FEB18-09

Monitor The

Your Community Newspaper ~ Roxby Downs

www.themonitor.com.au

Phone (08) 8671 2683

Fax (08) 8671 2843

Volume 5, Wednesday February 18th, 2009

Housing market more realistic W

hile doom and gloom has prevailed in the national and, to a lesser extent, the South Australian real estate market, Roxby Downs is faring well according to our local real estate agents.

The Monitor spoke with Lyn Andrews, Wardles and Raine and Horne real estate in relation to house sales and rentals and property managers Leicester Management Services.

All the agents agreed the market has softened since late last year.

Lorraine Aubrey, Manager at Lyn Andrews, said: ”There are definitely more houses on the market.” Craig Sumson of Raine and Horne added, “The market peaked around 12 months ago and it has now settled at a more realistic level.”

Ali Webber of Wardles said, “Sales are quieter

but Roxby has been somewhat sheltered from the financial crisis.”

The financial crisis, lose of some local jobs and an uncertain future has not deterred the local home sales market that much according to the agents.

“Locally, it has been more of a market correction than a down turn,” said Craig.

“There have been a number of factors that have been influencing the local market such as the Copper Sands and the Division C Development, job losses and the financial crisis. Last year interests were climbing and now they are at a 45 year low.”

The biggest change in the market has been a more realistic approach by both the properly owners looking to sell and the buyers. All agents expressed that at its peak the local market

was priced up to $30,000 over the real market value. “ Our sales this year have probably been a little below the vendors expectations,” says Lorraine, a sentiment also voiced by Craig who expressed that buyer’s expectations had also shifted, which has brought the buyer and vendor expectation closer together.

“What is often overlooked by buyers is that in comparison to other mining towns our house price and rental charges are low compared to any similar location.

“We have a great lifestyle and facilities and a mine with a 100 year life making us a sound investment,’ said Ali Webber.

All agents agreed the climate to purchase in Roxby is just right, interest rates are low, prices have settled at a more realistic level and there

is greater choice of homes on the market. It has turned into a buyer’s market.

Ali Webber warned though that the market can turn at anytime. “Every time there is a big announcement concerning Olympic Dam the investors are immediately on the phone,” she said.

This next year could see the market jump either way depending on the deepening of the current crisis and the release of the EIS detailing BHP Billions expansion details and schedule.

If you are planning to live in Roxby for the next two or three years or beyond and you are looking to buy a house, the agents are saying it makes a lot of sense to buy now.

As one purchasers put it: “I’m paying less on my mortgage than in rent.”

RED CROSS VICTORIAN BUSHFIRE APPEAL 2009 The people of Roxby Downs send their deepest Condolences and loving thoughts to the communities and individuals affected by the recent bushfires.

MONEY CAN BE DONATED AT THESE COLLECTION POINTS:

ON-LINE DONATIONS CAN BE MADE THROUGH

SIGN THE BOOK OF REFLECTIONS AND SEND YOUR PERSONAL MESSAGE OF SUPPORT

Photo: Herald Sun

DONATIONS CAN ALSO BE MADE AT

A

The

Family Focus with Tom Beever

Another Kind Of Stench One of my articles from last year was titled The Stench of Roxby. The article focused upon the terribly disturbing aspect of illicit drug use in our town that tragically continues to involve a number of our teens and twenty plus year olds.

I was touched by the amount of positive feedback I received from that article and I even had one young male tell me that his mum had cut the article out and pinned it on the family fridge to serve as a reminder of what I had said.

Well! There is another kind of stench around us that is leaving a different kind of impact upon a number of our residents and their families except this disgraceful stench is affecting male and female residents of all ages.

For confidential reasons I can’t say how many residents and families make contact with me each year and I obviously can’t tell you the reasons why I’m contacted. What I can tell you however, is that unfair work related problems, particularly workplace bullying is prevalent amongst us.

I have alluded to workplace bullying in past articles but have decided to identify it further because far too many of our residents of all ages are suffering (or have suffered) because of gutless wonders who think they can use their power and authority to screw people around in the work force.

According to Australian Work Force statistics, the major source of bullying comes from managers; supervisors and fellow workers and I can tell you that the major source of workplace bullying around us is coming from management and those who have been given leadership responsibilities.

Bullying of any sort is totally unacceptable and should never be tolerated but work place bullying is so very hard to deal with when people’s jobs are on the line and the cunning pathetic work place bullies around us know they can use their positions of power and authority over staff, and it’s been happening amongst us for far too long.

Young people are often an easy target by work place bullies and that has certainly been the case for some of our young people. In fact some of our young people have even had to deal with disgraceful bullying from family members, friends or cronies of work place bullies.

The local work place bullies (or their family members, friends or cronies) I’m talking about have used their power and authority to speak or say hello when they feel like it.

They have isolated workers, targeted them, intimidated them, lied to them, lied about them, spied upon them,

treated them with rudeness, cut back hours, discriminated against them but showed favouritism to others when drawing up rosters and have at times overlooked the worth of good, honest, competent workers of all ages.

Work place bullying is against the law and I know how hard it is to stand up against it when the work place bully is your boss or a family member, friend or a crony of your boss. But I encourage all who have been affected or are affected by local workplace bullying to speak out because your voice will help clean up the putrid stench that’s been around us for far too long.

Far too many of our young people and adults who loved their work and believed in what they were doing have had to turn their back on their job because of the treatment they were experiencing and we can only admire them for their courage and ability to hang in there as long as they did.

Many victims of local workplace bullying have spoken with their doctor, many have spoken with me and some have tried to defend themselves in other ways but I encourage more people to speak out so we can work together to help expose the places of work and the bullies to try and establish some kind of justice.

Further work place bully factors to watch out for (besides the obvious and the ones I have already mentioned) include subtle hints in relation to job security, “restructuring” or “downsizing” threats, broken promises, praising one minute not speaking the next, discrimination in roster or shift setting or intruding on a persons space by pestering, spying or tampering with personal effects or work equipment.

In fact for a comprehensive run down on work place bullying go to the Stop Bullying in SA website which is www.stopbullyingsa.com.au or contact Safe Work SA on 1300 365 255, 8303 0400, or help@safework. sa.gov.au. The office of the Employee Ombudsman oeo@saugov.sa.gov.au also provides advice and assistance to South Australian employees.

Try not to be intimidated when you’re standing up against workplace bullying but keep in mind exposure of any kind of bullying is the only real way to deal with it because bullies don’t like to be exposed, especially workplace bullies who are accountable to someone else.

Exposing workplace bullying is one thing but obtaining justice or a successful outcome is obviously an entirely different thing but successful outcomes from local workplace bullying have happened! But they have only happened because someone stood up, sought advice and fought against it.

Domestic Water, millions of litres

Roxby Downs Water Consumption 4.5 4.0 3.5 3.0 2.5 2.0 1.5 1.0 0.5 0.0

Monitor NEWS GIFT OF THE GAB

The Great Artesian Basin

T

confining siltstones and mudstones were created in a bowl-like shape as the area around the boundary of the basin was uplifted and eroded.

It varies in thickness from less than 100 metres around the edge of the basin to over 3,000 metres in the centre.

Along particular boundaries of the basin, rainfall is able to enter the aquifers in areas where they touch the surface.

This natural recharge occurs mainly along the western slopes of the Great Dividing Range in Queensland and NSW but to a lesser extent on the north-west boundary in Queensland and the Northern Territory.

Once the water has entered the aquifer it generally flows towards the south-west of the basin at a rate of 1 – 5 metres per year. In the northern section of the basin however the water flows in a north or northwesterly direction.

Natural discharge from the GAB occurs mainly from natural springs i n th e s o u th western area of the basin.

Faults or fractures through the aquifers and confin-

he Great Artesian Basin (GAB) is one of the world’s l a rg e s t g ro u n d w ate r reservoirs underlying around one-fifth of the Australian continent.

The GAB stretches from the western slopes of the Great Dividing Range in Queensland and NSW westward into parts of South Australia and the Northern Territory covering an area in excess of 1.7 million km2 and holding an estimated 64,900 million megalitres of water (a megalitre is equivalent to half an Olympic swimming pool).

The GAB began forming millions of years ago when a shallow inland sea filled central Australia.

Over a long period of time alternating layers of waterbearing (permeable) sandstone aquifers and

A

ing layers of the basin restrict the normal flow and forces water up towards the surface where they appear as natural springs.

These springs have particular cultural and ecological significance.

Springs flow naturally (without pumping) because the natural recharge area is higher in elevation than the springs themselves.

This means the water becomes pressurised between the confining layers and will rise as a result of this pressure.

This is known as artesian. Subartesian water will not rise above ground level.

