SHIFT MINER The Queensland mining community’s best source of local news
Monday 26th September 121st Edition 2011
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COAL KINGS Indians & Chinese rule the Galilee INDIAN and Chinese companies will build and run the mines, railways and ports needed to export the huge coal reserves in the Galilee Basin - in a significant shift in the landscape of the Australian mining sector. In the latest buyout, Gina Rinehart has announced Hancock Coal will sell most of its assets to Indian infrastructure giant the GVK Group. GVK will take over the reins later this month, paying $1.6 billion for the threemine, rail and port project. Hancock Coal will stay on as a minority - 21 per cent - shareholder in the Alpha (Tad’s Corner) and Alpha West (Paul’s Corner) projects. GVK will completely take over the Kevin’s Corner mine as well as rail and port facilities. It joins another Indian company, Adani, as the major players in the Galilee Basin; collectively their projects account for almost 16 billion tonnes of thermal coal in the region. Clive Palmer’s Waratah Coal project sits on another 3.5 billion tonnes. Mr Palmer plans to use Chinese money to develop that resource, with the entire output of the mine to be shipped to China. The only Australian player left in the Galilee arena is Bandanna Energy, which has partnered with US company AMCI to develop its 1.2 billion tonne resource.
Ladder Mine & farm ready in Emerald Âť page 11 Around Town Spring has sprung in Blackwater Âť page 15
What’s been found at South Walker Creek mine?    Page 12
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Off Shift How to avoid hangovers Âť page 22 Money Matters The state of Rocky real estate Âť page 27
Why should thousands of Australians lose their jobs if it makes no difference to global greenhouse emissions? For every tonne of coal Australia doesn’t export because of the carbon tax, an extra tonne will be produced by another country.
The Australian Coal Industry supports action on climate change. However the Greens and Government already know their carbon tax will cost thousands of jobs. They also know sacrificing those jobs will make no difference to global emissions from coal.
That’s because Australia produces less than 6% of world coal output, so the countries we currently export to will simply buy coal from other exporters like Indonesia and South Africa instead.
The Australian Coal Industry is already playing its part in reducing global emissions. But the carbon tax debate is led too much by ideology, without enough thought to workers and the real world effect on emissions.
So there will be no reduction in global coal usage or emissions.
Australia deserves a more rational, responsible and effective approach to carbon pricing.
Let’s cut emissions, not jobs. Authorised by R. Hillman, Australian Coal Association, Level 2, 40 Macquarie Street, Barton, Canberra ACT ACA0005/SM
CONTENTS 121st EDITION. 2011
24
20
FROM THE EDITOR
BAIT SHOP BANTER CORIANDER CHICKEN
CRICKET SEASON
Marinated Coriander MINER’S TRADER Chicken
Serves 4
18
As the weather warms up we are starting to smell the scent of Summer wafting from over the neighbour’s fence. Yes, it’s the smell of the backyard barbeque! Instead of steaks and sausages try something a little different with this Coriander Chicken recipe. Marinating is easy and then simply grill it on the barbeque to perfection. An easy summer meal for all the family to enjoy.
Place the chicken in a bowl with the coriander, garlic, salt, pepper, and olive oil. Mix together ensuring the chicken is coated well. Leave the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes.
THREE months ago, a man died when he became caught in a conveyor belt at the Guerassimoff Road quarry site at Fisherman’s Landing. His death for family, friends and co-workers would still be a new reality that they are learning to cope with day by day. But for others who work in mining and industry, his death has already slipped away from front page news to something that is a distant memory now - something you read about a while back and had almost forgotten. Last week, hundreds of people gathered in Mount Isa to remember miners who have died on the job. It has now been 90 years since the state’s worst mining disaster - the coal dust explosion at Mount Mulligan mine which killed 75 workers.
It has been many years since Queensland has experienced a mining disaster of that magnitude. New Zealand is not so fortunate, the Pike River coal mine explosions last year killed 29 people, including two Queenslanders. Mining and quarrying deaths are certainly on the decline in Queensland, and this state’s safety record is among the best in the world. But to become complacent or flippant about safety is always a risk when the likelihood of injury declines. Over the past three centuries, more than 1470 workers have died on mine and quarry sites in Queensland. Regardless of what safeguards are in place, mining is inevitably dangerous work. Don’t become a statistic.
Alex Graham
Numbers You REGULARS * Numbers You Numbers You Can Count On 4 Employee warning * 16 * STUFF TO THE EDITOR
NEWS
22
METHOD:
Can Count On Can Count On Your safety obligations by law *When audited by the CAB Numbers You Preheat the grill on the barbeque to high. Cook the chicken basting with left over marinade until lightly golden brown and cooked all the way through. *When Serve with freshly steamedaudited rice or your salad of choice.
17 FRANK’S LOVE ADVICE audited * by the CAB by the *When CAB On 5 Fatigue and Canyou Count INGREDIENTS:
750g Chicken breast or thigh
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9 Mining matters 2 cloves of garlic, crushed Juice of one lemon Salt and pepper to taste
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News
121st EDITION. 2011
Shock & anger at Gladstone fishing ban
SICK CATCH: Fish with lesions and cloudy eyes have shut down the Gladstone harbour to fishing
A fishing ban in the Gladstone harbour could trigger the withdrawal of community support for heavy industry, according to the region’s Mayor Gail Sellers. Last week the harbour was closed to fishing for three weeks because of health concerns sparked by catches of diseased fish with cloudy eyes and lesions. In a speech to council, Ms Sellers said while residents had long been accepting of industry, that goodwill could now be destroyed. “On a daily basis our community is faced with industry, increasing impacts on roads and more significantly, housing shortages
and rental increases,� she said. “While the harbour and the ability to take the boat out, relax and catch a few fish was available to them, they were accepting, but now this is gone.� “It is extremely important to recognise that this event could be the one that takes away Gladstone’s most important asset and that is acceptance of industry.� While there is no evidence so far to link heavy industry with the diseased fish, major dredging works are underway in the harbour. The timing of the two events has many residents speculating it cannot be coincidental, and the issue is escalating into a public relations nightmare for industry and the state government. In an era of social media, residents are venting their frustrations en masse and on line. “Don’t move to Gladstone people we are all trying to get out of this toxic, overpriced, overcrowded and now super dangerous and unhealthy mess,� wrote one resident on The Courier Mail’s website. “Sad. Imagine what it’ll be like once the CSG factories start springing up around
Curtis Island,� wrote another. Greg O’Reilly owns Pat’s Tackle World in Gladstone, and said the closure came as a shock. “The mood among my customers is very, very angry,� he said. “These people are local, they have been fishing their whole life and it really is their harbour but they feel it is being hijacked by industry.� The Capricorn Conservation Council (CCC) has long been opposed to the scale of development involved in the LNG projects and its impact on the environment. The CCC’s Mick McCabe said he was not surprised the closure had sparked a volatile and vocal backlash from residents - not just environmentalists. “I think if people can’t fish for six months you’ll get quite a reaction,� he said. Aside from dredging works and industrial pollution, another possible cause could be the summer floods which saw more than a million megalitres of fresh water flow into the harbour. Mr McCabe said locals needed to know the cause, and has also called on the Port Curtis Integrated Monitoring Program, a
WHAT THEY’RE SAYING
“We just want to know what is wrong, who caused it, and what needs to be done to fix it.� Greg O’Reilly Pat’s Tackle World owner “It is extremely important to recognise that this event could be the one that takes away Gladstone’s most important asset - and that is acceptance of industry.� Gail Sellers Gladstone Regional Mayor “Repeated requests for more up to date information, such as the promised February 2011 report on the health of sea-grass beds, have gone unanswered.� Mick McCabe Capricorn Conservation Council “It is certainly very damaging to the Gladstone Ports Corporation to have these assumptions made when we can see there is absolutely no link between dredging and diseased fish in the Gladstone harbour.� Leo Zussino Gladstone Ports Corporation
Legal warning for gas workers GAS workers are being warned that individuals can be prosecuted for safety breaches they may think are the responsibility of their employer. Under the Petroleum and Gas Act 2004, employees as well as senior management and company directors can be investigated and prosecuted for breaches of duty. Partner at Hemming Hart Lawyers Jonathan Hadley said a recent case in Queensland has seen the Commissioner for Mine Safety and Health start proceedings against three workers - but no charges were
made against the company or its directors. At the time, the three men held positions of rig manager, driller and operations manager of the company. “The operations manager is said, for example, to have failed to comply with safety procedures under the safety management plan for the site on the basis that a caterpillar material handler was not accompanied by operating instructions,� said Mr Hadley. “Particulars of another charge state that the safety management plan did not include details of the description of the
location of the plant and its operations.� “If the former operations manager is found guilty of all five charges brought against him, he faces a total maximum fine of $1,350,00 jail time and the risk of a recorded conviction.�
In the case of the rig manager, the charges against him include that he failed to ensure that the driller was given appropriate induction training. Mr Hadley said it was vital that workers understood what their safety obligations were.
“If the former operations manager is found guilty of all five charges brought against him, he faces a total maximum fine of $1,350,00 jail time and the risk of a recorded conviction.�
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Page 4 - Shift Miner Magazine, 26th September 2011
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News
121st EDITION. 2011
FROM PAGE 1
How GVK took the Galilee reins Foreign investment is not a new concept in Australian mining; in fact, the industry has relied on it since its infancy. “In the 1850s, money coming in from Britain during the gold rush helped establish the resource industry,” said MineLife resource analyst Gavin Wendt. “We’ve always relied on foreign investment to get our developments happening, and this is just a continuation of that trend.” “What is different is that we have Indian and Chinese investment for the first time.” “This has never been part of the landscape before.” CFMEU mining general secretary Andrew Vickers agrees. “We are very used to dealing with multinational corporations in mining, whether they have head offices in Melbourne, San Francisco or London it doesn’t much matter.” “I think the biggest concern for Australia will be that this new round of Indian and Chinese based companies that are enter-
ing the resources market in a big way have a view that they can bring their own workers with them.” “That is how they do business in other parts of the world.” Earlier this year, the federal government changed the migration rules for companies running mega mining projects. Now, projects with a capital expenditure of $2 billion and a peak workforce of 1500 can apply for overseas workers through new Enterprise Migration Agreements (EMAs). Adani, GVK and Waratah Coal have all flagged plans to import foreign workers for their Galilee projects. Mr Vickers said that was outrageous. “I just hope our government doesn’t allow these companies to run roughshod over them like they do in developing countries,” he said. “But I have very real fears that will happen because we have an appalling history of succumbing to demands from overseas companies.”
FAST NEWS Blasting best practice seminars
SOLD OS: Gina Rinehart’s Galilee Basin projects now lie in the hands of the GVK Group
But Mr Wendt said the sale of Hancock Coal’s assets to GVK was a win for all involved. “It’s a win for Gina because it fills up her bank balance, it’s a win for GVK because they will make a lot of money but it’s also a win for Queensland because it means those resources are going to get developed,” he said. Mr Wednt said there was an enormous amount of associated infrastructure - like a railway - needed for the Galilee project to get off the ground. “GVK is the right company for this job, they have a tremendous amount of experience in what they do.” “They are the biggest infrastructure group in India, I am blown away by the number of pies they have their fingers in.”
GVK to build shared Galilee railway? INDIAN infrastructure company GVK is well ahead in the race to develop a railway from the Galilee Basin to port, and has now called for expressions of interest from other coal companies to use its line. Until recently, the three major developers in the region have all insisted on building their own lines to the Abbot Point coal terminal near Bowen. But with GVK formally announcing its takeover of Hancock Coal, it has wasted no time trying to sort out associated infrastructure issues. GVK vice chairman Sanjay Reddy told media that the company had also applied
for extra loading capacity at the port and was keen to maximise the use of its rail line. “We are at least two years ahead of the other projects in terms of our EIS, but we would like to do this in an open fashion,” he said. “We would like this to be an open-access facility.” Mr Reddy said $10 billion would be
needed for stage one of the three-mine, rail and port project. He said between 25 and 30 per cent of the funding would come from equity, with the remainder from debt. Mr Reddy said GVK was still negotiating with 38 landowners in the rail corridor, but almost all had agreed in principle to sell.
“We are at least two years ahead of the other projects in terms of our EIS...”
You’re part of the mining boom. Why not profit from it?
