DEC18-08

Monitor The

Your Community Newspaper ~ Roxby Downs

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Phone (08) 8671 2683

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Volume 4, Thursday December 18h, 2008

Happy Holidays

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The

Monitor NEWS Family Focus with Tom Beever

A Reminder For Christmas I hope you have a lovely Christmas and a happy New Year. Take care on the road if you’re planning a trip away and don’t forget Roxby Road Safe’s Christmas message of ‘Drive To Arrive.’

Christmas time means different things to different people but for most of us it’s a special time to be with our family and friends.

It’s a time when we dust the cob webs off the BBQ in order to cook up a treat or it’s a time when we organize a special

banquet of food, food and more food in order to sit round the table with family and friends to eat, eat and eat.

It’s a time when we try and grab a holiday or at least a few days off so that we can either go away somewhere special or spend some quality time at home with family and friends.

Christmas is exciting because it’s a time when children look forward to Father Christmas coming and it’s a time when we exchange Christmas gifts of all shapes and sizes with those

whom we love.

Christmas is also THE one occasion of the year where we do all we possibly can to put whatever we do in life aside so that we can be with extended family or life long friends.

So yes, Christmas can be a wonderful time of the year! But sadly as we all know, for some, Christmas can be the loneliest and most difficult time of the year. Family or relationship difficulties often prevent people from enjoying Christmas.

For others it can be a feeling of isolation from family, home or Christmas tradition. Uncertainty about work, (and there’s plenty of that) financial concerns, health worries, absence of a love one, a recent bereavement or loss and the list goes on and on as to what can cause Christmas to be not so merry.

I’ve always enjoyed Christ-

mas, but about this time thirteen or so years ago, a heart-rending letter written by an eight year old boy in the UK helped me to appreciate life and Christmas that little bit extra.

The little boy was excitedly preparing for Christmas like every one else in Britain …but on one particular day, his dad didn’t come home from work.

The little boy’s dad was a headmaster in an inner London private school. The school had fallen victim to the scourge of bullies amongst some of the students and as the little boy’s dad tried to assist a pupil who was being bashed by a gang of kids, he was mortally wounded by a knife.

Britain was stunned by the murder but apparently they wept and soul searched after they had read a letter addressed to Father Christmas which had

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2008 Through the lenses of The Monitor.

India

Today

Best Photos 2008 PAGE 10 & 11 Best Photos 2008 Sports PAGE 18

The

My boss was in the back Pinned at the waist He’ll spend his life in a wheelchair After his hip was replaced

We all hoped in the car Me and my mates We were on our way home And didn’t want to be late

My best mate died that night I had to face his wife To tell her how my stupid decision Had taken away his life

The road stretched out far On that long cold night My eyes were getting heaving And my body felt tight

If only I went back to camp And rested in bed No one would be hurt No one would be dead

The car ran off the road And wrapped around a tree I can still hear my mates As they were screaming out for me

Each day I live in heartache Barely able to feel Knowing I chose to drive when tired And fell asleep at the wheel

The young bloke new to our shift I only met the other night Broke his back in the accident And also lost his sight

So drive safely these holidays Don’t do something you’ll regret Because your mistakes will always linger And you will never forget

Roxby Hour Page 2 – Thursday, December 18th, 2008

Cook: Uma Samy

Veg Pulavo Monitor

I had just finished the late shift Out at the mine I felt a little tired But I was sure I’d be fine

I am the only boy in the family now but I am not very big and I need my daddy to help me stop my mummy and sisters from crying.

Love from Lucien Lawrence age 8.”

The letter includes a drawing of Santa and at the top of the page is an arrow pointing to heaven, with “daddy” written on it.

In my eyes the words of Lucien to Santa serve as a Christmas present to us all because it’s a tear-jerking reminder of the vital importance of our greatest treasure.

We can so often pine, wish, hope or strive for so much in life that we can sometimes overlook our greatest treasure…that is, those whom we love.

Enjoy being with your family and Merry Christmas to you all.

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Monitor The

Asleep at the wheel

been written by the little boy.

With permission from the little boy’s mother the letter appeared in a major British newspaper, and because Britain became so transfixed by what the little boy said, newspapers around the world decided to print the heartbreaking details.

The little boy would be around twenty two years of age by now but the impact of his letter remains the same. The little boy’s name is Lucien, and here’s what he wrote; “Dear Father Christmas, I hope you are well and not to (sic) cold. I hope you won’t think that I am a nuisance but I have changed my mind what I want for Christmas. I wanted to have a telescope but now I want to have my daddy back because without my daddy to help I will not be able to see the stars anyway.

Ingredients

2 cups Rice

en beans ½ cup chopped gre rot ½ cup chopped cartato 1 medium size po peas 1 cup Liliva beas or 1 big onion 1 big tomato powder 1tsp garam masala er 1tsp red chilli powd Pinch Tumeric Salt 2 tsp Ghee or oil Mint leaves

Method

Melt the ghee or pre heat the oil. Fry onion, tomato and the vegetables until soft.

Add the tumeric, chilli powder, garam masala, salt and mix well.

Drop the soaked rice in the pan, fry until its loose the moistness.

Add 4 cups of water, mix gently. Lid the pan and cook on medium heat until rice is cooked.

Serve

Top with mint leaves

and serve hot with chips and yogurt.

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THE MONITOR – Your Community Newspaper

The

Monitor NEWS

Proposed Plans for Retail Centre Released

R

ichard Stabile Property Manager for Roxby Central Shopping Centre provided The Monitor Newspaper with a preview of the proposed plan for extensions to the existing centre.

The new centre will increase the current floor space from &&sq metres to &&sq metres.

This will include expanding Woolworths by 1430 sq metres to a total of 3,500 sq metres. The additional space will allow for up to eight new speciality shops depending on their size.

While some car parking will be lost from the current car park which will be compensated by a new car park situated on the other side of Norman Place behind the Police station.

Mr Stabile said “at this time these plans have not been lodged with Council and the finalisation of the plans will not occur until BHP Billiton’s EIS is released.

Clearly we cannot proceed until we know the full impact and timing of the proposed expansion.”

The costs of enclosing and airconditioning the centre are far too expensive and create such a high increase in outgoings for the traders it would make many businesses unviable.

Mr Stabile said “The owners are committed to delivering the best and most cost efficient facilities possible for traders and the customers however, if the cost to the traders is unreasonably high it is eventually passed onto the customer in the form of higher prices.

Since the recent publicity there has been a significant reduction of skateboarders and cyclists riding through the Mall.

The Management and Tenants wish to thank skate boarders and cyclists and their parents in helping us to keep the Mall as a safe place and look forward to your continued support in the matter.

Artists impression of front of the new Roxby Central.

Operation Flinders Awards A s if it a wasn’t reward enough to complete the 7 day trek our team of girls experienced during Operation Flinders three of the girls received awards at a ceremony last Friday.

Operation Flinders dev man Jonathon Robran and Team Leaders Jenny Vonic-Joyce and Ian Shedlick came to Roxby for a final debrief with the girls and to formally present the awards.

McKenzie Frunks was presented with the Boomerang Award for her outstanding support both physically and emotionally support of her team.

She was an excellent peer group mentor and had just the right light hearted touch to reach her team

members.

Operation Flinders occasionally bestows a Scott Hartman Award.

The award typifies the resilience of a past participant, who during his trek, made major changes in his life and departed the trek ready to take on the world with a new direction and determination.

Unfortunately he was involved in a car accident and never got to realise his new found dream.

This special Award was presented to Jodi Luscombe who showed outstanding resilience and fortitude during the trek.

Congratulations to all of the Team and Operations Flinders for such an outstanding success.

Noel Wilton a man of the Dreamtime

O

ne of the experiences the team remembered vividly was a visit to their cap by indigenous educator Noel Wilton.

Noel Wilton sings about Dreamtime.

THE MONITOR – Your Community Newspaper

Noel is of the adymamathana people lives in Nepabunna. He drives the school bus, teaches at the Leigh Creek School, has a family and supports Operation Flinders.

