Oakey Champion - 26th January 2022

The

Oakey Champion

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Wednesday, January 26, 2022

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Oakey Show postponed

Oakey Show Society president Judy Byers said she is sad to announce that both the upcoming Oakey Show Ball and Oakey Show have been postponed to a later date due to the uncertainty and potential health and safety impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Mrs Byers said the committee made the decision at its January meeting last week.

“This has not been an easy decision for myself and the members of the management committee to reach,” she said.

“A number of factors have been considered in making this decision.

“The most important factor considered is the health and safety of our many volunteers, exhibitors, competitors and the local community who attend the annual show.”

Mrs Byers said usually competitors and small businesses from across Queensland and parts of northern New South Wales travel to Oakey every year to participate in the Oakey Show.

She said bringing together people who would don’t typically live and work in the region would create an unacceptable health risk to local residents and Oakey Show volunteers, some of which are elderly.

Local young people Eva Lancaster, Lilah Matthewson and Arlia Schefe enjoy the festivities of the 2021 Oakey Show.

Mrs Byers said the committee will be meeting next month to discuss the future of the Oakey Show in 2022 and the possibilities for a hosting further events this year.

“We are just postponing

the show, a future date and the format of the event will be considered at our next meeting in February,” she said.

“The Oakey Show Ball has also been postponed and this event will be discussed

in February as well.

“We are continuing to experience challenging times however by working together and supporting the local businesses and organizations we will get through these challenges.”

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Information Centre

The Oakey Information Centre is always looking for volunteers to join the team in manning the facility and providing an important service to locals and visitors.

It is open 10am to 2pm, Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday and 10am to 4pm on Tuesday and Thursday.

For more information call the centre on 4619 6693.

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THE OAKEY CHAMPION

Wednesday, January 26, 2022

Government provides an update on Wellcamp quarantine facility

With fully vaccinated international arrivals able to enter Queensland without quarantine from Saturday, the Queensland Government has said the Wellcamp quarantine facility will now provide accommodation for unvaccinated international arrivals required to quarantine as well as other people who require suitable isolation accommodation.

The Wellcamp facility was previously ear-marked to provide accommodation for all overseas travellers, students and workers, no matter their vaccination status.

This changed last week with the State Government announcing that vaccinated arrivals won’t need to quarantine as long as they take a rapid antigen test within 24 hours of arrival.

Deputy Premier and Minister for State Development Steven Miles said the facility is set to open soon and will welcome unvaccinated arrivals and others who need a secure place to isolate.

“There are currently hundreds of people who are required to isolate but cannot isolate at home; travellers who test positive but do not have a home in Queensland, homeless and vulnerable Queenslanders, and those without a suitable home to quarantine in including those with vulnerable household members,” he said.

“This number will likely increase through the peak of this wave and there will be an ongoing

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A birds-eye view of the Wellcamp quarantine facility from December 2021. need for suitable isolation accommodation.

“The facility’s first stage of accommodation modules, offering 500 beds, and operational buildings and facilities has been built and commissioned “Our strategy for Queensland’s broader COVID-19 response will continue to be informed by disease modelling and Wellcamp will be here for us when it’s needed.”

It is also expected that the Centre will also offer future nonquarantine uses to benefit the local region, including accommodation for

visitors, construction and agricultural workers and students.

The State Government has taken a 12-month lease to operate the Centre, with an option for an additional 12 months.

Wagner Corporation Chairman John Wagner said the completion of Stage One was a significant achievement.

“Wellcamp will be ready for guests within six months of the project’s announcement in August 2021,” Mr Wagner said.

“This is a significant achievement given the

weather delays experienced as well as the supply chain and workforce disruptions caused by COVID. “This is a project that will continue to bring benefits to the local region.

“There have been more than 400 workers on site during construction and the start of operations is now bringing more jobs and supply-chain opportunities.”

For more information on the facility go to: www.statedevelopment.qld. gov.au/industry/queenslandsquarantine-network/ queensland-regionalaccommodation-centre

New exhibition in bloom at Rosalie Gallery next month

Florals found in the Toowoomba Region are the inspiration for a joint exhibition titled ‘In Bloom’ coming to the Rosalie Gallery in February.

The collection features vibrant and colourful mosaic sculptures from Monte Lupo and complementary paintings from artist Peter Hughes.

It will be on display from Wednesday, February 9 until Sunday, March 6.

Patrons must be vaccinated to access the Rosalie Gallery, unless they

Around the

have a medical exemption.

For more information go to: www.tr.qld.gov.au/ facilities-recreation/theatresgalleries/galleries/562-rosaliegallery

DOWNS

Our community papers have a brand new home online.

www.our-news.com.au

A vibrant sunrise image taken in the Jondaryan district.

- Photo, Noal Kuhl

Wednesday, January 26, 2022

THE OAKEY CHAMPION

Page 3

Driver escapes injury after early Local COVID morning crash on local street case numbers

A 22-years-old Toowoomba man was lucky to escape major injuries after hitting a tree off Campbell Street, Oakey on Monday morning.

Queensland Ambulance Service, Queensland Police and Queensland Fire and Emergency Services crews were called to Campbell Street, just south of McDonald Street, at about 4.50am on Monday.

Oakey Police Senior Constable Paul Holgate said initial investigations, indicate the driver was travelling north on Campbell Street when the incident occurred.

“The vehicle left the road and mounted the curb before colliding with a tree,” Senior Constable Holgate said.

He said the man, who was the single occupant of the vehicle, suffered only minor injuries, such as bruising and soreness.

He was issued with a traffic infringement notice for failing to drive with due care and

A total of 27 new cases was recorded in the Jondaryan statistical area between January 12 and January 18.

This increases the total number of local cases to 121 in 2022.

The Jondaryan area includes the townships of Oakey, Jondaryan, Biddeston, Bowenville and Wellcamp.

In the same timeframe, the Gowrie statistical area, which includes Kingsthorpe, Gowrie Junction and parts of

Meringandan, recorded 13 more cases.

The Crows Nest/Rosalie area also saw a jump with 27 more COVID-19 cases recorded in the six days between January 12 and 18.

There have been seven deaths from COVID-19 in the Darling Downs Health Service since the pandemic began.

56 York Street OAKEY Ph: 469 11437 ABOVE: Emergency services at the scene of a single vehicle crash at Campbell Street on Monday morning. attention.

