Surat Basin News

Surat Basin

NEWS

MONTH

Thursday, July 26, 2018

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In the right direction

The western property market is showing some promising signs of stability: PAGE 3 ◗ MARKET’S LOOKING GOOD: Ruralco Property GDL Real Estate Roma branch manager John Simms.

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WELCOME

suratbasin.com.au Thursday, July 26, 2018

SNAPS OF THE MONTH

◗ TOP LEFT: These images show a typical country sunset in all its multi-coloured majesty. TOP RIGHT: Lindsay McCay and her dog Kenny.

From the editor WELCOME to the July edition of the Surat Basin News.

This month’s edition is all about opportunity. From the housing to the businesses sector, the region is finding new ways to prosper. In this edition you will find an emphasis on the optimistic outlook of the Surat Basin’s future.

Following a few slow years, investors and first home buyers appear to be back in the housing market. Alexia Austin and myself have taken a look at the housing market, and what buyers and sellers can expect in the future.

The international market is now more accessible to many of our agriculture business. Nine local businesses have signed up for the Emerging Exporters Program, which will take Surat’s best products across the globe.

The opportunities in the region are growing.

— Michael Doyle

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Contents

IN THE NEWS Plenty of promise in property ....................................................3 ‘Super critical’ injection blasted ................................................4 Population decline on councils agenda ....................................5 Ostwald liquidators lose creditor confidence ...........................6 Faster telecommunications on the table ...................................7

Property market in better shape................................................8 Maranoa Shire Council in re-brading phase.............................10 Surat readies for international exposure ...................................11 Locals get a seat the Star’s table..............................................12 OPINION ...................................................................................21-24 PLACES AND FACES................................................................25-27

The newspaper

The team

The Surat Basin News publishes every month and is delivered via the four dominant newspapers of the region: the Chinchilla News, Western Star, Dalby Herald and The Chronicle. It will reach the homes and offices of almost 50,000 people living, working and playing in the Surat Basin, connecting the business and mining communities throughout the booming region. Surat Basin News is a necessity. It was born out of a passion for Australia’s fastest growing communities – a passion for a region of unbridled potential and a future of vast economic growth and opportunities. The newspaper, professionally designed and regionally topical, is a must read for anyone associated with the exciting Surat Basin.

ONLINE: Surat Basin News has gone online to ensure our readers in every corner of the country have the latest news sent directly to them. Go to: www.suratbasin.com.au.

PURCHASE FROM: Newsagents in Chinchilla, Roma, Dalby, Gladstone, Moura, Toowoomba, Calliope.

VISION: Surat Basin News will allow local businesses to network and communicate with everyone in the 1200 sq km basin, providing unprecedented access to new clients and markets. It will give a revealing insight into major industry while lifting the veil on current and proposed developments. It will be there for each and every announcement shaping the region’s future while profiling the colourful characters.

GENERAL MANAGER Erika Brayshaw, Chinchilla Phone 4672 9921, email Erika.Brayshaw@chinchillanews.com.au ADVERTISING TEAM Jodie Williams, Chinchilla Phone 4672 9900, email Jodie.Williams@chinchillanews.com.au Greg Latta, Roma Phone 4672 9927, email Greg.Latta@romawesternstarnews.com Nicole McDougall, Dalby Phone 4672 5500, email Nicole.McDougall@dalbyherald.com.au EDITORIAL

Michael Doyle, Dalby

Phone 4672 5520, email michael.Doyle@dalbyherald.com.au SURAT BASIN NEWS 12 Mayne Street, Chinchilla Q 4413 PO Box 138, Chinchilla Q 4413 The Surat Basin News is published by Chinchilla Newspapers Pty Ltd, 12 Mayne Street, Chinchilla Q 4413 The Surat Basin News is printed by News Corp Australia.

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3

IN THE NEWS

◗ Ruralco GDL real estate director Andrew McCallum

◗ MARKET OUTLOOK: Daven and Lynnell Vohland with Elders Queensland residential franchise manager Colin Hawkins immediately after the successful auction of Gimli, Roma.

PHOTOS: CONTRIBUTED / ALEXIA AUSTIN

◗ Ruralco Property GDL Real Estate Roma branch manager John Simms.

Good news for real estate market

Stability returns to the region

THE western property market is set to stabilise after years of decline, according to local real estate data.

The REIQ housing report, released for the January-March 2018 period, painted a positive picture of the residential and rural property market in the south.

Data from the report showed Maranoa residential sales only decreased by 7.6 per cent since the same period last year, with the Western Downs only down 5.1 per cent.

Residential property sales in the Toowoomba region exceeded expectations, increasing 1.1 per cent.

Elder’s Real Estate owner Lynnell Vohland said the quarterly housing report was promising, with the sales’ decline slowing.

“The last 12 months’ figures are not complete on our database yet but it is shaping up to be a fraction under (the last financial year) in terms of house sales numbers and also average price,” Ms Vohland said.

“However, this is good news as it shows the decline in prices is slowing. I believe we will see that the market has plateaued, which will mean there will be more stability.

“I am seeing a renewed interest in the west from a few very

wary investors. These investors are more local and from western areas.”

The market for larger properties in the southwest, those greater than 2400sq m, showed improvement in Toowoomba, increasing 4.8 per cent since last year.

The Western Downs and Maranoa fared slightly worse however, with sales decreases of 11 per cent and 36 per cent respectively on the larger properties since last year.

Ms Vohland said this discrepancy could be due to coincidence.

“If there were a few good sales in 2017, this could skew the larger-home data,” she said.

She said buyers and sellers could expect to see a strengthening market in the next few years, advising investors to consider larger homes when buying.

“Once the market stabilises there will be more confidence, which in turn will allow for easier lending,” she said.

“My advice is to buy now before the market rises.

“We are seeing strong demand in the rental market for three to four-bedroom houses. I would recommend investors consider

these larger properties.”

Ruralco GDL Real Estate director Andrew McCallum mirrored this sentiment, saying the future looked bright for real estate in the region.

“We have seen a decrease in listings on the market, across both residential and rural, however this is due to the season. It’s generally fairly cyclical,” Mr McCallum said.

“We are having the most luck with properties in the $1 million to $2 million price range.

“The market has certainly bounced back in comparison to five years ago. It has still been dry, however there has been recovery since the Global Financial Crisis.

“The important thing to note is that we are seeing a return of interest, starting from the final quarter of last year.

“We have investors from all over interested from the west.

Many are coming down from the Northern Territory to check out the west.

“The future is certainly bright for the region. It’s a good time for buyers – we expect property prices will rise in the future.”

— Alexia Austin

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IN THE NEWS

suratbasin.com.au Thursday, July 26, 2018

◗ INJECTING OPINIONS: Wandoan resident Bill Blackley discusses concerns over carbon sequestration with Banana Shire Mayor Nev Ferrier, Member for Callide Colin Boyce and Senator Matt Canavan.

PHOTO: CONTRIBUTED

Controversial project aims for green light

‘Super-critical’ of CO2 injection

A CONTROVERSIAL carbon capture and storage project that hopes to trial injecting liquid CO2 into the Great Artesian Basin has reached a new milestone.

Carbon Transport and Storage Company, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Glencore, believes it should have final scientific studies completed within months, and hopes to apply for environmental permits to inject 60,000 tonnes of liquid CO2 a year into the Great Artesian Basin’s Precipice Sandstone Aquifer at Wandoan by the year’s end.

The “super-critical” liquid CO2, with half the density of water, would dissolve into the aquifer’s water, acidifying it to a pH of 5.

Water has a pH of 7.

The Chronicle can reveal CTSCo has completed a key modelling study that shows the plume of acidified water would remain within the confines of its Glencore-owned property, 15km west of Wandoan.

If the modelling had shown the plume escaping the boundaries of the property, the trial project would not have gone ahead.

A CTSCo spokeswoman said the modelling “was carried out using commercial oil and gas reservoir modelling software” with inputs from seismic data, precipice sandstone core samples, regional water data and water modelling data from the Queensland Office of Ground Water Assessment, and CO2 plume behaviour history from a range of existing CO2 injection

projects around the world.

“The modelling shows how the plume moves as CO2 is injected and long after injection stops. The modelling carried out, in all cases, shows the plume remaining well within the boundaries of the Glenhaven property indefinitely,” the spokeswoman said, adding the company could stop the injection if the plume did not behave as predicted.

The company is eyeing off 2021 as the year of its first injection.

CTSCo is currently in talks with the Millmerran Power Station, owned and operated by Intergen, to provide CO2 for the project.

“A post combustion capture plant would be constructed at the power station to capture some of the CO2 that would otherwise be discharged to the atmosphere. For up to three years during injection, CO2 would be trucked from the power station to the Glenhaven property (3-5 trucks per day),” the spokeswoman said.