Blasting seminars are being held throughout the Bowen Basin to inform coal miners how to better manage fume events. Earlier this year, several fume events at Bowen Basin mines sparked a review of blasting practices which led to new guidelines being drawn up for the industry. The seminars outline these new guidelines and medical plans for workers who are exposed to fumes. The seminars have already been run in many centres, but will also be held at the Blackwater International Coal Centre 28 September and the Toowoomba Golf Club 5 October. .....................................................................
Crab trouble for Rio
A small crab may stand in the way of Rio Tinto’s new $900 million Cape York bauxite mine. Scientists preparing an environmental impact statement on the project 50 kilometres south of Weipa have discovered a new species of freshwater crab. A shrimp previously not seen in Australia has also been found. It’s now up to the federal Environment Minister Tony Burke to decide the fate of the project. .....................................................................
Goodbye... and hello
The NSW Minerals Council is seeking a new CEO after the resignation of Nikki Williams. Dr Williams will leave the role at the end of October to take up the same position at the Australian Coal Association. The ACA represents producers of black coal, with its members predominantly in New South Wales and Queensland which produce around 97 per cent of Australia’s black coal.
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Page 5 - Shift Miner Magazine, 26th September 2011
News
121st EDITION. 2011
Culture the next step to improving safety IMPROVING mining culture is critical to improving safety. That’s the observation of Professor Drew Dawson, who will head up a new research team at CQUniversity studying fatigue, shiftwork and productivity in the resource sector. Professor Dawson said his team would be tackling the hot issues relating to fatigue and safety in mining - including commute times, family arrangements, management systems and work practices. He said changing workplace culture still remains the big challenge, despite many companies working hard to improve the importance of safety in the workplace in recent years. “How do you create an ultra safe work culture?� “How do you then get people to see safety as a moral obligation in their workplace?� “The culture needs to be one of not waiting to get into trouble before you look at safety,� he said. “It should be something a business wants to do because it cares about its employees.� “The safest cultures and the safest
organisations are those that take safety to the next level because they see it as the right thing to do.� Engaging workers and industry is the key to improving the safety message and avoiding injuries, according to Professor Dawson.
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Page 6 - Shift Miner Magazine, 26th September 2011
Simulators have long been used as training devices, particularly in the aviation industry, and this is a technology that is increasingly common in mining. The armed forces have also turned to video games and simulators to train young
recruits and Professor Dawson said also could be used in the resources sector. Professor Dawson said as the mining industry becomes “safer� there are less incidents that occur for people to learn first hand from. “People need to understand as we get safer and safer people have fewer examples of what is unsafe,� he said. “This makes education and research even more relevant.� Professor Dawson will work out of Adelaide but travel between mining sites in WA and Queensland. He will lead CQUniversity’s new Human Factors and Safety Research Centre, in a state-of-the-art facility featuring sleep and cognitive performance labs. The Human Factors and Safety Research Centre will also study issues in aviation, rail and health industries with outcomes used for the resources sector if relevant. The centre is considered a world leader in the field of sleep research, with expertise in the areas of human sleep, biological rhythms, sleep disorders, workplace fatigue and risk management.
Clever products make working safer Clever products are continuing to help fight workplace fatigue and gain attention for the resource sector’s ability to innovate. The Smartcap, a driver alert system for truck drivers designed to cut accident and injury rates and reduce downtime, was featured recently at Parliament House. The cap, developed by Brisbane man Dr Daniel Bongers, was first piloted by Anglo American’s haul truck drivers in the Bowen Basin. Innovation Minister Kim Carr said the cap had wider applications including keeping Australia’s heavy transport highways safer for all users and cutting the cost of road trauma by being used by open road truckies. The Smartcap also recently featured on ABC show The New Inventors and highlights the safety gains available through finding new ways to tackle old problems. Meanwhile, 12 drivers at Perilya mine in New South Wales have been trialling the OPTALERT system that uses a set of hightech glasses to monitor eye movements and judge fatigue and attention of the wearer. Tony Edwards, Perilya Safety & Emergency Services Superintendent, said the system had made drivers more aware of their
behaviour in the cab and fatigue levels. The OPTALERT Fatigue Risk Profiler system is described by manufacturers as the only real-time driver safety system in the world that detects the early onset of drowsiness during a journey by accurately measuring a person’s level of alertness. As innovation continues more cutting edge products are expected to protect industry workers.
GOOD FIT: Anglo American boss Cynthia Carroll tries the SmartCap on for size back in 2009
News
121st EDITION. 2011
BMA miners strike, then vote BMA workers at seven Bowen Basin mines will this week vote on whether they will accept a new workplace agreement. After more than nine months of negotiating a new enterprise bargaining agreement, BMA called off talks with the unions earlier this month. The company said it believed after 32 full-day meetings an impasse had been reached, and it would put the offer directly to employees to vote on. More than 1500 mine workers walked off the job last week, and more strikes were expected on Monday 26 and Tuesday 27, ahead of the ballot which opens on Thursday 29. Over the past few months, relations between BMA and the unions have been tense at best. Both sides have accused the other of dirty tactics and misinformation - and both have engaged in advertising campaigns to
get their message through to employees and their partners. CFMEU Vice President Steve Pierce said in the past week BMA had made their employees attend meetings during work time to outline their agenda. But he said, unbeknown to many, a lawyer and senior HR manager were sitting in on those meetings and taking notes. “They flew them in and they sat there like maggots under the carpet because nobody knew they were there,� said Mr Pierce. “We let people know when we became aware of it, and many workers were very intimidated by their presence.� “Many were worried that if they asked the wrong question or gave the wrong response it would come back to haunt them.� The ballot begins this Thursday and runs through until October 5.
“Over the past few months, relations between BMA and the unions have been tense at best.�
LONG RUNNING DISPUTE: BMA coal miners have been striking for months
Mine roof collapse costs $175M A roof collapse at North Goonyella mine has seen the mine out of action for over a month, and could cost owner Peabody Energy up to $US175 million. No-one was injured in the fall, which occurred when the longwall was being relocated in mid-August. The collapse blocked the main entry to the mine, forcing all production to stop and Peabody to declare force majeure on its export shipments.
Peabody has now released its revised third quarter earnings, which are down by $US125 million because of the collapse. The miner says the full-year impact could see that figure jump to $US175 million. North Goonyella typically produces 200,000 to 250,000 tonnes per month of high quality hard coking coal. The company says it expects production to resume at the mine by early October.
“The miner says the full-year impact could see that figure jump to $US175 million.�
STDs not rampant in Qld miners THE rate of sexually transmitted diseases among Queensland miners is no higher than the general population, according to doctors. It is a different story on the west coast, where doctors are concerned about the rise in levels of STDs among the state’s fly-in fly-out (FIFO) workers. According to the Australian Medical Association’s WA President David Mountain, FIFO workers holidaying in south-east Asia have caused the spike in cases. “Whenever you get those rises in sexually transmitted diseases that’s almost certainly a sign that people are having high risk, unprotected sex,� he said. “The real concern then is that HIV rates are going to start increasing as well.� But the problem has not migrated to the east coast, and a spokesperson for the Queensland branch of the AMA said the rates and risks of STDs among miners is no more or less than the general population. Dr Mountain is preparing a health-focussed submission for the senate inquiry
into FIFO/DIDO practises. He said the inquiry must examine the health of workers, especially mental health, obesity and access to GPs. “It is important and well overdue that the economic issues surrounding FIFO are examined by a parliamentary committee, but if they don’t include health as a key part of their terms of reference, committee members are missing a significant opportunity to have a real impact on the lives of FIFO workers and their families,� he said. “Recent reports have shown significant health concerns around FIFO workers – ranging from diabetes, to obesity, mental health and heart issues and it is important that any review involves this key area.� Data already available shows that working different shifts can be very disruptive to lives and relationships. Written submissions to the inquiry close on October 7, with regional hearing dates and locations to be announced after that time. More information is available from www. aph.gov.au/ra or by calling (02) 6277 4162.
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Page 7 - Shift Miner Magazine, 26th September 2011
News
121st EDITION. 2011
ATCO wins key Curtis contract MODULAR building supplier ATCO has won the contract to design and manufacture a 2600-person temporary accommodation facility on Curtis Island off Gladstone. The contract was awarded by Bechtel Australia, the primary engineering, procurement and construction contractor working for Australia Pacific LNG’s liquefied natural gas project. It is the third major housing construction contract for the company this year. In May the company started building two
other construction camps on Curtis Island a 1700-person accommodation facility for the Queensland Curtis LNG project and a second 1700-person accommodation facility for the Gladstone LNG project. This latest project includes sleeping quarters, a dining facility and laundry area; the central core will include a pool, gym, outdoor sports court and administration buildings. The modular units are expected to be delivered towards the end of this year. Meanwhile, a number of housing devel-
opments aimed at meeting sky-rocketing demand has been approved by the Gladstone Regional Council. Councillors recently approved six separate projects involving a total of 380 units and 41 house blocks. The largest of these is a 256 unit workers camp at Benaraby on the Bruce Highway. The $20 million project will take about six months to build and will be constructed on the site of an existing caravan park. A shortage of affordable housing has
BUILDING CURTIS: Key accommodation and transport contracts have now been finalised for Curtis Island workers
created a range of problems for workers, employers, residents and support groups in Gladstone. This has included people living in their cars or tents in public areas or camping spots. Rents in the town have increased significantly since the resources boom hit with new homes and units available at a premium because of the shortage. It will be at least six months before any of the latest approvals has a tangible effect on housing availability in the region.
Big cats built in Bris for Gladstone A Brisbane-based boat builder has won another $20 million contract to build passenger ferries to transport workers to the gas plants on Curtis Island off Gladstone. In April, Hemmant-based Aluminium Boats Australia was awarded a $21 million contract to build three ferries for the Gladstone LNG project. It has now secured a $20 million to build four more ferries for the Australia Pacific LNG project. Queensland company Transit Systems will be responsible for the operation, safety and maintenance of the fleets. The Premier Anna Bligh launched the first of the
new fleet in Brisbane yesterday, and used it as an example of the flow on economic effects of the LNG industry. “There is no better example of the ripple effect that the LNG boom is starting to create than these passenger ferry contracts,” she said. “Queensland has a bright future and companies like Aluminium Boats Australia and Transit Systems are benefiting from the resources boom that is now really starting to take off.” The ferries are called Enviro Cats and use water jet propulsion instead of propellers making them safer for marine life.
One Mobbs shut, the other Mobbs open IT’S a tale of the one Mobbs, but two owners. When Kym Mobbs announced this week that his steel business in Biloela and Rockhampton would close its doors, it wreaked havoc on his brother Rodney’s steel business in Munduberra. “The two businesses are completely separate,” explained Rodney’s wife Marian who works in the Munduberra office. “People think it is the one franchise but it’s not, we are completely separate. “My husband started this business, and it is now a family run business with me, our son and one of our daughters also working here.
“We run under our own steam and we are well and truly open for business.” Marian Mobbs said the phone had not stopped ringing since Kym Mobbs made the announcement. “People want to know when we are closing, but we are not closing. “What happens to Kym’s business has nothing to do with us.” Kym Mobbs said he was shutting down his steel fabricating and supply business because it was no longer viable. “Regional steel fabrication manufacturing and supply is in the death
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Page 8 - Shift Miner Magazine, 26th September 2011
throes,” he said. “Circumstances will not change without some clear policy direction from state and commonwealth governments.” The doors will shut from the end of October, with 12 local jobs to go. But down the road in Munduberra, Mar-
ian Mobbs said while the steel fabrication business had changed dramatically over the past 30 years, there was still work in the rural, rail and mining sectors. “We want our customers to know, this decision does not effect us in any way,” she said.
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News
121st EDITION. 2011
Mining takes centre stage at election WHEN a Brisbane-based would-be Premier is talking mining and farming, you know regional Queensland is going to feature in the next state election. The former Lord Mayor of Brisbane and LNP leader, Campbell Newman, has spent much time over the past few months in Queensland’s mining belt talking to both miners and farmers. There is increasing friction between the two industries and Mr Newman has been quick to align himself with farmers - without putting mining off side. “He has been out there reminding rural people that he’s not just a Liberal politician who cares about big business,” said Griffith University’s Dr Paul Williams. “He is out there promoting himself in regions that are traditionally aligned with the National party.” “I think that is fairly astute for a Bris-
bane-based politician.” The Queensland Resources Council (QRC) has acknowledged that both sides of politics is focused on how Queensland can benefit from the unprecedented growth in the resource sector. “In contrast to the 2009 campaign where the state’s leading export industries struggled for mention, there is no doubt that we are heading into a genuine policy contest for the next election,” said Acting QRC Chief Executive Greg Lane. “The Premier has promoted the principles guiding her government’s plans to manage resource sector growth in Queensland while LNP leader Campbell Newman sees the state’s future tied to the four pillars of the Queensland economy – resources, agriculture, tourism and construction.” Mr Lane said the state’s minerals and energy sector could be worth more than
“He has been out there reminding rural people that he’s not just a Liberal politician who cares about big business.”