The presence of the GAB was first confirmed in 1878 when the first artesian bore was drilled in Bourke, north-western NSW. An abundance of bores were subsequently drilled and by 1998 there were approximately 3,000 artesian and 35,000 sub-artesian bores throughout the basin.

Discharge peaked at 730,000 megalitres per year (remember one megalitre equals half an Olympic swimming pool) in 1915 but excessive wastage and concern about decreasing flows forced governments to implement legislation to conserve what is such as important resource.

For more information on the Great Artesian Basin go to the Queensland Government website: http://www.nrw.qld.gov.au/water/ gab.

MBER

Pet name: Lucky

Pet age: ?

Fave food:

Type/ breed:

moths

Has he/she got fave toy?

baby frill neck lizard

No, but he has a rock that he likes to play under!

Are there any interesting thing about your pet?

He can’t lose his tail and he hasn’t put up his frill on his neck yet.

Mon 9 Feb

Tue 10 Wed 11 Thu 12 Feb Feb Feb

Fri 13 Feb

Sat 14 Feb

Sun 15 Feb

All domestic water in Roxby Downs, Andamooka and Olympic Dam is supplied from the Great Artesian Basin.

The water is desalinated and chlorinated.

Use water wisely in an arid climate.

Owner:

Page 2 – Wednesday, February 18th, 2009

www.themonitor.com.au

THE MONITOR – Your Community Newspaper

The

Monitor NEWS

Doctors Move in Limbo

A

They went on to say: “For some, the s we go to print there is no news as to the fate of Dr Lockwood Medical Practice at the hospital is not an and Dr Strachan’s Family option so this will leave these patients with no medical coverage whatsoever.

Practice.

“How do we propose to care for the ever The Doctors made a decision last week to close the practice by June this year.

When the Doctors’ decision became known through the local media they were immediately inundated with offers of support.

A spokesperson for the Practice said that a final decision has not yet been made.

The community has been showing its support by circulating several petitions and The Monitor has instigated Friends of the Family Practice, who consist of a group who have pledged to do whatever it takes to support the Doctors to stay.

The Save the Doctor email address has received a number of letters of support, including a heartfelt note from Frontier Services at Andamooka.

The staff at Frontier Services, remote Area Nurse Diane Bilka, Registered Nurse Di Williams and coordinator Peter Mc Cready have stated that it is “imperative we retain our medical practioners at all costs.”

growing obstetric population and who will take up the slack of 70 - 100 patients per day.....the Roxby Downs Medical Practice is not equipped to handle this volume of patients.”

The author of another email of support expressed that she felt ‘devastated’ with the news asking: “What can we do to keep these Doctors here in town?” Another said, “Let’s all get together and fight for Dr Lockwood to stay in Roxby, also Dr Strachan. Surely companies in our town will come and provide building materials that we need to get this new practice up and running. Come on Roxby, show some guts.”

These comments reflect the feelings of the community who are greatly concerned and prepared to support in any way they that will keep these much loved Doctor’s in Roxby.

Register your support for Simon and Wendy on savethedoctor@themonitor. com.au Dr Simon Lockwood is still deciding whether or not he and Dr Strachan will leave town.

No alcohol until 15

ficer, said children under 15 should not be allowed

By Zak Zeptner to drink alcohol, and those between 15 and 17 Parents are warned children who consume alco- should only do so under adult supervision.

Some parents have been known to supply alcohol before the age of 15 increase the risks of brain hol to children as young as five, with many families damage, depression and memory problems.

Sir Liam Donaldson, Britain’s chief medical of- believing alcohol at mealtimes can encourage a

responsible attitude in older offspring.

Sir Liam, on the other hand, said this practice was misguided and “middle class”, reiterating the advice given is to help clear up parental confusion on safe childhood drinking levels.

Drug and Alcohol Services South Australia chief executive Keith Evans said alcohol should be delayed as long as possible to prevent damage to developing brains.

“We have an age limit for a good reason,” he said.

“The brain is still developing until the age of 18 and beyond and the evidence is that the younger you are the less likely your body is going to be able to handle it.”

He went on to say parents were allowed some flexibility when introducing their children to alcohol, however, they should be warned of the risks.

In Britain, it is legal for parents to provide children as young as five with alcohol in the home, prompting critics to attack the guidelines, saying there is no hard evidence for banning a little alcohol at mealtimes.

They claim it would lead to more binge drinking as teenagers would grow up believing drinking was as illicit as taking illegal drugs.

Sir Liam’s guidelines, which were set out alongside Schools Secretary Ed Balls and Health Secretary Alan Johnson, describes an alcohol-free childhood as the “healthiest and best options”.

The guidelines went on to state: “If children drink alcohol, it should not be until at least the age of 15.”

It added if they do drink, “they should do so infrequently and certainly on no more than one day a week”.

According to Sir Liam, more than 10,000 children are hospitalised due to drinking, with research stating 15 percent of young people think it is normal to get drunk once a week.

“They (young people) are putting themselves at risk of harm to the liver, depression and damage

to the developing brain,” he said.

“Resulting social issues can lead to children and young people doing less well at school and struggling to interact with friends and family.”

Sir Liam also rejected the argument that it could be beneficial for children if introduced to alcohol young.

“The danger of any misguided attempt to ply children with alcohol is that they get the taste for drinking.”

The guidelines by Sir Liam will be introduced to British schools as part of the curriculum.

Schools Secretary Mr Ball has insisted the guidance is not a question of interference telling parents how to raise their children.

“This is a decision for parents, it should never be a decision for Government,” he said.

“But my sense is that parents will be very surprised by the evidence.”

In adolescence, drinking alcohol can damage the liver, reduce sex hormone levels and stunt growth, leading to poor school performance, more sexual risk taking, violent behaviour and long-term drink problems.

Despite this, these guidelines have been blasted as being “too black and white”.

Judy Reith, manager of parentingpeople.co.uk said, “It’s taking away parents’ ability to decide what’s right in their family.

“It’s about getting to know your children really well. Some children might have a little bit of alcohol and it would set them off on a dangerous path, while it might be good for others.

“I always believe that the parent is the expert, not the expert.”

Professor frank Furedi, a sociologist at Kent University, said: “Far from helpful, this advice is likely to make problems worse.

“One reason why Britain is afflicted by the problem of binge drinking is because children do not learn how to consume alcohol within their families.”

Experts differ on the opinion that being introduced to liquor at a young age could lead young people to alcohol issues as they grow up.

Home Rental Market Steady Roxby’s very tight home rental market has eased a little since last year.

All the local property managers have reported that there are more properties available now than there has been in the past.

The release of new land developments at Copper Sands and Division C last year and recent jobs loses has had some influence in bringing more rentals onto the market.

However while rental prices may be a little more competitive and negotiable, the prices have generally been very stable.

“Where properties were being snapped up immediately now they may stay in the market for up to two weeks” said Craig Sumsion of Raine and Horne Tania Noonan, Property Manager with Wardles Real Estate, reported that quality homes were still being picked up quickly. “We are not seeing the steep and frequent rental prices of last year, the prices have stabilised.

Property Manager at Leicester Management Services Alison Donovan confirmed that more properties were available for rent and that rental costs had dropped.” It’s very different to when I arrived 12 months ago” said Alison.

It has been reported that Myall Gove Caravan Park also has an increased number of sites available for rent.

THE MONITOR – Your Community Newspaper

www.themonitor.com.au

Wednesday, February 18th, 2009 – Page 3

The

Monitor NEWS

Someone to listen

By Zak Zeptner

T

he residents of Roxby Downs and surrounding areas often face many issues on a personal level and fortunately, there is someone available to listen.

Whether it is a need to talk about your problems, to have a shoulder to cry on or just someone to listen, Roxby’s Family and Youth Officer Tom Beever

is there for you.

For the past 30 years, Tom has been involved in helping others throughout the hardships of life. Tom’s position was set up to enable people in Roxby Downs, Woomera, Andamooka and the surrounding Stations to access counselling support for the variety of issues they face throughout life.

“It has been a delight to help people and it’s great that I can play a significant role in people’s lives,” said Tom.

Tom has approximately 1000 visitors a year who are dealing with some form of crisis in their life.

“There is hardly a day that goes by when there isn’t a crisis going on in the life of a person or a family,” he said.

Issues of all natures, including work related problems, family feuds, bullying and school problems are handled

by Tom. “The major reason people come to see me is family related issues and things going on in the home,” said Tom. “I am there for them to have someone independent to talk to or to be a mediator and I do all I can to help.

“What people value the most is someone on a local level they can access.”

Tom has an extensive list of contacts for counselling services, doctors and other professionals that may be able to assist people with the issues Tom is unable to help with.

One such area of his work Tom finds extremely rewarding is dealing with the many nationalities represented in Roxby Downs.