The project has not been without its controversies.

When it was first announced to the Wandoan community at a meeting in late 2016, a 50-strong room of locals unanimously objected to the proposal.

In March this year, Callide MP Colin Boyce, whose electorate includes Wandoan, used his maiden speech in the Queensland Parliament to slam the plan, saying “the people of Callide do not want another Linc Energy fiasco”.

CTSCo has confirmed there are no plans to turn the trial project into an industrial-scale operation at Wandoan.

“The site at Glenhaven would continue to be used as a grazing property both during and after injection,” the company spokeswoman said.

“Ongoing monitoring would continue (using the monitoring wells installed prior to injection) for years after injection stops to ensure the CO2 remains contained within the geology as predicted.”

The company has turned its attention to the southern Surat Basin as a site of potential future industrial-scale carbon capture and storage.

“We are currently looking for a suitable location in the southern Surat Basin, somewhere west of Moonie, closer to the existing power stations in the region.

“Many of these power stations will operate up to or beyond 2050 and consequently require a long-term emissions solution.

“For an industrial scale project, we are ultimately looking for a very deep sandstone formation that can contain large volumes of CO2.”

The project is funded by Australian Coal Association Low Emissions Technologies to the tune of $15.24 million, and received $8.775 million from the Federal Government’s Carbon Capture and Storage Research Development and Demonstration Fund in August 2016, announced by Senator Matt Canavan.

Pipeline to improve gas market access

◗ READY TO GO: Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk at the opening of the Reedy Creek Pipeline in Wallumbilla. Pictured with (from left) CEO of APA Mick McCormack, APA Chairman Michael Fraser, Dr Anthony Lynham and Mayor Tyson Golder. PHOTO: ALEXIA AUSTIN

NATURAL gas from Wallumbilla will be off to the east coast market in record time after the opening of a new pipeline.

Australia Pacific LNG welcomed the successful completion of the pipeline connecting its Reedy Creek facilities to the Wallumbilla Gas Supply Hub. The 50km Reedy Creek-Wallumbilla bi-directional pipeline, built and operated by Australian gas infrastructure company APA Group, was opened last month by Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk at the APA’s Wallumbilla operations site.

Minister for Natural Resources, Mines and Energy, Dr Anthony Lynham, was also at the event.

APLNG is the foundation customer for the pipeline, having signed a 20 year Gas Transportation Agreement with APA Group, which underpinned the pipeline construction project.

APLNG chief executive officer Warwick King said the new pipeline would enable the company to quickly move natural gas into the east coast gas market.

“This new pipeline gives APLNG efficient, flexible access to Australia’s dynamic east coast gas market via Wallumbilla,” Mr King said.

“We are pleased to have reached long-term agreement with APA that enables us to support the efficient movement of gas.”

Mr King also recognised the strong, bi-partisan support of the Queensland Government over many years in the development of a robust natural gas industry in Queensland.

APLNG is one of the largest producers of natural gas on the east coast of Australia, and this year will supply around 30 per cent of east coast gas market demand.

— Michael Doyle

Thursday, July 26, 2018 suratbasin.com.au

5

IN THE NEWS

Councils push for action to redress population decline

MAIN ISSUES ■ Population decline ■ Remote and rural tax zones ■ Sustainability of local government ■ Grant funding ■ Ways to attract immigrant or refugee families to region

◗ WE NEED TO TALK: Paroo Shire mayor Lindsay Godfrey, Balonne Shire mayor Richard Marsh, Minister for Local Government Stirling Hinchliffe, Murweh Shire mayor Annie Liston, Bulloo Shire mayor John Ferguson, Maranoa Regional Council mayor Tyson Golder and Quilpie Shire mayor Stuart Mackenzie.

PHOTO: MOLLY HANCOCK

people, people in the bush like things to be explained to them.”

It was also a historical moment for the meeting with two ministers attending – Dr Lynham and Local Government Minister Stirling Hinchliffe.

Mr Hinchliffe said the meeting was a great opportunity for him and Dr Lynham to hear the issues important to delegates’ communities.

“It reiterated to me how important the partnership between the Palaszczuk Government and the councils is in the region and right across the state,” he said.

“We discussed population issues and helping address population decline, looking at settlement and how we can assist and support migrants into the community and a range of issues around grants, reforms and other local government operations.”

Murweh Shire mayor Annie Liston said it was good to know the ministers were listening to their concerns and they would be the amplifiers for them.

“Some of the issues that have come up are sustainability for our local councils, as we are all working really hard together to do whatever we can to bring our councils forward and I am sure this meeting is another indication that, yes, we are all on the same page and all have the same issues,” Cr Liston said.

Maranoa Regional Council mayor Tyson Golder highlighted the issues of service connection and taxation in rural and remote towns.

“We asked Telstra, who were at the meeting, on what they can do to provide better services and work with local government to come up with solutions, because it is not just one of our communities, it is all through local government we have towns with poor range,” Cr Golder said.

“It also affects visitors coming to our towns because we are in a connected world and they

would like to have connection to their friends and family.

“To stop our population decline in remote and rural areas we need to alter the taxation zone which means we basically need a different taxation rate for remote areas because then that will really stop population decline and that is crucial for all of our councils.”

— Molly Hancock

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POPULATION decline was at the forefront for all six councils represented at the Southwest Queensland Local Government Association meeting.

Delegates met in Charleville a few weeks ago to discuss issues affecting communities, including altering remote and rural tax zone, sustainability of local government, grant funding and investigating ways of bringing immigrant or refugee families to the region.

Chairman Richard Marsh said declining population was an issue all six member councils were experiencing.

“This is an issue we need to address and the SWQLGA will write to the relevant state and federal ministers outlining the population decline in rural and remote communities and seek a population campaign for rural and remote communities to embrace new settlement,” Cr Marsh said.

“There were a number of ways we can boost our population discussed, including concessional taxation to draw workers to our region and settlement of immigrants or refugees.

Bulloo mayor John Ferguson said population drift and vegetation management were two big concerns for his shire.

“It is hard to get people to stop and consider living in our towns when they have an option to fly in, work here and then return to places like Toowoomba,” Cr Ferguson said.

“Bulloo Shire Council decided to package employment with Bulloo to encourage families to come and work in the shire to support our shire.

“If we can get them to move to our towns, it helps our schools and businesses but we need to find a way to get this to happen.

“It was good to hear (State Natural Resources) Minister (Anthony) Lynham talk about vegetation management and what was happening with that. I think he needs to get out here a bit more and talk to people and tell them what they can and can’t do because that is part of living out here.

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IN THE NEWS

Training centre worth weight in Diamonds VERTICAL rescue, fire fighting and hazmat training are just some of the courses coming to Chinchilla as a new training facility opens its doors.

Diamond Protection’s training facility has accepted its first clients this week after months of planning and building.

National Training Manager Tash Fee said the company established the centre to be closer to people who are likely to need the training.

“The bulk of what we’re hearing is that the locals are having to drive to Brisbane for training, so that’s obviously a concern where they’ve got to drive four hours to Brisbane that then they’ve got to complete the training for the day and drive back, so it’s going to eliminate the issue of fatigue and taking business out of the region I guess so they’ll be able to do that locally,” Ms Fee said.

She said the new facility allows for a variety of training from straightforward first aid, to highly intensive training for emergency response teams.

“So one day we could be training for fire training at a kindergarten, doing first aid training for local volunteers or doing intensive firefighting training for personnel who work in emergency response industries or emergency response teams in mining,” she said.

“Here we’re very much in supporting also the community if they need to do some training, so the local rural fire, SES, the auxiliary fire, QFES, any of those emergency response community groups are more than welcome to also come and use these facilities.

“I’m a member of the SES myself for about six years so I know how hard it is to maintain your skill set especially in more regional areas, so I’m very big on making sure that those emergency services feel welcome to come here.”

suratbasin.com.au Thursday, July 26, 2018

Liquidators out after no-confidence vote

THE liquidator of failed construction company Ostwald Bros has been forced to resign from the role after losing the confidence of creditors, a source close to the liquidation has claimed.

The liquidator, PricewaterhouseCoopers, has released a report updating the progress of the liquidation of Ostwald Bros Civil Pty Ltd and Ostwald Facilities and Accommodation Pty Ltd announcing it would resign as liquidator.

In its report, PwC said it had resigned as liquidator because of an impending merger with PPB, which had relationships with Ostwald Bros companies.

“We believe it in the best interests of all creditors to resign as liquidators of the company, and OBC and OFA, and to effect the appointment of new liquidators,” PwC liquidator Derrick Vickers said in his covering note.

“To facilitate this in the most cost-effective manner, we are making an application to court to effect our resignation and appoint the new liquidators.

