Central Queensland at net zero forefront
Central Queensland has always been a place where things are made and exported to the world. Now as Australia moves towards a “net zero” economy, the region is undergoing an important transformation that is creating new industries, jobs and opportunities.
Net zero means balancing the amount of harmful greenhouse gas emissions that go into and are removed from the atmosphere. The goal is to achieve net zero emissions by 2050 – which simply means we stop adding to the problem of global warming.
As we reduce these greenhouse gas emissions, we are switching from coal fired power to renewable energy such as wind and solar power. This will generate new industries, reskill and train our people, and boost our economy.
In Central Queensland, where an economy that has long powered the nation is diversifying to include industries of the future, 50 large-scale energy projects are bringing billions of dollars of investment. The transition to net zero industries from emissionsintensive ones will create new jobs in renewable energy, construction and manufacturing sectors.
Exciting developments include The Central Queensland Hydrogen Project, which will create $17.2 billion in
hydrogen exports and more than 8000 jobs, and Fortescue’s Green Energy Manufacturing Centre in Gladstone, a world-leading facility manufacturing the electrolysers needed for the production of green hydrogen. Meanwhile, local business Alpha HPA is building Australia’s first processing facility for high-purity alumina, a critical mineral used in LED lighting, lithium-ion batteries and other high-tech applications. More than 300 jobs will be created in construction, with more than 120 permanent jobs upon completion.
The Australian Government is working with regional communities to ensure they share in the many benefits of the economic transformation. The Net Zero Economy Agency will support the workers, regions and communities that have powered Australia for generations to understand the challenges and share in the benefits of the transition to net zero and prepare for the jobs for the future.
Throughout the process, the Agency will work in partnership with communities, governments, regional bodies, unions, industry, investors, First Nations and other groups, listening to their concerns and helping them to participate in these exciting new economic opportunities.
How do we achieve net zero emissions?
Some of the ways we are building a net zero economy include:
Building new energy infrastructure like wind, solar and batteries
Building new industries of the future, like hydrogen production for cleaner fuel
Decarbonising existing industries like manufacturing, agriculture and mining
Manufacturing renewable technologies like solar panels
New research and commercialisation initiatives
Training new and current workers
Improving our cities by reducing waste and making buildings more energy efficient.
Fortescue’s worldleading Green Energy Manufacturing (GEM) Centre in Gladstone.
Brody Gavranich, Training & Operations Specialist, Alpha HPA.
Local projects leading
WHAT DOES NET ZERO MEAN FOR CENTRAL QUEENSLAND?
50 current large-scale energy projects
$11B investment in the region
Alpha HPA: Putting pedal to the metal
In the heart of Queensland’s industrial powerhouse, a net zero revolution is unfolding.
Alpha HPA’s Gladstone facility is not just producing 99.99 per cent pure aluminium oxides, hydroxides, nitrates, and sulphates—vital components for the electronics industry—but doing so in a way that significantly reduces its environmental impact.
Thanks to its unique, proprietary processing technology, Alpha HPA’s method of producing high-purity alumina carries a carbon footprint up to 70 per cent lower than traditional methods.
“The transition to a sustainable future is crucial, not just for ourselves but for future generations.”
Dr Cal Devney, Hydrogen Community Hub
The production facility runs on 100 per cent renewable energy, and with complete recycling of materials, the facility is near zero waste.
That means Alpha HPA will play a pivotal role in decarbonising supply chains in the push to net zero.
“Our products are key ingredients in technologies that help lower the world’s carbon emissions,” Alpha HPA executive director and chief operating officer Rob Williamson said.
The company’s ambitions go far beyond just sustainable production.
By 2027, their new 10-hectare, state-of-the-art facility will be the largest refinery of its kind globally, producing 10,000 tonnes of high-purity alumina and other products per year.
“This is our big chance. The transformation will bring new jobs and a great quality of life to the people living here.”
Dr Michael Opolot, Centre for Hydrogen and Renewable Energy, CQU
WHAT DOES THE
But for this growing business with an expanding global customer base, it’s important the benefits flow both ways in the city and beyond.
Gladstone, with its deep industrial roots and skilled workforce, was an obvious choice for this forward-thinking venture.
Home to one of Australia’s busiest multicommodity ports, the city offers Alpha HPA access
“People here are keen to be at the front of this transformation. I’m so proud of the contribution we are making as a community.”
Natalia Muszkat, Deputy Mayor, Gladstone
The production facility operates on 100 per cent renewable energy, and their ability to recycle their materials on a 100 per cent basis make them a near zero waste facility.
projects leading the way
The journey to net zero
As a proud economic powerhouse, Central Queensland is home to essential infrastructure and skilled workers.
Now as Australia moves to a net zero economy, Central Queensland has a competitive advantage to:
Attract investment
Create valuable export commodities such as hydrogen and critical minerals
Secure projects.
ALPHA HPA PROJECT MEAN FOR CENTRAL QUEENSLAND?
jobs created during construction and 200 on completion
$400M received from the Australian Government
Central Queensland is uniquely placed to build on its industrial heritage and seize the benefits of the transformation. To support this, the Australian Government will work with Central Queensland communities to provide training, reskilling support and employment opportunities.
to the right infrastructure and talent needed for their cutting-edge operations.
“We chose to be here in Gladstone because the region has a great industrial circular economy that is very supportive of industries like ours,”
Mr Williamson said.
“We
chose to be here in Gladstone because the region has a great industrial circular economy
that
is very supportive of industries like ours”
“On top of that, you’ve got a fantastic workforce that is alive to these kinds of industries.”
The company employs 87 people across Gladstone and Brisbane, but by the time the expansion of the refinery is complete it will
“The region has a fantastic workforce that is alive to these kinds of industries.”
Rob Williamson, Alpha HPA
have generated more than 300 jobs during construction and more than 120 additional permanent jobs.
“Alpha HPA also helps the local community by supporting local training organisations, both with our time and with financial support,” Mr Williamson said.
“We do this to help build up the skills in the community that we need to run our new technology.”
The company has received a $400 million Australian Government debt facility and another $65 million in federal and state government grants, which has helped attract investment to fund the Gladstone development.
“Attitudes are changing, especially as the energy transformation opens up new opportunities.”
Dr Sanath Alahakoon, School of Engineering and Technology, CQU
What does this look like?
Worker support:
Regional Workforce Transition
Officers are working closely with local Employment Facilitators to:
Deliver a Regional Workforce Transition Plan
Help businesses with their workforce needs
Support local TAFEs and universities develop training solutions.
Skills and training programs:
The New Energy Apprenticeships Program provides financial support of up to $10,000 to assist apprentices to skill up in the clean energy sector.
New Energy Apprenticeship Mentoring Providers support the training of apprentices to build a clean energy workforce.
The company employs approximately 87 people across its Gladstone and Brisbane operations.
Fortescue: Building the future with hydrogen
240 jobs created during construction and 93 on completion $44M received from the Australian Government
The facility unveiled at Fortescue’s 100ha site in April 2024 manufactures large-scale stacks of electrolysers, which use electricity to extract hydrogen from demineralised water.
With the development of Fortescue’s world-leading Green Energy Manufacturing (GEM) Centre in Gladstone, the Central Queensland city is cementing its place as Australia’s hydrogen capital – and the epicentre of a massive new industry capable of generating thousands of clean energy jobs.
The facility unveiled at Fortescue’s 100ha site in April 2024 manufactures large-scale stacks of electrolysers, which use electricity to extract hydrogen from demineralised water. In the next phase of the development, the stacks will be used to produce green hydrogen for local and export markets with the potential to produce up to 8000 tonnes annually.
Green hydrogen can be used to power vehicles, generate and store electricity, and produce heat without carbon emissions. As many of Australia’s emissions-intensive industries move to new sources of power as part of the net zero transformation, it is one of the valuable new export commodities being created in Central Queensland – already an economic powerhouse with essential industrial infrastructure, skilled workers and know-how.
Importantly, in the process of creating renewable energy, the Fortescue project is also creating jobs and other opportunities for local workers, businesses and industry, with flow-on benefits for the region’s communities.
Backed by the Queensland Government and $44m from the Australian Government, the GEM Centre in Gladstone will generate a total of 240 jobs during construction and 93 ongoing local operational jobs.
“This facility positions Fortescue and Gladstone as a large-scale producer of what will be an increasingly soughtafter commodity in the global shift to green energy.”