“We have 63 different nationalities and a lot of the issues people see me about are issues from where they come from, like fam-

ily deaths overseas.”

Tom said the second biggest reason people see him, which has been consistent for the past three years, problems in the workplace.

Tom has been asked to act as a mediator by employers and to be a witness to events and issues in the workforce.

“It’s nice to be able to help people through issues at work so they can go home and sleep at night rather than have them anxious because things aren’t going well.”

Tom regularly visits people at home who are unable to attend his office, such as shift workers and families.

Everything Tom deals with is kept private and confidential.

“I don’t judge someone when I see them and I often remind people that I am a husband and a father too, that I also make mistakes so I never judge, I listen.”

Talking about your problems and feelings can seem like a daunting and foolish thing to do; with the stereotypes of particularly miners as strong, independent workers, many may have no desire to speak with someone about their issues.

To those who do not desire to talk about their problems, Tom says, “I understand.”

“Whatever it is that’s going on in people’s lives, if only they come and talk, something can always be done; I’ve

never had an issue where nothing can be done. It only takes someone outside of our usual circle to offer something that could hep.”

Tom also remarked on the supportive nature of the community, saying he believes “when the chips are down and someone is hurting, people get in there and help out”.

“Dean Della Valle once said to me: ‘your work will be unseen by many but it will be of great value to many.’

“I see people and they see me and nothing more needs to be said.

“I would hope that in the future there would be Family and Youth Officers in every community because that would mean the leaders of communities would be saying we want to maintain people’s health and that would be great.”

If you have an issue you would like to talk to someone about, whether it be big or small, no matter who you are, young or old, Tom welcomes you with open arms.

To speak with Tom, stop into his office between the Leisure Centre entrance and the cinema or call him on 86712 892 or organise an appointment.

Tom is a great listener who truly enjoys what he does.

“It’s the best job in the world and in my eyes, I’m living in the best community in the world and there is nowhere else I would rather be.”

Roxby’s indoor pool?

Tom Beever

Consultation has been conducted over the past weeks to determine the feasibility of building an indoor swimming pool in Roxby Downs.

As part of the town’s expansion upgrades, Sue Suter of Suter Planning has been working with the Leisure Centre and council to ascertain whether or not the residents and community organisations of Roxby Downs want and will benefit from an indoor pool.

Ms Suter told The Monitor she expected the inquiry to last for around eight weeks, though as the study has not yet been concluded, she was unable to comment further.

“We are not in a position to release any information at this stage,” said Ms Suter.

Despite the concept coming under fire, with many residents believing the money could be used to fund other more important projects, what went unnoticed

was that there was also considerable support for such a project.

When the concept was released last year the Council emphasised it was only a concept and that a feasibility study would be undertaken.

While all the public focus has been on the indoor pool, the study includes shading over the existing pool and the construction of badly needed community spaces.

Family and Youth Officer Tom Beever, who was originally against the idea of an indoor pool, has said after considering the idea, it could provide an alternative meeting place for residents.

“It could be a great place for people to meet, whether it is hot or cold, it could be used all year round, which would be fantastic.”

Claire means business C ence gathered along the way and Ms Wiseman is bringing it all to the businesses of Roxby Downs, Pimba, Woomera and Andamooka.

In her role as Central Economic Development Manager, Ms Wiseman will facilitate local businesses to identify and take advantage of new There has been a load of experi- opportunities, recognise problems

laire Wiseman, Deputy CEO of the Northern Regional Development Board (NRDB), has made the journey from outback Stations to the world of business and regional development.

Clean Up

ROXBY

SUNDAY

MARCH 1ST

Meet at Lions Park at 9:30am All equipment supplied - Bring a hat and water

BBQ LUNCH SUPPLIED For further information contact Steve Moss 0417 806 910 Roxby Sponsors

Claire Wisemen Deputy CEO of the Regional Development Board will be working closely with businesess in Roxby Downs, Andamooka, Moomera and Pimba.

NaƟonal Sponsors

Page 4 – Wednesday, February 18th, 2009

and how to nullify their impact.

Ms Wiseman said, “During prelimenary discussions with several local business there was particular interest in reforming an invigorated Business Association.

“I worked for 4 years with the Port Augusta Business Association, during which time we built up the Associations membership and business activities. I am sure those experiences will be valuable assets to drawn on if businesses want to proceed in that direction.”

Ms Wiseman has had experience working in management positions in the hospitality industry managing key tourist destinations, working in a Regional Ministerial Office and in Migration and Workforce Development finding specific labour skills for businesses and regions that could not fill their needs locally.

Although the role is shared across the towns in our Region and Pt Augusta, Ms Wiseman will be a frequent visitor to all locations and will be working closely with the Roxby Downs Council, Andamooka Miners and Progress Association and the Woomera Town Board.

The position is a Partnership between The Northern Regional Development Board, State Government Pt Augusta and Roxby Downs Council and the Outback Area Community Trust.

www.themonitor.com.au

THE MONITOR – Your Community Newspaper

The

Monitor NEWS

Go Kart track vandalised

By Zak Zeptner

T

he Go Kart track was last week broken into by motorcyclists who caused damage to the track and surrounding fencing.

The rear fence was broken in two places, with the wiring ripped down and posts torn up, and tyre marks creating ruts in the track will prevent racing until smoothed out.

“It’s a right pain in the arse,” said Go Kart Club President Mark ‘Smokey’ Dawson.

To repair the damage, hours of volunteer work is needed and with most members of the club on shift work, those hours are scarce.

“Lots of hard work has been put into the club… we just don’t need this,” said Smokey.

On Tuesday, February 10, Club Vice President Mario Calligaris and Peter Wilson went to the track to inspect their new water tank and were greeted by two motorcyclists vacating the premises.

“It’s not like there are no areas for motorbikes to ride,” said Cathy Calligaris.

“There’s the motocross track next door, hundreds of claypans and lots of bushland. Why spoil it for the kids?”

And it is the children who suffer when an incident of destruction like this occurs. As Cathy so blatantly puts it: “If it was race day this weekend, the kids wouldn’t be able to race.”

With ruts and groves causing uneven ground, the Go Kart track is currently unsafe for drivers.

“We try to leave the track ready for races so it only needs to be watered and then you get peo-

ple who come along and do this. It’s frustrating,” said Cathy.

When speaking to The Monitor, the disappointment was clearly visible on Smokey’s, Mario’s and Cathy’s faces, not for themselves but for the young club members who so enjoy racing on the weekends.

“We work hard as a club to get the track all up and ready for the kids to race and this just spoils it.”

As Smokey says, the Go Kart track is the only place in town for kids to race and in contrast to the many locations available to a motorcyclist, the damaging of the track is a foolish and irresponsible act.

The issue of safety is also raised when these motorcyclists break into private property, especially when using high power vehicles.

Beware of charity scams

T

he ACCC are warning Australians to be wary asks for any cheque to be made out to them; online colof the charities they donate to, with scammers lectors will insist on cash money transfers.

- The collector doesn’t want to provide a receipt of the taking the peoples’ money for personal gain.

“In the past, such as during the 2003 Canberra bushfires and the December 26, 2004 Asian tsunami, scammers took advantage of people’s generosity and kindness,” said Australian Competition and Consumer Commission Chairman, Graeme Samuel.

Those people who stoop low enough to benefit of the compassion of people pretend to be a real charity, not only costing people money but also diverting much needed donations away from legitimate charities and causes.

The scammers can approach people on the street, knock on people’s doors, telephone houses, send spam emails and create false charities websites.

Mr Samuel urges all people to be wary and to always ask for identification, though be aware it may be forged or meaningless.

The ACCC have provided the following warning signs people should look out for when donating to charities.

- The charity is not known or is well-known but the scam is operating via a fake website, letters or emails.

- The collector tries to pressure to elicit a ‘donation’.

- The collector cannot or will not give you details about the charity, such as its full name, address or phone number.

- The collector becomes defensive over questions about what the charity does and how much of the donation gets taken up by costs.

- The collector asks for cash, won’t accept a cheque or THE MONITOR – Your Community Newspaper

receipt does not have the charity’s details on it.

“In recent years, scammers have hit the internet to solicit funds,” said Mr Samuel.

“During the Canberra bushfire recovery, a hoax email was circulating in which it was claimed a British man living in Dubai had a dying wish to give $15 million to the victims of the Canberra bushfires.

“Don’t open suspicious or unsolicited emails (spam): delete them.”

Be warned, websites have been created that replicate the details of reputable charities – with the exception of where the money is sent.

Mr Samuel said people should use common sense and never send money or give credit card or online account details to anyone who is not known and trusted.

