Coober Pedy Opal Festival Brings Former

FREE Tel: 08 86725 920 http://cooberpedyregionaltimes.wordpress.com Thursday 15 - 28 April 2010 COOBER PEDY OPAL FESTIVAL BRINGS FORMER Congratulations progressed to the town Sunday was dedicated must go the Opal oval where everyone to the Coober Pedy Festival the Gem enjoyed both family Area School's 50th Trade Show and community Anniversary where RESIDENTS HOME TO MECCA committees and the activities together, former students caught many volunteers ending in traditional up with each other and along with the fireworks. wondered at the organisers of the changes since the days Coober Pedy Area While mums and dads when many of them School 50th Anni- tossed the sausage and didn't bother wearing versary. enjoyed events, the shoes to school. kiddies were able to Visitors to the annual participate in Everyone is looking Opal Festival are supervised activities forward to the next increasing each year including a great train Opal Festival as Coober as all the diehards make ride around the oval. Pedy nears 100 years their pilgrimage "home" Volunteers manned the of opal mining. to the Opal Captital. children tent with lots of special entertain- With the crowds that The weekend of ment. flocked to the town for celebrations which The whole weekend the Easter celebrations began on Friday was a treat for locals it's not surprising that continued on to whose families Coober Pedy is listed in Saturday’s fun-filled travelled to the town the 10 top attractions in day beginning with the with so many places to South Australia as a street parade which visit together. must see destination.

OPAL MINER CLAIMS LOTTO MILLION Photo: Peter Rowe Above: The school’s 50th Anniversary featured in the parade with past students representing the years that have rolled by with banners

Left: Fabian Kenny, (Saints player) leads the Tug-O-War in this event against tough odds with not only the raw end of the rope but CAAMA’s G- Man coaching the opposing team! The Gem Trade Show

Our next ﬁ re season’s hazards have already begun to surface.

There are a few things you can do right now to help reduce bushfi re fuel. Vegetation can be a major carrier of a bushfi re. When selecting new plants for your property, check that they are not highly fl ammable in a bushfi re. Keep an eye on vegetation surrounding your property and if growth becomes excessive, start cutting back over winter. For more information on keeping your property bushfi re ready, visit www.cfs.sa.gov.au

Above: A beautiful piece of Allan’s Rise Opal WDM21701 is displayed at the Gem Trade Show by local exhibitor, Tony Maric

Left: Jimmy (the runner) Nikoloudis leads the parade after a marathon from Olympic field carrying the symbolic opal on behalf of past opal miners. Photo: Peter Rowe The COOBER PEDY REGIONAL TIMES available ‘WORLD WIDE’ READ Newspaper FREE online at: http://cooberpedyregionaltimes.wordpress.com PO Box 275 Coober Pedy SA 5723 Editor Coober Pedy Child Care Links Youth & Social Ph: (08) 8672 5920 Margaret Mackay Sue Britt Tanya Lauder Rose Temple Email: [email protected]

DEADLINES + Publishing 21 April 23 April -29 April 05 May 07 May - 13 May

19 May 21 May - 27 May Local Scribes ie. 5pm Wednesday - Articles Regional Scribes 5pm Friday - Advertising

Advertising Rates Black & White Display $6.30 per cm/col Classified $8.00 per cm/col Colour on Application Inserts on Application Helen Williams Charlie-Paris Lynnie Plate Veronica Hartnett Nilpinna Stn. Regional Dog Reporter Oodnadatta/Outback Mintabie/Outback DISTRIBUTING 4,500 + to THE CAAMA RADIO TEAM IS YOUR STORY SA : ADELAIDE CENTRAL & PREPARE TO TAKE OVER Suburbs. Also Cavan, Bute, Pt. IMPORTANT ?? Pirie, Dublin, Minlaton, Pt. THE OPAL FESTIVAL Simple Tips Broughton, PT. AUGUSTA, Snowtown, Pt. Wakefield, Ceduna/ 1.) WEDNESDAY - FRIDAY is the Thevenard, Pt. Lincoln, Woomera, LATEST material can be accepted Roxby Downs, Hawker, Leigh Creek, Arkaroola, Marree, Copley, 2.) DO NOT send information on Parachilna, Nepabunna, Lyndhurst MICROSOFT PUBLISHER Quorn and Stations, Innamincka, Andamooka, Pimba, Glendambo, 3,) DO NOT attach photos to Kingoonya, Tarcoola, Cook, MICROSOFT WORD documents. Prominent Hill Village, COOBER 4.) Attach photos to email using PEDY, Cadney Park and Stations, “paperclip” (do not reduce Marla, Mintabie, Oodnadatta, William photos) Creek and Stations, Witjira - Dalhousie 5.) Include captions with names All Communities: APY LANDS, with all photos to avoid disappointment NT : Kulgera, Erldunda, Yulara 6.) Deadline dates are on the Stuart Well, ALICE SPRINGS, RHS of this page (check first) Aileron, Kings Canyon, Tennant Tel: 08 86725 920 Creek, The CAAMA Radio Team in between interviews at John’s Pizza Bar. G-Man, Angel, Ashwin Nand & Minungka “Noosky” McInerney Email: [email protected] http://cooberpedyregionaltimes.wordpress.com FAR NORTH - 7 DAY WEATHER COMMENCING 13/4/2010 SUBMISSIONS NOT received Copyright Notice by Friday, prior We’ve been working hard to provide you to printing may with interesting, useful and newsworthy information. Please remember that all of or may not the content published by CPRT, Log on to appear in a including articles, photos, images, future graphics, advertising, layout, printing weather.com.au plate content and related material, is website for edition. owned by CPRT, or by other information up to date providers who have licensed their Coober Pedy Deadline dates content for use in this publication. and and format Additionally, the entire content of the Regional Coober Pedy Regional Times past and requirements present is copyrighted as a collective weather are on page 2 forecasts. work under Australian copyright laws Coober Pedy Oodnadatta Tarcoola Andamooka and may not be reproduced without written authorisation. The owner of the Disclaimer: Opinions and letters published in The Coober Pedy Regional Times are not necessarily the views of the Editor, or Publisher. The Coober Pedy Regional Times reserves the right to edit or omit copy, in accordance with newspaper policies. collective work is the Coober Pedy Letters to the Editor must be attributed with a name, address and contact phone number - names and town of origin will be Regional Times Newspaper. printed, or may be withheld at the Editor’s discretion. During the course of any election campaign, letters to the editor dealing with election issues or similar material must contain the author’s name and street address (not PO Box) for publication.” Page 2 Coober Pedy Regional Times Thursday 15 April 2010 OPAL NEWS Adventure Tours Australia Group GENERATIONS OF OPAL MEN REFLECT proudly supports the Coober Pedy Regional Times ON THEIR HARD-EARNED HISTORY & Outback Communities

We are a small groups tour operator who has the greatest variety of tours catering for the adventurous traveller.

As well as many exclusive features we offer tours at different levels of fitness. Accommodations from swags under the stars to snug beds and trip lengths from one day to several weeks – the choice is yours! For full details visit our website www.adventuretours.com.au or phone our friendly reservations team (within Australia) on 1300 654 604 Group charters are our speciality For further enquiries please email: [email protected]

Marla Travellers Rest Fuel - Meals - Accommodation Ph/Fax (08) 8670 7001 Members of the opal mining fraternity who can claim the “hard yards” are Ken Rosewarne, George Rosewarne, Frank Novosel and Dave Bowman indulging in the spirit of Coober Pedy’s 95th year of opal mining. Glendambo Roadhouse Mobil Fuel - Meals - Bus Stop Ph: (08) 8672 1092

