:  a flushed face;  rapid pulse;  dark, yellow urine;  passing less urine than normal;  sunken eyes;  in infants, a sunken fontanelle (the soft spot on the top of the head);  skin that has lost its elasticity and doesn’t quickly return to its normal position after being pinched;  irritability or drowsiness;  irrational behaviour; and  absence of tears when crying. If you are with someone, particularly a child or young person, who suddenly becomes dizzy, nauseated or weak during hot weather, get them indoors or in the shade. Replace lost fluids with cool water and cool the person down with a cool shower or sponge bath. Seek medical attention if the symptoms get worse or last for more than an hour. If someone has dry, red skin, has a fast pulse, looks confused or delirious, or feels very hot, that person is in extreme danger and you should seek medical attention immediately, as well as taking the steps outlined above. In severe cases, dehydration can result in shock and even death.

How do I combat dehydration during hot weather? Water should be given to counteract dehydration. It should be drunk before you get to the stage of feeling thirsty. It’s best to remember that other drinks, such as soft drinks, coffee, or alcohol-containing beverages, are no real substitute for water. Although they contain water, they may also contain dehydrating agents. So-called isotonic sports drinks can replace some of the salts lost when Central and North sweating during intense or prolonged exercise, and are an appropriate West Queensland fluid replacement in this setting. If you are sweating profusely or have vomiting or diarrhoea, oral Medicare Local rehydration solutions such as Gastrolyte and Hydralyte are also suitable. They should be made up and given according to the manufacturer’s Allied Health Professionals visiting instructions. Preventing dehydration during hot weather Birdsville It is recommended that during hot weather we should be drinking water Tuesday, December 11, 2012 even when not thirsty. Drink at least one-and-a-half cups of water every half hour and at least one-and-a-half cups of water 20–30 minutes before playing or exercising in the heat. Bedourie Other things you can do to avoid dehydration during hot weather include: Wednesday, December 12, 2012  avoiding the sun in the middle of the day — exercise or do outdoor activities early in the morning or evening instead; Physiotherapist: Blair  wearing sunscreen and a hat that shades your head, neck, ears A Physiotherapist assists people of all and face — sunburn stops your body from cooling itself down ages with injuries, impairments and properly; disabilities to improve their mobility,  wearing thin, loose clothing — this allows good airflow, which helps sweat evaporate; and functional ability, movement potential and quality of life. A Physiotherapist  avoiding dark clothing, as this absorbs more heat than light clothing. helps treat underlying causes of pain in joints, muscles and nerves through examination, evalu- By recognising the signs of dehydration and taking measures to prevent it, you can look forward to a sizzling, and safe, summer. ation, diagnosis and physical intervention.

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Bedourie Police News

I would firstly like to congratulate everyone on their behaviour at the Bikekhana. There were no incidents that Police can report on, other than someone walking to the Roadhouse at 2am hitting the fence and knocking a few bins over. I only saw the aftermath. But, you are always going to get visitors to the town that don’t care about our place and do this kind of thing. I would also like to commend all the motorbike riders who stuck to the designated tracks, behaved themselves and weren’t playing silly buggers around town.

There was one car crash south of town at Cuttaburra last Friday. The driver and passenger were hurt but they are doing okay. When you are driving on the gravel please take care. This time of the year tyres can become very hot and the gravel can be like ball bearings in some places. This crash was an accident and I cannot lay blame on anyone. I am just relieved that no one was killed.

I will be away until the 11 January. During this time Constable Matt Forbes will be looking after the Police station. The QGAP will be closed as of the 15 December until the 11th January. If you need licence renewals or registrations done during this time I suggest you do it beforehand.

Below are a few photos of our recent patrol to Poeppels Corner in October with Parks and Wildlife.

Merry Christmas!

Senior Constable Tim Farran Bedourie Police Station

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Christmas is just around the corner and 2012 is quickly drawing to a close.

My thanks go out to all residents of the Diamantina Shire for making my job so much easier. This shire would have to be one of the most law abiding communities in Australia. All events were a pleasure to Police and there were no ugly incidents to mar any of the events. All events were very well run and I know many persons assisted to ensure everyone had a good time.