“If you are unsure, remember legitimate charities are registered at the state or territory level and their details can be checked through the local fair trading agency. If the charity is genuine, contact details are available from the phone book or a trusted web site.”

If anyone believes they have been approached by someone impersonating a legitimate charity or by a fake charity, please report the scam through the SCAMwatch website at www.scamwatch.gov.au, or contact your local fair trading office or the ACCC info centre on 1300 302 502. www.themonitor.com.au

“The kids think it’s all fun but if they hurt themselves out here, who’s responsible?”

The Go Kart club is currently on its seasonal break and the track has not been visited for some time, meaning if a serious injury were to occur, the rider could be alone for weeks before being discovered.

The Go Kart Club urges all motorcyclists to stay away from the track and allow it to operate without having to worry about thoughtless vandals.

ABOVE: Jayden Dawson and Nicky Calligaris angrilly support what’s left of the fencing motocyclists damaged.

INSERT: Mario and Smokey inspect the damage to the track left by motorcyclists.

Roxby Downs Health Services and Building Healthy Communities

Get Fit @ Home The Roxby Downs Health Service has a selection of ‘Get Fit @ Home’ Exercise Program equipment kits for personal loan.

Kit Selection - Fitballs (various sizes) - Rebounders - Exercise Mats

EACH WITH THEIR OWN INSTRUCTION DVD

Where Roxby Downs Health Services When Monday to Friday 9am - 5pm How Contact the Community Health Team on 8671 9020, Roxby Downs Health Services For more informaƟon Community Health - Roxby Downs Health Services 16-28 Burgoyne Street - ROXBY DOWNS SA 5725 Telephone: 08 8671 9020 www.countryhealth.sa.gov.au © Department of Health, Government of South Australia. All rights reserved.

Wednesday, February 18th, 2009 – Page 5

The

Monitor COMMUNITY MATTERS

Brave shavers

By Zak Zeptner

Tracey Oldfield is nervous to be losing her hair.

Roxby Locals Tam Harvie and Tracey Oldfield will “be brave and shave” their heads to raise money in the Leukaemia Foundation’s World’s Greatest Shave.

Both ladies have been affected by cancer, having had family and friends diagnosed and lost to the dreaded disease and so decided to do their part to help find a cure.

“In the last six months I’ve had people die of cancer and friends touched by cancer and it (the World’s Greatest Shave) is a good cause,” said Tam. Tracey concurs: “Cancer has been in my family and my New Year’s Resolution was to do something big for a charity so I chose this,” she said.

On March 14, Both Tam and Tracey will lose their locks; Tam will be shaved at the Roxby Community Club in the evening and Tracey will lose it all at 12.30pm in the mall outside Tandales.

Shaving the hair can be a daunting concept, especially for women, but these two outstanding ladies are braving it all for the greater good.

“I’m a little bit scared; I won’t be able to play with my hair or have new or exciting looks when it’s gone. I’m always willing to do new and daring things with my hair,” said Tam, who currently sports a vibrant head of pink and blue hair.

Tracey on the other hand, is not so cavalier with her hair.

“I think I’ll cry when they cut it. I’m getting nervous but I was inspired by my mum who had breast cancer and she went through Chemo, so to see how brave she was, was

Fun learning

By Zak Zeptner

S

aint Barbara’s Parish School has been inundated with fun and excitement, with the beginning of their electives program.

Ever y Tuesday and Wednesday afternoon, students rotate classrooms and are involved in a subject learning rotation.

“It’s a new teaching method we’re working towards, Project Based Work, where the kids can go and learn about something they’re interested in,” said St Barbara’s teacher Damian Smith.

The Topic Rotation program is based on modern teaching methodologies and is said to encourage and support students in developing a range of skills and knowledge.

The program allows students to mix with other age groups and experience different teachers.

“It’s a good way to learn working and study habits

but it’s also a way for kids to develop social skills,” said Damian.

“This is a great opportunity for students to work with their peers and develop their leadership skills.”

The program is being trialled throughout Term One, though similar successful programs have been run in previous years, indicating how the program will fair.

“So far it’s been very good. The kids are pretty enthusiastic and pretty eager,” said Damian.

“Another positive is the learning groups are smaller, so instead of having a class of 24, all of a sudden we’ve got classes of 15, which is easier for teachers to manager and it’s better for the students as we can spend more time with each of them.”

According to Damian, the staff are just as excited about the electives program as the students are, as it allows them to teach something that they are close to and passionate about.

inspirational.”

Tam’s and Tracey’s friends are all supportive of their decision to shave, though some did not believe they would go ahead with it.

“They all thought I was joking to start with and they didn’t believe me but the next day I signed up,” said Tracey.

Tracey has set her fundraising target at $2,000 and urges all to donate to this cause.

Tam’s target is set at $1,000, though as both ladies have said, more would be better.

When asked what advice these courageous ladies would give to those considering the World’s Greatest Shave, both answers were the same.

“It’s only hair, it will grow back.”

Donations can be made to Tam and Tracey by seeing them personally, giving to the donation boxes placed around town or by visiting www.worldsgreatestshave.com and clicking on the Sponsor a Shaver link.

All donations are tax deductable and every little bit helps.

Each hour of every day, at least one person in Australia is diagnosed with leukaemia, lymphoma or myeloma.

Every two house, someone loses their life to blood cancer.

Help to raise money for the Leukaemia Foundation, who provide practical support to patients during their long and tough treatment as well as fund important research to develop a cure for cancer.

An initiative of the Environment Forum

Students are being treated to a collection of activities such as robotics, scrap booking, dance, drama, music and community studies, helping to develop their skills in a fun and exciting environment.

The program is being trialled “in the hope that it will develop and evolve over the year”.

3 Green tips to simplify your life: recycle RECYCLE – Recycling means that a product, previously treated as waste, is returned to a factory where it is remade into either a new product or the same one again.

1. Did you know that many bottles, cans, ice

coffee and plastic drink containers are worth a 10 cent refund?

2. Find out what can be recycled by visiting your local recycling centre 3. Alternatively you can visit Planet Ark’s online recycling guide at www.recyclingnearyou.com.au.

RIGHT: Tiarnna drawing cartoons.

MIDDLE: Seb, Darcy and James building Lego Technic Robots.

BELOW: Jody and Brianna making masks.

Meeting Dates Alcohol and Substance Abuse Partnership 18/02/09 7.30pm Community Board (public meeting) 02/03/09 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 meetings usually take place on the last Monday of the month.

Red Sands Foundation AGM

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.

T

he Red Sands Foundation, Roxby’s branch of the Cancer Council, will be hosting its Annual General Meeting on Tuesday April 7.

Held in the Community Library on Richardson Place at 7.30pm, all are welcome to attend.

All positions will become vacant and nomination for roles such as President, Vice President, Secretary and Treasurer will be open.

The date for the AGM has been pushed back to April in order to allow the Cancer Council of South Australia the opportunity to send a member up to witness the proceedings if they deem necessary.

The last meeting of the Red Sands Foundation before the AGM will be held on Tuesday March 3 at the Library at 7.30pm.

Page 6 – Wednesday, February 18th, 2009

Tam Harvie will forgo her vibrant hair for a bald head.

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 www.themonitor.com.au

THE MONITOR – Your Community Newspaper

The

News In Brief Queensland floodwaters heading towards Lake Eyre The first floodwaters from western Queensland have arrived at Goyder’s Lagoon, in the far north-east corner of South Australia, raising hopes the water will flow into Lake Eyre.

Water from the Diamantina and Georgina systems is slowly making its way towards the lake, about 300 kilometres away, but it could be a month before it arrives.

William Creek pilot Trevor Wright says there is big interest from tourists keen to witness the event.

“I think there’s going to be a lot of water going into Lake Eyre for quite a while,” he said.

“I think it’s a rare opportunity for them to see in their own country something that is quite unique.

“It’ll be about three weeks before water does hit the lake and then you’ve got to remember it takes about 21 days to get down the lake.”

He says the flooding will also attract thousands of waterbirds.

$330m Japan deal ‘strengthens’ Uranium One The mining company Uranium One says its newest $330 million deal with a Japanese consortium will help make life much easier for it.

The consortium is made up of the Tokyo Electric Power company, Toshiba Corporation and the Japan Bank.

It can buy up to 20 per cent of Uranium One’s available production from some of its assets.

Uranium One’s Australia vice-president, Greg Cochran, says the deal will not affect its recent agreement with the Japanese company Mitsui, which holds a 49 per cent stake in Uranium One’s Honeymoon Mine Project, west of Broken Hill in far western New South Wales.

“They recognise that it actually gives Uranium One Inc, the parent company, puts us in a much more sound financial, stronger financial position and gives us a stronger balance sheet,” he said.

“Therefore they see it as they have a stronger partner, partnering with them in Australia.”