When he attended the girls at their campsite he made them a Kanga-

roo stew in an open fire and shared damper made by his wife.

He also told them stories of the Dreamtime which he had put to music which bought the stories alive and made them even more memorable.

The was quite a bit of showmanship in Noel’s performance as he easily got all the team up singing and jumping about to an action song which had his audience demanded repeat performances.

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Thursday, December 18th, 2008 – Page 3

The

Monitor NEWS

The meaning of Christmas

Australia Day

Australia’s biggest national celebration

A

ustralia Day, January 26, is the biggest day of celebration in the country and is observed across Australia.

Every city, town, nook and cranny hangs out a flag, turns on the BBQ and may even sing a verse of Waltzing Matilda.

On Australia Day we come together as a nation to celebrate what’s great about Australia and being Australian. It’s the day to reflect on what we

By Zak Zeptner

have achieved and what we can be proud of in our great nation.

In Roxby Downs part of our reflection is the announcement of the Australia Day Citizen, Australia Day Young Citizen and Community Event of the year as nominated by the community.

The announcement will be made at a free Australia Day community breakfast held at the pool complex.

It’s a great morning to meet up with friends and provides fun activities for kids.

Smart Christmas money

C

hristmas is a time of presents and with presents comes the unavoidable spending of money but it does not have to be too painful to pull out the wallet this year.

Rate Detective, a finance investigation company, has released its top five tips for spending this Christmas and avoiding a large debt in January.

“It’s essential that people devise a budget and really plan for the additional spending over the Christmas period.

There are a number of simple strategies that consumers can put into place to ensure they won’t be faced with unexpected debt in the New Year,” said Rate Detective Co-founder David Kaplan.

Rate Detective’s tips for avoiding debts are: 1. Remember your regular bills and expense, like rent. These don’t stop just because it’s Christmas, so set aside money to cover these regular

expenses.

2. Create a budget for you and your family and make sure your whole family sticks to it. Agree on what you will spend on gifts and eating out over the Christmas period and don’t be tempted to spend over your limit.

3. Investigate credit cards that don’t charge interest for 60 days. That way, you won’t be paying interest on Christmas charges until February. Also work towards maximising your available credit and minimising the amount of outstanding debt.

4. Don’t leave your Christmas shopping until the last minute. You may be forced to spend more, simply because the item you wanted has sold out!

5. Don’t shop for yourself! Set a rule that you’ll only buy gifts for those on your list, and not yourself.

By following these steps, you should be able to buy the gifts your friends and family desire without finding yourself in debt next year.

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Facebook’s director of security has said this is an “important victory for our users- and against spam and those who create it.”

Adam Guerbuez and Atlantis Blue Capital have been ordered to pay the sum for statutory damages and aggravated statutory damages for violations of the Controlling the Assault of NonSolicited Pornography and Marketing Act. One user of Facebook posted the question: “Does Facebook expect

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to quickly collect the $A1.38 billion and share the proceeds in some way with users?”

“Alas no.,” was the response from Facebook.

“It’s unlikely that Guerbuez and Atlantis Blue Capital could ever honour the judgement rendered against them.”

“But we are confident that this award represents a powerful deterrent to anyone and everyone who would seek to abuse Facebook and its users.”

Guerbuez and Atlantis Blue Capital have been barred from having any contact with Facebook in the future.

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The true meaning behind Christmas has been lost, fears Roxby Downs’ churches.

When asked what Christmas was about, many would say presents, however, the town’s churches disagree.

“It’s very sad kids say it’s about presents and family and while family is important, it’s not the reason for the season; it’s sad that side of things is lost,” said a spokesperson from the Roxby Downs Lutheran Church.

“People now just don’t believe you should be able to tell people what it’s all about and express your feelings about it; you’re allowed to be out front with abortion and homosexuality but you’re not allowed to voice you opinions on Christianity.”

Revered Bob McKay of the Roxby Downs Christian Community Church is of a similar opinion, though acquiesces to the general consensus.

“We’ve accepted second best, society has accepted second best because they’ve probably replaced Christ with the work of the hands and that’s second best but…it’s still there for them,” he said.

“There’s not much point thinking about baby Jesus unless you realise that he actually grew up and when he grows up he puts some other requirements on our lives; little baby Jesus is easy, it’s the grown up Jesus which I think some people find difficult to embrace.”

The Churches joined to celebrate Christmas this year at Saint Barbara’s Parish School Oval with a carols night, and as successful as it was, the Churches will again separate to perform their own communions.

The Christian Community Church will be holding a Christmas Eve reading at 11pm, reciting the Christmas story and will accompany it with the singing of traditional carols.

Christmas Day will see a communion at 10am to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ.

Unfortunately, the Lutheran Church is unsure what it will be doing for Christmas day as the Pastor will be in Port Augusta.

“Because we’re such a tiny congregation, it’s a matter of working out who’s going to be in town.”

Both the Lutheran and Christian Churches would love to see more people involved however as Reverend McKay says: “We want a genuine expression of faith.”

While faith cannot be forced on any one, both churches offer a message for Christmas.

“Christmas is a time of revolution and change, not a time of baby Jesus doing nothing,” said Reverend McKay. The Lutheran Church Spokesperson said, “The main thing on Christmas day is for people to sit and reflect and remember this is the day our saviour was born, the one who came to save us from all the bad things in the world.”

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COMMUNITY RADIO “LOCAL, LIVE AND LOVIN’ IT” Page 4– Thursday, December 18th, 2008

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THE MONITOR – Your Community Newspaper

The

Monitor NEWS

Would a Drag Strip help? Beware the Mosquito

By Krystle Bower

A

n increase of hooning in Roxby Downs has sparked interest in the idea of introducing a drag strip to the rural area.

Members of the public are fed up with the screeching of tires on local streets and want a place for hoons to go; to get them o of the streets.

The question raised by The Monitor is, would a Drag Strip help?

It has been indicated by members of the community that a Drag Strip would be an eective way to keep hoons o of the streets. “It is an interesting suggestion

establishing a drag strip to control hoon driving,� Roxby Downs Council Administrator Bill Boehm said. “I am not aware of this being carried out elsewhere or if this has been a success.�

A drag strip is a place where motor vehicle enthusiasts can go and compete in a safe environment, giving them a chance to race and vent. “I think a structured drag racing circuit would be beneficial to the community of Roxby Downs as long as it contributed to rendering the streets of Roxby Downs safer, free of hoon drivers,� Sergeant Stuart Paxton said.

The subject of a drag strip was brought to light after rigorous eorts

by the Police and community to keep hoon drivers o of the street. “The best tool against hoon driving is the community; however in Roxby Downs the public are reluctant to take down registration numbers or give Police a statement so we can impound the hoon’s cars and send them to court,â€? Sergeant Paxton said. “Local police have adopted a zero tolerance to hoon driving if and when we come across it.â€?

And as far as how eďŹƒcient a drag strip would be in Roxby Downs: “Only time will tell,â€? Sergeant Paxton said. “Anything that helps take the hoons o the streets is beneďŹ cial to any community.â€?

Local Leaders Celebrate

W

For rainwater tanks, Mr Kroemer sugith the recent rainfall in November comes the inva- gests placing a concoction of cod-liver oil in the tanks to create a ďŹ lm across the wasion of the Mosquito. ter that will kill newly hatched mossies.

These annoying and potentially dangerous creatures can be responsible for some series health concerns.

To help prevent the spread of illnesses from these disease carrying bugs, people need to be aware of where they breed and how to prevent this.

Trevor Kroemer, Roxby Council Water and Sewage Manager says mosquitoes breed in still water and only migrate from their breeding ground if strong winds force them. “They don’t breed on running water, only still,� said Mr Kroemer.

Places such as rainwater tanks, pot plants and water storing containers left outside are hotspots for these pest and precautions should be taken to prevent breeding.

