Oakey Champion - 12th January 2022

Oakey Champion

The

4691 1376

Wednesday, January 12, 2022

Oakey’s Own Newspaper

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With COVID-19 cases rising across Queensland, Oakey pharmacies and other businesses are urging the State and Federal Governments to supply them with more Rapid Antigen Tests (RAT) as more local residents turn to this type of testing to make sure they aren’t spreading the virus in the community.

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The Oakey Pharmacy co-owner Nathan Jervis said he is still waiting on a delivery of RAT tests which he ordered in November.

“We can’t get any. I think most pharmacies and businesses are they same. I see some RAT tests at the odd business in Toowoomba but I don’t know where they have sourced them from,” he said.

Mr Jervis said the local pharmacy has seen a huge demand for the product with testing sites in Toowoomba buckling under the high number of patients.

“The phone has not stopped ringing from people wanting to purchase RAT tests.

“It’s been crazy,” Mr Jervis said.

He urged Oakey residents to be considerate of his staff and employees of other businesses when enquiring

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about COVID-19 testing.

“Please be kind. We are doing our best,” Mr Jervis

said.

“There is no point getting cranky at us because we are

doing everything we can in the situation.”

Continued on page 3

Stolen vehicle tracked to Oakey

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Local pharmacies are continuing to be the front line in reducing the spread of COVID-19 in the community. The Oakey Pharmacy’s Nathan Jervis (right) said he is still providing vaccines to residents. He is pictured with Jen Schuller.

Police arrested three men in Oakey after they were tracked driving in a vehicle stolen from a Dalby address on Friday.

Oakey Police Senior Constable Scott Bronkhurst said a white Isuzu D-Max was stolen from a Dalby property some time between Thursday night and Friday morning last week.

He said the vehicle was later observed in Toowoomba before it was tracked driving west on the Warrego Highway.

“At about 10am police deployed stingers on the corner of the Warrego

Highway and Toowoomba Road at Oakey,” Senior Constable Bronkhurst said.

He said the road spikes caused the vehicle to come to a stop.

All three men in the vehicle were arrested at the

scene.

The men, two from Dalby and one from Cunnamulla, were charged with several offences including theft of a motor vehicle and unlawful use of a motor vehicle.

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Page 2

THE OAKEY CHAMPION

Wednesday, January 12, 2022

Safety works completed Local schools to at local intersection return on February 7

Safety upgrades at the Warrego Highway and Brimblecombe Road intersection have been completed.

A view of the completed works looking north onto the widened Brimblecombe Road.

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development Barnaby Joyce said the $2.75 million project had been welcomed by the community.

“The project involved widening the intersection and installing a dedicated, right-turn lane for eastbound vehicles turning into Brimblecombe Road, allowing them to safely move out of the flow of through traffic,” he said.

“The turning lane allows vehicles to safely stop and wait for a gap in traffic before making the right turn.

“The upgraded intersection is a welcome sight for a community which has been devastated by crashes

here in the past few years.”

Queensland Transport and Main Roads Minister Mark Bailey said despite heavy rainfall late last year, the project finished on schedule.

“Major construction on this project wrapped just before Christmas, and some minor touches this month will see this project wrap up for good,” Mr Bailey said.

“The improvements will reduce the risk of repeating the tragic rear-end crashes we’ve seen in the past.

“This project builds on our commitment to the Darling Downs region, with more than $664 million in projects to be delivered in the region as part of our $27.5 billion road and

transport plan.

Federal Member for Groom Garth Hamilton said the upgrades would improve safety and efficiency for all road users.

“Thank you to everyone in the community for their patience while we delivered these important works,” Mr Hamilton said.

“The Australian Government is investing in the road upgrades Queenslanders need and deserve, to keep motorists moving and safe on our roads.”

The project was jointly funded by the Australian and Queensland governments on an 80:20 basis.

For more information, visit the project website by searching “Brimblecombe Road” on www.tmr.qld.gov. au

The start of the 2022 school year in Queensland will move from Monday, January 24 to Monday, February 7 to avoid opening schools during the predicted peak of the Omicron wave and to allow more time for children to receive their COVID-19 vaccinations.

Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk said modelling showed the likely peak of Omicron cases would be in the last week of January and first week of February.

“This is a common sense move to avoid students heading back to primary or secondary school just as the rapidly rising number of Omicron cases in Queensland hits its peak,” she said.

“As the Chief Health Officer has said, there is no way to completely stop this virus from spreading.

“But we can take steps to protect the community – including our children – as much as possible.”

HOME LEARNING FOR YEAR 11, 12 Education Minister Grace Grace said students will not miss out on any essential content due to the delayed start of term, with teachers to review lesson plans to deliver the curriculum accordingly.

Ms Grace said schools would still open for vulnerable children and the children of essential

workers.

Years 11 and 12 students will be learning from home from January 31.

To ensure other cohorts do not miss out on learning, the end of the school year will be extended by one week until 16 December.

“Principals will implement staffing arrangements to ensure only the minimum number of staff are on site, but we will ensure vulnerable children and children of essential workers can still attend,” she said.

“An extensive range of resources and activities will be available to students via our comprehensive learning@home site.

