Oakey Champion - 5th October 2022

Aged care residents host community thank you BBQ

Some of the groups invited were the Oakey RSL which helped construct the new war memorial at the Hospital, members of the Oakey Men’s Shed who built the wooden bench as part of the war memorial garden plus the Community Chest Raffle duo John Webster and Michael Carpenter who

donated raffle funds to the residents.

McDonald House recreation officer Elissa Parker said the barbecues are held monthly as a way for the residents to engage with community members and thank them for their support.

“Recently, John and Michael donated us their monthly raffle proceeds

which we are letting the residents decide what to do with them,” she said.

“At the meeting the residents voted to host a luxury barbecue and spend the money on some nice steaks.

“Another joint community project was the building of the new war memorial, which we have invited those local groups

today who have funded and contributed to its erection.

Oakey’s Director of Nursing Mary-Anne McKenzie said the gardens and outdoor area at the home are about to undergo some big changes thanks to the $13,000 donation by the Thorpe family in June this year.

Continued

Local volunteers enjoying a barbecue lunch with McDonald House residents.

Oakey single-vehicle crash

Early on Saturday morning, a male in this 20s was transported to hospital after a single vehicle crash on the Warrego Highway.

A Queensland Ambulance spokesperson said paramedics attended the crash reported on

Warrego Highway at about 4.47am.

They said the male in his 20s sustained minor

Letters To the Editor

NEW ACLAND RESPONSE

To the Editor,

In response to Paul King’s (Oakey Coal Action Alliance) recent letter to the editor.

Mr King is misguided in his criticism of New Acland Mine.

We are grateful for the encouragement of our many supporters, including local farmers, neighbours, business leaders, nearby families and community groups who want Stage 3 approved.

Over the past decade, New Acland Mine has proved time and time again that mining and agriculture can co-exist.

Acland Pastoral Company, established in 2006, is a farming, grazing and land management enterprise based at New Acland.

The company oversees

10,000ha of land, 2,000 head of cattle, and manages 2,400ha of crops, which are primarily sold locally.

New Acland’s environmental credentials have been formally recognised with the Queensland Government certifying 349ha of progressively rehabilitated open-cut mined land at New Acland.

To put the size of the area in context, the certification covers an area of around 300 Suncorp Stadiums. To date, more than 740ha of land has been rehabilitated.

Leading independent livestock consultants and a Queensland university also conducted a five-year, scientifically-controlled cattle grazing trial at New Acland.

The results found rehabilitated mining land is as productive, if not more productive than non-

head injuries and was transported in a stable condition to Toowoomba Hospital.

mined land.

It’s essential to understand New Acland Mine does not rely on groundwater bores for any of its mining operations.

It purchases its water requirements from the Wetalla Wastewater Reclamation Facility under an existing long term supply contract with the Toowoomba Regional Council.

No resources project in Queensland history has been more scrutinised than New Acland Stage 3.

The Resources Minister critically assessed the project and found it stacks up environmentally, socially and financially.

When approved, Stage 3 will generate significant employment opportunities and benefits for the Darling Downs region. Local workers, contractors and local businesses will benefit to the tune of $1 billion over the life of the project.

This is not just about a mine, it’s about securing jobs, keeping local businesses strong and putting money back in the pockets of hard-working regional Queenslanders.

- Dave O’Dwyer, New Acland Mine General Manager

DEMENTIA

To the Editor,

Thank you to the people impacted by dementia, community members and healthcare professionals who marked Dementia Action Week 2022 from 1925 September.

Across Australia, individuals and organisations supported our campaign, ‘A little support makes a big difference’ to increase understanding about dementia and help eliminate discrimination.

On behalf of the estimated 487,500 people living with dementia in Australia, we thank everyone for their support.

While Dementia Action Week is only one week each year, the conversation and action to eliminate discrimination continues year-round.

For information and tips on how to make a difference in your community, please visit discrimination. dementia.org.au.

- Maree McCabe AM, CEO Dementia Australia

‘Flowers and Flavours’ Morning Tea next week

The members of the Oakey Uniting Church Ladies Fellowship will be celebrating Spring with a Morning Tea to be held in the UCA Hall, 16 John Street, Oakey on Thursday, 13th October at 10am.

