Issue 23, 2015

Volume 10, Issue 23

www.mountmorgan.org.au

December 17, 2015

With extra pages!

Proudly brought to you by Mount Morgan Promotion & Development Inc. ABN 21 391 526 801

Welfare names green after life member- pg 3

Young locals farewell prmary school years - pg 4

Looking back at the year that was 2015 - pg 14

Festival lights up Christmas Spirit Gracemere locals Lexie and Jaxon Curtis were among the hundreds to kick off the festive season with the 2015 Mount Morgan Christmas Tree Festival.

See page 6 for story.

Experience historic Mount Morgan with

Take a fascinating journey in time!

Venture the historic township and heritage Gold Mine.

The famous Open Cut Pit and Big Stack

Tours daily Bookings essential. Ph: 4938 1823 www.tmctours.com.au

2

Mount Morgan Hot Bread Shop Phone: 4938 1427

As this is the last edition for the year we decided to go a little more light-hearted than historical. Just bits and pieces we have read over the year.

Breads, Cakes, Slices, Rolls, Scones, Pastries, Sausage Rolls

And don’t forget the Pies!

ay Hotel w l i a R Mount Morgan

Regular Live Entertainment Raffles Fridays & Saturdays Airconditioned Motel Units

90 James Street Ph: 4938 1800

Join Our Social Club Coldest Beer in Mt Morgan Party venue & Catering available

Mount Morgan Concrete Services - Sheds - Expos - Driveways - Paths - Pools - All types Discounts for pensioners & Mount Morgan residents 0409 470 107

BSA 722 336

Phone Gordon Lee today: 0418 886 997 QBSA 735099

The Old Kero Tin There was a tin we used to have in the days of long ago And it contained home kerosene to keep our light aglow: But when that tin was empty, it wasn’t thrown away, We cut the square top out of it and used it every day.

With a wire handle on it (and lots of muscle too) We’d carry water from the well, the weekly wash to do.

Dad kept a couple in the shed to hold his tools and gear And also in the stables too, to carry stock feed here With chopped up cane to feed the stock, we carried them along Molasses in another one to feed the milling throng.

Then Mum would keep one on the stove with water hot and steaming To bath us in the old tin tub to keep us clean and gleaming At times she’d boil Dad’s dirty clothes there on the kitchen stove We kids had one to hold our gear, a regular treasure trove.

We cooked our yearly leg of ham in the old “kero” tin We had one at our gatepost to serve as our mail bin There was another use we had (and quite essential too) That tin became a dunny can, in our old outback “loo”.

Then finally, all full of hole, when it had its day It landed on the rubbish heap and rusted right away And so the humble “kero” tin was never once abused You could say we recycled it – though that word was never used.

---o0o--Great truths about growing old: 1 Growing old is mandatory: growing up is optional.

2 Forget the health food. I need all the preservatives I can get.

3 When you fall down, you wonder what else you can do while you’re down there.

4 You’re getting old when you get the same sensation from a rocking chair that you once got from a roller coaster.

5 It’s frustrating when you know all the answers but nobody bothers to ask you the questions.

6 Time maybe a great healer, but it is a lousy beautician.

7 Wisdom comes with age, but sometimes age comes alone.

Happy Christmas readers and a bright, wonderful New Year - from Jean, Jennifer and Bette.

3

Last Sunday marked a momentous occasion for the Mount Morgan Bowls Club, and life club member and local resident, Col Turner.

The Welfare’s bowling green officially became “The Col Turner Green”, in appreciation of the many years that Col has dedicated to the club.

The green was named as part of the Club’s annual Rose Bowl competition, in a presentation carried out by Division 5 Representation, Councillor Cherie Rutherford (pictured below with Col).

The presentation touched on some of the highlights of Col’s time with the Club: Col’s bowling days started one afternoon when his wife Nell was being coached by the late Hal Porter and the team was one player short. Hal asked Col to join in to make up the numbers as he was one bowler short. That was in the later part of 1986. Up until then Col would take Nell for coaching and sit and watch the ladies being coached. He was not going to play bowls ever, but of course that was about to change.

At the time Col was still working at the mine doing shift work and he hated it when he was day shift and he had to go to work; therefore he couldn’t play bowls.

Just to touch on some of the things that Col has done for the Welfare Bowls Club in his past 29 years include being President in 2004 and again in 2005.

He was in different teams and has his name on the Rose Bowl in years, 1992, 1994, 2000, 2001 and 2003.

He was runner up in the open singles in 2004.

His name is on the Merv Staines Memorial for 2005 and 2009. In 1995 and 2000 he was in a team that was runner up in the veteran’s 4’s, and in 1999 he and his team won the Veteran 4’s and in the same year he was in the team that was runner up in the District Pairs.

Col was the founding member and president of The United Servicemen Social Bowls Club and took his fellow bowlers away on bowls trips by coaches to various places.

