SM91_Shift Miner Magazine by Shift Miner

SHIFT MINER Monday 19th July 91st Edition 2010

The Queensland mining community’s best source of local news

1..2..3.. Locally Owned and Operated - www.shiftminer.com

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Is your number up?

OVER the past six months there have been 679 serious accidents or high potential incidents on Queensland mine sites. Those figures are contained in the monthby-month safety statistics compiled by the mines inspectorate and released publicly. Averaged out, it means there are about 113 accidents each month, and that works out to be between three to four accidents each day. June was the most dangerous month to be a miner, with 134 incidents reported; there were 27 fires, 18 vehicle collisions and 22 mechanical accidents. In one incident, two dump trucks collided on a haul road after one of the operators suffered a suspected stroke. Two North Goonyella employees are still recovering from a shuttle car accident which crushed the hand of its operator, and broke the pelvis of a fitter. This incident shut down the mine for several days and has put the issue of safety around shuttle cars back on the agenda. In another incident, a miner was “barring” down a wall in an underground drive when a 100 kilogram rock broke off and rolled onto his foot - breaking a bone. In comparison with June, May was a relatively safe month in Queensland mining, with only 89 incidents reported.

(SPQs excepted)

M A G A Z I N E

Check out nt the local tale r’s in Shift Mine most eligible achelorette bachelor & b 9 comp! Page

Plus It’s not too late to enter yourself! » page 8 News Hold up on underground safety » page 4 News Landholders could move for Alpha rail » page 5

NEW PITCH, NEW FUTURE

Around Town Horsing Around » page 11

First coalfields rugby carnival a success » Page 7

» continued page 7

Money Matters Mackay’s postRudd property revival » page 22

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CONTENTS 91st EDITION. 2010

to bring in $12 billion in its first two years - but the new estimates have WHAT a difference a fortnight makes. that sitting at $18 billion. When Shift Miner last went to The new mining tax is expected to print, Julia Gillard had just taken over bring in $10.5 billion in the same perias Prime Minister, and fixing the min- od - that leaves a $7.5 billion black hole. ing tax was at the top of her agenda. What does that mean for the infraNow that hurdle has been cleared: structure funding that was promised the old tax was going to take 40 per to regional Australia - in particular the cent of profits above a rate of return mining communities fueling the boom? PATROL of 6 per cent; the new tax will take The Treasurer says the government GREAT GREEK 22.5 per cent of profits above a rate of will stand by its promise to inject $6 return of 12 per cent. billion into regional infrastructure That hefty concession has the feder- - with $2 billion to come directly to BEST SELLERS al opposition wondering where all the Queensland. money is going to come from to fund Mining towns, for now, will have to the government’s budget promises. wait and see. METHOD Serves 4-6 Preheat oven to 180°C. BrushConveniently, a Treasury now thinks One more big question remains with Spanakopita is a traditional Greek 16.5cm x 26cm ovenproof dish it underestimated the prices and volif Treasury can drastically revise style spinach and cheese pie. This dish melted butter to grease. umes of our export commodities its forecasts about how much the Place spinach with a little oil in a heatis a great light meal or even snack on wilted.they will be much higher than the run. You can serve it hot, but to proof fry pan and cook until and new tax will bring in just two short enjoy its full ﬂavor have it at room Set aside to cool. Once cool squeeze predicted. months, how can it accurately predict temperature. In this recipe we use a excess water out of the spinach and But there is still a significant shortfall. how much it will raise in the years to tray and slice the pie into pieces but dry. The original mining tax was meant come? you can make individual triangles Combine spinach, feta, garlic, lemon,

MINER’S TRADER

16 PRAWN

FROM THE EDITOR

Greek Spanakopita

Alex Graham

Numbers You REGULARS Numbers Numbers Can CountYou On** You 4 LNG delay 14 * STUFF TO THE EDITOR

NEWS

egg, salt and pepper in a bowl. Place filo sheets on a clean work surface and keep damp by covering it with a damp tea towel. Brush each layer of filo pastry with butter layering on top INGREDIENTS of one another until you have 3 layers. 6 sheets of filo pastry Line the bottom of your baking dish 2 Tbs Olive oil with these three layers. Spoon the 500 g Greek feta, crumbed spinach mixture into the dish spreading out evenly. Top with another 3 2 cloves of Garlic, crushed buttered filo sheets. Brush the top of Rind and juice of 1 lemon the pie with remaining butter. Before audited by the CAB *When audited by the *When CAB 400g Spinach (or Silverbeet), cooking slice the pie through to make washed, dried and chopped small rectangular or dimond shaped pieces. This will make it easier to 4 eggs lightly whisked *When audited by the CAB serve once cooked. 60 g butter melted Bake in preheated oven for 30mins or Salt and pepper to taste until golden brown. Remove from that are great for entertaining. Serve with a spicy tomato chutney for an extra kick.

Can CountCan OnCount On Garrett stalls on water *When audited by the CAB Numbers You

15 FRANK THE TANK’S LOVE ADVICE

6 Coppabella success Can Count On* Mine slashes injuries

8 Teenage trouble Help for rough patches

17 FIVE MINUTE FICTION

oven, cool to serve.

Eatery | 1300 622 222 12 Drilling update Zest 22 MONEY MATTERS Open 4.00pm – 8.00pm daily M A G A Z I N E www.shiftminer.com www.shiftminer.com

M AMGA AG& ZA I Zwhere NI N E E www.shiftminer.com Who’s exploring

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Page 3 - Shift Miner Magazine, 19th July 2010

News

91st EDITION. 2010

Technical hold up to underground safety THE chief inspector of Queensland coal mines says there is still no time frame for adopting proximity detection devices in underground coal mines. Last month, two underground workers at Peabody’s North Goonyella mine were badly injured during a shuttle car accident. 38-year-old fitter, Stuart Foley, was pinned to the wall by the shuttle car which broke his broken pelvis; the driver, 28-yearold Ryan Matthews, had his hand crushed in the accident. The inspectorate ordered the mine to be shut down until it addressed a number of key safety concerns - it was off line for five days. Three years ago, Moranbah North miner Jason Blee was killed underground when he was pinned to the wall by a shuttle car in a similar accident. According to the chief inspector of coal mines, Gavin Taylor, in January this year the inspectorate wrote to mines outlining a series of improvements that needed to be undertaken, in line with the coronial recommendation’s into Mr Blee’s death. Mines were given until the end of April to comply with most of the new requirements, which included reviewing drug and alcohol policies and change management standards.

They have been given until the end of September to fit airbags in underground mines that can lift or push heavy equipment off trapped people. Mr Taylor said it’s not known exactly how many mines have adopted the changes. “We are currently finalising the numbers, but those we have checked are indicating compliance,” he said in a prepared statement. Another key recommendation of the coroner was the use of proximity detection devices on all mine sites - to limit the number of potentially dangerous interactions between miners and machines. These devices work via sensors that automatically shut down equipment if workers come too close. The complication is that there are currently no devices available that have been given the go-ahead for use in underground coal mines. But Mr Taylor said progress is being made. “One company is claiming to have success in both the US and South Africa and we are currently in contact with their Australian agent,” he said. “That equipment will shortly undergo Australian certification tests, but given the complexities, we have not set a time frame to enforce the mandatory installation of such equipment.”

LESSONS LEARNT: Queensland mines are still implementing the coronial recommendations into the death of Moranbah North Miner Jason Blee

In June last year, the Commissioner for Mines and Health Stewart Bell , said he expected proximity detection devices would be mandatory within 12 months. At the time, he said mines would be allowed six months after the technology

became available to comply. That means it would be unlikely for the devices to be adopted - and mandatory - in underground coal mines before June next year. Text us your thoughts on 0428 154 653

“We are currently finalising the numbers, but those we have checked are indicating compliance.”

Garrett stalls on key LNG decisions TWO massive liquefied natural gas (LNG) projects earmarked for the Surat Basin have been delayed by the Federal Environment Minister. In two separate projects, Santos and BG want to convert coal seam gas (CSG) in the Surat Basin to LNG for export from Gladstone. The two developments are collectively worth more than $20 billion, and both have been waiting for the final nod from the federal government. Last week, the Environment Minis-

ter Peter Garrett ordered both companies to submit revised environmental impact statements for their projects - in particular, he wants more information on water management strategies. The companies have three months to provide the revised documentation meaning there will be no final decision before October. The two projects are at different stages of development. Santos, which is working with Petronas, is yet to secure LNG sales contracts, but

Coach Drivers Wanted Greyhound Australia is currently looking for Part Time Coach Drivers for positions in Mackay & Emerald. These driver positions are for local mine contracts and charters and qualified applicants will receive full induction and training. You must possess a current Heavy Vehicle licence and QLD driver’s authority. A Coal Board medical and a BMA/QLD Coal Surface Generic Core qualification is desired but not essential. To apply, please send your resume to E-mail: applications@greyhound.com.au or Fax: 07 3868 0980 We are an equal opportunity employer

Page 4 - Shift Miner Magazine, 19th July 2010

BG is more advanced and is just waiting on the green light from the federal government for its Curtis Island project. The federal opposition has called for Mr Garrett to be sacked over the delays. Opposition spokesman Greg Hunt says it just the latest in a series of catastrophes for the Minister. “We’ve seen almost every day, whether it’s pink batts, green loans, the solar debacle, and now the coal seam gas bungle - another example of chaos from Peter Garrett,” he said.

“The real question is why has Mr Garrett taken so long to put these requirements in place?” He said the opposition wanted to see the projects go ahead but with the right environmental safeguards in place. “This should have been done months and months ago, the real impact is delaying jobs, delaying protecting the environment and uncertainty for investors and small business people in central Queensland who hope to get the flow-on jobs.”

Operations Supervisor Greyhound Australia has a vacancy for a Full Time Operations Supervisor in Emerald. This position will be responsible for contract, freight and express operations out of the Emerald base and includes: Ensuring all contracted services operate on time and safely; maintain a high level of safety on-site and on-road; full responsibility of driver rosters and staff management; ongoing recruitment and training of drivers; administrative duties including reporting; supervising and coordinating coach movements; performance management and staff development. To be successful, it is essential that you have: • an HR Licence and Drivers Authorisation (or the ability to acquire it), • knowledge of rostering, fatigue management regulations and vehicle movements • intermediate computer skills, • business acumen and administrative skills,

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News

91st EDITION. 2010

Landholders could move for Alpha railway Landholders within the planned rail corridor between coal mines at Alpha and the Abbot Point Coal Terminal could be facing an uncertain future following a key state government decision. The Hancock rail corridor has been approved by the Coordinator General, meaning if the company decides it is viable the project has the green light to go ahead. The proposed railway will be 495 kilometres in length and will cost $2 billion to build. It is also critical to the development of a new coal mining province at Alpha west of Emerald, which could generate more than 8000 new jobs. That’s why it has been approved as an “Infrastructure Facility of Significance” (IFS). “This approval can only be sought by projects which meet the strict defnition of an infrastructure facility and also have the potential to contribute to the state through economic growth or new jobs,” said the Premier Anna Bligh. “It is an important milestone towards a

project that could help open up the Galilee Basin for the first time.” “This rail project alone has the potential to create hundreds of jobs and inject billions into the Queensland economy.” But it is the granting of IFS status that gives the Coordinator General the power to force landholders to move on. If Hancock can’t get voluntary agreements with landholders to leave the corridor, it can seek compulsory acquisition through the Coordinator General. “Compulsory acquisition is considered by the government as a last resort,” said Infrastructure Minister Sterling Hinchliffe. “Before such a power is used, Hancock will have to prove to the Coordinator General that they had taken all reasonable steps to reach a voluntary agreement with landholders, including those who hold or claim to hold native title.” While the new approval is a significant milestone, Hancock still has many obstacles

demand for housing in what are generally chronically under supplied markets.” Mr Kusher found the Isaac region, which encompasses the towns of Moranbah, Dysart and Clermont, was likely to be a standout performer. He said across the region, median house prices are recorded at $405,000 - their highest levels ever. Although not as well established, Mr

TALBOT FAREWELLED Hundreds of family and friends gathered to farewell mining giant Ken Talbot at a funeral in Brisbane last week. Mr Talbot died when the light plane he was travelling in crashed in jungle in west Africa, killing all on board. His son, Liam, told those gathered the billionaire was happiest when he had a rum in his hand, surrounded by family and friends. .....................................................................