As the year draws to a close, I would like to thank Birdsville QGAP Officer, Sandra McShane for her help and assistance in coordinating many rescues and being on the other end of the phone at all hours of the day and night whilst I was away on rescues and patrol. Also being the QGAP Officer providing Government services to the community and answering many phone calls relating to road conditions and queries from travellers.

I would also like to thank Inspector Paul Biggin, Inspector in Charge of Southern Stations, for his assistance and guidance. Also Bedourie Police Officer, Tim Farran and his wife Rachel for their assistance.

With the summer months coming upon us it is important; especially for the recent inhabitants of Birdsville, to ensure you have a contingency plan in place if you break down. Ensure you have communication and are aware of the channels the local properties use in case you need assistance. Also ensure that someone is aware of your travel plans and will come looking for you if you don’t arrive as planned. Obviously carrying sufficient water and food is vital. Below are UHF channels local properties use.

Adria Downs, Moncoonie 8 Duplex, UHF 14 Arrabury 1 Duplex, UHF 8 Clifton Hills UHF 12 Cluny UHF 9 Coorabulka UHF 21 Cordillo Downs UHF 6 & 2 Durrie Duplex 3 Glengyle UHF 4 Mooraberree Duplex 4 Morney Plains Duplex 2 Mount Leonard Duplex 8 Pandi Pandi Duplex 8 Roseberth UHF 24

Diamantina Shire vehicles are on UHF 39 and truckies and tourists are usually on 40.

The ‘Drink Rite’ program conducted at the Birdsville Hotel on Thursday the 22nd of November 2012 was a great night. Many thanks to Kate and staff at the Hotel for allowing us to hold the program there. It was really good to see that so many took part in the program in good spirits.

"Ergon Energy's powersavvy program helps customers in remote and isolated towns to find ways to reduce their power consumption and slash power costs. Residents, businesses and Government agencies can get free, impartial advice to help understand where you use energy and the best ways to reduce consumption - either through simple behavioural measures or through changing or upgrading appliances. Powersavvy also has funding available to help with the cost of implementing measures like energy efficient lighting, changing from electric to heat pump or solar water heating, air-conditioning and refrigeration upgrades and a range of other measures. Powersavvy energy advisers were in Birdsville November undertaking energy audits - if you missed out or would like to find out more, simply call 4080 4836 or visit powersavvy.com.au".

Pamphlets and further details are available at Birdsville QGAP office.

On closing I hope Santa is kind to each and every one of you. Sandra and I wish you a prosperous and happy New Year.

Neale McShane OIC Birdsville Police Gus Daffy pariticipating in the ‘Drink Rite’ night.

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Did you know...... Roseberth Station has some bulk Oaten Chaff in a silo at Roseberth for sale.  The rarest type of diamond is green. Interested persons to ring Geoff  MasterCard was originally called Master Morton on 4656 3250. Charge. Bring your own bags/containers.  The US flag has 13 stripes. (representing the Price $20 for chaff bag, $60 for wool original 13 states) pack etc.  The first city to reach 1 million was London.  Men are stuck by lightning seven times more

than women.  Tokyo was once known as Edo. Vote of Thanks  Women make up 49% of the worlds population. To the following  Wine is sold in tinted bottles because it spoils Dusty Miller, Birdsville Bakery, The Birdsville Road House when exposed to light. and The Birdsville Hotel  The tea bag was invented in 1908. I would like to say ‘THANK YOU’ for your generous donations that you have offered for any information  Carrots contain 0% fat. leading to the death of my mate NOODLES.  1 billion snails are served in restaurants each I am deeply touched by your generosity and good will. year. I would also like to personally thank Durrie Station for  Plastic bottles were first used for soft drinks in allowing my camels to rest with them. 1970. Unfortunately I have lost my best mate through the  The $ sign was introduced in 1788. senseless act of another, with the thoughts and the  The meaning of 'Blue Chip' comes from blue kindness of the Birdsville community my spirit of casino chips which have a high value. adventure has not wavered.  DVDs are physically the same size as a CDs I have travelled to many communities on my journey, but but can store 13 times more data. Birdsville will remain foremost in my thoughts,  The term 'disc jockey' was first used in 1937. Birdsville has displayed  Hot water freezes quicker than cold water. to me the true sense of community and the  Sound travels three times faster through spirit of the outback. water than in air.  The average soccer ball is made up of 32 leath- Once again, thank you! er panels and held together by 642 stitches. Shawn McCulloch  Soccer is the most followed sport. (The Camel Man)

Community Input & Ideas

Birdsville Races 2013 – community input and ideas!