“We anticipate this to be finalised and our handover to the incoming liquidators by July 2018.”

It is believed PwC will go to court on Friday to confirm its resignation.

It’s also believed global consulting firm FTI Australia has been earmarked to replace PwC as liquidator.

The collapse of Ostwald Bros in August last year has left 23 Clarence Valley sub-contractors chasing more than $7 million in unpaid invoices.

A source close to creditors said the real reason for the resignation was the Committee of Inspection, a group of creditors who oversee the liquidation process, held a meeting where it voted to call for the removal of PwC as liquidator.

“The telling part of this vote is it received the support of the ATO (Australian Taxation Office) and FEG (Federal Department of Small Business and Jobs’ Fair Entitlement Guarantee),” the source said.

“They’re both government bodies who would not normally be concerned about the vote but in this case both said PwC had to

◗ MORE TROUBLE: Ostwald Bros creditors meeting at Empire Theatres back in 2017.

PHOTO: KEVIN FARMER

go.

“PwC is using the PPB transaction as cover. I note they have not mentioned the Committee of Inspection, FEG and the ATO voted to have them removed.”

PwC said the merger was purely to avoid a conflict of interest.

“PwC recently announced a merger between PPB Advisory (PPB) and PwC, with a proposed completion date of August 1, 2018,” a spokesperson said.

“This transaction will result in some partners of PPB becoming partners of PwC. “PPB were engaged by the major secured creditor of the companies prior to the appointment of PwC as voluntary administrators of Ostwald Brothers.”

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IN THE NEWS

Thursday, July 26, 2018 suratbasin.com.au

Govt takes action

Speaking up on the region’s telcos OFTEN when there is an issue in regional or rural Australia, it can feel as though concerns fall on the deaf ears of the powers that be in major cities.

Telecommunications in the bush can lead to the frustration and potential isolation of residents, but now the Australian Government is getting on the front foot.

The Regional Telecommunications Review 2018 is an independent committee travelling the country looking into the deficiencies faced by smaller communities.

‘‘

Every time you drive past a mailbox, that’s often a multi-million dollar business.

â—— IN DISCUSSION: Sean Edwards (centre) at the Regional Telecommunications Review at the Dalby Leagues Club recently. PHOTO:

The group was in Dalby recently, with committee chair Sean Edwards delighted by the robust discussion.

He said those who attended didn’t waste any time identifying a key area – education. “It didn’t surprise me to deal with education. Speaking to people who work in the industry, digital literacy is a big issue,�

Mr Edwards said. “People need to be educated on the right data plans, the technology able to be used in rural regions and so on. “We’re trying to increase the access and reliability of regional, rural and remote Australians.�

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forward a list of recommendations to the government.

Deputy Mayor Andrew Smith was in attendance and stood up for farmers who are often short-changed by telcos. “Every time you drive past a mailbox, that’s often a multi-million dollar business,� Cr Smith said. — Sam Flanagan

Minnikin gets the message – two-day Callide trip an eye-opener

◗ ON THE ROAD: Ann Leahy speaks during the Steve Minnikin’s tour.

PHOTO: MADISON WATT

OPPOSITION transport and main roads spokesman Steve Minnikin had his eyes well and truly opened to the state of the region’s roads after he toured the Callide electorate a few weeks ago.

Mr Minnikin joined Callide MP and truck driver Colin Boyce in his Mack truck for a trip that started in Biloela and took them through the electorate, taking in Chinchilla, Miles, Wandoan and Taroom.

Mr Minnikin said the tour had been an eye opener with two messages. “When you’re actually beside someone in a...

Mack truck and you’re bouncing up and down and it’s just out of control, some sections were terrible, and it really drives home the fact that we need to have these economy arteries to get produce to market,� he said.

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We spoke to two ladies who have the contract for the post run and they’ve said what they go through – it’s almost life and death Mr Boyce and Mr Minnikin made several stops to hear stories from locals about the personal toll poor quality roads have taken on communities. “We spoke to two ladies who have the contract for the post run and they’ve said what they go through – it’s almost life and death them just trying to do their job.� — Brooke Duncan

8

IN THE NEWS

suratbasin.com.au Thursday, July 26, 2018

Market gets back on its feet THE property market is in recovery after a tough five years. The number of houses sold in Dalby is increasing and first-home buyers have a greater opportunity to break into the market.

Last year, 190 houses were sold in Dalby, more than any of the previous three years.

The end of the resources boom resulted in lean years for Dalby’s real estate agents, but Ray White’s Brian Laverty said the property market had withstood the downturn.

“We are finding we are able to sell and people are coming back into the market,” Mr Laverty said.

He said the five-year price drop meant houses were now more affordable.

Mr Laverty said 68 homes were sold through his Ray White agency last year, on par with the 72 homes the real estate agency sold in 2008, at the beginning of the boom.

During that year, house prices averaged roughly $300,000.

Mr Laverty said selling a house might not be as profitable as it was during the resources boom, but many homeowners were still making good profits on their investments.

“If you bought a house prior to 2006, you are still likely to make a good return,” he said.

“Houses in the CBD and in North Dalby are holding their value well as they are in good locations and the style of their homes (are popular with buyers).”

— Michael Doyle

◗ ON THE UP: Ray White’s Brian Laverty said homebuyers are coming back to the Dalby market.

PHOTO: MICHAEL DOYLE

House prices fall across the Western Downs THE PRICE of a house in the region is continuing to fall following the end the resources boom.

The median house price in the Western Downs has dropped, with Dalby proving more resilient than other towns.

Prices have dropped 16 per cent in Dalby to a median of $210,000, contributing to an increase in houses sold last year.

According to Real Estate Institute of Queensland, Dalby has

fared much better than other towns in the region.

REIQ’s Felicity Moore said the data revealed prices were continuing to drop.

“Generally speaking, the Western Downs has been significantly impacted by the resources slump, by additional factors such as tightened lending criteria and by a general economic downturn,” she said.

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“The median house price has fallen by 40.3 per cent over the past five years, from $310,000 to $185,000 in March quarter 2018. This market is still falling, with prices contracting 5 per cent over the 12 months to March quarter 2018.”

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IN THE NEWS

Thursday, July 26, 2018 suratbasin.com.au

Advice from a shark

Special guests join Advance program IT’S rare for there to be silence in a room full of entrepreneurs, but that was exactly the case recently at the Western Downs Regional Council headquarters in Dalby.

Thanks to TSBE and Food Leaders Australia, five top entrepreneurs from both Australia and overseas addressed those in attendance about what it takes to be successful in such a cut-throat industry.

Among them was Steve Baxter, whose profile has shot skyward thanks to his starring role on the show Shark Tank.

Steve, who was born in Cloncurry before moving to Emerald and Rockhampton, was in the army for nearly nine years before realising he needed to exercise his thirst for creativity.

“I moved back to Brisbane and started a business with an old school mate from Rockhampton called PIPE Networks which was a wholesale telecommunications carrier,” Steve said.

◗ BIG BUSINESS: Jasmin Robertson from Roza’s Gourmet Sauces addresses the audience during the entrepreneurship seminar. INSET: Steve Baxter from Shark Tank.

PHOTOS: CONTRIBUTED

“I left there as a full-time executive in 2008 and went to work for Google in California for a year. I returned in 2010 when we sold the business and I started investing in companies.

“I’ve invested in 20-40 companies depending how you count them – 20 direct and 20 through investment funds that I’ve started.”

Steve went onto detail on the qualities you need to have to achieve your goals, but he signalled out two main ones – bravery and work ethic.

“Just do it... it’s no good asking for advice on whether you should,” he said.

“The only person that really gets a say is the person that

sticks their hand into their pocket and pulls their wallet out... the customer is the only person you need to listen to.

“You need to get something out to the customer as quick as possible to see if they would buy it.

“You can’t spend two years developing it, mortgage the house, then go into the market and realise no one will buy it.

“The old saying ‘the harder you work, the luckier you get’ is 100 per cent true.”

The tour, which was a party of the Advance Queensland Regional Innovation Program, also visited Toowoomba, St George and Roma.

— Sam Flanagan

Our timed deliveries to Roma 6 days a week and to Charleville 5 days a week, make it possible to meet the connections to Quilpie, Cunnamulla, Augathella, Tambo and Blackall – for overnight service.

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10

IN THE NEWS

suratbasin.com.au Thursday, July 26, 2018

◗ OUTLOOK: Maranoa Regional Council is developing a new strategy that promotes its existing and emerging attractions.

Maranoa in works for new brand

Region is fixing its identity TRAVELLING across the Tasman, Ed Sims was on a mission to learn from the Land of the Long White Cloud and how it went from being two lonely islands to a global tourism powerhouse.

As Economic and Community Development manager for the Maranoa Regional Council, which oversees cultural and sporting portfolios, grant applications and funding arrangements, Mr Sims is across every element of the region’s growth strategies.