The 15,000sqm electrolyser manufacturing facility will be capable of producing more than two gigawatts of electrolyser stacks annually, making it the nation’s largest manufacturer of
hydrogen electrolysers and one of the largest in the world. It is also the first fully automated facility of its kind in Australia.
Hydrogen is made by using electrolysers to pass an electrical current through water (H20), splitting the two hydrogen atoms from the oxygen atom. When renewable energy sources such as solar and wind are used to power this process, the result is green or renewable hydrogen. The resulting oxygen is released back into the atmosphere, and the green hydrogen can be used domestically or exported for uses around the world.
“The process of splitting hydrogen and oxygen isn’t new – but the innovative ways the world is looking to use green hydrogen to decarbonise are, and that means demand for green hydrogen and for the electrolysers to produce it is growing rapidly,” Fortescue Energy’s CEO, Mark Hutchinson, said. “This facility positions Fortescue and Gladstone as a large-scale producer of what will be an increasingly sought-after commodity in the global shift to green energy.”
Crash sparks Woodbury call to action but it’s been...
A hard road
By Trish Bowman
Woodbury residents are calling for action to reduce speed from 80km/h to 60km/h on a blind bend on Woodbury Rd, near Cooberrie Park before someone is badly hurt or killed following close calls for residents as they exit their driveways.
Resident Katie Minto began the call for change after her partner Matty was involved in an accident pulling out of his driveway on 22 August.
The couple live across the road from Cooberrie Park on a sweeping bend with limited visibility from their driveway which was constructed by the department of Transport and Main Roads (TMR) in 2006 as part of a $26 million upgrade to the road.
“When the accident happened, we called ambulance and police, thankfully no one was seriously harmed but it has left an inherent fear that it will happen again and next time, we may not be so lucky,” Katie said.
“Even the police officer expressed concerns about the driver’s visibility.
“The officer said he would notify parties about the concerns for our safety with the current speed in the area, he recommended I also reach out to enquire what could be done to reduce the speed limit down from 60km/h.
“I contacted Livingstone Shire Council and they advised I would need to speak to Transport of Main Roads.”
For Katie and her family, it was just the beginning of their concerns.
“When I called TMR for help in reducing the speed limit I was shocked that rather than addressing my valid safety concerns they instead claimed that our driveway was not legal and we were directed to apply for permission to have a driveway in that location,” Katie said.
“I was also told by TMR that my application was not likely to be accepted at the current location as it was a safety issue and with the current 80K speed zone that nowhere on our block would be considered a safe place to locate a driveway.”
The family purchased their home in 2019.
The driveway has been in place since the block was established many years before.
CONTINUED PAGE 4
The end for creek bridge
Livingstone Shire Council will close and remove a timber pedestrian bridge over Williamson Creek on the Scenic Highway at Lammermoor, after a recent structural assessment deemed it unsafe for public use.
The small timber bridge located on the upstream side of the creek, was recently assessed by external consultants and it was recommended the footbridge is immediately closed and decommissioned due to significant structural deterioration and timber fatigue.
Livingstone Shire Mayor Adam Belot said the safety of the community was council’s top priority.
“While the decision to close the bridge is necessary, we understand it affects those who regularly use the pathway,” Cr Belot said.
Champs for third year
Emu Park Surf Lifesaving Club did Central Queensland proud, coming home from North Aussies Championships with a boatload of medals and as champions for the third year in a row.
With 55 members from ages 11 through to Masters, Emu Park SLSC made waves in Mackay, taking the top spot on the podium for the third consecutive year closely followed by Tannum Sands SLSC in second and Cairns SLSC taking third.
Emu Park SLSC team coordinator Michelle McRae said she was proud of the club’s hat-trick.
“Being able to fill teams in most of the events on offer really helped to push us over the line in the points category,” she said.
Woodbury residents said a speed reduction is vital for community safety. (Trish Bowman:440031)
INSIDE
Creek bridge closes
By Trish Bowman
Livingstone Shire Council will close and remove a timber pedestrian bridge over Williamson Creek on the Scenic Highway at Lammermoor, after a recent structural assessment deemed it unsafe for public use.
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The small timber bridge located on the upstream side of the creek, was recently assessed by external consultants and it was recommended the footbridge is immediately closed and decommissioned due to significant structural deterioration and timber fatigue.
Lammermoor resident Arnie Jones said he understands the need for a structurally sound bridge while reiterating concerns of nearby residents about elevated safety challenges.
“If Council close the bridge next month, and don’t start construction of the planned pedestrian crossing until April 2025, another hazard control will need to be put in place as a priority,” Mr Jones said.
“We have elderly residents who will have no choice but to cross that busy road near or on the round-a-bout twice to catch the bus and with no formal pedestrian crossing in place, it just adds to residents’ safety risks.
“The Clayton Road roundabout to the bus stop has already been identified as a dangerous section of road.
“With the amount of footprint wear at the bridge, it shows that residents use the bridge regularly.
“If a temporary/ permanent hazard control is not substituted and installed, then council is being negligent on safety of Lammermoor residents.”
Livingstone Shire Mayor Adam Belot said the safety of the community was council’s top priority.
“While the decision to close the bridge is necessary, we understand it affects those who regularly use the pathway,” Cr Belot said.
“We are committed to investing in infrastructure that is both safe and accessible for all.
“It is expected the closure of the bridge will re-
sult in increased pedestrian movements crossing the Scenic Highway at this location.
“To alleviate this, council will implement short term safety improvements for pedestrians needing to cross the Scenic Highway including a speed reduction to 40kph.
“Additionally, to assist community members affected by the bridge closure, council will work with Translink to investigate the installation of a Hail and Ride bus facility on Clayton Road.”
Council has committed $425,000 in the 2024/2025 budget for Stage 1 of the four-stage pedestrian master plan for the Scenic Highway and Clayton Road roundabout, with design efforts already underway and construction planned for later this financial year.
Cr Belot said Livingstone Shire understands the inconvenience this closure brings, especially with short notice.
“We thank the community for their patience and understanding as we work to provide safe and fit-for-purpose infrastructure,” he said.
The closure is planned to commence in early November and is essential to ensure the safety of
community members who regularly walk or ride along this pathway.
For more information, check out Livingstone Shire’s Facebook page for updates or visit www. livingstone.qld.gov.au/public-notices
I’m encouraged to hear the words from newly elected Keppel MP Nigel Hutton following an interview with Cap Coast Today journalist Trish Bowman (page 3).
Mr Hutton was last weekend voted into Parliament for the first time, toppling the incumbent Brittany Lauga (Labor).
Ms Lauga had been a member of the government throughout her entire time in state parliament.
That continues now with Mr Hutton, who formed part of the Blue Wave of LNP candidates elected across regional Queensland, sweeping David Crisafulli into power.
It should be a good result for Keppel, particularly in the area of the promises made during the election campaign.
The progress of big-ticket items such as the world-class TAFE precinct at CQUniversity’s North Rockhampton campus, purchasing land for a future Emu Park High School and upgrades at Capricorn Coast Netball courts will be important when the next election rolls around in four years’ time.
- Gregor Mactaggart
Scenic Highway Clayton Road Pedestrian Master Plan (Supplied)
The old timber bridge is scheduled for removal due to safety concerns (Supplied)
Keppel MP is ready to roll
By Trish Bowman
While not sworn in to his new position as yet, elected Keppel MP Nigel Hutton said he is ready to hit the ground running to serve his electorate.
“I am very excited to begin a new chapter for Keppel, working together with all tiers of government, business and the community for the betterment of our region,” Mr Hutton said.
“In the past week I have had multiple meetings with local organisations and individuals seeking to understand their needs and how the Crisafulli government can best serve them.
“It will take a few weeks to go through the official processes and set up our office and in the meantime, I am speaking to members of our community to get the ball rolling.
“I am looking forward to welcoming everyone to our office and hope for it to be a welcoming place for residents to feel comfortable to come in and discuss their concerns and challenges.
“The LNP Crisafulli government know we have a lot of work to do and we are committed to get the job done.”
Mr Hutton said one of his top priorities, and that of the LNP, is making our community safer.
“The Making Queensland Safer Laws will be rolled out as the first legislative priority and will include the adult crime adult time policy, gold standard early intervention and intensive rehabilitation support,” he said.