He and his fellow members used to hold cent sales to raise funds to enable this to occur and they were always successful. Col was nominated by Peter Mackay, who at the time was President of the club in 2000, for life membership for the work that he had done for the club.

This badge was presented to Col on Presidents Day in 2001 by the late Charlie Bond.

Another important event for Col was in 2014. Col received his patriach badge and this was presented to him

by Mr John Freeman, president of C.Q. Bowls Assoc.

This badge is presented to bowlers who turn 90 years of age during the year.

Another job that Col took to heart and raised many, many thousands of dollars for his club was being the Goose Club organizer. Every week he would make sure his sellers were able to take their turn in selling tickets outside the local supermarket and it was every Saturday, rain, hail or shine that he would be there himself.

Col also did many hours of voluntary work especially when, at the end of the year he, along with other members would put the green down for maintenance under the control of the late Rocky Cowell and spend many a long, hot day helping out. Up until about 12 months ago Col was playing lawn bowls at this very club up to 3 times a week and that did not include any other games that he played away.

His name appears on many of the honor boards throughout the club. Col not only enjoyed club competition for many years but he also enjoyed the many games of social bowls.

The Mount Morgan Welfare Bowls Club would like to thank all ticket buyers for their support throughout the year and wish all a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

Hope to see you on the bowling green next year.

4

Students around the country said farewell to school for another year last week, and for twenty-nine young locals it was also a farewell to primary school all together.

The year 6 students closed their books and a major chapter in their young lives last Wednesday, with an official graduation celebration.

They marked the milestone with a special evening held at the Dee Bowls Club in Mount Morgan.

The graduates dressed in their best for the occasion and were joined by family and friends for the official presentation of certificates before heading to a sit down dinner in the bowls club’s dining room.

They now ready themselves for high school in 2016.

Congratulations to the 2016 graduates of Mount Morgan Central State Primary School: Ryan Allen; Raelene Alley; Micheala Botting; Cody Brown; Kiana Daniels; Ashton Dans; Darcey Festa; Layne Gibson; Drew Goodwin; Latrell Hayden; Jai Haygarth-Jonston; Tyson Ireland; Zephyr Jacobson; Jacob Kane; Cameron Long; Lanie Martin-Bray; Joshua Masters; Declan Matherson; Claire Noonan; Ty Pallas; Brooke Passmore; Jazzmin Roberts; Emily Robinson; Oliver Smith; Storm Simpson; Eli Tanner; Ernie Tull; Anyarna Wilkes-Hayden; Brodie Whalky.

Work continues to flow Australia Day Awards for waterway clean-up Creeks and waterways around the Region are undergoing an extensive clean-up thanks to a joint project of Rockhampton Regional Council and the Queensland Government.

Close to 20 waterways will be cleaned up and revitalised between now and March next year, as part of continued recovery efforts following TC Marcia.

For Mount Morgan, the clean up will include the Dee River – Dam Wall to Perlick Street and Piddick’s Crossing to Possum Street and Horse Creek.

Works include the removal of trees and debris from each creek, the protection of various banks and some reshaping to reinstate channels.

The latest works bring the waterway clean-up cost to close to $2.5 million - funded by Council and Department of Natural Resources and Mines.

Residents now have extra time to nominate an outstanding resident for the 2016 Australia Day Awards! The closing date for the 2016 Australia Day Award Nominations has been extended to January 8, 2016.

The Awards recognise the outstanding service of residents who have made a valuable contribution to our community.

Award categories include: Citizen of the Year, Young Citizen of the Year, Community Service Award, Cultural Award, Sportsperson of the Year, Community Event/ Initiative Award (Individual or group).

Nominating is easy and it only takes a few minutes!

Enter the details of the person you think should receive special recognition for their efforts, select the award you are nominating them for and write a brief reason for your nomination.

Nomination forms can be downloaded and submitted here, or available at Council Customer Service Centres and Council Libraries. For more information contact Council on 4932 9000.

5

- Competitive rates - Local bloke - Clean Ups - Maintenance - Repairs - Minor Home Repairs - Welding - Driveways - Landscaping - Fencing - Mowing and much, much more - Lifts up to 1.5 ton and carry up to 5 ton - 9m Tri Axle Trailer 3.5 ton electric winch

Phone Paul on 4938 1321 or 0429 987 130

Jobs under $3,300 value

ABN: 43920044782

Open Wednesday’s and Saturdays 8.30 to 12.00 pm Contact 0487 828444

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year Argus readers! from all at Mount Morgan Promotion & Development Inc.

6 Mount Morgan has kicked off the festive season in style again this year, with another outstanding Christmas Tree Festival.

The event, which was held on December 4 and 5, welcomed a bumper crowd made up of locals from all over the Region.

Heading through the School of Arts Hall, eventgoers were wowed with a spectacular view of more than 80 twinkling trees.

Their excitement continued on closer inspection of the display – with each tree submitted by a local business, club or community member and specially designed or decorated.

Festival lights up Christmas Spirit

Some opted for the more traditional tinsel and lights, while others chose to hand make their decorations or even their trees to represent their club or business or a particular theme.