Oakey Police are still investigating the cause of

the crash.

The vehicle sustained significant damage to the

bonnet from the crash and had to be towed from the scene.

More locals now eligible for booster

• Operating hours 04.30am to 6.30pm • Ages from 6 weeks to 12 years • Currently servicing Oakey / Biddeston / Kingsthorpe + Introducing service for Jondaryan • Pick up / drop off service for all ages • Creative arts program / bush kindy / yoga Music / cooking / auslan / sports / arts

Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk said from Monday, the time between second doses and the vital booster will now be three months instead of four.

More than 60 per cent of eligible Queenslanders have received their boosters.

“We know how vital the booster shot is,” Ms

Palaszczuk said.

“It gives that extra immunity.

“Shortening the period between second doses and the booster will give more

people more protection.”

The three-month gap is in line with health advice and other jurisdictions in Australia.

For more information

about booking a vaccination appointment: www.qld.gov. au/health/conditions/healthalerts/coronavirus-covid-19/ protect-yourself-others/covid19-vaccine/book

Email: oakey@kidspatrol.com.au Facebook: Kids Patrol Oakey Academy Instagram: kidspatroloakey www.kidspatrol.com.au

Page 4

THE OAKEY CHAMPION

Mirror

Wednesday, January 26, 2022

TO THE PAST

The origins of Australia Day

Australia Day honours the establishment of the first permanent European settlement on the continent of Australia.

On January 26, 1788, Captain Arthur Phillip, who sailed into what is now Sydney Harbour with the First Fleet of convicts, hoisted the British flag (Union Jack) at the site.

In the early 1800s, the date, called Foundation Day, was celebrated by politicians and businessmen of New South Wales with private dinners. It then began to be called Anniversary Day, and in 1836, the first Anniversary Regatta was run on Sydney Harbour.

It is still held as the Australia Day Regatta and

is the oldest such sailing race in the world.

In 1838, on the 50th anniversary of the settlement, official public celebrations were held for the first time. There were centenary celebrations throughout the Continent in 1888, and in 1938, on the 150th anniversary, the day was proclaimed an official holiday.

In 1988, January 26 became a national public holiday and in an effort to end the practice in some areas of celebrating the day on the closest Monday, agreement was reached in 1994 that the holiday would be observed on the actual date.

Since the late 20th century, Aboriginals and their

The hoisting of the British flag at Sydney Cove on January 26, 1788. supporters have criticised Australia Day celebrations as excessively nationalistic and have sought greater

&

The Champion Crossword

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Wednesday, September 14, 2016

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recognition both of the indigenous inhabitants of the continent and of the effect on them by European

settlement.

With a Federal election expected in about May, there is much controversy

concerning Australia Day with the Greens wanting it scrapped or date changed.

- Valerie Weise-Young

OAKEY AND DISTRICT

Sudoko WEATHER SudokU

The week ahead A trough will trigger showers across the district today (Wednesday). Conditions for the rest of the week are expected to remain relatively fine with daytime highs forecast to peak in the low thirties.

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

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TThe heEstablished Cha amp pion n Champion 1984

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UV INDEX

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Wednesday, January 26, 2021

THE OAKEY CHAMPION

Page 5

Simple steps to reduce your chances of becoming a victim of a break and enter

With the Oakey district seeing a spike in break and enters in recent weeks, police are urging residents to take precautions to ensure their property and vehicles are secure at all times.

The best way to prevent an offender from gaining entry into a property is to ensure all possible points of entry are properly locked and sealed.

Peter Wolski, from Wolski Glass and Security, said he has seen instances over the past year where basic actions by a property owner could have prevented the person from gaining entry to the residence.

“I think people are scared by what is going on at the moment. It’s especially affecting older residents,” Mr Wolski said.

“We often see places where the person has cut a hole in the gauze of the security screen, reached their fingers in and flicked the latch to open the door.

“There have been times

when offenders have also burnt holes in the screens to get in the same way.”

He said the offender would only need a small implement to cut through a basic fly screen.

Mr Wolski said people are also using similar methods to get into houses via open windows.

“We’ve also seen people cut fly screens covering open windows,” he said.

“Windows can also be an easy entry point for thieves. If the screens aren’t screwed into the frame, they can be removed.”

Mr Wolski said entry via this method isn’t possible if the glass sliding window is closed and secured.

He urged local residents to lock all entry points to their properties with a key and remove the key from the door.

Oakey Parkrun

A total of 33 people took part in a special Australia Day themed Oakey Parkrun event on Saturday.

Participants get ready at the Oakey Parkrun starting line on Saturday.

Joanna McRae won the morning in a time of 20:16 minutes followed by Johanna Wilson in 20:46 minutes.

Dave McRae, 20:51 minutes, came in third place, with Amanda Klein, 20:57 minutes, in fourth and William McRae, 21:36 minutes, rounding out the top five.

First time Oakey participants were: Ethan Bathurst, 25:42 minutes; Belinda Shannon, 32:36 minutes; Liam Bathurst, 33:37 minutes; and Marg Haydock, 53:14 minutes.

Personal best times went to: Miranda Licence,

23:18 minutes, from Toowoomba Road Runners Inc; and Russell Johnson, 26:51 minutes.

The event was made possible thanks to this week’s volunteers: Bonnie Wheatley, Curt Batterham, Lachlan Batterham, Monica Lucht, Nicole Brown and Simmone Batterham.

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

It is a 5km jog, walk or run.

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

Reduce speed in school zones

With children of essential workers and children experiencing vulnerability returning to school, local school zones speed limits are being enforced as of Monday.

This means Oakey motorists must drive under 40km per hour through the school zones between the hours of 7am and 9am and 2pm and 4pm.

The school crossings will be manned during these hours.

“I think most of these people are opportunistic criminals, who see an easy entry point and take it,” Mr Wolski said.

“If locals lock their security screens with a key and take the key away to a safe place, people can’t just cut a hole in the mesh and break in.”

Mr Wolski said their business also provides other options if residents want to upgrade their door and window screens to make it more difficult for offenders to break into their properties.

“We can replace plain fly screens to doors and windows with more secure screens that have diamond grills,” he said.

“For more protection, there are Invisi-Gard screens which are made of stainless steel.

Janine Wolski of Wolski Glass and Security said as well as cutting holes in sections of residents’ security screens, offenders have also been using cigarette lighters to burn holes in the mesh screens.

