The Mount Morgan Argus Volume 18 Issue 4

MOUNT MORGAN ARGUS

Over 20 cars - MGs and Jaguars old and new - visited Mount Morgan on Sunday, 19 March 2023.

The MG Car Club Queensland Inc (Capricorn Chapter) were joined this year by the Jaguar Drivers’ Club of Queensland, Capricornia Register for their annual outing to Mount Morgan.

The 50 plus drivers and their part-

ners toured around Mount Morgan before adjourning to the Mount Morgan Railway Museum where they had lunch and site visit of the Railway Museum.

Rally coordinator, Mr James Armstrong said it was a lovely day and commended the volunteers at the Mount Morgan Railway Museum for their hospitality and wonderful

service.

These sentiments were echoed by the Chairman of the Jaguar Drivers’ Club, Mr John March.

“This is the first time we’ve had a combined MG and Jaguar rally,” he said.

“Hopefully with the hospitality shown, it won’t be the last,” he said.

Boxing...Page 2

Sh..Box Rally...Page 7

Teaching Gangulu...Page 10

POOL REDEVELOPMENT TENDER AWARDED

Mount Morgan is one step closer to having a new aquatic centre following the successful appointment of a contractor to carry out the works.

The tender was awarded to Taylor Builders who have commenced preconstruction works including detailed design.

Member for Keppel Brittany Lauga welcomed the initial works thanks to an investment by the Palaszczuk Government.

“The Palaszczuk Government is delivering for regional Queensland, and ensuring that the benefits of the resources industry stay here.

“When the resources industry goes well, it should be locals who benefit and with this $4.5 million investment through the Palaszczuk Government’s Resources Community Infrastructure Fund we’re making sure of it.

“The investment is a boon for our region, creating good local jobs and upgrading services throughout Rockhampton Regional Queensland.

“Local families will be able to use the upgraded pool in Mount Morgan and enjoy the best of the worldclass lifestyle we have here in regional Queensland.”

Rockhampton Region Mayor Tony Williams congratulated Taylor Builders on being awarded the tender.

“Taylor Builders are a very experienced pool builder specialising in remote and regional pools which is perfect for the Mount Morgan pool redevelopment project,” Mayor Williams said.

“The tender went through our rigorous, multi-criteria analysis and Taylor Builders was selected by the panel as the best overall option.”

The Mount Morgan pool redevelopment has received $4.5 million through the Palaszczuk Government’s Resources Community Infrastructure Fund (RCIF) and Rockhampton Regional Council.

“We are extremely grateful for the funding received that will allow the community of Mount Morgan to have a pool that meets contemporary competition criteria,” Mayor Williams said.

“This means the kids of Mount Morgan will have more opportunity and be able to train in the same standard of facility that their competitor do.

“The new facility will also be fully accessible for people with disabilities, opening up more options for exercise and recreation for everyone in the community.”

Divisional Councillor Cherie Rutherford and Councillor for Parks, Sport and Public Spaces agreed that the new pool will be quite the upgrade from the previous pool.

“Council decided to put in some additional funding to deliver the facility to the standard the community needs, bringing the total project cost to $6.5 million,” Cr Rutherford said.

“We have taken on board input from the community consultation that was undertaken last November and I’m pleased to say that this is being incorporated into the design.

“Stay tuned as we will be releasing more information on the design and how the community’s feedback shaped this in the coming weeks.”

A meeting was held on 9 November 2022 where attendees had an opportunity to weigh in on the design elements of the pool.

BLUE-GREEN ALGAE BLOOM HIGH

Blue Green Algae levels have returned to high in the No. 7 Dam at Mount Morgan and Council is asking residents to continue to avoid swimming and undertaking any water sports at the dam until further notice.

The algal bloom started late last year and while the levels had dropped to medium at the last two reads, recent testing has shown that it is high once again.

Algal bloom is not an unusual occurrence. Decomposing vegetation combined with inflows from surrounding catchments have increased the nutrient density of the water, resulting in this latest algal bloom.

Council officers will continue regularly testing and monitoring the situation.

Rockhampton Regional Council is committed to the safety of Mount Morgan residents and will notify the community when it is safe to recommence activities in the dam.