Event hosts, Mount Morgan Promotion and Development (MMPAD) said the community’s creativity is what makes the event special.

“They aren’t your regular Christmas trees, and that’s what makes this Festival so much fun,” MMPAD President, John Steinberger said.

“The community really goes above and beyond every year and we were thrilled that this year was no exception.”

He said a sincere thank you goes to all who submitted trees, attended the event, and also to those who helped in its hosting.

Charlene Creamer stands proudly by the entry submitted by her class

“This event has been in the community for 13 years now, and for a decade it was hosted by the local Saint Mary’s Parish. It’s been a labour of love for their group and now ours and we sincerely thank all of our hardworking volunteers for making it another success.”

Along with the impressive tree display, the event also hosted market stalls and live entertainment. For the first time this year, the event hosted free children’s amusement rides and a visit from Santa on both evenings also.

The Christmas celebrations will be held same time next year.

Find more Festival photos on Facebook!

Search Mount Morgan Promotion and Development Incorporated.

Tree entry by young local Billi Dalton.

Tree entry by NewsXpress, Mount Morgan

7

Glowing entry by the Silver Wattle Bette Broom and Juelle Tymms Bianca Tulk and Quaid Stocker

Sarah and Grace Bendall

Maree, Meagan, Zaine, Douglas, Codie, Cloe, Lara, and Ambah-Leigh

Ari and Rachel McGilvray

Shaylah Harriss and Ykeyta Tull Ashton Smith

Cr Cherie Rutherford and Mayor Margaret Strelow stop for a photo at Council’s tree entry

8

Thomas Glen Cornes: Mount Morgan’s chief colonial builder At the establishment of the Mount Morgan Gold Mining Company in 1886, Scottish-born Thomas Glen (T.G.) Cornes (1843-1903), moved to Mount Morgan to take up the role of the Company’s chief draftsman and building supervisor. He held that role until his death in 1903.

A joiner by trade, T.G. Cornes had previously worked in Thames, New Zealand, a huge gold mining town of the time. He became well-known in Thames as a skilled builder, particularly in mining construction.

In Mount Morgan, T.G. Cornes supervised the construction of most of the original mine buildings. He was involved in the construction of the first stages of the General Office. He also constructed Carlton House to house the first general manager of the mine, James Wesley Hall.

The Mount Morgan Gold Mining Company provided the town with several community buildings. T.G. Cornes supervised the construction of many of these buildings, including Mount Morgan’s first hospital, the General, built in 1890.

In addition to his construction work, T. G. Cornes chaired several committees.

“In the early 1960s, I learned ballroom dancing there,” Robert Bruce Campbell added.

T.G. Cornes was heavily involved in the Masons in Mount Morgan. He held offices in the Scottish Grand Lodge of Freemasons. He later held offices in the United Masonic Lodge when the constitutions of the Scottish, Irish and English Masonic lodges merged.

T. G. Cornes died on 27 July 1903 (aged 60), on completion of the building of the Masonic Hall.

The Morning Bulletin reported on 30 July 1903 that ‘nearly 2,000 people from all sections of the community’ attended the Mount Morgan cemetery to pay their respects and ‘flags were flying at half-mast from almost every flagstaff in town all day’.

T.G. Cornes was survived by his wife, Scottish-born Margaret Aitken (née Thompson) (1840-1921), and the pair’s many children.

One of his sons, New Zealand-born, Thomas Thompson (T.T.) Cornes (1872-1933) (pictured), followed in his father’s footsteps as a builder. (T.T. Cornes is the maternal great-grandfather of Robert Bruce Campbell).

As chairman of the School of Arts Committee, he sought and was granted two acres of land from the colony’s Minister for Lands to build Mount Morgan’s first School of Arts building in 1889.

He was also chairman of the Primitive Methodists Committee. A tender notice dated 18 October 1887 in the Morning Bulletin states, ‘Tenders will be received by Mr. T. G. Cornes ... for the erection of Primitive Methodist Parsonage at Mount Morgan’.

As chairman of the State Schools Committee in the 1890s, he organised annual picnics for 600-700 students on land adjacent to his property on the Range (a road that ran below the mine’s General Office overlooking the railway station and town).

Many of T.G. Cornes’ buildings have long since gone, some destroyed by fire, others ravished by time.

Yet the State heritage-listed Masonic Hall in Gordon Street, Mount Morgan, built in 1903, is a reminder of his work.

The great-great-grandson of T.G. Cornes, former Mount Morgan resident, Robert Bruce Campbell (pictured right), recalls his maternal grandmother often telling him that their ancestor supervised the building of the Masonic Hall.

T.T. Cornes established the local building and funeral business, T.T. & C. Cornes, in 1911. Saint Enoch’s Presbyterian Church in East Street, Mount Morgan, is one of his buildings still standing.

