FEB17-10

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Volume 7, Wednesday February 17, 2010

Seeking

Playground

Saint

Page 3

Page 5

Page 8

is ready for use at Curdimurka St.

election seat of Giles

Barbs helps with appeal

Clark shaft on track for re-opening

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he recently released half yearly report from BHP Billiton has revealed the Clark Shaft recommissioning at Olympic Dam will commence in March as predicted.

The report goes on to say the ramp up to full capacity is expected to be achieved by the end of the June 2010 quarter.

“The Clark Shaft accounts for approximately 75 per cent of Olympic Dam’s ore hoisting capacity,” it was reported.

The accident which closed the shaft in October last year was identified by BHPB as the reason Base Metal production was impacted. Another cause for the production impact across all of its mines was the industrial action at Spence in Chile.

The report to shareholders indicated BHP Billiton delivered a sound financial result, despite significant volatility and continued uncertainty in the global economy. Strong sales volume growth on the back of demand recovery, particularly in the steelmaking raw materials (Iron Ore, Metallurgical Coal and Manganese) and good cost control across the business helped to partially offset the negative impacts of lower prices and stronger producers’ currencies.

The half yearly report also indicated Global economic conditions have improved over the past six months as the United States and Europe lifted industrial output from previously depressed levels and China returned to double digit growth. Government stimulus measures appear to have supported the restocking activities in the developed economies and a gradual return to normalised global trade.

Chairman of BHP Billiton, Mr. Don Argus said, “Despite this positive momentum, we remain cautious about the speed and strength of the global economic recovery across the developed world.

“Notwithstanding our caution in the short term, over the long term we continue to expect emerging economies’ growth to strongly outperform the developed economies as they follow a path of continued urbanisation and industrialisation.”

He said that in the long term BHP Billiton continues to expect strong growth in demand for its commodities.

Big business shops locally and you benefit!

Tony Treloar from Sodexo and Chad Oldfield have a local supply contract that will see benefits flow to all residents.

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By Celeste Lustosa

he Monitor reported last week that local businesses have been facing tough times and they are aiming for more support from the local residents asking them to shop locally.

That way local businesses can prosper, creating more jobs and making our economy stronger. So far we were talking about individuals shopping here, but big business is now on board and they are setting a trend that will benefit local shoppers with lower prices.

Sodexo is a great example showing it is possible and very beneficial for a big company to shop where they operate.

“We always look for opportunities to support local businesses in the places we operate and buy our products from them; therefore Sodexo is now purchasing all the bread from the local bakery.

“This is a way to support the community and help the local economy,” said Sodexo’s Olympic Dam project manager, Tony Treloar.

According to Mr Treloar, the range of breads Sodexo buys daily from the bakery has increased and despite having a bakery at OD they prefer to buy breads locally. Before the bakery was opened in Roxby late last year breads were purchased in Adelaide and delivered to the site.

He also said that buying products locally has many benefits.

“From an operational point of view is very beneficial to buy locally because if we need extra products we are just one phone call away and a couple of minutes away from the supplier.

“And from our perspective by dealing with a national company there’s less interaction and customer service is also not so personal.”

But Mr Treloar also points out that business is business and one of the reasons to make buying locally is the prices are competitive and products are good quality.

Local bakery owner Chad Oldfield told The Monitor exclusively that the deal between his business and Sodexo will bring prices down at his bakery.

Continued page 2

NEWS

Big business shops locally and you benefit!

From front page

“Because of Sodexo’s support we have been able to approach our suppliers and get a better deal for our customers, so people can expect to see the price of our bread going down significantly.

“I take my hat off to the guys at Sodexo, because it was their support and attitude to give back to the community where they operate,” Mr Oldfield said.

Mr Oldfield will surely have very early mornings with the new customer as their orders can go up to 1,000 rolls and 300 loaves of bread in one day.

Sodexo started operating in Roxby Downs, more specifically in Olympic Dam in 2008 and cater for about 1,000 people in Olympic Village and 300 in Roxby Village.

Part of Sodexo’s mission is to promote safe and effective initiatives that help improve residents’ well-being, while increasing their morale and productivity.

This new approach meant engaging workers with village life and introducing

higher standards in catering services, refurbishment and other key areas.

“I’d like to see a lot of the big companies, especially the ones doing business with the mine industry, doing the same as Sodexo and buying their products locally and just get more supportive in the town’s activities as well,” Mr Oldfield added.

According to the local business operator the secret to success for business in town is more local support from big companies not only individuals. “In the end it means better deals for the community as a whole.

Mr Oldfield thinks that as long as businesses keep their niche in the market and they should be able to supply a sufficient range of items.

Big businesses are definitely the ones that have the power to turn the economy around and it seems very fair that they commit to the town’s issues and follow Sodexo’s example and not just mind their own business in Olympic Dam.

WEATHER conditions

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PORT AUGUSTA

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COOBER PEDY

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LEIGH CREEK

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ADELAIDE

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The

Women join Hells Angels and Popeye in a race to get “inked”

By Millie Thomas

Tattoos are everywhere. They are on the arm of the boy who serves you fish and chips; they may even poke out from under a nun’s habit during the Hail Mary.

Today’s generation is a more flexible, radical form of being. We drink, we go to festivals, and it is more likely than not for us to get a tattoo here or there for some specified or irrelevant occasion. A new survey which was conducted by an Australian research company (UMR) has found that women under the age of 30 are more likely than anyone else to get inked in some way, shape or form.

Tattoos are all over the media, with some of the world’s most successful actors, singers or models all proudly displaying their “tag” on the red carpet, or in everyday activities. 50 Cent is one of the world’s most successful and well known entrepreneurs and he is covered in tattoos - and gunshot wounds!

So what does the older generation, our parents, think of this growing trend? As traditionally tattoos were reserved for criminal identities and “bogans”, the attitude to the universal acceptance of tattoos is discerning.

John Utting, managing director of the research group is a worried partner. “This research confirms that parents have every right to be worried that their child will come home with a tattoo,” he said. “In years gone by, tattoos were strictly for the bogan (eds note: a section of the working class demographic), sailor and criminal subcultures, but they’ve now escaped into the wider community.”

While Utting describes the fad like the plague, he does have a point. A considerable amount of thought needs to go into what an individual would like to be branded with for the rest of their lives, and a lot of people get tattoos for the wrong reason.

Dr Terence Poon, of Neutral Bay Laser and Dermatology Clinic, said up to 10 treatments can be required to remove a professional tattoo and a local anaesthetic is required

An extreme example of tattooing raised the ire of many parents when this young girl said she fell asleep during an tattooing session in Europe. each time, as the procedure is quite painful and expensive.

Dr Poon said his clients included people looking to erase the names of lovers past, teens with tattoos who are dragged in by their parents, women who are getting married, young people trying to get jobs, and people with ageing skin.

Fear not, a new ink called “Infinity Ink” has hit the tattooing industry. The ink, while still permanent, can be removed more easily, which may convince more people to join the tattooing bandwagon.

friendly staff of your Community Newspaper

John Pick Editor

Lauren Chessell Sales Coordinator

The Monitor Newspaper 6 Richardson Place, Roxby Downs PO Box 72, Roxby Downs SA 5725 Page 2 – Wednesday, February 17, 2010

Celeste Lustosa Journalist and Photographer

Jenny Lauder Administration Officer

Millie Thomas Annarien Robbertse Journalist and Photographer

Phone (08) 8671 2683 Fax (08) 8671 2843

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THE MONITOR – Your Community Newspaper

NEWS

Local Vet stands for families and future in Giles

A

ndrew MelvilleS m i t h i s we l l known to the residents of Roxby Downs as the local veterinarian.

He has been serving the Roxby Downs and Andamooka community for the last 12 years.

He says this part of South Australia is neglected by the Adelaide based Government who are eager to take the revenue generated by mining but when it comes to investing in infrastructure such as transport, power and water, regional South Australia gets very little investment or planning.

When the Greens sought a candidate to stand in the seat of Giles, he said he was happy to stand. “Of all the major parties, only the Greens are taking a common-sense approach and proposing positive action on major issues.”

He said, “I am proud of our policies and of the fact that we don’t accept corporate donations because as everyone knows, no company makes a donation to a political party without the expectation of a return.”

Andrew says he has seen Roxby Downs come of age as a country town and is delighted to give residents an alternative to vote for in the March 20 state election.

He says we need stability in Roxby Downs and insurance against fluctuating commodity prices. That requires a type of leadership that we are just not getting from the government at the moment.

He says life in Roxby Downs is unnecessarily hard with the ups and downs of the mining industry. For the workers, jobs are here today and then lay-offs are tomorrow.

