SM135_Shift Miner Magazine

SHIFT MINER The Queensland mining community’s best source of local news

Locally Owned and Operated - www.shiftminer.com

Monday 23rd April 135th Edition 2012

M A G A Z I N E

Skills shortage

questioned CANDIDATES are still struggling to find jobs in the resources sector despite the hype over the skills shortage.

Hardest hit are cleanskins and lesser experienced junior workers trying to move between jobs, or people who have been out of the industry for sometime and are now trying to re-enter.

This week, one worker with 10 years experience spoke out to Shift Miner Magazine in the hope of getting some clarity surrounding the need for qualified people and if the skills shortage really existed.

She had just been through a particularly clumsy recruitment process for a role she was qualified for but missed out on. “I just want to know where are the skills shortages they are talking about?� she said. “Others will ask the same when they get knocked back for a job.�

The experienced operator spoke out on the condition of anonymity. She has since found another job but is still angered by the bungled and long-winded recruitment process and the behaviour of key recruiting staff.

Of particular frustration was the time and the energy she had to put into the application and interview for the operator role, only to see the selection process stutter because of the company’s inconsistent demands.

Âť continued page 7

PERSONAL INJURY EXPERTS All accidents and personal injury claims: s -OTOR 6EHICLE !CCIDENTS s 7ORKERS )NJURY #LAIMS s 0UBLIC ,IABILITY #LAIMS s -INING !CCIDENT #LAIMS s 4OTAL AND 0ERMANENT $ISABILITY )NSURANCE #LAIMS s "OATING AND (OLIDAY !CCIDENT #LAIMS $ARREN 3EKAC IS AVAILABLE FOR CONSULTATIONS AT THE 7HITSUNDAY AND 0ROSERPINE OFlCES ON 4HURSDAY BY APPOINTMENT ONLY

Darren Sekac*

*Personal Injuries Law Accredited Specialist (MACKAY)

Call 4944 2000

www.macamiet.com.au

MACKAY

TRIVIA FUN

Do you have CQ’s inbgesoutrtacomt?p Win $500 of ink by join

News Norwich Park fallout Âť page 4 News Gas commissioner announced Âť page 5 News Komatsu goes big in Brisbane Âť page 8 Around Town Big questions answered Âť page 16

Thinkings caps on in Moranbah. Âť Â Â More pictures page 16

Off Shift Time for a weekend away Âť page 23

7 CONTENTS

NEWS 4 Mine shuts but jobs safe

8

7 What skills shortage?

12

10 6

5 New gas commission

10 Better coal and less dust

Numbers You Numbers Numbers Regulars Can CountYou On** You *

Can CountCan OnCount On 18 Stuff to the Editor

*When audited by the CAB Numbers You

Can Count On

* by the CAB *When audited by the *When CAB audited *When audited by the CAB

M A G A Z I N E

www.shiftminer.com M AE G A www.shiftminer.com I N E M AMGA AG ZA I Z N I N E Z www.shiftminer.com

Queensland mining community's best source of local news

SHIFT MINER

Proudly Audited by

Proudly Audited by

Proudly Audited Proudly Audited by by

Locally Owned and Operated

19 Frank the Tank 20 Miner's Trader 22 Weather & Tides 26 Money Matters

www.shiftminer.com

Phone: (07) 4921 4333 Fax: (07) 4922 6908 angus.peacocke@shiftminer.com Editor: Alex Graham Advertising: Angus Peacocke 0428 154 653

www.shiftminer.com

M A G A Z I NForEmore information visit www.auditbureau.org.au For more information visit www.auditbureau.org.au

Published fortnightly by Fitzroy Publishing Pty Ltd A.B.N 72122739879 PO Box 1440, Rockhampton Q 4700

For more information visit www.auditbureau.org.au

For more information visit www.auditbureau.org.au

YOUR UNION YOUR L AWYER s 7ORK#OVER CLAIMS s 7ORK RELATED INJURIES s 2OAD ACCIDENT INJURIES s 3UPERANNUATION 40$ CLAIMS s &AMILY LAW s %STATE LAW s #ONVEYANCING

CONTACT

Cameron McCracken Phillip Robinson

T

07 4922 0277

E

general@hallpayne.com.au www.hallpayne.com.au

W Address Suite 2, Trade Union Office,

110 Campbell Street, Rockhampton.

Page 3 - Shift Miner Magazine, 23rd April 2012

135th EDITION. 2012

News

Mine shuts down, but mass jobs safe MORE Queensland coal mines could shut their doors in the middle of a mining boom - but there won’t be widespread job losses.

That’s the prediction of Mine Life resource analyst Gavin Wendt.

The BHP Billiton Mitsubishi Alliance (BMA) has announced it will shut down its Norwich Park mine near Dysart from May 11.

The company says the mine has been running at a loss for months, and has blamed wet weather, lower coal prices, higher costs and ongoing industrial action for its decision to shut it down.

Mr Wendt said Norwich Park could be the first of several mines to close in the Bowen Basin.

“It won’t just be BHP that is putting its most marginal operations under the microscope,” he said.

“What this emphasises is that despite the boom, not every mine is doing extraordinarily well.

“While the coal sector, as a whole, is performing because demand has remained strong we have seen declining prices.”

The price for coking coal now sits between $US150 to $180 tonne, well down on its 2008 high of $US300 a tonne.

Job gone today, a new one tomorrow FOR mine workers themselves, the Norwich Park closure has not triggered the widespread panic that was seen when companies started laying off contractors during the Global Financial Crisis back in 2008.

There are 1500 employees at Norwich Park mine - 490 permanents and close to 900 contractors.

BMA says it has significant vacancies at its other operations, and will redeploy its permanent workers to other mines where possible.

Currently, 90 permanent workers drivein drive-out (DIDO) to the mine and the other 400 live in Dysart.

BMA says it will work to place former Norwich Park employees at the nearby While these prices are still considered historically high, it has changed the game for some mine operations - particularly older ones.

“The deeper you have to mine, the more expensive it gets,” Mr Wendt said.

“That means costs are rising, and com-

Saraji mine, so those employees and their families can keep living in Dysart.

However, a spokeswoman said it would not be possible in all cases.

Shift Miner Magazine also understands most of the 900 contractors have also been moved to other mine sites in the region.

MineLife resource analyst Gavin Wendt said even if other marginal mines did close, there would be limited fall out for workers.

“You won’t see widespread panic, because workers will be able to find a new job the next day,” he said.

“I don’t think anyone is really going to be that affected, other than you might have to drive a bit further for your next job.” panies are still paying record high wages on top of that, and transport costs.

“It means that despite the boom, indi-

The Mackay-based industry group MAIN agrees the closure has not caused widespread concern locally.

“Certainly I don’t think there will be any industry wide implications, although there may be some individual businesses affected,” said MAIN director Narelle Pearse.

Ms Pearse said there was $92 billion worth of projects under consideration in the region, and $32 billion of that was new or expanding mines.

“That’s a doubling of the Bowen Basin and a massive amount of investment and demand for skilled labour.

“The closure of one unprofitable mine does not mean the end of mining in the region.” vidual mining operations can be doing it tough depending on where they sit on the cost curve.”

“Despite the boom, not every mine is doing extraordinarily well.”

Norwich Park won’t run on contractors: BMA BMA says it has no plans to reopen Norwich Park mine as a contract operation, and nor has it knowingly advertised for any new positions at the mothballed site.

IN a rare and lengthy statement to the media, BMA has come out with guns blazing over union claims the company wants to use contract labour to run the mine.

CFMEU district president Stephen Smyth last week told the media the company wants to de-unionise the workforce.

“At the end of the day they don’t want a permanent workforce at Norwich Park, they want to de-unionise the coal

industry,” he told the ABC. “It is very apparent now that they want to run the mine with contractors to introduce whatever shift length they see fit and have people living in single person’s accommodation.”

But BMA says contrary to those claims, the company has no plans to reopen the mine as a contract operation.

It also says it has not knowingly advertised for positions at the mine since its announcement on April 11 that production would stop next month.

The company says the union claims are part of a “continuing and increasing pattern

Page 4 - Shift Miner Magazine, 23rd April 2012

of misinformation about the sequence of events” surrounding the mine’s closure.

BMA says its workforce and the unions were given notice that the mine was having financial difficulties months before the final decision to shut it down.

“In early February, BMA briefed all employees at Norwich Park mine about the difficult continuing financial position face by the mine. Details of the losses incurred were provided,” the statement reads.

It says union officials, including Mr Smyth and Norwich Park CFMEU lodge president Brad Compton were involved in

discussions at this time. The unions were also asked to exempt the mine from ongoing industrial action that was happening across BMA’s Bowen Basin operations.

Over the next two months, the company says the unions were aware of BMA’s strategic review of the mine, and regular updates between the company and its workforce.

After the announcement to shut the mine on April 11, Mr Smyth suggested in media interviews the decision was a complete surprise to him.

“This is completely at odds with the facts,” said the statement.

135th EDITION. 2012

News

Peaceful at Peabody while BHP blues NORTH Goonyella miners have quietly signed a new workplace agreement with their employer American giant Peabody Energy.

It’s in stark contrast to the bitter 15 month dispute that has been raging between the BHP Billiton Mitsubishi Alliance (BMA) and its workers in the Bowen Basin.

Last week, more than 80 per cent of the North Goonyella mine’s 330-strong workforce voted in favour of a new three-year agreement, and the unions have praised the process.

“BHP should take a leaf out of Peabody’s book and see how negotiations should be carried out,” said CFMEU district president Steve Smyth.

“We are happy with it [the agreement]... the members voted overwhelmingly to accept it.”

Peabody’s Australian president Eric Ford

said the 80 per cent vote was a clear sign of support from its workers.

“We believe the new agreement will provide benefits for both Peabody and our employees as together we build a sustainable future for North Goonyella,” he said.

North Goonyella mine employs about 330 workers and produces 2.5 million tons of coking coal each year.

By 2014, Peabody plans to increase capacity at the mine by installing longwall top coal caving technology.

The company took over the former Queensland miner Macarthur Coal last year, making it the second largest metallur-

gical coal producer in Australia.

“If Peabody are making negotiations run this smoothly in a short period of time, you would think that it would flow on to their negotiations with other mines,” said Mr Smyth.

The company runs eight mines in Queensland and New South Wales, and expects to boost production to as high as 50 million tonnes a year by 2015.

Meanwhile, BMA workers will vote on a new workplace agreement later this month.

The poll will be carried out as a postal ballot, and the agreement isn’t recommended by the unions.

“We are happy with it [the agreement]... the members voted overwhelmingly to accept it.”

New commission to reduce CSG angst A Gasfields Commission has been established to reduce tension and misunderstanding surrounding CSG between landholders, industry and the community.

Deputy Premier Jeff Seeney announced on Thursday the Toowoomba-based Commission would work with the Government to ensure the CSG industry struck the right balance to meet the interests of stakeholders.

“The Queensland Government fully supports the CSG industry, but it must live up to the world’s best practice and work with the community, landholders and the Government to achieve the best outcomes for

the state,” Mr Seeney said.

“The Gasfields Commission will be established to restore confidence in the CSG industry and meet the needs of the communities involved with and affected by CSG growth in Queensland.”

Former AgForce chairman John Cotter will chair the commission which will have six fellow commissioners to represent the community.

Mr Seeney said the commission would not be driven by a political agenda or create more bureaucracy.

“The commission will be about achieving

outcomes for communities, the CSG industry and for Queensland, and driving the agriculture and resources sectors to build the four pillar economy,” he said.

QGC Managing Director Derek Fisher said QGC looked forward to working constructively with Mr Cotter and the six new commissioners who were yet to be announced.

“We are delighted that Mr Cotter will continue his valuable work to foster co-existence between the gas sector and agricultural communities through the Surat Basin Coal Seam Gas Engagement Group,” Mr Fisher said.

FAST NEWS Exec donga for Mr Branson?

FIFO may be the last frontier for Richard Branson.

Virgin Australia has put up $8 million for a 10 per cent slice of airline Skywest which operates at home and overseas and has significant mining clients, particularly in Western Australia.

The latest move signals increased competition for FIFO services and existing commercial services to mining centres.

Last year Virgin started flying from Port Macquarie to Gladstone and Emerald.

FIFO seems the only market left for Virgin as it has already made moves to go into space with its dedicated commercial space airline and more than 500 “astronauts” in training. .....................................................................

Loader becomes floater A dozer driver had a lucky escape last week when his rig sunk into coal at the RG Tanna Coal Terminal in Gladstone.

The driver was working at about 1am last Tuesday pushing coal around onto stockpiles when it sunk backwards and ended up partially down a feeder hole.

The holes funnel coal underground and onto conveyor belts to be taken to the wharf.

Nobody was injured in the incident. .....................................................................

Activists fined over graffiti protest Three activists that painted graffiti on a coal carrier in the Gladstone harbour last month have been fined.

The Greenpeace protesters were last week fined $750 each in the Gladstone Magistrate’s Court but escaped conviction.

The trio was charged with wilful damage and possessing graffiti instruments after painting reef in danger in large white letters on the carrier on March 7. .....................................................................

Royalties rise?

Coal royalties could rise if the mining tax doesn’t deliver enough cash to Queensland.

The Premier Campbell Newman said his government had not put the red pen through the possibility of raising royalties.

He told reporters the government would adopt a “wait and see” approach to judge if the federal mining tax raised expected revenues for Queensland.

Last year Western Australia and New South Wales increased mining royalties.

Page 5 - Shift Miner Magazine, 23rd April 2012

135th EDITION. 2012

News

Anti-collision technology cheap and effective THE use of proximity detection devices to protect Queensland mine workers both above and underground should soon be universally adopted.

The technology is used to avoid on-site collisions between mining vehicles and machinery and workers.

Speaking at the recent third annual Collision Avoidance in Mining 2012 conference in Fremantle, the Queensland Commissioner for Mine Safety and Health Stewart Bell said he expected the state’s mines to voluntarily adopt available collision avoidance and proximity detection technology.

However, he warned the regulators were prepared to make its use mandatory across all surface and underground mines.

“The use of large vehicles and automated heavy machinery at mine sites is increasing and the risk to human operators is significant,” Mr Bell said.

“We are committed to the goal that every mine worker goes home safe and healthy at the end of every shift.

“At the moment, there are too many vehicle-related incidents and accidents on mine sites.

“There is a serious need for sophisticated collision avoidance technologies to be used in all mining operations to improve safety and reduce the potential risks to workers.”

