Eylandt Echo 28 March 2012 by Regional and Remote Newspapers

March 28th 2012

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Eylandt Echo

Fourtnighly news for the Groote Eylandt community proudly produced by GEMCO

Experts on Eylandt for environment study Five scientists arrived on Groote Eylandt last week to take part in a GEMCO site-wide wet season flora and fauna survey.

“By understanding Groote Eylandt’s natural ecosystems, we can continue to make informed and ecologically sustainable business decisions,” he said. The scientist will work on Eylandt for eight weeks, trapping animals, cataloguing plant spe- “The land on Groote Eylandt is special not A coo only because of the incredible biodiversity cies and night surveying. l dog and natural beauty, but the relationship that gy b The scientists have a combined experience of each p the traditional owners have with it. We ack than over half a century between them in botany and k s can all learn something from that relationto Su Do g s floristics, mammal ecology, birds and bats and rf A ship and what we understand the word u s t invertebrates. r Every alia . environment to mean by broadening the t h i ng yo . dog n The survey will provide critical information on definition to include ourselves in it. If ur eeds the locations and habitat structures of endanf we look at ‘environment’ in that way, it on Ey or lif l a gered flora and fauna species on Eylandt and n is clear that it is everybody’s responsipage dt. Se e e 10 fo makes up part of GEMCO’s commitment to bility to help care for and protect what r det ails land and biodiversity management. we have been given because we are part of GEMCO Environmental Advisor, Ian Rollins, it. In order for us to move forward we need to consider this inclusive ‘environment’, said he was looking forward to taking part in and help strengthen the bridge between enthe field-work and learning even more about the unique ecosystems, plants and animals that vironment and heavy industry.” live with us on the island. This field work is a continuation of the dryseason survey that was conducted in 2010 and will update a baseline survey conducted in 1992. The Echo will keep readers up to date with the survey as it progresses.

WIN!

From left: The team catches up before starting work in the field, GEMCO environmental technician, Colin Burns, ecologists Paul Barden & Martin Armstrong & environmental advisor, Ian Rollins. Right from top: Colin Burns & Martin Armstrong laying a pitfall trap for reptiles and small mammals.

Island Imagination highlights Eylandt diversity We received a huge amount of great photographs last week and its becoming tough to pick the winners! It was a group vote to choose this shot of a Mertens Water Monitor sent in by Martina Ripcke. Martina has been a very enthusiastic participant in the competition, sending an entry in each week, congratulations Martina! Martina’s photo goes into the final pick and will be judged by the editor of Australian Photography Magazine, possibly taking home the grand prize, a digital camera . Next deadline for photographs is the 4th of April. Get out there and get snapping Eylandters! Eylandt Echo, 28 March - 10 April, 2012 – Page 1

I NS I D E TH I S I S S U E: Editorial

Township news

Off the Rock

Environmental news

Interview of the Week

Health and wellbeing

Fishing & Outdoors

Classifieds

Pets

Puzzles

Sports

March 28th 2012

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Umbakumba to have second AFL team

Greetings Eylandters, Welcome to your Echo, fortnightly news and events on Groote Eylandt for the community, by the community.

CDP JobFind, Umbakumba have with us at JobFind as many of the agreed to sponsor a second Umba- guys also like to get involved with the market garden or the mechanical kumba-based AFL team. Kevin Slaven from JobFind Umba- workshop.”

The ball is well and truly rolling for the Great Groote Body Challenge, with over 100 people signing up last week. A big congratulations to everyone who took up the Challenge! We’ll be keeping you informed about progress and activities on Eylandt every step of the way. Letters to the editor are happily accepted, please send submissions to eylandtecho.gemco@bhpbilliton.com and voice your opinion. Happy reading! Contact us: Eylandt Echo Phone: (08) 8987 4137 Postal: Eylandt Echo, Alyangula NT 0885 The Eylandt Echo newsletter is produced each fortnight for the benefit of everyone on Groote Eylandt. The Eylandt Echo is sponsored by GEMCO as a community service. The contributions and advertisements contained within the Eylandt Echo are not necessarily the views and opinions shared by either the Editor or GEMCO, but are presented for the community’s interest at large.

NEXT DEADLINE: April 4th 2012

kumba has offered to assist with coaching for the team and said he was happy to help out. “AFL can give guys great life opportunities,” Kevin said. “It works in really well

Ian Brown, the AFL Regional Development Manager for Groote, said that each of the teams on Eylandt was looking for sponsorship.

Police Beat: Groote Eylandt Road Safety: A reminder that that the speed limit in Alyangula Township is restricted to 40 kilometres an hour and that bicycle helmets are compulsory unless you are over 17 year of age riding on a public place; on a bicycle path or shared path; or in an area declared by the Minister, by notice in the Gazette, to be a bicycle helmet exemption area. Police will be conducting compliance checks over next 2 weeks. Court results: A spate of attacks on contractor vehicles at Angurugu led to the arrests of a number of offenders who appeared at Alyangula Court this month.

 On

8 January 2011 a 39yo male from Angurugu became enraged and picked up a large rock throwing this at workers on a building site at Angurugu narrowly missing them. He then picked up another large rock and threw it at a Hino tip truck smashing the windscreen. He was convicted and received 2 months imprisonment fully suspended and ordered to pay damages of $1123.90 to the contractor.

 On 26 February 2011 the same male punched the windscreen of a contractors Mazda

Quote of the week: “Our lives begin to end the day we become silent about things that matter.” ~Martin Luther King, Jr. Township Notices

work truck smashing the windscreen. He was convicted of the offence this month and received one month imprisonment fully suspended and ordered to pay $330 damages to the contractor.