$92 billion a year by 2019-2020. “The sector is presenting enormous opportunities but inevitably, also the challenges of growth,” he said.
“Good policies, sound planning, adequate government resources and decisive leadership will be required to deliver on the minerals and energy sector’s potential.”
Mines to fund brain gain QUEENSLAND’S unprecedented mining boom should be used to fund education, the Premier Anna Bligh has told delegates at the annual State of the State address in Brisbane. The high profile event is one of two organised by the Committee for Economic Development of Australia each year that allows the Premier to provide insights into the economy and the outlook. “What’s on our horizon is unique, unlike anything we’ve ever seen before and we need to think about it in new ways,” Ms Bligh said. “Being ahead of this giant wave of opportunity, being ready for it, knowing how to catch it and surf it – that’s the single biggest challenge for Queensland in the decade before us.” The Premier said Labor planned to
ensure the boom benefited all Queenslanders; enabled the transfer of wealth to education in a bid to build the best educated, highly skilled workforce in the world; and grow a critical mass of capability in areas of high skilled global demand like engineering and clean energy. Ms Bligh said it was not inevitable that the boom should result in a two speed economy. “The boom belongs to all of us, just like the resources in the ground,” she said. Ms Bligh said the boom could shape a generation and the future of the state. “It can be the difference between the decline being experienced in the old world and the promise of the Asian Century,” she said. “Queensland has always had brawn and today, we are combining our strength and youth and energy with brains.”
How much of Qld left unexplored? SIXTEEN mining exploration permits were granted in Queensland last month, and three mining leases. In the Bowen Basin, Stanmore Coal is exploring an area 30 kilometres south of Comet, while Endocoal is exploring just nine kilometres east of Theodore. Sierra Coal has also been granted a permit to explore 20 kilometres west of Blackwater. In the minerals world, Golden Nugget Explorations is exploring throughout the Biggenden area, west of Bundaberg.
Geothermal - or “hot rocks” technology - is the new buzz word of the mining world, with four exploration permits granted in the far north of the state. Meanwhile, a mining lease has been granted for the Eagle Downs coal project near Emerald - a joint venture between Vale and Aquila. However, the two companies have been locked in a legal battle - with the Supreme Court of Queensland last week ruling in favour of Aquila. Vale wants to start the project before rail
and port access is secured, whereas Aquila wants to wait until those details are finalised; Vale scheduled a vote on the issue for later this month. However, Aquila argued a vote in favour of Vale’s plan would force it to find $650 million to fund its share of the develop-
ment, while a vote against it would force it to sell its 50 per cent stake in the project. The supreme court ruled in favour of Aquila and an injunction was granted. The companies have also been at loggerheads over arrangements at their jointly owned Isaac Plains mine.
“Sierra Coal has also been granted a permit to explore 20 kilometres west of Blackwater.”
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Page 9 - Shift Miner Magazine, 26th September 2011
SHIFT
MINER ladder
GET WHERE YOU WANT TO BE
Students “try a trade� on for size MORE than 50 Mackay students traded in their books for tools during Mackay Engineering College’s Try-a-Trade program recently. The interactive program - which is supported by Hail Creek mine - allows students to gain hands-on experience in a range of tasks undertaken by a variety of trade careers. As part of the day, the students also visited the site where they received exposure to a real-life workplace and saw how different trades are employed in the mining industry. Year 10 Mirani State High School students Sean Young and Brittany Budega said the program gave them first-hand practical trade experience. “I enjoyed the ‘hands on’ opportunity that the event provided as well as the chance to meet and talk to some of the people who work on site in trade roles,� Mr Young said. “You don’t really know what a trade is like until you actually do it yourself, or hear from those who actually do it for a living, so this has been a useful experience.� Ms Budega said her favourite part of the program was going on a tour of Hail Creek
mine and seeing how the draglines work. “It was fun to go on site to get an idea about how all the different sections and equipment work together to produce coal,� Ms Budega said. Mackay Engineering College’s Bob Baker said the program was a collaborative effort between industry, education, and training sectors. “We are grateful for Hail Creek mine’s support both in funding and providing the opportunity for the students to experience its world-class mining operation,� Mr Baker said. “Our goal is to help our young people develop a working understanding of careers within trades and offer them practical opportunities to see if this type of work suits them.� Hail Creek Mine general manager operations Rowan Munro said the program helped students make better informed decisions about their future. “We are pleased to help deliver this program so that our young people get to experience trade careers, the mining industry, and all it has to offer them in relation to job
SHIFT
pathways,� Mr Munro said. “We want to help them understand what’s involved in a trade career, including the various types of education and training that must be undertaken to be a qualified
tradesperson.� “It’s part of our approach to help build capacity within the communities where we operate so we can develop strong and sustainable communities in the future.�
TRY IT ON: Mirani High students Brittany Budega and Sean Young at Hail Creek mine
MINER ladder
GET WHERE YOU WANT TO BE
Welcome to Shift Miner Magazine’s Ladder Our dedicated recruitment section For employees It’s the place to go to search for jobs that are relevant to your skills set and industry experience.
Your message will be in front of your target audience - tradespeople, engineers, supervisors and skilled operators.
We’ve listened to your feedback, and we know you want a dedicated jobs section.
Don’t waste your time with expensive advertising campaigns that don’t work in publications that don’t target the mining community.
Ladder will bring you what opportunities are on offer in the region, and further afield.
Take your message directly to the people you want working for you.
For employers It’s the place to go to find the skilled workers you need to keep your project on track.
“You don’t really know what a trade is like until you actually do it yourself, or hear from those who actually do it for a living, so this has been a useful experience.�
For enquiries call 4921 4333.
Page 10 - Shift Miner Magazine, 26th September 2011
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SHIFT
MINER ladder
GET WHERE YOU WANT TO BE
Joint training leads to jobs DOORS are opening to careers in the mining and agricultural sectors for young Emerald residents taking part in a cross-industry training program. Under the Regional Agricultural and Mining Industry Training Project (RAMIT) 15 young locals now have knowledge in workplace health and safety, environmental management and machinery maintenance. Gaining a Certificate II in Resources and Infrastructure Work Preparation and a skill set from Certificate II in Rural Operations at the Emerald Agricultural College, the next step for participants is a generic induction program through BMA and work placement in the agricultural and mining industries. RAMIT Project Coordinator Jo Murphy said she is amazed at the transition of students. “Many of the young students made a nervous start but have grown in confidence while growing their skills base.” “It has been very rewarding to be part of the transformation and see them able to confidently approach the workforce and prospective employers,” Ms Murphy said. RAMIT participant Isaac Wilkinson said he is confident he’ll be able to secure further train-
onsite machining
ing and employment in the Emerald region. “RAMIT has provided me with not only the skills to be immediately useful to an employer, but also the awareness of options available to me,” he said. “Now I have the base-level skills that can be adapted across industries.” RAMIT is one of just two pilot programs being run in Australia. It is a joint initiative of the Queensland Minerals and Energy Academy, SkillsDMC, Agrifood Skills Australia, Minerals Council of Australia, National Farmers’ Federation, and the Australian Government Department of Education, Employment and Workplace Relations (DEEWR), which is providing project funding.
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THEY’RE lighter, more durable and do not splinter. A team at Xstrata’s Oaky North mine have engineered new carbon fibre vent tubes that have taken out the “People’s Choice” category at the prestigious innovations awards associated with the Queensland Mining Industry Health and Safety Conference. Workers at the underground mine knew that building and maintaining ventilation ducting was contributing towards injuries. The 2.5 - 3.0 metre fibreglass tube lengths used for vents weighed more than 30 kilograms, making them difficult to handle and transport and they splintered easily. LIGHT WEIGHT: The new carbon fibre tubes are 30 per cent lighter than fibreglass tubes
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www.purcells.com.au If the tubes failed they could also hold up production. A project team was set up to address the safety and use of the pipes. The team aimed to reduce the tube weight; increase their structural integrity; reduce risk of injury and reduce risk of splintering. Carbon fibre proved the perfect material to improve the tubes as it is extremely strong and very light. New Zealand company Rivers Carbon Fibre provided the expertise and advice on the material and visited the mine. Four different prototypes were then made for testing and selection. The new tubes weighs 30 per cent less but are more durable and do not split. Each tube has a longer working lifetime and injuries from their use will be reduced.
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Page 11 - Shift Miner Magazine, 26th September 2011
News
121st EDITION. 2011
FROM PAGE 4
School kids go back in time Fishing closure sparks anger NEBO State School students have been given a rare glimpse of the prehistoric giants that roamed the Bowen Basin more than 30,000 years ago. Dinosaur researcher Scott Hocknull gave students a crash course at a fossil site at South Walker Creek mine recently. Nebo State School principal Joanne Coyne said the visit was a fantastic opportunity to learn about local fossil history. “The students thoroughly enjoyed the experience especially being able to participate in the fossil preparation,” said Ms Coyne. Fossils were first found at the mine site in 2008 and include the partial remains of Diprotodon optatum - the world’s largest marsupial. Not to be outdone, the world’s largest lizard known as Megalania has also been found at the site; it is three times the size of the Komodo dragon. Dr Hocknull said the fossils were of major scientific significance and would help to piece together how Australia’s tropical north ecosystems evolved. “These new discoveries will help us to unravel the responses of Australia’s north-
ern faunas and floras to past climatic change and how tropical northern ecosystems have evolved over millions of years,” he said. “The Queensland Museum has been working with BMC [mine owner] and the Barada Barna people on regular digs to ensure the area is excavated appropriately and to ensure any items of cultural heritage are also captured.” The fossils found in this latest dig will be prepared and dated over coming months to ensure their significance is fully understood.
Dr Scott Hocknell shows the exposed fossils still in situ to the students.
consortium of the 16 major industries, to release their studies into the health of the harbour that are funded through annual budgets of $600,000. “Repeated requests for more up to date information, such as the promised February 2011 report on the health of sea-grass beds, have gone unanswered,” Mr McCabe said. Gladstone’s Mayor Gail Sellers agreed information needed to be released quickly. “Our community is still asking questions for which we have no answers,” she said. “Is it safe to swim in these waters? How long before we know the results? And how long will the harbour be closed?” “These questions, as well as others, need to be answered for the sake of the well-being of our region, our harbour and our people.” The Gladstone Ports Corporation chief executive Leo Zussino also wants answers. He is adamant there is no link between current dredging work in the harbour and the sick fish. “It is certainly very damaging to the Gladstone Ports Corporation to have these assumptions made when we can see there is absolutely no link between dredging and
diseased fish in the Gladstone harbour.” “What we are hoping is that agencies who have brought on this ban would have their scientists working 24/7,” he said. Tackle shop owner, Mr O’Reilly what Gladstone locals want is a fairly simple request. “Gladstone people want to know the truth, we don’t need a cover up.” “We just want to know what is wrong, who caused it, and what needs to be done to fix it.” “Then we can get back fishing.” The fishing closure extends between Deception Creek at the top end of The Narrows down to Rodds Peninsula and to the outer edge of Facing Island. Authorities are patrolling the exclusion zone to ensure no-one fishes in the area during the closure. The area is off limits to recreational and commercial fishing to ensure no diseased fish enter the food chain. There is no ban on swimming, and waters upstream of Awoonga Dam are still open for recreational fishing.
IF THE HAT FITS... More and more women are joining mining and industry - and not just as secretaries and cleaners. They’re project managing some of CQ’s biggest jobs, driving haul trucks on most sites, and studying engineering in record numbers. Next month, Shift Miner Magazine celebrates the achievements of women in mining, and takes a look at some of the obstacles of working in a male-dominated industry. In recognition of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, half of the advertising proceeds from the feature will be donated to the Cancer Council. To showcase your outstanding female employees, workplace initiatives, training or recruitment strategies, contact the Shift Miner Magazine team today.
