2019 EDITION RRP $7.95 RRP $7.95

EXPLORE THE REGION’S GROWING LIFESTYLE ATTRACTING FAMILIES AND BUSINESS

LIVE, WORK AND PLAY LIFESTYLE, JOBS AND COMMUNITY COMBINE TO MAKE THE WESTERN DOWNS THE IDEAL PLACE TO CALL HOME The Western Downs 14 Just two and a half hours’ drive is a resilient and diverse economy our region has a reputation for a CONTENTS west of Brisbane and an easy supported by a skilled workforce strong cultural scene, stunning three hours from the Gold and and thriving jobs market. natural beauty and parklands and 4 WELCOME Sunshine Coasts, the Western for hosting fantastic events. The A region where every town has a story Downs combines the charm As the energy capital of newest addition to our lineup, the of country living with the ease Australia, we continue to attract Big Skies Festival, celebrates all 6 G’DAY WESTERN DOWNS 35 What the Census says about us of access to metropolitan national interest for our wide that makes us great — attracting centres. It’s a rare mix. open plains and abundance of visitors from across Australia to 8 AROUND THE REGION A local’s guide to region’s sunshine. Coal, gas, ethanol, enjoy all our region has to offer. cafe culture Many people are discovering the wind and solar energy generation 12 INDULGE IN DINING DELIGHTS combination of good professional form the cornerstone of our The Western Downs - an A local’s guide to region’s opportunities and a great lifestyle, economy, reinforced by our affordable place for families to cafe culture with our population continuing traditional agriculture, live, work, prosper and play. 14 EVENTS GUIDE 06 to grow, currently sitting at intensive agriculture and Massive festivals pay almost 34,000 in an area that manufacturing industries. homage to history covers the size of Switzerland. 16 ENTREPRENEURS SET UP SHOP But we’re not all solar and Petrina’s love of fashion With many positive things going sorghum on the Western Downs. 18 REAL ESTATE for us here on the Western From camel racing in Tara to Pursuing the Great Downs, one of our key strengths watermelon skiing in Chinchilla, Australian Dream 08 20 CREATIVITY ON SHOW Explore gallery exhibitions 24 INFRASTRUCTURE Energy capital of Queensland ABOUT ‘LIVE generates massive projects 29 IN IT FOR THE LONG HAUL WESTERN DOWNS’ More than just water Welcome to LIVE Western Downs, highlighting the 28 TRANSPORT SORTED best the Western Downs has to offer. Region delivers with road, rail and air Talking daily to new and long-term residents of the 30 FOCUS ON EDUCATION Western Downs the story is always the same: they Best and brightest strive love where they live and want to share the best kept for excellence secret in Queensland with other potential new residents 35 AGRICULTURE interested in making the Western Downs home. Where tradition meets innovation It is our pleasure here at TSBE, in partnership with Western Downs Regional 36 HEALTHCARE Council, to launch LIVE Western Downs and shine a spotlight on the enviable New services connecting the region lifestyle and career opportunities on offer for those considering a ‘tree change’. 40 SPORTS The Western Downs spurred by sound economic growth and investment enjoys Sports stars on the track, in the consistently low unemployment which means that excellent career and business pool or on the field opportunities exist across numerous industries. Combining these opportunities with affordable housing and friendly, open communities means new residents are 42 STAY A LITTLE LONGER often blown away by how easy it is to settle into the region. Pitch a tent or cool off by the creeks It’s a district known for welcoming industry and innovation and a stronghold for sectors including agriculture, energy, manufacturing and tourism. At TSBE, we link business with opportunity and we can help you establish or expand your enterprise CONTRIBUTORS in the region that’s home to almost 5,000 local businesses. LIVE Western Downs magazine is We hope this publication has inspired you to explore what life could be like in the produced with the help of the region’s ‘Big Skies’ region. best photographers Dan Proud of Ali Davenport Dan Proud Photography and Melissa TSBE CEO Batterham of MiaMia Photography. Additional photography has been TSBE is an independent, business-led organisation working actively in the Western Downs and surrounding regions to help local businesses provided by Western Downs Regional and promote the area so that our regional economy can continue Council and Linda Mantova. to thrive and grow. For more information about TSBE’s activity in the

1804050 Western Downs please contact us on 4639 4600 or www.tsbe.com.au.

2 LIVE WESTERN DOWNS LIVE WESTERN DOWNS 3 WELCOME TO THE REGION

The Sky’sRegion thrives as economythe Limit continues to perform

PHOTOGRAPHY DAN PROUD

he Western Downs’ economy The Tong Park piggery near Warra and full of diverse and exciting Tis achieving significant is the second largest in the employment opportunities. growth as the net wealth country and is evidence of the Manufacturing in the Western generated by the local economy scale of the local industry. Downs is growing too as many increases at an impressive Agriculture remains the region’s businesses perform well in local, rate. The cornerstones of national and even global export the economy are made up by largest employer however markets. Businesses like Dalby- their agriculture, intensive it is closely followed by the based White Industries, a metal agriculture, manufacturing construction and mining sectors. fabrication company with a vast and energy sectors. Known for good reason as the array of products for industry and In the year ending 2017 alone Energy Capital of Australia, the niche international markets, are gross regional product increased Western Downs is home to many exporting turbocharger cylinder by 14.2%, now that’s a lot of major projects forming ‘five heads and other products to very productive local businesses pillars’ of energy in the region markets in Japan and America and industries! namely: coal, coal seam gas, (think NASCAR racing!). This is ethanol, wind and solar. just scratching the surface with In the last Agricultural Census many similar examples of local by the Australian Bureau of Renewable and coal seam gas innovation across food, machinery Statistics in 2016, agricultural projects are in the media regularly and equipment manufacturing. output in Western Downs totalled announcing investments. With 18 $892 million. Broadacre farming solar farm developments approved The Western Downs has the including cereal crops totalled and the country’s largest windfarm lowest unemployment rate in 49.4% of the production with on their doorstep, not to mention regional Queensland and with all intensive livestock accounted the multibillion-dollar investments this activity it is unsurprising that for 47.7% of the remainder of that have been made over the they are warmly welcoming new output in value terms. This is not last decade into the region’s residents chasing fresh country surprising with companies like ongoing and long-term coal seam air and affordable living without the Sunpork Group continuing to gas industry, it’s evident that having to compromise the next grow their assets in the region. the region is financially strong step for their careers.

READY TO HARVEST

Broadacre farming is not only lucrative for the economy, it also creates some stunning scenery. Here a sea of rusty red sorghum stretches to the horizon.

4 LIVE WESTERN DOWNS LIVE WESTERN DOWNS 5 LIVING IN THE WESTERN DOWNS

G’DAY WESTERN DOWNS

WHAT THE LATEST CENSUS REVEALS ABOUT US

PHOTOGRAPHY DAN PROUD AND MIAMIA PHOTOGRAPHY

Ask one of your 34,000 neighbours that live here what makes the Western Downs so special and you’ll hear it’s the opportunity to grow your own business, know your neighbour and raise a family in stunning surroundings.

The latest Census data » More than 61% of us are shows that this is a region working full-time, much to admire, with cheaper higher than the state and and more expansive national average of 57%. housing than capital WHAT DO YOU LOVE » We have about the same cities, a multicultural number of managers and ABOUT LIVING IN THE community and plenty of professionals (30%) as we WESTERN DOWNS? jobs on offer. do labourers and tradies. » On average we’re 37, We work hard and play have two cars at home hard, with half of those and pay about $200 a employed clocking more week in rent. Compare than 40 hours a week that to Brisbane’s weekly » An Englishman, Irishman rent of $355, or the state Share your story on social at and Scotsman walk into average of $330. @WesternDownsRC a bar … Add a touch of and don’t forget to » This means you can German to the story and #LoveWesternDowns afford to settle down you’ve covered the major right here. We’re spread ancestries in the region. out across 15,000 » Aboriginal and Torres homes, with one-in-four Strait Islanders make residents working towards up more than 5% of the Australian dream of the population. paying off their mortgage. Our average repayments » There’s 8,188 families are about $1400 a month living here, and for those which is also cheaper than with kids, there’s two at the state average of $1733 home. That’s the perfect or the nation’s $1755. And number to avoid the age- needless to say there’s old problem of who sits plenty more bang for your in the middle seat in the buck in the Western Downs back on long drives.

6 LIVE WESTERN DOWNS LIVE WESTERN DOWNS 7 AROUND THE REGION AROUND THE REGION

AroundThere’s more to the Westernthe Downs thanRegion the stunning landscapes. Whether it’s adventure sports or captivating history you’re after, we’ve got it all.