Local businesses can find conditions are either a feast or a famine. This means it is very hard to plan a future in Roxby Downs and that affects the whole community.

Andrew has been married for 26 years and he and his wife adopted their three children from overseas with one of his daughters from Sri Lanka and the twins from Ethiopia.

They also have three stray

dogs and two cats. He says when you have a family; your perspective changes and you start thinking of what sort of future you are leaving them. Like everyone else, I want my kids to grow up to be healthy and happy too!

“We have lots of issues that we must deal with such as reliable water supplies, peak oil and climate change.” He said, “The current government policy is either to ignore them and hope they go away; or pass the problem on to industry and hope they solve it.” He said, “Leaving government issues to industry who are only interested in maximising profit for their shareholders is not leadership, that’s neglect!”

“We need a local voice who is not taking donations from big business and whose independence will look after community interests and who will advocate for a proper infrastructure plan to support the people and mining industry, to provide a stable future for us and our children.”

He said, “Roxby Downs and the seat of Giles is an engine-room of the South Australian economy, and its prospects for growth, jobs and investment is huge.” He said, “we need a greater share of the return on this investment, not just the crumbs that Adelaide give us now.”

Andrew is committed to stable jobs for you and your children. Key developments such as a solar power station, international port, proper rail infrastructure and wind powered desalination will give Roxby Downs the stability from the mining industry.

More jobs, long term jobs for now and the future.

“Only the Greens can provide this balanced approach that will give us a secure future.” He said, “we need to send a strong message to Adelaide that they cannot take our support for granted; as our local slogan says, its time to ‘End The Neglect’.”

Working and running a business in Roxby Downs for the last 12 years, Dr. Andrew Melville Smith says it is time to “End the neglect”.

THE MONITOR – Your Community Newspaper

Dr. Andrew Melville-Smith is a candidate

Council buys more land

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he Roxby Downs Council was the successful bidder in a recent sale of land in the main business sector of the town.

The land in question in Tutop Street is directly behind the existing Council office and was offered for sale by expression of interest by the owner.

It is understood Council was one of a number who expressed interest for the land. Director of Whyalla Real Estate, Mr. Tim Edwards confirmed there were four others, two from Roxby being local investors and land developers.

“It was pretty well contested and there was one other one that was pretty close to the winning mark. The only difference was the settlement period was more attractive to the owner.”

Roxby Downs Council Administrator Mr. Bill Boehm said this week, “The strategic development of Roxby Downs is an important consideration for Council especially in light of a potential expansion of the town as identified through BHP Billiton draft Olympic Dam environmental impact statement.”

The land on offer is adjacent to the council office in Richardson Place and is located in the Town Centre Retail Core Policy Zone where it is envisaged under the Roxby Downs Development Plan that a range of retail uses and or a public administration office such as the Council Office would develop.

“With this in mind in response to lot 1381 Tutop Street being offered for sale on the open market, Council took the opportunity and was eventually successful in securing this allotment as a strategic purchase consistent with its overarching responsibilities as a local government authority.

“It is considered that in the future when the town expands, this land may be used as an extension to the Council Office and or as part of a broader retail development. Both these uses proposed have been identified as being required in the future by for the Roxby Downs Community,” said Mr. Boehm.

“Council has been proactive in advancing the longer term benefits for the community via the consolidation of land to facilitate required key land uses in the Town Centre to support the future Olympic Dam Expansion.”

Mr. Edwards told The Monitor the bids put in by people were quite interesting and the expression put forward show there is still a strong interest in commercial property in the town.

www.themonitor.com.au

Wednesday, February 17, 2010 – Page 3

NEWS

‘Hola amigos’ from Kindy kids Chance to learn Spanish

By Celeste Lustosa Roxby Downs Kindergarten has just got a ´Language in Early Childhood Setting Pilot`project grant. As a result of that children will learn Spanish at the Kindy.

This initiative has been developed to explore sustainable models of language learning delivery in early childhood settings.

“There were only seven grants on offer state-wide and feedback from the grant panel mentioned that they had received a large number of applications and that Roxby’s site´s application met the selection criteria to a high degree,” said the Kindergarten Director, Naomi Watkins.

Mrs Walkins believes the fact Roxby Downs is such a multicultural community makes the learning of a different language very reasonable.

“It is a fantastic opportunity and also a very innovative project.

“We are not only going to teach a language but all that

Ana is very keen to teach the children the Spanish culture. a different culture involves, such as food, costumes, clothing, landscaping and we will do it in a fun way with incidental child learning.”

One of the Early Childhood workers from the Kindy is fluent in Spanish.

“One of our workers Ana Perez-Soto speaks fluent Spanish and she will be a fantastic resource when we begin to implement the project, offering an authentic cultural perspectiveto the children´s learning experiences.”

Studies show that children that learn more

than one language have an increase in their thinking skills and it helps them learn other subjects better as well.

It is also believed that children can learn more easily than adults.

Part of the criteria for the grant also involved choosing a language that would continue to be fostered in a junior primary setting.

“As RDAS will begin teaching Spanish this year, it would make sense that we, for continuity purposes, would teach Spanish too,” Mrs

Watkins said.

The Kindergarten´s staff is also keen to learn another language and know more about other cultural backgrounds.

“Staff is very keen to learn and it will happen in an ongoing way.”

The project is due to begin in Term 2, 2010 and will officially conclude in Term 4, 2011, where the longevity of the project will be reassessed.

Suerte a los pequeniños.

Scam alert for the Far North

One of Rowan Ramsey’s constituents has been approached by people claiming to come from the consumer action law centre – these people had the constituent’s account number and claimed they were pursuing bank interest from Westpac which had not been paid – an amount of more than $4000.

The woman was rung on a number of occasions and directed to pay $130 into an account to secure the re-

lease of the money. This is a scam, and people are advised to be vigilant about approaches like this.

The scam is very involved and the people sounded very believable, but something made the constituent suspicious and she alerted the Rowan’s electoral office.

Anyone who is connected to an email address, phone line or even just a bank account should be particularly careful of

these types of scams.

Here are a couple of handy hints to remember; -never respond to an email asking for your pin or passwords -never send money to someone you don’t know or trust -only invest with licensed financial services or providers -be suspicious of unexpected calls and text mes-

sages -don’t give out your number to just anyone -keep your protection software up to date on your computer -don’t respond in anyway to unsolicited emails -never give out your personal information to someone you don’t know or trust -be sure to destroy old bills, records or expired

cards -check your credit report at least once a year -avoid using public computers (such as internet cafes or libraries) to do your internet banking – it is very dangerous And for goodness sake, if a Sudanese business man informs you that you have won $10’000 DO NOT send him your bank details!!

VOTERS MISSING

South Australia has an estimated 88,000 “missing” voters who are being sought ahead of the State election on March 20.

The State’s Electoral Commissioner, Ms Kay Mousley, said the main group of missing voters

Page 4 – Wednesday, February 17, 2010

were people who had not updated their details following a change of address, including those who had moved from interstate, and 18 to 21 year olds who had not yet enrolled.

“With the State election due on March 20, we are keen to find as many of these people as possible and get them enrolled,” she said.

“Once the writs for the election have been issued by the Governor, there will be only 10 days left for people to act.”

Ms Mousley said the writs could be issued at any time between now and February 20.

www.themonitor.com.au

THE MONITOR – Your Community Newspaper

NEWS

Curdimurka playground ready!

By Celeste Lustosa The Curdimurka Reserve has just been upgraded making it a family friendly place to play.

The Roxby Downs Council has put in a new playground at the reserve and it is safe and ready for children to play and is a relaxing place for families to enjoy picnics and parties.

“The Council wants to come together with the community to make the Curdimurka Reserve a great place for families to spend time together,” said the Municipal Works Manager, Peter Keller.

“We wanted to make Curdimurka a safe and nice place for the community so it is a good option for families to spend more time together outdoors.

“And this is also a great alternative to the Lion’s Park,” Mr Keller said.

The Council is responsible for the ongoing maintenance of the Curdimurka Reserve Playground.

Pictured putting the final touches to the new look playgound are Council’s Peter Keller and Graham Ferris.

Oldfield comes out swinging

With the State election only weeks away, Liberal candidate for the seat of Giles, Chad Oldfield has come out swinging against the Rann Government’s eight years of neglect of the region.

“On the eve of an election, after nearly eight years of neglect to regional areas like ours, the Rann Government has suddenly found a pot of money in the budget for local hospital services that have been overlooked for eight years. Rann has gone on a last minute spending spree in a last ditch attempt to secure votes in the region” Mr Oldfield said.

