March 2015

MARCH 2015

Free official newsletter of Rollingstone and District Community Association Incorporated.

Letters to the Editor To the community: There has been a lot of discussion lately about roaming dogs and the council dog catchers.

There was also quite a vitriolic spat of messages via Social media the other day regarding roaming dogs and the possible chaos they can cause.

I would like to inform the community that this morning I lost an animal to a "roaming" dog who killed it !

I have 8ft fences around 95% of my property, impossible for my animals to get out unless I physically let them out.

I and numerous other people have had problems with this dog for a long time but the owners don’t want to know. This is why we need the pound van to come out here to control this common happening.

Please know where your dogs are at all times and don’t let them roam.

One day this could be a child that is attacked !!!!

I would like to thank everyone for your kind thoughts and gestures on the passing of my Mother, Mrs Lorraine Petersen.

Bernice, Geoff and Family

FOR SALE Simpson 7.5kg washing machine v.g.c…$250 ono

(Name withheld on request)

3m Roller door……$250.00 Exercise Bike - as new ……$200.00

RAINFALL REPORT Monthly rain totals as at 20.2.15 Rainfall for December 121.9mls 12 wet days Rainfall for January 384.2mls 19 wet days Rainfall for February 82.2 10 wet days so far

Contact: 0411 130 131 or 0447 131 130 PLEASE REMEMBER TO SUPPORT THE ADVERTISERS IN THE ROLLINGSTONE RAG AS THESE BUSINESSES ARE WHAT ALLOW US TO KEEP BRINGING YOU A MONTHLY PAPER !!!

Temperatures over past 25 days - max 36°c min 20°c

THE RAVENHOE HERITAGE STEAM RAILWAY. Help required The Ravenshoe Heritage Steam Railway Inc. is a not for Profit organisation that operates a heritage Class DD 17 steam locomotive and we operate various type of carriages between Ravenshoe and Tumoulin and return, most weekends of the year. It is the only operating steam locomotive north of Gympie and it is managed and operated purely by volunteers, of which I am one. The cost to keep this railway operating in quite staggering!

The locomotive, rollingstock and tracks used by our group have to be maintained to a reasonably high standard set by Queensland Rail and the Federal Transport Safety Authority to ensure the safety of all who travel on it. A considerable amount of money has been spent on acquiring second hand sleepers to keep our track up to standard. A couple of years ago, we had to replace three quarters of the boiler tubes in the firebox of the locomotive (not a cheap exercise), as well as annual Public Liability Insurance.

The only income derived by the railway is from the proceeds of a small local caravan park, weekly trips and monthly Markets held at Tumoulin. As you could appreciate, our income is very limited but we are keeping our head above water, but we’d like to do more to ensure the railways future.

As a local from Rollingstone I am assisting by collecting aluminium cans and selling them with the proceeds deposited into the railways bank account. I have been doing this for about 2 years and with the consent of Townsville City Council, collection bins have been installed at the Free Camping Area at Rollingstone, Toomulla and Bluewater. We also a have a number of residents of the area (Including the Toomulla & District Community Association) assisting us and at least once a week, (with the assistance of my friend Barry JONES), we empty these bins and collect cans from residents who have agreed to support us. You will also see us walking along the roads and highways in the area collecting cans discarded by passing motorists. We have submitted applications to the Main Roads to have collection bins installed at the Vehicle Inspection bays at Rollingstone and we have sought the support of the Bluewater & District Community Association to collect the cans from their Hall. Recently other offers of help have been received and I thank them all.

If anyone would like to assist me in this fund raising initiative by putting your aluminium cans (and other aluminium items) aside, please contact me on 47707193 or 0428752575 and I will include you on our collection list every week. We will collect when it suits you (day, time of day, weekly, fortnightly, etc).

I can only appeal to you to support this worthwhile cause so that we can continue to operate this train so people of past, present and future generations can appreciate how we travelled around the State or Country all those years ago.

Thank you again to all who support our fund raising ………..Warren BUTERWORTH P2

Community Noticeboard Don’t forget to send us your contributions for this page. Any news or items of interest are most welcome.

Email your ideas, put them in the drop box at the back of the hall or leave them with Chris. at the RTC centre.

Calling anyone and everyone who would like to join in with the formation of an entertainment group in Rollingstone/ Balgal Beach - singers, musicians, actors, comedians, dancers, sound techs, any skill base, all skill levels from 18 years upwards. Everyone with a heartbeat, willing attitude and loves to laugh is welcome.

Why form this group? Well we just want to have fun! We want to spread that fun around and share on occasions like Australia Day Celebrations, Pineapple Festival and Carols by Candlelight and any other occasions big or small that are a cause for celebration. Come on just call 47707855 and Chris will take your name and number. Make Merriment Mayhem

From all the Committee and various groups who are lesees of the Community centre we would like to thank Allan Vanda and Stephen Simmons for the construction of the concrete pad that the generator sits on (near the Op Shop)

Kelvin David George Nagle 21.12.1920 - 29.1.2015 R..I.P.

I would like to thank all who buy tickets in the Ostomy Association Raffle each year. First prize 2013 “Huge Hamper”came to Balgal with Paula and Fred winning. The year before that Liz and John from Madelaine St took home a prize. I’m sorry to say we weren’t as lucky in 2014.

Prize winners. 1st, K. Baird – Cairns. 2nd, A. Clayson & 3rd, G. Fryar.

Better luck this year. Babz.

For those of you who don’t know , Kel Nagle designed the Mystic Sands Golf course which has given many of our resident golfers hours of headaches and much enjoyment. Kel Nagle won the British Open 1960. He won at least one professional tournament each year from 1949 to 1975 Professional wins of his career 81 Kel was interred in the. "World Golf Hall Of Fame" in 2007

A massive thankyou to the Maori Cultural group and Judyana who organised them for coming to our Australia day celebrations at the Hall.

The performances and music were amazing and were enjoyed by everyone (see back page)

Townsville families will be riding their way to wet and wild fun in 2015 with work starting this week to construct water slides at the Northern Beaches Leisure Centre.

The project is a three-way partnership between the Townsville City Council, Stockland Development Pty Ltd - the developer of North Shore, and the centre’s lessee Maria and Jon Sieben, and is expected to be up and running mid-year.

Two large slides each 28.7m in length and with a vertical drop of 3.2m will be installed in a specially constructed area within the existing pool complex.

VISITING VET 9-12 at the Community Centre THURSDAY 19th MARCH This is an amazing service and much less stress on your pets than a long drive into town!!!

$100 Fuel Voucher kindly donated by Roscoe for the Lions Club raffle won by Claire Greenbank

For online up to date information on what's happening in the Community

Balgal Beach News look us up on Facebook This service is not part of the Rollingstone Rag but it was set up and is administered by Janine Jones ( editor Rollingstone Rag) as a community service

Front cover picture supplied by Gaye Lovell carer for lots of our injured wildlife . These babies are in good hands now!!!

Want to do something different this year and give a little back to your community – why not join your local Lions Club for Fun and Fellowship as we complete our service projects. And if you need a hand with anything around your home (we are still in the Cyclone Season) please do not hesitate to call me on 0407 114687…………..John Muller - President

Don’t miss page 14 for amazing phone tips to help you.

I will definitely be using these!!!!

P3

NOTES FROM THE R.T.C Welcome back for 2015 - if the first 2 months of the year are an indicator this year is going to be event packed.

Australia Day – the most ever nominations for the awards were received this year according to both Presidents of RaDCA and the Lions. There are so many good people doing wonderful things in this community for this community. Congratulation to the winners and the nominees, you all do a mighty job.

And while we are talking about good work the Committee would like to thank Mark at MVO for the ongoing maintenance of the air-conditioning system at the Hall.

School holiday program presented two soccer workshops and a fishing workshop and competition. The children who attended these activities had a wonderful time, though overall numbers were not great. Photos and a brief comment of the activities can be found on the Community Association’s Facebook page. Thank you to Craig Perfect from Townsville Football Inc and Fisherman’s Landing Fishing and Social Club for the wonderful activities your groups presented.

Stop Press – a Country Music Concert has been organised for Sunday 8 March by Judyana and Company. The Concert is to kick off at 1.30pm and perform until 5.30pm. A $3 door entry to belay costs to the band is being asked. A BBQ and afternoon tea, and bar will also be available. The afternoon will feature a Local Country Band, singers and musicians from the local area and Townsville as well as Slim Dusty tribute singer Keith Bagley. Judyana says “Keith snapped my head around when he started to sing, he sounds so authentic”. Come along and enjoy the Music.

Mobile Library time changes - Commencing in May the Mobile library will be at the Rollingstone Community Centre 11.30am-1.00pm Saunders Beach Community Centre 2.45pm-4.00pm continuing on the alternative Wednesdays (2 rubbish bin day). Toomulla has been removed from the list due to poor attendance.

I have had the pleasure of meeting many families new to the district – welcome to you– you have moved to the most wonderful part of not only Townsville but Qld. The RTC is the go to place if you require Community information, Health/ Welfare referral and/or assistance with administration tasks eg computers; Internet access; we are a Centrelink Access point where you can use the internet or phone to report; access documents or your Centrelink account. There is a dedicated printer/scanner/fax machine for all Centrelink business.