“One of the things my family has done for generations, especially T. G. Cornes, is to give their time, talents and resources to their local community to improve it for the benefit of all. Community service is important,” Robert Bruce Campbell said.

“We should leave this world a better place, not a worse one, through our actions.”

If anyone has a photograph of T.G. Cornes and/or his wife, Margaret, please contact the Mount Morgan Historical Museum.

Co-authors, Robert Bruce Campbell, descendant of the colonial Cornes family of Mount Morgan, and Catherine McIntosh, descendant of the colonial Stubbs family of Mount Morgan.

Rodeo Roundup Somewhere, over the rainbow, there were a group of barefoot people chasing balls across a green lawn. And so it was at the Welfare Bowls Club. Ten people braved the heat to play bowls in four teams. Quite a few jokes were tossed around when the first bowl of the day chased the Kitty on the other side of the green. Many helpful hints were passed on and all players were doing well by the end of the game (including Kitty chaser). All players took home a meat tray or box of chocolates. The MMRAI, with the approval of the Welfare Bowls Club, have decided that, due to the heat, the next game will be a twilight game. Watch this space for more info. We would like to thanks the Welfare Bowls Club for their continued support and fun.

News from the Dee River Oldies

9

On Friday, November 27th, 63 members enjoyed our annual Christmas Lunch Break-up, held at the Community Service Hall.

It was great to have six members from Rockhampton 60 & Better Inc. join us once again.

Everyone enjoyed a delicious roast meal and sweets catered by Golden Roast, and were entertained by Bruce & Jenny of “Sounds Good.�

We would like to thank everyone for the fantastic range of prizes in the Multi Draw.

Also a big thank-you to our members who so generously donated the prizes for our Raffle; Betty Ware, for her donation of the beautiful Christmas cake, which was first prize and won by Malvene Ingram.

Second prize, plum pudding and custard, donated by Dawn McClelland was won by Greg Tremaine - the pudding was made by Harry Sealy. Third prize, a basket of fruit, was won by Frank and Rose. Fourth prize, a Christmas cake, donated by Val Young was won by Jeanette Lee. Thanks also to Frank and Rose for the use of the facilities.

As promised, the Golf Day at the Mount Morgan Golf Club details are as follows. First place went to Back Nines, second place to Oldies, third to Has Beens. Closest to the pins were Melissa Lee, Tim, Tyron. Everyone had a great time and a few laughs. We look forward to repeating this event in 2016. We would like to thank the Mount Morgan Golf Club for allowing us to host this event and the kind donation of $200. We hope you had as much fun as we did.

The Ham Wheel was well represented with five people winning yummy hams from IGA. Due to not having a Ham Wheel, Hugh from IGA drew numbers out of a bucket. Congratulations to the winners. There is still one more day of draws on the 19th Dec at IGA starting at 8:30am. So get in quick and pick your numbers. 5 draws per day.

We had the pleasure of a few special visitors to our last meeting. They were from the Primary School and came to present the MMRAI with a thank you for the Logo Competition. Again we thank the school and the children for their involvement. People who attended were Peter Hixon, Terri Palmer-Lamb, Sandra Ireland, Tyson Ireland (winner) and Cody Brown.

New Year events are looking pretty exciting so far with our calendar filling fast. January starts with Kids Horse Day/Gymkhana on the 16th so spread the word.

We would like to thank the Argus and members most sincerely for printing our articles and keeping the public up to date with our events.

I personally would like to thank the members of the Mount Morgan Rodeo Assoc for all of their hard work and input throughout the year. Working together creates a team who succeed in all things. See you all next year.

Our last bus trip to Morning Melodies was on Monday, November 30th., where we were entertained by Karen Beckett. Then it was back to The Grand Hotel for lunch.

As this is our last newsletter for the year, we would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who supported our group throughout the year, and wish you all a happy festive season and a great 2016.

10

People in Profile: Gordon Silvester

People in Profile People in Profile People in Profile People in Profile People in Profile People in Profile People in ofile People in Profile People in Profile People in Profile People in Profile People in Profile People in Profile Peo

By Heather Quarry This latest edition of the Mount Morgan Argus brings with it the reminder that we are fast approaching the end of 2015. May you all have a wonderful, safe Christmas and a thriving happy New Year.

Our latest story comes from the talented local musician Gordon Silvester, known by most of the town-folk as the Man in Black.

Gordon Eric Silvester was born in Rockhampton on the 24th of June, 1943. The son of Daph and Les Silvester, Gordon also has one brother and two sisters. His first six years of schooling were in Nambour, then, his dad, a carpenter who worked for the railway transferred to Roma where Gordon continued his schooling til the end of grade ten.

Mathematics and Social Studies were Gordon’s two favourite subjects. “I was no good at English. I liked playing cricket, and I played football (rugby).” Gordon never learned to swim but enjoyed bike riding with his brothers and sisters. He loved going horse riding with his dad who had a horse that not too many people could go near, but it liked Gordon and would let him walk through his legs or behind him without a worry.