PHOTOGRAPHY DAN PROUD, MIAMIA PHOTOGRAPHY Chinchilla Weir Prickly Pear, Western Downs Sorghum on the Western Downs

he Western Downs machinery collections in monument dedicated to Tleads residents and Queensland, along with the Cactoblastis moth, journey-makers on a tour of authentic colonial buildings whose larvae eradicated WANDOAN sprawling country in every and heritage artefacts. If the invasive prickly pear direction. Across the region tractors aren’t your thing cactus that was destroying there’s an all-in country then why not immerse valuable farming land. spirit that shines through a yourself in local art and The Miles Historical Village backdrop to exploration and culture at the MyALL 107 Museum is an iconic centre adventure, with the perfect precinct instead, or simply in the region. Established in mix of pubs, restaurants take a stroll along the banks 1971, locals and visitors alike and hidden cafés to treat of Myall Creek. can take a step back in time yourself as you go. The Hotel is a exploring the more than 30 DULACCA Warra MILES The Cunningham, majestic pub that’s been buildings in the turn-of-the- DRILLHAM Leichhardt, Warrego lovingly restored to its early century village including a CHINCHILLA and Moonie highways days in 1906. It’s a part of hospital, café, bank, post JANDOWAE link a variety of unique a historical area in the town office and bakery. BRIGALOW destinations and local that includes a pedestrian Craft beer can be hard to WARRA tourism hotspots. underpass linking the two CONDAMINE BELL find on tap outside of major JIMBOUR sides of Warra separated WEST cities, but the Windsor by the railway. KOGAN KAIMKILLENBUN Hotel in Miles has been Many move west from Early explorer Ludwig named the first pub to Toowoomba along the Leichhardt and his party set stock Pirate Life beers on Warrego Highway, through DALBY out from the Darling Downs tap in Queensland, with a the major towns of Dalby, GLENMORGAN in the mid-1840s. In one dark ale being served to TARA Chinchilla and Miles, with expedition members of his patrons. Co-owner Jaimee plenty of stops enroute. MEANDARRA party disappeared without Neilsen said the decision to Brigalow’s general store a trace. Now a popular add the keg to the line-up is often the first stop on fishing hole, Charley’s Creek was to serve fly-in-fly-out the way, both Brigalow and in Chinchilla was named workers. 4 Pines Draught Macalister’s landmark silos after aboriginal tracker also features on the pour on display that locals may Charley Fisher, who saved list at the pub. one day see painted with Leichhardt and his party, Take a weekend to check- MOONIE stunning murals like the tracking them on horseback out Possum Park, about adorned silos at Thallon, for 70 miles. 20km north of Miles, where south of St George. For licensed fossickers, you can stay in underground Visit Dalby’s Pioneer Park Chinchilla offers a trail bunkers that were once Museum which has one of through rural properties part of RAAF Kowguran, an the largest working pioneer in search of petrified explosive storage site used tractors and agricultural wood, ending at a in World War Two.

8 LIVE WESTERN DOWNS LIVE WESTERN DOWNS 9 AROUND THE REGION AROUND THE REGION

SAVE THE DATE

Time your trip and you could include a day out to see the annual Opera at Jimbour in July hosted at the iconic local Homestead or spend a fashionable weekend trackside in Dalby by day.

CHINCHILLA’S

NORTH hut. The museum also has BOTANIC Tara’s original police station From Dalby head north jailhouse and court house. to hike or camp at the PARKLANDS SET stunning Bunya The Meandarra ANZAC Mountains at the edge Memorial Museum TO FLOURISH of the Western Downs, or celebrates the bravery and explore small towns like sacrifice of the first Anzacs Jimbour and Jandowae, with memorabilia collected TAKE TIME OUT TO ENJOY or Bell and Kaimkillenbun. by locals over 30 years. The Bun pub is well-known, Glenmorgan’s Myall along with Jimbour’s THE GREAT OUTDOORS Park Botanic Garden historic homestead. Gallery is dedicated to PHOTOGRAPHY CONTRIBUTED For those headed north Dorothy Gordon, housing from Miles along the a collection of her original Leichhardt Highway, stop wildflower paintings and is Hot summer days in Chinchilla are set to be cooled off with in at Wandoan to visit the a host to touring and local construction underway on the largest parklands project Juandah Head Station. exhibitions with a botanical in the region, an almost $6 million Botanic Parklands. focus. Montys Garage SOUTH Vintage Car Museum is a he parklands ties the town’s tourism attraction as Or take the southern 1940s-style auto garage the home of the watermelon, and will bring families route from Miles through with 70 restored vehicles. T together with a waterpark and recreational space. Condamine to explore The tiny settlement Indigenous cultural history, the railway heritage at the Tara, Meandarra, Moonie of Moonie, where the site and a Megafauna Discovery Space pays homage or Glenmorgan. Leichhardt and Moonie to Chinchilla’s ‘giant wombat’ mega-marsupial are all The Tara and District Highways intersect, is included in the design. Historical Museum houses home to Australia’s first oil Like many major projects to boost tourism and liveability, much of the town’s heritage, field established in 1961 the Parklands have been talked about since the 1970s, from a 1929 fire engine and is still operational finally finding a home on the 4.2 hectare site. Stop in off to shearing mementos, today. The town is also the highway and enjoy a break with the kids. Blue Moon picture theatre home to the now biennial projection equipment, and an Yabbie Races which are set Welcoming major performances in the future, the site will authentic 1912 ‘Brauers’ slab to be held in March 2019. also house an amphitheatre for up to 1500 revellers.

10 LIVE WESTERN DOWNS LIVE WESTERN DOWNS 11 EATING OUT EATING OUT

TRY THESE PIPS’N’CHERRIES, ON FOR KATTY CAKES, DALBY BELL TRY: The chocolate TRY: Steak sandwich SIZE Katrina’s main street café Annette and Kate’s offers a rotating menu of destination café is stunning cupcakes from a scenic 30-minute Lemon Curd to Tiramisu, Something Tasty drive from Dalby. The delicious lunch options LOCAL’S GUIDE TO DINING IN, FROM renovated Freemason’s including toasted hall is filled with paninis, and a range of vintage furniture and sandwiches for those HIGH-TEA TO STEAK SANDWICHES displays to match the on the run. Looking for feel of the café with something special? She PHOTOGRAPHY CONTRIBUTED sweets in store. RESTAURANTS creates cakes for For ethnic special occasions. cuisine in Dalby, WANDOAN CAFÉ AND try out the URBAN PADDOCK, recently opened COFFEE SHOP, DALBY Lum’s Chinese WANDOAN Restaurant’s TRY: Quambi Rueben TRY: Fish, chips & salad sweet and sour Transforming the pork, or try a Stop in at the historic Quambi House dish from their gorgeous coffee shop just off the highway, menu, including in Royds Street, 45 Urban Paddock offers gluten-free. Lotus minutes north of Miles, sunny verandas, a River Chinese and try out a coffee gift store and most Smorgasbord and cake, smoothie, importantly, seasonal Restaurant and salad wrap or a fruit menus. An outdoor My Noodle Box are platter for a healthy playground encourages some of Dalby’s way to hit the highway. families to take time diverse dining out together. options. There are also Thai and JAMPACK’D CAFÉ, THE DOWNTOWN Indian restaurants JANDOWAE offering something CAFÉ, CHINCHILLA Sample a range of delicious. TRY: Chicken Parmi flavours. Cara is Chinchilla’s Giving the café new making her mark Masala Hut offers life in early 2017, owner on Jandowae. Make an Indian menu Jatinder has revamped sure you stop in for with curry, korma the former Rustlers breakfast or coffee and tandoori Espresso Bar to open and try a slice of meals that can The Downtown, offering homemade cheesecake be enjoyed in- new menus, world with flavours like store, takeaway flavours and Lamington or Mocha or delivered. his own twist on at the family run café. Thai Delicious favourite recipes. and Cheong Kong Chinese restaurant offer THE CREEK CAFÉ, MOONIE CROSSROADS, delicious flavours. Local produce is the secret MILES MOONIE ingredient behind the fresh TRY: The Eggs Benny TRY: Pork Belly flavours and gourmet offerings in restaurants Hiding just off the A roadhouse with the across the Western Downs. main highway, the lot, Moonie Crossroads offers locals and weary From traditional pub fare to café encompasses a travellers alike, country authentic cuisine, the region florist and gift shop. has mouth-watering menus hospitality with a fuel Catering to paleo and station, hotel, bottle to suit every taste, with many gluten-free and serving entrepreneurs looking to stake shop, caravan park, fresh juices, decadent their claim in the industry. and an art gallery, this breakfast options and is the one local hotspot. lunches on the go, this cafe is well-known.

12 LIVE WESTERN DOWNS LIVE WESTERN DOWNS 13 EVENTS CALENDAR

Thousands of visitors and families flock to towns across the Western Downs Had a great time at any of these events? PLENTY TO to celebrate the historical, cultural and agricultural success. Grab the swag or Share your story at @WesternDownsRC and don’t forget to #LoveWesternDowns CELEBRATE campervan because once you set up at the camp grounds, you’ll struggle to leave!