“The aim is to restore consequences for actions with youth offenders held accountable for their crimes.
“It’s not only about keeping criminals off our streets, it’s also about sending a strong message to deter youth from committing the crime in the first place.
‘It is also vital we offer these young people a life of choice, not chance and we give them the support to do so.”
Mr Hutton said there will be a transition pe-
riod for both the current elected members and non-returning members.
He said new members must be formally declared prior to taking up residence in their offices.
The transition provides for former members to have up to a week after the formal declaration to wind up their offices.
All former email addresses have been suspended until new members have been officially
Enquiries to the new member for Keppel can be sent to keppel@lnp.org.au.
LNP Keppel commitments
• Fighting to reinstate the Bruce Highway’s 80/20 federal funding agreement
• Buying land for a future Emu Park High School - $3.5 million
• New light attack fire vehicle for Emu Park Fire Station - $200,000
• Upgrades at Capricorn Coast Netball - $4.5 million
• New world-class TAFE precinct - $61 million to include development of future housing growth corridor in North Rockhampton and future expansion of vital clinical services at Rockhampton Hospital
• Feasibility study into blue water access on the southern Capricorn Coast - $200,000
• Safety upgrades at Seeonee Park Campsite$80,000
• New amenities at Bluebirds United
• Stage one of the Rockhampton Sports Precinct with 16 new outdoor netball hardcourts
• Clubhouse and amenities - $42 million to include signalise Foulkes St intersection, safer entries and exits into estates along Norman Rd and a destination playground as part of investment in Rockhampton Integrated Sports Complex
sworn in.
Nigel Hutton and his family celebrated his win at The Paddock last Saturday night. (Trish Bowman: 441063)
The new Keppel MP Nigel Hutton said he is ready to hit the ground running. (4410663)
Lever’s exhibition inspires
By Trish Bowman
Mill Galleries Yeppoon will host a very special exhibition titled ‘Beaches and Birds’ by artist Caitlin Lever from 19 November to 11 December.
The exhibition will feature around 40 artworks with originals, prints, calendars, tote bags, throw rugs, notebooks, and greeting cards celebrating the landscapes and birdlife of the Capricorn Coast and surrounding areas.
Caitlin said the inspiration for Beaches and Birds comes from her surroundings and features beautiful native birds which frequently visit her five-acre property.
“I love capturing nostalgic feelings in my work and often paint places that hold personal significance,” she said.
“I hope the audience connects with the themes of nature and wildlife, encouraging them to appreciate the beauty in Australia’s landscapes, seascapes, and wildlife.
“Many seascapes and landscapes in this collection are painted from locations I’ve travelled to or from where I live, such as Yeppoon, often using my own photographs.
“The bird series began after my grandma
passed away, with a willy wagtail visiting as a sign of comfort.
“This inspired me to paint willy wagtails and later expand the collection as others resonated with this sentiment.
“Originally, I planned to exhibit only my bird paintings, then after attending the Brisbane and Sydney Affordable Art Fairs and selling 20 pieces, I expanded the exhibition.”
Most of Caitlin’s artworks are painted with acrylics, although there will be a small selection of oil pieces.
She said some beach scenes are based on photos taken on her wedding day last June, such as And Then We Saw Dolphins and A Perfect Day, capturing the nostalgia of that day while also resonating with locals.
“I also cherish Hamersley, my largest and most detailed canvas to date, representing our honeymoon trip to Karijini.”
Caitlin is a local primary school teacher who moved to the region as a graduate to pursue her teaching career and discovered she could thrive as an artist as well.
Already established Caitlin has completed 14 public and private murals around Yeppoon,
Rockhampton, and Gladstone—six of which were completed this year while she continued working as a teacher.
“I teach primary school art from Prep to Year 6 and have been creating art for as long as I can remember,” Caitlin said.
“I initially studied art at university but eventually dropped out, continuing as a hobbyist until the past few years when I turned my passion into a business.
“I am inspired by native Australian wildlife, especially birds, for their intricate feather details and vibrant colours.
“The places I travel or live, such as Yeppoon’s seascapes or the landscapes of Western Australia, also greatly influence my work.
“My goal is to capture nostalgia in my landscapes and seascapes, with pieces of treasured memories often incorporated into my art.”
Beaches and Birds
• Where: Mill Galleries, Normanby Street, Yeppoon
• When: 19 November to 11 December with opening night scheduled for 22 November from 6pm–8pm
Woodbury residents’ desperate road safety call after crash
From page 1
Katie said both her immediate neighbour Allan Titman, who is also the fire warden and part of the Woodbury RFB, and near neighbour Bill Ludwig informed her TMR had upgraded all the driveways including theirs in 2006 when the road was fully redesigned and modifications were made to bring the entire length of Woodbury Rd up to B-double standard for the forestry and army traffic.
“In our area, every driveway, including ours, was either upgraded or relocated as part of the widening and new road realignment,” she said.
“These works included new drainage pipes and road marking with turning lanes into Stones Rd as well as the required break in the centre lines to allow for vehicles to turn legally into our current driveway and provide the property with safer access in line with TMR’s strict standard codes.
“Their advice to us now seems both contradictory and incredulous.
“We are being told we will now be required to lodge a driveway application for the one TMR designed and built as part of their major upgrade in 2006/8.
“Given TMR and the project manager were responsible for the design to accommodate Bdoubles, it defies commonsense that this matter was not fully researched and factored into their design consideration at the time.
“We bought our property in good faith and to now be told our driveway is not legal is beyond belief.”
Katie said if the speed zone is the issue in this formally identified high-risk crash zone, why did they not identify and address it when they under-
took and project-managed the upgrade.
“Given the road is also a school bus and growing major tourist route, this just reinforces the need to immediate action,” she said.
“With the additional increase in traffic movements from the major State Government investment funding in Cooberrie Park upgrade we were surprised that a more appropriate speed limit was not considered then.
“It is disappointing that too often it takes major accidents before TMR take action in areas like ours which are renowned for speeding.
“The worst times are on the weekend and early morning work start time.
“I am concerned there will be another accident before action is taken and most concerned about the high potential for a more serious accident at the corner of Stones and Woodbury Rd as
there are children on buses every morning using the intersection. “Reducing the speed will significantly reduce the risk of these accidents occurring both now and in the future.
“We are hoping intervention will help resolve both the safety concerns raised and the fear we now have that TMR will close the only access we currently have to our property as a direct result of us reaching out to them in good faith as suggested by the police to have the safety concerns of our community addressed.”
A TMR spokesperson said TMR are aware of local residents’ concerns about their private property access.
“In October, following a further enquiry on behalf of this resident about this matter, TMR conducted a safety review on Western Yeppoon–Byfield Rd (locally known as Woodbury Rd), at the Woodbury Rd/Stones Rd intersection, including approaches to the intersection,” they said.
“We are currently assessing the findings of this review and once outcomes are known, we will contact the resident directly.
“A road widening project was undertaken on Western Yeppoon Byfield Rd in the vicinity of the resident’s property and was completed June 2008.
“The road widening project included upgrades to the intersection at Woodbury Rd/ Stones Rd and existing private property accesses.
“All works were completed in accordance with the approved design.”
TMR said following a desktop analysis, incorrect information was previously provided to the resident at the time of their initial enquiry with regard to their access.
“This week we have provided an update to
the Woodbury Rd resident regarding their private property access,” they said.
“In July 2023, a Speed Limit Review (SLR) was undertaken along Western Yeppoon Byfield Rd between Neils Rd and Mapes Rd, approximately 17km in length.
“The outcome of the SLR was to lower any existing posted speed limit of 100km/h down to 80km/h in this entire section.
“Pursuant to the guidance provided in the QMUTCD and the QRSTUV, speed limits should not be applied specifically for the purpose of compensating for isolated geometric deficiencies.
“This SLR was endorsed by the Speed Management Committee, which is made up of representatives of TMR, Livingstone Shire Council and Queensland Police Service.
“TMR is currently finalising the detailed design of the speed limit changes and anticipates the new signage, where required along this section of Western Yeppoon Byfield Rd be installed by late 2024.
“In general, in accordance with the Transport Infrastructure Act 1994 (TIA), the owner of a private property access located in the state-controlled road corridor is responsible for the provision and ongoing maintenance of the access.
“Should a resident wish to upgrade their access, approval must be sought from TMR under Sections 62 and 33 of the TIA.