For advertising inquiries contact: Angus Peacocke - angus.peacocke@shiftminer.com For editorial inquiries contact: Alex Graham - alex.graham@shiftminer.com
Page 12 - Shift Miner Magazine, 26th September 2011
What’s happening in sport in your town? Eagles ready to fly The Emerald Eagles Football Club (EEFC) is in a state of suspense today as it waits to hear whether its application to join the Central Queensland football competition has been approved. The Emerald Eagles officially launched their campaign last week with a cocktail dinner in Emerald with over 80 sponsors and supporters. If successful, the EEFC will be able to play at the highest level the region has to offer against teams from Rockhampton and Gladstone. The club launch was attended by some of Australia’s best known soccer identities including Joe Fenech and John Garsite from the Brisbane Roar, and the 1974 Australian World Cup coach Rale Rasic. Following the launch young football talent from across the Highlands had the opportunity to attend a four day clinic with Rasic and the Brisbane Roar coaches. John Garsite from the Roar said he was blown away by the response they got. “To be honest we are a bit stunned by the reaction we have had,� he said. “We have had people travel down from Cairns and the Atherton Tablelands, and it’s been absolutely fantastic.� “It can be difficult in a situation like this when you don’t know what your going to get, but the kids were awesome and the reaction from everyone was superb.� “We had kids improve 100 to 200 per cent, and there is some real talent here.� Mr Garsite says they are now looking at ways they can attract the sponsorship to make the coaching clinics a regular event in central and northern Queensland.
NRL , Queensland and now the battle of the mines A long list of rugby league players with both NRL and state level rugby league pedigrees have made themselves available for the upcoming “Battle of the Mines� rugby league carnival. So far, teams from the Callide Dawson, Gregory Crinum, Lake Lindsay, Oaky Creek, and Minerva mines have committed to compete at the carnival. Another two teams are expected to confirm shortly. Last year Callide Dawson won the Masters competition beating teams representing Lake Lindsay, Grasstree, Ensham and Gregory Crinum mines. Queensland rugby league development officer Andrew Lawrence says it is going to be a great family spectacle. “We are close to finalising the details of who will be present from the men of league,� he said “We are pretty certain we will have the groups president Ronny Coote - who has been named second rower in the rugby league team of the century.� “We have got Alan McIndoe coming and PJ Marsh is
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
coaching Lake Lindsay again.� “Steven Bell another NRL veteran is playing for Gregory Crinum, and Tom Hewitt - the Springsure boy is going to be playing for Ensham.� “So its looking like its going to be a really good weekend.� Mr Lawrence acknowledged the event’s sponsor “Airlie Builders� and called on any other teams considering having a run to call him. The competition will be held on 15 October at Emerald and mines interested in playing can register now by emailing Andrew at a.lawrence@qrl.com.au. or call 0448 813 666.
How many horses can you fit in a muscle car? The Central Queensland Classic and Muscle Car Club has organised for a Dyno competition to be held when it meets next month at the Moranbah Home Show. A Dyno competition is where a machine is set up to test the engine horsepower of a car - which is of course a great curiosity to muscle car owners. According to Darby Salmon, Secretary of the Central Queensland Classic and Muscle Car Club, the October meet should attract a lot of interest. “We have organised for a business to be on site to undertake a professional Dyno test for anyone who wants one for $30,� he said. “It will all be done professionally and people just need to turn up on the day.� Darby says the sport is continuing to gather in new members and cars, with at least three cars he knows of in the project stage, including a 1970 Holden Monaro, and an early model ZT Ford Fairlaine. Meanwhile the Moranbah Speedway has scheduled official race meets in Moranbah for the 26 November and 4 February this summer. The Speedway committee met last week to prepare, and is in the process of organising some official training weekends as well. Currently they are expecting to have both senior and junior quad races, wingless sedans, and modified production cars in competition. They also will have a sprint car up from Brisbane to take interested spectators on joy rides around the track. Club President Shane Thompson says they are getting the club back to where they would like it to be after two years of hard work form various committees. “It’s been a hell of a lot of work,� he said. “The last committee got a lot of work done on the track and the fence, and we are continuing to clean up and develop the track and other facilities.� “We are always looking for new members , so if anyone want to join in either the juniors or seniors they can come down to either of the meets and have a look.� The Moranbah Speedway can be contacted on 0428 488 038
Rio Tinto Coal Australia is proud to be part of the Clermont, Emerald, Capella, Nebo, and Mackay communities. We are pleased to partner with Anglicare Central Queensland to support
Momentum Youth Camp pilot project This initiative is providing young local teenagers with a range of personal development opportunities, team building activities, and support from the community to help them reach their potential and make positive changes in their lives.
Could soccer come to Emerald?
COMMUNITY CALENDAR Event details
Date
Venue
Start
Rugby league
Emerald Tigers Presentation night
1/10/11
McIndoe Park Emerald
Call Brooke on 0412 027 665
Water Ski
WorkPac Dam Fun
1/10/11
Clermont
All Day
Fishing
Saratoga Spectacular
1/10/11
Blackwater
All Day
Rugby league
Battle of the Mines
15/10/11
Emerald
All Day
Classic Car
Moranbah Meet
15/10/11
Moranbah
All Day
Speedway
Moranbah
26/11/11
Moranbah
Evening
CLUB CONTACTS
PERSON
CONTACT
Dysart Bulls RL
Gavin Reid
gavreid1961@bigpond.com
CQ Cruisers
Clinton Saunders
clintonselina4@bigpond.com
Blackwater Basilisks RUFC
Kerry Lee Katchel
klkatchel@curragh.com.au
Emerald Tigers RL
Jay Edwards
0448 154 231 jayedwards10@hotmail.com
Emerald Brothers Cowboys RL
Damon Walsh
emeraldcowboys@hotmail.com (07) 4987 4610
Moranbah Bulls RUFC
Joel Hunter
0429 575 276 joel.hunter@bmacoal.com
Moranbah Raceway
Darby Salmon
0424668 934
Moranbah Classic & Muscle Car Club
Ross Brackley
0428 259 367
We support a range of local projects through the Clermont Region, Kestrel Mine, and Hail Creek Mine Community Development Funds. For more information about the Funds contact: rĀ"KDQLNMSĀ1DFHNMĀ"NLLTMHSXĀ1DK@SHNMR Specialist Samantha Faint on 0447 599 990 rĀ*DRSQDKĀ,HMDĀ"NLLTMHSXĀ1DK@SHNMR Specialist Maureen Tutton on 07 4984 7694 rĀ'@HKĀ"QDDJĀ,HMDĀ"NLLTMHSXĀ1DK@SHNMR 2ODBH@KHRSĀ%HNM@Ā*QTFDQĀNMĀ Ā Ā
The programme will soon be available to Anglicare offices around Australia. More than 40 young people have taken part across three camps in Emerald so far.
www.riotintocoalaustralia.com.au
around town 121st EDITION. 2011
PROTECTING OUR KIDS
Moranbah and District Support Services (MDSS) hosted a fun family event recently to support National Child Protection Week. There were plenty of fun competitions and games but the serious message behind the day was about communities looking after their kids.
Event organisers: Chris Macfarlan, Judy Gobbert, Theresa Stephan, Mane Reck and Kerri Barnes
Halle, Andrew and Dorian Thornberry
Matthew and Harrison Kay
LOOKING GOOD
Josh Moody defeats his dad Ben during the ‘Knock em out’ competition
Emma-Lee, Jaidah and Lachlan Gilewski with Megan Provost
Rylie Campbell won the ‘best bubble’ competition
Kiana Regan, Natalie Storer, Jada Regan and John Regan
MC for the event, Theresa Stephan shows off one of the ‘Moranbah: Just lovin it’ shirts
25 lucky ladies were treated to a VIP evening to celebrate Lillian Mac Skin Clinic’s grand re-opening. The clinic has undergone months of extensions and refurbishments and the new and improved rooms were highlighted during the special evening event.
Michelle Rutley and Sue Briffa
Fiona Gordon and Melissa Forsyth
The Lillian Mac Skin Clinic team Back: Teri Harris, Vikki Katt, Cahtlin Wells, Chelsea Hahn, Owner Susan Anderson, Kimberly Bean, Martina Mulligan and Alana Miles. Front: Kristen Kelly and Leanne Featherstone.
Rosie Goulevitch, Trisha Baker, Jenny Brett and Janelle Burns
Judy Fuller, Sharlene Briggs and Debby Martorana
Ailsa McDonald and Bette McCormick
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.
Page 14 - Shift Miner Magazine, 26th September 2011
around town 121st EDITION. 2011
CELEBRATING SPRING There were plenty of people out and about at the Blackwater markets recently, enjoying the beautiful Spring weather.
Tracey Sharpe with one of the skulls she decorates and sells
The Lionlander was very popular
Samuel, Kayden and Bailey Jaques the tigers
Simon, Nicole and Jessica Woods
Ryleigh and Erin Godfrey
Abby Rose and Kye with their dad Pat Rogers.
BUY THIS AND MANY OTHER IMAGES AT
www.shiftminer.com Shift Miner magazine – bringing the mining community closer together
4HINKING OF THE PERFECT CORPORATE OR PERSONAL GIFT 3HIFT -INER´S OUTSTANDING ±"OOM ² AERIAL PHOTOS MAKE THE PERFECT HOME OR OF½CE DECORATION ! SINGLE IMAGE CAPTURES THE SIZE AND BREADTH OF THE 1UEENSLAND COAL INDUSTRY DURING THIS ONCE IN A LIFETIME EVENT
RINTS ,IMITED REP N FRAMED RAMED OR U !VAILABLE F EX GST FROM
4O CAPTURE YOUR PART OF HISTORY CALL 3HIFT -INER ON
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Page 15 - Shift Miner Magazine, 26th September 2011
stuff to the editor 121st EDITION. 2011
Stuff to the Editor The FIFO debate continues to rage in the Coalfields, and we have received many texts on the subject:
com
The state government has finally been exposed for what we all suspected talking the talk but not walking the walk. It’s clear from their decision on Caval Ridge they are on the side of big business. T.R, Moranbah Why has the state government tried to trick us into thinking it has imposed conditions on BMA that in reality don’t exist? It’s just offensive. E.D, Moranbah The CQ NRL bid has also got people talking:
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ges er dischar gh on wat u ro th ak Bre ed from being pump of water mber is d last Dece THE rate mines floode a review Bowen Basin the wake of increase in arges. expected to water disch rules governing some of the into the rules has relaxed out of pits The review water ing of , the pump y catchment regarding the Fitzro into minback gh for many and dams r breakthrou d operations. and is a majo floode a gling with that even ers still strug g miners was cause amon The fear year could agseason this tional stopp modest wet opera r g, majo of large uncon more floodin the possibility es, and even w ses. a major revie trolled relea from es stem EnvironThe chang rtment of by the Depa nt (DERM). conducted Manageme ’s coal Resource of the region ment and cent per del80 December More than during the permits inundated mines were 48 temporary then, more out water. uge and, since d to pump s are been grante many mine or TEPs have numbers, on site Despite the es of water huge volum - they ous rules still holding r the previ unde the river back into because to pump it flow. were not able t at periods of high auled. excep been overh catchment vary tion has now That condi rules will dewatering catchment Now, the part of the on which d. depending site is locate in cenidual mine each indiv of mines director or, said it DERM’s ew Conn Andr d, impacts nslan tral Quee cumulative do with the page 4 was all to continued ment. on the catch
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I am so sick of hearing about Moranbah residents whinging about FIFO workers. I’m a FIFO worker, and I would rather live on the coast than Moranbah any day of the week. When the price of housing and groceries comes down and there is something decent to do on the weekend out there then maybe people will move. Until then, good luck. J.D, Sunshine Coast
tion 2011
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The Gladstone harbour dredging project is also sparking debate among readers (and that was before the fishing ban):
sent in anonymously
I support industry, I depend on it for a job. But I love fishing, and something is not right in Gladstone at the moment and it’s not because of the January floods. R.E, Gladstone Something is rotten in the state of Gladstone. If the rotting carcasses of dugongs and turtles don’t wake us up what will? T.W, Gladstone And once again, Frank the Tank’s many fans are feeling the love:
Good to see mining companies backing something that the whole region wants - footy! Bring it on. Rod, Rocky
Frank, you are a legend. Come around and have a few drinks with me and the boys. We can go streakin past the gymnasium... D.R, Mackay
The CQ NRL bid has some big backers now. I hope that means the stadium comes to CQ. G.D, Rockhampton
The crib room wall is stained with food from blokes laughing so hard at Frank they choke on their smoko. R.S, Dysart
“996 at Newlands mine�
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
Got something to share? Send us your text messages or phone photos to 0428 154 653 Or email to shift.miner@gmail.com
Text to 0428 154 653 Email shift.miner@gmail.com
Breakfast
Michael Bailey - Weekdays 5am - 9am
Mornings
Greg Cary - Weekdays 9am -12pm
NEWS, TALK AND THE MUSIC YOU LOVE www.4ro.com.au
Page 16 - Shift Miner Magazine, 26th September 2011
Afternoons
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.
