Western Travel Guide

Queensland Edition 4

Western Travel Guide • Western Downs • Maranoa • Murweh • Paroo • • Quilpie • Bulloo • Balonne • and surrounding towns

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CONTENTS

WHAT’S INSIDE OAKEY...........................................................5 CECIL PLAINS ..............................................6 JONDARYAN.................................................7 DALBY ...................................................8 – 15 BELL.............................................................16 KAIMKILLENBUN.......................................17 JANDOWAE ................................................18 MACALISTER:: WARRA.............................19 JIMBOUR ....................................................20 BRIGALOW .................................................21 KOGAN........................................................22 CHINCHILLA ......................................23 – 28 TARA............................................................29 MEANDARRA .............................................30 GLENMORGAN :: MOONIE :: THE GUMS ..........................................................................31 MILES..................................................32 – 33

CONDAMINE......................................34 – 35 WANDOAN..................................................36 TAROOM .....................................................37 DRILLHAM :: DULACCA :: YULEBA.........38 JACKSON :: MUCKADILLA :: AMBY .......39 WALLUMBILLA...........................................40 ROMA ..................................................41 – 48 INJUNE ........................................................49 SURAT .........................................................50 MITCHELL ...................................................51 ST GEORGE .......................................52 – 54 NINDIGULLY ...............................................55 THALLON....................................................56 DIRRANBANDI :: BOLLON........................57 CUNNAMULLA ...........................................58 EULO ...........................................................59 WYANDRA :: YOWAH ................................60

THARGOMINDA .................................61 – 63 NOCCUNDRA.............................................64 COOPER CREEK .......................................65 CAMERON CORNER.................................66 KILCOWERA ...............................................67 HUNGERFORD...........................................68 QUILPIE...............................................69 – 73 EROMANGA ...............................................74 TOOMPINE .................................................75 ADAVALE.....................................................76 MURWEH............................................77 – 78 CHARLEVILLE ............................................79 MURWEH A-Z ITINERARY ................80 – 81 COOLADDI..................................................82 AUGATHELLA ....................................83 – 84 MORVEN.....................................................85 MUNGALLALA............................................86

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CONTENTS

OUTBACK: Plan your next holiday out west and experience country living at its finest.

Creative: Louise O’Mara, Jeff Brown Advertising: Debbie Phillips (07) 4672 9915 debbie.phillips@chinchillanews.com.au Editorial: Louise O’Mara Western Downs Regional Council, Paroo Shire Council, Maranoa Regional Council, Murweh Shire Council, Bulloo Shire Council, Quilpie Shire Council, Balonne Shire Council Surat Basin General Manager: Erika Brayshaw (07) 4672 9921 Erika.brayshaw@chinchillanews.com.au Enquiries: P (07) 4672 9900 F 3220 6442 E: advertise@chinchillanews.com.au A: 12 Mayne Street Chinchilla Qld 4413

Publisher Indemnity The Western Travel Guide, Is published by Newscorp in Chinchilla. Those who make advertising placement and/or supply copy material or editorial submissions to the Western Travel Guide, undertake to ensure that all such material does not infringe any copyright, trademark, defamation, libel, slander or title, breach or confidence, does not contain anything obscene or indecent, or does not infringe the trade practices act or other laws, regulations or statues.

Further to the above mentioned these persons agree to indemnify the publishers and/or its agents against any investigations, claims or judgements.

Cover

PHOTO: T&GWSBT

Front cover Western Travel Guide was created by Jeff Brown with image provided

by Tourism and Events Queensland with T&GWSBT. Images within the Western Travel Guide were obtained from Tourism and Events Queensland.

They were also supplied by Western Downs Regional Council, Paroo Shire Council, Maranoa Regional Council, Murweh Shire Council, Bulloo Shire Council, Quilpie Shire Council, Balonne Shire Council, and Susan Felix.

To experience p true outback magic… plan a stay at phy • Painting & Photogra

History Tours •

SSoaking in the hot Artesian water •

• Bird Watching

• Woolshed & Shearin g

Yabby Catching •

e• Authentic Station Lif

ins Charlotte Pllla a Cunnamu

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• Spot the Wildlife

outback magic C Camping i |C Caravans | Sh Shearer’s ’ Quarters | Groups | 0 07 4655 4923 | www.charlotteplains.com.au Page 4

OAKEY

MEMORABILIA: The Australian Army Flying Museum at Oakey is a great place to visit and step back in time.

PHOTO: CONTRIBUTED

TRUE COUNTRY LIFESTYLE Enjoy a friendly visit to Oakey and take in all the sights A REAL country experience is available just a step from the city living of Toowoomba.

A half-an-hour drive west of the Garden City will get you to Oakey, a key stop on the way to Western Queensland.

Oakey got it its named after the oaks lining the nearby creek. There is a selection of shops, restaurants, and cafés. Community facilities include a library, cultural centre, Council service centre, RSL and a range of health care services.

Oakey is a vibrant town which prides itself on being friendly and welcoming. The town recently celebrated 150 years and has very rich traditions.

It is home to the famous Bernborough, one of five

inaugural inductees into the Australian Racing Hall of Fame. You can visit the majestic life-sized bronze sculpture outside the Council Service Centre.

The Australian Army Flying Museum displays all aircraft flown by the Australian Army since World War II, including the latest high-tech military helicopters.

The museum is open Wednesday to Saturday, 10am-3pm.

The Oakey Historical Museum is located on the corner of Ramsey and Bridge Sts, and open Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday from 9am - 1pm. The museum has historic farm equipment outside and an extensive collection of local memorabilia.

For more information phone 0429 177 852.

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The town recently celebrated 150 years and has very rich traditions

Relive the authentic Australian pioneering spirit.

If you’re visiting the Darling Downs, enjoy an amazing day discovering and reliving our unique Australian history, recreated as a rural working village with 60 heritage buildings spread over 20 picturesque acres. Includes 1909 Heritage Chapel (perfect rustic wedding venue); Southern Cross Museum; Transport Museum featuring rare and original early cars, trucks and bicycles; Toowoomba Fire Brigade Museum; Ambulance Museum; a Village Silversmith, wooden Toyshop and 1900s Slab Cottage. Bookings required for groups over 10.

30mins from Oakey. Open 10am to 4pm daily Authentic damper and billy tea available everyday!

(07) 4696 6309 | 73 Wirraglen Rd, Highfields www.highfieldspioneervillage.com.au Page 5

CECIL PLAINS

PLENTY TO VISIT IN TOWN CECIL Plains is a true visit into country living and history.

Located an hour west of Toowoomba and half-an-hour south of Dalby, the fertile black soil around Cecil Plains is ideal for cotton production and the town is now the home of one of the largest cotton gins in the southern hemisphere.

Cecil Plains Homestead was the focal point of life on Cecil Plains Station which was claimed in 1841 by Henry Stuart Russell, the first European in the area.

The property was named in honour of his mother, Cecil Charlotte Pemberton.

In 1848 he employed James Taylor as head stockman, who became a partner in 1856 and sole proprietor of Cecil Plains in 1859.

Taylor made Cecil Plains a fattening and disposal centre for western sheep, and by 1880 the station comprised 147,000 acres.

Taylor was a central figure in the growth of Toowoomba and a parliamentarian.

The town of Cecil Plains was proclaimed in 1924. Cotton growing expanded postwar in the Central Downs, and the population climbed to nearly 600 by the mid-1950s.

While the town experienced a population decline leading to the end of the twentieth century before picking up again.

CECIL PLAINS HOMESTEAD

THE original homestead was built on Cecil Plains Station in 1841.

The homestead was originally a single slab cottage built by Henry and his brother Sydenham. James Taylor bought the property in 1859.

THE OLD STATION CEMETERY

THE town’s most fascinating historic artefact is the Old Station Cemetery which is located at the corner of Cheetham St and the Dalby Cecil Plains Rd. It is a small collection of graves (some nothing more than slabs of timber) but it has been well preserved and pieces of timber have been erected around an iron-bark tree which give details of the lives of the people buried in the small cemetery.

HISTORIC VICTORY HOTEL

THERE were two attempts to establish a pub

HISTORIC: THE Victory Hotel at Cecil Plains (1932) which didn’t obtain its liquor licence until 1938.

PHOTO: CONTRIBUTED in the town and both were rejected by teetotallers. The handsome pub in the main street started life in 1932 as a boarding house and it wasn’t until 1938 (the third attempt) it managed to obtain its licence - not surprisingly it was named “Victory”.

HENRY STUART RUSSELL PARK

HOME to the Cecil Plains Library and a War Memorial monument, an outdoor gym was installed on site through a partnership between Council and Cecil Plains Lions Club.

The park also includes a basketball half-court,

Events Free pool party - January 17, 2019 Time: 9am-12noon Where: Cecil Plains Pool, Cheetham St, Cecil Plains There will be music, free fruit, water and activities garden beds, skate facilities, a covered playground, and picnic facilities with a barbecue.

BAR - BISTRO - ACCOMMODATION

HOTEL VICTORIY Follow us on Facebook for our upcoming entertainment and bistro specials 27-29 Taylor St Cecil Plains Phone 07 4668 0211

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Offering friendly country hospitality since 1932

JONDARYAN

HISTORY COMES ALIVE Step back in time and relax at The Woolshed

HERITAGE: The Woolshed at Jondaryan is a popular place with plenty of events held throughout the year.

PHOTO: BEV LACEY

Events at The Woolshed Australia Day - January 26 Easter weekend - April 20-22

THE WOOLSHED

IN THE early 1970s local townspeople began the restoration of the historic woolshed.

Several decades of dedicated volunteers have created a rural museum with several restored buildings brought in from elsewhere. The Woolshed is Queensland’s oldest operating woolshed.

You can take a self-guided tour on the Woolshed Heritage Walk to learn about the history of Jondaryan Station and its role in the development of pastoralism on the Darling Downs.

Stroll back in time through a fascinating complex of historic buildings, machinery and collections.

Enjoy a delicious meal at the Woolshed Café Restaurant open Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays.

The Jondaryan Woolshed is located at 264

Jondaryan-Evanslea Road and open 8.30am - 4.30pm.

Phone (07) 4692 2229 or visit www.jondaryanwoolshed.com.au.

ST ANNE’S CHURCH

ON THE Jondaryan-Evanslea Road heading towards the Woolshed is the small timber St Anne’s Church which was built in 1859 and designed by James Charles White, the manager of Jondaryan Station at the time.

It is said to be one of the earliest churches in Queensland. It was built from hand sawn and dressed ironbark slabs and is said to be the oldest timber church in the Diocese of Brisbane.

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Stroll back in time through a fascinating complex of historic buildings, machinery and collections

ON THE ROAD… STOP OFF AT COBB & CO ROADHOUSE. We will make you feel right at home.

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JONDARYAN is a small town with a tonne of history and is visited by thousands namely due to its popular historic village – The Woolshed.

Jondaryan is about 40km from both Toowoomba and Dalby on the Warrego Highway and got its name from the Jondaryan pastoral station (1842).

Derived from an Aboriginal expression thought to describe something a long way off; possibly a view from the Bunya mountains of a tree line or topographical feature on the black soil plains.

The Jondaryan pastoral station grew to be a colonial colossus, comprising 62,750 ha in the 1870s, Queensland’s largest freehold station.

In 1889 it was the cause of the ‘Jondaryan affair’, when unionists won the right to have union-only shearers, but which in turn galvanised employer interests to unite and crush trade-unionism in the national maritime strike.

The western railway was extended from Toowoomba to Dalby in 1867.

A primary school was opened in 1872.

Jondaryan grew as the main town in the district, remaining so until overtaken by Oakey which benefited by being a railway junction with branch lines to Cooyar and Cecil Plains.

Jondaryan has a hotel, a school, a public hall and a post office.

Delicious Roadhouse Meals Try one of our gourmet pizzas, delicious home-made pies, curries & hamburgers Pre-order will be ready when you rock in the door…

BREAKFAST… LUNCH… DINNER • Great Coffee • Hot Showers & Clean Amenities • Need Ice & Gas we can help.

Local Information for Travellers Hours 04:30am - 22:00pm

Cobb N Co Roadhouse, 16 Duke Street 4403 Jondaryan, Queensland Ph: (07) 4692 2143 Page 7

DALBY

POPULAR TOWN TO VISIT Dalby has it all with dining, shops, bushwalking and festivals

OUT WEST: Visit Dalby, the black soil plains of the northern Darling Downs.

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Dalby is a great place to base yourself before exploring the Bunya Mountains National Park

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DALBY is a beautiful town located 80km west of Toowoomba and is full of fun and excitement.

Founded as Myall Creek Station in 1841, it was renamed for Dalby, on the Isle of Man, in the British Isles.

It became a town in 1854.

Built on the black soil plains of the northern Darling Downs, Dalby is the regional hub of the Western Downs and a hive of rural enterprise.

Dalby is a great place to base yourself before exploring the Bunya Mountains National Park and the historic Jimbour House, a short drive to the northeast of town.

To the southwest of Dalby is the Lake Broadwater Conservation Park, a popular spot for camping, bushwalking and birdwatching.

Dalby has all the essential services. Major industries are cotton, wheat, sorghum, sunflowers and cattle.

Visitors have many dining options with high-quality pubs, cafés and eateries for everyone to enjoy.

Festivals and events throughout the year are part of Dalby’s appeal to visitors

PHOTO: TOURISM AND EVENTS QUEENSLAND

Dalby Visitor Information Centre Your one-stop shop for travel information including maps, brochures and itineraries. The Centre sells cold drinks and souvenirs and provides free Wi-Fi internet access.

Staffed by skilled and knowledgeable locals, the Centre can provide local advice on the things to see and do, the best attractions to explore and local happenings.

The surrounding parkland offers off-street parking, toilets, picnic tables and barbecue facilities.

Discuss your travel plans with their friendly staff and enjoy a stroll in the park, before continuing on with your journey.

Located in the picturesque Thomas Jack Park on the corner of Drayton and Condamine Streets in Dalby.

Phone (07) 4679 4461.

JON STEVENS | JOHN PAUL YOUNG | ROSS WILSON | DENI HINES | PSEUDO ECHO

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DALBY

IN THE PARK: Perfect weather at Myall Creek Parklands with the new Jacko Cavanagh Bridge.

PHOTO: KATE LOWE

TOP PLACES TO VISIT

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The two-storey art gallery is the perfect place to immerse yourself in the Western Downs art scene

THERE are plenty of things to see and do when visiting Dalby.

Keep busy by checking out these great ideas.

MYALL 107

MYALL 107 is the place to be if you enjoy the arts.

The two-storey art gallery is the perfect place to immerse yourself in the Western Downs art scene.

The gallery holds regular exhibitions often showing local artists.

Do you want to relax for the afternoon by watching a good movie?

The Western Downs Cinema also located at Myall 107 has screenings from Wednesday to Sunday. The upgraded cinema provides a comfortable experience inside while offering the best snacks to enjoy the movie.

AQUATIC CENTRE

THE Dalby Aquatic Centre is open all year for those who wish to enjoy a relaxing swim.

The outdoor pool is the perfect place to cool off when it’s hot, while the indoor heated pool is a great place to be during the colder months.

PIONEER PARK

WITH lots of history, Pioneer Park Museum is a popular attraction for visitors to Dalby.

Located on Black St, south of the Warrego Highway, Pioneer Park Museum showcases the evolution of engines and machinery from the 1800s to now.

Experience the local history and culture of the district on

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There are plenty of places around Dalby to relax and enjoy the country lifestyle. PHOTO: TOURISM AND EVENTS QUEENSLAND display at Pioneer Park Museum, with the largest collection of working early model trucks, tractors and agricultural equipment.

PARK

THOSE wanting open spaces can enjoy Thomas Jack Park, located in the centre of town.

Pull into the picturesque spot and have lunch under the many shaded areas.

Thomas Jack Park is the perfect place to stop for a wander through the beautifully landscaped gardens, relax by the lily pond and listen to the tranquil sounds of the waterfall.

Thomas Jack Park is also where you will find the Visitor Information Centre where volunteers are happy to help you.

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DALBY

WORTH A VISIT: Pioneer Park Museum is a popular attraction for visitors to Dalby

PHOTO: ALEX COPPO

IN DASHING DALBY DALBY HERITAGE TRAIL FOLLOW the Dalby Heritage Trail and visit some of Dalby’s stunning historical buildings, homes and churches.

Places include St Joseph’s Catholic Church, St John’s Anglican Church, Country Club Hotel, Old Police Station, Old Town Council Chambers, CBC Bank Building, Commercial Hotel, Marble Street Art Centre, Cactoblastis Cairn, Anzac Park War Memorial and the Dalby CBD.

SALE YARDS

THERE’S probably no place better for local flavour than the vibrant atmosphere of Dalby Regional Sale Yards each Wednesday. It’s among the largest one-day cattle sales centres in Queensland with the action getting underway at 7.30am.

LAKE BROADWATER

LAKE Broadwater Conservation Park protects the only natural lake on the Darling Downs and the surrounding cypress and brigalow trees. You can go swimming, boating and water skiing or picnic under river red gums, or relax and enjoy the wildlife and wildflowers.

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Lake Broadwater Conservation Park protects the only natural lake on the Darling Downs and the surrounding cypress and brigalow trees

52 Cunningham St, PO Box 49 DALBY 4405

(07) 4662 5333 dalbyfsd@nunet.com.au 8.30am– 6pm Mon-Fri | 8.30am– 1pm Sat

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tion rooms Multiple func for bookings le b a il a v a re a ll types of to cater for a events. functions and

We cater Functions and events.

Large or small we can do it all.

Daily Lunch Specials featuring $10 Tradie deals

O’Shea’s Windsor Hotel Lunch & Dinner 7 days - Function Rooms Cellarbrations Superstore Bottle Shop Gaming - Public Bar - Accommodation

32 Patrick Street Dalby QLD 4405 Tel: (07) 4662 2911 Email: office@osheawindsor.com 6917995ae

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DALBY

TOP LOCATION: Spoil yourself with a delicious treat from Urban Paddock during your Dalby stay.

PHOTO: NICOLE MCDOUGALL

FIND YOUR NEXT MEAL

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O’sheas Windsor prides itself on country hospitality and great meals

DALBY is a great place to find a meal, enjoy a cold drink or even a cuppa on your journey.

We have picked some of the top places to try to give you a hand.

URBAN PADDOCK

to Saturday. The menu is a la carte and offers a variety of dishes including great local steaks and meats, seasonal specials, light meals, entrees and desserts.

O’SHEAS WINDSOR HOTEL

SET in historic Quambi House, Urban Paddock is a family-friendly café offering contemporary dining in a relaxed atmosphere.

O’SHEAS Windsor prides itself on country hospitality and great meals. Renovations of their restaurant extension are complete, or sit outside and watch football on the big screen.

THE club prides itself on creating an enjoyable family friendly dining experience. Come into the club and check out our exquisite new menu, designed specially by our highly renowned chefs.

AT THE Cri, the hotel prides itself on having great customer service and a place where you can enjoy a relaxed meal in the bistro or a cold drink in the beer garden or on the back deck.

DALBY LEAGUES CLUB

THE RUSSELL TAVERN BISTRO

OPEN for both lunch and dinner, it offers a range of dining options from light snacks to foods that will fill the hungriest of bellies like the Mega Mixed Grill.

KOBBERS RESTAURANT

OPEN to guests for dinner and breakfast from Monday

CRITERION HOTEL

KATTY CAKES

Kattys is much more than a cake shop. Katty Cakes offers a delicious, fresh and affordable lunch menu – made fresh the way you like it. They serve delicious Bellaroma Coffee and a selection of eight different flavoured cupcakes each day.

AWARD WINNING MENU

DAILY SPECIALS SEASONAL MENU

Di Bella

Open for Breakfast and Lunch | Closed Monday 138 Cunningham Street, DALBY QLD 4405 • 07 4662 2628 • QUAMBI HOUSE

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COFFEE

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DALBY

EVENTS DELIGHT IN DALBY 2019 is set to be a huge year in Dalby.

Get your diaries ready to plan some great weekends away.

BIG SKIES

DALBY will be full of activity during Big Skies 2019. The nine-day festival held across the Western Downs will begin with the 107th annual Dalby Picnic Races on Saturday, April 27.

Held at Bunya Park Racecourse, the Dalby Picnic Races is one of regional Queensland’s most popular racing events.

Expect all the fun and frivolity of country racing at its best where high fashion and high stakes combine at one of the region’s signature calendar events.

Bringing close to 8,000 punters to the region every year, the Picnic Races are one of Queensland’s largest and most exciting country races.

Have an authentic rural experience during Big Skies 2019 in Dalby by taking a tour of the Dalby Saleyards or enjoy country hospitality with the ultimate paddock to plate experience at the Long Lunch.

DELICIOUS AND DELIGHTFUL FESTIVAL

THE festival will be held on Saturday, August 17 in 2019 and is a fantastic blend of cultures, food and fun and is Dalby’s signature festival.

It embraces Art Exhibition throughout August with the main festival day being the third Saturday in August.

It features a wide range of multicultural food and entertainment with a spectacular lantern

SIGNATURE: Dalby’s Delicious and DeLIGHTful festival is a fantastic blend of cultures, food and fun.

PHOTO: ALASDAIR YOUNG parade and fireworks display along the banks of the beautiful Myall Creek that runs through the centre of Dalby. The lantern parade concludes in Anderson Park where the party continues with live entertainment into the night.

Embracing and celebrating Dalby’s diverse community, it attracts locals and visitors alike.

There’s fun for everyone, from children and families to young adults and the elderly. The festival offers a varied range of activities including a Colour Run, Volleyball, Competitions, Children’s area, a Multicultural Fashion Parade and an Australian citizenship ceremony.

There’s food to taste, performers to watch and games to play. In short, a fun festival to be enjoyed by all!

It is a popular event with the locals as well as those who travel from out of town to enjoy the live entertainment and food on offer.

DALBY SHOW

THIS huge annual event will be held again on April 12-13 in 2019.

Dalby Show Society’s First Annual Show was held in 1870, since then it has became one of the states most prominent agricultural shows in Queensland.

Welcome to Dalby Pioneer caravan Park

28 Black Street, Dalby, Qld 4405 Ph: (07) 4662 1811 l www.pioneervillagedalby.com.au Page 14

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Situated just a short walk for the town of Dalby with its many facilities, including a modern shopping mall, restaurants, café’s.

• Powered and unpowered sites for caravans along with a range of cabins, both with and without ensuite amenities.

• We have an in-ground swimming pool and an undercover kitchen and bbQ area, available for all Pioneer village guests all year round • the Pioneer caravan Park is a dog friendly Park and we welcome your dog

DALBY

WHERE TO STAY IN DALBY All your accommodation needs when visiting for fun or on business IF YOU want to stay longer in Dalby, there are plenty of accommodation options.

From motels, to hotels and to camping – Dalby has it all. Here are some options for your holiday stay.

THE GALLERY MOTOR INN

THE Gallery Motor Inn provides fully furnished, squeaky clean, affordable accommodation ranging from one bedroom to as many as you need.

(07) 4662 2300, 128 Drayton St, Dalby

DALBY TOURIST PARK

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From motels, to hotels and to camping – Dalby has it all

DALBY Tourist Park offers quality one and two bedroom ensuite cabins as well as powered and unpowered camping spots.

(07) 4662 4793, 32 Myall St, Dalby

DALBY HOMESTEAD MOTEL

WHETHER you are stopping in Dalby overnight on business, or longer to visit the area’s many attractions, the Dalby Homestead Motel is the perfect place to stay.

Located right across the road from beautiful Thomas Jack Park and only two-minutes walk to Dalby’s central shopping district.

(07) 4662 5722, 27 Drayton St, Dalby

DALBY FAIRWAY MOTOR INN

THIS Motor Inn is a stylish 4 star motel offering stylish accommodation beside the Myall Creek parklands (07) 4662 2255, 34 Myall St, Dalby

LOCAL VISIT: The town of Dalby is a great place to start your trip.

PHOTO: TOURISM AND EVENTS QUEENSLAND

KOBBERS MOTOR INN

FOR quality Dalby Motel accommodation Kobbers Motor Inn offers 22 motel rooms with air-conditioned comfort in modern spacious clean rooms, combined with warm hospitality country courtesy. Situated km from the Dalby CBD and close to all facilities.

(07) 4669 7488, 37a Nicholson St, Dalby

FRIDAY 12th & SATURDAY 13th APRIL 2019 • Horse Events • Young Farmers Challenge • Fashion Parade ND WIDE A R A F M • The Crack Up Sisters FRO 2020 to Join us in • Free Kids Activities • Chainsaw Racing ear of the • Lawn Mower Racing our 150th y e the Date ! Sav • Kids Workshops Dalby Show th April 2020 17th & 18 • Rodeo and The Whiskey Mountain Boys (Saturday Night) • FIREWORKS

ME O C L E W L L A celebrate

More info at www.dalbydistrictshow.com

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TWO WHOLE DAYS OF GREAT FAMILY FUN!

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BELL

PICTURESQUE LOCATION Perfect spot to take a break LOCATED just half-an-hour north of Dalby – the picturesque town of Bell is located in the western foothills of the Bunya Mountains, surrounded by panoramic views of rolling farmland.

Just 30 minutes from the Bunya Mountains National Park, Bell is an ideal spot to take a break and look around.

The town was named after Joshua Bell, owner of the Jimbour pastoral station.

The origins of the Bell township coincided with the implementation of the Closer Settlement Act in the early 1900s and the subdivision of the Jimbour property.

Bell, who supported closer-settlement, was also a keen proponent of a railway line from Dalby to the Bunya Mountains, and the opening of the line in 1906 led to the naming of the terminus in commemoration.

Most farmers engaged in dairying, railing their produce to the dairy factory in Dalby.

A noticeable decline in population occurred in the 1960s as dairying fell away, to be replaced by sheep and grain production. Large silos now form a backdrop to Bell, along with the Bunya Mountains.

Meet some of the region’s characters at the Bell Bunya Community Centre. The multi-purpose centre has barista made coffee, an art gallery and a Visitor Information Centre. Drop in for a drink and a chat at the popular social hub.

The Bluebelles Art Gallery at the Community Centre is a perfect spot to enjoy your time in Bell.

The popular gallery is spacious with a diverse range of artworks.

While at the centre, you can purchase fresh produce from the community-run vegetable garden. The community project has provided delicious food for many visitors.

The team at the Visitor Information Centre, located inside the Community Centre will guide you on what else Bell has in store for you.

The Bellview Hotel and Pips and Cherries café have scenic views for those wanting to stop for a meal and a drink.

Other sights to see include Bell Catholic Church interior murals and the Biblical Gardens, Bell Historic Railway station and Arthur Pope’s historic motor and machinery collection at Popey’s Shed.

TEA BREAK: Catch a scenic view and enjoy a cuppa at the Pips and Cherries cafe.

PHOTO: ALEX COPPO

More information Bell Bunya Community Centre At the Bell Bunya Community Centre you will also find the Bell Visitor Information Centre, Bluebelles Art Gallery and a coffee shop, open daily from 10am to 3pm. The gallery holds exhibitions featuring the work of local artists as well as art workshops.

71 Maxwell St, phone (07) 4663 1087.

Events January: Australia Day at Bell Memorial Public Hall, Bell Country Races February: Bell Annual Art Exhibition March: Bell Show, Rodeo & Campdraft, Show Ball

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Meet some of the region’s characters at the Bell Bunya Community Centre

d Come an roses! smell the MONDAY - FRIDAY - 9AM - 3PM SATURDAY - 9AM - 12NOON SUNDAY - CLOSED Centre Coffee Shop, light meals, Group book okings for Functions Bell Visitor & Tourist Information, Book Nook, N Homemade Crafts.

Bluebelles Art Gallery,Art Studio Work kshop & Art Tutorials Bell Library, Health Care rooms, Disab abled access toilets Memorial Rose & Community Vege etable Gardens & Large Car Park.

Ph 07 4663 1087 or 07 4663 1 1193 E: bellbunyacommunitycentrre@gmail.com www.bellcommunitycentre..com.au Find us on Facebook PO BOX 76, 71 Maxwell Sttreet, Bell Q 4408 Page 16

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KAIMKILLENBUN

TAKE A STOP AT ‘THE BUN’ Knock off the town with the longest name in Queensland from bucket list

FARM FUN: Kaimkillenbun or ‘The Bun’ has plenty of great country hospitality to offer.

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The Bun is a great place to stop in when driving to the Bunya Mountains

KAIMKILLENBUN is recognised as the town with the longest single-word name in Queensland.

Affectionately referred to as ‘The Bun’, the small community has plenty to offer visitors on their travels.

It is located just 25 minutes north east of Dalby and the name Kaimkillenbun is believed to derive from an Aboriginal word meaning open mouth, possibly associated with a male initiation ceremony.

An attempt was made to establish a hotel in 1908 but the local temperance lobby managed to prevent it.

However, in October 1911, local farmer Edwin Higgs successfully obtained a licence and built the Kenilworth Hotel. Soldiers leaving for World War 1 signed on the wall of the pub.

Today it is known as The Bun Pub. In 1983, Kaimkillenbun was the location for filming of the movie Chase Through the Night starring Nicole Kidman. Local residents appear as extras in the film.

The Bun is a great place to stop in when driving to the Bunya Mountains. This enthusiastic township has won

PHOTO: ALEX COPPO

The Bun Pub If you need to unwind for an afternoon, The Bun Pub is the perfect place to stop and enjoy the country hospitality. Food and drink is available seven days a week as well as accommodation.

There are often a variety of muscle cars out the front of the pub and the publican also has his own collection to show.

Located 72-74 Moffatt St. Phone (07) 4663 4108. the community action award in the Tidy Towns Competition and is a regular finalist and category winner.

The annual trail-bike ride held in April every year is popular with both locals and visitors.

Organised by the Kaimkillenbun State School, the trail-bike ride lets enthusiasts kick-up the dust around several tracks.

The event is for all ages and abilities.

Need A PitstoP… 6910503aa

stoP iN At the BuN

Free Parking • Restaurant • Bar/Lounge

Open for lunch & dinner 6 days a week. (Mon - Sat) Sundays - Pizza only

72 Moffatt St, Kaimkillenbun, QLD 4406 Ph: (07) 4663 4108

THE BUN PUB Page 17

JANDOWAE

FESTIVAL DRAWS IN HUGE NUMBERS Plenty of hidden treasures JANDOWAE is one of the Western Downs’ hidden treasures.

It is home of the Timbertown festival, but also so much more.

The town is 45 km north-west of Dalby and it sits within the Indigenous country of Barunggam. Jandowae was the principal town of the former Wambo Shire.