CHINCHILLA MELON FESTIVAL Bring a change of clothes! Once you see the melon skiing TARA FESTIVAL OF CULTURE AND CAMEL RACES and bungees, you’ll be ready to get messy. If you haven’t seen a jockey saddle up a camel then try and race them down the final furlong, this is the event for you. Thousands of melons are chased down the main street, carved up and trampled on at the all-in biennial festival The biennial Festival of Culture and Camel Races is a for the senses. Jump on the bus for a farm tour or watch three-day event for the senses, with the Tara Camel Cup, the rodeo, biggest melon weigh-in, cooking demos and multicultural shows and dancers, busking, bus tours and even a beach party at the pub that gives the festival its food from all over the world on offer. well-deserved reputation.

FEBRUARY 14 – 17, 2019 AUGUST 2 – 4, 2019

BIG SKIES FESTIVAL DALBY’S DELICIOUS AND DELIGHTFUL FESTIVAL Western Downs Regional Council’s newest festival A one-day spring festival celebrating Dalby’s rich kicked off in 2018 and showcases the best of the west. multi-cultural community, the Delicious and DeLIGHTful Festival brings together a year’s worth of themed Joining the inaugural week-long Big Skies Festival, locals lantern workshops, with 2017 hosting a dinosaur theme and visitors went trackside for the Dalby Picnic Races, and 2018 showcasing under the sea creations. stayed out under the stars for the Camp Oven Experience, and went on a guided tour of the galaxy with Big Night Sky. The lantern parade is the festival’s signature event The Day on the Plain music festival at the iconic Jimbour throughout the town with hundreds of huge creations House amphitheatre topped off the showcase with massive floating along the streets, capping off a day of performance, artists. Get ready to do it all again in 2019. workshops, markets and international flavours.

27 APRIL – 5 MAY 2019 AUGUST 17, 2019

JANDOWAE TIMBERTOWN FESTIVAL MILES BACK TO THE BUSH FESTIVAL The Timbertown Festival brings the streets of Miles residents show off life in the Jandowae to life every two years, celebrating it’s bush at the biennial hometown festival. 10th anniversary in 2018. Those attending the festival are given a glimpse of Barrel racing, chainsaw sculpting, busking, wood chopping, artist yesteryear at the Miles Historical Village Museum’s bygone and photography exhibitions, the sausage king competition and era streetscape, while the CBD experience is supercharged the signature street festival and grand parade draw thousands with a street parade. Country hospitality comes forward as to the town and a boost to locals and the local economy. The pubs and hotels fill out, high teas are hosted, and events festival has been held every second year since 2002 as part of including tractor pulls and a bush obstacle course get under what used to be the June long weekend in Queensland. way over four days.

JUNE 2020 SEPTEMBER 2020

OPERA AT JIMBOUR TOWN SHOW SCHEDULE Pack a bottle of wine, some nibbles and grab your picnic Each regional town celebrates its blanket as you head to the sprawling historic Jimbour talent and success at the local show. House to watch the Opera at the massive amphitheatre. The show schedule across the year offers each town the Staged by the Queensland Music Festival and the chance to highlight the diverse skills of their community, Western Downs Regional Council, this event attracts while opening the region up to tourism. For those living in up to 10,000 visitors. The first performance was held in the Western Downs, be sure to head out when shows are 2003 hosting the Brisbane Philharmonic Orchestra and on to get a true feel for the community you live in and a rising stars of Australian opera, with the internationally chance to get to know your neighbours. acclaimed festival that travels the state.

27 JULY 2019 ANNUALLY

14 LIVE LIVE WESTERN WESTERN DOWNS DOWNS LIVELIVE WESTERN WESTERN DOWNS DOWNS 15 SHOPPING INDUSTRY

OPPORTUNITY BIG DREAMS KNOCKS

PETRINA O’SULLIVAN IS BRINGING HIGH END FASHION TO CHINCHILLA

PHOTOGRAPHY CONTRIBUTED

A newly purchased shop has given downtown Chinchilla something that rivals the boutiques in bigger cities. BUSINESS OWNERS TAKE THE PLUNGE his new store is clubs and being active Tproviding a place in the school community Taroom, north of for fashionistas. have given Petrina an Wandoan, is open for insight into the demands Petunia’s Fashion Petrina O’Sullivan is the business, with four of the ladies of the region. owner, Petrina owner of a new boutique O’Sullivan has big new shops highlighting in downtown Chinchilla, “Chinchilla is a great plans for her business. NAVIGATOR PROGRAM the success of an Petunia’s Fashion. Petrina friendly town to live in entrepreneurial spirit purchased the shop in and it is wonderful to in the town. These July 2018 and couldn’t have the support of the BUILDING WESTERN new businesses can be happier with how people that live here.” set the example for the community has the continued growth Petrina has big plans for DOWNS BUSINESS embraced her shop. in other small towns, the future of Petunia’s with a homewares “I have lived in Chinchilla Fashion and will introduce Supporting regional innovators store and coffee all of my life and went more homewares lounge, a clothing to both primary school and gifts ideas in the PHOTOGRAPHY CONTRIBUTED store, shoe shop and high school in town,” coming months. “Since and butchery all said Petrina. owning the store l have opening in 2018. introduced local candles, The Western Downs Business Navigator Program is helping develop new “I am a wife and a mother scrunchies, jewellery and business opportunities in the region to capture the next big idea. » Andrea Beard, along to four boys between the cowhide bags from the with her husband ages of 14 to 20 so it is Sunshine Coast and this AHEAD OF Justin, a fifth- nice to be surrounded by The program, which is an initiative “Through the Business Navigators is just the beginning,” generation butcher, such pretty and feminine of Shell’s QGC and delivered by Program, we want to provide local she said. opened AJ’s Country things at work.” THE PACK Toowoomba and Surat Basin Enterprise, businesses with more opportunities Meats in mid-May. “I also really love the offers consultation and guidance to to connect and grow their ideas and “Being local l have had racing fashions and I will business owners and entrepreneurs. to remain sustainable well into the » Deberella Shoes great response from the definitely be prepared future,” he said. owner Deborah residents in Chinchilla, Two full-time coaches support 45 with plenty of stock Graham had waited Miles and surrounding small to medium business owners or “This will support a thriving regional for the racing calender many years before areas,” she said. entrepreneurs in the region over the economy, making businesses more meaning locals don’t taking the plunge to three-year program. viable and creating jobs for local people. open her retail store. Being involved over the have to travel to get their Petunia’s Fashion years in many sporting fashionable racewear.” stocks brands The coaches provide individual, “We are looking forward to seeing » Clothing store including: face-to-face coaching to help locals what new and innovative ideas are HB Styles is run by evolve fledgling ideas into commercial developed in the region.” Taroom’s Hayley » Cooper St products and thriving businesses. Bennett, and » Elliatt Many business owners and » Threadz These coaches bring extensive entrepreneurs have already submitted » Tania Kerlin’s My Australia experience and expertise in financial their ideas to the coaches in a pitch Country Lane has » Sunny Girl planning, business development, challenge in a bid to win one of the big been humbled by the » Little Lies innovation and entrepreneurship cash prizes on offer. local support from support to their role. » Wish For more information about residents. Shell’s QGC Operations Manager, the program contact Neil Daly, Nagaraj Ramaraj, said the program aims Lead Business Navigator at to diversify the region’s business sector. [email protected].

16 LIVE LIVE WESTERN WESTERN DOWNS DOWNS LIVE WESTERN DOWNS 17 REAL ESTATE COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE

MILLION-DOLLAR INVESTMENTS The changing face of the Western Downs

n the past 12 months Dalby 10 already in the market. These retail and commercial hub by Ihas seen a huge boost in rebuilds, renovations and new owners and businessmen Ian development, with major construction projects are Tresillian and Bruce White. retailers joining the town. injecting millions of dollars into The Country Club Hotel that Residents have watched as the Dalby economy. sat empty after a fire in has the huge construction projects Travellers driving through Dalby reopened with a stunning behind hardware retailer will see the major facelift of renovation that maintains These rebuilds, Bunnings and supermarket not only the Warrego Highway, the building’s heritage after REAL ESTATE renovations and new giant ALDI take place. The price but the former RSL building being bought in 2017 by new construction projects tag for the Bunnings store build that has been transformed owner Keith and Anne Beer for are injecting millions is $12 million, bringing with it ON THE RISE into office space. Accounting $810,000. The Beer’s previously of dollars into the jobs during construction. Dalby economy. business Crowe Horwath has ran the Dalby McDonald’s for a These businesses add to a moved into the centre, with number of years. Dalby State IT’S A GREAT TIME TO OWN YOUR competitive retail market in the more spaces available to School that fronts the highway town, that supports Foodworks, create a new bustling business is also undergoing a major $6.6 OWN PIECE OF THE DOWNS Coles, Woolworths and Betros hub. The tired site was empty million build after a devastating Bros for fresh food and vege, for more than four years after fire on Anzac Day in 2017. This PHOTOGRAPHY CONTRIBUTED as well as Home Timber and the RSL closed its doors, will see a two-storey building Hardware and Sunshine Mitre before being revamped as the with five classrooms built.