The move comes five years after 33-yearold Queensland miner Jason Blee was crushed to death underground.

The young father was killed when he was pinned to the wall by a shuttle car at Moranbah North underground mine in April 2007.

A coronial inquiry into his death recommended proximity detection devices be developed for use in underground coal mines.

Mr Bell said a system was now available.

“This system uses magnetic-based technology that will prevent personnel being crushed by vehicles in underground coal mines. There is a sensor on each worker’s helmet and each

Brisbane Dalby Gladstone Moranbah Mackay Townsville Cairns

Page 6 - Shift Miner Magazine, 23rd April 2012

Harbour case delayed THE multimillion dollar compensation claim by Gladstone commercial fishermen and businesses against the State Government and Gladstone Ports Corporation has been adjourned.

The matter was set for hearing in the Planning and Environment Court in Rockhampton on March 22 but will now start later this year.

The claim seeks damages over fish deaths in the harbour and closure of fishing areas and accuses industry and development for being to blame.

Anglers are being represented by Shine Lawyers.

Meanwhile, new State Environment minister visited Gladstone this week to see first hand the issues around the harbour and ongoing development.

Minister Andrew Powell was accompanied by new director general of the Department of Environment and Heritage Protection Andrew Chesterman.

For All Your Rental Equipment Needs

1800 45 71 45

piece of machinery has three levels of magnetic detection fields around it.

“If a worker enters the innermost magnetic field, the machinery automatically shuts off and cannot be moved until the worker moves away from the vehicle.”

Mr Bell said collision avoidance technology had been available in Queensland surface and underground metaliferous mines for some time but had only been certified for use in underground coal mines late last year.

“To date, we have had good uptake from industry and most mining operations are either using or trialling this type of technology.

“We want all mines to voluntarily adopt this important technology because it can save lives as well as provide significant economic benefits for industry.

“However, if this is not the case I will ensure the technology is adopted by the industry by mandating the use of proximity detection.”

Proximity detection devices were a small price to pay to offer greater protection for mine workers and help reduce accidents and time lost through injuries, Mr Bell said.

Basic collision avoidance technology can be installed in a vehicle for under $5000.

“That´s a small price when you consider that mining companies outlay millions of dollars for vehicles and machinery on mine sites,” he said.

skyreach.com.au

“The claim seeks damages over fish deaths in the harbour and closure of fishing areas and accuses industry and development for being to blame.”

135th EDITION. 2012

News FROM PAGE 1

Candidate conundrum in mining boom They also wanted her to work for a lower rate of pay than what she felt qualified for and found the company could not give her specifics about why she was unsuccessful when the process fell over.

“I do everything right in the workplace and I’m good at my job and I’m not normally fired up like this but I’ve had a gutful,” she said.

Recruitment expert and managing director of The Resources Channel, Jody Elliott, said there are many variables in any one application, and while she couldn’t speak specifically about one selection process she could give general advice.

In her view most recruiters in the industry are overworked and under pressure to find the right people.

They are also forced to stick to company and government protocols when giving feedback and dealing with candidates.

Candidates have to be patient, target the right job and company and follow the process to the letter, she told Shift Miner Magazine.

That will improve their chances of being shortlisted.

“Candidates need to be specific with their skills and experience in their applications and match those to the jobs they are apply-

ing for,” she said.

“It is also not uncommon for the selection process to take months. There are many factors that have to be taken into consideration including how many have applied for the role and who is recruiting for the role.

“It’s so tight at the moment that companies are also reluctant to reject candidates straight up in case they might need them in the future.”

Ms Elliott also said that, on the whole, most recruiters are overworked and handling up to 30 roles each. At the same time, the resources sector continues to expand rapidly meaning more and more roles need to be filled by the existing recruitment staff and agencies.

That can lead to the frustrations being experienced like those highlighted by the female operator who contacted Shift Miner Magazine - and many others trying to change jobs without success or break into the industry.

The anonymous worker says her fear is that the pick of Australian talent will be used for the most skilled and high paying jobs and overseas workers will be used for the less experienced roles and paid at a lower rate.

She said projects using overseas staff should have hiring quotas for local to overseas workers.

Jody Elliott

“Candidates need to be specific with their skills and experience in their applications and match those to the jobs they are applying for.”

heights

Page 7 - Shift Miner Magazine, 23rd April 2012

135th EDITION. 2012

News

FIFO workers to call Clermont home RIO Tinto has committed to a three-year lease on 180 houses in Clermont, south-west of Mackay, allowing developers to start construction.

The leased homes will be offered to current fly-in-fly-out (FIFO) workers from the company’s Clermont mine, so they can join the local community with their families.

The remaining homes are being sold by the developers providing extra accommodation to the Clermont community.

The first residents will be able to move in by year’s end.

Isaac Regional Council Mayor Cr Cedric Marshall recently inspected the site and said that Rio Tinto’s initiative is an important step towards providing more housing in Clermont.

“Isaac Regional Council is pleased to continue its partnership with Rio Tinto through this initiative to address an important issue for our local community,” Cr Marshall said.

“These 108 houses will provide valuable housing capacity for the Clermont community and we look forward to working with Rio Tinto on future initiatives that continue to make Clermont a great place to live.”

The homes are part of the Clermont Preferred Futures programme - a partnership between Rio Tinto, Isaac Regional Council and community members.

BUILDING FUTURES: Clermont mine’s Ryan Harnden and Isaac Regional mayor Cedric Marshall at the site

The programme was recognised at the 2011 Australian National Awards for Economic Development Excellence, winning the Highly Commended award for the Community Economic Development category.

Acting General Manager Operations Clermont Region for Rio Ryan Harnden says employees are encouraged to live in the local community, through a rent, buy or build policy.

“At present, half of Rio Tinto’s workforce lives in Clermont and we have a waiting list of over 60 of employees who want to become part of this community,” he said.

“We have been working with local people and Isaac Regional Council on ways to provide more housing, not just for our employees but for the community as a whole.

“Over 50 per cent of our Clermont Region Mine’s employees live in Clermont and we are committed to increasing the number of employees who choose to make Clermont their home.

“Although it is expected that fly-in-flyout employees will always be a part of Clermont Region operations, we have and will continue to advertise for residential only

Komatsu goes big in Brisbane KOMATSU Australia has opened its new $55 million Brisbane headquarters.

Managing director of Komatsu Australia, Sean Taylor, said the Wacol facility, southwest of the CBD, was the company’s single biggest investment in Australia to date.

He described the building of the site as a significant milestone for the company.

“We have a very positive outlook for the local resource and construction markets, and have made the development of Wacol as a customer service facility a key infrastructure priority for Komatsu,” he said.

“Komatsu made the decision to invest in

this Queensland site, enhancing our capability to meet the growing needs of customers in the Australian marketplace.”

The facility houses the sales, service, assembly and remanufacturing of mining and construction equipment departments for Queensland customers.

More than 400 workers were employed during the 15-month construction of the site which is now office space for 150 permanent staff.

Komatsu says the Wacol site has 40 per cent more capacity and will assemble up to 70 mining dump trucks annually, with the facility strategically located and built to bet-

Page 8 - Shift Miner Magazine, 23rd April 2012

ter service customers in the rapidly expanding Queensland resource sector.

Mr Taylor said the Wacol site would play an integral role in the employment of up to 100 new trades-based apprentices by Komatsu over the next 12 months.

He added that the entire 61,000 square metre site, that has six main buildings, had been designed with a number of advanced, environmentally friendly features.

Three large central buildings house office, mining and construction machine assembly, service workshop and remanufacturing functions, with a fully enclosed wash

positions wherever possible.

“Obviously this depends on the availability of housing, but we are committed to helping address the issue and making extra efforts to enable employees to live locally in the community.”

“This initiative with independent developers has allowed our employees to become part of the community while providing new homes for local residents.

“It’s a win win situation.”

Clermont Mine Operator Sean Braxton, who has two young boys under the age of three, said that more housing availability will mean he and his family can reside in Clermont, instead of being limited to fly-infly-out work.

“Being able to live in Clermont will make a big difference for me and my family,” Mr Braxton said.

“Not only will I get to spend more time with my family, but it gives us a chance to become part of the local community.

“The thought of bringing my two boys up in Clermont appeals to me as there’s a great sense of community and it’s a way of life that allows children to enjoy the outdoors.”

Queensland Treasurer Tim Nicholls and Managing Director of Komatsu Australia Limited Sean Taylor at the opening of Komatsu’s new facility in Wacol.

bay building, boiler-maker and track press shop, and an extensive paint-shop building.

The paint-shop can accommodate two Komatsu 930E mining dump trucks, and is considered the largest spray booth of its type in the southern hemisphere.

135th EDITION. 2012

News

$150M in CSG benefits MORE than $150 million will be poured into Gladstone and smaller Surat Basin communities, in what’s considered to be the most substantial private social investment program in Queensland’s resources industry.

Queensland Curtis LNG (QCLNG) will pump the money into housing, jobs, training, health and community services.

The $150 million package has now been approved by the state government, and is Queensland’s first Social Impact Management Plan (SIMP).

The Deputy Premier Jeff Seeney was in Gladstone to make the announcement last week.

“As part of project approval requirements, the Coordinator-General requires QCLNG to manage the impacts of the facility and also ensure local communities have a chance to share in project benefits,” Mr Seeney said.

“This is a comprehensive road map of commitments that covers the entire life cycle of the facility – with local residents and businesses emerging as clear winners.”

Mr Seeney said highlights of the plan included $3 million towards the upgrade of Gladstone Hospital, a $2 million rural health initiative for the Western Downs, $14.1 million for affordable housing, $56 million for worker housing across the Gladstone and Surat regions, an $8 million community development fund and support for local employment and training.

QCLNG senior vice president Sandy Nairn said the plan was proof of the company’s commitment to the region.

“We are very proud of this substantial investment and the work that we’re undertaking in Queensland communities, in conjunction with local organisations, as part of this plan,” he said.

The company’s SIMP is the first of three plans under consideration for the LNG industry - with Gladstone LNG (GLNG) and Australia Pacific LNG (APLNG) still working with the government to finalise their documents.

“This is a comprehensive road map of commitments that covers the entire life cycle of the facility – with local residents and businesses emerging as clear winners.”

Free pass to great shows MINING company BHP Billiton Mitsui Coal (BMC) is helping central Queensland’s regional schools get to the theatre without breaking the budget.

One of the biggest barriers to schools in towns like Clermont, Moranbah and Dysart in getting into the Mackay Entertainment Convention Centre is the cost of transport.

Now, BMC has a grant program for schools who travel either by bus or train - that covers the transport and show ticket costs.

All secondary schools within the Mackay, Isaac and Whitsunday regions are eligible to apply for a grant.

Schools need to reserve seats at performances or workshops and then apply for the transport and ticket costs to be covered by the grant.

Applications can be downloaded at www.mackayecc.com.au Some upcoming performances that are targeted for funding through the program are: • Saturday 26 May - Big Hart’s Namatjira • Tuesday 3 July - Queensland Ballet’s Cloudland • Thursday 5 July - Taikoz drumming workshops • Thursday 2 August - Bell Shakespeare - School for Wives

Clever investors are already securing their piece of Moko

INVEST NOW- SETTLE 2016 MOKO NT TME INVES

T TMEN I N V E ST I E S F R O M ER P O R P

00 $295,0

These luxury apartments are located on Queensland’s Sunshine Coast, located just minutes from the largest medical precinct project in the Southern Hemisphere, with a $2.785b investment commitment in building government and private infrastructure over the next four years. That means this region is growing fast! With the creation of 19,000 jobs in the immediate area by

SELLING

FA S T

20% SOL D

IN JUST FO

UR WEE

KS

completion in 2016, you know Moko will be in high demand from renters, and buyers too if you decide to sell.

• Secure mixed use residential and retail development • One, two and three bedroom apartments and townhouses • Investor friendly body corp fees, attractive yields • Waterfront location, resort style pool and gym • Close to parks, beach and public transport • Moko really is the address that has it all

E X P E R I E N C E

M O K O

I N V E S T M E N T

Be the first to secure this prime address at the best possible price. Call Ray White Apartment Sales on 07 5477 7287 | Call Brendan Robins for retail and commercial on 0402 159 588 or visit www.mokoliving.com.au for more information.

Page 9 - Shift Miner Magazine, 23rd April 2012

135th EDITION. 2012

News

Less dust, and better quality coal A NEW product, designed in Queensland, which suppresses coal dust and maintains coal quality during transport is being snatched up by coal companies.

The Gold Coast-based Reynolds Soil Technologies (RST) has just launched its Total Coal Control (TCC) technology, and the

company’s technical and operations director David Handel says the response from industry has been close to overwhelming.

“We expect this will gain widespread use in the industry,” said Mr Handel.

RST specialises in research into fine particles, and its TCC technology works by

spraying a coating on coal at about 80 grams per tonne. This reduces the impact of water and movement on the coal.

Mr Handel said not only does it suppress dust, but it also means the quality of coal deteriorates less from pit to port.

“Our aim was to develop a product that not only did its job in terms of dust suppression, better control and less escapement, but also treated the coal within containment to ensure the best possible product is delivered at the end of the line,” Mr Handel said.

Dusty coal trains are a common site in Queensland.

“We have estimated Queensland pumps out around two million rail wagons of coal a year with 80 tonne of coal per wagon,” said Mr Handel.

“However, the quality of coal is often ruined during the material handling process.

“By using TCC we are able to stop degradation occurring, which in turn gives coal buyers a delivered product that has a higher calorific value than non-treated coal.

“This is very important as the calorific value measures the energy produced by the coal, a higher value will therefore maximize the coal’s worth.”

The company estimates that coal can be worth three per cent more upon delivery than coal not using the system as it hasn’t deteriorated. Reduction in coal quality also means less coal is needed for fuel by the client and this has benefits for the environment.

The company says the coating has the ability to protect coal from moisture and oxidation, prevent self-combustion within stockpiles and control coal dust, rain erosion, slumping and material loss.

“As a dust suppressant it improves visibility, safety and saves large quantities of water,” he said.

“Benefits to coal stockpiles also include improvements to the control of self-combustion, minimisation of water penetration, reduced hang up and carry back during conveying and transport, and the improvement of fines recovery at the coal washeries.”

“Our aim was to develop a product that not only did its job in terms of dust suppression... but also ensured the best possible product is delivered at the end of the line.”

NEW HEIGHTS The Return to work Conference, Expo & Awards 2012

Nominations are now open for the Return to work Awards 2012!