The town’s name reputedly derives from a Barunggam word meaning ‘waterhole’. It is believed a man named John Dowaie established a rest area for travellers called John Dowaie Camp.

This possibly explains the spelling, Jondowaie, used by early settlers. When the railway reached the town in 1914 the current spelling was adopted to avoid confusion with Jondaryan.

The Jandowae Dam is a tranquil spot for visitors who want to fish, go out on the boat or just relax in a peaceful environment.

The region comes to life at the beginning of the year with two popular events.

The annual country race meet is held at the Jandowae Racecourse in February, and patrons can expect plenty of entertainment and a memorable day out.

In March, the annual Jandowae Show displays the very best of the region; stalls, displays and a rodeo are just some of the reasons people travel for the event.

THE TIMBERTOWN FESTIVAL

THE biennial Jandowae Timbertown Festival draws thousands and is the town’s biggest attraction. The event will next be held in June 2020 with wood chop events, live music, market stalls and the Outback Sausage King Competition. If you are not around for Timbertown, Jandowae still offers plenty for its guests.

COUNTRY CLASSIC: Jandowae has plenty of hidden sights to see and one is the Jandowae Hotel PHOTO: ALEX COPPO

Information centre Jandowae Community and Cultural Centre A great spot to plan your Jandowae adventure.

Wi-Fi is available to guests who can also enjoy the Jandowae Library as they discover what else they can explore in the region.

Cnr George and High Sts Phone (07) 4679 4480

ATHLONE COTTAGE

ORIGINALLY built around 1890, this slab hut cottage was relocated to the current site in 2001 and lovingly restored by volunteers. Now a pleasant stopping place, the Athlone Cottage precinct preserves Jandowae’s heritage and reflects the rural life of yesteryear.

Location: Corner of High and Dalby Sts, Jandowae

DINGO SCULPTURE

THE renowned sculpture marks the startof the 5,400km Dingo Barrier Fence – the longest fence in the world.

The Dingo Barrier Fence protects 26.5 million hectares of sheep and cattle grazing country in South East Queensland from the menace of dingoes and wild dogs and is patrolled weekly by maintenance teams.

Location: Corner of George and High Sts, Jandowae

OLD RAILWAY STATION

THE original Jandowae railway station, relocated to Lions Park and now used by local community groups.



The region comes to life at the beginning of the year with two popular events

JANDOWAE & DISTRICT SHOW SATURDAY 3RD MARCH 2019

• LIVE MUSIC • STUD CATTLE • FARMERS CHALLENGE • LASER CLAY PIGEON SHOOTING • RIDES & AMUSEMENTS • LOTS OF FREE CHILDREN'S ENTERTAINMENT SAVE THE DATE Face Painting - free for children Join us again for our Petting Zoo - pet & feed the animals 72nd Jandowae Show on 21st March, • BARREL RACING & RODEO FROM 5pm 2020.

For more information www.jandowaeshow.com JANDOWAE SHOWGROUNDS, 104 HIGH STREET Page 18

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Relaxed & Friendly Little Country Show and Rodeo

MACALISTER / WARRA

LUNCHTIME: The historical Warra Hotel is a grand structure and worth a look on your stop.

PHOTO: ALEX COPPO

FARMING TOWNS ARE A POPULAR PIT-STOP

Get in touch with nature with great spots to fish and go bird-watching

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It is a grand rambling structure and a fine example of Queenslander architecture

IF YOU are looking for a quick place to stop then Macalister and Warra are the perfect locations.

Both are located in the farming district of the Darling Downs and located on the Warrego Highway out of Dalby.

Macalister is a traditional farming area about 30 minutes north west of Dalby and the town is named after Arthur Macalister, Premier of Queensland from 1866 to 1867.

Within the locality to the southeast of the town of Macalister is an area known as Apunyal (from an Indigenous word meaning large plain).

Warra is a small rural town located about 40 minutes from Dalby and was named after the Warra Warra pastoral run.

A hotel and cafĂŠ which provides home cooked meals are a popular pit-stop.

The historical Warra Hotel, established in 1906, is worth a look during your visit. It is a grand rambling structure and a fine example of Queenslander architecture.

Within walking distance of the park on the Condamine River is the 1844 camp site of explorer

Things to do Richard Best Memorial Park Home to the restored former Warra Railway Station.

It houses the Progress and Heritage Society Museum with displays changing regularly.

Located on the corner of Robinson & Talbot Sts. Events Annual Warra Races: July

Ludwig Leichhardt.

There is also a coloured cotton farm and insectary to visit near town.

Anglers may be rewarded with a catch of Yellowbelly or Murray Cod from the banks of the Condamine River.

There are many species of grass birds to be seen on the birding trails.

Camping is also allowed at the Warra Weir.

Warra comes alive in July when the race club hosts the annual Warra Races which attracts a large crowd every year.

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JIMBOUR

GET READY FOR TWO HUGE MUSIC EVENTS Heritage-listed homestead Jimbour House comes alive in 2019

TAKE A TOUR: Heritage-listed homestead Jimbour House is an absolutely stunning place to visit.

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This is a rare opportunity to see inside one of Queensland’s finest regional homes

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FEW buildings are more majestic in regional Australia than Jimbour House.

The beautiful sandstone mansion proudly sits on Jimbour Station and hosts some of the Western Downs’ most popular events.

Big Skies will hold its Day on the Plain in the amphitheatre of Jimbour House.

It is a must-see rock concert held on Saturday May 4, 2019.

The event has Aussie music legends Jon Stevens, John Paul Young, Ross Wilson, Deni Hines and Pseudo Echo performing. Jimbour House will be open to the public for tours during Big Skies 2019.

This is a rare opportunity to see inside one of Queensland’s finest regional homes.

Jimbour Station will have plenty of campers during the festival, as visitors gather for the campfire dinner, breakfast and outdoor movie night.

In July, Jimbour House becomes the backdrop to outdoor opera.

The Queensland Music Festival will visit the region on Saturday July 27, 2019 to put on a memorable show.

Market stalls flood Jimbour Station as thousands decked with armchairs set up in the amphitheatre to enjoy an afternoon performance.

PHOTO: KRISTA EPPELSTUN

FESTIVAL FUN: A popular event is the Big Skies Day on the Plain held in May. PHOTO: FELICITY BROADBENT

Events Big Skies Day on the Plain: May 4 Queensland Music Festival: July 27

BRIGALOW

RICH COMMUNITY: Brigalow is the perfect country town to stop and take a break.

PHOTO: ALEX COPPO

TOP PLACE TO UNWIND THE small settlement of Brigalow lies 20km east of Chinchilla on the Warrego Highway.

A sentry of grain silos signals the town, which was named for the brigalow tree that grows in the area’s fertile black soil.

While in Brigalow, stop into the local businesses which have great eateries and retail shops.

Tuck into an all-day breakfast or famous Brigalow Burger from the Brigalow General Store.

In summer, buy just-picked fresh melons and pumpkins at the roadside farm gate.

Wander the peaceful Brigalow Lutheran Cemetery, where many of pioneering German ancestors lie.

Don’t miss the Boonarga Cactoblastis Memorial Hall

(located halfway between Chinchilla and Brigalow), the only hall in the southern hemisphere honouring an insect.

QCWA Park in the heart of town is a great place to unwind. There is plenty of space to enjoy a picnic, as well as a large area for kids to enjoy.

BRIGALOW BUSH CARNIVAL

The annual Brigalow Bush Carnival is the most popular event for locals and visitors.

Held annually in September, the charity event has been running since 1960 and offers the perfect family outing and holds popular events including sack races, bike riding and a rodeo.

Preparations are beginning for the 59th event in 2019.

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Tuck into an all-day breakfast or famous Brigalow Burger from the Brigalow General Store

BRIGALOW BUSH CARNIVAL 6917992ac

59th Annual Carnival in 2019 September 21st at Brigalow Recreation Grounds

Throughout the day

Power Play | Billy Boil | Tug-O-War | Athletic Events Novelty Events - nail driving, broom & egg throwing, egg & spoon race, 3 legged race | Children’s novelty events.

Thank you to all supporters too numerous to mention.

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KOGAN

TAKE IN HISTORY WITH ART WALKWAY KOGAN is a town for those who enjoy history, art and the outdoors.

Located about 40 minutes west of Dalby, the name Kogan derives from an early pastoral run called Kogan Creek. The name probably came from Kogai, one of the Aboriginal tribes from the district.

It was a changing station on the Dalby-Roma coach route prior to the construction of the Western railway line.

With a colourful history as an old droving centre, Kogan is now dominated by the Kogan Creek Power Station, a 750 megawatt coal-fired power station.

Progress Park is a tribute to the region’s past with the Hugh Sawrey Remembrance Walkway a popular trek.

The Kogan Community Centre at Progress Park offers visitors an activity space, kitchen and amenities for those wishing to take a break. Across from the park is the Kogan Hotel which is the perfect spot for a cold drink after exploring the region.

HUGH SAWREY

The Hugh Sawrey walkway commemorates the memory of this one-time Kogan resident and famous bush artist with a metal sculpture by local artist Dion Cross. You’ll also find artist Bodo Muche’s life-size bronze Bush Friendship sculpture featuring Sawrey playing cards with his best mate, former Kogan publican Nelson “Darkie” Dwyer.

COUNTRY DRIVE

The Tara-Kogan Road is a picturesque drive taking you past historic places like Honey Road and the 226 Mile.

You’ll find the Native Bird Aviary near the Hard Country Native Nursery.

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The Hugh Sawrey Remembrance Walkway a popular trek

FAN TASTIC ART: Bodo Muche’s life-size bronze Bush Friendship sculpture at Kogan.

PHOTO: ALEX COPPO

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Open Wed and Thurs 10am - 4pm or by appointment. 63 - 65 Drayton Road, Harristown Page 22

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Call Mary today on 4636 7777 to discuss your villa options.

CHINCHILLA

STUNNING: Chinchilla’s main street, Heeney St, is a good place to start for your visit.

PHOTO: CONTRIBUTED

TAKE IN MELON CAPITAL Chinchilla captures strong community spirit with annual festival CHINCHILLA has become a popular destination for travellers in regional Queensland because of its amazing sights and events.

Named from the Aboriginal word jinchilla, meaning a termite resistant Cypress Pine, Chinchilla is a peaceful and pretty town.

Famous for its melons and a renowned spot for fossicking, fishing, bushwalking and camping, the colourful little town of Chinchilla is an easy drive 81km west of Dalby along the Warrego Highway.

Producing 25 per cent of the country’s watermelons, rockmelons and honeydew melons. Chinchilla is the undisputed melon capital, nothing captures the strong

community spirit of this town better than the biennial Chinchilla Melon Festival.

Chinchilla is a peaceful and pretty town, featuring a beautiful tree-lined main street just off the highway.

Fossickers from around the world come in search of much sought after “Chinchilla Red” petrified wood. Pick up an official Queensland Mines and Energy Fossicking licence from the Visitor Information Centre.

While you are at the information centre, ask about the seven tourist drives of the district.

They’ll take you down sidetracks and byways to experience an amazing array of wildlife and flora, local history and significant landmarks.



Chinchilla is a peaceful and pretty town, featuring a beautiful tree-lined main street just off the highway.

Chinchilla Newsagency

NOW part of Office Choice

Phone 4662 7554

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For all your needs ...

Look no further than CHINCHILLA NEWSAGENCY FOR ALL YOUR • Stationery • Cards & Gifts • Office Supplies • Papers & Magazines

87 Heeney Street Chinchilla Page 23

CHINCHILLA

BIG THING: Chinchilla’s Big Melon stands at nine-metres and is the latest attraction in the town.

PHOTO: CONTRIBUTED

HOW TO PLAN

Create the garden you have always wanted

CHINCHILLA GARDEN CENTRE

WHEN you visit Chinchilla, there is so much to see and do, so we have helped you get started.

These are some of the top sights that are must on any visitor’s list.

So get out your itineraries and get planning for your trip.

THE BIG MELON

AUSTRALIA’S newest tourist attraction, The Big Melon, proudly stands in Chinchilla.

The nine-metre long structure provides the perfect photo opportunity for visitors.

As part of a national campaign by travel company, Wotif, to gift the nation a new tourist attraction in celebration of the company’s 18th birthday, Chinchilla’s Big Melon bid beat applications from across the country and three other finalists from Kingaroy and the New South Wales towns of Mittagong and Glen Innes.

Taking pride of place next to the town’s information centre, the nine-metre long structure has created quite the buzz as the Chinchilla Melon Festival gets ready to celebrate its 25th year.

CHINCHILLA PARKLANDS

From new gardeners to experienced landscapers we can assist you to get the garden of your dreams.

Large range of Plants, Gift Ideas, Garden Accents bringing colour to life.

Page 24

Chinchilla Garden Centre

Phone: (07) 4662 8067 72-74 Warrego Hwy Chinchilla Queensland Australia

6917997ac

Take some time out of your busy day to discover Chinchilla Garden Centre.

Email: info@chinchillagardencentre.com www.chinchillagardencentre.com

THE new Chinchilla Botanic Parklands will open early in 2019. The parklands will be the perfect spot for a leisurely walk, picnic with friends or spending quality time with family.

Those looking for an experience in the parklands can find it at the Watermelon Water Play Area. Queensland’s only water park away from the coast will keep the family entertained all day.

A state-of-the-art water treatment and irrigation system has been implemented to make the Watermelon Water Play Area water-efficient.

The gardens will be teaming with native flora as well as having an Indigenous Cultural Area, picnic shelters and amenities.

The Megafauna Discovery Space celebrates the flora and fauna of Chinchilla. Become a palaeontologist and discover ancient artefacts in the prehistoric dig site.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 25

CHINCHILLA

TIME OUT: Chinchilla Weir is popular for fishing and water sports.

PHOTO: DAN PROUD

YOUR STAY FROM PAGE 24

ART GALLERY

IF YOU want to be inspired by art look no further than the Lapunyah Art Gallery.

The volunteer run gallery is situated in the Chinchilla Cultural Centre on Heeney St. With monthly exhibitions and workshops there is always something to do and see at the gallery.

CULTURAL CENTRE

THE Chinchilla Cultural Centre has one of the Western Downs two movie cinemas. Eftpos is available at the cinema as well as a candy bar so you can enjoy the latest films.

CHINCHILLA HISTORICAL MUSEUM

WELL worth a visit is the Chinchilla Historical Museum.

Its collection features many important transport pieces including a steam driven sawmill and the first-ever ticket issued by Qantas for the first flight from Longreach to Cloncurry.

There’s also an excellent display of petrified wood and a prickly pear exhibit celebrating the saving of local and national farmlands from prickly pear by the introduction of the cactoblastis moth and larva from South America.

CHINCHILLA WEIR

CHINCHILLA Weir is popular for fishing and water sports.

Good fishing can be had on the Condamine River too - pick up a map and some local tips at the Visitor Information Centre.

INFORMATION CENTRE

THE Chinchilla Visitor Information Centre is the place to go to plan your perfect trip in Chinchilla.

Located at 133 Chinchilla St, the knowledgeable and friendly staff will be able to help you make the most of your time in the melon capital.

Cold drinks, baked goods and souvenirs are sold at the centre which also has free Wi-Fi. Phone (07) 4668 9564 6916826aa

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CHINCHILLA

FESTIVAL FUN TO BE HAD Melon Events

SWEET FUN: Try your hand at some melon skiing at the 2019 Chinchilla Melon Festival. PHOTO: ALANA CALVERT

CIRCLE February 14- 17 in your calendar and prepare your squad for some pip spitting fun.

The Chinchilla Melon Festival countdown has begun.

Chinchilla is most famous for the biennial Chinchilla Melon Festival which attracts visitors from across Australia.

The next festival includes a rodeo, twenty20 cricket match featuring Queensland greats, a trivia night and plenty of activities for kids.

Don’t miss out on the melon events which will be held on Saturday, February 16 including chariot races, melon eating competitions and melon skiing. For more information visit www.melonfest.com.au.

CCCI 1 LONG TABLE

HOSTED by the Chinchilla Community Commerce and Industry Inc., the third annual Chinchilla One Long Table Multicultural Food Festival was a huge success in September 2018 Festival goers were treated to a celebration of culture with live entertainment and international cuisines including German, French, Thai, Russian and more.

Christmas is big in Chinchilla with the Chinchilla

Community Commerce & Industry Inc. Christmas Street Party and the Chinchilla Christmas Races and markets.

The street party includes Thursday night late night shopping in Chinchilla. The CCCI closes off Heeney St and shops stay open until 9pm. There was also kids entertainment and rides and a visit from Santa.

The Chinchilla Cup Christmas Races are held annually and features the six race card, a marquee, fabulous food vendors, bookmakers and live entertainment.

CHINCHILLA CAMPDRAFT

THE equestrian highlight of the year is the Grandfather Clock Campdraft, a traditional three-day event held in October.

Over four days of drafting, spectators will witness some of the best horse and rider combinations in Australia compete. Following presentations, competitors and spectators celebrate at the competitor dinner with live entertainment.

OTHER EVENTS

OTHER local events include Chinchilla Races in March, the Annual Show in May and the Christmas Races in December.

Celebrate



Chinchilla is most famous for the biennial Chinchilla Melon Festival which attracts visitors from across Australia.

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MELON FESTIVAL

 Big Melon Weigh In  Melon Rodeo  Beach Party  Street Parade  Festival Feast  Melon Big Bash Cricket  Poets Breakfast  Melon Markets  Melon Chef  Melon Farm Tour  Come 4 Lunch  Movie Premiere  Photography Comp  Golf Day  Trivia Night  Free Family Concert  Art Gallery Art Show  Bowls  Kids Movie Night  ‘The Cage’  Melon Story Telling  Kids Entertainment  Jazz @ The Museum  Combined Church Service

with Flowers!

Chinchilla Florist

85B Heeney Street 4662 7171

TYRES, WHEELS AND WHEEL ALIGNMENTS

Stockists of Century Batteries

Bridgestone Service Centre Chinchilla Cnr Colamba / Mayne Streets

Phone 4669 1188 E: sales@bscchinchilla.com.au

Page 26

6917997ad

❀ Specialty chocolates ❀ Gift ideas ❀ Soft toys ❀ Balloons & flowers

CHINCHILLA

FOOD OPTION: Chinchilla’s Downtown Cafe owner Jatinder Kumar (front) with staff members ready to celebrate the cafe’s first birthday.

PHOTO: BROOKE DUNCAN

DINE OUT WHILE IN TOWN CHINCHILLA has several pubs, restaurants and cafés for visitors to enjoy while they stay.

A popular place to visit is The Club Hotel located at the bottom of the Overhead Bridge, Heeney St, Chinchilla.

Conveniently located downtown a short walk from the main shopping precinct The Deck Bar Restaurant, The Club Hotel Bars and Gaming and The Bottlemart Drive-thru all at one central location.

The Downtown Café in Bell St serves breakfast, lunch, drinks and coffee.

It is great for groups or parties, children and even has outdoor seating. The café’s focus is on fresh healthy food, along with lots of variety.

The Palms Restaurant & Bar serves fresh modern Australian cuisine in modern, relaxing ambience.

The Palms Restaurant & Bar is a fantastic place in Chinchilla to celebrate with colleagues, friends and family or enjoy a romantic dinner for two by candlelight.

Large floor to ceiling windows overlook the pool and

tropical gardens, with both indoor and covered outdoor terrace seating also surrounded by tropical gardens.

The restaurant is passionate about seasonal produce, and updates the menu with each new season, reflecting their commitment to quality, creativity and taste.

Sharpy’s is a family run business offering a unique dining experience to Chinchilla and surrounds.

Offering home style meals, Wood Fired Pizza’s and burgers with a difference.

There’s plenty of parking for trucks, buses and caravans. It is located on the Warrego Highway.

The Chinchilla RSL offers à la carte dining, which is available Monday to Saturday for both lunch and dinner.

The talented chefs have designed a sumptuous new menu offering a selection of mouthwatering dishes for your enjoyment.

Served by the friendliest team in Chinchilla, you are sure to have a very enjoyable experience when you dine at the RSL Club.



The restaurant is passionate about seasonal produce, and updates the menu with each new season, reflecting their commitment to quality, creativity and taste

Exhibition Showcases:• Local and national artists • Touring exhibitions Galler y Opening Hours

Lapunyah Art Galler y Is managed by Volunteers

80-86 Heeney Street Chinchilla.

Ph: (07) 4668 9908 Email: lapunyah@outlook.com

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CHINCHILLA

Monday to Friday 10am to 4pm Saturdays 9am to 12 noon

www.lapunyahartgaller y.com Page 27

CHINCHILLA

PLACES TO STAY IN TOWN

WITH plenty of accommodation options to choose from, Chinchilla is a place you can visit all year round.

CENTRAL MOTOR INN

LOCATED in the heart of Chinchilla the Central Motor Inn offers the comforts of home, whether you are visiting Chinchilla for one night or looking for longer-term accommodation. The Inn boasts 23 motel units and is part of The Club Hotel (07) 4669 1100, 131 Heeney St

THE PALMS MOTEL

SITUATED on the Warrego Highway coming in to town, the motel is a short drive to local bars, restaurants, banks and shops and has all the features you’d expect in a big city hotel: free undercover parking, swimming pool, restaurant and laundry.

(07) 4672 9888, 64-70 Warrego Highway

CHINCHILLA TOURIST PARK

THE beautifully landscaped cabin and caravan park will provide all guests and visitors with a comfortable environment for a memorable and enjoyable stay.

For great accommodation in Chinchilla consisting of 70 deluxe, self contained, air-conditioned cabins and 35 large caravan sites.

(07) 4669 1465, 264 Zeller St

THE LAURELS OF CHINCHILLA

CHINCHILLA MOTOR INN

ONE of the very few accommodation options in Chinchilla not located on the Warrego Highway/Railway.

With 62 rooms set out over 2 1/2 acres of landscaped grounds, each room enjoys a quiet, tranquil atmosphere, ensuring a good night’s sleep.

(07) 4662 7314, 45-51 Park St

KINGS PARK

WHETHER you are relocating, staying for a long-term

assignment, looking for temporary housing or just need a stop-over for your leisure travel, Kings Park Accommodation is an obvious choice in Chinchilla.

As comfortable as your home, the rooms are designed for business travellers and value conscious guests looking for a smart residential experience that can deliver everything you need for an overnight or long stay.

(07) 4662 7733, 48 Park St

PLACE TO STAY: Chinchilla Tourist Park is an ideal place to set up for your stay.

PHOTO: MARK LINGARD

Chinchilla Farmers Market seeks to provide produce at reasonable prices.

We offer a variety of services including a retail fruit and vegetable shop, organic produce, fruit gift baskets, Cold press juices, real fruit smoothies and much much more.

CHINCHILLA FARMERS MARKET Just over the bridge on the right! Corner of Edward Street and Warrego highway | Phone us on 0428 264 352

Page 28

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THE Laurels is a historic Queensland homestead built at Charley’s Creek, by the son of one of Chinchilla’s early settlers. Located on the waterfront, guests have unique private access to kayaking and fishing.

It offers a unique Chinchilla accommodation experience with all modern conveniences, set in a rustic ambience.

(07) 4669 1021, 15 Warrego Highway

TARA

POPULAR EVENT: The Tara Festival of Culture and Camel Races looks to bring huge crowds again in 2019.

PHOTO: STEPHEN MOWBRAY

CAMEL RACES DELIGHT

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Away from the track there is plenty of entertainment for visitors to enjoy.

Market and food stalls trade from the early hours until late, while roaming entertainment means you are never far away from the action.

Two entertainment stages provide live music and dance routines from a variety cultures which creates a lively and fun atmosphere.

Camping is also available.

Enjoy the beautiful sights and sounds at the Tara Lagoon located on the outskirts of the town, a popular destination for campers as well as walkers and cyclists.

The Tara & District Historical Museum boasts the towns old school building, wooden rail wagons, a 1929 fire engine, shearing memorabilia, and more.

Luxury self contained apartment motel complex.

• All with spa baths. • Off street parking.

• Inground Pool. • Hot outdoor spa.

Free WiFi

CONTACT...

18 Milne Street Tara QLD 4421 • 07 4669 4001 taraspaapartments@gmail.com | www.taraspaapartments.com.au

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

Enjoy the beautiful sights and sounds at the Tara Lagoon

WANT a real rural experience then make sure you head out to Tara.

The town is situated southwest of Dalby and evokes a rural lifestyle with wheat, beef and wool farms surrounding the shire.

Tara’s biggest event is the Tara Festival of Culture and Camel Races. The biennial event is on again from August 2 – 4, 2019.

Thousands head to the trackside to cheer the camels down the home-straight. Book-makers are available to add a little more excitement to the races.

The attention then turns to the yabby races which happen after each camel race.

An auction is held before each race as punters out-bid each other for ownership of a racing yabby.

Page 29

MEANDARRA

DISPLAYS: Meandarra Anzac Memorial Museum is a special place to pay your respects to our soldiers.

PHOTO: CONTRIBUTED

PAY RESPECT AT MUSEUM Spirit of the Anzac tells story of the Meandarra region with exhibitions

ď ˝

From heartfelt letters and cards, to old uniforms, there is a wide range of artefacts on display

THE spirit of the Anzac is on display in the Western Downs town of Meandarra.

The Meandarra Anzac Memorial Museum shows the sacrifice Australians have made while in the armed services.

The artefacts in the museum cover many battles which were fought by veterans from the Meandarra region.

No two trips to the museum are ever the same with a new exhibition unveiled every Anzac Day. From heartfelt letters and cards, to old uniforms, there is a wide range of artefacts on display.

Don’t forget to drop into the Meandarra Library on Sara St, which has plenty of workshops and activities on throughout the year including arts and crafts sessions.

Life is full of ups on The Downs Retire in style and comfort at The Village on The Downs.

Call Mary today on 4636 7777 to discuss your villa options.

Open Wed and Thurs 10am - 4pm or by appointment. 63 - 65 Drayton Road, Harristown Page 30

6917992af

* 3.5 kilometres from CBD * 2 & 3 bedroom villas * 24 hour security * Prize winning landscape gardens * Small pets welcome.

GLENMORGAN / MOONIE / THE GUMS

TIME TO TAKE A FEW STOPS

MOONIE

THE small town of Moonie has a vibrant community with plenty to offer. The heart of the community is at the Rural Transaction Centre (RTC).

Here travellers can find the Visitor Information Centre to learn everything they need to know about the region. Immerse yourself in the community by purchasing locally made products from the RTC. Jams and relishes are popular purchases as well as souvenirs, clothes, kitchenware and jewellery.

The local library is also held at the RTC for those who are looking for

TOP VISIT: Myall Park Botanic Gardens are a drawcard for bird lovers. a quiet moment to catch up on the latest news. The RTC also has an Australia Post for visitors.

THE GUMS

THE Gums Nature Reserve is as beautiful as it is tranquil.

The small community west of Tara is the perfect stop for those wanting a break after a long drive.

Watching the native birds fly over while enjoying one of the many picnic spots in town makes The Gums a popular destination. The reserve offers camping and parking for caravans.

The Gums Store on the intersection of the Leichardt Highway and Surat Development Rd sells the essentials including food, toiletries and fuel. Amenities are also located at the store.

Myall Park Botanic Garden WE ARE ONLY 7KMS FROM GLENMORGAN. FOLLOW THE SIGNS FROM TOWN

Come explore our heritage listed, bushland botanic garden, home of the Grevillea ‘Robyn Gordon’, ‘Merinda Gordon’ and ‘Dorothy Gordon’, ‘Sandra Gordon’ We are located in the Western Downs region, 400kms from Brisbane. When travelling in the region, we are close to the centres of Roma, Surat, Chinchilla, Condamine, Miles, Moonie and Dalby.

Discover amazing flora Discover incredible fauna Discover surprises along a series of walks Accommodation available – stay in our cottage or The Quarters Sites available for all caravans, RVs, camper trailers and tents – powered and unpowered

07 4665 6705 There is nothing quite like a sunset in western Queensland.

PHOTO: DAN PROUD

PHOTO: CONTRIBUTED

E: myallparkbotanic@bigpond.com • www.myallparkbotanicgarden.com Myall Park Road Glenmorgan QLD 4423

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THE small town of Glenmorgan was the winner of the 2008 Queensland Bush Spirit Award.

The history of the region’s formative years can be found at the Glenmorgan Railway Station.

The old railway station was integral to the early history of the region. Affectionately named End of the Line, a small park and display make it one of Glenmorgan’s tourist spots.

Glenmorgan’s Myall Park Botanic Gardens showcase a beautiful display of some of Australia’s most gorgeous plants.

The gardens are dedicated to the study of Australian Flora and Fauna Biodiversity and are listed on both the National Heritage and Queensland Heritage registers.

The ‘Robyn Gordon’ Grevillea was one of the three hybrid grevilleas created in the Myall Park Botanic Gardens by David and Dorothy Gordon. It is now a best seller in the Australian nursery industry and is the floral emblem of the Western Downs.

There are a variety of walking trails throughout the gardens which are perfect for visitors of any age so be sure to include them on your bucket list.

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MILES

GO BACK TO THE BUSH Head to the past at the Miles Historical Village Museum THE Back to the Bush Festival is a popular event that is held biennially across the Miles district, with the next festival to be held in September 2020.

The finest aspects of living in the country are on display during the event.

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There is something for the whole family at the Miles Back to the Bush Festival

THE PAST: Miles Historical Village and Museum is a top place to visit and includes the general store.

PHOTO: ALEX COPPO

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From dances to lantern walks and dinner under the stars, there is something for the whole family at the Miles Back to the Bush Festival.

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MILES

IN THE PAST: David McDonald and Howard Hawke boiling their billies at the Miles Historical Village as part of the Back to the Bush Festival.

PHOTO: EYE2SOUL FROM PAGE 32

Best Value Accommodation For Miles Around.

During your visit, catch one of the exhibitions at the Dogwood Crossing Miles.

PHOTO: CONTRIBUTED

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Just a short drive west from Chinchilla, the Miles Historical Village Museum takes visitors back in time to the early 1900s.

The Museum is located at 141 Murilla St recreates the pioneering rural Queensland village, giving people a taste of the early days of Miles.

Stroll through the historical buildings, many of which have significance to the early days of the region.

Learn more about the history of Miles and other places to see at the Visitor Information Centre, located at the Miles Historical Village Museum.

Miles has a strong arts culture and the John Mullins Memorial Art Gallery at Dogwood Crossing is at its core.

Exhibitions at Dogwood Crossing showcase the wealth of local talent the region has to offer.