 On Wednesday the 7 February 2012

a 21yo male from Angurugu armed himself with a wheel brace and smashed the windows of a contractors vehicle parked outside a building site. He then began walking and saw a contractors car driving towards him, he threw the wheel brace at the car causing damage to the panel that split the metal. This month he pleaded guilty to the offences against the two contractors vehicles. He received a total of 120 hours Community Work Order. He was ordered to pay a total of $7035.23 in damages to the two contractors. Police continue in their effort to deter people from committing these acts of senseless damage. Police will continue to seek costs in court against perpetrators.

Alterations & Additions – Including Fences & Pools We remind all tenants that it is a condition of their Residential Tenancy Agreement that you are required to obtain the landlords written consent prior to making any alterations or additions to your homes. The fencing approval process also involves obtaining a “Dig Permit” and no works can commence until the permit has been issued.

tenant’s expense.

2.Dig Permits must be obtained from GEMCO prior to any works being conducted and a copy of the permit must be provided to the LJ Hooker office 3.All works are to be carried out solely at the

11.The tenant is responsible for any damage to the property as a result of the installation.

tive, this letter should not be construed as permission to proceed with physical construction until plans and permits have been approved by GEMCO.

4.All maintenance associated with the alterations and structure during the tenancy shall be the responsibility of the tenant, including tuning of the dish in the event that it is required to Visitors or Occupants? be moved by GEMCO for any reason whatso- The Residential Tenancy Agreements that apply to all GEMCO properties stipulate the ever. number and names of the occupants who are approved to reside in the dwelling. Naturally, 5.The tenant shall ensure that the alterations and structure comply with all relevant building visitors staying with you for holidays are not considered to be residing at the dwelling. If you wish to make any alterations or addicodes and standards. However, if you wish to have people staying tions, including the erection of any fences, please contact our office and we will happily 6.All works shall be carried out in a safe man- with you for more than 6 weeks extended periods of time, (i.e. looking for employment) help you through the process. ner and to normal acceptable standards of you must obtain GEMCO’s consent to do so. workmanship in the building profession. In addition, you cannot sublet any or all of the Installation of Satellite Dishes property which means that you cannot charge With the growing demand for satellite dishes 7.GEMCO take no responsibility for the fitrent for someone to occupy a room or part of for both internet and Pay TV, we thought it is ness of purpose of the proposed alterations. the dwelling. an appropriate time to remind all residents of GEMCO properties of the need to obtain writ- 8.The tenant is responsible for rectifying any Failure to comply with these conditions of ten consent prior to making any alterations or damage to the property caused as a result of your Tenancy Agreement places you in breach additions to their homes. This requirement the installation. of the Agreement and could jeopardise your includes Satellite Dishes. The following is an tenancy. extract of conditional approval letter. 9.The alterations are to be carried out at the tenant’s expense. If you are unsure about this or any other as“Please be advised that the Landlord has conditionally approved your request for the instal- 10.The tenant agrees that the Broadband Satel- pect of your Tenancy Agreement please conlation of a Satellite Dish, subject to the follite dish / antenna remains the property of the tact Peter McLaurin or Moira Lyons at the LJ lowing: Commonwealth Government of Australia un- Hooker our office on 8987-6400 and we’ll be der the Connect Australia Legislation and will happy to clarify yours and GEMCO’s exact 1.The Satellite / Broadband Dish must not be not be removed from the property at any time, obligations under the Agreement. attached to any part of the building, including including when the tenant vacates the propthe roof, and must be free standing. erty.

As building works in Groote Eylandt may be subject to inspection by a GEMCO representaEylandt Echo, 28 March - 10 April, 2012 – Page 2

March 28th 2012

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RMS celebrate safety milestone