The Awards celebrate the achievements of injured workers who get back to work, and the people and organisations that help them get there.

With categories celebrating the achievements of rehabilitation and return to work coordinators, case managers, employers, health providers and injured workers, who do you know that is raising the bar in rehab and return to work?

You can showcase your own or othersí contributions to the rehabilitation and return to work of injured workers, by nominating at qcompconference.com.au, or calling 1300 389 177.

Nominations close 8 June 2012.

Page 10 - Shift Miner Magazine, 23rd April 2012

Awards sponsors

135th EDITION. 2012

News

Farmers frustrated at time, money wasted

CENTRAL Queensland graziers involved in ongoing consultation over proposed coal rail lines through their properties are becoming increasingly frustrated with the time lost and money drain to their business.

There are currently six proposed rail lines through central Queensland region, that would open up the Galilee Basin and allow coal to be moved to the Abbot Point coal terminal, near Bowen.

If they all go ahead, the lines would impact on more than 100 individual properties.

Grazier Danny Moran, who runs hereford-red poll-brahman cross cattle on his 26,500 hectare Double-D property south of Clermont, estimates the ongoing consultation process is costing his farm up to $100,000 a year.

This is due to lost time studying reports and information on the proposed rail lines that would cut his property into four. “It takes days to go through all the information we get sent,� he told the WINO. “Hours and hours and hours going through all this bullshit. If we were compensated for lost time they wouldn’t put all this bullshit in for us to go through.�

One example of his frustration has been

sections of reports using dairy industry figures to highlight the impact of rail lines on cattle. He says dairy data and behaviour is irrelevant to large scale beef producers.

Mr Moran said he is currently compensated per hour for face-to-face time by Hancock Coal, which is exploring a rail line across 18 kilometres of his farm, while QR National is also eyeing another part of the property for its rail corridor.

Landholders feel like they are in a state of limbo until a decision is made on what rail lines would proceed, he said.

They do hold hope that commonsense will prevail and only one rail corridor will be built, he added. “You find your own work is lacking when you have to put so much time into this stuff,� he said. “It has taken a lot to get our cattle to the quality they are and it doesn’t take much to knock that quality off.�

He is also concerned at safety issues surrounding movement of cattle across the rail line when cattle are grazed in mobs of 300 or so and it could take some time to get them safely across the rail in between the estimated 40 daily coal trains.

“It takes days to go through all the information we get sent.�

Hope for Industrial “One Dead Ear� Deafness The effects of a hearing

( ! ' " # ! $" % " " # ! $ $# # ! & ! " loss in only one ear:

% " " # $ & # ( $ ! "$ # Frequently I come across people who have totally ! # ! "" ! * $"#! "", lost the hearing in one ear and have been told that there is nothing that can ! !" " # # # ( be done with either

# "$hearing or cochlear implants. They are told ! aids # $# )# $ !"# & # to just live with it and learn to adapt. What a # ( ! " ( lot of people don’t realize is that it is extremely ! % $" ( # & " % !( ! # #! # $"#! debilitating to lose the hearing in just the one ear, "" $" $## "# ! ! in a way it is worse than losing hearing in both # ! (" ( # ! ears.

First of all you lose all sense of telling which way a sound comes from. We rely on volume ! % # # $" # ! # differences between our ears to localize, ie a & # ! " sound coming from the left side is louder in the & % ! + left ear than the right so we know to # ! look that % # " # $"$ ! " "" # way. Without the second ear we have no idea which direction sounds comes from because it is

only heard in the one ear. Secondly and probably most importantly it is almost impossible to have & # #! # $"#! "" "# a conversation in a group because you are not # ! # " % " % " % # hearing anything from one side. Furthermore our ! to & ( $ # $" ( $! ! ability be able to focus in on the conversations # & you want to # ! " & # # ! hear on your good side is further $# & # " hampered.

Another " $ " # major problem with having a # ! " dead ear is in the car. If you are the driver and your left ear is dead it is almost impossible to have a conversation with the passenger.

Particularly troublesome and the cause of major tension if going on long journeys. Furthermore telling which direction a siren or a car beeping it’s horn is coming from is very difficult.

Can a hearing aid help?

Although it is true for certain populations you cannot treat a dead ear with hearing aids or implants, there are still devices around to speciďŹ cally assist with these problems. In

particular a hearing device called a wiďŹ CROS device. This works by wearing a discreet hearing aid in each ear and the aid in the dead ear called a transmitter picks up all the sounds from the poor side and transfers by radio signal to the hearing aid in the good ear, the receiver. Because these devices do not block up the ear the hearing ! "$ # " #$! " $ ' "" % in the good ear is still being used and it is then ! $ " $ & ! % supplemented with the hearing aid receiving the " from the dead side. If the devices are information set up correctly it is also possible to get a sense of If you, or someone you know suffers from direction by making the sound coming from the these symptoms phone Clarity Hearing hearing aid different from the normal hearing.

Solutions today for a free no obligation The success of these devices is sometimes consultation. determined by what age you begin to use them.

Because the good ear is receiving twice as much information it can be a little difficult to get used to processing this extra information. The older you get the more difficult it is to retrain the brain to complete new tasks and the outcome of success with these devices is decreased.

Jodie Miles – Clarity Hearing Solutions B.Sp.Path.(Hons).,M.AudSt.,MAudSA(CCP).

Senior Audiologist

Call now for your free no obligation consultation 4957 2000

Shop % " % $ !# ( 6, 25-29 Evans Avenue, North Mackay

Visiting Moranbah, Proserpine, Sarina & Northern Beaches Visiting Moranbah, Proserpine, Sarina & Northern Beaches & Walkerston.

Advanced Hearing Aid and Audiological Specialists e enquiries@clarityhearingsolutions.com.au

w www.clarityhearingsolutions.com.au

Grant Collins Audiologist B.PSYCH(DIST)., M.AUDST., MAUDSA(CCP)

Jodie Miles Audiologist B.SPATH(HONS)., M.AUDST., MAUDSA(CCP)

Page 11 - Shift Miner Magazine, 23rd April 2012

135th EDITION. 2012

News

Blackwater concerns fall on deaf ears A BLACKWATER resident says last week’s community consultation meeting with the council about the future of the town was like a scene from the movie Groundhog Day. The chairman of the Blackwater Community Progress Group, Kev Cracknell, said

the meeting was poorly attended because of the time - 5.30pm - and the community is fed up.

“Concerns raised in previous meetings have fallen on deaf ears,” he said. “The perception is that the council sends in a con-

sultant, they listen, go away to present their findings and then nothing happens.”

The last consultation was three years ago, and Mr Cracknell said last night’s consultant had not been made aware of this previous work.

“People feel that things can’t happen for us, they happen to us.”

“People just want a say in their future and everyday needs, including affordable land, roads, controlling camps, water, community infrastructure, and quality sporting facilities.”

Like other mining communities, the main issue for Blackwater is the lack of residential land, and families being squeezed out of the housing and rental market.

Mr Cracknell said the consultant immediately saw the need for more land to be made available for better parks and land development, but this is the same issue trotted out previously.

“We need to make sure the mining community is catered for, but we also need to cater for our communities and make sure they are not being trampled on,” Mr Cracknell said.

The mining boom is putting the town under pressure and residents are feeling it, he added.

Despite the fact current mining ventures have doubled in size over the past 15 years, and that more and more mines are opening in

the region with expected life of between 20-40 years, not much has changed in Blackwater.

“Since then, Blackwater has had one McDonalds open and now it is having trouble getting staff.

“Businesses are going to the wall and people are leaving in their droves.”

In the meantime, land that went to auction before Christmas was sold to a private developer who is going to build a 500-person camp. This will bring the number of single-person accommodation to 4000.

Mr Cracknell said the community presented a 1200 signature petition to the previous Premier, Anna Bligh, asking for no more camp land to be sold in Blackwater.

“But now it has been sold and we feel the council has failed to back up its community.”

Mr Cracknell said he is aware these are the same issues for other mining towns in the regions, and that Blackwater is lucky that it has two primary schools, a high school and a hospital.

However, these are being run further and further into the ground.

“The Blackwater community has some good opportunities, but they need to be recognised.”

With council elections coming up, Mr Cracknell - who is running for council - said this consultation should have happened earlier.

New broom has swept well: QRC THERE may be some uncertainty in the voices of government workers these days, but the newly formed departments they work for have been given the thumbs up by industry.

Queensland’s peak industry body for the minerals and energy sector, the Queensland Resources Council, says the Premier Campbell Newman’s newly shaped government is better suited to assist and manage the resources sector.

QRC chief executive Michael Roche said the Newman government had clearly listened to the industry’s call to replace unwieldy super-departments with departments focussed on outcomes, not process.

He said the sector was particularly pleased to see the return of the Natural Resources and Mines portfolio.

Andrew Cripps is the new Minister for Natural Resources and Mines after serving as shadow Minister for Natural Resources and Water and also Agriculture.

The QRC is seeking to meet with several of the new government’s ministers to learn

about their priorities and to brief them on some key issues in their portfolios of importance to QRC members.

One government worker spoken to

by Shift Miner Magazine last week confided that staff were still working out some of the new tasks and boundaries but were intent on getting on with the job as best they could.

“QRC chief executive Michael Roche said the Newman government had clearly listened to the industry’s call to replace unwieldy superdepartments with departments focussed on outcomes, not process.”

NEED PEOPLE SAFE, ALERT AND ON TIME? Australasian Jet can provide professional domestic and international charter flights for any budget.

- 24 hours a day / 7days a week - for fly in fly out roster change overs - express Freight transport - on call nationwide medical transfers

- General charter requirements for all mine sites in the Bowen Basin and beyond - Quality assured operator with a solid 25 year company history - Call for an obligation free fly in/fly out quotation

Increase productivity - reduce fatigue risk Australasian Jet - call us direct on 0414 550 644 Email: lisas@ausjetqld.com.au www.ausjetqld.com.au Office: 07 4953 3261

Page 12 - Shift Miner Magazine, 23rd April 2012

135th EDITION. 2012

News

Tinkler’s $5b fortune SHAREHOLDERS have overwhelmingly backed a $5 billion takeover of Nathan Tinkler’s Aston Resources by Whitehaven Coal at meetings in Brisbane and Sydney this week.

As part of the takeover Whitehaven will acquire Boardwalk Resources, an unlisted company also owned by Mr Tinkler, that owns a $30 million to $40 million stake in the Dingo coal tenement bought from Aston for $10 two years ago.

Aston also holds an 85 per cent stake in the undeveloped Maules Creek project in the Gunnedah Basin. It is thought to be the largest undeveloped tier one deposit in Australia.

Production from Maules Creek, according to a company statement to the market, will comprise mainly of metallurgical coal and premium low ash thermal coal for export.

The deal will create Australia’s largest listed independent coal company.

Mr Tinkler will be the largest shareholder in the new entity with a 32 per cent holding valued at about $1.1 billion.

Maules Creek was approved for development 25 years ago, but still requires New South Wales Government approval to begin production. It will produce an estimated 10 million

tonnes a year while Whitehaven’s other mines will produce another 15 million tonnes.

Mr Tinkler shot to fame in 2009 when he topped the Australian BRW Rich List for people under 40. His personal wealth at the time was estimated to be $441 million.

The former electrician from the New South Wales town of Inverell used to work in the Newcastle coal mines.

He made a large slice of his fortune selling his stakes in several mining companies around Middlemount and he has now invested much of his wealth into horse racing.

It’s lewd, crude & FIFO rude AS the federal inquiry into FIFO rolls on across the country, it’s re-assuring miners aren’t taking themselves too seriously out there in FIFO land.

To prove it, a rap song called simply “The FIFO song” has just hit YouTube promoting a new FIFOdedicated specials website.

The song and video is rude, crude and a little ordinary - but it’s sure to raise a few laughs from those who work in mining as the FIFO life is explored through music.

More than 57,000 viewers had checked out the clip in its first couple of days.

The films opens with a man rapping about the highs and lows of FIFO while dressed in steel cap boots, a high-vis vest and hard hat and walking

through an airport.

“Jetsetter, nah it ain’t that glamorous. This high-vis gear don’t make the chicks amorous,” is one of the killer lines.

It continues: “up here all you do is work and drink, and when that’s done well you just have another drink.”

“It ain’t romantic, this ain’t no Red Dog. Sure it can be a little like living in jail, but when I get home it’s like I’m on bail.

“Living the life, spending all me pay and you know what mate? I wouldn’t have it any other way.”

All this, while a scantily clad woman dances... the FIFO stereotype lives on through song.

Feel safer having your money invested by locals?

s Get low ongoing fees for your managed investments. s Want a managed fund that can perform better than most managed funds on the market?

From as little as $500 with an ongoing contribution or $2,000 you can invest in a fund that is run by Central Queenslanders, for Central Queenslanders CDIF is targeting an annual return of 8% income plus capital growth

Contact Capricorn Investment Partners to receive a copy of the PDS Telephone: 1800 679 000 www.cdif.com.au

Page 13 - Shift Miner Magazine, 23rd April 2012

SHIFT

MINER ladder

GET WHERE YOU WANT TO BE

Qld miners could train in Lithgow XSTRATA Coal has turned its Baal Bone underground mine near Lithgow, in New South Wales, into a first-of-its-kind training facility.

New underground miners will now spend 12 weeks at the site learning their skills.

What’s different about the training site is that new recruits get out of the classroom and into the “real world” underground operating equipment before they start their full-time careers.

The first group of 12 trainees graduated last month, and are now working at the company’s Ulan West mine.

“The feedback we’ve received from them is that the Baal Bone training facility enabled them to have a better understanding and knowledge before going into production,” said Baal Bone’s Health Safety and Training Manager Mark Bulkeley.

“The program is an industry first, and what’s great is that it provides an opportunity for people without any industry experience to learn and practise vital skills that will help them gain employment with us at a time of considerable growth.”

Rob Pattison, who was among the first group of 12, has now operated a shuttle car to cut his first coal.

Julie Tiggermann is one of three female operators currently undergoing training.

“It’s a whole new world for me,” she said “I expected to and have done the same as the guys, using the same equipment, doing the same work.”

Eventually Queensland miners could be trained at the mine, with Xstrata planning it to be used Australia-wide for training purposes.

“At present we have 12 crews on site at

Baal Bone, that’s around 110 people and all is running well,” said Mr Bulkeley.

“I believe turning Baal Bone into a training facility has benefits for Xstrata but also the local community.

“It provides employment for trainers and assessors so they can stay in the community they call home.