“It is marine grade and comes with a 15 year warranty.”

To discuss possible security solutions with Wolski Glass and Security, call 4691 2587, Monday to

Friday.

If you see any suspicious behaviour or have information about a recent break and enter, contact Policelink by calling 131 444 or fill out the online

form at www.police.qld.gov. au/reporting To report crime anonymously, call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or got to www.crimestoppersqld. com.au

Police issue warning as twelve lives lost on state roads in 20 days Twelve lives have been lost on our roads since January 1, an increase of three on the same period last year.

In more than half of these crashes, it is the driver who did not return to their families.

Acting Chief Superintendent Ray Rohweder said while investigations were in their infancy, indications are that better decisions may have helped avoid the loss of life in most of the crashes.

“I was pleased with the positive attitudes on our roads over the holiday period but that has turned to disappointment quickly,” he said.

“We know, that for most of us, the most dangerous thing we’ll ever do is drive a car. They are powerful machines and they need to be respected.

“Every time you set out on our roads, imagine what it would feel like if you

never saw your family, friends or colleagues again.

“Imagine their reaction if it was a police officer arriving at their door when they were expecting to see you.

“We all have a role to play in calling out bad decisions – whether you’re a driver, a passenger, friend, parent or a colleague.”

Police have issued more than 5,201 speeding fines, detected 338 drug drivers and 572 driving under the influence of alcohol since January 1.

Acting Chief Superintendent Rohweder said these numbers were unacceptable and showed motorists were still taking unacceptable risks on our road.

“We will continue to educate as well as undertake

enforcement action and traffic operations to disrupt dangerous behaviours that contribute to the trauma on our roads,” he said.

“The reality is, you can expect to see us anywhere at anytime because you may not know what a police car is and what is not.”

RACQ Head of Public Policy Susan Furze said the majority of serious and fatal crashes were due to some element of human error.

“We remind all road users about the dangers of the Fatal Five, because we know these are the leading causes of crashes which either kill motorists or cause serious, often irreversible, injuries,” Ms Furze said.

“Our surveys reveal one quarter of respondents

have knowingly driven while tired, one in six admit to using their mobile phone behind the wheel and more than half say they’ve accidentally driven over the speed limit.

“We don’t know how many more times we can say it – please don’t speed, don’t be distracted, don’t drive tired or have been drinking, and please wear a seatbelt. We don’t just want fewer deaths on our roads – we want the road toll to be zero.”

Acting Chief Superintendent Rohweder encouraged drivers to show the same positive behaviours that were shown over the holiday period.

“A safer drive ultimately starts with you and the decisions you make,” he said.

Small businesses need support through COVID-19 challenges

Former local resident, Deputy Leader of the Opposition and Member for Toowoomba South David Janetzki is calling on the State Government to release a business support package before more Oakey businesses close their doors for good.

Mr Janetzki (pictured right) said more must be done to help businesses survive through their most difficult period yet of the pandemic.

“The State Government needs to start listening and stop ignoring what’s happening in the real world,” he said.

“The Premier and the Treasurer stand at media conferences and say businesses are going great when it’s just not true.

“Why is the State Government abandoning small and family businesses and their staff in their

toughest hour yet?

“The Treasurer and his department are the ones with the data and the modelling capacity.

“Why hasn’t Cameron Dick designed the support package?

“We need to look at things like payroll tax relief, targeted support grants, sick leave cover and electricity or water rebates.”

Shadow Small and Family Business Minister Brent Mickelberg said the State Government should release a business support package now.

“For many businesses who’ve been fighting for two years to stay afloat, a support package will be the difference between whether they survive or not,” Mr Mickelberg said.

“The State Government needs to open its eyes and ears instead of pretending everything is ok, it’s not.

“Small and family businesses have shouldered so much of the financial and economic pain of the pandemic.

“We’ve got to help them get across the finish line.”

Page 6

THE OAKEY CHAMPION

Wednesday, January 26, 2022

Local Lions Club Locals frustrated over “career” delays return of thieves targeting rural property bingo sessions

Oakey residents, the Lau family, say they feel helpless after thieves targeted father, John Lau’s Biddeston property twice within a period of a week stealing valuable cattle yard panels, a cattle crush and other items.

With more COVID-19 cases expected in the local region, the Lions Club of Oakey has announced that it will delay the return of the weekly bingo sessions for at least the next few weeks.

Bingo caller Greg Bird with Lions Club members Caroline Engle and Lois Thorne.

TOY1172_TCPOV_WindscreenBanners_1000x225mm_v5.indd 1

Club president Lois Thorne said the rise in COVID-19 cases prompted the group to hold off on hosting the weekly events for the present.

“We are waiting for the situation to settle down a bit until we started back up again,” she said.

“It’s for the safety of our players and members.

Mrs Thorne said the club are looking at perhaps

having bingo return in early February.

She said the club is still having its Book/ DVD/ CD Swap sessions every Friday morning at The Den on Hamlyn Road.

“We are continuing the swap events because people can more easily social distance,” Mrs Thorne said.

For more information or to join the Lions call Mrs Thorne on 4691 1580.

John Lau said his hobby farm, which he has owned for over 40 years, was first hit by thieves last Thursday and again last Monday.

He said in the two incidents about 18 cattle yard panels have been stolen, a cattle crush, ear tags and other items.

Mr Lau said none of the equipment was insured or marked and he won’t be able to recoup the cost of the items unless they are located.

Son, Craig Lau, said there is evidence that the offenders had prepared the existing panels to remove them at a later date.

“We went to take some of the panels off and everything by the loading ramp is cut ready to be taken. They’re definitely planning to come back,” he said.

Although the rural property is isolated from its neighbours and mostly unoccupied, the Lau family did all they could to prevent criminals from taking the panels.

This includes concreting in posts and welding parts the frame together.

First round of FairPlay vouchers open for 2022

More young Queenslanders are set to make the local team in 2022 with applications open for the latest round of the Queensland Government’s FairPlay voucher program.

Acting Sport Minister Scott Stewart said FairPlay vouchers would deliver $150 to help eligible families with the cost of sporting club membership, team registration, or onfield participation fees.

“We know getting young Queenslanders involved in local sport or active recreation improves longterm health, wellbeing and social connections,” he said.