To check the blue green algae levels see here https://www.rockhamptonregion.qld.gov. au/CouncilServices/Fitzroy-River-Water/Waternotifications-and-figures/Blue-green-algae-levels

For more information on Blue Green Algae visit the CSIRO website: https://www.csiro.au/en/research/ natural-environment/ecosystems/blue-greenalgae/what-are-blue-green-algae

SHAPING UP TO A BETTER FUTURE

Eight months ago, the Rockhampton Boxing and Sports Promotions (RBSP) started a Friday night boxing night at the Mount Morgan School of Arts.

The nights were aimed at providing an activity for Mount Morgan’s Youth.

In the past eight months, the boxing nights have expanded to two nights a week and are now being held in a purpose-fitted room underneath the Soldiers’ Rooms.

During the six months that they have called this home, the room has been outfitted, with thanks to CBACC, Stanwell Power and the Department of Sport and Recreation.

While boxing is at the centre, the program is not just about boxing, but also includes “fit for life” skills, behavioural skills, health and wellbeing (in conjunction with CQ Youth Connect).

RBSP President, Mr Russell Thomas said a Youth Group had been formed from the participants.

“The number varies between 20 and 40 youths. Fluctuations can be attributed to some of the young people leaving town or having per-

sonal difficulties,” he said.

Since the boxing has started, there has been a marked improvement in the behaviour of the participants.

“Their manners have changed, they are accepting responsibility, there is less “bad” language and there is less street wandering happening,” Mr Thomas said.

Mr Thomas said there are other activities planned such as camps for Youth and Development and Team Building.

“The entire group has already been taken away to tournaments in Mackay,” he said.

While the focus is primarily on building life skills and not competitive skills, future events could include competitve events. Other activities on the horizon include discos, touch football and looking at fitness groups for the adults.

“We would like to engage more of the community in the future,” Mr Thomas said.

With the runs already on the board, the activities are certainly shaping up to a better future.

original and Torres Strait Islander people.

One of the two coordinators, Donna Anderson said the first program was very successful.

“We had about 30 kids in the program, which was great,” she said.

“The kids learn how to make positive choices and respect themselves and each other.

“This program also focussed on drug and alcohol awareness as well as indigenous culture and language,” she said.

In 2023, the program started with the young people learning to eat healthy.

“They had to make something from each of the food groups and after learning to make the food, they get to eat it,” she said.

Donna said this program, like the first Deadly Choices Program was very well received. The program wrapped up on Wednesday, 22 March.

Throughout the entire program, participants have key preventative health messaging introduced and reinforced to ensure they have capacity to make deadly, healthy choices, now and in the future.

Leadership is used as a tool to direct good health and education practices, and throughout each eight-week program, leadership is reflected upon as a cornerstone of healthy lifestyle behaviours, encouraging friends and family to do the same.

Deadly Choices encourage healthy eating

Since the begining of February Mundagutta Youth Group participants have been making some “deadly choices” about Healthy Eating as part of the Deadly Choices Program.

In 2022, the Deadly Choices Pro-

gram was introduced at the Green Shed in Thompson Ave, for both indigenous and non-indigenous youth.

Aligned with curriculum learning, Deadly Choices is about promoting health and wellbeing in Ab-

Donna’s Co-coordinator is Lyn Blucher. Other parents and elders from Mount Morgan’s Indigenous community assist with events from time to time. A new program will be looked at after the school holidays. Above: Learning to eat healthy.

MOUNT MORGAN CITIZEN’S CLUB

view “My Ride” and buy some tickets, head to Mount Morgan Hot Bread Shop. Many thanks to Nancy and the Bakery. Thank you also to Wattle Bee Next for keeping our church donation box on the counter. You can also donate online at mycause.com.au/ page/297958/save-our-history.

Hire - The Soldiers Rooms is available for events, and we have chairs and trestle tables available for events elsewhere. For Bookings call 0419 605 662 for availability. Members receive discounted rates.

Next Meeting - Sunday, 26 March 10.30 am 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.

Submitted by Bev Leask – Event Coordinator.

Our Inaugural Artisan Markets will be held on the 2 April. Mark your calendar as we will be showcasing our local Artists and Crafts people.

Come along and support our local Artisans. This year the markets will be held in the Soldiers’ Rooms, 18 Morgan Street, Mount Morgan with next year’s market being held in the new Arts Precinct.