RAIL SHUT DOWN MOVE ON: IFS status means landholders will have to move if the railway goes ahead

to overcome in making its $6 billion dollar mine a reality at Alpha. Not only does the company have to somehow fund the prodigious infrastructure costs associated with a mine at Alpha, it still need to successfully complete an environmental impact assessment and have it approved by the federal government. Text us your thoughts on 0428 154 653

Mining town ripe for investment THE resolution of the mining tax and the resurgence in commodity prices means the time may be right to buy property in mining towns, according to researchers RPData. RPData analyst, Cameron Kusher, found that commodity prices have increased by 43 per cent over the past year. “It is clear that demand for commodities is ramping up,” he said. “Given this, there is likely to be a higher level of demand for Australian mines to pull resources out of the ground at a more rapid pace.” “That means more workers and more

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Kusher also believed the Western Downs region would be an area of strong growth. “Mining and resource-rich towns are by no means a license to print money - it’s important for buyers to understand that these regions can hold inherent risks due to their dependence on what is often a singular commodity,” he said. He urged people to thoroughly do their research before investing in a mining region.

“It is clear that demand for commodities is ramping up.”

The entire Goonyella rail system was shut down for five days last week, to allow new tracks to be laid and old sections to be cleaned. The shut down was needed to upgrade the Jilalan yard near Sarina. In an unrelated event, a 28-year-old man was killed when his car and a coal train collided at a level crossing near the Goonyella Riverside mine, near Moranbah, earlier this month. .....................................................................

XSTRATA ORE Xstrata has announced it will begin shipping iron ore within a year. The company is developing a magnetite iron ore plant at Cloncurry, close to its Ernest Henry copper mine. It plans to separate the iron ore from the copper using a magnetic system. .....................................................................

TREVOR STAYS Labor Member for Flynn Chris Trevor has confirmed he will stand again at the next federal election, ending media speculation he might walk away. Mr Flynn was a Kevin Rudd loyalist, and made no secret of his disgust at the former Prime Minister’s treatment by party factional bosses. But Mr Trevor says he has faith in Julia Gillard’s ability and will stay on in the job. He had a defiant message for those within the party who might not like his candid approach. “If they don’t like me speaking my mind on certain issues, then they are welcome to get rid of me,” he said.

Page 5 - Shift Miner Magazine, 19th July 2010

News

91st EDITION. 2010

Controversial sale Linc-ed to Singapore LINC Energy hasn’t ruled out selling its Theresa Creek coal deposit near Emerald for $1 billion over the coming days. In a written statement, the company said it was aware of reports in the media that claimed it was on the cusp of selling noncore coal assets in Queensland. However, Linc CEO, Peter Bond, said he could not confirm anything. “As previously announced, Linc Energy remains in detailed negotiations with a number of parties in relation to the sale of it’s non core Queensland tenements,” he said. “These negotiations remain commercial in-confidence.” “Linc Energy confirms that at this stage it has not included any binding contract or finalised any material terms with any party.” An Indian newspaper reported that a

Singaporean company called Adani Enterprises had reached an agreement with Linc Energy to buy the deposit for a $1 billion. The newspaper report said a deal would be announced midway through August, with the first payment likely to be made this month. It also said the new owners had plans to develop the deposit into a mine within the next three to four years. It’s not the first time that there has been speculation that Linc’s coal deposit was about to be sold, with the company saying it was close to a deal with the Chinese last year. However, that deal failed to eventuate. The conversion of the Theresa Creek deposit into a mine is likely to be a slow process, because of the strong community feeling in Emerald about the loss of prime agricultural land that would occur.

“Linc Energy confirms that at this stage it has not included any binding contract or finalised any material terms with any party.”

Digging your own grave? Working tired can be fatal. Sleepiness contributes to poor vigilance, slower reflexes and a reduced ability to think clearly or make informed decisions.

Macarthur slashes injuries

LESS miners are being injured at Macarthur Coal’s Coppabella mine, with the site reducing the number of injuries by nearly two-thirds over the past seven years. According to its latest “total recordable injury frequency rate” (TRIFR) figures, in the past 12 months alone injuries at the site have dropped by nearly a third. In fact, there wasn’t a single day in the past financial year where an injury led to time off - that’s a record for the mine. At Macarthur’s nearby Moorvale mine, injuries doubled during the same time frame; however, its comparative TRIFR figures were much lower to begin with. Both mines are now comfortably below the Queensland industry standard. The improvement was headline news for Macarthur Coal, which took stockbrokers and financial analysts on a tour of its operations recently. The share price for Macarthur is currently sitting around $13 after going as high as ! $17 during a series of take over attempts "#$%&'()*+'(,)&%-! .+"*-)%! %/-0#+$#%-! from larger mining companies.

None of the attempts was successful, and the company says it is now looking to generate increased production from its existing Moorvale and Coppabella mines. At both sites the company is looking to introduce more excavators and operators to increase overburden removal at a cost of around $42 million. The company is also forecasting it will spend around $20 million on things like water management and maintenance of the coal handling and preparation plants at both mines. However, Macarthur is expecting that its new Middlemount mine will be the major driver of profits in the future. The Middlemount mine has about 57 million tonnes of steel-making coal, which the company expects to start exporting in 2012, after it gets final rail and water infrastructure in place. Next year the company expects to spend up to $200 million at the mine; when it is completed it would export around 5 million #'! /-)%&'+$! #'12)*! tonnes of coal per annum from the site.

! "#$%&'()!*'+,$-!.#$/01#%!

If you have an undiagnosed sleep disorder, you may regularly endanger your life 0$+#3%!4&!+%%#%4!*&2!#'!0$+#3#',!0&3/-'%+4#&'!+)#%#',!&24!&5! and the lives of those around you. Fortunately many sleep disorders have easily "&)6/$+0-!+00#7-'4%8! recognisable features and can be readily treated. Some of the common signs of a sleep disorder: ! ! UÊIt takes you more than 30 minutes to fall asleep at night ! ! ! 4;+4! +$$! #'12)-7! /-&/$-! "#$%&'()*+'(,)&%-! .+"*-)%! 9-$#-:-! UÊYou feel sleepy during the day or fall asleep at inappropriate times ! ! "#$%&'()!*'+,$-!.#$/01#%! during the day %;&2$7!9-!/)&:#7-7!"#4;!+00-%%!4&!12%4#0-!7-%/#4-!";-4;-)! "#$%&'()!*'+,$-!.#$/01#%! Personal Injury Services ! "#$%&'()!*'+,$-!.#$/01#%! UÊYou wake frequently in the night and have trouble falling back to sleep ! .+"*-)%! %/-0#+$#%-! #'! /-)%&'+$! #'12)*! *When audited by the CAB 4;-*!0+'!+55&)7!$-,+$!)-/)-%-'4+4#&'8! "#$%&'()*+'(,)&%-! ! wilson/ryan/grose Lawyers%/-0#+$#%-! specialise#'!in /-)%&'+$! personal#'12)*!! UÊYou snore or your partner notices your breathing stops for short periods "#$%&'()*+'(,)&%-! .+"*-)%! "#$%&'()*+'(,)&%-! %/-0#+$#%-! #'! /-)%&'+$! #'12)*! injury claims to.+"*-)%! assist you in claiming compensation UÊYou frequently don’t feel well refreshed despite spending 7- 8 hours asleep at night0$+#3%!4&!+%%#%4!*&2!#'!0$+#3#',!0&3/-'%+4#&'!+)#%#',!&24!&5! 0$+#3%!4&!+%%#%4!*&2!#'!0$+#3#',!0&3/-'%+4#&'!+)#%#',!&24!&5! ! "&)6/$+0-!+00#7-'4%8! 0$+#3%!4&!+%%#%4!*&2!#'!0$+#3#',!0&3/-'%+4#&'!+)#%#',!&24!&5! arising out of workplace accidents. "&)6/$+0-!+00#7-'4%8! If you experience any of these signs or symptoms, please see your doctor about ! "&)6/$+0-!+00#7-'4%8! <;-)-! +)-! #3/&)4+'4! 4#3-5)+3-%! #':&$:-7! #'! 3+6#',! +! ! the need for a referral to our service. wilson/ryan/grose Lawyers believe that all injured ! "#$%&'()*+'(,)&%-! .+"*-)%! 9-$#-:-! 4;+4! +$$! #'12)-7! "#$%&'()*+'(,)&%-! .+"*-)%! 9-$#-:-! 4;+4!/-&/$-! +$$! #'12)-7! /-&/$-! /-)%&'+$!#'12)*!0$+#38! ! <;-)-5&)-=!"-!)-0&33-'7!*&2!%--6! "#$%&'()*+'(,)&%-! 9-$#-:-! 4;+4! +$$! #'12)-7! /-&/$-! people should.+"*-)%! be provided with access to justice %;&2$7!9-!/)&:#7-7!"#4;!+00-%%!4&!12%4#0-!7-%/#4-!";-4;-)! Moranbah Sleep Investigation Unit - Level 1, Moranbah Medical Centre %;&2$7!9-!/)&:#7-7!"#4;!+00-%%!4&!12%4#0-!7-%/#4-!";-4;-)! %;&2$7!9-!/)&:#7-7!"#4;!+00-%%!4&!12%4#0-!7-%/#4-!";-4;-)! despite whether they can afford legal 4;-*!0+'!+55&)7!$-,+$!)-/)-%-'4+4#&'8! ! 4;-*!0+'!+55&)7!$-,+$!)-/)-%-'4+4#&'8! ! representation. St Francis’ Drv, Moranbah (Entrance via Bacon Ln), QLD 4744 $-,+$!+7:#0-!+%!-+)$*!+%!/&%%#9$-!+54-)!+'!+00#7-'48! 4;-*!0+'!+55&)7!$-,+$!)-/)-%-'4+4#&'8! ! ! ! are important timeframes involved in making a Mackay Sleep Investigation Unit - 57 Norris Rd, Mount Pleasant, QLD 4740 !! There <;-)-! +)-! #3/&)4+'4! 4#3-5)+3-%! #':&$:-7! #'! 3+6#',! +!