“All costs associated with the design and construction of any approved access is the responsibility of the applicant.”
Woodbury residents are currently in talks with Livingstone Shire Council to support their call for a speed reduction.upport their call for a speed reduction.
Teacher and established artist Caitlin is thrilled to be sharing her work in the upcoming Mill Galleries exhibition. (Supplied)
Damaged vehicle after Woodbury Road collision on the tight bend. (Supplied: 440031)
Delivering a love of reading
Livingstone Shire Council has announced the installation of a Street Library outside The Hub in Yeppoon’s Beaman Park, made possible through a collaboration with Yeppoon State High School (YSHS).
The special community project, which began in November last year, has come to fruition thanks to the dedication and enthusiasm of both council staff and the passionate teachers and students from YSHS.
The Street Library is a nationwide initiative, creating little literary hubs designed to cultivate a love for books among people of all ages while encouraging a sense of community spirit.
Council’s supervisor of parks and open spaces communities Bryce Walker said he was thrilled to be part of the project.
“Yeppoon State High School reached out to council late last year to see if it could collaborate on finding a location and installing a third street library,” Mr Walker said.
“I had the pleasure of meeting with teacher Andrew Willis from Yeppoon State High School, Yasmin – the talented young lady who helped build the street library – along with key staff from both the school and The Hub, to bring this project to life.
“It’s incredibly rewarding to see it all come together.
“A big thank you to Andrew and Loc from the LSC workshop for making the base, and to my manager Sharon for her support.
“Special thanks go to YSHS teachers Andrew Willis and Tony Wellspring, whose passion for helping young folks is truly infectious.”
Livingstone Shire councillor Lance Warcon highlighted the importance of community involvement in projects like these.
“This street library is a testament to the power of collaboration,” Cr Warcon said.
“It’s not just about installing a book-sharing hub – it’s about creating a space that fosters a love for reading and strengthens community bonds.
“Council is proud to have supported Yeppoon State High School in bringing this wonderful idea to life, and we look forward to seeing it become a cherished resource for our community.”
Yeppoon State High School student Yasmin Turner who assisted in the build of the street library said she enjoyed the challenge of using scrap and left over materials.
“I love engineering and building new things and this project was an opportunity to build something interesting, unique and to build it from scratch,” Yasmin said.
“My teacher Welly, (Mr Tony Wellspring), and I got to design and plan the construction, then
build as we went.”
Yeppoon State High School teacher Andrew Willis said he was incredibly proud of the relationship between council, YSHS and the YSHS student action group.
“Our street library project is a clear demonstration and message to our wider community of how awesome our youth and students at Yeppoon State High School as well as across the Capricorn Coast region are,” Mr Willis said.
“As a teacher I’m privileged to work with the YSHS student action group, I am immensely proud of all they do and offer.
“Their courage to seek ways to improve not just our school, also our wider community, to engage with the many different agencies and business, to commit their time and care, to speak in front of over 1000 people, to voice their passions to help others and to support each other from all year levels along the journey is simply energising and inspiring.”
Livingstone Shire councillor Andrea Friend expressed her excitement about the project’s re-
cent completion.
“The street library is now registered with the national street libraries database, complete with a story detailing its creation and the partnership between council and YSHS,” Cr Friend said.
“A QR code will soon be attached to the front of the street library, providing easy access to this information.
“Council encourages everyone to visit the new street library, take a book, share a book, or donate a book in good condition.
“Together, we can continue to promote a shared love for reading and create a stronger sense of community in Livingstone Shire.”
The books being provided in the library have been collected as an ongoing YSHS book drive, coming from teachers, parents, and the YSHS Library.
Livingstone Shire’s additional street libraries can be found outside the Capricorn Coast Visitor Information Centre, Yeppoon and the Farnborough General Store.
YSHS student Yasmin Turner helped to design and build the new street library in Beaman Park, Yeppoon. (Supplied)
The new street library, like the other two is a community asset for people to share their love of reading.
Livingstone Shire Mayor Adam Belot
G’day residents,
I hope this column finds you well.
As many of you know, Queensland has recently seen a significant shift in our political landscape with David Crisafulli being sworn in as the new Premier following a historic election victory for the LNP.
Change can be exciting, but it also comes with its own set of challenges and responsibilities.
As your Mayor, I want to assure you that I am committed to working alongside the new government to advocate for our community’s needs.
I have reached out to congratulate Nigel Hutton and made it clear that I look forward to collaborating for the betterment of our communities.
I want to acknowledge the significant contribution made by the former member for Keppel Brittany Lauga who was always dedicated to the people of Keppel and represented us so effectively when trying to put our region forward.
I also recognise the efforts of the unsuccessful candidates - James Ashby, Clancy Mullbrick, Roger McWhinney and Petrina Murphy.
I commend you for putting yourself up for election to represent our wonderful community.
It is a tough arena to enter and the fact you put your name on the ballot paper is commendable.
Cost of living pressures are very challenging for many within our community.
It’s essential that we come together to tackle these economic pressures head-on.
As Chris Voss said, “if you want to go fast in life
you go alone, if you want to go far you have to go together”.
Livingstone Shire Council is ready to work together with Nigel and the New LNP government to deliver the vital elements for our growing community.
Central to this is the $2 billion infrastructure fund identified by the LNP prior to the election.
This fund will be the target of a funding application for the East West Connector Road that,
when completed, will open up much-needed
residential housing land and import improve the traffic flow around Tanby Road and the coastal Scenic Highway.
There are many other priorities including Great Keppel Island, Yeppoon Aquatic Centre, Emu Park revetment wall, Centenary of Anzac’s Walk and a pontoon in Pumpkin Creek.
This council has a plan, and we will deliver on that plan by working collaboratively with the new
LNP government.
Let’s remember that in these challenging times, it’s the connections we have with each other that will get us through.
I encourage you to reach out, share your concerns, and let’s work together to build a strong Livingstone.
Stay hopeful, and let’s embrace the journey ahead.
Let’s go Livingstone!
Livingstone Shire Council Mayor Adam Belot writes that Great Keppel Island is one of the many topics on the agenda for the council to work with new Keppel MP Nigel Hutton and the elected LNP Government. (Supplied)
Snap! Kyla’s in the frame
By Breanna Lloyd
One of Central Queensland’s acclaimed photographers and videographers has, for the third time, been honoured for her exceptional talents at the Australian Wedding Industry Awards.
Kyla Manion, founder of Kyla Eliza Photo and Film, was named the 2024 state winner in the photo and film category and will now compete in the national finals in February.
Kyla has kept her winning streak alive over the past two years, being named Best Newborn Photographer in Gracemere in both 2023 and 2024, and is also a finalist in the 2024 Queensland ABIA Awards.
Kyla said she is grateful to work alongside an incredible array of talented local vendors, photographers, and videographers.
“Receiving these awards and nominations makes me feel incredibly grateful for the brides and grooms who have nominated and voted for me to win,” she said.
“It truly feels amazing to be recognised for the amount of work put into my business.
“I definitely wasn’t expecting to win, so it was a pleasant surprise, to say the least.”
Kyla launched her business in 2021 and has since helped many locals capture precious memories across the Capricorn Coast and throughout Central Queensland.
The 32-year-old specialises in weddings, couples, and engagements, and delights in capturing treasured moments for families and loved ones.
Travelling throughout Central and Northern Queensland, Kyla has set her sights on expanding her work across Australia and internationally to capture even more memorable occasions.
“I love everything about photos in general, regardless of the quality, but for me, it’s about being able to capture a specific moment in time that can last for generations,” Kyla said.
“I capture some of the most important memories in my clients’ lives, and it makes me feel incredibly excited.”
Despite her success as an award-winning photographer, Kyla initially aspired to be a professional tattoo artist, driven by her passion for art.
In 2011, she began studying at James Cook University, where she “fell in love” with the photography studios, lighting, and the idea of becoming a photographer during orientation week.
“My dad bought me my first camera that same week, and I changed my major to photo media in my new media arts degree,” she said.
“I left university early to travel and later returned to my family in Central Queensland.”
From there, Kyla worked in the camera department at JB Hi-Fi, where she broadened her knowledge of cameras.
After welcoming her first child, she left JB HiFi to pursue her photography career, establishing her business shortly after the Covid-19 pandemic.