“Many families continue to feel the financial squeeze of Covid, but we’re not letting the pandemic stand in the way of young Queenslanders staying active.

“A FairPlay voucher

could be the spark that ignites an elite sporting career ahead of the 2032 Brisbane Olympic and Paralympic Games.”

Scout leader Darryl Bennett said FairPlay vouchers gave more young people the opportunity to experience all the activities and challenges Scouts had to offer.

“Scouting prides itself on being an inclusive organisation,” he said.

“FairPlay vouchers help many children enjoy the fun of being a Scout, whilst developing a wide range of life skills that the Scout program offers.”

Applications for the

current round are open until 23 March with FairPlay vouchers to be presented to a registered activity provider by 11 May. Parents, carers or guardians with a Centrelink Health Care Card or Pensioner Concession Card can apply for a voucher for children from 5 to 17 years.

For families without a government concession card, FairPlay applications can be made through a referral agency.

A list of local activity providers is on the FairPlay website, where families can also check eligibility at www.qld.gov.au/ fairplayvouchers

John Lau said he has been forced to move all valuable pieces of equipment from his hobby farm to prevent them falling into the hands of “professional” thieves.

“We put pins in and welded washers in to prevent them from coming and easily taking the panels,” Craig said.

“Well they’ve come out with grinders and gear to get through everything.

“They know what they’re doing and they must have heavy gear to move the cattle crusher. The crusher would be 800kg or so.

They’ve got to have a truck hiab on the back or a forklift just to lift it.

“It’s beyond a joke.”

John said he now has no choice but to remove all items of value from the property and give them to family members to use.

Toowoomba Region Mayor Paul Antonio said the thoughts and prayers of the Toowoomba Region were with the people of Tonga in the wake of the recent volcanic eruption.

“What has happened is truly devastating,” Mayor Antonio said.

“There have been casualties caused by this event and we pray for the families of those that have

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been affected.

“In addition to this, the aftermath of the eruption will be felt for some time as the community looks for a way to rebuild.

“Our country shares a strong bond with Tonga and I personally have experienced the warmth and generosity from the Tonga community first-hand in my days at the Gatton Agricultural College.

“I was fortunate enough to study and play football with a number

of Polynesian players in Gatton and I cannot speak highly enough of how kind and caring they are and I can only imagine how difficult it must be for the people of Tonga right now.

“To show our support to the Tongan community, we will be lighting the City Hall Annex and Victoria Street bridge in the national colours of Tonga.

“We stand with Tonga during their time of need.”

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According to police, reducing the opportunity for criminals to take items and increasing the risk level can prevent this type of crime.

This could include installing visible security cameras, ensuring fences and sheds are secured and out of sight of a main road.

If the worst does happen, police recommend having an inventory of all items on the property as well as engraving valuable pieces with a distinctive mark.

For more information on crime prevention go to: www.police.qld.gov.au/safetyand-preventing-crime

Thoughts and prayers with people of Tonga

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He said local police and Toowoomba detectives have attended the property following both thefts and are investigating the incidents.

“Police have been fantastic. I can’t say a bad word about them. But their hands are tied,” John said.

HOW TO PREVENT OTHER RURAL CRIME With no one living permanently at John’s property, there is not much he could have done to prevent the thefts.

This is not the case for all rural properties, with some residents able to take steps to safeguard their rural equipment and valuables.

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Wednesday, January 26, 2022

Virtual Trade Mission event

Queensland food and ag businesses will have the chance to develop key connections with major buyers in the Middle East, without even leaving the state.

Toowoomba and Surat Basin Enterprise’s (TSBE) Southern Queensland Export Hub is hosting a Virtual Trade Mission on Thursday, February 3.

This collaboration with The Food and Agribusiness Growth Centre (FIAL) is an online business matching event for exporters to capitalise on a fast-growing Middle East consumer market from the comfort of their own office.

TSBE’s Export Manager for Food and Agribusiness Justin Heaven is encouraging suppliers to take part in the exclusive event.

“This is a unique opportunity to meet oneto-one, online, with UAE buyers across various channels from major supermarket chains, retailers, distributors, importers and more,” Mr Heaven said.

“TSBE will work closely with FIAL to streamline supplier product samples as consolidated airfreight, to be delivered to UAE buyers once you have completed your virtual meetings to capitalise on this trade mission.”

Several Queensland

businesses such as Grassland Goats have already shown interest in the Trade Mission.

Grassland Goats Director Keeleigh Allport said the Middle East is open for business and has an upbeat approach to encouraging Australian businesses to explore its competitive export markets.

“Exporting will allow us to develop alternative markets that are complementary to our current domestic trade of premium goat meat,” said Ms Allport.

“It will provide access to more businesses and customers and offer opportunities for us to learn innovative practices and processes.”

“By leveraging this knowledge, it will make us be more competitive in the red meat industry, both in Australia and overseas,” Ms Allport said.

Businesses interested in the Virtual Trade Mission must be export ready and registered on FIAL’s Australian Food & Beverage Catalogue.

For more information visit: www.tsbe.com.au/ events/VirtualTradeMission

THE OAKEY CHAMPION

Early intervention is key to summer weed management

With glyphosate prices on the rise and weeds of all kinds expected to be an issue after rainfall events, local grain growers should consider a summer weed management strategy as a matter of priority.

Weeds present one of the biggest costs to growers, so investing in proactive management can help maintain profitability and preserve soil moisture for the 2022 winter cropping season.

ICAN Senior Consultant, Mark Congreve said spraying weeds when they’re young is the most effective way to control them and the best way to ensure growers get the maximum value from their herbicides.

Mr Congreve said with high populations of weeds and rising glyphosate prices, growers should be implementing targeted strategies to get the best results.

Alongside early identification of weed types, another tip for combatting established weeds is to apply glyphosate straight under optimal conditions.

“Growers should try to avoid mixing glyphosate where possible, as other herbicides can often hinder its performance,” Mr Congreve said.

“In particular, mixes with Group 4 (I) herbicides such as 2,4-D and fluroxypyr can be antagonistic for control

Applications open for MLA Ambassadors training

Meat & Livestock Australia (MLA) is calling on people working across the red meat supply chain with a passion for telling the great stories about the industry to apply for the next round of the Ambassadors for the Red Meat Industry program.

MLA General Manager of Communications, Lucy Broad, said the first two online workshops for the new program were very successful, with 25 people honing their skills as industry ambassadors.