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Page 6 - Shift Miner Magazine, 19th July 2010

<;-)-! +)-! #3/&)4+'4! 4#3-5)+3-%! #':&$:-7! #'! +! you personal injury claim. Therefore, we3+6#',! recommend <;-)-! +)-! #3/&)4+'4! 4#3-5)+3-%! #':&$:-7! #'! 3+6#',! +! /-)%&'+$!#'12)*!0$+#38! ! <;-)-5&)-=!"-!)-0&33-'7!*&2!%--6! /-)%&'+$!#'12)*!0$+#38! ! <;-)-5&)-=!"-!)-0&33-'7!*&2!%--6! www.shiftminer.com M A G A Z I N E <-$-/;&'->!?@AB!CA!D@@!E@@! seek legal advice as early as possible after an accident. /-)%&'+$!#'12)*!0$+#38! ! <;-)-5&)-=!"-!)-0&33-'7!*&2!%--6! $-,+$!+7:#0-!+%!-+)$*!+%!/&%%#9$-!+54-)!+'!+00#7-'48! $-,+$!+7:#0-!+%!-+)$*!+%!/&%%#9$-!+54-)!+'!+00#7-'48! $-,+$!+7:#0-!+%!-+)$*!+%!/&%%#9$-!+54-)!+'!+00#7-'48! ! ! Telephone: (07) 47 600 100 ! ! <-$-/;&'->!?@AB!CA!D@@!E@@! <-$-/;&'->!?@AB!CA!D@@!E@@! <-$-/;&'->!?@AB!CA!D@@!E@@! ! ! Proudly Audited by ! ! ! F#0;-$$-!F&)4&'!..G!H008!I/-08!?J-)%8!K'18B!L!M$7! ! ! F#0;-$$-!F&)4&'!..G!H008!I/-08!?J-)%8!K'18B!L!M$7! F#0;-$$-!F&)4&'!..G!H008!I/-08!?J-)%8!K'18B!L!M$7! F#0;-$$-!F&)4&'!..G!H008!I/-08!?J-)%8!K'18B!L!M$7! !! ! For more information visit www.auditbureau.org.au ! ! ! ! !! !! ! ! ! ! ! ! !! ! ! ! !

News

91st EDITION. 2010

Rugby muster a success on Xstrata’s turf MORE than 20 junior rugby players from mining towns across central Queensland will head to the Sunshine Coast in two months time to play in the state rugby carnival. The players were selected after an enormously successful junior rugby carnival held in Tieri last week. It’s the first time the Country Rugby Muster has ever been held, and major sponsor Xstrata Coal literally moved the earth to get the small mining town ready to host more than 300 players and their supporters. Queensland Rugby Union development officer, Joel Johnston, said the country muster was about giving good young players in the bush a chance to be noticed. “Some of the regional teams were struggling to send teams to state championships because of the distance and the small player base,” he said. “The state carnivals have always been held in the south-east corner, and some of the outstanding local talent was not getting spotted because they were in under performing sides.” “When we first moved to the idea, we already had got support from Xstrata Coal

who have just been fantastic.” “Previously we couldn’t have the event in Tieri, with just the single oval in town, but Xstrata built us another field and they also provided free accommodation and subsidised meals for more than 300 players.” “Xstrata Coal’s events coordinator Tam King worked full time on the project, and to have that support, not only the financial stuff, made us less dependent on volunteers and made the whole event much easier.” Among the talent spotters watching the junior players were members of the QRU board, and Jason Gilmore the coach of the Reds Juniors. Players from Cairns, Mackay, Rockhampton, Central Highlands, Wide Bay and Bundaberg played about four games each in a round robin format. An under 13s, 15s and 17s teams have been picked to go the state carnival in September, with nearly a quarter of those players living locally. Junior rugby players are reminded that sign-on day for the local rugby competition is on the 12th of September.

SPORTING CHANCE: Talent scouts were on the hunt for outstanding locals players

“Previously we couldn’t have the event in Tieri, with just the single oval in town, but Xstrata built us another field ...”

FROM PAGE 1

679 accidents in Qld mines in 6 months

Once again, fires accounted for the most problems on site - with 29 reported. There were also 21 reported cases of people losing control of their vehicles. In one instance, a dump truck hit a berm after the driver fell asleep; in another case a light vehicle with two occupants rolled onto its side as it drove down a watered ramp - one of the occupants broke his collar bone. The month of April saw 109 serious

accidents or high potential incidents. Following the trend, fires were the biggest hazard on site - with 22 reported, including a fire on a loader in an underground metal mine that could not be extinguished. In that instance, the mine was evacuated and the loader left to burn. In another accident, an operator was clearing a blockage of wet dust build up in a chute when his fingers touched the rotating rotary valve and it sliced off two finger tips.

MONTH

TOTAL INCIDENTS

EXAMPLES

JANUARY

110

* A 30-metre high dead tree fell onto the back of an excavator * Phosphoric acid spilled onto a boilermaker while he was working in a storage tank

FEBRUARY

114

* A worker had his foot badly gashed by the tyne of a forklift * A worker walking along a bench slipped on a rock and broke his tibia

MARCH

123

* A loader reversed over the edge of a ramp and fell five metres, and rolled twice before landing upright - the driver had been wearing a seat belt and was not badly hurt * A water car and loader collided in a stockpile area

APRIL

109

* A driller’s offsider had the end of his ring finger crushed when he passed his hand through the side opening of a set of gripper jaws * A mine was evacuated after a fire on a loader could not be put out

MAY

* A fire extinguisher on a dozer exploded * A dump truck hit a berm when the driver fell asleep

JUNE

134

* Shuttle car crushed the hand of its operator, and broke the pelvis of a fitter * An apprentice helping to adjust a mobile jaw crusher when a rod failed and components flung out and struck him on the shoulder causing severe bruising an soft tissue damage

Workplace & Motor Vehicle Accidents Medical Negligence & Asbestos Claims Local Call 4972 7567

trilbymisso.com.au

TM0265

Local Contact John Golinelli - Old Court House Building, 16 Yarroon Street, Gladstone QLD 4680

Page 7 - Shift Miner Magazine, 19th July 2010

News

91st EDITION. 2010

Help on hand for teenage years EVERYBODY knows adolescence is a time of change, that’s why one Mackay school has launched a new program to help their students cope with the challenges. Pioneer State High School is running a program tackling everything from drugs and alcohol, cyber-bullying, and peer pressure to brain development, and the journey from a teenager to an adult. But the program couldn’t run without the significant financial help of the Hail

Creek mine’s Community Development Fund, which has kicked in $14,000. Pioneer State High School deputy principal Cath Jeffrey said the overall aim is to develop resilient and confident teenagers. “Parenting and teaching children is one of the most precious responsibilities many people undertake in life and is not without its highs and lows,” Mrs Jeffrey said. “They can be confronted with the teenager’s desire for independence, susceptibility

Industry takes club to cancer H AV E YO U

to social pressures such as drugs and alcohol, the need to fit in, and raging hormones.” “Our daily interactions with them showed that there was a need for more information to help them understand and support adolescents during this time.” “At the same time, we were also aware that teenagers also struggle to cope with the boundaries imposed on them and needed support to manage their personal well-being.” Support agencies in the program include the Child Youth Mental Health Centre, Queensland Police, Youth Support Services Mackay, and chaplains from Mackay Chaplaincy. Pioneer State High School parent and mother-of-five Katherine Hillman said the program has been a positive move by the school. “Children are growing up more quickly these days and as a parent, it can be difficult to get them to follow the rules and standards you set in place,” Mrs Hillman said. “This program shows us that no matter what decisions are made, there are many services and agencies out there to help us, and our teenagers, work through them.” “My eldest is 23 and my youngest is 15 so we’ve already raised children from teenagers into adulthood and have developed some experience managing issues that face them.” “However, the program has been great in reassuring my husband and I that we’re on the right track and I congratulate the

school in going this extra yard to support all the school’s families.” Hail Creek Mine general manager operations Andrew Woodley said the programme is about creating an ongoing culture of engagement amongst parents, teachers, students, and support agencies. “We are pleased to be involved in a programme that provides a shared sense of hope in dealing with the challenges of adolescence,” Mr Woodley said. “It’s about empowering parents, teachers, and young people in the local community by providing the skills to cope and be more resilient, and know where to access information and support.” “By working together, we can help develop positive relationships within families and the school to create a stronger and more sustainable community for Mackay and its surrounding areas.” Pioneer State High School will hold its next community information session on Wednesday 28 July 2010 at the school, starting from 6pm to 9pm. This session will be run by education consultant Mr John Joseph – widely known as ‘the brain man’. He will discuss the impact of the brain’s development on student behaviour choices. For more information, please contact Cath Jeffrey on (07) 4955 9222.

CALLING all golfers - grab your clubs and sign on for the a day on the green raising funds for prostate cancer. The Mackay Area Industry Network’ s (MAIN) annual charity golf day is on again this month, this time to raise money for and awareness of - prostate cancer. Last year the event raised thousands of dollars and attracted almost 60 keen golfers from mining and industry. Member services co-ordinator Renee Meares is hopeful that they can do the same thing again this year. “We have done it for the past two years running, and it’s been very successful, and obviously we are in a male-dominated industry, so we think it is an important

cause to raise money for.” “It’s also an opportunity to have fun and relax for a day, while networking and meeting different people that they wouldn’t normally meet.” The MAIN Charity Golf Day will be held on Friday 23rd July at the Mackay Golf Club and all proceeds from the day will be given to the Mater Foundation. “Many people in the region are affected by prostate cancer and we are more than happy to support the great work the Mater Foundation does to assist those in need.” To register for this event please contact MAIN on 4957 5040 or check out the website www.main.org.au

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I T TA K E S ?

Or do you know someone that has?

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Shift Miner’s Most Eligible

Bachelor & Bachelorette

91st EDITION. 2010

Glen Finning, 27,

Dirk Irsch, 45

BMA Blackwater, machine operator

North Goonyella, underground miner

When I’m not at work you’ll find me: Drinking coffee, taking my labrador for walks, drinking rum, cruising the streets of Emerald, dressing flash and partying at the races, running the Emerald undie300 My life is best described in the song: “Bloke” - by Chris Franklin. I live off beer and pies, I’m an ocker and I really love knockers! If I could invite three people to dinner they would be (and why): Dean Merlo - owner of Merlo coffee, Bruce Willis - my hero, and Julia Gillard legend redhead, our hottest P.M ever!

The best advice I’ve ever been given is: Never give up My perfect date would be: Nice meal, good conversation and lots of laughter. My life is best described in the song: “My Way” - by Frank Sinatra. If I could invite three people to dinner they would be (and why): Maradona my hero, my mum and dad as I haven’t seen them for two years

If i didn’t work in mining or industry I would be a: Coffee company baron, check out my new website, www.willisjococoffee.com.au

My friends say I am: Laid back

If I could have any animal as a pet I would choose (and why): A Zonkey - zebra painted donkey. In Mexico they paint donkeys in zebra stripes and charge tourists for photos. True! Hilarious

If I didn’t work in mining or industry I would be a: Pro soccer player

What are the two topics that should be off limits on a first date: Dinner at the parents... pressure. I will never forget the first date with Bladey...