GEMCO Rehabilitation and Mine Services celebrated 3000 injury free days on the 9th February. RMS and other GEMCO employees gathered to enjoy a BBQ in recognition of the achievement. GEMCO General Manager, Ben Yaksich congratulated the crew for their accomplishment, stressing the importance of safety in the workplace. “I am very happy with their achievement in safety,” he said. “It’s something we can all be  A short-film detailing the exploits proud of.” of LRA leader Joseph Kony has Matthew McKenzie, has been with the RMS crew made international headlines, for seven years and is one of the longest serving receiving tens of millions of hits employees on the team. and world wide attention. It has Above: GEMCO GM, Ben Yaksich. Below: highlighted the growing influence “It’s a good day,” he said. “We can be proud of RMS employees, Mike and Ronny cook up a and popularity of social media this, that no one hurts themselves.” such as Facebook and Twitter. storm. Matthew, who is the leading hand for the Machin A US soldier suspected of killing ery Team, attributed the achievement to the team civilians in Afghanistan will be Carolyn Fletcher, Yolanda Shephard and Allison spirit within the RMS department. charged with 17 counts of murder Jackson) who must also be given credit for their the pentagon has told the BBC. He “When we work, we work as a team,” he said. “If contribution to this achievement.” someone is doing something unsafe, we’ll tap him is rumoured to have been intoxion the shoulder and say, ‘lets do it the right way’. Matt also stressed the importance maintaining and cated at the time. building on this milestone. “Whilst we are celeWe take the time to do this.” brating the achievement we are conscious that we  Hollywood director, James Cam- RMS Superintendent Matt O’Hare called the have had our fair share of near misses recently and eron, has built a one-man submamilestone an “extraordinary” effort by the teams, need to constantly improve our safety,” he said. rine which he will use to travel emphasising that a great deal of 11kms down to the deepest part of their work, is manual outdoor the ocean, the Mariana Trench. activities in a hot humid environCameron and his crew are curment. rently waiting for the weather to “The Rehab Team work in the improve before making the dive. bush or rehabilitation areas with  Kazakhstan’s shooting team has a multitude of hazards on a daily been left stunned after a comedy basis and the Mine Service Team national anthem from the film are constantly using high risk Borat was played at a medal cere- equipment such as chainsaws, mony at championships in Kuwait stump grinders and the tree instead of the real one. The mulcher with the risk of serious team’s coach reportedly injury.,” Matt said. downloaded the parody from the “The crew are also fortunate to internet by mistake. have dedicated Supervisors  Schools in Brazil have resorted to (Simon Hartley, Matt Clarke and placing computer chips in school formerly Steve Cullen and Jon uniforms in an effort to keep track Keena), and excellent Trainers of pupils and reduce truancy. and support staff (Mark Gage, Approximately 20 000 pupils in Vitoria da Conquista have the microchips embedded in t-shirts, Nightcliff Technology Precinct Roadshow to Groote Eylandt with parents receiving text messages when children arrive and Ngakwurra Langwa College hosted the Nightcliff Technology Precinct Roadshow last week. The NTP school or if they are late for class. Facilitators visited each school and provided a number of professional learning workshops exploring  Politically motivated, ‘Hacktivists’ stole more data than cyber- the creative capacity of iPads, online learning communities with Edmodo and image manipulation. In addition to the workshops, Precinct facilitators worked with small groups of teachers to discuss their criminals in 2011, according to a specific ICT professtudy of security incidents, sional learning needs. US.(source: BBCWorld) Teachers had opportunities to discuss their ideas for technology use and access guidance and support to better use technology for improved student engagement and learning. Nightcliff Technology Precinct staff, Shane Pilkie and Tim Wicks, were inspired by teachers' enthusiasm and willingness to learn. They are already planning future Roadshow events. From left, teacher Pamela McGowan, Tim Wicks and Shane Pilkie (ICT for Learning NTDET) and front, student, Dayron Pascoe

Eylandt Echo, 28 March - 10 April, 2012 – Page 3

March 28th 2012

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Outnumbered ... 1 of us, to 1,4 million of them!

By Martina Ripcke, GEMCO Environment Department

Yes, it’s true. We, the human population of this planet, all 7 billion of us Homo sapiens, are outnumbered by a ratio of one to 1,400,000. Worse yet, each of them is much stronger than we are and can lift up to 50 times their own body weight. Their societies are highly structured and organized and they travel on so called ‘highways’ using their sixth sense of pheromone detection to navigate. Some of them can even fly which is why they colonise so rapidly. How is this possible? Can you guess who these guys are and should we fear an invasion? The answer is yes and no. I am, of course, talking about ants. The world ant population is estimated to be between 1 and 10 quadrillion (this is a one with 15 zeros behind it). For every one of us there are 1.4 million of them, but it is all part of the bigger picture of nature’s balance. Native ants are very important organisms and perform essential ecosystem services such as aerating the soil, dispersing seeds, and aiding decomposition. But all of this is put on its head if the wrong kind of ant comes to town. There are several invasive tramp ant species that are of great environmental concern. The Yellow Crazy Ant (Anoplolepis gracilipes) is one of them. When it first invaded small tropical island groups such as the Seychelles and Christmas Island, people did not pay much attention. Now the problem is so pronounced and their numbers are so large that the situation is described as an ecosystem “meltdown”. The Yellow Crazy Ant, unlike most other ant species, forms multiple-queened super colonies. Because they are all related, the worker ants do not fight with each other like it would usually be the case between two ants from different colonies. This results in areas of extremely high densities of workers of up to 1,000 ants per m2. On Christmas Island they have not only excluded most other ants, invertebrates, and nesting birds, but also the red land crabs which the island is famous for. These land crabs are a key stone species, meaning that they have such an influence on the local ecosystem that dramatic change would be inevitable if they were to be removed. This is exactly what has happened in the 25 odd square kilometres that the Yellow Crazy ants now inhabit on Christmas Island. With the crabs removed, the litter breakdown slowed and the recruitment of seedlings increased dramatically. This resulted in a completely different ecosystem structure. What would happen if these ants invaded Groote Eylandt? This scary scenario is a real threat, especially since Yellow Crazy Ants have already invaded Gove, NT (where our barge stops on the way to Alyangula). With many reports of crazy ants attacking nesting birds on the Seychelles, we could possibly expect to see a lot less native bird life on Groote. Even small mammals and reptiles are not safe. Yellow Crazy ants are very aggressive and can spray acid from their gaster (bum) which may blind animals if it contacts their eyes. The balance of our native ecosystem could really suffer if these ants invaded Groote Eylandt.

Most tramp ant species are unknowingly transported in goods such as wooden materials, fresh fruit crates, and soils including that attached to nursery stock and garden plants. This is why we must be careful when shipping such items to Groote Eylandt. All vehicles, gardening equipment and pots for plants must be free of dirt and potting mix. The risk of an invasion has recently prompted GEMCO to start an invasive ant monitoring program around Alyangula which aims at early detection of an invasion which can help in the success of removal. Other ant species we do not want to see arriving on Groote Eylandt are the red imported fire ant (Solenopsis invicta), the big-headed ant (Pheidole megacephala), and the Singapore Above: Yellow Crazy Ants. ant (Monomorium destructor). On the other hand we want to continue to see the native ants around, particularly in rehabilitated areas. For this reason, GEMCO is currently conducting a site-wide flora and fauna survey, of which one component is focused on subterranean ants. The findings of this survey are expected in September 2012. See page one story for further information.