JP Services are available at the RTC M-F 8am-4pm and later if arrangements are made ahead of time.

The Hall is available for hire, as well as tables, chairs and some kitchen appliances. There is also a limited amount of assistive medical equipment and baby items available for loan from the Centre.

The Station is getting closer to completion. Thanks to Linda, Diane and Di for getting the books into order, not a little task. We are looking at opening the Station the same hours as the Op Shop with a volunteer in attendance. If you love books and have a couple of hours spare we would love to hear from you. Thank you Trish for providing copies of the Townsville City Council interpretative signage, we are framing these copies and they will be hung in the Station.

To contact the RTC call 47707855 or email rollingstonertc@bigpond.com As always, take care

Chris

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4th & 18th MARCH P5

We realise that it’s now absolutely “out-of-date”, but from the RAG perspective, welcome to 2015 to all our readers, and let’s hope it’s a good one free of any form of suffering............and drought. And, please, let’s be kind to one another – no keyboard warriors, no assumptions, no grossly inaccurate rumour-milling – just regular decency. Life is too short and the community is too small for this type of “O-D-ing”.

Sick List since December (that we know about): Di Thompson, John Gurd, Al Dalliman, Arthur Bonnet, Trevor Cheeseman, Graham Foster. No doubt there are others of whom we’re unaware, so we wish you all speedy recovery with happy and healthy days ahead.

Alf & Betty Coleman lost their son, Mark, during December, as did Gordon Payne lose his son, Tom, and brother, Norm; and Bernice Ivett lost her Mum. On a lighter and happy note, John Holliday & Jan Fennell were married on New Year’s Day!!

And Brett & Bec Logan welcomed a baby girl (Georgia Jean) in February.  

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Been really busy at the Community Centre over the summer break with lots happening. Gone are the days of having a break during January, which is why we close the Centre over the Christmas period – to give all our volunteers a wellearned break.

The Railway Station Building is finally finished, committed volunteers have been beavering away sorting and cataloguing books for the “new” community library, which is continuing to service the local region during the transition into its permanent locale. Coffee and tea making facilities will eventually be available; some tourist brochures on display along with a very small collection of railway memorabilia; a place to sit and read, if the spirit takes you; and a table carrying “books for sale”. We’re thrilled with the transformation and we hope you will be as well. It’s taken a long time, but it’s finally happened and on reflection and now seeing the actual reality of it all, it’s been worth the wait. Still a few odds and ends to be sorted, tied up.

Big thanks to the donor of the Leaf Blower. Your generosity is very much appreciated and it will be used well and often.

Thank you again.

We’ve put together a compendium of accommodation available in Townsville should you or your family be required to stay in the city for medical reasons. Because we don’t qualify for the Patient Travel Subsidy Scheme (I’m still working on that conundrum), you will not be eligible for any form of government financial assistance. However, never be afraid to speak about this situation with an assigned Hospital Social Worker (4433 2170)– it might just be to your benefit.

Please be reminded that, available for use by the community and it’s collection from the RTC, is the new “u-beaut” electric disability chair provided jointly by the Community Association and our Rollingstone Lions – free of charge.

Really BIG New Generator: Well, that was all explained to you by our police sergeant Brad Gough via Facebook during January. We need to say a huge “thank you” to Brad for sourcing it for us and making it available; and another big “thank you” to Allan, Vanda & Stephen Simmons (Simmons Constructions) for building and donating the Pad on which this big baby sits. Raymond Pace has been our “go-to” man for any advice we’ve needed regarding certain aspects of upkeep and maintenance and to date, he’s been invaluable – “thanks big time, Raymond”. The Community Association has provided the funding from the “Generator Account” to accomplish any or all of this. And P. & C. Smith, Electrical Contractors, is doing all the electrical work which means it’ll be the very best we can get.

As a matter of interest, we now have operative CCTV security cameras inside and outside the big hall and other buildings at the Community Centre.

Australia Day was a great celebration for all who attended, with the Lions to be congratulated on their wonderful effort and input and our own Centre Manager, Chris, for contribution over and above what’s expected of her. Di Stephan is this year’s Citizen of the Year, Tommy Ruddick is the Senior Citizen of the Year and James Baker is Junior Citizen of the Year.

We have a fairly busy year planned for 2015 – an attempt to get some of our lost “mojo” back and run a few functions “in house”. First up will be the Country Music (afternoon) Concert at the Hall on Sunday, March 8 th – 1.30pm to 5pm. We hope to do a Trivia Night, have our big OPEN Day on August 1 st and there’ll be other social days/nights that are yet-to-be-decided, but are already in the pipeline. Organising activities for our kids is not quite as easy. Just wish someone would tell us what the magic solution is. However, we’ll keep on trying and hope to meet with some success somewhere along the line.

We now deliver the RAG locally ourselves, so if you do accidentally miss out for whatever reason, please don’t do anything other than go up to the Community Centre and ask Chris civilly for a copy. Remember: receiving a free copy of our monthly newsletter is a privilege, NOT a right!!

Hire prices for our facility and equipment have remained the same for around 3 years now and will continue as is for this year, at least.

ZUCCHINI FRITTERS: 4 zucchinis, grated, squeezed to remove excess liquid; ¼ cup chopped Parsley; 1 Egg, lightly beaten; ½ cup SR Flour; ½ cup grated Parmesan; 150g Ricotta; pinch of Nutmeg; Olive Oil. Place the zucchini, parsley, egg, flour, parmesan, ricotta and nutmeg in a bowl, then season and fold to combine. Heat 2 tabs oil in a large frypan over medium heat. In 3 batches, add 2 tabs batter for each fritter to frypan and cook for 2 minutes each side until golden and cooked through. Drain on paper towel. Keep warm and repeat with remaining batter and 1 tabs oil for each batch.

P6

Well, 2015 certainly started with a bang for those interested in politics, with a state election being called. It is all over and done with now, although the result did take some time to sort out. One thing about politics is it’s never dull!

I would like to sincerely thank the people of the Hinchinbrook electorate for supporting me at the recent state election and giving me another opportunity to serve as your local MP. I am once again grateful and humbled.

I’ve always considered being the Member for Hinchinbrook a great honour. I will continue to work hard on your behalf in pursuit of our needs and interests. I am back at work and I am as determined and passionate as ever.

In government or opposition, I know our community wants an MP that is local, capable and dedicated. I’m born and bred in the Hinchinbrook electorate, I have the experience and I’m passionate about our region and North Queensland.

Undoubtedly, there was a very strong message sent to the LNP across the state. We will need to listen carefully and understand that message to regain the confidence and support of the majority of Queenslanders.

As always, I ran a positive campaign, outlining what I wanted to do and see happen in the future in the Hinchinbrook electorate. I will continue to work towards these goals and outcomes. With your support, we can make Hinchinbrook stronger.

The Northern Beaches is a growing and dynamic part of the City of Townsville and I very much value the opportunity to be involved with the community.

Once again, thank you for your support and encouragement.

P7

ROLLY RAG ADVERTISING RATES (per issue incl. GST as at March 2012) Full Page (18 x 26cm) Half Page (18 x 13cm) Quarter Page (9 x 13cm) Business Card (9 x 6.5cm) Classifieds (up to 20 words) Flyers/Inserts

$120.00 $80.00 $50.00 $25.00 $10.00 $80.00

Please make payment at the RTC during business hours or after hours, into the mailbox located at the end of the veranda at the Hall (near the kitchen window). Ensure your name and details are on the envelope.

We can design an ad for you and we accept .jpg file formats of your existing ads. The Rag is a great place to advertise and very cost effective.

For more information or to discuss your ad, call 4770 7855 between 8am and 4pm Monday to Friday or email rollingstonerag@bigpond.com or rollingstonertc@bigpond.com.

RollyRag’ Disclaimer The ‘RollyRag’ is produced by a team of volunteers — any comments, criticisms or complaints should be addressed to the Secretary, RaDCA Inc P.O. Box 35, Rollingstone, 4816. All text and layout remains the copyright of the Rollingstone and District Community Association Inc (RaDCA Inc) (the Publisher).

The Rolly Rag (the Rag) can not accept responsibility for any unsolicited material or transparencies. The Rag is fully independent and its views are not necessarily those of any company, organisation, club or person mentioned herein. All copyrights and trademarks are recognised and all images are used for the purpose of the dissemination of information only.

No part of this publication can be reproduced without the written permission of the publisher. Letters to the editor are encouraged by ‘the Rag’, as is the right to free speech. Any letters to the editor received and/or printed do not necessarily represent the views of the publisher.

The publisher accepts no responsibility for views expressed by contributors through freedom of speech, however, only letters supplied with a name and address will be published. Letters will be published with name only. We try to print articles as they are presented, but we do reserve the right to edit. ‘The Rag’ will endeavor to publish all articles submitted pending time limitations. Acceptance of an article by ‘the Rag’ is not a guarantee that the article will be published.

The Trade Practices Act of 1st October 1974, relating to consumer protection, places a heavy burden on advertisers and publishers of such advertisements and articles. Section 62 of this Act imposes a general duty on everyone not to engage in trade or commerce, or in a conduct that is misleading and deceptive.