“However, school staff – like the wider workforce – are likely to be significantly impacted by the number of COVID cases, so directed remote learning won’t be offered at this stage other than for years 11 and 12.

“Parents and carers can decide what their children do over these two weeks.

“Staff who are able to

Around the

Education Minister Grace Grace said the 2022 school year will be extended by one week due to the delay. work will be carrying out a range of duties, just as they would on other student free days.”

The new term start date of February 7 will apply to all Queensland primary schools, secondary schools, including Catholic and independent, and state delivered and kindies.

Long day care will stay open subject to workforce capacity.

DOWNS

Nominate a young achiever

Nominations are closing soon for the 7NEWS Young Achiever Awards QLD with Oakey residents urged to get their nominations in now.

The Awards exist to acknowledge, encourage and promote the positive achievements of all young people up to and including 29 years of age as of December 31 each year.

There are several categories as part of the awards including for - an online achievement;

- a small business achiever; - entrepreneurship; - a sporting achievement whilst overcoming adversity; - an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander achiever; - leadership; - creaters of change; - women empowering others;

- community volunteer; and - innovation.

Category winners will receive $2,000 in prizes.

For more information visit www. youngachieverawards.com Nominations are open until Monday, January 17.

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An interesting feature of the Cabarlah township is the Cabarlah Pioneer Bicentennial Memorial. Unveiled in 1989 by Member for Groom Bill Taylor, the memorial commemorates the early pioneers of the Cabarlah District who settled the area in the middle eighteen hundreds.

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Wednesday, January 12, 2022

THE OAKEY CHAMPION

Where to get a COVID-19 test

Continued from page 1 Mr Jervis said he is unsure when his supply of RAT tests will arrive.

“I have been told midJanuary, but it’s hard to know,” he said.

He said he is currently trying to make an appointment with Member for Groom Garth Hamilton to discuss his concerns with the testing process and the burden placed on community pharmacies.

Mr Jervis said RAT tests are becoming more cost effective for governments than traditional PCR tests but the supply needs to be there for the process to work.

COVID-19 TEST SITES While local businesses wait for stocks of RAT tests, Oakey residents wanting to get tested are still urged to visit one of the Toowoomba drop-in facilities at the Showgrounds or Baillie Henderson Hospital.

Updates on test availability are provided on the Darling Downs Health Facebook page as capacity limits are often reached.

Oakey residents who have underlying health issues or who are worried about their symptoms can get tested at Sullivan Nicolaides, Cherry Street only with a GP referral.

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COVID-19 testing at Sullivan Nicolaides on Cherry Street is only available with a GP referral.

For more information on testing sites go to: www. qld.gov.au/health/conditions/

(07) 4580 0900 (07) 4580 0900

health-alerts/coronaviruscovid-19/stay-informed/ testing-and-fever-clinics

Despite a noticeable downward trend in crime since a spike last year, Oakey Police are still urging local residents to secure their properties and vehicles with several recent break and enters under investigation in the town. investigating the theft of several items from a Cherry Street property on Saturday.

“A vehicle was also stolen from a Racecourse Road address on Saturday,” Senior Constable Bronkhurst said.

“It was located three hours later on Kearney Road.”

Oakey Police are urging residents not to become complacent and ensure their vehicles and homes are locked at all times.

Senior Constable Bronkhurst said this is also relevant to external

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Oakey Police Senior Constable Scott Bronkhurst said although there has been a marked decline in break and enter offences, incidents are still occurring in Oakey.

He said over the past week there were two confirmed break and enters, one suspected and a vehicle theft.

Senior Constable Bronkhurst said a juvenile boy will appear at Oakey Children’s Court after he was charged with a break and enter at a Stanley Street address last week.

He said police are still

Starting from just

structures, such as sheds and carports which may attract opportunistic offenders.

He said anyone who has any relevant information about these incidents or others in the local region is urged to contact Crime

Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or Policelink on 131 444.

Over the past month, December 11 to January 10, there were 27 offences classified as unlawful entry, unlawful use of a motor vehicle or other thefts.

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THE OAKEY CHAMPION

Mirror

Wednesday, January 12, 2022

TO THE PAST

Lionel Rose - A Namesake

Lionel Rose was the eldest of nine children of Roy and Regina Rose and was born on June 21, 1948 at Jackson’s Track near Warragul, Victoria.

His father had been a prized “tent show” boxer so taught Lionel to box at a young age.

Rose was born into financial hardship but his fighting prowess saw him begin his professional boxing career at the age of 16, being trained by Frank Oakes and later by Jack Rennie in Melbourne.

In 1964, he narrowly missed being selected for the Australian Olympic team so decided to go professional in boxing.

At age 18, he won the Australian bantamweight title and at 19, he won the World Bantamweight title over ‘Fighting’ Harada of Japan with a 15 round

decision.

Rose successfully defended his title three times before being knocked out by Mexican, Ruben Olivares in the 5th round on August 22, 1969.

He made a comeback in 1971 but couldn’t emulate his former success so retired in 1976 with a career record of 42 wins and 11 losses.