he great Australian With such harsh falls, real The market for Tdream to own your estate agents are now commercial real estate home is made easier beginning to see the trends is also growing, with on the Western Downs, toward returned optimism, sites across the Western with property prices with positive growth in the Downs bought and sold well below capital city region. Higher clearance to investors looking to counterparts. rates are showing signs of the future of the region, the market picking up, with as major infrastructure From massive blocks of Dalby recording its highest projects get underway. land at a steal to the number of residential sales claim to fame of having in 2018 at 190. New infrastructure, the country’s cheapest industry and housing house and land sold in The affordable house affordability is enticing Dulacca for $25,000 in prices continue to attract families and business 2018, now is the perfect buyers, with first home to the South West time to jump into the buyers and new residents region, attracting people housing market. to the region able to who want a country secure their future in lifestyle and professional Prices slumped in the buyers’ market. Real rewarding career. many Western Downs estate agents are seeing towns following the end clearance rates returning LJ Hooker is just one of the construction to pre-boom numbers. of many residential and phase of the resources commercial real estate boom. The tightening The median price of a companies to specialise of lending criteria and home in Dalby is now in the Western Downs. market changes also around $210,000, with The team cover an area Brand new carpark & travelator entrance off Marble Street affected prices. prices closer to $300,000 of 8000 sq kms to find Over 40 Specialty Stores in the pre-boom period. the best buys and leasing In the past five years With Dalby now hosting arrangements on offer. Undercover Parking with more than 450 Carparks towns in the region have a Bunnings store, DIY seen price drops of about weekend home-fixers Other agents include Ray 220 seat Foodcourt 40 per cent across the are looking to be the White, Fitzsimmons Real Western Downs, with next House Rules winners, Estate Dalby, RuralCo, 5 Star Parents Room Chinchilla hit the hardest just like Luke and Cody Surat Basin Real Estate Free Wifi , 17-67 Cunningham St, Dalby QLD as some prices drop by Cook, who took out the and Dalby Real Estate dalbyshoppingworld.com.au 50 per cent in five years. competition in 2016. and Rentals. OPEN 7 DAYS

18 LIVE WESTERN DOWNS LIVE WESTERN DOWNS 19 ART AND CULTURE

CHECK IT OUT

FOR THE ART

01 Chinchilla artist, Syliva LOVERS 01 Secombe with her art for the 02 Western Downs regional Artists’ Exhibition at Dogwood Crossing TAKE A STROLL THROUGH Regional Artists Exhibition. 02 The Moonie Crossroads EXHIBITIONS TO REVEAL HIDDEN hosts an eclectic mix of art in its gallery. TALENTS IN WESTERN DOWNS 03 Miles Historical Village Museum takes you to a PHOTOGRAPHY WESTERN DOWNS REGIONAL COUNCIL bygone era with a heritage streetscape to explore. The region mixes its heritage and creativity to showcase 04 A Dingo sculpture in a vibrant art scene hosted throughout each town’s art Jandowae marks the start galleries, museums and historical villages. of the 5,400km dingo barrier fence to keep them out, as he two-level purpose- Dogwood Crossing in well as a replica of a piece of Tbuilt Gallery 107 in Miles is a jewel in the 03 the original fence from 1948. 04 Dalby has maintained the region’s exhibition crown, site’s history as an indoor with a curved wall gallery sports centre, keeping used for curated shows the timber floor and walls as well as a traditional of the squash courts exhibition space and to create a unique and collections. Touring engaging exhibition space exhibitions of emerging to rival metro art centres. and established artists The building which was are opened at the gallery the town’s former council to a wide audience. chambers, often hosts Dogwood Crossing is also touring exhibitions for art home to the town’s library lovers in the Western Downs. and other services. The gallery is part of the Historical slab hut, Athlone cultural precinct MyALL 107 Cottage, circa 1890, was which includes a cinema, restored and moved to library and radio station. its current site in 2001 in Community-run Lapunyah Jandowae by the local Art Gallery in Chinchilla progress association. The offers two exhibition spaces cottage originally had an – the Heartwood and Outer ant bed dirt floor, with Wood, for touring works visitors exploring how as well and to display the settlers lived. Its original Community Collection home is now the site of with a range of well-known the town dam. artists including botanist Original buildings, as far Grace Lithgow. back as the 1850s, still Wandoan’s Leichhardt stand at the Juandah Gallery is housed within Historical Site that became the town’s library, regularly the town of Wandoan. hosting exhibitions from Immerse yourself in the Wandoan’s Arts Council. station’s past with a folk Bluebelles Art Gallery in Bell museum, check out the old hosts monthly exhibitions of Juandah Store and stroll local artists and members the site that once ran up to of the Bell Art Group. 50,000 head of cattle.

20 LIVE WESTERN DOWNS LIVE WESTERN DOWNS 21 CHINCHILLA FORESTRY CHINCHILLA FORESTRY

CHINCHILLA TO HONOUR DID YOU “We will have one of the in the early hours looking To ensure their preservation, KNOW? FORESTRY HISTORY last standing fire towers in for a puff of smoke,” he said. the museum partnered with existence at our museum,” Queensland Department of It wasn’t unusual for him Mr Truscott said. Agriculture and Fisheries to spot two or three small (DAF) in 2016 to preserve FIRE TOWERS HELD IN HERITAGE “Fire spotters would fires in a day. the region’s fire towers, climb the dizzying heights The Chinchilla Museum with two towers already Chinchilla Historical alone every day during CENTRE FOR FUTURE GENERATIONS Society volunteer Frank is home to one of the installed on the grounds. fire season, and spend Truscott, president largest collections of Fire tower builder PHOTOGRAPHY LINDA MANTOVA Cath Brandon and fellow up to eight hours in Chinchilla Museum forestry and sawmill Arthur Leis volunteer Charles Hazard solitude peering across memorabilia in Australia. president Cath Brandon with the last remaining the forest with binoculars said with the centre’s constructed 28 Drones, survey technology and satellite systems may have rendered three-legged fire tower in at the ready.” The fire towers were in state design ready, it was now fire towers from the need for fire spotters redundant, but for forestry employee Frank Queensland housed at the 1957 to 1987. forests across Queensland down to sourcing funding Truscott, the job was vital to protecting the Barakula State Forest. Chinchilla Museum. Another museum volunteer for many decades to spot for the build. He built the and fire spotter Charles potential bush fires, which first three- Hazard spent more than saved the valuable timber “It is hoped we’ll attract he forest spans more than The Chinchilla Museum stepped legged tower in 40 years scaling the towers resources from wildfires forestry buffs from around 280,000 hectares from north in to preserve history, creating the Queensland at T to keep watch during fire the country, as there are Fire Tower Interpretive Centre. for about 70 years. Mount Binga, in east of Chinchilla to Brigalow, season, from the months of very few places you can see One of the unique features the Yarraman area and for decades spotters Mr Truscott now volunteers teaching September to March. a similar display,” she said. of this region’s fire towers is in 1967. Leis is watched from lookout towers for the next generation on how the “Sometimes I’d work seven their three-leg construction, Ms Brandon said once also believed to be the early warning signs of danger. forest was protected in the past. days a week particularly like the Coondara fire tower the centre was complete, behind the design. during storm season due to that stood for 40 years, it would create a new lightning strikes that start traditionally tours had tourism opportunity and wild fires. I was in the tower four legs. attraction for Chinchilla.

The extensive grounds of the Museum has a collection of buildings that have many stories to Chinchilla Museum tell, including the first State School with wall charts, handy crafts by students and much more. There is a 1890’s slab hut and community halls show casing the life style of local communities. The sheds have a large and varied collection of farm machinery. The Cypress Pine Centre alongside the steam saw mill documents the history of the timber industry in Chinchilla.

The miniature train runs the first Sunday of every month and is available for birthday parties.