The Council run facility hosts large exhibitions all year.

One of Dogwood Crossing’s most popular exhibitions in 2018 was Homecoming.

The exhibition highlighted the stories of Australian families affected by war.

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CONDAMINE

STUNNING: There is no better place to see the stars than Western Queensland.

PHOTO: TOURISM AND EVENTS QUEENSLAND

GORGEOUS TOWN TO STOP

Perfect place to get away from it all.

visit for the Condamine Rodeo and Campdraft in October.

Surrounding Condamine are many feedlots and a freshwater fish farm.

If you are after a meal, check out the Condamine Bell Hotel. It has great food and cold beer and is located next to Bullocky’s Rest Motel.

Caliguel Lagoon is about 7km south of the town and is popular with both locals and tourists.

The lagoon offers beautiful views and is a great location for water-skiing, boating, swimming, fishing and bird watching.

The area has picnic facilities and amenities so visitors can enjoy lunch and dinner at the beautiful spot.

Grab a book... Bait your hook, Fishing is great!

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Condamine Caravan Park Page 34

8 Wambo Street, Condamine, Queensland For bookings phone 07 4627 7179 E-mail: deborahcummings@y7mail.com www.condaminerivercaravanpark.com.au

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Condamine is famous for the invention of the Condamine or Bullfrog Bell

SITUATED on the banks of the Condamine River, Condamine is a town which offers plenty of scenery.

The town is located south of Miles and is known as the heart of cattle country.

Condamine is famous for the invention of the Condamine or Bullfrog Bell.

Hung from the necks of working bullocks, the bells ensured stockmen could locate their roaming cattle from long distances.

Learn more of this history when you stop to read the inscription on the side of the large replica bell in Bell Park.

Condamine is rugby mad with no less than three teams. Drop in to catch a weekend match or plan your

CONDAMINE

MEALTIME: The Condamine Bell Hotel is the perfect place to stop and enjoy a feed and a cold one.

PHOTOS: TOURISM AND EVENTS QUEENSLAND

THE COD HOLE

on the banks of the Condamine

Where the Cow met the Cod

GOOD TIMES, GREAT PEOPLE

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Bell Park is an ideal place to stop and find out about the history of the Bullfrog Bell.

CONDAMINE HOTEL

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WANDOAN

PERFECT SPOT: Wandoan is a lovely town to visit for a great country experience.

PHOTO: ALEX COPPO

GREAT PLACE TO VISIT Wandoan has plenty of things to see with culture, history and nature

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The Waterloo Plains Environmental Park is the place to be if you want a moment of relaxation

RICH with history and natural beauty, Wandoan is a great visitor spot throughout the year.

The Wandoan Cultural Centre is the community hub of the region.

The centre is at 6 Henderson St and houses a Visitor Information Centre, art gallery and the Wandoan Library.

The Visitor Information Centre has a dedicated team who are there to help you make the most of your time in Wandoan.

The Leichhardt Gallery is a popular spot for locals and a great place to visit. The gallery is incorporated with the Wandoan Library and features the best art from around the region.

The Waterloo Plains Environmental Park is the place

to be if you want a moment of relaxation.

The 11-hectare wetlands are teaming with birdlife and is a popular spot for people to park their RVs and caravans.

The Juandah Historical Site is the original settlement area of the region and a popular tourist spot. Volunteers manage the facility which displays the early history of the district.

Wandoan will be full of activity at the end of March when the Wandoan Race Club hosts their annual race meet.

The 2019 Wandoan Races will be held on Saturday, March 23 and is terrific for those who love entertainment both on and off the track.

Open Monday - Friday 9am - 5.45pm

P 4627 4191

36 Royds St Wandoan

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Wandoan Pharmacy

TAROOM

COUNTRY LIVING: Droving along the Roma Taroom Rd is a common sight in the region.

PHOTO: DAYLE LITTLE

STEEPED IN HISTORY TAROOM is a rural town on the Dawson River and is located 130km north of Miles.

Ludwig Leichhardt travelled through the Taroom district in 1844, leaving a carved message on a Coolibah tree still standing in the main street. His favourable report drew William Turner who was licensed in 1845 to hold the Taroom pastoral run.

The name was derived from an Aboriginal word describing the native lime, Eremocitrus glauca, a thorny tree with orange blossom odour and small fruits that can be used for jam or drinks.

Originally the settlement that grew up along the Dawson River was known as Bonners Knob but in 1856, when a post office was built, the official name became Taroom.

The tell-tale sign that you’ve arrived in Taroom is the Steel Wings windmill at the northern entry to town.

Manufactured around the turn of the 20th Century, the windmill is a rare commodity, being only one of two known windmills of its type still in working order.

The landmark says a lot about the town. Taroom is steeped in early European history and built on primary industries – first sheep, now cattle and grain.

LUDWIG LEICHHARDT MEMORIAL

THE memorial is a large sandstone slab with three bronze plaques - one of which provides a succinct account of Leichhardt’s life and his disappearance in 1848. It is located in the Ludwig Leichhardt Park in Yaldwyn Street east of the Leichhardt tree and down the hill from the Visitor Information Centre.

THE LEICHHARDT TREE

THE Leichhardt tree is very clearly marked in the main street. It is no longer possible to see the distinctive LL 44 which Leichhardt carved on the tree in 1844.

CHAIN LAGOONS

North of Taroom the Leichhardt Highway crosses Palm Tree Creek. This was once the site of a Native Police barracks. Consequently it is sometimes known as Police Lagoons. The lagoons are worth visiting as they have stands of the rare Livistona cycad palms.

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The tell-tale sign that you’ve arrived in Taroom is the Steel Wings windmill at the northern entry to town ISLA GORGE NATIONAL PARK

LOCATED 55km north of Taroom on the Leichhardt Highway, the Isla Gorge National Park is a spectacular landscape of sandstone cliffs and gorges.

You will love shopping at

Taroom Giftshop

TAROOM HARDWARE

Call in and check out our wide range of stock.

Ph/Fax (07) 4627 3308

7am - 7pm, 7 days a week Yaldwyn Street, Taroom

Ph (07) 4628 6360

E: admin@taroomfoodworks.com.au

18 Kelman St, Taroom

Ph (07) 4627 3180 | Fax (07) 4628 6200 E: lucy.taroomhardware@bigpond.com

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Mon - Fri 9am to 5pm Saturday - 9am to 11:30am Yaldwyn Street, Taroom

Mon - Fri 8am to 5pm Sat - 8:30am to 12pm Sun 9am to 10am

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DRILLHAM / DULACCA / YULEBA

COLOURFUL: The Dulacca Hotel, also known as The Hotel on the Hill, dates back to 1908.

PHOTOS: NADIA DAVIES

CHARACTER TOWNS

Drillham, Dulacca and Yuleba are full of history and stories DRILLHAM

ABOUT 20km east of Miles you will find the town of Drillham.

The town was established in 1878 to service the railway and was home to a camp for workers building the bridge over nearby Drillham Creek.

The town and the creek were originally known as ‘Delerium’ due to the typhoid fever that struck this camp.

Drillham was once a thriving metropolis closely linked to the railway. The town’s weir on the creek provided water for steam locomotives. Today Drilliam is a quiet rural town situated on the Warrego Highway between Miles and Dulacca.

Grain crops, livestock farms and a strong visible history of railway activity give the community of Drillham its rural character.

DULACCA

DULACCA is quiet rural town on the Warrego Highway about 40km west of Miles.

First came the railway (in 1879) and then came the town originally spelt ‘Doolackah’, the name was derived from an Aboriginal name meaning ‘emu tracks’.

An interesting point to note about Dulacca is that it was the site of the first efforts to eradicate the invasive prickly pear cactus. The fight to eradicate the prickly pear was spurred on by the Government’s reward of 40,000 hectares of land to whoever could restore their land to its original state. It is estimated that the menacing plant covered more than 50 million acres of Queensland at its peak.

The Dulacca Hotel (The Hotel on the Hill), dates back to 1908 and a brief history of the town is displayed at Lions Park. Join the locals for a yarn and learn a little more about Page 38

A Drillham silo is a common sight in this farming community. the towns interesting history.

YULEBA

YULEBA is a rural town on the Warrego Highway located about halfway between Roma and Miles. Pronounced ‘Yool-bah’, it is on the Ulebah (now Yuleba) Creek.

There have been various other spellings: Yulebar pastoral run (1850), Yeulba and Yulebah, and the second version was officially used in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

It is thought that the name was derived from an Aboriginal word referring to water lilies.

In 1879, the town was moved to the railway crossing, officially known as Baltinglass. In 1901, Baltinglass was renamed to Yuleba, whilst the original location of the township took the official name ‘Old Yuleba’. Residents lived at both sites until a flood in 1910 convinced them to move to the new location.

Yuleba was a transport interchange centre for Cobb and Co coaches, which ran a service to St George and Surat. Consequently, upwards of four hotels traded at Yuleba in the late

The Yuleba Water Tower is located at the entrance to town near The Cobb & Co Wall in Perry St. 1870s, along with several stores, butchers and blacksmiths. Cobb and Co’s last Australian coach run was from Yuleba to Surat in 1924.

Along the way, you can see The Corduroys and the Cobb and Co. Mural. Taking in the remarkable journey of the coaches.

Judd’s Lagoon, located 5km to the southeast of Yuleba is a favourite pastime location for locals and visitors alike. Here, you can relax amongst the tranquil wetlands, spot some native fauna and flora and perhaps even wet a line.

JACKSON / MUCKADILLA / AMBY

GO EXPLORING OUT WEST Jackson, Muckadilla and Amby communities have a lot to offer tourists JACKSON is a small town located between Miles and Roma beside the Warrego Highway with a strong sense of history.

First settled by pioneers, the town of Jackson had a strong connection with the railway and supports the surrounding agricultural communities.

Residents of the district access most of their services from Roma or Miles, including education and health.

District sustainability rests on agricultural industries, mainly grains and livestock. Town sustainability is based upon the local library and post office, which also offer a community meeting space.

Tourism in Jackson has growth potential, as part of a visitor economy that encompasses local history, agricultural and industrial tourism.

Jackson features historical buildings, including the QCWA Hall and the Old Play Shed, “Tribute to Pioneers”. Jackson is also the starting place of the Maranoa’s bushranger history.

Two quarries and a major waste treatment facility contribute to local industry.

MUCKADILLA

TRAVEL some 40km west of Roma, along the Warrego Highway and discover the whistlestop town of Muckadilla, or ‘Mucka’ as the locals call it.

Once home to the famous Muckadilla Baths, this town may lack the bustle of bigger towns, but not the hospitality.

Muckadilla Creek flows from Mount Bindango to the north down to the south-east of Muckadilla to Mount Abundance, passing just west of the town. The creek becomes Cogoon River and then is a tributary of the Balonne River.

The name Muckadilla was first used as the creek name, which in turn is believed to be an Aboriginal word to mean plenty of water.

In 1889, the Queensland Government drilled a bore at Muckadilla.

Although the water supply found was quite small, it was believed that it had healing properties and people flocked to Muckadilla in search of a cure.

Dr E.W. Kerr of Brisbane endorsed the water, claiming it had cured “obstinate rheumatism” in some of his patients.

The baths were popular and, in 1939, John McEwan Hunter proposed that a sanitorium should be built there to better allow people to improve their “rheumatism, arthritis, uritus, digestion, nerves and general health”.

The land is mostly 350-400m above sea level and used for grazing and cropping.

While in Muckadilla you can stop and see the Whistlestop Railway Siding, take a walk through the native gardens alongside the highway and let the children play in the new playground equipment situated in the native gardens.

Once you have finished exploring, pop into the local hotel and have a cool drink and a meal.

This is the perfect place to meet some of the locals and have a chat about the town today and its history of years gone by.

Muckadilla is one of the towns listed in the first verse of I’ve Been Everywhere.

AMBY

AMBY, originally called Amby Creek, became a township in 1883 and forms part of the eastern

PAST: Jackson has plenty of historical buildings as well as is the starting place of the Maranoa’s bushranger history.

PHOTO: NADIA DAVIES boundary of the Outback region.

It is located 25km east of Mitchell and it can best be described as where the grain and the grazing belts meet.

The Old Stage Changeover Shanty - known to the locals as Netting Hole - dates back to 1875 and is located on the northern side of town, along the Warrego Highway near Amby Downs waterhole.

Amby Quarry, located on the western side of town, is a lava flow of pure basalt ten metres deep, 5km wide and 64km long. It is quarried for construction of roads, bridges and dams. Fossils can be found occasionally in the lava.

Renowned for its country hospitality, stop and meet the locals and take up the challenge of the ‘no horse’ golf course.

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This is the perfect place to meet some of the locals and have a chat about the town today and its history of years gone by

Page 39

WALLUMBILLA

VISIT: Start at Wallumbilla Calico Cottage where you can pick out some delicious home baked treats and local crafts. PHOTOS: NADIA DAVIES

TOWN WILL ENTHRALL Plenty of Australian and European history to witness in Wallumbilla

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Wallumbilla Heritage Complex provides the perfect opportunity to learn about the area’s heritage

Page 40

LOCATED 40km east of Roma on the Warrego Highway, Wallumbilla is steeped in Australian and European history, bound to keep you enthralled for hours.

The name Wallumbilla was the name of a pastoral run leased by Charles Coxen.

The name is presumed to come from the indigenous Mandandanji language and reportedly means wallu/plenty and billa/jew fish.

Enjoy being welcomed into town with friendly, local smiles and good old fashioned hospitality at Wallumbilla’s Calico Cottage.

Spend an afternoon with friends and pick out some delicious home baked treats and local crafts. The cottage is the town’s Visitor Information Centre.

Wallumbilla Heritage Complex provides the perfect opportunity to learn about the area’s heritage.

Make sure you visit the Wallumbilla Railway Station to learn about the tragic train crash that happened at that site in 1956.

The town also contains three churches, as well as a Masonic Hall. Other amenities include a hotel/pub, a news agency, and a petrol station.

A public library operates in Wallumbilla in George St. Traditionally Wallumbilla’s main industries were dairy

Enjoy the friendly town of Wallumbilla with good old fashioned hospitality. and beef cattle, now the main industries are cropping and beef cattle. The main crops include sorghum and wheat.

Locals believe that if not for the discovery of gas at nearby hub Roma, Wallumbilla would have flourished into a similar hub, as the discovery of gas in 1908 near Roma preluded the Wallumbilla cattle sale yards (a thriving business according to local history) to move up to Roma, accentuating its growth.

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Page 41

ROMA

TIME TO VISIT: If you want spectacular sunsets and a true outback experience, head to Roma.

PHOTO: ROWAN BESTMANN

PERFECT PLACE TO GO

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As you are in the heart of beef country be sure to try a mouth-watering grass-fed steak while you are in town.

ROMA is the largest town in the Maranoa Region and offers an array of city-like conveniences with friendly country hospitality.

Roma is a substantial rural service centre which lies at the heart of a rich sheep and cattle grazing area.

From the 1840s it has been seen as a land of plenty.

Prior to the arrival of Europeans the area was home to Mandandanji Aboriginal people who strongly resisted the arrival of settlers in their homelands.

The Roma district was first explored by Europeans when Sir Thomas Mitchell, the New South Wales Surveyor-General, passed through the area on his fourth expedition in 1846.

When it was surveyed and gazetted, the settlement,

which was really nothing more than three pubs, was named Roma after Lady Roma Bowen, the wife of the Queensland Governor of the time. Before her marriage she had been known as Countess Diamantina Georgina Roma. For some years locals continued to call the settlement either The Bungil or Reid’s Crossing.

There is an abundance of cafes ideally located throughout town and dining options include fine dining restaurants, niche cafes, contemporary pubs with and alfresco dining, plus all your traditional take-away options.

As you are in the heart of beef country be sure to try a

We have the LARGEST range of Cosmetics & Fragrances in Roma 84 McDowall Street Ph 4622 2211 Monday-Friday: 8:30am to 5:30pm Saturday: 8:30am to 12:30pm

Page 42

CONTINUED ON PAGE 43

ROMA

GET A TASTE OF HISTORY FROM PAGE 42

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Each tree is a memorial to a local soldier who lost their life in WW1.

OUT WEST: Get on the open road and check out Roma.

PHOTO: MATTHEW TAYLOR multicultural Santos Food and Fire Festival and all the fun of the Roma Show.

Roma Visitor Information Centre The Big Rig 2 Riggers Rd, Roma

Organic & Whole Foods Superfoods Drinks & Herbal Teas Natural and Organic Hair & Skin Care Lifestyle products Cleaning supplies and a whole lot more Beauty services

4622 7154

Shop 4, 104 McDowall Street, Roma

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• • • • • • •

mouth-watering grass-fed steak while you are in town.

Leave some room in your suitcase because beautifully landscaped down-town Roma offers the perfect place to stroll and browse the beautiful local specialist shops, including the abundant craft supplies store and local Roma on Bungil Art Gallery.

Roma Outback Queensland is home to the southern hemisphere’s largest sale yards.

Visitors can get a feel for the outback by perching on a fence or taking a coveted possie on the viewing platform to watch the action at Roma Saleyards.

To get a real feel for the town itself, take a walk along the heritage-listed Heroes’ Avenue, which is planted with more than 100 bottle trees. Each tree is a memorial to a local soldier who lost their life in WW1.

For a dose of history, head to the Mount Abundance Homestead, built in 1860, which is the site of the region’s first settlement. The homestead has important links to early explorers Sir Thomas Mitchell and Ludwig Leichhardt.

Don’t miss the Big Rig Oil and Gas Interpretative Centre and Night Show for an interactive insight into the hardships and heroic stories of oil drilling and exploration. Visit the ‘Oil Patch’ to get up close to impressive rigs and one of the first diesel powered rigs ever used in Australia.

There’s a varied calendar of events from Picnic Races, the Roma Cup and Easter in the Country to the

Page 43

ROMA

DRESSED TO IMPRESS: Roma’s Picnic Races are the most elegant meeting in the Roma Races calendar.

PHOTO: ALEXIA AUSTIN

EASTER, RACES AND RUGBY

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An old fashioned black tie country ball opens the racing weekend on Friday night

THERE are heaps of great events to look forward to in Roma in 2019.

Now is the time to start planning your next visit.

ROMA PICNIC RACES

IF YOU love a good picnic and get giddy about the races, then head west for the Roma Picnic Races.

Held March 29-30, the races are the most elegant meeting in the Roma Races calendar.

An old fashioned black tie country ball opens the racing weekend on Friday night.

A five-race program sees most of the region’s finest horse flesh turn up to have a gallop before the busy Autumn carnivals begin in April.

Delightfully local, this is the Roma Races meeting where graziers come in for a blow and the social activity is almost as important as the athletic action.

Although there won’t actually be a picnic to laze at, we

think the adrenaline-inducing excitement of the five race program will keep you entertained.

If you’re still wondering how the races got their name – way back in Roma’s racing history, the horses were grass-fed only, sparking the picnic title.

Now this ain’t no casual affair – the ladies dress to impress in sophisticated race-day attire for the fashion on the fields, while men are expected to honour the ‘coat and tie’ standard.

EASTER IN THE COUNTRY FESTIVAL

HELD April 18-22, Roma’s Easter in the Country festival is a five-day celebration of all things country.

Now entering its 42nd year, it is widely recognised as one of South West Queensland’s premier Easter events, and brilliantly showcases the country lifestyle.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 45

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The festival offers a range of activities for the thrill-seeker, the cultural buff, and for those that like to take things a little more leisurely.

The event gives an opportunity for the residents of Roma to invite their relatives and friends to spend a long weekend in the country to enjoy the atmosphere and friendliness that Roma and the Maranoa has to offer.

RUGBY RACE DAY



Live music, live heating and lively patrons make for a cracker day in Roma

GET ready for June 22 where too much sport is never enough on a crisp winter’s afternoon in the country, rugby, then racing, then more rugby.

Old boys, young boys and some just right fellas take to the field inside the racetrack and between the races (no horses are harmed in staging this event) to showcase western rugby prowess and have a punt in the bookies ring during half time.

Live music, live heating and lively patrons make for a cracker day in Roma at Bassett Park, home of the Roma Cup (where it’s very warm come November).

THE RED CROSS CHELSEA FLOWER SHOW

THE Red Cross Chelsea Flower Show will be held at the Roma Cultural Centre on Saturday, October 5, 2019.

Schedule for flower and vegetable entries are now available.

There will be stalls, entertainment and afternoon tea.

PARTY TIME: Roma’s Easter in the Country festival includes a monster street parade.

PHOTO: MARGUERITE CUDDIHY

Ups N Downs

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If you would like to sit back and relax or go sight seeing with the comfort of leaving your belongings safe and secure, Ups and Downs is the place for you.

POWERED AND UNPOWERED CAMP SITES > Motor home friendly > Toilets and showers > Camp fire > Rubbish bins > Wash pad > Large dam > Laundry > Camp Kitchen > Pets welcome

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Page 45

ROMA

TOP ATTRACTION: Roma’s Big Rig memorial explores the development of the Australian oil industry.

PHOTO: TOURISM AND EVENTS QUEENSLAND/VINCE VALITUTTI

SO MUCH TO SEE AND DO THE BIG RIG



The memorial explores the development of the Australian oil industry

THIS visitor information and museum complex includes the Oil Patch Museum, a $7 million living memorial to the pioneers of Australia’s oil and gas exploration industry.

The memorial explores the development of the Australian oil industry from the nation’s first discovery of petroleum in Roma in 1900 through a series of twelve interpretative panels.

There are also audio and other visual presentations and fully restored historic rigs and equipment.

There is also the Big Rig Night Show, a 35 minute show using current technology and multimedia to tell the history of the oil and gas industry in Australia.

It operates three nights a week - Tuesday, Thursday and Sunday and is located at 2 Riggers Rd.

ROMA’S HISTORIC WALK

SOME great places to visit include the Uniting Church, St Paul’s Anglican Church, Christian Outreach Centre, Western Star, School of Arts Hotel, Queen’s Arms Hotel and Hunters Emporium, Ladbrook’s Butchery, James Saunders Chemist, Commonwealth Hotel.

THREE DIMENSIONAL MURAL

LOCATED in the Roma Cultural Centre, which is on the corner of Bungil and Quintin Sts, this unusual 18 square metre mural, created by John and Maureen Morrison, is CONTINUED ON PAGE 47

Celebrating 100 Years • Design, make and redesign beautiful Jewellery - No need to visit us in store for this service as we have clients all over Australia.

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ROMA

HISTORY ON SHOW IN ROMA FROM PAGE 46

made up of 17 local elements which depict the history of the district.

The mural is enhanced by audio and moving lights.

WAR MEMORIAL AND HEROES AVENUE

GIANT WINDMILL

LOCATED at 128-132 Ragland St, the Southern Cross windmill, which was built in 1950, has blades which are 9 metres across and it stands 15 metres high. It was the largest commercially made windmill in Australia.

LENROY SLAB HUT

THE Lenroy Slab Hut was built from rough hewn cypress pine in 1893.

It is a reminder of the simplicity and harshness of life for early settlers. The hut originally had a bark roof which has been replaced with galvanised iron. It is located in Riggers Rd near the Big Rig.

KITCHEN OPEN TIMES 5.30 am - 2.30 pm Monday - Friday 5.50 am - 1 pm Saturday - Sunday

73-77 McDowall Street Roma

MEASURING UP: Derek McIntosh with the National Register of Big Trees by Roma’s biggest bottle tree.

PHOTO: RORY HESSION

CONTINUED ON PAGE 48

TRADING TIMES 5.30 am - 5.30 pm Monday - Friday 5.50 am - 1.30 pm Saturday - Sunday

4622 4399

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THIS is a unique monument comprising 93 bottle trees, one for each person from the Roma district who died during World War I. The first tree was planted in 1918 to honour Lieutenant Corporal Norman Saunders who was killed in France in 1916.

That tree is now known as the Tree of Knowledge. The rest of the avenue was planted by 1920. It is located on Wyndham St.

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ROMA

FIND YOUR PERFECT PATH FROM PAGE 47

ADUNGADOO PATHWAY

STARTING in Bungil Rd at the Loam Reserve and making its way along the banks of Bungil Creek, this 1.7km (30 minutes) pathway is ideal for walkers and cyclists.

The bank is edged by ancient river gums and the creek is a delight for birdwatchers.

The local Aborigines had names for sections of the river and Adungadoo was the name given to this section of Bungil Creek by the Mandandanji tribe.

There are interpretative signs and it offers access to the town’s huge Bottle Tree.

ROMA SALEYARDS VISITOR TOURS

THE Roma Saleyards are the largest cattle selling facility in the southern hemisphere.

They process over 400,000 cattle a year with auctions happening every Tuesday and Thursday morning.

Tours are available on sale days free of charge. No bookings are required, simply meet at the Bull Ring area at 8.15am for an 8.30am tour.

The saleyards are located on the Warrego Highway just before The Big Rig.

BOOBOOK ECO TOURS

WITH extensive ecology and farming experience Boobook guides are recognised as authorities in the natural history of the Carnarvon Ranges and surrounding region.

They offer a one day tour to the Carnarvon Ranges which departs from Roma at 7am.

GIANT BOTTLE TREE

LOCATED at the end of Edwardes Street in the Loam Reserve is a local novelty, Roma’s largest bottle tree. It has a circumference of 9.51m, a height of 6m and a crown of 20m.

It was transplanted by Roma Town Council to its present location in 1927.

ROMAVILLA WINERY

THE Romavilla Winery, located at 77 Northern Rd, can claim to be the oldest winery in Queensland.

It started operation in 1863 and has been producing wine continuously for over a century. The present cellars were built in 1878.

MEADOWBANK FARM STAY AND MUSEUM

Warreg o Hig

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Of particular interest is the deadly ‘man trap’ used to trap Aborigines who were stealing cattle.

There’s a wonderful collection of old horse drawn vehicles and old motor cars.

MOORELANDS BUSH NURSERY

ENJOY a morning in the peaceful surroundings of Moorelands Bush Nursery. Savour a local treat from 'The Feed Shed' (Open weekends only).

EL DORADO FARM TOURS

RECONNECT with life on the land during a tour of 'El Dorado', a working cattle property. For more information, contact the Information Centre.

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They process over 400,000 cattle a year with auctions happening every Tuesday and Thursday morning

GALLERY

THE Roma on Bungil Gallery seeks to promote art in all its forms with a program encompassing a variety of local and visiting exhibitors, houses ever-changing impressive art instillations and you can watch local artisans at work.

McDow all Stre et

Wyndham

Street

Arthur S treet

Hawthorn e Street

THE museum has one of the finest and most unusual collections of memorabilia in the country.

ACTION-PACKED: The Roma Saleyards are an exciting place to visit.

PHOTO: VINCE VALITUTTI/QUEENSLAND TOURISM

hway

ROMA

4622 2270 0

Mon-Fri: 8am to 6pm | Sat: 8am to 2pm Shop 8, Westlands Plaza, Wyndham Street www.unitedchemists.net.au

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INJUNE

FULL OF CHARACTER

TIME TO STOP: When visiting Injune make sure you stop at the Visitor Information Centre to discover the best places to visit while in town.

PHOTO: T&GWSBT adorned with ochre stencils and engravings from an ancient and ongoing culture.

Henricks Park provides a glimpse into the community pride found in abundance in the town and while the Injune Lagoon Walk is the ideal location for a relaxing afternoon walk through a tranquil bush setting.

Spot the bird life and friendly marsupials which are in abundance early and late in the day.

Enjoy an easy walk throughout the town to see the Characters of Injune statues.

These characters are recognised for their significant contribution to the town and are an insight into the lifestyle of rural Queensland.

The Old Injune Coal Mine, Old Injune Cemetery and Historical Steam Train Precinct enable you to take a walk back in time and all provide insight into the historic fabric of this small town.

Six accommodation houses are available within walking distance to all services, as well as a caravan park, located on the banks of Injune Creek.

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Injune is the perfect place to plan and prepare for your idyllic visit to Carnarvon Gorge National Park

LOCATED 89 kilometres north of Roma, Injune is a small country town full of character, history, spectacular views and breathtaking natural landscapes.

There is local folklore which claims that the explorer, Ludwig Leichhardt, carved “Leichhardt in June” on a Bon tree near the junction of the Injune and Horse Creeks.

The “in June” became the name of the town. It is, more plausibly, named after the property established in 1858 by the Haly brothers.

The property was called “Ingon” which was the Gungabula Aboriginal word for “sugar glider”.

It was formerly a hub for cattle and dairy industries, but now serves as a staging point for expeditions to the nearby Carnarvon National Park.

More recently, natural gas and timber have served as the major primary industries.

Injune is the perfect place to plan and prepare for your idyllic visit to Carnarvon Gorge National Park, renowned for towering white cliffs, huge rock overhangs

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SURAT

BACK IN TIME: The Cobb & Co Changing Station preserves the history of the community at Surat.

PHOTO: T&GWSBT

COBB AND CO HISTORY

COFFEE SHOP & GIFTWARES OPEN 7 DAYS

2017 & 2018 Finalist for customer service & Hospitality.

4626 5151 Surat Qld Page 50

the Balonne River for approximately 2kms and features leisure equipment, excellent footbridges and a spectacular viewing platform overlooking the river.

Continue your stroll through the picturesque Lions Park to the main street businesses and head on around the corner to walk by the grand 1930s Shire Hall.

On your way back stop in at the Cobb & Co Changing Station Museum which is located at the original site of the Cobb & Co Store and was the drop off point for coach passengers and goods, the Changing Station now houses an amazing 25,000L freshwater aquarium, social history museum and regional art gallery.

Make a visit to the Aboriginal Interpretative Shelter, which displays family histories of Aboriginal families who lived on the site in the mid 1900s.

Surat has a number of heritage-listed sites, including Astor Theatre in Burrowes St and Warroo Shire Hall at the corner of Cordelia and William Sts.

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Surat is the place to immerse yourself in natural tranquillity on the banks of the beautiful Balonne River

ON THE Great Inland Way, 78km to the south of Roma along the Carnarvon Highway you will find the picturesque township of Surat.

Historically the site of a Cobb & Co changing station, the Surat community has, with much dedication, preserved this precious remnant of their history.

The district was first mapped by Surveyor-General Sir Thomas Mitchell in 1846.

By the end of the 1840s pastoralists had penetrated the area, and in 1849 Mitchell directed a surveyor, Burrowes, to select a township site on the Balonne River.

Burrowes did so and named it after the diamond-polishing city of Surat, after his former place of residence in present-day Gujarat state, then known as the Bombay Province, India.