“My start in the industry was delayed because of Covid, but once things began to settle down, things have only improved,” she said.
Kyla invites all Central Queensland residents to visit her at the CQ Wedding Expo on Sunday, 3 November.
Smooth time in store as coral spawning brings living colour
It’s that time of year when corals take advantage of the full moon, dust off the old Barry White records and get down and dirty to bring new life to the Great Barrier Reef (the Reef).
During this dazzling display of synchronized mass reproduction, corals release millions of bundles of sperm and eggs into the ocean in a kaleidoscope of colour, bringing their next generation to life.
But it turns out corals are not the only ones getting jiggy on the reef during the annual spawning.
Reef Authority chief scientist Dr Roger Beeden said an array of marine species also spawn alongside the corals.
“It’s one of nature’s most remarkable reproductive spectacles, with invertebrates and sponges often spawning at the same time as the coral,” Dr Beeden said.
This phenomenon showcases the resilience and regeneration of the Reef ecosystems.
“We’ve known about mass coral spawning for more than 40 years, but we’re only now discovering all these other marine species are taking advantage of the coral spawning cover to have a little fun of their own.
“It’s a safety in numbers approach. Clams, sponges, sea cucumbers and starfish, among others, are using the protection of this unique breeding opportunity to release their spawn and create their next generations.”
The magical event happens after a full moon, and only when water temperatures can stimulate the maturation of reproductive cells within adult corals.
It can last anywhere from a few days to a week, and while spawning takes place on a
large scale it doesn’t happen across the Reef all at once, with location also a factor.
Corals on inshore reefs usually spawn after the first full moon in October, while those on outer reefs tend to spawn during November and even December.
Dr Beeden said the mass spawning is more than just an amazing sight, it’s a critical time for reef renewal, particularly given the increase in mass coral bleaching events over the past decade and the forecasts of another hot summer.
“Coral spawning is an incredibly important part of the natural recovery process,” he said.
“There is no more important event for the future of the Reef than the maturation of reproductive cells within adult coral.
“These spawning corals are genetic gold for reef resilience.
“Corals that have survived coral bleaching events may pass on more heat tolerant genes to the next generation enhancing the adaptation of coral communities and long-term survival of the reef.”
Kyla Eliza Photo and Film was named the 2024 state winner in the photo and film category and will now compete in the national finals in February. (Kyla Eliza Photo and Film)
Kyla Manion owner and operator of Kyla Eliza Photo and Film. (Supplied)
Kyla Eliza Photo and Film specialises in capturing weddings, couples, engagements and precious family moments.
Kyla has also received the Best Newborn Photographer in Gracemere in 2024 and 2023, and is also a finalist in this year’s Queensland ABIA Awards.
Reef spawning (Reef Authority). (Gabriel Guzman)
Reef spawning (Reef Authority).
LNP’s Kelly takes the lead in Mirani
By Matthew Pearce
While he is expected to win the seat of Mirani, grazier Glen Kelly is back at work at his Kalapa property this week while he waits for more results from the state election to roll in.
At noon on Friday, 1 November, the LNP candidate was well in the lead in the official first preference count, with 10,927 votes (36.99 per cent), followed by incumbent Stephen Andrew (Katter’s Australian Party) with 7588 votes (25.69 per cent).
Mr Andrew has lost ground since noon on Monday when he had 6764 votes (27.58 per cent), compared to Mr Kelly’s 8768 votes (35.75 per cent).
While ABC election guru Antony Green has already called the seat for the LNP, Mr Kelly said he wouldn’t be following suit.
He said while 82.77 per cent of the vote had been counted, it was still too early to call.
“I know there’s still a lot of votes to be counted yet, including absentee votes and more postal votes,” he said.
“Mirani goes down to the wire every other election, so there’s no reason it wouldn’t this time.”
Meanwhile, Mr Andrew said he was “getting on with his life” while waiting for the final numbers.
“You can’t get too wrapped up in it,” he said.
“Seven years I’ve been doing it, it’s a big electorate and a big job, a lot of people don’t realise that, they think it’s going to be a walk in the park.”
The Mirani electorate was the centre of controversy early this year, after Pauline Hanson revealed she would no longer be endorsing Mr Andrew, then the only sitting One Nation member in the lower house.
After a brief period as an independent Mr Andrew, who has an office in Mount Morgan, switched his allegiance to Katter’s Australian Party.
Mr Andrew said he had been the victim of a smear campaign and that, in his opinion, One Nation would never hold another seat in Queensland ever.
“That (Mirani) will be the last one that they will ever hold,” he said.
Also in Mirani, the ALP’s Susan Teder was sitting on 5942 votes (20.12 per cent) on Friday, One Nation’s Brett ‘Beaver’ Neal had 3367 votes (11.40 per cent), The Greens’ Maria Carty had 915 votes
IN BRIEF
Two house fires in Rockhampton
Emergency services crews attended two house fires in Rockhampton on Thursday, 31 October.
A Queensland Fire Department (QFD) spokesperson said seven fire crews were called to the scene of a house fire at Campbell St at 1am.
On arrival, they found a large weatherboard structure engulfed in smoke.
Crews entered the home and found a fire in the ceiling space.
The fire was under control by 2.05am and fully extinguished by 4.46am.
Two people suffered smoke inhalation and were transported in a stable condition to Rockhampton Hospital by Queensland Ambulance Service paramedics.
Just after 9am, QFD was called to Wood St, Depot Hill to a second house fire, with four crews attending.
“Crews could see a lot of smoke as they were approaching and the home was well involved when they got there,” the spokesperson said.
“Crews worked to protect an exposure on the right-hand side of the home and had the fire contained and under control at about 9.25am.”
Queensland Ambulance Service paramedics transported a stable patient to Rockhampton Hospital with superficial burns and smoke inhalation.
Queensland Fire Service remained on scene until 2.38pm.
Berserker - three-vehicle crash
Queensland Ambulance Service paramedics transported one stable patient to Rockhampton Hospital following a three-vehicle crash on Lakes Creek Road at 7.45am, Friday, 1 November.
The crash closed one lane of traffic on Lakes Creek Road between Water and Tucker sts, with motorists urged to avoid the area and seek alternative routes.
Rockhampton - Foot Injury
Paramedics transported a stable patient with a foot injury following a vehicle and motorcycle crash on George St and Albert St at 1.11pm, Thursday, 31 October.
Lammermoor - two-vehicle crash
(3.10 per cent) and Family First’s Patricia Martin had 797 votes (2.70 per cent).
In Rockhampton, LNP’s Donna Kirkland has already claimed the win for the LNP, but the ALP’s Craig Marshall is yet to concede.
At noon Friday, 1 November, Mr Marshall was in the lead in the official first preference count, with 9489 votes (30.34 per cent), followed by Ms Kirkland at 28.54 per cent and 8928 votes.
Mr Marshall’s primary vote has grown since noon Monday, when he was sitting on 8582 votes (30.41 per cent) and Ms Kirkland 8054 votes (28.54 per cent).
Mr Marshall said he wasn’t expecting preferences to be counted until next week and didn’t know how the final tally would go.
“It’s too hard to tell, the preferences are all over the place,” he said.
Also in Rockhampton, independent Margaret Strelow was sitting in third on 5619 votes (17.96 per cent) on Friday, One Nation’s David Bond was on 4210 votes (13.46 per cent), Jacinta Waller from the Legalise Cannabis Queensland Party had 1219 votes (3.90 per cent), Mick Jones from the Queensland Greens had 1182 votes (3.78 per cent) and Family First’s Fredy Johnson had 632 votes (2.02 per cent).
Five stable patients including three children were transported to Capricorn Coast Hospital following a two-vehicle crash on Barracuda St and Old Scenic Highway at 7.58am, on Tuesday, 29 October.
Singapura Express heading to Livingstone Shire
Livingstone Shire Council welcomes an extraordinary cultural experience this November, as the highly acclaimed Music and Drama Company (MDC) from Singapore presents The Singapura Express—a vibrant celebration of Singapore’s rich multicultural heritage through song and dance.
It promises to be an unforgettable experience that showcases Singapore’s unique cultural tapestry.
The shows take place at Yeppoon Town Hall on 14-15 November.
Two shows will be performed each day, starting at 2pm and 7.30pm.
