The Mount Morgan Argus Volume 18, Issue 19

VOLUME 18 - ISSUE 19

WWW.MOUNTMORGAN.ORG.AU

18 OCTOBER - 1 NOVEMBER

MOUNT MORGAN ARGUS PROUDLY BROUGHT TO YOU BY MOUNT MORGAN PROMOTION & DEVELOPMENT INC. ABN 21 391 526 801 | 1 RAILWAY PDE, MOUNT MORGAN, Q 4714, AUSTRALIA.

Branding Opportunity...Page 2

Citizen’s Club...Page 6

Library News ..Page 12

Incompetent investigators on the case again

Above: Some of the cast and crew of Season 2 of Koch and Boules. From left: Ian Westley, Elizabeth Tansley (sound/camera operator), Jodie van der Wetering (Koch), Clint Lennox (Boules) and Abi Tansley.

Those incompetent investigators, from their jobs because of their Private Eyes continue to seek out Koch and Boules are back for a incompetance and their failure to aliens, lost property, suspicious second season. solve crimes. packages and the artful and evil puppetmaster with the aim of For those who followed the first Being dismissed from “the thin blue solving crimes and mysteries. season, they may remember line” will not deter this dynamic Continued on Page 2 that Koch and Boules were fired duo who, under the guise of

Koch and Boules From Page 1

happen.

Blue Eagle Productions started filming on the second season two weeks ago, aiming for a November completion date and a December release date.

“It makes sense when strange things happen - like puppets running around,” Clint said.

Blue Eagle are planning to have at least 12 episodes in Season Two, but this could increase if new ideas occur along the way as was the case in Season One. Jodie said last year they planned on making only 10 episodes, but ended up with 13... so season two could be more! Jodie and Clint like working on these series because there is flexibility, the characters are unique and interesting and the fact that anything can

“The difference between Clint and I is that I treat the puppets as fellow actors, but Clint treats himself as a fellow puppet,” Jodie jokes.

“There’s no real heirarchy and we all have an opportunity to contribute to the creative direction of the production and it can be really crazy, but it works.,” they said.

The project is funded by the Rockhampton Regional Council’s Regional Arts Development Fund.

Mount Morgan Branding Project Under Way Following a branding meeting held on Wednesday, 4 October 2023, Mount Morgan Promotion and Development Inc [MMPAD] is seeking feedback on some preliminary designs (pictured).

While attendance was not up to expectations, indepth discussions were held with ideas discussed for an identity, logos, colour scheme and future focus which are all elements of branding.

Under the facilitation of Lad Social at the workshop some key points were derived to be taken away for consideration.

• New brand to have focus on heritage, history and natural features of Mount Morgan.

• Identity - want to be perceived as a friendly, welcoming town, with a relaxed, easy-going lifestyle and to be seen as a vibrant, lively community that embraces its heritage.

• Ideal colour scheme includes blue, yellow, green, and ochre.

• Future of Mount Morgan is tourism focused. Brand must reflect a tourism focus.

MMPAD President Mr John Steinberger said the designs were a starting point and feedback is encouraged from community on areas identified on the night from The Mount Morgan branding workshop.

“We are seeking feedback, comments and thoughts from Mount Morgan residents, businesses, and community organizations on the three designs proposed, or on the focus, identity or colour scheme,” Mr Steinberger said.

The Mount Morgan Project was made possible by a $5000 Business Basics Grant through the Queensland Government’s Department of Employment, Small Business and Training.

Any feedback can be emailed to mmpad@ mountmorgan.org.au by 1 November 2023.

MOUNT MORGAN ARGUS DISCLAIMER The Mount Morgan Argus is published by Mount Morgan Promotion and Development Inc, 1 Railway Parade, Mount Morgan. The opinions expressed herein are not necessarily those of the publishers. MMPAD reserves the discretionary right to alter, omit, reclassify or postpone publication of articles, photographs or advertisements in the Mount Morgan Argus. MMPAD takes all possible care with the publication of news, names and other information sourced by MMPAD representatives. It does not, however, take responsibility for erroneous information or spelling supplied by external sources. Please take care and ensure that information is correct and names are spelt correctly before submitting any items to this publication. MMPAD Executive

Page 2

MOUNT MORGAN ARGUS

18 October - 1 November 2023

Come into the Grand Hotel... ....if you dare!

Happy Halloween Bring the kids!

Trick or Treat! - 7- 8 pm

LIVE MUSIC WITH

JENKO

FRIDAY, 27 OCTOBER

TUESDAY, 7th NOVEMBER

c h eo

$40 pp

n

BOOKINGS ESSENTIAL

M e l b ou

u C p L e un n r

Join us for the “Race that stops a nation” Cold Buffet Champagne or pot of beer on arrival $2, $5, $10 Sweeps Prize for best fascinator or best tie

Grand Hotel - 39 Morgan Street, Mount Morgan - 4938 2300 18 - 1 November October 2023

MOUNT MORGAN ARGUS

Page 3

DEE RIVER OLDIES By the time you read this article the members of the Dee River Oldies will have had their bus trip to the Emu Park markets, where they had a chance to browse the stalls and see what was on offer.