“We have had people from across Australia and across the supply chain take part, including producers, chefs, stock agents, butchers and traders, among many other professions,” she said.

“The participants have taken part in shared values training, media training and social media training, which has given them the skills to be an effective voice for the red meat industry.

“We strongly encourage anyone working in the red meat industry who wants to boost their skills in

communication, building trust and engagement to apply for this program.”

Pending any COVID-19 related restrictions, the 2022 workshops will be held inperson at locations based on where the successful applicants are from.

The program is an intensive development opportunity offering participants training in community engagement, communication through media and social media, and building trust with consumers.

It is designed for producers and people in industry support roles throughout the red meat supply chain, with successful participants joining MLA’s alumni of ambassadors across Australia.

To find out more about

Page 7

the program visit www.mla.com.au/ marketing-beef-and-lamb/ mla-ambassadors-for-the-redmeat-industry-program/

Weeds are expected to be an issue after rainfall events so growers are encouraged to start implementing a summer weed management strategy.

- Photo, GRDC of glyphosate resistant grasses and broadleaf weeds, such as sow thistle, under summer application conditions.”

“Group 14 (G) herbicides may also reduce glyphosate performance when mixed and applied under high light intensity conditions.”

Adding mixing partners to

glyphosate can be effective when weeds are small and glyphosate susceptible, but Mr Congreve said negative interactions are more likely to occur when dealing with resistant weeds.

Mr Congreve said if growers are unable to apply herbicide under optimal conditions, they’ll

need to increase glyphosate rates to compensate.

“This isn’t something growers would want to hear considering high prices but getting a great result the first time could save additional sprays throughout the season.”

For more information go to: www.weedsmart.org.au

Federal funds to get rid of pests and weeds

On-ground management of problematic pests and weeds will see a significant boost through an Australian Government investment of $20 million, matched dollar for dollar by state and territory governments to maximise impact and deliver collaborative reduction and prevention activities across the country.

Minister for Agriculture David Littleproud said pest animals and weeds pose a significant threat to Australia’s primary production, environment and biodiversity.

“Pests and weeds are a huge and growing problem for Australia’s agriculture and environment,” he said.

“Projects will reduce the overall burden of pests

and weeds on-ground through activities such as coordinated control, destruction and removal, including trapping, baiting and culling along with biological control release.

“They will target nationally significant pest and weed species, such as feral deer, feral pigs, cats, foxes, rabbits, wild dogs and a range of invasive weeds across identified hot spots.”

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Page 8

THE OAKEY CHAMPION

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

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Wednesday, January 26, 2022

Police investigate local vehicle theft, unlawful entries

Oakey Police are continuing to investigate an incident at James Street last week where an unknown offender or offenders broke into a property and stole a vehicle which was parked at the residence.

Oakey Police Officer in Charge Sergeant Scott Nicol said the incident was reported to police on Thursday, January 20 but the offenders are believed to have entered the property some time between Wednesday night and Thursday morning.

He said the offenders gained entry to the residence and stole the vehicle located at the address.

It was found several hours later at Toowoomba and did not have any major damage.

MORE BREAK AND ENTERS REPORTED Sergeant Nicol said alongside the incident at James Street, there were eight more unlawful entry offences committed in Oakey in the last week.

“Most of these were what we call sneak offences,” he said.

“In many cases residents were at home and in some cases they were sleeping in their beds.”

Sergeant Nicol said he

believes this number is less than then the real number of offences.

He said many Oakey residents may have suspected that someone tried to gain entry into their property but was not successful.

“Although a break and enter offence didn’t occur, we can still investigate it as an attempted break and enter or if there is damage to a door or window, this becomes a wilful damage complaint,” Sergeant Nicol said.

With these types of offences on the rise, he urged Oakey residents to take part in a new program which seeks to connect CCTV owners with police.

He said police are urging local residents with working cameras to provide their contact details, so police can contact them if an incident occurs in their neighbourhood.

For more information and to take part call the local station on 4691 1020.

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FUNERAL NOTICES PUBLIC NOTICES

CASS, Darren Anthony Late of Toowoomba, formerly of Oakey and Goombungee, passed away on 22nd January 2022, aged 46 years.

Beloved Husband of Anna. Dearly loved Father of Dylan, Ashlee, Leah. Loved Son of David and Ann. Loving Brother of Chris, and Brent. Loved Son-in-law of Peter and Shaneen Buckley and Brother-in-law to Bradley, Damian, and Ben. Loved by his extended family.

Family and friends are warmly invited to attend a celebration of Darren’s life, to be held at the T.S. Burstow Chapel, 1020 Ruthven Street (south), Toowoomba, service commencing at 12:00pm, Tuesday, 1st February 2022, followed by interment at Aubigny Catholic Cemetery.

Current Public Health Directions allow people regardless of their vaccination status to attend a funeral.

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THE OAKEY CHAMPION

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CENTRAL DOWNS CRICKET

Page 9

SPORT

Kulpi takes top spot, Bowenville secures dramatic win in CDCA

Round eight of the Central Downs Cricket Association saw Kulpi host Pittsworth at Goombungee and Millmerran hosting bottom of the competition Bowenville.

KULPI VS. PITTSWORTH The toss was won by Kulpi who elected to bat in beautiful conditions across the Central Downs.

The reliable duo of Craig Skuse and Corey Dioth opened, however, Kulpi found themselves in a bit of trouble at 3/58 through 15 overs.

Number five batsman Dave Sipple provided some power hitting, scoring a rapid 37 runs from 16 balls in a ballistic 20-minute period of pain for Pittsworth.

It was 4/99 at the drinks break and Kulpi were still looking for plenty of runs, and found it with the still unmoved Skuse and Phil Reinke who was playing his first game in 361 days.

Skuse and Reinke combined scored 78-notout (121 balls) and 53-notout (60 balls) respectively to combine for 117 runs and power the team to 5/239 at the end of the 40 overs.

Chris Bauld was the pick of the bowlers for Pittsworth, finishing with figures of 2/27 (8); with contributions also from Sam McGinn, 2/31 (5); and Jacob Cameron, 1/30 (7).

Fall of wickets: 45, 52, 58, 98, 122. 5/239 (40).

With Pittsworth needing to score at a rate of six runsper-over for the duration of their innings, a tough battle was ahead of them, however, that wasn’t going to stop them from coming out the gates firing.