Emerald mobile phone outage
Mobile phones on the Telstra network across Emerald were hit by an unplanned service interruption that began on Tuesday 29 October and continued into Wednesday and Thursday.
“Our technicians are investigating the cause of a network issue that is affecting the 4G network in your area,” the service message read.
Service was restored at 5.24pm on Thursday.
The 3G network Australia-wide was shut down on Monday 28 October.
Blackwater North State School carpark extension tender
The Central Highlands Regional Council has begun the tender process for the extension of much-needed car parking spaces around the Blackwater North State School.
The tender document preview stated the scope of works included traffic management, car park pavement works inclusive of bitumen seal, resealing the existing car park, installation of line marking and signage, concrete driveway reconstruction works, supply and installation of wheel stops and steel bollards.
Also included is the supply and planting of shade trees and installation of an irrigation system.
Tender applications close on 18 November.
LNP candidate for Mirani Glen Kelly gets back to work at work at his Kalapa property. (Sophie Mossman: 441136)
MP Stephen Andrew, backed by Rob Katter. (File)
CQ horse racing round-up
RJC REPORT WITH CEO DAVID ALDRED
ASTUTE TRAINER SHOOTS FOR FIVE WINS ON THE BOUNCE WITH MOCAMBO
Mocambo will line up to try to win its fifth race in a row in Saturday’s Yeppoon Cup after scoring an emphatic win at Gladstone last week.
Trainer Fred Smith, 67, has his eyes set on eight-year-old gelding Mocambo having a crack the $200,000 Country Cups Challenge Final (1600m) at Doomben on 30 November.
The $15,000 GJ Gardner Yeppoon Cup (1400m) is a Country Cups Qualifier.
Last week Mocambo won an unsuitable sprint over 1194m in the Gladstone Open by two lengths.
Carrying 61.5kg, Mocambo scored its fourth straight victory, safely holding out Grand De Lago and King Klaus.
The son of Deep Field remains on track for its Brisbane target and a Yeppoon Cup success would be another building block towards his main goal.
Mocambo’s wins prior to Gladstone victory were over 1600m and 1800m, and the 1400m on turf at Keppel Park will work in his favour.
With Tasha Chambers in the saddle, Mocambo will carry 62kg and run from barrier two in the ten-horse field.
Jared Wehlow has last year’s runner up Letmeletgo engaged in the Cup.
He ran second to Kathy’s Beau at Callaghan Park at his most recent run on 19 October, and will be ridden by Paul Hamblin (62kg), while its stablemate Bondurant who hasn’t found winning form since January will be ridden by Leah Martyn.
Premier jockey Justin Stanley will team with the Clinton Taylor trained Kathy’s Beau who is in good form winning its three CQ starts in Rockhampton and Mackay.
Stanley will get a huge cheer from the local crowd if he can make it four wins in a row on the former Victorian, Kathy’s Beau (59.5kg). Yeppoon’s five race program starts at 1.30pm on Saturday, with a terrific crowd expected at Keppel Park.
BREEDERS PLATE AT CALLAGHAN PARK ON FRIDAY
With racing on the Coast this week, Rockhampton is getting ready for a big race day on Friday with the annual running of the $35,000 Breeders Plate at Callaghan Park.
With big bonuses for QTIS registered horses, the Breeders 2YO Maiden Plate (1050m) never fails to attract interest.
Last year leading local trainer Clinton Taylor saddled up the winners of the Fillies and Colts and Geldings divisions, and also had success the two previous years.
Taylor confirmed this week that his filly
Don’tdoubthelady is a “ready-made two-yearold” and said she will be nice and forward for the race.
By Dubious from the Toronado mare Teeka, Don’tdoubthelady looked sharp winning a trial under Justin Stanley a couple of weeks ago at Callaghan Park.
Mackay trainer John Manzelmann is almost certain to run Power gelding, Tarong, the ¾ length second placegetter in the Pallarenda Maiden Plate (1000m) at Townsville’s Cluden Park on Cox Plate Day.
SILVERA OLIVERA OUT FOR TWO WEEKS
Jockey Raul Silvera Olivera was suspended from riding in races for two weeks by Queensland Racing Integrity stewards on Tuesday.
Stewards deemed that Near the 200m the Kris Hansen trained Defrosted clipped the heels of the Clinton Taylor-trained The Hairdresser and blundered.
Silvera Olivera pleaded guilty to a charge under the provisions of AR131(a) for allowing his mount to shift inwards when insufficiently clear of Defrosted and his licence to ride to races was suspended for a period of 13 days which commenced at midnight 29 October.
It will prove a costly time-out for Silver Olivera who cannot resume riding until 12 November, meaning that he will miss both the Yeppoon Cup and RJC Breeders Plate race meetings where he was expected to get full books of rides.
A veterinary inspection of Defrosted revealed the mare ruptured a right fore-tendon and had minor lacerations to the left fore.
Silvera Olivera has been in great form since returning from Uruguay with three winners from three race meetings.
He rode a winner on Caulfield Cup Day at Callaghan Park and a winning double at Gladstone’s Ferguson Park on Cox Plate Day last Saturday.
Raul Silvera Olivera’s Gladstone winners included success in the main race the Bookmaker Appreciation Handicap (1194m) on the in-form Mocambo.
He also got off to a flying start with the Mi-
chael and Christine Dore-trained Cobbo winning the day’s opener, the BM 60 (850m) by one and a quarter lengths.
APPRENTICE APEL SCORES GLADSTONE
DOUBLE FOR ROCKY STABLES
Rockhampton apprentice jockey McKenzie Apel also steered home a winning double at Gladstone.
Claiming 2kg, Apel completed her double on the Darryl Johnston-trained Young Henry which romped home by 10.25 lengths on the sand in the BM55 (1517m).
Young Henry backed up at Rocky’s Callaghan Park on Tuesday and with Adam Sewell in the saddle ran second to Madame Lexis in the BM55 (1600m).
Apel’s first leg of her Gladstone double was on Cinderella Man, trained in Rockhampton by Alan Jones.
Cinderella Man won the BM 45 (1194m) by a comfortable two and a quarter length margin.
STANLEY RIDES A ROCKY QUARTET
Justin Stanley started the Tony McMahon Recognition Race Day where he left off on Caulfield Cup Day at Callaghan Park on Tuesday, opening the program with the first two winners.
And, the premier jockey didn’t need to wait long to get his third and fourth, taking out the fifth and sixth races.
Jared Wehlow saddled up the first winner, Blue Ray in the TAB BM66 Handicap (1500m), the 6YO returning to the winners list for the first time in nearly two months.
Stanley jumped Blue Ray to the front in the small field and dictated the speed to hold off the chasers at the finish. Starting at $7.00 in the fourhorse field,
Blue Ray defeated the two favourites Our Turn Now and Bold Smuggler, holding a length margin at the finish.
Stanley’s second victory was a replica of the first.
Riding the Clinton Taylor-trained Janean, the jockey went straight to the front and led comfortably.
The win was Janean’s seventh from 14 starts.
She defeated the Jason Morgan-trained
Doubting Eye by almost a length with the other Morgan runner Media Empire in third place. Stanley’s treble came up in the Paradis Imperial Maiden Handicap (1100m).
He steered the Nick Walsh-trained Bigcat to a gutsy win. Bigcat, a 4YO by Brazen Beau from a Fastnet Rock mare defeated Wehlow’s Shekinah and the Kris Hansen-trained Run Freda Run.
“I reckon he wants further,” Stanley told Walsh. “He was strong and he was never going to lose from the 300m mark.”
Bigcat has raced 11 times and had five placings before its first win.
The quartet clicked over for Stanley in the day’s feature, the Tony McMahon Recognition Stakes (1100m).
Stanley rode the Taylor trained Devil Devil to defeat Bold And Smooth and Craiglea Etna.
The nicely bred big son of Spirit Of Boom and four-time winner Annamarie, who stems from a great family of European Group race winning stayers, powered away from its opposition to win handsomely.
Taylor said Devil Devil is still learning and could be a future metro winner.
The 4YO has been given plenty of time to mature.
He has won twice and finished second from four race starts.
SOUTHERN VISITORS OUTGUN LOCALS THREE TIMES
Sunshine Coast trainer Garnett Taylor made a long trek to Rockhampton earlier this week with the lightly raced 3YO Bold Blaze to win the QTIS Three-Year-Old Handicap (1300m) at Callaghan Park.