He was made a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) by the Queen in 1968 and also named Australian of the Year, being the first indigenous Australian to win a World Title and to be named Australian of the Year.

Having learnt to play the guitar as a child, Lionel Rose also achieved success outside of the boxing ring as a musician.

After meeting Elvis Presley, in 1970 he released the song “I Thank You” which

topped the country music chart.

On December 16, 1970, Lionel married his childhood sweetheart, Jenny Oakes, daughter of his former trainer, Frank. They had one son, Michael.

Lionel suffered a stroke in 2007 from which he never fully recovered and passed away on May 8, 2011. He was given a State funeral in Melbourne. Jenny passed away on September 2, 2021.

When Mum (Dorothy) and Dad (Eric Weise) were both 45, our baby brother was born on January 15,1969.

He was 12 years younger than the sixth child.

Following family discussions and input, it was decided to name him Lionel after Lionel Rose who was named Australian of the Year on January 18, 1969. A great honour.

- Valerie Weise-Young

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Wednesday, September 14, 2016

$1.20

Jenny (nee Oakes) and Lionel Rose after their wedding in Melbourne.

OAKEY AND DISTRICT

Sudoko WEATHER SudokU

The week ahead We can expect the warm and sunny conditions to continue this week, with daytime highs expected to peak in the mid thirties over the weekend. A trough is expected to trigger scattered showers across the district on Sunday and Monday.

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Telephone: (07) 4691 1376 Facsimilie: (07) 4691 2625

Email: editorial@oakeychampion.com.au advertising@oakeychampion.com.au 2A Cherry Street, Oakey. Qld. 4401

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- Errors and Omissions Policy: All care is taken in the production of advertisements. Errors, if drawn to our attention promptly, will be corrected in the next issue. Refunds may be given. The proprietor of The Oakey Champion cannot be held responsible for errors or their subsequent effects. The right is reserved to alter, abbreviate or omit advertisements for any reason.

Wednesday, January 12, 2021

THE OAKEY CHAMPION

Page 5

Landholders urged to treat, report invasive weed outbreaks

Market this Sunday

The Lions Club of Oakey will be hosting its first market for 2022 this Sunday, January 16 from 8am to noon at the Oakey Railway Station car park.

The local Lions Club members will be cooking up a barbecue breakfast alongside many stalls and other entertainment.

For more information and to book a stall site call Lois on 4691 1580.

Toowoomba Region landholders and residents are being urged to remain vigilant for outbreaks of invasive weeds following recent widespread rain.

Toowoomba Regional Council (TRC) Parks and Recreation Services portfolio leader Cr Tim McMahon said rain and warm temperatures provided perfect conditions for invasive weeds to spread in paddocks, backyards and catchments.

Cr McMahon said seeds from invasive plants that were introduced during the recent drought in fodder supplies or had been brought to life during the recent rain and warm weather after being dormant in the ground.

“The current conditions are aiding the germination of weeds such as Chilean Needle Grass, Giant Rat’s

Tail Grass and Parthenium.

This is occurring on a scale not seen for several years,” Cr McMahon said.

“The threat is further compounded by heavy rainfall causing water movement that aids the dispersion of pest plants along normally dry drainage lines.

“We’re calling on residents to be vigilant by treating and reporting outbreaks of invasive plants as soon as possible.

“Early intervention can result in localised eradication and reduce longterm management costs.

“Particular attention should be given to areas where fodder has been fed

DANCE 2022

ENROLMENT DAY

Friday 28 January 4.00pm - 5.30pm St Paul’s Lutheran Church Hall York Street OAKEY

New sponsors back Oakey Australia Day

The local Australia Day committee is hard at work preparing for one of Oakey’s most action-packed events, with all the traditional competitions set to return alongside many new favourites.

With only a few weeks until the event, committee member Craig Commens said now is the time for local residents to consider how they win get involved in the day.

“It is going ahead fullbore,” he said.

“We are planning to have the senior and junior raft races in the creek and the iron man.

“This will depend on Council but our hope is to have them back in the creek.

“We will be having the Australian Dunny Races, sponsored by K&R Plumbing Supplies.

“The Bernborough Tavern have come on board as sponsors of the iron man and Oakey Beef Exports are sponsoring the raft races.”

Mr Commens said the other popular events, such as, billy boiling, sack races and thong throwing will return.

He said the committee is in the early stages of

planning “wheelie bin races” which are set to be a new Aussie-themed feature of the day.

Mr Commens invited local people to get involved in the event in any way they can as either a competitor, volunteer or a spectator.

He said more information will be available in coming weeks including how to nominate for one or all of these exciting competitions.

The Oakey RSL Sub-branch is one of almost 200 ex-service organisations which will receive grant funding as part of two Queensland Government Anzac Day Trust programs.

Program is a new funding initiative which provides funding to veterans’ organisations that have directly supported veterans and their dependents affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.

It also assists veterans’ organisations impacted

by COVID-19 restrictions, and supports veterans’ organisations to deliver COVID Safe commemorative events.

Assistant Minister to the Premier for Veterans Affairs, Bart Mellish said these programs help organisations which provide invaluable welfare

and support for ex-service men and women, and their families.