Monitor OPINION

Letters to the Editor Congratulations to the Roxby Downs Cricket Association and those who represented it at the 2009 SA Cricket Carnival, a well deserved and hard fought win after 17 years of representation.

Kind Regards, Deon Pfitzer (Past President RDCA)

Contact us...

The Monitor is a community-owned 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

Letters to the Editor Your letters are always welcome at The Monitor.

But please remember to give a name and address and also a phone number for verification purposes.

Monitorrial The

Edito

Sportsman, Ambassadors, role models and just good blokes Roxby Downs representative Cricket team competed in the 2009 Country Cricket Carnival last week and went through the series of five matches unbeaten, eventually winning the Carnival.

The team is being congratulated for their sporting feat, which is well documented in our back page story.

Before the team even returned to Roxby I heard what good ambassadors the team had been for the town.

This carnival was treated very seriously by the players. It wasn’t just a matter of hitting a few balls around and sending the ball down the pitch a few times during the day and few drinks each night. There was pride on the line.

The Roxby team was well organised. They had an on field strategy and they understood they were representing our Cricket Association and community.

Highs standards were set.

By all accounts they met and surpassed those stand-

ards, both on and off the field.

Whether it was mixing in with their competitors and umpires, social occasions or Ryan Selkirk’s speech when receiving the Shield and Trophy, the way they conducted themselves was exemplary.

The praise goes wider than the players and must also include our officials and Team Captain Graham Warren.

It was only a few months ago we saw the same sporting conduct and professionalism from out footballers when they won the Miners’/Power Cup. On that occasion the players and officials were also praised for their on and off the field conduct.

Our thanks must go out to the players and officials for being such great role models for the young sports people of this town.

In a time where nearly every code of sport is plagued by bad conduct, drug use, sexual assault and an over use of alcohol, it is so important our lo-

cal heroes are being such great examples, not only to our youth but also to their peers.

In sport we love being winners, but even more important is how the players and administrators play the game and this Association and team has played it well.

Already there has been a payback.

Playing in this competition for a week is expensive with most costs being met by the players.

That task was made much more affordable for our players because of a generous sponsorship by BHP Billiton.

BHP Billiton is so impressed with the all round performance of the team and its officials that they have already pledged to support the team next year.

So thanks to all who participated, you have the right to walk a little taller this week and know you have also put an extra skip into everyone else’s stride as well.

Ray Goldie

Government urged to rethink digital TV plan The federal Member for Grey is calling on the Government to alter its digital television plans for the Melrose, Quorn and Orroroo areas.

The Government plans to offer a subsidised satellite service to residents when the analogue signal ceases in 2013, but Rowan Ramsey says upgrading existing towers would be a better option.

Mr Ramsey says the satellite service would also mean there would be no local news, sport and advertising.

He says the Government has set a time line for change without thinking about the implications for regional Australia.

Mr Ramsey says the money would be better spent upgrading the towers for a digital signal.

“If they were to upgrade the transmitter towers, which I understand would cost around $230,000 a tower, well the problem could be overcome,” he said.

“Some of these communities might have 500 televisions, 500 houses, so it would also seem to be the cheaper option.”

Oz Minerals set for asset write-down Financially-troubled miner Oz Minerals says it expects to write-down the value of its assets by up to $2.8 billion.

The company, which owns the Prominent Hill mine in outback South Australia, says a fall in commodity prices has significantly cut the value of its assets.

Oz Minerals is trying to refinance about $1 billion of debt to ease its financial woes.

SA aids in forensics South Australia will send a team of forensic science specialists to Victory to assist the bushfire emergency, says Attorney-General Michael Atkinson.

“The team will include a mortuary technician and a Mortuary Manager, with a second Mortuary Manager available if needed,” said Mr Atkinson.

Pathologist Dr Carl Winskog will begin work in Victoria this week assisting with bushfire related autopsies, with a forensic pathologist being provided on a rotational basis for several weeks after that.

“Dr Winskog is experienced in disaster victim identification and led the Swedish team in Thailand in the wake of the Asian tsunami disaster. He will be a great asset to our neighbours at this difficult time,” said Mr Atkinson.

Forensic Science SA has also offered to carry out any bushfire-related toxicology and DNA testing at its Adelaide laboratories if required.

“I commend the staff at FSSA and the agency’s Director Ross Vining on their hard work and commitment to the people of South Australia and now Victoria in these testing times.”

THE MONITOR – Your Community Newspaper

www.themonitor.com.au

Wednesday, February 18th, 2009 – Page 7

The

Monitor NEWS

Youth Centre open day

By Zak Zeptner

T

he Roxby Downs Youth Centre will be hosting an open day on Sunday February 22 for all interested.

A Youth Centre for you T

he Roxby Downs Youth Centre they can still use the centre.

The Youth Centre will also be offering is up and running and plans to better itself for the town’s the ‘Save a Mate’ program, which is the Red Cross Alcohol and Substance Harm youth.

“Previously, the Youth Centre has been more of an outlet for the kids, which is great, but what I want to start doing is having planned sessions for the kids,” said Recreation and Youth Services Manager Perdita Cooper.

The planned sessions Perdita is organising revolve around having a particular theme or event for certain days of the week, which will help provide structure to the centre.

An example Perdita used was a homework help night.

“We’ve got staff on board who are qualified and can provide that service so kids can pop in and ask questions and get help,” said Perdita.

Perdita went on to further explain the idea: “On one night we could have a sports theme, so we play touch football or something on the oval and another night we could have a pool competition.

“We would make it a regular thing so people know that Tuesday night at the Youth Centre is football or sports night, for example.

“That’s ideally the direction we’re heading, just making it more of a structured program.”

Details for this program are still being finalised however Perdita stresses they will be flexible, meaning if someone does not want to join in with that particular event,

Minimization Program.

“We worked closely with the school on that last year and we’re going to be delivering it again,” said Perdita.

“We’ve got trained Red Cross volunteers on staff who can deliver the program and I would like to incorporate it into the program and take it to the Youth Centre so the people who aren’t in school can learn from it.”

The Youth Centre is also working closely with other regional areas, such as Andamooka, to include them in the activities presented in Roxby.

“We’ll be taking the big screen out to Andamooka to give them a dive in night for the people who missed it here so we’ll be organising things like that with Angela (Turner).”

With all these opportunities and programs at the Youth Centre, Roxby’s young population are certainly in for a treat, though as Perdita says, “We need to find out what the kids want.”

If you have any suggestions to improve the Youth Centre, have a chat with the staff of the centre, see Perdita, or come along to the open day on February 22 and fill out a survey.

Running between 10am and 3pm, the goals of this open day are to inform the community about the Youth Centre and all it has to offer.

“Some people still don’t know that the Youth Centre is there and we’re still trying to capture the interests of Roxby’s youths,” said Recreation and Youth Services Manager Perdita Cooper.

The day will act as an opportunity for youth and their parents to meet and question the staff, learn of the activities and services provided and offer suggestions on how to better the centre.

“That’s what we need to find out: what does the youth of Roxby want?” said Perdita.

“It’s great to have a Youth Centre here but we need to know what the kids want.

“This is a good way to let parents know that the Youth Centre is supervised, that their children aren’t just going down to an unsupervised place.”

Entrance to the Youth Centre is through

the tennis court car park and there will be a sausage sizzle available on the day.

“I’ve been doing a lot of research about youth centres around Australia and they’ve had some really successful events like pool and dart competitions and private swims after hours,” said Perdita when asked what she would do to capture the interests of the town’s youth.

“We give them an area to go to and a lot of kids come to us also because we are so close to the skate park.

“We often go to them, having pizza nights and music nights at the skate park and we’ll definitely do all that again. The paintball competition was very successful and we’re quite keen to do that again too.

“That being said, we need to make sure that is what they want.”

The Youth Centre staff are all young and filled with fresh ideas, as Perdita says, but they need the help and suggestions of those they are catering to in order to make the centre a place everyone enjoys.

The Youth Centre will be handing out surveys during the open day asking for suggestions to better improve the services to young people. All suggestions will be greatly appreciated.

YAC busy in 09 T

he Youth Advisory Council are up and running for 2009, working hard to provide the best services to the youth of the region.

With National Youth Week approaching – March 28 to April 5 – the YAC are working with Roxby Health Services to provide a “very exciting” event for the youth of the region.

Details are still being considered however it has been confirmed the event will centre on health and lifestyle issues and feature live entertainment.

The date of the event is not yet set, though it will feature during Youth Week.

The theme of Youth Week in 2009 is ‘Move It’ and the YAC is busy planning a series of workshops centring on this theme.

The workshops will cover the talent themes of Rock It, featuring dance and music, Write It, featuring poetry and writing, Shoot It, featuring film production, Snap It, featuring photography and Design It, featuring fashion/jewellery and inventions.