Alan Jones - Weekdays 1pm - 2pm
SALES ENQUIRIES: (07) 4920 2000
FAIR DINKUM 121st EDITION. 2011
Fair Dinkum! IN CHINA - A 56 year old man got more than he bargained for at a beauty spa when a 15 centimetre eel swam into his bladder via his penis. That’s right - into his bladder, via his penis. You’ve heard about that new age beauty treatment where eels nibble the dead skin off your body? Well, imagine sitting there with the pleasant sensation of nibbling, then suddenly a sharp pain in your privates. Apparently, the eel made its way down the man’s urethra and into his bladder, where it was later removed surgically. Doctors said because the eel’s skin was so slippery it acted as a lubricant and allowed the creature to enter the man’s penis more easily. Nice.
Willow escaped her home in Boulder Colorado five years ago after contractors left the door open during a home renovation. How she made the long journey east is still a mystery.
IN AMERICA - A Colorado cat that went missing five years ago has turned up over 2500 kilometres away on the streets of Manhattan. Willow, the calico cat, was identified by a microchip that was implanted when she was a kitten, after a New York man found her on the streets of Manhattan and took her to the pound. Animal control contacted the cat’s family in Colorado, who were quite shocked, having thought their cat had been eaten by coyotes.
IN NORWAY - A drunk 84-year-old man has been arrested after driving his electric wheelchair the wrong way down a busy highway. The man passed through a tunnel, turned around, and took the same tunnel again before he was stopped by two motorists who subsequently called the police. Police confiscated the man’s driver’s licence, but are still looking for a way to legally confiscate it, since laws on motor vehicles don’t apply to wheelchairs.
IN WALES - A great-grandmother has made a triumphant return to the dating scene after a boob job saw her bra size balloon from an A to an F-cup. After her husband of 49 years passed away the woman spent nearly $US 10,000 on the surgery to bring her breasts back to the size they were before she had children. The grandmother of 13 claims that the procedure has given her a new lease on life, and that she has been dating men as young as 24.
“A Colorado cat that went missing five years ago has turned up over 2500 kilometres away.”
&/2 3!,% #AIRNS #USTOM #RAFT 3ERIES
Length: 12.00 metres Beam: 3.9 metres. Speed: 18-20 knots. Hull Material: Aluminium. Engines: Cummins 6BTA5.9.(370 @3000rpm). Port Engine 92.67 Hours Starboard Engine 95.78 Hours. Transmissions: Twin Disc MG-5050A. (Same Hours as Engines) Generator: Kubota/Diecon D1105 Diesel 9.00 Kva. 240 Volt Fuel Capacity: 3000 litres in 4 x tanks. Accessories: HF & 27 Meg Radios, Koden MD 3600 Radar, 2 x Furuno sounders, Raytheon GPS Plotter. Accom: 8 x bunks, Galley, Toilet & Shower, Spares: Numerous Spares Including Props x 2. Filters, Hoses, Impellers for raw water pumps. Built: 1987 to 2 B survey. P.O.A CONTACT MARK ON 0408 775 067
Frank the Tank’s
“Streakin” good love advice Dear Frank, I’m seeing this girl at the moment and things are going really well, the only problem is I can’t help feeling she’s too good for me. She’s really good looking, she’s smarter than I am, and she makes more money than I do. You’d think this would be great, but I’m in constant fear that she’s going to leave me for someone else, how can I shake these feelings of inadequacy? Owen, Moranbah Well, Owen, by the sounds of it you’ve landed the perfect woman, and she’s obviously not put off by the fact that you are - by your own admission - unattractive, dimwitted and financially inferior. It seems that you’ve learnt nothing from my previous installments of ‘Streakin’ Good Love Advice’ so I’ll be forced to repeat myself yet again. It doesn’t matter how attractive you are, how much money you make, or how many times you’ve been convicted of sexual assault, women love confidence. Take yours truly for example, old Frank is probably never going to win any beauty pageants, but as you may or may not know, I’ve bedded so many women in my time that Hugh Hefner feels obliged to send me a congratula-
Sensible Susan Owen, It’s normal to feel insecure about things every now and then, but don’t let it get the better of you.
tory basket of muffins every year. Now, it’s important early on to distinguish between confidence and over confidence. For example, the confident man might approach a woman and smoothly say, “Let me buy you a drink,” while the over confident man might approach her, present his genitals and look at her with one raised eyebrow. I would strongly discourage you from taking the latter approach, as I can tell you from personal experience that life is substantially more difficult when you’re suffering from acute bruising of the wedding tackle... and your personal liberties are curtailed by a restraining order. If you’re unable to muster the requisite confidence to shift the balance of power in your relationship then worry not, I have another solution that cannot fail. It doesn’t matter how smart, rich and beautiful she is, if you make her utterly dependant on you she’ll never leave. The best way to do this, in my opinion, is through a series of mild poisonings. Offer to cook her dinner and add a ‘special garnish’ to her meal that will see her become quite ill, allowing you the chance to nurse her back to health. Once she sees how willing you are to look after her in her time of need, she’ll forget all about the fact that you are feeble minded and penniless. Make sure you do your research into the type of poison you use though, or you might find yourself writing to me for advice on how you and your new cellmate, Russell, can spice up your relationship. If you start to stress out too much, and try too hard to impress your girlfriend then it will take all the fun out of the relationship for you. Your girlfriend wouldn’t be dating you if she thought she was too good for you, just try to relax and be yourself, which is in all likelihood what attracted her to you in the first place. Susan.
If you have a question for Frank and Susan Email Us at: franksusan.shiftminer@gmail.com
Page 17 - Shift Miner Magazine, 26th September 2011
CAR FOR SALE
BOAT FOR SALE
BOAT FOR SALE
Gunmetal grey 2009
1998 Aquarius 36ft Flybridge
Australian Lightweight
TRITON GLX-R dualcab,
cruiser, chart plotter, radar,
Sharpie No. 727
4x4, auto;diesel, RWC
auto pilot, bow & stern
Kevlar Hull, hails and spars in good to
BIKE FOR SALE Kawasaki Teryx 750FI 4X4, 2011 Model, only done 32 hrs, rear tipping body, v.g.c., located Rockhampton.
3yrs/113,000 klms
thrusters, zodiac, RFD, 5
warranty, 16900 klms,
berths, shower, toilet, 250 lt
excellent condition,
reversing camera,
fridge, 300 lt freezer, air con
comes with registered
electronic rustproofing,
& much more. Immac cond.
trailer and beach trolley
tow bar, driving lights
Gladstone.
Beautiful to sail
$38,500
$155,000 ono.
$3,900
Phone: 07 4934 8358
Phone: 0437 657 433
Phone: 0428 154 653
$13 990 Phone: 0419 641457
PERSONAL
WATER TRUCK HIRE For a minimum 2 year period in Qld
HOTEL FOR LEASE
LAND FOR SALE
HOTEL LEASE be your own boss EARN $200k pan.
Village Farm 5 Ac
hotel 1 hr from coast 2 Storey timber, Bar, Rest.,
Hobby farm set in hinterland ranges, meandering
Pokies, Drive-In, good solid town. New 7 yrs. $199,000
creek, tall shady hardwoods, adj props growing
+sav. Bob Christsen H/M Broker 4151 4500 and
fruit, vegies, avo\’s & macadamias.
0419 674 413. Other hotel F/H & L/H available.
$97,500
Phone 0448 528 856
Phone 0418 775 936
Samantha,
Tanks 13,000 Lt capacity with cannon, top and In Emerald, Passionate and fun loving bottom batter sprays. January 2012 start. Arriving September 22nd until September 30th.
Phone: 0419 641 457 or abbawater@hotmail.com HOME TO LET Hydeaway Bay, 50m to waters edge. 3 Bed, Modern openplan, with office, gourmet kitchen, aircon. 9x6 shed, and timeber verandahs. This home will impress anyone. $370p/w unfurnished or $470p/w furnished Phone: 0414 381 330
Phone 0448 528 856 LAND FOR SALE Karumba Point, Vacant land all services available, fishing / hunting paradise. Absolute bargain $130,000 Phone: 0418 180 901 HOUSE FOR SALE
HOUSE FOR SALE Toomulla Beach (40Km North of Townsville)
Quality Land,
2-bedroom, steel-framed, low-maintenance home
House and Land
in peaceful suburb. Land 592m2. Seeks sea change’
Brisbane Gold Coast
dreamer. More information online.
FIFO or INVEST
Low $200,000s
HOUSE FOR SALE
LAND FOR SALE
40 acres Agnes water QLD
Piece of paradise in Morton
4 bed, 2 bath 9x12 shed.
Bay, 35k from Brisbane
Partially cleared & fenced,
city Corner block on
waterhole and a small dam.
Coochiemudlo Island, 5 min
Large deck breathtaking
walk to beach. Coochie has
views. 15 km from surf
3 long sandy beaches, great
beach.
fishing, boat ramp, golf
realestate.com.au
course, tennis court, Mains
id 107171818.
power, water and waste,
$510,000
excellent ferry
Phone: 0400 797 075
Phone: 0431 74 84 94.
LAND FOR SALE
LAND FOR SALE
Land for sale, Hervey Bay. Turtle Cove Estate.
Mission beach - 75 acres
Elevated half acre flat block with 160 degree
Cleared - elevated homesite
views of Fraser Island. Cannot be built out.
with views
Underground power, phone and water at front
2 Perm creeks
of block. 6mins to Airport 3min boatramp and
Good fishing, 5 minutes to
barge to Fraser. About 10min to Town. ono.
river boat ramp & beach
$262,000 ono
$ 360,000.00 NEG
Phone: 0411 098 241
Phone: 0428 277 625
Phone:0411 228 870
Phone: 0403 124 460
HOUSE FOR SALE
HOUSE FOR SALE
HOUSE FOR SALE
Heading here
Agnes Water, 4
Sunshine Coast Sacrifice
Two x 500 acre blocks,
3 bedroom home, fully renovated, on 1/4 acre+,
acres, 3 Bed, 2 Bath.
11m x 9m enclosed shed with
Take $21000 off the price below even for
3Metre verandah’s,
investors. Brand New
Carport, 4 Day Shed,
impressive 4bed 2 bath
4400m2 leased land
Fenced yard, Dam.
DLUG, level fenced, Room
adjoining.
7.5 k to town and beach
concrete floor and 3 phase power. Optional
Shed/Van Nth Entert.
75klm Agnes Water, 65klm B\’Berg some hilly country suit cattle, 4WD, Bikes, all fully fenced, Some vendor finance TAP
Walk shops/school
$280k & $320k each.
$485,000
$419 000
Phone: 0408 787 513
Phone 0428 646 014
Phone: 0409 254 525
Phone: 0409 055 062
or 0419 674 413
HOUSE FOR SALE
HOUSE FOR SALE
HOUSE FOR SALE
HOUSE FOR SALE T’ville , 2 bed cottage, fully
20 mins Toowoomba. $218,000.
Yeppoon. Modern,
Alexander Headlands -
Mission Beach Brand
contemporary 4bed 3bath,
300m to beach, extensive
new 2 bedroom $27,000
a/c, insulated, Large rear
ocean views, 2 bedroom
discount to
enclosed deck, front pation,
unit with internal laundry,
be made by eligible First
security screens /door
oversize lock up garage,
Home Buyers!
3x3 shed, 7,2 x 3 carport,
North facing balcony.
180 Footsteps to the
3yr old,
Recent soft refurb.
beach
Blinds etc
Walk to beach, VIEWS, polished floors, high ceilings. Self contained apartment downstairs, will not disappoint. SELLING BELOW BANK VALUATION!