They then travelled to the Keppel Sands Hotel for a delicious lunch. It was a good day out, with a good turn out of members. Check out the next Argus for photos taken on the day.

The October Morning Tea is on Wednesday, 25 October 2023 starting at 10 am. The guest speaker Jill Griffiths (Aged care specialist Officer) will speak to our members on the day. The cost is $5. Raffle and lucky door prizes. Come along and enjoy a cuppa

and a catch up.

There are no Morning Teas to be held in November and December.

Christmas Lunch is booked for Friday 24 November 2023 at the Grand Hotel, Morgan Street, Mount Morgan. Entry is from 11.30 a m. Cost to be advised.

Put your name down and pay at the October Morning Tea. Let us know if you have any special dietary requirements. Raffle and lucky door prizes.

Just cannot believe how this year is flying by. Making the most of each day is what life is all about.

Keep happy and healthy.

The Steering Committee - Carol Glover 49381 995 and Colleen Constable 0427 161 131.

Creative arts and country towns We have all witnessed the recent injection of hope to our community with the promise of the mine reopening and the pipeline promised last year.

A good number of new faces can be found in our town as well, bringing renovation to houses and new ideas and skills. Many newcomers seem to have some kind of creative flair, be it musical, spiritual, artistic or organic which enhances creative arts already available in town. Aside from economic development, small towns throughout Capricornia and Banana Shire are finding the benefits of creative arts projects and events for community cohesion and tourism dollars.

A few weeks ago I was invited to Biloela Community Arts House for their annual Creative Capers Weekend. It was an amazing experience which opened my eyes up to the wonderful trail of artist workshops happening around central Queensland.

Thanks to funding like RADF and the support of local businesses many country towns such as Monto, Springsure, Kilburnie and Greenup are discovering the benefits of running a whole weekend arts event which draws locals, tourists and regional audiences.

So what did the weekend look like?

The Biloela Arts House was overflowing with tables and chairs inside and out. Tutors taught a myriad of skills; artists were keen to inspire and teach unusual and unique artisan techniques.

Barbed wire was woven into the most beautiful orbs and wreaths for the garden. Fabric was woven into beautiful baskets. Lead was softened and formed around glass to create lead-lighted butterflies.

Cupcakes were decorated in the form of a flower bouquet. Native flowers and leaves were pressed to create botanical fabric prints. Coloured wool was massaged to form felt millinery. And of course, wild clay was hand -built into Small Birds and Guinea Fowl.

There was no end to the talent and skill found in the art tutors. By organising such an event, Biloela Page 4

has not only employed Queensland regional artists, but inspired a community and brought people from as far as NSW to participate.Some of you will be aware of the Soldiers Rooms and the work being done by the Citizen’s Club for the Mount Morgan Arts Precinct working to establish an arts centre here in town. One major aspect of the town which drew me to move up here was the original No.7 Art Gallery run

by Kirra Swain. Many of us are eagerly following the renovations of the historic churches on East Church and the transformation into a hub of Arts activities.

Whilst we wait there was an exciting addition to our annual Wattle Day Festival. Thanks to MMPAD Wattle Day this year included a variety of interesting workshops offered free for participants. Wild Mount Morgan Clay had the opportunity to run mosaic and wild clay bird making workshops. It was fantastic to see the local support for these activities, and even more exciting to have non ‘artistic’ participants willing to have a go.

My daughter painted a beautiful turtle under Faylyn’s tutelage in the indigenous workshop; an adjunct to her usual display of artworks at the Wattle Day Markets. Full kudos to the organisers who supported local vintage emerging artist Nancy Liddle to run Matisse style beginner painting sessions. There is nothing more encouraging as an artist than having local support like MMPAD who believe in your work.

Look out for more of Nancy Liddle’s expressive artwork around the region.

These two small country towns of Biloela and Mount Morgan illustrate the exciting opportunities for the artist and creative residents that reflect a growing arts movement around the region.

In celebrating our towns and the creativity of its residents such events not only develop a rich sense of community but bring tourism dollars and much needed hope for the future. I for one am excited to be part of it and very thankful for the support given for Wild Mount Morgan Clay.

Louise Jones, Mount Morgan Artist.

MOUNT MORGAN ARGUS

18 October - 1 November 2023

ENGLISH REVIEWERS WANTED It’s not often having trouble reading makes you an ideal job candidate, but there’s now an opportunity for Mount Morgan residents who tick that very box.

Across Australia, 44 per cent of adults struggle with everyday reading tasks like recipes, manuals, or the instructions on a packet of pills. And while it’s very common, it’s seldom talked about due to the stigma around low literacy.