OPENING HOURS Thursday to Saturday 9:00am to 4:00pm The Chinchilla Men’s Shed is also located at the Sunday10:30am to 4:00pm Museum and is open every Thursday from Monday 9:00am to 4:00pm 9:00am to 12:00pm. CLOSED Tuesday and Wednesday Wongongera Cottage www.chinchillamuseum.com.au

22 LIVE LIVE WESTERN WESTERN DOWNS DOWNS LIVE WESTERN DOWNS 23 DEVELOPMENT DEVELOPMENT

The network power grid capacity has » Glencore is set to establish a $7 also grown, thanks to the renewable billion coal project in Wandoan, sectors inputs in the region, with 10 coal potentially producing up to 22 million fired power stations sharing the grid with tonnes of thermal coal annually when gas and renewable energy developers. operational. Before this project can Another key strength of our region is begin, it will require a rail link to the our skilled workforce which soak up Port of Gladstone for export. WE ARE SHINING! construction roles that have emerged » The $500 million Western Downs in the past decade, with manufacturing Solar Energy Farm at Kogan marked and haulage companies also benefiting the 10th approval of a solar project from the growth in projects. WESTERN DOWNS PROVES IT’S THE in the region. Tilt Renewables and WHAT’S IN THE REGION: Yellow Solar submitted plans for up ENERGY CAPITAL OF AUSTRALIA to 900,000 solar panels on land » Project Charlie: QGC’s $1.7 billion surrounding the Powerlink Western PHOTOGRAPHY WESTERN DOWNS REGIONAL COUNCIL coal seam gas development near Wandoan creating close to 1600 Downs sub-station near the Kogan jobs during its two year construction Creek Power Station in Hopeland. ore than $5.5 billion in and taking advantage of the ramp phase, and up to 400 wells. » Other companies in the region renewable energy projects up in activity at a number of solar M » AGL’s wind farm is expected to have include APLNG, Yancoal’s Cameby are in the pipeline, including farm sites in the region. a capacity of up to 460MW, with plans Downs Mine, APA’s Darling Downs AGL’s $820 million Coopers Gap A whole range of industries to add electricity to Queensland’s Solar Farm and Beelbee Solar Farm, wind farm, and 15 approved and local businesses support power grid by 2020. This wind farm Gladstone LNG, QCLNG, Senex solar projects and counting. these developments, creating could supply up to 240,000 households Energy’s Western Surat Gas Project, During the construction of strong flow-on effects throughout and generate up to 200 jobs. Stanmore Coal and Equis Energy. Australian largest wind farm, the supply chain. Hotels and massive turbine blades will be motels have benefited from headed to site, as well as the workers driving in and out of parts needed to set up the site the region, as well as local at Cooranga North, near Bell. contractors over a diverse range These projects offer short and of services picking up contracts BUSINESS long-term work within the region, which support construction and with residents already noticing operational services. Developments totalling billions of dollars are taking place or are in the PROFILE pipeline, which bodes well for future prosperity on the Western Downs. TRAINING CENTRE SCALES HEIGHTS OF SUCCESS Diamond Protection Chinchilla is giving residents and resource workers the opportunity to be trained in vertical rescue, HAZMAT and firefighting as part of its training arsenal, keeping employees and jobs in the region. This reduces the need for employers to send staff to Brisbane for training, reducing time spent away from work sites as well as fatigue for those travelling return by car. The centre can host sessions for schools, emergency services groups like QFES and the SES, as well as community groups.

24 LIVE LIVE WESTERN WESTERN DOWNS DOWNS LIVE WESTERN DOWNS 25 OPPORTUNITY INDUSTRY

WESTERN DOWNS IS A OPPORTUNITY PLACE OF OPPORTUNITY KNOCKS FOR YOUNG WORKERS Western Downs Regional Council is at the forefront of offering young people the opportunity to start their careers JOBS, TRAINEESHIPS, PHOTOGRAPHY CONTRIBUTED & APPRENTICESHIPS Growing and training the workforce in FOLLOWING THE WIND any have and dynamic element to traineeship with the region is a key prospered from our workforce.” Council has given me M avenue to retaining What it’s like to work on a traineeship or the chance to become Council currently has 30 local professionals apprenticeship independent, be part of Australia’s largest windfarm project and maximising according to Mayor trainees and apprentices a great organisation and local procurement across a diverse range of do a job I really enjoy,” The Coopers Gap Paul McVeigh. and opportunities in PHOTOGRAPHY CONTRIBUTED departments. she said. Wind Farm will have the Western Downs. “In the Western Downs, a capacity 453 Karsha Dewis started her “There are so many Thanks to a range we have many school When Tim Knill decided to pack up his life as a Civil Engineer 14 years ago to MW and produce business traineeship with opportunities at Western of training providers leavers who are eager embark on a Master’s degree in Science at the Danish Technical University, he around 1,510,000 Council in February 2018. Downs Regional Council, already established to start their careers,” didn’t think it would lead to managing the construction of Australia’s largest MWh of renewable you can set yourself up across the region, as he said. windfarm. But he wouldn’t have it any other way, working between Dalby and energy, powering The 18-year-old works for a great career from well as traineeships Kingaroy in regional Queensland, overseeing the Coopers Gap Windfarm Project. approximately “At Council we want in the Tara Customer business to working in on offer at businesses 264,000 average to foster their ambition Service Centre and said our parks and gardens. like Western Downs Australian homes. and talents to help starting her professional Regional Council, “I’ve had an amazing Investment Corporation contract to design and “I love coming to work our community. career with Western graduates and those career since returning (and its clients) to build the windfarm. each day because there Downs Regional Council looking for a career from Denmark. I’ve been develop, own and “We take on new trainees is a great atmosphere, Tim said GE-CATCON was a great decision. change can stay working in the renewable manage approximately and apprentices every everyone is willing to help will be responsible for a where they live, or join energy sector ever 1,000 MW of large- year who provide a fresh “Taking the business out and give you a fair go.” ‘whole of project’ solution. the lifestyle on offer. since,” Mr Knill said. scale renewable energy infrastructure assets “GE-CATCON are Tertiary training Tim is well known at “What I am really and projects. responsible for organisations like the Cooranga North the engineering, loving about TAFE QLD and Hall, where he meets the project is Tim finds working on procurement and the University of regularly with locals, the drive and the Coopers Gap construction of the Southern Queensland and on site at one of motivation I see project a deeply project and this includes provide futures the 10 host properties from everyone rewarding experience. supply, transportation, to students across for the 123 turbines. associated with and erection, fit-out and the region. There Construction has begun “It has been a long time Coopers Gap.” commissioning of the are TAFE campuses on the 850 million coming and projects of Tim Knill wind generation turbines. located in Chinchilla, dollar project and Tim is this magnitude don’t just Dalby and Roma. keeping a close eye on ‘happen’; it is a result of “Things are well on an incredible amount of WHERE TO GO TO the progress. the way now and work and communication soon people will be “This project is FIND EMPLOYMENT with key stakeholders. seeing large turbine intended to be the » Golden West components, including second greenfield “Everyone believes Apprenticeships the 67 metre long blades, project developed by in what we are » Celotti Workforce being transported to the Powering Australian accomplishing, and » Busy at Work site,” he said. » MAX Employment Renewables Fund everyone is aligned to » Classic Recruitment (PARF) and is an that goal; it’s a very “They will be pretty » GO2 People important innovative collaborative space.” conspicuous on the local piece within their roads and will spark a A consortium between portfolio,” Mr Knill said. lot of interest,” he said. electrical giant, GE, PARF is a landmark and civil engineering Tim said the project partnership created by construction company, is on track to be AGL and Queensland CATCON, won the completed by June 2019.

26 LIVE WESTERN DOWNS LIVE WESTERN DOWNS 27 TRANSPORT INDUSTRY

WELL CONNECTED WATER SPECIALISTS Residents are never far away from H20 haulage service delivers their desired destinations local business success

PHOTOGRAPHY CMT HAULAGE ith the Western Downs explore the outback via rail? Toowoomba Second Range Waccessible via road, The Westlander passenger rail Crossing, also affectionately rail and air, residents find takes passengers to Charleville referred to by locals as the MT Haulage owners CMT specialises in water loading time. The round- themselves more connected twice weekly stopping in Dalby, Western Downs Connection CCraig and Mandy cartage services for the-clock service than ever to the rest of Chinchilla and Miles. Road. This is good news Turner knew Miles, in the coal seam gas and offered makes sure the Australia and the world. especially for our regular road Toowoomba Wellcamp the heart of the Surat construction industries. projects get done. This is certainly no isolated users the ‘truckies’ who deliver Airport and its direct Basin’s resources As well as providing Within a few hours drive of region in fact, thanks to big equipment to the mines passenger flights to powerhouse, was the It’s not just the size of haulage services, most of the region, drivers Toowoomba Wellcamp Airport and agricultural product to the hubs such as Sydney, perfect home base the machinery and rig CMT is part of grass- can make their way to and its direct passenger Port of Brisbane as well. Melbourne and to set up their water support services that roots discussions on multimillion shopping flights to hubs such as Sydney, Townsville [means that] haulage company. CMT offers, it’s the centres in Toowoomba, Melbourne and Townsville, With the sheer majority of residents can literally be speed, a critical factor improving safety when it dinosaur fossil exhibits in far residents can literally be local residents travelling to transported anywhere The saying “without trucks for production and comes to the oil and gas western Queensland at the transported anywhere in the work by road it is pleasing in the world from an Australia stops” rings extraction needs. industry. Holding a high Eromanga Natural History world from an airport less than to note that by June 2019, a airport less than an true for the family-owned safety standard, CMT The water tankers Museum or a number of an hour from Dalby. $635 million upgrade of the hour from Dalby. and operated logistics Haulage are recognised company, with CMT staff provide one of the as the preferred supplier picturesque coastal towns Warrego Highway from the For those heading to or from west of Miles to Toowoomba knowing how great the industry’s fastest of rig support, water along the Sunshine Coast. Brisbane for work or play, your will be complete making outback landscape can loading and unloading and in-field wash down Why not try something journey will be more efficient weekly or daily commutes be from the long hauls rates at 2,000 litres a services in the Western different and hop on a train to thanks to the $1.6 billion even easier. behind the rig. minute, and a 12-minute Downs region.