JOHNSTON WITHERS LAWYERS

In this photo: Pt Augusta/Roxby Downs syndicate celebrating at the SARCLP Graduation. From left: Claire Wiseman (NRDB), Sean Holden (Office Of Regional Affairs), John McAuliffe(Tafe), Kimberley Cowey (BRT Eng), Sam Johnson (Elders), Verity Paterson (PA Hospital), Linley Shine (Indig Co-ord Cntr), Kaye Doyle (GHD), Hon Graham Gunn (Stuart) and Michelle Parker (Tafe)

T

wo of Roxby’s Leaders joined their fellow participants, as the group of 24 celebrated at the Graduation Dinner of the SA Regional Community Leadership Program last Thursday evening.

The SARCLP, a winner in this year’s SA Great Awards, hosted the Graduation Ceremony with participants and guests from Whyalla, Pt Pirie, Kadina, Roxby Downs and Pt Augusta.

Also in attendance were the Member for Stuart Graham Gunn and his wife, Professor Neil Otway (Dean UniSA – Whyalla) and his wife, as well as Bill Boehm and partner Kaye Doyle (a participant) and Special Guest Speaker, Professor Len Pullin (UniSA, City West - Adelaide).

Professor Pullin, who had worked with the Gippsland Community Leadership prior to moving to South Australia in 2004, suggested the concept to a number of community organisations in late 2005.

This year is the ďŹ rst that the regional version of the program has run with the Upper Spencer Gulf and Roxby Downs group, modeled on both the regional Gippsland model and the Governor’s Leadership Foundation based in Adelaide. “The program has been an outstanding successâ€?, said Management Committee Chair, Russell Bambridge. “The group of people that have experienced the Program this year, have looked at as many of the local and state issues and topics as we could ďŹ t into 10 months, and are now far more informed on these issues than

For appointments, contact us at:

Telephone: 8231 1110 (Adelaide) 8642 5122 (Pt Augusta) Fax: 8231 1230 Email: mail@johnstonwithers.com.au Web: www.johnstonwithers.com.au

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Nic Kernahan and Emma Wilkinson will next be in attendance at the offices of Lin Andrews Real Estate, 3 Richardson Place, Roxby Downs on 21 January, 2009.

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most in their communitiesâ&#x20AC;?, he said.

Bill Boehm, on behalf of the Management Committee, spoke at the dinner and congratulated all for their commitment to the Program and for contributing to the recognition the program now enjoys.

Applications for the 2009 Program are currently being received and interviews across the region have commenced. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve had an excellent response for next yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s programâ&#x20AC;?, Mr Bambridge said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We have the numbers we need from most centres and one or two more applications from Roxby would ensure an ideal balanceâ&#x20AC;?. Information on the 2009 program is available at: www.sarclp.org.au.

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are now visiting Roxby Downs each month Offering professional legal advice and representation in most areas of law including:

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For pot plants and water containers, emptying them on a regular basis will help prevent a mosquito infestation.

The council works hard to prevent the spread of these pests by placing Prolink in their dams.

This, Mr Kroemer said, is a lot friendlier to the environment and to people than previous chemicals used in the past.

The lifecycle of the mosquito is also of interest as it normally takes three to four weeks for mosquitoes to breed and as such, still water containers should be emptied during this period.

With the increase in rains over the past month, it is clear there will be mosquitoes around town and in the surrounding areas of Roxby however as Mr Kroemer says, â&#x20AC;&#x153;You canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t wipe them all out together.â&#x20AC;?

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The

Monitor COMMUNITY MATTERS

Super Splash

By Kristen Worby, Ryan Worby and Cameron Burton Roxby Downs Venturers

On Friday, December 5, the Roxby Downs Venturer Scout Unit went to Super Splash, an end of year event for South Australian Venturers, on the banks of the Murray River at Morgan. This year the theme was “Looney Tunes”.

We arrived at 6:30pm and found a good spot to set up our tents; we then went off to socialise and enjoy ourselves. There were movies running all night for those keen enough to stay up. On Saturday morning, everyone was awake by 5:30am, although some Venturer’s never slept.

Activities started at 9:00; we decided to go sailing first. Our sailing instructor, Colin, taught us how to make the sail boat move, we learnt some of the terminology involved in sailing. We also went on a ski biscuit.

It was heaps of fun because the three

of us could go on at once.

We decided to all have a go on the rock climbing wall. We all did very well but Ryan was the most successful. He was trying to get to the top of the more difficult ones.

We went mountain bike riding down a big hill, we all had fun doing this as we don’t usually get the chance to go mountain bike riding.

On Saturday night, there was a rock climbing competition, unfortunately none of us qualified for it.

After the rock climbing, there was a disco, complete with smoke machine which fogged out half the campsite!

Some of the Venturer’s (and Leaders) at the disco did some pretty crazy dancing.

On Sunday, we got up around seven and started packing up our gear. After breakfast with a Venturer

leader, whose group we went hiking with in June, we had another go at rock climbing. This time Ryan got to the top of the line that would have qualified him for the previous night’s competition. Oh well, next year…

We also went land yachting in the morning, and we had tonnes of fun and want to build one for ourselves as a project next year.

All too soon it was lunch time and then time to go. The trip tired everyone out, especially Cameron who was asleep ten minutes into the journey home.

We all had a brilliant time and would like to thank our Venturer Leader, Mike, for taking us to Morgan.

ABOVE: Ryan Worby makes his way up the climbing wall RIGHT: Kristen Worby gliding along in the land yacht

Aussies risk Blindness

By Krystle Bower

A

lack of knowledge is putting Australians at risk of blindness and vision impairment.

Ryan, Kristen and Alex tubing

Parenting Quote of the Week…

The Strengthening Our Families volunteers have provided our community with caring and generous support.

The Steering Committee and project supporters wish them a very MERRY CHRISTMAS!

A national survey commissioned by Australia’s peak eye health body, and Vision 2020 Australia, demonstrates an alarming lack of understanding among Australians about caring for their sight.

The survey of 1200 people found that one third of Australians were risking blindness and vision impairment.

People also made contradictory claims about their knowledge of the issue, highlighting the fact that most people simply do not understand how to care for their eyesight – especially as they age.

Almost one third of Australians believe they don’t need to get their eyes tested unless they have symptoms of an eye problem, According to the survey, this belief however is incorrect.

66 per cent of Australians do not realise that there are no symptoms to indicate early eye diseases, which eventually could rob them of their sight.

More than half a million Australians over the age of 40 are blind or vision impaired, as a result of these misconceptions, and 75 per cent of Australians have conditions that were preventable or treatable if they were

caught early with a simple eye test.

CEO of Vision 2020 Australia, Jennifer Gersbeck, said: “The fact that hundreds of thousands of Australians will be blind or vision impaired because they skipped a simple eye test is truly alarming.”

“I wasn’t concerned about having my eyes tested regularly because I thought I was fine – until I was diagnosed with glaucoma,” said Margaret Hammond, a woman whose sight was saved by early detection.

“If I didn’t have my eyes tested when I was 46, I might not have been able to see today. It’s that simple.”

Ms Gersbeck said it was especially important for Australians over the age of 40 to have regular eye checks to help prevent permanent vision loss in later years.

“There is a direct link between ageing and vision impairment or blindness, regardless of where you live or what your environment is like,” she said.

“The major eye conditions that cause over 80% of blindness and vision impairment in Australia are agerelated macular degeneration, cataract, diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma and uncorrected refractive error.

“Most of these conditions can be treated if they are caught early. A regular eye test and being aware of the health of your eyes can prevent permanent vision loss.”

One third of people surveyed listed blindness as their greatest fear out of a list of four serious medical

Meeting Dates

GENERAL INFORMATION

NEXT YEAR MEETING DATES WILL BE CONFIRMED IN THE MONITOR’S NEXT EDITION ON JANUARY 22, 2009

If you would like to do a presentation to the Community Board please contact Michelle Hales to organise a date and time to be placed on the agenda.

Requests close on the Wednesday prior to the Board meeting. Board meetings take place on the last Monday of the month.

An initiative of the Environment Forum

Strengthening Our Families can provide a volunteer to support you to enjoy and strengthen your family relationships.