Eylandt Echo, 28 March - 10 April, 2012 – Page 4

March 28th 2012

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Interview of the week:

This week, the Echo interviewed Gabrielle Matta, a visiting Junior Doctor from Sydney. She gave us the scoop on Eylandt health, cotton ear buds and life in the big smoke... Echo: How long have you been a doctor? Gabrielle: It has been just over one year now. Echo: What made you decide to pursue a career in medicine?

Echo: Why did you chose to come to Groote Eylandt?

different to the average patient down in the big smoke?

Gabrielle: The Hospital Network in Sydney has Gabrielle: Definitely, for a number of reasons. links to Northern Territory General Firstly, there are no retirees here on Practise Education and offers options “Its less scary taking Gabrielle: I was working as a teachers aid at a Eylandt, so I don't treat typical geriatfor Sydney-siders to do a 10week centre for ‘gifted’ students while at high school. blood from a psychi- ric illness in the older population like I placement in the NT as part of a pro- atric patient than it is would back home. Most of the adult While working with a teacher who I had a crush gram. It gives us a taste of GP life on, he commented that he was impressed by my population in Alyangula is workinglearning to drive rat dissection skills and I guess I just made up my and expands our options and experimanual in Sydney!” age. Secondly, around 80percent of ence. I chose Groote Eylandt as a mind then and there, that medicine was the path my patients have been indigenous in friend of mine had been here before for me. I studied for six years and am still a Umbakumba, Angurugu and Numbulwar (on the and gave it a big thumbs up. junior doctor, which means I haven't chosen my mainland). The range of medical problems I treat is specialisation yet. different from the range I would treat white, suburEcho: What do you think of it so far up here? ban patients for. I have treated mainly women in the Echo: What is the most interesting fact you have Gabrielle: I absolutely love it. It has been one indigenous communities as it is differently gender learnt about the body lately? of the best parts of my medical career to date. I segregated, and of course, coming from a different Gabrielle: Don’t use cotton buds! They perma- love the work/life balance up here and I get all cultural background, they see health and medicine nently damage the fine hairs in the ear canal and weekend to explore this beautiful Eylandt. I have differently. My patients here have been very stoic already recommended it to other junior doctors. stop the natural way that wax and debris from they complain less then my average patients in Sydmoving out of the ear. It is a self cleaning part of It’s such a great opportunity for growth and exney! It was a first for me to remove a fishing hook the body and if you damage the hairs, they won’t perience with clinical independence . that was embedded in a patient too! grow back. Echo: Is your average patient here on Eylandt Echo: What would you change about the health care system if you could? Gabrielle: I would put less money into political or emotionally charged issues and more focus into preventative health care and community programs. Echo: What have you learned from your time here on Eylandt? Gabrielle: A lot! I have conquered a fear of flying in small aircraft and learned to drive a manual car for starters. I have to say, it is less stressful taking blood from a psychiatric patient than it is learning to drive manual in Sydney! Echo: Any standout memories from Eylandt? Gabrielle: Flying over to Numbulwar to work for the day was incredible. And then flying home in time to make it to yoga class! Actually, I am the fittest I have ever been since I came to Groote. I have been doing yoga, swimming laps, playing tennis and going to gym. It’s also been great making new friends at the coffee shop on the weekends. Echo: That’s great to hear! Any advice for participants in the Great Groote Body Challenge? Gabrielle: Eat less, move more. Echo: Sound advice. Thanks for your time! TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF ISLAND IMAGINATION PHOTOGRAPHY COMPETITION: COMPETITION COMMENCES ON THE 15TH FEBRUARY AND PHOTOS MUST BE RECEIVED BY 23RD FEBRUARY AND FORTNIGHTLY THEREAFTER TO MEET DEADLINES (NEXT DEADLINE 4th APRIL). PHOTOGRAPHS CANNOT BE ENTERED MORE THAN ONCE BUT COMPETITORS ARE WELCOME TO ENTER ONE PHOTOGRAPH EACH FORTNIGHT. QUALITY MATTERS SO PLEASE SEND IN HIGH RESOLUTION PICTURES (BIG FILE SIZES). ANY SUBJECT MATTER IS FINE SO LONG AS IT IS FAMILY FRIENDLY. ANY PERSON ON GROOTE EYLANDT IS WELCOME TO ENTER THE COMPETITION. THIS COMPETITION IS ORGANISED AND RUN TO FOSTER A SENCE OF COMMUNITY SPIRIT AND APPRECIATION FOR THE BEAUTIFUL ENVIRONMENT IN WHICH WE LIVE. THE JUDGE’S DECISION IS FINAL. PLEASE SEND ANY QUESTIONS OR QUERIES AND ALL SUMISSIONS TO SARAH AT : Eylandtecho.gemco@bhpbilliton.com Eylandt Echo, 28 March - 10 April, 2012 – Page 5

March 28th 2012

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What are you pretending not to know?