Unfortunately for Pittsworth, the gradual loss of wickets picked up the further down the order went, and they found

themselves in trouble at 6/63, losing three key wickets in as many overs.

They entered drinks at 6/69 and were only able to bat on a further 6.2 overs, finishing all out at 9/89, 150 runs short of the target.

Ed McGinn scored 20 from 52, continuing his steady form, however the target was just too large to tackle.

Best bowlers for Kulpi were Brenden Schick, 3/5 (5); Marcus Frizzell, 2/32 (6); Corey Dioth, 2/15 (1.2); Dave Sipple, 1/6 (6); and Lachie Campbell, 1/29 (6).

Fall of wickets: 18, 25, 37, 61, 63, 63, 70, 76, 89; all out (26.2) MILLMERRAN VS. BOWENVILLE Across the ‘Downs, Bowenville trekked out to Millmerran to play the competition leaders, where Bowenville won the toss and elected to bat.

With a depleted team and a poor run of form with the bat, unseen from Bowenville for years, the visitors opened with Chaz Cheatley and Chris Morgan who had both been in good form of late.

However, the ‘Villians found themselves in an alltoo-familiar spot of 5/22 through 17.4 overs and entered the break at 5/29 with Cheatley on 16 not out off around 60 deliveries.

After the break the run rate increased slightly, and with a couple more wickets, Bowenville were all out for 109 runs from 37.5 overs, Cheatley finishing on 57-not-out, his second half century for Bowenville in 2021/22.

Trent Mullins was the pick of the bowlers finishing with 4/5 (6.2); James Sinclair, 1/7 (6); Mitch Fowler, 1/9 (4); and Dean Burrell, 1/25 (3) all collected a wicket each, but as a group Millmerran bowled very efficiently.

Fall of wickets: 7, 8, 8, 13, 22, 65, 105, 109; all out (37.5).

With only 110 runs to win, Millmerran planned to bat patiently and score only when needed, however the loss of the first wicket with the very first ball of the innings had the home team on the back foot early, with the second wicket falling in the next over.

With some energy in them, Bowenville toiled away bowling terrific line and length, they limited the flow of runs as the Millmerran boys attempted to work away at the total.

At 3/33, opener Luke Saddlier (30 runs from 71 balls) and new batsman Mitch Albury (28 runs from 47 balls) worked the bowlers for a partnership of 41 with some good boundaries and a massive six from Albury, but Bowenville were eventually able to get both wickets shortly after the drinks break.

With Millmerran needing 16 runs to win with five wickets in the shed, some magic was needed from Bowenville to pull out a win.

A desperate defence from Stephen Lindeque wasn’t able to hold off Bowenville as they collected the final six wickets for 16 runs in one of the all-time defences.

RESULTS Thursday, January 20 was a Single Stableford for the Club trophy.

Winner for Men was Shane Hughes with 39 points.

Approaches for Men went to 4/13 Murray McLeod.

Ladies’ winner was Val Drowley with 34 points.

Ladies’ approaches went to 8/17 and 1/10 Robyn Drowley and 9/18 Helen Scott.

Friday, January 21 was a Chook Run. The winner was Nino Capuzzo with 36 nett.

Second place went to

Bill Robertson.

Sunday, January 23 was a Single Stableford for the Club Trophy.

Winner for Men was Murray McLeod with 39 points.

Ladies’ winner, Robyn Drowley with 39 points.

Rundowns went to Jacqui Smith, Mark Peters, Nino Capuzzo, Gary Linane, Greg Schull Aaron McCluskey, Gary Herriman.

Pin shots for men went to 3/12 Dan Darlington, 4/13 Gary Linane, 8/17 Travis Peters.

Men’s approach to 7/16 Dave Humphrey.

Approaches for ladies went to 3/12 Carmel Cover, 7/16 Robyn Drowley.

Members’ draw No. 67 went to Geoff Hewitt who was not present.

Next week the draw will be $10.

COMING EVENTS Thursday, January 27 will be a Single Stableford Medley for the Club Trophy.

Friday, January 28 will be a Chook Run from 3pm.

Sunday, January 30 will be a Single Stroke, Monthly Medal for the Drowley Family Trophy.

- Murray McLeod

Goombungee Golf Club

It took magic in the field, accuracy with the ball and a positive attitude, but Bowenville managed to secure their first win of the season against the competition leaders by 10 runs.

Rahul Suresh was the key with the ball, finishing with 4/13 (6.4); Brenden Scifleet, 2/12 (4); Chaz Cheatley, 2/13 (5); Jimmy Palmer, 1/13 (5); and Isaiah Gill, 1/33 (8) were all factors in the defence, but a credit must be made to all fielders who did their part, including Palmer who snagged a beautiful lefthanded grab in mid-air at full extension.

Fall of wickets: 0, 2, 33, 84, 84, 90, 94, 98, 100, 100; all out (33.4).

COMING MATCHES That concludes round eight of Central Downs Cricket, and the breakthrough win for Bowenville (by ten runs) means they move up one spot in the standings, with Kulpi (by 150 runs) now outright first in the competition with one game left to play before finals.

Next week sees Millmerran host Kulpi and Bowenville host Pittsworth and will determine who plays in the semi-final.

- Brendan Cahill

Oakey Golf Club

RESULTS Winner of the Thursday Sporters on January 20 was Don Storey with 18 points.

The pin was won by Terris Muir.

Saturday, January 22 and Sunday, January 23: the members played an 18 Hole Stableford.

The winner was Dan Norton with 34 points on a count back.

Runner-up was Christine Little with 34 points.

The rundowns went to George Wright with 33 points and Alan De Ross with 31 points.

Pin on No. 3 and 12 -

which is donated by Andrew King - were won

by Dan Norton.

COMING EVENTS On Saturday, January 29 and Sunday, January 30 the Oakey Golf Club members will play a 2 Person Ambrose (choose a partner).

Saturday, February 5 and Sunday, February 6: members will play an 18 hole Stroke in conjunction with the Men’s February Monthly Medal.

Ladies will commence once again on Wednesday, December 2.

- Marlene Deans, Secretary

RESULTS Saturday, January 22 was Champion Pairs with W. Patterson and R. Stewart defeating S. Gillis and G. Nash On Saturday was also A Singles with G. Fenton defeating R. Krause; and I. Hedge defeating M. Hall.