That’s where Access Easy English comes in. It’s a small Australian business run by speech pathologist Cathy Basterfield.

Access Easy English takes the written word, from flyers to annual reports, and turn it into something tailored to readers with low literacy.

The Melbourne-based agency now has a writer in Rockhampton, Jodie van de Wetering. Jodie is a former journalist and will be a familiar face to many in Mount

Morgan thanks to her involvement in the Koch & Boules web series filmed in town last year.

condition or English as a second language, or maybe they just never got into it.

Jodie said her new role as an Easy English writer includes finding reviewers to test work in progress.

“Then we make sure the reviewer is right for the document. So, if we have a fact sheet about parenting, we’ll find a reviewer who is a parent themselves so they can relate to what they’re reading.”

“Consumer reviewing is a really important part of making Easy English documents,” Jodie said.

“It’s where we sit down one-onone with someone from the target audience and have a good look at the content. We talk about the words we’ve used, the pictures, how it all comes together. We check the reader can understand and knows what to do with that information.

“We’re looking for two things in reviewers.

“First, we’re looking for people who have trouble reading – they might have a disability, they might have had a stroke or a brain injury, they might have an age-related

RADF Rockhampton Region

Access Easy English founder Cathy Basterfield said consumer reviewers were a cornerstone of Easy English’s success as a format.

“Easy English is based on clinical knowledge around how people engage with language and images, but it’s also based on the feedback we get from the reviewers we work with.

“Easy English has to work in the real world, for real people. That means having real people share their experiences and insights, Continued on Page 7

Regional Arts Development Fund

c t? ? e j ro p e n p s r t t hap a a n ke i r o a f to ma e d n i ding a e n Financial assistance is offered for Haved fu innovative arts projects Ne commencing on or after Friday 15 Dec 2023.

Applications close 5pm Tuesday 14 Nov. 2023.

Regional Arts Development Fund is a partnership between the Queensland Government and Rockhampton Regional Council to support local arts and culture in Regional Queensland.

18 - 1 November October 2023

For more information visit

rockhamptonregion.qld.gov.au/RADF 4932 9000 | RADF@rrc.qld.gov.au

MOUNT MORGAN ARGUS

Page 5

MOUNT MORGAN CITIZEN’S CLUB All Abilities Access: One of the Citizens Club priorities is to ensure our facilities are accessible to all, whether able bodied or living with disability or mobility issues. We are proud to announce success with our application for funding for The Arts Precinct to be fitted out with two wheelchair ramps to allow access to the rear door of St Enoch’s Church and between levels in the Upper Dee Hall. With many thanks to the Foundation for Rural and Regional Renewal and Nutrien Ag Solutions for approving our submission.

history about it, so if you have any stories, please share to our FB page.

Hall Hire- For Bookings call 0419 605 662 for availability. Members receive discounted rates.

Next Meeting: Sunday, 29 October 10:30am at the Soldiers Rooms. New Members welcome. To get in touch, email mountmorgansoldiersrooms@gmail. com. Like and follow “Mount Morgan Soldiers Rooms” and “Mount Morgan Arts Precinct” on Facebook to keep up to date.

We have also gratefully been accepted for an ambassadorship for RampChamp, allowing us to receive a third wheelchair ramp, which will be used between the pulpit and floor level in what will be the Art Gallery to allow full access for all.

These fantastic pieces of equipment can be fitted without damaging any part of the historical buildings, and will be well utilised in multiple ways, from wheelchair and mobility access to parents/guardians using prams, to movement of stock and bulky items.

Keep an eye on our FB page for updates and some creative videos showcasing the versatility of this important and necessary product.

Dance: How fantastic was the Medieval Dance last month! With an unprecedented turn out, we had a hard job choosing the winner of our costume competition as so many came dressed up.

We hope you enjoy the pictures. It was marvellous to see everyone having a great time dancing and mingling. Tammy from Wild Healing did a sound healing demonstration which was well received and was followed by the Capricornia Dance Exchange and a set by Di Coburn.

Many thanks to those who played, donated items and of course our amazing volunteers. All funds raised are injected into the ongoing renovation of the Soldiers Rooms, and guests were pleased to see ongoing progress.

Our next dance will be held 7 pm Saturday, 18 November, and will be themed Gangster and Molls.

We look forward to seeing you all having a swell time at our Speakeasy event. Bar will be open, and refreshments available. $10 entry for adults, and $3 for children.

Reno Update: The Soldier’s Rooms new flooring has been installed into the kitchen, servery, and bathrooms, as well as the front 4 offices. It looks great and is now functional and safe to navigate. The rooms have been painted and are looking fresh and updated.