As it is still in the planning stage, these categories have not yet been

confirmed, though Recreation and Youth Services Manager Perdita Cooper is looking to the school to see if a joint initiative can be achieved with the workshops running during school time.

The Youth Advisory Council is also looking for new members for the 2009 year.

Youth between 12 and 25 years are welcome to join by filling out an application form at the Youth Centre or Visitors’ Information Centre at the Cultural Precinct.

Operating as a Section 41 under the Local Government, YAC reports directly to Council and works as an advocacy for young people across the region.

“The YAC focuses on making sure the needs of the young people in the community are looked after,” said Perdita Cooper.

While much of the YAC’s work deals with a lot of event management, Perdita stresses to the youth of the region that it is a fun organisation to belong to.

“It’s hard to convince people that it’s not a nerdy thing; kids need to see how much fun we’re having and I think the Dive-in may have contributed to kids seeing that this is pretty cool.”

The YAC was involved in organising the Dive-in, illustrating how much fun can be had by joining.

One project the YAC plans to work on this year is designing an expansion of the Roxby Downs Skate Park and members will receive all training and aid in turning their ideas into a reality.

Perdita mentioned the idea of running a competition to design the upgrades to the Skate Park, which will allow the talented youth of Roxby to showcase their ideas, though this has not yet been confirmed.

It is projects like this that make being a member of YAC fun and exciting, allowing youth to achieve their goals and see what they want happen in town.

“We need kids to start seeing that it’s a lot of fun and they learn a lot,” said Perdita.

If you would like to join the Youth Advisory Council, pick up an application form and help spread your ideas to better the youth of the region.

What do want to know about Roxby Downs?

www.roxbydowns.com knows!

Find contacts and informaƟon for . Businesses . Real Estate . Rotary . Schools

. Breast Feeding . Karate . Children’s AcƟviƟes . Scouts and Guides

. Health Services . Pram Walking Group . What’s on Calendar . Companies

Over 50 categories, over 1000 entries

www.roxbydowns.com Free lisƟng for all local clubs or businesses email your details to roxbyweb@themonitor.com.au Page 8 – Wednesday, February 18th, 2009

www.themonitor.com.au

THE MONITOR – Your Community Newspaper

Out and About

New arrival

Kiara Marie Webber just two days old with her proud Mum and Dad

Chantal Kostrz celebrated her fairwell with husband Sam and daughter Zemma.

taking the lid off finance for copper sands For the best finance package talk to Big Sky No application or monthly fees No establishment fees Competitive fixed or variable rate Personal finance available for full deposit amount 100% finance with no mortgage insurance costs Special home insurance offer

Visit us at the Roxby Downs Service Centre in Tutop St, Roxby Downs or call us on 8671 2555 www.bigsky.net.au

11/08 7816

• • • • • •

Big Sky Credit Union Ltd ABN 51 087 651 358 AFSL 240735 Terms and conditions and normal lending criteria apply

THE MONITOR – Your Community Newspaper

www.themonitor.com.au

Wednesday, February 18th, 2009 – Page 9

ROXBY helps a mate It is part of the Australian culture to help out a mate in tough times. In Roxby we see that culture hold true for all of our 60 plus nationalities. Everyone has been affected by the ferocity of the Victorian Bushfires and as disasters do, it brings out the best in us as a community and a nation. These two pages depict the many ways the Roxby Downs community has responded.

Schools raise thousands for bushfire appeal

St Barbs students with their prayers and lettes to bushfire appeal.

By Zak Zeptner

O

n Thursday February 12, the students of Roxby Downs Area School and Saint Barbara’s Parish School held a casual day to help raise funds for the Victorian Bushfire Appeal.

Saint Barbara’s raised over $1,100 to go to the victims of the fires.

In addition to the fundraising, the students of St Barb’s created a collection of prayers and letters which they will send to the victims of the fires.

“St Barbara’s are proud of their initial response to the Bushfire Appeal and hope that students and parents can continue to support the relief effort as new challenges arise for the people of Victoria.”

A donations bin is also situated in the front office of St Barbara’s for people to make donations.

Roxby Downs Area School managed to raise $1,367 from their casual day last Thursday, which has been described by Principal Kath Macalister as “very successful.”

The casual clothes day was a student organised event, with more to follow in the coming weeks, and at

least one coin run planed also.

Along with the student devised casual day, Mrs Macalister is in talks with Regional Director David Craig to establish a regional approach to the bushfire appeal.

According to Mrs Macalister, three schools have been completely destroyed in Victoria and the school hopes to raise money for those schools.

“Hopefully we can direct the money we raised form the schools across this new region to actually go to those schools, which we think would be the most appropriate way to do it,” said Mrs Macalister.

The school is open to any suggestions from the public regarding ways in which to fundraise for the Victorian Bushfire Appeal, as all support helps.

Roxby caught in the act of giving

1

2

1. Leigh Malcolm manning the raffle desk in the mall. 2. The prize of the town raffle, donated by local businesses 3. Teresa Baddeley holding the book of sypathy messages. 4. Karen, Isabelle, Lachlan and Kane at the Dunes. 5. Ted, Andy, Harvey and Kath at the Dunes. 6. Theresa and Lachlan Boulton and Annalise Petty at the Dunes.

4 Page 10 – Wednesday, February 18th, 2009

5 www.themonitor.com.au

3

6 THE MONITOR – Your Community Newspaper

ROXBY helps a mate

Roxby’s Burning Heart

By Zak Zeptner

R

oxy Downs has once again dug deep to offer support and aid to the families of the Victorian Bushfire victims.

Last week saw a number of activities, events and donation collections occur throughout Roxby, with much more planned over the coming weeks.

By donating through the charity bins placed at the Dunes Café, Council Office, Mitre 10, RoxFM, BP, Lavericks and Roxby Central, residents have helped provide hope for those ravaged by these devastating fires.

Residents are also asked to donate at the National Bank, and both Big Sky Credit Union and Alliance One Credit Union are part of the Credit Union Bushfire Relief Fund.

The Red Cross is also accepting donations and employees of BHP Billiton who donate $20 or more are eligible for the Matched Giving Program.

If donating wasn’t enough, Roxby Downs has provided several events with all money raised going to the bushfire appeal.

There is currently a raffle available from various outlets around town, with prizes being donated from local traders, which will be drawn at market day on Saturday February 21.

A ‘Reflection Book’ is currently on display in the mall, where residents can record their thoughts and wishes for the people of Victoria, which will be sent to the Victorian Government once completed.

All proceeds from the Dunes Café from last Thursday were donated to the bushfire appeal. Nearly $1,400

Give blood H

was raised thanks to the generous support of the community.

The Community Health Services also held a luncheon at the Dunes Café on Thursday, with the Hospital paying for all food as their donation to the bushfire appeal, and the Health Services placed a donations box at their table, raising $450.

In addition to this, the cinema held a movie marathon with all proceeds going to the bushfire victims.

Leisure Centre Manager Alan Male said thankyou to the communities who donated.

“Roxby is always being asked to do things and it’s really great to see how the community has embraced the Australian spirit of helping your mates,” he said.

The Leisure Centre was a hub for gracious donations, playing host to a

pool day last Saturday.

For a simple donation, residents were treated to an all day swim, various games and activities and a sausage sizzle that helped raise $3,034.30 for bushfire victims, with a fantastic donation of $2,000 from National Pipe and Civil Construction contributing towards the total.

Prizes were available, with lucky square competitions and fun activities operating throughout the day.

Special thanks must go to the volunteers who kindly gave up their free time to help run the day, and to all those who donated to the bushfire appeal.

In addition to this, the Scouts, Community Club, Andamooka CWA and the schools have also been working tirelessly to raise money for the victims of the Victorian bushfires.

The Golf Club are also holding a fundraising golf day on Saturday February 21.

A nine-hole, two-person Ambrose round will begin at 8.30am, with registration by 8am. This will be followed by a BBQ lunch.

All golfers and non-golfers are welcome to attend and all match fees will be donated to the Victorian Bushfire Appeal. Clubs are available for hire is needed.

We may be a small bush town but Roxby Downs certainly has a big burning heart when it comes to helping our fellow man.

The staff at The Monitor congratulates all volunteers, event organisers and residents who donated to the bushfire appeal and offers their sympathies to everyone affected by this terrible tragedy.

VICTORIAN BUSHFIRE APPEAL GOLF DAY

ealth Minister John Hill is urging all South Australians to register to donate much needed blood to help long-term relief efforts following Victoria’s devastating fires.

“The nature of burn injuries means that the need for additional supplies will be high for some time,” said Minister Hill.