Weekly health and fitness with Rachel Van Oosten

When you look in the mirror each morning what is it that you see? Do you ask where that happy youthful face is that you once knew and loved? Perhaps as you gaze into the mirror, you feel as if life is passing you by, or perhaps you don’t allow yourself the time to even look in the mirror before you race out the door. One of my clients shared with me recently that when she now looks in the mirror she smiles and says to herself, ‘I remember you’ – when she told me this she has an amazing smile on her face and a glint in her eye. It was like she had rediscovered her youth, energy and enthusiasm for life. It is so easy to loose sight of who we really are, as we get caught up in the day-to-day activities – focussing on our families, work, and often, just getting by. Finding what it is that makes us happy or unhappy gets pushed to the back of the closet to think about later. Yet later never comes…

All Community & Sporting groups are invited to a Meeting at the ARC on Sunday the 1st of April 2012 to discuss sponsorship and fundraising The Meeting will be held in the Function Room at 2.00 pm This meeting is an opportunity for all Groups to seek assistance and support from the ARC in raising funds and sponsorship. All interested parties are invited to attend Geoff Wood Manager

Yoga thought of the Week When we look inside our selves with honesty, a pure heart & a quiet mind we are able to find peace within ourselves. Then, when we look at all those around us, we can see that deep inside all of us all, there is no difference between you & me. When these same open eyes look out into the world, we realise that this similarity between you & me runs through every living thing on our planet. Looking at the world in this way, we can find unity amongst everything. In yoga, we call this the spirit. In physics, they call it energy. Lets put down the mirror & the labels we apply to ourselves. We are not white, not black, not thin, not tall, not rich, not poor, not smart, not dumb. You simply are & you are perfect.



“It is so easy to loose sight of who we really are.”

For me, my awakening happened as I hit a rock bottom low. It was a low that I created by how I was thinking about myself, my relationship and the dim dark future I was creating in my own mind. Yet I was too afraid to confront it as I knew if I did I would have to do something different – and sometimes change is scarier than staying where we are. So I kept pushing how I was feeling deep down and what I noticed is that my body started to scream, enough! It took me back to a time in school when my body was really screaming out as it had literally started to shut down with chicken pox, progressed to a bleeding nose that left me in intensive care for a week, and finally glandular fever. Yet, as I hadn’t learned from this experience, I repeated the pattern of holding myself to unrealistic expectations and pushing myself to the limits in all directions. For me the awakening came from finally listening to what my body and mind were trying to tell me. The pressure, the expectations, the belief that I had to prove to everyone else that I was good enough were coming from me. And as I flew back and forth to Canberra to support my mum through her many operations and cancer treatment it gave me time for reflection, for wondering if this was the future that was also in front of me? Stress to a certain degree will always be a part of daily living, and at healthy levels is key for our physiological and psychological development. Yet high levels of stress over a prolonged period combined with poor coping habits can cause physical, chemical and hormonal imbalances in the body – which can lead to disease and ultimately death. Stress has many complex effects on the body, one of the effects is the release of cortisol.

Cortisol is a necessary hormone that is responsible for fuel regulation and is released while exercising, eating, waking, and psychosocial stress. Cortisol at optimal levels also plays a key role in fat burning to increase energy and promote weight loss. Yet too much cortisol can contribute to abdominal obesity. Cortisol is associated with overeating, craving high calorie fatty and sugary foods, and relocating fat to the deep internal abdominal area. Abdominal obesity is linked to the big Cs & Ds, Cardiovascular Disease, type II Diabetes mellitus, and Cerebrovascular Disease. So what can you do right now to decrease your stress levels, promote weight loss and change your future? Here are 7 simple steps that my client took to shift her focus and decrease her stress, the BREATHE steps which you can easily action today: 1. Be present in the moment. Stop thinking about the “what ifs” and focus on the beauty in every given moment. 2. Relax to rejuvenate. Give yourself the greatest gift, do nothing and feel good about it knowing you are creating space to think new thoughts and jump to different heights. 3. Eat for enjoyment. Eat to feel good, from the inside out by making food choices that are giving your body what it needs, not what you think it wants. 4. Acknowledge yourself and know that you are doing the best you can in any given moment. 5. Take control of your emotions. To shift out of a negative state - stop, breathe, and look up. Then you can choose to refocus and shift to a more resourceful state. 6. Have a laugh more often. Find any excuse to laugh and do it again and again and again. 7. Exercise to energise. Get active and find a form of exercise that you enjoy and will want to do often – aim to "work out" when you want to burn energy and "work in" when you want to conserve. What you will notice going forward, is that because you have committed you and your loved ones to make a change right now, it means that you are saying yes to you. If you say yes to you, then all of the obstacles that were once in your way will slowly disappear and this will make you someone who is living the life of your dreams – present in the moment and focussed on what you can do differently today to keep that smile on your face. And having a smile on your face is a must, it’s what we all want. So turn off the computer, turn up the music and dance, laugh and sing until you can’t wipe that smile off. What was it that we were talking about again???

Until next week, Rachel Van Ooste

Eylandt Echo, 28 March - 10 April, 2012 – Page 6

March 28th 2012

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Housing Upgrades move with the times The sounds of building are echoing through out Alyangula as one of the most extensive housing upgrade projects ever carried out in the township moves into stage two. The upgrades are forecast to continue at the current rate of 20 per year for the next five years. GEMCO Township Superintendent, Wayne O’Neill, said the housing upgrades are a comprehensive overhaul of the house which includes adding a coveted covered verandah. “Upgrades of the houses consist of full strip out inside, new kitchen, new bathroom, on most types of houses, an ensuite and a covered verandah that is accessible from the breezeway,” Wayne said. “The rooves are also being replaced, laundry upgraded and painted externally and internally.” The houses on Groote Eylandt commenced being built in the 70’s with what we know as Old Town. Further houses were then built in the late 70’s and early 80’s in New Town and have been regu-

