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Monday November 25, 2013 175th Edition

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Celebrating a long term future for Kestrel Mine Queensland’s Treasurer has joined Rio Tinto and Mitsui to officially open the $2 billion extension of Kestrel Mine.

Proud to be a part of the central Queensland Community and committed to the future.

The extension will add 20 years to the life of Kestrel Mine, providing a long term future for our workforce and the contributions we make in the community. Pictured: Rio Tinto Chief Executive Energy Harry Kenyon-Slaney and Queensland Treasurer Tim Nicholls underground at Kestrel Mine.

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1800 apply for 120 jobs by Alex Graham JUST a month before Christmas more than 1800 applications have been received for 120 jobs at Clermont’s Blair Athol mine, which is now under the stewardship of New Emerald Coal. More than 95 per cent of applicants were from Queensland, and 80 per cent live in the Clermont region. “We’ve had 101 applicants for safety officer position, we’ve had 63 people apply for training officers and 14 as mine managers,” New Emerald Coal’s chief executive Michael Mapp told Shift Miner. “This sort of response was unheard of 18 months ago.” New Emerald Coal - a subsidiary of Linc Energy bought the mothballed Blair Athol mine from Rio Tinto last month for $2. In new figures released to the Australian Stock Exchange last week, the project is now valued at $181 million. Mr Mapp said the decision to restart Blair Athol was long and considered, and the negotiations with Rio Tinto

had begun 18 months ago. “This is the foundation for setting up our coal business,” he explained. “We’ve had all sorts of people look at this asset to make sure we weren’t getting excited about nothing.” In fact, independent consultants have just upgraded the coal resource at the mine, in a move the company says will allow it to mine three million tonnes of coal each year, for a decade. Mr Mapp said sections of the site will be re-mined using highwall mining, which will enable a previously inaccessible lower coal seam to be reached. Conventional open-cut mining will also be used. New Emerald has also opened an office in Clermont, which is staffed three days a week so management can meet local business leaders and get a feel for the community. “We’re hoping to have job candidates shortlisted by December, and people should find out in the first week of January if they’re successful,” said Mr Mapp. “We want them on site by the end of January and hope to have

coal out by the end of March.” Mr Mapp said there was no better time to be starting a coal business, given the availability of top quality employees. “We think this is a fantastic opportunity,” he said. “We can’t control the exchange rate and we can only forecast coal prices but we can control our productivity and costs from the start. “We can do this by selecting the right people so we will take our time to get it right, even if it means delaying production by a month to do that.” New Emerald Coal is expected to de-merge from Linc Energy about midway through next year. The company wants to develop a coal deposit at its Teresa project, north of Emerald, and Mr Mapp said it was also actively negotiating to buy more coal assets to mine. “At the moment it’s about bringing expectations down,” he said. “They have a set price in their minds but there is a big difference between that and what we are willing to pay.”

Rio sells up CQ tenements

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Shaky times pose suicide risk by Inga Stünzner

JUNIOR explorer Mozambi Coal has bought two coal exploration licences in Central Queensland from mining giant Rio Tinto. The past couple of months have seen a selling spree for Rio as it continues to divest non-core assets; it recently sold its Clermont mine to Glencore Xstrata and its mothballed Blair Athol mine to Linc Energy. Now, Mozambi Coal has paid $375,000 for two coal exploration licences in the Bowen Basin, with additional payments of up to $3 million

to be paid if the resource is confirmed at more than 50 million tonnes. One of the licences is in the Bowen Basin, 100 kilometres west of Mackay, and covers an area about 30 square kilometres. The other is about 117 km south of Mackay, and is near titles held by BHP Billiton, Anglo Coal and Waratah Coal. Mozambi Coal says it has also entered into negotiations with other companies to acquire up to another three coal exploration licences in applications in Queensland.

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THE recent spate of redundancies and stress over job security in the mining industry is cause for concern, particularly in light of new suicide research, according to a leading researcher. “Speaking broadly, job loss, unemployment and the fear of job loss are associated with elevated rates of suicide,” lead researcher Dr Samara McPhedran told Shift Miner. “It is reasonable to be concerned.” Dr McPhedran, who is a senior research fellow at the university’s Australian Institute for Suicide Research and Prevention (AISRAP), has published a number of studies delving into miners and mental health. One of her studies published earlier this year debunked the myth that miners were more prone to depression and suicide than the general male population. However, the findings in this latest study - which compared psychiatric histories and life events among men in mining and other occupations prior to death were surprising.

The study found that relationship problems may see male miners at greater risk of suicide, relative to men in other occupations. “Miners were significantly more likely than men in other occupations to have experienced relationship problems prior to their death by suicide,” she said. “The observation that relationship troubles may precede suicide is not in itself novel, but the apparent difference in exposure to this factor, between miners and other workers who died by suicide, is a new finding.” Dr McPhedran said knowing that relationship problems may be an important predictor of suicide among miners may help identify and assist miners who are at risk, as well as point the way to possible industry-specific intervention strategies. It may be beneficial for the resources sector to consider aspects of workforce design that may impact, both directly and indirectly, on family relationships, she said. There is a well-established connection between relationship stress, conflict, relationship breakdown and suicide and this

is especially strong amongst men. Work will continue as Dr McPhedran and her team look at this in detail to discover what the nature of the relationship problems could be amongst miners. “This is speculation, but there may be some aspect about working in mining that triggers or exacerbates relationship strain, such as absences from home, long rosters, rotating shifts. “There is also the possibility that there may be some men who are attracted to that kind of work because they are already experiencing relationship problems. “They may think the pay packet, the long rosters and being away may help ease some of those tensions. “At this stage, we don’t know but we will be looking at this in the future.” Meanwhile, another finding in this study was that mental health problems before death were comparable between the two different groups of men. “There was no evidence that miners were more likely to be suffering from depression, for example.”

Machinery market back online? AFTER a year-long sales drought in the second-hand mining machinery market, the first green shoots are starting to appear. One auctioneer with 20 years experience says while there is now finally some activity, he has never seen such a slow market. “Well there hasn’t been a mining market, it stopped,” he said. “We are starting to see some older surplus mining equipment getting offloaded to offshore buyers, so there is a bit of older stuff being sold. “But there is no new machinery being listed, people are just not selling because they won’t get what they’re owed on the machines so it makes no sense to sell and they are just parking them up.” He said buyers were waiting until the new year when they were hoping a few more jobs would start to be awarded. Meanwhile, record coal production in the Bowen Basin continues. Greg Murphy, consultant with Best Tractor Parts in

Mackay, says all the signs are improving and he is hopeful that after the wet season things will really pick up. “All our parts are going out as urgent breakages,” he said. “The mines are ordering parts on an as-need basis rather than as part of a scheduled maintenance program.” Mr Murphy believes the current trading conditions will turn around in March or April next year. “Everyone is holding off on their maintenance spending, but I agree it is all coming to a head,” he said. Then, maintenance will really kick up a gear when machines that have been parked up for months are put back on the job. “Machines certainly go better when they are being used 24 hours a day, seven days a week,” he said. “There is a lot of surplus gear parked up, more than at the height of the GFC, and when it does go back to work there is going to be a lot of maintenance required.”

Thiess shuts, but confidence up

MINING services giant Thiess is about to shut up its Mackay office, and with it 36 jobs will go just before Christmas. The company has lost key contracts in Bowen Basin and will now centralise its offices in Brisbane and Perth. It’s another body blow for the town that has been the epicentre of pain during the coal downturn over the past 12 months. But one well-known business leader, Kylie Porter, says there has been a switch to optimism recently among business owners. “I am certainly not suggesting that over the next six months we will see business go from flat to boom,” the deputy chair of the Mackay Chamber of Commerce told Shift Miner. “But what I do think is that psychologically a lot of business feel the worst is behind them and that is a positive place for us to be as a region because it means we will be ready

25th November 2013

when it does pick up.” Ms Porter said despite the announcement from Thiess that it will shut it doors, the rate of closing businesses has pulled up. “Certainly the wave of business closure has slowed right down so I think that period is behind us now,” she said. “But I think the businesses that are still operating today are working extremely hard to remain profitable and keep their employees on because that’s all they can do in the current climate.” Ms Porter said while she wasn’t expecting the start of 2014 to bring any significant changes in trading conditions, the outlook was certainly brighter than earlier in the year. “When you talked to people six months ago sentiment was very, very flat whereas now there is some optimism and businesses have adjusted to the new norm.” 25th November 2013

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Bowser burden: why does Middlemount pay more for fuel?