3 green tips to simplify your life: Reuse, Reduce, Recycle

You can get more information from Jo Culf at the Roxby Downs Health Services on 8671 9020 or joanne.culf@health.sa.gov.au Strengthening Our Families is proudly supported by BHP Billiton Olympic Dam.

REDUCE means to buy less rubbish so you have less to get rid of later on.

1. Consider buying in bulk. For example a 1kg tomato sauce bottle will use less packaging than two 500g bottles.

2. Buy products that are durable, last a long time and are easily repaired.

3. Buy your ham and bacon from the deli container wrapped in paper rather than buying it pre-packaged in plastic. You will also find this is usually cheaper and fresher.

Page 6 – Thursday, December 18th, 2008

complaints – second only to cancer (43%).

To avoid becoming victims to an eye condition, get your eyes checked regularly, especially if you are over the ages of 40, have diabetes, have a family history of glaucoma or macular degeneration, or are of Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander descent.

If you notice any changes in your eyes, seek immediate professional attention, and take care of your eyes, by wearing sunglasses.

Your eyes are a precious part of your body and in most cases can not be fixed once damaged, so don’t skip around the issue, get your eyes checked and insure your sight for the future.

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BOARD MEETINGS

JOINING FORUMS

Members of the community are encouraged to join any of the forums or partnerships. If you would like to join the Arts and Culture Forum, Education and Workplace Training Forum, Family and Youth Forum, Environment Forum, Sport and Recreation Forum or Volunteering Partnership you are welcome to attend any of the meetings. Meeting times appear in the Monitor on a regular basis.

If you would like to join the Health Forum and/or Alcohol and Substance Abuse Partnership please contact Michelle Hales on 0418 833 818 or via email to: halesm@roxbycouncil.com.au to express your interest.

FURTHER INFORMATION

If you would like to find out more about any of the forums visit the www.roxbydowns.com website or contact Michelle Hales Executive Officer Roxby Downs Community Board Inc. Mobile: 0418 833 818 Phone: 8671 0010 Fax: 8671 0452 Email: halesm@roxbycouncil.com.au THE MONITOR – Your Community Newspaper

The

Monitor OPINION

Monitorrial The

Edito

The end is nigh - a new beginning awaits In a few weeks 2008, the year of the Rat, will be done and dusted and we can all look forward to a new, if uncertain, beginning in 2009.

It’s a year that will be full of interest for Roxby Downs, Andamooka, Woomera, The Far North and our adjoining regions, all of whom will be waiting with a degree of anxiousness and expectation on the release of BHP Billiton’s Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) on the proposed expansion.

The impact of the final decisions to be made by BHP Billiton and the Governments will have a ripple effect that will be felt across the globe.

The EIS will be delivered amidst a background of global and national financial uncertainty to which even Roxby Downs is not immune. The expected international slow down will affect the demand for our resources and may yet determined the timing of the role out of the expansion.

Given that, our region can be more assured than most.

Demand for resources may drop for a time and the ore body may be mined at a slower pace but it will not go away.

Whatever happens will happen and for the vast majority, we have no control on the outcomes.

In the New Year we must remind ourselves of what is important and focus on those aspects of our life. It varies from person to person but health, fitness, family and a personal sense of wellbeing is in the mix for most of us. These are all things that we can personally control …………. and there in lies the answer!

Individually, as a family and a community we must focus on what we can influence or control and not get too caught up in what is outside our reach.

If you are looking after yourself and crafting a personal sense of wellbeing you will be far better equipped to handle both the opportunities and challenges 2009 brings to your doorstep.

Best Wishes for 2009 Ray Goldie

Spotlight on you Q. Full Name A. Jessica Laslo Q. Nickname A. Canada Q. Where are you from?

A. Mission, BC, Canada Q. How long have you been in Roxby?

A. 14 Months Q. Occupation A. Production Metallurgist – BHP Billiton Q. Favourite food A. Roast Beef and Ice Cream… not together though Q. What hobbies do you have?

A. Any sports Q. What is you idea of fun?

A. Sitting around in a kiddy pool with my friends Q. Winter or summer?

A. winter! But with Snow…

Q. What is something you consider you do really well?

A. Talk Q. What frustrates you?

A. Bad Attitudes Q. What is your favourite Quote?

A. The most wasted day of all is that during which you do not laugh Q. What would you do with $10 million if you won it?

A. buy things for my friends and family. Buy my brother-in-law a ferrari Q. Who would you least like to sit next to on a plane and why?

A. Andrew Winterfield, because he snores Q. What is something about you that not many people would know?

A. That I can’t wink with my right eye Q. If you had one wish, what would it be?

A. To own a cheese Factory

What about the Bush?

The G over nment ’s recent announcement that will it create a financing trust for car dealers who have been put in jeopardy due to the decision by financiers GE Money Motor Solutions and GMAC to cease operating in Australia has raised some un answered questions by Federal Member for Grey Rowan Ramsey.

The Member for Grey Rowan Ramsey said while he welcomes the Treasurer’s overdue announcement affected by the withdrawal of the financiers, he wants clarification that agricultural dealerships will also be protected.

“While many agricultural dealers also deal in car sales, there are some that

do not,” he said.

“These businesses also need a guarantee that they can continue to operate.

“The Treasurer’s announcement does not clarify to me whether agricultural businesses such as Booleroo Agencies and others in my electorate will be protected.

“I raised the question of how we can secure the future of these businesses in question time recently and look for some assurance from the Treasurer that the financing needed by agricultural businesses to continue to operate can be guaranteed.”

Rowan Ramsey raises the question ‘What about the bush?’

Contact us...

The Monitor is a communityowned initiative aimed at improving regional communication between the community, industry, small business and Local Government.

Contributions are welcomed but The Monitor reserves the right to edit all material submitted in accordance with newspaper policy and legal requirements.

The Monitor retains copyright for all images and text produced for, and published by The Monitor - Your Community Newspaper.

Address: 6 Richardson Place, Roxby Downs Write: PO Box 72, Roxby Downs SA 5725 Give us a call for sales, news etc on: Office (08) 8671 2683 Fax (08) 8671 2843 Email Directly to The Monitor: editor@themonitor.com.au graphics@themonitor.com.au news@themonitor.com.au sales@themonitor.com.au

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Thursday, December 18th, 2008 – Page 7

Monitor NEWS

experience the benefits of change

Introducing a new Community Banking Solution to Roxby Downs.

A full transactional banking provider based in Roxby Downs Business banking facilities Full range of banking products and services Everyone in Roxby Downs and surrounding districts can enjoy banking where members benefit Commitment to supporting the community through the establishment of the Roxby Downs Community Foundation • A new look Service Centre for your comfort For information on our products and services call us on 8671 2555 or 1300 654 321, or visit our website at www.bigsky.net.au/roxbydowns

11/08 7819

• • • • •

Privacy: If you do not wish to receive any further communication regarding our products and services, please contact Big Sky. Big Sky Credit Union Ltd ABN 51 087 651 358 AFSL 240735 BSB 803-228 Web: www.bigsky.net.au Email: bigsky@bigsky.net.au

Page 8– Thursday, December 18th, 2008

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THE MONITOR – Your Community Newspaper

The

Monitor NEWS

Women: The money or the man?

M

oney or man, what is more important to the modern day woman?

While divorce rates continue to rise amid today’s demanding lifestyles and challenging economic conditions, it seems women may have more reliable relationships with money than with men.

Women are finally realising how risky it is to depend on finding “Mr. Right”, instead they are finding “Mr. Right Now”.

Gone are the days when a woman needs a man, move over ‘tradition’ and make room for ‘change’, independence is the lifestyle they lead.

Supposedly women don’t

need to be taken care of any more; they are now working in better jobs that provide more financial stability.

“The overall message from women when it comes to money is that financial independence equals freedom,” as reported in an article released

by Schick Women’s systems.

With demanding careers and an active social life, the average woman has no time for a man and his needs, with emotional games becoming too common.