We have also had to remove the huge, old steel commercial bar fridge that had been used for many, many years, and events. We would love to know any Page 6

MOUNT MORGAN ARGUS

18 October - 1 November 2023

BUSINESSES RALLY BEHIND BUY LOCAL Mount Morgan businesses have rallied behind the 2023 Buy Local promotion organised by Mount Morgan Promotion and Development Inc [MMPAD], which started on 16 October and ends on 13 December 2023.

Over 20 Mount Morgan businesses are participating in this year’s promotion which currently offers a prize pool of about $2000, comprising of vouchers which can be redeemed at any participating business in Mount Morgan.

MMPAD President, John Steinberger said he was happy with the final prize pool.

“There is little doubt that 2023 has been a tough year for many with rising living costs and it’s pleasing to see the local businesses get behind this promotion,” he said.

He said MMPAD was happy that Rockhampton Regional Council’s economic development arm, Advance Rockhampton has come on board again this year.

“While it’s obvious that the winners of the prizes will benefit from the Buy Local, MMPAD is hoping the businesses will have an increased turnover throughout this promotion – that’s the real focus,” Mr Steinberger said.

“With Christmas just around the corner, there is plenty

of opportunity for not only Mount Morgan residents, but anyone who shops in Mount Morgan to receive some serious voucher prizes.”

Shoppers can enter by spending $20 or more in a single shop at any of the participating businesses, writing their name and telephone number on the back of the docket and placing the docket in the box provided at any participating store.

They have until close of business Wednesday, 13 December to enter. The draw will take place on Friday, 15 December 2023 at the Mount Morgan Twilight Christmas Concert.

English Reviewers...From Page 5 and learning from them, is really important.”

Access Easy English reviewers work in one-off sessions, usually one or two hours at a time, as suitable documents are available.

Reviews can be done in person or via Zoom video calls, and are paid $30/hour by gift card.

To find out more or see some examples of Easy English documents visit Access Easy English’s website at www.accesseasyenglish.com.au.

If you want to find out more about becoming a reviewer contact Jodie on 0466 819 490 or jodie@ accesseasyenglish.com.au.

Discover the difference!

Meet Angela Douglas: Local area agent

0401 953 882

angela@discoverrealestate.com.au www.discoverrealesate.com.au

LOOKING AT SELLING? LIST YOUR PROPERTY WITH AN AWARD WINNING AGENT

Angela Douglas Working to get the best price for you!

HOUSES AND LAND WANTED!!!

If you are thinking about selling contact Angela on 0401 953 882

DISCOVER THE DIFFERENCE TODAY! DISCOVER REAL ESTATE

18 - 1 November October 2023

MOUNT MORGAN ARGUS

Page 7

Quality Cremation Services

Meeting your needs with Quality & Compassion ABN: 54 894 799 119

Servicing Mount Morgan Region Phone 4921 2673 www.qualitycremationservices.com

PHONE LIZZY ON 0408 262 505 That Truck & Bobcat Bloke

ALAN HOUSMAN BUILDER

ABN: 35 347 197 734

ABN 52 081 926 QBSA 19514 Domestic & Commercial Work Specialising in: • Restumping • Extensions • Renovations • New Home

Call Geoff: 0411 707 741 Based at Razorback, MOONGAN gnarnold226@gmail.com

Small acreage clean ups, land clearing, fence lines, fire breaks, shed pads & more. Post hole borer & spreader bar

RAINBOW CAFE MOUNT MORGAN DINE IN - TAKEAWAY OPEN 7 DAYS

Phone: 4938 1887 ~ Mobile 0419 741 611

Building locally for over 20 years ~ Quality Workmanship Guaranteed

Tony Harney Plumbing Available for all domestic and commercial work.

Septic to Sewer Connections Blocked drains, leaking taps or any other maintenance issues

Phone Tony

0429 669 499 Servicing Mount Morgan

phone 4938 2758

ABN : 76 171 835 370

Mark Humphreys’ Electrical 8 Baldwin Street Mount Morgan 4714 Electrical Lic. No. 74711

QBCC 1110090

M.A.W Mowing & Handyman Services ABN: 30 706 300 266

Phone: 0439 727 609 FAX: 4938 2885

Mark Williamson

Domestic, Rural, Commercial Installation and Repairs,

Promptly Servicing

Mount Morgan & Wowan Districts

0403 571 561

Email: mawmowing@live.com

DAWSON’S DO & CHARGE ABN: 24 757 904 038

Dawson Green - Mount Morgan Local NO JOB TOO SMALL!

CALL DAWSON ON 0413 825 787 Email - hdgreen@bigpond.com

Most Home Repairs - Doors, Windows, Walls, Gates, Patch & Paint

Clinic 1st Tuesday of the Month

I will not accept jobs over $3,300.00 Page 8

MOUNT MORGAN ARGUS

18 October - 1 November 2023

TELEPHONE: MOUNT MORGAN 0417 006 591 OUTDOORS METAL DETECTORS & PROSPECTING EQUIPMENT -FOSSICKING ADVICE CAMPING GEAR -FISHING GEAR & BAIT - 4X4 GEAR - ARCHERY GEAR DAKEN ELECTRIC FENCE EQUIPMENT GIFTS & COLLECTABLES - MILITARIA TV ANTENNA SALES & INSTALLATION

69 Morgan street, mount morgan

MOUNT MORGAN GUNS 69 Morgan Street Mount Morgan Queensland AUSTRALIA 4714

Firearm Dealers License No. 50001499 Phone - 0417 006 591

Have something you need printed? or laminated?

