Oakey Champion - 22nd September 2021

The

Oakey Champion

4691 1376

Wednesday, September 22, 2021

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Oakey’s Own Newspaper

INSIDE

THIS

WEEK

N E W W O O L S H E D P R O P O S A L - PAG E 3 L A N D C A R E D I S P L AY C L O S I N G S O O N - PAG E 1 0 N E T B A L L E R S M A K E S U R P R I S E V I S I T - PAG E 1 2

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The best that Oakey has to offer from agriculture, community spirit and collaboration was on display at the Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers Grand Floral Parade with the township’s contribution holding its own amongst the 60 other floats that took part in the mammoth event in the Toowoomba CBD at the weekend.

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All facets of the Oakey community from businesses, clubs, dance groups, schools and local individuals came together to make the float a success.

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As well as making an impact with festival goers, the Oakey float made an impression on the parade judges

with the entry bringing home third place in the community float section.

Featuring representatives

from the Oakey State High School, Academy of Dance - Oakey, Coops Construction QLD and Oakey Scouts, the float

was surrounded by a wide cross section of the community who walked in the parade.

- Continued on page 3

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Page 2

THE OAKEY CHAMPION

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Wednesday, September 22, 2021

Calls for more international tenants at local army base

Member for Groom Garth Hamilton said the long term success of the Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF) tenancy at Oakey’s Australian Army Aviation Training Centre has prompted him to call on Minister for Defence Peter Dutton to consider inviting more countries to consider taking up residence at the local base.

Mr Hamilton said the Singaporean agreement with Australia to use the centre for pilot training has been very successful and should be used as a blueprint for future agreements.

He said he has written to Mr Dutton to urge him

AGRICULTURAL

SPRAYING EQUIPMENT Member for Groom Garth Hamilton talks with Australian Army Aviation Training Centre Commandant Colonel Charlie Barton during a recent visit to the base. to consider inviting more countries to use the centre as a training base.

“I think the Aviation Training Centre has been flying under the radar for some time,” Mr Hamilton said.

“I see the value in the facility and what it does.

“It’s an awesome place and the agreement with the Singaporeans is a good story for the site.

“The relationship between the countries is only getting better.

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“It is a arrangement that works well, so why not try and expand it.”

Mr Hamilton said having new international partners use the site would be beneficial for the long term future of the centre.

“It would cement the future of the base, bring more jobs to the region and possibly more or new industries,” he said.

Mr Hamilton said it was still early days and acknowledged that any new agreements with

Around the

countries would be a long process.

“I want Oakey to be in the discussion when the Minister [of Defence] meets with representatives from other countries,” he said.

“We need Oakey to be front of mind.”

The RSAF commenced training at Oakey in 1996.

Its footprint has grown significantly since the agreement was signed with several facility upgrades and operation expansions in the past 25 years.

DOWNS

We’re offering a free bus trip for seniors to visit some of our spectacular floral displays during the Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers.

The bus will collect passengers from Oakey, Kingsthorpe and Goombugee on Tuesday, 28 September. Morning tea and a picnic lunch will be provided. Please bring your own thermos for tea and coffee and a water bottle.

Pick up and drop off locations and times: Oakey Community Centre, pick up 7.50am, drop off 3.55pm Kingsthorpe Gowrie Street bus stop, pick up 8.15am, drop off 3.35pm Goombungee Service Centre, pick up 8.45am, drop off 3.10pm Bookings are essential. Call us on 131 872 to book your space or visit the Oakey customer service centre.

Jobs at Council

Join us in serving the community. Take a look at our current employment opportunities by visiting www.tr.qld.gov.au/jobs

Preparing for storm season Every home is different, but you can always do small tasks to maintain your home so it’s ready for the storm season, such as: • trim trees and overhanging branches • clean your roof and gutters • secure objects in your yard or outdoor areas and • prepare an emergency kit.

For more tips on how to prepare for storm season, visit www.tr.qld.gov.au/beprepared

DID YOU KNOWYOUR IDEAS can HELP

shape the Region

Each year we ask for feedback on different projects, proposed changes to policies and what you’d like us to do differently or better.

Every voice matters.

Register to have your ideas heard by visiting www.tr.qld.gov.au/yoursay

131 872

www.tr.qld.gov.au

Toowoomba Regional Council_220921_OC

Free bus trip for Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers

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Wednesday, September 22, 2021

THE OAKEY CHAMPION

Charity seeks to take over Woolshed

Following ongoing closures and uncertainty from the Toowoomba Regional Council, Moreton Bay based not-for-profit charity, Full Circle Projects Inc., has stepped up vying to become the operator of the Jondaryan Woolshed in a partnership model with the local community and community groups.

Full Circle Projects CEO Mr Noel Herbert said the charity’s vision would complement the volunteers and work with them to continue the enduring legacy of the Jondaryan Woolshed.

“The wealth of experience provided by the volunteers needs to be embraced and encouraged through inspiring them with support, vision and respect,” Mr Herbert said.

“If we are successful in becoming the operator of the site, we want to involve the local community and to ensure all the volunteers have the opportunity to be a part of the site’s future.”

Under the Full Circle Projects proposal, Mr Herbert said he envisions that the Woolshed will adopt a model where all profits from the operation of the facility will be reinvested in the ongoing development of the facility and into the local community.

Mr Herbert said Full Circle Projects recently held a volunteer’s recognition function to recognise the volunteers for their immense contribution over the past 45 years.

He said he was delighted to have the opportunity to speak to 36 past and present volunteers at the function, however there are many more volunteers that he would like to connect with.