Gordon didn’t like school much. He was picked on a lot because he used to stutter, a condition that was brought on by bad nerves as a young child. It wasn’t until he got into music many years later, that he taught himself to control it. “I was a bad stutterer, until I started getting into music and using a microphone. Music helped me get over many obstacles in my life.”

Gordon used to walk up the old railway lines along the train tracks collecting coal that had fallen off from the old steam engines to take home for the fire. He also loved tinkering with anything that had a motor. “The old man was always mucking around with motors. He taught me how to pull them apart, fix them up and put them back together.”

His first job was as an apprentice motor mechanic at a local garage but he didn’t like it. He then joined the PMG (Post Master General) and travelled to Melbourne as a Tech in Training, installing and repairing telephones.

After three years he decided he didn’t like that either.

He returned home and his dad taught him to be a carpenter.

“Dad had his own business by then. I worked for him for many years”.

Gordon married in 1968 and had three sons. After a few years and a separation, he got into the live music scene, in 1974. He entertained at the Pickles Licensed Restaurant in Rockhampton for three years before gradually entering into the old time dance circuit where he travelled extensively with his music, including Mount Morgan. “I loved the Balls in Mount Morgan. I always had a lovely friendly crowd there”.

Gordon continued playing his music until his health wouldn’t allow it anymore in 2011.

A seven set CD collection of his old time dance music along with three CDs of cover songs (some including his band days) are all a tribute to his great sound and if anyone is interested in purchasing a copy of any of these they can contact Heather Quarry to enquire about them.

The true love of his life was his second wife Joan. They met in 1990 and married in 1996. They moved to Baree in 2002 and Gordon was offered a maintenance job at the Mount Morgan Hospital “which I grabbed with both hands and loved it. I stayed there for three years.”

He then became a mailman for the area until 2010. He finished working there after a minor accident which put him in hospital with a poisoned leg that almost killed him- “well it did kill me, three times to be precise but each time I was revived by the hospital staff. They never gave up on me.” He went home to be cared for by Joan until 2012 when they found she had developed cancer and passed away in the July of that year.

Gordon’s favourite food is roast lamb and rissoles. He used to love his rum but now sticks to coffee and soft drinks. His favourite colour is yellow and his favourite place is his home he shared with Joan at Baree.

In the new year it is hoped more extracts from Gordon’s life can be shared through People in Profile. His two hair raising experiences with planes, his lovely memories of times shared with his beloved Joan, the great friendships he is forever thankful for, the stories about the Mount Hay thunder eggs, and much more. Until then Gordon says he will continue with his simple quiet life style and enjoy each day as it comes.

11

• 39 Morgan Street • Phone 4938 2300

We’re putting the band back together Live entertainment, free nibbles, party til close.

100 Club Jackpots 7.30pm $1,000 and 8.30pm $1,000

The Grand Hotel wishes everyone a Merry Christmas and a very Happy New Year!

Sorry - our Christmas lunch and Santa visit is now fully booked.

Over $1,000 in cash and prizes to be won including a night for two staying at Rockhampton’s #1 hotel - The Dennison plus dinner & drinks for two at a choice of your favourite restaurants. Be at the Grand at midnight to win as we see in the New Year!

COMMUNITY NURSE The Wowan/Dululu Multi-Purpose Centre is a local not-for-profit organisation that is funded to provide a variety of community-based programs.

Your role will provide holistic care to our aged care clients that will enhance and promote their quality of life. This includes assessment, wound and continence management and co-ordination of internal and external services to achieve client goals. You will also provide leadership to client support staff as well as clinical care to general community members including wound care, blood collection and clinical support during GP outreach clinics.

Our services are provided Monday to Friday and we offer flexible working hours. This position is for 24 hours per week on a 12 month contract, with a view to extend if required.

You will require current registration with AHPRA, a Bachelor of Nursing (or equivalent), nursing experience, current driver’s licence. Your ability to work autonomously and effective interpersonal skills will make you a great candidate.

Applications from Enrolled Nurses will be considered.

For more information or to request an application package, please contact Christine Finney (A/Co-ordinator) on (07) 4937-1119 / 0427-123982.

Closing Date: 7th January 2016.

12

13

The year that was - 2015

14

From tropical cyclones tand flash flooding to grand final clashes and special celebrations, it’s safe to say that 2015 has proved another momentous year in Mount Morgan. As the year draws to an end, we take a moment to revisit some of the year’s memorable moments as featured in the past 23 issues of the Argus.

January

February

2015 marked the beginning of not only a new year but new experiences and old traditions. The Big Dam played host to the annual Australia Day celebrations which welcomed dozens of both locals and visitors. January also saw young locals walk through the school gates for the first time for the year or for the first time ever, with the little prep students carrying school bags nearly as big as them.