Top floor block of 6.
$320,000
$120,000 neg
Phone: 0407 206 367
Phone: 0410 689 764
Phone: 0419 685 495
Phone: 0401 968 725
HOUSE FOR SALE
LAND FOR SALE Cheapest block of land at bangalee beach yeppoon Local boat & vehicle ramp onto beach Walk 15mins along Farnborough Beach to Rydges Resort for a cocktail Great fishing Ideal family, holiday or retirement location $235,000 Phone: 0417 779 031
Very special 125 acres 1 min south Miriam Vale on Bruce Highway, beautiful house site, grow anything, creek, first time selling in 30 years, also 136 acre reserve adjoining $460,000 Phone: 0488 210 047
Page 18 - Shift Miner Magazine, 26th September 2011
UNIT FOR SALE
HOUSE FOR SALE
Beachfront studio apartment
Pelican Waters Sunshine
in Resort Complex - main
Coast
street Yeppoon
Brand new open plan 4 bed
parking, air cond, pool, gym,
+ study, ensuite,media, side
island and
access, high ceilings. Great
harbour views
Investment. Take advantage
live in or rent out
Govt Grant.
$175 000
$595,000
Phone: 0417 630 357
Phone: 0409 767 121
k.pdf 2010
BOAT
OFF SHIFT
SHOW
DEALS
121st EDITION. 2011
NOW ON!
5 minute fiction by Bernard S. Jansen
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ACROSS
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5. Niece & ...
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D ay s O f f
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DOWN
2 7 9 5 7 8 1 3 4 6 1 2 3 9 5 3 8 7 9 6 1 1 8 9 3 6 7 8 MEDIUM
1. Wrote name 2. Air strike 3. In existence 4. More robust 6. Originating (from) 7. Raise 8. Broadening 11. Antiquated 15. Rectification 17. Records depository 18. Scratchy 20. Only fair (2-2) 21. Care for 22. Eyeball layer 23. Phases # 11
26. Pursue
LAST EDITION’S SOLUTIONS I MAG I N E C T N C I NCR E A S R M L C L OU I S I A E V E F UME A L C OR B I T E D N A I U V E NOM T D A Y I C L OU T S N U T S E S AME
E #A10 Y E W N E R A ND T K A N A H E E N L N G C N E S E D R A S B V A E A R AWA Y S S R C S S HOE L A C E E N T N A D J A C E N T D
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Hal loved his family. He carried a photo of them with him, all the time. It was because he loved them that he agreed to his wife Jody’s pleas to move them all to Mackay. Emerald had been a great place to live, as far as Hal was concerned. He’d made some great mates there. But Jody’s friends and family were in Mackay, and she really wanted the kids to go to school there. “Besides,” said Jody, “with twelve hour shifts you’re not really at home when you’re working. You could just drive out from Mackay, work your tour, and then come home after your last shift.” It made a lot of sense. He really only did sleep and eat at home during his tour. Lots of others did the drive-in drive-out thing. Anyway, he liked the coast. So, they moved. Hal found his tours to be more lonely then he’d thought he would. It was that hour or so when he got to the apartment and wound down before falling asleep. He missed the quick catch-ups with Jody, and looking in on the kids in their beds. He still fell asleep soon enough, and when Hal fell asleep, he was dead to the world. He missed them all when he woke up, too. It was like a dull ache; a longing to be somewhere else. It didn’t really make much sense. When they were all in the same house he’d only ever got up and dressed in the dark anyway. Still, he’d known that they were there, at home. On day-shifts, the drive out to the mine in the pre-dawn darkness always helped Hal to clear his head. It was his favourite time of the day. Sometimes he’d think about the work ahead, preparing himself for the day. Sometimes he’d think about his family. Sometimes, fishing. The end of each tour ended with two or three night shifts, depending on where he was in the roster. He had a kind of feeling of expectation, driving out to the mine in the evenings for his night shifts. It was almost time for his days off; almost time to go back home. It wasn’t the night shifts themselves that Hal liked. In fact, Hal hated working nights. What he liked was knowing that he would soon be going home to his family.
What he didn’t like was the effort it took to stay awake. He loathed that time from about three to four in the morning, when his body craved a warm bed; but instead he was two hundred and fifty metres underground, putting up roofbolts or driving a shuttle-car. For Hal, the next hardest part of night shift was the drive home. The drives back to Emerald wasn’t too bad. While some blokes felt better the more night shifts they did in a row, it only seemed to get worse for Hal. By the last shift of his tour, he seemed to be runing on adrenaline and willpower. It was willpower that made Hal drive straight home to Mackay after his last shift. He didn’t want to have another daytime sleep by himself in his Emerald apartment. He just wanted to get home. The mine was half an hour in the right direction anyway. As the great philosopher Meatloaf once said, “Like a bat out of hell, I’ll be gone when the morning comes.” Hal worked out ways to stay awake and stay on the road on that long, tired trip home. He’d turn the radio on or played a CD, loud. He’d turn the air-conditioner onto freezing, or sometimes open a window. He would stop at the servo outside Moranbah, scratching his scalp and rubbing his face. He’d get an iced coffee from the fridge packed full of them, and then hit the road again. Next stop: Nebo. If he found himself drifting off, he’d pull over for a minute and run around the car. Hal had it worked out. After six months, the car pretty much drove itself home. Hal cut out the Nebo stop, and sometimes Moranbah too. He got better at pushing himself through those sleepy moments. He’d focus. He’d talk to himself. He’d think about Jody and the kids. He’d keep going, going, going. Home. An elderly couple towing their caravan with an old Landcruiser were the first on the scene where Hal’s ute had been split in half by a huge gum tree about twenty metres from the road. The ambulance officers weren’t able to revive him. There were no skid marks, and tests showed his brakes were working fine. After six years, his family still miss him very much.
Bernard S. Jansen is 32, married has three young boys. He lives in Emerald, works as an engineer at a local coal mine and is active in his local church. Read more of Bernard’s writing online at surgebin.blogspot.com or email him at Bernard.jansen@gmail.com
Page 19 - Shift Miner Magazine, 26th September 2011
BOAT
OFF SHIFT
SHOW
DEALS
121st EDITION. 2011
NOW ON!
Bait shop Banter FISHING IN YEPPOON
FISHING IN GLADSTONE
The mackerel have turned up in big numbers, according to Adrian from the Secret Spot at Yeppoon. “Both types, your doggies and your schooling, are here now,” he said. It’s not just mackerel around in big numbers, if you’re a whale lover now is the time to get your binoculars out. Adrian saw seven or eight frolicking off Stockyard Point recently, and there are plenty in the waters around the Keppels. Red fish have been a big hit and miss, with anglers reporting they are having to move around a lot for decent catches. “The tides have been small, so you know, no run no fun,” said Adrian. But there is plenty of fish in the harbour, a good assortment of salmon and tarpin, and Corio Bay is throwing up good sized (40-45cm) whiting. “Bangalee, Iron Pot and Rita Mata should all start firing up soon with so much bait in the harbour,” said Adrian.
There is no fishing in Gladstone at the moment, with the three-week fishing ban throwing local fishermen into a spin. “It came as quite a shock, especially the size of the area, it virtually wipes out fishing altogther in this region,” said Greg O’Reilly who is the owner of Pat’s Tackle World in Gladstone. Greg runs the shop with the help of nine staff - but will be working on a skeleton staff roster for the the next few weeks. “The mood among customers is very angry, they are locals and they have been fishing here their whole life and it really is their harbour,” said Greg. He said most people just want to know what is causing the problem, who is responsible and how to fix it. “Gladstone people just want to know the truth, they don’t want a cover up.” “There is a lot of speculation at the moment but there is no use pointing the finger until we know what is the cause.”
Tide Times
Sep/Oct
Greg said the best case scenario would be partially lifting the fishing ban - if and when it is safe to do so. He said if the closure extends past three weeks, it will be extremely difficult for his business. “I am already putting off my casuals, but if this continues it really could be fatal for the business.” For more information, read our full article on the closure on page 4.
MACKAY Gladstone
Time Ht
angus.peacocke@shiftminer.com
In Mackay, the harbour wall has been opened up after more than 12 months of closure due to cyclone damage. “Catches are dribbling through,” said Bruce from Nashy’s Compleat Angler. “We’ve had reports of salmon, bait fish and river fish close to the wall.” Bruce said it was also worth chasing the mackerel and trevally at the top of the tide. Up the creeks, the flatheads are still
James Butler with a nice fingermark speared off Cape Manifold
Your weather forecast With Mike Griffin
Time Ht Time Ht Time Ht
0201 0.33 0242 0.15 0322 0.07 0402 0.12 0442 0.29 0522 0.57 0012 3.29 0806 3.90 0848 4.11 0931 4.25 1015 4.29 1102 4.21 1153 4.02 0607 0.90 1416 0.33 1502 0.21 1547 0.20 1632 0.31 1720 0.55 1812 0.86 1250 3.79 2022 4.33 2104 4.32 2147 4.19 2232 3.96 2319 3.64
1914 1.15
0345 0.18 0425 -0.01 0506 -0.08 0546 0.01 0008 5.22 0057 4.71 0154 4.19 0940 5.38 1023 5.65 1106 5.79 1151 5.79 0626 0.26 0709 0.65 0800 1.09 1558 0.21 1644 0.14 1730 0.21 1817 0.44 1238 5.61 1329 5.31 1431 4.97 2157 5.96 2239 5.88 2322 5.63
Mon 3 MACKAY Gladstone
Time Ht
If you have a good photo or fishing yarn send it through to our resident bait chucker-
FISHINGIN MACKAY
Mon 26 Tue 27 Wed 28 Thu 29 Fri 30 Sat 1 Sun 2 Time Ht Time Ht
chewing, and it’s worth putting the crab pots in. Bruce has one spring fishing tip: throw in your gulp lures. “Anyone fishing with soft plastics is doing alright, catching anything from nannagai to coral trout to fingermark to jacks.”
1907 0.80 2004 1.21 2116 1.53
Tue 4 Wed 5 Thu 6 Fri 7
Sat 8 Sun 10
Time Ht Time Ht Time Ht Time Ht Time Ht Time Ht Time Ht 0024 3.49 0124 3.13 0240 2.88 0413 2.84 0536 3.02 0036 0.90 0121 0.72 0631 0.81 0725 1.10 0846 1.28 1016 1.29 1139 1.14 0636 3.26 0721 3.44 1308 3.69 1418 3.53 1543 3.49 1707 3.62 1813 3.81 1240 0.94 1325 0.79 1923 1.21 2048 1.41 2222 1.36 2340 1.14
1903 3.96 1944 4.03
0205 4.50 0315 4.01 0449 3.78 0036 1.50 0145 1.11 0236 0.79 0317 0.63 0823 0.97 0929 1.31 1059 1.45 0627 3.93 0738 4.27 0829 4.58 0909 4.76 1451 4.83 1611 4.67 1745 4.77 1230 1.30 1340 1.01 1434 0.78 1517 0.67 2121 1.60 2258 1.73
1904 5.06 2001 5.35 2046 5.52 2124 5.54
Page 20 - Shift Miner Magazine, 26th September 2011
Bushfires threaten in CQ Week 1 - September temperatures have been 2-3 degrees below average. Emerald till 23 Sep has recorded a 27C average maximum. This is normally around 29C. The average minimum is 13C but this year it is 9C. The average rainfall is just over 30mm and no rainfall has been recorded so far for the month. This is also reflected in the northern Coalfields (Moranbah) with pockets of isolated falls to the south in late August sustaining the flora. Add the frosts killing most of the grasslands and it makes a high cure state. Now the temperatures in the afternoon are finally reaching 30C (35C in direct sun). Then we have the ingredients to support a huge bushfire danger across central and southern Queensland. Numerous fires with reports of more than 300 fires in one 24hr period have dotted the landscape. A big job for the Rural Fire Brigade! The safe burn-off window has almost closed. With no rainfall in sight the smoke and the threat of bushfires will be a common phenomenon for the next few weeks. A thundery shower (1-2mm) near Lockington late
Tue (20th Sep) had mostly lightning which can start fires with the high cure state. So more very warm temperatures becoming hot (33-35C); which means nearly 40C in the direct sun is on the cards for the last 2-3 days of the week. Boaties - next weekend will have NNE’ly sea breezes which could be rather fresh in the afternoon. So the out early morning and back for lunch season has returned. Watch for a late storm Sat/Sun. Week 2 - the SOI values of +20 last year was reflected in widespread rain and the rivers flooding in September 2010. This year the current value of +6.2 or low single figures, has been associated with no rainfall and very dry conditions supporting a strong bushfire threat. If a trough in the south (30 Sep) makes southern Queensland then a late afternoon/evening storm (possible hail??) is likely about the Darling Downs. If it has enough puff then it may reach the southern Coalfields. Again this looks likely to have a lot of lightning which could be a bushfire hazard. Then if all goes well a relatively cooler period later in the week. Mariners - Be wary of the fickle conditions! Particularly the afternoon sea breezes.