If you are interested in renting stall space there is still some time, contact Bev on 0428 854 707. Devonshire Tea’s will be available. We look forward to seeing you there. Keep an eye on our events calendar for exciting upcoming happenings. 2 April – Artisans Markets at the Soldiers’ Rooms from 8am – 4 pm

22 July - Karaoke Night Competition –A fun family night, open to all age groups, Prizes, and Surprises throughout the evening, with a special guest as our Host. Watch this space.

29 September – Monday, 2 Oct - Photography Competition and exhibition Commencing with a wine and cheese night announcing the winners, then open for public viewing over the weekend. Get snapping, special categories to be announced very soon, watch this space.

31 December - Ring in the New Year with a Gala ball themed “Something GOLD!” to celebrate Mount Morgan’s exciting times ahead in 2024 with the Mine, the pipeline and of course the Arts Precinct. Bring in 2024 in Style…. Live music, Bar, and Buffet.

Raffle - For a $1 ticket, you can go in the draw for an original piece of art by talented local Nancy Liddle. To

The Soldiers’ Rooms 18 Morgan St Craft & Art by local artisans, Devonshire tea café, limited eftpos available, cash preferred

More than 70 people attended the Celtic Bush Dance at the Soldiers Rooms on Saturday night. Above: dancers taking the opportunity to learn some new steps and Nicholai and Tony sporting their kilts as part of the Capricorn Dance Exchange.

RALLYING FOR CANCER RESEARCH FUNDS

Stopping at Mount Morgan’s Driver Reviver stop at the Mount Morgan Railway Station last Friday were mates, Matthew Curtis and Joseph Giovinazzo. Matthew and Joseph had travelled from Parkes in New South Wales to participate in the 2023 Sh..box Rally to raise funds for Cancer Research. The Rally started in Rockhampton on Saturday, 18 March and will finish in Hobart in on 28 March.

The mates, whose friendship was formed when they both worked for BHP on the Olympic Dam project at Roxby Downs over 10 years ago, decided to join the rally in honour of Joseph’s father who died of cancer last year.

One of the conditions of the rally is that the cars driven have to be valued at $1500 or less. Their 1980 Mitsubishi Lancer has not only had to withstand the 4000 km trek from Rockhampton to Hobart, but also an additional 1200 km from Parkes to Rockhampton.

Sounds like a piece of cake right? Try doing the 1200 km in a car that hasn’t got air conditioning in the middle of extremely hot weather.

The Lancer was donated to the mates by their friend Jeff Evans and the car was decorated by Matt and his sister.

Driving as the “Super Smash Bros”, entry into the rally was guaranteed once they hit the $6000 mark in their fundraising, which is another condition of entry.

Matt and Joseph did not only want to honour Joseph’s father, but they wanted to join the rally to challenge themselves (and their ageing classic) and raise funds for Cancer Research.

“The biggest part of the challenge for us will be when we have to drive over bulldust roads with the windows up,” Matt said.

“Other than that we are going to make the most of this trip which will be made more of a challenge by the lack of a working fuel gauge,” he said.

They are looking forward to the trip, meeting people and having

fun.

“The rally is aimed at bringing people together, visiting small towns and raising funds,” Joseph said.

The mates were happy to see the Driver Reviver sign and were

glad of the opportunity to stop and stretch their legs.

“It’s really great to see the Driver Reviver here. It’s such a lovely setting,” they said before heading off to Rockhampton to join the rally.

THE JOYS OF WORKING WITH WILD CLAYS

Pauline Grabham (pictured) is a newly arrived resident of Mount Morgan. Having an artistic bent, she produces paintings and crafts under the name ‘Shades of Allusion- Art by Pauline’.

Despite years of experience in porcelain and ceramic moulds, Pauline was unsure of hand-building with clay but her participation in a number of Wild Mount Morgan Clay workshops has given her confidence in her newest art – pottery. Pauline was delighted

to discover a chocolate coloured clay whilst digging her new garden bed. It passed the plasticity test of being malleable when wet and fired to a beautiful terracotta colour. Pauline built this head and shoulders based on her nephew and was very happy with the result after firing as it retained some dark brown colouration as well. Because the chocolate clay is light and soft, there was a lot of fine surface cracking which doesn’t affect the stability of the sculpture. For this reason Pauline has titled her work ‘I’m not all I’m cracked up to be’.