“The Palaszczuk Government is proud to support these groups which do such amazing work for veterans and their communities across Queensland,” he said.

“These grants help exservice organisations with everything from mowing veterans’ lawns, to assisting them with food and household bills, and hosting important commemorative activities.”

The next rounds of both Anzac Day Trust grants programs will open in 2022.

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MOTOR TRIMMING & UPHOLSTERY

out in the past 12 months, as well as waterways or creek banks at high water level marks and fence lines that may have trapped floodwater debris.”

A list of prohibited or restricted weeds can be found at www.business. qld.gov.au/industries/farmsfishing-forestry/agriculture/ land-management/healthpests-weeds-diseases Council’s Biosecurity Compliance Officers are available for advice on identification and management.

They can be contacted by calling 131 872.

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RSL Sub-branch grants

The local Sub-branch was successful in a $6,000 grant as part of the Anzac Day Trust Grants Program - Annual Round as well as an additional over $2,300 from the Anzac Day Trust COVID-19 Grants Program – Round 1.

The annual round offers grants to organisations providing assistance to exservice men and women and their dependents.

Payments from the Fund are reimbursements of eligible expenses incurred by an ex-service organisation in the previous year.

The COVID-19 Grants

TRUDY WILLIAMSON | RAD Registered Teacher

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Page 6

THE OAKEY CHAMPION

2021 JANUARY

YEAR IN REVIEW FEBRUARY

- Local student, Terrell Anderson, was one step closer to having his dream to play in the NRL come true when he signed to the North Queensland Cowboys in January.

- Toowoomba Regional Council voted on the future of the former Oakey Depot site with Councillors choosing to investigate the possibility of turning the facility into a multipurpose site including Council and community uses and a Business Incubator and Training Hub. - Sam Kennedy was named 2021 Oakey Citizen of the Year, with Jack Mailman winning the Young Citizen award.

- The Rosalie Citizen of the Year award went to Peranga man, Gary Deakin, with Loretta Voll winning the Community Spirit prize.

- A large group of Oakey region residents rallied in support of New Acland Mine in February. The event was also attended by then new Queensland Opposition leader David Crisafulli and Member for Condamine Pat Weir.

- In early February, the New Acland Stage 3 case was heard in the High Court with the project sent back to the Land Court for a full hearing.

- New Oakey State High School leaders were invested in February with Parker Mead, Connie-Jane Creevey, Hannah Dolan and Jessica Heyze named school captains.

- A crash between a B-double truck and agricultural forklift blocked the Warrego Highway on February 23 with all involved lucky to escape major injury.

ABOVE: Local Kirk Dorries (centre) received a QFES achievement award from Assistant Commissioner David Hermann and Deputy Commissioner Mark Roche.

ABOVE: Local Garney Dillon turned 100 in February. He is pictured with Lieutenant Colonel Trent Groves.

APRIL

MAY

- Goombungee-Haden Show Society held its 106th Show in early April with a big crowd filling the Showgrounds for the return of the popular event.

- Another Day in the Park at Peranga event saw the unveiling of the Peranga - Evergreen Pioneer Memorial and the opening of the Peranga Heritage Centre in April.

Both facilities will help preserve the history of the township for decades to come.

- Bowenville student Jimmy Finch stunned judges at the Queensland Royal Show (Ekka) with his epic 171kg pumpkin. The entry smashed the youth class record and came very close to the open class winner, a 196kg entry.

- After the 2020 event was cancelled due to COVID-19, crowds packed the Oakey main street for Anzac Day 2021.

- Local student Jorja Charles took on women of all ages in the SWIN Western Rivers Cricket Cup in May and was named the Rookie of the Carnival.

- Winners of the Oakey Youth Project’s Dis/Connect art competition were announced with the best works displayed in businesses and facilities. Local young artists showcased their creative talents as part of the competition.

- Jondaryan’s Stockyard Beef won Australia’s best steak with Stockyard Black in the Royal Queensland Food and Wine Show.

- The National Australia Bank (NAB) announced that it would be closing its Oakey branch in May. The branch was one of only two banks still in the township.

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ABOVE: Angus Lane and Errol Luck at the 2021 Goombungee-Haden Show.

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MARCH

- In a first for Oakey, the local swimming club together with others from across the district held an MS Swimathon in March. The event was a huge success and raised almost 20,000.

- The 2021 Oakey Show saw the ground broken on the project to build a new pavilion structure. The Show also had crowds of over 1,000 people pack the local Showgrounds.

- A fire destroyed a caravan at Oakey-Pittsworth Road on March 9. No one was injured but only ashes were left of the caravan.

- Toowoomba Regional Council voted to extend the shutdown of the historic Jondaryan Woolshed in March.

The facility had been closed since February 2020 with many residents worried that the centre would never be re-opened.

ABOVE: Molly, Kirby, Clem and Josephine dress-up in pink for the Oakey Junior Cricket Club’s Pink Stumps Day.

JUNE

- The Oakey Chamber of Commerce launched its new logo and plans for a ‘Why Leave Town’ campaign at a special event held at the Australian Army Flying Museum.

- Local business Hamlyn’s Modern Meats won the best beef burger prize and runner-up in the gourmet burger class in the AMIC Sausage Kings competition.