Come down and see the friendly people at MMPAD. Contact us on 4938 2312 for prices or for further information visit us at the Railway Museum.

Thinking of Selling your Home? sals

prai p A e e

Fr

New & Used Guns - Secure Storage - Permits to Acquire Ammunition - Firearm Accessories

WE BUY GUNS

Finlayson & McKenzie Funerals

Sandi Wood (nee Inslay) from Mount Morgan was born and raised within the Mount and is well aware of the needs of the Mount Morgan community.

Bob Wheeler 0419 663 277 Po Box 91 Mt Morgan

Sandi is Mount Morgan’s funeral consultant and is available for all funeral advice.

Contact Sandi for more information and competitive prices with burials, cremations or prepaid funerals.

Sandi Wood your local consultant Phone: 4922 1269

Tilt Truck Service, Excavator Slashing, Mowing, Tractor and Poison Spraying Licenced Poisons Contractor 18 - 1 November October 2023

fmckfunerals@live.com.au

MOUNT MORGAN ARGUS

Page 9

Christmas Colouring Competition - Prep to Year 3 and Year 4 - Year 6 Colour in the Christmas Tree and drop the entry off to Mount Morgan Promotion and Development Inc, at the Mount Morgan Railway Station by Friday, 1 December for your chance to win a prize. Prize will be presented at the Mount Morgan Twilight Christmas Concert on 15 December 2023 at the Mount Morgan Railway Station Complete the form below and return Name:_________________________________________________________________ Contact Number:________________________________ Parent/Guardian Signature:__________________________________________________ Entrant Year Level:___________________________

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MOUNT MORGAN ARGUS

18 October - 1 November 2023

18 - 1 November October 2023

MOUNT MORGAN ARGUS

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LIBRARY NEWS

Gangulu Elders and Fiona Hayward from Kilburnie Homestead (Callide) recently donated a copy of first edition book Kilburnie: 140 years in a timeless country to the Rockhampton Regional Library Service at Mount Morgan Library on 9 October.

Councillor Drew Wickerson, Communities Chair, officially accepted the donation on behalf of Council, with the book destined for the Central Queensland Collection at the History Centre located at Rockhampton Southside Library.

A digital copy of the book will also be available for access at the Mount Morgan Library.

The original Kilburnie Homestead is located approximately 100km west-south-west of Gladstone on Gangulu Country, with some earlier leases of the property occupying Gureng Gureng Country.

The Gaangalu Nation traditional lands occupied an extensive area of approximately 16,000 square kilometres covering Mount Page 12

Morgan, Banana and Duaringa regions.

Kilburnie’s huge 140th birthday celebratory weekend in midSeptember featured original artwork by Brandon Butler incorporating echidnas, ants and gathering of community into various commemorative items, acknowledging Kilburnie’s relationship and connection to country and the importance of paying respect to the traditional owners of this land.

The 90-page coffee table book contains a variety of histories, maps, letters, photographs, poems and original artworks from the heritage listed Kilburnie Homestead Archive Collection.

Chapters cover the First Nations People, the buildings and gardens, social life, the Campbell clan, station hands, and a nod to the future of the homestead.

The compilation and writing for the book took place over a 6-month period.

MOUNT MORGAN ARGUS

Sadly, Fiona’s mother Heather Elizabeth Stewart (née Campbell), the driving force behind the project, passed away before the fruition of the book’s publication.

The Mount Morgan Library is located at 31 Morgan Street, Mount Morgan and is open the following days: • Monday, Wednesday, Friday 9:00am-1:00pm; 2:00pm-5:00pm • Saturday 14 Oct, 28 Oct, 11 Nov, 25 Nov, 09 Dec - 9:00am-12noon Mount Morgan Library Phone: 4936 8169 Rockhampton Regional Libraries Administration Phone: 4936 8043.

Pictured above are Natalee Forder, Bino Toby, Deborah Tull, Veronica Rienecker, Fiona Haywood and Cr Drew Wickerson

THE BEST MEDICINE Why couldn't the sunflower ride its bike? It lost its petals 18 October - 1 November 2023

REMEMBERING BEERSHEBA DAY As we perch on the precipice of another year’s end, its time to reflect on the sacrafice by many Australians over 100 years ago.

The 5th Light Horse Regiment, Mount Morgan Troop will hold a commemorative ceremony at ANZAC Park on Sunday, 29 October 2023 from 10 am.