Women are becoming just as cautious as men are about investing time and money into a relationship, and can no longer justify tying themselves down.

Possibilities are endless for

Roxby’s Community Banking Solution

women; they hold their whole life firmly in their hands.

As lifestyle trends continue to change, so do the expectations of society, and the structure in which everyone has to co exist.

The modern day woman is more worried about being financially stable then finding their one soul mate.

“While (money) may still not buy happiness, it does afford a little extra freedom in life,” said Schick Women’s systems.

It is probably a good thing for men that scientists haven’t completely being able to create a method of childbirth that doesn’t require a man at some point; otherwise women may not need them at all.

The well awaited Big Sky Community Banking Solution was launched yesterday in Tutop Street. Big Sky proudly brought their new initiative to the Roxby Downs community. Everyone in Roxby Downs will benefit, either as an individual, as a family, as a local business and most importantly, as a community.

Roxby Down is the third community banking solution that Big Sky has opened in the past 7 months. The first community banking solution was opened in April in the mining town of South Hedland (WA). Moranbah in central Queensland was opened in October and yesterday it was Roxby’s turn.

Not settling on the trifecta, Big Sky has plans

This Sunday 20th December 2008 9:30am—12:30pm @ The Lion‛s Park

For Further Information Contact

Petra-Community Health Nurse 8671 9020

THE MONITOR – Your Community Newspaper

Bring Water Bottle Hat Sunscreen Something for the BBQ Anything fun!

to introduce Community Banking to Newman in Western Australia in early 2009.

The Roxby Downs Service Centre Manager, Ms Jenny McNamara explained that “the refreshed Service Centre now has a full cash transaction service, which means that you can deposit and withdraw cash directly from the Service Centre. This should be make banking a lot easier for our members”.

Big Sky is also introducing business banking for the local business whether you’re a small business or a franchise Big Sky can assist. Some of the benefits of Big Sky’s business banking account are EFTPOS facilities, transaction facilities, competitive investments options and full internet banking access.

Big Sky is further supporting the Roxby Community with the establishment of the ‘Roxby Downs Community Foundation’. As Mr Richard Irving

explained, “Big Sky has committed to contribute 10% of the Roxby Downs Service Centre’s after tax profits into the foundation each year. The success of the Service Centre will help ensure the Community Foundation has a solid level of funding”.

The foundation will be run by members of the Roxby Downs community who will decide on how the funds will be used to directly benefit the community.

2008 saw the successful introduction of the “Roxby Downs Community Person of the Month”. Sponsored by Big Sky and The Monitor newspaper, the award recognises an individual’s involvement and commitment to the community. Already the award has recognised 4 proud Roxby Downs residents.

Yesterday we saw the newly refurbished Service Centre re-open its doors;

Big Sky was honoured by Mr Bill Boehm, Township Administrator – Roxby Downs Council, who officially cut the ribbon, marking an important start to Community Banking in Roxby.

Everyone at the Service Centre was excited to be there for the opening, Jenny McNamara was delighted to see this project come to fruition. “For many months I have seen the benefits of Community Banking in Hedland and Moranbah, to now be able to offer this to people in my town makes me feel very proud.”

The day started with very good wishes from everyone in the community, a number of Big Sky members said that the new look of the Service Centre is fantastic.

Big Sky would like to thank everyone in the Community who helped make the re-launch a success!

International Volunteers day

O

n Friday, December 5 Outback Smart hosted a party at the Tavern to celebrate International Volunteers day.

Attendees included a representative from Conservation Volunteers Australia, Arid Recovery, Outback Field naturalists and the Roxby Downs Environment Forum and volunteers.

The night was accompanied by good conversation and filling appetisers.

Outback Smart would like to recognise their sponsors, Conservation Volunteers Australia, BHP Billiton Olympic Dam and the Roxby Downs Environment Forum, as well as the volunteers who willingly volunteer their LEFT TO RIGHT: Cathy Whiting, Sabina Doney, Ian Lloyd, Tricia Curtis time to the program. and Sophie Torrisi at the Outback smart Volunteers evening.

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Thursday, December 18th, 2008 – Page 9

Monitor Best Photos 2008 The

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Self-Cleaning, Easily programmable, one-position Cappuccino Page 10 – Thursday, December 18th, 2008

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THE MONITOR – Your Community Newspaper

Monitor Best Photos 2008 The

DAVE KOVAC al artist Loc ‘Sand Goanna’ Limited Edition of 250

$75 unframed $250 framed

Contact Dave on 0409 726 252 EFTPOS available

56th CARRIETON RODEO SATURDAY 27th DECEMBER 2008

WIN

Six complimentary tickets to the Carrieton Rodeo, Rodeo Merchandise, including Esky, hats, echo holders, stickers and more!

Total prize valued at $250.00

Name: Address: Phone: Competition drawn Friday 19th December 2008 Conditions of entry: Competition commences Dec 4, 2008 & closes 11am Dec 19, 2008 and will be drawn at The Monitor office at 1pm on this day. The winner will be notified by phone. Total prize value is around $250. Post your entry to Carrieton Rodeo Competition, PO Box 72, Roxby Downs, SA, 5725 or drop in the box at the front office of The Monitor in the Council Chambers, 6 Richardson Place, Roxby Downs.

THE MONITOR – Your Community Newspaper

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Thursday, December 11th, 2008 – Page 11

The

Monitor NEWS

B

Police Report

etween 5:30 pm on Tuesday 2 December and 8:00 am Wednesday 3 December a vehicle was broken into whilst parked in the driveway of a house on Hamilton Court. Among items taken was a black 80GB Ipod valued at over $300.

Anyone with information that may assist, please contact Roxby Downs Police on 86710370 or Bank SA Crimestoppers on 1800 333 000.

With Christmas Shut down and people taking time off away from their homes, SAPOL remind occupiers to think of their safety and security. Don’t give the opportunist thief the incentive or opportunity to take your property.

Don’t leave valuables on show in your cars and ensure your vehicle is secured when left in public places.

Two local (Roxby Downs) female adults and one female youth were arrested in relation to assaulting another female in the Roxby Downs Tavern at about 2:00 am on Saturday 6 December. Anyone who witnessed this assault is asked to please contact Roxby Downs Police on 86710370 or Bank SA Crimestoppers on 1800 333 000.

A female adult has been reported by Police for assaulting another female at the Roxby Downs Club at about 2:00 am on Sunday 7 December. Anyone who witnessed this assault is asked to please contact Roxby Downs Police on 86710370 or Bank SA Crimestoppers on 1800 333 000.

A male adult from Roxby Downs was reported for various traffic offences including driving his motor car on the road whilst it was unregistered and uninsured.

A male adult from Roxby Downs was arrested on Saturday evening, 6 December, for disorderly behaviour.

This persons actions had potential to spoil the spirit of goodwill and family friendly environment of the Roxby Downs Christmas celebrations.

Roxby Downs Police are investigating vandalism to the shops on Tuotop Street. The attached photographs of the graffiti might trigger some recognition by parents or peers of the offender/s. The cost of cleaning and restoring

the physical aspects of property that is subject to this sort of vandalism is borne by the whole community; it is not a victimless crime. Anyone with information that may assist, please contact Roxby Downs Police on 86710370 or Bank SA Crimestoppers on 1800 333 000.

Roxby Downs Police are investigating an allegation of assault using a motor vehicle that occurred in the Oasis Hotel Car Park around midnight on Tuesday 25 November. Of particular interest is the behaviour of the driver of a white Ford sedan that was seen in the car park at the time of this alleged assault. Anyone who witnessed this incident is asked to please contact Roxby Downs Police on 86710370 or Bank SA Crimestoppers on 1800 333 000.

The fire danger season in South Australia has arrived.

At the recent Bushfire Prevention Forum, Regional CFS officers expressed their concerns over the low moisture content of soils in the area. With the unseasonable rains spurring plant growth the risk of a bushfire has increased.

Please keep a look out for suspicious activity when you are in the scrub. Last Christmas-New Year period saw a spate of fires lit within the bark chips within Roxby Downs.