“We encourage all current and former Woolshed volunteers who would like to find out more about our desire to become the operator of Jondaryan Woolshed, and our shared vision for it, to please get in contact with us,” he said.

Further Volunteer Recognition functions and information sessions on the Full Circle Projects proposal will be held over coming months and the charity has extended an invitation to all past and present volunteers to

attend these events.

Full Circle Projects started as a specialist outreach homeless service and has achieved success in reducing homelessness in the Moreton Bay region.

The charity has now established a presence in the Toowoomba region and has branched into creating commercial business models for community facilities and assets to make them independent of recurrent Government funding for their day-today operation.

Full Circle Projects also has other projects and proposals in the pipeline to address homelessness and youth training in the Toowoomba region.

To find out more about its Jondaryan Woolshed proposal or register for volunteer recognition functions and information sessions, contact Full Circle Project’s Nick Geraghty on 0429 330 805 or plod.86@hotmail.com

Continued from page 1 Oakey float coordinator Zoe Grainger said she couldn’t be happier with the result of the float which was the result of months of planning, hard work and community collaboration.

“I’m super happy, super excited with how it looked on the day,” she said.

“The day before the whole cone piece almost collapsed under the weight of the pieces on it, but it all came together in the end.”

Ms Grainger said she couldn’t have undertaken the project without the support of community members.

“The Totenhofers, Merle and David, were amazing, indescribable.

“This wouldn’t have happened without them.

“Coops providing the

truck and the students and James Joyce from the high school, they were amazing too.”

Ms Grainger said she wasn’t expecting the float to take third place in the parade and was only focused on finishing the display for the parade.

“I really didn’t even think of winning a prize,” she said.

“I only wanted it to be together and looking good

on the day, but getting third place has just topped it off.”

With the Carnival of Flowers almost finished for another year, Ms Grainger said she hasn’t considered whether she will coordinate the float next year.

“People have said that I should do it next year, but I’m not sure yet. I will make a decision early next year,” she said.

Oakey float wins third place

Learner driver clocks 157km/hr

Oakey Police intercepted an 18-years-old man driving at 157 kilometres per hour on the Oakey-Pittsworth Road at Aubigny on Sunday night.

Police located the man driving with a learner licence and without an accompanying driver.

The driver was issued with a ticket.

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Page 3

Man handed gaol term for vehicle, drug offences

Ashley Johnson received a three months term of imprisonment suspended for 12 months and has had his licence disqualified for six months after he pleaded guilty to multiple driving and drug offences at the Oakey Magistrate’s Court on Friday.

Johnson admitted to several offences committed on February 10 and 13.

Police first charged the man after he was located driving a vehicle without registration plates.

In addition to driving an unregistered and uninsured vehicle, he was also found to be a repeat unlicensed driver.

A few days later, Toowoomba Police again spotted the vehicle and, with the assistance of PolAir, tracked Johnson through Oakey to a Kingsthorpe address.

The vehicle was still unregistered and uninsured and Johnson was also unlicensed.

Police searched the vehicle and located a hypodermic syringe, a glass pipe used for the smoking of a dangerous drug and a banned weapon, being knuckle dusters.

He was again charged with vehicle offences, possession of drug paraphernalia and a weapon and with failing to comply with a police request.

Police prosecutor Sergeant Chris Hutchins told the court that the man was lucky not to be charged with further offences, such as, evading police.

He said Johnson had been offered “probation, after probation, after probation” and was still offending.

He said it is clear that

The

the man is or was suffering with significant addiction issues but needed further punishments for his continuing bad behaviour.

Duty lawyer Ryan McCullough from McDonald Law said Johnson was working to control his drug issues and his use is currently “the

best it has have been”.

Magistrate Kerrie O’Callaghan agreed with Sergeant Hutchins, issuing Johnson with three months’ imprisonment suspended for 12 months and a six months licence disqualification and ordered that all prohibited items should be forfeited.

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Page 4

THE OAKEY CHAMPION

Mirror

Wednesday, September 22, 2021

TO THE PAST

Father Leo Hayes

Edward Leo Hayes was born in 1889 at Frederickton, north of Kempsey in NSW, the second of eight children.

When he was very young, Leo began collecting bird eggs, and this passion for collecting was to make him one of the most extraordinary human bower birds in the history of this country.

After working for the auctioneering firm Bacon & Co. in Gunnedah from 1905, he came to Toowoomba in 1908 and joined the Downs Co-op Association as a junior clerk.

It was here that he first thought seriously about becoming a priest.

In 1911, at 21, he went to the seminary, first at Springwood and then to Manly, until his ordination in 1918.

He did well in debating and public speaking skills which served him well over

the next 50 years.

His first appointment was to Ipswich, then followed Kilcoy, Taroom, Laidley, Chinchilla and Crows Nest in 1930 and 21 years later to St Monica’s, Oakey, where he was destined to end his earthly ministry.

One quite remarkable event in his long life occurred during World War II when General Macarthur asked him to supply rare maps of New Guinea and the Pacific Islands from his vast collection of memorabilia.

He was rewarded with a bottle of whiskey and a gold fountain pen which he used for his legendary letter writing during the remainder of his life.

Every child in his Parish who passed a public examination received a letter from him.

I still have mine from 1965 Junior Exam (Year 10).

On November 17, 1967, a most remarkable man shuffled off this mortal coil in St Vincent’s Hospital, Toowoomba.

Only a short time before his death, he gave his huge collection to the University of Queensland.

&

The Champion Crossword

4691 1376

Wednesday, September 14, 2016

$1.20

Father Leo Hayes left behind not only a marvellous collection in the UQ but also the legacy of a dedicated man of God, who preached Christian unity through respect and charity to everyone. Amen.