Tieri Caltex and Foodworks Proprietor Cathy Truloff

By Nicky Way IF you had any doubt about mining town life being expensive, a quick comparison of fuel prices will confirm your suspicions: the further out you live the more you pay. That’s especially the case for the Bowen Basin town of Middlemount, where the price of unleaded fuel is an astronomical 20 per cent higher than its nearest neighbours. Last time we looked Middlemount was paying an off-the-charts price of $1.64 a litre* for unleaded fuel, while nearby towns Tieri and Dysart

were paying only $1.58 a litre. Of course, for every kilometre you get closer to the coast it gets more economical. Yeppoon’s unleaded fuel came in at $1.48 a litre, not much higher than suburban Brisbanites, who were shelling out $1.45. So why do CQ towns pay so much more for fuel, and why is Middlemount’s pain at the pump so extreme? Middlemount Caltex manager Lisa O’Brien told Shift Miner it’s challenging to keep costs down. “With fuel costs they are always changing. The price is ultimately up to the owner and they have to make a profit,” she said.

“As an independently owned Caltex petrol station we have to buy the fuel from Caltex, so there’s a mark-up on that. “You can imagine that for a Caltex-owned petrol station the fuel cost would be less than it is for an independent service station who has to buy it in from Caltex. “That drives up prices and of course freight increases prices too.” Tieri Caltex and Foodworks owner Cathy Truloff has a slightly different take. She says while you have to take freight into consideration, you don’t need to rip people off. “Our fuel comes from Emerald and yes we have to pay freight

but it’s 2.5c per litre,” she said. “Our fuel price should only be 2.5 cents more than Emerald. I don’t believe in ripping people off - I keep the fuel price competitive.” And it’s not just fuel that’s expensive in CQ. The cost of groceries from servos and grocery stores can get out of control too. Lisa O’Brien says they work hard to keep the price of groceries they supply down. “We trying make it that our customers get the best prices,” she said. “We pass on the food and drink item promotions that are offered, things like one Coke $5 or two for $6 and the price guaranteed Dairy Farmers Milk for $2.99. We don’t have to offer these specials but we do. “We try and keep our grocery prices as fair as we can. We ask our suppliers for deals on bulk grocery purchases to keep those costs down. “The nature of a service station is that costs are naturally higher; we don’t have the buying power of a Coles or Woolies.” For the Tieri Foodworks, its buying power is better than a servo, but Cathy Truloff says it can be a hard slog to deliver good quality products at good prices with all the overheads. “If I put the prices on groceries that I am directed to I would never have any customers. Freight is just astronomical. It’s hard because we’re a bit off the beaten track. If I had this supermarket in Capella my costs would be 6 per cent less,” she said.

“I try and stock local products where I can. I source my meat locally and I price it cheaper than the big stores. I get my grapes from out near the dam; things like that are important.” Adding to the challenge is the ordering process that keeps the supermarket stocked with in-date products but doesn’t leave them with large quantities of expiring stock. “Trucks arrive usually twice a week, sometimes once a week,” Ms Truloff said. “You’ve always got to be on top of your game, watching the dates of your stock, the freshness of produce, the cleanliness of the store, the variety of products you offer to the community, they are our big challenges. Back in Middlemount, Lisa O’Brien’s challenges are different. “Getting and keeping good staff is difficult. Everyone wants to work in the mines, so you spend a lot of time hiring and training staff with the high turnover.” With so many challenges to running a local business you might think there were no rewards but Ms Truloff says not so. “When the community comes and shop with you that is the reward. “Local businesses go out on a limb to give the community what they need and it gives you so much pleasure to be able to support the community through these businesses and by contributing to local events, charities and community groups.”

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Miles booms overnight Chinese buy up - after three years Curtis Island

RENTS have more than halved in the Surat Basin town of Miles over the past few months as long awaited housing comes online. According to the Western Downs Regional Council, approval has recently been given for more than 5000 new beds in Miles to accommodate the growing CSG workforce. However, local businessman and president of the Chamber of Commerce John Hoffman says the approvals - while appreciated - have been too slow. “We just think it has all come three years too late,” he told Shift Miner. “The new developments are generally welcomed by people in town, and certainly demand for the services hasn’t gone, but a lot of these applications were lodged three or four years ago. “Unfortunately the CSG boom coincided with the shire amalgamations and it has taken this long for decisions to be made. “In the meantime a lot of

people have got sick of it and moved their camps out of town.” Mr Hoffman said the drawnout approvals process and subsequent housing squeeze had forced locals to live in a hyper-inflated environment where rents rose from $150 a week to $1800 a week. But now there is one new camp more than halfway built and two new housing estates with combined approvals for 1350 lots. “To me the downside is it’s driven the price of housing to ridiculous levels and that happened because they were too slow getting going,” said Mr Hoffman. “There is still plenty of demand and they are talking about another 15 years, so anything is welcome, but inflation has done the damage. “The first real big batch of houses just became available and that has seen rents fall from $1800 a week back to $600 or $700 a week bearing in mind the same

houses were renting for $150 a week before all this started.” However, aside from inflationary pressures, Mr Hoffman said CSG had revived a dying town - providing opportunities for business and giving young people a reason to stay. “CSG has brought new business to town. We now have an industrial hire business, three hire car companies and a consultant engineering and town planning business in town. “Overall for the town it has been extremely good. Miles used to be what you would call a retirement town; people who couldn’t afford to retire to Toowoomba retired here. “Ironically they now have been able to sell up here for more than they could in Toowoomba and taken the opportunity to move back there. “The population is certainly much younger. All our kids used to leave for work opportunities, but they now have a reason to stay.”

CHINESE company CNOOC (Chinese National Offshore Oil Corporation) has significantly increased its stake in one of the Curtis Island LNG projects, forking out almost $2 billion in the process. The deal, with the BG Group, will see CNOOC buy heavily into upstream and downstream assets - meaning in the gasfields and at the processing site. The company now owns a 45 per cent interest in BG tenements around the Bowen and Surat Basins, and has

increased its stake in the QCLNG train 1 from 10 per cent to 50 per cent. In a separate agreement, BG will also supply CNOOC with an additional 5 million tonnes per annum of LNG. Chief executive of BG group, Chris Finlayson, said the agreement with CNOOC was the start of a new chapter in the world’s first coal seam gas to LNG project. “Our relationship with CNOOC has grown as they increase their investment in our QCLNG project and BG Group becomes the largest supplier of LNG to the world’s fastest growing energy market. “Today’s agreements exemplify our strategy to manage our portfolio more actively, monetise assets at different stages in their lifecycle and bring in key partners to accelerate value delivery.”

“

The MAC has been a long term supporter of RAAG and together we are working towards safer roads for communities across the Bowen Basin.

”

*Fuel prices survey conducted by Shift Miner

Graeme Ransley Road Safety Coordinator Road Accident Action Group, Mackay

As Australia’s leading workforce accommodation provider, The MAC is committed to establishing collaborative and productive partnerships with community groups.

Local Jobs. Local Business. Local Partnerships.

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This is just one of the ways we are helping to deliver sustainable outcomes for our host communities.

25th November 2013

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Galilee towns need basics

WHILE the Newman Government will cut royalties to entice miners to develop the Galilee Basin, a local council is hoping some money will go into the region’s infrastructure so towns are not left behind. Barcaldine Regional Council mayor Rob Chandler told Shift Miner that at least $100 million was needed on infrastructure without taking into account main roads in western Queensland. “Collectively if the likes of Adani, GVK and Waratah go ahead, the cumulative effects will be enormous. It’s a matter of getting in now

and starting these infrastructure projects so we are at least on par with government. “If we don’t get the infrastructure sorted now, we will be behind,” he said. Earlier this month, the Newman Government released its Galilee Basin Development Strategy, which is designed to encourage miners to take the first step to open the basin up for their own projects as well as other miners. The proposed projects have a total forecast investment of $28.4 billion and could provide over 15,000 jobs during construction and over 13,000 operational jobs.

Premier Campbell Newman said the government promised to deliver on infrastructure and better planning and that was what the strategy was about. Cr Chandler said it was okay for the government to talk about rebates on royalties, but the region needed a cash injection now. The main roads linking Alpha to Clermont, Emerald and Tambo were also in need of an upgrade, he said. “We’ve been ranting on about the same stuff now for about six years and we’re talking about the infrastructure needed and they are simple projects: land, power, water, airport facilities and sewerage. “After that we will need health and emergency services.” Cr Chandler said council had gained some traction with the health department to build a combined health, emergency and police centre in Alpha. Council has also had promises from some of the mining proponents that they will help with emergency services and infrastructure if their leases go ahead. Cr Chandler said although council and landholders had concerns regarding the draw-down of water, the state and federal governments had addressed this through make-good agreements. “Generally the communities and the business community in western Queensland are excited

about the prospect of the mines opening. “You’re talking about 7000 people in construction, so that is a heap of bread, meat and butter. But there are all other suppliers, such as light and heavy equipment suppliers, cleaning staff, cooks. “We need to talk to the companies involved to see what advantages we can pick up along the way.” Most communities have land, water, transport and communication facilities, so it was up to the business community to see what opportunities were available in western Queensland, he said. The council has been proactive after observing how other regions have been affected by mining and resource booms and in September put six blocks of industrial land under the hammer. Two of these sold, and the council is considering opening up 30 blocks of residential land. “As you can imagine, we now have a lot of people trying to get in, but without water and power it will be hard to get these projects up and running.” The opportunities are not just for the west. “We would like to think that the communities of Rockhampton and Mackay can take advantage and those close to here and geared up with industrial businesses like Clermont and Emerald can set up satellite businesses because of the tyranny of distance.”