- One person died and another person was critical after a crash between a truck and car at Bowenville in June.

- Council announced a rate rise of 2.76 per cent in June as part of the 2021/22 Budget. The Budget included funds for the showgrounds, pool and several local roads.

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Wednesday, January 12, 2022

THE OAKEY CHAMPION

2021 JULY

YEAR IN REVIEW AUGUST

- It was a horror week for road fatalities in the local region in mid July with three deaths in two days. A Tara woman died after a head-on crash on the Warrego Highway at Bowenville. A woman and a 12-years-old girl died after their vehicle collided with a B-double truck on the corner of Jondaryan-Mount Tyson Road and Toowoomba-Cecil Plains Road at Mount Irving.

- The Oakey Chamber of Commerce was very active in July hosting both its business breakfast at Oakey Beef Exports and its new logo launch at the Australian Army Aviation Museum.

- The Oakey Show Society officially opened the new pavilion at the end of July. The new facility was named ‘The Marsh Pavilion’ after long-term volunteers Di and Tim Marsh. Di is also a life member of the society.

- University of Southern Queensland released a report into the Oakey Youth Project outcomes in August. The report found the project had achieved short term successes but was hindered by the lack of services in the township.

- Showing that regional schools can out-class their metro counterparts, Oakey State High School was named a finalist in Queensland Education’s 2021 Showcase Awards.

- In another success for the local high school in August, student Sydney Bodkin won the 2021 Darling Downs and South West region School-based Apprentice or Trainee of the Year.

- The Fathering Project and its impact in Oakey took centre stage at the fourth annual Mayoral Breakfast held at the Oakey Cultural Centre at the end of August.

ABOVE: July saw a spike in burnt-out vehicles with this car dumped by unknown offenders near Costellos Road, at Oakey.

ABOVE: Oakey State High School students Latoyia and Will at the school’s Pink Stumps Day fundraising event held in August.

OCTOBER

Page 7

NOVEMBER

- October saw a large spike in break and enters in Oakey with a marked increase in stolen vehicles worrying residents who were urged to keep their properties secure at all times.

- The Biddeston Hall turned 100 in October with the community coming together to celebrate the anniversary of the important local structure.

- The first group of Certificate 1 in Construction students who completed their studies in Oakey graduated. Over ten young people finished the course.

- Oakey State High School hosted the first dedicated vaccination clinic at the end of October. NRL star Ash Taylor made an appearance at the clinic.

- Oakey hosted a ‘Coffee with a Cop’ event in November with Assistant Commissioner Mike Condon and others travelling to the town to discuss the recent spike in crimes, such as, break-ins and vehicle thefts.

- Jacaranda Day returned to Goombungee with a 3,000 plus crowd packing the main street to enjoy the entertainment, historic displays and parade.

- For the first time in recent memory, Remembrance Day was held indoors rather than at the Oakey Cenotaph. Local representatives gathered at the RSL for the special event.

- The Oakey Senior Bears announced the formation of a new women’s rugby league side. The team had early hype and several highly skilled new signings.

ABOVE: Certificate 1 in Construction graduating student Jerara Bartman with parents Eric and Linda.

ABOVE: Oakey resident Trevor Cockburn (centre) with Volunteers in Policing Linda Moulden and Susan Kenyon.

SEPTEMBER

- An event 100 years in the making, St Monica’s School held its Centenary Celebrations in September.

The event included the official opening of a prayer labyrinth, the laying of a time capsule and the cutting of a birthday cake.

- Oakey student Max received the Elissa Flanagan ‘Aim High’ Scholarship at the Business disABILITY Awards held at Toowoomba in September.

- After over a year of hard work and community collaboration, the Oakey float featured in the Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers grand parade. The creation featured the best the town has to offer and was rewarded with a third place in the community float section.

- Local bus driver Dave Schilder retired as the sole volunteer of the Oakey Community Bus in September.

This threatened to end the service, but the community rallied and the low cost bus continues to this day.

ABOVE: Sisters-in-law Kathleen O’Brien and Johanna O’Brien were special guests at St Monica’s School Centenary Celebrations in September.

DECEMBER

- Olympic walker Dane Bird-Smith visited the lucky students of St Monica’s School inspiring them to create goals and take steps to achieve them.

- Days of heavy rainfall filled creeks and flooded roads in mid-December. Although it threatened to enter properties in Jondaryan, no houses were affected by the water.

- Unfortunately for local families the rainfall forced the Oakey Chamber of Commerce to cancel Santa Fair. This was the second year that external circumstances affected the event.

ABOVE: David Totenhofer, Cr Geoff McDonald, Bec Meacham and Julie Cave at a Oakey Youth Project event.

Pat Celebrating Communities...

Communities WEIRCelebrating Communities Communities...

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(07) 4570 4100 101 Campbell Street, Oakey QLD 4401 PO Box 65, Oakey QLD 4401 condamine@parliament.qld.gov.au patweir.com.au /PatWeirMP

Page 8

THE OAKEY CHAMPION

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THE OAKEY CHAMPION

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Page 9

SPORT

Oakey Social Golf notes Oakey Golf Club results

Oakey Social Golf Club has started the new year with 35 players playing a Single Stableford on the front nine.