And where better to turn to than New Zealand and its 100% Pure campaign which for almost two decades has transformed the country’s profile in an award-winning and successful way.

It uniquely promotes New Zealand as both a destination and experience, plays to the country’s strengths in agriculture and innovation while paying homage to its traditional owners and heritage.

“Over the past two years, we’ve been redeveloping our strategies for both tourism and agriculture value-adding, and development of our industry,” Mr Sims said.

“Agriculture is our mainstay in the Maranoa and always has been, always will be.

“The resource sector looks after itself (and) tourism is the major opportunity for us.

“We haven’t done it well.”

Each Maranoa Regional Council town is set for a marketing overhaul in a sort of hub and spoke arrangement in the region.

While Roma will continue to be the region’s “capital” or main centre, its surrounding towns will feed off it, drawing visitors in for different experiences unique to them and the region.

Mr Sims was inspired by the Toowoomba and Surat Basin Enterprise’s Access New Zealand trade mission which included a conference in Auckland in June.

“At the conference what we heard from a whole bunch of speakers was branding – finding something unique that you can sustain,” he said.

“We’re doing the same things in the Maranoa with the strengths of the hub and spoke tourism arrangement where you attracted tourists or visitors to the major centre and equip visitor information centres and major businesses with what they need.”

If all goes to plan, it will mean visitors to Cobb & Co Changing Station Museum and an Aboriginal Interpretive Shelter at Surat, tourists to the Heritage Complex and Railway Station at Wallumbilla, and tours of the infamous Kenniff Courthouse and Arrest Creek Monuments at Mitchell or understanding of the coal seam gas sector and its operations at the Big Rig at Roma.

Each offers an experience at its own destination, Mr Sims said.

“We are going through a re-branding exercise,” Mr Sims said.

Simultaneously, the council will also be trying to boost the region’s agricultural production with a particular focus on reinvigorating the sheep industry, possibly emulating the success of New Zealand’s dairy farm co-operative.

Fonterra is renowned for its 10,500 dairy farming members and owners which have the collective buying and production power to drive the industry and keep it viable, sustainable and productive.

In the Maranoa region, once known for its sheep and shearing industry, the business model could deliver huge benefits to the beleaguered sector.

Wild dog exclusion fencing, he said, could see the wool industry return to the region, bringing with it shearing gangs and, ultimately, the revival of a bygone era.

“We need to capitalise on what we have,” Mr Sims said.

Plans are due to be lodged before the council by the end of the year with the strategy developed in consultation with the towns and community. Visit mymaranoa.org.au.

— Tara Miko

Project Atlas Community drop-in sessions

Please register to attend via phone or email Phone 1800 811 165 Email surat.community@senexenergy.com.au There are no formal presentations, so please drop in anytime during the session open times.

Session times Tuesday 7 August 2018 Miles 12 noon to 1.30pm Columboola Room Leichardt Centre

Wandoan 4.30pm to 6.00pm Supper Room Wandoan Cultural Centre

Wednesday 8 August 2018 Wandoan 8.00am to 9.30am Supper Room Wandoan Cultural Centre 6841061aa

Senex is progressing the delivery of gas for the domestic market from acreage located near Miles and Wandoan (Project Atlas).

As part of delivering Project Atlas, Senex is partnering with Jemena to build a compressor station and 60km long buried pipeline to deliver gas from the project to the domestic market via Jemena’s Darling Downs Pipeline.

Community members are invited to come along to speak directly with Senex and Jemena leaders, and technical experts about our Project Atlas works.

11

IN THE NEWS

Thursday, July 26, 2018 suratbasin.com.au

Talking big business

Surat prepares for international markets NINE agriculture businesses in the Surat Basin are striving to get their product ready for export into the international market.

The latest round of the Emerging Exporters Program has selected businesses in the region, aiming to help diversify the region’s economy.

The program, run by Shell’s QGC business with delivery partner Food Leaders Australia, will run for three years.

Miles based company Teraform is one of the nine business which will be part of the program.

The company grows algae for use in cosmetics, nutraceuticals and as food.

‘‘

We want to drive regional economic development by supporting other sectors of the economy...

Owner Adrian Young said he and his company were looking forward to being able to grow their brand, and branch out into the international markets.

“Our technology uses world first pond technology and our processes ensure the highest quality product is produced for

◗ BRIGHT FUTURE: QGC, Food Leaders Australia and Western Downs Regional Council welcoming businesses participating in the Emerging Exporters Program.

PHOTO: CONTRIBUTED

human application,” Mr Young said.

“There are many applications for our product across the world and we look forward to learning how to harness our opportunities through this program.”

Operations manager for Shell QGC Angus Hetherington said building the economy of the region was an important aspect of building communities.

“We want to drive regional economic development by

supporting other sectors of the economy, so that these can remain solid alongside our own industry and sustain a diverse economic fabric,” Mr Hetherington said.

“Our program with Food Leaders Australia, connects local agribusinesses to global export opportunities to help them grow and diversify their business.

“Thriving regional economies create jobs for local people, make small businesses viable, and keep rural towns vibrant.”

COROMAL’S EVOLUTION TOWING CHOICE OF THE FUTURE See us at the Queensland outdoor adventure and motoring expo at the Toowoomba Showgrounds on 3-5 August.

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12

IN THE NEWS

suratbasin.com.au Thursday, July 26, 2018

Ostwald reports sent to national watchdog THE administrators of fallen company Ostwald Bros have lodged a report with the national business watchdog recommending further investigation into the conduct of the firm.

In a report handed to creditors last Friday, liquidators PricewaterhouseCoopers questioned the behaviour of the firm’s directors.

The report has been lodged with the Australian Securities and Investments Commission for their consideration.

PwC found the company could have been trading insolvently for more than a year before going into administration.

Ostwald Bros incurred a debt to creditors of about $18.8 million during the period between July 2016 and August 2017.

The PwC report states the liquidators believe the company may have breached the Corporations Act during this period.

“While the directors may consider they made this decision in good faith and rationally believe this was in the best interest of the corporation, we do not agree that this was the case,” the report stated.

“We consider that a reasonable person in their position would have ceased trading well before August 2017 and incurring debts in excess of $18 million, which remain unpaid.”

Last Friday’s report indicates Ostwald Bros financial records were about three months out of date when the company fell into administration.

PwC indicated any other areas of concern that might be identified in the future would also be lodged with ASIC. — Michael Doyle

◗ OPPORTUNITY KNOCKS: Executive sous chef at Treasury Brisbane Stephane Guzzante, Executive chef of Star Gold Coast Dustin Osuch and Managing Director Queensland of Star Entertainment Group Geoff Hogg.

PHOTO: NEV MADSEN

Producers talk new opportunity

Getting a seat at the Star’s table THE opportunity for Darling Downs producers to supply into Star Entertainment Group’s Queens Wharf development will highlight the region on a world stage, according to Food Leaders Australia general manager Bruce McConnel.

With an extra 1.39 million tourists projected to visit southeast Queensland off the back of the Queens Wharf development and an increase in capacity at Brisbane Airport thanks to an extra runway, Food Leaders Australia and Star Entertainment Group believe now is the time for producers to prepare for the mammoth increase in demand.

Speaking at a meeting of 19 local producers with Star Entertainment Group representatives and FLA earlier this month, Mr McConnel said FLA was “very excited” to bring the Star group to Toowoomba.

“We think it’s vitally important that Darling Downs food producers are given the opportunity to supply into that market,” he said.

Mr McConnel said it was important to work through the

details and steps that needed to be taken to capture the opportunity.

“Because many of these businesses will need to make large investments in processing capability and capacity to capture the size of the opportunity that will be made available,” he said.

“It’s going to highlight our region on a world stage.

“More importantly (the development) is going to give a bedrock demand for a product to allow investment in food processing that will then allow them to continue to grow and have profitability to access global markets.”

Star Entertainment Group managing director of Queensland Geoff Hogg said the meeting was to make sure producers understood the size and scale of the opportunity before them.

“In this region we have some amazingly good suppliers. We know that and that’s why we want to continue to build our partnerships with them, with a direct link or through our wholesalers,” he said.

— Matthew Newton, The Chronicle

CIVCON CONCRETING - DRILL RIG SERVICES

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13

Thursday, July 26, 2018 suratbasin.com.au

DEVELOPER INSTRUCTS SELL!!

6841060af

FANTASTIC FIRST INVESTMENT

Mega Land Auction AUCTION OPENS 9TH AUGUST CLOSES THURSDAY 16TH AUGUST AT 6PM

3 x 472m2 Lots.