Bri Mouat, 22

Matthew Goldman, 26

Ensham, mine operator

Middlemount mine, Diesel fitter

When I’m not at work you’ll find me: In the summer you will definitely find me surfing and chilling at the beach. In the winter snowboarding... but generally you’ll find me in my car driving from place to place

When I’m not at work you’ll find me: Fishing, at the gym or having a few coldies with mates

The best advice I’ve ever been given is: Live, laugh, love life and don’t regret anything

The best advice I’ve ever been given is: “Hope for the best, prepare for the worst”

My perfect date would be: In a hot air baloon - with champas looking out to an amazing sunset

If I could invite three people to dinner they would be (and why): Adam Sandler- obviously for the laughs, Shane Webcke- to hear his heroic stories and Jessica Beil- for the intellectual conversation

My best attribute is: My personality - adventurous, outgoing, fun filled

My friends say I am: A rascal and I can’t keep out of mischief

My friends say I am: I’m best described as crazy, a fool, fun loving, always acting the goat and adventurous

If I didn’t work in mining or industry I would be a: A personal trainer at my own gym or a fishing charter boat owner/operator

If I didn’t work in mining or industry I would be a: Either in the circus or a Olympian gymnast

If I could have any animal as a pet I would choose (and why): My best mate Ben (Golden Retriever) because he is loyal and follows me everywhere

If I could have any animal as a pet I would choose (and why): I would definitely have a dog - a border collie or a golden retriever. They are fun, lovably and love the outdoors

IT’S NOT TOO LATE FOR YOU OR YOUR MATES TO ENTER! - See opposite page for details.

HARLEY NOW OR IN THE FUTURE? Bert’s been mining for 20 years. 19 years ago he sold his beloved Harley to start investing for the future. He took money to Steve Taylor and Partners in Emerald.

TODAY HE HAS 6 HOUSES, NO DEBTS - AND A HARLEY What’s your future going to be like?

Call Steve Taylor on 0749807733 or google “Steve Taylor”

Page 9 - Shift Miner Magazine, 19th July 2010

News

91st EDITION. 2010

Cocky want a coal mine? BARALABA miner Cockatoo Coal will significantly increase its mining activities in Queensland, after announcing an agreement with Anglo American to buy $580 million worth of undeveloped coal assets. Under a complex arrangement, Cockatoo has joined Korea Electric Power (KEPCO) and another Korean steel company

(POSCO) to buy 51 per cent of three undeveloped Surat Basin coal mines and 100 per cent of two undeveloped New South Wales mines from Anglo. The deal still has to be approved by the Foreign Investment Review Board. There are a number of clauses in the deal that could see other companies get involved in the sale.

However according to Cockatoo, if everything goes to plan, it will end up paying around $105 million for a majority stake in the Collingwood and Taroom mines in the Surat Basin. Together those deposits have about 400 million tonnes of high quality thermal coal, which could be developed for open cut coal mining.

Anglo Coal CEO Seamus French said Anglo is selling the deposits because it had no plans to develop them in the short to medium term. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We will focus on developing our strong Australian coal project pipeline of large scale, long life projects such as Grosvenor and Moranbah South in Queensland,â&#x20AC;? he said.

Leaking gas wells fixed

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Page 10 - Shift Miner Magazine, 19th July 2010

REPAIRS have been carried out on some of the coal seam gas (CGS) wells in southern Queensland, according the Queensland Mines Safety Commissioner. Stewart Bell appeared before a budget estimates hearing at Parliament House in Brisbane last week. Back in May, the Minister ordered the stateâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s CGS producers to fully audit their operations, following numerous complaints from farmers about leaking wells. All CSG producers were required to do a complete inspection and risk assessment of all existing well-heads and provide a report to the government on the results. Mr Bell told the estimates hearing that more than 2,000 wells have been checked so far and 13 required immediate repairs. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re leaking at above 10 per cent of the lower explosive limit of methane,â&#x20AC;? he said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Now the lower explosive limit is of a level at which the gas can be ignited, so weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re saying these wells were mostly well below 10 per cent of that number.â&#x20AC;? But Mr Bell insisted there was no danger to the public. â&#x20AC;&#x153;They [the wells] cannot be ignited.â&#x20AC;? Meanwhile, in New South Wales, farmers are still worried a proposed CSG project will hurt their business. Tooraweenah farmer Heath Webb said he was concerned drilling would contaminate his soil and water. â&#x20AC;&#x153;This water comes from great depths so itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s salty, got high levels of minerals, got high levels of hydro-carbons and also carcinogenic elements, which of course cause cancer,â&#x20AC;? he told ABC radio. â&#x20AC;&#x153;This water is almost just dumped next to the gas well.â&#x20AC;?

Back in May, the Minister ordered the stateâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s CGS producers to fully audit their operations, following numerous complaints from farmers about leaking wells.

around town 91st EDITION. 2010

GYMKHANA TIME!

Riders get in close for a group shot!

Blackwater Pony Club held its annual gymkhana last month, with more than 50 riders attending the weekend event.

Jack and Dana Denman from Blackwater Pony Club and Payten and Keely Sibson from the Dysart Pony Club having a break

Lara Prince from Middlemount Pony Club in the rider class

Charlee Keleher in the jumping

Hannah Bamblett from the Blackwater Pony Club in the time trial

Adrienne Geary from Comet River in the barrel race

Kelly Coyne from the Springsure Pony Club running back to the finish line in the lolly grab

Dylan Lawless Pyne from Peak Downs pony club waiting his turn in the barrel race

Shania Sanderson from the Blackwater Pony Club in the lolly grab

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.

Why not consider a career in health and aged care? · Flexible work rosters · Industry leading pay · Seeking medical officers, midwives, nurses, carer’s, Allied professionals

· Excellent career prospects · Across all mining areas including Rockhampton, Mackay, Gladstone, Bundaberg and Yeppoon

MERCY HEALTH and AGED CARE Central Queensland Limited

Go to www.mercycq.com/careers

or call our recruitment team on (07) 49317481 Page 11 - Shift Miner Magazine, 19th July 2010

CQ BUSINESS 91st EDITION. 2010

Need to know... PALMER PLAN FOR ABBOT Clive Palmer says he plans to build his own loading terminal at Abbot Point alongside the existing Abbot Point Coal Terminal (APCT) to handle the coal he and his Chinese partners plan to mine at Alpha. Mr Palmer made the comments to the Australian after it was announced that he had not received port capacity under the current expansion plans scheduled for APCT. APCT is going to be sold off next year, and its capacity is set to double before then.

AQUILA EMPLOYEES TAKE OWNERSHIP Employees of Aquila Resources in central Queensland have been given the right to buy into the business, under a new employee share option plan. Under the system, instead of receiving bonuses or wage increases, employees have the option to take a parcel of shares in the company. They can then sell the shares over a period of four years for an agreed price of $11.40; that is a long way above the price of Aquila shares at $7.90 (at time of printing). It reflects strong speculation in the stock market that industry heavyweight Vale is likely to try and takeover Aquila resources, as it tries to increase its exposure in the Queensland coal sector.

KOREANS STILL WANT PART OF GALILEE CSG Blue Energy has agreed to give the Korean Gas Corporation (KOGAS) another six months to decide whether it wants part of the gas fields they are exploring in the Galilee and Bowen Basins. KOGAS has the option to take a share of the Blue Energy owned gas fields, because it negotiated what’s called a “farm-in agreement” when it bought shares in the company last year. Blue Energy says it has about 3630 petajoules of gas in the tenements, and is continuing to drill the site to increase the confidence KOGAS can have in that figure.

MINERVA MAY CHANGE HANDS Minerva mine in central Queensland may be passed from the Chinese to the Japanese according to speculation in financial media. The Chinese company Yanzhou coal mining acquired a 55 per cent share of Minerva mine when it purchased Felix Resources last year. The remaining 45 per cent of the mine was owned by the Japanese company Sojitz Corporation. However, under a deal it had struck with Felix Resources, Sojitz still has the right to acquire another 51 per cent of the 3 million tonne a year thermal coal mine.

Westside in on gas story near Moura WESTSIDE Corporation has purchased coal seam gas tenements near Moura for nearly $27 million. Westside purchased the 51 per cent stake from Mitsui E&P Australia, and the two companies will now enter a joint venture to develop the resource. The new joint venture has renamed the CSG resource as the Meridian Seam Gasfield. Drilling in some parts of the tenement

are advanced with certified proved (1P) gas reserves of 60 petajoules (PJ), 186 PJ of proved and probable (2P) reserves and 334 PJ of proved probable and possible (3P) reserves. Westside chairman and CEO Angus Karoll said he was extremely pleased to confirm the purchase. “This acquisition is the most significant event since Westside listed in 2007, transforming us from an explorer into a gas producer

Explorers drill Bluff and Rolleston ENDOCOAL says it has appointed an independent expert to complete a resource statement for its “Orion Downs” tenements between Rolleston and Emerald. The appointment of an independent expert allows the company to develop an initial “resource statement” which will give a preliminary estimate of the amount of coal at the site. In its latest update to the Australian Stock Exchange, the company says it has drilled nearly 5,500 metres across 19 holes, and has discovered a coal seam about 5 metres thick. The coal has been found anywhere from 70 to 130 metres beneath the surface, which has a large bearing on the cost of extracting it. Meanwhile further north around Bluff on the Capricorn Highway, another small coal explorer has announced it will begin a drilling program on its New Cambria tenement.

According to Stanmore Coal, metallurgical coal has been mined successfully in the past at the nearby Excel colliery, and it is hoping to mine the same coal seam in its own tenement. The company is hopeful the drilling will reveal coal that has been pushed up close to the surface, where it could be cheaply mined. Stanmore Coal managing director Nick Jorss is optimistic about the project. “The New Cambria project represents an exciting exploration prospect centrally located two kilometres east of Bluff, with the main trunk rail line to Gladstone situated along the Southern Boundary,” he said. “Stanmore Coal’s priority at New Cambria is to test the geological structure and seek shallow coal to complement our early success at the Range and Mackenzie River projects.”

“The New Cambria project represents an exciting exploration prospect centrally located two kilometres east of Bluff...” and operator in joint venture with Mitsui, a global leader in LNG,” Mr Karoll said. “Westside is extremely positive about our prospects now that we have completed what we believe is a very well-priced purchase of an asset that has enormous potential.” Mr Karoll said Westside and Mitsui would now pursue an expansion program targeting a significant increase in field production and gas reserves.

“The ultimate goal for the joint venture is to export LNG and to supply new domestic contracts from 2015 when the current supply contracts that are in place will finish,” Mr Karoll said. According to Westside, the new investment is the closest gas field to Gladstone’s proposed LNG export terminal and is adjacent to the proposed Surat-to-Gladstone gas pipeline.

“Westside is extremely positive about our prospects now that we have completed what we believe is a very wellpriced purchase of an asset that has enormous potential.”