The Social Club would like to welcome Bob Baluch to the club along with some oldies coming back being Col Shields and Gary Lange.

Sunday’s winner was Paul Jones on 27 points and Leonard Bartley on 26 points.

Handicap reductions to: P. Jones, now 7; L. Bartley, 14; W. Bostock, 12; H.L., 9; G. Nash, 11; T. Lucht, 13; P. Flynn, 9; J.B., 11.

Pins and approaches went to: 1 - H.L.; 2- under 60, H.L. and over 60, J.B.; 3 - M. Park; 4 S. Bradford; 5/6 - G Nash; 7 - under 60, L. Bartley and over 60, P. Flynn; 8 D. McMonagle; 9 A. Cherry.

Long Drives went to: A Grade - B. Costello; B Grade - H. L.; and over 60 - Col Shields.

Members’ Draw number 26 went to G. Little who

was present for $20.

Raffles both going to HL (well done).

Next week’s game is Single Stroke on the back nine, with a 6.30am tee off.

Thanks to all members for adhering to rules of the

clubhouse.

Remember that monies for the coast trip and Calcutta can be paid as numbers are going quick for the trip away in October.

- Flynny/ Macca

RESULTS Sunday, January 9, Oakey Bowls Club members played Triples with P. Viney, I. Hedge and P. Rudken defeating D. Barfield, R. Krause and A. Jackson.

In the C Singles, M. Park defeated T. Woodham.

COMPETITION CALL Saturday, January 15 will be Triples with P. Federoff, G. Nash and D. Dreyer versus M. Hall, R. Stewart and G. Fenton; and R. Henry, P. Maker and P. Boyton versus K. Pickering, J. Harrison and S. Bradford.

COMING EVENTS Sunday, January 23 will be a C/S three bowl pairs, mixed or otherwise.

It will have a 12.30pm start, and will be sponsored

by Col Beesley a.k.a. ‘the Pom’.

Names on the board and visitors are most welcome.

RESULTS Winner of Thursday Sporters on December 23 was George Fenton, 21 points.

George also won on December 30 with 21 points.

Sunday, January 2 the members played an 18 hole Stableford, the winner being John Grawich with 35pts on a count back.

Runner-up was Marcus Welk with 35 points also.

Rundowns went to Andrew King 34 points; Jenna King, 33 points; and Bob Dearling with 33 points.

Pin on No. 3 and 8 was won by Andrew King.

Pin on 5/14, which is donated by The Barn, was won by Paul Jones and the pin on No. 12, donated by Andrew King, was won by Iris Thompson.

Winner of the nine hole social competition was Gary Nash with a 34 net.

Winner of Thursday Sporters January 6 was Michael Rietveld, 21 points.

Saturday, January 8 and Sunday, January 9: the members played an 18 hole Stroke in conjunction with the January Monthly Medal.

Winner of Division 1 and the Monthly Mug was Bob Dearling with a 70 net.

Runner-up and winner of Division 2 was Peter Flynn with a 71 net.

Ball rundowns went to Andrew King, 73, and Gary Nash, 74 .

Pin on No. 3 was won

RESULTS Thursday, December 30 was a Single Stableford for a Club trophy.

Winner, men, was Phill Cass, 40 points.

Winner, ladies, was Helen Scott, 38 points.

Approaches: 4/13 Errol Hartman 6/15 Dan Darlington, 7/16 David Scutt.

Ladies’ approaches: 5/14 Helen Scott, 6/15 Chris Tannock, 8/17 Carmel Cover. ​Sunday, January 2 was American Foursomes for a Club Trophy.

Winners were Trent and Damien Peters, 65.5 nett.

Rundown to Jason and Adrian Delaney, Col Jenkins and Greg Schull, Dan Darlington and Murray McLeod.

Pin shots men: 3/12 Col Jenkins, 4/13 Paul Ladewig, 8/17 Greg Schull.

Team approaches went to: 2/11, Dan Darlington and Murray McLeod; 6/15, and 7/16, Col Jenkins and Greg Schull.

Thursday, January 6 was a Single Stableford for a Club trophy.

Winner, men, was Aaron

McCluskey with 37 points.

Winner, ladies, was Robyn Drowley with 37 points (ocb).

Approaches, men, went to: 8/17, Gary Mathies; 6/15, Dave Lowe; 9/18, Dave Scutt.

Approaches for ladies to: 3/12, Robyn Drowley; 6/15, Carmel Cover; 7/16, Chris Tannock. ​Sunday, January 9 was a Texas Three Step for McLeod Family Trophies.

Winners were Greg Schull, Dave Humphrey and Col Jenkins, 89 points.

Second place to Gary Herriman, Rodney Mann and Gary Linane.

Third place to Dave Scutt, Christine Tannock and Murray McLeod.

Rundown to Bill Robertson, Craig Kennedy and Dave Lowe.

Pin shots, men: 4/13, Gary Herriman; 8/17, Col Jenkins.

Approaches men: 5/14 Dave Lowe, 7/16 Nino Capuzzo.