Spud’s Roadhouse Pimba Fuel - Meals - Accommodation Ph: (08) 8673 7437

carry the At the Gem Trade Show: Paul Reynold (Centre) with Bryce Taking a break outside the Gem Trade Show are George Coober Pedy Regional Times Tickner (right) catching up with friends. Marcus Aslamatzis and Freddie Zelkanovic. Freddie a long term Hammermeister (far left) opal miner is currently working fields in Queensland THE MINERS TRANSPORT CO P/L Johns Pizza Bar & Restaurant Servicing the Outback since 1961 Open 7 days 9:am -10pm General Carriers Ph:(08) 8672 5561 Road Trains - Flat Tops - Breakfast 9am-11am Curtain Siders ♦ Alfresco dining,Takeaway Departing Adelaide - ♦ Relax in air-conditioned comfort Wednesdays & Fridays ♦ Internet access - or as required (full loads) ♦ Servicing Coober Pedy - Group bookings and Functions welcome Prominent Hill - Surrounding ♦ Extensive, newly prepared menu for breakfast, Areas lunch and dinner. Depot - Adelaide 12 Myuna Street ♦ A large selection of pizzas as well as a range of Regency Park Ph: 82681795 new regular meals available. Coober Pedy: C/- Miners Store ph: 86725051 P.O. Box 69 Coober Pedy SA 5723 We Transport Almost Anything Ph:08 8672 5561 Fax:08 8672 5537 Email: [email protected]

Thursday 15 April 2010 Coober Pedy Regional Times Page 3 REGIONAL NEWS Nominations Now Open For the WORD MEANINGS 11th ANNUAL REGIONAL AWARDS IN THE “Submission” Submission - Dictionary results [Middle English submissioun, FAR NORTH REGION Spelled[suhb-mish-uhn] from Old French submission, from Latin submissio, submission-, a Nominations are now open for the 2010 Nominations are open to individuals, groups and 1.an act or instance of submitting. lowering, from submissus, past Annual Advantage SA Regional Awards, which businesses who live and/or work in regional South 2.the condition of having submitted. participle of submittere, to set under; celebrate outstanding achievement in Australia in the categories of Arts, Community 3.submissive conduct or attitude. see submit.] regional South Australia. Group, Community Individual, Tourism, 4.something that is submitted, as an Sports, Small Business, Large Business, application. The American Heritage® Dictionary 2010 Advantage SA Regional Innovation, Sustainability and Youth. 5.Law. an agreement between of the English Language, Fourth Awards categories: parties involved in a dispute, to abide Edition The 2010 Regional Awards mark the first year by the decision of an arbitrator or under the new name and revised direction, arbitrators. Entry: sub·mis·sion • Large Business Category sponsored Advantage SA, the evolution of SA Great. 1 : an agreement to submit a dispute by Westpac to and abide by the decision of an • Small Business Category sponsored South Australians are urged to support the Origin: submission- a letting down arbitrator submission —Albert v. by Westpac Regional Awards and nominate individuals, groups Goor, 218 Pacific Reporter, Second and businesses that have demonstrated pride and Word Origin & History - Series 736 (1950)> • Innovation Category sponsored by submission the Department of Trade and Economic excellence in the Far North region. 2 : an act of submitting something Development submission of a properly completed 2010 winners will be announced at the Advantage Early 15c., "act of referring to a memorandum —J. H. Friedenthal et • Sports Category sponsored by SA Regional Awards ceremonies held annually in third party for judgment or al.>; also : something submitted Nippy’s seven different regions across country South decision," from O.Fr. submission, 3 : an act of submitting to the • Sustainability Category sponsored Australia. from L. submissionem (nom. authority or control of another by Hames Sharley submissio) "a lowering, sinking, Merriam-Webster's Dictionary of • Tourism Category sponsored by SA For the first time in 2010, Regional Awards yielding," from submissus, pp. of Law, © 1996 Merriam-Webster, Inc. Tourism Commission nominees can also nominate for the 2010 South submittere "lower, reduce, yield" (see • Youth Category sponsored by Australian of the Year Awards. submit). Sense of "humble Encyclopedia - submission Adelaide Showground obedience" is first recorded mid-15c. • Arts Category Nominations can be made online by visiting Mod.Fr. submission has been form of animal behaviour in which www.advantagesa.com.au, or by collecting a one individual attempts through • Community Group Category replaced by doublet soumission. nomination form available from local outlets - Online Etymology Dictionary, © appeasement displays to avoid injury • Community Individual Category by a dominant member of its own • Hall of Fame sponsored by Telstra Telstra dealerships, Regional Development 2010 Douglas Harper species. Appeasement displays are Australia offices, visitor centres, shopping commonly found in species that are Nominations for this year’s Advantage SA centres, or by calling Advantage SA on sub·mis·sion [Surrender] 08 8211 8111. well armed (e.g., carnivores) and Regional Awards will close Friday 4 June 2010. The act of submitting to the power social. The displays, even when of another: "Oppression that cannot performed by adult males, be overcome does not give rise to commonly incorporate elements of THUMBS UP revolt but to submission" (Simone infantile behaviour (e.g., in wolves, To the Drive In volunteers for all the hard work they do to put on such great Weil). rolling over and begging for food) movies for us town people. Reading the story about Tina and how much time it The state of having submitted. or of precopulatory behaviour (e.g., in baboons, presenting the buttocks takes to prepare and then tidy up after a movie made me realise how very much worth it, See Synonyms at surrender. The act of submitting something for to the dominant animal). Sometimes it is for us to go to the movies and pay whatever it is to get in. Sometimes it’s free, but consideration. the submissive animal exposes its someone still has to pay for the movies. It’s good that we should pay. Thank you to all The state of being submissive or most vulnerable spot, such as the the volunteers who probably have other jobs which are just as eventful as Tina’s job. compliant; meekness. throat, to the dominant animal. CADNEY HOMESTEAD http://www.cadneyhomestead.com.au/ THUMBS UP We were visiting Coober Pedy over 155 kms north of Coober Pedy on the Stuart Hwy Easter and were touched to see the magnificent community spirit at the Opal Festival. It’s our first Festival and what Hotel/Motel & Budget Rooms UTHS MATTERS stuck us was the fantastic blending of all Fully Licensed Restaurant cultures. We weren’t sure what to expect when we Caravan Park & Camping came here. It was a warm feeling and All Fuel - Take Away Meals & Bar UTHS Easter Raffle Winners everywhere we went there were volunteers. Tel: 8670 7994 Fax: 8670 7934 It’s seems like nicest town to live in and what’s left of it is fairly much a last frontier like we were told. M. Bryant Located just 155kms Nth of Coober Pedy on the Stuart Highway you will find an oasis in the desert, Cadney Homestead Roadhouse. Our property offers the ideal accomodation choice for holiday makers seeking comfort and space in a true outback setting. Marree-Innamincka NRM The Roadhouse complex consists of a Hotel, District Group Motel featuring 6 modern units, Budget Cabins and Caravan Park and Camping Ground. Notice of Group FUEL STOP Meeting #16

Relax in the complex's swimming pool and spa, • Mungerannie enjoy an ice cold beer in the Cattleman's Bar followed by a first class meal in our licenced • Tuesday 4 May 2010 Restaurant. If you are feeling lucky, then try one 10.30am of our Poker Machines in the Eagles Nest For an agenda and inquiries contact the Board on Gaming Room. ph: (08) 8648 5977 or visit the Board’s website. www.saalnrm.sa.gov.au Take the time to visit the spectacular Painted Little Francis Fatt and his sister Kelish Fatt were the SALNRM011252 Desert and Copper Hills Station along the way. proud winners of Umoona Tjutagku Health Service 2010 Email: [email protected] Easter Raffle. - Photo Colleen Darr Page 4 Coober Pedy Regional Times Thursday 15 April 2010 OPAL MINER CLAIMS Tossing the Sausage MILLION DOLLAR LOTTO PRIZE! With his winning System entry, the overnight opal “ I vow this miner/millionaire won an $1mil will not ? extra $6,225 in other prize change me or divisions. my lifestyle” The winning ticket was purchased at the Miners Store, Coober Pedy.

The man plans to take some time deciding how to spend his newfound fortune.