A small group of volunteers in Birdsville are hoping to organise some extra entertainment to be held during race week 2013. Primarily, we’re discussing the possibility of an open-air concert on Wednesday or Sunday evening of race week on the Birdsville oval with a prominent headlining artist. In addition, activities for kids to partake in, including a blue-light disco, movie nights and craft/games areas to be set up for the duration of race week, are considerations. If you are interested in becoming involved in the organisation of these events, please contact us. We are particularly seeking expressions of interest from people with knowledge of event planning and budgeting. However, we’d love to hear from any interested people. Additionally, if you have any suggestions, ideas or questions about these proposed events, let us know – we’d love to hear what you all think and who you would like to see play in Birdsville! Jacinta (Sis) Fatnowna and Kelly Theobald. Sis: [email protected] Kelly: [email protected]

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Birdsville SES

After a long break Birdsville SES is up and running again. We recommenced training on Wednesday the 21st of November. Our first training night was an introduction to SES, an introduction to Kylie Scott and her experience and an induction for all of the new members. We currently have 17 members on the books, which is very exciting.

On Sunday the 25th of November we took out the SES Flood Rescue Boat to make sure that it was ready for the upcoming wet season. After a little maintenance and a few runs up and down the billabong at Pelican Point we had things sorted. A BBQ dinner was provided by several of the new members and some great company was shared. We are hoping to continue this type of training and social event with our three monthly scenarios.

Our core roles in Birdsville are, Wind Storm and Flood, Recovery, Road Crash Rescue, Land Search and assist other emergency services. If you are interested in Joining the SES please come along on a Wednesday night to the EMQ shed behind the Airport Terminal building and introduce yourself. We are always happy to take on new members.

Training will take place every Wednesday night from 7.30pm with the aim of having a scenario based exercise every 12 weeks and one major disaster exercise every year.

We are hoping to start combined emergency services training in Birdsville and encourage anyone who has an interest in this, be it SES, Fire or Ambulance to come to training on a Wednesday night.

2012 Senior Graduates

Right: Cassandra Rayment graduated from Blackheath and Thornborough in Charters Towers. Cass also picked up an award for Softball.

Left: Sam Mason graduated on Friday, November 16, from St Brendans College in Yeppoon. Sam will be starting work for Ergon in January as an Apprentice Electrician.

Luke Coulthard has come a long way from “Being a Dinosaur” walking around on his toes and growling at people. He has turned into a handsome young man who has just graduated from Leigh Creek Area School. Luke has been attending LCAS for 3 ½ years and was successful in completing a Boiler Making Trade. In the new year, Luke’s plans are to follow his grandfathers (Gilbert Coulthard) footsteps to become a Flinders Ranges National Parks Ranger.

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Tourism Restaurants & Catering Service sponsored by Qantaslink was presented to the Birdsville Hotel for the third consecutive year...

The coveted Best Outback Queensland Pub sponsored by Skytrans Airlines, went to the Birdsville Hotel for the third consecutive year...