The winner of the Midweek Triples was R. Chicken’s team.

Runners-up was G. Green’s team.

Best round went to L. Bartz’s team.

On Sunday, January 23, Shirley and Don won with J. Fowler and P. Viney coming runners-up.

Last round went to Alison and Matty.

COMPETITION CALL Saturday, January 29 will be Club Pairs with M. Park and C. Lucht versus R. Henry and P. Maker; and R. Krause and S. Bradford versus G. Nash and G. Fenton In the C Singles, S. Gillis will versus M. Hall (L. Hudson).

COMING EVENTS Saturday, February 5 and Sunday, February 6 will be the Oakey Men’s Bowls Carnival, 10.30am start.

Sunday, February 27 will be the Patroness day, C/S three bowl Pairs.

It will have a 12.30pm start.

Names on board please and visitors are most welcome.

Oakey Bowls Club

Oakey Social Golf notes

The Oakey Social Golf Club played 4BBB Stableford on the front nine with 37 players on Sunday.

The winners with 29 points were Wade Bostock and Ian McDonald.

Runners-up on countback were Leonard Bartley and Russell MacKenzie with 26 points.

Pins and approaches went to: 1 and 4 - L. Bartley; 2 - over 60, P. Flynn; 3 I. McDonald; 5 B. Dearling; 6 - J. Lipp; 7 - under 60, B. Lucht and over 60, J. B.; 8 - M. Hall; 9 M. Krahenbring.

Long drives went to: A Grade - B. Costello; B Grade - P. Morgan; over 60 - R. MacKenzie.

Members’ Draw number 41 went to J. Harrison who was not present for $25.

Raffles went to B. Baulch and L. Bartley.

COMING EVENTS Next week’s game is a 4BBB Stroke on the back nine, with a 6.30am tee off.

We have found a right hand wedge, if you are missing it, Jonesy has it.

Warwick trip away has been moved from

Social Golf winners and runners-up: W. Bostock and son, I. McDonald, L. Bartley and R. MacKenzie.

February 27 to February 20, 2022 and Crows Nest trip has been moved

from April 17 to April 10, 2022.

- Flynny/ Macca

Page 10

THE OAKEY CHAMPION

Remembering

ESME ‘GRANNY’ DORRIES

Wednesday, January 26, 2022

One of Oakey’s oldest residents, wife, mother, grandmother and friend to many, Esme ‘Granny’ Dorries passed away aged 106 on December 23, 2021 leaving a lasting legacy on the community.

Granny Dorries celebrates her 103rd birthday with her family and friends at McLean Care CWA House in November 2018.

Esme Dorries, then Esme Knowles was always well known as a nicely dressed and groomed lady. She is pictured in her best clothes at one of the local shows.

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

Esme Dorries, then Bauer, aged seven.

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

Described by family members as a perpetually happy person, “without a bad bone in her body”, Esme Bauer was born during World War I on 16th November, 1915 in Nundah in Brisbane.

She and six siblings were raised by her parents Christy and Kate Bauer, who lived on a small crop and dairy farm at East Nanango.

In 1884, her grandfather, George Bauer, took a selection of land and was the first settler in the dense, vine scrub at Coolabunia, just south of the current Coolabunia school.

Esme attended Mt Stanley School with her brothers and sisters and was an excellent student who also loved to cook, crochet, sew and knit, often winning prizes at the local shows.

Before her seventh birthday Esme had an accident that would impact her life.

She fell through a cream stand at the dairy and her right leg went through the slats badly damaging her lower leg.

She subsequently developed a bone infection, “osteomyelitis”, which was life-threatening and was sent to Brisbane Hospital.

After some time, Esme was sent home by the doctor who said there was nothing more they could do.

She was not expected to live to her next birthday.

Treated by her mother with plenty of sunshine and good nutritious food, Esme made it well past that eighth birthday.

The only lasting legacy from that time was a painful lump on her right leg which remained through her long life.

Esme’s life after leaving school was busy with working at the Nanango Convent, where she looked after 25 boarders.

She continued with her hobbies and was very talented with crochet which remained a passion for most of her life.

Whilst still in her teens Essie crocheted a full altar cloth for the Nanango Catholic Church.

She married Eric Knowles in 1937 and had three boys (Barry, Trevor and Kerry) and three girls (Desley, Cookie and Kaite) over a period of 18 years.

After the children had all left home, Essie and Eric took some long-deserved holidays, and on two of these, travelled overseas to Fiji and New Zealand.

Finally able to relax after all those years of hard work.

Sadly, Eric passed away in 1985.

Later, Esme met Alf Dorries and they married in 1991.

They lived in Lorrimer Street Oakey until Alf passed away aged 102.

Shortly after this, Esme moved into CWA House where she has been cared for by the wonderful staff over many years.

During her long life, Esme (affectionately re-named “Granny” by her children) was the centre, and the much-loved matriarch of the family.

At last count 22 grandchildren, 52 great-grandchildren, and 29 great-great-grandchildren.

SON TREVOR KNOWLES RECALLS HIS CHILDHOOD WITH GRANNY DORRIES. Lots of family times seemed to revolve around the kitchen with the wood stove always going. Mum would always be pottering around cooking something that smelt good. We used to watch her making sponge cake, batches of biscuits, tarts, jams, chutneys. She had a reputation for her Christmas puddings. Thanks to Mum’s magic. We always got an equal share.

It has been a privilege for our family that you were our Mum.

Wednesday, January 26, 2022

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

Ellyn discovers a passion for avionics

After waitressing for ten years, Brisbane mother Ellyn Kassulke stumbled upon a job advertisement for a position in the Australian Army, a move which changed her life in ways she could not have imagined.

“I started in hospitality, just waitressing, and I got over it,” she said.

CFN Ellyn said she worked in different restaurants, such as Hog’s Breath and Sizzler, before deciding she needed a career change.

“I was looking through Seek and saw one that said Admin Assistant in the Army. I thought, that sounds interesting,” she said.

Although this specific position didn’t peak her interest, CFN Ellyn was intrigued by a career in the armed forces and researched more training opportunities, landing on a role as an avionics technician working with ARH Tiger aircraft.

“Then I looked into it a bit more and, actually, there’s way better job roles out of there,” she said.