For many decades, this group of ladies has organised a competitive flower show and full-scale luncheon as their welcome to spring, but with ageing members and reduced numbers of helpers, a different version of the celebration will be held this year.

There will be flowers, but those attending are asked to bring a flower or potted plant that interests them and will be given an opportunity to speak about

it – or have someone else talk about it.

There will be a flower arranging demonstration followed by the interactive approach to flower arranging for all.

Entertainment of a musical variety will be offered and some brain teasers as well.

If you have some cuttings of plants you are willing to share with others, please bring them to swap, and there will be a stall with items for

Littleproud embarks on Listening Tour

Nationals leader and Member for Maranoa David Littleproud has launched a national regional listening tour to listen and learn from regional voters, particularly those who left the party at this year’s election.

Mr Littleproud said the party had to be honest about the election result and he genuinely wanted to hear from regional locals, particularly female voters and those who felt disillusioned before the federal election.

“I know that finding available childcare centres is a real challenge for regional families and I want to hear from those who need help the most,” he said.

“Those living in regional towns know what’s best for them – so we’re traveling directly to the locals, to listen, to learn, to appreciate their concerns and find solutions.”

“Along the way we will stop at pubs, clubs and restaurants to meet everyday Australians.

“Bringing common sense to Canberra starts with meeting real people and seeing the challenges they face on the ground.”

sale.

Morning Tea will be served with floral crockery to continue the theme of the morning and there will be a delectable variety of food to tantalise your tastebuds and enjoy.

Everyone, including men, are welcome to join the interesting morning.

For catering purposes, please RSVP to Carole on 4691 1890, by next Tuesday, 11th October.

Entry is $10 each.

- Daphne Webster, Convenor

Flood warning

The Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) has issued a statement warning southern Queenslanders of heavy rain later this week.

There will be moderate to major flooding in already flooded rivers in NSW, Victoria, and possibly Tasmania and southern Queensland.

Showers and storms will re-develop over southern Queensland from Friday, spreading east into the Darling Downs and inland NSW on Saturday.

It will move offshore on Monday morning.

DOWNSAround the

View of the Western Line Hotel from atop the Oakey Railway bridge.

- Photo, Russ Thomas

Former Oakey couple brings the gift of music to aged care community

residents.

“Playing the piano helps our residents with their cognitive abilities and dexterity and singing along to the music has therapeutic benefits,” she said.

“As soon as our residents hear the piano being played, they come out of their rooms.”

Jane said the piano music was having a positive effect for residents, including those living with dementia.

“Hearing familiar songs brings back fond memories and elicits positive emotional responses.

“Residents remember the music, sing the words and engage with others, whereas previously they might not have communicated much at all.”

recently moved to the Carinity Brownesholme retirement village adjacent to The Residences at Brownesholme aged care.

“My family had been at us to downsize for quite some time because they knew was it just too hard for me to manage a big house anymore, especially with my physical condition,” Helen said.

“We came to have a look at Brownesholme and fell in love with it.

“We put our name down there and then.

“I never even looked at or thought about another retirement village at all.

“We love the area and the way the village is laid out.

“It’s feels homely and the grounds are so beautiful.

“There’s room if you

want to have a garden and you can step outside in the sun and enjoy being amongst the trees in the outdoors.

“When we get to the stage where we can’t look after ourselves anymore, we will move over to the aged care at Brownesholme.

“It will be like we’re coming home to our old piano!”

A 100-year-old Germanmade piano has been gifted to The Residences at Brownesholme aged care by Barry and Helen Bawden OAM.

Helen’s father purchased the piano for her, second hand, when she was 14.

She owned it for more than 60 years and is delighted that it is now bringing joy to others.

She was particularly happy to learn that Clare Bothmann, a friend of hers from Oakey who now lives at Brownesholme, is one of

the residents who enjoys playing the piano.

“Clare says when she plays the piano the residents gather around and have a singalong with her,” Helen said.

“She told me that the sound coming out of the piano is just beautiful.

“I was so thrilled to hear that.”

Brownesholme aged care Residential Manager Jane Mackney said music is a popular communal activity in the aged care community which brings much joy to

Carinity presented the Bawdens with a Certificate of Appreciation for their kind donation, which also included a piano stool containing sheet music.