Surat is the place to immerse yourself in natural tranquillity on the banks of the beautiful Balonne River.

Enjoy a stroll along the Surat Riverwalk which follows

MITCHELL

TRY OUT ARTESIAN SPA

EXPERIENCE: Mitchell is a great place to stay and why not choose a farmstay to make your stay unique.

PHOTO: TOURISM AND EVENTS QUEENSLAND

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Many a sun-scorched traveller has found bliss floating in the thermal mineralised waters of the Great Artesian Spa

MITCHELL is situated on the banks on the Maranoa River on the Warrego Highway between Roma and Morven.

Before the arrival of Europeans, the Maranoa region was occupied by the Mandandanji and Gunggari Aboriginal peoples.

Based on archaeological excavations in the Mount Moffatt area, it has been deduced that the Aboriginals had lived there for around 19,500 years. Descendants of the original peoples still live in and visit the area today.

The town is named after Sir Thomas Mitchell, explorer and Surveyor General of New South Wales, who explored the area in 1846.

Many a sun-scorched traveller has found bliss floating in the thermal mineralised waters of the Great Artesian Spa. It’s relaxing for the body and therapeutic for the soul, and a precious natural resource that the locals proudly share.

Located in Mitchell’s aquatic centre, the spa offers two large pools, one warm and one cool, of natural artesian water.

Treck through the Yumbas indigenous “bush tukka trail.” Tourists will be captured by the Bushrangers story – Patrick and James Kenniff and their hideouts and

monuments to view at Arrest Creek, 7 km to the South of Mitchell.

Grab yourself a picnic lunch from the Mitchell Bakery and relax in the many Parks or Fisherman’s Rest and Neil Turner Weir fishing/boating precincts.

Stop for breakfast, lunch or dinner in Mitchell or an overnight stay at the motels, hotels or camp on the banks of the Maranoa River or the Major Mitchell Caravan Park which has fabulous facilities for travellers.

Another option is a unique farmstay.

You can explore magnificent sandstone formations, and pristine native ecosystems and take in magnificent panoramic vistas at numerous sites throughout the area.

Accessing the Mt Moffatt section of Carnarvon National Park is easy from Mitchell.

Nature lovers will be impressed with the abundance of wildlife including over 250 bird species living in and visiting the area.

Make a stop the Heritage Museum which is packed full of local history, historical items and photographs.

And well worth a visit is working property and fully restored homestead Bonus Downs, built in 1911 by Australian pastoral legend, Sir Samuel McCaughey.

ExplorE what thE wEst has to offEr:

Open 8:00am - 6:00pm Download Lunch and All Day Menu by going to www.greatartesianspa.com.au

2 Cambridge Street, MITCHELL 07 4624 6923

@ Great Artesian Spa

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www.greatartesianspa.com.au

• Two large Artesian water pools • Free Gym • Weekly Yoga • Beauty by Jess • Julie’s Healing Room • CAFE on the Deck

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ST GEORGE

SIGHT TO SEE: Droving across Balonne River, St George.

PHOTO: BALONNE SHIRE COUNCIL

RELAX ALL THE SENSES St George is the perfect place to check out on the Balonne River

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A star feature, the riverbank walkway begins below the Jack Taylor Weir

FROM the moment you arrive to the time you leave, St George relaxes the senses in the all the right ways.

Perched on the banks of the mighty Balonne River, it is the perfect base from which to explore the Balonne Shire.

Stretch your legs and take the two-kilometre stretch of shady riverbank walkway flanking the town.

A star feature, the riverbank walkway begins below the Jack Taylor Weir.

There you’ll find a commemorative stone to mark Sir

Major Thomas Mitchell’s crossing of the Balonne River on St George’s Day back in 1846.

To really take in the Balonne River’s magnitude of water, pack a few drinks and nibbles and jump on board a Sandytown River Cruise.

As you idle down the middle of the river, sit back and enjoy the view and abundant bird life including pelicans, cockatoos and eagles.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 54

YOUR ‘FULL SERVICE’ NEWSAGENCY

ST GEORGE NEWSAGENCY

11 Henry Street, St George P 4625 3197 F 4625 3997 Page 52

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• Daily Newspapers • Magazines • Home, School and Office Stationery • Office Equipment and Furniture • Cards and Wrap • Paperbacks • Children’s Books • Lotto and Instant Scratchits • Laminating (to A3) • Binding • Photocopying • Facsimile - send/receive • Rubber Stamps • Dry Cleaning • Gift Vouchers • Phonecards • Western Union Money Transfer

1 Marvel at the hand-carved illuminated emu

6 View the colourful artwork by John Murray

2 Tackle a road train burger and enjoy a coldie

7 Catch a Murray Cod at the Jack Dwyer Park in

eggs at The Unique Egg, St George

at Queensland’s oldest hotel - the Nindigully Pub

3 Take in the sunset on a Sandytown River

adorning the Hebel Hotel Dirranbandi

8 Touch a piece of colonial history at the One

Cruise along the Balonne River, St George

Ton Post in Mungindi - JB Cameron’s 1881 original Qld/NSW border surveyors peg

Centre

George’s cotton self-drive trail

4 Take trip back in time at the Bollon Heritage 5 Get a selfie at the colourful Silos and with William the Giant Northern Hairy Nosed Wombat in Thallon

9 Learn about the cotton industry by taking St 10 Sample wine from Queensland’s most western vineyard - Riversands Winery, St George

Follow us: www.facebook.com/stgeorgeandsurrounds Call us: 07 4620 8877 Visit us: Visitor Information Centre, 114 St George’s Terrace, St George, QLD 4487 Page 53

ST GEORGE

GET BUSY OUTDOORS Enjoy a barbecue by the river or take a guided tour of the region FROM PAGE 52

Book a leisurely afternoon cruise, fishing tour or full moon evening cruise.

If you enjoy your fishing, The Balonne Shire has a reputation for being the best Inland Fishing Capital in Queensland. Settle in at the riverbank for a quiet afternoon in search of the great Murray Cod and Yellowbelly.

For the wine lover, Riversands Wines satisfies your thirst for a good drop. Enjoy an afternoon in their shady country gardens with a free, personalised wine tasting at the cellar door followed by scones and home-made jam or a cheese platter and a glass of wine.

Fill in the morning or afternoon by experiencing the St George Cotton Self-Drive Trail. Pack your thermos and smoko as you head off and get to know more about the local cotton industry.

If you prefer a guided tour, don’t miss out on experiencing the Cotton Farm and Winery Tour held very Thursday from May to September.

Enjoy the on-board commentary provided by a local cotton farmer as they showcase their fully operational cotton farm and learn how cottons is grown, irrigated and harvested.

Once finished you will head onto Riversands Wines for a vineyard tour before being treated to a personalised wine tasting and a delicious lunch in the relaxed country garden.

Travellers’ must not leave St George without seeing the Unique Egg. This is an absolute must-see display of well over 150 stunning, illuminated emu eggs.

Local character and artisan Steve Margaritus or ‘Stavros’ as many know him has hand carved an amazing variety of patterns and scenes on each egg and illuminated them.

This is the world’s only display of hand-carved, illuminated emu eggs, which have been gifted as far as the White House.

A visit to the new Mani Tribes Gallery showcases the talent of local Indigenous artists and artisans will leave you feeling inspired by the local history and talent on display.

Daily personalised ‘Journey’ Tours through the gallery are highly recommended.

RELAX: Enjoy a barbecue with family and friends in St George.

PHOTOS: BALONNE SHIRE COUNCIL

Enjoy the sights of the surrounding areas of St George.

St George’s Balonne River at sunset

The Local you can trust We offer • Log book services and repairs on all vehicles • Road worthy certificates • Service & repairs to air conditioners • Wheel alignments

• Competitive Rates • Courtesy cars available • Experienced workmanship • Quality provided • Local family business

Nicholas and Rochelle Ferguson Office 4625 5654 • Mob 0438 190 330 138 Arthur Street, St George 6917993ac Page 54

NINDIGULLY

ICON: Visit the famous Nindigully Hotel with great people, food and entertainment.

PHOTO: BALONNE SHIRE COUNCIL

NOTHING LIKE GULLY PUB

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You will have no trouble unwinding on the verandah of the pub

SITUATED on the banks of the Moonie River, just 45km southeast of St George is “The Gully” as it is locally known.

Nindigully is home to pretty much four houses and a pub. But what a pub, what a view and what characters you’ll find.

Nindigully Pub, established in 1864, vies for the position of Queensland oldest continually licensed pub in Queensland.

It’s like something out of an outback movie, in fact, the film, Paperback Hero, was filmed here and the cafe’s boomerangs remain perched in place.

Once named Australia’s ‘Best Country Pub’, you will have no trouble unwinding on the verandah of the pub

as it hums with the chatter of travellers and locals alike, enjoying happy hour and live acoustic music.

Pack your appetite as the challenge of the ‘Road Train’ awaits – a whopper burger, big enough to feed you and 100 of your closest mates!

There are plenty of spots to immerse yourself in bushland. Set up your caravan or tent along the scenic tree-lined riverbank or book into one of the pub’s rustic rooms.

The Nindigully Pig Races and Country Music Festival and fireworks are held annually on the last Saturday in November raising money for the RFDS. Or make plans for Queensland’s largest annual New Year’s Eve.

Dont Miss Pig Races

Free camping along the beautiful tree lined river with hot showers & toilets available at the pub.

Road Hog Burger Chef Jamie

Ph:

(07) 4625 9637

E: nindigullypub@hotmail.com | W: www.nindigully.com/about/ Carnarvon Highway via Thallon, NINDIGULLY Qld

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Limited hotel accommodation available.

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THALLON

STUNNING: A popular attraction is the beautiful silo art at Thallon.

PHOTOS: BALONNE SHIRE COUNCIL

STUNNING SILO MURAL SIGNALLING your approach into Thallon, the giant grain silos act as landmarks for the town.

Now featuring the spectacular The Watering Hole mural painted in 2017.

The Thallon silo mural is a symbol of icons of the district including the Moonie River, one of their amazing sun sets and also recognises members of Thallon’s Indigenous Community by the inclusion of a scarred tree and celebrates the area’s Agricultural base.

The design was developed by the Artists Joel Fergie (The Zookeeper) and Travis Vinson (Drapl) in consultation with the Thallon Community.

The striking image takes inspiration from the works of three local photographers. Chantel Mcalister’s First Light, The Moonie River by Lila Brosnan and Gary Petrie’s (Pom’s) shot of two pale-faced rosellas.

Thallon’s town park is a perfect place to stop and break the drive with shady trees and facilities including a playground, picnic tables, free barbeque and toilets.

The park also features a granite Anzac Digger war memorial statue built by the Thallon Progress Association to commemorate the Centenary of Gallipoli.

The park also now features a giant Northern Hairy Nose Wombat Statue.

Thallon’s Francis Hotel also features the ever changing Local Images photographic exhibition and Page 56

William the Wombat at Thallon. watch a fascinating video on the Northern Hairy Nose Wombat.

For those looking for somewhere to stay, Thallon offers relaxed camping at the Thallon Recreational Grounds, which includes toilets and showers.

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The Thallon silo mural is a symbol of icons of the district

DIRRANBANDI / BOLLON

BEERSHEBA: The war memorial in Dirranbandi commemorates the men who fought on horseback during World War 1.

PHOTOS: BALONNE SHIRE COUNCIL

GREAT LOCAL HOSPITALITY Country towns Dirranbandi and Bollon have plenty to offer visitors DIRRANBANDI is located in the Balonne Shire and is about an hour’s drive south of St George. The district around the town of Dirranbandi has been described as some of the finest wool growing country in Australia.

In 1885, the town site was surveyed and named Dirranbandi which means ‘swamp abounding in frogs and waterfowl’ or ‘frogs around the waterhole’.

As you enter the town, you’ll pass by a levee bank which is famous for having saved the town from flooding on more than one occasion.

Be sure pull in and stretch your legs along the walkway at picturesque Jack Dwyer Memorial Park upon the riverbank.

On a visit to Railway Park, you’ll find the 1913 Station Master’s residence, which is now home to the Rural Transaction Centre, the old waiting room and parcels office, and the statue of Aboriginal Stockman and boundary rider, Tom Dancey, who won Australia’s most famous foot race, the Stawell Gift in 1910.

At the centre of a cotton-growing area, Dirranbandi’s population almost doubles at harvest time when backpackers flock into town to pick the crop.

Dirranbandi is also home to Cubbie Station which is believed to be the largest privately owned cotton property in the Southern Hemisphere.

Bollon

THE soil gets redder as you approach the great little western town of Bollon, sitting on the banks of the peaceful Wallam Creek.

Located 115km west of St George, the town has a free caravan and camping area complete with showers and toilets.

Whether you imagine quiet nights by the campfire or the lively atmosphere of a country pub, turn your dreams

Spend the afternoon retracing Bollon’s rural history at the Heritage Centre. into reality when you visit the west.

As the sign on the Bollon Pub aptly sums up, “there are no strangers here, just friends you haven’t met yet”.

Take a stroll into Bollon along the creek-side walkway.

Keep an eye out for koalas, kangaroos, echidnas and emus.

Spend the afternoon retracing Bollon’s rural history at the Heritage Centre or browse around the historical display at Deb’s Cafe.

For serious campers and four-wheel drive enthusiasts, Thrushton National Park is 60km north of Bollon via a dirt road.

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Turn your dreams into reality when you visit the west

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CUNNAMULLA

ICONIC: Check out the statue of the Cunnamulla Fella in Centenary Park, an iconic bush figure immortalised in a song by Stan Coster and sung by Slim Dusty.

PHOTO: CONTRIBUTED

OUTBACK LANDSCAPES Enjoy a genuine connection to local people and culture of Cunnamulla



Slow down.

Unplug. Embrace the country lifestyle and live like a local

DISCOVER vibrant red sand hills and brilliant blue skies.

Stay on a working property and boil the billy under starry night skies.

Imagine adventure-filled days and must-see outback landscapes, Paroo Shire is a photographer’s dream destination.

Reclaim what’s real when you visit our beautiful region.

Escape the run-of-the-mill tourist haunts and enjoy a genuine connection to local people and culture.

Meet working graziers and learn about life on the land.

Join locals as they enjoy their favourite river activities.

Immerse yourself in heritage stories and heroic tales.

Slow down. Unplug. Embrace the country lifestyle and live like a local.

CUNNAMULLA

VISIT Cunnamulla where the handshake’s stronger and the smile lasts longer. Immerse yourself in a true outback experience. Discover meaningful connections with people and places.

The township of Cunnamulla was created by Cobb & Co. on the third of September 1879, when the first coach drove through from Bourke. Today it is the only surviving southwest town along the original route.

This says a lot about the people of Cunnamulla. Tough, resilient, creative, down to earth folk who love their country.

While wool growing and beef production are still the main industries, the new kids on the block are irrigated table grape farming, organic wheat, organic beef and lamb production.

Fully immerse yourself in typical outback station life with a choice of working properties to visit. Get a taste of the Page 58

outback life.

See sheep shearing (in season) or cattle mustering, go on a water run or help with some of the daily station tasks.

Visitors to Charlotte Plains sheep and cattle station are treated to a welcome soak in their 1890’s station bore.

Its inviting mineral-laden water comes straight from the Great Artesian Basin.

TOP THINGS TO DO

 Relax around a traditional Gidgee coal campfire  Savour a camp oven themed dinner and billy tea  Experience life on the land with a real station stay  Kayak the tranquil waters of the Warrego River  Spot the Cooper Creek turtle and native birdlife  Sand board down stunning natural sand hills  Stake out the perfect fishing hole  Journey back 100 million years in the Artesian Time Tunnel  Enjoy sunset drinks from the River Walk  Follow the looped walking track to the Bushlands  Uncover town stories on the Cunnamulla Heritage Trail

CUNNAMULLA FELLA FESTIVAL

STARTS the last Friday in August where cowboys, bull riders, shearers and stockmen will descend on the famous town of Cunnamulla in country Queensland for a uniquely outback event – the Cunnamulla Fella Festival.

The Cunnamulla Fella is an iconic bush figure who was immortalised in a song by Stan Coster, sung by Slim Dusty and there is a statue located in Centenary Park.

EULO

TOWN HAS LOTS OF CHARM VISIT the ‘kingdom’ of the infamous Eulo Queen and you’ll discover a very enterprising community.

Dubbed the ‘Montville of the Outback’, Eulo is home to local producers, opal art and mud baths. Pick up a handcrafted whip, belt or handbag.

Imagine a lovely green oasis, set amongst the mulga.

This is Eulo. It’s little more than a one-pub, one-general store town and yet it has a distinct charm.

Spend time exploring this delightful haven perched on the banks of the Paroo River ... you’ll be glad you did.

Back in the 1880s when opal mining was at its peak, Eulo was a bustling township with three hotels. For a while it was home to one of the legends of the opal era, ‘The Eulo Queen’.

Today the town centrepiece is the Eulo Queen Hotel, named after the thrice-married pub owner, storekeeper and opal trader, Isabel Gray.

Each winter, beekeepers travel to Eulo so their bees can feed on the Yapunyah tree, a Warrego variety of Eucalyptus found in the region. You can purchase a selection of natural honey skin products from the Eulo Queen Arts and Opal Centre.

At the Artesian Mud Baths, you can soak in antique baths, in a beautiful bush setting, under the stars. Bathe in milky grey artesian mud drawn fresh from ancient springs.

Warmed by braziers on cold Winter nights, you’ll be served wine and nibbles in these ultimate artesian mud baths.

TOP THINGS TO DO IN EULO

 Indulge with an artesian mud bath  Find out why Eulo needed an air raid shelter  See opals and art at the Telegraph House Gallery  Pick up some handcrafted leather goods  Celebrate Music In The Mulga Country Music Festival  Discover the natural Artesian Mud Springs  See the World Champion Lizard Racetrack  Ask a local about the megafauna discoveries  Camp beside a secluded billabong along the Paroo River  Grab a coffee at the Eulo General Store

RELAX: Visit the Artesian Mud Bath at Eulo.

PHOTO: CONTRIBUTED

EULO • WYANDRA • YOWAH

cunnamullatourism.com.au

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P.S.live like a local

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WYANDRA / YOWAH

TAKE IN THE SIGHTS: The Paroo region is a great place to explore.

PHOTO: CONTRIBUTED

HISTORY-FILLED TOWN drink at the Gladstone Hotel and a burger at the Post Office Café.

Don’t miss the chance to watch a movie, under the stars, at the outdoor cinema.

YOWAH

DISCOVER the story of Australia’s national gem in Yowah. Spend a few days exploring this ‘living gallery’ with its distinctive opal galleries dotted around the town.

The main attraction for this area is the unique Yowah Nut. While in Yowah, you can try your hand at fossicking in an area adjacent to town.

For a spectacular sunset, you simply must visit ‘The Bluff.’ The 150-metre rise is only a few kilometres from town and offers 180 degree views of the surrounding country.

Back in town you may fancy a round of golf?

The local course offers an open-air clubhouse, sandy greens and fairways. Wind down with a luxurious soak in ancient Artesian

Cunnamulla Fella Festival

30 AUG to 1 SEPT 2019

PBR BULL RIDE RODEO | MUSIC FOOD & MUCH MORE cunnamullafellafestival.com.au

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waters then meet the locals at the community fireside barbeque. If you are in town on a Sunday, then be sure to head to the Sunday Tailgaters Stall which starts around noon.

Expect to be awed by the range of opals and locally produced craft on sale.

Be sure to include the Thursday night Dinner and Duck Race in your itinerary. It’s held during tourist season at the Artesian Waters Caravan Park. You’ll enjoy a 3-course dinner and the chance to bet on the unique bore drain duck race. This event raises money for the Royal Flying Doctor Service.

Yowah Opal Festival is held annually on the third weekend in July. Over two days you can get your fill on all things opals, gemstones and crafts.

There’s some great live music and entertainment as well as events to make the two days as fun-filled and memorable as possible.

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PERFECTLY located halfway between Cunnamulla and Charleville, Wyandra is a must-see town.

If you have an interest in architecture, there’s some great old buildings to discover.

It may be small, but as the locals will attest, it’s a great little town to explore.

Wyandra is about 100km north of Cunnamulla and boasts its very own beach. Popular with locals and visitors alike, ‘the beach’ on the Warrego River was so named given its appealing sandy enclave.

Your camera is a must as you stroll the Heritage Trail. You’ll see some interesting examples of outback architecture with some great old buildings from the boom period. The original powerhouse was designed as a one man 24-hour operation with the superintendent living next door.

It’s now a museum on the trail and is definitely worth a look. Finish your walk with a cool

BULLO SHIRE COUNCIL / THARGOMINDAH

YOU need to escape to the Bulloo Region, aptly named after the Bulloo River, a unique closed river system which is fed via rain catchment areas and is a perfect spot for fishing, famous for it being carp free.

For all the nature lovers, we boast ‘fire in the sky’ sunsets, red desert landscapes as far as the eye can see, trees which are as tough as the land and rivers that run like the blood through our veins providing our region with life, hope, happiness and relief from the scorching heat during the summer months.

The Wilson and Paroo river systems, along with Cooper Creek are also delightful places to camp, fish and simply chill out and are easily accessed from the shire’s vital hub, the town of Thargomindah.

It is home to about 200 people and provides essential services to the properties and towns of the Bulloo Shire, the third largest shire in Queensland which encompasses 73,808 square kilometres of desert land.

The people of this town are dismissive of the challenges of living in such an isolated community and in fact have prospered because of this. Resourcefulness and ingenuity along with a ‘moving forward’ attitude is the trademark of this vital little hub.

You can visit its historical hydro power plant.

In 1898, this dusty little outback town made history by being the first place in Australia and the

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THARGOMINDAH

Hydro Power Station display centre working demonstration third in the world after London and Paris to produce hydro electricity for electric street lighting. We were the first to use artesian water for a reticulated water system and the first to have overhead power lines.

Our historic Old Hospital stands as another tribute to the resourcefulness, tenacity and endurance of Thargomindah’s pioneers. Built from locally made mud bricks, funded by donations and fund raising efforts, it is another testament to the determination of the people who have dared to call the outback home.

Spend a few days in this town and you will firstly experience a slowing down of life, a reconnection with your travel partner, space to think and plan, time to read, inspiration to create, write, photograph or paint.

You will be wrapped up with genuine friendliness and hospitality and you get to enjoy some of the luxuries from

home like real coffee from Coffee on Dowling, restaurant meals at the Oasis Motel, pizzas and camp oven roasts at the Bulloo River Hotel and outdoor movie nights at the Explorers Caravan Park.

You also get to join in on all the little things that help make our life fun out here and you have access to all the necessary services that will keep you safely on the road, like 24 hour fuel, electrical and mechanical repairs, caravan repairs, air-conditioning and refrigeration repairs, gas repairs, welding repairs.

We actually have some of the best tradies out here who will bend over backwards to assist you in any way.

So while you are touring this great land of ours, come and live with us for a while.

Make Thargomindah your home away from home!

You are most welcome.

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NOCCUNDRA

Noccundra Hotel and Waterhole

Noccundra Welcome to what remains of the historic township of Noccundra, located in far South-West Queensland, 140km south-west of Thargomindah, 240km north of Cameron Corner and 271km east of Innamincka.

It’s fitting that the town started with, and will end with, the Heritage-listed hotel. The hotel was built in 1882 with sandstone mined at Mt Poole, near Milparinka New South Wales and brought to Noccundra by camel train.

The hotel is situated safely above the known maximum flood height of the Wilson River and was originally built to cater for cattlemen droving stock along the Wilson. It is now a regular stop for locals, tourists and truck drivers.

To the west of the Hotel are the remnants of the Noccundra General Store C1890-1970s. No one is sure what fate befell this sandstone building, but the partial wall is all that remains of the multiroomed stone building with an iron lean-to. At one point this building housed the pub and the hotel building was used for accommodation and meals.

Set between the store remains and the hotel is a memorial plaque to the ill-fated Andrew Hume Expedition, which passed the Noccundra Waterhole late 1874. More information is available at the hotel.

Here at Noccundra you can give yourself the night off from cooking (because you’re on holiday) and enjoy some of

Page 64

the best pub food in the outback or order a gourmet picnic hamper to take with you on your next adventure.

Noccundra Waterhole and the Wilson River The Noccundra Waterhole is part of the Wilson River, which starts near Eromanga and will meet Cooper Creek when both it and the Wilson River are in flood. Other than that, in true channel country style, the Wilson spreads out, into channels and just…stops.

The Noccundra Waterhole has been a permanent source of water for the township and Nockatunga Station with no record of it ever drying up.

Non-drought years see an abundance of wild life, particularly birds who populate the waterhole. The river itself boasts a population of Yellow Belly, Cat Fish and Silver Perch along with Blue Claw Yabbies and a large population of turtles.

Catch limits and other fisheries conditions apply.

The Wilson River is a stand alone CARP FREE river system.

Recently the Grey Grass Wren was sighted again at the Noccundra Waterhole. Other bird life you might spot are Pelicans, Brolgas, Egrets, Heron and the Painted Honeyeater.

COOPER CREEK

Burke and Wills Dig Tree on Cooper Creek

Burke and Wills Dig Tree Discover the journey of Burke and Wills and experience one of Australia’s biggest ill-fated exploratory expeditions of all time by visiting Australia’s national icon, the Dig Tree. Arguably one of the most famous trees in Australian history still standing, it is an enduring reminder of our pioneering spirit and the extreme harsh conditions of the outback.

If trees could talk, you would be mesmerised and mortified at the hardships, the miscommunication and the circumstances which led to the death of both Burke and Wills.

To truly feel and experience the story, it should only be read on site at the interpretative signage display, with the tree in the background, bent over on the banks of the Cooper Creek, heavy from the burden it carries.

To this day there is still mystery surrounding the story and this legendary tree as new revelations come to light. The subject of multiple investigations, research and controversy, its significance, its story and the management of this tree is now in the safe hands of the Royal Historical Society of Queensland.

Camp right on Cooper Creek on Nappa Merrie Station and please don’t forget to pay your $10 vehicle entry fee which goes to the Royal Historical Society of Queensland for the preservation of the tree.

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CAMERON CORNER

Cameron Corner Need milk? Why not drive to the Cameron Corner Store located in the most south-western corner of Queensland?

Once you are there, you get to stand, sit, lay, sing, dance or play golf in three states - Queensland, South Australia and New South Wales all at once. The original wooden boundary post was surveyed back in 1880 by John Cameron, the NSW Lands Department Surveyor and has been replaced with a commemorative post which marks all three states.

Who would have thought to build a store in the middle of nowhere to service travellers coming from the north, south, east and west through the famous Wild Dog Barrier Fence to enter into Queensland, New South Wales or South Australia?

The late Sandy Nall of course, a weary Australian soldier and ex-Vietnam vet. As he camped out on the sand dune near the post for a few weeks, counting cars as they passed, he decided that he could start a business there, and he did.

Each year thousands of people pass through Cameron Corner. It is everyone’s favourite place to stop on their way to anywhere and everywhere. Its iconic location is a must-go-to for all of our Outback travellers.

This popular and central meeting place is where you get to meet new friends or catch up with past travellers for a drink and a yarn. Here you will receive good old fashioned hospitality, a cold drink, a hearty meal, a good laugh and a ďŹ x up for anything that is broken.

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KILCOWERA

Kilcowera Greg and Toni Sherwin are the owners of Kilcowera Station which is a large organically run cattle property. They fully understand the pull of the outback that people from all walks of life experience and have opened their arms to welcome people onto their property. These dedicated and passionate graziers use an intelligent, insightful and ecofriendly approach to land management and believe that maintaining the health of the soils, the native vegetation and the native domestic wildlife is vital for our country if we are to have a sustainable industry both on a personal and national level.

It seems everything they do is well above ordinary and they work tirelessly on both the land and in their Station Stay business to be recognised as one of the leaders in both industries. Kilcowera Station is a member of the award winning Outback Beds network and has also received the Tourism Queensland Judges Commendation in 2010 and 2011 for Hosted Accommodation in the outback.

The property is also well known as a bird-watchers’ paradise with over 180 species found on the property. Many of the Outbacks’ other iconic animals are also easily seen wherever you look, including red kangaroos and eastern greys, emus, lizards and echidnas. The vegetation and land is equally diverse to include mulga rangelands and ephemeral wetlands.

Yabbying, canoeing and swimming in the lagoon, dams or waterholes is a popular activity in the right season or

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watch some seasonal station activities during your stay.

Visiting an Outback cattle station wouldn’t be complete unless you do a tour or two of the property. Sit back and relax while Greg or Toni takes you on a guided tour or set off yourself on a self drive exploration of Kilcowera.

They are located near the village of Hungerford, Currawinya National Park and Thargomindah and offer accommodation in their modern and comfortable Shearer’s Quarters or stay in your own van, with the use of the showers, toilets, laundry, fireplaces, barbecues and basic camp kitchen. Of if you prefer head a little further away and bush camp at Cardenyabba Lagoon at a series of private and secluded campsites along the waterfront.

To truly experience the real Outback and all of its hard core, untouched beauty which has survived and emerged in amongst the hardship and drought, then a visit to Kilcowera is an absolute bucket list ‘must do’.

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HUNGERFORD

The Wild Dog Barrier Fence at Hungerford and one of its posts

Hungerford There’s something significant about walking or driving through the Wild Dog Barrier Fence that separates Queensland and New South Wales in the little township of Hungerford. Originally a rabbit-proof fence, built in the 1880s and according to Henry Lawson was a ‘standing joke with Australian rabbits’. After all, there were and are ‘rabbits on both sides of it’.

In the 1940s, the various fences were made higher to exclude dingoes and became the longest fence in the world, stretching over 8500km, with the length today being about 5600km.

This small town, population of approximately 20, has a huge heart and pride with a work ethic to match. The history and the purpose of this town are not taken lightly by the people of Hungerford with the commemoration of historical events and the celebration of everything that signifies the outback, all organised and held annually by just a handful of people.

Events like the Hungerford bi-annual Field Day, Hungerford Horse and Motorbike Gymkhana and Remembrance Day are events that hold meaning and provide fun and entertainment for the whole family.

The Royal Mail Hotel constructed in 1873 of corrugated iron was transported over 200kms from New South Wales on bush tracks and was originally a Cobb & Co Staging Post where teams of horses were swapped and tired horses stabled, rested and fed.

The hotel plays an important role in the social and emotional wellbeing of the people living out here and has an atmosphere of friendly ‘back to basics’, ‘she’ll be right’ country hospitality, which makes you feel comfortable and at home. And although a cold beer and great food are the mainstays of most pubs, appreciation for these simple pleasures is amplified when you are in the real Outback.