It’s safe to say that the month of February is one that will long be remembered for years to come, thanks to Tropical Cyclone Marcia. The town battened down as Marcia made her move through the Region on February 20th. She reached Mount Morgan in the afternoon, bringing gusts of winds between 90-100km/hr, as well as heavy rain and temporary flooding. Her visit, albeit brief, was felt for for some time, with damages to roads, properties and some homes. The town was also left without power and communication lines for a number of days. Work crews such as SES worked around the clock, volunteering some 700 hours to recovery.

March

The month of March saw the Mount Morgan Dam brimming, thanks to a fresh batch of inhabitants. Over 7,000 Golden Perch fingerlings were released into the local waterway, as part of MMPAD’s annual restocking efforts. The local group were joined by a record crowd for the release, with a group of all ages taking part in setting the fish free. And from an increase to a loss – this month also saw a number of local staff at Mount Morgan High lop their locks in a brave effort to raise funds for cancer research and support. March also marked a special milestone for the Mount Morgan Hub – with the commencement of a new program aiming to reengage local students in education.

April

The Mount Morgan RSL Club welcomed the largest crowd they’d seen in years to April’s ANZAC Day commemorations.

This year’s event marked 100 years since the landing at Gallipoli. The day commenced with the annual Dawn Service at ANZAC Park which saw a crowd gather silently at 4.30am. Commemorations continued later in the day with the annual march and 10am service.

May

May means one big thing for Mount Morgan – of course, the Golden Mount Festival! The event again proved a major success, welcoming hundreds to join in on the local fun. This year’s Festival kicked off on the Thursday with a wine and cheese evening at the School of Arts. Friday then saw a Colours Cabaret continue the festivities before the long awaited Saturday celebrations in Morgan Street. The weekend was wrapped up with the annual Mount Morgan Rodeo held at Newman Oval.

June

July

A little piece of history came to town with a visit from the Historical Motorcycle Experience historic Mount Morgan with Club of Queensland. June also welcomed a visit from the Capricorn Caravan Club. June also saw long term local business, Ramm’s close its doors. This month also saw long term tuckshop convenor Pat retire from Take aMacdonell fascinating journey in time! the historic township and heritage Gold Mine.

Mount Morgan High School after more than 25Venture years volunteering.

August

The famous Open Cut Pit and Big Stack

Tours daily Bookings essential. Ph: 4938 1823 www.tmctours.com.au

15

July saw Mount Morgan Central School unveil a public art installation during this month – representing the local Indigenous carpet snake totem. This month also proved exciting for Mount Morgan’s Lorikeets who went on a tryscoring rampage towards a place in the final.

With August comes the smell of dagwood dogs, the sound of sideshow alley and the dust of the centre ring – all for the annual Mount Morgan Show. This year’s event welcomed another bumper crowd to the Showgrounds, with hundreds keen to celebrate all things agricultural. This month also saw Mount Morgan mark Seniors Week 2015 with a special function at the School of Arts.

September

September brought a nail biting grand final for local rugby union supporters with the local lads going head to head with Biloela in Rockhampton. Despite giving it their all, the local lads went down by an extremely closely fought 24-33 defeat.

This month saw a crowd gather at the Mount Morgan Mine site for the annual Miners Memorial Service. The event marks the anniversary of the Qld’s worst mining diaster at Mount Mulligan in 1921.

November

October

October saw members of the Mount Morgan Light Horse host commemorations for the Battle of Beersheba. The ceremony was held at ANZAC Park. A large number of locals wrapped up the month getting ghoulish for Halloween. This year’s gathering saw another impressive crowd feauring costumes from pirates to princesses.

December

Wrapping up the year so far has been Mount Graduation day arrived for the 2015 senior class of Mount Morgan High last Morgan’s annual Christmas Tree Festival month (pictured). It was also the official awards night for the school, and the (pictured), along with Mount Morgan Central’s launch of the disaster management team’s emergency community noticeboard. year 6 graduation.

16

Dear Community Member Dearname Community Member My is Tammy Alden and I have just started working at Bidgerdii Community Health Service-Mount Morgan, as the Client Liaison Officer and Transport Driver. I My name is Tammy Alden and I have just started working at Bidgerdii Community have lived in Mount Morgan my whole life, married a local and am currently Health Service-Mount Morgan, as the Client Liaison Officer and Transport Driver. I supporting my two children through the local schools. If you see me in the community, have lived in Mount Morgan my whole life, married a local and am currently please feel free to speak to me and ask about the services we provide, but more supporting my two children through the local schools. If you see me in the community, importantly how we can improve our services for better outcomes for your health. please feel free to speak to me and ask about the services we provide, but more importantly how we canHealth improve our services for better outcomes for your health.

Bidgerdii Community Services is a bulk-billing facility and current Mount Morgan clinic staff includes myself, Dr Arthur Raiskio, Kerry Austin (Registered Nurse) Bidgerdii Community Health Services is a bulk-billing facility and current Mount and Priscilla Boland (Medical Receptionist).

Morgan clinic staff includes myself, Dr Arthur Raiskio, Kerry Austin (Registered Nurse) and Priscilla Boland (Medical Receptionist).