A commemorative plaque also sits atop the century-old piano.

An inscription on the piano cites it was “manufactured expressly” for Kuhnel & Co in Adelaide, the largest piano and organ store in Australia at the time.

Barry and Helen, who was awarded an Order of Australia medal for services to the Oakey community,

An

piano music,

donation from stalwarts of the Oakey community

Helen Bawden OAM with Carinity Brownesholme aged care Residential Manager, Jane Mackney.

Oakey couple Helen and Barry Bawden donated their piano to the Carinity Brownesholme aged care community in Highfields.

Bridesons to Primac

In 1936, William James Reece Brideson, a commission agent in Jondaryan, founded R. Brideson & Sons Pty. Ltd. in Oakey in conjunction with his sons, Bill and Jim. 1940.

The business opened in the newly re-constructed Commercial Hotel.

The firm held its first auction, a pig and calf sale, in 1938 and first cattle sale in

Pig and calf sales were then held every fortnight and cattle sales every three weeks.

In those days, the yard

capacity was around 200 small stock and 200 cattle.

In the early 1940s, the office was re-located to beside the National Bank.

Mr. Reece Brideson died in Numurkah, Victoria, in 1945 and the firm was carried on by Bill and Jim Brideson with brother Kevin helping in the saleyards.

During 1965, the old timber office was replaced by a new brick office which is now Great Country Pies.

The saleyards were also extended to hold 1400 cattle, 800 pigs and 300 calves.

Now cattle sales were held every two weeks and pig and calf sales every week.

In October 1966,

R. Brideson & Sons Pty. Ltd. was purchased by MacTaggarts Co-Operative Assn., but the well known name of Bridesons was retained.

On May 1, 1975, the

pastoral firms of MacTaggarts and Queensland Primary Producers Co-op. Assn. Ltd. merged to become Primaries MacTaggarts Co-op Assn. Ltd. and on August 16, 1979 became Primac Assn. Ltd.

Much of the success and prosperity of Bridesons Primac at Oakey can be attributed to the loyalty and expertise of the staff over the years.

- Valerie Weise-Young

(Left to right) Bill Brideson, Les Coman (café proprietor) and Theo Cheros (owner of Commercial Hotel) standing in front of their office in the Commercial Hotel in late 1930s.

- Photo, Valerie Weise-Young

A page from the 1975 calendar still showing both Company names.

- Photo, Valerie Weise-Young

Toowoomba ranks 4th for most solar panels

The state government has revealed that out of every town and city across Queensland, Toowoomba has the fourth highest number of residential solar panels.

Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk said over 722,000 Queensland homes have solar and the government has compared postcodes across the state to determine which areas

have the most residential rooftop solar panels.

“Together, Queensland’s homes account to over 3.5 GW capacity, that’s more generation capacity than Queensland’s two largest

Council sells carpark to affordable housing project

Toowoomba Regional Council (TRC) will work with not-for-profit community housing provider Brisbane Housing Company (BHC) to deliver a 75 unit development in the CBD.

The new social and affordable multi-storey housing accommodation is planned for Station Street, Toowoomba.

The decision was made at last Wednesday’s (28th September) confidential Special Meeting of Council.

“Council has been devising ways to address the acute shortage of rental accommodation, especially for the social and affordable housing sector, that is

representative of the tight housing and rental market across Australia,” TRC Planning and Development Committee chair Cr Megan O’Hara Sullivan said.

“Council will look for ways to re-invest the proceeds from the sale of the Station Street land into car parking or similar improvements across the CBD. The Station Street car park is rarely above 60% capacity on most days.”

power stations combined (Gladstone 1,680MW and Stanwell 1,460MW),” she said.

“I want to thank every Queenslander who has helped lower electricity prices and our carbon footprint by installing solar panels on their home –your home is powering the state.”

Energy Minister Mick de Brenni said a new solar system is connected every 11 minutes in Queensland.

“Toowoomba’s 4350 postcode has the fourth highest number of residential rooftop solar

customers in Queensland with over 12,250,” he said.