So far there has been four different coloured clays sourced in Mount Morgan as the table below attests. The harvested raw clay is pictured with it’s fired result underneath. One local reported that a ‘blue’ clay exists in the area as a marker for gold. If you have observed this clay or a white/grey version we would love to know.

Contact Louise on 0427 314 410 or book into one of the upcoming workshops via www.wildmountmorganclay.au

TELEPHONE: 0417 006 591

MOUNT MORGAN OUTDOORS

Firearm Accessories – Militaria- Fishing – Bait

- Archery – Ammo – Gifts – Television Antenna

Sales & Installation - Metal Detectors and Prospecting Gear - Camping Gear!

ABN 86 894 469 085

Eric J Stevenson. DNRME License to Sell Explosives 1300622

69 Morgan Street, Mount Morgan

Firearm Sales / PTA’s still from 11 Glen Gordon Street by appointment

Firearm Dealer License No. 50001499 Mount Morgan Guns

CNR YAAMBA RD & MAIN ST

NORTH ROCKHAMPTON

Phone: 4928 3511

trendrok@bigpond.net.au

PROUDLY SERVING MOUNT MORGAN FOR OVER FORTY YEARS

Deslea’s Cutz for Mutz

Mobile Dog Clipping

Phone Des: 0447 275 402

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.

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

Tilt Truck Service, Excavator

Slashing, Mowing, Tractor and Poison Spraying

Licenced Poisons Contractor

Connecting Culture and Language

For Natalee Forder (nee Waterton), learning and teaching the languages of her people is as important to her as breathing.

At the start of the 2023 School Year, Natalee starting teaching Aboriginal language at the Mount Morgan Central State School. In 2022 she taught Gangulu Language at Woorabinda State School.

“I have been learning Gangulu and Ghungabula Aboriginal Languages and speak both languages with some of my family. My father John Waterton is a Ghungabula mari I try to speak Ghungabula as much as I can with him. Then my mother Bino Toby is Gangulu and she remembers words from my Granddad Bill Toby,” Natalee said.

“I studied and attained a Masters of Indigenous Language Education at Sydney University, NSW in 2022. From studying the MILE’s course I’ve learnt to understand the language documents written by linguist in the 1990’s and listening to old audio files from 1970’s,” she said.

“I learned a lot about the unique Aboriginal phonetic sounds and writing a language that was never written. The other unique Aboriginal language qualities included the sentence structures the word formation and Aboriginal word synonym, there are a few words that mean the same. For example ‘gabu pronounced gah-boo’ and ‘uwa pronounced oo-wah’ means laters as in ‘see you later’. In Gangulu lessons we use

‘gabu’ for good bye.

Natalee studied to be a teacher at Charles Darwin University, Northern Territory.

“While I was studying I was also employed as the Indigenous Student Support Worker at St Josephs College, Katherine,” she said.

Natalee was fortunate to obtain a scholarship with the Catholic Education Office, Northern Territory to study a Bachelor of Teaching and Learning.

Following this she went on many adventures teaching in schools across Northern Territory Remote communities.

“While teaching in Northern Territory schools, I became fascinated with how every person spoke and understood each other in Yolngu Matha.

“Their culture was everyday life routines and the children had responsibilities in their family. The people were so helpful to teach me Yolngu language and their cultural ways that made me feel Yolngu (apart of their tribe).

“Because of my teaching contracts, I was able to venture to other amazing places and learn other Aboriginal languages.

“Once I came back to Queensland, I was given a Gangulu dictionary and then took the opportunity

Continued on Page 11

to enrol at the Sydney University to learn how to understand the Gangulu Language.

Natalee’s connections with Mount Morgan are strong.

“I was born in the original hospital here in Mount Morgan and then my parents moved to Rockhampton for mum Bino studied at university and my father John worked on the railway.

“My parents met here at the Mount Morgan High School. Mum told stories of how her mob walked to the Catholic school everyday over the old swinging bridge from Red Hill.

“When I was young we came up to Aunty Heather’s house for family gatherings and stayed at Aunty Gloria’s place with all my cousins.

“During those days my cousins and I would go down to the little creeks to catch crawchies then swim down the dam on hot days. Family picnics at the Dam and the creek at Dululu were my favourite memories,” she said.