The Royal Mail Hotel in Hungerford is another iconic pub not to be missed during your Outback journey.

Currawinya and Bindegolly National Parks JUST a short drive from Hungerford is Currawinya National Park which consists of red sandplains and mulga scrubs beside long, dusty roads which give little hint to the lakes, rivers and wetlands that make Currawinya one of Australia’s most important inland waterbird habitats.

Lake Wyara and Lake Numalla are the main features of the park which also protects sites of Indigenous and non-Indigenous cultural heritage as well as threatened wildlife.

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QUILPIE

KEEP BUSY: Quilpie is home to museums, outback art, souvenir and jewellery and lots more. PHOTO: TOURISM AND EVENTS QUEENSLAND

JEWEL OF THE OUTBACK End of the line but full of great things to keep you busy during your stay

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It was proclaimed a town in 1917 due to the arrival of the Railway Line from Charleville and to this day is still the “End of the Line”.

A STAY in Quilpie can be as busy or as relaxing as you choose.

Picnic, catch a Yellowbelly or some Yabbies in the river, or wander through the museums and art galleries around town.

Sit back and enjoy the unique flora and fauna throughout the surrounding countryside.

Those ready for action can spend the day fossicking for opals, climb and explore Baldy Top Lookout or day trip through the endless landscape that is Australia’s Outback and visit Quilpie’s surrounding areas.

Quilpie may be the business centre for the Shire but it is also the youngest of the towns.

It was proclaimed a town in 1917 due to the arrival of the Railway Line from Charleville and to this day is still the “End of the Line”.

You can learn about the history of the Rail in Quilpie at the Quilpie Shire Rail Museum located next door to the Visitor Information Centre and get a picture at the literal “End of the Line”.

Be amazed by the panoramic view and experience the beauty of an Outback Sunset from Baldy Top Lookout.

Baldy top is a magnificent boulder formation formed naturally over millions of years and is part of the Grey Range.

Baldy Top is located about 7.4 km from Quilpie on the

Visitor Information Centre, Museums & Gallery Brolga St, Quilpie (07) 4656 0540 Toompine Road with approximately 2km unsealed. A climb to the summit is a relatively easy ten-minute scramble where you will be rewarded with breathtaking landscapes that stretch as far as the eye can see.

Outback Art in Quilpie is a real talking point with visitors to the area. Admire the murals and sculptures in the main street.

Quilpie is home to “The Jewel of the Outback”, the exquisite boulder opal. Throughout the town, you can purchase souvenirs, jewellery and display pieces made from this beautiful gem. Try your luck at the free opal fossicking area and visit St Finbarr’s Church and admire the stunning Opal Altar, Lectern and Font.

Visit the old Powerhouse Museum and the Mini Museum at the Airport dedicated to the old Wool Scour and the unexpected landing of Amy Johnson.

Take a stroll along the Bulloo River Walk on the shady banks of the river with interpretative signs positioned along the way to inform you about the variety of trees and plants. This is also an ideal spot for bird watching and fishing.

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2019 QUILPIE SHIRE EVENTS JANUARY

20th & 21st

Nockatunga/Toompine Polocrosse Carnival

26th

MARCH

29th

Quilpie Cultural Society & RADF Exhibition Opening

APRIL

19th - 21st

AUGUST

TBA

Quilpie Golf Club Open Weekend

30th

Samantha Meurant Exhibition

SEPTEMBER

3rd

14th

Toompine Easter Gunshoot

27th & 28th

20th & 21st

Quilpie Show & Rodeo Quilpie Pride of the West Festival

24th & 25th

ANZAC Services

26th - 28th

Adavale Rodeo, Gymkhana & Campdraft

MAY

3rd

4th

“A Palette Of Pastels” Exhibition Opening Quilpie Diggers Race Club Quilpie Cup

JUNE

7th

Kangaranga Do Street Party

Eromanga Rodeo, Gymkhana & Campdraft

Kaye Kerner Exhibition

29th & 30th

Quilpie Polocrosse Carnival

JULY

19th

Local Photography Competition & Exhibition Opening

OCTOBER

11th

Combined Schools Exhibition Opening

TBA

St. Finbarr’s School Fete & Mystery Holiday Draw

TBA

Friends in Isolation Ladies Night In

NOVEMBER

11th

15th

Remembrance Day Ceremony Christmas in the Gallery Exhibition Opening

For more information on any of these events and to confirm dates for events, please contact the Quilpie Visitor Information Centre.

Quilpie Visitor Information Centre, Museum & Gallery

51 Brolga Street, Quilpie Qld 4480 Ph: (07) 4656 0540 | Fax: (07) 4656 1441 E: tourism@quilpie.qld.gov.au | www.visitquilpieshire.com Page 70

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Australia Day Awards & Celebration

QUILPIE

ALL YOU NEED TO KNOW THE friendly local staff at the Quilpie Visitor Information Centre, Museum & Gallery are here to make sure you make the most out of your time in the Shire.

When you arrive in the Shire be sure to make it your first stop.

The Centre is located on Brolga St and is stocked with maps and brochures for the local area and surrounding regions.

The knowledgeable staff can help with any enquiries and even let you in on the little known local secrets and history of the area.

While you are here, step out the back through our courtyard and wander through our Quilpie Shire Museum and Art Gallery.

The interactive museum proudly displays the history and hardship of the early pioneers.

Opal mining; cattle barons and their role in developing the Outback; native flora and fauna; and hardships faced by early settlers are just a few of the interesting topics covered in the museum.

The Art Gallery displays six exhibitions a year featuring accomplished artists from far and wide as well as local works.

Next door to our Centre, you will also find the Quilpie Shire Military History Museum & Quilpie Shire Rail Museum.

Relax in comfort and catch up with family and friends by accessing our free WIFI. If you are planning a trip to a National Park in Queensland, we are now booking agents and are able to help you with this process.

If you are looking for more information on the Quilpie Shire, you are welcome to request an information pack here and staff will post out relevant brochures and maps for the area to aid you in planning your trip.

GETTING HERE

Drive to Quilpie Shire Quilpie is a 210km drive from Charleville along the Diamantina Development Rd. This is a sealed road.

Travelling north to Quilpie from Cunnamulla is a 294km drive on a sealed road and north from Thargomindah to Quilpie is 187km. This road has 35km of unsealed road closer to Thargomindah. Heading South to Quilpie from Windorah is a 246km drive on a sealed road.

Fly to Quilpie Rex Airlines (Brisbane - Charleville - Quilpie) Qantas Link (Brisbane - Charleville or to Longreach) Hire car facilities in Charleville and Longreach Train to Quilpie Queensland Rail Westlander Service - Brisbane to Quilpie (Bus link from Charleville to Quilpie) Bus to Quilpie Bus Queensland - Brisbane to Charleville (hire car facilities in Charleville) Making Quilpie your base and travelling to the smaller towns within the Shire is easy!

Toompine is 74km South on a sealed road, Eromanga is 108km West on a sealed road, Adavale is 96km North on an unsealed road and Cheepie is 74km East on a

sealed road.

FUEL

Quilpie fuel options: Lowes Petroleum, Puma Energy (24hr card machine only), Quilpie CafĂŠ & Fuel Stop Eromanga Fuel Options iOR Petroleum Refinery - (24hr card machine only)

HELPIN G HAN D: The Quilpie Information Centre is the ideal place to start to plan your visit.

PHOTO: TOURISM AND EVENTS QUEENSLAND

ď ˝

The knowledgeable staff can help with any enquiries and even let you in on the little known local secrets and history of the area.

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QUILPIE

THINGS TO DO IN QUILPIE

LOCAL PUB: After all the sight-seeing make sure you take a break at the Quilpie Hotel.

BALDY TOP LOOKOUT

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Be sure to take a stroll through this amazing display and learn about Quilpie’s very long and proud military history

BALDY top is a magnificent boulder formation formed naturally over millions of years and is part of the Grey Range.

It is located about 7.4 km from Quilpie on the Toompine Rd with about 2km unsealed.

A climb to the summit is a relatively easy ten-minute scramble where you will be rewarded with breathtaking landscapes that stretch as far as the eye can see. Be sure to adventure into the many caves and crevices untouched by civilisation.

ST FINBARR’S OPAL ALTAR

IN 1976, the Priest at the time, Father John Ryan, decided to compliment the opal mining background of the area by commissioning local miner, Des Burton to install a border of opal around the carving of Our Lady of Perpetual Succour.

Instead, Des offered the Priest ‘a bit on the wall’. This turned out to be almost an entire wall, which is now installed on St Finbarr’s altar, lectern and baptismal font.

Bill Durack who was part of a Toowoomba Architectural

PHOTO: TOURISM AND EVENTS QUEENSLAND

firm who designed Quilpie’s St Finbarr’s Church and his sister Mary Durack, author of Kings in Grass Castles, donated the beautiful coloured glass windows in the western side of the church, in memory of their famous ancestors.

The Church is open daily so head on in and see this beautiful display of Quilpie’s Opal in all its glory.

BULLOO RIVER WALK

A STROLL along the Bulloo River Walk is a tranquil way to appreciate the native flora and fauna of the Bulloo River Catchment.

Signs informing you about the plant species are located along the walk or simply relax under a shady tree and birdwatch whilst enjoying the natural sounds of the bush.

The Bulloo River is an ideal place to cast a fishing line and catch a Yellowbelly (Golden Perch) or throw in a yabby pot and snare some delicious Yabbies (fresh water Crayfish).

CONTINUED ON PAGE 73

Heard of THe Pub WiTH no beer? Welcome To THe Pub WiTH no ToWn. The South Western Hotel, locally known as the Toompine Pub is all that remains of this once bustling opal mining town. This iconic outback pub is over 120 years old but don’t let its age fool you – it is full of all the character and charm you’d expect in an outback town.

Restaurant Good for kids Bar on site Wheelchair accessible

Toompine South Western Hotel Ph. 4656 4863 Toombine Qld 4480 Page 72

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QUILPIE

DIVINE: Take a break in the spa during a stay at Channel Country Tourist Park & Spas.

PHOTOS: TOURISM AND EVENTS QUEENSLAND FROM PAGE 72

THE LAKE

LAKE Houdraman, or as its now known, ‘The Lake’ is a natural lake situated on the flood plains of the Bulloo River and is home to a vast array of wildlife making it an ideal location to birdwatch while sitting under one of the many shady river red gums which line the bank.

The Lake is on private property and has a number of accommodation options for you to choose from, such as Lakeside camping, powered sites and Unique Outback Accommodation.

The lake is about 6km north of Quilpie; a short 10-minute drive from town. The turn off (marked by an orange caravan) is located just 4km east of Quilpie on the Diamantina Development Rd. The managers are now operating Tag-A-Long tours from The Lake to Hell Hole Gorge National Park so be sure to ask at the office.

QUILPIE SHIRE RAIL MUSEUM

IN 2017, to celebrate the Centenary of the Railway in Quilpie, the Quilpie Shire Council officially opened the Quilpie Shire Rail Museum located next door to the Visitor Information Centre.

The decision to construct a railway line travelling West from Charleville meant the birth of Quilpie, which up until then consisted of just a few humpies. Construction on the Charleville to Quilpie line began in 1911 and reached the site of Quilpie in 1917. The Railway Station was officially opened April 11, 1917. The Rail Line was originally supposed to extend further west but due to wartime

Lake Houdraman a natural lake situated on the flood plains of the Bulloo River.

sacrifices, the extension never eventuated, leaving Quilpie the official “End of the Line”.

The Museum building was originally the Railway Station at Cheepie, located 70km east of Quilpie and was moved to Quilpie and restored in the Queensland Rail Heritage colours.

You can also visit the literal “End of the Line” (or the start, depending how you look at it) located on the right hand side of the main street as you head west out of town, just opposite the Quilpie Bowls Club.

MILITARY HISTORY MUSEUM

LOCATED next door to the Visitor Information Centre is the Quilpie Shire Military History Museum.

This display features photographs, memorabilia and literature depicting Quilpie’s Military History all of which has been kindly loaned or donated by families of local War heroes.

The Museum has tables and chairs for you to take a load off and have a read through some of the wonderful stories of our local legends.

Be sure to take a stroll through this amazing display and learn about Quilpie’s very long and proud military history.

AIRPORT MINI MUSEUM

WHEN Amy Johnson flew from England to Australia in 1930 in an attempt to break the first world record of 16 days set by Bert Hinkler, she actually landed in Quilpie.

While she did not break the record, she was the first woman to fly solo to Australia.

The wool scour site was situated on the land that is now the airport. Built and operated by Mark Hulse and Percy Thompson, the Wool Scour facility provided work for their shearers

in the off-season and greatly increased the business’ profits due to the difference in prices of scoured and greasy wool.

This mini museum is open daily free of charge.

POWERHOUSE MUSEUM

QUILPIE was the first town to have a powerhouse as a result of a government scheme to provide electricity to small towns in rural and outback Queensland. Quilpie Powerhouse was commissioned in March 1952. The Powerhouse Museum still houses one of the original diesel engines and is open daily, free of charge.

PARKS

LOCATED at the western end of Brolga St, Quilpie’s Bi-Centennial Park offers a great play facility for children with outdoor gym equipment, tennis courts and basketball courts.

Toilets and showers are available free of charge for public use. No camping allowed at this facility. Coin operated barbecues and picnic tables on site.

Bob Young Memorial Park is located next to the Quilpie Cultural Society and has a painted mural commemorating the military campaigns and active service by Australians. BBQ and picnic tables are on site.

In the main street of Quilpie next to the Visitor Information Centre, you will find Mural Park.

Stop and enjoy a picnic morning tea or lunch while enjoying the view.

This park features a mural created by artist Cheryl Pratt, depicting Quilpie’s history. It also has Opal inlaid wrought iron tables and overlooks the quaint Quilpie Shire Railway Station.

Page 73

EROMANGA

VISIT FAMOUS TOWN

EROMANGA is famous on several counts, firstly for being the furthest town from the sea in Australia and secondly for the significant palaeontological discoveries of Australia’s largest dinosaurs on a property near Eromanga.

Several dinosaurs have been unearthed and the bones are now displayed in the Eromanga Natural History Museum located 3km from Eromanga.

A visit to this museum is absolute must while you are here.

The Eromanga region also has the claim to fame of being the largest oil producing area in mainland Australia.

The township plays host to a mini refinery that has been continuously refining 1250 barrels per day of crude oils into automotive distillates, jet fuel and speciality chemicals.

The Old Royal Hotel, built in 1885, is one of the original buildings and was once a Cobb & Co Staging Post. Make your way there every Saturday for the local community barbecue, with all proceeds going to charity

or local groups.

Take a walk around the town’s historical walk and enjoy the informational signs depicting the history of the buildings that once stood. Discover more about Eromanga at the Living History Centre incorporating an Object Theatre and enjoy a picnic in the park adjoining the Museum and check out the stunning Opal Mining Memorial.

OUT WEST: Head out to Eromanga, the furthest town from the sea in Australia and home to significant palaeontological discoveries. PHOTO: CONTRIBUTED

Make your first stop the Quilpie Visitor Information Centre Friendly local staff * Shire Museum * Regional Art Gallery Military History Museum * Rail Museum

Visit Quilpie Shire – Your Outback Adventure @Visit Quilpie Shire – Your Outback Adventure Quilpie Visitor Information Centre, Museum & Gallery 51 Brolga Street QUILPIE QLD 4480 Page 74

Phone: 46 560 540 Email: tourism@quilpie.qld.gov.au Web: www.visitquilpieshire.com

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TOOMPINE

FOSSICK: Enjoy a true camping experience at Duck Creek & Sheep Station Creek Opal fossicking areas.

PHOTO: TOURISM AND EVENTS QUEENSLAND

PUB WITH NO TOWN



Toompine is a great base from where you can fossick for Opal at Duck Creek & Sheep Station Creek Opal fossicking areas

THE sign at this old Cobb & Co staging post says it all: Toompine – the pub with no town.

Toompine is situated along the “Dowling Track”, named after legendary explorer and pastoralist Vincent Dowling.

The South Western Hotel, locally known as the Toompine Hotel is all that remains of this once bustling town, which came about due to the discovery of opal nearby in the 1860s.

This iconic outback pub is over 120 years old and is a great place to have a beer or two and a yarn with the locals.

Book into the Toompine Terraces for a night or two or free camp around the pub grounds. Great meals are available from the pub day and night.

Ask at the pub for directions to the best fishing spots and to the local cemetery just a kilometre down the

road and out why it is called a ‘cemery’. You can even have a round of golf on the sand green course.

Toompine is a great base from where you can fossick at Duck Creek & Sheep Station Creek Opal fossicking areas.

Fossicking Licences are required and can be obtained from the Mining Registrar in Quilpie.

Things to know before you go:

 This trail has approx. 115km of unsealed roads.  No mobile reception at fossicking areas.  Fuel is not available at Toompine so be sure to fill up before you go.  Food and refreshments are available at the Toompine Hotel.  A fossicking permit is required for Duck Creek & Sheep Station Creek

Lose Yourself to Nature & get away from it all.

Make a booking today to stay in one of our huts, cottages or rooms, Moble Homestead is your Country Home.

Amenities include: Private Air Strip • Tennis Court • Catering • Walking and Wildlife Watching Cavehill Sundowners • Campfire Dinner • Swimming • Canoeing • Fishing

Moble Homestead 3176 Tobermory Road, Quilpie Qld 4480 Ph: (07) 4656 4731 or visit our website at www.moblehomestead.com.au

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ADAVALE

PLENTY OF LOCAL HISTORY TO FIND LOCATED 96km north of Quilpie, Adavale was once a thriving town and business centre dating from 1880.

Changing the planned railway from Adavale to what is now Quilpie was the beginning of the end for this pioneering town’s prosperity.

Graves dating from the early 1800s are a testament to the harsh lifestyle and daily struggle of the early settlers and make for an interesting visit to the town cemetery.

While you are in town explore more of the town’s history by taking a stroll along the historical walk.

Informational signs explain the history of each site and help you visualise what this once bustling town looked like.

Relics from over a century ago are on display in the outdoor mini museum and the Police Hut Museum in the Shire Hall grounds is filled with history of Adavale’s Police Force.

The Adavale Hall grounds also have a coin operated barbecue, picnic table and chairs, toilets and showers and offer free camping for visitor’s convenience.

While you are here, take a walk along the veranda of the Hall and enjoy the incredible historical photos from Adavale’s past.

Lovers of the great outdoors and the outback scenery will love Adavale, as the drive from Quilpie is one of the most scenic in the Shire.

Adavale is home to great fishing spots, birdwatching and is also the gateway to the stunning Hell Hole Gorge National Park, Mariala National Park and Idalia National Park.

Before travelling to Adavale or Hell Hole Gorge National Park, be sure to check road conditions with the Quilpie Visitor Information Centre.

HELL HOLE GORGE

THE deeply incised Powell Creek with steep, dissected escarpments and vertical cliffs up to 45m high, drains through the centre of the area along with the smaller Spencers and Gorge Creek.

Hell Hole Gorge National Park is scenically attractive and provides opportunities for camping and related activities such as 4WDing, hiking, bird watching, swimming and photography.

The rugged gullies associated with Powell Creek invite exploratory walks looking for unusual plants or glimpses of the diverse animal life. There are no formal walking tracks.

Access roads within the park follow old seismic lines and boundary fences. Powell Creek crossing to camp ground area is guided by indicators fixed to rock surfaces, following these markers will guide you safely across.

Hell Hole Gorge National Park is about 80km northwest of Adavale along the Milo-Gooyea Rd. (You will come to a turn off from the Milo-Gooyea Rd that winds its way to the main gate to the park but it will be signed so keep an eye out).

These roads travel through privately operated cattle stations; access and roadside camping off or along these main roads is prohibited.

GETTING TO ADAVALE

From Quilpie there are two roads to Adavale.

RED ROAD: About 103km from Quilpie to Adavale.

This road has partially sealed sections, but is mostly Page 76

unsealed. To access this road head east from Quilpie along the Charleville Rd for 13km then turn left onto the Red Road.

BLACK ROAD: About 96km to Adavale. This road is unsealed. To access this road head along the Charleville Rd for about 2km then turn left onto the Black Rd.



Graves dating from the early 1800s are a testament to the harsh lifestyle and daily struggle of the early settlers

KILLER VIEW: Adavale is the gateway to the stunning Hell Hole Gorge N ational Park.

PHOTO: TOURISM AND EVENTS QUEENSLAND

MURWEH

STUNNING: There is nothing quite like seeing the western Queensland sky and you can get a better look at the Cosmos Centre Observatory.

PHOTO: MIKE DALLEY

EXPERIENCE CHARLEVILLE There is more to see and do than you could ever imagine for your trip

ď ˝

Tourists can stay ahead of what is happening thanks to the Charleville app

HEAD out west and there is plenty to see and do in the Murweh region and where memories are made.

There is plenty to experience in Charleville, Morven, Augathella and Cooladdi.

Plan your stay a little longer as one day is simply not enough to experience all the region has to offer.

There is plenty of new things to look forward to in 2019 including a new building commemorating the Brisbane Line, the secret bush air base was at the northern end where US forces planned to defend Australia against invading Japanese forces.

A planetarium is also being planned.

Tourists can stay ahead of what is happening thanks to the Charleville app.

The technology allows for potential visitors to see

Information centre Railway Station, King St, Charleville (07) 4654 3057

what the area has to offer before they even set off on their journey, potentially expanding their plans to stay and explore.

The app incorporates services from the Murweh visitors guide plus information from local businesses.

Download from Google Play or the Apple App Store.

You can also keep up-to-date with events via www.experiencecharleville.com.au and Experience Charleville on Facebook.

Page 77

Page 78

CHARLEVILLE

EXPERIENCE: Book onto the Sun Viewing and view the largest star in the Solar System at Charleville’s Cosmos Centre and Observatory.

PHOTO: CONTRIBUTED

LOOK TO THE SKIES IMMORTILISED in Slim Dusty’s song by the same name, Charleville is the largest town in Queensland’s south west and is a hub for visitors and pastoralists alike.

In the heart of ‘mulga country’, Charleville and surrounding pastoral properties are rich in history, flora and fauna.

Charleville is on the Warrego River, at the junction of the Mitchell and Warrego Highways.

The region was explored by Edmund Kennedy in 1847 and by William Landsborough in 1862, the latter’s report which motivated early pastoral occupation.

An Irishman, Tully likely named the new town after the town of Charleville, north of Cork, Ireland.

Charleville is definitely not a place to be

missed.

BILBY EXPERIENCE

THE Charleville Bilby Experience offers unique opportunities to learn about these fascinating marsupials.

Meet endangered bilbies and to see them in their impressive redeveloped nocturnal exhibit.

COSMOS OBSERVATORY CENTRE

CHARLEVILLE’S Cosmos Centre and Observatory is dedicated to ensuring visitors enjoy the wonder of the outback night sky.

The guides at the Cosmos Centre share their knowledge and you will observe binary stars, star clusters, planets and the Moon.

TOP SECRET WWII TOUR

FOLLOW a guide to find out what the Top

Secret WWII Tour is all about.

See what remains on site and discover why the USAAF were here, all 3500 of them.

TIMBER WALK

DO YOU love nature? Charleville hosts its own Outback Native Timber Walk which showcases all the local native trees around a pond where birds love to convene.

Graham Andrews Parklands also holds the famous Vortex Rainmaking Guns.

Was Clement Wragge just crazy or was it Charleville’s fault that the experiment never worked.

HISTORIC HOUSE MUSEUM

VISIT Historic House Museum and displays of a by-gone era.

Learn all about the Cobb & Co Coaches and the impact they had in the town.

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Page 79

CHARLEVILLE

PLAN YOUR TRIP WITH THE A. ART

Visit the amazing Mulga Lands Gallery – a purpose-built art gallery space as part of Charleville’s 150 celebration.

B. BILBY

Always a favourite, visit the Bilby Centre and get up close and personal with this rare species.

C. CORONES HOTEL

Tour through Historic Hotel Corones and hear all Harrys’ stories followed by afternoon tea.

D. DRIVE

Purchase a CD from the Visitor Information Centre and do your own self-guided town tour.

E. EXPLORE

Book yourself on the ‘Check out Charleville’ town tour of Charleville and hear the stories of our fires and floods.

F. FISH

Love to wet a line, call into see Judey at the Fishing shop and she’ll love to draw you a mud map of her ‘secret’ fishing spots.

EXPERIENCE: Tourists will love the chance to get up close with a Bilby at the Bilby Centre.

PHOTO: PETER WILSON

G. GRAHAM ANDREWS PARKLANDS

Visit George at Historic House and see the amazing items of our past, he has so much knowledge.

H. HISTORIC HOUSE

Remember to book & learn about navigating the night sky at the Cosmos Centre.

Wander through Graham Andrews parklands, cook yourself a barbie or let the kids spread their wings on the play equipment.

I. INTRODUCTION TO THE NIGHT SKY

J. JOIN

Join a camp oven dinner at one of our great caravan parks; maybe you’ll hear a yarn or two. These hosts are great, you’ll love it.

K. KENNIFF TREE

Made famous by the Kenniff brothers, bushrangers that called Augathella home.

Charleville Your complete guide to Charleville, Morven, Augathella and Cooladdi in the palm of your hand.

Charleville Visitor Information Centre (07) 4654 3057 info@murweh.qld.gov.au www.experiencecharleville.com.au Page 80

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You will be able to easily find: Things to do and see Accommodation Local Events Shopping Places to Eat Weather ... and so much more!

CHARLEVILLE

MURWEH A- Z ITINERARY around their property and explain the ways of life and how it all works.

U. UNCOVER THE SECRET

The Top Secret WWII Tour is a must. Ranked in the top three things to do in Charleville on Trip Advisor, make a point of booking this and discovering what the secret was and what 3500 USAAF personnel doing here for four years?

V. VORTEX GUNS

What was Clement Wragge trying to prove, find out in Charleville?

W. WARREGO RIVER WALK Take a walk along the Warrego River at sunset.

X. X MARKS THE SPOT

Dot dash dot dash dot dot dot all the way to the Charleville Visitor Information Centre and book yourself an itinerary today. For further information download the Charleville App and do it yourself.

Y. YARN

HISTORICAL: Find out more about Vortex Guns, a famous sight in Charleville.

PHOTO: SCOTT HIGGINS ‘Astronomy by Day’ is an interactive area where you’ll also see the Cosmos Shuttle, learn about meteorites and watch movies about all things Cosmos, it’s absolutely incredible.

M. MORVEN HISTORICAL MUSEUM

This is a must and make sure you visit the Hut made out of old kerosene tins and the miniature building display.

N. NATURAL SCIENCES LOOP

This loop is incredible; it covers the four shires of Queensland’s Southern Outback including Murweh, Quilpie, Bulloo and Paroo. Each shire offering their own ‘Natural Sciences’.

O. OBSERVATORY

Observe the outback night sky that will amaze you, in our observatory with 4 large Meade telescopes. The night’s sky up close is

Charlevillee NewsageNCyy

First For giFts, lottto, News, & more

impressive.

P. PLANETARIUM

(Coming Soon) Stay tuned for further news.

Q. QANTAS

Did you know that on the second of November 1922, the first official Qantas flight departed from Charleville? There is so much aviation history in our region and coming soon will be an aviation and history display.

Z. Z -A, 10-1

Where the alphabet begins. Visit the School of Distance Education and see how their classrooms operate and listen to the story of ‘School of the Air’ and how it all came about.

For more details ring the friendly staff at the Charleville Visitor Information Centre on 07 4654 3057.

R. RFDS

Charleville is home to one of eight Royal Flying Doctor Bases. The Visitor Centre is open daily for you to discover their story.

S. SUN VIEWING

Book a Sun Viewing Session at the Cosmos Centre and see for yourself the brightest star in the Solar System.

T. THURLBY STATION TOUR

Live and learn about cattle and sheep stations of the outback. This tour will guide you

Giftware

VARIETY OF STATIONARY

CHARLEVILLE NEWSAGENCY Alfred Street, Charleville • Ph: 4654 1124

6917992ad

L. LEARN

Have a yarn with local pilot Pete of Outback Air Tours and do a scenic flight of the area or fly out to Birdsville if you wish. View the amazing Channel Country from a different perspective. Maybe you’ll see the Automated Weather Balloon release while you are up there.

Page 81

COOLADDI

RECHARGE: Cooladdi is a great place to visit the Cooladdi Foxtrap and Quilberry Creek for some fishing and swimming.

PHOTO: CONTRIBUTED

GET CAUGHT UP AT FOXTRAP Cooladdi Foxtrap gets its name from past owner Mr Bob Fox. Bob loved a yarn – legend has it that you would call in for a drink and leave two days later! – hence the name “Cooladdi Foxtrap”.

Although Bob is no longer there the locals today are just as friendly and love a yarn. On the way to the Opal fields, Cooladdi is an ideal spot to stop and recharge your batteries.

Get all the local visitor information, stock up on cool drinks or grab something to eat in the licensed restaurant.

The Foxtrap also has accommodation, fuel and acts as the local Post Office.



On the way to the Opal fields, Cooladdi is an ideal spot to stop and recharge your batteries

HOME • STYLE • COFFEE 4654 3969 Page 82

120 aLFrEd STrEET, CHarLEviLLE

Find uS On FaCEbOOk

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COOLADDI may be one of Queensland’s smallest towns but it still has a lot to offer.

It was originally named “Yarronvale”, and was changed to its present name in 1913, Cooladdi, being Aboriginal for “Black Duck”.

Cooladdi’s history dates back to a time long before rail transportation was introduced, and it went on to be a major centre until the rail moved on in 1914. In its heyday Cooladdi boasted a school, butcher shop, post office, store and police station accommodating 270 residents.

Quilberry Creek is a great spot to for great outback camping, do some fishing, go swimming or yabbying.

Call into the Foxtrap for directions.

AUGATHELLA

TOWN FULL OF STORIES Check out the history of Augathella as well as its colourful characters



Experience Augathella “Meat Ant Country” and the rich historical culture the town provides

AUGATHELLA with its fascinating history of bushrangers, bullockies and bullock teams, has some memorable outback experiences.

Don’t just drive through – stop and enjoy Augathella’s colourful history, characters and humour.

The Augathella district was taken up for pastoral runs in the 1860s, the Burenda station was one of the more important. Tracks from Charleville and Tambo to the Burenda station joined at a camping spot at the Warrego River which was surveyed in 1880 as a township named Ellangowan.