The areas that outperformed Toowoomba were Bundaberg who came in 1st with 15,600 solar households, Hervey Bay in 2nd with 14,000 and then Caloundra in 3rd with 12,800, with Brisbane not even making it in the top 10.

“While rooftop solar supplied 8.9 per cent of Queensland’s total energy needs last financial year, in the middle of the day it can represent more than 40 per cent of generation,” Mr de Brenni said.

School students artwork to be displayed in Japan

Students from Gowrie State School have been busy creating artwork as part of an annual exchange, where their pieces will be showcased in Toowoomba’s Japanese Sister City, Takatsuki.

Toowoomba and Takatsuki formed a Sister City relationship in 1991 and the Japanese City holds an arts festival each year in November.

Toowoomba Region Mayor Paul Antonio said he was delighted the work of students from Gowrie State School would be on show as part of the festival.

“The students have created the work in the theme of ‘Our Heroes’ which includes depictions of bush to beach with our volunteer fire fighters, lifesavers and sporting heroes.

“Gowrie State School

joins other schools from across the Toowoomba region who have been given the opportunity to enter their artwork in recent years thanks to the Sister City arrangement we have with Takatsuki including Toowoomba Anglican School and Photographic Society Junior Class, Highfields State School and Oakey State School.”

The 2022 Takatsuki Arts Festival will be held in November this year and the canvas created by Gowrie State School students will be hung from the rooftop of the Takatsuki Shopping Mall.

Oakey Men’s Shed member wins trophy in

Stephen contributes his win to techniques he’s learned at the Oakey Men’s Shed.

“I made a wooden jewellery box for the competition,” he said.

“I won the Silver Skew Award which recognises excellent craftsmanship and serves as am encouragement award.”

Stephen encourages anyone with time on their hands to go and learn new skills or impart some of their knowledge to assist with community

projects.

The Oakey Men’s Shed has most recently donated a bench members crafted to McDonald House residents’ War Memorial, as well as repairing several chairs.

New members are always welcome!

If you’re interested in joining the Oakey Men’s Shed or want to pop down and see them in action, stop by their workshop on Cory Street, Oakey every Tuesday and Thursday from 9am to midday.

Stephen’s award-winning jewellery box.

Stephen Clark (left) receiving the trophy from President of the Toowoomba and District Woodcrafters Mike Dennison.

Volunteers enjoy a BBQ lunch at Oakey’s McDonald House

The Thorpe family held a community golf day fundraiser for the Oakey Health Service in honour of family member Desley

Thorpe who spent her final days at the facility.

“Thanks to the Thorpe family, we will be completely re-landscaping,

repainting and resurfacing the outdoor area,” Ms McKenzie said.

“We will also be getting new furniture and chairs for the residents to enjoy spending time outside in

the gardens.

“Kids from the local schools did an art project and painted totem poles with indigenous designs on them, which they are giving to the hospital

Oakey Social Golf Results

On Sunday 2nd of October we played a 2 Person Ambrose at Gatton Golf Club, with 28 players.

The conditions were very wet, however we did get through the day, even with the clubs sliding out of our hands and getting stuck in a tree!

The winners were JB and Shane Nicholson on 62 nett and the runners-up were Shane Bradford and Dylan Harvey on 62½ nett.

The winners of the pins/approaches are: 1, S. Petrie; 2, sponsored by the Oakey RSL, HL; 3 and 8, B. McDonald; 4, S. Gillis; 5, I. McDonald; 6, A. Cherry; 7, sponsored by Kerrytown Meats, P. Wolski; 9, sponsored by Oakey RSL, JB; 12 and 13, L. Bradford; 14 and 17, A. Palmer; 15, M. Morgan; 16, L. Bartley; 18, sponsored by The Grand Hotel, HL.

Long Drives: A Grade, HL; B Grade, S. Nicholson; Over 60, R. MacKenzie.

Members’ draw was

68., Bob Pearce who was present for $20.

Raffles going to numbers 111, JB and 199, Bob Pearce.

This week’s game on 9th October is Bisque Bogey on

the back nine with a 6.30am tee off.

The Social club would like to thank our sponsors Kids Patrol Oakey, Kerrytown Meats, Oakey

RSL and The Grand Hotel.

Don’t forget the working bee on Saturday at the Oakey Golf Course.