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Make Rocky a FIFO hub

MINERS working in Western Queensland want Rockhampton to become a FIFO hub so they don’t have to detour through Brisbane to get to work. That’s according to Councillor Neil Fisher, who says he’s spoken to a number of FIFO workers who face constant difficulties travelling between Rockhampton and Moranbah, as well as other sites around Queensland. “They all have to travel via Brisbane, making what should be a simple flight a long trip,” said Cr Fisher. He said the council’s Business Enterprise Committee and Resource Sector Advisory Committee were working closely to consider how to capitalise on alternate air and travel routes to Western Queensland. “Rockhampton has the enviable position of having the third highest number of FIFO/DIDO workers of all cities

in Queensland,” Cr Fisher said. “With the release of the state government’s Galilee Basin Development Strategy, Rockhampton airport wants to be able to assist those existing workers as well as future workers by providing full airport services. “[We] see many opportunities for our airport to capitalise on this for both the benefit of the airport, the community and the workers affected.” Cr Fisher’s push for Rocky to become a FIFO hub would underscore the city’s importance to the mining community, particularly given the recent announcement that free accommodation for mining families requiring medical care will soon be opened. Coal Train House aims to make it easier for miners and the families living in the Bowen and Galilee Basins to access essential medical services. Rockhampton region mayor Margaret Strelow said the Coal Train House project highlights the extent to which Rockhampton provides services to Central Queensland. “Many mining families have found it difficult to access medical services in their home towns and this project fills that gap by giving them the chance of receiving first rate services near to home in Rockhampton.”

Phone coverage collapsing under weight of CSG demand

by Angus Peacocke

THE digital age is a distant and frustrating dream for the Chinchilla community and CSG workforce. The local mobile network is struggling to meet demand, rendering it completely unusable for large portions of the day. President of the Chinchilla Community, Commerce & Industry (CCCI) group Jason Johnstone told Shift Miner that telecommunications is the single biggest issue for people living in the region. “One of the things you really notice when you talk to people is how frustrated they are by the phone services,” he said. “I was speaking to a farmer yesterday and he says since CSG arrived, his access to 3G and 4G data services have been reduced to an hour a day.” Mr Johnstone said the network had not kept up with the influx of FIFO and DIDO workers, and data coverage was now virtually non-existent. “It’s not the fault of the workforce. They are using a service that is fundamental to our lives these days,” he said. “Workers can’t keep in contact with loved ones, businesses can’t do what they need to do.” According to Mr Johnstone, there seems

to be a disconnect between where phones bills are being paid and where phone usage is taking place. This means investment in local infrastructure upgrades isn’t taking place. “The problem is the providers don’t seem to be able to recognise the area of highest use,” he said. “Whether it’s because the bills are being paid from a home address, which is often hundreds of kilometres from where the calls are being made, I don’t know. But all the carriers have the ability to see where the call loads are, so there needs to be investment in that area. “These are crucial services that we are talking about.” Notwithstanding the issues with mobile reception, Mr Johnstone says Chinchilla’s increasing importance as a CSG hub is progressing relatively smoothly. Accommodation costs - though expensive - are not out of control, although CCCI has made a submission on the recently released draft town plan requesting more medium density housing be included. The final town plan is expected to be released sometime early in 2014. “I don’t see too many negatives aside from lack of infrastructure from the big end of town, like council and the mobile providers,” said Mr Johnstone.

Springsure Creek gets environmental green light BANDANNA Energy’s Springsure Creek project has reached a milestone and is on track for first production in mid-2015 with the Queensland government approving its environmental impact statement. Bandanna Energy’s managing director Michael Gray said the company’s flagship thermal coal project can now move to the final approval stages for the grant of a mining lease. “The project is one of the few current mining projects in Queensland that is ready to proceed in the immediate future, given it has access to existing rail and port

25th November 2013

capacity,” he said. Many eyes are on the Springsure project, which will be the first underground mine in Australia to have crops simultaneously farmed on top. Mr Gray said that throughout the EIS process, Bandanna Energy had offered substantial commitments to the Queensland government in relation to the productivity of prime agricultural lands. Having mining and agriculture co-exist has been on the top of Bandanna’s agenda. The miner has actually pushed for higher standards to better maintain productivity

of prime agricultural land than are currently required by law. With the EIS approved, Bandanna Energy is now looking to finalise compensation arrangements with landowners and other key stakeholders. “The EIS approval also satisfies key investment criteria for many of the potential customers and joint venture partners we are speaking to in relation to the Springsure Creek project,” Mr Gray added. Bandanna Energy will now submit an environmental management plan to the Queensland Department of Environment

and Heritage Protection to assist in the development of conditions for the draft environmental authority. With approval of the EIS and the timing of Commonwealth environmental approvals factored into the schedule, commencement of production and exports from the Springsure Creek project remains on track for mid-2015. This schedule is subject to a number of factors, particularly finalisation of regulatory approvals for the grant of a mining licence, project funding and completion of construction of Wiggins Island Stage 1.

25th November 2013

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Ipswich now open for mining - sort of

VIRTUAL TRAINING: Mines Minister Andrew Cripps being shown how the new training facility works.

FAR, far away from the Central Queensland coalfields, in an an unassuming suburb of Ipswich is a new virtual reality training facility that will take would-be miners through the sights, sounds and challenges of working in an

underground mine. The half-a-million dollar mine training centre was opened last week and is located at the Department of Natural Resources and Mines Safety in Mines Testing and Research Station

(Simtars) at Redbank. It was developed in partnership with Brisbane company VR Space and Mines Minister Andrew Cripps said the state-of-the-art facility would improve safety in the resources sector.

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“The resources sector employs thousands of Queenslanders and we expect there to be many thousands more as projects, such as those in the Galilee Basin, get underway,” Mr Cripps said. In the past, many trainees would begin employment without ever having experienced on-site conditions, but now they can do so in a safe and controlled environment, he said “The immersive virtual reality technology used in this centre will take miners into an underground mine environment, allowing them to experience simulated emergency situations and identify the most appropriate responses to keep themselves and fellow workers safe. “Training this way will help reduce the potential for critical mistakes to occur in the actual workplace and will protect the future of this industry that is vital to supercharging the Queensland economy.” A 3D replica of a working Queensland underground coal mine was created using cuttingedge, real time interactive

graphics and immersive display technology, he said. “This includes all above and underground equipment and mine infrastructure such as an operating longwall, continuous miners, loaders, shuttle cars, belt systems, support, ventilation devices and safety equipment. “This level of detail will allow trainees to safely experience and respond to situations from many perspectives - including time and event pressure which is not possible in real-life.” “This new training facility is another first for Simtars which is recognised as a world leader in innovative mine safety training, education and technology.” Initially, immersive virtual reality training will focus on underground coal mine safety, but Simtars plans to expand future courses to cover workers involved in metalliferous and open cut mining. More information about Simtars is available at www. dnrm.qld.gov.au/mining/simtarsmine-safety-research/training/ all-facilities

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First Bechtel apprentices complete training

Gordon Watkinson is among a group of about 10 apprentices who have recently been awarded their trade certificates through the Federal Government’s National Apprenticeship Program.

ELECTRICIAN Gordon Watkinson has made history as one of the first adult apprentices to complete his trade on the Curtis Island LNG projects. Gordon is among a group of about 10 apprentices who have recently been awarded their trade certificates through the Federal Government’s National Apprenticeship Program (NAP) while working for Bechtel. “While in the army I gained my electrical fitter ticket. And by doing the NAP program, it was a chance to upgrade to the electrical fitter mechanic trade,” Gordon said. “I’ve finished my trade and now gainfully employed as an electrician. It’s good to see that the scheme works and it’s good to be the first person from Bechtel across these projects to complete it.” In 2011 Bechtel announced it would work with NAP in an effort to train and upskill the Australian workforce while building the three LNG plants near Gladstone - Australia Pacific LNG, GLNG and Queensland Curtis LNG.