The change of name to Augathella, which is thought to have been derived from the Aboriginal word ‘thella’, referring to a water hole, occurred in 1883, when the town was surveyed.

Within a year the railway line at Charleville was connected to Augathella.

Experience Augathella “Meat Ant Country” and the rich historical culture the town provides. Take a stroll through Meat Ant Park located right next door to the town library.

Some history on the notorious bushranger brothers Patrick and James Kenniff can be found at the Kenniff tree. The brothers were a part of one of Queensland’s

HELPFUL GUIDE: Make sure you download the Charleville App. PHOTO: CONTRIBUTED

CONTINUED ON PAGE 84

THE Q150 SHED - WHAT IS THE SIGNIFIGANCE?

Celebrated in 2009, Q150 was the 150th anniversary of the separation of QLD from the colony of NSW, with the signing of the Letters Patent by Queen Victoria in 1859. This separation established the colony of QLD, then becoming the State of QLD in 1901 as part of the Federation of Australia. The Q150 shed was a mobile shed touring the State proving free entertainment where ever it went. It now resides comfortably in Augathella.

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AUGATHELLA - WE ARE RV FRIENDLY!

For Bookings phone 0411 545 194 Page 83

AUGATHELLA

TERRIFIC TOWN : Augathella has a fascinating history of bushrangers, bullockies and bullock teams and some memorable outback experiences.

PHOTO: CONTRIBUTED

GREAT FUN TO BE HAD



View all the amazing murals along the main street, created by locals to showcase their love of the region

FROM PAGE 83

largest manhunt lasting over thirteen years.

View all the amazing murals along the main street, created by locals to showcase their love of the region.

From the great sheep stations to the 1950’s movie “Smiley”. Then to show their creativity the town also displays various wrought iron sculptures around the town.

DIGGERS EASTER RODEO & RACES

Experience a great outback Easter weekend of Rodeo and Horse Racing. The Augathella Diggers Rodeo and Race Meeting, should be on your list of things to enjoy.

AUGATHELLA MEAT ANT PARK

Augathella’s local football team, known as the Mighty Augathella Meat Ants were fearless in their attack, this earned the town the nickname, ‘Meat Ant Country’.

Features of the park include: Landscaped gardens, picnic table, story boards of Augathella History, adventure playground and let’s not forget the gigantic sculpture, over a million times the size of an actual ant.

BOADICEA GALLERY & CINEMA

Experience the rich history of Augathella and the surrounding area through a photographic exhibition Page 84

featuring over 150 heritage photos as well as art exhibitions.

Catch a screening of the 1956 Australian film ‘Smiley’ based on the local identity ‘Didy Creevey’. A 20 minute documentary featuring the characters, history and lots of classic outback humour.

AUGATHELLA SELF GUIDED HERITAGE TRAIL

It’s not until you take the time to walk Augathella’s self-guided heritage trail that you discover the rich and diverse history of the town, it’s Bushrangers, bullockies and the huge sheep stations that all played a part in Augathella’s development.

KENNIFF BUSHRANGERS TREE

Many towns lay claim to a bushranger or two.

Augathella is no exception as it was here at this tree the notorious Kenniff Brothers would tether their horses when planning a quick getaway.

WROUGHT IRON SCULPTURES

Humorous locally made sculptures that feature the Meat Ant Football Team, a famous racehorse and the biggest sunrise…Dancing Brolga’s. These iconic birds of Australia nest and bring up their young on the Warrego River. For information about the sculptures collect the Heritage Trail from the Library or the Post Office.

MORVEN

PEACEFUL: Take a break at Sadliers Waterhole Morven and enjoy the serenity of the picturesque red river gums lined along the waterhole.

PHOTO: CONTRIBUTED

GO BACK TO BYGONE ERA



Step back in time and see the Kerosene hut from the 1930s great depression

MORVEN is located on the Warrego Highway, 91km east of Charleville.

In 1859 a small area was taken from the property Victoria Downs and set aside for public use and designated on maps and documents as ‘Victoria Downs Reserve’.

It was on the mail route from Brisbane to Charleville.

Later it became informally known as Sadlier’s Waterhole after Captain TJ Sadlier and his wife camped at the property.

In 1876, a post office was opened and called Morven.

When officially surveyed in 1880, it was officially given the name Morven.

Stay in town and experience the wonder of the handcrafted miniature building display that took more than 15 years to complete and is displayed at the Morven Museum.

Step back in time and see the Kerosene hut from the 1930s great depression and other displays of a bygone

era.

Don’t miss the opportunity to explore the self-guided heritage trail taking you to places such as the Rabbit Board Gate used for rabbit proofing in 1886, Branding Board with cattle brand marks of local station owners, some in business for more than 100 years.

Visit the home of the Ooline trees and their black orchids located within the Tregole National Park only 10km south of Morven.

Then take a break at Sadliers Waterhole where you can enjoy the serenity of the picturesque red river gums lined along the waterhole which once was a stopover for Cobb & Co Coaches and bullock teams.

If the conditions are right and you love to 4×4. Check out the Stock Route Trail that leads you to the iconic Clara Creek Ruins.

The area was once thriving and the hotel was a busy watering hole, Cobb & Co changing station and important meeting and recreational destination.

Phone 4654 8448

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10 SELF CONTAINED LUXURY CABINS AND OLD STYLE COUNTRY HOSPITALITY

w w w. p i c k a b o x m o t e l . c o m . a u Page 85

MUNGALLALA

TAKE A REST: Head to Mungallala and see where the Cobb and Co. coach horses were changed on the journey to and from Charleville.

PHOTO: CONTRIBUTED

STOP, TAKE A BREAK



A wonderful place to stop for lunch and experience the workings of an outback town.

Page 86

MUNGALLALA is a town located 133km west of the regional centre of Roma.

The name Mungallala is said to mean ‘place of food and water’ and is the site of a cypress sawmill.

Mungallala is located about halfway between Mitchell and Morven where the Warrego Highway crosses the Mungallala Creek.

The town consists of a public library, school, a pub and a cafe.

Mungallala originated as a railway town and is a wonderful place to stop for lunch and experience the workings of an outback town.

One of the interesting natural features of the area is a stand of Ooline trees.

The highway crosses hills which are wooded by a specimen of a rare tree commonly known as Ooline (Cadelia Pentastylis).

It is said to be a remnant of rainforests of a previous age.

For the self-sufficient traveller there is a rest area provided on the western side of town.

This is the approximate site where the Cobb and Co. coach horses were changed on the journey to and from Charleville before the coming of the railway in 1885.

Page 87

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FLORENCE CONSTRUCTING A NEW PERSPECTIVE

PENELOPE SEIDLER

ISSN 2652-0044

01

A reputation built on style 9 772652 004002 > FLORENCE | ISSUE 2 | $9.95

exceptional projects

enduring relationships

we take pride in giving back to the community With the help of our valued network of sub-contractors and suppliers, JDV Projects created a dedicated workspace for the committed team of volunteers and staff at the Northern Beaches Women’s Shelter. To read the full story, please refer to p54 JDV Projects would like to extend our thanks and gratitude to the following companies for their generous donation of supplies and labour to this worthy and much needed cause.

JDVPROJECTS.COM.AU (02) 9805 6100

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As your fitout and construction partner, our objective is to get to know your team and to understand your business model and DNA.

We will align ourselves with your vision and aspirations to create an innovative and functional work environment with the ability to flex and change as your business grows and matures.

JDVPROJECTS.COM.AU If you are considering a refurbishment or fitout, talk to our new Client Relationship Manager Claire Richardson:

JDV Projects are proudly supporting mental health charity ‘ReachOut’ as Gold Sponsor of Dance for Life 2020

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ONTHE COVER

10 Our cover is the incredible Penelope Seidler, architect, businesswoman and philanthropist. Photo Dirk Meinecke (rear colour changed) © Penelope Seidler

28

INSIDE REGULARS

FEATURES

Executive Director’s Welcome .............................. 06 Leading Lady .............................................................. 08 Odd Woman Out ....................................................... 23 Mental Health .............................................................. 24 Health and Wellbeing ............................................... 25 Tradie Talk .................................................................... 50 Legal ............................................................................... 51 Business ........................................................................ 52 Finance ......................................................................... 55 Apps and Software ................................................... 60 Technology ................................................................... 61 Calendar of Events ................................................... 64 Insta Sistas ................................................................... 66

10 Penelope Seidler A reputation built on style 15 Winning build evolves into change of pace Michelle Bishop’s new role at Bangalay Villas 16 Building a new perception Melanie Kurzydlo 28 Women of architecture Jo Butler sits down with three leading architects 44 Parramatta project delivers diversity With a team comprised of 35 percent women 52 Five minutes with ... Penny Petridis Teaching women to take up the tools

Editor: Josie Adams; Editorial Coordinator: Amanda Kelly; Journalist: Alyssa Welke; Design: Marlize Duggan; Cover image: Penelope Seidler. Custom Publishing Manager: Brooke Gardner. Advertising inquiries: 07 4690 9309. Editorial inquiries 0437 819 696 Email: josie.adams@news.com.au Subscriptions: 07 4690 9360. News Corp Australia is the exclusive publishing partner of Florence magazine in conjunction with Master Builders Association of NSW. ABN 63 009 820 035 Phone: 07 4690 9309. Website: www,newscorpaustralia.com. Printed by: APN Print, 56 Kenilworth St. Warwick, QLD 4370.

This publication is copyright. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any meansincluding electronic, mechanical, microcopying photocopying without prior written permission from the publisher. Disclaimer: The information contained within Florence is given in good faith and obtained from sources believed to be accurate. The views expressed are not necessarily those of the publisher. APN, News Corp, Toowoomba Newspapers and the Master Builders Association of NSW will not be liable for any opinion or advice contained herin.

4 | | FLORENCE

FLORENCE BUILDING MOMENTUM Since publishing our first edition of Florence, we have been inundated with emails and phone calls re-telling stories of women (and men) determined to create meaningful change in the industry.

The momentum is building.

One such email was from Jo Butler at Living Constructions. After reading the magazine, he wrote that he couldn’t help but think of the talented female architects he has worked with over the years. What started as a story celebrating these women (page 28) - has turned into friendship and fresh resolve. Bronwyn Litera, Amy Eccles and Christina Lucic are now talking to schools to see how they can encourage young women into careers in the built environment.

On the topic of schools, on page 16, we talk to Melanie Kurzydlo, Director of Strategy and Business Relations at Growthbuilt. Through her experience as a vocal advocate for diversity, we discuss the perception young women have of the industry and how it affects recruitment. Could building and construction be in need of a PR overhaul? We think so, and a part of that is highlighting industry success stories – girls need to see other women thriving in their chosen careers.

Our cover this issue features the truly inspiring Penelope Seidler; CEO of firm Harry Seidler & Associates, architect, businesswoman and benefactor of the arts and architecture. Her home in Killara, where she has lived for more than 50 years, with her husband, Harry Seidler and their children, has a place in architectural history. Their work heralded a new era in post-war design in Australia. Penelope’s career achievements are so many and so varied (read all about them on page 10). However, what appeals to me personally is that hers is essentially a love story. A passion and commitment to art, architecture, community, family and more than anything - her late husband and his legacy. I hope you enjoy this issue of Florence magazine.

JOSIE ADAMS

44 FLORENCE | | 5

PHOTO: CONTRIBUTED

TELLING THE STORIES OF THE QUIETLY EXTRAORDINARY BRIAN SEIDLER, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, MBA NSW

W

hat is most encouraging about Florence is its unconditional acceptance by industry – all sectors of our industry want to tell their special stories about women.

Stories that record the success of women who physically construct the built environment, who manage specialist trades on site, who design and renovate complex structures, to those female tradies who undertake work at the coal face are all inspiring.

Florence has been approached by many people all wanting to tell how great their women are.

Interestingly the building and construction industry wants to acknowledge these stories which many of us take for granted, and others see as extraordinary.

We don’t know peoples’ backgrounds, nor their contributions, but Florence will tell the stories of the ordinary, the quiet, and the publicly successful women.

Recently I was privileged to witness a presentation made by four women, who would probably describe themselves as ordinary. These four women told their stories and experiences of working in the building and construction industry.

All were from small businesses and operated their companies with their partners. One was on the

6 | | FLORENCE

tools, one was an architect, one provided unique and specialised timber products for the industry and the other ran the back end of a small, but highly successful, award-winning residential building company.

Each of them participated in an informal chat in front of about 100 people at a local golf club on a Thursday night. They told their stories of juggling family life, business life and sickness. What was extraordinary was the resilience of these women and their capacity to continue at not only supporting the family unit, but the business.

What became evident however was their commitment to not only their family and business but their commitment to the building and construction industry. What was most interesting was they told of their experiences, their trials and tribulations of working and supporting small business. One could see the connection they made with other women in the audience – so much so there were a few tears shed.

What is clear, women are the backbone of small business, particularly in our industry, where 95% of businesses in the building and construction industry are considered small. These four women emphasised this point and Florence will tell their stories.

“Make yours a TradeMark Pool”

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Florence,

FEMINISM AND CITY LIVING In the 1930s, Florence Taylor sought to make town planning a cause for all women

M

ore than any other indivdual, Florence Taylor, through her early writing, advocated women’s greater invlovement in the process of town planning.

She possesssed a unique understanding of the issues women faced at the time, and firmly believed that women, as “mothers and keepers of the home” had a natural stake in how cities were planned and designed.

As an extension of her philosophy on architecture, she thought cities should be planned to “lighten the burden on motherhood” by making “healthy and happy” surroundings.

In the early years of her career, Florence’s central pillar of reform was to create suburban, owner-occupied homes and gardens. She urged housewives to involve themselves in creating suburban communities as an extension of the interest in their own homes, as well as to develop their intellects.

She wrote: “We agree that there are a hundred and more small details in municiple life on which women’s advice and practical knowledge may be of inestimable value. For after all, the shire or municipality is only the larger house, and the organising power and grasp of detail which are neccesssary in the management of a large household, should be very helpful in the management of a suburb... it would certainly let light into many a council meeting if the housewives of the district could air their opinions on things as they are, and things as they ought to be.” (Building, February 1914).

8 | | FLORENCE

PENELOPE SEIDLER A reputation built on style

T

he wife of the late Harry Seidler is an architect in her own right, an accountant, the CEO of architectural firm Harry Seidler & Associates, and a benefactor of the arts and architecture.

Her home in Killara, NSW, where she has lived for more than 50 years, and with Harry raised their children, has a place in architectural history. Its open layout, creative use of technology and relationship with art and nature heralded a new era in international design concepts in post-war Australia.

The Austrian born Harry came to Australia aged 24 in 1948. He arrived with an amazing architectural education; he gained his Bachelor’s degree with 1st class honours at the University of Manitoba and won a scholarship to Harvard for his Masters where he studied under Walter Gropius the founder of the famed Bauhaus; he also studied and worked with Marcel Breuer and Josef Albers, both of whom were Bauhaus teachers. On his way to Australia he stopped and worked with Oscar Niemeyer in Brazil.

Harry brought with him the modernism of his Bauhaus teachers and the first house he designed was for his parents in 1948. Rose Seidler House was a timber home hovering at the edge of the bush. Its cube-like form and extensive use of glass divided both professionals and the public on Sydney’s upper North Shore at the time.

Penelope said it was a new type of architecture looking to the future. Today the home is a museum for the Sydney Living Museums.

“I do think that Harry put architecture on the map in a way. There was a huge amount of publicity around that house,” Penelope said.

“People were talking about architecture in a way that they never had before.”

Penelope grew up in Wahroonga, in Sydney, the daughter of the Hon Clive Evatt QC, a prominent barrister and NSW Labor politician, and his wife Marjorie Evatt.

Penelope and Harry met in 1957, when she was studying liberal arts at the University of Sydney.

They were married in December 1958, on Penelope’s 20th birthday.

“I had no idea what I wanted to do with my life

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but when I married Harry, I knew I didn’t want to just be an architect’s wife,” she said.

“All he and his friends talked about was architecture. So, I switched to architecture in order to enter Harry’s world on an equal footing. I graduated five years later.”

Penelope said she became fascinated with the idea of building things for people, and the new world of aesthetics in Harry’s Modernism.

“Modernism is more than just an aesthetic, it’s about planning for living a good, healthy life,” she said.

“After the devastation of the war, the notion of Modernism was to create a better world for everybody.”

Realising that what the firm needed was a manager, Penelope enrolled in a business degree while raising the couple’s two small children. This way, Harry could focus on cementing his career, which included the completion of Australia Square – it was the world’s tallest, lightweight concrete building at the time it was built.

“I don’t think I’m the world’s best architect.

However, in saying that I think I am a very good critic and I understand it well. And my husband and I had a great collaboration,” she said.

“We always worked together. Our desks were next to each other and at home too. Harry was the principal designer, but he would always show me everything and we’d talk about it.”

Despite her position in the business firmly beside her husband, she was often referred to in those days as “Mrs Harry Seidler”.

“It didn’t bother me, but it’s a bit old-fashioned isn’t it?”

Harry and Penelope designed their Killara House together. Harry’s ideas had by this stage, developed in a different direction. He began exploring concrete construction, with his work becoming more sympathetic to the Australian climate and landscape. The site of their house took two years to secure.

“It was what you’d call an architect’s block: steeply sloping, surrounded by trees, a creek at one end, a bush reserve at another, and no immediate neighbours. It was just what we wanted,” Penelope said.

Penelope Seidler in Harry’s Park

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PHOTO: NICK CUBBIN PHOTOGRAPHER 2012

ABOVE: Harry & Penelope Seidler House, Killara Sydney, 1966-67, photo by Max Dupain ©Penelope Seidler IMAGES RIGHT CLOCKWISE: Rose Seidler House, Penelope Seidler with Tsquare and artwork by Peter Upward (courtesy Utopia Art Sydney) Photo Harry Seidler c1960-3. Harry& Penelope Seidler © Eric Sierins 1999.

“Harry came up with the plan almost immediately. I had input and made some modifications, but my role was really one of the enlightened client, if you like. If I’d designed the house alone, it would have been very different … probably not as good.”

Completed in 1967, the house has a split plan over four half-levels, which organises the internal functions and helps fit the building into the sloping site. Communal areas – dining, living and sitting rooms, kitchen and children’s playroom – all face north, while the bedrooms, utility areas, bathrooms and a study face the south.

“Everywhere you go you experience the outdoors and the trees, which is what I’ve loved the most about living here,” Penelope said.

Concrete block support pillars are left exposed.

The concrete walls, embossed with the timber grain of their formwork, wrap from outside to in.

The floors are quartzite stone, and ceilings Tasmanian oak. Cutting through the levels is a fireplace of local bluestone, around which all the living spaces sit.

Penelope said, funnily enough, people like the home more now than they did when it was built.

“People were sort of amazed by these concepts that a room isn’t just a little box, or a little rectangle…that it was open,” she said.

“I think a lot of people took to it, but they probably didn’t get the finer points of what the architecture was about.

“They thought it was all too stark and found the concrete too confronting. I think it’s beautiful.

There’s a medieval quality to the masonry walls, and the texture of timber all around, it’s like my castle. Harry liked things tough; he always said

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this house was indestructible, and he’s absolutely right.”

Today, the home remains largely untouched.

Harry’s office shelves still display miniature building models the couple collected during their travels. The original Breuer furniture and woven rugs are still there too, along with the couple’s private art collection.

“Harry would argue, and I would too, that in all the great buildings anywhere, art – the major pieces – is part of the building. It all goes together, it’s not just a capricious thing you change every five minutes.”

Penelope’s interests are international and Australian contemporary and ethnographic art, which she also collects. She is directly responsible for commissioning artists for her architectural firms’ work.

She currently sits on the boards of the National Gallery of Australia Foundation and Sydney Living Museums. She has been a member of the International Council of the Museum of Modern Art in New York since 1973, and in 2011 was made a Chevalier of the Légion d’Honneur of France.

In 2008 she was appointed a Member of the Order of Australia for service to the preservation of cultural heritage, particularly through the Australiana Fund; to visual arts organisations; and to architecture.

“I don’t think of myself as a patron. I see myself as an observer of the arts. For me, art is crucial for life. Why keep your money when you can give it away and enjoy the good that it does? If you are going to do something with your money, do it while you are alive.”

In 2014, after seeing several buildings spring up in

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Sydney, much of which she disapproved of, she founded the Seidler Chair for architecture practice at UNSW. “I am excited about this collaboration. I was a member of the faculty’s advisory council and I care very much about education, particularly in architecture. It is important for me to ensure the next generation of architects has as many opportunities as possible to learn from the best – someone who is a master in their field,” she said.

Today, Penelope is director of Harry Seidler & Associates. She spends weekdays at the Milsons Point Offices built in 1973. Her city residence is in the Cove Apartments in The Rocks, the last residential building Harry completed in Sydney, two years before his death in 2006.

In a long list of achievements, Penelope said her greatest personal accomplishment was the acquisition of the block of land next door to her office.

“They were going to build a building on the cliff top above Luna Park, which would have been very harmful to our building. And this was when my husband had had a stroke… and he was dying,” she said.

“And I thought ‘I just can’t let this happen’ and I used all the power I had … I don’t have much power, but I finally got an interview with the minister for planning and it took me months to

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do that. And I convinced him that what they were doing was wrong.”

Penelope acquired a covenant over the site at great expense and created Harry’s Park in memory of her late husband.

“It’s next to our office and its very beautiful, and I did it all by myself, and I’m very proud of that.”

In June 2019, Penelope and Harry were both inducted into the Australian Property Council Hall of Fame, honouring individuals who have provided leadership and left an outstanding legacy to the property industry and the Australian community. It was the first time architects have been celebrated in this way.

“While the financial return on investment is a core consideration of any development, ultimately it is great architecture that is the legacy we leave for future generations,” Penelope said.

“Good design ensures enduring value for the city and its people.”

TOP LEFT & RIGHT: Wedding day, photo by Marcell Seidler. Harry & Penelope at Seidler House, Killara ©Ross Honeysett 1998. BELOW LEFT & RIGHT: Penelope in a Marimekko dress below Seidler House in 1967, photo by Max Dupain ©Penelope Seidler. Harry Seidler & Gropius at Harvard in 1946.

Inset: Michelle and Tom Bishop. The beautiful Bangalay Villas.

PHOTO: SIMON WHITBREAD

PROJECT EVOLVES INTO CHANGE OF PACE F

or Evolve Building Group’s Tom and Michelle Bishop, Bangalay Luxury Villas are an award-winning testament to their exceptional design and building techniques – and an opportunity to get back to the region they love.

Winning Hospitality Project $10M & Under in the recent Master Builder NSW awards, the stunning villas opened their doors in September 2018.

The project included the design and build of 16 luxury villas and a restaurant at Shoalhaven Heads, a two-and-a-half-hour drive from Sydney.

Michelle said the couple wanted the accommodation to work within the natural surrounds, nestled amongst the sand dunes and around the Banksias.

“We purposely chose to use the materials that will weather and age well not only from a maintenance perspective but also to really enhance that authentic experience of the coastal environment and coastal living,” Michelle said.

“The building process has been pretty incredible,

we had a wonderful team help bring it to life.

“I have been able to work with lots of friends and people I have known for years.

“There is no text book available for what we have done.”

For the previously Sydney-based couple, the completion of the project heralded a homecoming, with Tom, Michelle and their four children settling back on the south coast to manage the villas.

“Transitioning from what we are very comfortable doing, property development, into the operations of Bangalay was a challenge, we have 17 different pieces of software needing to speak to each other, 50 staff and weather to contend with,” she said.

“I am proud of what we have been able to accomplish so far but know there is still a huge amount of work to be done.

“It feels like Bangalay has been an opportunity for so many talented people to shine.”

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BUILDING A NEW PERCEPTION How can girls be what they can’t see in the construction industry?

JOSIE ADAMS

M

elanie Kurzydlo is proud of the industry she has thrived in for over 15 years.

Growing up in her family’s construction business, her career moved from an interior design student to design management, project management and development, then to business development and advocacy.

She’s spent time on work-sites, in offices, boardrooms and working from home. She married her partner, raised children, all the while moving steadily up the corporate ladder in an industry with a reputation as being exclusionary and male-dominated.

Melanie, currently Director of Strategy and Business Relations at Growthbuilt has found her place, her voice and her work fulfilling.

“I never envisioned I would be sitting in the role I am now from what I studied at University,” she said.

“But I just kept putting my hand up and took some risks. And when one door closed, another one opened… as a result my work in this industry has been so diverse and so absolutely rewarding.”

Without gender diversity the country’s third largest employer is missing out on the talent pool of half the population. The challenges the industry faces are many, including an impending skills shortage, high staff turnover and high attrition. Despite continuous calls to improve the imbalance and actively recruit women into the industry, the number of women entering in the sector continues to sit well below parity.

Melanie is a champion for The Property Council’s diversity agenda, and a speaker at the Girls in Property initiative. Reflecting on her own experience she said school girls are not aware about what possibilities are available to them in the industry.

“Programs like PCA Girls in Property are essential for expanding the diversity and inclusion within the industry because career pathways take off and are set in high school. By the time the young women are in university they have already chosen their career and even though we know career paths change along the way, it’s important the younger generation are educated about career possibilities at school,” she said.

“I was excited to be back in schools educating the younger generation”, she said. “What I found though, was that there was generally a residential real estate career topic being discussed but there wasn’t always a career discussion around the possibilities available in Property Development, let alone Construction.”

“Many of the girls thought that a career for ‘Girls in Property’ meant standing out the front of a house holding a clip board and taking names as they entered a residential property for sale. The other industry options and possibilities in funds, assets and investments wasn’t ever considered a possibility on their radar.”

A research paper released in March this year by Dr Phillipa Carnemolla, Senior Research Fellow at the University of Technology Sydney, revealed a similar theme.

Funded by the National Association of Women in Construction and titled Girls’ Perceptions of the Construction Industry: Building a Picture of who isn’t Interested in a Career in Construction and Why, The report presents insights from female Year 11 students at an all-girls high school.

The results align with Melanie’s observations and current Australian research on the nature of gender barriers in particular careers, which include awareness, exposure and parental influence. Participants in the study were unaware of the scope of the construction industry and

PHOTO: AGENCY

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could not visualise the concept of achievement outcomes in the industry or how they could make a difference.

Essentially, young women couldn’t see themselves as successful in the industry. Neither could their friends, teachers and parents.

“To me it seems like there is a misconception with the young girls as to what the industry is all about,” Melanie said. “So, we need to reassess what are they imagining when they think about Construction, Property and Development? It is not just a site with men in hard hats on machinery; there currently seems to be the visual cue that girls have in their heads, and it’s holding them back from investigating career options further.”

“That is only one part of any project.”

“We need to continually push to show the diverse and inclusive roles that women can have even just on a construction site, not to mention the diverse role within the Property and Development arena.”

Including the role of accomplishment and social responsibility. The feeling that girls are making a difference through their work rated highly in choosing a particular career path. Female students, for example, who excel in science and maths still tended towards careers that are considered more socially aware, such as medicine or veterinary science.

Again, Melanie said, the perceived idea of what the industry can’t offer, is inaccurate.

“Construction is such a tangible career,” she said.

“Just going from a concept in a meeting room to walking on-site, watching it being built and then seeing it finished with people using the space. It’s such an incredible thing to witness. You have a part in creating cities and communities that people can thrive, love, enjoy and interact socially within and that is so important and rewarding.”

“Not only that though, businesses that make

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money are businesses that can make impactful change, and there are plenty of opportunities through charities and industry foundations for there to be a large element of social responsibility in the industry,” Melanie said.

As well as the opportunity to become a trailblazer and mentor for other women in the industry.

“I believe that early exposure to mentors and successful women in the industry is critical, and not just in the public-school system but also the private schools as well, we need to educate everyone. There are so many smart and incredibly talented young women and men that need to have an understanding of what the industry can do for them, in addition we are letting them down if we do not make an effort to educate them.”

“I think the industry has realised this and now banded together.”

“We have to start somewhere and educating these girls who are in school now is a positive step forward. Then we need to encourage them into industry roles and construction, development and property firms so they can apply for leadership roles. In around six years’ time, there could potentially be a critical shift in the industry.

“It’s also important to educate the younger men about the importance of diversity, not from a gender point of view but from how diversity relates to profitability, and when you have a diverse and inclusive culture involving all forms such as diversity of thought, acceptance of opinion regardless of age, openness to discuss mental health, and no barriers to performance due to sexual orientation etc. In my opinion this is one initiative that we are yet to implement across our industry, although I believe it is the ultimate closing argument.”

Melanie Kurzydlo PHOTO: CONTRIBUTED

IN THE RESEARCH PAPER GIRLS’ PERCEPTIONS OF THE CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY: BUILDING A PICTURE OF WHO ISN’T INTERESTED IN A CAREER IN CONSTRUCTION AND WHY, DR PHILLIPA CARMONELLA MADE THE FOLLOWING RECOMMENDATIONS.  Construction needs to reposition itself as a career for both women and men. The construction sector’s employer groups and leading companies should undertake a campaign that rebrands construction as an aspirational career. Students, parents and schools need to be convinced.  The industry needs diverse role models and champions to communicate the potential and diversity of roles within a construction career.  Further research into the role that schools play in supporting careers in construction for girls is recommended. This will enable a better understanding of how schools can be better informed about opportunities within the construction industry for all female students, across all levels of academic achievement.  The construction industry should be encouraged to review its recruitment practices to include non-school leavers, warranting further research into exactly where interest in construction training comes from and how it can be encouraged from an early age. Further research is needed into how construction training and tertiary education is marketed/targeted to understand why particular schools are drawing more interest.

Nawic.com.au

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SUSAN’S GOT BUSINESS IN THE BAG ONLINE TOOL SHOP TO HELP TRADIES A TRADESPERSON is only as good as their tools, and Susan Hawley of Australian Online Tools, is proud to play a part in ensuring they have the best quality tools at the best possible price.

It is this thought that has driven Susan in the past and continues to drive her.

It was her desire to make life easier that Australian Online Tools was built out of five years ago.

As part of Susan’s other business, an online car parts and accessories retailer, she wanted to put together bundles to allow people to change their oil and air filters bought from her, but to do so she needed to find the right tools.

After failing to buy the right tool from a major franchise retailer, and after being given the run-around in trying to special order the tool, she decided to go straight to the manufacturer, T & E Tools.

In less than 24 hours, she had the right tool in her hand.

Over the years she’s continued to build her relationship with T & E Tools and has added a suite of tool makers to her list of suppliers

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including SP Tools, Kincrome and Kromex.

Susan said she had learned so much about the building industry since opening Australian Online Tools.