- Valerie Weise-Young

ABOVE: The letter Valerie received from Father Hayes in 1965.

- Photo, Valerie Weise-Young ABOVE LEFT: Father Leo Hayes with his books in his presbytery at Oakey, circa 1960.

- Photo, University of Queensland Hayes Collection

OAKEY AND DISTRICT

Sudoko WEATHER SudokU

The week ahead The cold weather is back again this week as overnight lows drop back down to as low as zero degrees. Daytime conditions are set to remain fine and sunny with the temprature on Saturday expected to hit 30 degrees.

6 DAY FORECAST

Wednesday,, March 23, 2016

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

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

Published each Wednesday

by OurNews Pty. Ltd. Printed by Greenridge Group, 4 Freighter Avenue Toowoomba

$$1.20

RAIN

5%

CHANCE OF FROST

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0/22°C

<1mm

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Sunny

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5% <1mm

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SAT

Mostly Sunny

8/30°C

SUN

Partly Cloudy

7/25°C

MON

Partly Cloudy

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29th Sept

TThe heEstablished Cha amp pion n Champion 1984

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DEADLINES: (Display Advertising) - 5.00p.m. Friday

(Classified Advertising) - Monday 5.00p.m.

- Responsibility for all unsigned electoral material in this publication is accepted by E. A. Rogers, 60 Clark Street, Clifton.

The Champion is available from:

- Copyright in all advertising and Editorial material, except where otherwise held, resides at all times with the Oakey Champion: such copyright will not be released to any other party except by written permission. Production charges and reproduction fees will apply.

- Central City News - Cobb & Co Roadhouse Jondaryan - Goombungee News - South Street News, Toowoomba - Kingsthorpe News - Quinalow Garage - Maclagan General Store

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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, September 22, 2021

THE OAKEY CHAMPION

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THE OAKEY CHAMPION

Wednesday, September 22, 2021

Councillors fight for Weir opposes Voluntary Assisted Dying Bill Jondaryan grant funding

A debate by the Toowoomba Regional Council’s (TRC) Environment and Community Committee has left the Jondaryan State School Parents and Community (P&C) Association without grant funding for a school song after Councillors voted that the project did not have a “broad community benefit”.

With the Voluntary Assisted Dying Bill 2021 comprehensively passing in State Parliament last week, Member for Condamine Pat Weir has assured local residents that he has taken into action the views of his constituents when choosing to publicly vote against the legislation.

The Community Grant Program Assessment Panel recommended that the application from the P&C for $2,500 towards creating a school song to commemorate 150 years of the Jondaryan State School not be approved because the panel could not identify wider community benefit and that the project funding should be the responsibility of the State Government.

The TRC Environment and Community Committee has final approval of the grant funding.

Committee Chair Cr James O’Shea, who was also on the funding panel, said panel members were divided on whether the project was appropriate for the Cultural & Arts Support Grant category.

“In the end it came back to it being a school. Is it part of the school’s core business to have a school song?” he said.

Cr Rebecca Vonhoff, Cr Melissa Taylor and Cr Tim McMahon urged the other Councillors to support the

Mr Weir (pictured) told parliament during a debate on the legislation that a survey conducted of the Condamine residents found 64 per cent of residents were opposed to the bill with 34 per cent in favour.

“Given the concerns of my community, which I also share, I cannot support the bill,” he said.

“I am aware that some will be disappointed at my decision, which was always going to be the case whichever way I voted.

“I just ask for your understanding. I value all opinions, but this is the position that I have taken.”

Mr Weir said he questioned whether the bill achieved its aim to give a person in intolerable pain the choice to hasten the end of life and whether sufficient safeguards were in place.

He also questioned if the legislation would result in faith based health providers being forced to participate despite their objections.

“Whilst it is a voluntary opt-in scheme for the patient, it also needs to be

project.

Cr Vonhoff, also a panel member, said she wasn’t satisfied with the final recommendation.

“I am uncomfortable on where we landed as a panel. A song isn’t the core business and I would say especially in a community like Jondaryan there is wider community benefit,” Cr Nancy Sommerfield and Cr Carol Taylor argued that the P&C would be better off applying for event funding for their 150 years celebrations in 2022 with both Councillors putting forward an amendment that encouraged the group to seek other funding.

This proposal won the most support with seven Councillors voting not to approval the application and three voting to give the funds to the P&C. LOCAL GRANT WINS Several local groups were successful in their applications for grant funding.

The Oakey Senior Rugby League Club will receive

$5,587.50 under the Sports and Recreation category to upgrade ground and carpark entrance points.

In the Community Support section, the Gowrie Little Plain Community Centre Inc. will be able to complete its carpet seating area project thanks to a $1,200 grant.

Many local organisations also had success in the Event Support Category.

These include: - two separate grants of $1,500 each for the Boodua Public Hall Association Inc. to host the Boodua Bash and Boodua Christmas Party; - A $1,500 grant for the Haden Public Hall Inc. to hold its annual Haden Market Day and Block Party; - The GoombungeeHaden AH & P Society Inc. received $1,500 for its 2022 Showgirl & Rural Ambassador Awards; and - A $2,500 grant for the TADOMS Old Machinery Society Expo hosted by Toowoomba and District Old Machinery Society Inc.

a voluntary opt-in scheme for the health service providers and staff asked to administer the life-ending drug,” Mr Weir said.

“If staff are forced into a situation where they feel they have no option other than to participate in ending a life, this will have significant mental health impacts.”

Mr Weir said he would like the government to focus more on providing adequate palliative care especially in rural areas.

“In many areas of rural

and regional Queensland, palliative care provisions and options are sadly lacking,” he said.