Most Aboriginal languages on the east coast of Australia are considered endangered as a result of the colonisation of Australia. Due to the displacement, forced assimilation, and other effects of colonisation, many of these languages have been lost or are now endangered.

Natalee believes there are many reasons why it is important to learn Aboriginal Language:

•Cultural heritage: Language is an important part of our community’s cultural heritage. It carries the stories, values and traditions of Gangulu people and helps connect us to our history and identity.

• Linguistic diversity: Every language is unique and has it own way of expressing ideas and concepts.

• Knowledge preservation: Many endangered language contain knowledge about the environment, medicine, agriculture, and other important fields. Revitalisation means preserving that knowledge for future generations.

• Empowerment: Revitalising a language can empower a community by giving them a sense of pride in their cultural heritage and helping them to assert their identity in a multicultural world.

Natalee believes that teaching Aboriginal languages in schools is important.

“By appreciating Aboriginal cultures and traditions students gain a better understanding of cultural awareness and respect. It can broaden a students perspective and help them develop empathy, respect, and appreciation for linguistic and cultural diversity. Also learning a second language can benefit a child’s cognitive ability to improve memory, problem-solving skills, and creative thinking. In addition, community development by helping to revitalise and preserve the language.

“It can also help to connect Aboriginal students and

communities with the wider community and promote understanding and mutual respect,” she said.

“When teaching Aboriginal language I focus on the Aboriginal culture. It adds a deep interconnection for expressing and communicating cultural knowledge, traditions and beliefs.

“We have specific words and cultural ideas such as kinship, land, spirituality and tradition. Storytelling was the primary way for sharing cultural value of oral history and the importance of passing down knowledge from generation to generation.

“I often relate place names to the cultural significance and share the connections between the land, people, and history. Specific words for different features of the land, rivers, mountains and animals displays the cultural importance and sacredness of these places,” she said.

Since teaching Gangulu Aboriginal Language with the students of Mount Morgan Central State School Natalee has seen a positive impact on students’ attitudes by increasing their understanding and appreciation of Mount Morgan Aboriginal culture and stories.

“The students are feeling a sense of connection with Aboriginal people of Mount Morgan by gaining a deeper understanding of the perspectives and experiences.

“The Aboriginal students’ self-esteem improves knowing they can develop a sense of accomplishment and pride in their cultural heritage,” she said.

“I feel privileged to share my Aboriginal Language journey with the people of Mount Morgan and feel that this will be a positive start to our community,” she said.

Natalee is expanding her student base and is now holding lessons at the No. 7 Dam every second Sunday at 2 pm.

To contact Natalee about learning Gangulu, email her on latlee4419@hotmail.com.

Central State School Principal, Mrs Michelle Emery said Gangulu Language was important for the students as it connects them to their culture and encourages them to be proud of their heritage.

“The importance of languages in the school is that extends the connection between school and community,” Mrs Emery said.

“The community and the school have worked hard over the last 2-3 years with Miss Donna Anderson, Miss Lyn Blucher and our local elders and community to ensure that our students have a voice over their learning and that earning is relevant to their natural context,” she said.

“It is very important to teach the languae, our students are our future and their connection and feeling valued in their school improves their attendance and their levels of achievement across the school when they feel engaged in their learning,” Mrs Emery said.

LIBRARY NEWS

Nestled next to the historic School of Arts building in Morgan Street, the charming little Mount Morgan Library is a hive of activity during opening hours, attracting a keen audience of readers, tech users and families to the space. Visitors access the free PCs and wi-fi, browse various print and audiovisual collections, colour in, play LEGO® or Nintendo switches, attend free talks and seminars, or just sit quietly and read in air-conditioned comfort.

Library membership is free, and we look forward to welcoming new visitors and members to the library throughout the year.

Following our hugely popular International Book Giving Day in February, we are delighted to announce that another free picture book giveaway is scheduled for all Rockhampton Regional Libraries on Saturday, 1 April, from 9am-12noon, to mark International Children’s Book Day.