In view of the obvious impossibility of ensuring that all advertising submitted for our newspaper complies with this Act, advertisers will appreciate the absolute need themselves to ensure that the Act is adhered to.

RURAL TRANSACTION CENTRE Internet Access $2/hour (or part of) FREE for Students doing school Projects and FREE for Job Seekers.  Printing & Photocopying (Black & White) A4 Single Sided .10¢ / page A4 Double Sided .20¢ / page A4 50 or more off 1 original . 5¢ / page A3 Single Sided .20¢ / page A3 Double Sided .40¢ / page A3 50 or more off 1 original .10¢ / page Colour Photocopying A3 or A4 .50¢ / page  Printing from Computer Black & White .20¢ / page Colour $1 / page  Scanning & Printing (B&W) .50¢ / page  Fax First page $1.10 (incl. GST) Consecutive pages $0.55 (incl. GST)  Laminating - Business Card .50¢ - A4 $1.10 (incl. GST) - A3 $2.20 (incl. GST)  Room Hire 1/2 Day $5.50 (incl. GST) Evening $5.50 (incl. GST)  Important document scanning $5.00 

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Council Clippings - Division One The Northern Beaches area is significantly affected by the saltmarsh mosquito, Aedes vigilax. This mosquito has a high nuisance value as it is an aggressive biter, is a transmitter of Ross River Virus and Barmah Forest Virus and has a pest range from its breeding site of around 15-20km.

Therefore, the Balgal Beach and Rollingstone communities are affected by saltmarsh mosquito breeding sites north and south along the coastline which are all experiencing an increase in mosquito activity. This has resulted due to ideal mosquito breeding conditions occurring from tidal and rain events triggering significant mosquito hatchings.

Mosquito treatments specifically around the Balgal Beach and Rollingstone communities include a 'residual' treatment of drains and low lowing areas within the communities as part of our preseason treatment program. This residual treatment has the potential to last up to 5 months however, the areas are monitored regularly to ensure effectiveness. The larger saltmarsh mosquito breeding areas along the Northern Beaches coastline undergo aerial mosquito treatments of which the last treatment occurred on the 22/01/15 due to both tidal and rain events.

Townsville Water is replacing an aging high risk pipeline at Bluewater which runs under the bridge, along the top bank of the creek.

The new main will be bored under the creek. This will improve the reliability of supply for Toolakea and Bluewater. The tender has been awarded and works are due to commence from February 2015.

Townsville families will be riding their way to wet and wild fun in 2015 with work starting this week to construct water slides at the Northern Beaches Leisure Centre.

The project is a three-way partnership between the Townsville City Council, Stockland Development Pty Ltd - the developer of North Shore, and the centre’s lessee Maria and Jon Sieben, and is expected to be up and running mid-year.

Two large slides each 28.7m in length and with a vertical drop of 3.2m will be installed in a specially constructed area within the existing pool complex.

The project would finally put into action the council-owned slides after seven years in storage.

“It’s fantastic that the slides will be up and running later this year and providing families with a great new attraction in the fastest growing area of the city.

“This is a great outcome when you consider the slides were virtually written off after the costs to install them at the original location on The Strand ballooned to over $1 million.

“The council persevered and thanks to the partnership with Stockland and Maria and John Sieben the slides will soon be providing families with fun in the booming northern suburbs.”

Stockland Pty Ltd’s North Shore project director Andrew Astorquia said the slides were another great addition to the suite of community infrastructure already delivered at North Shore.

“There will be plenty of families who will be counting down the days until the new facilities are ready,” Mr Astorquia said.

“Our focus at North Shore is on the creation of a self-contained community where you don't have to travel to access everything you need such as education, retail, entertainment and recreation.

“The water slides will provide an exciting attraction right on the doorstep of the growing number of families who are attracted to the great lifestyle in this part of the city.”

North Shore Leisure Centre lessee John Sieben said: “As the lessee's we are excited about the opportunity to provide additional facilities at our complex for the Townsville community.”

As part of the project agreement, the council is providing the site, the water slides and $323,000 in funding, Stockland is undertaking civil engineering works and project management valued at $78,600, and JMS Aquatics is contributing water circulation and disinfection equipment valued at $50,000.

The North Shore proposal was developed and approved by the council after a call for expressions of interest from the city’s public pool operators.

Originally designed for the Rock Pool, the slides project stalled in early 2008 after estimates soared from $300,000 to around $1 million.

Sue Blom Councillor for Division 1, Chair Community and Culture M 0427 300 364 P 1300 878 001 E suzanne.blom@townsville.qld.gov.au

This was the Soccer Workshop held recently through the Centre.

There are lots of great activities such as this on School Holidays so keep a lookout on the Calandar of Events or ring Chris at the Centre for more information on whats happening.

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P 10

OK… so I almost missed the first Rag of the year – sorry. Let’s skip past all the great excuses (fires, floods, major earth shattering criminal investigations, dogs, cats, aliens…) and have a look at some of the highlights of the last bit of 2014.

Did I mention that it would be different this year? Did I say something about how there would be changes that I wasn’t happy about… and some I was? Try this on for size – Miss Jenny – gone – took a full time job in Townsville Police Station shuffling papers, counting paperclips and doing other really important stuff. We really miss her.

Miss Christine – arrived – took Miss Jenny’s job out here and doing a brilliant job of it too – REALLY happy to have her here.

While I’m on the subject of staff – I’ve had offers (not that I can name names) from people wanting to become a “Deputy” – actually most people just want to play with the cap spray and the Taser and take the Arctic Cat out with some crab pots (if I’M not allowed to… YOU’RE not allowed to). I appreciate the offers but there are a few minor things that have to happen before I can throw you the keys to the place and let you “have at it”, blasting the bejezus out of dogs, cats and that “long list of @#%*#$@’s” that really deserve it.

Christmas and New Year’s was really good to us – I was running Deeragun again for a few weeks and McHAGGIS was flying solo up here. We had the launch for the Arctic Cat ATV at the Hall and did a few laps with some of the little kids (and a couple more with some of the bigger kids). Then there was the escort for Santa and the LIONS Lolly Run – always good to see the big man in red giving a sugar rush to all the littlies. The Rollingstone State School presentation night was pretty cool – a big congratulations to ALL the kids, especially the ones who scored an award (even my own home-grown terrorist).

We did a fair bit of hunting around with the Arctic Cat on the beaches and in the scrub around Clemant, Ollera, Crystal and up into Mt Spec – as you’d expect being a new toy and all. I’m really happy to tell you, this little beast has already paid for itself. Aside from the proactive patrols that we’ve done (that’s all the smile and wave / be seen sort of stuff) it’s already been instrumental in finding a suicidal ex-soldier who went missing up near Crystal Creek, a marijuana crop (sorry, can’t tell you where – still under investigation) and some “would be if they could be, but didn’t get the chance” rally drivers who wanted to turn Clemant Forest and the beach between Toomulla and Mystic into the next Dakar Rally circuit.

“So what’s the go with vehicles and bikes and quads on the beach now?”… I hear you ask. This one is still a fairly big issue with myself, the Deeragun Police and the Townsville Council entering into a “Memorandum of Understanding” regarding the areas that can and cannot be accessed including the tracks that the Council have control of. The Council will make formal complaints of trespass against anyone on their land where they shouldn’t be. The Council flyers are on the counter at my office if you’re interested.

There’s more to this issue than just our area but for right here, what I’m looking for locally is a common sense approach. Stick to the tracks (don’t make your own), don’t go north of the sign on the beach at Mystic Sands (there WILL be a BIG chance that your vehicle or bike will be seized under Noise Abatement and Anti-Hooning legislation) and most important… SHOW SOME RESPECT. If there are other people using the tracks or camped in the scrub where you’re riding, if there are kids playing on the beach or even someone walking or fishing there – SLOW DOWN TO A WALKING PACE AND GIVE THEM A WIDE BERTH. Just because you’re in a vehicle or on a bike or quad, it doesn’t make you “king of the beach”. If I receive a complaint about your conduct on a bike, quad or vehicle on the beach or in any part of the scrub, you might as well be on the Bruce Highway. You will be prosecuted for every offence you commit. We’re not the “Fun Police” but the beach and the tracks aren’t your private play-ground either. Respect the place or don’t use it.

Okay… what’s the biggest event for this year? Anyone? Come on… surely you all have this one marked on a calendar with stars and fluro colours. It’s been 12 years… we’ve been here 12 WHOLE YEARS!!! That’s more than one third of my entire career. OK, OK – not quite a local yet, I know… should know his way around by now, plenty of people been here longer – fair enough. To be honest Al and I probably missed the actual date anyway… in fact the only way we remember our wedding anniversary is when someone else rings up on to congratulate us. We’re pretty hopeless with that stuff. But still… 12 years! Every February I find myself having a think about what’s happened since we got here and driving down the driveway beside the station wondering how long we’d last in a little place like this. To be honest, there are times when this place annoys the living @#%* out of me… but I wouldn’t trade it for all the tea in China.