“It also ensures that the colliery will continue to be an integral part of our community and that criticial skills will be kept there.”

NEW RECRUITS: Xstrata’s first trainees to go through its Baal Bone underground mine in NSW

Well Servicing, Coal, CSG Drilling, Minerals and Water Well Drilling We are at the forefront of an exciting industry experiencing significant growth. As Australia’s leading energy and mining services company we value our people – the talented team who bring our unique blend of products and services together and set us apart from the crowd.

What makes us a great place to work? t Competitive pay and conditions plus additional employee benefits t Long term contracts with Australia’s major resource companies t Exciting training and regular promotion opportunities t New rigs and innovative equipment t Professional and positive working environment

Be part of something all together better.

Call 1300 EW JOBS (1300 395 627) or scan this code for more information.

DMS 1201067B

www.easternwell.com.au

Page 14 - Shift Miner Magazine, 23rd April 2012

What’s happening in sport in your town?

It’s raining men - hallelujah!

SPORTING teams are bursting at the seams in Gladstone, as the city enjoys the benefits of a key piece of CSG infrastructure - the player pipeline.

More than 18,000 jobs are expected to be created in the coal seam gas sector, according to Energy Skills Queensland.

Importantly for sporting groups in the region, a large number of those jobs will be filled by people who are the ideal playing age.

Not surprisingly, they are flocking to join new teams in droves.

For president of the Boyne Island Tannum Sands (BITS) AFL club Damon Stebbing, it has meant registrations are up more than 50 per cent.

Matt, Charlotte and Shannon Green

“Currently we have 32 new players who have registered with us this season,” he said.

“Usually we have around 50 to 70 players registered with us in a normal year, so it has been a major increase.

“But we needed it, because interestingly we lost 17 players from our two senior sides last year, with people leaving town for various reasons.”

Mr Stebbing said most of the new players had come from Tasmania and Victoria - and joining a new team came with benefits.

“I guess one of the advantages of having a network of players like we do, is that everyone who plays for us generally knows someone, who knows someone, who is coming to Gladstone.

“Through our players and connections, we can offer that person a bed until they find their feet, and possibly a job if they need help on that front as well.”

It’s a similar story for the Gladstone Mudcrabs AFL side, the Gladstone rugby and rugby league teams, and even the Port City Power basketball side.

Despite the large number of new players, success on the field is not guaranteed.

Industrial rosters mean that some weekends, seemingly over-stocked teams still struggle for players.

“Shift work and inconsistency with players is a problem that is inherent to a region like this,” Mr Stebbing said.

If your local club has any news or photos it wants added to this page, you can submit your articles to angus.peacocke@shiftminer.com

“Even before CSG, a lot of our players were on shift work at the smelter or at the ports, so it’s nothing new.

“But we have been quite successful at managing that problem, although having said that we were three short last weekend.”

The coach of the Dawson Valley Drovers, a rugby team based in the coal town of Moura, agrees.

That club has picked up a useful bundle of players this season from the local mining sector, but coach Jack Wright says you need a lot of registrations to field a team week-to-week.

“We currently have 78 players on the books, but you need at least this many to field two sides in a mining roster environment,” he said.

“Not to mention the inevitable losses to injury and other things as the season progresses.”

retired at the end of last season.

While the high-end recruitment is important for the club, president Marco Peters says they will be looking to its pool of local junior talent to fortify its playing list.

“There are about 75 to 85 players for A grade and reserve grade and we have 18’s on top of that as well,” he said.

“The 18’s are a really strong group of players, last year they won a final against Souths Mackay that was almost entirely made up of Cutters players.”

“Only four of the players in our team were over 18, so we will be seeing lots of them this year.”

“Balancing rosters is the hardest thing, but its an issue we have always had to manage so we are getting quite good at it.”

“Basically we look at everyones rosters, when they are available and who we are playing and what we need in which positions.

“The players are very loyal to the club, and will let us know their days off in advance and play part games if they have work commitments.

“What really helps is playing our home games at 7:30 which works in with everyone’s rosters, and it’s why we treat home games as a fortress.

“Everyone hates coming to Moranbah because they know we can get everyone available.”

The next two weekends are home games for the miners against the Magpies and Sarina.

It will also be ladies day on the 12th of May. “I have to mention our major sponsors , Esco Engineering, BAE engineering, G&S Engineering, Boom logistics, Auscoal super and Southern Cross Auto Electrics and all the other local sponsors, because nothing would be possible without them,” Mr Peters added.

Moranbah Miners recruiting Welsh international The Moranbah Miners Rugby League club are close to securing the playing services of Welsh International Neil Budworth.

Budworth has an impressive pedigree both overseas and in Australia, and the connection with the Miners has come via his friendship with miners captain Josh Hannay.

The couple played together for Celtic.

If finalised, Budworth will join other start recruits Justin Rodgers - a star south Sydney junior and John Flint a sensational player from the Queensland cup competition.

However leaving their ranks is Jimmy Ahmatt who

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

Olivia Carsburg, Telia Hunter, Warren Hill, Denise, Latoya and Preston Byrne

Megan MacDonald and Kait Crust

Jerri Thompson, Tammy Ingram, Rob Daniels and Dean Robe

Brydie Hughes, Ali Daniel and Kym Bourne

Sport

Event

Date

Venue

Rugby league

Moranbah Miners v Magpies

28/4/12

Moranbah

Rugby League

Moranbah Miners v Sarina (ladies day)

12/5/12

Moranbah

Rugby league

Dysart v Springsure

28/4/12

Dysart

Rugby League

Bluff v Middlemount

28/4/12

Bluff

Rugby League

Emerald v Blackwater

28/4/12

Emerald

Rugby League

Peak Downs v Emerald Tigers

28/4/12

Tieri

Rugby Union

Emerald v Capella

28/4/12

Capella

Rugby Union

Rolleston v Moranbah

28/4/12

Capella

Traithlon

Capella

May

To be decided

Want your club details here? Call Shift Miner 07 4921 4333

Rio Tinto Coal Australia is proud to be a part of the Clermont, Emerald, Capella, Nebo, Sarina, Mirani and Mackay communities.

The Kestrel Mine Community Development Fund is pleased continue its partnership with Central Highlands Development Corporation to support the Community Grants Officer and Outreach programme for the next two years.

This initiative provides the communities of Emerald, Capella and the Gemfields with the support to source, research, apply for and acquit vital community grants for local projects.

Since 2010, more than $1M has been brought back into these communities. One of the projects includes supporting the long term future of the Central Highlands Regional Resources Use Planning Cooperative ve (pictured) to help them continue their work in improving natural resource management practices in the community.

We support a range of local projects W through the Clermont Region, Kestrel Mine, and Hail Creek Mine Community Development Funds.

For more information contact: • Clermont Region Alissa Gordon on 07 4988 3505 • Kestrel Mine Maureen Tutton on 07 4984 7694 • Hail Creek Mine Marie Cameron on 07 4951 6437

www.riotintocoalaustralia.com.au

Page 15 - Shift Miner Magazine, 23rd April 2012

135th EDITION. 2012

around town

The lion, the rugby and Good Friday!

A tipple with friends at the Wine and Trivia Night in Moranbah.

After the footy game, it was time to relax.

Shaylee Burke, Ashlee Hore and Hayden Latchford

Hayden Latchford, Yasmin Black and Michaela Donoghue

Kevin Ford and Michael Szabo

Gemma Hopes and Olivia Carsburg

Maddy Hatton, Shay Lyall and Maddie Roberts-Young

Charlie and Kelly Huxley

Jason and Derek Webley

Robert Lammamoore and Les Phillips

Chama and Kamalita Tasi

Holding a social event you want photographed? Call the Shift Miner office on 4921 4333 to let us know. You can also give our office a bell if you’d like a copy of any of the photos in this edition.

Tune into the Michael J. Breakfast show from 7:35 am every Monday for 4RO's CQ Mining Update, with special guest Angus from Shift Miner.

Michael Bailey

Greg Cary

Alan Jones

Laurie Atlas

Weekdays 5am - 9am

NOW WITH MORE NEWS, MORE TALK AND THE MUSIC YOU LOVE WWW.4RO.COM.AU

Page 16 - Shift Miner Magazine, 23rd April 2012

Weekdays 12pm - 1pm PHONE: 1300 872 911

Weekdays 9am - 12pm

Weekdays 1pm - 6pm

SALES ENQUIRIES: (07) 4920 2000

135th EDITION. 2012

around town A combined churches Good Friday service was held in Rotary Park, Blackwater.

Shelley and Thomas Cox

John and Karen Jackson

Lydia and Chloe Drew

Cathy, Ben and David Drew

Lions markets were held on April 1 at the Blackwater Civic Centre.

Drew Richards enjoying her fairy floss

Leanne Baillie and Remy Jellick

Mick Gilligan

Felice, Taylor and Charlotte Kay

Ryleigh and Erin Godfrey

Mariah Moore

Sadie and Cec Owens

Quinton Pinth and Will Conway

Bronwen and Mark Day

BUY THIS AND MANY OTHER IMAGES AT

www.shiftminer.com Shift Miner magazine – bringing the mining community closer together Page 17 - Shift Miner Magazine, 23rd April 2012

135th EDITION. 2012

stuff to the editor community’s

best source

Locally Own

FO k about FI really thin What you

Our article on the gas problems at the Collinsville mine hit a raw nerve with one reader: “It’s an easy fix, but it will cost them $$ and there will be no production.”

Just reading your article about the Peak Downs Highway future and present use.

Maybe they should try a study on company vehicles travelling with single occupancy.

The workers, for the most part have to use a bus - but most staff seem to be exempt.

News Wet weather 4 costly » page

News gas Collinsville 5 woes » page

UN N NATIO

tes harmony Food promo page 15 » More pictures

9 » continued page

Boo hoo! Imagine the $$ it will cost with lawsuits if people keep being gassed, if people are affected in the long term! Some of these gases are cancer-causing gases!

Next month’s meeting about the Peak Downs Highway had one reader thinking:

E A Z I N M A G

- www.shift Operated

work block shift FIFO and to join the HOW does your ability sex life or affect your r the team? to uncove local footy is hoping the A new study ns - and here’s those questio findings answers to expect the hers don’t scoop, researc e. hype that will be negativ lot of media a been from bad, apart “There has FIFO is all her tends to suggest CQUniversity researc said the money, from Stokes.

Dr Karin ted in hearing the e are interes we becaus “But lves, s themse fairly so far seem mining familie spoken to face of flies in the ones we have their lot. That happy with reports.”

60 coua lot of media looking to interview is on how FIFO, Dr Stokes next two months their lifestyle ples over the affect the block shifts up her hunch, DIDO and larger findings back - and if the ed to a much be extend research will from everything national study. , looking at “We are work in mining decision to is away at the financial one half parent if you to how off said. h comes work,” she -funded researc last year out The CSIRO carried r belief, of a study y to popula the back that, contrar es. marriag which found up g not breakin FIFO was

ER on 2012

Editi April 134th

P FESS U ITED ed and

Stuff to the Editor

Coal Miner’s Wife

s

of local new

miner.com

Lives and safety over production! Get a grip Thiess, would they go out of their offices into the gases? I think not!

Monday 9th

SHIFT MIN and mining

The Queensl

News y in Highway safet6 focus » page n Around Tow in first ped Bulls snip » page 13 rugby clash

Off Shift name - just Forget the 21 relax » page ters Money Mat selling n Bowen Basi 23 spree » page

Our front page story about FIFO not being a homewrecker received support from readers: We have been doing FIFO for three years now, and my wife and kids love it.

It means I get to see them more than I would if I worked at home. G.T, Brisbane FIFO roster is the best thing that has happened for my family. Means I work when I am at work, and spend time with wife and kids at home. T.R, Townsville The only people who whinge about FIFO are those who can’t get the good jobs themselves. F.R, Sydney

Got something to share?

Send us your text messages or phone photos to 0428 154 653 Or email to alex.graham@shiftminer.com

Be Part Of The Legend!

Winning races in record times was the driving force behind Mickey Thompson’s innovations in tyre design....

STZ

ATZ 4 RIB

MTZ

CLAW TTC

To find out more about the legendary range of Mickey Thompson Tires, call Tyrepower Rockhampton, your local authorised dealer.

Tyrepower, Your Mickey Thompson Tire Specialist

PH: 4926 4364

320 Richardson Rd, Rockhampton

Redmond’s Rants During my rides/drives up around the far north Queensland Tablelands, I’ve stumbled upon a true jewel. The Mt Molloy Cafe.

A few years back my mate Dr Fil and myself were returning from a dirt bike adventure up in the Daintree.

Sent in anonymously

SEEN SOMETHING WE HAVEN’T? Prizes for the best mining photos.

Take it on your phone or camera and send it in

Text to 0428 154 653 alex.graham@shiftminer.com

FROM THE EDITOR STRIKES, mine closures, frustration over rail lines - another week in this great industry!

The closure of Norwich Park has been grabbing the headlines along with the impact on workers and, in particular, the residents of Dysart.

Any dramatic change at work or home is tough. The hard news is the closure. The better news is that most of the workers will find other jobs because their skills and experience are needed.

Questions remain around the timing of the May 11 closure in relation to ongoing strike action but mine owners BHP Billiton Mitsubishi Alliance (BMA) have been quick to point out the mine has been losing money and the closure is because of a combination of factors, not just one alone.

Dysart is a resilient community and there has been a sense of “getting on with the job” this week from those spoken to by Shift Miner. They are accepting the closure and

looking to make the best of the situation.

On the fringes of this news story has been questions over what the real skills shortage means in Australian mining. The experience in past months of one worker with 10 years experience driving trucks has been a little baffling. Continually knocked back for jobs she went seeking answers and found gaps in the way workers applications are processed, approved and acted upon.

On the land farmers are growing increasingly frustrated by the time and energy taken to deal with proposed multiple coal rail lines across their vast properties. In the bush vernacular they have had a gutful and want some commonsense injected into the debate.

It’s just one of the challenges raised again in a week that shows us all the industry needs to continually take stock and judge with a critical eye the opportunity and cost of the current boom on people.

Greg Sweetnam

The musings of a CQ miner... so we agreed to seek it out.

Water is best when yeast, hops and barley are added.

As we drove into Mt Molloy we spied a XXXX water sign.

Dr Fil was driving the ute and telling me about his concerns of dehydration and how, if by chance we come across a rehydration station, the smart thing would be to load up and thus avoid the pitfalls of dehydration.

We casually screeched to a stop and raced into bar (last one in pays).