FAMILY OWNED SINCE Surat Basin Industry Specialists in: & OPERATED IN THE SURAT BASIN Photo credit: Lucy RC Photography RC Lucy credit: Photo • 24 hour Rig Support 2 011 • Rig Moves • Dust Suppression MORE THAN • Infield wash downs JUST WATER • Potable Water • Weed Hygiene Certificates FROM • Stores / Hot Shot Deliveries 24/7 SERVICE MILES It’s easier to fly local when you fly direct from Toowoomba Wellcamp Airport - connecting the Western Downs to Sydney, Melbourne, North Queensland and Western Queensland. FIND US ON FACEBOOK

www.cmthaulage.com.au 1300 856 815 | 0417 710 125

28 LIVE WESTERN DOWNS LIVE WESTERN DOWNS 29 EDUCATION EDUCATION

OPPORTUNITY KNOCKS

TAFE PATHWAYS BEGIN LOCAL SCHOOLS The Chinchilla IN WESTERN DOWNS CHALLENGE NEXT TAFE campus, located in the HIGH SCHOOLS grounds of the GENERATION Chinchilla State High School, is OPPORTUNITIES ABOUND FOR STUDENTS School’s the life in a hub for the agricultural, the Western Downs resources and LOOKING TO STUDY A TRADE construction PHOTOGRAPHY WESTERN DOWNS industries in PHOTOGRAPHY CONTRIBUTED REGIONAL COUNCIL the region. The Dalby TAFE There is plenty of opportunity in the Western Downs for students More than a quarter (28%) of the population campus, located a who wish to pursue their careers through TAFE. on the Western Downs population are aged five minute drive between 0-18 years, making school aged from the town Downs to offer students at the various skills required education campuses vital for teaching the centre, offers TAFE Queensland next generation growing up in the region. courses in several operates two campuses Dalby State High School and in the engineering and study areas in the Western Downs at Chinchilla State High School construction trades,” he said. including aged Dalby and Chinchilla. the opportunity to be part of ith schools dotted regularly competing the program. “It gives them first-hand care, agriculture, TAFE opportunities for around the region, in sports, science, experience of the type W automotive, crime young people in the students are given the maths, events and Faculty Director of of work conducted in trades and justice, child Western Downs can begin best start in life and a academia, creating a Manufacturing of TAFE focused on engineering care, engineering, in High School through the chance to study where cohesive and interactive Queensland Southwest and construction. first aid, general Try-A-Trade program. they live. Some attend learning environment. Region, Michael Lehman, education, and “These programs are a the nearby Toowoomba The program offers Year said offering school Musician Josh Arnold hospitality. The precursor to the VET in boarding campuses, while 10 students the chance students the chance has spent time at many campus has School programs which other students make the to experience up to seven to develop their skills of these campuses, fully-equipped long bus trip each day different trades and learn through trade programs are a pathway to an leading workshops to trade workshops to their local state or the manual aspects of was a great pathway into apprenticeship for Western develop a music video for automotive further education. Downs students when they private school gates and engineering apprenticeships. to highlight the unique leave school.” Friendly competition successes of the school students. TAFE Queensland “The Try-A-Trade program across the campuses is and region. Check them collaborates with gives students the The trades on offer as part encouraged, with schools out on YouTube. engineering and construction opportunity to experience, of the program focus on businesses in the Western in a condensed format, engineering and construction.

30 LIVE WESTERN DOWNS LIVE WESTERN DOWNS 31 EDUCATION EDUCATION

QUALITY LEARNING Ag college on site breeds bright futures Catholic Schools PHOTOGRAPHY LINDA MANTOVA Students reach their full potential as Catholic One of the best school-based agriculture facilities in the country is found right education campuses foster bright minds here at Dalby State High School (DSHS) with teachers leading the way to deliver innovative programs for students. WORDS DR PAT COUGHLAN: EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR – CATHOLIC SCHOOLS, DIOCESE OF TOOWOOMBA s one of only two two full days of hands- hectares, known as Moola, Astate schools in on agriculture, as well as gifted to the campus. Australia that have a full day of engineering Toowoomba Catholic Schools has a proud history of delivering high quality Ms Milne said the school boarding facilities, at the schools’ Trade educational opportunities for students from Prep to Year 12 across Toowoomba operated two herds of DSHS took over Centre, and two days of and South West Queensland. From Roma in the North to Stanthorpe in the South; commercial Lim-Fleck/ the former Dalby core senior subjects.” Quilpie in the West to Toowoomba in the East. Simmental cross cattle on Agricultural College Classes on soil testing, site seven years ago, their two farms, including cropping, and cattle 40 breeders. The program t the heart of is that schools are each student for a rich and now operate their farming are held to also run cropping and Catholic education exemplary places of and fulfilling life. Agricultural Science A teach students the breeding programs. is a fundamental learning where every and Ag Futures Discover what makes first step in running a belief in the unlimited student experiences programs known as the a Catholic school farming enterprise. “We have a selective Dalby State High School potential of every academic success. The DSHS Bunya Campus. community unique. breeding program for our Ag Futures Program student. This belief, second is that schools Graduates of the Whether you are a DSHS Science and stud and commercial students (from left) Marlee supported by Gospel are exemplary places program come away Grady from Dalby, Tayla parent or caregiver Agriculture Department flock of Dorper sheep, values, inspires our of spiritual life and with a Certificate II Carlin and Henry Marks, looking for a quality Head Peter Donnan said running 64 breeding mission to form Catholic faith where in Agriculture as well both from Canberra, education for your child, there were currently ewes at the Bunya men and women of every student comes as a Certificate II in with DSHS Ag subject a prospective teacher or 60 boarders at the campus,” she said. co-ordinator Janine Milne. competence, conscience to know and experience Engineering that places school officer who’d like Bunya campus, with the Together, they’re processing and compassionate the loving presence of them in a prime position “We were given a $2000 to join our dynamic team, majority choosing to some of the school’s flock commitment. Jesus in their lives. when they leave high sale credit from the of dorper sheep. or you’d like to volunteer board to ease the daily school to continue Curtis family’s Bellevue For Toowoomba By working in to support our students school commute. The studying at one of the stud at Millmerran, Catholic Schools this partnership with parents, in reaching their full campus also welcomes tertiary institutions. which has allowed us to mission has two pillars parishes and the broader potential, we’d love to students from far north purchase a quality ram which support and community our schools hear from you. Visit our Ag Futures Program Queensland, Canberra, to put over our ewes.” guide how we envisage deliver a world class website or contact your and Thargomindah student Tayla Carlin said our work. The first education that prepares local Catholic school. to learn about coming from a non-rural The school also fields agricultural practices. background, and as a a competitive steer mature age student she team who have tasted “Dalby is the only state found Dalby’s Ag program success at shows school in Queensland the most appealing. throughout the Western with an Ag Futures Downs, as well as the Program, and our all-day “I did a lot of research Brisbane Ekka. delivery is quite unique,” before I enrolled, and it Mr Donnan said. is the best facilitated ag For some, the next school farm in Australia,” step after secondary “Our ultimate goal is to Tayla said. education is to stay become a model school in the region and for Ag teaching, with Senior Agriculture teacher attend the Queensland a very high-profile Ag Janine Milne said learning off the land was made Agricultural Training syllabus, which allows possible with the Bunya College in Dalby, where students a broad campus spanning 404 students can take on a knowledge across all hectares at the former traineeship, focusing on facets of agriculture.” Dalby Ag College site, agriculture, cropping and “No other school offers and a second site at 120 energy industries.

32 LIVE WESTERN DOWNS LIVE WESTERN DOWNS 33 BUSINESS AGRICULTURE

OPPORTUNITY KNOCKS On the Land AGRICULTURE THRIVING WITH A HEALTHY MIX OF TRADITIONAL AND INNOVATIVE PRACTICES

PHOTOGRAPHY DAN PROUD

To find out more about your local Chambers, please Fertile black soil plains have been the lifeblood of the Western Downs’ consult the directory provided. rich agricultural economy worth more than $500 million.