Would I change it if I could? HELL YES – as soon as I win $40 million in the Lotto I’m buying all the local businesses, putting razor wire across the turnoff and changing the name of the place to Goughyville.

Be good, stay safe.

Goughy

Sunny Days Carer's Support Group available Contact 4773 5808 for more information P 11

BLUEWATER MEDICAL PRACTICE 2 PURONO PARKWAY, QLD ,4818

47786444 Or make your booking ONLINE via our website www.bluewatermedical.com or Google: Doctor Appointments in Bluewater and you can use Health Engine to make your appt.

We have 8 General Practitioners, 2 Nurse Practitioners and the services from the following Allied Health Dietitian, Podiatry, Psychologists, Acupuncturist, Hypnotherapy, Exercise Psychologist, Natural Massage Therapist and Counsellor.

Visiting Cardiologist attends monthly.

There is a pharmacy and Physiotherapists on site.

Whilst the majority of our GP’s bulk bill please be aware that when booking online you may be selecting a Private Appt. where payment will be required at consultation P 12

Acuwellbeing Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine Lynette Dennis Bluewater Medical Centre, Bluewater Ph 47786444 Northern Beaches Chiropractic, Burdell Ph 47742184 Naturally Healthy, Belgian Gardens Ph 043883442 RN & Midwife, Health Rebates www.acuwellbeing.org

RAINFOREST INN PALUMA Licensed Café / Restaurant/ Motel New Owners

Open 5 days a week Breakfast & Lunch 8.30-3.30 Closed Tuesdays ,Wednesdays and Thursdays Dinner Saturday nights however Bookings are Essential

We also have spacious well appointed Motel units

Rollingstone & District Seniors

Why not join us for breakfast ,lunch or coffee and home made sweets and cakes!!!!

Before we start off this year I would like to finalise matters for December.

Just before Christmas two of our Seniors visited Shirley Ciszek at the RSL Home in Rowes Bay. I am pleased to report that she knew instantly who we were and wanted to know about all that was going on at Rollingstone. She looked well and seems to have settled in at the home.

On December 20th a surprise birthday party was held for Margie Butterworth at the Community Hall. There was a huge attendance of family and friends, and Lions did the catering.

Well done guys and gals, and many thanks to all who cooked and served, the food was great. After congratulatory speeches and cutting of the birthday cake our energetic line dancers, headed by Margie, provided us with an exhibition of their nimble footwork.

Girls you are a joy to watch.

Now to this year.

At a meeting of Senior Citizens held recently Rhonda Muller was elected President with Lynne Prytherch as Vice President, and Len Clark and Claire Spittler staying on as Treasurer and Secretary respectively. The newly elected Committee will be discussing a calendar of events for the coming year but more news of those events later.

The running of the steam train through Rollingstone caused quite a stir. I have spoken to many people who boarded the train and without exception they all said it was wonderful. For senior people, of whom there were many from various Nursing Homes around Townsville, it brought back memories of a bygone era when life was lived at a more leisurely pace than it is now. For the young ones who waved their hands and flags enthusiastically along the route, it was chance to see how their elders travelled in the so called “good old days”.

Seniors started off the year with a fun morning at Ten Pin Bowls.

Again, we were given the end lanes as I am sure we were the noisiest group there. We were out to have a good time and we did! We stopped for scones and a cuppa at half time (delicious) and ended up at the Kirwan Tavern for lunch.

Before I close this article on behalf of all Senior Citizens I wish to say a big THANK YOU to Pam Stewart who is stepping down from the Committee this year after 10 years of making cakes and biscuits, running the seniors stall at the markets, selling raffle tickets, keeping everyone advised as to what is happening in the district, and generally organising us on our many trips and excursions. Pam you will be missed, and many, many thanks from all of us.

Stay well, and take care of each other …. Claire

1 Mt Spec Rd Paluma 47708688 rainforestinnpaluma.com

P13

Merry we Meet & Happy New Year! Having a great season with lots of fun and frivolity not forgetting plenty of exercise. This year we added a Pool Volley Ball Net. Not quite as popular as last years Pool Basketball but made things interesting for the School holiday period when we don’t have music or alternating programs. John is putting in a poolside powerpoint for us so we will be able to have music right through. We all love our old Rock n Roll music to sing and exercise to, don’t we? Weather has been kind so we haven’t lost any days through bad weather. So far we have welcomed 13 new faces, male and female, some who wish to have an after session morning tea in the camp kitchen and view the “Water Gym” DVD. We have set Tuesday the 3rd of March for this occasion. Could those who wish to participate please bring a small plate and their own cups/mugs. I will bring the tea, coffee, sugar, milk & DVD. Till then Stay Happy &Healthy & Keep Fit. Babz.

FOUR THINGS YOU PROBABLY NEVER KNEW YOUR MOBILE PHONE COULD DO !!!

There are a few things that can be done in times of grave emergencies.... Your mobile phone can actually be a life saver or an emergency tool for survival.

Check out the things that you can do with it:

FIRST: Emergency Services The Emergency Number worldwide for all Mobile Phones is 112.

If you find yourself out of the coverage area of your mobile network and there is an emergency, dial 112 and your mobile will search any existing network in your area to establish the emergency number for you, and interestingly this number 112 can be dialled even if the keypad is locked.

This works on all phones worldwide and is free.

SECOND: Have you locked your keys in the car?

If your car has remote keyless entry? This may come in handy someday.. Good reason to own a cell phone: If you lock your keys in the car and the spare keys are at home, call someone at home on their mobile phone from your cell phone.

Hold your cell phone about a foot from your car door and have the person at your home press the unlock button, holding it near the mobile phone on their end. Your car will unlock. Saves someone from having to drive your keys to you. Distance is no object.

You could be thousands of miles away,

THIRD: Is your mobile phone battery flat ?

All mobiles have Hidden Battery Power To activate, press the keys *3370# (remember the asterisk). Do this when the phone is almost dead.

Your mobile will restart in a special way with this new reserve and the instrument will show a 50% increase in battery life.. This reserve will get re-charged when you charge your mobile next time.

This secret is in the fine print in most phone manuals. Most people however skip this information without realising.

FOURTH: How to disable a STOLEN mobile phone?

To check your Mobile phone's serial number, key in the following digits on your phone: * # 0 6 # Ensure you put an asterisk BEFORE the #06# sequence.

A 15 digit code will appear on the screen. This number is unique to your handset. Write it down and keep it somewhere safe.

If your phone ever gets stolen, you can phone your service provider and give them this code.

They will then be able to block your handset so even if the thief changes the SIM card, your phone will be totally useless.

You probably won't get your phone back, but at least you know that whoever stole it can't use/sell it either. If everybody did this, there would be no point in people stealing mobile phones.

This secret is also in the fine print of most mobile phone manuals. It was created for the very purpose of trying to prevent phones from being stolen.

Also - ATM PIN Number Reversal - Good to Know !!

If you should ever be forced by a robber to withdraw money from an ATM machine, you can notify the police by entering your PIN # in reverse. For example, if your pin number is 1234, then you would put in 4321. The ATM system recognizes that your PIN number is backwards from the ATM card you placed in the machine. The machine will still give you the money you requested, but unknown to the robber, the police will be immediately dispatched to the location.

All ATM’s carry this emergency sequencer by law.

This information was recently broadcast on by Crime Stoppers. It is, however, seldom used as people just don't know about it.

Simply this is Alcoholics Anonymous Alcoholics Anonymous is a fellowship of men and women who share their experience, strength and hope with others that they may solve their common problem and help others to recover from alcoholism. The only requirement for Alcoholics Anonymous membership is a desire to stop drinking.

There are no dues or fees for Alcoholics Anonymous membership. We are self supporting through our own contributions. Alcoholics Anonymous is not allied with any sect, denomination, politics, organisation or institution, does not wish to engage in any controversy, neither endorses or opposes any causes. Our primary purpose is to stay sober and help other alcoholics to achieve sobriety.

If you or someone you know have a problem with alcohol, please contact Alcoholics Anonymous on 4771 5411 or come to a meeting Monday nights 7pm at Rollingstone Rural Transaction Centre.

Phone: 4771 5411 P 14

Balgal Beach Boating & Leisure Club News Well we are now into 2015. It will be another good year for our club.

Our Christmas Party went really well. The Christmas tucker was excellent, prawns were yummy, and sweets were out of this world. ALWAYS A GREAT SPREAD. Our special musical lady Judyanna provided us with good entertainment, she has a wonderful singing voice and quite a few got up to dance. VERY ENJOYABLE. Thanks Judy from us all.

Santa and Mrs Claus arrived with gifts for the kids and some great photos were taken.

Winner of the Wanderers Resort Raffle was Cheryl Pearson. Winners of our two Lound’s Seafood Raffles were Letitia Mc Donald and Vicki O. GOOD PRIZES. Yummy.

November fish of the month was awarded to Trevor Phillips with a 60 cm Coral Trout.

The mystery length went to James Baker.

Our first BBQ for 2015 was tops with a wonderful spread. Thanks to the cooks and preparation people. WELL DONE AGAIN. We played Hooky along with lots of non stop verbal encouragement from all teams. Team five were the winners and received the GOLD prizes. GIRL POWER WON OUT AGAIN. Well done ladies.