Children aged 0-5 years are invited to bring a parent, carer or grandparent to the library, and to select a picture book of their very own to take home. We have heaps of popular titles by well-loved authors and

DEE RIVER OLDIES

Last Friday Dee River Oldies members had a bus trip to Bauhinia House and celebrated St Patrick’s Day. We enjoyed the entertainment and had some delicious morning tea and a hearty lunch on the day. It brought back memories, because back in the day Mount Morgan always had a big concert in the School of Arts to celebrate St Patrick’s Day. The town locals and school children practised for weeks to perform some fabulous Irish songs to an enthusiastic audience.

On Tuesday, 21 March 2023 our monthly meeting starts at 2 pm and is held in St Mary’s Hall, Gordon Street, Mount Morgan. (Behind the Anglican Church).

The March Musical Morning Tea on Wednesday, 22 March 2023 starts at 10 am in St Mary’s Hall, Gordon Street, Mount Morgan.

The cost for the Morning Tea is $5. Sing Australia will perform, and we will have a mini Cent Sale. Tickets will be $1.

Come along and catch up and enjoy a cuppa while listening to the music.

Stay safe and keep healthy.

Submitted by The Steering Committee - Carol Glover 4938 1995 or Colleen Constable 0427 161 131.

illustrators to choose from, to suit babies, toddlers and young children.

We’re expecting lots of visitors to the Mount Morgan, Gracemere and Rockhampton Northside and Southside libraries for this exciting outreach, so make sure to mark this event in your diary now! The picture books for the International Children’s Book Day are provided through RRC Libraries’ First 5 Forever program funding. First 5 Forever is an initiative of the Queensland Government, coordinated by State Library of Queensland and delivered in partnership with local government.

Don’t forget that our youngest library members who are registered for their own library card also receive a free First 5 Forever bag of goodies to encourage early literacy development.

This includes a library bag, T-shirt, DVD, reading lists and brochures, plus another picture book! So, gather your family and friends and call in to Mount Morgan Library to check out the range of great resources, services and activities on offer.

MOUNT MORGAN BRANCH UPDATE

Submitted by Arlene Roberts - President

Seventy-three years ago, on 24 March, 1950 the QCWA Mount Morgan Branch became a reality. So I thought I would tell you how we were formed. Mount Morgan, as we all know, was a busy mining town and the ladies needed something they could belong to and so it was advertised that a meeting would be held on 24 March at 3pm to discuss the formation of a Mount Morgan branch.

The meeting was very important as it was opened by the QCWA State President Mrs Stern, who travelled to Mount Morgan to attend. Also at the meeting were Mrs Conaghan (Capricornia Division President) and Mrs Gerard (Division Vice President). Formation of a Mount Morgan branch was the main topic of conversation. Twenty plus Mount Morgan ladies attended where the main topic of conversation was the formation of a Mount Morgan branch. When it came to voting to open a Mount Morgan branch all ladies present voted unanimously to do so.

The first Branch Executive was Mrs A. Lennon (President - pictured below right), Mrs H.Chennery, Mrs Worley and Mrs P. Topp ((Vice Presidents), Mrs P. Bubb (Secretary) and Mrs E. Ingram (Treasurer).

The branch worked very hard.

The Mount Morgan Branch has had more than 40 members in one year and the ladies were very proud of what they could do for the community. They held regular dances, visited Mothers in hospital on Mother’s Day and held Garden Parties.

At the Mount Morgan Show the Members ran a child-minding tent which was at the time run by Mrs Lumbers. Wreaths were laid on ANZAC Day and members would march in the ANZAC. Day Parade and in the May Day Festival Parade. The members also held raffles, Devonshire Teas, mannequin parades and sewing machine demonstrations, hoy, movie nights and knitting for the soldiers. They also made comfort packs for the fighting forces in Korea. As you can see our branch has been a part of Mount Morgan for many years and it has aided in many ways.

Seventy-three years on – still going strong!

In recent years the members have made toiletry packs for the hospital and donated nappies for the hospital to have on hand for babies. We also have a Country Kitchens Eating Programme and we have written four cookbooks with the fifth book currently being printed. We have also held a stall at the Mount Morgan NAIDOC Week celebrations in the past and will do so again this year.

The members are now starting craft and cooking social mornings commencing on the 27 March at the Green Shed in Thompson Avenue.

The branch donates and presents bursaries for each grade at Mount Morgan Central State School annually. We also put together Domestic Violence Packs to help support victims of Domestic Violence. These are distributed by the Mount Morgan Police. Recently the branch held a morning tea at the dam for International Women’s Day which was a lovely day presided over by the International officer Tammy Alden.