To enable CFS and SAPOL investigators to recognise patterns, the community is encouraged to report any instances of these types of fires that they come across.

Please contact Roxby Downs Police on 86710370 or Bank SA Crimestoppers on 1800 333 000.

Roxby Downs Police congratulate the Community on their behaviour and Christmas spirit on Saturday night during the Christmas Pageant and the Street Party. The preparedness of people to leave their cars at home and not drinking and driving and the good natured interaction that occurred reinforced why Roxby Downs is a great place to live and work. We hope this behaviour will continue over the Christmas – New Year period and, should you be travelling, remind you to drive carefully, take breaks and be considerate of other road users. Should you be ABOVE: Graffiti is not a victimless crime! Anyone with information as to who remaining in the area, please think of others who may still may be responsible for this graffiti on Tutop Street should report it to police or call Bank SA Crimestopper on 1800 333 000. be working if you are having get-togethers.

BANG! - Opening Night

ABOVE LEFT: Jane Rogers shows her moves durning the performance.

ABOVE: Nicole McKay, Meaghan Kiely and Kathy Wilby eargerly awaiting the start of BANG! ABOVE RIGHT: Loraine Tyler caused quite a laugh as the selfabsorbed reporter.

BELOW LEFT: Angela Walton, Kathryn Smith and Julie Trager gather for a night of theatre.

BELOW: The cast perform the song W.M.C. BELOW RIGHT: Phillipa Weltner and Darren Lowe relax with a drink during the internission.

Page 12 – Thursday, December 18th, 2008

www.themonitor.com.au

THE MONITOR – Your Community Newspaper

The

Monitor REAL ESTATE

Quiet Cul-de-sac Location!

6 Torrens Court $445,000

a nice tranquil living environment!

The house also features Located in a very quiet three good size bedrooms, cul-de-sac, this home offers all with built-in robes, a

Build the deck and they will come

R

oxby Downs’s families sure know how to throw a backyard party and nothing draws a crowd like a big deck and a flaming barbeque.

Whit our climate outdoors areas are well used and deserve to be more than the ‘outdoor or entertainment’ area. With some thought these areas can become a seamless and stylish ‘outdoor room’ to your house.

Architects have been instrumental in creating funky and functional barbie backdrops for years and a recent poll of 800 Archicentre architects around the country shows that the ’outdoor room’ is now more popular than ever.

“Australians take their outdoor settings very seriously,” says Robert Caulfield, managing director of Archicentre. “For them, this is the place to kick back for six to eight months of the year A recent survey of Archicentre architects around the country revealed the most popular trends for outdoor living are; Decks 86.3% Barbeque 70.3% Pergolas 68.5% Drought-tolerant landscaping 64.4% Paving instead of lawn 45.2% Swimming pools 42.0% Water features 34.7% Sound system 20.1% Lawn area 19.2% Granny flats 8.2% With a climate that virtually invites outdoor living all year round it makes sense to invest in the ‘backyard’ as you would an extension to your house and turn it into an oasis.

One simple method recommended by Mr Caulfield to ease the transition from indoors to outdoors, is to install bi-fold or rolling doors for the illusion of seamlessly, extending the indoor flooring outdoors.”

HIA CONSUMER COLUMN

Make sure you leave no invitations to thieves

ing friends. This excellent home is ready to move into now!

For details on this property and many more, please phone Craig Sumsion on 0408 366 614 We’ll look after you!

Shop 4 / 14 Tutop Street, ROXBY DOWNS, SA 5725 Ph 8671 3355 Fax 8671 3366 Email roxbydowns@rhsa.com.au Website rhsa.com.au

RLA # 208715

By David Gaffney, South Australia and NT Executive Director

I

t is a sad fact of life that we live in a time when crime is generally on the rise.

Our grandparents could leave their homes unlocked with a window open and be confident that everything would still be safe when they arrived home.

Those days are long gone and while we are luckier than some countries where people feel safe only behind a phalanx of security guards inside gated communities, we all need to take some basic precautions, especially with the holiday season coming up when many homes will be empty.

All doors leading to the outside should have deadlocks.

These are excellent security devices, but should never be engaged when you are at home, just in case you have to make a fast exist in the event of an emergency such as a fire when you have no time to find the key.

Install an alarm system – it does not have to be particularly sophisticated, just something that makes a loud noise is very effective - and make sure through signage or a prominent external installation that it is plainly visible to any casual observer that a system is in place.

Stop deliveries of newspapers and other regular items and ask the post office to hold your mail.

An alternative is to re-

cruit a reliable friend to ensure everything is gathered in on a daily basis.

Thieves look for darkened houses during the evening hours when lights would normally be on.

Connect a light to a timer to come on when dusk falls and stay on until your normal bedtime.

Notify the police of the dates that you are going to be away and ask a neighbour to check on the property periodically.

If you are the person staying at home offer to do this for others and in any case, be a nosy neighbour on the lookout for any suspicious activity. If you see anything that arouses your concerns, contact the police.

If you are living in an apartment complex with an intercom system make sure whoever is responsible for it keeps it well maintained.

Never admit anyone to the building who says they need to make a delivery to another apartment whose owner is not home.

Anyone claiming to be a tradesperson with work to do should be referred to the building manager.

If you are unsure about any structural aspect of your home’s security an HIA tradesperson will be happy to offer advice.

Need a tradesperson?

Find an HIA professional convenient to you at tradebuild.com.au.

PORT LINCOLN POINT BOSTON (beachside development – 12kms north of Port Lincoln) 3 Dress Circle Ocean Front Blocks of approx 820m2 with 20m frontages.

Breathtaking ocean views in a location that cannot be repeated.

Jingle bells, jingle bells, clean the red dust off the sleigh, Ov’ sand dunes of the outback, Santa’s on his way, Hey! It’s time for friends ‘n’ family and lots of Christmas cheer, Stay safe this festive season and right throughout next year!

The team from Raine & Horne Roxby Downs & “Pat the Wombat” wish to thank all our clients for their patronage throughout 2008 and look forward to seeing you in 2009.

Our office will be closed from Wed 24th Dec 2008 reopening Mon 5th Jan 2009 - contactable on 0408 366 614 throughout.

These exclusive ocean front blocks will never be more affordable!

If you are looking for • Free appraisals • Property Management • All Sales Enquiries in Roxby Downs and Andamooka,

SLASHED to $340,000 - $355,000.

Vendor’s Instructions – Present all offers

Contact the team at Raine & Horne Roxby Downs

Property ID – 2588525 on realestate.com.au Kris Papagiannis – 0421 620 308 – all hours MichaelKris Real Estate RLA – 212749 THE MONITOR – Your Community Newspaper

spacious kitchen with gas range, dining and lounge room. Year round comfort is provided by ducted evaporative cooling and a gas space heater in the lounge.

Step outside and enjoy the large paved pergola area, excellent for entertain-

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We’ll look after you PROUD SPONSORS OF THE ROXBY DOWNS CHRISTMAS PAGEANT 2008 Thursday, December 18th, 2008 – Page 13

Monitor Best Photos 2008 The

Sports

Page 18 – Thursday, December 11th, 2008

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The

Zeppy’s reviews

Monitor LIFESTYLE

Movie Review: The Dark Knight

Can you say Oscar?

2005’s Batman Begins was an instant hit, reinventing the Batman legend with style. It’s no wonder after its success that Warner Bros and director Christopher Nolan decided to create a sequel, and boy does it deliver.

The Dark Knight continues the story of millionaire Bruce Wayne (AKA Batman) and his quest to rid Gotham of the evils that plague it. Batman’s job this time around has been made easier with the introduction of District Attorney Harvey Dent, who shares Batman’s desire to clean up the streets, and he has done just that. That is, until a new criminal enters the scene: the Joker.