Ken Dickenson won fish of the month for December and also January with a 62cm Painted Sweetlip and a 66cm Banded Grunter. Merle Dickenson bagged the Mystery length. GOOD ON YA MERLE. The two Lound’s Fresh Seafood Raffles were won by Gaye and Joan. A very lucky pair of Ladies. Col and Anne Lound have the freshest top seafood. I AM SURE YOU WILL BOTH ENJOY. Our next BBQ will be at the hall Sunday 1st of March. Visitors are most welcome. Our calendar of club events was distributed to members at the BBQ. We have lots of new things happening. Very exciting and different. Please book your accommodation for our Lucinda weekend away ASAP - 24th, 25th, 26th July . This is a very busy time, so we need to book early. Contact Ken on 47707276 regarding going to the Greek Fest and Cultural Fest.

These are great fun events to attend as a club and we will have an exciting time. We have booked the Bus. Take care and support our sponsors whenever possible.

Kindest regards from your Committee

Well I hope everyone had a lovely Christmas & New Year. Only 9months left until next Christmas! Welcome to a number of new residents that have moved into our beautiful community and I hope to see you all at one of our next community events.

Australia Day was the best day with about 50 people coming along for some fun even though the weather was very, very hot. Thanks to Jeff for setting up the generator for the fans to work and help cool things down. It made it heaps cooler Jeff! Thanks to Rudy and Derek for cooking the very tasty sausages and lamb bits throughout the day. Thanks Sue Blom for being the supervisor with the cooking. We played Cricket, throw the thong, fishing game, Trivia and the laughing game. It was heaps of fun, lots to keep us entertained for the day.

The kids had fun and took home heaps of prizes.

There are only a few “lucky numbers” left for those looking to buy one. $10 - 10 x weeks per number.

Once these are sold we will start the draws each Friday. Winner takes $50 if his/her lucky number is drawn.

Our FaceBook page is working well. Please feel free to advertise your local business on there to gain further exposure, and to let all us Facebookers know what is available within the local community.

Thank you to Tineale Harrison for sharing all the amazing photography that you do.

If there is any thing that you would like to share each month with Toomulla News please do not hesitate to email me schwarzee1959@gmail.com The news letter goes into the Rollingstone Rag each month and distributed throughout the Northern Beaches Communities, so this allows great exposure for any information you would like to put out.

Toomulla Beach Fishing Club is off to Lucinda on 6th, 7th & 8th March for a great weekend of ‘fishing and fun’. Tides are good and the weather should be brilliant. Contact Mick for more information about the weekend. toomulla@bigpond.com So this is a short and sweet newsletter this month, but Happy Birthday to any one celebrating in March, have a wonderful day and a big Happy Birthday to our lovely residents Shirley Rouse and Bette Grady who both turned 80 just recently.

Cheers…………………..Rhonda.

P 15

Many of you will have seen this new addition to the Centre...a 75 KVA generator to service RaDCA Community Hall and the Lions Den Thanks to the Local Disaster Management group for making this possible!!!

Megs’ Beachside Hairdressing 47707528 All ladies mens and childrens hairdressing requirements Please phone Mon - Friday 9am-5pm for an appointment 32 Madelaine Dve Balgal Beach

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PH: 0478 790 134

5 TREVINA COURT BALGAL BEACH QLD 4816 P16

"A new name in property management Property investors in the Balgal Beach area will see a new name in property management as specialist brand, Living Here, opens its doors.

Living Here Property Solutions, led by long-time property management leader Rebecca Logan, is a business with the primary focus of enhancing the property management process for investors.

Rebecca made the decision to join Living Here after taking over the reins of the business from her parents.

“Property Management is my passion and the Living Here brand allows me to provide a greater property management service to my clients and presents the opportunity to bring a point of difference to the local market,” she said.

Working in property management for the past ten years, Rebecca has grown the business’ rent roll organically since she established it seven years ago.

“I began my career in sales, but made the decision to open a property management division within the business. Particularly in the past three years, we have focussed on developing and growing the property management side of the business and we have plans to grow substantially with Living Here,” Rebecca explains.

Living Here Property Solutions will not only focus on property management, but will also provide property investors with an experienced sales team.

“We have a team that specialises in investment properties for lease and for sale. We have the resources and experience to advise and carry out the entire investment cycle for our clients,” Rebecca said.

For the Living Here network, Rebecca’s move is a welcome one.

“Rebecca brings enormous talent to Living Here. She saw that her future as a business owner was best aligned with the Living Here brand and we have every confidence that her business will continue to grow and thrive,” says Michelle Delaney, General Manager of Living Here.

P 17

R.S.L. NEWS

Another year about to begin! A very important one for the RSL, as we remember the centenary of the landing at Gallipoli.

We have had our thinking caps on re this special ANZAC Day. A re-enactment sounded like a fine idea, but unfortunately due to the tides and rules relating to Workplace, Health and Safety, this cannot occur. However, we will have our usual ANZAC Day Dawn Service and March and we hope many of our community can participate in either or both of the services. More on ANZAC Day in the April edition.

We had the Rollingstone RSL AGM on 15th February and the Board remains very similar to last year. President Ewan Cameron and Treasurer Jan Battersby continued in their roles as part of our 3 year terms of appointment. Mick Coulson and Rhonda Coulson were re-appointed as Vice Chairman (Vice-President) and Secretary, respectively, as no new nominations were submitted, and they were elected from the floor. We are pleased to welcome a new appointee in Des Ward, who is a Social representative on the Board. Tony Griffiths, Rod Girvan and Ian Dow were also re-elected. What a team!

Speaking of what a team- Rollingstone RSL is proud to have Ewan as a State Vice-President, Rod as a District Vice-President and Jan as District Treasurer! Congratulations to Jan who took on the District role this year! Not bad for a small, but energetic club!

If you have been, or are in, the services, we are always ready to welcome new members. At our AGM we welcomed Anthony Thomson, and in his absence, Callum Curtis, as service members. Of course, we are also lucky to have Associate and Social members. Mal and Cathy Dorey, who are great supporters of our raffles and Goose Club on Friday nights, have also joined as social members. Thank you to them. Fees are $6 for Social and $11 for Associate membership.

If you are a member and have not paid your fees please do so, as I would like to organise the cards for 2015.

On Saturday, our ever reliable Jim Kennedy, represented Rollingstone RSL at the National Servicemen’s Association Service. The Townsville and District Branch of the Australian National Servicemen’s Association has established a Memorial Park at Rowes Bay and hold a service on 14th February each year. Jim said there were around 280 people in attendance and 180 had booked for lunch at the RSL. The service went well, although a little sad when new plaques were added to the wall to show the passing of some members. Jim took the opportunity to catch up with some old mates and had a coldie (a light of course) at the RSL. Thank you Jim for representing our club!

Our raffles and Goose Club continue to do well at Mystic Sands Golf Club on Friday evenings. Remember you are always welcome to come over, have a drink, buy a raffle or two and relax. You may even wish to stay for dinner and have Chef Phil cook something delicious for you. There’s always Vonnie, Colleen and Emma to serve you, and sometimes that great teller of jokes, Steve. Okay, I’m kidding about the great jokes, but you can’t help but laugh along with Steve!

Remember, we are there to help those who need assistance so please let us know of any RSL member(s) in need of some help. We have 45 service members, and most of those are in their late 60’s, 70’s and 80’s. Till next month, take care.

Cheers, Rhonda C.

Rollingstone and District Lions Club Inc 

G’day to everyone in the Greater Rollingstone Area, and welcome to 2015.

We trust that you have all had a very happy and relaxing festive season, and ready for whatever 2015 may bring.

Since our last report Lions finished off 2014 with a “Bang”, by supporting the following activities:Supported RADCA with our local Carols by Glowstick on Sunday Dec 7, with nett proceeds from the night donated to RADCA. A great night with “Magic” fireworks to close the evening. Thank you RADCA for putting this on for our community.



Supported The Northern Beaches Combined Church’s Carols at North Shore on Sat 13 th Dec. Through our partnership with the Rollingstone State School and with the help of Principal Kacey, Chappie Jess and P & C President Margaret who cooked a “mountain of Hot Dogs”, we have donated over $1,600 to the Combined Northern Churches Chaplaincy Fund – which will help to keep the Chaplaincy services going here in our Rollingstone School in 2015



Assisted the Leos with their final Rollingstone Creek Cleanup also on the morning of 13 th Dec



Conducted the annual “Santa Lolly Run” and Christmas Cake Sales on Saturday 13 th –thank you to the Firies and Police who continue to support us with this event – together with SANTA and his Helper!

Helped cater for a surprise 70th Birthday Party Lions were also there to support the first Wedding of the New Year – our heartiest congratulations to John & Jan (now Mrs) Holliday and thank you for inviting us to be part of your special day.

After a well-earned spell, our Lions Team has fired up for 2015 through our on-going partnership with the Community Association to again bring you our own Australia Day Breakfast and Awards Ceremony. My personal “Thank You” to the Lions who assisted on the day, and our heartiest congratulations to all of our Community Award Winners. A big “Thank You” to those who nominated locals for the awards, and also to those who attended to make it the success it was. And....we cannot thank enough Judyanna & Bob Holt for their efforts with the music and entertainment – simply “wonderful” – and our Centre Manager Chris who again provided many hours of support in her own time to ensure that everything went off well on the day.