To gain entry to the program, candidates are required to provide evidence, through a Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) assessment, to show they already have at least 40 per cent of the skills aligned with their target trade. Gordon Watkinson achieved an outstanding 57 per cent RPL. “We currently have almost 300 apprentices working on these projects, and it’s a great achievement for these first apprentices to successfully complete their trade certificates,” said Bechtel Gladstone general manager Kevin Berg. “We’re extremely proud that we are able to help so many people to advance their skills across the trades on offer with our construction projects.” The NAP apprentices are currently working across the projects in carpentry, electrical, mechanical fitting, instrument and control, and boiler making trades. NAP chief executive officer Alan Sparks said: “I think Gordon’s achievement shows that we are not short of talented,

skilled and experienced workers in Australia. It is simply a matter of providing the opportunity for people like Gordon to complete trade training.” “Bechtel should be commended for quickly recognising the benefits NAP can offer to a large enterprise. Their commitment to NAP has been significant and has encouraged other organisations to look very seriously at those benefits.” The National Apprenticeships Program (NAP) is an innovative alternative for talented Australians with extensive trade skills and experience - but not necessarily a formal qualification - to complete trade training, potentially within 18 months. The federally funded Program was developed specifically to address a significant predicted shortfall in skilled workers within the minerals, energy and resource construction sectors. Once selected, gap training is tailored to the individual’s and industry’s requirements. The alternative is a traditional fouryear apprenticeship.

Miners show true colours for cancer

SEEING IN COLOUR: the SMW team in front of their works of art.

IF you see a couple of massive 797 trucks cruising around with their trays painted pink and blue, don’t have your eyes checked. It’s part of a campaign by Anglo American to raise awareness and support for the prevention of breast cancer in women and prostate cancer in men. Anglo commissioned SMW Group, a Rockhampton-based provider of plant equipment to the mining industry, to refurbish the two trays - which are capable of carrying 350 tonnes each - along with accompanying rear dump trucks and bodies. SMW Group workshop manager Scott

25th November 2013

Stevens said the company was excited to be part of the awareness campaign. “We are thrilled to have the opportunity to work on these trays for Anglo American,” he said. “Cancer affects everyone in one way or another, whether it’s fighting the disease directly or watching a loved one struggle with the illness. We all know someone who has battled cancer and we would like to do our part to help eradicate the disease.” SMW Group also donated $1000 to the Cancer Council to assist with research efforts. 25th November 2013

Shift Miner Magazine

News

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Can you ‘sell’ a social licence to operate?

WHAT VALUE?: The GasFields Commission recently held a meeting with rural lenders to discuss the impact of CSG on the value of farmland.

EXPLORERS are being urged to establish good relationships with landholders, as it could add a premium to the price paid to develop the resource down the track. GasFields Commissioner

John Cotter has told Shift Miner he believes good stakeholder relationships translate into a dollar value when contracts are signed. “Those explorers that have successful outcomes, their social licence will become a

very sought after commodity in the future,” he said. Over the past 12 months, petroleum exploration has jumped by 40 per cent in Queensland, thanks to continued investment in coal seam gas in

the Surat and Bowen Basins and new interest in shale oil reserves in the Cooper Basin. Mr Cotter said explorers represented the initial “knock on the door” for many landholders and first impressions were crucial. “I know from personal experience, I’ve had them [explorers] all over my place,” he said. “It’s a bit like a first date. I you go out and things go well you have another one. “If they’ve got a good attitude and the right conduct then there is a mutual respect that is very valuable.” Mr Cotter said he understood exploration was a risky and expensive activity but that explorers were often too focused on the technical or economic value of the resources they find under the ground. “To access that resource the explorer also has to establish a workable relationship with the landholder who is running an agricultural business on the surface of the land,” he said. “A good relationship can add even more value to their

discovery as it is vital to the success of any resource project.” Trying to place a dollar value on the CSG infrastructure on rural properties is not surprisingly a hot topic in the Surat Basin at the moment. There have been relatively few land sales in the region to be able to accurately predict what impact gas wells on farms have on its price tag when landholders sell up, and how valuable additional income from gas wells is on property cash flow. Mr Cotter recently chaired a meeting with nine key rural bankers to discuss the issue. “Land values underpin the long-term security of all rural businesses and for coexistence to be successful it must add value and be financially beneficial for landholders over time,” he said. “It’s still early days in terms of any significant evidence of rural property sales with gas production wells, however the Commission, like landholders, bankers and many others will continue to monitor the rural property market for any trends.”

Shift Miner Magazine

Countdown: the perception of time

By Charlie Cameron

HAVE you ever driven somewhere, maybe your favourite holiday location, and then driven home and thought the return trip felt much quicker than the trip out there? I want to tell you a bit about the mind’s subjective experience of time. In the mines, we work long hours for days on end. It’s not uncommon to hear a co-worker exclaiming, “Only two to go!” - counting down to freedom and going home. The

25th November 2013

Miner’s Mind

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findings in psychological studies show that clock-watching can, however, make time seem to drag out. So I want to give you a couple of hot tips for how to make time flow by so that your time at work is more satisfying. The drive home seems quicker because you’re judging time retrospectively in this case (so long as you’re not in a rush! I’ll get to this soon). When you reflect on memories of an experience and

when the time seems unimportant, you will hardly notice it. And if your attention is fully engaged in an activity and you’re processing a lot of information, that’s even better. Time will fly by, which is why “time flies when you’re having fun”. On the other hand, we can also judge time prospectively. This is the concept behind the old adage, “The watched pot never boils.” Looking ahead -longing for a

time in the future - has the ironic effect of making your judgement of time feel longer. At work in the mines, if you keep looking at your watch to see if it’s time to knock-off, you will unfortunately get the sensation that time is taking forever. I have noticed that when I’m busy on days off, those days seem to disappear so quickly. Colleges of mine have said the same thing. So here are two important tips or mental strategies you can put into practice to make your time at work less of a drag: Avoid the ‘countdown’ conversations. If you always countdown the days until the end of shift, I would suggest giving it up. If others around you bring it up all the time, try and avoid getting involved. Changing the topic to something that is happening in the present or even from the past will switch your time perception to retrospective. Avoid ‘clock-watching’. This is similar to above, but instead of counting down days, you’re counting down hours or even minutes and this will only drag time out more. If you’re waiting for crib or knock-off, keep working until someone else tells you what time it is. This is a great way to avoid judging time prospectively. Like everything else in psychology, what works for one person might not necessarily work for another. We are all individuals, so give it a try and see if it works

for you. If long rosters and boredom at work are not issues for you, then lucky you! Most people I know are in the mines as a means to an end and are there for the money, which is why these mental strategies can be useful for you when put into practice to cope with long shifts, long rosters and repetition. I need to point out that having something to look forward to is indeed healthy. Setting goals and meeting deadlines are important as well of course, so I’m not saying you must neglect the future to be satisfied at work. All things have a time and a place. What I am instead referring to here is the perception of time while at work during the day. Most of you have probably heard or read somewhere, “Live life like it’s your last day on Earth.” Now, I wouldn’t recommend this. If you actually followed this, you would be acting with total disregard for the consequences of your actions. So if you care about other people’s well-being and your own job, then this strategy is probably left alone. I wonder how many people have actually given this a go!? I think it might be more urban myth than mental strategy. I mean, you wouldn’t even BE at work on a mine site if it was your last day on earth! How do you manage time at work? SMS us your thoughts. Comment or SMS 0409 471 014

25th November 2013

WHO IS THE MOST ELIGIBLE?

It’s time to vote for Shift Miner’s

HOW TO VOTE:

Most Eligible Bachelor and Bachelorette Eamonn Smith, 31

BMD Caval Ridge project, Moranbah

Pick your favourite and follow the prompts to either text in your vote, or have your say on our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/shiftminer And, yes, you can only vote once in each category - Bachelor and Bachelorette - but so can your your grandma, cousins, uncles, sisters and that bloke you sat next to on a plane once… so give them the details!

Sandy Whitty, 33

BMA Daunia mine, Moranbah

Spotless, German Creek

If you want to vote for Megan, text 18845 to 0412 055 255 or go to www.facebook.com/shiftminer

Kristie Baker, 31 When I’m not at work you’ll find me: Enjoying bevos with mates having a great time! The best advice I’ve ever been given is: It’s 5 o’clock somewhere. My perfect date would be: Someone sparing no expense on me and good fun. My life is best described in the song: Free Falling. My worst habit is: Talk waaaayyy too much on the two way, when a simple yes no answer is all that is needed I always have a story. Also distracted quite easily! My signature dish is: Is one I don’t cook, I do a wicked 2 minute noodle dish at work though.

If you want to vote for Jody, text 18842 to 0412 055 255 or go to www.facebook.com/shiftminer

Rachel de Vries, 27 Spotless, Moranbah

Murphys Pipe and Civil on the CSG project

When I’m not working you’ll find me: Walking on the beach with my dog, Loki. The best advice I’ve ever been given is: To be excellent to each other. My best attribute is: I have been told on numerous occasions that I have a really nice bum, so I guess I’ll have to say my best attribute would be my bum! If I could invite three people to dinner they would be: Naked because it would be funny. My worst habit is: My LOUD sneeze. I sneeze so the next country can hear me. I can’t help it I just do it lol. My signature dish is: I wouldn’t limit myself to being good at cooking only the one dish, but if I had to choose I would say lasagna. Yum.