“I’m not the type for fancy The annual challenge of Tossing the Sausage has become one of the most cars and big houses,” the popular events for every age group... Results next edition man said.“I’m not sure what I’ll do with the money just yet—there A local opal miner from winner might be, but really is no rush,” he said. Coober Pedy has nobody knows it’s me,” the man told SA Lotteries. staked his claim in a $1 “Maybe I will retire, million Lotto Megadraw fortune, af- “I checked my ticket about because I can certainly ter presenting the win- two weeks ago, but I’m afford to take time off to ning entry at SA Lotter- very good at keeping think about what I’ll do ies Head Office on secrets,” he laughed. with $1 million.” Tuesday. “Until I could come to The lucky local shared the “Coober Pedy has been Adelaide, I kept the ticket March $20 million Lotto buzzing with excitement, hidden in a secret place Megadraw with 19 other speculating over who the inside my house.” Australian players.

Maria Phillis drew an anxious crowd as she wound up the sausage and braced herself for the toss. What “was” she thinking? Kiddies Tent Activities

FREE beyondblue workshops: Managing depression in the workplace Another supervised activity was the WorkCoverSA is sponsoring a number of beyondblue Playtona Speedway, an inflated obstacle workshops that aim to raise awareness of depression course, in the Children’s area. Here two and anxiety, the impact in the workplace and how condenders topple through the finish line. employers can support the return to work of employees with depression or anxiety. Sue Britt helping the youngsters to make play-dough cakes in the Kiddies Tent There are two workshops scheduled:

1. For managers, supervisors and team leaders Thursday 29 April 2010, 1.30-4.30pm Westland Hotel Motel, 100 McDouall Stuart Avenue, Whyalla Norrie.

2. For HR and OHS staff and return to work coordinators Friday 18 June 2010, 8.30am-12.30pm Westland Hotel Motel, 100 McDouall Stuart Avenue, Whyalla Norrie.

There are limited places for each workshop, so register now on www.workcover.com/beyondblue.

For any enquiries or more information, please contact the WorkCoverSA Events Team on (08) 8233 2109 or email [email protected]

Claire Hinge had the children rivetted with a story telling pantomine at the Kiddies Tent during the afternoon Thursday 15 April 2010 Coober Pedy Regional Times Page 5 COMMUNITIY NOTICES & EVENTS Outback Open Air Cinema Inc. Coober Pedy Woomera Districts SATURDAY 17 APRIL 2010 Footy Matches 2010

Shutter Island is the story of two U.S. marshals, Teddy Daniels and Chuck Aule, who are summoned to a remote and barren island off the coast of Massachusetts to investigate the mysterious disappearance of a murderess from the island's fortress-like hospital for the criminally insane. Grant’sGrant’s GyrocopterGyrocopter idealideal forfor spottingspotting opalopal floatersfloaters by: John Di-Donna Grant McFarlane flew from Moranbah in Queensland to Perth in his tandem Gyro, to compete in the Australian Sports Rotorcraft Association Nationals. Grant had just taken out 4 awards including Grand Champion then dropped in on Coober Pedy on his way home. During his pitstop Grant gave a quick lesson to Coober’s Linsay Coffield.

Inset on right is new Linsay paying attention to flight instructions before taking off for Gryro Grand Champion Linsay’s off. Coober Pedy CBD or the Opal Fields? What a grand an exciting gyro experience over Coober Pedy Grant McFarlane. idea for spotting opal floaters and a new sporting activity too! Page 6 Coober Pedy Regional Times Thursday 15 April 2010 BBAACKCK TTOO BBAACKCK PIZZASPIZZAS OOVERVER THETHE OPOPALAL FESTIVFESTIVALAL WEEKENDWEEKEND With a weekend of festivities, everyone needed to eat.

Pizzas were the go around town at Easter, not to mention all the other great items on the menus.

Left: Brothers Steven and Peter at John’s Pizza Bar

Right: Paul with his mum, Maria at the Stuart Ranges Pizza Bar Spring cleaning for the Arvo Tea EASTER OPAL SHOPPERS It’s just over a month until Coober Pedy’s Biggest Afternoon Tea. Enough time for local Even with the residents do that all important early spring clean, Gem Trade loading unused treasures into boxes for the BIG auction. Show on, wise If you haven’t used surplus items in 5-10 years, it’s and wily unlikely you’ll ever will (?) Auction shoppers will find shoppers were these a bargain while doing some early Christmas looking around shopping and raising funds for cancer at the same time.. for bargains.

This visitor Coober Pedy’s found the necklace of her Biggest Afternoon Tea choice at Umoona Opal Mine. Seen WHEN: Saturday 29 May 2010 here giving it a WHERE: Italian Club - 2:00 – 5:00pm final check in the mirror Biggest Afternoon Tea

Join us in a relaxing, fun filled afternoon over a THE OTHER SIDE OF TOWN cup of tea or coffee – gold coin donation On the other side • Good Food of town, John • Raffle Cucuk wasn’t • White Elephant Auction doing too badly • Great company as Andrew Cody was hovering Hosts: Katrina Hikl, Miriam Kammermann, and about with that Kate McLeod great big check book. It seemed Sweet or savoury plate would be appreciated like everyone wanted opal as a momento , a collectors item, a stunning piece of jewellery or even a designer made ornament ROWAN DUGOUT 4 SALE Est: 1982 UNDERGROUND EXECUTIVE four bedroom dugout BOOKS RAMSEY situated on Tom Cat Hill. Good views. Ph: (08) 8672 5920 Post Office Hill Road * Quality professionally built Send to: MP large kitchen/dining area, Coober Pedy Regional Times Coober Pedy’s Newspaper Books large lounge and games room Email:[email protected] Cards & Stationary Federal * Currently government rental Souvenirs Representative or: [email protected] Computer Supplies Stationary * One of Coober Pedy's finest Desert Parks Agent & other tours Maps & Books on the area (Whyalla) 1300 301 651 RING: Peter (Adelaide) 83820202 Download Newspaper Mobile 040 8820802 Local Information/Road report Information (Port Pirie) 1300 301 742 OR Ross (Coober Pedy) 86 723023 FREE online at [email protected] (nights) www.cooberpedyregionaltimes.wordrpress.com Phone: (08) 8672 5558 Thursday 15 April 2010 Coober Pedy Regional Times Page 7 SheeSheepp ,, LambLamb andand PigPig nnumberumberss EasterEaster aatt thethe contincontinueue toto decdeclineline OldOld TTimerimerss MineMine Sheep and lamb numbers continue to decline remain at historically low levels. and are now at their lowest levels since 1905, down to 72.7 million head, according to Key crop movements: estimates released by the Australian Bureau · Wheat production up 58% to 21.4 million tonnes. of Statistics today. · Canola production up 52% to 1.9 million tonnes. · Banana production up 31% to 270 thousand Similar falls have been reported for pig numbers tonnes, returning to pre–2006 levels. with the herd size now at 2.3 million, the lowest · Barley production up 12% to 8.0 million tonnes. since 1979. · Sorghum production down 29% to 2.7 million tonnes. Some areas experienced improved seasonal · Potato production down 16% to 1.2 million conditions in 2008-09, resulting in increased tonnes. production for many broadacre crops. Key livestock movements: Wheat and barley production have risen from · Meat chicken numbers up 12% to 82.8 million. recent lows. Grain sorghum production fell from · Meat cattle numbers up 2% to 25.3 million head. its 2007-08 record level, but remains at an · Sheep and lamb numbers down 6% to 72.7 historically high level. Both rice and cotton lint million head. production increased from the previous year, but · Pig numbers down 5% to 2.3 million head. Escapee Pigs have Easter at the Old Timers Mine, Carol Arnold and Trevor Berry making rabbits of them self on Easter Sunday giving away grown to a population Easter eggs, lots of laughter. You can take us seriously at the Old Timers Mine of up to 23 million ferals OpalOpal WWalkalk WinnerWinner Feral Pigs are escapee domestic pigs Pigs - serious environmental pest Feral pigs are the second most Pigs were recognised as a serious environmental economically destructive pest to the pest at Innamincka in the mid-90s, after agricultural industry following rabbits. successive flush seasons enabled a significant Impact on biodiversity number of pigs to move downstream from Queensland via the Cooper Creek into Their impacts on biodiversity include predation Innamincka. Biological surveys in the late 1980s of small ground nesting birds and their eggs, did not detect pigs along the North-West branch, reptiles, and frogs. Tirrawarra Swamp or the Coongie Lakes – but Attempts to manage feral pigs in Far Nth their presence was confirmed at Embarka The Department for Environment and Heritage Swamp. (DEH) has been actively managing feral pigs at Innamincka Regional Reserve and Coongie Pigs - threat to significant wetlands Lakes National Park since 2001. Innamincka and the Coongie Lakes are internationally significant wetlands, and are Escapees from the domestic pigs which were recognised as important water-bird breeding kept at homesteads are thought to have led to grounds by the RAMSAR convention. a wild population at Embarka Swamp (50km south of Coongie Lakes). Pig management program DEH responded to Up to 23 million feral pigs in Australia the pig issue in 2001, implementing the ‘Innamincka Feral pigs are a serious pest in Australia, and Feral Pig Management Program’. are found in New South Wales, Queensland and the 50 pigs removed from Innamincka in Northern Territory, with lower densities in SA 2009 and WA. Since 2001, 566 pigs have been successfully removed from Innamincka. In November 2009 Trevor McLeod announcing the winner of the 2010 Opal There are estimated to be between 4 and 23 a further 50 pigs were removed from Walk Competition ($1,000 solid opal), conducted at 12 million feral pigs in Australia at any one time – Innamincka with the valuable assistance of the noon on Tuesday 6 April depending on seasonal conditions. Innamincka Pastoral Station (S. Kidman & Co Ltd.). And the winner is………Angella Mandorff of Coober Pedy GREEK COMMUNITY ARETAS OPALS & CAMERA SUPPLIES