Beersheba Day gives us the opportunity to pay oru respects to the men of the 4th Light Horse Brigade who can claim the distinction of being part of the “last, great cavalry charge”. From riding across the desert sands these men rode into history.

The extracted information and images contained within this story are from the Australian War Memorial website.

The battle of Beersheba took place on 31 October 1917 as part of the wider British offensive collectively known as the third Battle of Gaza. The final phase of this all day battle was the famous mounted charge of the 4th Light Horse Brigade. Commencing at dusk, members of the brigade stormed through the Turkish defences and seized the strategic town of Beersheba.

The capture of Beersheba enabled British Empire forces to break the Ottoman line near Gaza on 7 November and advance into Palestine.

The mounted troops spent the summer of 1917 after the second battle of Gaza in constant reconnaissance and in preparation for the offensive to come. The Turkish forces held the line from Gaza near the coast to Beersheba, about 46 kilometres to its southeast. The Allied forces held the line of the Wadi Ghuzzer from its mouth to El Gamly on the East. The positions were not continuous trench lines but rather a succession of strong posts. Both sides kept their strength in front of the city of Gaza.

The newly arrived British commander of the Egyptian Expeditionary Force, General Sir Edmund Allenby used plans prepared by Lieutenant General Sir Phillip Chetwode. The plan was to attack Beersheba by using mounted troops from the east whilst the infantry attacked Beersheba from the south west.

The preparation also involved persuading the Turkish

forces that the offensive would again be against Gaza. Chetwode was in command the 20th Corps and the Desert Mounted Corps was under Lieutenant General Sir Harry Chauvel.

The greatest problem for Chauvel was to find sufficient water in the Beersheba area for his mounted troops.

Continued on Page 14

VOLUNTEER ASSISTANCE NEEDED Mount Morgan Railway Museum and Explore Centre

Do you have an interest in local history? Or perhaps would like to be involved in town promotions? Mount Morgan Promotion and Development Inc would like to warmly welcome all interested individuals to become a part of the team! Workforce Australia and Centrelink Mutual Obligations also available. Any assistance would be greatly appreciated. Please contact Eve-lyn at MMPAD on 4938 2312 or email mmpad@mountmorgan.org.au.

18 - 1 November October 2023

MOUNT MORGAN ARGUS

Page 13

Rembering Beersheba Day...From Page 13 Information from reconnaissance revealed that there was none other than at Esani which was too far to the west to be of any use for a surprise attack. Chauvel, through studying the records of the Palestine Exploration Fund and after questioning local Arabs, knew that the larger ancient towns in the area to the south and south-west of Beersheba must have had existing water supplies. At Asluj the old wells were found and a fortnight’s work put them into working order. This made the attack on Beersheba a feasible operation.

Various deceptions were employed to keep the enemy thinking the attack was going to be at Gaza including keeping the Infantry strength there until the last minute. Beersheba’s defences were held by 1,000 Turkish riflemen, nine machine guns and two aircraft. The position was extended through a series of trenches and redoubts placed on commanding positions with good zones of fire; but on the east and south the trenches were not protected by barbed wire. The Turkish forces were relying on the forbidding open terrain as well as the absence of water to defend Beersheba. Calculating that the attack was most likely to be upon Gaza they were also not prepared for a force such as Allenby’s which was moving on 30 October.

Chauvel’s orders when he left Asluj early on the evening of the 30 October were for Major General Chaytor's ANZAC Mounted Division to close the Beersheba Road at Sakati (almost 10 kilometres north-east of the town) in order to prevent Turkish reinforcements from coming in and also to cut-off escape from the town. Once the road was secured, he was to storm Beersheba using Major General Hodgson's Australian Mounted Division. Allenby had insisted that Beersheba must be captured on the first day of operations. On the night of 30 October about 40,000 allied troops moved towards Beersheba, including most of Chetwode's 20th Corps

Page 14

and Chauvel's the Desert Mounted Corps, in a night march of over 40 kilometres.

Trekking since October 28 via Esani members of the 12th Light Horse Regiment arrived at Asluj on 30 October. Corporal Harold Gleeson mentions in his diary that he obtained no water at Asluj and at 6pm on 30 October recorded moving on towards Beersheba, marching all night on a “very weary and dusty ride of 30 miles.” Private Hunter in his diary wrote “The dust was terrible. One could not see beyond his horses head. The horses braved the journey which was about 36 miles. Walked at my horses head for about 10 miles of flat country giving him a rest.” The horses were carrying heavy packs on average of about 120 kilograms and their riders knew that there was no water available until Beersheba fell into their hands.

Private Keddie: “On this stunt we have been told we would have to live on what rations we had for a few days.”