With the hype surrounding the death of Heath Ledger, it was questionable as to whether his performance was as outstanding as reported, however within seconds of seeing him on screen, all reservations are forgotten. Ledger is by far the star of The Dark Knight, bringing out the human psychosis of the Joker. Unlike Jack Nicholson’s performance which presented the character as a sarcastic bad guy, Ledger performs his role as a sadistic maniac, adding a sense of reality to the infamous villain. If Ledger does not receive Best Actor at next year’s Oscars, I will be sadly disappointed, though curious to learn of someone who plays a character with more talent and conviction that this year’s Joker.

The story of The Dark Knight is actually very simple: stop the Joker and anyone else who threatens the safety of Gotham. Of

course, to make a movie worth watching, Nolan has thrown in the love story between Rachel and Bruce and the character of Harvey Dent is play superbly by Aaron Eckhart. The introduction of Two Face is done smoothly, creating a believable character many could identify with.

The production and direction of The Dark Knight is done perfectly, with exceptionally choreographed fight scenes, perfectly written dialogue, extraordinary performances and a great storyline. There are a few surprising twists in The Dark Knight and the development of the character of Batman is terrific. It’s a classic superhero story set in a modern world where anything is possible, and nothing is questionable. The only shame concerning this film is the untimely death of Heath Ledger just as his career was beginning to skyrocket. Warner Bros is pushing him for an Oscar and I am 100 percent behind them.

The Dark Knight is marvellous, and was named the best film ever made by IMDB, surpassing even The Godfather, which held the top spot for many years. With its success, talks are underway for the next instalment of the revised Batman series and with rumours concerning Johnny Depp as the Ridler and Angelina Jolie as Catwoman, we are in for one fantastic movie.

The Verdict: 5/5

Movie Review: Twilight

Definately one for the holidays It is the global phenomenon being compared with Harry Potter and while in my opinion there will never be anything better than the Potter series, the Twilight saga comes pretty close. Now, just in time for the holidays, comes the much anticipated film adaptation of book one in the series: Twilight.

I will be honest from the start: you will get more out of this movie if you have read the books, though for those that have not, it is still pretty easy to follow the story. If you have read the book, you will pick up on the subtle remarks and actions that refer to the novel, which is fantastic as it proves the filmmakers have actually read the books – thankfully!

Almost everything about this film is done quite well, though as a fan of the books, I admit I am slightly bias.

Firstly, the actors. Every single person cast in this film fits their character perfectly.

Bella is exceptional, Edward is just like he is in the books, even Charlie, Rene and Jacob fit their characters well.

Special mention must go to Alice and Emmett Cullen, who are played superbly by Ashley Greene and Kellan Lutz.

The stor y is simple: Bella Swan moves to a secluded town called Forks in Washington and there she meets the mysterious Edward Cullen. Edward is an intriguing character whom Bella immediately finds the urge to investigate. Merely moments after discovering he is actually a vampire, she falls in love with him. Of course, a human loving a vampire brings along complications and soon Bella finds herself running for her life with her new love as a sadistic vampire tracker is hot on her tail.

The story is exceptional, with the filmmakers sticking closely to the original material and the direction

is quite good too. Twilight deals with the concepts of love, loss, self control and, of course, the supernatural.

Twilight has been said to mirror the Vampire Chronicles by Anne Rice and while it does adopt the fundamentals created by Rice, i.e. vampire love story, twilight stands on its own as a truly entertaining, funny, dramatic and romantic movie.

Twilight is one to see in cinemas this holidays and it’s not just for the kids. In fact there are scenes which could be quite scary to young children. If you have read the books, you will love this movie; it’s not the book but it’s pretty close. If you have not read the books, Twilight is still an interesting watch and who knows, it may inspire you to read the series.

The verdict: 3.5/5

Nominations for the Community Board are now open The Community Board plays a crucial role in instigating and supporting community initiatives.

If you have a passion about making our community the best it can be nominate now.

Nominations forms available from

Michelle Hales Community Board Executive Officer at Roxby Downs Council Or email a request to hales.m@roxbycouncil.com.au

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CALL MICHELLE HALES 86710010 THE MONITOR – Your Community Newspaper

www.themonitor.com.au

Thursday, December 18th, 2008 – Page 15

The

Monitor SPORT

OD’s New President

By Zak Zeptner

Olympic Dam Football Club welcomed the appointment of its new President Zane Petty last November.

Zane has been involved with the football club for many years, working on the social club and as a general committee member,

which has gained him a sound understanding of the ways of the club.

Zane took over from former President Kym Clarke due to a lack of others willing to put their hand up.

“There’s people who can’t do it because they have families or are getting their trades and that

so I just stepped up and said I would do it,” said Zane.

“I said I would only do it if I had the people behind me and lots have agreed to help out.”

Zane’s role as President will require him to oversee the general running of the club, organising game days, working on social functions and ensuring all members feel welcome at the OD Football Club.

“I plan to just keep the club functioning, keep the doors open and make it as family friendly as possible; it would be good to win another premiership as president.”

Zane will not only oversee the running of the club but will also operate as a player on game days.

This, he says, will allow him to keep a closer connection with the players and permit him to be more in touch with them.

Zane would also like to bring the OD Netball Clubs closer with the football club.

“They play on Friday night and if they didn’t have a partner playing football, some didn’t have an excuse to come to the clubrooms so hopefully we’ll get more of them out to the club,” said Zane.

With the ever growing population of youth in town, Zane hopes to bring the younger players further into the loop.

“I really want to keep the younger people involved and give them more responsibility; give them opportunities to have their say and do their bit.

“It’s really exciting. I haven’t really gotten into it all yet…wait until January to get things happening.”

LEFT: Zane Petty readily accepts the challenge of being President and has many plans for the club.

Desert Dirt Kart Club The Desert Dirt Kart Club Ware Products would like to thank their sponRoxby Central Traders sors and supporters for the year CAT Rental and wish them and our memOlympic Dam Transport bers a very Merry Christmas OVERALL RESULTS FOR and a Happy New Year.

2008 SEASON We are looking forward to ROOKIES your support in 2009.

Rookie SPONSORS Lauclan Ali Sandvik Paint Shop Rookie Sandvik Brody Walsh Lavrick Engineering J JUNIOR Mine Power Solutions 1st Club Champion Jack Laurence 725 points Rodda Communications 2nd Club Champion RoxFM Nick Calligaris 661 points Mitre 10 3rd Club Champion York Civil Jayden Dawson 624 points National Hire – Coates 4th Club champion Exact Mining Tim Bland 462 points Roxby Milk KT OPEN Cemex 1st Club Champion Auto Pro

Raymond Forrest 705 points 2nd Club champion Darren Laurence 662 points 3rd Club Champion Peter Wilson 530 points PERPETUAL TROPHIES Junior Highest Points Jack Laurence 725 points Senior Highest Points Raymond Forrest 705 points MOST IMPROVED Peter Wilson BEST ROLLOVER Jason Vonow BEST PRESENTED KART Raymond Forrest BLOWN MOTOR AWARD Darren Laurence

Roxby’s Hottest 105 Songs Of All Time As Voted By You! We’re counting down to New Year’s Eve and we need your help!

Nominate your 5 favourite songs of all time and go in the running to win an 8GB iPod Touch and Logitech Speaker Dock, valued at $420! You could also win 1 of 3 runner-up CD packs.

Simply fill out this form and drop it into the voting box at RoxFM, the Roxby Downs Community Club, or post: RoxFM PO Box 642 by 5pm Friday December 19.

Name: ……………………... Phone: …………………………….

Address ...………………………………………………………….

Songs (Title and Artist)

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

______________________________________ ______________________________________ ______________________________________ ______________________________________ ______________________________________

Terms and Conditions: Competition runs from November 20 to 5pm December 19, 2008. One entry per person. Only original forms will be accepted. No photocopies. Votes will be collated by RoxFM volunteers and played on air December 31, 2008. Winners will be drawn Monday December 22 and announced in The Monitor January 22, 2009. Winners will be notified by phone.