CHAMBERS OF he region delivers agriculture’s economic boom, Sandalwood, Bottle Tree COMMERCE DIRECTORY Tsome of Australia’s with 170 registered cattle and Aronui. finest wheat, sorghum, feedlots, two million meat Innovation is the key cotton and cereal crops, poultry birds, 78.6 million Dalby Chamber strength across agricultural BUILDING YOUR producing 38% of eggs produced annually, of Commerce pursuits, with the region Queensland’s cereals and 120 registered piggeries P 07 4662 4050 welcoming the burgeoning and legumes. caring for 430,000 pigs. NETWORK E [email protected] Algae production industry www.dalbychamber.com.au More than 196,000 cattle The figures speak for and freshwater fish Getting connected with your are sold through the Dalby themselves. The gross farming at Condabilla Fish. Chinchilla Community Saleyards each year – the annual production value of This adds to the diversity business community Commerce & Industry Inc second largest saleyard pigs tallied at $67.7 million of the region’s offerings P 0407 554 862 in Queensland, shoring and the region processes and opportunities. PHOTOGRAPHY CONTRIBUTED E [email protected] supply routes and market 409,000 cotton bales, But just as the region www.chinchilla.cciq.com.au access for the 4,600 beef helping drive the 4.75% thrives, its men and women producing properties in the agriculture growth. of the land have a strong Finding success and opportunities for business is always easier Jandowae Business and Western Downs. with help from your local chamber or progress association. Community Group Some of Australia’s biggest social licence and back good P 0400 720 469 But it’s the intensive animal feedlots have established causes – keep an eye out E [email protected] industries and processing strong businesses in the for the pink bales for breast he Western Downs has many business people gather together. facilities that are driving Western Downs including cancer on the horizons! Tgreat community and business They also provide a strong voice for groups available to residents’ the business community and exist Miles and District keen to get involved in their local to lobby and raise the concerns of Chamber of Commerce 0415 122 320 communities. However, when it local businesses with all levels of P www.miles.cciq.com.au comes to networking opportunities government and major businesses. and getting to know local businesses then you can’t go past the Chamber Joining the local chamber is a cost- Tara Futures Group of Commerce in your town. effective investment into your career/ P 07 4665 3465 business and among other benefits E [email protected] Not-for-profit business chambers are members typically receive discounted www.tara.cciq.com.au dotted throughout the area, in Dalby, event tickets, access to newsletters Chinchilla, Jandowae, Miles, Tara and and the ability to raise their concerns Wandoan Community Wandoan and all share one universal on local issues. For those seeking a Commerce & Industry Inc goal. That is to work for, and with, membership that stretches further P 07 4627 5200 businesses and individuals to promote afield they can also consider joining E [email protected] and share the region’s diverse the Toowoomba and Surat Basin www.wandoan.cciq.com.au industries. Whether it’s Agriculture, Enterprise (TSBE) which hosts a Energy, Manufacturing, Tourism, selection of conferences and events Toowoomba and Surat Basin Transport and Logistics or Health all throughout the Western Downs and Enterprise business types are welcome. surrounding regions as they strive to P 07 4639 4600 These passionate, volunteer-driven link businesses across Agriculture, E [email protected] organisations are well known for Construction, Mining and Health with www.tsbe.com.au hosting regular events where growth opportunities in their sector.

34 LIVE WESTERN DOWNS LIVE WESTERN DOWNS 35 HEALTH & LIFESTYLE HEALTH & LIFESTYLE

JANDOWAE MEDICAL CENTRE New Medical Centre means Healthy Life increased services on offer KNOW YOU’RE LOOKED

he Jandowae for up to three doctors to Opportunities for training AFTER ACROSS THE REGION community has service the community the next cohort of T PHOTOGRAPHY MIAMIA PHOTOGRAPHY welcomed the opening and reduce the need for doctors and specialists of a new medical centre, patients to travel long has also opened up with Wambo Medical, add to distances for care. the larger centre. the services available in The new centre has six Before the new centre the town, catering to consulting rooms, two opened, Jandowae an aging as well as treatment rooms and two was serviced only by growing population. Quality services at nurse consulting rooms. Dr Luke Dwyer as well The former Wambo as Director of Nursing Regional healthcare your doorstep Medical Centre has Leesa Deacon. services are bridging been revamped to offer General medicine the gap for health and Outside of the new greater services. ive hospitals are operate telehealth population in the Gynaecology allied health services as centre, the Jandowae Fspread across services to give area, where 26% of The new centre in High well as greater choice Hospital has 12 beds, the Western Downs rural patients residents are aged Oncology Street Jandowae has a and improved health including five beds for region servicing access to care over 55. dedicated ambulance outcomes by being ‘long-stay’ residential the health needs without travelling. To that, Western Paediatrics parking bay and room seen in the town. aged-care residents. of an aging but Downs Regional active population. As the auxiliary’s Urology inaugural president Council has Under the State from 2013, Mrs developed its Age Cardiology Government’s Donohoe said in Place initiative, Orthopaedics Darling Downs services keep a planning scheme Hospital and patient care front that identified Quality services at Health System, the then supported Obstetric of mind. Western Downs health precincts Mental health your doorstep have hospitals in “We are a small for the co-location Chinchilla, Dalby, but very dedicated of public and + More General medicine Jandowae, Miles group of 10 and private health and Tara, with an have organised an infrastructure. Gynaecology outpatient clinic annual Rural Health In Tara, two aged in Wandoan. Night to raise Oncology care facilities awareness of health These hospitals operate, with Carinya issues and related Paediatrics effectively deliver Aged Care and the programs,” Mrs accessible health Tarcoola Aged Care Urology Donohoe said. services to the far Facility available. reaches of the region “To date these Cardiology World-class and are operated by events have focused health facilities Orthopaedics passionate staff with on prostate cancer and specialist a love of rural living and diabetes and treatment is also Obstetric and patient care. emergency services.” available on the Mental Health Wandoan Health Twelve aged care district’s doorstep Auxiliary president, providers in the with Toowoomba + More Cecelia Donohoe, region have a Hospital, St whose passion for combined 345 Andrew’s Private regional health operational places and St Vincent’s care has seen allied which equate to Private working services expand $15.2 million in collaboratively in from the town’s Toowoomba and Federal funding. clinic, to host a the wider Darling visiting doctor This funding Downs Hospital and twice a week, and supports the aging Health Service.

36 LIVE WESTERN DOWNS LIVE WESTERN DOWNS 37 LIFESTYLE LIVING LEGEND

ROOTS RUN DEEP IN CHINCHILLA Sturgess family’s sweet secrets to growth across region

PHOTOGRAPHY LINDA MANTOVA

Chinchilla’s Sturgess family know how to carve up the competition at Chinchilla’s LIFE IN THE REGION biennial Melon festival. If you’ve ever bitten into a fresh slice at the event, chances are Murray Sturgess grew it on his Evandene property. A LOCALS INSIGHT INTO LIVING e’s been involved but they stocked it dozen times, and is a IN THE WESTERN DOWNS CONVERSATIONS Hwith the festival with Shorthorn cattle, familiar face around since it began in 1994, bought in with them the dusty grounds. and still remembers from their previous PHOTOGRAPHY CONTRIBUTED IN ENGLISH Murray says he loves when he was outdone property, which weren’t watching his sons and by one of his sons, suited to this country, grandchildren play the Kyron in 2011. Kyron’s and they started Zita Stark experiences the best a rural lifestyle has to offer, finding friendships and rich sport with his sons melon was 6kg heavier growing wheat,” Mr cultures in Chinchilla through the Conversations in English group she facilitates. Kyron, Cameron and than his, tipping the Sturgess said. scales at 50kg, and Bryce all having played s Stark immigrated English class, and later taking groups host events, share one of three Big Melon He said his dad grew locally for Chinchilla Mfrom Budapest, over the Chinchilla branch dinners and learn from Weigh-In titles he’s his first melons at and the state. Evandene in 1973 after Hungary, moving first of the group, that also has each other’s cultures and won. However Kyron Murray said for him, clearing some of the to Brisbane in 2012 before a branch in Dalby, Ms Stark backgrounds. At one time also remains beaten, polocrosse stood out Family future: Murray and Wendy Sturgess heavily timbered land. settling in the Western found her passion. more than 17 nationalities with the 87.5kg record as a sport that brought know how to grow a winning watermelon at Downs the following year. were represented by the Zita highly set by Bernie and Matt Evandene, north of Chinchilla. She believes once the “We grew dryland melons excitement and a She shares the warm group’s attendees, showing recommends Davies in 2007. confidence barrier is broken, for 16 years, before genuine family friendly welcome she received with the strength in diversity. ‘Conversations many of the participants Great quality soil building a ring tank, atmosphere to the others, while learning from in English’ - an become more active in Ms Stark’s other love is for has enriched the and ever since we have competition. There’s a the land between shifts at award-winning, their community. nature and the land, and how watermelon yields been growing seedless big family mentality that the local library and cinema. free friendship it shapes the community. on Sturgess Farming melons under irrigation, comes naturally to the “It’s very hard when you group for those “When I moved here, leaving that, at its peak, has producing 860 tonne pitch, and is something don’t also speak English. A “Chinchilla is such a unique who have a city of more than two previously produced last season,” he said. that keeps him coming lot of migrants are highly town, it’s a strong town English as a million for a town of around 1,500 tonnes in a year. back every season. educated, they just lack the culturally and is big enough second language. Murray was just a child 5000 residents was a big himself when they A 15 year racehorse daring and courage to go to have everything you need Designed to help Murray’s wife Wendy change,” she said. moved to Chinchilla. A training career is also out and make friends. – a community centre, the participants shares his life on the love of the farm led to thrown into the mix Ms Stark soon turned big food chains, and facilities practice their land, with the duo “This group is a huge him studying animal of Murray’s career around her initial feelings like the cities have, we aren’t English in a celebrating almost passion for it fills my heart husbandry, a skill he uses highlights, with a 1983 of isolation by joining as a missing out,” she said. friendly and 40 years together. with warmth. I’ve been on the to breed more than 500 win in Ipswich. volunteer to a number of supportive Four generations have other side and I know what “Farming in our region is very lived on Evandene, cows on the property groups including gardening, environment As a true Chinchilla it’s like to not yet have the different than in Europe, and after Murray’s parents alongside the fruit. church, aged care and this project is a local, Murray has confidence, but once you I’m blessed to learn about Jean and Bill first events, immersing herself joint initiative Murray’s other passion watched the town grow, find it, it’s amazing.” farming life. It’s physical purchased the property in the region. by Chinchilla is polocrosse, with particularly in the past and hard work, but it’s so 50 years ago. Murray She said while the Chinchilla Library and the three terms under decade. He said while “I was overwhelmed at amazing to experience.” later acquired three group was social and family Chinchilla Family his belt as the the dynamics have how lovely people are here, neighbouring properties. orientated, the Dalby group Join Conversations in Support Centre. Chinchilla Polocrosse changed, it remained a and I wanted to give back was more about workers English at the Chinchilla “The property was a Club president. He’s warm, friendly country to the community.” getting the English they Library on Wednesday’s dairy farm when mum represented the town, perfect to settle Joining the Conversations in need to maintain jobs. The from 1pm until 3pm. and dad bought it, state more than a down and raise a family