Bred by the owners, the Cleary family, the Under The Louvre gelding from the Cleary’s winning mare Bold Chloe (Zariz), came with a strong finish to score its first win at its third race start.
Bold Blaze, ridden by Georgina Cartwright defeated race debutante Southaven, trained by John Wigginton with Woodstock Rock trained by Clinton Taylor running third after setting the pace in the race.
Toowoomba’s Matt Kropp saddled 7YO mare I Promise You, trained and owned by his son William, to win the Mamselle Corday BM65 Handicap (1300m).
Apprentice jockey Olivia Kendal produced a peach of a ride leading all the way on the Panzer Division mare.
I Promise You was challenged from all directions as it travelled down the long Callaghan Park straight and defied all comers to defeat the Bundaberg trained Spirit of Giving and local All The Shops.
Madame Lexis packed too much punch for its opposition in the delayed last race, the 0-55 Handicap (1600m).
Coming out of the barriers last the Sunshine Coast filly powered home in the straight for jockey Sean Cormack to defeat locals Young Henry and Aleaco.
Having its first Callaghan Park start for Ashley and Calvin Perks, Madame Lexis had one previous victory at Ballina on the New South Wales north coast.
Jockey Justin Stanley picked up where he left off from Caulfield Cup Day to ride a quartet of winners on Tuesday at Callaghan Park. (Cherry and Jun Photography)
Tony McMahon with friends pictured with the Clinton Taylor trained Devil Devil after winning the Tony McMahon Recognition BM60 Handicap on Tuesday. (David Aldred)
Rockhampton apprentice jockey McKenzie Apel (left) steered home a winning double on 26 October in Gladstone. (David Aldred)
Grant continues to impress
By Liam Emerton and Jasper Bruce/AAP
A man-of-the-match performance by Yeppoon export Harry Grant has rocketed Australia into the Pacific Championship final.
Australia exacted revenge on New Zealand for last year’s heartbreaking Pacific Cup final with a 22-10 win that propels the Kangaroos into the decider of this year’s tournament.
Nearly a year after the Kiwis handed Australia their biggest loss, a try-scoring double to Zac Lomax saw off the chance of another defeat before a hostile Christchurch crowd on Sunday.
The win over an admittedly understrength New Zealand helps vindicate a raft of changes made to the Australian team following last year’s 30-0 debacle in Hamilton.
Vice-captain and dummy-half Grant was at the centre of that strong victory with some sharp play in attack being the catalyst for Australia going forward.
The biggest moment of Grant’s performance came in the 59th minute when he led a short-side raid down the right-edge.
The number nine filled in at first receiver, drawing in the NZ defence before executing a perfect flick pass out the back to winger Lomax. Lomax would plant the ball down after outmuscling the last ditch defence from the Kiwis, scoring the Aussie’s third try of the afternoon.
“It was probably a bit of backyard footy,” Grant said post-match.
“When you’re a little kid you always talk about how this is the jersey you want to be playing in.
“You looked up to the guys in the green and gold, they’re the plays you practise in the backyard.
“I was glad we scored. I probably needed a
little bit of a break.” But it was also the former Yeppoon Seagulls junior’s work in defence that earned him the
Magical moments at cup
Rugby Capricornia’s girls impressed at the recent Liz Alexander Cup in Emerald.
The tournament, organised by Central Highlands Junior Rugby Union (CHJRU), is part of a summer series of rugby which involves Rugby Capricornia, Mackay Junior Rugby Union and Whitsundays Junior Rugby Union.
Formerly known as the Nogoa Cup, the event was renamed the Liz Alexander Cup in memory of Liz Alexander, a former secretary of CHJRU, who passed away earlier this year.
Rugby Capricornia won the under-15 and under-17 girls divisions in an outstanding performance.
In all, more than 30 teams from under-8 through to under-17s in both girls and boys’ categories converged on the Central Highlands to continue their rivalry.
A high-level of rugby was played across all age groups in hot conditions, with exciting matchups and results achieved.
Participation of new players and players returning from boarding school always made results uncertain and interesting to watch.
“From a CHJRU perspective it was good to see a lot of new players and the unwavering commitment of all players who travelled vast areas of the state to participate in the tournament,” CHJRU committee member Tim Baillie said.
“CHJRU would like to thank all parents, players and friends that participated and helped make the tournament a success.
“A big thank you to Gee Martin who kindly donated the Female Liz Alexander Spirit of the Cup award and to Rugby Skills Academy who generously donated the Male Liz Alexander Spirit of the Cup award.”
A special acknowledgement also went to Papa Hartley who was awarded CHJRU Life Membership and to Liz Alexander’s family who received Life Membership (Posthumous) for Liz at the completion of the tournament.
Memberships given in recognition of the dedication and commitment over a period of time both Papa and Liz have given to Rugby and the CHJRU.
The results and awards are as follows:
• Spirit of the Tournament Female: Kymarley Fangatua (U15s CH Titans)
• Spirit of the Tournament Male: Clayton McGhee (U8s Moranbah)
U8s Mixed
• Winners – Capella Cattle Dogs Red
• Most Valuable Player – Louis Levett (Nogoa Redclaws)
• Spirit of the Cup - Malakai Brown (Moranbah)
U10s Mixed
• Winners – Mackay
• Most Valuable Player – Jarvis Ranui (Nogoa Redclaws)
• Spirit of the Cup - Lachie Lemon (Whitsunday)
U12s Mixed
• Winners – Mackay
• Most Valuable Player – Jack Brumell (Nogoa Redclaws)
• Spirit of the Cup - Sam Deegan (Moranbah) U14s Boys
• Winners – Mackay
• Most Valuable Player – Thomas Baillie (Nogoa Redclaws)
• Spirit of the Cup - Thomas Baillie (Nogoa Redclaws)
U16s Boys
• Winners – Nogoa Redclaws
• Most Valuable Player – Leighton Morgan (Nogoa Redclaws)
• Spirit of the Cup - Ben Hayes (Blackwater Basilisks)
U13s Girls
• Winners – CH Titans
• Most Valuable Player – Lucy Dollard (CH Titans)
• Spirit of the Cup - Kenzy Smith (CH Titans)
U15s Girls
• Winners – Rugby Capricornia
• Most Valuable Player – Kymarley Fangatua (CH Titans)
• Spirit of the Cup - Sienna Dollard (CH Titans)
U17s Girls
• Winners – Rugby Capricornia
• Most Valuable Player – Jada Ryan (CH Titans)
• Spirit of the Cup - Jada Ryan (CH Titans)
player-of-the-match honours, tallying 55 tackles in his 80-minute performance for the Kangaroos.
“It was a very tough match, there was a lot of
live ball, a lot of arm wrestles and plenty of backand-forth,” he said.
“It was a battle…their forward pack is dominant off the back fence.
“We improved on a lot of things from last week, but we know there’s one more game to go and that’s exciting.
“Our boys stood up tonight and showed how much this jersey means to us.”
Fellow Central Queensland product Ben Hunt was named as the 18th man for the match but did not play any minutes.
Australia will meet the winner of New Zealand’s match against Tonga in the Pacific Cup final at Sydney’s CommBank Stadium on 10 November.
Wolverines are set to play
By Liam Emerton
Hard-hitting action lands at Kele Park this weekend as the Rockhampton gridiron team aims to reclaim their throne.
While there will be no Deadpool to partner them, the Wolverines are intent on causing carnage and returning to the Reef Bowl after a few mildly disappointing years.
With a new streamlined competition, featuring Rockhampton, Mackay-Gladstone, Cairns and Townsville teams, the 2020 Reef Bowl Champions are backing in their younger team.
Rockhampton will open their campaign at home against the Mackay-Gladstone joint venture after both teams were unable to put together a full squad this season.
With plenty of depth across the board, Wolverines vice-president Raymond Wheeler said the team are gunning for the title this year.
“We’re just eager to get back onto the field,” he said.
“We’ve been training for a long time now and we’re keen to show off the new Wolverines offence, defence and new players.
“We’re keen for Saturday and we’re not patiently waiting for it as well.”
While attacking has helped carry the Wolverines in previous seasons, Wheeler said that the side will have a more defensive mindset with two players set to lead that department.
“For those two years in the Reef Bowl we relied on our offence heavily and I think this year we have put an emphasis on that defence,” he said.
“We have picked up a few players who have experience in that area too.