2010 BINGO NIGHTS CAMERA SPECIAL - 2 for $40 FRIDAY NIGHTS community Bingo 2 BATTERY 4 PACKS ( AA) $11 evenings commencing at 7.30 pm MEDIA CARDS - Buy 1 (get 2nd one at 1/2 price) Everyone is welcome Buy Media Card - get burnt to CD FREE Burn CD $5 Burn DVD $7 Many prizes to win Specials apply with voucher Page 8 Coober Pedy Regional Times Thursday 15 April 2010 MAJOR FLOODING AT ANDAMOOKA - ROXBY DOWNS - FLINDERS RANGES by Coober Pedy Regional Times & NORTH EASTERN PASTORAL Welting thunderstorms served a double dose of torrential rains on towns in the far north east of the state including Roxby Downs, Andamooka, the Flinders Ranges and far north east pastoral, severely damaging roads and flooding properties in the region.

Early evening saw the first enslaught with another trouncing early this morning.

Approximately 85 mm was recorded at the Olympic Dam mine and up to 150mm at Roxby Downs Station.

Minor flooding occurred around the mine resulting in underground activities being temporarily suspended but work is expected to resume by the end of today. Activities on the Roxby Downs shopping mall sustained Andamooka situated on a creek saw surface have not been affected. considerable flooding water gushing through the town Safety checks are being undertaken on all equipment and no injuries have been recorded. BHP Billiton is continuing to monitor the situation.

The Olympic Dam airport has not been affected and services are being conducted as normal. Some flooding has occurred in Roxby Downs with a small number of houses affected.

Significant flooding has occurred at Andamooka with major damage to local roads and the main road into the town closed.

Local resident Carl Christensen, Andamooka Opal Miner told regional radio in the morning it was the most rain he’d experienced since 1975.

Coober Pedy, Mintabie and Marla in the extreme far north were on the fringe of the storm as it passed by threatening, but with no damage. A small amount of rain was reported. The Andamooka road received major flood damages Arkaroola road near the rail crossing looking north to Copley East. Photo: Nigel Carney All the Rivers Run

Leigh Creek in the Flinders Ranges sustained reported into Lake Eyre. Floodwaters from heavy storms and recorded 60mm. Queensland are anticipated to flow into the lake in approximately a week. Floods in the Flinders Ranges at Arkaroola road near the rail crossing looking north towards Travellers to the region are reminded to continue Copley East showed the extent of the massive taking care at all creek crossings and to seek flooding in the area. information on road and track conditions from the Department for Transport, Energy and In- FLOOD ADVICE FOR COOPER, STRZELECKI frastructure at http://www.transport.sa.gov.au/ quicklinks/northern_roads/northern.asp. AND WARBURTON CREEKS Issued at 6:45 pm on Tuesday, 6 April 2010 2. RIVER HEIGHT OBSERVATIONS : Cooper Ck at Nappa Merrie 5.31m 0720am 1. FLOOD ADVICE : COOPER CREEK Tue 06/04/10 SYSTEM Cooper Ck at Cullyamurra Waterhole 6.93m River heights in the Cooper Creek between Nappa 0700am Tue 06/04/10 Merri, Qld, and Innamincka, SA, continued to Cooper Ck at Innamincka 7.72m 0700am fall. At Nappa Merri the river had fallen to the Tue 06/04/10 minor flood level category. Diamantina Ck at Birdsville 4.8m 2000pm Mon 05/04/10 At Innamincka the Cooper Creek was above 7 Issued at 2:19 pm Friday, 9 April 2010. metres; water continues to cross the causeway and flow into Strzelecki Creek. Strzelecki Creek Thunderstorms are no longer affecting the is flowing into Lake Blanche. The Cooper Creek Northeast Pastoral district. Further thunder- continued to flow west across the Strzelecki storms were expected to develop but predicted Desert. Creek levels between Cullyamurra to be severe. Waterhole and Innamincka will continue to ease over the coming week. Severe thunderstorms resulted in gaugings to 9 am of 124 mm at Roxby Downs Station, 86 mm A surface trough and upper level disturbance at Olympic Dam, 85 mm at Andamooka and 67 moving over the Northeast Pastoral on Thursday mm at Leigh Creek, including 43 mm in one hour, and Friday is likely to produce falls in the range resulting in flash flooding. of 30-50 mm over the Cooper Creek System. The State Emergency Service have advised that DIAMANTINA-WARBURTON SYSTEM people should: At Birdsville the Diamantina Creek is at the minor * Not drive, ride or walk through flood water. flood level. Flood waters continued to flow along * Keep clear of creeks and watercourses. the South Australian section of the Diamantina/ Warburton Creek and levels were rising in the Information on flooded rivers from the Bureau lower reaches of the creek. Low flows were of Meteorolog Thursday 15 April 2010 Coober Pedy Regional Times Page 9 Easter Sat 3rd and Coober Pedy Gem Trade Show 2010 Sun 4th April 2010 A busy but ambient atmosphere prevailed at the 2010 By providing this unique opportunity for miners and Gem Trade Show, which attracted a constant crowd retailers to display their high quality produce to both over the Easter weekend for the local and wider opal the public and industry buyers, the Coober Pedy industry as Coober Pedy builds momentum with it’s Gem Trade Show is becoming a annual diary entry world class opals, traders and clientele. for gem hounds and serious overseas buyers. Chairman of the 2010 Gem Trade Show, Yanni Athanasiadis said, “The trade show this year was a big success with more than 350 through the doors. The international, interstate and local buyers enjoyed the show and bought enough to make the booth holders happy.

Most of the booth holders and buyers expressed interest in coming again for next years show.

The gem trade show committee would like to thank all the sponsors and volunteers, without them the show would not have been possible. Above: Tony Wong with interested travellers. Amongst the buyers this year were Mr. Andrew We would also like to thank Phil Hart for his Cody, Ms Zhang Xiaofang, Ms Li Jin, Mr Liu enthusiasm and commitment and the department of Guangzhe and Mr Wang Yishan. For some of trade and economic development for their support The beautifully crafted venue, built by volunteers was equal to any jewellery the buyers it was a return visit. since the beginning of the show”. mall. Visitors browsed with ease and met up with many old friends

When will the analog TV signals be switched oﬀ in my area? The analog TV signals will be switched off between 2010 and 2013, and replaced by digital TV signals. The switch off will be rolled out progressively around the country, region by region. The map and the table show you when and wheree thee switch off will happen. Chairman of the Gem Trade Show Yanni Athanasiadis with long time friend and opal colleague Andrew Cody, who came prepared to purchase stocks, armed with a large cheque book and a briefcase full of pens.