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Page 12 - Shift Miner Magazine, 19th July 2010

Delivered direct to your inbox every Wednesday To register go to www.shiftminer.com and follow the link

CQ BUSINESS 91st EDITION. 2010

LOCAL KNOWLEDGE

Helping miners sleep easy

PROBLEMS with sleep are something that most shift-weary miners are very familiar with. Fatigue in the mining industry is a critical safety issue and, unfortunately for

many miners, managing the problem has been both difficult and costly because of the lack of local services. But all that is about to change.

In good news for the Bowen Basin, a team of sleep specialists will be setting up shop permanently in Moranbah. Respiratory and Sleep Specialists has been helping people sleep better in the Mackay region since 1998, and has now extended its business into the coalfields. Dr Robert Edwards and Dr Ian Brown have more than 20 years of experience and will now consult from the Moranbah unit regularly, while maintaining their usual practices in Mackay and Brisbane. According to the team at Respiratory and Sleep Specialists, research has found that nearly a quarter of men, and one in 10 women suffer from obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA). OSA is a condition in which a person stops breathing during sleep and must continually wake up to resume breathing - not surprisingly, this doesn't make for a good night's rest and leads to sleepiness and mental dysfunction. Together they directly affects a person’s quality of life. More than 90 percent of the patients that Respiratory and Sleep Specialists have seen are diagnosed with OSA. Add to those frightening statistics, the

complications of changing sleep patterns because of shift work, and you can see why Respiratory and Sleep Specialists are bringing their knowledge to town. Other sleep disorders that can be evaluated and treated at the new Moranbah centre include restless legs syndrome, sleep walking, snoring, insomnia, and shift work disorders. If you think you suffer from OSA, there is some good news - one of the most common and effective treatments is the continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) device. The pressurised air splints the upper airway, preventing it from collapsing and closing. Dr Edwards says while treating OSA requires rigorous assessment, treatment is very successful. “CPAP is 100 percent effective in treating OSA positive patients that will wear the device,” he said. “Our multidisciplinary approach and rigorous follow-up process to monitor our patients is crucial in helping every patient successfully use their treatment device.” Concerned about your sleep? Call the respiratory and Sleep Specialists: on 1800 155 225, or visit them at QME at booth no 1111 or go to www.sleepspecialists.com.au

Where Queensland’s mining industry meets to do business. Page 13 - Shift Miner Magazine, 19th July 2010

stuff to the editor 91st EDITION. 2010

UPSIDE DOWN

Stuff to the Editor Our front page story about the latest shuttle car accident, this time at Peabodyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s North Goonyella mine, has had a big response from readers:

Monday 5th

communityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

best source

of local new

1.00

(SPQs excepted)

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The mines say safety is number one, but this just proves thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not true. How long til someone else dies? T.M, Mackay

ident ttle car accangry. another shu frustrated andunacc eptable that ed hand in r-old fitter, case,â&#x20AC;&#x153;Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ssaysjustheâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;scompl etely ations recommend lvis, smash In the latest incident,d 38-yea by a s after the iance,â&#x20AC;? to the wall isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t compl nine month Broken pe was pinne Goonyella Mackay d down there Stuart Foley, ring in the yâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s North were hande

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What a joke that nothing has been acted on since Jason Blee. T.R, Rockhampton

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ane 17 Brisb Level 2/

People always talk about Gladstone about to boom, but when you work there itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s still a Rio town. Take Rio away and there would be big problems. R.H, Gladstone

Edâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s note: Good question! We will give you plenty of time to vote, after we have finished running all the entrants over the next couple of months. Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll have plenty of time to start texting through your favourites.

On the ground in Gladstone not much has changed, coal seam gas is still a while away yet. Ron, Gladstone

Is it too late to enter? Vikki, Moranbah

Shift Minerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most eligible bachelors and bachelorettes entrants are creating a bit of feedback of their own!

Edâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s note: itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not too late to enter. We are still accepting entries, so have a look at page 8 for the details you need to be in the running.

Got something to share? Send us your text messages or phone photos to 0428 154 653 Or email to shift.miner@gmail.com

Page 14 - Shift Miner Magazine, 19th July 2010

SEEN SOMETHING WE HAVENâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;T? PRIZES FOR THE BEST MINING PHOTOS. TAKE IT ON YOUR PHONE OR CAMERA AND SEND IT IN

Text to 0428 154 653 Email shift.miner@gmail.com

FAIR DINKUM 91st EDITION. 2010

Fair Dinkum! IN THE UNITED STATES - A New York City judge has learnt that accepting popcorn kickbacks is not all butter and salt after being fined and fired from his job. Alan Rubin, an administrative law judge in the city’s finance department, was given his marching orders after receiving six to eight bags of free popcorn a year as a buy-off from a snack food delivery driver with too many parking tickets. The usual penalty for over-indulging in this moreish snack is shrivelled throat and tummy bloat but Mr Rubin’s $2500 fine to the Conflicts of Interest Board reflected a significantly more expensive habit. According to the New York Post Mr Rubin was ratted out by one of his colleagues after he brought some of his bounty into the office to share. Moral of the story: never share your popcorn. IN BRITAIN - A serial snow dropper wreaking havoc on a southern English town had left police confounded and residents living in fear of losing their socks, gloves and undies. But now the culprit has been unmasked as 13-year-old Oscar; however, Oscar is not a testosterone charged teenage boy but a kleptomaniac cat with a generous nature. Eager to please his new owners, Peter and Birgitt Weismantel, Oscar had been bringing home stolen goods to the family home in Southampton. “He started bringing socks home a few months ago and then gardening gloves... it began to escalate and I telephoned the police as people must have been missing clothes -- especially with women’s underwear being taken,” Mr Weismantel told the Southern Daily Echo newspaper. On average he commited 10 robberies a day, but the Weismantels are working on ways to lead Oscar away from his life of crime and onto the straight and narrow. IN ITALY - When work motivational

Frank the Tank’s

days turn bad. Okay they are usually bad but this one turned really really bad. A group from one of Italy’s biggest real estate agencies was inflicted with more pain than the usual group hugs and the power of positive thinking. Nine staff members required hospitalisation after walking barefoot on a bed of hot coals. Alessandro Di Priamo, a former athlete turned company motivational “facilitator”, said the nine Tecnocasa salespeople had suffered light burns and none were seriously hurt and blamed the hosting hotel for using the wrong kind of wood and some artificial coal without his knowledge. “Firewalking helps people overcome their fears, seek new challenges and understand that most of what they see as their limits are self-inflicted,” Di Priamo told Reuters. “I have done this job for 12 years with thousands of people and never had a problem.” “I myself walked first on that bed of burning coals and didn’t feel anything -- in fact that same evening I went for a 16km run,” he said. ON THE GOLD COAST - Forget pooches, doves and butterflies - they are all passé on the wedding front - the latest must have accessory for the modern Gold Coast bride is all about feathers, talons and beaks. A wedge-tailed eagle has been trained to swoop down the aisle to deliver the couple’s wedding rings to the best man or groom, according to reports in the Gold Coast Bulletin. At the right moment during the ceremony, the best man or groom raises a gloved hand with a scrap of meat in it and the handler releases the bird. “Ten years after you’ve been to a wedding you won’t remember the food that you ate, but you will remember if an eagle flew in,” said Zanna Carey from Broadwings Events.

“Streakin” good love advice Dear Frank, Many people have been loyal readers for quite some time, I think it is time to emancipate yourself and tell everyone who you are. Jim Dear Jim, I’m sorry Jim, but to reveal who I am would betray my hiding place to several ex-wives, the Australian Taxation Office, Bert Newton (long story) and my old pimp-daddy. However, I take your point and I agree I owe my readers a little more information about who exactly walks into their hearts every fortnight and dispenses invaluable life and love advice. While I can’t tell you who I am, Jim - I can tell you where I have come from. So here it is, part one of the concise biography of Frank T. Tank. I was born in India into a wealthy family of British merchants. It is said the only person my father ever answered to was the King of England himself. When the King abdicated, Queen Elizabeth made the mistake of thinking that as head of the United Kingdom she was also entitled to call upon my father when the Commonwealth needed him. That would have been the case, my father said, “If she weren’t a silly woman.” The bulk of our family fortune was lost when my father decided to invest in the wonderful new Zeppelin technology coming out of Germany. Tragically, I also lost my father in the first flight of the Hindenburg. As he was a major investor, he was naturally given a free ride in the rigid airship and he perished in the ter-

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Dear Jim, Maybe it is because I know the man but I have never been able to understand why he For more information visit www.auditbureau.org.au is so popular throughout the readership. For more information visit www.auditbureau.org.au M A G A Z I N E

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rible explosion in upstate New York. He was a terribly stubborn man and simply refused to put out his cigarette. During the war, my uncle took me to India to take care of the remaining business interests in the country. My uncle was heavily involved in India’s politics and I was raised in this vein and by the time I was 17, I was somewhat of a political radical. However, after several years of witnessing the awful abuses of what effectively were English citizens, we were run out of business and run out of the country when our final audacious attempt to get Mahatma Ghandi imprisoned for civil disobedience failed. My heart-broken uncle died a year later when I was 18 and I left India for Australia. When I arrived, I signed up to study at a Catholic seminary to obtain my Holy Orders. That whole thing didn’t last long. I was forced to quit because of two things. Firstly, when I joined I didn’t bother to take a quick look in the dictionary for the meaning of ‘chastity’. Second, I was expelled... wait, no. The other ‘e’ word... exorcised! That’s it. The diocese Bishop was called in when the Abbot found me vomiting violent and speaking in tongues after a solid night on the communion wine. Everyone thinks priests are gentle old men. But this Bishop was utterly crazy. He ran into where I was sleeping off my hangover, started screaming, “I cast thee out!” and threw acid on me. I later found out it was not acid he threw but holy water. For the life of me I have never been able to figure out why it burned so much. That wraps up part one of my biography. I hope you enjoyed it - more to come in the editions of Shift Miner Magazine ahead. Frank

It is part of my employment contract not to name Frank. But if I could, the first people I would name him to is the Department of Families to let them know where they can get the child support he owes and the Department of Veterans Affairs to tell them he is not actually a veteran and to stop paying him a pension. Susan

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

Page 15 - Shift Miner Magazine, 19th July 2010

WHITSUNDAY HOLIDAY RENTAL Impress your girlfriend,family or mates & book this spacious f/furn beachfront home - 30mins Nth Airlie Beach. Ideal affordable getaway from $160/nt View www.stayz.com. au Property ID 25669 wallerjen@westnet. com.au Ph 07 49461628

JETSKI FOR SALE 2008 Kawasaki Supercharged Ultra 250 Immaculate, 1500CC, 3 seater, 19 hours, extended warranty, swiftco trailer plus heaps of extras. $17,000 ONO Phone Lauren 0418 185 339

MACKAY RESORT ACCOM. FOR SALE Andergrove van park.2bdrm,own bathroom,ofﬁce area and laundry.New trussed roof. air con.2 car accom.shed. dry in the ﬂood.