Whilst taking on some fluid I went to check the ute, when I smelt something good. Forget the ute, I’m hungry.

The proper way to rehydrate would be eight glasses of water -

A couple of doors up from the pub I found the Mt Molloy Cafe.

Page 18 - Shift Miner Magazine, 23rd April 2012

The smell was delicious, the place was neat, and then I heard a woman’s laugh. Proper, joyful laughter. Angela was laughing as she cooked.

I smiled and felt like asking “Will you adopt me please ?”

The smell and the laughter put a really good vibe through the place. I approached the counter and was greeted by Rudy. I asked him the question that I have asked a lot of cafe owners, and only he has answered my question in the positive.

I always look forward to the Mt Molloy Cafe.

“Do you make vegi burgers?”

“Yes, homemade so will take a little while, do you want a beer?”

It’s been about five years and a lot of vegi burgers since that first one.

Who is Redmond?

Redmond was born in a cross-fire hurricane and now resides in Queensland. Former Golden Glove champ turned champion shearer, his shearing career was cut short when he entered the adult film industry and made 3467 films in three months. He now enjoys semi-retirement and lives happily on his 100,000 acre property with his seven wives. He has received the annual Golden Pen award from the Writer’s Guild four years in a row in the Truth Telling category...

135th EDITION. 2012

FAIR DINKUM

CLASSIC REVIEW

BY JUSTIN CARLOS

Mel’s medieval marvel BEFORE Mel Gibson went completely crazy and revealed himself to be an antiSemitic lunatic, glad for John Lennon’s death, he was a massive movie star.

Now that he’s awash in a sea of perpetual scandal it’s easy to forget that nearly 20 years ago Mel directed and starred in one hell of a movie called Braveheart.

If you haven’t seen the film there’s no way you haven’t heard its most famous line, “They may take our lives, but they can never take our freedom!”

The film tells the story of William Wallace, a Scottish rebel seeking to unite his countrymen against vicious English king, Edward the Longshanks, who intends to rule Scotland himself.

Having lost his father and brother to Longshanks’ cruelty as a boy, William Wallace returns to his childhood home with the intention of living a quiet life as a farmer and raising a family.

After reuniting with his childhood sweetheart the two wed in secret, but when Wallace’s wife is captured and executed by a group of English soldiers he sets out to reclaim Scotland for the Scots.

Essentially Braveheart is part medieval war epic and part love story; however the movie is well structured, providing a good balance between scenes of heavy dialogue and action-packed bloody battles.

The fight scenes are particularly well choreographed, and the special effects and make-up used in the film still look amazing almost 20 years later.

Looking back at Braveheart, if there’s one thing that’s disappointing it’s that the film is now somewhat tainted by Gibson’s offscreen antics.

You may find it difficult to immerse yourself fully in the storyline, considering his never-ending public gaffes.

He did, however, take home the 95 best picture and director Oscars, so despite his foibles there’s really no denying that Gibson got things very right when he made Braveheart.

Period movies (for example Gibson’s other period movies, The Passion of the Christ and Apocalypto) often fail to strike a pleasant balance between entertainment and authenticity.

Braveheart achieves this largely through the use of what could be considered ‘modern’ sprinklings of humour, and the overarching love story designed to resound with audiences of any era.

If you consider yourself a movie buff and you haven’t seen Braveheart, give yourself a stern talking to and go out and get a copy.

Quality doesn’t have to mean slow Mining, Earth moving, Hydraulics and Agriculture

Transport

General manufacturing and Fabrication

Motor sport, boating and leisure

Specialising in the timely delivery of on-spec components for your business.

www.dweonline.net

M: 0448 243 343 E: darylweng@gmail.com

dwe Daryl Watson Engineering

e h t k n a Fr Tank’s

“Streakin” good love advice

Frank, I keep complaining to my friends about how hard it is to meet a nice girl, and recently one of them suggested I join a local church as a way of meeting good, wholesome women.

The only thing is, I’m not religious at all; in fact quite the opposite I guess you could say I’m kind of anti-religion.

Is it wrong to ‘fake’ a spiritual side in order to meet a nice girl?

Andrew, Emerald.

For someone who’s anti-religion you seem to have a lot of moral hang ups; perhaps you’ve been unwittingly indoctrinated by organised religion.

It happens all the time. People claim to be anti-religion but wind up getting stifled by all the rules and regulations.

Not me though. I can tell you with no remorse that I’ve been coveting my neighbour’s wife with some vigour for about six months now.

That’s not to say I don’t have a spiritual side. In fact Jesus Christ once appeared to me in a vision.

I was on a construction site and he was screaming at me, pointing to his hand, which had a nail through it.

Actually…disregard that…I used to go to work drunk a lot in those days, so I may have accidentally just shot a bearded guy with a nail gun.

Having said all that, I do like your

Sensible Susan Andrew, I suppose ‘faking’ a spiritual side is more a moral dilemma than anything, so I’m not sure that me telling you it’s okay will put your mind at ease.

What you should probably consid-

angle. These church girls are often so repressed they’ll get looser than grandma’s undies after half a glass of communion wine. I know from personal experience.

During the whole ‘Jonestown’ thing, cults were pretty trendy, so I figured who better to lead their own religion than Frank the Tank?

Things were going great, but the wheels fell off at about the nine-month mark when I got buried in an avalanche of paternity lawsuits.

Thank god most of the women who sued me went blind from drinking homemade moonshine and were unable to identify me in Court.

Anyway, back to the topic hand.

I don’t see anything wrong with faking a spiritual side.

I’ve faked stigmata on five different occasions in an attempt to seduce attractive nuns.

However, it does all depend on what religion your future girlfriend is.

If she worships at some kind of weird voodoo cult, maybe faking it isn’t such a good idea.

I had a friend who took up with this Korean gypsy who used to cook him these crazy stews made from donkey meat.

One day she caught him badmouthing her cooking to some friends and next time we saw him she’d put some curse on him and his testicles were the size of cricket balls.

True story.

Frank.

er, however, is that if you meet a woman to whom spirituality is important you’re probably going to have to go to church and other spiritual events quite a lot.

I’m fairly certain there are plenty of nice girls out there who aren’t necessarily devoutly religious.

My advice is to avoid gimmicks (i.e. trying to attract women by singing hymns at your local church) and try to meet a nice girl the conventional way.

Susan.

If you have a question for Frank and Susan Email Us at: franksusan.shiftminer@gmail.com

Page 19 - Shift Miner Magazine, 23rd April 2012

BOAT FOR SALE Cruising catamaran, solid GRP. Built 2001.

Well appointed and very comfortable with full amenities for living aboard and cruising. For full particulars see www.catspaw2011. blogspot.com

MOTORBIKE FOR SALE HARLEY DAVIDSON 100th Anniversary XL 1200s Sportster Sports. Always garaged and covered.

Windscreen, saddle bags, cruise control. Plus many H[WUDV $OO RULJLQDO SDUWV keep. RELUCTANT SALE. 14500 km\’s.

Lady owner

$125,000

$13500 ono Phone Sue 0427570619

Phone: 0468 389 300

CLASSIC FOR SALE

CHEV PACK FOR SALE CAR,TRUCK & TRAILER Only 1984 Chevrolet Monte Carlo factory S/S drag car LQ $XVWUDOLD VHOO VHSDUDWH $35,000.00 *0& &KHY 6HOO VHSDUDWH 2005 18 foot full tilt beaver tail tandem trailer– FREE with package sale Package Price $65,000.00 Phone 07 5424 6694

1970 ht Holden ute immaculate original condition F\OLQGHU VSHHG PDQXDO ÂżUVW WR VHH ZLOO buy $26,950.

Phone : 0422 377 385 CAR FOR SALE 4X4 2009 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD LTZ Z71 Crew Cab 3LFNXS / 'XUDPD[ Diesel Engine, Allison Transmission 75,354klm, leather LQWHULRU ÀDZOHVV RQH owner vehicle loaded with options. $89,700egc. bdunne151@gmail. com CRANE TRUCK FOR SALE

CLASSIC FOR SALE Chev 1955 factory right hand drive two door wagon V8 three speed manual with overdrive,All new upholstery New whitewall tyres,All new glass and chrome,New fuel tank,New cd player and speakers, $49,500 Phone 07 5523 0330 or 0409 209 246 PLOUGH FOR SALE Grizzly S24 plough very

worn located near rocky.

$TXDULXV IW

Phone 0429 948 198

or consider offers before. 23 acres Prime Land + House + Sheds + Water Alloc. 5 mins to CBD.High

300 lt freezer, air con &

boarder.

Phone: 0418 794 525.

JET SKI FOR SALE 08/09 Honda F15GPX Turbo 3 Seater 1500cc Turbo 3 Red Genuine Honda Lifejackets 85hrs $15,500 ono Phone: 0447 606 727 COMBINE FOR SALE 24 run Horward bagshaw combine 12 new 12 old hoses ram rebuilt good condition.spare boots. $3000 plus gst.

HOUSE FOR SALE

plan unit with a HUGE

SURVHUSLQH [ DFUH

balcony overlooking the

lots good grazing land

Sunshine Coast’s best

HOUSE FOR SALE

HOUSE FOR SALE HOUSE & 43 acres 3 B/Rms, lounge etc, double garage & double carport, 2 water tanks & pump.

7kls from Rosedale town which has Hotel, P.O, handyman & general store, primary & high schools.

$17,000 government grants if eligible

Price $270,000 partly furnished.

Ph: 0421 601 710 LAND FOR SALE

Phone: 07 4151 4500 HOUSE FOR SALE

Land for sale, Hervey Bay. Turtle Cove Estate.

Agnes Water, 4

(OHYDWHG KDOI DFUH ÀDW EORFN ZLWK GHJUHH

acres, 3 Bed, 2 Bath.

views of Fraser Island. Cannot be built out.

3Metre verandah’s,

Underground power, phone and water at front

Carport, 4 Day Shed,

RI EORFN PLQV WR $LUSRUW PLQ ERDWUDPS DQG

Fenced yard, Dam. 7.5 k to town and beach

$262,000 ono

$485,000

Phone: 0411 098 241

Phone: 0409 254 525

Page 20 - Shift Miner Magazine, 23rd April 2012

for the serious skier/

Fully furnished fully

$520,000 the pair will

barge to Fraser. About 10min to Town. ono.

cared for. &UDIWVPDQ PDGH H[FHOOHQFH

100sqm renovated open

YEPPOON, New 4 bedroom 2 bathroom brick home.

$449,000 minus

330hp Engine with MPI. Meticulously serviced and

UNIT FOR SALE

Phone: 0447 031 588

Security screens. Fully turfed & fenced

$155,000 ono.

Mercruiser Black Scorpion

Phone: 0437 657 433

Phone: 0428 739 682

Double garage with elec roller doors & separate laundry

Gladstone.

*HQXLQH KUV Only used in FRESH water.

LAND FOR SALE

sell seperatly POA

Fans throughout.

much more. Immac cond.

BOAT FOR SALE

Phone: 0427 824 880

Investment Opportunity to Land Bank for the Future.

Aircon in main bedroom & Media room.

zodiac, RFD, 5 berths, shower, toilet, 250 lt fridge,

and house sites

*URZWK $UHD EHWZHHQ %XQG\ DQG &RDVW ([FHOOHQW

bow & stern thrusters,

needed to drive

Rural land 15 min cbd

BUNDABERG. For Sale at Auction on 12th May

plotter, radar, auto pilot,

RWC, Only car licence

07 4941 7147 or

HOUSE FOR SALE

BOAT FOR SALE Flybridge cruiser, chart

$13,500

$17000 plus gst ono.

CAR FOR SALE 2002 Ford F250 XLT King Cab 4 X 4, 7.3ltr turbo diesel/gas.

Vic. rego March 2012. $8525$ VOLGH RQ FDPSHU fridge, 4 burn gas cook, +:6 'RXEOH EHG H[W shower, water, deep cycle batteries, 800W inverter, loads storage. STACER boat 3.9m 25HP motor, $80,000 Phone: 0417 587 425

988 model, 79,000 k P XQGHU KRRN

bearings discs about 1/2

CAR FOR SALE '2'*( 5$0 SLT Lonestar Edition Heavy Duty 5.9L Cummins Turbo Diesel Allison auto trans. Wood grain inserts 5th wheel hitch, tow bar 4 door dual cab Dula Wheels 104000klms $89 000 obo Phone: 0432 429 264

Nissan Atlas Crane Truck 4495 GVM, Tadano 2T crane

good condition new

BUSINESS FOR SALE

GEARBAGS FOR SALE AUSTRALIA’S TOUGHEST Ideal for Shift Workers Interested in Interior Decorating?

Superior quality canvas gearbag. Duraproof Curtains/Blinds etc in Airlie Beach canvas, internal zip Owner has operated this business for 17yrs and wants up pockets, reinforced to retire. seams, heavy duty carry Largest showroom in the area. 120sqm air con shop handles & zip, 7mm s/s ÀRRU VTP DLU FRQ ZHOO HTXLSSHG ZRUN URRP ZRUN YDQ G ULQJV ZDWHUSURRI DQG 89 Established clientele resistant.

Large stock holding. Assistant of 12yrs prepared to $187 + P&H assist with take over. www.bilja.com.au POA to genuine enquiries Phone: 0407 027 565 Phone: 0409 898 430

point break!! Austar, gym, 150m lagoon pool.

Great investment BETTER lifestyle! More info/

Phone 0429 948 198

a/c modern home on 7.5 acres 500 metres from Midge Point beach, 2 bedrooms 2 HQ VXLWHV ODUJH RIÂżFH or 3rd bedroom large carport 3bay shed fully equipped workshop

pics avail. Be Quick!

Phone: 0424 108 784

Phone 0428 476 001

HOUSE FOR SALE SUNSHINE COAST SACRIFICE Buy before 30/4/2012 Get $10000 govt bldg boost Brand New impressive Level, 4bed 2 bath, DLUG, Fenced, Side access Room Shed/Van Nth EntertWalk shops/school Fantastic Buy Offers NEAR $400,000 Ph. 0409 055 062

HOUSE FOR SALE House on 40 acres near Agnes water QLD. Unique pavillion style home, 4 bedrooms 2 bathrooms ZLWK [ VKHG FDUSRUW Partially cleared and fenced, waterhole and a small dam. Large deck and breathtaking views.

15 km from surf beach and town of 1770. $510,000 Phone: 0400 797 075

HOUSE FOR SALE Eungella, 90 mins from Mackay.