Gerhard Steiniger took the opportunity to discover new trends in opal jewellery at the Tada Opal booth, assisted by Tanja of the Tada (Tanja & Dale) Opal team.

Mildura 30 June 2010 Regional SA & Broken Hill 15 December 2010 Regional VIC 1st Half 2011 Regional QLD 2nd Half 2011 Southern NSW & ACT 1st Half 2012 Northern NSW 2nd Half 2012 Tas, Perth & Brisbane 1st Half 2013 Melbourne, Adelaide, Darwin & Sydney 2nd Half 2013 Remote Central and Eastern Australia, 2nd Half 2013 Regional and Remote WA and all other areas

Where do I ﬁ nd out more? Giving some assistance to Justin Wong and Wil • Call 1800 20 10 13 Cody are Tony Wong and Trevor McLeod, although • Visit www.australia.gov.au/digitalready looking as though they are about to break into a card game in the corner. Tony Wong was busy as usual with his opal booth and Trevor as one of the volunteers Authorised by the Commonwealth of Australia, Capital Hill, Canberra Thursday 1 April 2010 Page 10 Sky Show at Opal Festival Photo Peter Rowe Photo Peter Rowe

An amazing photograph of the evenings fireworks where a huge and realistic hand shape emerges from the darkness. Each year Peter Rowe manages to capture some classic, award winning sky displays as the Opal Festival draws to a close Sperou’s - aero display was a heart thumping series of events as the dare-devil pilot plummeted towards earth and the oval. It’s Sperou’s second year and his antics are definitely a crowd pleaser

The ever vigilent Coober Pedy Mine Rescue had their SES hats on, on Saturday and were watching Sperou’s dive with amazement, totally obvlivious to passers by with cameras, which is not like Brian Underwood. Above are rescue volunteers, Dave Bowman, Brian Underwood and Peter Palmer looking hopefully confident that Sperou has everything under control!! Photo Peter Rowe Now is the time to start preparing for the next bushﬁ re season.

As this bushﬁ re season draws to a close, now is the perfect time to start preparing for the next. Check your current water storage solutions and take full advantage of winter rains to maximise your supplies. To effectively defend your home you need at least a 5,000 litre tank if you only have hoses and at least a 20,000 litre tank if you have sprinklers. For more information visit www.cfs.sa.gov.au WDM21701TANK

Floats and service vehicles move along Hutchison Street in honour of OPAL. Thursday 15 April 2010 Coober Pedy Regional Times Page 11 REGIONAL INFORMATION DENTIST DATES PinkPink RRoadoadhousehouse OodnadattaOodnadatta Coober Pedy Tel: Dental Clinic (08) 86 707 822 Freecall: 1800 802 074 www.pinkroadhouse.com.au Caravan beside School

Fax: Email: DENTIST VISITS 2010 (08) 86 707 831 [email protected] All Monday - Friday 29 March - 1 April 27 - 30 April 24 - 28 May 21 - 25 June 19 - 23 July 16 - 20 August 13 - 17 September 11 - 15 October 8 - 12 November 6 - 10 December Lions Club TRASH & TREASURE

WHAT’S ON in COOBER PEDY ? OUTBACK EVENTS MONDAYS FRIDAYS • The Marla Ambulance Training Italian Club Fish ‘n Chips Last Saturday of each Month 6.30 pm - 7.30pm Bronco Branding TUESDAYS Quiz night 2nd Friday night of 24th April YOUTH month at 8pm sharp District Council Meetings Dawn ANZAC Are your kids 3nd Tuesday each month at 7pm SATURDAYS Service on the 25th Footy Training: 6.30 pm Oval asking questions CFS Training at Marla. Mine Rescue Training about Jesus or WEDNESDAYS (Alternate Saturdays) Active Girls Group AFSS HOUSE • Oodnadatta 120th God? from 3.30 pm until 5pm Trash-n-Treasure Lions Club The Catacomb Church runs Last Saturday each Month Races & Children’s Ministries which may help Craft Group 7.30 - 9.30pm at Gymkhana 14 & Catacomb Church - Quilting or BYO CP SHOOTERS CLUB Tel: Joy Palmer 8672 5038 or June Pistol Competition 15th May Maclean 86725029 10am and 12pm Official programme Rapid Fire page 20 THURSDAYS GOLF (CP Golf Course) Italian Club: Happy Hour 6.00 - 7.00 pm. Anzac Day – April 25th – Ring Pastor Peter Palmer at the Roast/Veg commencing at 6.30 pm. Coober Pedy RSL Club, • Yunta Picnic Catacomb Church on 86 725 038 Footy Training: 6.30 pm Oval Dawn Service and street march Races & Gymkhana 1 May ENGINEERING SERVICE FRIDAYS SUNDAYS UREN ENGINEERING Greek Club - Bingo 7.30 pm CP SHOOTERS CLUB Everyone is Rifle Competition United Club PTY LTD Sundays 10am Welcome to join us Light, Heavy & Structural Soccer 7pm, Bowls 7pm Disco - Golf (CP Golf Course) Fabrication Please let us know if your events become Phantom ropes a steer Earthmoving Equipment out of date or if times and details change Repairs & Maintenance [email protected] Motor Body Building Semi Trailer Repairs, Aluminium/ Steel Milling Machines Machining & Repetition Lathes Quick Turn-around

116-118 WINGFIELD ROAD WINGFIELD 5013 Just contact us in regards to your needs PH: 08-83471119 FAX; 08 83471442 Tel: 08 86725 920 Email: [email protected] Page 12 Coober Pedy Regional Times Thursday 15 April 2010 5.1 MAGNITUDE EARTHQUAKE OFF SOUTH AUSTRALIAN COAST

Location of 5.1 magnitude earthquake recorded off the South Australian coast on Monday 5 April, 2010 A 5.1 magnitude earthquake was recorded off the South Australian coast on Monday 5 April at 11.23pm UTC within impact distance of the Great Australian Bight Marine Park. The Great Australian Bight Marine National Park in South Australia and in Western Australia is located 918 km west of Adelaide.