ROXBY DOWNS CLUB

Proudly sponsored by: PH. 08 8671 0117

THE MONITOR – Your Community Newspaper

www.themonitor.com.au

Thursday, December 11th, 2008 – Page 17

Monitor Best Photos 2008 The

Sports

Page 18 – Thursday, December 11th, 2008

www.themonitor.com.au

THE MONITOR – Your Community Newspaper

The

Monitor SPORT

A chat with Vicky Wilson

“I think the highlight was that very first time when I was named in the Australian team.”

As promised, The Monitor brings to you the fourth in a series of exclusive interviews with the sport stars who attended the ‘From the Sports Desk’ night last November. What follows is a chat with Australian Netballer Vicky Wilson.

The Monitor: From your short visit here, what do you think of Roxby Downs?

Vicky Wilson: It’s a whole different Australia but I’ve been outside Mount Isa at home in Queensland and so I was driving around here and going ‘oh yeah it’s like this at home.’ For me, you get so used to seeing the hustle and bustle of the big city but when you come out here it’s really quite intriguing and interesting.

The Monitor: You are a very busy woman, how do you find time to fit everything in?

Vicky Wilson: I suppose it’s all about developing good habits and once you get into that routine of being busy you tend to find time. When I’m on holidays that’s when things don’t get done but when I’m full in netball mode and I’ve got to work and clean things and get to special events, you manage. You do get yourself far more organised.

The Monitor: What was the highlight of your career?

Vicky Wilson: I think the highlight was that very first time when I was named in the Australian team. That’s a thing I’ll always remember because when you start playing, well for me, I never thought I had the ability to play for Australia but when my name was read out it was disbelief. It was like ‘oh my god, someone thinks I’ve got talent’ and it was a recognition and a realisation that ‘yeah maybe I do.’ I think for me that will always be a good moment.

The Monitor: If you weren’t a Netball Player, what would you be doing?

Vicky Wilson: Playing golf four times a week and not losing ten balls every time I play.

The Monitor: What do you do for fun in your free time?

Vicky Wilson: Movies! I like to go to the movies. I try to go once a week and catch up with a few friends, that was part of the deal when I retired. There was a group of them and the week after I retired they all grabbed me and were like ‘this is it, we’ve just got to make an effort and catch up once a week’ so we normally do that.

The Monitor: What’s your favourite movie?

Vicky Wilson: I’m a bit of a Bond fan but I don’t really have a favourite really.

The Monitor: What’s your favourite Bond Movie?

Vicky Wilson: I suppose the recent one; I really enjoyed Casino Royale so I’m waiting for the next one to come out. It’s just action packed; I suppose I like any move that’s action packed. I really enjoyed the Bourne series. I like those action movie.

The Monitor: How did it feel being named the world’s greatest goal shooter?

Vicky Wilson: Obviously that was a huge honour.

It’s the sort of the thing that pushed me to achieve higher goals and work harder. It’s nice to be recognised by your peers.

The Monitor: What was it like playing at the Commonwealth Games?

Vicky Wilson: That was unique for netball because it was the first time we’d been included in the Commonwealth Games and to find yourself a part of that and to receive the media attention and the hype that goes along with it was very exciting. And then to have the opportunity to play for a gold medal and to win, particularly since we were struggling a little and it was the final where we came from behind and won in the last moments, so that was exciting. Just being part of the whole occasion and having the opening and closing ceremonies was wonderful. There were some wonderful moments.

The Monitor: What advice would you give to those wishing to follow in your footsteps of becoming an athlete?

Vicky Wilson: Play a lot of sport. If you have that type of base it gives you opportunities down the track. I think that’s a good starting platform.

I don’t think specialising too early is the way to go. Just enjoy all those experiences that you can get from playing as many sports as you can and eventually you’ll find a sport that suits you and just work hard at it.

Monitor The

Your Community Newspaper ~ Roxby Downs

The Monitor wishes a joyfull Merry Christmas to all our readers across the Far North Mt Dare Glendambo Birdsville Parachilna Oodnadatta Coober Pedy William Creek Lyn Hurst Innaminka Marree Leigh Creek Marla Andamooka Woomera Roxby Downs THE MONITOR – Your Community Newspaper

The Woomera & Districts Football League Inc

Are calling for the bar and canteen tenders for the 2009 football season Apply in writing to the Secretary of The W&DFL Inc PO Box 330 Roxby Downs 5725 Tenders close the 31st Dec OPEN 7 DAYS

Post Ofce & Motel

Behind the Famous Bottle House

Opal Creek Boulevard, Andamooka & after hours by appointment

Ph: (08) 8672 7007 Fax: (08) 8672 7062 www.andamookaopal.com.au Email: peter@andamooka.au.com

www.themonitor.com.au

ROXBY DOWNS SPORTS PERSON OF THE YEAR AWARD Now is your opportunity to publicly recognise those people who have contributed significantly to sport in Roxby Downs.

Applications are now open for the Roxby Downs Sports Person of the Year Award.

The Roxby Downs Sports & Recreation Forum on behalf of the community to formally recognise individual sporting achievements by promoting this annual award.

Outstanding sporting achievements occur both on and off the field and those nominated do not necessarily have to be outstanding athletes.

Exceptional “team players” or sporting administrators are equally worthy.

The Award will be announced on Australia Day 2009.

Nominations forms are available from the Roxby Downs Sports and Recreation.

Nominations are to be returned to the Roxby Downs Council Office - Richardson Place Roxby Downs or by Fax on 08 8671 0010 or email community@ roxbydowns.com.

NominaƟons Close at 5.00 pm on Tuesday 13th January 2009 and will be received and considered in strictest confidence by the Sport and RecreaƟon Forum.

Chairman Roxby Downs Sport & RecreaƟon Forum

Thursday, December 11th, 2008 – Page 19

Monitor SPORT The

Your Community Newspaper ~ Roxby Downs

www.themonitor.com.au

Phone (08) 8671 2683

Fax (08) 8671 2843

Would you trade your children’s or loved one’s life for the sake of 10 minutes?

That’s what you’re doing when you speed!

It’s not worth the risk.

Please bring them home safely!

What’s happening at the Roxby Downs Cultural & Leisure Precinct Swimming Pool School Holiday opening hours Weekdays 6am-10am & 12noon-8pm Weekends 11am-8pm

roxbyleisure

Vacation Swimming Program 5th- 23rd January Enrolment forms available from kiosk

phone 8671 2001

AUSTRALIA Rated M Duration 165 mins.

outbackcinema

this week >

Set in northern Australia before World War II, an English aristocrat who inherits a sprawling ranch reluctantly pacts with a stockman in order to protect her new property from a takeover plot. As the pair drive 2000 head of cattle over unforgiving landscape, they experience the bombing of Darwin, Australia, by Japanese forces firsthand. Stars Hugh Jackman, Nicole Kidman, Bryan Brown. Screens: Thurs 11 Dec 11am, Fri 12 Dec 7pm, Sat 13 Dec 11am & 3pm, Sun 14 Dec 12noon, Tues 16 Dec 12noon, Wed 17 Dec 2pm

Page 20 – Thursday, December 18th, 2008

Red Dust n’ Us Art Exhibition Johanna Sampson & Lesley Pedersen Roxby Leisure Art Gallery December 7-28

HIGH SCHOOL MUSICAL 3

WALL-E

Rated G Duration 111 mins.

Rated G Duration 98 mins.

As seniors in high school, Troy and Gabriella struggle with the idea of being separated from one another as college approaches. Along with the rest of the Wildcats, they stage a spring musical to address their experiences, hopes and fears about their future. Stars Zac Efron, Vanessa Hudgens, Ashley Tisdale. Screens: Thurs 11 Dec 3pm, Fri 12 Dec 12noon & 3pm, Sat 13 Dec 7:30pm, Mon 15 Dec 3pm, Tues 16th Dec 7pm

In the distant future, a small waste collecting robot inadvertently embarks on a space journey that will ultimately decide the fate of mankind. Stars the voices of Ben Burtt, Elissa Knight and Sigourney Weaver.

Screens: Mon 15 Dec 11am, Tues 16 Dec 4pm, Wed 17 Dec 11am

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