Mr Oldfield was referring to the sudden announcement to establish a cancer treatment clinic at Port Augusta after years of calls by sufferers who have had to travel to Adelaide for treatment. “Given Mr Rann’s record of broken promises, I hope that this is not one of his cruel hoaxes” said Mr Oldfield.

A Redmond Liberal Government has backed up its commitment to improving country health services with a funding injection of $2.5 million to

supply a MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) machine and chemotherapy treatment at Pt Augusta Hospital.

Chad Oldfield, who is a small business operator and lives in Roxby Downs with his wife and young children says Labor has not done enough in the past eight years to deserve another term in office. Mr Oldfield said the Liberal Party is committed to supporting re-

gional areas under their leader Isobel Redmond.

“If elected I will fight for real investment in regional South Australia, unlike the Adelaide focused Rann Government.”

“Communities in the Giles electorate have suffered under this present Government. Here in the Far North and in Whyalla, the financial crisis has

highlighted just how much neglect there has been for country South Australia under Rann and how much of the State Budget is squandered on vote winning projects in and around Adelaide.

“If elected, a Redmond Liberal government will invest 25% of mining royalties into regional development infrastructure that’s another $40 million next year. I will continue to fight to ensure that our area is not forgotten as it has been for the past eight years,” Mr Oldfield concluded.

Overflowing bins becoming a problem

Overfull bins have been causing lots of problems to Roxby Downs’s community, according to the Council.

Many people have not been packing their garbage correctly, leading to overfull bins that become a perfect target for the crows. When you realise the chaos caused your entire neighbourhood ends up having to put up with the mess.

According to Municipal Works Manager Peter Keller residents have to be aware that it’s their responsibility to pack their bins correctly.

“Many residents are not giving enough

attention to this matter and just letting their bins overflow because they can’t be bothered to tidy things up,” he said.

In many locations Council policy is to refuse to collect the trash if the bins are overfull but according to Mr Keller this is unlikely to happen in Roxby.

“We are a small community and we want to keep it clean for everyone but we need people to co-operate. Unfortunately we cannot be everywhere but people can contact the Council and let us know when they see someone not looking after their garbage bins,” Mr Keller said.

THE MONITOR – Your Community Newspaper

www.themonitor.com.au

Wednesday, February 17, 2010 – Page 5

COMMUNITY MATTERS

MEETING DATES

- Arts and Culture 26 August 7.30pm - Community Board 7 September 7.30pm

GENERAL INFORMATION BOARD MEETINGS

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 meetATElast Monday of D P ings usually take place on the U S NEED the month.

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.

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Clean sweep for Roxby Downs

he streets around Roxby Downs are cleaner as a result of a big sweep up last week.

Council Works Manager, Mr Peter Keller said the road sweeping program lapsed late last year due to availability of machinery and contractors.

He told The Monitor that from now on the road sweeping program will happen at least three times a year, if not four.

Mr Keller said the roads around Roxby Downs are subject to a build-up of red sand and unless the streets

are swept on a regular basis it is very hard to sweep away large mounds of the dirt as well as the collection of bark and leaves that accumulate.

Adelaide based contractor, Enviro Sweep had a unit in Roxby all of last week and operator Rick Shirren said they will be back on a more regular basis.

Enviro Sweep now has operations in all states of Australia and has regional contracts in Whyalla, Moomba, Bordertown and now Roxby as well as extensive council contracts in the Adelaide metropolitan area.

Garden pride in Roxby will be rewarded

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

An initiative of the Environment Forum

G reen tip

Being water efficient at home

→ Rain is a rare occurrence in Roxby Downs – make the most of any rain by placing your pot plants outside so they can soak it up – this saves you having to water them. → Turn the air-conditioner off while you’re not at home – this will save you water and electricity. Close the blinds and pull down the window shades, and you’ll keep the house reasonably cool during the day. → Use a broom instead of a hose to clean paved areas.

By Celeste Lustosa

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he Environmental Forum and The Monitor are proud to promote a Garden Competition where people will be able to proudly show off their gardens and even have the chance to win a nice prize for their efforts in making our community more beautiful.

Nominations start August 28 and close October 29.

Judging will take place in the fortnight following the closing date and winners will be announced on November 24.

Winners will then be asked to showcase their gardens during an open day November 27.

According to the Environmental Forum chairperson, Kristina Meredith, innovation and sustainability are the two categories to be judged. ¨Both categories will be judged in the fields of water efficiency, energy consumption, aesthetics, variety of plant species, functionality, productivity and garden waste management. ¨The innovation category will also be judged for the most original environmental effort in the garden. This could range from hydroponics, to a worm farm or chook pen. The options are endless,¨ Ms Meredith told The Monitor.

Each month Monitor readers will also be able to submit their gardening tips and will go into the running to have their garden showcased in a monthly feature.

All tips will go into the running to win a prize valued at $100, donated by Roxby Downs Council Office, at the end of the competition period.

Gardening in any climate can be a challenge, however Roxby’s extreme heat and bitter winters pose an even greater battle for gardeners.

Despite this, there are many beautiful gardens of all shapes and sizes around town. ¨The Forum wanted to showcase some of the diversity that is often tucked away in people’s back and front yards. ¨This is also an opportunity for people to share their gardening knowledge and experience, as well as a chance to show off the gardens that

they are so proud of. It is also a great way for people to learn how to get maximum results with minimum environmental impact - which, at the end of the day, is what the Environment Forum is all about¨, said Ms Meredith.

According to her there are many personal, social and environmental benefits of having a garden. ¨Gardening is a great way of relieving stress, getting some exercise and fresh air, as well as gaining personal satifaction and pride at the end result. ¨It is also a great way of encouraging families and friends to spend more time outside, chat to neighbours about their gardening efforts and improving the aesthetic aspect of your street or town.¨ She also told The Monitor that gardening is also great for the environment. ¨You’re creating a means of offsetting your carbon use, and creating a habitat for native animal species - particularly if you have native species in your garden. ¨If you have a vegie patch, not only are you doing the right thing by eating local, organic food, but it tastes great and is good for you too!¨ If you still don´t know much about gardening, just take note of the gardening tips that will be featured at The Monitor each month, and get gardening!

Participants have plenty of time to work on their gardens. ¨Just make sure that you’re working towards maximum sustainability in the process,¨ Ms Meredith added.

Entry forms will be available in The Monitor´s office from late August onwards.

Any type of garden can participate. ¨We want to see the weird, the wonderful, the innovative and the creative. So no matter if you’re a home owner, or you’re renting - the only limit is your imagination!¨ Keep the judging criteria in mind though, because you’ll get extra points for water efficiency, waste management, plant diversity etc.

And don´t forget to get your first gardening tips in our next edition.

Road closure planned adjacent to Roxby Village To advertise here call SALES on 08 8671 2683 Page 6 – Wednesday, February 17, 2010

The police station construction site adjacent to Roxby Downs Village on Burgoyne Street requires a sewer connection, which is situated on the opposite side of the road to the construction site.

As a result, Burgoyne Street will need to be closed off to almost all public access in order to excavate across to the police station.

The site chosen for excavation is situated between the two entrances to Roxby Village, ensuring residents of Roxby Village still have access, and so as not to cause major traffic disturbances in and out of the village.

The road closure will be as limited as possible, starting from Monday, February 22, with an estimated finishing date of Wednesday, February 24. If it so happens that the excavation works finishes sooner than anticipated, the road will be reopened sooner. Traffic disturbances will be kept to a minimum. www.themonitor.com.au

Western end of Burgoyne Street from Olympic Way Through traffic on Burgoyne Street will be closed and only traffic destined for Roxby Village, excavation personnel and the site construction personnel will be allowed to enter from the western end of Burgoyne Street.

Eastern traffic entering from Richardson Place section of Burgoyne Street Through traffic on Burgoyne Street will be closed and only traffic that is for the Village, excavation personnel and personnel connecting police site electricity will be allowed to enter from the eastern part of Burgoyne Street.

At the time of excavating for the sewer crossing, the council will have other contractors working in and near this area on the eastern side of the eastern entrance to Roxby Village.

THE MONITOR – Your Community Newspaper

OPINION

News in brief Medstar Kids – faster emergency help for sick babies Health Minister, John Hill, has launched a new aero-medical retrieval service to get emergency teams out to critically injured and sick children and newborns faster than ever before.

Minister Hill said. “MedStar Kids specialises in the emergency care and treatment of young children and babies.”

“There are now teams of specialist doctors, nurses and paramedics based at Adelaide Airport 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, ready to go at a moment’s notice.

“When you have a very sick or newborn baby, every second counts.

Premier Mike Rann said the new service, MedStar Kids, also transfers children and their parents between hospitals across South Australia.