The Birdsville and Innamincka Hotels were well represented at the recent Outback QLD Tourism Awards in Longreach, the South Australian Tourism Awards in Adelaide and the Queensland Tourism Awards in Brisbane. The Birdsville Hotel was a winner in 2 categories at the awards ceremony held in Longreach. Having won in 2010 and 2011 the Birds- ville Hotel now qualifies for Hall of Fame in 2013. Best Outback Pub Above: Kym Daffy, Kim & Jo Fort, Gus Daffy, David & Nell Brook, Kate McDonald and Miranda Palmer. Tourism Restaurants and Catering Services Birdsville Hotel Manager – Kate McDonald won Young Achiever 2012. This award recognises Kate’s contribution to the tourism industry and her commitment to her role at the Birdsville Hotel. Birdsville Hotel QLD Tourism Awards Finalist – Category 2, Tourist Attraction Finalist – Category 16, Tourism Restaurants and Catering Services Innamincka Hotel SA Tourism Awards Silver – Category 6, Culture and Heritage Bronze – Category 16, Tourism Restaurants and Catering Services The process of nominating, writing submissions and participating in the awards process is an opportunity to look objectively at business practices and identify areas for improvement. In order to succeed a team effort is required, along with dedication, innovation and genuine Innamincka Managers Greg & Jill Ross enthusiasm from everyone, every day. We’ve had a great year on ‘the Loop’ – thanks to all who helped us to achieve our dreams.

Photos extracted from Queensland’s Outback Australia We wish everyone a very happy Christmas and a bright and successful Facebook page. 2013.

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Remembrance Day

Members the Bedourie Community gathered at 11am on the 1t1h November in ANZAC Park to commemorate the hour, the day and the month that peace was declared in1918 which saw the end what we know as the Great War. There were around 30 people at the service with mothers and babies, Council workers who took time out to remember, along with other business people and workers who all joined in for the service. Richard Cooley led the service with Mr Doug Cooms reading the commemorative speech and Nerrisa Parsons from the Youth Council doing the flag duties The young were their lending a hand with the schoolchildren completing readings and laying a wreath along with other wreath layers being, Mr Scot Mason and Ms Breeanna Monaghan, from the Council, and Ms Jodie Girdler and Mr Geoff Murphy representing the community. The wreath laying is the solemn part of the service where today generations pay homage to those who paid the supreme sacrifice of laying down their lives for their country which in turn lead to the birth of our nation. Today we continue to pay homage to all those Australian servicemen and women who have laid down their lives for humanity to this very day.

The Bedourie Playgroup children went on adventure on Friday, Novem- ber 30 when the RFDS was in for their fortnightly clinic. Pilot George and Flight Nurse Megan invited them out to have a look at the plane and then presented them with gifts. After the plane visit the children then went to King Creek for a quick trip

Birthday Wishes Happy Birthday to Quinton Parsons who turned 21 on October 15. Also celebrating a milestone was Jim McIntyre who turned 50 on November 27. Quinton celebrated his day at the Birdsville Hotel on Saturday, October 20 with a buffet style dinner served from the beer garden area. Dinner was followed by a karaoke in the main bar. Jim’s celebration commenced at the Birdsville Hall on Friday, November 16 following the P & C Bingo.

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Diamantina Shire Council will sponsor a Christmas light competition in Bedourie and Birdsville.

There will be a nomination fee of $10. Funds raised will go toward the Local Ambulance Committees.

First prize - $120.00 Gift Voucher

Runner up - $80.00 Gift Voucher

To nominate simply fill out competition form. These will be available at the Visitors Information Centre in Bedourie or Wirrarri Centre in Birdsville and pay the nomination fee.

Nominations close Thursday, December 16, and judging will take place that

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Splash ‘N’ Arts Camp 2012

On the evening of Monday, 12 November, thirty-two Superheroes -Hulks, Supermen and Batmen- from Birdsville, Bedourie and several outlying stations met in the Bedourie Shire Hall for the annual Splash’N’Arts Camp. Three jam packed days of activities followed, where the heroes were able to hone their skills in swimming, lifesaving, dance and journal keeping. Instructors for the week were Alina Graham (swimming), Helen Horner (lifesaving), Kim Whitta (dance), and Damien Kamholz (journaling). An excellent time was had by all. Many thanks to Shae Woods for coordinating the food, the many mothers from outlying stations who got the food onto the table, the volunteer group helpers (mainly govies), Lorraine Kath for taking so many super photos, Diamantina Shire Youth Council for the movie, Skytrans for their generous flight donation, Diamantina Shire Council (especially Jodie Girdler) for ensuring that the venues were in tip top shape, and lastly the teachers and students for their excellent participation during the week. See you all next year!