The Australian Government manages an estate of marine Theoretical P-Wave Travel Times (Compression waves) protected areas (MPA) in the Bight that are Commonwealth reserves under the Environment Magnitude 5.1 SOUTH OF AUSTRALIA Monday, April 05, 2010 at 11:23:41 UTC Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 The Bight Basin – Geoscience Australia Cumulative oil slick “footprint” resulting from the 10-week (EPBC Act) . The six new Release Areas offered in 2009 are located in Montara oil platform blowout and spill that occurred in the northern central part of the sub-basinThe six blocks the Timor Sea off Western Australia in 2009; superimposed The offshore earthquake was 1470 km (910 miles) SW range in size from 6000 to 6400 square kilometres. on the Gulf coast of Florida for scale. of ADELAIDE South Australia, 1005 km (630 miles) SSE of Esperance, Western Australia, 1035 km (650 The three inboard blocks (Release Areas S09-1 to 3) are Based on SkyTruth analysis of MODIS imagery from the miles) SSE of Albany, Western Australia, and 1425 km in water depths of 130 to 1600 metres.The three outer Terra and Aqua satellites operated by NASA. (890 miles) SSE of PERTH, Western Australia. blocks (Release Areas S09-4 to 6) are in water depths from 1200 to 4600 metres. The cumulative area impacted by oil slicks and sheen over The quake off the South Australian coast was much the course of the Timor Sea spill was slightly over 22,000 closer to the surface at only 10km (6.2 miles) depth The Ceduna Sub-basin is in the eastern part of the Bight square miles, an area nearly the size of West Virginia (see compared to the 46 km deep Sumatra earthquake Basin and contains up to 15 kilometres of Middle Jurassic the sequence of images in this gallery entitled Montara recorded the following day at 7.8 magnitude also by the to latest Cretaceous rocks. Spill – Cumulative Oil Slick Impact”). United States Geological Survey’s Earthquake Hazards Program The Ceduna Sub-basin has been the focus of the most Related stories (excerpts) recent exploration effort which, for a number of reasons, The map (above) shows the predicted (theoretical) travel has not met with success. Top 5 Ways to Cause a Man-Made Earthquake times, in minutes, of the compressional (P) wave from Wired Science - by Alexis Madrigal the earthquake location to points around the globe. The Composite seismic line (GA 199-05 - DWGAB-06 - travel times are computed using the spherically- HRGAB-119) across the Ceduna Sub-basin. Supersequences are labelled. According to a major analysis by Russian scientists, “Few symmetric IASP91 reference earth velocity model. The will deny that there is a relationship between hydrocarbon heavy black lines shown are the approximate distances recovery and seismic activity…” They caution that in to the P-wave shadow zone (103 to 140 degrees). Oil-rig-leak-fuel-into-the east Timor Sea off WA, spewing oil and gas at at least 400 barrels a day for 10 weeks regions where tectonic activity is already high, extracting oil and natural gas could trigger strong quakes….. Haiti warned to brace for another big quake | Australia West Atlas oil well catches fire Full article here Reuters The political response has been limited to hand-wringing More than 50 aftershocks, including one measuring 5.9 stop-gap measures and to paying for a series of failed magnitude, shook Port-au-Prince after last month’s The oil well which has caused a massive spill in the Timor Sea, off the north west coast of Australia, caught fire on attempts to plug the spill and some apparently ineffective quake. The U.S. Geological Survey says the aftershock mopping-up operations….. sequence will continue for months, “if not years”, and Sunday….. damaging earthquakes will remain possible in the coming Australia, PTTEP to Probe Timor Sea Oil Spill, Blaze months. PTTEP Australasia, a Thai-based energy company which operates the well, said the fire broke out as it made another (Update3) Bloomberg - by James Paton attempt to plug the underwater leak…. Balancing the Environment – Eathquakes and oil Australia will set up an inquiry this week into a leaking oil spills impacts on marine life For more than 10 weeks the leak has been spewing oil well that may have spewed 30,000 barrels of oil into the GREAT AUSTRALIAN BIGHT MARINE PARK and gas at at least 400 barrels a day….. Timor Sea, prompting calls for a freeze on new exploration (COMMONWEALTH WATERS) MANAGEMENT permits from environmentalists. PLAN 2005–2012 After a 10-week leak, West atlas drilling rig and the Montara wellhead platform caught fire on Sunday. WWF-Australia called the spill an “unfolding environmental Excerpt disaster” and reported seeing dolphins, birds and turtles When oil, gas and condensate began seeping into the Timor in the oil slick area. “The area commonly referred to as the Great Australian Sea PTTEP estimated it would take 50 days to plug the Bight Marine Park is made up of adjoining South well in an area described by Tourism Australia as “one of Australian and Commonwealth protected areas. “The accident shouldn’t have happened in the first place, the world’s last true wilderness areas.” so that is a stuff up,” PTTEP Australasia’s Martins told The State Marine Park, in the State (coastal) waters of ABC Radio. “In terms of the response, I think that has the Bight, combines a whale sanctuary established under been world class.” the Fisheries Act 1982 (SA) and a marine national park Marine Park established under the National Parks and Wildlife Act World’s worst environmental disasters 1972 (SA). MSN Environment Editor – Tom Levitt The adjoining Great Australian Bight Marine Park Twenty years ago, the Exxon Valdez oil tanker disaster (Commonwealth Waters) is a Commonwealth reserve spilled more than 11m gallons of crude oil off the Alaskan established under the National Parks and Wildlife coast, devastating local marine wildlife. Conservation Act 1975, which was replaced on 16 July 2000 by the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Strong winds hampered attempts by the coastguard to Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC Act)”. clean up the resulting oil slick which eventually contaminated about 1,300 miles (2,080 km) of coastline. Petroleum (Submerged Lands) Act 1967 Marine Mammal Protection Zone It caused a tragic amount of damage to the natural Offshore Minerals Act 1994 environment. Around 250,000 seabirds, 2,800 sea otters, Sea Installations Act 1987 300 harbour seals, 250 bald eagles and 20 or more killer Environment Protection (Sea Dumping) Act 1981 whales died as a result. Thursday 15 April 2010 Coober Pedy Regional Times Page 13 SOUTH AUSTRALIAN TOURISM AWARDS McARDLE OPEN FOR NOMINATION FREIGHT The State’s best tourism operators are • Benchmark against other professionals. How to Nominate Provides a Weekly being encouraged to enter the 2010 • Receive recognition of excellence by your Your nomination is considered your South Australian Tourism Awards, with peers. expression of interest to undertake the Service to nominations now open, with winners • Enhance your business performance. awards process and complete your Coober Pedy & going on to represent South Australia The Awards aims to: submission by 16 August. at a national level. • Publicly recognise and reward excellence Surrounding Areas in the tourism industry. Nominating for the 2010 South Australian The Awards are the pinnacle of excellence • Encourage and celebrate creativity, Tourism Awards must be completed online within the tourism industry, and reward professionalism and innovation in South at www.satourismawards.com.au innovation and foster best business prac- Australian tourism. tices by setting a benchmark for all tour- • Support improved business planning, Nomination fee ism operators to aspire to. development and internal analysis among $95 per nomination for SATIC members Truckin’ Frozen, Perishable and tourism operators. $120 per nomination for non-SATIC General Freight. Also Specialising in The nomination and submission process • Provide a benchmark for best practice members (non-refundable, GST inclusive) Livestock, Wool and Bulk Cartage all completed online, creating a more within the tourism industry. Nominations close Friday, 9 July. streamlined entry process for all nominees. • Continuously improve and raise Adelaide: (08) 8349 6999 standards. Submissions must also be completed Entry is open to all South Australian tour- • Reinforce the value of the tourism online, no hard copies will be accepted in Mobile: 0408 859 037 ism operators. In total, there are 27 cat- industry. 2010. Fax: (08) 8349 6066 egories this year including accommoda- • Reinforce consumer confidence in the tion, tour and transport operators, wineries, tourism industry. As a condition of entry, you will be required restaurants, events, tourism marketing, at- • Provide a better South Australian visitor to provide your product/service on a tractions and more. experience. complimentary basis if a judge’s visitation is required for your category of entry. The Awards process is submission-based Important Dates and also includes a judge’s site visit. En- For further information contact Anneliese trants are required to respond to a number Friday 9 July Nominations close Powell South Australian Tourism Industry of questions that cover all areas of the busi- Monday 16 August Submissions due Council on telephone (08) 8110 0127 or ness’ operation. Friday 24 September Category 27: [email protected] Outstanding Contribution by an Individual www.satourismawards.com.au Nominations close on 9 July and submis- submissions due sions are due by 16 August. 15. Tourism Education & Training Thursday 18 November South Australian 16. Tourism Restaurants & Catering BUSH LOGISTICS The Awards Presentation and Gala Dinner Tourism Awards Presentation Ceremony Services will be held on Thursday 18 November at & Gala Dinner. 17. Tourism Wineries, Distilleries & TRANSPORT the Adelaide Convention Centre. www.satourismawards.com.au Boutique Breweries 18. Tourist & Caravan Parks Carriers to Outback SA. For more information refer to: Categories and Criteria 19. Backpacker Accommodation Adelaide - Woomera plus all www.satourismawards.com.au. 20. Hosted Accommodation There are 27 categories available in 2010. Far North Outback Towns How to enter 21. Unique Accommodation Achieving an accolade in the State’s Submissions are judged on their content 22. Standard Accommodation and Stations incl APY Lands premier Tourism Awards, will give your and scored accordingly to the established 23. Deluxe Accommodation business a valuable marketing advantage. criteria which covers five main areas of 24. Luxury Accommodation your business’ operation: product; 25. New Tourism Development The South Australian Tourism Awards form business plans; marketing; customer 26. Qantas Award for Excellence in part of the Australian Tourism Awards. service and professional development; and Sustainable Tourism sustainability and innovation. Your 27. Outstanding Contribution by an The Awards process aims to recognise and submission should also include images, Individual promote excellence in tourism. graphs, charts and tables. 1. Major Tourist Attractions 2010 categories 2. Tourist Attractions The Tourism Awards are an annual online 3. Major Festivals & Events submission and site visit based competition. The judges are looking for a sustainable 4. Festivals & Events business; one with a business plan and 5. Ecotourism Why enter? marketing plan; demonstrated flair, inno- 6. Heritage & Cultural Tourism email: Mike Crowley Entering the South Australian Tourism vation and passion; a business that knows 7. Indigenous Tourism [email protected] Awards provides an opportunity for you its customers and has a service culture; 8. Specialised Tourism Services to: and one that has made a contribution to 9. Visitor Information and Services Tel: 08 82626313 • Raise the profile and reputation of your tourism. 10. Meetings & Business Tourism Fax: 08 82625143 business. 11. Major Tour &/or Transport Operators • Showcase your success to the industry For further information on the categories, 12. Tour &/or Transport Operators and public. criteria and rules for entry, please visit 13. Adventure Tourism COPPER CITY • Review goals and record achievements. www.satourismawards.com.au 14. Tourism Marketing HAULAGE 11 Annual Regional Awards (also) see details on page 4 TRANSPORT & Freight Needs Copper City Haulage General & Heavy Carriers Out of Areas Locations contact: (08) 82859999