If you want to vote for Sandy, text 18844 to 0412 055 255 or go to www.facebook.com/shiftminer

Megan Walker, 21 Blackwater mine

When I’m not at work you’ll find me: At the gym or the nugget. The best advice I’ve ever been given is: Don’t judge a person until you walk in their shoes. My perfect date would be: Not a first date but takeaway in bed watching tv or a movie (picnic in bed!). My worst habit is: Biting my nails and swearing. My friends say I am: Loud and crazy. My signature dish is: Lasagne.

If you want to vote for Rachel, text 18843 to 0412 055 255 or go to www.facebook.com/shiftminer

25th November 2013

When I’m not at work you’ll find me: At the gym, beach, or somewhere with a great/funky atmosphere with food, and most likely at the shops.

When I’m not at work you’ll find me: At the beach or hanging with friends. The best advice I’ve ever been given is: ‘Always wear good underwear because you never know who’s going to see it.’ My friends say I am: Fun, loyal, cheeky and a little crazy. My signature dish is: Anything Mexican. If I didn’t work in mining or industry I would be a: School teacher. If I could have any animal as a pet I would choose (and why): A Frenchie, I love their little smooched-up faces.

If you want to vote for Sian, text 18847 to 0412 055 255 or go to www.facebook.com/shiftminer

Bronte Webb, 21 APLNG, Curtis Island

When I’m not at work you’ll find me: At the beach or gym. My worst habit is: Always on the phone. My best attribute is: My personality. If I could invite three people to dinner they would be (and why): Channing Tatum – A babe. Gabriel Iglesias – comedian. Marilyn Monroe – beautiful If I didn’t work in mining or industry I would be a: Bar manager. What are two topics that should be off limits on a first date: Money, religion.

If you want to vote for Kristie, text 18846 to 0412 055 255 or go to www.facebook.com/shiftminer

If you want to vote for Bronte, text 18848 to 0412 055 255 or go to www.facebook.com/shiftminer

My perfect date would be: A nice romantic dinner overlooking the ocean, followed by a sunset walk along the beach (so I can push them in the water haha!) or a day out on the dirt bikes or jetskis. The best advice I’ve ever been given is: Live with no regrets, head high with pride. My best attribute is: I’m loyal, honest and would give the shirt off my back if it meant helping someone, providing they are trying to help themselves. My friends say I am: Loyal, proud, crazy, class clown, random, fun and a good cook (my cousin says I’m a stubborn sh*thead who knows how to party).

If you want to vote for Robert, text 18838 to 0412 055 255 or go to www.facebook.com/shiftminer

Spotless, Wooleebee Creek

Erwin Hebler, 24

When I’m not at work you’ll find me: At the Nugget or washing away my daily sins in the Moranbah swimming pool. The best advice I’ve ever been given is: Always treat a woman with respect and when you find a good one, never ever let her go. My perfect date would be: Having a private, candle-lit dinner on the beach with the girl of my dreams. Followed by a stroll down the beach in our bare feet with the waves tickling our toes. My life is best described in the song: Travis - Why Does It Always Rain On Me. My best attribute is: My smile. The ladies always comment on it and say I make them feel all warm. My friends say I am: A gentle giant. Kind, caring and considerate.

When I’m not at work you’ll find me at? At the beach surfing or at Billy’s beach house. My best attribute is? My smile. My perfect date would be? Bottle of wine and a blanket over-looking the Caboolture lakes. My life is best described in the song? One Direction - You don’t know you’re beautiful. My worst habit is? Addicted to 4 and 20 pies and coke. If you could chose any animal as a pet? A lamb chicks love them. And they have nice wool. Or a schitzu dog as my family breeds them in New Zealand.

Butt welder, Chinchilla (Questions as answered by his mates, see page 18)

If you want to vote for Brad, text 18837 to 0412 055 255 or go to www.facebook.com/shiftminer

If you want to vote for Eamonn, text 18834 to 0412 055 255 or go to www.facebook.com/shiftminer

Robert Dyson, 30 Lucas Drilling/QGC pipeline, Woleebee Creek

Shane Martyn, 27

My life is best described in the song: Fill me up by Jessica Mauboy because all I do is get filled up cause my butt welder has a small fuel tank. My best attribute is: My good head of hair and when I slick it up for the club. My friends say I am: Bulked up and a ladies’ man. My signature dish is: Two minute noodles with cheese and BBQ sauce. If I didn’t work in mining or industry I would be a: Full-time farmer on my farm. We breed Pomeranian dogs and have several hundred head of dairy cows. If I could have any animal as a pet I would choose (and why): My Pomeranian - they’re the cutest dogs.

Moranbah airport When I’m not at work you’ll find me: In Roma. I used to live there and seem to be always going back. The best advice I’ve ever been given is: Don’t swear in front of your mother. My perfect date would be: Rugby, red wine and romance. My signature dish is: Spaghetti bolognese. If I didn’t work in mining or industry I would be a: Park ranger - I love working with animals. If I could have any animal as a pet I would choose (and why): French poodle - one of my mates has one and the girls love it.

If you want to vote for Dan, text 18836 to 0412 055 255 or go to www.facebook.com/shiftminer

My perfect date would be: To be surprised on every level. Everything planned by him. Whisked away somewhere I least expected. Somewhere totally secret until we got there. And once there, made to feel super special all night... Ahhhhh bliss... My best attribute is: My ability to get along with almost anyone. I love talking to people, getting to know about them, and making new friends :) My friends say I am: A little bit crazy, kooky, loud, funny (to look at! lol), awkward, clumsy, cheeky, and lastly ... SUPER KOOL! Okay... I just made that last bit up ;-/ haha My signature dish is: I make a mean Chilli Plum Lamb Casserole (thanks to my beautiful Mumma teaching me! :) ) If I didn’t work in mining or industry I would be a: From polywelder/dogman to... ummmm... lemme see... nightclub owner? Yeah, that would be the gig! Or maybe a pilot...Yeah pilots have AWESOME lives ;) What are two topics that should be off limits on a first date: “My ex always used to (blah blah ex, blah blah ex blah)...?” That is DEFINITELY a first date convo killer!!! Oh, and, “So.... I was wondering how many children we’ll have...? Ummmm .... AWKWARD!

Poly butt welder, Roma

Dan Beshman, 24

Next edition we will reveal the winners...

Jody Davies, 33

Brad Hornby, 23

If you want to vote for Shane, text 18835 to 0412 055 255 or go to www.facebook.com/shiftminer

Voting begins Monday, November 25 and closes at midnight on Tuesday, December 3.

The best advice I’ve ever been given is: Do not chase Sian Dann, 24 people. Work hard and be you. The right people who belong Spotless, Woeleebee Creek in your life will come find you, and stay. Do your thing. My perfect date would be: Somewhere over-looking the ocean - a nice restaurant with a great wine/cocktail list. My friends say I am: Energetic, fun to be around, a little crazy at times, and a good cook. My signature dish is: Tacos, you can never go wrong! If I didn’t work in mining or industry I would be a: Make-up artist or interior designer.

When I’m not at work you’ll find me: Camping and searching for good 4WD tracks. The best advice I’ve ever been given is: Reputation is everything. My perfect date would be: A relaxed, spontaneous day trip. My best attribute is: When you make me smile. My friends say I am a: Gentleman, caring and cheeky!

When I’m not at work you’ll find me: Riding my dirt bikes or travelling. My signature dish is: Chicken and cashews or beef kiev.

If you want to vote for Erwin, text 18861 to 0412 055 255 or go to www.facebook.com/shiftminer

25th November 2013

Shift Miner Magazine

Around Town

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PANDA PLAYGROUND

The Blackwater Rotary Club re-opened its playground recently. It was named “Panda Playground” in memory of Andrew “Panda” Curtis, who died from Motor Neurone Disease in February 2008. [Photo credit: Jeannette Fletcher]

Toni Dalton

Sienna Booker

Braithen Weaver

Shift Miner Magazine

Around Town

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SCHOOL’S OUT!

Blackwater State High School Grade 12 students celebrated the end of their final year of school at the school formal recently. [Photo credit: Jeannette Fletcher]

Toni, Larissa and Raymond McIntosh

Imogen, Kieren and Kirshe Beath

Sharron, Lisa and Brian Matheson

Brodie, Lisa and Matthew Scales

Delaney Window

2013 graduates

Kurt Ingram and Bryce Cracknell

Hayley Flett

Lachlan Anderson and Shaylee Booker

Jack Wilkes

Brady Kuhl and Lisa Matheson

Caleise and Sharee Eaton with Tahlia Scales

These students have been together through 12 years of schooling, starting at Blackwater North Pre-school and finishing at Blackwater State High School.

Teachers at Blackwater State High School

Alicia, Lachlan, Matt and Lilly Anderson

Julian Harris and Ryleigh Jones

(L-R) Keano Lloyd-Jones, Rylea RobertsYoung, Yasmin Black, Shaylee,and Wade Powell

These students have been together through 12 years of schooling, starting at Blackwater North Pre-school, and finishing at Blackwater State High School.