Mr Hill said the Australian Red Cross Blood Service is not calling for urgent donations, but does want increased donations in the days and weeks to come.

“If possible, I’d ask new donors to log on to donateblood.com.au to find their nearest donor centre and to register on-line as the telephone lines are very busy right now,” said Mr Hill, who also urges current donors to keep their existing appointments.

“Our hearts go out to all those affected by these terrible fires and I know South Australians will want to offer practical help – giving blood could save a life and I’d encourage everyone who can donate to do so.”

SATURDAY 21st FEBRUARY REGISTER BY 8am. TEE OFF 8:30am NINE HOLE 2 PERSON AMBROSE

ALL PROCEEDS DONATED TO BUSHFIRE VICTIMS EVERYONE WELCOME GOLF FOLLOWED BY SAUSAGE SIZZLE

Roxby caught in the act of giving

8 7

7. Bob Illingworth offers a snag. 8. Bill Boehm accepts a cheque for $2000 from Rob Collins on behalf of National Pipe and Civil Construction. 9. Karen Russell ran teh lucky squares draw. 10. Seb, Troy, Byron and Matthew have fun at the pool. 11. Barry Mitchell and Tess and Cornel Parshotam catch up at the pool 12. Cardyn Turnball and Maree Jacksons man the donations desk.

10 THE MONITOR – Your Community Newspaper

11 www.themonitor.com.au

9

12 Wednesday, February 18th, 2009 – Page 11

The

Monitor NEWS

Market Day stalls

T

he first Market Day of 2009 is set for February 21, and has residents wondering how exactly can they set up a stall for the monthly event?

The Market Day is organised by the Roxby Downs Area School Parents and Friends, which are a volunteer based group.

Bookings can be made by contacting the Area School Front OfďŹ ce on 8671 0011.

Once a site is booked, require-

ments need to be speciďŹ ed, such as shade or power or if there is an intention to sell food.

If food is intended to be sold, vendors are required to register with the Health Department to receive a food business notiďŹ cation number.

Forms are available from the Area School Front OďŹƒce and sta can also provide vendors with a website for registrations. “The food business notiďŹ cation is a long term agreement and this process only takes 15 minutes.

People must follow this protocol otherwise the Committee has the right to refuse the sale of food,� said Avril Luke.

Stallholders need to supply their own tables, chairs and power cords.

Fees are collected by Parents and Friends Volunteers on the day of the Market and all money raised is allocated by the Committee back into the school for resources such as cameras, computer programs, garden projects, technical studies equipment, shade and seating.

PRINTER CARTRIDGES

WANTED

DON’T THROW THOSE PRINTER CARTRIDGES AWAY!

RoxFM

Planet Ark in conjunc on with

now has a collec on box for all of your unwanted printer cartridges, laser toner cartridges, drum units, copier bo les and more THESE ITEMS WILL LATER BE SENT AWAY TO BE RECYCLED WITH

ZERO WASTE FOR LANDFILL ED DEPOSIT YOUR US UR CARTRIDGES AT O DAY STALL ON MARKET

So don’t throw those cartridges awaydrop them off for recycling at RoxFM!

RoxFM is open Monday to Friday from 10am to 5pm.

To arrange out-of-hours drop o, please call Kris na on 8671 2545.

Come along to the next Market Day on February 21. You will find gifts, food, crafts and much more!

DAVE KOVAC al artist Loc

RoxFM will be at the Market Day to collect your used ink cartridges.

Outback Smart will be also at the Market this Saturday selling enviro shopping bags, providing a timely opportunity get with the news laws around plastic supermaket bags.

‘Sand Goanna’ Limited Edition of 250

$75 unframed $250 framed

Contact Dave on 0409 726 252 EFTPOS available

See you at the Market Day

BOARDING AT SEYMOUR

$UeryoMe VeKBomeC me VHSG oOeM @rmR

M @m@YHMF RBGooK ROHrHS @MC @SmoROGere

Seymour GeKOR me So OuS HM my AeRS eÇorS @MC So reROeBS oSGerR’ oOHMHoMR Seymour HR KoSR oE EuM @MC G@R KoSR oE Fre@S FHrKR

2DXLNTQ "NKKDFD NÇDQR BNTMSQX RSTCDMSR SGD ADMD›SR NE @ VNQKC BK@RR DCTB@SHNM VHSG VHCD Q@MFHMF BNBTQQHBTK@Q @MC RONQSHMF @BSHUHSHDR VGHKRS KHUHMF HM @ !N@QCHMF 'NTRD VHSG @ RSQNMF RDMRD NE BNLLTMHSX @MC @ R@ED B@QHMF DMUHQNMLDMS %@LHKHDR @QD V@QLKX HMUHSDC SN UHRHS SGD 2DXLNTQ "NKKDFD CHROK@X NM "NLLTMHSX #@X %DAQT@QX VGDQD SGD #HQDBSNQ NE CLHRRHNMR $K@HMD "TQQ@M VHKK AD @U@HK@AKD SN @MRVDQ XNTQ PTDRSHNMR %TQSGDQ HMENQL@SHNM @ANTS SGD "NKKDFD @MC SGD CHUDQRHSX NE OQNFQ@LR NÇDQDC B@M @KRN AD NAS@HMDC AX BNMS@BSHMF $K@HMD NM NQ DL@HK DBTQQ@M RDXLNTQ R@ DCT @T

Seymour College (formerly Presbyterian Girls’ College) A Girls’ Day and Boarding School, Pre School to Year 12, associated with the Uniting Church.

546 Portrush Road, Glen Osmond SA 5064 T: 08 8303 9000 www.seymour.sa.edu.au

Page 12 – Wednesday, February 18th, 2009

www.themonitor.com.au

THE MONITOR – Your Community Newspaper

The

Monitor REAL ESTATE

An opportunity that towers above the rest

This fantastic appartment complex is the tallest building on the Yorke Peninsual and offers stunning views of the Marina and North Beach

T

here was real excitement at Refined apartment, sensational value.

Real Estate when they listed the The apartment is currently leased to C & R Tower One apartments 17 & 18, Resorts Pty Ltd. Level 3, 11 Heritage Drive, Wallaroo, The two apartments have got an internal door connecting both areas allowing the opS.A. A great opportunity for investors, the apartments are offered with a guaranteed return for the first 2 years of $ 42,000 p.a. with an option to renew of a further 11 years.

This brand new apartment is on level 3 of Tower One, with stunning views of the Marina and North Beach.

Tower Two which is currently selling off the plan has starting prices of $660,000 and no rental guarantee. Making this fully furnished two bedroom, two bathrooms, one kitchen

A

tion to rent as one large apartment or two separate rooms.

A great place to stay with a great restaurant and bar to enjoy a meal and/or a drink while watching the boats cruise by the complex or a short walk takes you to shopping, the Jetty, Ferry and a great swimming area.

This is the tallest building on the Yorke Peninsula.

With all the new development in Wallaroo at the moment, this is a great chance to get in

at ground level and not miss the increasing property values.

The very successful Ferry Service, the main street development and the clearing and development of the old fertiliser works site along the foreshore makes this a fantastic investment opportunity.

Very soon a cruise liner will be docking here as well, bringing an influx of tourists to this resort.

Could this be a second GOLD COAST? DON’T WAIT TILL IT IS TOO LATE!!!

For further information contact Perry on 0417 842 706 or by email on perry@refined. com.au.

Government rebate

cant value to their properties. s of February 3, all landlords equately insulated. are eligible for a rebate of up “This incentive will allow renters to fi“The resale of any property will be into $1,000 to install thermal nally enjoy the increased comfort offered creased as adequate ceiling insulation will by insulation plus the significant reduc- soon be expected in all homes due to the insulation.

Regardless of income, under the Low Emissions Plan for Renters, all landlords are eligible for the rebate, which has been hailed as a positive means to meet the enormous need of communities to be ad-

tions in their energy bills,” said Mr Lutz Mueller of Insulation Matters.

Mr Mueller went on to say renters will not be the only ones to benefit from this incentive, as landlords would add signifi-

current demand for carbon emissions reductions.”

Mr Mueller advises all landlords to “take advantage” of this offer quickly before the waiting list grows.

WALLAROO, 11 HERITAGE DRIVE, S.A.

KURRALTA PARK, 4A CROSS TCE, S.A.

Apartments 17 & 18 ( 1 title ) Level 3.

$ 570,000

$ 695,000

Corporate Business Sales 35 Deque eville Terrace Kent Town, SA 5067 Phone: 8361 3074 Fax: 8361 3075 Website: BusinessSales.rh.com.au RLA 159117

ROXBY DOWNS FOR SALE Roxby Lunch on the Run

$285,000 + SAV ($5,000) Located in the heart of Roxby, this magnificent cafe turns over in excess of $14,000 per week and will return a working owner over $200,000 per annum. The business only trades 8.00 a.m. to 4.00 p.m. Monday to Friday and half a day on Saturday and Sunday. The business has great staff, a long term lease, excellent equipment and a real poten al to expand. If you are sick of mining have a look at this.