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OFF SHIFT 121st EDITION. 2011
Howzat? It’s just not summer without cricket By Justin Carlos
BOAT SHOW
DEALS
NOW ON!
IT is that time of year again. The time of year where, for some inexplicable reason, I subject myself to hours upon end in the scorching sun attempting to hit, catch, throw or bowl a hard red ball. Cricket season has just begun, and this year I’m suggesting a few changes to the game that will hopefully catch on. First and foremost, drink breaks should be taken every three overs, and during each break players must consume at least one can of beer each. This measure is designed to ‘level the playing field’ - why should those gifted with exceptional balance and hand-eye co-ordination excel in the game? I think it’s also important for local cricketing clubs to implement a ‘rewards’ system for players who achieve personal milestones. Batsmen who score a century should be the only people at the club allowed to grow moustaches, a symbol of cricketing greatness sported by a number of Aussie heroes, perhaps most illustriously by David Boon.
A lot of local clubs focus on ‘the essentials’ at training: fielding, batting and bowling. While these aspects of the game are somewhat important, all good cricketers know that there’s few things in the game more satisfying than a good sledge. Gems like, “Couldn’t hit water if he fell out of a boat” and “Straight through him like a hot curry” have served the game well, but it’s time for players to come up with some new material. Don’t forget to balance your sledging training with the fundamentals though, because the better your sledges the more annoyed they’ll make the opposition, and as such you may experience more than a few ‘short balls’ when it’s your turn to bat. I will submit these proposed changes in writing to the Australian Cricket Board and hopefully they’ll be implemented early on in the season. In the unlikely event that my suggestions are refused I would still encourage anyone thinking about getting into the game to sign up for the new season.
“Batsmen who score a century should be the only people at the club allowed to grow moustaches, a symbol of cricketing greatness sported by a number of Aussie heroes, perhaps most illustriously by David Boon.”
Oh the recurring, blinding pain... HOW many times have you woken up on your first day off shift and said, “I am never drinking again”? I routinely tell myself it’s time for a few weeks off the sauce, but then somehow the working week obliterates all memory of the pounding headache, the nausea, and the solemn pledge to never, ever drink another beer. So how can you hope to win the unwinnable war, that raging struggle between man and beer? Well, my friends, it can be done. I just want to get one thing straight - by no means am I slandering beer.
ampton at Rockh “See us Camping Expo d Home an nd 28th August” a th 7 2 , th 26
It is the nectar of the gods, passed down from the heavens so we mere mortals can overcome our fears of approaching attractive women and arguing with strangers about former Australian test cricketers. But it’s extremely easy to get stuck in the routine of going to the pub at the end of every work stint, which can often lead to a soul crushing hangover, putting a downer on the rest of your time off. Make some plans during the week that will get you away from going down to the old local for a pint or two, organise a game of backyard cricket with your mates, go to
the movies, or go out for a round of golf. If you’re not keen to give up the amber fluid altogether then fear not, I have a suggestion which may help curb the wretched effect of the hangover. Instead of heading to the pub have some mates around for a beer or two - BUT - get a six pack of mid strength beer and limit yourself to just that. I virtually guarantee you’ll love the feeling of waking up feeling refreshed, and not having to worry about whether that faint memory of walking home holding hands with a bearded lady was dream or reality.
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Page 22 - Shift Miner Magazine, 26th September 2011
Call 07 5575 1066
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BOAT
OFF SHIFT
SHOW
DEALS
121st EDITION. 2011
Classic REVIEW BY JUSTIN CARLOS
IF this isn’t your favourite movie, chances are you’ve got at least a few friends who rate The Shawshank Redemption as the greatest film of all time. The film features in just about every ‘Top 10’ list of great movies, and rightly so, it’s a polished and powerful piece of cinema. Shawshank tells the story of Andy Dufrense (Tim Robbins), a young banker who is imprisoned for life for the murder of his wife and her lover.
NOW ON!
The greatest movie of all time? Andy is sent to Shawshank Prison, where he befriends Red (played by Morgan Freeman), a seasoned prisoner with a talent for sneaking contraband into the prison. The film then follows Andy’s life in prison, as he reveals himself to be an unusual, but highly valuable asset to warden and prisoner alike, as he employs his considerable skills in the area of banking and finance to make money for the warden in exchange for privileges for him and his fellow prisoners. The Shawshank Redemption was originally a story by Stephen King, which was adapted for the screen by director Frank Darabont. Darabont has a demonstrated penchant for adapting the works of King, with almost all of his feature films as director being adaptations of novels or short stories by Stephen King (another notable example is The Green Mile). Darabont’s demonstrated ability as a screenwriter is no doubt the foundation of The Shawshank Redemption, but what makes the film so powerful is the acting.
It is the performances of Robbins, Freeman, and the rest of the cast, punctuated with skillful cinematography, that gives the film its emotional power. Shawshank is also the film responsible for launching Morgan Freeman into the ranks of narrator super stardom, and giving birth to endless parodies in popular culture about his skills in the field of narration (perhaps most recently at the 2011 Oscars). Despite being championed by fans as ‘the greatest movie of all time’, Shawshank was snubbed at the Academy Awards, losing out in all seven categories it was nominated in. Forest Gump proved an insurmountable obstacle for Shawshank, taking home the gold in almost all categories in which Shawshank was nominated (best picture, best actor, best adapted screenplay, best cinematography). Despite it’s failure to stamp its name in Oscar history, The Shawshank Redemption deservedly maintains its reputation as one of the greatest films ever made.
Over 15 years after its initial release the film retains its overwhelming emotional power, so be warned, if you haven’t seen Shawshank before you may find yourself shedding a tear or two throughout the course of the film.
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that we all experience at some time, the difference being that Autistic Spectrum Disorder (ASD) sufferers experience these strong emotions all the time,” said Ms Jai. The artworks focus on popular children’s stories like Alice in Wonderland, Red Riding Hood, as well as other familiar children’s themes. Through the Looking Glass is now on at the Coalface Art Gallery until the end of October.
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Page 23 - Shift Miner Magazine, 26th September 2011
Your Health 121st EDITION. 2011
EXPERT ADVICE For those too busy or embarrassed to ask the important questions about their health Oh yes, it is that time again time for BLUE SEPTEMBER. There have been many famous faces flashing around this month with peculiar blue markings. Well, they have been collaborating to help increase the awareness of our Aussie men dying of cancer. According to the team at Blue September up to 22,000 men die each year as a result of cancer lung, prostate, bowel, melanoma and testicular. As a nurse, it became very evident to me the real effect of cancer. Watching families sit beside their most treasured loved ones and having to witness the pain and discomfort without being able to offer any help besides their constant love and support. Cancer is truly unkind and it really does not discriminate, so when you hear us continuously talking about going to see your GP for health checks or screening prevention, it really is for a good reason. Most recently I was speaking to a gentleman who has been diagnosed with melanoma eight times. He is a builder and works in the
sun. But now, for the first time he is aware that exposure to the sun makes him at high risk - something he has never had to worry about before. This man’s story is a nice one: he had the checkup, the cancer was found early and treated. He continues to have regular checkups with ongoing procedures to minimise his risk of it developing in to something more life threatening. Throughout working in intensive care units at hospitals, I have been truly inspired throughout my career by people who have dealt with such adversity and who continue to rise to the occasion and push through their hardships and win the fight. Please, when you think you don’t have time for that 10 minute appointment with your GP or the 30 minute wait in the waiting room, think of those sitting in a chemotherapy clinic weekly, it really is the reality for so many of our fellow Aussies, and through awareness and early detection, we can possibly save you from having to go down that path. Remember to stay healthy, stay informed!
Marinated Coriander Chicken Serves 4 As the weather warms up we are starting to smell the scent of Summer wafting from over the neighbour’s fence. Yes, it’s the smell of the backyard barbeque! Instead of steaks and sausages try something a little different with this Coriander Chicken recipe. Marinating is easy and then simply grill it on the barbeque to perfection. An easy summer meal for all the family to enjoy. INGREDIENTS:
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.
WHAT YOU CAN LEARN FROM A
WINO
750g Chicken breast or thigh 25g Olive oil J &RULDQGHU FKRSSHG ÂżQHO\ 2 cloves of garlic, crushed Juice of one lemon Salt and pepper to taste
METHOD: Place the chicken in a bowl with the coriander, garlic, salt, pepper, and olive oil. Mix together ensuring the chicken is coated well. Leave the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes. Preheat the grill on the barbeque to high. Cook the chicken basting with left over marinade until lightly golden brown and cooked all the way through. Serve with freshly steamed rice or your salad of choice. 7,3 7R LQWHVLI\ WKH ÀDYRXU PDULQDWH WKH FKLFNHQ IRU KRXUV EHIRUH FRRNLQJ
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Page 24 - Shift Miner Magazine, 26th September 2011
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MONEY MATTERS 121st EDITION. 2011
Good time to build a new home? IF you are looking to build a new home in central Queensland, now could be the perfect time. THE number of new houses being built in Queensland fell by 16.3 per cent in the June quarter, prompting builders to call for an urgent stimulus package. Across the nation, new starts fell for the third time in four quarters according to the Housing Industry Association (HIA). “Dwelling commencements are running at an annualised level of just over 151,000 in the June 2011 quarter, before accelerated weakness in leading indicators mid-year is accounted for,� said HIA chief economist Harley Dale. “The urgent need for stimulus to kickstart new home building is crystal clear as Australia moves further away from the underlying demographic demand for around 175,000 dwellings per annum.� But the weakening market is actually good news for new home buyers. “A competitive building market, less pressure on skilled trades, and steady inter-
GET PLANNING: If you’re looking to build a new home, the market is playing to your advantage
est rates combine to mean that if you’re in a financially sound position to do so, now is a particularly good time to build a new home,� said Dr Dale. In the June 2011 quarter total seasonally adjusted dwelling commencements fell by 4.7 per cent to 37,820. Detached house commencements fell by 2.2 per cent to 23,106 while commencements of ‘Other dwellings’ dropped by 8.8 per cent to 14,406. The number of seasonally adjusted dwelling commencements fell in five of eight states and territories in the June 2011 quarter. Dwelling commencements fell by 20.1 per cent in New South Wales, 16.3 per cent in Queensland, 1.3 per cent in Western Australia, 14.3 per cent in Tasmania, and 69.4 per cent in the Northern Territory. Dwelling commencements increased in the June 2011 quarter in Victoria (+6.8 per cent), South Australia (+4.5 per cent), and the Australian Capital Territory (+30.0 per cent).