[email protected]

Thursday 15 April 2010 Coober Pedy Regional Times Page 14 Festivals and Fun ! Festival, Film and Fun - LISA LEAVES COOBER PEDY what a weekend! Saying goodbye to old friends is always sad. Lisa has worked at Lucas Supermarket for as long as anyone can There is nothing like Easter weekend in Coober Pedy. remember. Lisa is off to greener pastures to be nearer Every day with new and exciting things to see and do. family. She was always there for me and made sure my A time to catch up with old friends and to meet new dog food was fresh and ready on time. With a great smile ones. This Easter weekend had more to offer than and a welcoming hello. I will miss you, have a great life. most. My family was doing the week’s shopping on Thursday Woof Woof, Charlie Paris before Easter, when I couldn’t believe my eyes. Parked next to us was Ernie Dingo!! Yes!! I do mean Ernie D. [email protected] Dingo, casual Hero and Movie Star and explorer of The Ernie enjoys a wide range of leisure activities such as Great Outdoors. camping, hunting, boating, fishing, relaxing at the beach and traveling in the back of the Ute. He’s much better looking then his photos; He looks so distinguished with a little gray at his temples. I didn’t Ernie particularly enjoys catching yabbies and crabs, with think anyone would believe me, so I got mum to take a the scars on his muzzle to prove it. He has even been photo of him. known to try his hand at Bull Riding but fortunately didn’t make the pro circuit. OH! You didn’t think I was talking about Ernie Ashley Dingo from the Croc. Dundee films. I’m talking about the very famous Ernie D. (dog) Dingo, a real bush dog, with the good looks of an Errol Flynn and Indiana Jones put together.

There is nothing that Ernie D. Dingo can’t do. I could listen to his stories all day. To get his story I had to get hold of his press people. Let me just say, it was easier to get the Queen of England’s email address then Ernie’s. I gave Lisa's hand a goodbye lick. She said she ERNIE’S PRESS RELEASE would never wash her hand again

Ernie was born in William Creek in 1997 and will be My Mum wouldn’t let me on to the road to get the Easter celebrating his 13th birthday in May this year. eggs that each float passed out. (Chocolate is bad for dogs, she always says) My favorite was the merry go From a young age he was very adept at many bush skills. round with the teddy bears riding the horses. All I could think of was, all those yummy, fluffy teddy bears in one Ernie has a keen nose, allowing him to track even the Ernie on the hunt, in the great outdoors smallest of rodents to much larger animals like feral cats, place. I could make a mess of them. goats and camels. Camping and sleeping around the camp fire is a favorite I barked at the skydivers all weekend. The fireworks were of Ernie’s and he always likes to share his fresh catch so colourful and loud, not really my thing. Next year can Tracking feral cats has been a specialty of Ernie’s over with his Dad, Ken by leaving the rabbit’s head on Ken’s the past 13 years with a large decline in the feral cat they put on dog events, running, jumping and dog dancing, swag for when he wakes up in the morning. In his I would win them all. population of the far north South Australia attributed to constant desire to explore and track, Ernie has managed his hunting skills. to get himself lost a couple of times in the Outback. Not so much from his bad tracking skills, but his Dad unable SUNDAY to keep up with him. I had to have a sleep in, too much dog dancing the night Thankfully his Dad is patient and persistent and has spent before. The 50th Anniversary of the Coober Pedy Area many hours driving hundreds of kilometres in circles just School. I was very interested in the Spaghetti pig out, I to find him. could do that justice. I did wander around bit,

Nowadays, getting a bit grey in the muzzle and Broni Le Sue, a very good mate of mine was working approaching the ripe old age of 91, Ernie is enjoying a hard with her helpers in the canteen. George Cooley’s life of retirement. He spends his time traveling across the talk was so good I felt I was there with him all those state, catching up with his friends Bessie, Mia & TJ and years ago. relaxing at the beach on the Eyre Peninsula. To end off the day, there was a free movie night at the Ernie's business card states, (yes, like me , he has a card) drive in. Bran Nue Dae, A free BBQ and fruit salad and among other things, that he does poultry mustering, atti- custard. I had the best night, lots of friends came and tude re-adjusting, pallet mountaineering, wheel talked to me at the car. I got a sausage and some left washingand is an all round good Dingo. over custard. Ernie,watching the parade on Saturday SATURDAY The film was fantastic, the first Aboriginal musical, with Jessica Mauboy, Dan Sultan and Ernie Dingo (2 Ernie Ernie has enjoyed a life of work and leisure by helping to I think the street parade, is the best start to the Opal Dingo’s in one weekend) Congratulations to everyone run the family business. He has his own spot in the office, Festival. I loved it this year; I must say I wouldn’t like involved you know it was a good night when at the end of regularly attends the Tool Box meetings, contributes to to pick a winner. The fairies were great and the honey the movie people are clapping and beeping their horns and the Company newsletter and plays favorites with the ant was spectacular, what a lot of work went into that. I still talking about the BBQ and film days later. Office women to see who he can win over with the tin of hid from the fire truck because they were spraying people Schmackos. with water. An exhausted Woof Woof, Charlie Paris.

Services Available to the Out- back STREAKY BAY

Thursday 15 April 2010 Coober Pedy Regional Times Page 15 CLASSIFIEDS ADVERTISING Deadline for Classified Material is Friday 5 pm prior to publishing. See page 2 for Rates, Deadlines & Publishing Dates POSITIONS VACANT EXPLORATION LICENCES

Mining Act, 1971 Notice is hereby given in accordance with Section 28 (5) of the Mining Act 1971, that the Minister for Mineral Resources Development proposes to grant Exploration Licences over the undermentioned areas. Applicant: Tianda Uranium Australia Pty Ltd Location: Hamilton Creek area - approx 120 km north of Marla Pastoral Lease: Tieyon Term: One year Area in km²: 892 Ref: 2009/00336 Applicant: Arckaringa Energy Pty Ltd Location: England Hill area - approx 110 km northwest of Coober Pedy Pastoral Lease: Mount Willoughby Term: One year Area in km²: 920 Ref: 2010/00037 Applicant: Arckaringa Energy Pty Ltd Location: Arckaringa area - approx 110 km north of Coober Pedy Pastoral Leases: Mount Barry, Arckaringa Term: One year Area in km²: 868 Ref: 2010/00038 Applicant: Arckaringa Energy Pty Ltd Location: Copper Hill area - approx 120 km NNW of Coober Pedy Pastoral Leases: Mount Willoughby, Evelyn Downs Term: One year Area in km²: 804 Ref: 2010/00039 Applicant: Hiltaba Gold Pty Ltd Location: Robin Rise area - approx 40 km southwest of Coober Pedy Pastoral Leases: Mount Clarence, Mount Penrhyn, Mabel Creek Term: Two years Area in km²: 818 Ref: 2010/00050 Applicant: SAPEX Limited Location: Williams Bore area - approx 90 km northeast of Coober Pedy Pastoral Lease: Nilpinna Term: Two years Area in km²: 304 Ref: 2010/00051 Applicant: SAPEX Limited Location: Arckaringa area - approx 130 km northeast of Coober Pedy Pastoral Leases: Arckaringa, Coorikiana Term: Two years FOR SALE - PROPERTY Area in km²: 185 Ref: 2010/00052 Plans and co-ordinates can be found on the PIRSA website: http://www.pir.sa.gov.au/minerals/public_notices or by phoning Mineral Tenements on 08 8463 3103. J. Martin A/Mining Registrar Department of Primary Industries and Resources PRIIND012957 www.pir.sa.gov.au