- Flynny/Macca

to display outside in the gardens.

“So out here will

look very different soon all thanks to the joint community effort!”

Oakey Men’s Bowls Results

Competition results from Saturday October 1:

Senior Singles: A. Jackson def. P. Boyton; V. Rush def. R. Henry.

Club Pairs: M. Hall & B. Lucht def. L. Hudson & G. Usher.

Competition called for Saturday October 8: Club Pairs final: V. Rush & W. Patterson vs. M. Hall & B. Lucht

Sunday October 2, Matt & Alison Park day.

Winners: Alison & Vince; Runners-up: Matt & Peter;

Catching

B/R: Shirley & Don.

COMING EVENTS

Sunday October 16 is fishing theme day, sponsored by Dave & Vince with a 1pm start, Three bowl pairs. Names on the board please.

Sunday October 23 is the visit from Northern Rivers; 12.30pm start C/S. 28 players required, mixed.

Saturday November 5 is the visit from Wellington Point bowlers; 1pm start, mixed. Names on the board please.

self-trained bush nurse who developed an unusual nonetheless effective method of treating polio a prominent disease at the time. The Nobby State School will hold it’s 125th celebrations on the 12th of November another significant milestone for this small community.

Jacaranda Day will be celebrated in Goombungee on the 5th of November with a day of festivities and activities. This community festival is run and facilitated by the Rosalie Historical Society and is an opportunity to visit the beautiful jacaranda lined streets of Goombungee and enjoy a great day out.

Condamine is an electorate full of vibrant community minded people who are proud of showcasing their region. This makes me proud to be part of this community and my job as the Member for Condamine an absolute pleasure.

The Bureau of Meteorology is warning of heavy rain events and flooding from Spring 2022 until the end of Summer 2023. I would urge you all to prepare for this forecast, remember to drive to the road conditions and ‘if its flooded forget it’. Stay safe and don’t take any risks.

(Left to right) Dylan Harvey, Shane Bradford, Shane Nicholson and JB.

Oakey Men’s Shed member Stephen sitting at a table full of residents while enjoying a barbecue lunch!

Two McDonald House residents enjoying a day outside.

McDonald House recreation officer Elissa cooking up a storm!

New QPS air fleet covers QLD

A fleet of replacement aircraft to be delivered to the Queensland Police Service Aviation Capability Group will provide enhanced life-saving organ retrieval capabilities and bolster safety across Queensland.

The new aircraft will provide the operational capability to conduct organ retrieval flights to locations anywhere in Australia and New Zealand.

Highlighting the importance of these lifesaving missions, in the last 18 months alone, the Queensland Police Service Aviation Capability Group has conducted

more than 100 organ retrieval operations.

That’s around six organ retrievals per month or around one per week.

Acting Police Minister Mark Furner joined Acting Assistant Commissioner Marcus Hill to announce the Police Service’s purchase of the new aircraft which will replace its ageing and antiquated fix-wing aircraft fleet.

Oakey Golf Club Results

On Wednesday, the Ladies played an 18 hole Stroke in conjunction with the September Monthly Medal. Winner of Division 2 and the Monthly Medal was Daphne Webster with a 72 nett. Runner-up was Christine Little with a 74 nett. Division 1 was won by Joan Fisk with a 76 nett, Joan also won the Putts with 26 putts. The front 9 winner was Kathy Fenton with 16 points and the Back 9 was won by Joan Fisk with 18 points. The pin on No. 3 was won by Janice Little. Daphne Webster defeated Kathy Fenton in the Matchplay 7/5.

On Wednesday 5th October the Ladies will

play an 18 hole Stroke in conjunction with the October Monthly Medal.

Thursday Sporters winner was George Fenton with 25 points, George also won the pin shot.

Saturday 1st and Sunday 2nd October the Members played an 18 hole Stroke in conjunction with the October Monthly Medal.

Winner of Division 1 and the Monthly Medal was Andrew King with a 71 nett. Division 2 winner was Peter Flynn with a 73 nett. The runner-up was Michael Rietveld with a 72 nett (ocb). Ball rundown went to George Fenton with a 72 nett also. The pin on No, 3, No. 8 and No. 12 were won by Andrew King.