“I thought, wouldn’t it be really cool working on an aircraft frame of some sort. I hadn’t decided what yet. But, I locked it in: I’m going to be an avionics technician in the Army, and I will figure out the rest later.”

CFN Ellyn’s first step was to officially join the armed forces, which she did during the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic in June 2020, and complete basic training at Kapooka, New South Wales.

She is now looking forward to commencing her avionics technician course in February at the RAEME Aircraft Maintenance School and then “ticking off” her list of career goals.

“I’m a believer in the small steps. My first goal would be, get through this and finish my logbook and

Happy Australia Day from AAvnTC

The Australian Army Aviation Training Centre team would like to wish all Oakey residents a happy and relaxing Australia Day today.

- Photo Bradley Richardson

Craftsman Ellyn Kassulke is all smiles as she begins her avionics technician trade on the ARH Tiger next month.

- Photo, Bradley Richardson stay as Craftsman for a little bit, just to really hone in on the skills that are needed,” CFN Ellyn said.

“Then I want go up to Corporal, then hopefully become Sergeant. That’s the big main goal at the moment. Small goals first, tick those off and then we’ll see.”

After completing her course, CFN Ellyn will be posted to the Northern Territory to further her skills and training working on the Army Aviation ARH Tiger fleet at Darwin.

As a born and bred Queenslander, the thought of moving somewhere new is an exciting step for CFN Ellyn, her partner and four-years-old son.

“I chose to work on [ARH] for myself but also for my family,” she said.

“None of us have lived in Darwin. It will be something totally different.”

Other than the prospect of moving interstate, with no family members in the Defence Force, CFN Ellyn’s leap into the armed forces has introduced her to new a lifestyle and daily routine.

Although this change would daunt some people, CFN Ellyn is sure the rigours of army life will suit her temperament.

“We recently went camping, so that’s definitely a go to. I’m not taking about ‘glamping’.

I mean, actual camping -

pitch a tent, have a fire, live out of the teeny tiny little bag you’ve got with your clothes in it,” she said.

CFN Ellyn said she is also enjoying the fitness aspect of army life, the opportunity to train regularly, work with personal trainers and the feeling of “being strong”.

“I’ve never really been a fit person and didn’t really like going to the gym,” she said.

“Now, I get in there and I give it my best go.”

“It’s really nice being able to do regular army PT. It’s three times a week and I actually feel stronger. It feels really good.”

With a partner and son to consider, CFN Ellyn said she is lucky her

family is fully behind her career choices and credits them as key to her current success. “[My son] gets really excited. He’ll say: ‘is there big trucks at your army?’

He just gets soo excited about it,” she said.

And with my partner, he didn’t have anyone in his family serve, so it’s something different for him as well.”

With months of training behind her and a bright career ahead, CFN Ellyn said her only regret is not choosing to join the army sooner.

“I should have joined back then. I would have been younger and it wouldn’t have been as hard,” she jokes.

DEFENCEJOBS DEFENCE FORCE RECRUITING UPCOMING EVENTS Virtual Sessions 03 Feb - New Year New Career Session 14 Feb - ADFA Information Session For more details and bookings visit defencejobs.gov.au/events CALL 13 19 01

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

Phone 07 4577 7666

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Contact Policelink

If you see any suspicious activity in the Oakey region report it online at www.police.qld.gov.au/reporting or call Policelink on 131 444.

Volunteer

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She isENROL the chairperson of the Oakey Australia Day committee which puts STARTS JAN 25 SCHOOL together the annual event and committee member Confirm enrolments now! year after year for locals to of the Oakey Historical enjoy.

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Fay has been a volunteer Yrs 7 & 11 intake

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THE OAKEY CHAMPION

Wednesday, January 26, 2022

Bernborough Tavern raffle funds go to local soccer club

The Oakey Soccer Club will now be able to purchase new soccer balls thanks to a $535 donation from the Bernborough Tavern’s Community Chest program.

The local club was the recipient of funds raised through raffles coordinated by John Webster during the month of December.

Ray Cooper thanked the Tavern and Mr Webster for the donation and said the funds will go to purchasing new training balls for the younger players.

He said the club is getting ready for the 2022 competition to commence in mid-March.

Mr Cooper said the MiniRoos program which is open to children between five and 11 years will begin slightly later after the school holidays.

For more information on the new season email: oakeysoccerclub@hotmail.com Proceeds from this month’s raffles will go to the PCYC Oakey Connect program which runs initiatives in the community and with schools to support local

Community Chest raffle coordinator John Webster and Michael Carpenter owner of the Bernborough Tavern with Ray, Sean and Chelsea Cooper from the Oakey Soccer Club. young people.

The Community Chest raffles are drawn at

the Bernborough Tavern on Saturday at about 1.30pm.

There are several prizes to be won as part of the weekly raffles.

Darling Downs Heavy Horse Festival to go ahead in March

The inaugural Darling Downs Heavy Horse Festival is locked in for the weekend of March 12 and 13 at the Allora Showgrounds.

Well known for holding the Heavy Horse and Harness Spectacular at the Warwick Show for ten years, the Darling Downs Heavy Horse Festival team decided to expand this event and create a stand-alone show at Allora.

Now under the banner of its own incorporated organisation, there was a need to increase the operating committee and, with everything approved

by Fair Trading, it’s all systems go.

The two day festival is a celebration of all breeds of draught horses and the roles they played in the development of the Downs.

Nowadays, their popularity has grown as a pleasure horse.

The weekend of March 12 and 13 will see the full range of Heavy Horse events from led classes showing off the best of the breeds, including Clydesdales, Shires, Percherons, Draught Horses, Gypsy Cobs and Drum Horses, to

A group of heavy horses from the Coolibah Ridge Horse Stud at Gowrie Junction.

- Photo, Katy Driver harness events, ploughing and working classes, where the horses pull slides and logs through obstacle courses.

A feature will be the ridden heavy horse with a range of classes including the introduction of Heavy Horse Dressage as a competition event.

The light horse and

ponies have not been entirely left out with harness classes for the ‘smaller cousins’ of heavy horses included.

Demonstrations will also be held, such as, wheelwrighting, blacksmithing, horseworks and sheep shearing.

Stall holders are welcome with application

forms now available.

Any community groups that would like to be involved in this event with displays and demonstrations are welcome.

For more information email ddheavyhorses@gmail. com or phone Clare on 0438 160 588 or Clint on 0417 607 196.

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