Dr Jane Cocks, MedStar Kids, clinical director, said the service is expected to help with around 800 retrievals and transfers across the state each year.

“The benefit of having a dedicated MedStar Kids retrieval team based at Adelaide Airport is that we will be able to reach the patient and start treatment quicker than ever before.”

10-year ban on Pt Lincoln hotel patron A 10-year ban on a Port Lincoln hotel patron is being welcomed by the South Australian Government.

The man, 24, was first banned from the hotel for three months after what police allege was a violent assault there on January 17.

The ban was increased to 10 years based on evidence given to the Assistant Liquor and Gaming Commissioner.

SA Consumer Affairs Minister Gail Gago says the ban is the longest given since new laws took effect and it sends a clear message to aggressive and dangerous drinkers.

About 1,000 people have been barred from South Australian hotels since the laws came into force almost a year ago.

More than 50,000 new jobs The Australian labour market has stunned economists for a third straight month, with more than 50,000 new jobs created in January.

The official ABS survey showed a seasonally adjusted unemployment rate of 5.3 per cent, with 52,700 more people employed, although only 15,900 of those extra jobs were full-time.

The consensus economist forecast had been for a small up tick in the unemployment rate to 5.6 per cent, despite the predicted creation of 15,000 jobs.

20,000 more jobs were created than even the most optimistic forecast among 21 economists surveyed.

EDITORIAL

Fair Work kids out of work!

Alarm bells should be ringing in the halls of the Federal Government about its new Fair Work deals and how it is already impacting small business and particulalry young employees.

Five after school workers in Wirrabara who have lost their jobs because of ridiculous provisions in Julia Gillard’s, ‘Fair Work’ are just the tip of the ice-berg as Australian businesses try to comply with inflexibility and non-productive wage increases caused by the new legislation.

Accoridng to the local Member for Grey, Rowan Ramsey, “These kids who travel on a school bus to Gladstone arrive back home at 4.30pm each day. It is not possible for them to work for more than 1.5 hours a day. The Government’s new Fair Work bill says they must be payed for at least three hours.”

This is clearly, madness. Effectively it would double their hourly rate and their employers have no choice but to dismiss them. The employer is happy to give the kids 1.5 hours work, the kids are happy

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Do you think kids working after school should be able to work a minimum of 1.5 hours?

to work 1.5 hours, the parents are happy, but the law says they can’t do it.

Again small business is having to pay the price of these controversial changes. Labor condemned the John Howard Work Choices package, but its seems to have done worse in the Fair Work legislation that will impact on all business and give unions a free reign once again.

Business owners were reporting that they are working 12-hour days to try and cover the shifts formerly done by students. Others are no longer trading on Sundays or operating for less hours, because of new triple time loadings.

The “Fair Work” legislation to be fair to all must allow more flexibility for young Australians and small business or risk executing the cherished institution of the after-school job.

The Fair Work bill is taking us back to the days of industrial anarchy and small business operators are the ones that can least afford to have

Last week’s Hot Topic: What do you Glad the Club has upgraded, looks think about the copyright judgement great. Only one thing they forgot about against the Men at Work hit, “I Come kids. If they want families to use the from a Land Downunder”? place it has to be kid friendly. No playground, no kids, no families, no busiI come for a land downunder where ness. Hope it’s not too late. the law is an ass and lawyers plunder!

Mum. RD Man at Work, Andamooka Time to put a stop to fighting in the I wonder if the group of lawyers who pubs and clubs. Too much alcohol bought the copyright to “A Kookaburra spoils a night for everyone not just Sits in the Old Gum Tree” would have those in a punch-up. More foot patrols had any idea the flute riff in the song by police could help. was anything like the song if it hadn’t Miss Hit, RD been on that show Spics and Specs back in 2003? I don’t think so!

The only reason why I’m spending JR, Roxby. my money out of Roxby is I am not always sure just what’s available in town.

Copyright rules are mad. A lifetime Retailers need to be more proactive atplus 70 years! The poor school teacher tracting my business. who wrote the original song for a Girl The Secret Shopper Guide competition died in the eighties.

I doubt she would care about Men At NAB Cup is boring! New rules are Work - she probably would have been making it more like touch football. That chuffed if in fact her melody was used 5 metre rules sux! Get on with the real in such a great song. game.

Copycat, Roxby.

Aussie Rules fan.

Radioactive waste cause for concern The Port August Mayor Joy Baluch is upset that 87 drums of radioactive waste travelled through the city in January this year.

Ms Baluch said she was upset the Port Augusta City Council was not told about the drums being transported through the city and has written for the Minister of Defence, John Faulkner, asking for an explanation.

The waste was being transported from the Edinburgh RAAF to Woomera and was sealed in plasticlined, 200 litre drums.

The spokesperson for the department said the licence of the Woomera Koolymilka site was publicly gazetted, however they do not publish the movement of radioactive materials for security reasons.

The waste material transported was classified as ‘low to intermediate’ level radioactive waste and included items such as smoke detectors, small valves from radar and telecommunications equipment, and luminous dials from aircraft.

Duck hunting allowed this year The South Australian Government says duck and quail populations are big enough to allow a restricted hunting season this year.

The duck season will open from March 27 to June 27, with a daily bag limit of six ducks.

The quail season will run from April 3 to July 25, with a daily bag limit of 15.

Several areas will be excluded from hunting, including Chowilla game reserve and Bool Lagoon game reserve.

Xenophon backs calls for compo Independent Senator Nick Xenophon is calling on the Federal Government to compensate veterans who were exposed to radiation at Australian nuclear testing sites in the 1950s and 60s.

Many people who worked at the South Australian sites of Maralinga and Emu Field are now suffering illnesses including cancer and genetic diseases.

In 1993 the Keating government accepted more than $35 million from the British government to settle any Maralinga claims.

But Senator Xenophon says none of that money has been given to veterans.

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Wednesday,February 17, 2010 – Page 7

NEWS

I

Celebrating diverse cultures in Roxby Downs

n recent years, Roxby Downs has become home to dance, books, film, and food; we want to learn more about the increasing numbers of families from various cultural various cultures in our community.

“We believe that everyone has a culture to share. Everyone backgrounds.

The volunteers to the Strengthening Our Families support program represent a large number of these diverse backgrounds and have prompted the group to start a weekly Multicultural Group meetings.

“Our aim is to bring together people from a range of backgrounds to share and celebrate the many cultures and languages that exist here in Roxby Downs”, said, Jo Culf, Coordinator of Australian Jo Culf catches up with Grace and little Cherubim Moroka, the Strengthening Our Families program.

“Our volunteers will be facilitating a weekly meeting to celfrom Papua New Guinea at a Multicultural Group meeting last week ebrating our diversity – through language, music, handicrafts,

in Roxby Downs is from somewhere else and has a unique background.”

The Multicultural group is an opportunity for those who are new to our community to meet people, share their experiences and develop language skills. Support can also be provided to access other cultural support groups, specific food products and joining other local community activities.

Everyone is welcome to join the group at Dunes from 9 am to 10.30 am every Wednesday.

St. Barb’s fundraise for international disaster T

By Millie Thomas

he Haiti devastation has rocked the world. One of the poorest, most over populated and yet undeveloped countries in the western hemisphere, the 7.0 magnitude earthquake that occurred on January 12 this year destroyed hundreds of thousands of homes, families and lives.

There are many world wide organisations that are raising money for the Haiti appeal, including the internationally recognised World Vision and UNICEF. It is a humbling thought that a world that is full of war and division can come together to help a country in crisis. Even more humbling is that within our own community, our youth are supporting the cause.

Page 8 – Wednesday, February 17, 2010

St Barbara’s school held a “mini mission” on Friday, January 5 in order to assist Catholic Mission raise money for the appeal. Last year, Catholic Mission raised over AU$500,000 in support for Haiti, as they endured flooding.

St Barbara’s raised over $1000 by holding a fete with stalls selling drinks and second hand books, and holding a “Throw a water balloon at Mr Smith” stall, of which the students participated in eagerly.

The community of Port-auPrince (capital city of Haiti) and the country of Haiti are once again on their knees, as soon as order and function is restored after a natural disaster, another disaster knocks them down.

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“Great Investment opportunity” Ring Janine Williams from Kemp Real Estate on 0427710127 regarding this lovely brick three bedroom house situated on a large corner block in Port Lincoln.

This very neat home has an immaculate garden and plenty of space for off street parking. Walk through the lovely leadlight entrance door to discover a sunlit passage with a large linen press. Three fully carpeted bedrooms, a large open plan dining and living area (which is serviced by a new split system aircon) and a very nice modern kitchen complete this lovely affordable package.