CARAVAN FOR SALE JAYCO Sterling 2006 25ft, Ensuite, Awning, CD/DVD/TV, 3 Way Fridge, Annnexe, Queen Bed, Air Con/Heating, Exc Cond. $45,000 0438 035 478

$65,000.ono 0409 728 464

CAR FOR SALE 1974 Cadillac Eldorado V8 500ci, LHD, covertable, plently of options, good paint, excellent cruiser & head turner, compliance plates, can be fully rego\’d, currently on club rego, minor work for RWC

CAR FOR SALE 2007 Toyota Hilux 4x2

mine spec,

CAR FOR SALE Beautiful example of Americana. Pristine metallic cyan blue in and out and out. Won’t see one like this in Australia. Very reliable 350 Chev and T350. Land Brisb. 6-8 weeks VIN#3A57L121337. $37,900 AUD PH: 0434 559 466

cleared with pasture. Bitumen road and Phone to front gate. Power avail. Prim and Sec School, Nursing Center, Shops less than 15min.$55,000 Colin Elders OMEO 0429 350 500

serv. tandem trailer safety gear GPS ﬁshﬁnder & extras GC throughout. regd $25,000 0438553130

12 acres of Kensington Pride Mangoes (500 trees) Absolute river front powered block with top quality soils 49827848 0407654765 BUS FOR SALE

DRY ICE CLEANING/BLASTING BUSINESS FOR SALE Kaiser trailer mounted screwtype air compressor only 66hrs Buse dry ice machine only 40 hrs includes Australian Buse distributorship. Great Opportunity! genuine reason for sale. thermoblast.com.au $85,000 ONO Rockhampton 0410 091 105

2005 Toyota Hiace 12 seater bus. excellent condition, RWC, mine spec, Phone Louise

BOAT FOR SALE 1993 7meter NOOSA CAT, 200hp Volvo Penta Turbo Diesel. Launch Trailer. Exc. electronics, incl. auto pilot, New electric anchor winch and dive platform. Stored Rosslyn Bay Harbour. Excellent buying at $52,000 ono Phil 0429633636

VIN NO: 6H8VNL19UML470726 - Build No 166. One owner since new, very well looked after car. New tyres, car is in original condition and has always been garaged and covered.

deposit.

Comes with rego plates HSV-166 and all paper work.

Helen @ Bundaberg MC 07 4152 1121

The product is local pick up from Moranbah. $80,000 ono.

yahoo.com.au

Call Peter on (07) 4068 9169 or

0423331217

Brad on 0458 000 419.

EIMEO/MACKAY VAC LAND FOR SALE Elevated block surrounded by quality homes with view of Brampton & Keswick Islands. Close to schools, shops & transport. Owner motivated to sell will look at all reas offers. 15 Coral Ridge Drive $209,000 CALL 0407 963 955

Page 16 - Shift Miner Magazine, 19th July 2010

CAR FOR SALE

UTE FOR SALE

Ford XR6 Turbo,

99’ Nissan Patrol ST

2008, 312RWK!! Luxury pack, safety pack, premium sound,

4.2 Turbo Diesel Reg until june, Dual tanks,

reverse sensors,

T & B Bars, air con,

pirelli P O rossi

cloth seats, spot lights

tyres. 39000km Fast car priced to sell

1973 Cruiser for sale 40” Spotted Gum Cruiser 4-71GM, 12v/24v alt, 1500L diesel, 1000L water, Gas/electric fridge freezer, Sleeps 6, VHF 27mg and UHF $45,000 Ono 0418 988 126 BIKE FOR SALE Model) 2007 Model First Reg March 08, Full Log Book History, 38,000Km As new condition,Tow Bar, UHF Radio, Carry Rack, Highway Pegs,

STORAGE FOR HIRE

$183.13 per week over 5 Years with $1,000.00

$39,500

BOAT FOR SALE

CAR FOR SALE RHD 1981 Corvette. new 4 sp auto with B&M shift kit & B&M shifter. New diff, Ram Jet 350 Fuel Injected.Leather interior Centreline wheels.Targa top. High ﬂow exhaust.body off resto 2 years ago.WILL TRADE FOR ANYTHING BUILD HOUSE $42,000 ono Rocky 0410 091 105

CAR FOR SALE

charlesscharneck@

0406272659

0405180724

1990 HSV VN Group A Commodore.

tower/genset combo

$27,000 ono 0749289185

at Airlie Beach

BIKE FOR SALE

$34,330.00 Ride Away. 1 yr Rego & 2 yr warranty.

Rockhampton area

$33,500 ono.

Harley-Davidson Heritage

New fully mine spec

mech/parts warrenty

0439591784.

SALE

6 head Allight lighting

auto dual cab ,lots of extras,3 year premium

Lots of Chrome, Located

LIGHTPLANT FOR

New 2010 Model. Merlot & Cherry Sunglo.

CAR FOR SALE Toyota Hilux 2003 V6

Honda Goldwing (Luxury

$26,500 ono.

2.5 acres Fully fenced,

Yamaha 150hp

River Allocation with

0439591784.

Victoria

4stroke 216hrs regul..

(19.62 Acres) 46 ML

Phone Louise

HOBBY FARM FOR SALE

MUSTANG 6M,

ACRES FOR SALE HOME HILL, 7.94 HA

Excellent condition, RWC,

$23,000 PH:0428 274 675

BOAT FOR SALE

LAND FOR SALE Ewings Road, Cawarral Rare ﬁnd. This quiet hideaway block has government reserve on two sides. The block is selectively half cleared with power connected to 10,940m2 on approximately 2.75 acres $240,000 Neg. Garry Saunders 0408 177 504

etc,200,008 k P.O.A

quick. $33,000ono

0409344271

0432142002

0427257864

Units to hire in blackwater. Call asap to discuss your needs. We can build to your requirements. janet@janetlodge.com 0413003028 BOAT FOR SALE Keith Brown 30. Pro. built solid f/glass half cabin fishing vessel.length 9m, beam 3m, drft 1.2.210hp 3208 cat deisel. 500l fuel. Cruise 13 knots. HF & VHF radios,plotter, 6”sounder.All safety gear & ground tackle.Twin berth, covered back deck.Ideal fishingor Island cruising. Yeppoon PH 49392182, 0409491024 $59,000 neg BIKE FOR SALE Kawasaki ZX14 06 9300 KM Immac. cond. Full service history with Kawasaki agents Many extras: Full Yoshimura Exhaust system, K&N air filter, New rear tyre Contact Jacques 0447801979 or 0749822758 SAFE RESORT LIVING 1bdrm unit style onsite van in andergrove. own bathroom and laundry,air con,dining and lounge room. car accomadation and entertaining area. was dry in the big flood.$65 000 ono ph 0409 728 464

5 minute fiction

OFF SHIFT 91st EDITION. 2010

by Bernard S. Jansen

No Big Deal

Monday 19th July Airlie Beach KCs Bar & Grill Patch

Tuesday 20th July Airlie Beach KCs Bar & Grill Patch

Wednesday 21st July Blackwater Blackwater Hotel Motel Danny Green Fight Night Airlie Beach KCs Bar & Grill Kev Lymn

Thursday 22nd July Airlie Beach KCs Bar & Grill Kev Lymn

Friday 23rd July Rockhampton The Great Western Practise bullride 7pm Airlie Beach KCs Bar & Grill Kieran McCarthy Blackwater Mineworkers Club Okey Dokey Karaoke Blackwater Blackwater Hotel Motel Disco Nights Moura Coal n Cattle Karaoke

Saturday 24th July Blackwater Mineworkers Club Blues legend Bo Jenkins Airlie Beach KCs Bar & Grill Kieran McCarthy Blackwater Blackwater Hotel Motel Xmas in July - Karaoke

Sunday 25th July Tieri Tieri Hotel Motel Sunday Sess with Bo Jenkins Airlie Beach KCs Bar & Grill Mark Roberts

Monday 26th July Airlie Beach KCs Bar & Grill Patch

Tuesday 27th July Tieri Tieri Hotel Motel Male Body Heat Unzip Show Airlie Beach KCs Bar & Grill Patch

Thursday 29th July Moura Coal n Cattle Body Heat - for the girls Airlie Beach KCs Bar & Grill Alice & Joel Blackwater Blackwater Hotel Motel Mark Anthony Comedy Hypnotist Show

Friday 30th July Rockhampton The Great Western Practise bullride 7pm Airlie Beach KCs Bar & Grill Alice & Joel Blackwater Mineworkers Club Dan Fran Blackwater Blackwater Hotel Motel Disco Nights

Saturday 31st July Blackwater Blackwater Hotel Motel Karaoke with Steve O Airlie Beach KCs Bar & Grill Alice & Joel

Wednesday 28th July Sunday 1st August Airlie Beach KCs Bar & Grill Patch

Airlie Beach KCs Bar & Grill Tame Aria

Send your gigs to gigs.shiftminer@gmail.com

Ted stood in the muster area, as the sun began to dawn, as he had hundreds of times before. Today he was alone; there was no shift change. There was no oncoming crew bantering and rustling with crib bags and drink bottles; there was no offgoing crew tired and dirty handing over achievements and concerns; there were no engineers or planners or superintendents, all in a mild panic, trying to find out why things hadn’t gone to plan, chasing precious paperwork, and passing on newer, grander plans. The crew vehicles were parked in a row, silent. No-one was doing the prestart checks or complaining about the mud and rubbish left inside by the last mongrel crew. The safety board showed two days since the last injury. It hadn’t been touched since the day North Creek Mine had been shut down. The mine had been the biggest part of Ted’s life; his whole life, really. He had lost that, when the front gates were closed and locked, fifteen days ago. Head office had chosen to shut the place down, and he’d found out on the same day as everyone else. He’d taken it hard. He held it together, until he was alone, and then he cried like a baby. He felt ashamed, to bawl like that. He hadn’t been able to sleep last night. In the early hours of the morning, he came back to the mine, to have one last look around; to say goodbye, properly. In the dark, he cut his way through the boundary fence. He walked the corridors and buildings and paths. He breathed in the smell of mud, diesel, grease, rubber and smouldering, heating coal as he roamed his mine. He touched the wheels of the mammoth rear-dump trucks, parked in rows on the go-line. He gathered memories. As he walked through the plant, the wind blew in gusts, howling through the structure and the conveyor gantries and in and around the yard machines. Ted had never before heard that sound in the plant. The plant had roared when it was running, and during shut-downs the sound of the machines was replaced by rattle-guns, hammers, grinders, cranes and men. Now, the plant was silent, and the wind took its turn to be heard. Through the early hours, Ted walked, and thought, and comforted himself with familiar sights, and saw some things around the mine he’d never seen before.

He’d gone to the muster area just before the dawn. He stood and watched lightening sky and listened to the crows as they fought over what was left in the bins. He heard footsteps then. He stepped around the corner to avoid getting caught. “There you are, Ted,” called a familiar voice. The footsteps quickened. Ted went back and saw David, his overburden superintendent, and the closest thing he had to a friend. “G’day.” David smiled. “Saw you before, lurking around,” he said. “I’ve been on a bit of a farewell tour myself.” They stood quietly together and looked around. Then Ted said suddenly, “I’d do things differently, you know, if I could do it all over again.” David nodded, and grunted. “I pushed, and pushed, for tonnes. That was my job. But I pushed until something broke.” He sighed. David said nothing. Ted went on, “I said safety was the number one priority; but I didn’t want people to believe me, and they didn’t. I pushed tonnes, tonnes and tonnes. But I couldn’t squeeze the volume through this place that it needed to turn a decent profit.” “But you tried.” Ted grunted. They stood together in the cool quiet and the minutes passed. Ted could hear the clock on the wall ticking. He read the signs posted on the walls, as if for the first time. A few tears escaped from Ted’s eyes. He wiped them quickly with his shirtsleeve before David could notice. He didn’t like to blubber; he just felt so depressed, like his life was over. His career was in tatters. He’d had little effect on production, he’d lost control of costs, and now two men were dead and a third would never walk again. Ted hated who he was. He hated that he was crying about his mine and his career, and not about the men whose lives he had risked, and lost, and wrecked. He hated that he was crying at all. Ted spat into the dirt. “I’m going home, before the rent-a-cops catch me.” David nodded. “Me too.” They shook hands, promised to keep in touch – both knowing that they wouldn’t – and walked away.