World Tree Day is celebrated annually and we visit the state school and donate at least one tree.

We have several events on the horizon including the Golden Mount Festival, the Mount Morgan Rodeo and we are catering for Live4Life when they come to town on the 13 May.

Our aim is to help in our community as much as we can. Whether it is with education needs, health equipment, cooking and crafts - we welcome any challenge. We are here to support Women, Children and families. We offer fun, understanding, the hand of friendship and a friendly smile.

We meet at the green shed on the third Monday of each month commencing at 10am.The door is open for any lady who would like to come along. Children are always welcome. If you would like to come along and see what we are all about please do so. There is no commitment to join.

We have 14 members and we have plenty of room to welcome new members. Girls under 18 can become associate members and ladies over 18 can become full members. If you would like to become a member we would be more than happy to welcome you to our Q.C.W.A Mount Morgan Family.

If you would like to find out more information please call 0428457461.Thank you and I look forward to hearing from ladies in our town.

Mount Morgan in Pictures

By Catherine McIntosh, descendant of the colonial Stubbs family of Mount Morgan

More Mount Morgan “Pretty Pets”

For reasons unbeknownst to the modern-day reader (myself included), caricatures of Queensland men in the historical weekly tabloid newspaper, Truth (Brisbane, Qld. : 1900-1954), were billed as “Pretty Pets”. The artist generally signed off as ‘Pets’, but sometimes referenced the subject’s town, for example, ‘Pets MM [Mount Morgan]’ or ‘Pets Rtn [Rockhampton]’.

Although our local “Pretty Pets” may have now been forgotten, they were certainly well-known in Mount Morgan in the early 1900s. For example, James

Stack (top row, left), was one of Mount Morgan’s first hoteliers – he was the popular proprietor and publican of the Leichhardt Hotel from 1900 to 1912 (originally operating Mount Morgan’s Sunburst Hotel in the 1890s). The following verse accompanied his 1912 caricature:

‘From Queensland’s wonderous Mount of Gold; The publican here pictured hails; There he sells the best of liquors, Wines and spirits, beers, and ales’.

If

From left to right: James Edward Stack (proprietor and publican, Leichhardt Hotel, Mount Morgan) (1912) / George Little Vardon (acting head teacher, Mount Morgan Boys’ State School) (1914) / Tom Whiteley (town clerk, Mount Morgan Council) (1915).

From left to right: William Anderson (blacksmith; alderman of Mount Morgan Council; chairman of Mount Morgan Council’s Sanitary Committee) (1914) / John Halas (second-hand goods dealer) (1914) / Thomas Charles (‘Tom’) Lachlan (local mining investor and prospector; Emu Park hotelier) (1914).

readers have photographs of any of the “Pretty Pets”, please contact the Mount Morgan Argus.

Welfare Bowls Club

Want to give lawn bowls a try?

Want to give lawn bowls a try, it’s on for young and old at the Mount Morgan Lawn Bowls Club located at 28 Thompson Avenue, the Mount on each Sunday, commencing at 9 a.m.

What is Lawn Bowls?

It’s an outdoor game in which a ball (known as a bowl) is rolled toward a smaller stationary ball, called a jack.

The object is to roll one's bowls so that they come to rest nearer to the jack than those of an opponent. This is sometimes achieved by knocking aside an opponent's bowl or the jack.

This club was formed back in 1918 and has friendly member’s waiting to meet you and teach you how to play lawn bowls.

On that note, the club supplies newcomers with bowls, at no cost. New members are very well welcome.

Our current executive committee consists of: Chris Izzard (President), Sandra Edwards (Secretary) and Mr. Wally Edwards (Treasurer).

For any queries, please contact Sandra or Wally on 0428 828 830.

We support our new members and are readily available to teach all aspects of lawn bowling.

The club also has magazines, socials, and friendly members with a culture for equality and respect for all genders and cultures.

The club house is well maintained, quite large and air conditioned. Also has a fully equipped kitchen. This club holds a current Liquor License and does offer rental of the clubhouse to the public and other clubs, when available.

Also, we have established a new Facebook Page…. called “Mt. Morgan Welfare Bowls Club” (not spelt as Mount Morgan, due to not being able to delete the old page yet).