larly maintained since but nothing like the scale of the current project. Amy Hobbs, who works at Alyangula School, has been on Eylandt for six years and is currently living in temporary housing with her family while their three bedroom house is upgraded. “The old place was fine, but it did need lots of maintenance,” Amy said. crew at a Bougainvillea Drive property, from left, Ben, “It was a bit of a mission, Construction Matthew, Ben, Terry and Wayno, all ‘loving life on Eylandt.’ Brypacking up our possessions andts construction is carrying out the majority of the work along with and deciding what we subcontractors including Bright Construction. would need and what we wouldn’t whilst living in the temp house. But it’s definitely going to be worth it. It Once the first of the current upgrades will be fantastic, just like moving into a is completed GEMCO will be holding an open house to invite the community new home.” to come through and have a look at the “In all, it should take around five work that has been carried out. Dates months,” Amy said. “The little ones will be published in the Echo a little (children) are excited about it. I think closer to the time. All are welcome to they’ll be happiest to get their swings and attend. trampoline back!”

GROOTE EYLANDT MIXED TOUCH FOOTBALL COMPETITION 10 week mixed touch football competition starts with the first round on the 11th April 2012 and every Wednesday night thereafter. The finals will be played on Saturday 16th June. Each team needs 12 players, 7 on the field at any time. At least one must be a female and there are a minimum of 5 players for a competitive game. $120 for full team registration ($10ea) and this will go towards an end of season function. Team nominations and registration are to be paid by Friday 30t March, 7-8PM at the ARC. PRIZES:

Live with Jenny Talia @ the ARC 30th March 2012 Tickets $55.00 pp Strictly 18 yrs and over show

CHAMPIONS: ARC CUP - TROPHY – INDIVIDUAL PLAYER MEDALLIONS—BEST ON GROUND - $300 PRIZE MONEY WINNERS - $150 RUNNERS UP ARC PLATE WINNERS- PLATE TROPHY - BEST ON GROUND. No team? No worries! Come on down to registration and we will place you in a team.

Eylandt Echo, 28 March - 10 April, 2012 – Page 7

March 28th 2012

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FISHING CLUB NEWS AND NOTICES Tidal stream predictions for Milner Bay March

April

Ask Bomber! This week the Echo received a submission from a FIFO worker looking for a little bit of advice on fishing up on Groote... Q? I am pretty new to fishing and have a mate up here that has invited me out on his boat. I have bought a bottom bouncer with overhead reel and 50 pound braided line. I hear that there is a trick to spooling the braid on and was wondering if anyone can offer any advice about the best way to do it? Thanks in advance. A. Good question. There are two ways I would do that. You could either put some mono line to fill the spool out so when the braid is put on top the spool is full of line. The other way is to wrap the line around the spool about 4 or 5 times then tie a uni knot and fill the spool. That is better for a smaller reel like a Curdao or any small bait-caster. I am guessing that in your case, you have a lager over head that could take up to 500 yards of braid so I would go with the first option. When you do put new line onto the reel, make sure that it is evenly spread and very tightly packed in. Avoid putting one wrap of braid directly onto the spool as the braid will tend to spin on the spool— that is why you should do several wraps of a small amount of mono. It is always a good idea to have the spool full of line it will mean a lot less work when you’re bringing in that next fish. Hope that helps. Longest fishes of the Year Tight lines, Bomber

Species Barramundi Mackeral Queenfish Cobia Barracuda Tuna Trevally Thredfin Salmon

Eylandt Echo, 28 March - 10 April, 2012 – Page 8

Angler Leggy Brendan Goodwin Kylie James Dean Dreyer Simone Davenport Kylie James

Date 14/02/2012

Length 103

10/12/2011 28/10/2011

130 83

24/09/2011

146

28/10/2011 28/10/2011

96 91

March 28th 2012

Page 9

CLASSIFIEDS LOST/FOUND FOUND at Alyangula pool. Ladies watch. 0400 551155

WANTED TO BUY

The Augurugu Job Shop is your first stop if you are looking for employment around Groote Eylandt. We can even help with training if you need it. If you are an employer who is seeking employees, we can also provide assistance. Pop down and have a chat or call for further information. We are here to help! Phone: 08 8987 6153

Bed with mattress, desk, reading lamp, FOR SALE old car seat (for use in the boat), guitar, keyboard stool. Dani & Mark 0400 551155

POSITIONS VACANT Angurugu School Tutor needed to work with Indigenous Assistant Teachers at Angurugu School. All studying Certificate in Education Support Work Please contact Principal Kristie Lloyd On 8987 6355

ATTENTION READERS We are now taking submissions for classifieds advertisements. It is free to post an advertisement, so send in your text and pictures by the 4th April to: eylandtecho.gemco@bhpbilliton.com

COMMUNITY ANNOUNCEMTNS THANK YOU VINCENT AVIATION Sharon Asplin, Carolyn Fletcher and Tessa Moriarty have been raising money for the charity organisation Project Futures. The upcoming fundraising activity, selling fresh Hot Cross Buns, is generously supported by Vincent Aviation who is providing freight to support the fundraising. Thank you Vincent Aviation. All proceeds from the sale of the Hot Cross Buns will go directly to Project Futures. Thank you to all those on Eylandt who have purchased Hot Cross Buns.