Tastefully painted feature walls add to the character of this home and give it an individual look. A two berth garage, large storage shed and a 10 x 10 garden shed give you plenty of room to store all your “toys or treasures”.

Another bonus to this property is that it has been granted council approval for redevelopment for two 3 bedroom homes, imagine the income that could be generated here or live in one, rent the other! The wonderful long-term tenants of this property have been occupying it since 2006 and have a tenancy until Oct 2010. Currently paying $220.00 a week this property is already a very sound investment.

Port Lincoln investment

GREAT HOUSE – GREAT INVESTMENT This Roxby Downs home has hree good size bedrooms, master includes walk-in robe and ensuite, spacious lounge, dining, well equipped gas kitchen with rangehood and ample cupboards.

Beautiful laminated floating timber floors to lounge, dining and kitchen.

Ducted evap cooling along with split system reverse cycle air-conditioner. Single carport u.m.r., full length verandahs across the front and rear of the house.

Fully fenced magnificent in-ground fibreglass swimming pool. Currently tenanted. RLA208715 1 5 Fi n n i s s S t r e e t . $415,000.

For details on this property and many more, please phone Craig Sumsion at Raine and Horne in Roxby Downs on 0408 366 614.

Tips on housing finance Undoubtedly a major step to accomplish when embarking on your property search is to pre-approve your finance. Establishing your boundaries of affordability and focussing your thoughts on the potential ongoing costs of your dream property – such as rates, insurance and maintenance – is vital to understanding what your preferred financial institution will allow you.

How much money do you have for your deposit?

A rule of thumb for most financial institutions is to require a cash deposit of around 10 to 20 per cent of a property’s value.

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Wednesday, February 17, 2010 – Page 9

Celebrating a 50th birthday in style From Tanya Law

T

he Roxby Downs Golf Club was decorated with balloons and memorabilia as local resident Dianne Stanton celebrated her 50th birthday amongst family and friends last Saturday night.

The event, which included an enticing buffet dinner catered by ODC, had a cheerful atmosphere as local families and relatives from the Eyre Peninsula mingled over drinks and enjoyed a pleasantly mild evening at the golf course. When Dianne was asked how she felt about turning 50, she happily responded that nothing felt different and she had no hesitation in sharing her age.

In fact, Dianne thought that turning 50 was much easier than turning 30 or 40 because she was so calm celebrating this particular milestone.

Dianne, with her husband Gavin and son Tyler, moved from Port Lincoln to Roxby Downs nearly four years ago. As director of the Out of Hours School Care (OHSC), Dianne has quickly become a valuable member of our community and has been of great assistance to many working families in Roxby Downs.

The OHSC is an organisation offering before and after school care from 6am to 6pm, to primary school aged children and vacation care during school holidays. At the Golf Club on Saturday night, several of the party attendee’s spoke

warmly of Dianne and with gratitude for her contrbution in this role.

The commitment that Dianne has for her position was also displayed at the party amongst the group photos on her wall of memorabilia and with several of the OHSC children attending the celebrations.

When some of these children were asked what they thought about going to the Out of Hours School Care, all of the replies were quite enthusiastic in explaining how much they enjoyed being there. A young girl from the Jordan family also added that one of her favourite activities was going on the local excursions around town.

With guests speaking so warmly about Dianne and more people arriving regularly during the evening, the birthday celebrations seemed set to be a festive occasion. Happy 50th birthday Dianne.

HAPPY 50TH

Dianne with n husband Gavi

CHEERS

MUM’S GIRL

r Dan Inglis, Tyleott, Sc Stanton, Luke son w a Kalaveti D aiton and Andrew Beers raise their b

Alex and Anastazia Nedelkovich

MILESTONE

CATCHING UP

n Dianne with sos id k d Tyler an from OHSC

Ross Mal Smith and lp Pearsen he celebrate

WELCOME!

New Arrival Page 10 – Wednesday, February 17, 2010

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tie Michael and Kaduce tro are proud to in y, born Asha Kate Tilleth 2009, 19 er ob on Oct g. A weighing 2.7k sister tle lit us eo rg go for Isaac.

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GIRL TALKur

Wilma Mung and Leanne r fo Viljoen pair up ht the “Girl’s Nig out”

HAPPY 18TH!

PRACTICALLY A LADY

x Belle and Ale ’s e celebrate Bell y 3rd birthda

rd, Nathan Mayna cki Be y, Emma Perr Alex Roux, a V ndenberg, ofa Warren.

Airlie Pospal, Bo atcher, Front Abbey Thddi King Kayla King, Ma nners and Nicole Su th at Kayla’s 18 birthday

WELL DONE KAYLA

PAMPER TIME!

ith Aliclia Pratt w p o Body Sh e products at th t u Girl’s Night O

FAMILY NIGHT

and Maddi, Kayla Greg ith Jodi King w yla’s Aird enjoy Ka y 18th birthda dinner.

c, Holli Anna Andrasi lyssa Cockshell, A alda V Andrasic and the y jo n e Inglis Girl’s night festivities.

GOOD FRIENDS

yla Birthay girl Ka ey King and Abb rate b Thatcher celeth.

Kayla’s 18 THE MONITOR – Your Community Newspaper

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Wednesday, February 17, 2010 – Page 11

Far North on the move . . .

TRANSPORT AND TRUCKING FEATURE

Toll supports mining industry and the Far North T

he Toll Group has provided services to the mining industry for over 20 years. As a business unit within the group, Toll Priority plays an integral role by providing time sensitive freight solutions.

With over 50 dedicated freight aircraft and national arrangements for the belly space with Virgin Blue, Pacific Blue and other regional airlines, Toll Priority operates the largest dedicated airfreight network across Australia, extending worldwide via a global network.

Within South Australia, Toll Priority operates airfreight services to all major towns, including multiple daily flights between Olympic Dam and Adelaide, thus linking Roxby Downs

and Olympic Dam to a national overnight and same day freight network.

Similarly, Toll Priority operates an extensive road distribution network across South Australia using a network of dedicated contractors and agents.

Toll Priority has invested in infrastructure to service the Olympic Dam expansion and has operated a dedicated freight depot within Roxby Downs since 2008. Local representative, Roger Wilson provides the local daily pickup and delivery to meet air and road services.

When it comes to transporting valuable consignments, there is no more trusted name in the express freight industry than Toll Priority, the only air carrier in Australia to have Defence Industry Security Program (DISP) accreditation. Toll Priority has

Page 12 – Wednesday, February 17, 2010

established industry-leading security systems and measures, and the overnight courier service has been assessed and endorsed by the Security Construction and Equipment Committee. Toll Priority is also considered the expert when it comes to transporting dangerous goods, transporting all classes of dangerous goods except Class 1 Explosives.

Toll Priority is committed to time sensitive freight solutions to the mining industry with a dedicated customer service unit for customers in the mining industry, staffed by representatives with industry specialised knowledge.

For more details on Toll Priority services for Olympic Dam and Roxby Downs contact Alan Barry on 08 7224 5908 or visit their website: www. tollpriority.com.au .

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Hertz offers a complete range for rental or lease

W

ith more than 25 years experience in rental industry Hertz Truck and 4 WD Rental Pty Ltd offers a complete rental or leasing solution for all types vehicles (4WD’s, utes, trucks and buses) in South Australia, New South Wales, Victoria, Western Australia, Queensland and the Northern Territory.

A Hertz commercial vehicle can supplement your existing fleet, fill in while yours is out of action, or help you with that important task when your current

vehicle is just not equipped for the job.

Whether you operate a small or large fleet of vehicles, Hertz Trucks will tailor a leasing or rental solution specific to your business needs. Our leasing packages are fully maintained, and we offer flexible plans between 12 months and 5 years, on the majority of the makes and models of commercial vehicles.

If you need a commercial vehicle to boost your fleet for a week, month or year, Hertz Trucks has the right vehicle to meet your fleet requirements.

For more information visit www.hertztrucks.com.au.

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Far North on the move . . .

TRANSPORT AND TRUCKING FEATURE

Go karts back on track for season 2010

While he might be too young to race Go Karts yet, five year old Reef Borlase is hell bent on following his father and older sister into the sport as soon as he is old enough. Here he helps dad Hayden get ready for the start of the 2010 season in Roxby.

When it comes to transport and local knowlegde of what needs to be where and on time, local contracting firm Brenton Smith Haulage has a reputation of delivering.

Here one of the friendly yard staff at BSH, Dan Haines spends his Saturday morning unloading overnight deliveries from Adelaide.