BOTTLE TREE ESTATE CHINCHILLA RESERVE $20,000 • Fully Serviced - Town Water & Sewer 5 x 632m2 Lots • Asphalt Roadways with Kerb and Channeling 2 x 754m2 Lots RESERVE $25,000 • Protective Covenants - No set build time frame INFORMATION MEMORANDUM AVAILABLE

Warren Daniells 0427 468 591 warren.daniells@suratbasinrealestate.com.au www.suratbasinrealestate.com.au Phone: 07 4669 1790

14

suratbasin.com.au Thursday, July 26, 2018

Immaculate Industrial Investment at 41/43 Emmerson Street Chinchilla Does a 10% Net return TICK any boxes, I would have thought so.

This immaculate 495m2 industrial shed on 2,715m2 block was built and fitted out to a high standard and not just a price.

Building features: • Colourbond 495m2 shed with approx 6m to the gutters.

• Reception, admin office plus staff facilities all tiled, A/C, 43m2.

• Open plan 47m2 office or training / meeting room.

• Quality lighting and ample power.

• Northern side 1 high clearance roller door.

• Southern side 3 high clearance roller doors.

• Fully fenced & bitumen hardstand to 90% of the site.

• Frontage 38.1m and 71.3m deep.

• Entry and exit double gates for streamline access.

• Close and easy access to Warrego Highway.

• Built in 2010.

LEASED TO A QUALITY TENANT TO JUNE 2022.

Current Rent approx $52,642 + GST + Outgoings..

Agents Comments: OWNERS ADVISE SELL ... NOW OFFERED AT OFFERS OVER $500,000 This property IS IN AS NEW CONDITION and was built by local JQB in 2010,

OFFERS OVER

$500,000

Warren Daniells - 0427 468 591 warren.daniells@suratbasinrealestate.com.au

2 Osborne St Chinchilla

$1,250,000

AS NEW -9.6% NET ROI-LEASED TO 2022 As New 2017 Industrial Building with Quality Tenant and Lease to 2022. Quality Low Maintenance Property - Hassle Free Investment Prominent Corner Position at entry to Surat Basin Industrial Park. Directly opposite QGC Upstream Warehouse Land Area: 4,362 m2 - Floor Area Total: 900m2 Offices: 315m2 - Well Appointment - Air Conditioned Ground floor: Reception, Conference Room+ + Mezzanine level: Open Plan work station layout with staff facilities Warehouse: High clearance with 4 roller doors Gantry Crane capacity to frame if required in the future.

Concrete Hardstand to total site expect gardens Washbay Covered stand alone 12m x 6m Leased to 30/ 3/ 2022 + 2 Year Option - Rent $123,000 P/A+ GST + Outgoings

JUST LISTED ACT NOW!!

Warren Daniells - 0427 468 591 warren.daniells@suratbasinrealestate.com.au 6841060ac

15

Thursday, July 26, 2018 suratbasin.com.au

TO C IN AL N O SP L W EC ! T

www.elders.com.au

Suburb 00 Street Name

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SA L

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Open day/s 0.00am - 0.00pm Property details headline Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit.

Nunc convallis adipiscing cursus. Donec interdum purus vel • nulla. alkkjdfslkj lkjsdf lksdfj lsdfkjdfkljdf lksdfj lkfj fsdklj fdlj lk jdfdj l l s Agent name 0400 000 000 Elders Location Web Id 000000 | RLA000000

FO

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Suburb 00 Street Name Open day/s 0.00am - 0.00pm Property details headline Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit.

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Suburb 00 Street Name

AP

PR D A PL OV AC A L E IN

Open day/s 0.00am - 0.00pm Property details headline Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit.

Nunc convallis adipiscing cursus. Donec interdum purus vel • nulla. alkkjdfslkj lkjsdf lksdfj lsdfkjdfkljdf lksdfj lkfj fsdklj fdlj lk jdfdj l l s Agent name 0400 000 000 Elders Location Web Id 000000 | RLA000000

Suburb 00 Street Name Open day/s 0.00am - 0.00pm Property details headline Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit.

Nunc convallis adipiscing cursus. Donec interdum purus vel • nulla. alkkjdfslkj lkjsdf lksdfj lsdfkjdfkljdf lksdfj lkfj fsdklj fdlj lk jdfdj l l s Agent name 0400 000 000 Elders Location Web Id 000000 | RLA000000

Office: 69 Arthur St, Roma

A Must See 28 Wright St Roma2

What a Beauty! Plenty of Potential

1

1

Great 2 bedroom home on a large dual access block.

Beautiful polished floors through out, modern roomy kitchen with separate dining room, spacious lounge room. Updated bathroom & separate toilet. Split system air con in the main bedroom, wall air con in the lounge & 2nd bedroom. Fans through out.

Adjacent to the kitchen is a great deck & secluded down the end of the yard is a fire pit area for entertaining. 1012 sqm fully fenced & landscaped yard. Carport & garden shed complete the picture. Nothing to do but move in. Be sure to check this one out.

Call Lynnell for inspections 0428 227 623 Call Lynnell 0428 227 623 Web ID:11133829 $240,000

neg

2 4 42 Edwardes St, Roma 5 40 Acres in Town!

This property showcases the perfect family lifestyle with a distinct modern flavour where the concept of timeless acreage living is enjoyed. This magnificent family home capitalises on its past when homes were built to last and there is ample scope for relaxed living and entertaining; this home is just perfect for the family. With 5 very large bedrooms and 2 lounge areas, a storeroom, dining room and a sunny extra hobby or play room you will wonder how you managed without all this space. The entertaining area is situated on the east for that beautiful morning winter sun and the cool afternoon summer shade. Modern fusion has been subtly incorporated without sacrificing the colonial character and charm. Enjoy an elegant, low key colour scheme, with beautifully tiled, carpeted and polished floors throughout the home. The kitchen is neatly positioned at the rear of the home adjacent to the outdoor entertaining area.

Call Lynnell for more information 0428 227 623

Now only $648,000

2 4 153 Edwardes St, Roma 4 Hidden Gem This secluded 4 bedroom home is a flawless blend of old and new, elegant and modern. As you enter the front gate along the path leading to the front screened veranda entrance, you leave your cares behind. With abundant natural light and beautiful breezes that flow through the french doors and hall. The garden has minimal maintenance required and surrounds the undercover entertaining area, a relaxed space for the family and guests. 4 generous sized bedrooms, sleep out with builtin office. Large ensuite-with a spa. Ducted air-conditioning through the house, Wood heater with a fan, A well appointed kitchen with Smeg 6 burner stove with electric oven, Miele dishwasher, Pantry and heaps of drawers. Double carport joined to the house, Additional 2 bay carport, Garden Shed, Stable shed, Large solid timber shed on raised floor, Private bore, Solar Panels, 8094Sqm Lot. You must inspect this one! Call Lynnell 0428 227 623 Priced at only $475,000

2 4 “Trigare Park” Geoghegan Road, 4 Best of the Best!

Family living is on offer with this superb acreage entertainer, showcasing a delightful outlook; this property embodies the very essence of a relaxed lifestyle. On 14.77hectare, this home is complete with four bedrooms, two bathrooms, office, central kitchen, north facing alfresco entertaining, double lock up garage plus double carport. Ducted reverse cycle airconditioning, master ensuite & walk-in robe, direct patio access from living area to deck, dishwasher, huge corner walk in pantry and solar hot water. Most of your family time will be spent relaxing or socialising alfresco on the deck ...weekend BBQ’s, birthday parties, garden parties it can all be hosted in comfort and style indoors or outdoor and in the garden. The garden is well established with fruit trees, a dedicated vegetable garden and native shrubs and roses.

Only minutes to town this is the ideal property to retire to or raise a family, run a few cows or horses . DA approval in place.