(FR DUFKLWHFW GHVLJQHG award winning 3 bdrm home on 5 acres, 2 yrs old, 4 bay shed, stunning views.

Adjoining optional 174 acres of improved pasture also for sale. $749,000.

Phone: 0420 104 278

HOUSE AND LAND FOR SALE 6HOO DFUHV 3URVWRQ DUHD TXLHW FRXQWU\ JHW DZD\ VXLW FDWWOH KRUVH SRXOWU\ H[ FRQWUDFW piggery. 3Brm partly renovated home.

Photos & details our website: http://countrymilefarm.webs.com/ Phone: 0741689226

135th EDITION. 2012

OFF SHIFT

İnk running in your blood

GETTING inked.

It’s no longer the exclusive domain of sailors and jail bait.

A walk down the red carpet reveals A-list celebrities like Angelina Jolie, Rihanna and David Beckham proudly displaying their ink alongside Armani and diamonds.

Closer to home, and in Australia researchers have found while older generations are not fond of tattoos, they are now increasingly popular among the young.

The days of small, discreet tattoos tucked away behind singlets and belts are on the wane, as Aussies embrace the bold and colourful in brash designs on arms, legs and

necks - in full view of all who care to stare.

UMR Research carried out a survey in 2010 found it was women under 30 who were most likely to find tattoos highly attractive.

Wondering where your tat will appeal most to the ladies? Well, 62 per cent of women like tattoos on men’s arms the most.

For the blokes, the back is where it’s at: 43 per cent find tattoos on the back the most attractive place for a woman to have a tattoo.

When the research was released, UMR managing director John Utting said times had changed, and tattoos were here to stay.

“This research confirms that parents have every right to be worried that their child will come home with a tattoo,” said.

“In years gone by, tattoos were strictly for the bogan, sailor and criminal subcultures, but they’ve now escaped into the wider community.”

If you’re wondering just how popular tattoos have become - look no further than the great social barometer that is Barbie.

Last year, the woman who has everything finally got inked when Mattel released its first tattooed doll.

Some parents were outraged, but most did not bat an eye.

While the next generation of young ones always like to think of themselves as boundary pushers, tattoos have been around for more than 5000 years.

Otzi the Iceman, who lived around 3300BC, and whose mummified body was found in the Austrian Alps in the 1990s, bore 57 separate tattoos.

In ancient China, the tattoo has been associated with criminals and bandits since 1045BC. In Samoa, the tradition of applying tattoo, or tatau, by hand has been unbroken for more than 2000 years.

The skill is often passed on from father to son, and the tools and techniques have changed little.

So while the concept might not be novel, tattoos have certainly enjoyed a massive revival in Western culture over the past decade.

Now it’s your turn to play a part in history.

Just like Otzi the Iceman, we want to document your tats - so archeologists can discuss your art in another 5000 years.

Which CQ miner has the best tattoo? It could be you. Join our competition, and win a $500 gift certificate to use at Tattoo Tattoo in Yeppoon.

So you want to get a tattoo?

You’re not on your Pat Malone.

Tattoos are so socially acceptable these days, it wouldn’t be surprising if Julia Gillard had the Southern Cross tattooed on the small of her back.

But before you run off and get the Chinese word for ‘courage’ tattooed on your forehead, there’s a few things you may want to consider.

Let’s start with the basics: why are you getting inked?

You don’t need to get all profound on us and write a 1000 word essay on the meaning behind the art.

But you do have be happy with the fact this tattoo is going be a part of your skin forever (unless you want to fork out for expensive laser removal).

Are you going for a more traditional, pre-designed tattoo, or will you have an artist design a custom tattoo for you?

This will help you decide what tattooist to visit - some specialise in custom designs, while others stick to the tried and true popular designs and colours.

And that leads us to the cardinal rule of tattooing: make sure you visit a licensed tattooist.

The internet has made it extremely easy for amateurs who don’t know what they’re doing to get a hold of tattooing equipment.

The last thing you want is a nasty little gnome like this calling your leg home.

Page 21 - Shift Miner Magazine, 23rd April 2012

135th EDITION. 2012

OFF SHIFT

Bait shop Banter IN a second part of our barramundi for beginners series, Gazza from Pat’s Tackle World in Gladstone explains the rules of hunting and fishing when it comes to this feisty fish. Actually, he talks about lures. And for the rest of you experienced fisherpeople, we will have fishing spot updates from the around the regions in the next issue.

Over to you, Gazza.

Hi to all my hard-working friends in the mining world. I hope this finds you all well, and if you didn’t work over Easter I hope you had a good break with your family and friends. The weather was a peach.

What I would like to continue on with from the last issue is what are the best hardbodied lures to use for the barramundi. The range is enormous, and Im talking in the thousands. I have selected the ones that have stood the test of time and I have used over the years.

The most important thing to remember when buying or using a good barra lure is: • Casting • Action • Depth • Size • Float or sink • Application.

What you are looking for is a lure that has body roll that darts, has a tight shimmy and, in most cases, a rattle .The rattle sometimes spooks the fish. The secret to all this is working the lure by slowing the retrieve or pausing, cranking fast or twitching, to make it react like a wounded baitfish. Depth will determine what lure to use as well, especially in the case of trolling. Surface fishing is very effective as well.

Here is a list I have put together. It is only a guide showing what I have had success with.

Ask your local tackle shop staff for assistance; they are the ones who will have the local knowledge of the area you want to fish .

Tide Times

April/May

• Classic 120 Barra • Classic F18 • B15 Bomber Long A • B52 Reidys • The Bloopa (surface) • Xpap Rapala • Clackin Minnow • Storm Thunder Barra • Koolie Minnow118L Sebile • Fuzz Bug (surface) • Mad Mullet 3& 4 inch • Arafura Barra 120 & 130 This will get you a good range of lures to start you catching these iconic fish. Incorporate these with good tackle and flouro leaders and you are well on the way to catching a trophy fish.

The top of Curtis island is still fishing well, tide is the key fishing the top and the run out for the first two hours.

Now that the cooler weather has set in we should see a good run of salmon coming on.

Till next time be safe,tight lines, burnt thumbs. Gazza.

Fishing around Gladstone The weather has played a major role in the fishing in the last month with the wind blowing the pea out of a whistle.

The harbour is still producing barra off the points of the rocky banks. Fishing the making tide is getting the results.

The Boyne has slowed somewhat but is still producing fish from Pikes crossing to the mouth.

The Calliope River at the Power Station has slowed but the occasional fish is still being caught.

Calling all serious fisherman to the best fishing location on the coast.

Close to mining areas (You have probably driven past the turn-off!)

Fully s/c accommodation silly season, 2011 & 2012 Crew bookings available

MACKAY Gladstone

Time Ht

Time Ht

FISHING PARADISE FOUND

Phone: 49373145

email: stanagebaymarine@bigpond.com web: www.stanagebay.com

With Mike Griffin

Time Ht Time Ht Time Ht

0405 1.03 0436 1.13 0509 1.26 0547 1.40 0015 3.59 0111 3.47 0222 3.43 1004 3.41 1032 3.26 1101 3.10 1136 2.96 0634 1.54 0738 1.61 0856 1.56 1555 0.96 1618 1.09 1643 1.25 1713 1.42 1226 2.83 1340 2.77 1510 2.86 2223 4.00 2256 3.89 2332 3.74

1758 1.61 1922 1.76 2107 1.73

0551 1.42 0619 1.59 0026 5.04 0101 4.83 0147 4.62 0255 4.48 0421 4.53 1133 4.42 1159 4.20 0650 1.78 0730 1.97 0827 2.12 0947 2.12 1111 1.89 1741 1.19 1806 1.38 1229 3.98 1308 3.77 1409 3.59 1543 3.57 1717 3.84 2358 5.22

1835 1.60 1912 1.84 2008 2.08 2137 2.20 2314 2.05

Mon 30 Tue 1 Wed 2 Thu 3 Fri 4 MACKAY Gladstone

angus.peacocke@shiftminer.com

Your weather forecast

Mon 23 Tue 24 Wed 25 Thu 26 Fri 27 Sat 28 Sun 29 Time Ht Time Ht

If you have a good photo or fishing yarn send it through to our resident bait chucker-

Sat 5 Sun 6

Time Ht Time Ht Time Ht Time Ht Time Ht Time Ht Time Ht 0338 3.51 0446 3.66 0546 3.82 0040 1.00 0132 0.76 0222 0.56 0310 0.45 1012 1.37 1115 1.12 1210 0.85 0640 3.95 0729 4.01 0817 4.02 0905 3.97 1630 3.10 1734 3.43 1828 3.78 1259 0.62 1346 0.44 1430 0.34 1514 0.33 2232 1.54 2341 1.28

1916 4.09 2001 4.35 2047 4.53 2133 4.62

0537 4.76 0028 1.71 0130 1.34 0224 1.02 0316 0.77 0406 0.59 0455 0.51 1217 1.51 0638 5.06 0730 5.31 0818 5.48 0905 5.53 0952 5.50 1040 5.36 1825 4.28 1311 1.10 1400 0.74 1446 0.45 1531 0.24 1614 0.13 1658 0.14

1919 4.77 2008 5.24 2053 5.65 2138 5.99 2223 6.23 2310 6.31

Page 22 - Shift Miner Magazine, 23rd April 2012

Foggy mornings – storms then cooler Foggy mornings – storms then cooler After the heavy autumn rain the last two years the conditions in the Coalfields has finally dried out. Back to the normal drier autumn conditions. Minimums are much cooler with April recording a good degree below average. Biloela had 3-4 days of 10C minimums or less this April for the first time since 2010. Other towns south of Emerald had similar conditions.

But not for long! A trough in the west should arrive in the Central West Mon then cause storms in mainly the southern and central Coalfields on Tue. Heralded by some decent early mist and fog conditions. The storms should be followed by cooler dry air for Anzac Day. Mild to warm sunny days tofollow.

Boaties!

Great weekend conditions – see exclusive offshore winds below: Mon:WSW/WNW 2-3 ( mist/fog??) tending E/NNE 7-10 avo and ESE/NE 8-6 OFF Tue:W/NW 2-3 tending NNE 8-13 avo CIS and E/ENE/NE 7-11.

Afternoon storms squalls to 35 -45 knots inland could reach coast by the evening.

Wed:NW/W 12-18 gusting to 35-40 knots in squally storms

during the day. Winds tend rapidly SW 10-15 overnight.

Thr: SSW/SSE 15-12 tending SE/E 10-12 by the afternoon/ Squally showers offshore.

Fri: W/SW -3-4 tending E’ly 5-10 during the afternoon Close Inshore. W’ly 5-10 Offshore early tending E’ly briefly later.

Squally showers north of Shoalwater bay.

Sat/Sun: W/SW 3-4 close inshore tending E/NE 5-10 afternoon. Offshore SE/E/ENE 5-10 The SOI has taken a huge plunge. Last year at this time it was 25+ now it has plummeted to -8. The lowest value in over 2 years. Does this mean La Nina is over?

Light winds continue across the Coalfields. So cool mornings with warm sunny days to follow for the early half of the week.

Early mist and heavy dew could be a feature. This could be a pleasant start to May. Marine Lovers!

Lighter winds Mon increase from the SE 10-15 into Wed. They seem to ease Thr/Fri in the south but could be rather moderate about the Whitsundays with an easing trend into the weekend.

135th EDITION. 2012

OFF SHIFT

Melbourne - closer than you think

OFFSHIFT SPECIALS

MONTVILLE

Stay 3 re and r mo s t nigh ocomplimentary a receive 0 restaurant $10 ucher. vo

MELBOURNE may seem a city too far away for a weekend break but make the effort to go there and you will be well rewarded.

The city has a never ending list of options for visitors from the fever pitched excitement of the AFL at the MCG known simply as The G - to the chic inner city shopping and the trendy food haunts around Richmond.

Truth be told, every suburb close to the CBD has its own story and attractions, whether on the high street or in narrow laneways that will surprise you and make you wonder why you hadn’t done this before.

Shift Miner Magazine recently spent a long weekend living it up at the Hilton on the Park in cognito so we would get the real taste and feel of the city.

The Hilton is old school, down to the historic paintings of cricketers and sport stars in the lobby and the politeness and charm of the staff. It’s located across the road from The G and has train and tram stations right outside.

Arriving on the Thursday afternoon we enjoyed a glass or three of New Zealand and Australian whites in the expansive lobby that was buzzing with the suits and skirts of the corporate set also intent on grabbing a drink after work.

With the first Melbourne game of the 2012 AFL season across the road that evening there was no better way to experience Melbourne than to grab tickets online and get across to watch Richmond take on Carlton. With 73,000 people on hand the singing of the national anthem the goosebumps on our skin and was worth the price of admission alone.

The AFL is great if you have the ability to suspend the rational part of your brain and

imagine what it was like to be at the Colosseum watching the Christians being devoured by the lions. It’s more theatre than sport.

The man beside erupted into a scream at the referee over a decision when the ref was at least 200 metres way. “Do you think he heard you,� I asked. “Don’t care,� he said. “He’s a moron.� Fair enough.

And then later the same man was applauding the same decision by the same referee that was in favour of his team. This is raw Australian but the laughs continued all night. The games are family friendly (but more family friendly in the upper tiers).

For the record Richmond went down valiantly and half the crowd went home happy. We didn’t understand much of the game but it was a thrill to be there.

The rest of the trip was devoted to exploring the city’s food and fashion when not relaxing by the pool.

Shoppers will feel there just isn’t enough time to get to all the best places to hunt out a bargain in between coffees, meals and the occasional wine at a local cafe. Swanston Street, Chapel Street, Queen Victoria Market, Bourke Street Mall - try them all if your stamina and bank account allows.

Returning home you can do much worse than finding a cafe through word of mouth and a chat to the concierge. Indian before the footy and Vietnamese the next night. Both were the best we have ever had with prices that hurt a lot less than the beer prices at The G. To get the best from Melbourne stay in or near the CBD, grab a cheap fare on any one of the major airlines and fly into Tullamarine - not Avalon. Plan to be there when there are major sports events on. Take your appetite, spending money and sense of humour.

TREETOPS seaview CABINS or TREETOPS rainforest CABINS

Accommodation starts from $189 per night (min3nights)

Come and enjoy a private, romantic getaway in one of our tree houses and cabins in either of our two beautiful locations.