Bedourie Celebrates NAIDOC 2012

Our NAIDOC Celebration, - whilst smaller than in previous years – proved to be an exceptional day. Kero and Parker from Queensland Health instructed the children in indigenous games and skills; Robin painted silk scarves with the children; and Woody and Tim took us all fishing. Thanks to all of these helpers, and also Jodie Girdler (who took a day off work) and the other kitchen helpers for feeding us so well.

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2012 Graduation Celebrations

The Bedourie State School Students, Yarryn Lewington and Cheyenne Crombie had their Year 7 graduation at the Simpson Desert Oasis on Friday, November 2. The Graduates gave great Speeches and Received their Certificates.

Rob Katter MP sent a gift and a letter of congratulation which was presented by P & C President Scott Mason. Guest speakers of the night included Scott, Local policeman, Tim Farran and Deputy Mayor Cr Garth Tully. Youth Councillors also had the opportunity to wish fellow Youth Councillor Yarryn the best of luck with his secondary schooling.

The Bedourie State School P & C Association organised the event with invites sent out prior to the event. With a crowd of more than 50 guests, Simpson Desert Oasis Roadhouse outdid themselves yet again catering a delicious meal.

Everyone involved had a great night, even their fellow peers got up and made a speech to farewell their Year 7 Seniors as they begin their new adventures.

Blast from the Past

Class of 1993 Bedourie State School Christmas Concert at the old hall which is where the council admin office is now sit- uated.

Bottom row L/R - Patrick Tully, Arron Mcintyre, Shaun Cuffe, Jaime Dare, Jade Smith.

Middle row L/R - Monique Jones, Nigel Mcintyre, Angela Becker, (nee Knight) Annette Girdler, (nee Knight) Albert Smith.

Top row L/R - Bill Knight, Ben Dare, Carolyn Schrader, Darchanne Warren, Jeffrey Dare, Anthony Smith and Roxanne Smith.

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2012 Diamantina Triathlon

Team - Kids

1st Kaitlin Farran (Swim) 25m 10-12 years Dakota Crombie (Bike) 2km Cheyenne Crombie (Run) 1km Teams - Open

1st Jacob Hutteroth (Swim) 200m Time: Teagan Hall (Bike) 6km 28 mins 43 secs Bebe Manns (Run) 2km

2nd Tim Farran Time: Scott Mason 30 mins 11 secs Alana Donovan

3rd Sarah Malloy Time: Brad Mourilyan 31 mins 10 secs Isiah Coulthard

4th Justin Bell Time: Janalle Bennett 31 mins 46 secs Jarrara Jackomos

Individuals - Kids 3-5 years Justin Bell (for participation) (Swim) 12.5m kick (Bike) 50m (Run) 20m 5-7 years Boys 1st Tristan Warren (Swim) 25m 2nd Ben Farran (Bike) 1km Girls 1st Sophie Farran (Run) 500m 2nd Cassidy Bell

8-10 years Girls 1st Kaitilin Farran (Swim) 25m 2nd Dakota Crombie (Bike) 2km 3rd Breeanna Farran (Run) 1km 11-12 years Girl 1st Cheyenne Crombie (Swim) 25m

(Bike) 3km (Run) 1km Individuals - Open

Female 1st Sarah Malloy (21m 28s) (Swim) 100m 2nd Teagan Hall (23m 3s) (Bike) 4.5km 3rd Bebe Manns (23m 5s) (Run) 1km Male 1st Jacob Hutteroth (17m 45s)

2nd Jarrara Jackomos (19m 8s) 3rd Michael Allen (21m 28s)

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Ladies Day....Durham Downs Station

Ladies Day… Fifty Shades of Durham Downs Station

The truckies radios were abuzz… ’Where are all these ladies going on the roads?’

Blokes have Ag Shows and Rodeos to go to but this weekend was about giving the ladies some of the things that were, well, just for ladies. This was a day for meeting like-minded rural and remote women, sharing stories, being inspired by guest speakers from around the country and being empowered to take control of their own health and well-being.

Cocktails and coffee, massages and manicures were all crammed into one day – approximately 1400km west of Brisbane at remote Durham Downs Station, located on the Cooper Creek. The only town further west is Innamincka, near the famous Burke & Wills Dig Tree, then next stop Lake Eyre and the Simpson Desert.