Qualifiers for the Men’s Medal of Medalist on Sunday 23rd October are Bob Dearling, Mark Carter, Michael Rietveld, Alan DeRoss, George Fenton, Doug Fisk, Andrew King, George Wright, Peter Flynn, John Grawich, Marcus Welk, Stan Gillis and Michael Rietveld Jnr.

A reminder that the greens are being renovated next Saturday morning the 8th October. Any assistance from members would be greatly appreciated.

- Marlene Deans, Secretary

Goombungee Golf Club results and events

Thursday 29th

September, Men’s Single Stableford for a Club Trophy. The winner was Dave Scutt with 40 points.

Approaches: 3/12, Garry Shea; 5/14, David Scutt; 6/15, Murray McLeod. Ladies Flag Competition for a Club Trophy. The winner was Jan Mullins, 18th fairway. Approaches: 1/10, Jan Mullins; 3/12, Ann Cass; 7/1,6 Val Hartland.

Sunday 25th September,

Single Stableford for Club

Trophy. Winner for the Men was Dave Humphrey with 37 points and winner for Ladies was Carmel Cover with 33 points.

Rundown: Bill Robertson, Gary Herriman, Steve Elfverson, Harry Cover, Garry Shea. Pin shots, Men: 4/13, Trent Peters (Eagles Nest); 8/17, Greg Schull, Approaches: 5/14, Harry Cover. Ladies’ approaches: 2/11, Carmel Cover; 7/16, Robyn

Drowley.

Members draw No. 41, Damien Peters, who was present, so this week the prize is back to $5. THIS WEEK

Thursday 6th October, Single Stableford for a Club Trophy. Ladies’ Single Stroke, Monthly Medal, Putts for a Club Trophy.

Sunday 9th October, Mixed Foursomes or Single Stableford for a Club Trophy.

- Murray McLeod

City-slickers want to learn more about meat industry

According to latest Meat and Livestock Australia (MLA) consumer research, about half of all Australians living in metropolitan areas want to learn more about how lamb and beef are produced.

Other key findings from the study are that 3 in 5 Australians feel good about the red meat industry and the majority of Australians living in metropolitan areas trust the beef and lamb industry, at 61 per cent and 60 per cent respectively.

Conducted annually since 2010 by strategic consultancy firm Pollinate on behalf of MLA, the research measures and tracks consumer sentiment in the community towards the Australian red meat industry.

MLA Managing Director Jason Strong said this year’s consumer insights reflected an increasing desire to understand more about how the industry works from metro Australia.

“Consumers, especially within our cities, are

wanting to learn more about how beef and lamb is produced, in particular how farmers are looking after the environment and their animals,” he said.

“A greater understanding of our industry also has benefits

Help track the spread of insecticideresistant pest Bluegreen aphids

Grain growers and agronomists are being asked to help track the insecticide-resistance status of the damaging Bluegreen aphid (BGA) as part of a new crop protection investment. routinely used for their control.

The research, which is led by Cesar Australia with investment from the Grains Research and Development Corporation (GRDC) and AgriFutures, will help to understand what crop types are most affected by BGA, the spread of resistant strains and whether resistance levels are increasing.

BGA damage pulses and pasture crops by feeding and spreading harmful plant viruses.

Historically, growers have protected crops from this pest by spraying insecticides that control aphids effectively.

However, recent research has identified some BGA populations in South Australia and New South Wales that have evolved resistance to some registered insecticides organophosphates and carbamates that are and

Bluegreen aphids can be identified by their greygreen to blue-green colour, oval-shaped body, and long legs.

Adults are approximately three millimetres long and are most common in spring and autumn.

Cesar Australia is now calling on growers and agronomists who are dealing with BGA this season to send samples to their laboratories for resistance testing.

They are particularly interested in BGA from pulse crops in South Australia and the Riverina area of NSW.

The project’s lead, Cesar Australia research scientist Dr Evatt Chirgwin, said industry help collecting samples would allow the development of

regional and seasonal recommendations for effective chemical control of BGA and help prevent future resistance development or spread.

“Understanding the level of insecticide resistance of BGA to specific chemistries across different cropping regions

will allow us to provide growers with informed recommendations about chemical use for management and control,” he said.