Elders Property ID: 16799525 Now $825,000

Contact Lynnell Vohland 0428 227 623

16

6841060ad

suratbasin.com.au Thursday, July 26, 2018

Land Size - 7,500m2

So Much Potential • Investors delight a large 7,500m2 allotment

FOR SALE - $500,000

• A spacious modern four bedroom home and office • Open-plan kitchen, dining and family room • Main bedroom with ensuite and walk-in robe • Ducted air-conditioning throughout

Address:

99 Hookswood Road, Miles, QLD

Contact:

Julie Morris 0407 536 473

• Alfresco area ideal for entertaining

jmorris@gdlrural.com.au

• Double garage with entry into the home • Double bay shed with lean two off the side

Property ID:

4758861

43.89 Hectares - 108.4 Acres

Spacious Country Home • • • • • • • •

Six bedroom large timber home Positioned on 43.89 hectares Fantastic lifestyle property Open kitchen with a walk-in pantry Master bedroom with room to retreat Three bathrooms with some finishing off to be done Two media or separate lounge rooms Large machinery shed and old house for storage

LOCAL SERVICE, NATIONAL STRENGTH

FOR SALE - $394,000 Address:

121 Akers Gully Road, Miles, QLD

Contact:

Julie Morris 0407 536 473 jmorris@gdlrural.com.au

Property ID:

5345948 www.ruralcoproperty.com.au

17

Thursday, July 26, 2018 suratbasin.com.au

Land Size - 1,106m2

Splendid Family Living with a View • Modern home perfect for easy family living

FOR SALE - $215,000

• Practical, functional kitchen with plenty of storage • Open-plan lounge, dining and kitchen precinct • Media or rumpus room and alfresco for entertaining • Main bedroom with ensuite and walk-in robe

Address:

25 Cypress Pines Drive, Miles, QLD

Contact:

Julie Morris 0407 536 473

• Ducted air-conditioning and ceiling fans throughout

jmorris@gdlrural.com.au

• Situated on a generous allotment in the Cypress Pines Estate • Yard overlooking a man-made lake and bushland

Property ID:

18886546

Land Size - 614m2

Live in One. Rent One • Quality built units in a great location • Open-plan kitchen, dining and family room • All bedrooms with ensuites, walk-in robes or built-ins • Zoned ducted air-conditioning throughout

Address:

Unit 3, 4 33 Marian Street, Miles, QLD

Contact:

Julie Morris 0407 536 473 jmorris@gdlrural.com.au

• Single garage with internal access to unit • Fully furnished, tenanted for $200 and $220 per week LOCAL SERVICE, NATIONAL STRENGTH

Property ID:

6337523 www.ruralcoproperty.com.au

6841060ab

FOR SALE - $250,000 PER UNIT

• Buy one or buy both and reap the rewards

18

suratbasin.com.au Thursday, July 26, 2018

Ray White

307 Redmarley, Condamine ‘Kerry Doone West’ is a 20 acre lifestyle property that has it all

6841060aa

Situated 4 kms from the township of Condamine, this quality timber home has a peaceful ambiance overlooking the Condamine River.

• Spacious 3 Bedroom Home • Unlimited water supplied by a submersible solar pump • Three bay shed with 1 bay lockable.

• Large Rain Water Tanks • 3 Phase Power

Ray White Rural Miles, 41 Murilla Street, Miles Qld 4415 Phone: 07 4627 2217

Contact: Jon Kingston 0409 057 596 David Sweetapple 0416 272 700

Thursday, July 26, 2018 suratbasin.com.au

Ray White

19

31103 Warrego Highway, Miles Close to town acreage without the neighbours and the noise!

6841060ah

Do you value privacy but also convenience of being near town?

Beautiful Queenslander home with plenty of space and heaps of land to move around on.

• Four Spacious bedroom plus Office - perfect for the whole family • Air conditioning throughout • Modern wooden decor kitchen • Brick insulation • Two large rear sheds - both with power

Ray White Rural Miles, 41 Murilla Street, Miles Qld 4415 Phone: 07 4627 2217

Contact: Jon Kingston 0409 057 596 David Sweetapple 0416 272 700

20

suratbasin.com.au Thursday, July 26, 2018

Ray White Rural Miles has the Ray White_Know How to sell your rural property for more.

If you are just entering the market or cashing out of a large rural holding, talk to Jon or David from Ray White Rural Miles for honest, experienced, reliable advice.

Ray White Rural Miles

41 Murilla Street, Miles QLD 4415 (07) 4627 2800

We’ve got the Surat Basin covered!

Jon Kingston

0409 057 596 jon.kingston@raywhite.com

David Sweetapple

0416 272 700 david.sweetapple@raywhite.com

Ray White Rural Miles is chasing rural and residential listings throughout the readership area.

Please contact - Jon Kingston or David Sweetapple for an appraisal.

Ray White Rural Miles, 41 Murilla Street, Miles Qld 4415 • Phone: 07 4627 2217 6841060ae

Contact: Jon Kingston 0409 057 596 David Sweetapple 0416 272 700

Thursday, July 26, 2018 suratbasin.com.au

Communications boost productivity CAROLYN COLLINS

CEO, GasFields Commission

THE GasFields Commission is set up to be mobile and we spend a lot of our time on the road in gas country.

Over the years, we’ve seen sweeping changes along the roads we travel – new cattle grids, wide sealed roads, extended power grids, better telecommunications and irrigation schemes that have boosted productivity to levels never seen before in some areas.

The reality is that it’s in the best interests of resource companies to find ways of working with rural landholders and find mutually beneficial solutions to common problems.

No one is claiming that the changes have all been smooth sailing and there have definitely been some bumps along the way, but the improvements are obvious.

New cattle grids often solve the problem of knowing if a gate should be left shut or open and many are installed as part of a compensation agreement.

Road improvements make travel safer for gas industry employees and have the added benefit of reducing dust and noise for residents.

The Mount Saltbush Road in Blythdale is a good example.

New phone towers to service gas company hubs improve safety and internet access for everyone within range and produced water is being put to good use irrigating crops.

At Chinchilla, industry is supplying produced water to nine properties irrigating 35 hectares of land along Fairymeadow Road transforming the area into a lush, green strip of agricultural production.

There’s a similar project near Roma, irrigating pastures and producing award winning beef cattle.

Various studies show a significant improvement in employment and economic growth in towns servicing the resources industry and new business has sprung up to service it.

Like any business relationship, there have been challenges but the gas industry is maturing rapidly.

21

OPINION

Queensland registers record export results IAN MCFARLANE

CEO, Queensland Resources Council

CONGRATULATIONS to 282,000 Queensland resource sector workers – you are export record breakers Increased coal, LNG and mineral sales helped Queensland post a record export result of $73.7 billion for the 12 months until the end of May, according to the latest trade data released by the State Government this month.

Queensland Resources Council Chief Executive Ian Macfarlane said the resources sector contributed almost $60 billion – or 80 per cent – of the result.

“For every 10 dollars Queensland earns through exports, the resources sector contributes eight of those 10 dollars,” Mr Macfarlane said.

“This is a tribute to the more than 280,000 Queenslanders working directly and indirectly in the resources sector.

“To those men and women, indigenous and non-indigenous, in the regions and the southeast – please accept the congratulations on behalf of all Queenslanders.”

Over the last 12 months: ■ Coal exports increased by $5 billion or 18 per cent to $32.8 billion ■ Mineral exports increased by $634.2 million or 9.3 per cent to $7.4 billion, and ■ LNG, alumina and semi-soft coking metallurgical coal to $20.9 billion of exports classified as confidential This category of exports increased by $3.8 billion or 22 per cent.

Mr Macfarlane said the Palaszczuk Government last year set itself the target for Queensland to be the source of 22 per cent of national exports annually until 2022.

“The latest trade figures put Queensland at 23 per cent, ahead of its target,” he said.

“Without resources sector exports, Queensland would provide only 4.4 per cent of the nation’s overseas trade.

“Without coal exports, it would be only 13 per cent.”

Penalty rate cut fails to bare fruit DAN MCGAW

ETU South West Queensland State Organiser

THE union movement warned of it, but the business community and LNP politicians boasted that it would be beneficial to working people but it has been proven that cutting penalty rates has failed to create any extra jobs or give workers more hours.

This is a huge embarrassment to the Turnbull Government in what was simply the LNP doing a favour for his business mates.

A survey of 1351 workers by the University of Wollongong and Macquarie University found there has been no short-term increase in average weekly hours – contrary to what the LNP would make you believe.

Despite the political furore around Fair Work, penalty rate reductions remain in their infancy after undergoing the first round of three annual five percentage point cuts in June.

The Business Council of Australia has long argued the reductions were needed to reflect a 24/7 economy and that Sunday hours were no more unsociable than Saturday, which they will progressively be shifted in line with. If we truly live in a 24/7 economy, why doesn’t parliament sit on weekends?

Is the Chamber of Commerce and Business Council open on a Sunday? Of course not! The politicians voting in favour of this are completely out of touch. Locally, John McVeigh and David Littleproud have no idea what it is like to rely on penalty rates. All they are interested in is feathering their own nests and looking after their big business mates.

While these workers have their penalty rates cut, McVeigh and Littleproud enjoyed a two per cent pay rise! What an insult!

It beggars belief that the business community support penalty rate cuts. Do they not understand that the less these workers are paid, the less they have to spend in the community? The 21-year-old in Chinchilla doesn’t have a secret bank account in the Cayman Islands, unlike Turnbull.

What they earn, they spend.

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22

OPINION

suratbasin.com.au Thursday, July 26, 2018

Affordable energy a hot topic The tax will be paid on application to register or transfer vehicles i.e. when the vehicle is bought (either new or second hand).

This new tax will have a significant impact on the drive tourism market in our region.