Our clinic currently receive services from a Diabetes Educator, Partner’s in Recovery, and Australian Hearing, with more coming in the New Year. In the meantime, my role Our clinic currently receive services from a Diabetes Educator, Partner’s in Recovery, allows me to transport you to the Allied Health services you require at Bidgerdii and Australian Hearing, with more coming in the New Year. In the meantime, my role Community Health Service Rockhampton. allows me to transport you to the Allied Health services you require at Bidgerdii Community So if you’re Health feelingService under Rockhampton. the weather, come in to Bidgerdii for a full health check, where a Health Care Plan will be done to suit and improve your health.

So if you’re feeling under the weather, come in to Bidgerdii for a full health check, where acall Health Care Plananwill be done to suit Please in and make appointment withand ourimprove friendly your staff health. or alternatively, phone us on 48 354 200. We are now operating 5 days a week, our new operation hours are Please call in and make an appointment with our friendly staff or alternatively, phone from 9:00am to 4:00pm. us on 48 354 200. We are now operating 5 days a week, our new operation hours are from 9:00am 4:00pm.

Bidgerdii willtobe closed for the Christmas period from 12:00pm, Thursday 24th December – and re-open Monday 4th January 2016.

Bidgerdii will be closed for the Christmas period from 12:00pm, Thursday 24th Decemberwould – andlike re-open Monday 4th January 2016.

Bidgerdii to wish you a happy and safe Christmas and thank you for all your support in 2015. We look forward to seeing you in the New Year and new patients are Bidgerdii would like to wish you a happy and safe Christmas and thank you for all your always welcome. support in 2015. We look forward to seeing you in the New Year and new patients are always welcome.

Yours sincerely Yours sincerely Tamara Alden Bidgerdii Community Health Service Mount Morgan Staff Member Tamara Alden Bidgerdii Community Health Service Mount Morgan Staff Member

17

Saint Mary’s News

Lyn & Harry were married in the Wowan Church of England on 18th Decemb

On Sunday the 29th November Saint Mary’s Anglican Church with the assistance of the Uniting Church held their Annual Christmas Carol Service conducted by Keith Hare.

Congratulations to Lyn & Harry Sealy who are celebrating their 50th Wedding Anniversary.

Over 100 people from Mount Morgan, Rockhampton and surrounds attended the service which was held at 6pm after an enjoyable supper and fellowship beforehand.

Lyn & Harry were married in the Wowan Church of England on 18th December 1965.

Happy 2nd birthday to Da-en for the 27th of December.

Hope you have a wonderful Birthday with all your family :-) Lots of Love Mum and Dad xox

Tribute to George

#FELIX EXCAVATIONS P/L 04470 33549

Body Tipper COMBO *$90 + GST P/HR Excavator with buckets and ripper Owner Operator *minimum 3 hour hire*

Skid Steer Loader with 4in1: forks/augers/road sweeper/slasher

Mount Morgan Railway Complex lost one of the most dedicated volunteers with the recent passing of George Dans. George (with his wife Maureen) spent many many years loyally working at the Complex. George happily doing any job he was asked but his greatest joy was escorting tourists to his Goods Shed showing off the Hunslett and Silver Bullet engines. His dedication was outstanding. We thank you George for all your wonderful effort and it was a pleasure to work along with you.

Enjoy your rest.

Remembered by many Ritchie Bills, Mayor of Mount Morgan from 1993 to the 2000 election, sadly passed away recently at Agnes Waters. Ritchie, as Mayor was an energetic person with forward thinking and his efforts contributed to our town and were performed with the highest of dedication.

He was always accessible to locals’ requests and was the instigator of the Paul Marek extension to the Big Dam wall in 1998/9 which did not over flow till Mayor Stan Lean’s time in 2000. Ritchie was always working for the advancement of and better stability for the future of Mount Morgan. Our sincere thoughts are extended to his family.

18

PLEASE SUPPORT OUR BUSINESSES, TRADES & SERVICES

KINNY

Screens & Blinds

ABN No. 69293151026 Security Screens & Doors, Holland & Venetian Blinds, Vertical Drapes, Aluminium & Canvas Awnings, Glass & Window Replacement, Shower Screens Phone 4938 2055 ~ Mobile 0419 737 130 Cannot perform building work in excess of $3,300 FAX: 4938 2671 80a Gordon Lane, Mount Morgan

1st Tues of the Month

STEWARTS TOWING & SERVICE STATION 6 Central Street, MOUNT MORGAN Phone: 4938 1283 24 HOUR SERVICE ~ 7 DAYS A WEEK

PAINTER & DECORATOR W. & S. Cruickshank

Computer not starting or SLOW? Give me a call.

All repairs done professionally at affordable prices VIRUS removal and full servicing.

OVER 10 years experience.

CAN build a brand NEW PC to YOUR needs All new computers come with a 12 month hardware warranty.