For information on collecting and posting samples email echirgwin@ cesaraustralia.com or call 0487 292 556.

MENS HEAVY WEIGHT DRILL SHIRTS

for producers through increased demand.

“Consumers with higher levels of industry knowledge are more likely to have increased their red meat consumption overall.

“This is because they understand the care and efforts undertaken by Australian cattle and sheep producers in raising their livestock and looking after the environment.”

Of those surveyed, consumers are most interested in learning about how producers ensure

the humane treatment of their livestock (46%), and how they look after the environment (44%).

The top three drivers of trust in the industry were the perceptions that producers:

1. Are ethical and trustworthy with animals humanely raised;

2. Listen, respect and respond to community concerns;

3. Are taking actions to reduce environmental impact improving sustainability.

National QFF Ag Breakfast 2022

The Queensland Farmers Federation (QFF) is hosting a breakfast event on Friday 18 November to mark National Agriculture Day 2022.

Join the QFF network and learn more about Queensland agriculture’s incredible journey of innovation, resilience, and sustainability.

The event will be hosted by CEO of Queensland Farmers’ Federation Ms Jo Sheppard and the

keynote speaker is Terry McCosker OAM alongside a guest panel of industry leaders.

Tickets can be purchased online at https:// events.humanitix.com/qffbreakfast-agriculture-in-thefuture-economy-celebratingnational-ag-day-2022/tickets

Lactalis Australia breached Dairy Code of Conduct

The Federal Court has found Lactalis Australia Pty Ltd breached the Dairy Code of Conduct by failing to meet some of its obligations in relation to the 2020-21 milk season, in court proceedings brought by the ACCC.

The Code commenced in 2020 to address systemic transparency issues and bargaining power imbalances between dairy farmers and processors.

The Court found that Lactalis breached the Code when it failed to publish its milk supply agreements on its website by the Code’s deadline of 2pm on 1 June 2020, and instead required dairy farmers to sign-up through a web portal to receive them by email.

“In breaching the Code’s requirement to publish its milk supply agreements

by the deadline, Lactalis made it harder for farmers to compare milk prices and contract terms across different processors,” ACCC Deputy Chair Mick Keogh said.

“This case should serve as a reminder to all dairy processors that failure to comply with the Code may result in ACCC enforcement action, including court proceedings, with serious consequences,” Mr Keogh said.

A hearing on relief, including penalties, will be held at a later date.

Bluegreen aphid (BGA).

CATCHUP

Your link to the Aviation Centre

Major David McEvoy recognised for his disaster relief efforts

Oakey residents may have seen Major McEvoy before. If you have, that’s because he visits Oakey from time to time in the Army Aviation STEM van touring local schools.

But over the past few months he has been providing relief to the Tasmanian Kentish community since intense winds destroyed the area in June 2022.

Disaster Relief Australia CEO Geoff Evans said they initiated Operation Sheean, named after Kentishborn Teddy Sheean VC, to assist residents in the Kentish LGA where winds reportedly exceeded 200km/h.

“I would like to recognise David McEvoy for contributing his time and expertise to our relief operations,” Mr Evans said.

“We wish to express our sincere appreciation for your generosity in allowing David to deploy on Operation Sheean.

“As relief Mission Commander, David supported operations through logistics and personnel organisation, debris removal, possession recovery, and assisting with clean-up chores - and most importantly providing residents with some care and emotional support.

“His presence was crucial to the success of the Operation and his selfless dedication to our mission enables us to serve even more members of the community in their time of need.”

The intense winds extensively damaged bushland, farming land, and both residential and commercial infrastructure.

The State Emergency Service (SES) and Rural Fire Service (RFS) estimate that over 100 properties were impacted.

Rural Alive and Well (RAW) approached Disaster Relief Australia to assist in the recovery process within the

impacted area.

Major McEvoy said the operation commenced on the 23rd of August with the Advance Party, followed by Wave 1.

They launched four Waves in total, with each Wave lasting one week in duration from Saturday to Saturday.

“We have conducted over 100 Damage Assessments for damage within the Municipality and to date have completed 72 tasks to assist the community with cleaning up their properties,” Major McEvoy said.

“Many of these people are senior citizens and at least twenty per cent are veterans.