“Whilst a substantial funding increase is necessary, this is not simply a monetary issue. Accessing suitably qualified staff to live and work in the regions is a very real challenge.”

For more information on the newly adopted Voluntary Assisted Dying Bill go to: www.health.qld. gov.au/system-governance/ legislation/voluntaryassisted-dying-bill

Jacko’s Hawaiian Day set to return in 2021 Woman pleads guilty after

The Riethmuller family will again be hosting its popular Jacko’s Hawaiian Day on Saturday, October 16 at the Quinalow Hotel to raise funds for the Queensland Cancer Council and St Andrews Oncology Ward, Toowoomba.

This year the event will include pig races, market and food stalls, a licensed bar and entertainment until late.

The gates open at 11am and the first race commencing at 1pm.

This is the fifth event held in honour of Wayne Andrew ‘Jacko’ Riethmuller who passed away in 2015 after a three year long battle with bowel cancer.

Organiser Jenny Riethmuller said the event enables the family to give back to the organisations that helped them during

Jacko’s time of need, the Cancer Council and St Andrews Oncology Ward.

“These two charities helped our family along with so many other families through the toughest time of our lives,” she said.

“It is our turn to help them and we are asking for your help to do this.

“We know cancer now unfortunately affects almost every family.”

She said in total the fundraising events have raised thousands of dollars with the 2020 event yielding over $20,000.

To purchase a ticket to the event go to: trybooking. com/771379 Camping sites are available by calling the Quinalow Hotel at 4692 1167.

For market enquiries and sponsorship call Jenny on 0427 921 115.

fight at school car park

A 21-years-old Oakey woman pleaded guilty to contravening a domestic violence order following a fight at a school car park with her partner on July 27.

Police prosecutor Sergeant Chris Hutchins said the partner of the accused had a domestic violence order against her from October 2020.

Man fined for mid range drink driving

A 59-years-old man pleaded guilty to a mid range drink driving charge after appearing in the Oakey Magistrate’s Court on Friday.

Police prosecutor Sergeant Chris Hutchins alleged that the man was stopped for a random breath test on July 29.

He said the man recorded a reading of 0.123 which is over the mid range alcohol limit but below to high range limit.

The man had no similar offending and received a $650 fine and had his licence disqualified for three months.

He said the pair was seen having an altercation in the car park, which began with yelling then turned into a physical fight.

He said the woman began slapping and hitting the man and the man retaliated by pulling her hair, throwing her to the ground and kicking her.

“They were both as bad as each other,” Sergeant Hutchins said.

“I concede that the victim did retaliate after the accused pulled back.

“It is unfortunate, but it was the accused that had the domestic violence order against her.”

Duty lawyer Ryan McCullough from McDonald Law said the woman and mother-of-two had suffered significant stress leading up to the incident.

He said the couple is still together and are working through their issues.

The woman received a $700 fine which was referred to SPER.

Chappy’s Chat

PRAYER AND TEAM WORK ‘I can do everything through him who gives me strength’.

Philippians 4:13 On the fifth Sunday in August an ecumenical service was hosted by the Oakey Community Christian Church at the Cultural Centre followed by a wonderful feast and great fellowship. There were visitors from Brisbane and the Gold Coast. The singing was also amazing. It is always great to see the churches working together but this event took hospitality to another level as was the visible caring, sharing and giving.

Another recent event was the Mayoral Breakfast which was also well attended and organised.

I would like to acknowledge the wonderful efforts of so many local people contributing to this community. So much that is positive is really happening through prayer and team work.

There is always much to be done but many would be seeing the fruits of their efforts, too. Congratulations to all concerned. There really are some wonderful things happening in Oakey and some fantastic people to be around!

- June Evans Anglican Church member

Wednesday, September 22, 2021

THE OAKEY CHAMPION

Page 7

Fireweed blazing through region Pilot project to

An increasing amount of the invasive plant Madagascan Fireweed (Senecio madagascariensis) has been spotted in the local region, causing concern for primary producers as it competes with pasture and is toxic to livestock.

“Senecio madagascariensis has been identified in a few isolated areas along the eastern boundaries of the escarpment.”

“All species of fireweed can be toxic to livestock (native and introduced), and affected landholders are encouraged to manage those infestations” To assist with the identification of this invasive plant, Cr McMahon said council has developed fact sheets, which are available to the community, in addition to material from the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries (DAF).

“These fact sheets are distributed to landholders and relevant stakeholders through educational and awareness programs.

“Information about this plant is also included in a Pest Management Newsletter which goes out to relevant landholders and stakeholders,” he said.

Wild turnip can also be mistaken for Madagascan Fireweed, as it grows as a yellow flowering field.

All senecio plants have a similar ability to set seed and produce pyrrolizidine alkaloids which are toxic to livestock (particularly cattle and horses) causing chronic liver damage.

The damage to the

liver is cumulative over the life of the animal, it is irreversible and no treatment is available.

Fireweed is preferentially avoided by livestock, therefore poisoning is more likely to occur if there is a shortage of other feed on offer.

HOW TO SPOT IT - Flowers have conspicuous yellow rays more than 2mm long.

- Involucral bracts (green part surrounding the flower head) are all more or less the same length and slightly overlapping.

- There are 18 to 22 involucral bracts per flower head.

- Leaves nearly always whole or undivided except

for small teeth on the margin.

- Achenes (seeds) are 1.5– 2mm long and 0.3–0.5mm in diameter.

CONTROL DAF suggests “the best control for fireweed incorporates integrated management strategies, including herbicides and mechanical methods in addition to vigorous permanent pastures that can compete strongly with fireweed seedlings.”