Roxby Downs Depot Manager, Kevin Robertson said the company is geared up to transport oversize loads, float wok and they deliver interstate as all part of the growing services.

Night meeting on Feb 26

The Desert Dirt Kart Club will launch into its 2010 season with the first of three night meetings on Friday, February 26.

Other meetings on the program will be held during the day time in the cooler months.

Traditionally a great family night the program will feature four classes of racing with KT Opens, Wild Bunch, Juniors and Rookies taking to the track.

The high revving power machines will only be drowned out by guest commentator for the evening, breakfast radio host Jack Maguire, who promises to bring his wit and commentary and some great music to the opening event.

Racing gets under way at 7.30 pm and scrutineering of karts is at 6 pm.

Speaking on behalf of the Dirt Kart Club, Kevin Robertson said the club is looking for new members and of course volunteers to help run meetings. He invited anyone interested in racing to come along and have a chat to any of the members and there are Junior and KT karts on show and on sale.

Contact Club President Mario Caligaris-0419810648 or Chelsa Robertson -0428839279 for more information.

At the moment the club is continuing to upgrade its facilities with work on the new clubrooms almost done and Kevin reports it should be ready for the second meeting of the year.

For a great night out with a licensed bar, canteen and sumptuous food, the racing too promises to be non stop wheel to wheel action!

Getting in some practise before the opening night of the Go Kart season are Kevin Robertson (kart 99) and Hayden Borlase stirring up the dust last Friday night.

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Wednesday, February 17, 2010 – Page 13

I am

woman

Why guys cheat!

By Celeste Lustosa

W

hen the fact that Tiger Woods was cheating on his wife made headlines last year, it was hard not to wonder if he’d lost his mind. What reason could there be for him to risk losing his wife, the smoking-hot former model Elin Nordegren?

Although we don’t know the behind-the-scenes details of their marriage, infidelity experts say it’s not surprising that guys like Tiger indulge in sideline action. As it turns out, the reasons guys are unfaithful are rarely about the sex itself, but because cheating fuels a deep psychological need.

The other factor is the man’s level of success. Guys in high-

profile, powerful positions often have a sense of superiority and entitlement. At the same time, their status attracts hot chicks who offer no-strings-attached sex.

But celebs aren’t the only ones. Plenty of regular guys are unfaithful too, especially when their backgrounds condone it.

Many two-timers come from chauvinistic cultures or families where their fathers cheated.

Then there are guys whose bad behaviour is actually a mental disorder. Sex addicts, for example, are so enslaved to the rush of sexual activity that they have affairs, visit prostitutes, and consume porn. Someone with narcissistic personality disorder, on the other hand, can’t resist the temptation because he is obsessed with being adored.

Guys who have such extreme compulsions need psychiatric help.

Get gorgeous naturally

Page 14 – Wednesday, February 17, 2010

In a new study conducted by marriage counsellor M. Gary Neuman, it’s estimated that one in 2.7 men will cheat—and most of their wives will never know about it.

Cheating on their women also has nothing to do with how much they might love them. According to specialists, men just expect to never get caught and get away with having the benefits of a longterm relationship and the casual adventures, but they forget to take into consideration the devastation and how overwhelming it is when you are cheated on someone you love.

Counsellor M. Gary Neuman says that even though cheaters might try to blame their partners, cheating is always wrong and unjustified.

If you ask me, all I can hope for every woman that has been cheated on is that hopefully they can soon see the true colours of their men and move on.

Try these fresh and gentle ways to pretty up your legs and stomach with small, circular movements, skin, hair and body – without breaking the bank. always moving in towards the heart. Avoid breasts and genitals. Shower off mixture, finishing with a cool Fruity facial rinse.

Alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs), which are found in Bathing bliss the most expensive anti-ageing cosmetics, come from ordinary fruit. This home-made mask contains vitamin Try a Japanese nuka bath: tie a handful of rice bran A, to heal skin, and fruit enzymes to remove dead skin in a face flannel and drop it into warm bathwater to cells. Mash together a peeled, ripe peach, 1 teaspoon release vitamin-rich oils that soften skin. Ease dry or brandy and enough cornflour to make a workable paste. itchy skin with an old-fashioned soda bath; just pour a Smooth over face, avoiding lips and eyes. Rinse off cup of bicarbonate of soda into the water and swish to after 10 minutes. disperse it thoroughly. Or, add 1 cup Epsom salts and 5 drops each of pine, juniper and grapefruit essential Get steamy oils to warm bath water. Soak for 20 minutes. This The facial steams offered at beauty salons can be spa-style treatment helps to eliminate toxins from the easily created at home, for a fraction of the cost. They body – the hot water encourages you to sweat, while are fantastic for improving micro-circulation to the the oils and salts stimulate circulation. skin’s surface, opening pores for deep cleansing, and Beat lumps, bumps and wrinkles giving you a naturally healthy glow. Bring 3 cups of water to the boil and pour into a bowl. Add 4 drops Spread sour cream over rough skin on the backs of of an essential oil appropriate to your skin type. Lean arms and legs. Leave for 10 minutes, then rinse off. The over the steam and tent your head with a towel, keep- lactic acid in the cream exfoliates the skin via a natural ing your face at least 25 cm from the water’s surface, chemical action. A tried-and-tested tip for uneven skin to avoid burns. After 10 minutes, splash face with cool, tone is to soak cotton pads in lemon juice, and use fresh water. them to massage the affected areas. The citric acid in the juice softens and bleaches discoloured, leathery Salt glow skin. Fight the ageing process with this all-natural wrinTry this inexpensive treatment to remove dull, dry kle remedy: mix together 1 teaspoon each of brewer’s skin and leave you tingling all over. Mix together 1 yeast and avocado oil, lightly pat into skin and allow it cup of coarse sea salt and enough olive oil to form a to dry before rinsing off. Brewer’s yeast is thought to workable paste. Stand in the shower and scoop up small boost collagen production in the skin, while avocado amounts with your fingers, and use to massage arms, oil is a rich source of anti-ageing vitamin E. www.themonitor.com.au

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O utback H ot S hots

Photography Group Charmayne Cronje

T

he Outback HotShots Photography Group is based in Roxby Downs. It is open to all members of the public no matter what photography skill level they are on. We currently have people who have only just started with photography to members who take photos on a professional level.

The aim of the group is to be a place where members grow and learn and share their knowledge with others.

We have a monthly in house contest where members vote on their favourite photos of the month. The theme for the month of February is “Macro Nature”. We have recently started a group profile on Facebook which allows members to load their photos directly to the group as well as making the voting and counting procedure much easier.

There are no fees involved to become a member.

The group is open to anyone in the Roxby Downs,

Woomera and Andamooka area. It is a very informal group with members helping out where they can. Juanita Van Rooyen will be taking over the running of the blog, email and monthly meetings.

Charmayne Cronje will continue to run the Facebook groups while she has the time. Other members alternate organising fieldtrips and workshops as needed. Annarien Robbertse has kindly organised a special fieldtrip for the group this month, 20th February members will be going through to the Observatory in Woomera to try their hand at night photography. This will incorporate landscapes as well as moon and star trails. Our next photography meeting will take place at the Dunes at 12 noon, on the 7th March 2010.

To contact the group for further information you can mail them at outbackhotshots@gmail.com or check out their blog at www.outbackhotshots.com

LEFT: 1st place for Photo of the Month “Unusual Perspective” by Charmayne Cronje.

P

ABOVE: 2nd place

by Karen Taylor.

hotographer

f o e l i f pro nth o m e th

Violet Flower

Nuttee Ratanapiseth •What was your first camera?

My first camera was a compact digital, a 2002 model Casio QV-R4.

•Why did you get into photography?

I got into photography as a means of spending my own quite time doing something creative and relaxing outdoors.

•How long have you been taking photos?

Around seven years, but I really got into the finer details of photography when I purchased my first DSLR, a Nikon D90 around August 2009. I figured, spending that much money on it, might as well get the most out of the equipment and learn how to take better pictures.

•Who or what inspires you?

My inspiration stems from seeing and then sensing that strong urge to pursue and do my best to capture pleasing images for myself, family and friends. I enjoy taking the time to get things perfect; the correct lighting, positioning, framing a pleasant composition and appreciate the fact that there are infinite possibilities for creativity through the lens.

•Where is your favourite place to take photos?

Mainly in any natural environment. I have not done much on photographing people, but it would be interesting to travel to different locations overseas and take pictures of people in their cultural surroundings.

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•What is your favourite photo?

A couple of weeks back, I tried shooting a full moon with the D90 for the first time, a bit of trial and error as I went, but was happy that some good shots were obtained. My favourite was a shot at around 9:30pm when it was bright and high in the sky. While I did not capture any astronaut footprints, the details came up well, showing dark and bright patches of the moon along with the craters that littered the lunarscape.