Whilst hard working Local Governments and local tourism groups are trying to grow the drive tourism market to support local jobs in rural and regional Queensland – the State Labor Government is taxing the regional tourism industry.

This is a very heartless tax from the State Labor Government.

ANN LEAHY

Member for Warrego

WELCOME to the latest edition of the Surat Basin News.

Electricity

With winter well and truly upon us, many households will be concerned about how they will pay their next electricity account.

Households and businesses in Warrego electorate deserve affordable energy rather than what they are experiencing under this State Labor Government who are using electricity as a tax.

It is time to end the divide between the southeast and the rest of Queensland when it comes to energy policy.

The LNP would introduce reforms to allow competition in the electricity marketplace allowing other energy retailers to compete against Ergon, potentially saving households $300 per year.

Southeast Queenslanders are spoilt for choice when it comes to their energy retailers, and residents in the southwest should be able to shop around as well.

It is expected electricity bills will be cut by up to $300 in the Liberal National Party’s plan to introduce competition to regional Queensland’s energy market.

The LNP’s plan is in stark contrast to Labor, who are using electricity as a tax.

Basin initiative means better business

Wild Dog Fencing State Labor Government Taxes Regional Tourism

The State Labor Government’s new tax on campervans and motorhomes that commenced on July 1, 2018, will hurt regional tourism across the southwest region.

The grey nomads contribute greatly to rural and regional tourism and Queensland families keen to enjoy the great outdoors will now be paying thousands of dollars more to ‘live the dream’.

This new tax is a two percent duty on the value of every Queensland motor vehicle under 4.5 tonnes that are valued more than $100,000.

Buyers get into the swing of things ANDREW MCCALLUM

ALI DAVENPORT

Real Estate Manager/Director, Ruralco Property GDL

CEO, Toowoomba and Surat Basin Enterprise

THE Surat Basin’s reputation as a place to do business is growing rapidly, and this is thanks to the success of businesses and individuals in the region.

It’s home to several world-class innovative businesses and over the past month, TSBE is proud to have kicked-off new projects and secured special guests to continue promoting businesses innovation in the west.

Our Food Leaders Australia team secured Aussie innovator, entrepreneur, and television ‘Shark’ Steve Baxter to visit the Darling Downs and Maranoa for an exclusive regional tour to meet locals to discuss and inspire businesses innovation and optimisation with new technology.

The popular two-day trip was part of the Advance Queensland Regional Innovation Program and had Steve and a panel of leading innovators meet locals in Toowoomba, Dalby, St George and Roma.

In other exciting news, TSBE’s two Western Downs focused projects that have been funded by QGC are now in full swing.

The Emerging Exporters Program, which is helping nine local agricultural businesses become exporter ready and the Business Navigators Western Downs program that is fuelling innovation and start-ups across the Downs are receiving lots of interest and support from across the Surat Basin.

We’re thrilled to be the delivery partner of these two programs that Shell’s QGC arm initiated as a result of community consultation to strengthen other sectors of the economy.

We’ll be keeping you updated on the progress of these exciting programs and releasing videos to follow the journey of the Emerging Exporters and Navigators.

I’m really looking forward to seeing their achievements in the years to come.

I am also pleased to confirm we will be heading out west to Chinchilla for our next Enterprise Evening on August 9.

We’ll hear from special guests Ian Davies (Managing Director and CEO of Senex) and Roger Cressey (CEO of Armour Energy).

They’ll be providing an update on the opportunities surrounding their upcoming gas projects and it will be a great opportunity for businesses to find out how they can get involved and take advantage of these new developments.

For more information on our projects or to book a ticket to our August 9 Enterprise Evening in Chinchilla please visit www.tsbe.com.au or phone the office on (07) 4639 4600.

‘‘

It’s home to several worldclass innovative businesses...

THE housing market has continued to remain sluggish in the second quarter of 2018 with the bulk of sales in the $300,000 and below bracket with only a few homes selling above the $400,000 mark across the area.

Our region’s sale pendulum continues to swing towards the buyers, giving buyers a smorgasbord of opportunities whether it be for a first home, buyers looking to upgrade or investors looking for affordable property.

Buyers are well aware this won’t last forever and the Western Downs currently represents good value and is a great time to capitalise and invest in the region.

New infrastructure and the new projects that are in development stage in the Western Downs currently present buyers with choice, offering a smart investment strategy over the long term.

Please find the figures below for some towns in our area for the last financial year:

FAST FACTS number (value)

Dalby

Financial year 2018: 156 ($264,250) Financial year 2017: 147 ($267,500)

Miles

Financial year 2018: 22 ($167,500) Financial year 2017: 33 ($168,000)

Chinchilla

Financial year 2018: 84 ($224,000) Financial year 2017: 84 ($230,000)

Roma

Financial year 2018: 37 ($285,000) Financial year 2017: 55 ($250,000) Provided by PriceFinder.com

I welcome the commitment from the Federal Coalition Government to provide $9 million to help manage pest animals and weeds at the same time as Queensland’s Labor Government continued to slash budgets.

The announcement made in Roma with LNP Shadow Agriculture Minister Tony Perrett, joined with, Federal Agriculture Minister David Littleproud committed $7 million in federal funding to fight wild dogs and $2 million in weed-control funding (i.e. Parthenium).

The Palaszczuk Labor Government cuts to agriculture follow their slashing of 40 frontline staff from the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries since they came to government.

These staff cuts hurt even more when you consider Labor’s hiring spree of an extra 25,000 public service positions since 2015 – none of which appear to have been employed to help landholders.

More funding for drought communities DAVID LITTLEPROUD

Federal Member for Maranoa

THIS MONTH, the Federal Coalition Government announced funding towards fighting pests and weeds and a Farm Liaison Officer as we continue to help farmers struggling with the drought.

Producers and graziers across drought-affected areas of Queensland will receive a further $9 million to help manage pest animals and weeds as part of the Federal Government’s response to the ongoing drought.

Of the $9 million, $7 million will help fight against wild dogs and $2 million will be invested into weed management.

Dog fencing is a State Government responsibility, yet the Federal Government has had to invest millions in dog fencing in Queensland to make up State Government shortfalls.

In their latest budget, the Queensland Labor Government also slashed pest and weed funding by half – right when farmers need it most.

The Federal Government’s $9 million in funding is on top of our $50 million commitment in the Agricultural Competitiveness White Paper for established pests and weeds nation-wide.

As part of the White Paper, a further $25.8 million was allocated specifically for pest and weed management in drought-affected areas.

In addition to the funding for pests and weeds, the Coalition Government will roll out more help for producers facing drought across Queensland, with a newly created Farm Liaison Officer role based in Longreach.

The move follows frank conversations with drought affected producers during my recent drought tour with the Prime Minister in Maranoa.

The Farm Liaison Officer will work to better connect farmers, businesses and communities to existing support measures.

For example, the Farm Liaison Officer will help connect people with Rural Financial Counsellors, who help farmers apply for Farm Household Allowance.

The position will run over two years as part of a pilot program thanks to $750,000 in federal funding.

Since 2013, the Coalition Government has provided more than $1.3 billion in assistance measures to help producers and communities with the drought, and the Farm Household Allowance has helped more than 7900 recipients.

The funding towards fighting pests and weeds and the Farm Liaison Officer will ensure our farming communities can generate their own wealth and build strong, healthy livelihoods.

23

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OPINION

suratbasin.com.au Thursday, July 26, 2018

Lots to look forward to as spring looms PAUL MCVEIGH

Western Downs Mayor

◗ GO TO FRASER: Rob Fraser, Kevin Jackson, Melissa Fraser, Justin De-Pinto Smith and Debbie Forse of Fraser Valuers, a family owned business increasing its presence in rural Queensland.

PHOTO: CONTRIBUTED

Proud to stay local AT the helm of a second-generation rural valuation business, raising a young family on the outskirts of Chinchilla, and running farms as far afield as Wandoan, there is no denying Robert Fraser has a secure foothold in rural Queensland.

Coupled with his hearty laugh and jovial demeanour, it’s hardly surprising that his business, Fraser Valuers, has become the ‘go to’ for landholders across the state.

“The fact that we are fully invested in rural Queensland, both financially and personally, gives clients the peace of mind that we know what we’re talking about – our offices are here at the coalface, we understand the economics of farming, and above all we are committed to the ongoing success of rural Australia,” Rob said.

Together with wife Melissa, and children Lochy and Vivienne, the Frasers’ are proud and passionate Western Downs community members.

With a family grazing operation at Wandoan, they also run an irrigation and dryland farming operation at Chinchilla – but Rob laughs it was the cattle that first stole his heart.

Having originally envisaged his future lay on the grazing operation at Wandoan, Rob made the decision almost ten years ago to join his father Malcolm at Fraser Valuers.