“Now is a particularly good time to build a new home.�
).6%34-%.4
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Page 25 - Shift Miner Magazine, 26th September 2011
MONEY MATTERS 121st EDITION. 2011
MONEY TIPS FROM THE EXPERTS
Your investment property questions answered
Why buy a new house instead of an existing house? The federal government will give you a tax incentive that continues for as long as you own the “new� house. Also the building of a new house creates employment and stimulates the economy. The waiting list for public housing (housing commission) has grown impossibly long leaving the government with two options: a) build more housing commission homes (which they do not want to do this
because of the capital cost and the army of bureaucrats they need to administer and maintain them); or b) give investors a financial incentive in the form of an ongoing tax benefit to encourage the construction of new homes. How much do I need to earn to make investing in property financially viable? Generally in excess of $80,000 per annum. This tax bracket is $80 - $180K and the tax rate including Medicare is 39.5 per cent. In excess of $180K it is 46.5 per cent. This means the ability to build wealth is available to normal working class families as well as highly paid individuals. If my first house is an investment property am I still eligible for the First Home Owners Grant? Whilst you do not qualify for the First Home Owners Grant on your investment
ď€ ď€‚ď€ƒď€ƒď€„ď€…ď€†ď€‡ď€ˆď€ƒď€„ď€ƒď€‰ď€ˆď€„ď€Šď€†ď€‹ď€‚ď€Œď€?ď€ˆď€‰ď€‚ď€…ď€† ď€?ď€Œď€†ď€?ď€Œď€?ď€Žď€‚ď€…ď€…ď€ˆď€?ď€ƒď€„ď€Šď€†ď€‡ď€ˆď€ƒď€„ď€ƒď€‰ď€ˆď€„ď€Šď€†ď€?ď€Šď€„ď€ƒď€ƒď€ˆď€ƒď€‘ď€’ď€† ď€ ď€‚ď€ƒď€ƒď€„ď€…ď€†ď€‡ď€…ď€†ď€„ď€†ď€ˆď€‰ď€Šď€‹ď€‰ď€‚ď€…ď€…ď€‡ď€Œď€‚ď€†ď€?ď€?ď€?ď€?ď€?ď€‡ď€ƒď€„ď€ƒď€—ď€‡ď€„ď€’ď€†ď€„ď€–ď€Œď€‡ď€…ď€‚ď€‰ď€…ď€†ď€ˆď€‰ď€Šď€Œď€‡ď€–ď€‡ď€ƒď€‹ď€†ď€? ď€Žď€„ď€–ď€‚ď€†ď€„ď€–ď€Œď€‡ď€—ď€‚ď€†ď€?ď€Šď€†ď€‘ď€‚ď€’ď€ˆď€†ď€‹ď€‰ď€Šď€?ď€?ď€?ď€‘ď€˜ď€†ď€†ď€™ď€‚ď€†ď€Šď€ˆď€‚ď€‰ď€„ď€?ď€‚ď€†ď€Šď€ƒď€†ď€„ď€†ď€?ď€?ď€Šď€‰ď€†ď€…ď€‚ď€‰ď€Œď€‡ď€—ď€‚ď€†ď€šď€„ď€…ď€‡ď€…ď€†ď€„ď€ƒď€–ď€† ď€?ď€‡ď€’ď€’ď€†ď€‰ď€‚ď€—ď€Šď€Žď€Žď€‚ď€ƒď€–ď€†ď€„ď€ƒď€†ď€‡ď€ƒď€Œď€‚ď€…ď€?ď€Žď€‚ď€ƒď€?ď€†ď€ˆď€’ď€„ď€ƒď€†ď€?ď€?ď€?ď€†ď€‡ď€ƒď€?ď€?ď€?ď€?ď€˜ď€†
property, you are still eligible for the First Home Owner Grant when you buy your first owner occupied home, even if you have previously purchased an investment property. What are the tax benefits? There are no tax benefits to owning your own residence except an exemption from capital gains. With our investment properties, we do not buy and sell, but accumulate, using equity to buy more. Every time you buy and sell your home it costs you money! How much will it cost me per week? If your tax bracket is $80 – 180K a $500Kt house using principal and interest over 30 years will require a contribution per week of approx. $270 on nil deposit or $195 per week on 10% deposit. This is less than what you would pay weekly for groceries!!
If you would like more information about building wealth, beating inflation and reducing your income tax contact Steve Taylor & Partners for a free consultation on 4980 7733 or visit www.stevetaylor.com.au
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estate planning
Call us on 1300 700 189 or visit www.bigskyfs.net.au ď€ ď€ ď€ ď€ ď€ ď€ ď€‚ď€žď€„ď€’ď€„ď€‰ď€“ď€†ď€žď€„ď€—ď€‰ď€‡ď€? ď€ ď€‚ď€žď€•ď€ˆď€‚ď€‰ď€„ď€ƒď€ƒď€•ď€„ď€?ď€‡ď€Šď€ƒď€†ď€&#x;ď€†ď€œď€Šď€’ď€’ď€Šď€Œď€‚ď€‰ď€…ď€† ď€ ď€‚ď€?ď€‚ď€‰ď€…ď€Šď€ƒď€„ď€’ď€†ď€˘ď€ƒď€…ď€•ď€‰ď€„ď€ƒď€—ď€‚ď€…ď€† ď€ ď€‚ď€ ď€„ď€ƒď€„ď€‹ď€‚ď€–ď€†ď€˘ď€ƒď€Œď€‚ď€…ď€?ď€Žď€‚ď€ƒď€? ď€ ď€‚ď€™ď€‚ď€„ď€’ď€?ď€?ď€‡ď€Šď€ƒď€† ď€ ď€‚  ď€œď€‚ď€?ď€‡ď€‰ď€‚ď€Žď€‚ď€ƒď€?ď€?ď€’ď€„ď€ƒď€ƒď€‡ď€ƒď€‹ď€† ď€ ď€‚ď€žď€ ď€žď€Ąď€…ď€† ď€ ď€‚ď€Łď€…ď€?ď€?ď€?ď€’ď€„ď€ƒď€ƒď€‡ď€ƒď€‹ď€† ď€ ď€‚ď€žď€‘ď€„ď€‰ď€‚ď€†ď€&#x;ď€?ď€‰ď€Šď€ˆď€‚ď€‰ď€?ď€“ď€†ď€˘ď€ƒď€Œď€‚ď€…ď€?ď€Žď€‚ď€ƒď€? ď€ ď€‚ď€›ď€‚ď€ƒď€?ď€‰ď€‚ď€’ď€‡ď€ƒď€¤ď€†ď€Łď€ƒď€?ď€?ď€’ď€‚ď€Žď€‚ď€ƒď€? ď€ ď€‚ď€ƒď€ƒď€„ď€…ď€†ď€‡ď€ˆď€ƒď€„ď€ƒď€‰ď€ˆď€„ď€Šď€†ď€‹ď€‚ď€Œď€?ď€ˆď€‰ď€‚ď€…ď€†ď€Žď€?ď€?ď€? ď€Ľď€†ď€–ď€‡ď€Œď€‡ď€…ď€‡ď€Šď€ƒď€†ď€Šď€?ď€†ď€ ď€‚ď€ƒď€ƒď€„ď€…ď€†ď€›ď€‘ď€„ď€‰ď€?ď€‚ď€‰ď€‚ď€–ď€†ď€Ľď€—ď€—ď€Šď€•ď€ƒď€?ď€„ď€ƒď€?ď€?ď€˜ď€†ď€Śď€§ď€¨ď€Šď€† ď€Ľď€Ąď€žď€†ď€Şď€‡ď€—ď€‚ď€ƒď€—ď€‚ď€†ď€Ťď€Šď€†ď€Źď€ď€¨ď€Śď€Šď€§ď€†ď€†ď€†ď€†ď€†ď€†ď€†ď€Ľď€Žď€Ťď€†ď€Żď€Żď€†ď€°ď€Śď€°ď€†ď€Śď€°ď€¨ď€†ď€ąď€Źď€¨ď€†
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 ď€?ď€…ď€łď€¤ď€‚ď€ƒď€ƒď€„ď€…ď€˜ď€—ď€Šď€Žď€† ď€?ď€?ď€?ď€˜ď€¤ď€‚ď€ƒď€ƒď€„ď€…ď€˜ď€—ď€Šď€Žď€†
Big Sky Financial Solutions Pty Ltd (ABN 95 133 452 589) is a corporate authorised representative (CAR 331478) of Outlook Financial Solutions Pty Ltd (ABN 40 083 233 925 Australian Financial Services Licence Number 240959)
04/11 12955
Why would I invest in property instead of stocks to build wealth? Residential property has the lowest risk and the highest ratio of profit to funds employed -ie your borrowing ratio is higher and interest rates lower. Events of recent weeks has seen a movement of funds from the share market to cash – this cycle is the norm with cash then moving to gold and property.
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ď€ď€Šď€Źď€Žď€†ď€Šď€‹ď€†ď€‡ď€¨ď€Źď€Źď€†ď€†ď€Żď€†ď€†ď€Žď€Šď€Şď€°ď€†ď€Ťď€Śď€†ď€Śď€ąď€˛ď€Šď€łď€›ď€Şď€Šď€Śď€Ťď€†
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Page 26 - Shift Miner Magazine, 26th September 2011
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Bottom end of Rocky market selling that in some cases you are capable of positive gearing some houses.” “That obviously is very attractive to interstate investors.” At the other end of the market, prestige properties are sitting on the market for months. “There has been very little activity at the high end of the market,” said Mr Livingston. “Houses are sitting on the market for a long time and there is a fair volume for sale.” “However, we are starting to move into the end of the year period where there is traditionally more activity as people start to make plans for what they are doing next year.” There is positive news from the commercial and industrial real estate sector, with sales and leases boosted by lack of availa-
Gracemere is a hot spot for industrial and commerical land sales and leases
ALL the activity in Rockhampton residential real estate sales is occurring in the lower end of the market, according to the Real Estate Institute of Queensland (REIQ). “It’s all about price range,” said REIQ regional representative Noel Livingston. “There are a lot of decent houses on the
market for between $200,000 to 250,000.” “That means the market place is full of first home buyers and investors.” Mr Livingston said less than three years ago, first home buyers couldn’t enter the market for under $300,000. “Rental returns at the moment mean
bility in Gladstone. “This is the first real evidence we have had of a spin off from these big projects happening just south of us,” said Mr Livingston. “We expect more to follow.” “Many companies that are working on industry contracts for three to five years are taking up the option of leases.” Mr Livingston said Gracemere has been a popular choice. “What is available out there is rapidly being swallowed up.” “Much of the land is being purpose built for particular companies to run their businesses from and then leased out.” Mr Livingston said he expected to see the knock on effect of the Gladstone boom in residential real estate soon. “There is just no accommodation available in Gladstone and we are such a close and viable alternative it has to happen.”
“This is the first real evidence we have had of a spin off from these big projects happening just south of us.” |Mission Beach
Phone Di Wagner 0419 685 495
BUDGET BUSTER MISSION BEACH
Brand new 2 bedroom - $320,000 Eligible First Home buyers, take advantage of the $10,000 BUILDING BOOST GRANT in addition to the $7,000 FIRST HOME OWNER GRANT. PLUS, the builder is matching the BUILDING BOOST GRANT by offering a further $10,000 off the advertised price. $27,000 discount to be made by eligible First Home Buyers! 180 Footsteps to the beach….
www.missionbeachfirstnational.com.au
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s s s s
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For Sale “Portion of Deepwater”
This highly improved parcel of prime agricultural land - is perfectly located for a miner with an agricultural background 60 km of sealed road to Moura and 35 km to Bauhinia Downs Zamia Creek frontage 2,300 acres (930 ha) of land from the respected property “Deepwater” Coolibah alluvial creek flats rising to black & red scrub soils; predominantly Brigalow soils & fully improved to buffel pastures. 642 acres of cultivation currently under wheat. Top quality scrub fattening and farming country highly suited to additional area or starter block.
id res1645
$775 per acre bare of stock & crops Approx. 2,300 acres Freehold
Planned Subdivision
Rockhampton 4702 Howard Mills Telephone 07 4933 3322 Licensed Real Estate Agent Mobile 0418 220 464 LARGE PASTORAL SALES www.ruralpropertyservices.com.au Gracemere Saleyards
Page 27 - Shift Miner Magazine, 26th September 2011
E COMMERCIAL FACILITY U Q
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Building your wealth Get on track to building wealth with Big Sky Financial Solutions. We are dedicated to helping you secure your financial future and achieve your lifestyle choices.
Purpose built facility close to mining areas
Call us on 1300 700 189 to find out how we can help you.
Big Sky Financial Solutions Pty Ltd (ABN 95 133 452 589) is a corporate authorised representative (CAR 331478) of Outlook Financial Solutions Pty Ltd (ABN 40 083 233 925 Australian Financial Services Licence Number 240959)
www.bigskyfs.net.au
09/2011
IDEAL FOR USE AS A:
s 4RAINING FACILITY s #OMPANY HEADQUARTERS s %NGINEERING &ABRICATION FACILITY s %XCELLENT WATER ROAD ACCESS s )NCORPORATES ,AB CATERING AND WORKSHOP FACILITIES
Purpose built as a Marine TAFE College, the property would suit a wide range of alternative uses for the mining sector.
NOW FOR LEASE (at very competitive rental rates).
Contact Owner on 0419 676 803, or by email at kwittkopp@optusnet.com.au
www.industrial.widebay.com.au