Reports of suspected fireweed infestations can be made to TRC by calling 131 872.

For more information, visit daf.qld.gov.au/__data/ assets/pdf_file/0009/67167/ fireweed.pdf

Seeking next crop of world class researchers

High achieving, post-graduate students with an interest in delivering innovative research solutions to the problems facing grain growers are encouraged to apply for a Grains Research and Development Corporation (GRDC) scholarship.

The scholarships are designed to support PhD candidates interested in studying or researching areas that will benefit grain

growers.

The three-year scholarships valued at over $30,000 per annum, will provide candidates

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support online capability

The State Government is partnering with Toowoomba Food Leaders Australia and the Ipswich Food and Agribusiness Network to upskill producers and suppliers in e-commerce and support agriculture jobs.

TOY1172_TCPOV_WindscreenBanners_1000x225mm_v5.indd 1

Fireweed is a restricted invasive plant under the Queensland Government’s Biosecurity Act 2014.

This means landholders have a General Biosecurity Obligation (GBO) to manage the biosecurity risks associated with invasive plants and animals that are under their control and that they know about or should reasonably be expected to know about.

Fireweed generally begins to become visible in August.

It has been burnt into the mind of many farmers for a few years now.

It is usually a weed of beef and dairy pasture and even light infestations can produce one million seeds per hectare.

TRC Environment and Community Committee portfolio lead Cr Tim McMahon said there are 27 native species of Senecio in Queensland, with two varieties commonly found across most parts of the Toowoomba Region.

Nine species have similar flowers with conspicuous yellow rays.

“Only the introduced Madagascan Fireweed (senecio madagascariensis), is a category 3 restricted invasive plant under the Biosecurity Act 2014,” he said.

54,766kms SN: O83064

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The E-commerce Pilot Project is funded through the $5 million Reinvigorated Trade Relationships program, an initiative under the Queensland Government’s Unite and Recover Strategy.

Toowoomba and Surat Basin Enterprise (TSBE) Export Manager for Food and Agribusiness Justin Heaven said the program would demystify the challenges around online sales for food and

agri businesses, help align internal processes to meet buyer demands and help commercialise their e-commerce product offering.

“We will work with each business to understand their current position, look at how they could expand their online presence or focus their e-commerce journey on a targeted range of products that offer the greatest potential for success,” he said.

Dryland Winter Crop Competition

Entries are now open in the Oakey Show Society’s 2021 Dryland Winter Crop Competition.

Following regular and beneficial rainfall across the district during the winter period, the majority of the cereal and legume crops are looking great.

The Oakey Show Society would like growers to consider participating in the competition to demonstrate the value of these crops, the benefits of contemporary farming systems, along with the fertility and productivity of the local farming district.

With the ongoing popularity of chickpeas

across the Oakey District, the Oakey Show Society has again included chickpeas in the 2021 Dryland Winter Crop competition.

Nominations for the Oakey Show Society Dryland Winter Crop Competition for prime hard and durum wheat, barley and chickpeas are now being accepted and will close on Thursday, September 30.

For further information, contact Graham Cooke on 0429 328 681.

Page 8

THE OAKEY CHAMPION

SECURITY SERVICES

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Wednesday, September 22, 2021

POSITIONS VACANT

JP service available most hours Aged pensioners receive free patrols when away Patrols to Oakey businesses and private homes Alarm callout service

Proudly supporting Oakey for the past 20 years

• DEADLINE: 5pm Monday • PHONE: 4691 1376 • FAX: 4691 2625 • EMAIL: advertising@oakeychampion.com.au

• All mechanical repairs & servicing • All electrical repairs & servicing • Fault finding • Generator/water pump repairs & setup • Trucks • Tractors • Machinery • Motorbikes • Buses • Cars • 4x4s

MARK BRADSHAW

WANTED Grain Processing and Container Packing Assistants PITTSWORTH DOWNS CONTAINER PACKING P/L, PITTSWORTH is seeking seasonal casuals for the roles in Grain Processing and Container Packing. These Roles will be required commencing October through to February, with the potential of continued work based on seasonal conditions.

DCP is an Agricultural Grain Packing and Warehousing Facility located in Pittsworth. Our services for grain include; grading, cleaning, storage and packing of grains both for domestic and export markets in bulk and bagged containers.

To be a successful candidate for these roles, you must have your own transport, be flexible with working hours, as the demands of harvest could potentially cause long shifts during the working week and a need for weekend work. There is a requirement to work autonomously and in a team environment.

Qualities and Skills: • Forklift License (Desirable) • Previous Grain Handling experience • Container packing and handling experience • Good Communication skills • Willingness to learn and move quickly between tasks.

Please forward your resume including references to employment@ downscontainerpacking.com.au or via P.O Box 520, Pittsworth, QLD 4356.

If you have any questions, please call our office on (07) 4693 2834 and our staff will be happy to assist.

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Every Thursday 3.30-5pm (No training over school holidays) Go to www.play.cricket.com.au for more information about programs, times and to sign up to the Oakey Junior Cricket Club

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PUBLIC NOTICES Notification of proposal to upgrade nbn™ Radio Network Base Station Facility As part of the fixed radio (wireless) component of the Network, nbn is proposing to expand the existing radio network base station at the following location: 2 Alice Court Kingsthorpe QLD 4400 (Lot 6 on SP197957) (RFNSA site no. 4400001) The proposed works on site will involve the upgrade of existing technology upon the facility including and not limited to the replacement and installation of new antennas, radiocommunication dishes and associated ancillary equipment to enhance transmitting technology. Furthermore, the works will involve the replacement and addition of equipment shelters/outdoor units adjacent to the facility. nbn regards the proposed installations as a Low Impact Facility under the Telecommunications (Low-Impact Facilities) Determination 2018. In these circumstances, it does not require planning approval from Toowoomba Regional Council.