“A builder knows what it is they want, and I’ve had instances where customers have asked us if we have anything like a particular tool and we’ll speak to our suppliers and they’ll send through a couple of different options that fit what they want,” she said.

“It’s surprising what I’m learning about the building industry, as it’s not my background.

“But now I can visualise it; I can know what it is they are talking about and help them.”

Susan said she wanted to be able to help people on the tools get the best prices and quality tools they could, as well as the after service available.

“The most important part for us is knowing our customers can contact us by phone or online,” she said.

“Nothing worse than wanting to get on with a job and you’re waiting on an item to arrive or for a question to be answered.”

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ODD WOMAN OUT DR NATALIE GALEA UNSW SYDNEY

WHAT WE DON’T TALK ABOUT: MEN Making the industry a better place for men will attract more women, writes Dr Natalie Galea

T

here is no crying in construction. I learnt that rule early in my construction career. I still remember the look of disgust on my general manager’s face as I teared up. I had approached him to report that a colleague had threatened to “rip my head off my shoulders”.

From that moment on, if I needed to cry onsite, I hid from view.

Later, in my PhD research, I discovered that hiding your vulnerabilities is common in construction. Men hide stress, anxiety, panic attacks and even marriage breakdowns from their peers and managers under a blanket of silence.

Early on in my research, I shadowed a foreman who told me he had a panic attack on the drive into work most mornings. He wasn’t alone. Day after day, men I interviewed and shadowed disclosed to me the effect construction work was having on them personally and on their

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families. It shouldn’t have been a surprise.

Mates in Construction remind us that a young man working in construction is 10 times more likely to die by suicide than die from a workplace accident. In our sector we lose a construction worker every second day to suicide.

Some of the factors underlying men’s poor wellbeing are the same factors keeping women’s participation in construction low: old-fashioned work practices that don’t fit our modern-day lifestyles and actual or perceived public shaming of those who don’t demonstrate a Teflon-tough exterior.

He works hard for the money Clients and contractors are stuck in a time warp when it comes to their expectations of how construction projects are delivered.

Construction projects are still set up and won

There is little recognition that men want to be part of their children’s life.

We talk a lot about safety, but there is little recognition of the impact on wellbeing and safety from these outdated work practices — despite those shocking statistics about the suicide rate, and the advocacy of groups like Mates in Construction.

And few in the sector are ready to discuss the fact women will continue to leave one by one, no matter the recruitment campaign, if they continue to be offered a job where only an old-fashioned choice remains: career or family.

We also need to talk about the fact that when men do step out of the tough, silent façade — the straitjacket of masculinity — for example, by requesting more time with their family, they can be shamed and silenced by leaders and peers to keep them in line. These sanctioning behaviours keep the blanket of silence firmly in place, preventing change.

on the premise that those working on construction sites have a sole responsibility in life: to put bread on the table. The very slim margins factored into these schedules give workers little room in life for anything else but work, especially towards the end of a project when workers are expected to put in one last push to nudge it over the finish line. Once the project is complete, workers are ‘rewarded’ by being moved on to the next difficult job.

Contractors are rewarded for their ability to deliver to tight timeframes. And so, the cycle begins again.

The toll on the human workforce is never acknowledged. There’s so much we don’t say about men in construction.

We all know one income doesn’t support a family in most Australian capital cities anymore, but we don’t talk about it. Bread-winning is done by men and women.

A glimmer of hope: the five-day week I’m about to begin new research with Roberts Pizzarotti and the health facilities construction arm of the NSW Government – Health Infrastructure, on how a five-day working week impacts the 1000-person workforce at the Concord Hospital redevelopment in Sydney.

Called ‘Project 5: A weekend for every worker', the five-day work week challenges the stubborn idea that we have to work six days, sometimes seven days, to successfully complete projects. If it doesn’t sound like a big change, consider that the extra day off per week is equivalent to six weeks of additional leave per year, and what you could do with that time.

Our research team will also speak to their next of kin to learn how working five-day weeks changes their lives over the two-year project.

We want to know whether they stick to working five days, whether they feel less tired and less stressed, and whether it allows them to be more active in family and community life.

This project is also about showing clients that running six-day weeks has huge human costs that they may not see or hear about.

By having this conversation, and addressing the causes of these issues, we might make the sector a better place for everyone.

Dr Natalie Galea is a postdoctoral fellow at the Australian Human Rights Institute, UNSW Sydney, and co-founder of Cultivate — www.cultivatesponsorship.com. Natalie tweets @galeainvegas.

If this story raises concerns for you, please contact Lifeline: 13 11 14, MensLine: 1300 78 99 78 or Mates in Construction: 1300 642 111.

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MENTAL HCAROLYN EALT H ALESSI MATES IN CONSTRUCTION

ARE YOU

OK? Have you ever thought something wasn’t right with a colleague?

“

Are you OK?” This simple question could save a life. So why don’t we ask it at times? Is it because we don’t know what to do next if someone isn’t travelling too well? Will we offend them? Will they get upset?

Thursday, September 12 was Fly the Flag for MATES, in conjunction with R U OK? Day. Australia-wide, the construction industry showed its support of the awareness of suicide prevention in the industry.

In 2018, there were more than 1000 sites and workplaces in the construction industry that stopped to take a moment to reflect and pledge to watch out for their mates.

Research reveals sobering facts that every year in Australia, about 190 workers in the construction industry kill themselves. This means we lose a construction worker every second day to suicide.

And there are many more suicide attempts that we don’t hear about.

The causes can vary and include the transient nature of workers employed on a project-by-project basis for periods from a few weeks, to at best a few years. Financial instability and the sense of not belonging can exist. The industry struggles with alcohol and drug abuse which can make individuals even more depressed. Also, a culture of “build a bridge and get over it” or “have a cup of concrete and harden up” appears to be commonplace.

Fortunately, there is a shift but there is a long way to go. This attitude or culture makes discussing feelings and emotions with colleagues difficult

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when struggling with what life deals. Also, quite often pride will get in the way of someone asking for help. No wonder it is hard to talk about issues, and that’s why it is necessary to make the first move and ask about someone’s wellbeing.

MATES is a charity established in 2008 to reduce the high level of suicide among Australian construction workers. The program is based on the simple idea that suicide is everyone’s business.

If the building and construction industry in Australia is to improve the mental health of workers, the industry must play its part. MATES’ motto is Mates Helping Mates. You can find us in Queensland, New South Wales, South Australia, Western Australia and the Northern Territory.

In my experience working for MATES as a case manager/field officer since 2013, it is evident that not everyone needs or wants counselling, but everyone needed someone to talk to about their issues. Don’t hesitate if you notice someone struggling with life issues, as we all do from time to time. It is important that everyone knows that they do not have to go through it alone. If you notice anyone in your workplace or in your personal life struggling, just do it, ask “are you OK?” – don’t hesitate.  Call the MATES 24/7 Helpline for further information or support on 1300 642 111.  For information on fundraising events and how to donate, visit www.mates.org.au.  MATES relies on the support of the industry to keep going and donations are tax deductible.

Thank you for your support.

HEALTHY LALEEA IVIMOODIE NG YOGA BHAVA

CHOOSE YOUR CREW If your circle isn’t cheering for you ... is it time to find a new one?

I

t’s important to fill up your own cup first, so you can show up and be the best version of yourself for you, and for everyone else around you.

This includes who you have in your circle of influence. Those you spend the most time with have a huge influence on your moods, how you view the world and the expectations you have of yourself. When you surround yourself with positive people, you’re more likely to adopt empowering beliefs and see life as happening for you instead of to you. After all, you are essentially what you do, what you hear and what you see.

The energy that people around you have impacts on yours.

So are the people around you building you up?

Empowering you? Encouraging and supporting you?

Or, are they constantly being negative? Jealous or bringing you down? Are they “taking” without balance or exchange?

While I’m not saying these people are bad people – if your circle isn’t inspiring you to achieve your goals and cheering you on, is it time to find a new crew?

What I’ve learnt is the key to healthy relationships are boundaries, space, communication and most importantly, comprehension. You can communicate all you want, if the other person doesn’t understand you, it can be like talking to a brick wall.

Understanding this is going to be subjective to the individual, your definition of love, what is “normal”, success and beauty are different for

everyone. It’s important to note that people who are “good” for you are not necessarily people who are similar to you. Too much of the same thing can inhibit growth. You want to have diversity in thoughts and an eagerness to soak up knowledge.

Differing perspectives can help you with that.

It’s also important to recognise that life has its ups and downs and sometimes that negative person that you think you need to cut out of your life is in fact presenting you with a chance to grow. In a society obsessed with “positive vibes” and celebrating everything from coffees to Fridays, being around people when they are at their lowest is a challenge.

Something to consider is when you are communicating to someone and they give you “feedback” is where is that feedback coming from?

A place of love or their shadow? We all have a good and a bad side. Who we are when we are in our good is not necessarily who we are when we are in our bad. A big part of knowing who you are and being confident in that is choosing what to take on board and work on or knowing what is a reflection of them and not to let it get to you.

Sometimes easier said than done.

Those you spend the most time with have a huge influence on your moods, how you view the world and the expectations you have of yourself. When you surround yourself with positive people, you’re more likely to adopt empowering beliefs. Just as you benefit when you surround yourself with people who make you happy, you suffer when those in your business or social circles are negative or narrow-minded.

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PHOTO: CONTRIBUTED

MAKING HER MARK MEET FDC PROJECT MANAGER, CLAIRE JEFFREY

When did you join FDC? I joined in 2014, having worked in commercial construction since 2009. Before that I completed a degree in Construction Management at the University of Newcastle.

I love working in construction and want more women to enjoy the same challenges and opportunities I’ve had. The industry has so much to offer, but unfortunately it doesn’t cross the radar of most women I know.

Do you have a favourite project to date?

Phoenix Central Park. It’s the private art gallery and performance space of Judith Neilson, located in Chippendale in Sydney. We’ve had the privilege of working with two amazing architects, John Wardle Architects and Durbach Block Jaggers, on a truly once-in-a-lifetime project.

If you could meet anyone?

Bill Gates. He is a great problem solver in both business and philanthropy and he isn’t afraid to tackle the biggest challenges, which I find really inspiring.

Hidden talent or passion?

I’m very passionate about making the construction industry more inclusive for women.

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In twenty years I want to be…

Continuing to build amazing projects, developing the next generation of talent and using my time and skills to serve people in our community who need it most.

GUEST CONTRIBUT OR JO BUTLER LIVINGCONSTRUCTIONS.COM.AU

WOMEN OF

ARCHITECTURE Jo Butler sits down with three leading architects to talk about their experience, motivation, inspiration and advice for aspiring women in architecture

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LEFT: Christina Lucic RIGHT: Amy Eccles PHOTO: OLLIE KHEDUN

S

ydney has its fair share of beautiful homes, and from the distinguished guard of architects designing them now rises a new breed of assertive and deeply persuasive excellence defining the next generation and leaving an indelible mark on tomorrow’s architectural landscape.

Three such women are creating not only an impressive portfolio of architectural achievements, but they are unwittingly united in their approach and ethos — all sharing in common threads that weave the fabric of their respective careers, and each becoming cornerstones of three of Sydney’s notable architectural firms. These women are refreshingly inclusive and profoundly intelligent; not only designing with intuitive intent, but also taking you along for the ride.

Having the opportunity to meet and discuss this journey with Bronwyn Litera, associate architect, Stafford Architecture, Christina Lucic, associate architect at Popov Bass and Amy Eccles, associate architect at Corben Architects, to discuss the common denominators, the similarities quickly become apparent and much like the construction process, their robust and diligent foundations support the quality of their aspiring direction.

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Where did the architectural journey begin?

Christina As a 17-year-old I had little idea of who I was or who I wanted to become. I had thoroughly mapped out my personal life but had given little thought to my career path. On a whim, I submitted architecture as my preference for university and was accepted into the University of Sydney to begin my architecture journey.

University gave me sleepless nights, countless tears, enough model offcuts to fill a small skip bin and, above all, an opportunity to think big — nonetheless rooted in a strong conceptual framework — a lesson central to my design approach today. I also worked in retail and when I wasn’t in a pink Priceline shirt offering advice on skincare, I was working full-time at Popov Bass as a student. This offered an insight into the real world of architecture.

Bronwyn I very nearly dropped out in my first year at university. Looking back, I didn’t fully grasp how to take a blank canvas and turn it into architecture, but RMIT teaches you how to think.

University was inordinate amounts of work, which, coupled with actual paid work made for very little sleep. I worked at my local supermarket throughout my study, which helped me develop leadership and time-management skills. In my final years, I started with Suters Prior & Cheney Architects.

Work experience as a student is one of the best things you can do to kickstart your career — universities are fantastic to push thinking and creativity, and real-world experience will educate in the practicalities and formalities.

Amy My interests at school led me to consider architecture as a career path. I loved the freedom of creative subjects and the process of turning a concept into reality. I grew up near London and emigrated to Sydney when I was 17.

My parents suggested a career in architecture, and I enrolled at UNSW. I definitely had tough times, long days, late nights and the commitment to the career was tested. I went to Sweden to start my master’s degree and believe the collaborative style of learning/teaching in Sweden has influenced the way I like to work today. Part-time work during university made the art of balancing work, study and downtime challenging, however, it was important to develop time-management skills crucial to the job. I’ve learnt that you actually never stop learning.

Is there something inside that really motivates and drives you about being an architect?

Bronwyn Definitely the journey. The physical journey that we create in the design for the client and the house, also the physical and emotional journey of bonding with the client, the builder, the consultants and contractors seeing an idea

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become a reality. Being able to experience that journey, in the created space, the light and the simple functionality. I think it is an integral skill for any designer to be able to step back and refocus on the big picture. I believe that’s really the only way you can finish.

Christina The deeply personal task of designing someone’s dream home. Architects wear a lot of hats — negotiator, lawyer, project manager — but the most important one is that of communicator. Our role is to interpret the wants and needs of our client and communicate them effectively through our designs. It’s incredibly humbling when clients love your idea, and even better when they love the finished product.

Amy I count myself lucky to work directly with the stakeholders of each project. Seeing a project through from the initial concept design to a completed home can take many years, during which strong working relationships are built through the collaborative process. Nothing is more satisfying than to see clients happily living in their completed home, especially when it exceeds their expectations.

Everyone’s contribution makes the finished product the best it can be and that is in itself motivating.

If inspiration is the breath of life, what breathes life into what you do?

Amy I have no singular source of inspiration. There is a lot to be said for the quality of the space around us, whether it be in nature or the built environment, and the positive effect it can have on the way you live your everyday life. I aspire to produce architecture whereby the design enhances lifestyle. Timeless design evolves with the user — material selections that age gracefully and continue to improve with the patina of time. The experience of the building should remain meaningful and continue to be relevant regardless of time.

Bronwyn The excitement of seeing something beautiful, clever and well considered creates a little balloon in my chest; awe, delight, maybe even a little envy, and most definitely a desire to do better. Architecture creates that experience for people and evokes feelings. What I find truly inspirational is that architecture can and does create a better world. I’m constantly inspired, not just by interesting design but also the ingenious model which makes it possible, the careful thought that goes into the entire process, satisfying not only the end user but the builder, the investors, the authorities and the environment.

Christina The work of David Chipperfield has always inspired me. The refined palette and clean

LEFT & ABOVE: Bronwyn Litera

PHOTO: OLLIE KHEDUN

lines exude an architectural finesse and sophistication that is beyond compare. Closer to home, there are so many successful women leading the charge in the architectural and interiors fields, Hannah Tribe and Miriam Fanning to name a few.

Aspiration is like the distant mountain peak — the contented long grass valley of our careers. I don’t actually know what the end game will be, but the aspiration is?

Amy I would love to elevate the role of craftspeople on my future projects. Similarly, sourcing locally made products or purchasing from local artists and furniture makers. Producing restrained, timeless architecture that responds to its context and experience of the client it was designed for — the definition of bespoke — where time wears in as opposed to wears out.

Bronwyn To be inspirational to others. I definitely do not aspire to fame or a spotlight. Ideally a small practice, known for its attention to detail and design philosophies, where I could focus more broadly on producing a high quality of work and educating another wave of architects. I’d like to be more involved in the architectural community too, whether through the institute, universities or other avenues. It would be fantastic to travel and research in order to keep learning to then be able to give something back — share the experience.

Christina The ideal is a balance of work, travel, having a family and perhaps even designing a home of my own (if Sydney property prices ever come down).

Above all, my ultimate is to achieve fulfilment in whatever journey life takes me.

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drawing is, which sounds so basic, but it’s such an easy thing to do poorly. I’d also always encourage speaking up. It doesn’t have to be in that big meeting, but maybe one to one — everyone has a perspective, regardless of rank. All those painful little tasks just build up to good practice and good habits.

PHOTOS: OLLIE KHEDUN

Advice?

Christina Don’t give up. Eventually you will be given more opportunities and greater responsibility — good things take time. In the interim, be inquisitive.

Don’t be afraid to ask questions, it shows interest and is a great way to build your skills.

Amy Definitely learn the basics. We’ve all started in the same position. Experience and knowledge take a lifetime to build up. The years at university will equip you with the skills for the job, and beyond that your experience and your communication skills will speak volumes. Learn to produce beautiful, clear and considered drawings. Ask questions — tutors, peers, colleagues, builders, consultants and tradespeople, clients are all a source of experience and expertise. Asking questions will help develop working relationships, your design knowledge and ultimately improve the final outcome.

Bronwyn As painful as it is, embracing even the most menial and mundane tasks assigned to you as a junior. I see now how valuable a clear and concise

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In the architectural workplace, what strengths do women bring to the table?

Amy Great architecture is created by men and women working together. I work in an office that has a very equal mix of female and male staff. I work alongside a dedicated and talented group of women, many of whom are working mums who have skilfully created a balance between caring for their young families while rising to the demands of a professional career. This isn’t an easy task and I consider them role models. A commonality between myself and my female peers would be communication. We’re good listeners and I think are seen as approachable because of this.

Bronwyn One of the most important factors in our work is our communication and relationships with everyone involved; trust from the client is paramount. I do feel in a lot of cases women nurture this and can be very rational in high-intensity situations, and often a calming force. A woman in a construction role today is inevitably determined, driven and strong, because that’s what it takes to get where we are.

Christina Women are emotionally driven — we have an innate nurturing and nesting quality which aligns with architecture. It reflects in the way we approach design, but also in the way we communicate. We listen, we’re empathetic and we’re assertive. Women in these roles tend to be supportive of one another, we lift each other and work towards a common understanding of how our roles are evolving.

What resounding milestone has left an indelible mark with you?

Amy A momentous milestone in my career to date was becoming a registered architect. It took a decade to achieve and the support from so many people — family, friends, colleagues, tutors and mentors.

And of course, the very first job that I project managed. A more recent achievement would be the DA approval for a 700sq m single residential project in Mosman which successfully gained DA approval without receiving a single neighbour objection — which is almost unheard of.

Bronwyn I don’t know if I would ever forget the Rock House even 50 years from now. It was my first project in the office, and I started it at concept design almost five years ago. The project began with a traditional tender, however, the clients decided to construct as an owner-builder. This meant as the architect, and without a project manager, I was inherently far

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PHOTO: OLLIE KHEDUN

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more involved in all aspects of the build than the architect might usually be. It was incredibly challenging at times, and incredibly rewarding, and I feel as though I’ve learnt a lot — and am still learning a lot as it finishes up. The learning curve was steep, not just in building methods and detailing, but also in personability and relationships. In the end, I honestly believe it’s these relationships that have produced/are producing such a beautiful result.

Christina The adaptive re-use of the Griffiths Teas building in Surry Hills would have to be the stand-out project in my career to date. The building had been derelict for 30-plus years when our office participated in a competition which called for the design of a mixed-use development. The big idea was poetic — to insert tea boxes within the original structure, a play on the original use of the building as a tea storage facility. As project architect, my task was to see the project through construction. The project opened my eyes to new ways of thinking, different ways of communicating and boosted my confidence tenfold.

Conclusion

It is a remarkable composition to consider the future of construction is driven by a common ethos of communication and relationships — where the old guard of hierarchy has made way to a new guard of a more collaborative and defining journey. If this is the future of construction, as it seems to be, where the attention is not only in the detail but the establishment of strong and enduring relationships; if this is to be the foundations of a house, it will indeed form the structure of a gracious home.

Contacts: bronwyn@staffordarchitecture.com.au c.lucic@popovbass.com.au ae@corben.com.au Photography: Ollie Khedun hello@oanda.works www.oanda.works Written by: Jo Butler

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PHOTO: CONTRIBUTED

CULTURE KEY TO SUCCESS LIPMAN’S REPUTATION BUILT ON CERTAINTY

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ur culture A pioneer of the philosophy of co-operative contracting in Australia, Phillip Lipman established the company over 53 years ago. From the outset, the spirit of co-operation has been deeply ingrained in our corporate DNA and has always remained a core value. The Lipman culture is something we are proud of, something we cherish and protect. Our values are not merely glib marketing lines, they are central to the way we conduct our business both personally and professionally.

Through living by these commitments, we have forged a reputation as one of the premier providers of design and construction services in the commercial construction market.

Acknowledged not only for our quality, integrity, and creativity, but more importantly for the certainty we provide our clients.

Our reach In 2014, Lipman developed a long-term strategy for regional expansion across NSW & SEQ. The strategy revolved around modest, organic growth based on local people, clients, and relationships. This has been the hallmark of our 53 years of success in the Sydney market and this

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same strategy has underpinned the establishment of offices in Port Macquarie, Bathurst and Ballina (acquisition of Bennett Construction) over the past four years.

Our ability to add value Our genuine pursuit to provide all Lipman clients with ‘best for project’ outcomes has led to an ongoing ‘self-education’ process with respect to alternative construction methodologies. We have adopted a ‘go and see’ approach and have invested a significant amount of time and money to understand the technologies that are available in the market today and those that are emerging on the horizon.

Understanding the application of new technologies in detail is extremely important to us as we feel that if we are not well informed in this space, then we are not providing our clients with the best advice as a design & construct Head Contractor. Our research has extended to all aspects of material including mass timber, modularisation and panelisation. We are committed to applying this understanding to continually improve outcomes across the key delivery metrics of time, cost, quality, sustainability and safety.

.a u m an .c om w .lip w w Sydney • Port Macquarie • Bathurst • Ballina

BUSIVERITY NES S HARE TRADIEWIVES.COM.AU

BLITZ YOUR BUSINESS IN 2020 Get ahead in the new year with these plans in place

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love the first week back at work after the Christmas break. It feels like a clean slate and is a great opportunity to put a few things in place that will set you up for the new year. Here are a few things I do in our trade business the first week back: Plan the year – I actually start this by doing anything that was left unfinished at the end of last year like clearing out our emails, responding to quote inquiries or following up unpaid invoices. This new year I plan to send Happy New Year cards to our clients. I read a great tip somewhere last year that sending a Happy New Year card is a great way of keeping you front of mind once the haze of Christmas has been and gone.

The start of the year is also a good time to advise clients of any price increases that may be taking effect. I like to do a personal budget and write down a list of goals we want to achieve. We also get all our equipment cleaned and serviced and ready to start our first job of the year.

Get in touch with quotes not converted – Towards the end of the year we seem to do a lot of quotes for people who want to get an idea of pricing so they can budget it for the new year. A lot of our work actually comes from quotes we have done the previous year, so following these up is a priority for us.

Schedule social media posts – While my mind is

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fresh, I like to schedule a good month’s worth of social media posts, so I don’t have to worry about it for a while. I do a mix of before and after pictures of jobs, progress photos of jobs, tips on looking after various plants (we are landscapers), the team in action while working on site, and funny memes that I think our audience might relate to. I use a scheduling app for this called Later.

Update the website – The new year is a good time to update your business website. I upload photos of jobs completed in the previous year and post a new blog. I also like to get a few blogs written ready in advance to post in the year when things get too busy to write them.

Reassess systems/processes – We like to assess all our systems and processes. We look at what worked in the previous year and what could be improved this year. Having strong systems and processes in place definitely takes some of the stress of running a business away. I have had enough of swimming in receipts and invoices, so we want to go paperless in our business. We will be implementing some new software to enable us to do this and I couldn’t be more excited to see the back of paperwork.

I hope these tips will assist in setting you up for a great new year and that 2020 is one of the best years for you yet.

THE COUNTER OFFER Should you stay or should you go?

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ne of your new year’s resolutions might include finding a new job. Hopefully you are lucky enough to be offered your perfect career role.

The next step is to hand in your notice. So, what happens if you receive a counter offer from your current employer?

Should you stay or should you go?

It’s flattering and tempting when more money is offered and better conditions are promised. However, be cautious about accepting a counter offer.

Didn’t you already decide to move when you applied for other jobs, attended interviews and signed a new contract?

If your current employer is happy to increase your salary now, why didn’t they do it before? Will you have to fight for every pay rise in the future?

Think back to all the reasons you decided to move initially. Was career growth important? Assess the long-term picture — if your current company couldn’t fulfil

your career needs last month, what has suddenly changed?

If you were disillusioned with the company management or your direct line manager, then it’s an incredibly easy decision: move on, because the way people behave rarely changes.

Most people who accept counter offers end up leaving within the next couple of years regardless.

Keep in mind that the counter offer is a cost-saving strategy. The budget to recruit and train your replacement likely exceeds your pay rise.

Considering a career change?

Perhaps try talking to your current employer before you start job hunting. At least then you know where they see you within their organisation and how much they really value your contribution.

On most occasions, if you do get a counter offer, the best thing to do is politely decline and move on.

Constructing Relationships That Last

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At Clinton Recruitment the focus has always been on quality rather than quantity. Clinton Recruitment is the preferred Recruitment Agency of the Master Builders Association of New South Wales and is proud to be a sponsor of the annual Construction Awards in Sydney.

Managing Director, Louise Clinton has over 20 years experience of recruitment within the Building and Construction sector and is a passionate advocate of women working in construction.

If you are seeking a new career opportunity within the Construction Industry or looking for key members of staff to join your team, let’s talk.

T: 02 9664 8653 E: louise@clintonrecruitment.com.au W: www.clintonrecruitment.com.au FLORENCE | | 39

PHOTOS: CONTRIBUTED

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ALL ABOUT

eve The workwear taking tradie chic to the next level

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ve workwear is a brand born out of necessity to provide women a choice with their workwear.

The brand was established in 2012 by tradeswomen Laura and Juanita, owners of a construction company in Brisbane.

How can we feel part of an industry when we don’t have the appropriate clothing?

All the girls in the photos are tradeswomen, apprentice carpenters, carpenters and electricians. eve is more than a brand, it’s a community. eveworkwear.com.au @eveworkwear

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SUITABLY HIP FOR WORKING WOMEN Green Hip designs are durable, comfortable, safe and great for the environment

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PHOTOS: CONTRIBUTED

C

lothing is the visual validation of a person’s sense of identity and the outward expression of their sense of worth; of how they see themselves fitting into society. Green Hip enhances a woman’s sense of self worth and identity and delivers a tailor-made fit of workwear for all women in the workforce. Through clever design and fabric development, Green Hip allows women to work in comfort and style, day in, day out.

Over the years, Green Hip has joined forces with Landcare groups and have planted more than 30,000 plants in Victoria. This is the company’s environmental pledge: for every garment they sell they plant a native grass, shrub or tree. Giving back makes the Green Hip team feel great and spending time with the community gives them a great feeling of connection. greenhip.com.au

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PARRAMATTA PROJECT DELIVERS DIVERSITY With a team composed of more than 35 per cent women, this project is set to change more than the Parramatta skyline

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et to become a landmark building in Western Sydney, 32 Smith Street will reinvigorate the region with its cutting-edge technology and Green Star credentials.

In line with Parramatta’s Smart City Vision, the construction team driving project delivery is 35 per cent female, demonstrating the opportunities available for women to be successful in the industry.

Richard Crookes Constructions Construction Manager, Bill Stavrinos, said creating opportunity for women onsite was always a priority. “A diverse and inclusive team culture creates a collaborative and innovative environment which we believe achieves the best results for all stakeholders.”

Thanks to the company’s culture-driven EVP, they were lucky enough to attract a number of key female team members for the project.

“We targeted Jano Yousseph, Senior Design Manager, as she has a high level of commercial and fit-out experience and a focus on developing women in the industry. She has been an inspiration to Sally, our Digital Engineer and Emily who joined the team after receiving our Merit Scholarship for Women at UTS. As with any project, we pair new starters with existing RCC staff to ensure our values are embedded in every team.”

Bill said RCC and their client GPT shared a commitment to diversity and a positive, high-performing culture.

“The team has developed a collaborative culture onsite. Having a strong female leader like Celine Dunne has been an amazing development opportunity for everyone on the project. She also promotes a culture of flexibility within the team, and she herself works from home one day a week.”

RCC has a women in construction program, focused on creating opportunity and supporting career development for female employees. The initiative involves an onsite buddy system which promotes a collaborative team culture by giving new starters the opportunity to learn and develop with the comfort of a supportive environment and relatable leaders to bounce ideas off.

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MORGAN SHANKS SITE ENGINEER

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’m a site engineer on the 32 Smith Street project. Having relocated from the Hunter region to Sydney for the project, one of the highlights for me so far has been the opportunity to diversify my professional network.

There are challenges on all projects, but it has been a lot easier working with such a bunch of talented individuals and under a strong female Senior Project Manager. I’ve enjoyed and learnt a lot working with Celine and look forward to observing how she maintains such a strong position in the project as the program advances.

For me personally, this job involves adapting to a new landscape and establishing new connections without the support of familiar team members around me. I am lucky to have the support of the company and a great team to make this easier.

I think these challenges apply to everyone no matter your gender, although finding a strong

voice in any environment where you are the minority is challenging. I believe as time progresses that a strong female voice is being more valued in our industry. I’d say that how comfortable a workplace is, is less about the industry and more about having the right individuals on site.

I do think the industry needs to increase awareness amongst young females about the growing number of opportunities in construction in Australia and the exciting nature of a career in this field. Better explaining what a career in construction involves and specifically upskilling young women in the areas necessary to succeed in the industry should be a focus moving forward. I like that my job exposes me to a varied environment, where I’m consistently learning new things. Every project has its own complexities and it’s very satisfying to be able to look at a completed building and know you played a part in delivering it.

CELINE DUNNE SENIOR PROJECT MANAGER

A

PHOTOS: NEIL BAILEY

s Senior Project Manager, I have overarching responsibility for delivering the 32 Smith Street project. I focus on time, quality and budget while also managing our relationship with GPT, QBE, our project partners and mentoring the team.