GHOST NET WEAVING WORKSHOP Hosted by GEBIE Anindilyakwa Arts and Cultural Center When: Tuesday 27th March— Wednesday 4th April 2012. 9am - 4pm Where: Anindilyakwa Arts and Cultural Center, Dugong Beach Resort Who: All ladies/girls. For more information or to pick up from Angurugu, please call 89877014 or 04083 19900

Social Program Coordinator – Head Office (6 months fixed-term)

The opportunity exists for a dedicated person to join the Social Program team. This position is responsible for coordinating the day to day requirements of the GEBIE social program, focusing on assisting local residents and communities on Groote Eylandt and Bickerton Island. The successful applicant will need to engage well with community members, manage high levels of community needs and have strong organisational and administrative skills. No accommodation provided.

Coordinator – The Shopa (in the Arcade)

The Ngarnindilyakwa Langwa Shopa provides the opportunity for cultural items and artefacts to be promoted and sold in a retail market, and also offers residents and tourists a booking service for cultural experiences where our local tourist guides share their culture and their country in a day’s adventure. The opportunity exists for an enthusiastic person interested in coordinating the daily operations of the Shopa and assisting with organising tourist trips. We are seeking interests from people who may be looking for a new career or people who have experience in the industry. This role has the potential to expand into project and business development for the right person. The successful applicant will need to be able to engage well with the community, have exceptional customer service skills and have the basic knowledge of business administration. This position is a fulltime role; however we encourage all interested people to apply as there may be an opportunity to job share.

A reminder to people wishing to use the oval and ASEC Hall. Please make sure you are booked in to use it with LJHooker. To make bookin gs call LJHooker on 8987 6400

There is no accommodation for these roles. For further information and selection documentation please contact the HR Manager Amanda Strange on: Tel 89874010 Mob 0407853401 Email astrange@alcnt.com.au All positions need to be filled urgently.

Eylandt Echo, 28 March - 10 April, 2012 – Page 9

March 28th 2012

Page 10 Hello dog owners of Groote Eylandt! I am Chris de Aboitiz, aka the surfing dog man. I am a dog whisperer and train dogs across Australia. I am passionate about showing people how to really understand their dogs and how to get the very best relationship they can with them. I have met and am inspired by the concepts of Cesar Milan, the famous dog whisperer from America. We have a pack of our own consisting of three dogs, Lani, Murf and Rama. I shall share our adventures together with you all in the coming weeks to help you better understand your own pack...

Kelly & Shane and their beautiful family of 4 children recently rescued a dog from a local refuge. Kelly brought the dog along to one of our park dog training sessions and the dog cowered under Kelly’s legs and turned its backside to the group. The first thing I look at when I gather a group of dogs around me for a group training session is the body language of each dog and its owner. After the initial quietening down of the more excited and aggressive dogs, I then look for the dogs, like Kelly’s, that are hiding behind their owners legs trying to be invisible. They’ve turned their back on the group and are looking anywhere but to the centre of the action. This behaviour can go unnoticed because it’s not obvious and confronting and owners with this type of dog tend to be aware of it but don’t know how to fix the problem. There are many ways in which the nervous mind manifests – some avoid, some turn to fearful aggression, some will roll over and completely submit on their backs. If we comfort and reward a nervous mind in a dog we are telling them it’s okay to be nervous and often turning a fear into a phobia. We naturally tend to unknowingly reward the nervous mind in our dog, as when a child is scared of something we comfort reassure and explain. If we do this in our nervous dog we are encouraging their unbalanced nervous state of being. Does this sound like you and your dog? Ignor-

ing a nervous mind is better than rewarding it, however it limits the best potential for your dog. You need to challenge it and lead it through it. By continually allowing your dog to hide from and avoid new situations and experiences you allow their unbalanced state of mind to continue and grow. How then, if this is your situation, do you begin to rehabilitate your nervous dog? When I am met by a dog with is back to me pretending to be invisible I begin to challenge its state of mind by asking their owner to lead them into the centre of the circle, hand me the lead and walk away from their dog. I then override the dog’s nervous ambition to run back to their owner away from the spotlight by getting them to focus on me and reward them when they begin to look at me for guidance. I then move away from them and when they begin to show curiosity for their surrounds, I reward them. If their original nervous state of mind shows and they display signs of their old nervous ways I correct them and challenge them to stay in the centre of the playground.

Welcome to Eylandt!

Garry and Jenny Parmenter have relocated from Mount Eliza to Groote. Garry is the new HR Superintendent. They enjoy gardening, outdoor activities, health and fitness, cooking, good food and wine.

If you find injured wildlife… call Chris Love 0428436506 Parks and Wildlife Carer Permit No. 28737

Try next time you are out and about to challenge your dog by putting them between you and the environment they are trying to avoid. Remember to reward them when they are curious, calm or doing a behaviour that you want and to correct them when they are trying to avoid or going back to their old nervous ways. Until next week, Chris de Aboitiz, www.naturalbalancedog.com.au

Guess how many dogs Chris has on his board and you could win a doggy beach pack! Take care of your dog with these great water-proof dog collars and leashes by Surf Dog Australia. They are also designing beach robes for your pet to keep it warm and dry. For a full range of products, check out www.surfdogaustralia.com First correct entry received wins a water-proof leash and cool collar. Email into eylandtecho.gemco @bhpbilliton.com Eylandt Echo, 28 March - 10 April, 2012 – Page 10

March 28th 2012

Page 11

Sodoku

Crossword

 Fill in the blank squares so that each row, each column and each 3x3 block contain all of the digits 1-9. Good luck! Answers next week

Down 1. Striped equine (5) 2. US legislator (7) 4. One or the other (6) 5. Hot remnants of a fire (5) 6. Bars (7) 7. Secured by written agreement (10) 9. Research workplace (10) 12. Lackadaisical (7) 14. Hoping for (7) 15. Certify (6) 17. Spiritual being (5) 19. Ahead of time (5)