This new Facebook page contains all our current details, and announcements, so please come along one Sunday morning.

The club also has young participants who can play lawn bowls well…i.e., it’s on for young and old!

Submitted by Taryn Jones - Ph: 0401 728 174 Welfare Bowls Club Publicity Officer

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.

COMMUNITY NOTICEBOARD TO BE REMOVED

Mount Morgan Promotion and Development has been advised that the Community Noticeboard in Morgan Street will be removed from 23 March 2023.

The new shop owner has requested that it be removed.

MMPAD will have all items currently on the noticeboard at the Mount Morgan Railway Museum. Council has advised that a new location is being sourced.

SAVE THE DATE! CLASSIFIEDS

MAR 28: Mobile Women’s Health Clinic. Phone 4912 5100 for an appointment.

MAR 29: Carers Morning Tea at the Dam from 10 am until 12 noon. Phone Megan Scott on 0427 139 564.

APRIL 1: CQ 48 Qualifying round at Mount Morgan Golf Club, Burnett Highway, from 9 am, shotgun start.

APRIL 2: Men’s and Ladies’ CQ Sand Green Championships at Mount Morgan Golf Club, Burnett Highway from 8.30 am, shotgun start.

APRIL 2: Artisan Markets @ the Soldiers’ Rooms, 18 Morgan Street. Devonshire Teas available. Contact Bev on 0428 854 707.

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

APRIL 28: Golden Mount Festival Family Movie Night, BBQ and Fireworks at No .7 Dam. From 6.30 pm.

APRIL 29: Golden Mount Festival Markets in Morgan Street from 8 am. Applications for market stalls, Procession and Running the Cutter available from goldenmountfestival@gmail.com.

APRIL 30: Golden Mount Festival “Big Dam Breakfast” from 8 am at No.7 Dam.

APRIL 30: Mount Morgan Rodeo - Gates open 11 am - 10 pm. Rodeo starts at 2 pm. Canteen and bar operating. ATM available onsite at Showgrounds.

MAY 13: Baree Markets. Baree School of Arts, Creek Street Baree. From 8 am until 12 noon.

MAY 26: Mobile Women’s Health Clinic. Phone 4912 5100 for an appointment.

JUNE 10: Baree Markets. Baree School of Arts, Creek Street Baree. From 8 am until 12 noon.

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

JULY 18: Mobile Women’s Health Clinic. Phone 4912 5100 for an appointment.

JULY 22: Trivia/Karaoke night - theme and details to be advised @ Soldiers’ Rooms for Mount Morgan Citizens Club.

AUG 12: Mount Morgan Show. Mount Morgan Showgrounds.

SEPT 2: Mount Morgan Promotion and Development Inc - Wattle Day Festival from 9.30 am until 2.30 pm. Live entertainment and more.

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

SEPT 12: Mobile Women’s Health Clinic. Phone 4912 5100 for an appointment.

OCT 14: Baree Markets. Baree School of Arts, Creek Street Baree. From 8 am until 12 noon.

OCT 29-30: Mount Morgan Citizens’ Club Photography Competition and Exhibition at the Soldiers’ Rooms.

ROTARY CLUB OF MOUNT MORGAN

DINNER MEETING - THURSDAY - GRAND HOTEL

6.00 for 6.30. Interested people are encouraged to attend or send an Expression of Interest to PO Box 2, Mount Morgan

MOUNT MORGAN QCWA BRANCH

Meets every third Monday at the Green Shed - Thompson Ave 9.30 am meet for 10 am start.

LIGHT ON THE HILL CHURCH

Swaffield’s Property Maintenance

ABN: 68 537 641 178

Mobile: 0432 448 530

• Lawn Mowing and hedge trimming

• Yard cleanups and rubbish removal

• Wood chipping and dump runs

• House move out assistance

• Public Liability Insurance

No job too big or too small!

Call Jason on 0432 448 530

MOUNT MORGAN PROMOTION AND DEVELOPMENT INC

WILL HOLD ITS

ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

MOUNT MORGAN RAILWAY COMPLEX THURSDAY, 30 MARCH 2023.

Blue Care Trash & 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. Marion’s plants for sale.

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

MOUNT MORGAN MEN’S SHED INC.

Meet 9 am - 12 noon Wednesdays

Phone John on 0429 055 165

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