“Damo Kriel, he’s one of our captains. He has come back from the Regional Queensland team where he had a game down in Canberra.
“So, he is bringing back all of that experience.
“Tomas Benes is a new star; he has had experience in the South-East Queensland league and played for the Griffith University Thunder.
“We’re excited to see those boys to show out.”
In attack Rockhampton’s returning running back Jack Grayson will play an important part.
Wheeler said that the side is expecting a whirlwind season from their HB who is eager to return after an injury forced him out in 2023 after just one game.
“On the offensive side of the board, we are a young team… but Jack Grayson, our running back, is going to be big,” he said.
“He played for us last year but unfortunately, he got injured and that put him out for the whole season.
“He has come back in pre-season and is keener with an even better understanding of the game as well.”
The side will line up on their new home ground of Kele Park, home of AFL Capricornia club Brothers, and making use of the lightning system which was just recently installed.
Kickoff is set for 6pm on Saturday with the Wolverines hoping to have a strong supporter base at the game.
The Rockhampton Wolverines will line back up for their return to action this weekend. (Liam Emerton/File)
Liz Alexander’s family presented with her CHJRU Life Membership.
Yeppoon product and Australia vice-captain Harry Grant with his player-of-the-match medal. (NRL)
Yeppoon product and Australia’s vice captain Harry Grant lines up for Australia in the Pacific Championships. (Andrew Cornage/AAP)
Frogs take tri to Tannum
By Liam Emerton
Tannum Sands was the beautiful backdrop as the Fitzroy Frogs opened the local triathlon season for 2024-25.
The Frogs hosted the event slightly earlier this year to accommodate the young competitors trialling for Capricornia School Sport selection.
Alongside those 40 hungry juniors, 70 other competitors took to the water and the pavement in hopes of achieving their personal bests.
Incredible local athlete Jack Smith finished first with a time of one hour five minutes and 23 seconds.
Smith’s sensational win is made all the more impressive due to it cementing his decade of dominance where he has secured the previous 10 Tannum Sands triathlons.
In the women’s Anna Duggan took out the sprint distance with a sublime time of one hour, 25 minutes and two seconds.
Fitzroy Frogs secretary Michelle Williamson said it was another terrific year with the Tannum Sands and wider Gladstone community helping to create a brilliant atmosphere.
“It was great weather down in Tannum on the weekend … a little cooler than what we’ve had recently so we saw some faster run times,” she said.
“It was really great to see the way the community down there gets out and supports the event.
“We had some wonderful volunteers come along and help.
“We also had a local running club, the Wild Runners, hand out Zooper Doopers at the top of the course for everyone which is very much appreciated.”
Williamson said the Tannum Triathlon is remaining steady in entry numbers and that is down to the positive feedback they receive each time they’re in town.
“We love the fact that our club events receive the feedback that we are relaxed and welcoming,” she said.
“You’ve got average people standing there on the start line with these really top athletes.
“Everyone treats each other with a lot of respect
and whether you’re first across the line or last, there’s a lot of cheers and support for everyone.
“That’s what our club is all about. We celebrate those at the top end doing well but we really love to see people just get involved and kick their own goals.”
The Fitzroy Frogs’ next event will be held in December with the club returning to their spiritual home of Emu Park before hosting another event in January in Rockhampton.
Emu Park dominates at the North Aussies Championships
Emu Park Surf Lifesaving Club did Central Queensland proud as they were crowned champions of the North Aussie Surf Life Saving Championships for the third year in a row.
The Capricorn Coast club had 55 members from ages 11 to Masters in action at the three-day event in Mackay, bringing home a boatload of medals across various disciplines.
Master Ladies Board Rescue team, Danya Hodgetts and Naomi MacGilvray. (Supplied)
From left: Taj Martin, Darrin Spark, Guy Genninges, Craig Beevers, Jordi Keogh. Surfboat crew from winning Lifesaver Relay team.
Under 14 mixed surf team.
From left: Rose Brandon, Jordan Hodgetts, Mackenzie Wyeth and Jake Hodgetts.
From left: Zane Hooton, Macaela Harney and Layne Hodgetts.
From left: Jake Hodgetts, Marley Beevers (coach) and Jordan Hodgetts.
Taylah McGhee leads to athletes into the water.
Anton Guinea in the running leg of the triathlon.
Jack Smith won his 10th straight Tannum Triathlon with a sublime time on Sunday. (John Todd)
Josh Smith zooms past on the bike.
Brett Ridley takes his bike over the checkpoint.Sharon Thorogood is all smiles as she completes the running section of the triathlon.
Code swap and Hill’s a Hawk
By Liam Emerton
Former Yeppoon dual-athlete Matt Hill has chosen Australian Rules Football as his path to the national stage.
Hill, who played for the Yeppoon Seagulls and Yeppoon Swans, has been snapped up by AFL heavyweight Hawthorn after being a member of Melbourne’s NRL academy.
The 20-year-old fullback lined up for the Storm’s Jersey Flegg side across the last two seasons where he scored 29 tries.
Prior to his move to Melbourne, Hill showed off his potential for Central Queensland’s Under18s where he lit up the competition as one of the best custodians.
The Katherine product was poached by the Hawks who made him the second convert signing this season, following the acquisition of basketballer Jaime Uhr-Henry.
“While Jaime and Matt join the club as a relatively raw duo, they both possess enormous upside,” Hawks recruiting and list manager Mark
McKenzie said.
“At 20 years of age, Matt has shown in his young sporting career that he is a naturally gifted athlete with exciting speed, in addition to playing several years of footy as a junior, he has immense potential.
“Given time to develop, we’re confident both Jaime and Matt can make an impact in our program in the near future.”
Melbourne Storm Academy coach Matt Duffie said Hill had the potential to find his way into the
NRL team but believes he will make a strong AFL player.
“Matty is an extremely gifted athlete, and I believe he has the skills to transition to AFL,” he said.
“I am sad to see him go as I think he could have progressed through our pathway into the NRL squad.
“I wish him and his family all the best.” Hill was signed by the Hawks as a Category B Rookie.
Proud Emu Park lands hat-trick of North Aussies titles
By Sophie Mossman
Emu Park Surf Lifesaving Club did Central Queensland proud, coming home from North Aussies Championships with a boatload of medals and as champions for the third year in a row.
Mackay Surf Lifesaving Club hosted 20 clubs and about 300 competitors from across Queensland and the Northern Territory for the North Australian Surf Lifesaving Championships from 25-27 October.
With 55 members from ages 11 through to Masters, Emu Park SLSC made waves in Mackay, taking the top spot on the podium for the third consecutive year closely followed by Tannum Sands SLSC in second and Cairns SLSC taking third.
Emu Park SLSC team coordinator Michelle McRae said she was proud of the club’s hat-trick.
“Our numbers were down from last year, so I wasn’t sure if we had enough to make sure we could hold onto (the title),” McRae said.
“Being able to fill teams in most of the events on offer really helped to push us over the line in
the points category.”
The weekend consisted of various lifesaving disciplines in the pool, on the beach and of course in the surf.
Aside from the overall victory, some of the results that helped Emu Park take the top spot
once again included second overall in the Pool events, third in the Junior category and first in the Senior and Masters categories.
A few Emu Park individual standouts were Brittany Hooton (Female Open), Mackenzie Wyeth (Under-14), Flynn Wyeth (Under-13) and
Naomi McGilvray (Female 40-49) who came home age champions.
“(Mackenzie) won every event on the beach and in the surf, and also won a couple in the pool,” McRae said.
“She was definitely outstanding and she’s very determined and dedicated to her training.” Coming up at the end of November, eight of Emu Park’s juniors with Ted McLeod as their head coach will be heading to Broadbeach SLSC to compete at the Queensland Interbranch Titles.
“The four branches within Surf Lifesaving Queensland have teams from under 13s through to under 17s and they will compete against each other in both beach and surf events to work out who is the best branch in Queensland,” McRae said.
“To get that many (from our club) into the Queensland Country (Wide Bay Capricorn) team is pretty good.”
Emu Park SLSC thanked everyone who helped get their competitors to North Aussies and everyone who has supported the club.
Former Central Queensland rugby league star Matthew Hill has signed a contract with Hawthorn in the AFL. (Liam Emerton/File)
Emu Park SLSC celebrated winning the North Aussies for the third year in a row.