Call Nathan S. from 8am to 6pm Mon to Sat on: 4938 2451 or 0421 411 249

BSA 75608

5 Calliungal Lane, Mt Morgan Phone 4938 2637, Mobile 0488 104774 Email: sandracruickshank@bigpond.com

Roofs airless sprayed from $1,700, Gutters & Facia from $250, Exteriors gurneyed from $300 All materials supplied at trade price Pensioner discount on Painting.

Prices apply only in Mt Morgan area.

Eric J Stevenson Firearm Dealer Lic.50001499

Guns and Ammunition - Mount Morgan Open Friday 2pm to 5pm & Saturday 9am to 12 midday (other times by appointment) SPECIAL- Norinco JW 15.22 LR $ 375.00 until sold out 11 Glen Gordon Street, Mount Morgan Please park in drive way and follow the signs.

Ph. 07 49 381073 Mob. 0417 006591

Find the team who bring you the Argus on Facebook!

Search Mount Morgan Promotion and Development Incorporated.

19

BUSINESSES, TRADES & SERVICES

John Hawkey Plumbing ABN:93587510453 QBSA:43778

a

m lu lP

Yo ur L

Renovations Hot Water Systems Roof & Gutter Repairs Whirly Birds

oc

For All Your Maintenance Plumbing!

r! be

Mobile: 0448 168 939

M.A.W. Mowing & Handyman Services Mr Mark Williamson 2 Clarence Street “Lawns fear me women want me”

MAW Mowing 0403 571 561 ABN 3070630026

MARK HUMPHREY’S ELECTRICAL 8 Baldwin Street Mount Morgan 4714 Electrical Lic. No. 74711

PHONE 0439 727 609 FAX 4938 2885

DOMESTIC, RURAL, COMMERCIAL I N S TA L L AT I O N A N D R E PA I R S P R O M P T LY S E RV I C I N G M O U N T M O R G A N & W O WA N D I S T R I C T S

CONCREATURE CONCRETING SERVICE All aspects concreting Restoration old slabs a specialty Exposed - Colour - Stencil Jobs under $3000 value

0428 154 172

ALAN HOUSMAN BUILDER ABN 52 081 926 QBSA 19514

Domestic & Commercial Work Specialising in: • Restumping • Extensions • Renovations • New Home

Phone: 4938 1887 ~ Mobile 0419 741 611

Building locally for over 20 years ~ Quality Workmanship Guaranteed

20 Raffle winner: Congratulations to Shirley Oleman who was drawn the lucky winner of the Saint Mary’s Church Christmas raffle. A sincere thank you to all who purchased tickets.

Museum and tours over festive season: Railway Museum and Information Centre: closed Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year’s Day. TMC Tours: closed Christmas Day and Boxing Day. Tours available all other days, with bookings required.

Historical Museum: closed as of 22nd December and reopens on the Tuesday 5th January, 2016.

CLASSIFIEDS NEED AN ELECTRICIAN?: RJ Electrician Pty Ltd. Licence no. 72288. Phone: 0431 576 101.

MOBILE RWC: Mobile Road Worthy Certificates.

Phone Bruce on 0447903100.

MOBILE D.J. Beats by the Beach. Weddings, anniversaries, parties, functions, formals.

Ph 0427719096.

MOBILE D.J. Julray Entertainment. Weddings are our specialty. Phone 0407264826.

COLLEEN’S HAIR SALON: will be closed for three weeks - from Thursday 24th December, 2015 until Tuesday 19th January, 2016.

NOW THAT’S GOOD VALUE!

GOOD THERAPY - TAKE 2 MOVIES & GO TO BED EVERY WEEK THERE ARE LOTS OF GREAT NEW MOVIES THAT YOU’VE NEVER HEARD OF.... COME IN & SEE WHAT YOU’VE BEEN MISSING OUT ON; OVER 10,000 TITLES & CHANGING ALL THE TIME!

SOME OF THIS WEEK’S BIGGIES NOW AVAILABLE: PIXELS: MAZE RUNNER 2: ANT MAN: TED 2: INSIDE OUT: PAY THE GHOST: MINIONS: TERMINATOR GENISYS (... & MANY MORE ...)

DOB IN A PIRATE: 1800 251996

HOUSE FOR RENT: Available now. Ph: 0428785005.

MARKET & CAR BOOT/ GARAGE SALE December 19, 8am - 12 noon, Baree School of Arts Hall. Stall holders welcome. Must have own insurance.

Please phone 4938 2484.

ALAN CORNICK REAL ESTATE Auctions, Sales & Property Management in Mount Morgan For Sale: 76 Dee Street - $159,000, 87 James Street - $185,000 2 Possum Street - $250,000, 26 West Street - POA natarlee@alancornickre.com.au Phone: 0488 046 522 www.alancornickrealestate.com.au Office : 07 4927 8999

Find the team who bring you the Argus on Facebook!

Search Mount Morgan Promotion and Development Incorporated.

The Mount Morgan Argus is proudly brought to you

by Mount Morgan Promotion and Development Inc.