“Dad started Fraser Valuers 30 years ago, so it has a strong history in the district, but I was always determined to be out west,” Rob said.

It was only after a ‘not so subtle nudge’ from Melissa that he began to fully realise the opportunities at hand in valuation.

“Melissa was the one who gave me the push I needed, she helped me through my studies and works with me in the business – plus she’s a bit closer to the shops now than when we were out on the farm,” Rob winks.

“So it’s been a win/win situation for both of us!”

Rob recently took over the business from his father, and holds no lack of ambition for the growing operation.

“Dad will remain an integral part of the team, and we now also have five valuers, all grounded to rural Australia and equally as passionate about agriculture.”

While in recent years Fraser Valuers has centred on resource and rural valuations, the business is now diversifying into

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superannuation valuations, having recently acquired Bill Johnson Valuation Services in Toowoomba.

Mortgage security, accounting services, plant, machinery and stock appraisals, retrospective valuations for Stamp Duty and Capital Gains to 1994, plus all rural and residential valuations are also key services provided. With Rob acknowledging recent increased investment back into the land, he believes there’s huge confidence in the rural industry.

“Wandoan country is enjoying some record highs, people are committed to securing their future in agriculture.”

In Chinchilla, local investment back into the community has buoyed the local market, with Rob indicating the town is now stabilising after the resource downturn.

“We can only hope that the resource and power generation industries grow at a sustainable rate to ensure sustainability,” he said.

“I think we’ve seen the worst of the region’s economic decline, and it’s exciting to see some new investor activity.”

In Roma, Shaun Salter indicates that in the residential market the vacancy rate is reducing significantly, with sound demand for well-presented rental homes.

In the rural sector, Roma is also enjoying record highs, with several recent sales in excess of $2500 per hectare.

“Strong cattle prices coupled with active NSW producers in the region looking to source grass country has resulted in some very strong sales,” Shaun said.

“The market is experiencing a classic supply and demand situation, there’s a shortage of supply, with many agents finding it hard to currently source listings.”

With renewed vigour in the rural industry reflected in his business, Rob is forever grateful he made that fateful decision all those years ago to follow his father into Fraser Valuers.

“Dad is thrilled, and I am extremely proud to follow the family legacy. My father started this business from nothing 30 years ago, he grew a good, strong business, and now my aim is to expand on that good name and establish Queensland’s signature valuation service.”

Visit www.fraservaluers.com or phone 4668 9681.

— Georgina Poole

www.fraservaluers.com

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WHILE frosts continue across the Western Downs, everything else is heating up for our region in what is promising to be a busy second half of the year.

The Emerging Exporters Program, co-hosted by Food Leaders Australia and QGC, gives opportunities and practical frameworks to the producers in our region to help them reach lucrative markets.

Running for three years, this program will help meet the growing demand in Asia for quality Australian food as well as helping to highlight the value of investing in our local infrastructure and processes as a vital part of Australia’s supply chain.

Our region came alive recently with June’s Jandowae Timbertown Festival, with crowds in their droves turning out to see the parade, sample market stalls, watch the famous wood chopping spectacle and witness the new addition of a working bullock team in action.

Congratulations to Jandowae and the army of volunteers on a fantastic festival – you really are what makes living on the Western Downs so special.

We now look towards Dalby’s Delicious and DeLIGHTful Festival (below) on August 18 and the Miles Back to the Bush Festival from September 6-9, which are always great events on the calendar.

It has also been a successful period locally for business with one new business opening in Dalby, as well as a significant redevelopment of an existing Tara business.

Our diverse economy is one of the true strengths of our region and as a council we are committed to supporting further growth across the board.

I was lucky enough to attend the 40th anniversary of the Chinchilla Meals of Wheels recently and would like to acknowledge the wonderful culture of volunteerism we have on the Western Downs.

And a special chapter has begun for Chinchilla and the region as a whole with the official sod-turning of the Chinchilla Botanic Parklands.

This $5.9 million project will span 4.2 hectares and provide a beautiful public space, water play area and amphitheatre capable of accommodating 1500 people on lawn space.

Thursday, July 26, 2018 suratbasin.com.au

◗ Lynda Von Pein and Kylie Judd.

25

PLACES AND FACES

◗ Yasmin Head and Genevieve Dent.

◗ Lyn Reimers and Toni Ramsey.

◗ Fiona and Jesse Duff.

◗ Kaitlyn McDonald and Sarah Lane.

◗ Vicki Block, Michele Walsh and Sue Wise.

◗ RACES FUN: Courtney McLellan and Georgie Lucht at the annual Warra Races recently.

◗ Brad Pott and Nick Wolski.

PHOTOS: MICHAEL DOYLE

26

PLACES AND FACES

suratbasin.com.au Thursday, July 26, 2018

Special day at the Fish Tank

◗ Megan McNicholl, Jorja Wardrope, Susie Moore and Councillor Kay Maguire.

◗ Olivia McIntyre, Lynette Fabian, Jaymee Wicks and Alida Vrey.

◗ GREAT DAY OUT: Sara Wylie, Taylah Walker with Savannah and Adrian Brazier at the Condamine Cods Ladies Day on Saturday, June 30.

PHOTOS: MADISON WATT

◗ Tim Drury, Jess Huntley and Tori McGregor.

◗ Rowena Gill and Angela Kibble.

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◗ Lisa Watson and Nicole Harbort.

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Thursday, July 26, 2018 suratbasin.com.au

◗ Kevin and Alfie Ruhle.

27

PLACES AND FACES

◗ Kayla and Leanne Walsh with Ros Jennings.

◗ Jake Walker and Lindsay McCay.

◗ Lisa and Trish Higgins trackside.

◗ Lindsay McCay, Jane Rowbotham and Imy Newton.

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◗ RACES FACES: Zoe and Ellen Barron with Harriet Lewis at Cities Race Day 2018.

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PLACES AND FACES

View the last edition The latest news online online Read our last issue at www.suratbasin.com.au/ suratbasinnews

Keep in touch with the latest news with just a mouse click. www.suratbasin.com.au

suratbasin.com.au Thursday, July 26, 2018

Surat Basin News Published by Chinchilla Newspapers Pty Ltd 12 Mayne Street, Chinchilla, Q 4413 Printed by News Corp Australia, Murarrie General manager: Erika Brayshaw

No more direct flights from Toowoomba

Airnorth cuts off Cairns services REGIONAL airline Airnorth will cancel its flights to Cairns from Toowoomba’s Wellcamp Airport later this year.

On Friday the airline contacted customers booked on flights after mid-October to let them know their flights had been cancelled.

Robin Beazley was due to fly to Cairns in November, but was told by the airline on Friday her flight, and all flights to Cairns from October, had been cancelled.

“I’m very sad after I was informed by Airnorth that my flight had been cancelled,” Ms Beazley said. “(It’s) apparently due to lack of bookings.”

Ms Beazley said her daughter lived in Cairns and she regularly used the airline to fly to the tropical city.

“I have thoroughly enjoyed all my flights, whether they were north or south, with Airnorth, as have all my family over the last couple of years,” she said.

“The convenience of only having to drive to Wellcamp could not be beaten.

“Hopefully they will reconsider their decision to reinstate flights to Cairns if public demand does improve.”

Several other readers have contacted The Chronicle to discuss their dismay at the decision.

“They phoned me (on Friday afternoon) to cancel my (Christmas) flights,” one reader said.

“They said it’s not a viable run so cancelled (the flights) from (October).”

Wellcamp Airport general manager Sara Hales said the news Airnorth was cutting the Cairns route was “disappointing”.

“Losing one air service is of course disappointing, however, our success rate is pretty exceptional in what is a very tough industry, and we will always continue to work towards more services for our community,” Ms Hales said.

“We are passionately committed to growing air connectivity for Toowoomba and the Darling Downs.

“Our region now enjoys over 80 flights a week to destinations such as Sydney, Melbourne, Townsville, Western Queensland and even Hong Kong.”

Airnorth began flying between Wellcamp Airport and Cairns in March 2016.

◗ CAIRNS NO MORE: The first Airnorth flight to Cairns left Wellcamp on March 14, 2016 – but now the airline has cancelled flights after mid-October.

PHOTO: CONTRIBUTED

It still operates flights from Wellcamp to Melbourne and to Townsville, with the later flight expanding operations to four services a week in January of this year.

At the time Airnorth said it was committed to “servicing the Darling Downs region”.

“Toowoomba and Darling Downs residents continue to remain positive towards the 14 weekly services that Airnorth operates in

and out of Wellcamp Airport,” a spokesperson said in January.

In June, Qantas announced it had cut two of its flights between Wellcamp and Sydney, due to the international pilot shortage.

Airnorth has been contacted for comment about the Cairns route cancellation.

— Tobi Loftus, The Chronicle

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