Kerry, Brady and Tony Kuhl

Buy this and many other images at

Cathy, David, Xavier and Lydia Drew

Rotary Club members cooking the sausage sizzle.

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.

25th November 2013

www.shiftminer.com Shift Miner magazine – bringing the mining community closer together 25th November 2013

Shift Miner Magazine

Off Shift

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FROm THE EDITOR

Men’s health UNBEKNOWNST to most of us, last Tuesday (November 19) was International Men’s Day. I had no idea it existed and the only fanfare was a press release and ‘white paper’ released at Parliament House. It was obviously meant to be a joke, but it reinforced every single stereotype that both men and women have been trying to fight for eons. First of all, ‘feminists’ have emasculated men and those women who aren’t feminists basically have no sense of humour and never shut up. Blah, blah, blah. I wouldn’t have bothered reading this trope, but in light of the latest research from Griffith University looking at men’s mental health and suicide risks, I thought this ‘white paper’ was badly timed. And a monumental waste of money. Along with lots of images of Ken and GI Joe (suck in your tummies, gents) it says men are no longer allowed to be manly. However, suicide rates are incredibly high for men this study has found a direct link between relationship breakdowns and troubles for miners. This is alarming. While the study hasn’t looked into why this is, yet, it is generally acknowledged that what adds to stress in a relationship is the pressure to be a breadwinner, to provide for your family and to be seen to be strong. While women may have higher rates of

depression, the fact we talk about it (okay and to men it may seem we talk too much, but it’s obviously more effective) means that women have higher rates of recovery. The researchers say they need to find out why it is that miners in particular are more likely to commit suicide due to relationship problems. I have heard anecdotally the pressure men feel they are under to earn the big dollars - even if they hate the work - to maintain their family’s lifestyle. For those working 10 days on and four days off, there is the added pressure of being away from family and then the feeling of not fitting in on return. So while this ‘white paper’ was meant to be tongue in cheek, it is a real shame that it came out at the same time that we are getting alarming information about suicide risk - and especially at a time when employment is shaky. If you need help, go to www.beyondblue.org.au for more information or see your GP and ask for a mental health report. With a mental health report you are entitled to up to 10 Medicaresubsidised consultations with a psychologist. Inga Stünzner Do you think this study on relationship breakdown and suicide has merit? Comment or SMS 0409 471 014

Flying high in Tieri

SPOTTED!

Last edition, we asked you to track down mystery Bachelor contestant Erwin Hebler. Here’s Erwin spotted at work (left) and walking down the street in Chinchilla (right). Thanks to all those eagle-eyed Erwin hunters out there. Erwin himself contacted Shift Miner to say his mates had entered him into the competition, but given he’s such a good sport he’s decided he might as well throw his hat in the ring! You can vote for Erwin, or any of the other contestants, right now. Turn to page 14/15 for details.

Shift Miner Magazine

Frank the Tank’s Dear Frank,

I BROKE my right arm on the weekend and I’m right handed. I’m a single guy living in a town with few eligible women. What should I do, if you catch my drift…? Benny, Noosa My condolences, Benny. Seasoned academics in the field of self gratification refer to your current situation as ‘flogger’s lament’. Your injury sees you stuck at home with nothing to do, yet you can’t partake in that noblest of male traditions due to your dodgy right arm. Men have been driven to madness by the lament, but luckily you’ve got Frank the Tank to help you through your darkest days. Back in the eighties I actually suffered

simultaneous breaks in my left and right arms. After being pulled over for driving what the courts later deemed an ‘illegal, inappropriate and revolting vehicle’ (I’d recently had an extremely erotic Star Wars mural painted onto the bonnet), I attempted to talk my way out of the forthcoming citation. My ‘go to move’ in the eighties was an adapted version of Michael Jackson’s Thriller dance, which ended in me groping the nearest woman. I’d employed this move at numerous nightclubs and it was a big hit, so I had no reason to think it wouldn’t work on a female police officer. Unfortunately she took exception to the groping and with one swift strike of her truncheon broke my forearms, confining me to plaster for six weeks. With two broken arms and an insatiable addiction to libido-increasing herbs, I spiralled into a deep depression laced with countless embarrassing public erections. It was at the bottom of this well of

Fair Dinkum!

IN SOUTH KOREA

Sent in by one of our readers.

Text in your best snap to 0409 471 014

Jack Probert, Gracelyn Turner and Torrin Cutts at the Tieri Festival of Wind and Light

WHAT do you get when you combine kites, lantern making, jumping castles and extreme fishing? The Tieri State School Festival of Wind and Light right here in CQ! The Festival of Wind and Light (FWL) was an overwhelming success with more than 300 people arriving to enjoy a great day of entertainment, food and enlightenment. “This was our first FWL and we weren’t really sure how it would go,” P&C president Jacqui Hensel told Shift Miner. “It’s nice that the fundraising committee’s hard work paid off in such spectacular style.” Spectacular style indeed. The Voice star Sophie Phillis arrived to entertain the crowds and help out with some impressive

25th November 2013

student performances. “We have to make a special mention to all the kids’ contributions including the Chinese Dragon dancers, choir, instrumentalists, Tieri dance students and the impressive class work that was on display. The gifted and talented kids we have at Tieri State School really knocks my socks off,” Jacqui said. “The kid’s kites that they decorated and built themselves were a big hit and they flew quite well, it was a great day.” As the wind whistled through the trees and the light faded, the Lantern Tree covered with handmade lamps was lit, and the crowds settled in for the evening. No doubt they’ll be back next year for more enlightenment.

depression that I discovered my salvation... sex mannequins. After ducking into an alley to conceal my shameful public arousal I came across a strange antique shop containing curiosities from the Orient. There I discovered my first sex mannequin. It was covered in dust and terribly weathered, but something about it had me transfixed. The kindly old shop owner told me there are three rules to sex mannequin ownership: don’t expose them to sunlight, don’t let them get wet, and never, ever feed them after midnight...at least I think that was in reference to sex mannequins...the eighties is a bit of a blur for me. In any case, these days sex mannequins and other similar ‘sexual aids’ are readily available on the internet, so there’s really no need for you to be concerned about your broken arm. Just be extremely careful when you’re shopping online, one wrong click of the

mouse and you’ve accidentally ordered “Long John Silver: inflatable sex pirate (with realistic genetalia)”.

missionary was sentenced to 15 years’ hard labour for ‘crimes against the state’.

went off in an enclosed room, sending three staff to hospital to have their eyes flushed. Firefighters entered the building wearing masks and deploying sensors for biological and chemical hazards. A spokesperson for the fire department said he didn’t know how the spray was discharged, but conceded it was easy to hit the button accidentally. The spray that affected the workers is a heavy duty version of pepper spray known as ‘bear spray’.

man has died after accidentally drinking $54,000 worth of liquid methamphetamine. The drug was disguised as a fruitbased drink and given to the man by his daughter after it was mistakenly delivered to her house. He complained of an ill feeling and burning throat after drinking the beverage and died shortly thereafter. Methamphetamine is sometimes transported in its liquid form in an effort to make trafficking easier. In August, 15 people were arrested after being suspected of transporting meth across the Mexican border in water bottles and wiper fluid reservoirs.

Too much soy for Brüno?

-A Colorado-based Christian group has been air dropping bibles into North Korea using giant balloons. The group, which calls itself Seoul USA, has released around 40,000 balloons carrying bibles and personal testimonials

“Streakin” good love advice

IN BRITAIN - A 55-year-old

Photos to THE EDITOR

“Out of the deep”

Off Shift

www.shiftminer.com

into rural areas of North Korea. According to Seoul USA’s leader, Reverend Matt Foley, Christians in North Korea are the most persecuted believers on earth. In 2009, a woman was publicly executed in North Korea after being accused of distributing the Bible, and earlier this year a Christian

IN THE US

- Postal workers in Portland don’t mess around when it comes to aggressive dogs on their mail routes; they carry pepper spray to fend off angry canines. Unfortunately for staff at one post office, a letter carrier’s spray accidentally

Frank

SENSIBLE SUSAN Benny, I’m not entirely sure if I’m completely qualified to answer this question. Actually, scratch that. I’m not sure if I’m completely comfortable answering this question! It would seem to me your options are limited to either meeting an eligible woman who’s willing to help, or using your left hand. I don’t think I can give you any more practical advice than that.

Susan

IN ISRAEL - An ultra-orthodox

Jewish sect has banned its children from eating soy out of fears it will turn its children gay. A post on a Hebrew religious news website by the group declared eating soybased products would lead to ‘gay sexual activity’, while one dose of soy a week would cause ‘unwanted arousal’. According to the sect it’s not just soy that will have you batting for the other team; eating genetically modified foods, wearing pink, dancing and even shaking hands are all surefire ways to turn yourself gay.