Being able to work on such a high-profile, beautifully-designed landmark project, which will form part of the revitalisation of Parramatta, is one of the highlights of this role. I also enjoy being able to lead an incredibly talented team and work with such an innovative and socially responsible client in GPT. There are challenges with every project, however this is what I enjoy the most about my job. One of my strengths has always been to be solution-focused and I aim to inspire the same approach from my team, encouraging them to think ‘outside the box’.

I believe that the industry has a responsibility to work together to showcase the opportunities for women in construction.

This commitment needs to start with school-age females in order to educate young women on the variety of options which are now available in the industry as well as start to change the language we use to talk about career choices. If we can inform young women of the breadth of opportunities which exist in construction and

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remove any stigma around working in any historically male-dominated industry, then we are better supporting them to pursue the career of their choice.

I would definitely recommend construction to other women and to anyone who wants a challenging and rewarding career, where you can stand back at the end of each day and be proud of what you have delivered.

JANO YOUSSEPH SENIOR DESIGN MANAGER

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am the senior design manager on the 32 Smith Street project. In my role, I lead the design team to maintain the client’s vision whilst coordinating each element for safe construction. Working hand-in-hand with GPT as a collaborative team to tackle challenges and leverage opportunities as the project evolves is proving to be really rewarding. This approach encourages full ownership of the process and outcome by GPT and will provide them and their tenants with a seamless transition into the completed building.

Budgets, scope and construction programs don’t always align – and our challenge is to align the design and construction process to deliver an exceptional outcome for GPT. I approach things a little differently than some of my male colleagues; I can be tough when I need to be – but also find that an honest and open approach solves most issues. My experience working client side on previous projects also allows me to look at things from a different perspective – I always ask myself – what would I expect if I was the client – and that seems to work.

I started in the property industry over 25 years ago, and in the beginning, it was very difficult for me to adapt. There were some uncomfortable moments, but I found it was all about how I handled it. Back then, you needed to be thick skinned in this industry – I discovered that you just need to politely point out how offensive something was and normally that would be enough for people to change their behaviour. The industry has matured since then and has provided me with amazing opportunities over the years, including raising awareness among my male and female colleagues about gender discrimination and the need for all colleagues to be treated with respect.

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Compared to other industries, the hours are long, the conditions aren’t always glamorous – but the rewards are unbelievable.

It’s been really nice to see a meaningful change in work life balance since joining RCC. The business has a number of initiatives in place to attract and support women in the industry, across all roles.

As an industry, there is also some room for improvement in the corporate environment – recruiting more women into senior leadership roles and supporting them to stay there and to succeed is critical. It is important that the experience and expertise of women is valued in the same way as that of men. And of course – it goes without saying – there should be equal pay for equal work. In this industry, as in many others, women are still getting paid less than men for the same work. Seeing this positive shift play out successfully at RCC has been great and the people who have joined and remain with the business as a result, speaks for itself.

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TRADIE TALK ANGELA SMITH LIFESTYLE TRADIE LIFESTYLETRADIE.COM.AU

HOW TO TALK TO TRADIES Building rapport will go a long way

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or women working in the still male-dominated construction industry, talking to tradies can feel intimidating. Trade business owner and co-founder of Lifestyle Tradie, Angela Smith, explains how to nail every conversation Thankfully, today’s tradies tend to be from a different mould to the traditional stereotype.

Even so, talking to the modern tradie presents its own set of challenges (and vice versa). That’s why the best starting point is to show respect.

Be firm, but fair in every interaction The trade industry operates like a pack of cards.

There is a massive knock-on effect on any project if the schedule is impacted in any way. It puts pressure on everyone involved (including you) to stay on track from both a time and budget perspective.

Here’s where you can set the tone when talking with tradies.

When emotions are running high, aim to remain level headed. Everyone has goals to achieve on construction sites. If you want to achieve your goals, with the help of tradies, always be firm but fair in your communication.

Understand these tradie pet peeves It is no secret most tradies are straight shooters.

Typically, they have a no-nonsense approach. In my experience, tradies have little patience for beating around the bush. Get to the point. Fast.

Explain exactly what you need them to do.

Also, tradies aren’t dazzled by qualifications.

They’re practical, knowledgeable professionals, too. Establish a collaborative relationship from

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the start. Be open to any feedback or advice from tradies. It may improve the project you’re working on.

For example, there is often a disconnect between building plans and the practicalities of making it happen. Experienced tradies will flag any potential issues, and offer solutions. It is important to listen to these pearls of wisdom.

Speak the same language The easiest way to get traction when talking with tradies is to build rapport. A good way to go about this is to identify any personal interests. Drawing on what we know about our trade business members, these are the most popular discussion points:  Sport. Discuss the latest sporting headlines or ask a tradie which sporting team they follow. It will spark some friendly banter.  Cars. Is your tradie a Holden or Ford lover? You will find most tradies have a strong opinion about which brand is better!  Fishing and camping. Many tradies are fans of the great outdoors. Perhaps enquire about their favourite fishing or camping spots?  Family. Every tradie I know has a soft spot for family.

When all is said and done, talking with tradies is pretty straightforward. You will find most tradies are really friendly and helpful, if you’re friendly and helpful, too.

Lifestyle Tradie is Australia’s #1 trade business education and coaching platform, designed for trade business owners to make more profit, connect with a like-minded community, and create a better lifestyle. lifestyletradie.com.au

HANNAH SHEPHARD

ASSOCIATE

FIELDING ROBINSON LAWYERS

SECURITY OF PAYMENT AMENDMENTS A number of important changes to the Security of Payment legislation took effect in October, 2019 Reinstating the requirement to include the notation that an invoice is a “payment claim” under SOP Previous amendments to Security of Payment removed the requirement to write: “This is a Payment Claim made under the Building and Construction Industry Security of Payment Act 1999 (NSW)” on the invoice or cover sheet of the claim. The amendment was introduced to automatically turn every contractor’s invoice into a payment claim, whether or not they intended to utilise the procedures under the Act. One of the consequences of this was that claimants were unintentionally issuing payment claims, in some cases where they only had one shot to issue a payment claim, and were then missing the opportunity to carry the process through to adjudication and recovery of the debt owed.

This new amendment will mean that for a payment claim to be valid under the Act, it will have to include the statement or “endorsement,” flagging it as a payment claim. Parties will have a choice between making all of their invoices a payment claim, or saving the ability to activate the Security of Payment procedures for a later date.

Removing the “reference date” terminology The phrase “reference date” caused a lot of confusion for people. In addition to the confusion, principals and head contractors were limiting the ability of those downstream to make payment claims by including only one or few reference date(s) in contracts — for example, only one on completion of work. This impacted cash flow for these contractors. Now, instead of limiting the right to a progress payment to a reference date, the Act will simply provide an entitlement to a progress payment (and in turn a payment claim) once a month. Parties to a contract will be able to agree that claims can be made more frequently, and will still be able to agree on “milestone” payments, providing a minimum entitlement to claim once a month.

Payment claim after termination A Court case in 2018 held that no reference dates

arose after termination of a contract. This meant that in the event of a dispute, a principal or head contractor could terminate the contract (either validly or not) and the other party was not able to issue a payment claim afterwards, unless a previous reference date had not been used up.

This severely restricted the rights of party to use SOP, even if their contract had been improperly terminated by the other party.

While the phrase “reference date” will no longer be used, the new amendments expressly give a claimant a right to make a payment claim after termination of the contract. This will give claimants an avenue to obtain an adjudication determination in relation to the value of work they have completed, even if on an interim basis if the dispute ends up in court.

Shortening payment due dates Previous amendments to the Act in 2014 inadvertently lengthened the time for payment for smaller operators, who had previously relied on the 10-business-day due date provided for in the Act prior to those amendments.

The new amendments will shorten the time frame for payment to a head contractor by a principal from 15 business days to 10 business days. The time frame for payment to a subcontractor by a head contractor will be reduced from 30 business days to 20 business days. Both of these time frames can be shorter if provided in the contract.

Fine for not including a Supporting Statement to increase to $110,000 The fine for a head contractor which is a corporation not serving a Supporting Statement with a payment claim will increase from 200 penalty units to 1000 penalty units. A penalty unit in NSW is $110, so this is an increase from $22,000 to $110,000. The reasoning behind the amendment is so the applicable fine provides an effective deterrent to the commission of an offence under the Act. This article does not outline all the recent amendments and is intended to be a guide only. Specialist legal advice should be sought in relation to particular circumstances.

FLORENCE | | 51

Q&A

5 minutes with... Penny Petridis

KNOWING THE DRILL Female Tradie’s Penny Petridis talks about making it her business to encourage women to take up the tools

W

ith 23 years of experience in the trades, small business owner Penny Petridis wants to get more women into the construction industry, through training courses at Female Tradie.

How did Female Tradie start?

After school I got into metalwork and I spent some time building race cars. Then I moved into carpentry and started my own business called Decked Out. I noticed when I turned up to a job that people would be surprised that I was a woman, and I would spend a lot of time explaining myself, assuring them that I was qualified and could do the work. Basically, I started to get fed up with having to do this at the beginning of every job and I was thinking ‘what can I do about this?’ So that’s how Female Tradie came to be. I thought ‘this way people know what to expect, they know they are calling a woman’. So I could just get straight into the job.

As I went on working, I realised that there were a lot of women watching me and wanting to know about what I do. They would say ‘I wish I could do that’. There are a lot of people out there who would like to be handy, who would like to be able to put pictures frames up on their walls. And I thought to myself ‘this is how I can help’.

So the workshops have now become the focus of your business?

I still run my own building business, but I really enjoy the training.

The workshops are open to everybody – men and women, and they really cater to two different groups.

I do the DIY and Get Handy workshops for people who just want to be able to fix a few things around the house without having to call a tradie.

Then there are the people who are interested in

52 | | FLORENCE

Penny Petridis talking tools at a workshop at the Sydney Opera House for

starting in a trade. Unfortunately, a lot of the time, when an apprentice starts on a job site they barely know the difference between their drill bits. As an employer, I found this really hard, because while you want to give an apprentice a chance and support them, as a small business owner you still have to pay their wages and if they don’t know what to do on a site, that can be a problem.

I did a six-week carpentry course with a group of girls for this reason. They wanted to get into a trade as a career and this way they learn the basic skills they need, so they have a better chance of getting an apprenticeship.

Is not being able to get an apprenticeship one of the reasons why there are so few female tradies out there?

I think so. I always thought that the girls don’t really get a chance, that they struggle to get apprenticeships.

I think the government has a role to play. There are government grants to encourage builders to employ women but to be honest, it wouldn’t

ouse for International Women’s Day 2019

even cover their superannuation and that’s not going to make it any easier. There needs to be more programs and incentives not only for women who want to take up a trade but for the businesses wanting to employ them.

Because the reality is there are not that many small building businesses that can afford to support these girls. Especially if they are fresh on a job site with no previous experience. At the end of the day it’s still a business.

Are there any other reasons?

It’s a physical job and it’s hard work. In the early years especially, you pretty much work, get home, eat, bath and bed. That’s what it is.

And sometimes I think that girls don’t think they have the strength and confidence to do it. But they can do it and I think it’s an amazing job to be able to build. Sure, it is hard work, but it’s totally worth the hard work.

Its clearly something you love. Would you recommend learning a trade to young women?

Yes, it’s so satisfying. I’d tell girls just out of

PHOTO: PRUDENCE UPTON

school to go for it …get out there! You’ll never regret having a trade skill under your belt. You really can’t go wrong. Even if you decide later to move into something else, it’s a skill you will have for the rest of your life.

That’s one of the things I like most about the workshops. You can get a young girl who has absolutely no experience on the tools who finds out she absolutely loves it.

And it goes from there.

Female Tradie will be holding Get Handy workshops on the first Saturday of every month from 9am to 2pm. The one-day workshop will be jam-packed full of knowledge on what and how to use hand tools/ power drills and impact drivers. For more information on carpentry workshops like Decking – How to Build your own Deck, visit femaletradie.com

FLORENCE | | 53

ADVERTORIAL

Before and after: JDV Projects restoration of the previously disused garade to create a workspace for volunteers & staff

Restoring the faith “The Northern Beaches Women’s Shelter (NBWS) was established by our community, it exists to serve our community, it serves because of our community.” Rosie Sullivan, Founding Board Member.

In July this year, JDV Projects were approached by the Shelter Manager at Northern Beaches Women’s Shelter to see how far their limited budget gathered through fundraising could stretch towards creating a dedicated workspace for the committed team of volunteers and staff.

Instantly keen to participate, JDV made it their mission to conserve the funds of the shelter - which are required to operate the shelter and help those in need – and deliver the project at no cost.

Partnering with a local firm Careel Designs, the combined team - who offered all work pro bono - went about creating a new space for the administration team. The conversion of a previously disused garage freed up

desperately needed crisis accommodation for women in danger of domestic violence, mental health issues and financial hardship and homelessness.

The project rapidly gained momentum and JDV Projects gave their full support by reaching out to their dedicated subcontractors and friends to seek donations of supplies and labour to this worthy and much needed cause. The response was overwhelming and truly embodied the strong community spirit and support that lies within the construction industry especially for the welfare of those less fortunate and in particular women.

With the mission complete, we are so very proud to have delivered the project, together with our team of dedicated subcontractors, suppliers, industry friends and colleagues, at nil cost for the NBWS “What a difference the office makes. It is wonderfully bright and spacious and away from

the residents’ private space.

The improved quality that brings to the residents and the staff experience at the Shelter is enormous. For so long this has been a dream of not only Jacqui our Shelter Manager, but the staff and board as well. It was your effort, connections and your expertise that made our dreams come true. We are indebted to you.”

Kim Backhouse, Acting Business and Communications Manager JDV Projects would like to offer sincere thanks and acknowledge the generous contribution to all who contributed to this wonderful project - such a terrific team effort.

02 9805 6100 info@jdvgroup.com.au 16/78 Reserve Road, Artarmon NSW 2064

FINOGARIT ANKELLEY CE OGARIT.KELLEY@ MBFINANCIAL.COM.AU

NEW SET OF WHEELS? There are plenty of finance options available

A

s a woman working in a banking and finance world, I am excited to be part of this edition of Florence. About nine years ago I was asked to be part of the Master Builders financial services team. I have always been proud of the level of understanding and education I can bring to the team and our members. However, I never thought I would take such genuine interest in the specifics of the building and construction industry. I was very wrong. I have grown in knowledge and understanding by being part of it all. So I thank you and I aim to continue to bring the same level of knowledge to all in the building and construction industry looking at any financial services products.

At some stage in life and in business we all need tools to keep growing, supporting and enjoying what we do. We need homes, cars, trucks, computers, fit-outs, machinery and so much more. Some may choose to pay cash, others may agree with me, and find a solution that is effective for them.

Asset finance frees up your cashflow. The benefit of leasing a vehicle rather than buying up-front, is that you usually get more car for your money. As cars depreciate over time, why pay the full purchase price up-front?

Leasing a vehicle for commercial purposes can generate significant tax savings for some. For more information about this, talk to a registered tax agent or one of our specialists.

Leasing provides the freedom to customise your loan structure in a way that is affordable, suitable and effective for you and your business. With each loan repayment you can build up equity for the future should you decide to sell or upgrade to a new model, keeping your monthly expenses low and freeing up cashflow.

Access our fleet pricing and finance packages through MBFS. We work with you to choose a funding solution that benefits and suits you, providing the pleasure of you owning or driving a new car every few years.

FLORENCE | | 55

DAY IN THAMANDA E LIF E KELLY SPECIAL PROJECTS OFFICER MBA NSW

HYBRID POWER Amanda Kelly takes the new RAV4 for a test drive

T

he first RAV4 defined the compact SUV and pioneered a new attitude in everyday possibilities.

In the spirit of the original, RAV4 is again making a bold statement in modern performance, capability and design.

RAV4 has been completely re-engineered and epitomises intuitive modern thinking. From the purposefully chiselled exterior lines, through to the latest technology, including Toyota’s first SUV Hybrid powertrain option, every RAV4 blends admirable fuel efficiency with formidable performance.

Performance The exterior design features a wide stance for increased stability and brilliant on-road behaviour.

The superior handling, stability and comfort that come from the advanced aerodynamics all help minimise driver fatigue over long distances.

These design features, including aero stabilising fins and a rear spoiler, also contribute to improved fuel efficiency.

There are three choices of highly refined engines.

The 2.0L 2WD petrol engine available on GX, GXL and Cruiser models; the 2.5L Hybrid engine comes in 2WD and electric AWD options and is available on GX, GXL and Cruiser models; and the 2.5L AWD petrol is available in the RAV4 Edge model.

The RAV4 I drove was the AWD Cruiser, which was equipped with the 2.5L Hybrid engine.

It offers the best of both petrol and Hybrid electric power, delivering an impressive 163kW of combined power on Hybrid electric AWD models and fuel consumption of 4.8L/100km.

56 | | FLORENCE

It also automatically recharges as you drive, so never needs to be plugged in, and is paired with the smooth response of an auto CVT. I certainly noticed the quick response with the acceleration.

I mostly drove it around town and it performed well.

The on-road noise was minimal.

The start/stop feature at lights definitely took some getting used to as my current car doesn’t have that feature. But once I got over the initial panic when the engine stopped running when pulled up at traffic lights, I quite liked that feature.

Another feature I had to get used to was the keyless entry and start, but again I liked it once I got used to it.

The RAV4 2.5L Hybrid delivers unparalleled low fuel consumption and performance with the ability to travel up to 1145km uninterrupted, without ever needing to be plugged in.

Comfort Within the spacious RAV4, soft touch surfaces and outstanding visibility deliver an experience unlike any other.

The RAV4 Cruiser possesses the premium feel of leather-accented seats, with heated front passenger seats and driver’s seat memory (two positions).

Exceptional leg room provides enough space for everyone to stretch out, and the tilt and slide moonroof on the RAV4 Cruiser and Edge grades further enhances the bright, spacious atmosphere within.

For those in the back seat, adjustable head rests and rear air vents circulate air to provide an enhanced standard of comfort.

photo: contributed

My husband is 192cm and I have two teenage sons and all four of us were comfortable.

My husband could put the seat all the way back and there was still leg room in the rear; he could also fit in without hitting his head on the roof.

We were also able to comfortably fit a third adult in the back seat.

I really loved the moonroof as it lets in a bit of fresh air without blowing your hair out of place and it makes cabin temperature very comfortable.

The seven-inch Multi-Information Display (MID) on the RAV4 Cruiser and Edge delivers important trip and performance information, including odometer, outside temperature and driver-assist functions.

The eight-inch colour touchscreen display includes satellite navigation, USB and AUX input, digital radio and Bluetooth connectivity.

I’m bad with street names so the street name display with the satellite navigation was a really handy feature.

Siri mobile assistance function, for compatible iPhones, allows Siri voice commands to access calendars, check weather, look up contacts and more.

Miracast allows a compatible smartphone screen to be duplicated on the multimedia display via a Wi-Fi connection, so you can use your favourite apps with ease.

Toyota Link connects via your smartphone to deliver real-time traffic and weather updates, local information and more.

The wireless phone charger on GXL grades and higher provides added convenience. A 12V DC accessory socket and AUX/USB jack are also

located in the centre console of every RAV4, with an extra two fast-charging USB ports in the armrest storage and two further USB ports for rear passengers in GXL, Cruiser and Edge.

Practicality The dynamic lines are accentuated with premium finishes and matched with contemporary touches.

Up front, the sharp design of the long, sleek headlamps is accentuated by integrated clearance and daytime running lamps.

Every RAV4 boasts stylish alloy wheels, rising to 19 inches on the RAV4 Cruiser petrol and Edge grades.

In the RAV4, you’ll find an expansive boot space coupled with a power back door in Cruiser and Edge grades.

The back door also includes handy hooks to hang items such as a wetsuit, while the reversible boot floor available on variants with a space-saver spare wheel, allows you to switch between durable plastic or soft carpet.

I particularly liked the large boot — it seems to be a lot bigger than previous models.

We could fit all the groceries in or cricket kits or soccer training kits.

As my husband coached a soccer side this year, we quite often would have a bag of balls and other training equipment to transport around.

On the road, the re-engineered suspension and chassis provide an exceptionally smooth and satisfying ride.

A reversing camera is fitted on all models and features guidance lines on GXL as well as a panoramic view monitor on Cruiser and Edge.

The reversing camera was very handy to have, especially with city parking. I always knew I could get up close and personal while being reassured I wouldn’t hit the car behind me.

I also have a long driveway at home and it helped immensely with reversing out.

Working in the city, sometimes I need to squeeze into little spots, and even though it’s a big car I felt like I was parking a much smaller vehicle.

The turning circle was fantastic, which made it easy to do a U-turn, which is very good in the city for parking.

When reversing out of a blind car space, Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA) can help warn you of vehicles approaching from either side and crossing behind you.

If you’re driving on a multi-lane road, Blind Spot Monitor (BSM) helps detect vehicles driving in, or rapidly approaching the blind spots and alerts the driver with an indicator in the wing mirrors.

Chatswood and Ryde Toyota were kind enough to loan me the RAV4 for an extended test drive.

After driving it I would definitely buy one, especially the hybrid model.

It was a big adjustment for me, coming from driving an older vehicle, but once I was used to it, it was fantastic and ticked all my boxes.

The hybrid has such low running costs and the hybrid engine only needs to be serviced once a year, further reducing the costs.

FLORENCE | | 57

TAPPING INTO GOOD DESIGN

PHOTO: CONTRIBUTED 58 | | FLORENCE

01

02

03

With over 3,500 products, Abey’s extensive range is a result of consistent and on-going development with a focus on innovation and quality. Offering the largest range of kitchen and basin taps and sinkware in Australia as well as exclusive Italian collections including Gessi, Armando, Vicario and Barazza appliances. abey.com.au Gessi Interccio High Bathroom Mixer Tap in Copper Brushed Finish & Stainless Steel Countertop Washbasin in Copper Brushed Finish.

Gareth Ashton Park Avenue Countertop Basin & Poco Brushed Brass Basin Mixer. Gareth Ashton Poco Bathroom Mixer & Spout in Black and Byron ClearStone Basin in Gloss Abey Piazza Single Bowl Sink with TINKD Black Pull Out Kitchen Mixer. Schock Bowl and a Half Black Sink with Emporio Pull Out Mixer Chrome.

01 Lakri bathroom accessories, Morgan & Finch. 02 N&P Hicks Hexagon - Green, Cole & Son. 03 Salt & Pepper Amarna Woven Hampers with Lids , Temple & Webster.

FLORENCE | | 59

FIND YOUR OFFSIDA New app makes labour hire easy LOOKING for some help on site? Launching in February is Offsida; the easiest way building contractors can hire labourers fast.

Right now, when tradespeople and builders need to hire extra hands at short notice, they have to rely on phoning friends or trawling through Gumtree and Facebook.

The Offsida app allows builders and labourers to connect in real-time, with just a few clicks and swipes.

So, how does the Offsida app work? A builder

needs to hire a labourer to help them out for the day. They open the Offsida app, enter the job start-time and click “go” ...

It’s that easy. The builder can immediately see a list of workers nearby who want the job, with ratings and reviews from previous hirers. They choose a worker they like, click “hire,” and they’re done. In less than an hour, the labourer arrives in boots and gloves ready to go.

Honestly ... this app will be the most useful tool in your pocket. www.offsida.com

APPS & SOFTWARE

7 Minutes Workout This seven-minute workout consists of only 12 exercises to be done for 30 seconds, with 10 second breaks in between. All you need is a chair and wall.

60 | | FLORENCE

Mealime - Meal Planner, Recipes & Grocery List Mealime is a simple way for busy singles, couples and families to plan their meals and eat healthier.

Tiny Scanner - PDF Scanner App An app that turns an android device into a portable document scanner and scan everything as images or PDFs.

Heads Up! Heads Up! is the fun and hilarious new game that Ellen DeGeneres plays on her show — and now you can play it with your friends!

ON TREND Build homes that stand out using Dahlsens products that wow.

Nara Vessel Mixer by Phoenix Tapware, baths and basins to make a statement. Dahlsens can recommend the range to suit your market and project.

Digital Door Locks by Samsung Get the attention of tech-savvy homeowners by offering digital door locks.

Vertical Groove Axon by James Hardie Create a contemporary, beachy look with this range of stylish and hard-wearing cladding.

EasyVJ by Easycraft Add warmth and texture to the walls or ceiling of any room with the addition of internal linings by Easycraft.

Barn Doors Sleek style meets modern day functionality with beautiful Hume Doors.

ONE STOP SUPPLIES Benefit from whole of house building products Streamline builds and save time with one supplier. With a network of 26 trade and manufacturing locations across Victoria and southern New South Wales, family owned Dahlsens helps builders to get on with the job by project managing the delivery of materials from the slab to the fit out.

One account, one point of contact equals less hassle.

As part of the Dahlsens group, one of the largest truss and frame manufacturers in Australia, Dahlsens produces customised roof trusses, wall frames, cassette flooring and floor truss systems that assist builders to build faster, increase capacity and get to the all-important lock up quicker.

The ‘whole of house’ building supplies range includes timber, doors, windows, kitchens, blinds, plumbing and more.

To find out more about the solutions available in your area, speak to your local Dahlsens store. dahlsens.com.au.

FLORENCE | | 61

We are committed to creating a more diverse and inclusive workplace, not only for our people but also for future generations.

CATHAL O’ROURKE Managing Director, Australia Hub

LAING O’ROURKE ENGINEERING THE FUTURE Laing O’Rourke is a $6 billion international operation with 50 years of involvement in Australian construction and infrastructure including more than a decade under the Laing O’Rourke banner.

In Australia, our industry remains the most male dominated sector in the country and the representation of women, especially in leadership and senior management positions, has remained unacceptably low.

As we strive to become the industry’s recognised leader of innovation and excellence, we understand the importance of building a workforce that reflects the diverse communities in which we live and work. We have embarked on a journey to tackle the low levels of female representation in our business and in the industry from a number of different, yet equally important angles.

EVENTS NOVEMBER - MARCH

SYDNEY BUILD EXPO 2020 When: March 19-20 Where: ICC Sydney Sydney Build is Australia’s largest construction and infrastructure expo. In 2020, alongside Sydney Build Expo, the team are returning with the Roads and Transport Expo along with CIVENEX Infrastructure Exhibition. It is free to attend and features over 300+ speakers in 20 Summits across 8 Stages. Certain presentations are CPD accredited.

LEAD EMERGING PROGRAM When: June, 2020 Where: Sydney LEAD Emerging has been designed by Business Chicks for aspiring and emerging female leaders who want to develop the leadership capabilities they need to help them succeed in their roles today, and set them up for future career success.

Whether you are establishing yourself as a leader or business owner, or are an experienced professional who wants to boost your skills in leadership, this could be the opportunity you have been waiting for.

Being part of the LEAD Emerging program, participants will experience a unique and cutting-edge offering that includes learning about yourself as a leader through online psychometric tools and coaching. The tools will give you the opportunity to explore your individual style as a leader along with your motives and values. Also available is 1:1 Coaching before and after the program, to gain better self-awareness and focus on the specific goals or challenges that matter most to you. Participation in an immersive, challenging 2-day learning experience with a cohort of passionate, driven women.

64 | | FLORENCE

A MORNING WITH ELIZABETH GILBERT When: March 10, 2020, 9am-11am Where: Big Top Sydney - Luna Park Business Chicks brings Elizabeth Gilbert to the Big Top. Elizabeth Gilbert needs little introduction.

Unquestionably one of our generation’s most beloved voices, her memoir Eat Pray Love, spent 199 weeks on the New York Times Best Seller list, has been translated into more than 30 languages, and sold over 13 million copies worldwide. In Gilbert’s bestselling non-fiction book on creativity, Big Magic: Creative Living Beyond Fear, she explores the mysteries of how to lead a bold and inspired life.

KEYS TO PROPERTY DEVELOPMENT SEMINAR When: February 5, 2020 Where: MBA Norwest Education Centre, 5 Burbank Place, Norwest Master Builders Association of NSW presents leading representatives, who are successful in property development, sharing their insights in this informative training seminar. This seminar gives participants the opportunity to gain knowledge and learn the industry secrets from the experts.

26TH WOMEN IN LEADERSHIP SUMMIT When: February 17-21, 2020 Where: Sydney Harbour Marriott Hotel at Circular Quay The world of work is changing. Geographical and industry-specific particularities still exist, but we’re experiencing a shift in how technology impacts business processes and a movement towards a holistic approach to leadership. So how do you sustain a commercially viable career amidst this transformative landscape? Do you have the crucial leadership skills needed in the modern workplace?

The first part of this conference will allow you to step back and reflect. Discover your ‘why’, then learn how to unlock your leadership capability.

Then lock down the practical skills to supercharge your leadership career and future-proof your skill set in part two, with expert guidance from trailblazing executive women.

AUTHENTIC LEADERSHIP SUMMIT When: March 17-20, 2020 Where: 10 Spring Street, Sydney Back for its fifth year, the Authentic Leadership Summit 2020 teaches you how to lead with greater purpose in the contemporary business climate. It is a carefully curated, 4-day program focusing on the core tenets of Authentic Leadership and how you can employ its principles in your organisation to drive better business outcomes and make our world a better place at the same time. Speakers include Ita Buttrose AC, OBE, Chair of the ABC, Media Tailblazer,health advocate and author.

FLORENCE | | 65

INSTA SISTAS

@trades_women_of_ig

@aussiegirlsonthetools

Trades Women Of IG Empowering and Inspiring ‘lady tradies’ and connecting woman around the world of trade.

Aussie Girls On The Tools Supporting Australian girls who are thinking about learning a trade as a career choice.

@melbournetradielady

@chippynaynay

Caitie Rose Follow Catie Rose as she tiles, paves and landscapes her way through Melbourne.

Janaya Markwell Join 22-year-old, Janaya Markwell in the second year of her carpentry apprenticeship.

@leckychick

@glazing.girl

Follow this Brisbane-based electrician and eve workwear ambassador.

Jenaya Lane Keep up with Jenaya Lane as a commercial glazier and qualified shopfitter around Sydney

66 | | FLORENCE

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Our strength lives in our differences.

Not our similarities.

At FDC diversity of thought has been a key strength for almost 30 years. We bring together and celebrate people who think differently from one another. We have the analytical types with the creative ones, “big picture� team members with the detail orientated. This creates great conversations that stimulate new ideas and ensures the highest quality for our clients.

We are always looking for talented people to join our team.

From graduates to experienced leaders we would love to hear from you. recruitment@fdcbuilding.com.au