On the morning of 31 October, Chetwode's three British divisions attacked the Turkish positions around Beersheba from the west and south supported by a sustained artillery bombardment of over 100 guns. By 1 pm they had driven the Turks from their defences to the west and south west of Beersheba, but the wells of the town were still in Turkish hands. The 4th Light Horse Brigade waited, scattered over a wide area as a precaution against bombing, to the south-east of the town. Private Hunter: “The Turks immediately started shelling us with heavies. Good cover and tact on our part prevented casualties”. Their horses were unsaddled, watered and fed. William Grant was the Brigade’s new commander following Brigadier General Meredith, who had been invalided home to Australia.

The wells of Beersheba were vital for the welfare of the Desert Mounted Corps’ horses, many of whom had been without water for several days. Enemy resistance at Tel El Saba, three kilometres to the

MOUNT MORGAN ARGUS

Continued on Page 15

18 October - 1 November 2023

Remembering Beersheba Day...From Page 14 east of the town, had been stronger than expected and it took a stiff day of fighting for Chaytor’s force to capture this strong redoubt protecting Beersheba's eastern flank. The fall of Tel El Saba at 3:15 pm meant that the 1st and 3rd Light Horse Brigades were free to attack Beersheba from the East.

At 3:30 pm there was only a few hours of day light remaining and orders were issued for the final phase of the struggle, the occupation of Beersheba. Chauvel decided to put Grant’s 4th Light Horse Brigade straight at the remaining trenches, from the south-east.

Chauvel knew that he must take the town before dark in order to secure the wells for Allenby's large force.

Private Keddie recorded: “We began to talk among ourselves saying Beersheba will be taken and us not doing anything when about 5 o’clock our major came and said that Beersheba had not been captured but we were going in.” Chauvel: “owing to the constant attacks from aeroplanes, which had devoted a good deal of attention to my own headquarters, it took some time to assemble them and push them off”.

General Grant gave the order personally to the 12th Light Horse Regiment: “men you’re fighting for water.

There’s no water between this side of Beersheba and Esani. Use your bayonets as swords. I wish you the best of luck”. The Light Horse were equipped with rifles and held their bayonets as swords, which would have been more suited to a cavalry style charge.

Fortuitously their bayonet tips had been sharpened on the orders of Major General Hodgson, on 26 October.

Grant made the decision to order his light horsemen to charge cavalry-style, when they would normally have ridden close to an objective then dismounted to fight. Trooper Edward Dengate: “we got mounted, cantered about a quarter of a mile up a bit of a rise lined up along the brow of a hill paused a moment, and then went atem, the ground was none too smooth, which caused our line to get twisted a bit . . . Captain Davies let out a yell at the top of his voice . . . that started them all we spurred our horses . . . the bullets got thicker…three or four horses came down, others with no riders on kept going, the saddles splashed with blood, here and there a man running toward a dead horse for cover, the Turk’s trenches were about fifty yards on my right, I could see the Turk’s heads over the edge of the trenches squinting along their rifles, a lot of the fellows dismounted at that point thinking we were to take the trenches, but most of us kept straight on, where I was there was a clear track with trenches on the right and a redoubt on the left, some of the chaps jumped clear over the trenches in places, some fell into them, although about 150 men got through and raced for the town, they went up the street yelling like madmen.” Captain Robey was at their head.

While the 4th Light Horse Regiment dismounted at the trenches and tackled their objective on foot many in the 12th Light Horse Regiment were able to get straight through and take the town, Keddie: “we were all at the gallop yelling like mad some had bayonets 18 - 1 November October 2023

in their hand others their rifle then it was a full stretch gallop at the trenches . . . the last 200 yards or so was good going and those horses put on pace and next were jumping the trenches with the Turks underneath . . . when over the trenches we went straight for the town.” 31 light horsemen were killed in the charge and 36 were wounded. At least 70 horses died. The Turkish defenders suffered many casualties and between 700 and 1,000 troops were captured. he Battle of Beersheba was the trigger that caused a wave of British victories throughout Syria-Palestine and one of the turning points in the First World War. MOUNT MORGAN RSL SUB BRANCH INC The Mount Morgan Sub Branch meets at 1 Cornes Street on the third Saturday of the month at 10 am.

Want to give lawn bowls a try?

Welfare Lawn Bowls Club - Sunday at 9 a.m.

Thomson Avenue, Mount Morgan MOUNT MORGAN MEN’S SHED INC. Meet 9 am - 12 noon Wednesdays Phone John on 0429 055 165 Trash and Treasure, 21 Gordon Street.

Every Friday from 8.30 am to 12 noon. Every first Saturday of the month from 8 am to 12 noon. Bags of clothing $5. Any donations please phone Margaretta 0428 179 604

Proudly representing Mount Morgan

Colin BOYCE MP Federal Member for Flynn

76 Goondoon Street, Gladstone QLD 4680 colin.boyce.mp@aph.gov.au

colinboyce.com.au

4972 5465 ColinBoyceMP

Authorised by Colin Boyce MP, Liberal National Party of Queensland, 76 Goondoon Street, Gladstone QLD 4680.