Lions also supported the School P & C with a Sausage Sizzle & raffle on election day – over $700 donated to the P & C for their on-going programs this year.

To our Leo Club Members and Junior Leos, great to see your involvement and activities starting again in 2015 and we look forward to many happy times together as you also support our Community with your projects this year.

Want to do something different this year and give a little back to your community – why not join your local Lions Club for Fun and Fellowship as we complete our service projects. And if you need a hand with anything around your home (we are still in the Cyclone Season) please do not hesitate to call me on 0407 114687…………..John Muller - President P 18 

on Bruce Highway, Ph. 47708184

The best and most unique Ice-cream and sorbets, fresh fruit juices, cakes and coffee, sandwiches and light tropical meals.

Our ice-creams are made with skim milk and our fruit sorbets are dairy free.

Frosty Mango is ideal for small meetings, family reunions, birthday parties or just relax with a tropical meal, an ice-cream, coffee and cake in air-conditioned comfort or under the veranda.

We also look after you if you have gluten or lactose intolerance.

We are open every day from 8:00am to 6:00pm P 19

MYSTIC SANDS GOLF CLUB Hello Golfers, Welcome to a new year of golf and fun, I hope you all had a happy and safe Christmas and New Year !

The summer comp was very successful and frequented by many. The heat didn't seem to deter the ardent golfer who doesn't seem to mind the heat ...''crazy''.

The vets ran a summer comp and it went off very well and again the crazy people were there, me included.

A big thanks to Jackie Brown for arranging a golf clinic for the newcomers and some of us oldies. So what do you do, we go out there and play a round and forget everything we were taught. I just blame it on getting old.

So far the rain has not caused any problems to the players. The only person that seems to work harder is Brett our intrepid green keeper. Some mornings he is starting at well before the sun comes up just to try and catch up with the mowing and everything else that seems to go with that thankless job.

So I am going to give him a big thanks, and also to the small band of helpers that work with Brett and do what he wants, because one man cannot do it all himself.

Welcome back to the band of golfers that went to Norfolk Island, very windy and rainy so I heard. I hope you all went well.

By the time you get this mag the golfers will be doing battle every week for that coveted voucher one might win, and then spend it on a few cooling drinks to finish off the day.

That's about all for now. Come one come all and we will see you in March, hopefully we might have some new players...men and women…….Bye for now………Stay safe and look after one another…….Maree K.

MYSTIC SANDS BOWLS CLUB Our little bowling club welcomes in another year where we look forward to growing on the success of 2014 and increasing the number of participants enjoying our great game.

At our break-up day in December, we had an excellent roll up of bowlers who all enjoyed our final game for 2014 before settling down to lunch and a (very) laid back presentation for bare foot bowls.

Our Barefoot Bowler of the Year Award went to a very deserving Ken Smart who only took up the game last year and absolutely loves it.

Special awards went to our two `Dancing Gnomes ' ( Robyn and Maureen ) while the `Dizzy Blonde' award was a certainty for Cathy.

Thanks everyone for your great attitudes and sense of humour and we will need to start thinking about awards for this year.

Our Annual General Meeting was also held on this day with the following members elected for 2015.

President - Phil Small Vice President - Bob Brown Secretary - Maureen Cahill Treasurer(s) - Graeme Starkie & M. Blake Games Director - Michael Blake Mgt Reps - Mal Dorey & Terry Frazer Our Sunday morning Barefoot Bowls began on 15th February with a good roll up and has one important change from last year.

Nominations MUST be in by 9.00am so that we can start playing by 9.30. If you cant be present by 9.00am please ring either myself or the club and your name will be included. This game is open to anyone in the community who wants to come along and have a very enjoyable morning for a moderate charge of $7.

We have some nomination forms for affiliated bowling members who wish to contest club championships and pennants for 2015. Games will be organised depending upon response, so please check the board and indicate your availability.

As usual, please direct any enquiries to Phil Small on 0418 779 292

P 20

Friday March 6th CARVERY DINNER Pork, beef and chicken and desert Bookings preferred

THE VOICE of “THE VON” The course is looking great, the beer is cold and we are still here for 2015!!!

We trust that everyone had an enjoyable Christmas and New Year and are ready to tackle 2015. Where is the rain? We are in the middle of our supposed “WET” , but it is still dry. The bit of rain that we have had has been sufficient to fill the dam and green the course so there may be sufficient water to get us through the dry if no more rain falls.

Brett has had mowers going to keep up with the grass growth and helpers Bob, Di, Macca and Pam have been active in maintaining the gardens over the last weeks and planting a heap of new trees. These were generously nurtured and donated by Bob and Jackie Brown. The severe storm, a few weeks ago, caused some damage but resulted in a few loads of woodchips for the gardens and other landscaping around the course.

Summer golf comp concludes this week-end and the new season starts.

Tuesday and Friday night meals have been a little quiet as of late but are still available with the numbers starting to increase after the traditionally extremely quiet months of January and Feb. Pricing starts at $13 and new specials are being introduced regularly along with the old favourites. Friday 6th March there will be a carvery with roast pork, beef and chicken and a dessert. Try to book to make sure you have a table on this popular night!!! A seafood night is planned for the near future. Watch this space.

Newcomers into our community are invited to come down and experience our hospitality without being a member or if you wish, join as a social member and join in the activities offered Bare foot bowls on Sunday morning has resumed and is a fun way to spend the morning and learn a new sport.

It has not been a good start for our bar attendant Emma who lost her grandmother this month. Our condolences from all the club members go to Emma and Kaitlin and she is sorely missed while she has been away.

Meanwhile, lets hope for more rain and keep hittin’ ‘em straight and far. See you all soon.

Mine Host, Vonnie P 21

P 22

WILDLIFE CARERS Please keep these phone numbers handy!!!!!

FOR ROLLINGSTONE, BALGAL BEACH and surrounds GWEN CAHILL

BIRDS

4770 7540 / 0427 074 816

GAYE LOVELL

WALLABIES & KANGAROOS

4770 7356 / 0412 965 535

CHRIS GREEN

POSSUMS

0402 084 588

Being a carer for native birds is not for the faint hearted. Because the majority of the birds I have brought to me are very young and are not even fledglings the mortality rate is very high. Most of the time we do not know why they are out of the nest, there are so many reasons for this.

All we can do is try our very best and there are so many times when you hand rear a bird and then just before it is due for release it up and dies on you.

Since Christmas period I have had 4 lorikeets, 3 welcome swallows, 1 kookaburra, 5 doves, 2 sunbirds, 1 pee wee and a red necked crate/rail.

The lorikeets are usually quite hardy but again not when they are too young. I had one I named Stumpy as he had no tail feathers and was quite a character. After many months in care he disappeared one day so I’m hoping he decided to fly away.

The kookaburra was so badly injured he had to be euthanased.

The sunbirds unfortunately were too small and even though I had high hopes it was not to be.

They were both feeding well but died within 2 days of each other.

The crate / rail was only possibly a day old, so sadly we really held out little hope there. It is hard, as when people find birds it is almost impossible to find the parent(s).

The swallows went off to another carer who had some as they like to be in a flock and naturally survive better.

The doves, I lost 1 but released 4, good innings there.

Mr(s) PeeWee (see picture) is doing great, he /she is down in the large aviary now practising the flying thing and will be released in a few days. Because they are very territorial I am fortunate that there is no resident pee wee flock where I plan to release it.

Birds are so delicate. They would have to be the hardest to try and rear but when you see one soar in to the sky and fly off it really makes it all worth while. There are many times when I have seen a bird I have released come back for a feed.

If you happen to find a little one close to trees try putting it into one of the tree branches if you cannot see the nest. Observe for as long as you possibly can as the parent could return even if you have handled the chick or nest.

If all else fails please pass it on to a wildlife carer. Any carer will accept any wildlife.

The “OP SHOP”

Yes another year is here and the Op Shop is in full swing with all our team back on board. Opening between 9 and 12noon on Saturdays of the Balgal Beach Markets is still a 'goer'. We especially open for all the weekday workers.

One of our male shoppers told me last year "I love coming here for my shopping fix, walk in with little money and leave with heaps of goodies".

Our Op Shop is air-conditioned for your comfort, so if you are bored at home, come and get your shopping fix for so little money while keeping cool.

Donations have been flowing in so plenty of new stock to view.

Thank you to all our supporters See you soon Margie, Angie, Justene and Lynda

P 23

Fisherman’s Landing Fishing & Social Club News Hello and welcome. We hope you all had a wonderful Christmas and New Year break and are now back in the harness or at the coal face, rejuvenated and raring to go for another 12 months.

Well, following my tearful farewell in the December edition of this fine family media (I resigned as Club Scribe, remember?), I find myself once again scribbling away on behalf of the Club as no one else would take on the job despite my attempted bribes, pleas, wailing and folding my arms whilst holding my breath until I turned blue. But, it will only be for a couple of months, the Club President promised me that after a rather long session in the bar. I do hope he remembers!