Further information on this specific proposal can be obtained by calling nbn planning team at 1300 745 210 .

Written submissions can be sent to Locked Bag 4001 Moorabbin VIC 3189 address or via email to nbnwirelessqld@ventia.com The closing date for submissions is 07th October 2021 For general info on the nbn, email info@nbn.com.au, or visit our website at www.nbnco.com.au.

Wednesday, September 22, 2021

THE OAKEY CHAMPION

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Page 9

SPORT

Bernborough Tavern

Black Toyota

Coops Pty Ltd

Darling Downs Vets

Michael Carpenter

Tim “The Tipper” Wicks

David Cooper “Coops”

Glen Laws

Rabbitohs Storm

Sea Eagles Storm

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Finals 2 Score: 1 Total Score: 138

Finals 2 Score: 2 Total Score: 143

Finals 2 Score: 1 Total Score: 135

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Phone 4692 0900

Phone 4691 1033

Phone 4691 5868

Phone 4691 9000

Mclean Care CWA House Oakey

Oakey Community Pharmacy

Oakey Family Dental

Oakey Pharmacy

Pat Weir MP

Keith Stower

Alana & G

Christopher Reeves

Nathan Jervis

Pat Weir

Rabbitohs Storm

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Finals 2 Score: 1 Total Score: 98

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Finals 2 Score: 1 Total Score: 137

Phone 4564 7115

Phone 4691 1048

Phone 4570 4100

The Oakey Champion

FOOTY TIPPING COMPETITION

Manly-Warringah Sea Eagles have won 8.

While Melbourne Storm 4 and Penrith Panthers 2.

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According to Wikipedia South Sydney Rabbitohs lead the NRL premiership with 21 wins.

The first in 1908.

u o R Finals

OAKEY COMMUNITY PHARMACY Phone 4691 1130

Oakey Social Golf Club notes

Oakey Social Golf played a 4BBB Stroke with 30 players on the back nine on Sunday.

Oakey Social Golf winner and runners-up G. Fenton, R. Dearling and B. McDonald.

Winners were Dylan Harvey and George Fenton on 24 points.

Runners-up were Rex Dearling and Brett McDonald on 25 points.

Pins and approaches went to: 10 - B. Costello; 11 - over 60, JB and under 60 - A. Palmer; 12 - T. Lucht; 13 - D. Harvey; 14 - P. Jones; 15 - B. Lucht; 16 - under 60, A. Palmer and under 60, W. Wirth; 17 - P. Jones; 18 -

B. McDonald.

Long Drives went to: A Grade - D. Harvey; B Grade - G Little; and over 60 M. Morgan.

Membership number 53 to M. Bradford who was not present for $30.

Raffles went to 36 W. Wirth and 47 T. Boyd.

Next week is Single Stableford on the front nine.

Tee-off, 6.30am to 6.45am.

- Flynny / Macca

Phone 4691 1062

Goombungee Golf Club results RESULTS Thursday, September 16 was a Men’s Single Stableford for a club trophy.

Winner was Gary Buckley with 37 points (ocb).

Approaches went to: 1/10, Murray McLeod; 2/11, Steve Elfverson; 4/13, Dave Humphrey.

Ladies played a Single Stroke for a club trophy.

Winner was Ann Cass with 72 net.

Friday, September 17 was a Chook Run. Winner was Craig Kennedy, 32 net, and second to Bill Robertson.

Saturday, September 18: Highfields Eagles Juniors Football Club Fundraiser, two person Ambrose.

Winners were Craig and Jack Kennedy with 28 net.

Runners-up, Bill Robertson and Jeff Thompson, 303/4 net. Wooden Spooners, Josh Horrobin and Matt Penissi, 44 net.

Pin shots: 4, Craig Kennedy; 8, Jason Edmundstone.

Long drive: 5, Adrian Jessop.

Sunday, September 19, Mixed Foursomes, Single Stableford for club trophies.

Winners Gross Mixed Stableford: Greg Buckley and Jan Mullins, 141 gross.

Winner Single Stableford men: Aaron McCluskey, 39 points.

Winner Single Stableford ladies: Kathy Egan, 30 points.

Rundown: Gary Linane, Bill Robertson, Adrian Delaney, Gary Herriman.

Pin shots men: 3/12, Gary Linane; 4/13, Neil Walters; 8/17, Hary Cover.

Approaches men: 1/10, Nino Capuzzo; 2/11, John Harth; 9/18, Damien Peters.

Team approaches: 2/11,

Errol Hartman and Robyn Drowley; 6/15, Greg Buckley and Jan Mullins.

COMING EVENTS Thursday, September 23 will be a Men’s 9 hole Eclectic Stableford for a club trophy, Ladies Final Round Handicap Matchplay Championship, Single Stableford for other players for a club trophy.

Friday, September 24, a Chook Run from 3pm.

Sunday, September 26, Single Stroke, Monthly Medal - Burstows Funeral Day. - Murray McLeod

RESULTS Wednesday, September 15: ladies played an 18 hole Stableford.

The winner was Marlene Deans, 41 points.

Runner-up was Dawn Bradford, 36 points (ocb).

Front nine was won

by Christine Little, 20 points.

Back nine was won by Yvonne Lebeter, 20 points.

Winners of the Foursomes Matchplay was Joan Fisk and Iris Thompson who defeated Hazel Harvey and Sheryl Barlow, two up.