•What is your favourite genre?

My current favourites are natural landscape, flora and fauna. However, I am currently self-studying on other genres such as, people, events, built structures and still life.

Sunset

•What is your favourite photography tool?

My zoom lens, the Nikkor 70-200mm VR. It is a very versatile lens. Well constructed, ultra-fast focusing, precise depth of field, gives pleasing bohek (pleasant background blurring) and captures sharp images on all focal lengths.

•What photography equipment do you have on your wish list?

A wide angle lens, Nikkor 14mm f2.8D ED would be nice.

On the more ambitious equipment and last on the list, is the Nikon D3X. I certainly would not pay around $7,000 to get one; however, it would be an interesting acquisition, just to see what the fuss is all about with this 24.5megapixel DSLR.

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Dune Plant

Wednesday, February 17, 2010 – Page 15

EMPLOYMENT/CLASSIFIEDS FOR SALE OZTRAIL SWAGS 25% off plus Free Delivery Australia Wide. Full range of Camping & 4WD gear at www.kampers.com.au 03 5024 2200 TREADMILL Excellent condition 8 mths old $600 ono. Ladies bike & helmet Excellent condition $60.00 Ph: 0400 389 997 BIRTH NOTICE MICHAEL & Katie are proud to introduce Asha Kate Tilley born on the 19 October 2009 weight 2.7kg a gorges little sister for Isaac.

PUBLIC NOTICE WANT to learn new skills but have difficulty accessing training?Applications Now Open for Community Learning Places For further information contact Michelle on 0418833818

2010 Opening Race Meeting Friday, February 26 Racing starts at 7.30 p.m.

Full catering - Licensed booth

Phone 0417 831 994

Page 16 – Wednesday, February 17, 2010

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NEWS

Movie Review

S U T VIC

IN M

organ Freeman is brilliant as Nelson Mandela in the Clint Eastwood’s ceremonial tale of the 1995 rugby World Cup in post-apartheid South Africa, Invictus.

Invictus is a monolithic sporting saga that seems content to pose on the podium, lulled by the belief that its subject matter provides inspiration enough. At times it feels as though Eastwood has elected to skip the contest and proceed straight to the trophy presentation.

It’s not that Mandela’s turbulent first year as South Africa’s president is lacking in drama. Invictus, plays out in a land scarred by apartheid and facing an uncertain future, led by an man still regarded by large swaths of the population as an unrepentant terrorist hell-bent on settling old scores.

The genius of Mandela was in somehow managing to pacify these tensions, cajoling his countrymen towards an uneasy truce. But in charting this struggle, Eastwood sticks too close to the playbook and frames history as an airbrushed Hollywood heartwarmer. The implication is that, by the time our hero takes his seat at the world cup finals, none of these issues were ever a problem again.

Casting about for a symbol of the new, integrated South Africa, the newly elected president hits upon what initially seems an unruly and divisive candidate. The Springboks rugby team are not just languishing in the doldrums; they are also seen as a bastion of old white rule and therefore despised by the black majority who cheer whatever team is playing them. But Mandela spies an opportunity. He celebrates the Springboks’ lone black player and sets out to woo its foursquare captain, François Pienaar (Matt Damon).

Raised in a family of racist Afrikaans, Pienaar goes to his first meeting like a man

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contemplating root canal surgery. Needless to say, he comes out converted.

The rest of Invictus follows the Springboks’ unlikely push towards the World Cup final, where they face-off against New Zealand. After a lifetime playing Cinderella, Pienaar’s stoic maid is duly invited to the ball. Outside the stadium, a pair of white cops listen to the match on the radio while a black urchin eavesdrops a short distance away. But by the time the contest has reached its conclusion, the cops have hoisted the kid on their shoulders and are presumably planning to pay his way through college. Invictus is that kind of movie.

While hardly a dead-ringer for Mandela, Freeman turns in a diligent, nuanced impersonation that at least hints at the private man behind the public image. His Mandela is by turns wise and wily; his seraphic smile concealing a life of shadows. Meanwhile, Damon makes a good fist of his role as Pienaar, although his character is seldom allowed to be more than a plot device: the Afrikaner who sees the light.

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Wednesday, February 17, 2010 – Page 17

Page 18 – Wednesday, February 17, 2010

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Wednesday, February 17, 2010 – Page 19

MOTORING

Honda Odyssey - a smooth operator

I

n the very competitive people moving market Honda’s Odyssey is an attractive offering in this usually plain and “boxy” category. With its smooth clean lines it looks more like a sports wagon and yet carries 7 people in comfort.

Honda keeps it simple with only two models - the basic Odyssey which we tested and the Odyssey Luxury. Both are powered by a 2.4lt i-VTEC 4cyl petrol engine that produces an impressive 132kw of people moving power and 218Nm of torque and is coupled to a 5 speed auto transmission. The Odyssey weighs in at 1.7tonnes and Honda quote fuel consumption of 8.9 litres/100kms (combined). We averaged precisely 10.0 litres/100kms over some 300kms of predominately city driving. This economy comes despite the need to stir the engine along when loaded.

The Odyssey comes with almost every safety feature available - very appealing to anyone who has to move people on a regular basis. There are front and side airbags up front, with full length side curtains and side impact protection. ABS brakes, brake assist and EBD electronic brake force distribution are standard as is Vehicle Stability Assist and the Honda Traction Control system. The most recent ANCAP crash test result for Odyssey is from 2006 where it scored a 4 star rating. The model tested then had no stability control but scored 16 out of 16 for side impact protection.

The Odyssey’s Motion Adaptive Electric Power Steering detects instability in slippery conditions during cornering and braking. It automatically initiates steering inputs aimed at allowing the driver to steer in the right direction.

Honda’s clearly stated aim has been to produce a

7 seater which looks and handles like a car.

They’ve achieved this and its car like proportions also translate into low body roll and stability when cornering so we were pleasantly surprised when doing the obligatory roundabout test.

Freeway motoring is comfortable and quiet with ergonomically designed seats, a pretty reasonable 6 speaker sound system and climate control with rear ventilation.

The drinks department is also adequately managed with 6 cup and 4 bottle holders.

The Odyssey Luxury comes with leather seats (heated up front and with power for the driver), tri-zone climate control, auto HID headlights, fog lights, sunroof, 6 stacker, 17”alloys (an extra 1”) and a few other cosmetic touches. Missing from both models unfortunately is Sat. Nav. and Bluetooth.

With 7 seats one might also expect some DVD capability for the 2 back rows these days.

Released in early 2009, the current Odyssey & Luxury were priced at $43,990 & $49,990 plus on roads. In January 2010 Honda is offering Odyssey at $40,990 including on roads.

In the people moving market there’s plenty to choose from these days and while Odyssey lacks Navigation and Bluetooth and perhaps could do with a torquey diesel option it still easily tops its class.

Odyssey definitely has form and function and at current pricing the bonus of great value.

Test vehicle courtesy Honda Australia Yvonne & David Williams – www.wheeldestinations.com

Kangaroos and SA drivers don’t mix New car sales continue to rise

Animals, particularly kangaroos, were the cause of over 20,000 collisions on Australia’s roads in 2009, according to SGIC claims data.* Last year the insurer received more than 1,300 animal-related collision claims on SA roads and more than 70 per cent were involving a kangaroo.

SGIC spokesperson Robert McDonald said kangaroo collisions on country roads are a significant problem.

“Unfortunately, many kangaroos are active on our roads. They are often looking for food at sunrise and sunset and it’s during this time that an increased number of collisions occur,” said Mr McDonald.

Mr McDonald said that although most animal collisions occur on country roads, Adelaide drivers should also be mindful when dogs and cats are near the road dogs are the second most likely animal to be hit.

Mr McDonald offered some advice for drivers:

Page 20 – Wednesday, February 17, 2010

If you see a kangaroo on or near the road, you should try and brake, but not swerve to avoid a collision.

If you hit the animal and safety permits, you should try to help by moving it to the side of the road to prevent further crashes.

If the animal is still alive, keep it warm, and in a quiet place away from noises Don’t force the animal to eat or drink and contact a local veterinarian or a wildlife rescue centre such as WIRES. Statistics of Kangaroo collisions: Mount Gambier 43 Port Augusta 31 Whyalla 30 Hawker 24 Naracoorte 23 Port Lincoln 20 Morgan 20 Kingston 20 Renmark 18 Penola 18

New car sales in Australia have continued to rise with what the Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries describes as a “significant increase” in January but once again, none of the other car makers could come close to out-selling Toyota.