MOUNT MORGAN ARGUS

Page 15

SAVE THE DATE!

OCT 19: Mount Morgan RSL Sub Branch social night for Veterans and interested community members.

RSL Building near Footbridge in Cornes Street - 4 - 8 pm. Raffle and light refreshments available.

OCT 25: Dee River Oldies Group - Morning Tea starting at 10 am to be held in St Mary’s Hall, Gordon Street, Mount Morgan. ( Behind the Anglican Church).

Raffle and lucky door prizes.

OCT 28:Beersheba Day Commemoration - ANZAC Park, Morgan Street. From 10 am. All welcome to join the 5th Light Horse Regiment, Mount Morgan Troop.

NOV 4: Mount Morgan Arts and Craft Group Cent Sale at Baree Hall, Creek Street Baree. Doors open at 12 noon and cent sale starts 2 pm . Christmas theme. All welcome.

NOV 11: Baree Markets. Baree School of Arts, Creek Street Baree. From 8 am until 12 noon.

NOV 11: Remembrance Day Service, ANZAC Park Mount Morgan. Starting 10.45 am.

NOV 12: Country Music Dance. 12 - 4 pm. Adults $10, Kids $3. Soldiers’ Rooms, 18 Morgan Street.

Light refreshments available. Bar operating.

NOV 18: QCWA Cent Sale.

School of Arts, Morgan Street. Doors open 1 pm. Starts at 2 pm.

Refreshments available.

NOV 18: Dance “Gangsters and Molls” at Mount Morgan Soldiers’ Rooms 7 pm. Bar operating.

Refreshments available. $10 Adults - $3 children.

NOV 21: Mobile Women’s Health Clinic. Phone 4912 5100 for an appointment.

NOV 21: Dee River Oldies Group - Monthly Meeting starting at 2 pm to be held in St Mary’s Hall, Gordon Street, Mount Morgan. (Behind the Anglican Church).

DEC 9: Baree Markets. Baree School of Arts, Creek Street Baree. From 8 am until 12 noon.

DEC 13: Mount Morgan Buy Local Promotion finishes.

DEC 15: Mount Morgan Twilight Christmas Concert.

Mount Morgan Railway Station, 1 Railway Parade.

NOV 24: Dee River Oldies Group - Christmas Lunch to be held at the Grand Hotel, Mount Morgan.

Entry from 11.30 am. The cost to be advised. Raffle and lucky door prizes. Put your name down and pay at the October Morning Tea. DEC 12: Dee River Oldies Group - Monthly Meeting to be held a week earlier then usual. Starting at 2 pm to be held in St Mary’s Hall, Gordon Street, Mount Morgan. (Behind the Anglican Church). There are no Morning Teas held in November and December.

MOUNT MORGAN CITIZEN’S CLUB INC Meets on the last Sunday of each month at 10.30 am.

Soldiers’ Rooms, 18 Morgan Street, Phone - John Tuxworth 0429 055 165

ROTARY CLUB OF MOUNT MORGAN 1st & 3rd Thursdays of the month Grand Hotel - 6 pm for 6.30 pm. Visitors Welcome!

E: mount.morgan@rotary9560.org

Page 16

CLASSIFIEDS PAINTER:

Semi-retired. W. Cruickshank Phone 0488 104 774 or 0488 105 257.

LIGHT ON THE HILL CHURCH EVERY SATURDAY NIGHT Green Shed from 7 pm. Phone 0412 502 937

SEWING

Caravan curtains made up; hems on pants, skirts and dresses. Minor alterations.

PLEASE PHONE ALISON ON 0447 177 003 Sawmill Open Saturdays - old stock cheap! Come and look. Slabs too!! 61 Archer Road. 0428 277 421.

Wedding Anniversary: Trevor and Rhonda Lamb will celebrate their 50th Wedding Anniversary on 20 October, 2023.

WURA GROUP ABORIGINAL COUNCIL (WGAC) Past and present members of the Wura Group Aboriginal Corporation (WGAC) are invited to attend the Annual General Meeting on 26th November at the Baree Hall. Registration to start at 9 am and meeting will start at 9.30 am.

Please contact Trevor Lamb on 07 4938 1635 for further information or to register your attendance.

In Loving Memory of NOELENE ELLEN MUGRIDGE 24-12-1951- 16-10-2019 Those we love, never go away They walk with us every day Unseen, unheard but always near.

Always missed. Always loved.

MUGRIDGE - HOLLAND FAMILIES

NEXT EDITION WEDNESDAY, 1 NOVEMBER 2023

All inclusions required by: Tuesday, 24 October 2023 by 4 p.m.

Ph: 4938 2312 Email: mmpad@mountmorgan.org.au If you don’t receive your Argus, please contact us.

MOUNT MORGAN ARGUS

18 October - 1 November 2023