EXPLORATION LICENCES

FOR SALE - PROPERTY FOR SALE - MACHINERY DUGOUT 4 SALE 3 b.r. new house Caterpillar 322B Excavator 1997 * EXECUTIVE four bedroom Mining Act, 1971 Grey Street Coober Pedy Reg.OSV288. $46000.00, ONO dugout situated on Tom Cat Notice is hereby given in accordance with see www diysel.com.au Section 28 (5) of the Mining Act, 1971, that the phone: 0427551985 Hill with good views. Minister for Mineral Resources Development $110,ooo ONO 0404 299276 proposes to grant an Exploration Licence over the * Quality professionally built undermentioned area. FOR SALE - PROPERTY Applicant: Dominion Gold Operations large kitchen/dining area, Pty Ltd Indemnity: BAIRD BAY Location: Mobella area – approx 140 km large lounge and games room WNW of Tarcoola Advertising agencies and advertisers 3 b.r. home, beach front * Currently government rental Pastoral Leases: Mobella, Mount Christie accept full responsibility for the contents 1215 sqm block, fully furn Term: One year of all advertisements and agree to see www.diysel.com.au for more info * One of Coober Pedy's finest Area in km²: 270 indemnify the publishers against any Ref: 2009/00359 $360,000. Ph (08) 83885294 * * * * Plan and co-ordinates can be claim or proceedings out of the found on the PIRSA website: publication of such advertisements. RING: Peter (Adelaide) 83820202 http://www.pir.sa.gov.au/minerals/public_notices Provision of material or copy for Mobile 040 8820802 or by phoning Mineral Tenements on 08 8463 3103. Keep the J. Martin publication constitutes acceptance by RING: Ross (Coober Pedy) A/Mining Registrar advertisers and advertising agencies of Outback Department of Primary Industries this condition. Beautiful 86 723023 (nights) and Resources PRIIND012965 www.pir.sa.gov.au Page 16 Coober Pedy Regional Times Thursday 15 April 2010 WilliamWilliam CrCreekeek GymkhanaGymkhana seessees aa ffeeww cchanginghanging ffacesaces andand placesplaces by Helen Williams Crowd numbers were down slightly at this year’s William Creek gymkhana which was held on Saturday, March 27th 2010, however all those locals and visitors who attended saw some good horsemanship and motorbike racing.

Before the main race- the William Creek Cup, a minute’s silence was observed for popular Oodnadatta jockey Lizzie Crosby, who passed away recently.

The William Creek Cup, donated by the William Creek Hotel was won by Tica, trained by Dion Khan, ridden by Shane Oldfield and owned by the syndicate of Baron Khan, Greg Cooper, Waylon Dodd, Alan Dadleh, Donald Dodd, Bobby Hunter, Robert Khan, Ian Litchfield, Nathan Prosser and Andrew Pennicott..

Greg Warren, Oodnadatta won leading Rider and his horse Stubby was Champion horse

Laura Greenfield, Billa Kalina, who won the Juvenile Gymkhana Rider, and also the Motorbike division.

William Creek Cup winners Baron Khan, Greg Cooper Andrew Pennicott , Cup winner Tica, Donald Dodd, Robert Khan and William Creek Hotel owner Bruce Ross

Shane Oldfield also rode the winner of the Dick and Connie Nunn Memorial Cup, Uncle Jack, owned by Baron Khan and trained by Robert Khan

Leading Gymkhana rider went to Greg Warren, Oodnadatta, and his horse Stubby was Champion Gymkhana Horse. Laura and Bridie Greenfield from Billa Kalina took out the junior event championships.

Craig Anesbury was Leading Motorbike Rider and Laura Greenfield took out the Junior division.

The Wheelbarrow race was a thriller with local identities Rodney Fullerton, Allandale and Bobby Hunter, Anna Creek Craig Anesbury won Champion Motokhana Rider beating the much younger team of Chad Nunn and Wes During the evening, life members Ron Napier and John Gilbey French in the grand final. Watkins who have both passed away since our last gymkhana were remembered for their strong support of the gymkhana.

Life membership was presented to Trevor and Helen Williams, Nilpinna Station

It was also a chance to farewell William Creek local Peter White. Peter and Bev have actually left the district, but Peter Bridie Greenfield was the Champion Under 10 returned for the gymkhana and some last minute packing!! Gymkhana Rider

A farewell gift was presented by Club President Norm The AGM of the Gymkhana Club was held on Sunday Sims, and Trevor Williams spoke on behalf of the after the clean-up. Progress Association. Norm Sims was relected President, Trevor Williams Vice President, and Helen Williams Treasurer. Our past Secretary Kelli-Jo Kovac stepped down as Secretary and this position was accepted by Stephi Sims. We sincerely thank KJ for her efforts over the past years.

The committee would like to thank everyone who came and supported our day, especially those who travel long distances to join us, as they have done for many years. David Bell from Dulkaninna for his great job on the microphone, all those who helped us out by working including Trevor Nixon and his son Chad who came up to work behind the bar and Hobbsy who is our chief cook.

A very sincere thanks also to all of our sponsors. We really do appreciate your generosity.

Narelle and Rodney Fullerton, Allandale with Bobby Hunter pushing Rodney Fullerton to the Our next event is the Bronco Branding and Campdraft Chloe Nunn, Macumba winning post in the Wheelbarrow race. which will be held on Saturday, August 21st 2010 Thursday 15 April 2010 Coober Pedy Regional Times Page 17 7 FAMILY MATTERS

Tanya Lauder Child Care Links Officer District Council of Coober Pedy

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

Thursday 15 April 2010 Coober Pedy Regional Times Page 18 WilliamWilliam CrCreekeek GymkhanaGymkhana Hardworking William Creek Family participation in events Volunteers are Honoured

Helen and Trevor Williams were presented with Life Membership during the event.

Cassie Sims competing

Second in the Ron Napier Memorial Teams Race were Tony Williams, Mt. Barry,Jim Nunn and son James, Leigh Creek and Colin Greenfield, Billa Kalina

Right: All the station ladies relaxing after events caught here on camera by Helen Williams Preparing for a Sausage Toss that didn’t happen

G-Man then gets a better idea. “We’ll have our Mayor Steve Baines and Gerry Lyons aka G-Man The new official photo of Mayor Baines (without official photo like this now and then we’ll have a victory of CAAMA radio preparing for their annual Toss sunnies) and Gerry Lyons aka G-Man of CAAMA shot afterward”. So this became the official, “before” the Sausage challenge at the Opal Festival. “Don’t radio, who hadn’t flinched a facial muscle, in photo. After all this, neither of the contenders tossed take a photo of me with my glasses on,” said the preparation for the very public Sausage Toss, the sausage at all, as too much time was spent on Mayor. So we waited to get a better look. where one party has to lose. this frivolity and both were called away! Thursday 15 April 2010 Coober Pedy Regional Times Page 19 WINNERSWINNERS && SPONSORSSPONSORS LINELINE

UPUP FORFOR AA VICTORYVICTORY PICPIC Photos: Coober Pedy Regional Times

The winning tug of war team includes Chris Warrior (orange shirt), Mark Volunteers from Prominent Hill. Back row: L - R Chris Warrior, Ian McConnell, Bell , G-Man The crew from CAAMA radio at Alice and other participants. Mark Bell and Bronwyn. Front row: L-R Renee Gagai, Janelle Inkster and Vicki The Committee is Choofing along very grateful to all afternoon the local mining behind the company who events was the provided us with a fantasic train loan of their rope rides for the for the Tug-o-War. kiddies, with It did the job, but watchful we might need a voluteers better looking one making sure the next year. kids were safe

Page 20 Coober Pedy Regional Times Thursday 15 April 2010