Saturday, September 18 and Sunday, September 19 the members played an 18 hole Stroke.

Winner was Andrew King, 70 net.

Runner-up on a count back was Joan Fisk, 71 net.

Rundowns went to Hazel Harvey 71 net and Mark Carter with a 75 net.

Pins on No. 3 and No. 8 were won by Hazel Harvey.

Pin on No. 12, which is donated by Andrew King, was won by Alan De Ross.

Andrew King had an Eagle on the 17th.

Winner of Men’s Matchplay final between Patrick Fisk and Alan De

Ross was Patrick, one up.

COMING EVENTS Today (Wednesday), the ladies will play an 18 hole Stroke with the September Monthly Medal. New hit off time is 8.30am.

Saturday, September 25 and Sunday, September 26 the members will play an 18 hole Stableford.

- Marlene Deans, Secretary

Oakey Golf Club latest results

Page 10

THE OAKEY CHAMPION

Wednesday, September 22, 2021

Oakey Parkrun Not too late to visit Oakey Urban Landcare koala habitat display

Oakey Parkrun organisers welcomed an amazing 40 people to the event on Saturday with 15 first time local participants and four personal best times.

Regular, Joanna McRae, came in first place in 20:11 minutes.

She was followed by Benjamin Fenton in a personal best time of 20:18 minutes and William McRae who also recorded a personal best of 20:34 minutes.

Dave McRae, 20:47 minutes, and first timer Benjamin Vogelzang, 22:27 minutes rounded out the top five.

Other personal bests went to Duncan Miller, 24:46 minutes, and Mark Wheatley, 42:57 minutes.

First time locals were: Campbell Fishlock, David J. Thomson, Michelle Green,

Catani Fishlock, Sean Fishlock, Anne Croyden, Mikaylah Thomson, Lachlan Thomson, Hannah Broadhurst, Rebecca Thomson, Pam Hockins, Alexis Broadhurst and Nicole Broadhurst.

The event was made possible thanks to this week’s volunteers: Benjamin Morgan, Joy Dearling, Karen Reeves, Kate Paige, Sian Thurlow and Tracy Back.

Oakey Parkrun is held every Saturday from 7am at Arthur Shooter Park.

It is a 5km event.

For more information and to register go to: www.parkrun.com.au/oakey

Recent raffle win

The winner of the St Augustine’s Anglican Church Guild Book & Plant Sale raffle prize is Gwen Millis.

Gwen won a fruit and vegetable box which was kindly donated by Phyllis and Ross Lange.

Pat Pat WEIR WEIRMPMP Pat WEIR MP

Oakey distict residents have just days to visit the Cockburn Landcare Research Centre at Oakey to enjoy the range of native flower, tree and seed capsule displays, find out more about propagating plants and check out the assortment of local plants for sale.

The large collection of artefacts and items will only be on display until this Sunday, September 26.

Oakey Urban Landcare president Trevor Cockburn said he created the display to reflect the native plants that do well in the local region.

“I wanted to try and show people what they can do if they put their heart and mind to it,” he said.

“The display really shows what we have in the area, what will grow here and what will do well.

“I have put a lot of effort into making the collection the best it can be.

“I want as many people as possible to enjoy it.”

Mr Cockburn said a range of plants featured in the collection are also

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available to purchase.

The centre is at the end of Oakey Kelvinaugh Road, off Beale Street.

The building and displays adjoin the 30 hectares of land which is being transformed into a koala habitat.

The display will be open today, Saturday and Sunday from 10am to 4pm.

For more information about the displays or Oakey Urban Landcare Group call 0409 633 352.

RIGHT: Oakey Urban Landcare president Trevor Cockburn with a display of native flowers cut from plants growing in the area.

BELOW RIGHT: Just a tiny portion of the plants on display at the Cockburn Landcare Research Centre.

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

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Wednesday, September 22, 2021

THE OAKEY CHAMPION

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

Page 11

Find us on Facebook #AAVNTC

Careers Day success Long road to dream job

Swartz Barracks played host to a number of Indigenous students ranging in age from Year Ten to Senior recently to showcase potential careers and highlight specific roles within Army Aviation.

Students and Base personnel with an ARH Tiger helicopter of the School of Army Aviation during the recent visit.

- Photo, Bradley Richardson In conjunction with Defence Force Recruiting (Toowoomba) the Indigenous Exploration Day saw the students check out military helicopters, and speak with people who

fly and maintain them as well as look at other roles including Military Police and the ever-popular Military Working Dogs and their handlers.

Following the welcome

to country and smoking ceremony the group undertook the Base tour around various facilities including RAMS and the flightline before enjoying lunch in the Sergeants’ Mess.

Born and raised in Toowoomba and initially aspiring to be a guitarist, Lieutenant Darius Nooriafshar began a creative arts degree majoring in music before realising that he had no interest in music theory.

Enrolling in an Aircraft Maintenance Engineer course and beginning work towards becoming an Avionics Technician he developed a love for aviation and knew he wanted to work in the industry.

On completion of the course he was unable to secure a job in the aviation industry but was lucky enough to start an apprenticeship in Electronics and Communications - the job had it all, he says: “Climbing communication towers, repairing radios in police cars, to repairing printed circuit boards and everything in between.”.

But something was missing.

He tried to fill this gap by starting flying lessons, which was great but he quickly realised that he wasn’t cut out to be a pilot as he kept getting airsick on every flight.

Base fundraises for Legacy

Personnel at Swartz Barracks recently ‘dug deep’ to raise much-needed funds for the local Legacy organisation, providing a total of $1,268.05.

Legacy supports 43,000 partners and children of veterans who gave their lives or health serving our country.