7E CAN ACCOMMODATE JUST THE TWO OF YOU OR THE WHOLE FAMILY -AX

&ROM PER COUPLE FOR TWO NIGHTS MIDWEEK ITlS THE BEST VALUE ON THE RANGE SAVE As a bonus, book the above special and you will receive s ! BOTTLE OF CHAMPAGNE AND CHOCOLATES ON ARRIVAL s )N ROOM BACON AND EGGS HAMPER BREAKFAST which you can prepare at your leisure s ! VOUCHER TO -ONTVILLE PIZZA RESTAURANT TOWARDS LUNCH DINNER OR A TAKE AWAY 4HAT MEANS YOU WILL RECEIVE A PACKAGE WORTH FOR JUST "OOK A THIRD NIGHT WITH "REAKFAST AND SAVE EVEN MORE $!4%3 4HIS SPECIAL IS AVAILABLE FROM NOW UNTIL THE TH $ECEMBER AND FROM THE TH *ANUARY UNTIL TH -ARCH

&2%%#!,, %MAIL INFO TREETOPSMONTVILLE COM AU 7EB WWW TREETOPSMONTVILLE COM AU ')&4 6/5#(%23 !,3/ !6!),!",%

3ALE CONDITIONS 0HOTOS ON THIS PAGE ARE GENERIC AND MAY NOT APPLY TO YOUR PARTICULAR TREEHOUSE OR CABIN 3PECIAL PRICES ARE NOT AVAILABLE FOR PUBLIC HOLIDAYS OR LONG WEEKENDS 4HIS OFFER IS NOT AVAILABLE IN CONJUNCTION WITH ANY OTHER SPECIAL OFFER /NCE BOOKED THE OFFER IS ONLY TRANSFERRABLE TO ANOTHER DATE AT THE DISCRETION OF MANAGEMENT

Page 23 - Shift Miner Magazine, 23rd April 2012

135th EDITION. 2012

Your Health

EXPERT ADVICE For those too busy or embarrassed to ask the important questions about their health Dear Tammy, I’ve just been told I have high blood pressure. I don’t feel unwell so should I be worried and does this mean I might have a heart attack?

Mine Man Dear Mine Man, Count yourself lucky that you have had the diagnosis. So many people go around their daily lives unaware they have high blood pressure until they have a heart attack or stroke. The only way to find out if your blood pressure is high is by having it checked by your GP, so good on you for having a regular check-up.

If you weren’t already aware, blood pressure is the pressure of the blood in the arteries as it is pumped around the body by the heart. Blood pressure is recorded as two numbers (120/80).

The higher number indicates the pressure in the arteries as the heart squeezes blood out during each beat.

This is called the systolic blood pressure. The lower number indicates the pressure as the heart relaxes before the next beat. This is called the diastolic blood pressure.

Normal blood pressure is usually recorded as 120/80 – this is what we should all aim for. If, however, your blood pressure comes in above 140/90, this shows your heart is working harder to do the same job.

And yes, if left untreated, this can lead to serious health problems such as stroke, heart attack, heart failure or kidney disease.

Not surprisingly, the major causes of high blood pressure are lifestyle related!

So if you are overweight, drink, smoke, don’t exercise regularly, eat a diet high in salt and you can’t remember the last time you ate a piece of fruit, it’s time for you to put in the effort to bring your levels back down. Your lifestyle can have a huge influence!

If you smoke, quit – it’s just not worth it.

Reduce your salt intake – use herbs to add flavour to foods instead.

Get your weight down to a health number.

Limit your alcohol intake.

Exercise regularly (at least 30 minutes on most days) but don’t lift heavy weights.

Eat a diet high in vegetables, fruits and legumes (beans and peas) and wholegrain foods like wholemeal bread and brown rice.

Until next time, Stay healthy, stay informed.

Tammy Farrell is a registered nurse, nutritionist and author of ‘The Real Man’s Toolbox – A DIY Health Manual for Men’. Tammy grew up in the Hunter Valley with two brothers in the local coal mines. In 2007, she started to give health talks in the Hunter, and that’s when she began compiling the book, helping hundreds of men answer questions about their bodies.

Spaghetti Marinara Serves 4 This is a delicious, fullÀDYRXUHG PHDO WKDW FDQ EH PDGH ZLWK DOO W\SHV RI VHDIRRG DQG FDQ EH FKDQJHG GHSHQGLQJ RQ WKH VHDIRRG WDVWHV RI WKRVH HDWLQJ WKH GLVK

INGREDIENTS: J RI PL[HG UDZ VHDIRRG UHG FDSVLFXP GLFHG EURZQ RQLRQ ÂżQHO\ FKRSSHG JDUOLF FORYHV FUXVKHG WEVS WRPDWR SDVWH J FDQ RI FUXVKHG WRPDWRHV FXS ZDWHU J VSDJKHWWL FRRNHG DO GHQWH WEVS RLO 6KDYHG RU JUDWHG SDUPHVDQ FKHHVH DQG SDUVOH\ WR VHUYH

SDVWH FUXVKHG WRPDWRHV DQG ZDWHU EULQJ WR D VLPPHU $GG WKH VHDIRRG VWLUULQJ WLOO FRDWHG ZLWK WKH VDXFH WKHQ FRYHU ZLWK D OLG DQG FRRN IRU PLQXWHV RU XQWLO WKH VHDIRRG LV FRRNHG /RZHU KHDW WR PHGLXP WKHQ DGG WKH FRRNHG VSDJKHWWL WR WKH IU\ SDQ DQG PL[ WKURXJK 6HUYH VSULQNOHG ZLWK SDUPHVDQ DQG FKRSSHG SDUVOH\ Tip: You can use a standard marinara mix from your local VXSHUPDUNHW RU ÂżVK PRQJHU

METHOD: 3HHO FKRS DQG FOHDQ VHDIRRG +HDW RLO LQ IU\SDQ RYHU KLJK KHDW $GG JDUOLF FDSVLFXP DQG RQLRQ WR WKH IU\SDQ DQG VDXWp XQWLO OLJKW EURZQ $GG WRPDWR

Zest Eatery Open 4.00pm to 8.00pm daily 1300 622 222 themac.com.au CALLIOPE | COPPABELLA | DYSART | MIDDLEMOUNT | MORANBAH | NEBO

Page 24 - Shift Miner Magazine, 23rd April 2012

Spaghetti Marinara Shift April2012 .indd 1

15/04/2012 9:32:37 AM

135th EDITION. 2012

MONEY MATTERS The Gold Coast

Russian roulette on property market?

IT is a truth universally acknowledged that property market will always move in cycles.

“What is not certain is when, where and by how much,” says the April report by valuers Herron Todd White, which takes an independent look at the property market.

“If we all knew that, life for the property buyer/seller would be a bed of roses.”

And the most volatile markets in Queensland at the moment are the Sunshine Coast, the Gold Coast and the Fraser Coast.

Real estate commentator and journalist

Terry Ryder said these areas are driven by tourism and retirement.

“There have been too many developers and too many high-rises and these have been the worst investment performers in Queensland,” he said.

“Capital growth returns have been very poor. These areas have been outperformed by Toowoomba, Gladstone, Mackay, where there is employment from the resources sector.”

The Herron Todd White report backs this sentiment.

Paying too much Tax?

Find out how to own an Investment Property from $11 Dollars per day by Redirecting your Weekly Tax

at our Gladstone Property Seminar Free Developer Direct Gladstone Property Seminar 30 April 2012 Gladstone Entertainment Centre - Play House

Book on 1300 850 252

All while Saving Tax and

GETTING RID OF PERSONAL DEBT

Build your Property Portfolio Today...

Call 1300 850 252 to Book your seats today!

Page 26 - Shift Miner Magazine, 23rd April 2012

Being able to spot trends and changes in the market direction on the Gold Coast is as much a black art as it is a science, says the report.

“The Gold Coast has one of the more diverse ranges of property types in Australia as well as one of the most volatile markets.”

So when the times are good, they are great, and when times are bad, they are extremely grim - which makes it very difficult to know when to strike.

At the moment, the high rise unit market in Southport, Surfers Paradise and Broadbeach is very depressed, particularly for new and and near new stock.

The HTW reports warns buyers to be cautious about buying straight off a plan during a property boom, as a major project can take five years from conception to completion.

Four or five years down the track at settlement, there may be adverse consequences if the market has taken a turn for the worse, which is has done at the moment.

So don’t buy in the here and now, but look into the future; this does come with its own problems.

“The further into the future you have to look, the more uncertain you will become!”

There are some activities that can give a would-be punter into looming changes in the market, and one of these is to watch for

any signs that land is being developed.

This includes the construction of roads and infrastructure, which is an indication that there will be a looming increase in the market.

Sunshine Coast The Sunshine Coast’s residential market, which has been in decline for the past four years, is still a tough one, and in March the Herron Todd White report asked when will the bottom be felt?

It is too early to tell if we are seeing the bottom, the report says, but there is a glimmer of hope.

“A bit more of a positive vibe is present as people have become increasingly more likely to do things with a bit more confidence, sensing the bottom of the market must be close.”

Herron Todd White valuation staff are also starting to see more sales happening.

“Properties are starting to move again.

The big caveat is that it is only for properties where there has been a decline in values and the buyers are getting perceived bargains.”

There is still a high level of mortgagee possessions and there is a high level of supply for property in general.

However, the increased volume of sales is helping to absorb a number of pressured vendors and properties, allowing them to exit the market.

Find out how to buy an Investment Property from $11.00 per Day! Don’t send all your WEEKLY TAX to Canberra, come to our Developer Direct Property Seminar on April 30 and we’ll show you how to redirect that tax into buying Investment Properties.

This will be the best 90 minutes you have ever spent to find out how to secure your retirement now using your current Tax. Deal Direct with the Developer and find out how to own these high demand Family Homes in strong growth corridors with huge rental demand....want passive income? Then become a Landlord today for less than $11.00 per day.

WHY SHOULD YOU COME TO A DEVELOPER DIRECT SEMINAR! Because you’ll find out how to: Deal Direct with the Developer Reduce your Debt Minimise your Tax Redirect your Tax to buy Investment Properties

ts 52 e k tic 50 2 r u yo 300 8 2 k Boo on 1 il 201 r now 30 Ap for

Gladstone Property Seminar 30unable Aprilto2012, Seats are Limited If your attend the Gladstone Seminar,

Call 1300 850 252 to book a free One on One In-Home Appointment with one of our Consultants.

Don’t miss this Gladstone Seminar on Monday night 30 April 2012. Normally a $50 value..! Call 1300 850 252 now for you & your partners COMPLIMENTARY TICKETS

135th EDITION. 2012

MONEY MATTERS

Sleepless in Moranbah? Then invest afield So you like a good night’s sleep? Then investing in Moranbah real estate is probably not your thing and Toowoomba may be more in line with your portfolio.

That is the observation of Terry Ryder, a journalist and real estate commentator from hotspotting.com “Mining towns have the highest rental returns and capital growth, but they also have the highest level of risk,” he explained.

“You only have to look at BMA’s announcement that it is closing Norwich Park mine, and its stance about signing new leases at Moranbah because rents were too high.”

These events show just how precarious it can be if you invest in a town that relies on just one industry, such as Moranbah, Dysart and Blackwater.

If you want to benefit from the resources boom, then towns that service the resources industry, but are not solely reliant on it, are a better bet.

“Mackay, Gladstone and Toowoomba are safer because they are more diverse and they also have good, steady growth,” Mr Ryder said.

“They are less risky and good performers.”

Towns outside of Toowoomba, including Chinchilla, Miles and Roma, are getting

a boost from the resources sector and are a bit more risky, he said.

“Chinchilla had a surge on the back of the construction of its power station a few years ago, but real estate has come back since then.

“But now it is on a surge again on the back of coal seam gas. Although it is more an agricultural town, it is a risk because of the surge in resources.”

Roma is a bit more of a solid performer because it is a farming town with resources.

“It all depends on your risk profile. If you had bought in Moranbah four or five years ago, you’d now be getting up to 50 per cent returns on your investment and would be feeling pretty happy. But it could also go the other way, which is happening now.”

However, investing in any of these areas is far better than the Sunshine, Gold or Fraser Coasts, which have been the worst investment performers in Queensland, he added.

And don’t forget Rockhampton - a solid performer that gets a bit of a spin-off from the resources sector.

“It’s a good, solid regional centre and the economy is more to do with the farming industry and a bit of tourism.”

Here’s the rundown from the latest report from valuers Herron Tood White

Toowoomba New home construction has been slow since January 2011, according to the Herron Todd White April report.

“Local builders are now looking at western towns in the Surat Basin for work as competition for new home construction work in Toowoomba increases.”

Speculative house and land developers have been attracted to satellite areas within a 20km vicinity of Toowoomba’s centre - including Kingsthorpe, Gowie Junction, Cambooya and Helidon, however these have been slow in the past 12-18 months despite speculation.

Developers are constructing new, 4 bedroom, 2-bathroom dwellings that are bought off the plan by interstate investors based on rental return, with contract prices in excess of what locals are prepared to pay.

Developers are attracted to these areas giving their comparatively low land costs, however the rental market would not appear to be able to support the expected level of returns given the strong supply of this product and comparatively low demand.

Gladstone

Historically, Gladstone’s property market has cycles of high demand with the commencement of large projects during construction. When these projects are finished, this is then followed by by periods of lower demand.

Modern residential areas tend to be popular in either scenario, as they make up the majority of buyers, and in a rising market investors are looking to purchase modern properties that are easy to maintain.

Rockhampton Gladstone’s pain is Rocky’s gain - due to the large industrial projects under construction in Gladstone, recent signs of recovery have also become evident in residential areas which are still easily accessible to Gladstone.

“Investors who have been priced out of the Gladstone market are looking towards Gracemere (10km south of Rockhampton) and suburbs located south of the Fitzroy River as an affordable alternative.

Investors have been a driving force in the Rockhampton market for a number of years due to consistent low vacancy rates throughout the region.

Transparency You Can See* *When audited by the CAB

M A G A Z I N E

www.shiftminer.com Proudly Audited by

For more information visit www.auditbureau.org.au

Page 27 - Shift Miner Magazine, 23rd April 2012

135th EDITION. 2012

MONEY MATTERS

Piggy Bank 101: Money basics for kids ONE of the most valuable skills you can pass on to your children is good money management. Showing kids the basic steps, such as how to budget and shop around for the best price, will establish good money habits for life.

The federal government’s Money Smart website provides these tips on teaching your kids to be savvy about how they earn, spend and save their money.

Start early It’s never too early to start teaching your kids about money. Children can learn how to save coins in a piggy bank before they understand how to count the right change.

Even very young children, including preschoolers, can learn the value of money and saving for small goals.