CARTON OF BEER FOR YOUR EYES! It’s back by popular demand.

You SMS us a photo to 0428 154 653 of something you’ve seen on site. A bogged digger, the boss’s chocked motorbike - whatever tickles your fancy. Tell us in the text message what we’re looking at. Every three months we’ll decide on a winner and post you out a carton of beer! So SMS your pics to 0428 154 653

25th November 2013

Shift Miner Magazine

NOW ABSOLUTELY FREE FOR SUBSCRIBERS at www.shiftminer.com BOAT FOR SALE

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MOVIE Review by Justin Carlos

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Quintrex 5mtr Half / Cuddy Cab

Stock Standard Honda CRF450R

2005 TROPHY 2502 PRO

115 Mercury Optimax (18hrs), Mercury smartcraft gauges, Hydraulic steering, electric motor, Lowrance HDS 8 & Structure scan at the helm, 100ltr fuel tank, Scotty downriggers & rod holders, 50Ltr live bait tank, Seven built in compartments & many more extras.

Near New 70hp Tohatsu TLDI motor. All the extras for creek & off shore fishing included. Offshore Safety gear. Everything Works. Dry boat & powers well in all conditions. Owner recently layed off & now retired. Other pics / view available by email.

Well maintained with little hours. 2010 model (purchased new 2011). Full service history & just had last full service June 2013. A few small scratches here & there but nothing to cry about. Test ride welcome.

Deep Sea Fishing Boat, Length: 25 feet, 7 inches Always garaged, new trailer: only 600 hrs: 360 hp: Cruising speed 25 knots: 31 ltrs/hr: 2005: Fridge, table, sink, water, sleeps 4 adults. Trailer never been in water. Never been anti fouled.

$37,500

$12,000

$5,450

$65,000

Call: 0438 117 725

Call: 0419 587 668

Call: 0427 664 001

ROOM FOR RENT

CAR FOR SALE

BIKE FOR SALE

So bad it’s good

GOLD COAST LARGE ROOM FOR RENT I work 1/1 roster.. looking for opp roster room mate. Next fly in day is 22/10. Price includes: rates, internet, foxtel is a 5 bed modern house with 2 lounges both with foxtel. Female prefered.

$210/wk

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1991 Mitsubishi MAGNA 2.6l Auto AIRCON

TOYOTA 1999 CAMRY

CUSTOM BUILT CHOPPER 2012 MODEL

249,000km, 4CYL, AIRCON, near new tyres, fully serviced in July, Rego till DEC, reliable and cheap to run.

Only 140,000 klms. Will do someone another 140,000 klms. A very nice car with automatic air conditioning power steering and more REGO TO 4/2014 RWC Only $5500. North QLD delivery free. Phone for more photos.

$2,500

127 cube SMW inc proof series motor S&S super carby kit 6 speed HD transmission, Chrome hawg halter 4 piston brake callipers 300 avon venom rear tyre, kraft tech softtail frame REGO 2014 NEW 150 klms

$5,500

$42,500

Call: 0421 517 444

Call: 0408 785 553

Call: 0418 754 206

CAR FOR SALE

BIKE FOR SALE

4 3 5

HYUNDAI 2011 GETZ

2007 TOYOTA HILUX

1995 TOYOTA LANDCRUISER 80 Series

Classic original XL600R 1985

Only 33,000 klms. Features 5 speed manual, air conditioning multi function steering wheel, CD, bluetooth, power windows mirror tinted windows RWC Only $8,750. North QLD delivery free. Phone for more photos.

4x4 Petrol Automatic. 126000km. Only one owner and a full service history can be provided. Steel bullbar, tow bar, large tool box, steel tray, tinted windows, keyless entry, power windows, power steering, and air conditioning.

Diesel Wagon Low Km’s 278 000 Dual Batteries, 8” Sunraysia Rims, Cooper Tyres UHF, Electric Breaks, Fridge Plug In Rear Always Garaged, Log of Services. Email: darylweng@gmail.com

This is in absolutely great condition for a classic bike. Only done a tick over 20k ,10 Months QLD Rego, Original plastics and tank, starts 1st-2nd kick and has plenty of grunt. An original 80’s Classic Thumper.

$8,750

$19,700

$13,000

$3000

Call: 0428 743 728

Call: 0448 243 343

Call: 0428 154 653

BOAT FOR SALE

YAMAHA XT500 ROLLING CHASSIS

UTE FOR SALE

7 3 2 7

4 9 4 3

7 2

1 7

7 2 8 9 5

5 3 7

11 12

2 8

MEDIUM

Call: 0418 754 206

PUZZLES 6

biological father. Although it sounds like another run-ofthe-mill road trip movie, Bad Grandpa is really more like a 100-minute Jackass sketch. The people who Irving and Billy

fans will remember appeared in all three Jackass films. After his wife dies and his daughter is imprisoned, Irving has to transport his grandson, Billy, from Nebraska to North Carolina to be with his

JUST when you thought Johnny Knoxville had milked Jackass for all it was worth, out comes Bad Grandpa. The film stars Knoxville as 86-year-old Irving Zisman - a character that franchise

18 20

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ACROSS 1. Tuition 5. Come into view 9. Thugs 10. Anybody 12. Defrauding 13. Shiny fabric 14. Self-satisfied 16. Opposed to 19. Less full 21. Internal organs 24. Jumped 25. Hayfever & hives 27. Sung rhythmically 28. Pavlova base 29. Pungent root 30. Biased (3-5)

encounter throughout their journey are real, and so are their reactions to the outrageous things they witness. From an eight-year-old kid drinking beer to an 86-year-old man with his penis stuck in a vending machine, in typical Jackass style Bad Grandpa goes above and beyond the limits of good taste. If you’re easily offended or simply can’t stand the kind of humour prevalent in the Jackass franchise then you should steer clear of Bad Grandpa. Conversely, ardent Jackass fans will no doubt enjoy the skits in the film, but may find it difficult to become invested in the plot. While there is an extremely flimsy narrative, it really only exists to link together comedic skits. It’s difficult to deny the laugh-out-loud absurdity of Bad Grandpa; the film would likely raise a smile from even the stuffiest film critics (although whether they’d admit it is another matter entirely). The film also presents an interesting cross section of the American midwest, from two movers who value their jobs to move a ‘dead body’ with no questions asked, to the downright bizarre participants in a child beauty pageant. Bad Grandpa succeeds at precisely what it sets out to do - make people laugh. If you’re a fan of the Jackass films or appreciate particularly irreverent humour then check out Bad Grandpa.

Down 1. Mildest 2. Even though 3. Loathed 4. Steeling (self) 6. Colliery passage (4,5) 7. Perching 8. Everlasting time 11. Taj Mahal city 15. Dampness 17. Portable (of phone) # 58 18. Sat untidily 20. Bring up (kids) 21. Spanish sailing ship 22. Pivoted 23. Climb 26. Dilapidated castles

LAST EDITION’S SOLUTIONS B A L L OON A Y T U MA R C H E R B I E S OC C U R R I O S N F E NG S C P QU A L I T Y U T C A I N A N E R R P N N MOU N T S E L R D I T H E R

7 6 1 5 4 9 6 7 8 4 3 2 SHIFT MINER 5 3 Handy Cross 508 - (15A grid) ShiftMinerHandy080s. pdf 2 1 © Lovatts Publications 27/01/2010 9 8

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# 59

Quintrex 5mtr Half / Cuddy Cab Near New 70hp Tohatsu TLDI motor. All the extras for creek & off shore fishing included. Offshore Safety gear. Everything Works. Dry boat & powers well in all conditions. Owner recently layed off & now retired.

$15,000

Call: 0419 587 668

2004 PowerCat 2600 Sports Cabriolet.

1976-78 Yamaha XT500 rolling chassis

HOLDEN COMMODORE

Twin 115hp Yamaha 4 stroke engines. Sleeps 4, Toilet, Shower. Road registered tandem trailer. Always maintained and kept in a shed. All safety gear. Excellent condition. Registered until September 2013. Reduced to $108,000.00 Must be sold. OFFERS, OFFERS, OFFERS Very Negotiable

Looking for a Classic 70’s Yamaha thumper project? This will get you started. Price doesn’t include the tank , clocks and engine - just the rolling chassis. I have lot’s of other stuff as well if interested.

omega ute 2008 V6 auto 120,000 km\’s bluetooth hands free, reverse camera, a/c, cruise control RWC, rego until 10/2013

$450

$16,000 neg.

Call: 0409 630 311

Call: 0428 154 653

Call: 0488 514 713 25th November 2013

Shift Miner Magazine

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And you thought your hangover was bad... PRETTY much everyone has seen or heard of The Hangover. You know, the popular movie with Bradley Cooper and Zach Galifianakis? In that film the guys suffer some pretty outrageous fortune while under the influence, but as the old adage goes, sometimes fact is stranger than fiction. These real-life tales of the morning after may just see you swear off the sauce for good.