Official VFACTS data released by the Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries (FCAI) shows that 74,864 passenger cars, SUVs and commercial vehicles were sold in January, up 11.6 per cent (or 7,785 vehicles) on the same month in 2009.

“This is a strong result and provides the market with a confidence boost heading into 2010,” FCAI Chief Executive Andrew McKellar said.

“Business purchases remained strong in January with some buyers taking delivery of vehicles ordered

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last year under the Federal Government’s business tax break,” he said.

“New car affordability is better than ever and has been further enhanced by the tariff cut on many imported vehicles,” he said.

“New car buyers have effectively been handed a ‘tax cut’ and many brands have moved quickly to reduce prices or increase vehicle specifications,” Mr McKellar said.

“As a result, it is expected that this will encourage private buyers to return to the marketplace in greater numbers throughout the year,” he said.

Toyota retained the top selling position with a market share of 19.5 per cent; followed by Holden with 14 per cent and then Ford with nine per cent.

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HAVE YOUR SAY . . .

LIFESTYLE

“do you think the school speed zone should be extended?”

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“I think it’s more important to have a pedestrian crossing at Tutop and Arcoona street.”

Dave Miller

“I don’t think so. They should just stick to the crossing” Kathryn Hudson

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“Yes it should be extended for safety reasons, as kids are unpredictable.”

Silvia D’arrigo

“I don’t notice as I park at the back to avoid the pedestrian traffic.”

Renae Johnson

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Wednesday, February 17, 2010 – Page 21

SPORT

Volleyball’s back!

The Roxby Downs Volleyball Association started the 2010 Autumn Season this week.

Pictured above in a recent round robin competition is Vikki Cane and at left is Sarah Weston in on court action.

This season the games will be an hour commencing at 6.45pm and 7.45pm, so dust off your knee pads and get on down to the Leisure Centre.

Local basketballers make SA proud Over the last four to five weeks, five of Roxby’s youth (including junior sportsperson of the year, Jack Daly) have competed in State competition for basketball.

All representing the State Country Team for South Australia in Port Macquarie and Albury / Wodonga. Jack Daly, Bailey Evans and Toby Smith represented the U14boys team; Ethan Zeptner represented U15s and Amelia Rasheed the U17s.

The SA teams were very successful against their opponents. This carnival was a great experience for all involved, competing at a national level against other State Country Teams. All Roxby participants excelled and coach Wes Knights received extremely positive feedback from all their coaches in regards to their participation, skills, and sportsmanship. It is a huge credit to all participants from Roxby, including their parents for the time and dedication they apply to their basketball, and it stands them in good stead to progress to the next level, the National Metro and Country Championships which they will be eligible for in the coming years.

Jack, Bailey and Toby were all part of two U14 teams that participated at Albury / Wodonga who played seven games for the week under championship rules and had several successes throughout the week. The final game saw the Magpies lose to the Victoria bush rangers, and the

Sharks had a loss to NSW Waratahs.

The boys gained a lot of valuable experiences, both in life and in the game, and honed on their already sterling skills!

The Under 15 boys (featuring Ethan Zeptner) won four out of the five games beating New South Wales Waratahs 66 to 56, Queensland South 97 to 82, New South Wales Metro 78 to 36, and New Zealand 78 to 36 points They lost to the Victorian Bushrangers 65 to 41.

They proceeded to the semi final to play NSW Kookaburras who hadn’t yet lost a game… SA was victorious by four points taking them straight to the grand final.

The grand final, which lasted nearly two hours, was well played on SA’s behalf, but unfortunately gave the game to the Vic Bushrangers, who played a better game on the day. The final score for the Pacific Slam was 102 – 52.

All SA country boys’ teams played extremely well and made their State proud, due in large part to their coach Peter (Toddy) Todd and team manager Lisa.

The Under 17 girls didn’t have a lot of success, finishing sixth out of eight teams, but they all came away from Port Macquarie with great friends and memories. Playing Country State was a new experience for all but one of the girls and they took a while to find their feet and coordinate as a team.

ABOVE: Basketball action from the local competition last week sees, the Devil’s S. VanLaarhoven trying to stop the run of the attacking H. Wurfel in a game that saw the Hypos score and easy victory of the Devil Mums.

LEFT: Wes Knights as pictured with Jack, Toby and Bailey was the head coach for the U16 boys which played in Albury\ Wodonga Page 22 – Wednesday, February 17, 2010

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SPORT

SPORTS Results

Touch Football: 09/02/2010 Cancelled due to hot weather policy.

Wednesday Netball: 10/02/2010 A grade: Hornridge 31 defeated Eagles 30 Redbacks 27 drew with Victorious Secret 27 B Grade: Sporty Shorties 36 defeated Desert Demons 13 Ta n g o s 20 defeated Milkshakes 17 Mixed: Roxby PLeisure 32 defeated Goal Diggers 27 UNO 38 defeated First Contact 10 Indoor Hockey: 11/02/2010 Red 7 defeated Blue 4 White forfeited against green Outdoor Soccer: 14/02/2010 Blues 6 defeated Young Guns 5

Rogues on top of the table

By Paul Trotta In a highly entertaining and see-sawing contest on Saturday morning, Roxby Rogues held on by 19 runs against Olympic Dam. The win puts the Rogues on top of the table with one game to play. The Devils have slipped back to second but can regain top spot if the results of the remaining games go their way.

Rogues won the toss and elected to bat first in the muggy conditions. Joel Nicholson struck an early blow for the Devils when he got an inswinger past Adrian Boulton’s bat with the score on nine. After surviving an early edge to second slip, Paul Trotta then dug in, firstly with Nigel Tutthill (13), then Dave Kaminski (38), to take the score to 3/107 at the fall of Kaminski’s wicket. The 71 run partnership between Trotta and Kaminski was the biggest of the match and was a key factor in the final result.

Following the dismissal of Trotta for 43, Anderson, Hicks and Hayball batted out the innings for Rogues to take the final score to 6/160. Nicholson was the best of the OD bowlers with 2/19 from his eight overs. Mick Hoffman and Wayne Moroney also picked up two wickets each.

OD’s opening batsman Maroney and Phil Stacey made a solid start in their chase for victory, seeing off the first 11 overs, before Stacey edged Anderson to ‘keeper Tutthill Roxby Rogues vs Andamooka with the score on 32. Two more wickets followed quickly to have the Devils in some trouble at 3/38. The fall of the third wicket brought Craig Nichols to the crease, however, and he looked like he could win the game for his side, dispatching loose deliveries to the boundary. He was well supported by Seb Holbrook in a 45 run partnership.

A change of bowlers to Toby Ferguson and BJ Platten brought about a change to

the game. Ferguson dismissed both Nichols and Holbrook, and Platten caught Brayden McEvoy off his own bowling to reduce the Devils to 6/96. At this point, the equation was 65 runs required from 57 balls, and this looked to be beyond the lower half of the OD batting order.

Greg Latham, however, did not agree, and he set out on a rescue mission, plundering the Rogues’ bowling. He got his side to needing 20 from victory with three overs to go, and a great come-from-behind victory for OD was looming.

It wasn’t to be though, as Platten held his nerve and took a well judged catch off his own bowling to dismiss Latham for 36, an innings which included five fours and a six. Platten also picked up the final wicket with his next delivery, and OD was bowled out for 141.

Platten returned the best bowling figures for the Rogues with 4/18, and Ferguson’s two wickets were also crucial.

The close match is a good indication of the closeness of the completion and sets up a good finals series.

Double hat-trick for Hanson

Wanderers easily accounted for Andamooka in their game on Saturday afternoon.

Andamooka batted first and were bowled out cheaply.

Wanderers’ David Hanson completed the rare feat of a double hat-trick (four wickets in four balls), with the fourth wicket thanks to brilliant catch at leg slip by Paul Luke. The Wanderers’ batsman were rarely troubled in their run chase.

The competition now has a week’s break due to many players competing in the Country Carnival in Adelaide.

Roxby Rogues Nigel Tutthill came in at first drop and is a picture of concentration as he fends off a rising delivery.

On the boards in season 2010 LEFT: Nic Montgomerie (14) defends as her team Devil Mums is under pressure from Hypo’s R. Johnson.

BELOW: Devils’ S. VanLaarhoven and Hypos’ E. yversten in a race for the loose ball during last week’s game at the Leisure Centre.

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Wednesday, Monday, February 17, 2010 – Page 23

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Trotta top scores to set his team to a 19 run victory

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The Roxby Rougues cricket team held on for victory in the game against the previously top side Olympic Dam. The win takes the Rogues to the top of the table.

See the full report and score card on page 23 . . .

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