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 GOT AN IDEA FOR A STORY? Let Bernard know - email him at bernard.jansen@gmail.com or hop on his blog surgebin.blogspot.com

Page 17 - Shift Miner Magazine, 19th July 2010

OFF SHIFT 91st EDITION. 2010

Bait shop Banter FISHING IN YEPPOON There is action a-plenty all over the joint, according to Adrian at Secret Spot Bait and Tackle. Good Spanish mackerel can be hauled in at Liza Jane, Cape Manifold and Flat and Perforated Isles and the Pinnacles are also throwing up grunter and jew. Closer to shore, target the harbour for some blue salmon. Adrian recommends using soft plastics or herrings - alive or dead - and to focus on the last hour of a run out tide and the first two hours of a run in. There are still heaps of ribbon fish in the bay if you are chasing bait fish but remember the bag limit of 10 per person. Corio, Coorooman and Kinka Creeks are still pulling up quite a few crabs. Coorooman is the pick of the creeks for

MACKAY Gladstone

FISHING IN MACKAY

FISHING IN GLADSTONE

The Mackay region is yet to cash in on the mackerel bounty due to the many weeks of Southerlies according to Clinton at Tackle World Mackay, but fingers crossed the Northerlies kick in soon. But dry your eyes Mackay-ites, reef fishing is unbelievable with red emperor, grassy sweet lip and nannygai fishing silly. In shore reefs are serving up plenty of snapper. Plenty of barra are still being snaffled on slab baits and fresh prawns off the bottom. Proserpine and Pioneer rivers plus Constance creek are your best bet. Crabs are still around with the bigger tides leading up to the new moon a good time to go looking.

Nathan at the Compleat Angler in Gladstone reports the reef is fishing well with pro-trout boats and charters all bagging out. Nathan also reckons it is the best season for mackerel in years, so make sure you get out from under your doona and share the spoils before winter says sayonara. In close, salmon are king and are currently running up the narrows. Bait up with live prawns or mullet and try Grahams Creek - up on the rock bars or shallows and flats at low tide. Following the rain there have been a fair

MACKAY Gladstone

few prawns about but unfortunately the barbie starters are dying down a bit.

tidy-sized grunter and salmon. Adrian reports he had some good fun out at Barren on soft plastics and despite the blow pulled in 12 to 15 trevally weighing in at between four to seven pounds each.

Following the rain there have been a fair few prawns about

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

angus.peacocke@shiftminer.com

Mon 19

Tue 20

Wed 21

Thu 22

Fri 23

Sat 24

Sun 25

Time

0254 0911 1600 2226

3.27 1.05 3.48 1.45

0409 1019 1717 2346

3.06 1.12 3.60 1.32

0530 1132 1824

3.00 1.10 3.78

0048 0639 1239 1916

1.13 3.07 1.02 3.93

0138 0731 1330 2000

0.96 3.18 0.93 4.03

0220 0815 1412 2037

0.84 3.26 0.86 4.07

0258 0852 1446 2110

0.79 3.32 0.81 4.06

v0453 1121 1759

4.32 1.11 4.76

0031 0616 1235 1914

1.70 4.12 1.10 5.01

0151 0734 1343 2015

1.45 4.14 1.00 5.28

0251 0835 1439 2103

1.18 4.25 0.89 5.47

0339 0922 1525 2144

0.99 4.34 0.81 5.56

0418 1002 1604 2219

0.93 4.39 0.79 5.56

0453 1037 1637 2250

0.94 4.40 0.80 5.52

Mon 26

Tue 27

Wed 28

Thu 29

Fri 30

Sat 31

Sun 1

Time

0330 0926 1516 2139

0.77 3.35 0.80 4.03

0400 0956 1543 2206

0.78 3.36 0.81 3.98

0429 1025 1610 2232

0.80 3.37 0.84 3.90

0456 1054 1638 2300

0.84 3.36 0.93 3.77

0523 1125 1708 2328

0.90 3.33 1.07 3.59

0550 1200 1742 2359

1.01 3.26 1.27 3.37

0620 1243 1821

1.14 3.17 1.49

0524 1107 1707 2319

0.98 4.40 0.84 5.44

0552 1136 1733 2345

1.03 4.39 0.91 5.33

0616 1203 1800

1.07 4.38 1.02

0010 0641 1231 1828

5.18 1.14 4.34 1.20

0035 0705 1302 1858

4.97 1.24 4.25 1.45

0101 0732 1337 1933

4.68 1.38 4.13 1.75

0131 0804 1422 2018

4.34 1.56 3.99 2.07

Page 18 - Shift Miner Magazine, 19th July 2010

OFF SHIFT 91st EDITION. 2010

Your weather forecast With Mike Griffin 1

ACROSS

1. Elaborately

5. Ploy

11 12

9. Retreated 13

10. Jammed 12. Remembering

13. Stretch of shallow water

14. Group of labourers

17 19

16. Abbreviate

21 22

19. Hesitated

21. Incense, ... stick

24. Copy outline of 25. Plunderers

27. Posted 28. Sword sheath 29. Symbolise 30. Enlisted (6,2)

Frost returns to the Coalfields Week 1 - it is halfway through July and no frosts have been reported for the Coalfields. After just a couple of frost minimums in June most of the region recorded minimums 4.7 degrees above average. The average long term minimum for Emerald in July is 6.9C, while halfway through July 2010 the average is a mild 11.6C. Other town comparisons: Biloela average 5.2C, currently 8.7C; Clermont average 6.7C, currently 10.1C; Springsure average 6.2C, currently 10.2C; and Collinsville average 9.0C, currently 13.3C. But not for long! A cold short burst southerly early last weekend brought light frost to the highlands with more on the way. Watch out in the south from Tuesday (heralded by trough with early fog patches and a brief shower) reaching northern parts by Wednesday to Thursday. Day time temperatures will struggle to get above 21C in the south and 23C in the north. Boaties - A large high with a centre of

1036hpa will cause some cold fresh (20 knot) winds for the coast from Tuesday to Thursday. Then tending moderate to fresh SE/E’ly with squally isolated brief showers by Friday. The winds may ease a little Sunday/Monday south of Yeppoon but it will be rugged for Tight-Lines! Week 2 - The SOI still rests in positive territory. On the 14th July the daily value was +23 and the 30 day average was +8.5. Sea surface temperatures are slightly above average for tropical Australia and well below average for the central Pacific. These indicators point to a La Nina in Spring and Summer. Just a little early to say with confidence; but worth contemplating! Another large high moves into the TasShift the Miner man strengthening pressure gradient along the coast,Handy so more15A mildblank overnight gridconditions for the Coalfields. It’s also a chance ShiftMInerHandyblank.pdf for the “weekend mariners” as the winds ©Lovatts Publications 2010 tend to ease later in the week. MEDIUM

3 8

*When audited by the CAB

www.shiftminer.com Proudly Audited by

For more information visit www.auditbureau.org.au

DOWN 1. Ahead!

5 3 6 2 1 5 2 3 7 9 4 2 7 9 5 3

Numbers You Can Trust* M A G A Z I N E

4 1

2. Announcement

3. Natural disaster, ... wave 4. Ogling 6. Intense dislikes 7. Harbour vessels

8. Hugging 11. A long time 15. Contract 17. Cheated on (lover) (3-5)

7 4

18. Flying art 20. Trial showing 21. Biblical Palestine city 22. Return (to custody) 23. Consumed totally (4,2) 26. Metropolitan

# 83

LAST EDITION’S SOLUTIONS L I C E N S E I E O R L O L L I PO A L S S C E A S E F I S R O OMA N U A O S UC K I NG E T S R F A I N T I U V E T L E A RN T L T E Y I E L D S

D P

L R E V I

E X M P A S T R C E E I S

M O N S T I E D P L A I L O P E R T

C I# S82E N U ND E R I A A C K S A I D T E A E N T A A L L E D P A T I NG N E N E S S

3 7 1 9 2 4 8 6 5

6 2 8 5 3 7 4 1 9

5 4 9 6 8 1 7 2 3

7 5 6 3 1 9 2 4 8

1 3 4 8 7 2 5 9 6

9 8 2 4 5 6 1 3 7

8 9 3 2 4 5 6 7 1

2 6 7 1 9 8 3 5 4

4 1 5 7 6 3 9 8 2

Page 19 - Shift Miner Magazine, 19th July 2010

Your Health 91st EDITION. 2010

EXPERT ADVICE For those too busy or embarrassed to ask the important questions about their health It is ‘Dry July’ people! How many of you can take the vow of abstinence this month? Alcohol for many is just part of the weekly routine and while drinking in moderation can actually be beneficial to your health, many of us have forgotten what ‘moderation’ means.

The differences between ‘moderation’ and ‘binging’. To keep your alcohol intake within a moderate ‘low risk’ range, follow the recommended Australian alcohol consumption guidelines: • Drink no more than two standard alcoholic beverages on any one day will help to reduce the risk of harm or injury over a period of time • Drink no more than four standard drinks on any one day will help to reduce the risk of alcohol-related injury occurring on that given day Ideally, you want to be giving your body a break from alcohol at least two days a week. If you want to see significant health benefits & improvements in your energy and concentration, try limiting your alcohol intake to only Friday and Saturdays - or two of your rostered days off - keeping your Sunday to Thursday (or working days) alcohol free.

Schooner full strength beer = 1.6 standard drinks 100ml wine (13.5% alcohol) = 1 standard drink 30ml nip spirits = 1 standard drink Can spirits (approx. 5% alcohol) = 1.2-1.7 standard drinks Can spirits (approx. 7% alcohol) = 1.6-2.4 standard drinks When we talk about ‘binge drinking’ we are referring to drinking amounts of alcohol your body cannot handle over a short period of time with the goal of getting ‘blotto’ – yes, intoxicated. Binge drinking can have serious consequences, not only can you experience hangovers, nausea, vomiting, memory loss, alcohol poisoning, falls, shame, embarrassment, assaults, and car accidents, but it may also result in unplanned pregnancy, physical or psychological dependency, liver or brain damage, even death. Please don’t take binge drinking lightly.

Be a responsible drinker • Get some food into your belly before you drink • If you need to quench your thirst, ‘fill your glass with water’ first • Drink slowly • Keep an eye on your pals • Alternate between nonalcoholic and alcoholic drinks • Try the low alcohol options

Greek Spanakopita Serves 4-6 Spanakopita is a traditional Greek style spinach and cheese pie. This dish is a great light meal or even snack on the run. You can serve it hot, but to enjoy its full ﬂavor have it at room temperature. In this recipe we use a tray and slice the pie into pieces but you can make individual triangles that are great for entertaining. Serve with a spicy tomato chutney for an extra kick.