The brainchild of Durham Down’s governess, Kristy McGregor, this 20 year old dynamo (with the support of Managers Michelle Reay & Jon Cobb and the Station team), co-ordinated the event – drawing 100 women from Quilpie, Longreach, Charleville, Birdsville areas as well as Northern NSW and SA, with ages ranging from 90 to 14.

Ladies arrived from up to 10 hours drive away, craving some female company and conversation. With the chance to ‘frock-up’ being rare in the bush, Friday night started with a massive storm, turning the red soil into a mud pie. High heels were very practically traded for boots and thongs, but undeterred, everyone dressed in pink for the Jane McGrath Foundation fundraising cocktail party. Gay Tully from Windorah gave an empassioned speech about being a cancer survivor.

The Royal Flying Doctor Service (RFDS) flew in with their team, offering counselling, pap smears, breast exams and the latest in medical information.

The guest speakers were Robyn Hills, an award winning photographer, helicopter pilot and fashion designer from Caloundra, Qld, who spoke about being creative and passionate about life, while sharing her photographs for visual inspiration.

Acclaimed author Meme McDonald shared her journey of being raised in the bush and becoming a writer. She encouraged the women to document their resilience and life in the outback.

Ana Snyman flew in from Byron Bay and got a packed house to her presentation on understanding how your body works, demystifying the female anatomy and giving excellent practical advice on improving your sex life. The women attending commented that they never realized how much they didn’t know and were grateful for the opportunity to have an open discussion about what works and how to improve, which is sure to please their partners after staying home to look after the children.

Travelling from Perth, Stephanie Coombes, a ringer in WA, shared her passion of social media. Women learned about Facebook, Twitter and YouTube, and using a blog to network and communicate rural activites.

Lyn Barnes is a well-known Australian artist with a gallery in Quilpie. Women were given the opportunity to dabble in some art by contributing to a group painting under her guidance. She created a scene depicting a stockwoman wearing a pink workshirt, which was then auctioned for the RFDS and Jane McGrath Foundation.

Some of the comments of the feedback forms were: My cheeks are sore from laughing so much Have made fabulous new friends Feel totally rejuventated and ready to go back to the station Finally got to talk to another woman I drive 600km for my husband, I drive 600km for my children, but I never drive 600km for myself – so decided to come Are we having another one next year?

Photo Credit to Robyn Hills www.ROBYNgraphs.com.au For more photos, contact Robyn Email: [email protected] Phone: 0407 926 056

For more information: Kristy McGregor or Michelle Reay Durham Downs Station Phone: 07 4655 7915 or 07 4655 4366 Email: [email protected]

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Australia Day Bedourie Saturday 26 January 2013 For more informaon contact Kim Wildman (07) 4656 3050 or events@diamanna.qld.gov.au

Betoota Gymkhana Saturday & Sunday 6 & 7 April 2013 For more informaon contact: Lorraine Kath (07) 4656 4949 or email: mtleonard@acv8.net.au www.facebook.com/BetootaOutbackQld

ANZAC Day Thursday 25 April 2013 For more informaon contact Kim Wildman (07) 4656 3050 or events@diamanna.qld.gov.au

Birdsville Bronco Branding Saturday & Sunday 11 & 12 May For more informaon contact: Don & Judy Rayment (07) 4656 3321 or email [email protected]

Birdsville Gymkhana Saturday & Sunday 22 & 23 June For more informaon contact: Don & Judy Rayment (07) 4656 3321 or email [email protected]

Bedourie Campdra, Rodeo & Gymkhana Friday‐Sunday 5‐7 July For further informaon contact Steve & Jeena Cramer on 4746 1236 or email: [email protected]

Bedourie Camel Races Saturday 13 July For more informaon contact the Bedourie Outback Visitors Centre 1300 794 257 or visitors@diamanna.qld.gov.au

Betoota Races Saturday 31 August For more informaon contact Bev Morton on (07) 4656 3250 or email: [email protected] www.facebook.com/BetootaOutbackQld