Across 1. Gusto (4) 3. Brings to an address (8) 8. Feast (7) 9. Tag (5) 10. Performer (5) 11. Trade barrier (7) 12. Voice box (6) 13. Large numbers of people (6) 16. Closest (7) 18. One of the senses (5) 20. Cajoled (5) 21. Before (7) 22. Fragile (8) 23. Unsightly (4) Thanks to www.puzzlechoice.com

Trivia Time … test your knowledge 1. How many ‘C’s’ denote the value of a diamond? 2. What is the lowest whole number when spelt out, is in correct alphabetical order? 3. How many countries are larger than Australia? 4. What animal is on Western Australia’s flag? 5. What is the longest line of latitude on earth? 6. Heliotherapy is the therapeutic use of what? No peeking! Answers below

4. Black swan 5. Equator 6. Sunlight 1. 4—cut, clarity, color and carat. 2. Forty 3. Five (Russia, Canada, China, USA, Brasil) Trivia answers:

Last week’s answers:

Eylandt Echo, 28 March - 10 April, 2012 – Page 11

March 28th 2012

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Angurugu Crocs win 2012 GEFL Wet Season Final

The Angurugu Crocs took out the Wet Season final, defeating Match wrap by Ian Brown-GE AFL Regional Development Manager the Umbakumba Lions 88-72 in a spirited game in Angurugu captain, Bradshaw Murrungun, won the toss and elected to kick to the on the 18th March. Neither of this year’s rivals, Angurugu Croc’s southern end of the ground. Both teams started desperately but it was the Crocs or the Umbakumba Lions, had won a premiership before, Crocs who settled first and with great delivery from the midfield, key forward so both teams were nervous but also quietly confident of Robbie Murrungun had 3 goals in the first 10 minutes. The Lions slowly got victory. AFL Regional Development Manager, Ian Brown said back into the game but wasted golden opportunities in their forward line turnthat conditions were perfect for football, with the howling gale ing goals into points on at least 2 occasions. that blew all day Saturday, subsiding for the match. With the first quarter nerves gone, the second quarter opened up and the ball “On behalf of everyone there, a big thank you to the Trust for feeding the crowd, the Tigers players who helped out with the goal umpiring and Thomas for umpiring,” Ian said. “Also a big thank you to the crowd ... the game was played in great spirit and the support of the crowd for both teams was sensational. Finally congratulations to everyone who played this wet season, all the games were played with respect and it was a pleasure to umpire every game this season!”

moved from one end of the ground to the other at great speed. Both defences were on top of their opponents, the Lions led by Shadrack Bara and the Crocs by Jeremiah Murrungun. Goals were hard to come by in the second quarter and although the Lions outscored the Crocs, the Crocs led by 11 points at half time.

The third quarter played out much the same as the first. Both teams had equal opportunities however the Crocs made the most of theirs in front of goal, while once again, the Lions poor kicking at goal proved costly. With one quarter remaining the Crocs held a 25 point lead. The Lions supporters got behind their team in the last quarter and their vocal support lifted their team as they probed forward looking for goals. With nothing to lose, they began running forward of the ball and kicked the first 2 goals of the quarter. With 10 minutes to go, the lead was down to 9 points and the Lions were surging. However the Crocs midfielders kept their cool and found an unmanned Robbie Murrungun who extended the lead. The Lions kicked the next goal to keep the game alive but once again Robbie was able to lose his opponent, find the ball and kick the goal that would seal victory for the Crocs. In the end the Lions had more shots on goal but inaccuracy hurt them.

Free outdoor fitness and yoga morning Community members came together to enjoy the fresh outdoor lifestyle that Groote Eylandt has to offer, with a free outdoor fitness and yoga class on Alyangula oval on the 19th March. Organisers, Rachel Van Oosten and Sarah Dixon held the event to promote community wellbeing and health. “It feels great to get out there and move your body,” yoga teacher, Sarah said. “It helps with everything from weight loss to stress relief and it’s fantastic to share that with everyone.”

The Crocs celebrate their victory in the wet season final 1st Qtr

2nd Qtr

3rd Qtr

Final Score

Angurugu Crocs

4.3..27

6.6..42

10.7..67

13.10..88

Umbakumba Lions

1.6..12

4.7..31

5.12..42

9.18..72

Great Groote Body Challenge draws record crowds Over 100 people packed the ASEC Hall with their friends and families on the 21st March to sign up for the much-anticipated Great Groote Body Challenge. Participants registered and had their vital stats taken by Emergency Services crew members as people from all over Eylandt came together for the Challenge. “It’s fantastic to see so many people here,” said GEMCO Health and Hygiene Business Partner, Sue Stephenson. “We are blown away by the enthusiasm and spirit of the participants and are really looking forward seeing some positive results.” “There is such a buzz here,” said Dani, who signed up for the Challenge. “It’s really well organised and it’s a great atmosphere to start the 12 weeks off with. I’m excited to be a part of it.” The Great Groote Body Challenge is a joint initiative by GEMCO Health, Rachel of Active Symmetry and yoga teacher, Sarah to improve the health, fitness and wellbeing of the community. It runs for 12 weeks and the Echo will be keeping you motivated with on-Eylandt activities and progress reports.

Entrants had their blood pressure read, height and weight recorded, heart rate monitored in the step test, ‘real age’ and BMI calculated, and dropped down for push ups and the plank test.

Eylandt Echo, 28 March - 10 April, 2012 – Page 12