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PULLING THEIR WEIGHT

SPORTING STARS RAISE THE BAR IN THE BUSH

PHOTOGRAPHY B. STUART, AUSTRALIAN WE’VE GOT IT ALL COVERED! WEIGHTLIFTING FEDERATION Check out just some of the sports clubs on offer in the region below. Miles resident Chloe Kerwick, 22, has flexed her muscles NAME SPORT at a national level, representing the region and taking home a bronze medal at the 2018 Australian Open Chinchilla Fishing and Fishing Weightlifting Championships, qualifying her for the Restocking Club Inc BREEDING GROUND nationals later this year. Chinchilla Netball Inc. Netball hloe is one of a Deb is an Australian Chinchilla River Rats Rugby Union FOR CHAMPIONS Cgrowing group of Olympic and Chinchilla about 20 weightlifters Tennis Commonwealth Games Tennis Association SPORTS ARE A BIG PART to hail from Miles, weightlifter champion, thanks to the tireless Chinchilla having won Gold at the Polocrosse Polocrosse Club efforts of trainers found 2006 Commonwealth OF LIFE IN THE REGION at the Murilla Fitness Games, as well as Rugby Dalby Diehards Centre in Miles. representing Australia League PHOTOGRAPHY CONTRIBUTED Another member of the at two Olympic and five Dalby Gun Club Shooting Saints Weightlifting Club Commonwealth Games. Many of our elite and beloved sporting champions have had Kylie Salisbury, 15, qualified Dalby Kart Club Karting When she first moved Chloe Kerwick shows her their start on the hallowed fields of the Western Downs. to compete in the open to Miles she was strength at the Australian Dalby PCYC Basketball level at the Nationals. Open Weightlifting Basketball Association training on the concrete Championships in 2018, Former Queensland State as well as represent his times in recent years Club Coach Sonia slab out the back of winning Bronze. Dalby PCYC Netball Netball of Origin and Bulldogs country in athletics and and have excellent Stenhouse trains the next the Presbyterian Church great, Steve Price, hales cricket as a schoolboy. playing fields and generation of champions, where her husband Dalby Pistol Club Shooting from Dalby, as well as facilities which are saying club members As well as boasting strong Josh is a minister. popular Broncos player, continually being regularly competed. Dalby Tara Rifle Club Shooting rugby league and rugby Andrew McCullough. upgraded utilising funds Many of the club union clubs in many towns “Everyone starts out Dalby Volleyball Volleyball raised by both the club, members also attend If you care to step back in the region, Chinchilla training with a stick or a local businesses, and Miles State High School. Jandowae Junior Rugby Rugby to the 1990’s, Jason is the home of one of light bar, and the ultimate generous grants from League Club League Little was arguably one the strongest polocrosse goal is to increase the To continue to develop the Western Downs of Queensland’s and clubs in the state. weight you lift,” she said. sporting stars, the club Jandowae Pony Club Equestrian Regional Council. Australia’s greatest was proud to receive Chinchilla Polocrosse Club “Weightlifting is very Jandowae Race Club Horse racing centre pairings on the Sport is an important part a substantial amount plays host to an annual careful and progressive, rugby union paddock, of life for any regional of equipment from the Meandarra Bowls Club Bowling carnival, which brings as it is a very strictly with Little a product of community and staying together enthusiasts of supervised sport … Commonwealth Games the Western Downs. active is extremely Miles and District Horse the game from all parts coaching is very Legacy Committee. Gym Amateur Race Club Racing relevant in today’s A Wallaby great, Little, of central and southern one-on-one.” equipment was also society the communities Saints Weightlifting who was born in Dalby, Queensland and northern donated to the centre by Weightlifting within Western Downs still Sonia began coaching Club, Miles and grew in the Jimbour New South Wales. Origin Energy. enjoy a range of excellent when Deb Acason, who district, played his junior Wandoan They have hosted sporting facilities and established the club in The fitness centre Polocrosse sport in the region, and Polocrosse Club the Queensland clubs run by pro-active 2013, moved to Ipswich is located beside the went on to play for his State Polocrosse committees made up of in late 2015. Miles pool. Tara Polocrosse Club Polocrosse country on 72 occasions, Championships several passionate individuals.

40 LIVE WESTERN DOWNS LIVELIVE WESTERN WESTERN DOWNS DOWNS 41 WATERWAYS WATERWAYS

HEALTHY WATERWAYS Consider your summer plans sorted

PHOTOGRAPHY DAN PROUD

One of the best attributes of living in the Western Downs is the camping CAMPING and nature parks right on your doorstep, with plenty of opportunities to explore and camp in the region. PLANS?

he first stop Conservation Park The banks of Tfor camping is a well-known Dogwood Creek or exploring plans and established on the western should be the campground with side of Miles are Bowenville Reserve. amenities, picnic an ideal quiet spot Just 20 minutes east areas, wood fired for fishing for those with a permit, as well of Dalby, and only a barbeques and Overnight as a free relaxing few kilometres off walking tracks camping is campground among the highway, this around the fresh also available the trees just west small rest area by water to relax and at many town of the town. A heavy Oakey Creek can unwind. Waterbirds showgrounds vehicle rest stop is revitalise your mind and wildlife are found sites, as well as: and set you up for the nearby, along with found just across next day of adventure plenty of room to set the open highway, » Waterloo Plain or break from your up the campervan with an undercover Environmental Park, Wandoan working week. or motorhome. A area and amenities. Others stay at Gil playground area » O’Sullivan Park, Dalby’s winding Myall Weir for its popular completes the family Wandoan Creek pathway is fishing spot for those friendly area. The site a favourite spot to with a fishing permit. » Chinaman’s is well signed and stroll the picturesque Lagoon, just found just a For those headed waterway, with geese south of Miles on few kilometres off south to Condamine, along the banks the Leichhardt the highway. A small stay at Caliguel and pelicans often Highway spotted on the water. fee applies on arrival Lagoon, a perfect Lizards and other for camping. stop that like » Caliguel Chinchilla’s facilities, Lagoon, wildlife among the The Chinchilla bottle trees and allows waterskiing Condamine Weir is a favourite and boating when gums that line the » The Gums spot of locals, with the water level is banks are often Store, The Gums the freshwater weir high. In Tara, take spotted by keen offering thrill seekers walkers. The pathway in the Lagoon » Westmar a chance to waterski, Parklands that Rest Area near Dalby’s CBD canoe, swim or fish. is also a favourite feature Settlers A permit is needed Park and the Walk » Brigalow Creek for early morning for those looking of Remembrance Campgrounds, joggers, with newly for some down time Garden. The lagoon is Meandarra build bridges to cross to sink the reel in part of Undulla Creek the water away from » Round Water to catch a big one. and host to a serene the nearby weir. Hole, Chinchilla Campers can settle camping ground with Heading south in for up to two great facilities and » Richard Best from Dalby on the nights for free at the powered sites, with Memorial Park, Moonie Highway, the site with the help of a 2km walk around Warra Lake Broadwater barbeque facilities. the water.

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