Birdsville Races Friday & Saturday 6 & 7 September For further informaon contact the Birdsville Race Club on 4656 3216 or Wirrarri Visitor Informaon Centre on 4656 3300, email: info@diamanna.qld.gov.au; www.birdsvilleraces.com

Bedourie Races & Rodeo Friday & Saturday 13 & 14 September For further informaon contact Garth and Kathi Tully (07) 4746 1219 or email: cluny@acv8.net.au

Bedourie Ute & Travellers’ Muster Saturday 14 September For further informaon contact the Bedourie Outback Visitors Centre on 1300 794 257 or email: visitors@diamanna.qld.gov.au; www.bedourieuteandtravellersmuster.com

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BEDOURIE-BIRDSVILLE-BETOOTA

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

 Vacant Corporate Services Manager (07) 4746 1202

 Steven Baldwin Tourism and Community (07) 4656 3300 (07) 4656 3331 Manager 0408 824 179

 Paul Veal Birdsville Town Services (07) 4656 3350 (07) 4656 3069 Foreman

 Jodie Girdler Bedourie Town Services (07) 4746 1202 (07) 4746 1160 Foreman

Contact details:

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.

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]. Alternatively, 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

Diamantina Shire Council Australia Day Awards January 26, 2013 Nomination Form

 Citizen of the Year – to be eligible, the person must be aged 27 or over as at January 26, 2013. This award is presented to an individual who has made a significant contribution during the current year and/or given outstanding service to the local community over a number of years.  Young Citizen of the Year – to be eligible, the person must be aged under 27 years as at January 26, 2013. This award is presented to an individual who has made a significant contribution during the current year and/or given outstanding service to the local community over a number of years.  Community Event of the Year – to be awarded to the person or group who has staged the most outstanding community event during the year.  Australia Day Junior Cultural Award – to be eligible, the person must be aged under 18 years on the January 26, 2013. People who have made a significant contribution to the cultural life of the community or an outstanding achievement in Cultural activities shall be eligible.  Australia Day Senior Cultural Award – to be eligible, the person must be aged 18 years or older on January 26, 2013. People who have made a significant contribution to the cultural life of the community or an outstanding achievement in Cultural activities shall be eligible.  Australia Day Senior Sports Award – to be eligible, the person must be 18 years or older on January 26, 2013 and have made a valuable contribution to the sporting life of the community or an outstanding achievement in sporting activities.  Australia Day Junior Sports Award – to be eligible, the person must be under 18 years on January 26, 2013 and must have made a valuable contribution to the sporting life of the community or an outstanding achievement in sporting activities.  Australia Day Sports Administrator Award – to be eligible, the person must be a duly appointed coach, official or administrator who has made a valuable contribution to their sports within the shire.

Details of person being nominated:

NAME ……………………………………………………………………………………………… ADDRESS: ………………………………………………………………………………………… PHONE: ………………………………………….. DATE OF BIRTH: …………………………

Nominated by: NAME: ……………………………………………. PHONE: …….……………………………..

Significant contributions/ and achievements: …………………………………………………………………………………………………………......

…………………………………………………………………………………………………………......

Past / present membership of community / sporting / professional organisations etc:

…………………………………………………………………………………………………………......

Other relevant background details:

…………………………………………………………………………………………………………......

Details of other people who may be contacted for further information about the nominee:

Name: …………………...... ………………….... Name: ……………………………………......

Position: …………………………………...... Position: …………………………………......

Address: …………………………………...... Address: ...... ……………………………………

…………………………………...... ……………………………………………….

Phone: ……………………………………...... Phone: ………………………………………......

To be completed by person submitting the nomination form:

Name: ……………………………………………………………………………………………

Address: …………………………………………………………………………………………

Organisation represented (if any): …………………………………………………………

Phone:………………………...... Signature: ………………………………...

RETURN OF NOMINATION FORMS

Completed forms are to be returned by 4.30 pm Friday, December 7, 2012 to: ATTENTION: Ms Kim Wildman Australia Day Nominations OR: Fax to 4746 1272 Diamantina Shire Council 17 Herbert Street Bedourie Q 4829