Pin shot, ladies: 4/13, Ann Cass.

Approaches ladies: 3/12, Carmel Cover; 7/16, Chris Tannock.

Members’ Draw No. 96 went to Trent Peters who was not present.

Next week the draw will be $45.

COMING EVENTS Thursday, January 13 will be a Single Stableford Medley for a Club Trophy.

Friday, January 14 will be a Chook run from 3pm.

Sunday, January 16 will be a Flag Event for Club Trophy.

- Murray McLeod

Oakey Social Golf Club winner was L. Bartley and runner-up was P. Jones.

Oakey Bowls Club notes

by Alan De Ross, No. 8 to Matthew Park and 5/14, which is donated by the Barn, was won by Andrew King.

Ladies’ winner was Marlene Deans with a 76

net.

COMING EVENTS Saturday, January 15 and Sunday, January 16: the members will play an 18 hole Stableford.

- Marlene Deans, Secretary

Goombungee Golf Club notes

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Page 10

THE OAKEY CHAMPION

Magpies celebrate win after Oakey Tennis 2021 grand final

Wednesday, January 12, 2022

Another great season of tennis has finished for the Oakey & District Tennis Association, with Lester Bach and Sarah Wolski winning the Tuesday night competition and the Magpies team coming out on top in the Thursday night fixtures.

The Magpies won the Thursday night competition after a great Grand Final against the Budgies team.

After a close first three sets, the Magpies

won the next three for the victory.

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ABOVE: The runners-up in the Thursday night competition were the Budgies. This team included members Melissa Bennett, Paul Dashwood and Damien Peters.

Chaz Cheatley was best with the ball for Central Downs with 3-20.

Central Downs started batting before lunch and after 11 overs were 2-35.

Soon after lunch, Alex Dwan took the third wicket for Warwick via a catch to Joe Wagner at

square leg.

John Cleary was also worrying the Central Downs batters after lunch with his pace and bounce from the Pratten Street end of Slade Park.

In reply Central Downs chased the total down with only one wicket to spare in

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Parliamentary Committee to review regional news services

News services across Australia’s rural and regional areas are to be the focus of a new Federal Parliamentary inquiry 1and the Standing Committee responsible for the inquiry is looking to gain insights by way of submissions from publishers and members of the public. websites.

“At a time when many regional and remote newspaper services are shutting down or moving online, it is vital that we understand the needs of regional communities, and how heavily they rely on their local newspapers to stay connected,” Dr Webster said.

As part of the inquiry the Committee will examine

the impact of decisions by large publishers to suspend publication of print editions; entry into these or other markets by new operators, particularly small businesses; impact of the News Media Bargaining Code for regional and remote newspapers; and the economic recovery in regional and remote markets from the impacts of COVID, and whether this has led

to advertising revenue improving.

The terms of reference are available at https://www. aph.gov.au/Communications.

Submissions can be made through the webpage, or by email to communications.reps@aph.gov. au until 28 January but it is preferred that submissions are uploaded electronically, through: www.aph.gov.au/ Committee/Submissions.

Latest Parkrun results

Regular Joanna McRae ran in top place with a time of 19:28 minutes at the first Oakey Parkrun event for 2022 on Saturday.

She was followed by Bradley McKay in a personal best of 19:40 minutes.

William McRae finished third, 20:10 minutes, followed by Dave McRae,

21:10 minutes.

A total of 20 people participated in the event at the weekend.

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The Australian House of Representatives Standing Committee on Communications and the Arts will hear evidence on newspaper services in rural, regional and remote areas.

Committee Chair, Dr Anne Webster MP said local news is a vital component to an interconnected community, and a thriving democracy.

“Particularly in smaller markets, having a choice in where to access your news coverage is not always possible,” she said.

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the 45th over in an exciting game of cricket.

Best for Central Downs with the bat was Rahul Suresh (Bowenville club) who scored 26.

Steve Grogan was best for Warwick with the ball taking 4-26.

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The toss was won by Central Downs and Warwick was sent in to bat.

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ABOVE: The Magpies team included Natasha Hess, Tim Rowlands and Aaron Gartner.

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Wednesday, January 12, 2022

THE OAKEY CHAMPION

Page 11

G A R R I S O N C AT C H U P

Find us on Facebook #AAVNTC

Yo u r l i n k t o t h e A v i a t i o n C e n t r e

Aviation Medical Officer by day, emergency practitioner by night Anyone who has had a need to visit the Oakey Hospital after hours in recent times may have met a dynamic medical doctor with more than a few stories to tell.

US-born and raised (but long time Australian citizen and resident) Major Scott Hahn spends his days at the Swartz Barracks Medical Centre as an Aviation Medical Officer, but Monday to Thursday can be found working the night shift at the Oakey Hospital.

“I thought I could probably do some practice in the civilian setting to keep my general practice training skills up to par,” Dr Hahn says.

“Like any other skill; if you don’t use it you lose it so I went looking for an opportunity to use those skills while value-adding at the same time.”

With his family based in Brisbane Dr Hahn spends his working week at Swartz Barracks and so began his discussions with Queensland Health on how he may be able to contribute during his evenings.