Try showing them how much $2 or $5 can buy in the supermarket. Talk to them about the difference between the things they need and the things they want.

These fundamental financial and life skills will serve them through to adulthood.

Encourage saving Find out what your children want to buy.

Then help them think about ways they could earn pocket money and save for the item: toys and games if they are young; or books, movies or a special event if they are older.

Discuss how much they will need to set aside from their pocket money or their pay each week to reach their target. Encourage your children to stay on track by offering to add to their savings if they achieve a particular savings goal.

• •

Pocket money Pocket money is a great way to teach children that money has to be earned - it doesn’t magically appear from ATMs. Set age-appropriate tasks for your children like helping with the gardening, washing up or putting the bins out.

Pay them a small amount like $1 for each job they do. Draw up a job chart to let your kids tick off their tasks.

Budget time Learning to budget is an important skill.

Teach your kids how to budget by: • Giving them a combination of notes and

Page 28 - Shift Miner Magazine, 23rd April 2012

•

•

coins in their pocket money. This teaches them how to handle different sums of money, and they can immediately put a few coins or notes aside for saving.

Showing them how to read household bills and bank statements.

Sending your older kids to the grocery shop with a shopping list and a fixed sum of money. Tell them that they need to buy everything on the list, and can save any money left over. They will need to consider branded products, bulk buying and even where to shop.

Letting them pay for small expenses and asking them to check they get the right change at the checkout.

Giving them a fixed amount of spending money for family holidays. Show them how much they can afford to spend each day to avoid running out of money before the holiday ends.

Part time job Teenagers can benefit from having a casual job. It provides valuable experience in finding and applying for a job, and teaches them the responsibilities involved with employment. Having a job also gives your child an

independent source of income.

Get your child to draw up a spending budget for their wages, allocating part of the money to spending and part of it to saving. Running out of money before pay day is a great lesson in the value of sticking to a budget.

Encourage them to set specific and realistic long-term goals and to save some of their pay each week towards their goals.

Teaching your kids how to manage money from an early age provides valuable skills for budgeting and saving, and establishes sensible money habits that will stay with them for life.

For more information and tips go to the federal government’s Money Smart website: www. moneysmart.gov.au

Centre / Service Sta

Capricorn Coast

Lammermoor Convenience Lammermoor Convenience Centre / Service Centre / Service Station Station

Capricorn Capricorn CoastCoast

150 Scenic Hwy, Cooee Bay, QLD

Purchase this perfectly positioned property as an investment for the future, with a great income generated by servicing the residential area and capturing the boaties as they head out for a day fishing Hwy, or relaxing on Great Keppel Island.

150 Scenic Cooee Bay, QLD Purchase this perfectly positioned property as an investment for t 150 Scenic Hwy, Cooee Bay, QLD of highby density island views. r 2,000sqm* income servicing the with residential area and capturing Purchase this perfectly positioned property asgenerated an investment for /R2 theland future, with a great KHDG RXW IRU D GD\ ÄžVKLQJ RU UHOD[LQJ RQ *UHDW .HSSHO ,VODQG income generated by servicing the residential area and capturing the boaties as they Lucky 7 convenience store servicing a good r 150 Scenic Hwy, Cooee Bay, QLD KHDG RXW IRU D GD\ ÄžVKLQJ RU UHOD[LQJ RQ *UHDW .HSSHO ,VODQG catchment of perfectly local buyers.

Purchase this positioned property as an investment for the futu ĂŚ VTP RI KLJK GHQVLW\ 5 ODQG ZLWK LVODQG YLHZV income generated servicing residential tothe great margins.area and capturing the bo r Increasing turn-overby adding ĂŚ

KHDG RXW IRU D GD\ ÄžVKLQJ RU UHOD[LQJ RQ *UHDW .HSSHO ,VODQG VTP RI KLJK GHQVLW\ 5 ODQG ZLWK LVODQG YLHZV

ĂŚ

/XFN\ FRQYHQLHQFH VWRUH VHUYLFLQJ D JRRG FDWFKPHQW RI ORFDO EX\HUV

ĂŚ

r ĂŚ from rented areas- office and Marine work shop. ĂŚ ,QFUHDVLQJ WXUQ RYHU DGGLQJ WR JUHDW PDUJLQV VTP RI KLJK GHQVLW\ 5 ODQG ZLWK LVODQG YLHZV r Income ,QFUHDVLQJ WXUQ RYHU DGGLQJ WR JUHDW PDUJLQV

ĂŚ

Call today to receive all the &XUUHQWO\ UXQ XQGHU PDQDJHPHQW

ĂŚ

,QFRPH IURP UHQWHG DUHDV RÄ FH DQG 0DULQH ZRUN VKRS ĂŚ &XUUHQWO\ UXQ XQGHU PDQDJHPHQW

ĂŚ Currently /XFN\ FRQYHQLHQFH VWRUH VHUYLFLQJ D JRRG FDWFKPHQW RI OR run under management.

/XFN\ FRQYHQLHQFH VWRUH VHUYLFLQJ D JRRG FDWFKPHQW RI ORFDO EX ĂŚ ĂŚ &XUUHQWO\ UXQ XQGHU PDQDJHPHQW

ĂŚ ,QFRPH IURP UHQWHG DUHDV RÄ FH DQG 0DULQH ZRUN VKRS ,QFUHDVLQJ WXUQ RYHU DGGLQJ WR JUHDW PDUJLQV ĂŚ information you need for this great investment. &DOO WRGD\ WR UHFHLYH DOO WKH LQIRUPDWLRQ \RX QHHG IRU WKLV JUHDW LQY &DOO WRGD\ WR UHFHLYH DOO WKH LQIRUPDWLRQ \RX QHHG IRU WKLV JUHDW LQYHVWPHQW ĂŚ ,QFRPH IURP UHQWHG DUHDV RÄ FH DQG 0DULQH ZRUN VKRS Price $2,000,000 $2,000,000 + SAV Price Gst &DOO WRGD\ WR UHFHLYH DOO WKH LQIRUPDWLRQ \RX QHHG IRU WKLV JUHDW LQYHVWPH Price $2,000,000 + Gst

Private Sale

Neale Crow 0418 886 162

neale.crow@au.knightfrank.com

Private Sale Price $2,000,000 + Gst

Neale CrowRockhampton 0418 886 162 Private Sale Knight Frank neale.crow@au.knightfrank.com 07 4921 2347 Neale Crow 0418 886 162

KnightFrank.com.au/220710

150 Scenic Hwy, Cooee Bay, QLD

KnightFrank.com.au/220710 neale.crow@au.knightfrank.com

Knight Frank Rockhampton 07 4921 2347

Knight Frank Rockhampton 07EXCLUSIVE 4921 2347

KnightFrank.com.au/220710

Purchase this perfectly positioned property as an investment for the future, with a great income generated by servicing the residential area and capturing the boaties as they SUNSHINE COAST INVESTMENT KHDG RXW IRU D GD\ ÄžVKLQJ RU UHOD[LQJ RQ *UHDW .HSSHO ,VODQG ĂŚ

PROPERTY WITH A 3 YEAR RENTAL GUARANTEE VTP RI KLJK GHQVLW\ 5 ODQG ZLWK LVODQG YLHZV

ĂŚ

Rent ready packages from $385,000 /XFN\ FRQYHQLHQFH VWRUH VHUYLFLQJ D JRRG FDWFKPHQW RI ORFDO EX\HUV

ĂŚ Let other ,QFUHDVLQJ WXUQ RYHU DGGLQJ WR JUHDW PDUJLQV

people pay

150 Scenic Hwy, Cooee Bay, QLD

ĂŚ for your &XUUHQWO\ UXQ XQGHU PDQDJHPHQW

investment ĂŚ ,QFRPH IURP UHQWHG DUHDV RÄ FH DQG 0DULQH ZRUN VKRS Purchase this perfectly positioned property

as an investment for the future, with a great &DOO WRGD\ WR UHFHLYH DOO WKH LQIRUPDWLRQ \RX QHHG IRU WKLV JUHDW LQYHVWPHQW income generated by servicing the residential area and capturing the boaties as they You Price $2,000,000 + Gst Taxman KHDG RXW IRU D GD\ ÄžVKLQJ RU UHOD[LQJ RQ *UHDW .HSSHO ,VODQG IF YOU EARN $60,000 A YEAR OR MORE AND Private Tennant Sale

WANT TO PAY LESS TAX THEN READ ON Dwyer Property Investments, established

by Dwyer Neale Crow 0418 886 162 Knight Frank Rockhampton 07 4921 neale.crow@au.knightfrank.com Quality Homes – builders for2347 26 years – have rent Ì VTP RI KLJK GHQVLW\ 5 ODQG ZLWK LVODQG YLHZV KnightFrank.com.au/220710 ready investment packages available now. * approx

ĂŚ

EXCLUSIVE /XFN\ FRQYHQLHQFH VWRUH VHUYLFLQJ D JRRG FDWFKPHQW RI ORFDO EX\HUV s For under $100 per week

ĂŚ

,QFUHDVLQJ WXUQ RYHU DGGLQJ WR JUHDW PDUJLQV s We are the builders = savings and security

ĂŚ

&XUUHQWO\ UXQ XQGHU PDQDJHPHQW s $10,000 Qld Govt. builders boost available until

ĂŚ

,QFRPH IURP UHQWHG DUHDV RÄ FH DQG 0DULQH ZRUN VKRS PAY LESS TAX NOW AND SECURE YOUR FUTURE

s Homes from Brisbane to Sunshine Coast s No cash investment needed April 30th

For more information call Nev on 0439 727 642 or visit &DOO WRGD\ WR UHFHLYH DOO WKH LQIRUPDWLRQ \RX QHHG IRU WKLV JUHDW LQYHVWPHQW www.dwyerpropertyinvestments.com.au

Price $2,000,000 + Gst

Private Sale

We build your future

Neale Crow 0418 886 162

neale.crow@au.knightfrank.com

Knight Frank Rockhampton 07 4921 2347

EXCLUSIVE

* approx

135th EDITION. 2012

MONEY MATTERS MONEY TIPS FROM THE EXPERTS

Property hot spots for investors FOLLLOWING the recent Queensland state election there is now a wave of optimism and enthusiasm sweeping the state with an anticipated increase in the interstate and overseas migration.

Our office has been asked to identify the “Property Hot Spots” for investment. The answer depends on whether you are looking short term or long term investment.

There are several short term “Hot Spots” in “resource boom” areas, but they are generally unstable.

Accommodation shortages generally occur during the construction stage of new mines, power stations, L.N.G plants etc which often take several thousand persons to construct but only hundreds to operate.

These short term booms are usually followed by a “bust”.

A core part of our investment policy is not to buy and sell, but buy and accumulate. A target for many of our clients is to retire debt free owning six high quality

residential properties in solid sustainable growth areas.

Two such areas we have identified are North Lakes on Brisbane’s north side and Brightwater in the heart of the Sunshine Coast.

The trend towards fly in / fly out (FIFO) is here to stay and will have an impact on property markets. Most FIFO personnel will enjoy an income that will allow them to reside in high quality areas, but they will want easy access to airports. The other essentials are quality education, shopping centres, recreation facilities and health care. Both North Lakes and Brightwater tick all the boxes.

North Lakes when completed will have a population of 20,000. The population is currently approx. 15,000, with the entire estate completed in approx. 3 years. During the early stages a magnificent golf course was created. It is regarded as one of the very best in Australia. The West-

Page 30 - Shift Miner Magazine, 23rd April 2012

field Shopping centre is fabulous and the education facilities are second to none.

Recently commenced are a huge Ikea outlet and Masters Hardware store. These alone will create employment for approx.

2,000 people.

Brightwater (between Buderim and Mooloolaba) is a relative new estate with man-made lakes, tavern, shopping centre, child care facilities and state of the art primary school that opened this year.

My exclusive builder Mancorp Quality Homes is currently building the latest Mater Prize Home in the estate. This central part of the Sunshine Coast is undergoing a huge expansion. Apart from the

plans to spend $250M expanding the local airport to cater to FIFO and international flights, the health care industry is receiving a huge boost.

The Ramsay Private Hospital is now under construction and by late 2013 this 200 bed hospital will have 700 permanent employees. Next door the Sunshine Coast University Hospital is to start next year and is due for completion by 2016 with 450 beds and expanding to 738 beds in 2021. There will be 3,150 permanent jobs once completed.

Whilst unsustainable house prices and rents do occur in short term “Hot Spots” our clients look for long term sustainable growth.

If you have further questions on investment “Hot Spots”, or any other questions regarding property investment, google Steve Taylor.

DISPLAY APARTMENTS NOW OPEN

SECURE A RIVERFRONT APARTMENT

THAT IS POSITIVELY GEARED

*

A selection of Promenade Hamilton Apartments in Brisbane are cashflow positive*, and they’re selling fast!

As a savvy investor you can’t go past this, plus: Guaranteed rental return* with above average yield Up to 85% higher than average rents in Hamilton+ Record low rental vacancy rates Prime location & lifestyle benefits include: Ideal prime riverfront location Vibrant mix of dining, shopping & entertainment amenities 6km to Brisbane CBD 10km to domestic & international airports Close to public transport & schools

LIMITED OPPORTUNITY ON SELECT APARTMENTS SECURE YOUR FUTURE TODAY! *Conditions apply, refer to website, available on select apartments only

+

Colliers Report 2011

PROMENADE AT P O R T S I D E W H A R F

Portside Wharf Sales & Information Centre Open daily 10am-4pm | 39 Hercules Street Hamilton QLD 4007 | Phone 07 3630 1666 | portsidewharf.com.au

Attention: Gold Coast “Fly in” & “Fly Out” Customers

See Volkswagen’s award winning dealer of the year for an award winning price on over 50 vehicles in stock. #

Volkswagen Amarok available now.

JiZ d[ i]Z NZVg · )m) 6jhigVa^V BV\Vo^cZ '%&&# )%%Cb W^"ijgWd Y^ZhZa Zc\^cZ# &!%%%`bh dc V h^c\aZ iVc` · ^c VXXdgYVcXZ l^i] 69G -&$%%#

Mention Shift Miner Magazine and receive FREE Window Tint.

Ndjg AdXVa <daY 8dVhi 9ZVaZg

Gold Coast Volkswagen Commercial Centre

9A Indy Court, Nerang (Take exit 73 on the M1 motorway) 1005697 Phone: 1300 858 168 www.goldcoastvolkswagen.com.au

#Northern Region for 2011. 29407B