“I was part of the Advon/Wave 1 as the Operations/Plans Officer and as the Mission Commander for Wave 3.

“During this time I also hosted both Gavin Pearce MP (veteran) and Senator Jacquie Lambie (veteran) while inspecting the damage caused by the winds.”

When not providing essential disaster relief, Major McEvoy puts on the Australian Army green uniform and travels the country in the Army Aviation STEM van visiting schools where students get the opportunity to play with a flight simulator through virtual reality (VR) technology.

The program, which aims to introduce young people to possible Army Aviation-related careers, started in 2020 after getting approval for funding to create the program.

The program has so far been a real eye-opener for many young students to experience.

If you would like the Army Aviation STEM van to visit your school and experience the VR flight simulator, contact Program OIC Major David McEvoy via armyaviation. motivation@defence.gov.au.

Major David McEvoy received a letter of appreciation from Disaster Relief Australia recently for his tireless efforts during the cyclonic wind event that impacted northwest Tasmania in June this year.

ABOVE: Major David McEvoy when on the road with the Army Aviation STEM van.

Photo, Australian Defence Force (ADF)

LEFT: Lieutenant Chloe Barker-Smith taking the Helicopter Virtual Reality Simulator for a fly!

Photo, Bradley Richardson

Get to know this one-of-a-kind Oakey store!

Meet local shop owner Debbie Keighran

Reloved on Campbell sells recycled, upcycled, retro, vintage collectables and pre-loved goodssomething with which the couple has been involved throughout their lives.

Their shop caters to every interest with a wide range of stock, from pottery to Australiana, lamps, books, cups and

teapots and CDs and DVDs.

“We owned a similar shop in Lowood which we sold about two years ago before we left to travel,” Debbie said.

She and Michael left their Lockyer Valley home to go travelling for 12 months.

It was during their travels they passed through

Oakey and fell in love with the town.

“We saw this premises was empty up for sale and decided it was a sign to move here and open up the shop.

“We moved into the shop in January 2022

“We really like the people here, they’re very friendly and welcoming.

“We have a steady customer base and love people coming into the shop telling us they’ve travelled from Millmerran, Crow’s Nest and even as far as Tara.”

Debbie said her husband Michael has had a lifelong passion for vintage items and collectables and they’ve been living this passion together.

“Old is the new new,” she said.

“Michael finds something old and gives it a bit of life.

to have a look inside Reloved on Campbell at 95 Campbell Street, Oakey.

The shop is open Tuesday to Friday from 9.30am to 3.30pm and every Saturday from 9am

year

to 12.30pm. Contact Debbie on 0439 339 209 for more information.

Camp to

After school fun back at the Oakey Skatepark

“We have some unique, one-of-a-kind furniture pieces Michael has fixed up and added some designs to.”

Visitors to the shop can see these handcrafted pieces that feature hoursworth of detailed images adorning them.

“We also have a wide range of second hand and upcycled furniture.”

If you’re looking for something to do locally or want to buy a gift for someone, make sure

Applications for 2023 Rosalie and Crows Nest

Galleries exhibition programs are now open

Every year the Rosalie and Crows Nest Galleries seek applications from artists, curators, arts/crafts groups, community members and organisations to contribute to their annual exhibition programs.

Their exhibition programs foster engagement between artists/artist groups, our community and visitors to the gallery, providing opportunities to connect, share stories and celebrate creativity in our Region.

Both Galleries offer a professional and friendly opportunity to showcase high calibre works to audiences visiting the

galleries in the Toowoomba Region, promotion through Regional Council channels and a chance to connect directly with patrons through a related public program.

The application form can be downloaded from each respective Galleries webpage on the Toowoomba Regional Council’s web site. Completed applications

must be submitted no later than noon on Tuesday 18 October 2022.

Contact the Rosalie Gallery or Crows Nest Gallery officer for further information.

To keep up to date with our opportunities and events, subscribe to the Rosalie Gallery or Crows Nest Gallery mailing list and follow us on Instagram @trartgalleries

Shop owner Debbie holding one of her many novelty teapots.

Some of Michael’s handcrafted work - a handpainted chair (left) and a redesigned lamp adorning iconic Aussie brands (right).