So what is a standard drink?

• Set a limit for yourself and stick to it

INGREDIENTS

1 standard drink = 1 unit = 10 grams of alcohol Can/stubbie low strength beer = 0.8 standard drink Can/stubbie mid strength beer = 1 standard drink Can/stubbie full strength beer = 1.4 standard drinks

• Know what you are drinking

6 sheets of ﬁlo pastry

• Keep it simple: if you’re drinking, there’s NO driving

2 Tbs Olive oil 500 g Greek feta, crumbed

Remember to stay healthy, stay informed.

2 cloves of Garlic, crushed Rind and juice of 1 lemon

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.

Transparency You Can See* *When audited by the CAB

M A G A Z I N E

www.shiftminer.com

400g Spinach (or Silverbeet), washed, dried and chopped 4 eggs lightly whisked 60 g butter melted Salt and pepper to taste

METHOD Preheat oven to 180°C. Brush a 16.5cm x 26cm ovenproof dish with melted butter to grease. Place spinach with a little oil in a heatproof fry pan and cook until wilted. Set aside to cool. Once cool squeeze excess water out of the spinach and dry. Combine spinach, feta, garlic, lemon, egg, salt and pepper in a bowl. Place filo sheets on a clean work surface and keep damp by covering it with a damp tea towel. Brush each layer of filo pastry with butter layering on top of one another until you have 3 layers. Line the bottom of your baking dish with these three layers. Spoon the spinach mixture into the dish spreading out evenly. Top with another 3 buttered filo sheets. Brush the top of the pie with remaining butter. Before cooking slice the pie through to make small rectangular or dimond shaped pieces. This will make it easier to serve once cooked. Bake in preheated oven for 30mins or

until golden brown. Remove from oven, cool to serve.

Zest Eatery | 1300 622 222 Open 4.00pm – 8.00pm daily The MAC Villages Coppabella, Dysart, Middlemount, Moranbah & Nebo

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Page 20 - Shift Miner Magazine, 19th July 2010

MOTORSPORTs 91st EDITION. 2010

Cars selling like, well, hotcakes! MORE new cars were sold in June, than any other month in Australia’s history, according to the latest data released by the Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries (FCAI). The record monthly result rounds off a strong mid-year sales result. In June, 108, 722 passenger cars, SUV and commercial vehicles were sold, up 5.7 per cent (or 5,875 vehicles) on the same month last year. “The record June result is a clear demonstration of renewed confidence in the marketplace,” FCAI Chief Executive Andrew McKellar said.

“It is encouraging to see that private buyers have returned to the market in greater numbers and have taken over the momentum previously attributed to business sales,” Mr McKellar said. So far this year, 531,168 vehicles have been sold, an increase of 16.7 percent compared to the first six months of 2009. “Given the stronger than expected state of the market over the past six months, the industry has upgraded its annual sales forecast to in excess of 980,000 units – up from our original

forecast of 940,000 sales,” Mr McKellar said. “This is a positive yet cautious outlook for the second half of the year, as we assess the impact of factors on the market such as previous interest rate increases,” Mr McKellar said. The SUV segment was the strongest performer during the first six months of 2010 with an increase of 30.8 per cent; followed by passenger cars (up 15.8 per cent), heavy commercials (up 8.8 per cent) and then light commercials with a 5.8 per cent increase. Year-to-date, Toyota has the top sell-

ing position with a market share of 20.2 per cent; followed by Holden with 12.9 per cent and then Ford with 9.3 per cent. In the motorcycle world, road bikes remain the most popular form of two-wheeled transport despite an overall drop in the number of people buying new motorcycles. FCAI figures show 48,842 motorcycles, scooters and all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) were sold in the six months to June – a 12.1 per cent decline compared to the same period in 2009. “This half-yearly figure shows some brands performing well despite a decline in the overall market,” FCAI Chief Executive Andrew McKellar said. Brands to record significant increases include Kymco (114.8 per cent), Buell (62.6 per cent), Victory (12.5 per cent) and BMW (11.9 per cent). “There is an obvious softening of demand during the winter months but increases in interest rates in the first half of the year have certainly impacted on the market,” he said. Road-bikes were the most popular segment in the marketplace recording 18,894 sales (10 per cent decrease) followed by the off-road segment’s 16,625 sales (13.7 per cent decrease). There were 8,165 ATVs sold in the six months to June (down 16 per cent) and scooter sales fell 8.4 per cent to record 5,158 sales.

Daryl Watson Engineering

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

dwe

ANYWHERE... ANYSIZE... ANYTIME... For all your urgent and general freight requirements. Delivering in Utes,Vans,Body trucks and Semis We understand the cost of delays in mining and Industry email: admin@transitresourcesocom.au www.transitresources.com.au 16 Robison Street North Rockhampton Queensland 4701

p 07 4927 3789 f 07 4927 3705 m 0408 625 532

Stay in the saddle. Drink responsibly.

Page 21 - Shift Miner Magazine, 19th July 2010

MONEY MATTERS 91st EDITION. 2010

Goodbye Kevin, hello commercial sales MACKAY’S commercial and industrial real estate sector is enjoying a post Kevin Rudd revival as investors become active again now the resource super profits tax has been changed. After the spectacular leadership change which saw Kevin Rudd ousted from the Prime Ministership by Julia Gillard, one of the first issues to be resolved was the mining tax. Almost immediately after Ms Gillard announced an agreement with Australia’s biggest miners, enquiry for commercial and industrial real estate stepped up in the Mackay region, according to managing director of Knight Frank in Mackay, Bill Doughty. “There has definitely been a lot more enquiry since the Resource Super Profits tax (RSPT) has been sorted out,” he said. “I think a lot of people were enquiring leading up to it - and even through it - but put their plans on the backburner until it was sorted out.” “People are now moving forward again.” Not surprisingly, with the onset of “Boom 2” in the mining sector interest in industrial land has been solid with a number of land parcels at Paget going to contract, although settlement will not occur until subdivision has taken place.

While Mr Doughty was unable to release full details of the transactions, he did say one buyer was local, while another was from out of town. In commercial real estate, activity has been equally positive with the most notable recent sale being that of the Greenfields Birch Carrol and Coyle Cinema for $8.02 million. The sale of the cinema caps off more than $27 million worth of sales at the Greenfields site over about a 12 month period. The Cinema complex was sold with some undeveloped land which will be redeveloped by the new owners as bulk good commercial real estate. Meanwhile in Rockhampton, the dire shortage of industrial land could be set to ease following the announcement of $10 million in funding for a road development that will open up a large parcel of land suitable for industrial development. According to valuers Herron Todd White (HTW), the new overpass will allow access to land near the Capricorn Highway at Gracemere known as the Stanwell Industrial Corridor. “The Stanwell industrial corridor has been earmarked for development for the past decade,” the HTW report said.

AUCTION – 3 INDUSTRIAL PROPERTIES MORTGAGEE EXERCISING POWER OF SALE 11AM THURSDAY - 26/08/2010 ON SITE MILES – THE HEART OF THE SURAT BASIN 5 Dawson Street: Vacant land of 1,456m² with Leichhardt Highway frontage, dual street access, gravelled yard and security fencing.

COMMERCIAL SUCCESS: The Greenfields Birch Carrol & Coyle cinema complex sold in Mackay recently for $8.02 million

“The project in its entirety is expected to fetch $50 million in construction costs, and the state government has pledged an immediate $10 million with a promise of future funding.” “The availability of the parcel of industrial land is likely to attract major heavy industry players to the region.” Further south in Toowoomba, and the

industrial market remains subdued following a period of high activity and substantial growth in land values and rental rates between 2006 and 2008. However, the HTW report suggested the rapid development of the Surat Basin and the much anticipated Charlton-Wellcamp industrial zone could turn that around.

“I think a lot of people were enquiring leading up to it - and even through it - but put their plans on the backburner until it was sorted out.”

“Is now a good time to refinance my home loan or fix my interest rates?”

MFA

8 Dawson Street: On a 1,710m² allotment the shed is approx. 390m² under roof with an approx. 40m² skillion. Also included is a 6m shipping container. This shed has 5t gantry, heavy vehicle access, frontage to the Leichhardt Highway, dual street access and security fencing. 146 Mary Street: Shed approx 81m² on a 1,238m² corner allotment. Shed has double roller doors, kitchenette, shower and toilet.

Miles

FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT LAURIE STRAIN 0434 365 226

WHAT YOU CAN LEARN FROM A

WINO

MORE- mining news MORE- industrial news MORE- investment news WEDNESDAY’S INDUSTRY NEWS ONLINE (WINO) BY SHIFT MINER

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Page 22 - Shift Miner Magazine, 19th July 2010

Now is the time to get expert advice on your home loan and interest rates from MFA. Call us toll free on 1300 MER LOT and learn how you can take control of your mortgage. We work harder for you - so you don’t have to!

Call - 1300 MER LOT www.merlotfinance.com.au

MONEY MATTERS 91st EDITION. 2010

Could stalled interest rates lure back borrowers? THE number of people taking out home loans slid for the seventh consecutive month in a row during May. The Housing Industry Associationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s chief executive Graham Wolfe said that six interest rate rises over the nine months to May this year and tighter access to credit were weighing down any hope of a sustained new

0/$$

home building recovery. The number of loans for construction fell by 2.2 per cent in May while loans for the purchase of new dwellings grew by 4.7 per cent. Overall, loans for new housing dropped by 0.2 per cent to be 20 per cent lower than six months ago. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The decline in the number of first home

A NEW STANDARD IN PORTABLE LIFESTYLE ACCOMMODATION

buyers has unfolded as expected,â&#x20AC;? Mr Wolfe said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;However, interest rate speculation that was evident in the early part of the year has clearly downgraded the confidence of trade up buyers, and if there is any hope of a substantial return of trade up buyers to the market, interest rate increases need to be avoided for the remainder of 2010.â&#x20AC;?

Over the three months to May, total housing loans dropped by 26.2 per cent compared to the same period in 2009. First home buyer loans were down by 56 per cent, while trade up buyer loans fell by 10 per cent. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The result also points to the recent substantial declines in housing affordability, which is not just a product of interest rate increases, but upward price pressures sourced from tight credit availability, and obstacles related to land supply, planning, infrastructure charges and taxation,â&#x20AC;? said Mr Wolfe. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Impediments to a sustained housing recovery must be removed if we are to have any chance of supplying sufficient new housing to meet demand,â&#x20AC;? said Mr Wolfe. For the past two months, the Reserve Bank has kept interest rates on hold. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s yet to be seen whether that decision will have any affect in buoying the property market. â&#x20AC;&#x153;It is appropriate for the RBA to hold interest rates steady while domestic economic signals remain mixed and renewed nervousness abroad persists,â&#x20AC;? said HIA chief economist Harley Dale. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Meanwhile there remains no justification for major banks to lift interest rates independently of the RBA.â&#x20AC;?

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Page 23 - Shift Miner Magazine, 19th July 2010