The guy who woke up with a penis tattoo

Return limo transfers from Gold Coast airport with a topless waitress and

Return limo transfers from Gold Coast airport with a topless waitress and ice-cold beers.

Return limo transfers from Brisbane airport with a topless waitress and ice-cold beers.

ice-cold beers.

Have the all-time ultimate adventure night with shark fishing, including ice-cold beers and deli platters OR Private Broadwater Cruises & topless waitresses with platters of Tapas.

Have the all-time ultimate adventure with night shark fishing with, ice-cold beers and deli platters.

Party the night away with VIP Entry and a $60 Bar Tab per person at Players

Extreme Racing simulator Experience.

Have the all-time ultimate adventure with night shark fishing, including ice-cold beers and deli platters. Party the night away with VIP Entry and a $60 Bar Tab per person at Players, the Gold Coast’s hottest adult venue. Each member of your group receives a 5 min Lap dance at Players. Two night stay in a 3 bedroom apartment luxury Q1 Resort, close to all the nightlife, restaurants and the world famous beach at Surfers Paradise. VIP Night Club tickets

Each member of your group receives a 5 min Lap dance at Players Three night stay in a luxury Q1 resort 3 bedroom Sub pent house apartment. VIP Night Club tickets.

Jet boat ride and Paintball.

18 holes at a prestigious Gold Coast Golf Course. Private Evening Broadwater Cruise with topless waitress.

It doesn’t take a rocket scientist to figure out that alcohol and tattoo parlours aren’t a good combination. One Swedish man identified only as ‘Joel’ learned that lesson the hard way - after waking up from a night of heavy drinking to a stylish penis tattoo on his leg. Despite the unfortunate body art Joel reportedly feels no anger towards the tattoo artist, as he requested the tattoo in his drunken state.

The guy who passed out and woke up with NO penis Okay, so maybe Joel’s penis tattoo isn’t the worst thing in the world… Dominican man Geraldo Ramos passed out drunk in the street and woke up with no penis - how is that possible? Bystanders reportedly saw Ramos being attacked by a dog, and it’s believed the dog bit off and absconded with his manhood. Mr Ramos has no recollection of this, and the dog has never been located.

The drunk Chinese guy who was almost shipped to the US Jiang Wu got so wasted he mistook a shipping container at the port for a bed and breakfast...that’s pretty damn wasted. When he woke up in the morning Jiang realised his mistake and began phoning people he knew for help. Unbeknownst to Jiang, the container he was in was only an hour away from being shipped to Los Angeles, a two-week trip. Luckily police were able to identify which container he was in from the loud banging coming from inside.

Gourmet BBQ includes, in Apartment includes Chef, Two topless waitresses to attend to your needs, night time entertainment duo show 15 mins

Party the night away with VIP Entry and a $60 Bar Tab per person x 3 nights at Players, the Gold Coast’s hottest adult venue.

With all the rigmarole involved in flying these days you’d think getting completely hammered before a flight could only slow down your trip through airport security. For one Norwegian man, being paralytic almost saw him get an express ride through security check. He was so drunk he passed out on a conveyor belt, along with his luggage, and passed through an X-ray machine, getting a full body scan in the process. He was discovered shortly after and prompted a security scare, causing the closure of an airport terminal.

World’s weirdest beauty pageants WHEN you hear the words ‘beauty pageant’ you probably think of women in swimsuits vying for a bunch of flowers and a diamondencrusted tiara. That’s what I thought, until I stumbled across some of the world’s weirdest beauty pageants.

Miss Jumbo

Pub Crawl and Nightclub tickets and Bistro & Pub Meals.

9 holes at a prestigious Gold Coast Golf Course

The guy who passed out on a conveyor belt at the airport

It sounds like an extremely insensitive name for a pageant featuring larger women...because it is. Miss Jumbo is held annually in Thailand as part of the Jumbo Banquet elephant feast. The contestant who best exhibits the grace, elegance and size of an elephant takes home the crown. They also get to help promote elephant conservation causes in Thailand.

Each member of your group receives a 5 min Lap dance at Players Seven night stay in a luxury 300 m2 Surfers Paradise Q1 Sub- Penthouse, close to all the nightlife, restaurants and the world famous beach at Surfers Paradise. *Prices are quoted based on a minimum of 6 people. Packages are subject to availability and prices quoted are subject to change and may not be available over peak periods and during special events. Considerable discounts may be available when securing books for larger groups. If you have any questions or would like to custom design a package then call us on 1800 051 345.

Miss Drumstick

Miss Trans-Brazil No, it’s not a beauty pageant that encompasses Brazil in its entirety...it’s a beauty pageant for transvestites and transexuals. The pageant stirred up a great deal of controversy this year, offering a free sex change operation as first prize.

Miss Klingon Empire Star Trek devotees are fanatical to say the very least, but this takes it to another level. The Miss Klingon competition is held every year at the Star Trek convention in Atlanta Georgia. Ladies dress up as their favourite Klingon character (official or created) and are judged on beauty, talent and personality.

As you may have guessed, the annual Miss Drumstick pageant is all about legs. It’s held every Thanksgiving in Arkansas as part of the Turkey Trot Festival. Women hide their faces behind turkey masks and parade around until the judges have selected a winner. It might sound ridiculous, but Miss Drumstick has a reasonable high profile after one winner earned a guest spot on The Late Show: With David Letterman.

Miss Jail It seems as though female correctional facilities from all over the world have taken to holding beauty pageants for inmates. A prison in Recife, Brazil, recently held its first Miss Jail pageant - judging jailbirds on beauty, general knowledge and their good behaviour record. Who won Recife’s inaugural Miss Jail pageant? A 19-year-old convicted murderer named Rebecca. 25th November 2013

Shift Miner Magazine

Bait Shop Banter YEPPOON - Despite some indifferent

This spearfisherman is lucky to be alive after he was attacked by a 10 kilo barracuda off Humpy Island.

weather there’s been plenty happening on the fishing front around Yeppoon. Adrian from the Secret Spot said no matter what your angling preference, there’s been action on all fronts. “Thanks to the storm activity, the crabs have started to move around Coorooman and Corio, there’s been good red jew and red emperor being caught out wide, and the wrecks are fishing well for grunter, which is unusual for this time of year.” Conditions have also favoured spearfisherman, but if you’re heading out diving or spearing, make sure you’re prepared for the unexpected. “Three guys went spearing off Humpy over the weekend and ran into a 10-12 kilo barracuda. It bit one of the guys on the wrist and they had to race him back to hospital. It was a really nasty injury, he could easily have bled out. It just reinforces that if you’re going spearing or diving you really need to be up to date on first aid,” said Adrian. With a lot of storm activity recently it’s also vital you keep an eye on the weather if you’re heading out wide.

MACKAY

- Good weather has made the fishing conditions around

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modern minimalist Balinese inspired resort apartments and split level Jacuzzi penthouses all with extraordinary ocean views, at Waterfront Whitsunday Retreat sets new standards of luxury adult only boutique accommodation in the Whitsundays, guests can expect a high level of privacy coupled with exceptional unobtrusive personalised service, at Whitsunday Vista Resort located just moments from the vibrant Port of Airlie offers exceptional value ocean vista spa suites and apartments. www.athotelgroup.com

Airlie Beach Whitsundays QLD Australia t 07 4948 4300 e stay@athotelgroup.com w athotelgroup.com

25th November 2013

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Mackay ideal, and it’s resulting in some really good catches. Rob from Tackle World Mackay says that lately the wind has been working in favour of anglers. “We’ve had northerly winds pushing the bait inshore, so there’s been a lot of good mackerel and tuna caught in close.” Out around the islands is fishing very well for coral trout currently, and the creeks and estuaries are producing plenty of quality fish as well. “King salmon are being caught very regularly in the creeks, and the whiting are showing up in good numbers, they’ve been a really good size so far as well,” said Rob. The crabs are starting to move and there are a lot of good size prawns around, so it might be time to dust off the old cast net.

GLADSTONE

- With barra season closed anglers around Gladstone have shifted their focus to Lake Awoonga. Greg from Pat’s Tackle World said that recent storms and hot weather were stirring up the fish at the lake. “You’re still allowed to catch barra out at the lake and there’s been a few on the bite; people have been having quite a lot of success with frogs. It’s really good to see fishing tourists coming through and fishing the lake again.” The offshore fishing has been reasonable,

but there’s been more than a few obstacles for those looking to get out wide. “I heard reports of good catches of red fish, but unfortunately the sharks were doing a very good job of getting them before they could be hauled up. With a lot of storms around it’s also important that you keep a close eye on the weather,” said Greg. It’s hoped that a bit more rain in the coming weeks will stir up the crabs and prawns and fire up the creek and estuary fishing. If you have a good photo or fishing yarn send it through to our resident bait chucker-

angus.peacocke@shiftminer.com

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25th November 2013