The result is some relief for the existing medical doctors with the addition of extra support while Dr Hahn refreshes his clinical

skills.

“During these shifts I see kids from a few days old to people at the end of life, treat accidents or chronic health conditions – I get to see the full range of practice,” he notes.

On his second night at the Oakey Hospital Dr Hahn was met by two ambulances bringing in to two separate cases with chest pains while several other medical emergencies eventuated.

“With just a few staff and multiple emergencies all requiring attention we were moving,” he recalls.

“Happily, everyone responded well to treatment and recovered.

“As I walked home at 4am before getting ready for my 7am start at the Swartz Barracks Medical Centre I thought ‘Well, I hope they’re not all like that!’”

Dr Hahn has followed an interesting path to his current roles at both the Swartz Barracks Medical Centre and the Oakey Hospital, having

grown up in San Diego but studying in Australia.

Reconnecting with Australian friends he’d made while they were on exchange to the United States, Dr Hahn came out to Australia on holiday in 1987 where one of those friends – Anne – would become his wife.

He settled down into his studies at the Queensland University of Technology with ambitions of becoming a high school science teacher but was offered a role in a postgraduate research program into ciguatera poisoning in Queensland waters and ended up with a PhD in toxicology.

An academic career beckoned but a desire for action remained and he joined the Army Reserve in 2003 as an Environmental Health officer.

“The variety of things that I’ve done in the Army has been incredible,” MAJ Hahn notes.

“The opportunities to get out and do things in the field and solve real-

Welcome to 2022

Major Scott Hahn, a Swartz Barracks Aviation Medical Officer and part time Emergency Department medical practitioner at Oakey Hospital.

- Photo, Bradley Richardson

A belated Happy New Year to all Oakey residents from the team at the Army Aviation Training Centre.

2022 promises to build on the excellent work completed during 2021 with Defence personnel focused on delivering world standard service as a centre of excellence in rotary wing flying training and rotary aircraft maintenance.

We are looking forward

to continuing our great relationship with The Oakey Champion and bringing you more news articles about the Base and upcoming activities and also hope to continue engaging with you through a variety of ways including participation with the Chamber of

Commerce, school visits, display activities or simply stopping for a chat in the street.

If you have any suggestions or a particular area of interest please let us know via The Champion or through our Facebook page https://www.facebook. com/AAvnTC

world problems has been a big attraction, while the people I’ve been working with in the medical corps have been wonderful.”

He left the full time tertiary sector in 2006 to undertake the Graduate Medical Scheme with ADF support, attending the University of Queensland before undertaking his internship in public hospitals before returning the undertake full time

service with the Regular Army.

MAJ Hahn judges his time with the Royal Australian Army Medical Corps a career highlight “very well qualified, highly motivated, very intelligent and very well trained people – it’s a stimulating environment to be in.”

Having returned last year for a six month stint in the United Kingdom undertaking a Diploma

in Aviation, Dr Hahn is looking to complete training in Aviation Medicine through the Australasian College of Aerospace Medicine before continuing in that specialised role with Army.

In the meantime, should you need after hours medical assistance there’s every chance you’ll meet Swartz Barrack’s very own Dr Hahn!

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Page 12

THE OAKEY CHAMPION

Wednesday, January 12, 2022

Photos from The Oakey Champion vault

Whether it’s because they are a little silly, out of focus or just not right for the edition at the time, this collage of photos taken throughout 2021 has not been published in The Oakey Champion newspaper until now.

ABOVE AND LEFT: Oakey Junior Cricket players pose for the camera on Pink Stumps Day. ABOVE RIGHT: The Oakey State High School 2021 graduates let loose on their last day.

RIGHT: Nathan Jervis, Craig Commens and Neville Cherry really enjoyed their ribs at the Oakey Show last year.

BELOW LEFT: There is nothing like the pain felt by participants in the ironman competition on Australia Day after being forced to down a cold pie and beer or soft drink.

Pat Pat WEIR WEIRMPMP Pat WEIR MP Member for Condamine

Member for Condamine PLEASE NOTE As of last Tuesday 24th of March at the direction of the

Please Please like mylike my facebookfacebook page page

Member for Condamine

ABOVE: WO1 Paul Simpfendorfer and Commandant Charlie Barton (with his eyes closed again) at the Oakey Show.

ABOVE RIGHT: Lovely lady of Oakey Susie Cussen with Acting Inspector Steve Perkins.

RIGHT: Two gentlemen of Biddeston, Fred Lax and Leon Batzloff, at the 100th birthday of the local hall.

BELOW RIGHT: CWA House staff show off their backs to the camera.

LEFT: Pharmacy staff Alana Baisden, Gianna Kelly, Jenny Wieck and Jess Heyze farewelled Gavin Mingay and his Dad jokes in 2021.

Come and meet your local member OUTSIDE THE GOOMBUNGEE NEWSAGENCY 15 Mocatta Street, Goombungee

Working for Saturday 29 February | 9am-12pm our community (07) 4570 4100 101 Campbell Street, Oakey QLD 4401 PO Box 65, Oakey QLD 4401 condamine@parliament.qld.gov.au patweir.com.au /PatWeirMP