What a busy time we have had during the holidays. Heaps of new members have joined, another very successful New Years Eve Party organized, a reasonably successful Kids School Holiday Fishing Camp and Fishing Competition conducted and now a Closed Club Fishing Competition for the end of February. To top all that off, Dickie got into the spirit of things and has had some renovations done at The Landing including laying some new turf. It’s all go at The Landing and in your Club!

But first, our warmest congratulations are extended to Mon, Mew and May Dale on becoming proud Australian Citizens on January 26th. We expect Mon to work in her food van now wearing a Jackie Howe and double pluggers.

We have new members aplenty, Mike and Therese Milliken, Wayne Truscott, Adam, Rubera, Brook and Shelby Sawtell, Stephen and Irene Leary, Ben and Christine Toon, Nick, Trish, Hunter, Sheri and Brody Truscott, Stewart, Noeleen, Kelly and Chaelie Utschink, Byron, Tanya and B.J. Thompson, Paul Goodwin, Tanika, Savannah and Charlotte Hendricks, Dennis and Barbara Drew, John West, Norm and Wendy Robinson, John and Rhonda Gurd, Anita Smith, Dan Watson and Cody and Jade Donavan, Charlie and Carol Smith, Nev and Claire Shaw, Bruce and Lyn Woolard, Dylon West, Darren and Puy Haggarty and, last but not least, Andrew and Jenny Marriott.

We welcome you all to your new club.

From all reports (I was not present), the New Year Eve Party was another success with 120 people attending. Anita had the crowd of all shapes and sizes foot tapping or dancing to her music. The food was good and plentiful and the drinks were cold so with good company what more could you wish for, even the weather held out for us. This function followed the very successful party the club organized the previous year so the Committee has decided to do another party this coming new year but, with a few changes so if any of you members have an idea, the Committee would love to hear from you.

It would appear that none of our members are fishing, judging from the lack of entries for the weigh-in sheets in January or February. Come on members, stop being lazy and spend a few minutes to weigh them in and have your photo taken for the brag board.

The monthly prizes are worth the little effort required.

Now my two readers, actually there are now three as a wonderful lady named Christine told me that she always reads my article.

Thank you Christine, I have adjusted my Will to accommodate you. I have a tale of woe to relate. Early February Brett Collinson was trawling some lures on the shoals directly out from the end of the Esplanade (his best ever, ever Fingermark spot), when he lost a jig stick with a Shimano spin reel attached, quite an expensive rig from all reports. So you honest anglers, if you snag the rig attached to your hook please return the article to Brett for a thirst quenching reward. Brett is so anxious to retrieve this rig he is willing, most reluctantly of course, to reveal the GPS Co-ords. but please contact him direct for them. We don’t want a situation where Goughy has to play traffic cop at the boat ramp while Senior Darren does crowd (boat) control around the mark.

We have a few people I am aware of on the sick list. Bruce Woolard, Ron Condren (Condo) and even the backbone of our club, our corner foundation stone, our doer, the very knowledgeable of most things, “I only look after the stinger net” Dickie Charleston. We all hope your illnesses are short or at least manageable and you all bounce back real soon.

During January our Club conducted, over a two day period, a Kids School Holiday Fishing program comprising of a Fishing Workshop then the following week a Fishing Competition. This program was run in conjunction with the Rollingstone and District Community Association. The first day was a fishing camp at the Community Hall where children of all ages were taught the basics of fishing (knots, rod rigging etc) then the following week a fishing competition at The Landing culminating in a free BBQ lunch and prize presentation. All the children who attended went home with a stack of fishing gear including four with a rod and reel combo. Our thanks go to Chris from RADCA, Instructors and minders Garry Luff, Dan Dale and Greg Hourihan for taking the time to teach these children.

A huge thank you to Dan Dale who donated four rod and reel combos plus all the tackle, very much appreciated. However, considering the time, effort and cost required to organize such free activities for the children it was a disappointing turn out yet we still hear parents bemoan the lack of activities in the district during the school holidays Dickie’s Fishing News. We have had some excellent short spells of weather allowing boaties the pleasure of getting onto the water. A few reports of average size Barra. being landed at Taylors Beach and Crystal and Cattle Creeks but none yet from Rollingstone Creek. However, catches of Mangrove Jack, Grunter and a few Flat Head have been landed. The inner shoals are producing some good Grunter and Finger Mark plus the odd Doggie Mackeral using Pilchards ,Squid or Mullet. Paluma shoals are still producing some good Spanish Mackerel and Queenfish. Acheron Island and a few other secret spots have produced reasonable catches of Nannygai and Sweetlip so if you are in the area and see an “X” floating on the water, that is one of the secret spots. Other spots are, Havanah, Esk and Dido rocks – Spanish Mackerel, Giant Travelli, Coral Trout, Sweetlip and Blue Tusker. Havanah and Fly islands – Painted Crays. Mud Crabs and Blue Swimmers are scarce due to the lack of rain. Please be aware that there are some large logs floating around at the moment and if we get some rain there will be a lot more so please keep vigilant and try not to motor around at dawn or after last light. Don’t forget to put in your trip sheet to the Coast Guard or at the very least tell someone where you are going.

So ends my last, or second or third last article. If I write one for next month it shall be done from afar, after a long recovery period following Di’s surgery, we are throwing a couple of tins of beans into the motor home and heading to all points south, to marvel in awe at the beautiful countryside as we meander slowly along the highways and byways. Of course, in doing so, we will also be pissing off the truckies but most of them, well, some, a few, one or two perhaps eventually get over it.

Until next month, (maybe?) stay safe, Ninger

P 24

Consider hiring the BUS to travel to special events such as:  Football  V8 Supercars  Local Inter area sporting comps  Northern Beaches festival events  Christmas parties

P 25

P 26

Natures Notes - Roy Mackay For someone like me whose life has followed the wonders of nature, every day is interesting, sometimes full of joy, sometimes alarming.

So, before and through the Xmas period I spent time with my family in and around the Armidale region in NSW. My son David is doing a PhD research project on one of our native fig species and the minute wasps which breed inside the fig's fruits and the birds that feed on the figs. The minute figs can number over one hundred in one fig fruit of about 1 cm diameter. These figs occur from the lowlands and up the mountain slopes of southern NSW to Cape York. By studying animals and plants, scientists find chemicals that help mankind to survive many illnesses - one: anti-venom serum to cure snakebite. We need more scientists. My elder grand-daughter in Armidale has just finished High School and has been accepted by Melbourne University to do a Science Degree course. Yes, it makes me proud. For a Xmas present she gave me a notebook which she had made herself. This notebook I now use for recording the wildlife I see on my weekly shopping trips to and from Townsville and which I can tell you about in this column.

A couple of weeks ago I stopped the car just in time not to run over a small snake. I found it to be a foot long Death Adder. This is the first Death Adder I have seen on the Range Road for about 15 years and since the over-regular burning of the woodland forests up this road. Since then I found a young Amethyst Python only about 1.5 m long and as thin as a rake in the area which had recently been burnt. Other wildlife on the Range Road worth recording included many Noisy Pittas, many Emerald Doves and a 1 m long Carpet Python. Colwyn Campbell in Paluma was alerted by her dog to something in her backyard which turned out to be a medium sized Amethystine Python.

I wonder how the two snake-hunters got on in their hunting through Paluma recently? Over the Bruce Highway from Rollingstone to the Toomulla turnoff I have noted White Cockatoos, Black Kites, Currawongs and Crows and, of course, I have noted the Fairy Martins under the Ollera Creek Bridge. On the down side I have noted many, many Marine Toads along the roads at night indicating we might get some rain.

Roy Mackay. .

Paluma In the Clouds..Les Hyland Forthcoming Functions May we mention that our St Patrick’s Night in 2015 will be at 18.30 on 21st March following the good Saint’s Day by 5 days. It is a “Bring a plate to share” and anything Irish will be appreciated. Irish Jokes are also welcome !!

PDCA AGM Advance notice that the Annual General Meeting of the Paluma & District Community Association will be held in the Community Centre on Easter Saturday April 4th. Come and hear what is happening and bring any ideas for future activities to be shared. Non-members are welcome but only financial members have a vote.

Markets The next markets will be on Easter Sunday April 5th in the Community Centre from 09.00 hrs to 13.00 hrs.

As always new stall-holders would be welcome and if you want very inexpensive exposure contact Lynn on 47737675 (leave a message) or 47708681 (best in the evenings). There will be the usual sausage sizzle from about 09.30 hrs until sold out. Please let your friends know the market are on and spend a, hopefully, cool day on the mountain.

Weather The year 2014 was extremely dry.

Although according to our records out on the 5 acre blocks there have been 7 years with lower totals. The driest ever was 1992 with only 1001 mm but what makes 2014 unusual is the only month with a decent total was February (788.5mm) March and April were 202 and 296 mm respectively and every other month had quite low figures, especially September to November. So those of us outside the reticulation zone are delighted with the 77.0mm on December 3 and the quite heavy falls of January 2015 even if they were of short duration.