The fundraiser relied on the goodwill of Base personnel and their desire for treats with first prize a 10kg block of Cadbury chocolate, second prize a 4.5 kg block of Toblerone and third prize a meat tray donated by Hamlyns Modern Meats of Oakey.

RIGHT: Army Aviation Training Centre Commandant Colonel Charlie Barton hands over a cheque to Toowoomba Legacy president David Melandri.

Photo, PTE Jayme Saunders

LT Darius Nooriafshar is currently posted to Rotary Wing Aircraft Maintenance School (RAMS) to learn his trade as an Engineering Officer and is currently completing the Army Aerospace Engineering Officer Training Continuum which will prepare him to lead and manage aircraft tradespeople within the Army Aviation Capability.

- Photo, Bradley Richardson Maintaining emergency services communication equipment meant that there was plenty of travelling all over South East Queensland.

During some of the long drives Darius had time to think of what his next step should be.

He decided that it was to enrol into an Electrical Engineering degree.

Working full time and studying part time has its challenges so Darius began to explore his options.

Having always had an interest in Defence and a father-in-law serving in the Army, he decided to join Army via the Long Term Schooling (LTS) scheme.

After seven years working as a tradesman he hung up his tools and completed the final two years of his degree full time under the LTS scheme - allowing him time to concentrate on his studies, be paid a full-time salary and spend quality time

with his growing young family.

After graduating university he was posted to 7th Combat Service Support Battalion (7 CSSB) as a Platoon Commander that provided a fantastic opportunity for Darius to develop his management and leadership skills leading a platoon of soldiers.

Yet, this role wasn’t in the aviation capability where he wanted to be.

In late 2020 the opportunity came up for Darius to transfer over to Army Aviation and he grabbed the opportunity with both hands and hasn’t looked back.

It’s been a long journey for him to get here but he is finally working in his dream job – Army Aviation.

Darius is hoping to post to 1st Aviation Regiment in Darwin where he will be able to apply all that he has learnt at RAMS and previous jobs.

DEFENCEJOBS DEFENCE FORCE RECRUITING UP COMING EVENTS Toowoomba 28 Sep - Defence Careers Information Session 12 Oct - Gap Year Information Session 26 Oct - Defence Careers Information Session For more details and bookings visit defencejobs.gov.au/events CALL 13 19 01

DEFENCEJOBS.GOV.AU

www.armyflyingmuseum.com.au See our webpage for details on admission fees and opening hours.

Phone 07 4577 7666

Find us on Facebook

Page 12

Seniors Bus Trip

The Toowoomba Regional Council (TRC) is putting on a bus trip on Tuesday, September 28 for local seniors wanting to check out some of the gardens as part of the Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers.

The local route will pick up people from Oakey, Kingsthorpe and Goombungee and visit Queens Park and Laurel Bank Park as well as drive past several prizewinning gardens.

Morning tea, lunch and juice will be provided.

To book call TRC on 131 872.

THE OAKEY CHAMPION

Wednesday, September 22, 2021

Surprise visit for budding young local netballers

St Monica’s School Year 5 and 6 students had no idea professional netball players Laura Scherian and Ashlee Unie from the Sunshine Coast Lightning would be making a special visit when they began a routine training session on Thursday.

Laura and Ashlee travelled from their base at the Sunshine Coast to run a clinic with the students and give them a few freebies from their club.

Both women play netball as part of the national Suncorp Super Netball (SSN) League with Laura also chosen as a member of the Australian Diamonds squad in 2019.

St Monica’s School netball coordinator and Year 4 teacher Kaylene Bruggemann said the students have just started playing netball this year.

She said the young girls have taken to the sport and are slowly building their skills.

Ms Bruggemann said as a reward for their hard work she contacted the Lightning hoping that they would send some merchandise or balls for the students.

“I was shocked when they said they could send some players down to meet the girls. I really didn’t expect that,” she said.

Ms Bruggemann said she didn’t let on to the students that they players

ABOVE: Laura Scherian and Ashlee Unie with Year 6 student Chloe.

BELOW: The students show off their new gear courtesy of the Sunshine Coast Lightning. were coming and made it a complete surprise.

Year 6 students Chloe and Abby said, while they had no idea the players were coming, they had a feeling something special was going to happen.

“We were cheering and we turned around and they were there,” Chloe said.

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“I’m thinking of playing for my high school after I finish here,” she said.

“I really enjoy it.”

Both girls agree that the clinic helped them develop their playing skills.

They said Laura and Ashlee gave them heaps of advice to improve their defensive skills.

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“We watched videos in the classroom and we learnt about everyone in the team so we knew a bit about them.”

Abby said having the players conduct a clinic at the school has made her more enthused to continue playing netball outside primary school.

$ 450

The first round of the Queensland Remembers Grants Program is now open for submissions with the $4 million program aimed at assisting organisations to support the State’s veterans.

Ex-service and not-forprofit organisations can apply for grants of up to $50,000 for minor capital works and grants between $50,000 and $250,000 for

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major capital works over three annual rounds.

For more information go to www.qld.gov.au/veterans Online submissions close on October 25.

F A M OUS B E R NB OR OUG H

SALAD BAR BOOKINGS is back! ESSENTIAL

Lunch 11.30am-2.00pm Dinner 5.30pm-8.00pm

Social Fishing & Club Raffles 7:30pm

Bookings Phone 4961 3190

IN ALL SITUATIONS DISTANCING LAWS APPLY

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SATURDAY

Raffle Community Chest 1.30pm

In Aid of Oakey Historical Museum

SUNDAY Publicans FREE Raffles 12 -1.30pm

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