Mt Spec SES Group Training sessions continued in January with a detailed basic video presentation attended by eleven members and potential members. James Jackson is in communication with Townsville SES and hopes to have a training session run by them in March.

This will also clarify the numerical strength of our unit and enable us to canvass for new members. If anyone wants to know more about the unit do contact James (47708611) Playground Upgrade The upgrade and revamp of the Playground is on hold whilst the TCC engineers investigate and report on the issues relating to the nearby septic overflow trench. The playground is temporarily closed to the public

PLAYGROUP

Craft on a budget

Welcome back to Term1, 2015. I hope you all have enjoyed your holidays and had a fantastic Christmas and New Year. This term I thought we would have a look at really cheap or free craft using some things we may have around the house or that we can purchase from our local $2 store.

We will also be heading back to school on the 1 st and 3rd Tuesday of every month at Bluewater State School and the 2 nd Thursday at Rollingstone State Schools. Bunnings North Community Involvement team have jumped on board again this year and we will be crafting with them in store and at our centres. We also have Launch Zone included again and to make it easier for everyone to remember I have made this the last Wednesday of every month. We will also be heading on an Excursion this term so put your thinking caps on and come up with something fun for the groups to do. So check your programs and our Facebook page to keep up to date with all the exciting things that we will be doing this term.

We are always open to suggestions, so if you have any ideas come and see myself or drop your ideas in the suggestion box in the main reception area.

Memberships for 2015 are due now, Please fill in a new membership form and media consent form and return it to me A.S.A.P. Membership is still $ 20 a year and only $3 a session for a family.

Let’s go have some fun…….Till Next time keep playing …...Nicole P 27

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COMMUNITY DIRECTORY Rollingstone & District Community Assoc Inc. Lot 1 Community Cres, Mystic Sands 4816 Committee: President: Sue Von Wald 0407753562 Treasurer: Lynne Prytherch 47707 689 All Correspondence to: The Secretary, P.O. Box 35 Rollingstone Qld 4816 Community Centre Manager Chris Martin RTC Monday - Friday 47707 855 8am - 4pm Fax: 47707 811 e-mail: rollingstonertc@bigpond.com

Ambulance C/o Northern Beaches Station

4778 6033

Balgal Beach Boating & Leisure Club Inc. President Faye Thomson 4770 7616 Secretary Kerrie Cochrane 4770 7034 NORTH TOWNSVILLE COMMUNITY HUB

4751 6511

Fisherman’s Landing Fishing & Social Club Inc. President Garry Luff 47707008 Secretary Neil Thompson 0427240472 Playgroup North Townsville Community Hub

47516511

Community Hall Phone (M-F 9am-3pm)47707 153 ROLLY RAG e-mail: Contact:

rollingstonerag@bigpond.com Janine Jones 0407882009

Police 47707 144 Office Hours 9.30am - 2.00pm Monday to Thursday (excluding Public Holidays) OIC Brad Gough A/Snr Constable Darren Haggarty Rural Fire Brigade Rollingstone Raymond Pace Hencamp Creek Fire Permit John Pace Toomulla Eddie White

4770 7285

Paluma & District Community Association President Lynn Hyland 4773 7675 Vice President Colwyn Campbell 4770 8559 Secretary Michael Drew 0428 779 302 Email: sherylmoore@bigpond.com Treasurer John Tubman Rollingstone RSL President Ewan Cameron 0417 719 043 Secretary Rhonda Coulson 4770 7058 Rollingstone & District Lions Club President John Muller

4770 7348 4770 7619

47707510 0407114687 Rollingstone & District Seniors Inc. President Rhonda Muller 47707957 Secretary Claire Spittler 47707258

S.E.S. Emergency - Flood or Storm Group Leader Rob Wilson

13 2500 4770 7498

Toomulla Community Association President Rhonda Schwarz

Rollingstone State School Principal Kacey Constantine

47707 313

Rollingstone state school P & C President Brad Gough Secretary Mutarnee State School Principal Lydia Jamieson

4770 8131

Alcoholics Anonymous For More Information

47715 411

Animal Contact Numbers Animal Refuge Animal Ambulance (after hours) RSPCA Inspection Straying Stock National Parks & Wildlife Service N.Q. Wildlife Care Group Bird Rescue Margaret Preston (Vet) Justices Of The Peace Nellie Berra After 4pm Chris Martin

47707813

4774 5130 4774 5130 4774 4714 4773 8411 4721 2399 0414 717 374 4770 7540 0403 262 212 47707 352 B/H 47707 855 P 29

Rollingstone General Store & Post Office POST OFFICE Fax and Colour Photocopier Services Open for business from 7.00am to 6.00pm every day of the week

Pay bills, (Rego, Rates, Phone, Electricity, etc); Bank your Cheques and Withdraw Cash; Post Letters and Parcels on a Sunday!

Phone recharge for all networks 1/N recharge International calling cards

Gas Refills Phone: 4770 7340 Fax: 4770 7470

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Potatoes Onions Tomatoes Lettuce

  

Eggs Bananas Pineapples

Plus Extensive Frozen Vegetables Full Hams 1/2 Hams (Knuckle or Knob) Sliced Ham

Double Smoked—the Old– Fashioned Way!

   

Barbeque Sausages Lean Mince Rump Steak Double Smoked Local Bacon

PHARMACY GOODS S2 Medication for winter colds at cheaper prices than the chemist

NEED HARDWARE? Lots of new stock on display.

Check out our range of DVDs for hire Only $4 overnight or $10 weekly

Going Fishing?

Rosco, Olga, Sara, Tanya and Mieka PHONE: 47707340 FAX: 47707470

We stock tackle, lines and lures for local conditions

Need some Bait?

Prawn, Squid, Pillies, Mullet, Crab Bait and Crab Pots P 30

MARCH 2015 Sunday 1 BBB&L BBQ 5pm

Monday 2 9 am - Cards 9 am - Line dancing

Tuesday 3 9 am Aquarobics Rollingstone Caravan Park

Wednesday 4 9 am Indoor Bowls 9 am Craft Group

7pm - AA Meeting

8 7.30 am St Anthony’s Church

9 9 am - Cards 9 am - Line dancing

10 9am Aquarobics Rollingstone Caravan Park

1.30 pm Country Music Concert (see pg 26)

7pm - AA Meeting

Lions Club 7pm at the Den

15 7.30 am St Anthony’s Church

16 9 am - Cards 9 am - Line dancing

Friday

Saturday

5 8-3pm Community Bus Shopping

6 9 am Aquarobics Rollingstone Caravan Park

9 am Cards

11 am Computer Class

7 Balgal Beach Markets Fisherman’s Landing From 8 am to 1pm

11am - 1pm MOBILE LIBRARY

9.30 am Playgroup at Hall

11 9 am Indoor Bowls

12 8-3pm Community Bus Shopping

9 am Craft Group

9 - 1 OP SHOP

13 9am Aquarobics Rollingstone Caravan Park

14 1.30 BINGO EYES DOWN AT 1.45 Community Hall

20 9am Aquarobics Rollingstone Caravan Park

21 Balgal Beach Markets Fisherman’s Landing From 8 am to 1pm

9am Cards 9.30am Playgroup at Rollingstone PS

17 9am Aquarobics Rollingstone Caravan Park

18 9 am Indoor Bowls

9am Cards

11am - 1pm MOBILE LIBRARY

9.30am Playgroup at Hall

7.30pm SES

22 7.30 am St Anthony’s Church

23 9 am - Cards 9 am - Line dancing

24 9am Aquarobics Rollingstone Caravan Park

SES 8am

7pm - AA Meeting

Lions Club 7pm at the Den

25 9 am Indoor Bowls 9 am Craft Group 7.30pm SES

30 9 am - Cards 9 am - Line dancing 7pm - AA Meeting

31 9am Aquarobics Rollingstone Caravan Park

19 8-3pm Community Bus Shopping

9 am Craft Group 7pm - AA Meeting

29 7.30 am St Anthony’s Church

Thursday

1 APRIL 9 am Indoor Bowls

9 - 1 OP SHOP

9-12 Visiting Vet

26 8-3pm Community Bus Shopping 9am Cards 9.30am Playgroup at Hall

2 APRIL 8-3pm Community Bus Shopping

9 am Craft Group

9am Cards

11am - 1pm MOBILE LIBRARY

9.30am Playgroup at Hall

27 9am Aquarobics Rollingstone Caravan Park

28

6pm Fishermans Landing Fishing & Soc BBQ

3 APRIL 9am Aquarobics Rollingstone Caravan Park 11am Computer Class

4 APRIL Balgal Beach Markets Fisherman’s Landing From 8 am to 1pm 9 - 1 OP SHOP

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AUSTRALIA DAY CEREMONY 2015

Young Citizen of the Year - James Baker (away) Event of the Year - The Longest Table hosted by the Rollingstone & District Lions Club and the Rollingstone Local Disaster Management Group

CITIZEN OF THE YEAR DI STEPHAN

GOOD NEIGHBOUR AWARD JOHN & ANNE PRICE

HELPING HANDS AWARD MARGARET CHEESEMAN

YOUNG SPORTSPERSON AWARD JENNA PACE SENIOR CITIZEN AWARD TOM RUDDICK