Simon Winter 0419 828 689 www.BusinessSales.rh.com.au Web ID# R4264

Near new, 2 storey, 3 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms, 2 living areas, granite kitchen, double garage and much more.

BR AND NEW

MAWSON LAKES, Unit 6, 39 WINDERMERE CRES, S.A.

2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 1 kitchen, fully furnished. Rental guarantee of $42,000 over 2 years with an option of another 11 years.

$ 465,000

MAWSON LAKES, 55 GRASSWREN WAY, S.A.

2 year old, 2 storey, 3 bedroom plus study area, 2.5 bathrooms, double garage, Kitchen/dining area upstairs with balcony over looking lake and park.

$ 450,000 - $ 480,000

CAMPBELLTOWN, 104A CLAIRVILLE ROAD, S.A.

BR AND NEW

$ 488,000

2 storey, 3 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms, double garage, 24 hr access to indoor heated pool, spa, swim jet and a fully equiped airconditioned gym. Choice of 3 homes.

2 year old, 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, large open plan living area and kitchen, large under cover outdoor entertaining area. Ducted r/c airconditioning, ducted vacuum system. A 5 min walk to the large Newton Shopping centre.

THE MONITOR – Your Community Newspaper

www.themonitor.com.au

FOR PRIVATE INSPECTION ON ALL PROPERTIES Call Perry Valeondis on:

0417 842 706

e-mail: perry@refined.com.au Office: 08 8357 9001 Fax: 08 8355 4564 RLA – 217949 Wednesday, February 18th, 2009 – Page 13

The

Monitor LIFESTYLE

New Tav Manager

What’s On across

the

HEALTH

region

EVENTS & ENTERTAINMENT

ROXBY DOWNS’ FAMILY PRACTICE Phone: 8671 3231 ROXBY DOWNS’ MEDICAL PRACTICE 9:00am-5:00pm Monday to Friday Saturday morning by appointment.

Phone: 8671 1900 VISITING ALLIED HEALTH SERVICE DIABETES EDUCATOR - 20th Feb, 9th & 24th Apr Phone: 86485706 OCCUPATIONAL THERAPIST - 20th Feb, 5th, 6th & 20th March Helps children with: play development, daily living skills, sensory issues & integration, hand skills & fine motor development such as cutting, drawing and writing.

Phone: 86485800 SPEECH PATHOLOGIST - 20th Feb, 5th, 6th & 20th March Helps children with: listening, understanding, communicating / talking, feeding and behaviour management.

Phone: 86485800 PHYSIOTHERAPIST - 5th & 6th March Assists with: Movement development, balance and coordination, targeting posture, muscle strength, flexibility and fitness.

Phone: 86485800 COMMUNITY MENTAL HEALTH WORKER - 20th Feb, 5th, 6th & 20th March Specialised 1 to 1 counselling aimed at promoting mental, emotional, physical and social health for 18 to 65 year olds.

Phone: 86485800 DIETITICIAN - 20th Feb & 20 March Provides advice on: healthy eating/ nutrition, introducing solids, allergies, special diets menu planning and service delivery method.

Phone: 86485800 PODIATRIST - 20 Feb, 5th, 6th & 20th March A Podiatrist is a healthcare professional who diagnoses, treats, and prevents foot problems.

Phone: 86485500 CHILD AND ADOLESCENT MENTAL HEALTH SERVICE 5ht & 6th March Confidential counselling for children up to 18 years.

Phone: 1800819089 HEARING SERVICES 9:00am-2:30pm Monday to Friday Phone:1800 006 303 DOCTOR’S NEW SPECIALISED DRUG Phone: 1800 700 270 (Number for Medicare Use) ROXBY DOWNS’ FAMILY AND YOUTH OFFICER Crisis and relationship councelling, mediation and support.

Phone: 8671 2892 CRISIS CARE COUNSELLING Uniting Care Wesley Port Augusta Regional Women’s and Children’s Support Services: 1800 655 716 Crisis care line:13 16 11 For immediate response if feeling stressed call 0428 326 529 to speak with a counsellor 24/7 BREASTFEEDING ROXBY DOWNS’ GROUP 1:30pm - 3:00pm Third Tuesday of the month.

At the Roxby Downs Public Library.

GENERAL INFORMATION SCHOOL TERMS 2008 Term 1: 27 Jan – 9 Apr Term 2: 27 Apr – 3 Jul Term 3: 20 Jul – 25 Sep Term 4: 12 Oct – 11Dec MT DARE HOTEL 8am – 9pm Open every day OUTBACK COMMUNITY GARDENS Phone: 8671 2892 ROXBY ROAD SAFE Phone: 8671 2892

VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRE 8:30am - 5:00pm Monday to Friday 9:00am - 3:00pm Saturday 9:00am - 2:00pm Sunday Phone: 8671 2001

By Zak Zeptner

T

CULTURAL & LEISURE PRECINCT - MOVIES Tuesday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday Phone: 8671 2001 ROXBY DOWNS TODDLERS’ STORY TIME 9:30am - 11:00am Tuesday & Thursday (repeated) Fun for young children and mums Meet at Roxby Downs Library ANDAMOOKA TODDLERS’ STORY TIME 10:30am Monday - Fun for 1-4 years.

Phone: 8672 7018 Meet at Andamooka Community Library PLAYGROUP - St. Barbara’s Parish School Call Jakki: 8671 2323 PLAYGROUP - Roxby Downs Kindergarten 10:00am - 11:30am Friday ROXBY DOWNS’ HEALTH SERVICES COFFEE MORNING 9:30am - 11:00am Thusrday Meet at the Dunes Café RAPTORS CYCLING CLUB 8:00am Sunday Social bike riding group Meet at Stuart Road roundabout ROXBY DOWNS’ CHILDCARE 6:30am-5:30pm Monday to Friday Phone: 8671 0911 MARKET DAY - February 21st - March 21st - May 16th

he Roxby Tavern last week welcomed its new manager Simon Howe to the team.

Coming from Victor Harbour, Simon has spent around ten years working in the hospitality industry, with another seven in banking, making him the perfect manger material.

Born and bred in Millicent, Simon is a country boy at heart, making the move to Roxby Downs an easy one.

Simon was recently involved in the development of the Crown Hotel in Victor Harbor, though when that fell through, the owners of the Roxby Tavern approached him with a job offer.

“It was just a timing thing really,” Simon told The Monitor.

“I came up here for a visit and in the two days I was here I just got that community spirit feeling so that was a driving force behind coming here.”

Coming from the busy city life of Victor Harbor to the remote town of Roxby Downs was a bit of a shock for Simon, particularly as Roxby was not what he expected.

“To be honest I was expecting tumbleweeds down the main street but I came here and had a look and was very impressed.

“Obviously the town has all the facilities it needs; I guess being remote you have to have most facilities but it was that community feeling that was the attraction of coming here.

“I’ve always been country and it’s always what you make of it.”

Simon is a fun-loving, friendly and compassionate person who loves his job, sports and

COMMUNITY MEETINGS Community members are welcome to attend any meeting of the Roxby Downs Community Board, Forums and Partnerships - see schedule on the Community Matters page.

For more information call Michelle Hales on 8671 0010 ROXBY DOWNS’ ROTARY CLUB 1st and 3rd Monday of the month Meet at the Dunes Café For more information contact Kaye Doyle ANDAMOOKA OPAL GIRL GUIDES Andamooka Community Hall Mondays from 5:00pm to 7:00pm Phone: 0427072710 OUTBACK MULTI-CULTURAL GROUP Phone: 8671 2892

CHURCH ROXBY DOWNS’ LUTHERAN CHURCH 10:30am 1st, 2nd, 4th and 5th Sunday of the month 5:30pm 3rd Sunday of each month 9:30am every Sunday during school terms FAITHWORKS’ CHRISTIAN CHURCH An Assemblies Church meets every Sunday 9.30 am at Roxby Downs Catholic School Library ST. BARBARA’S PARISH CATHOLIC CHURCH Saturday 6:00pm Sunday 9:00am 78 Pioneer Drive, Roxby Downs ANDAMOOKA/ROXBY BIBLE CHURCH 10:00am Sundays, Worship Service 6.30pm Fridays, Kids Club, 7 years + Phone: 8672 7213 ROXBY DOWNS COMMUNITY CHURCH 10am Sunday Worship.

For other events & activities phone Alison 8671 1032

spending times with his mates, making Roxby Downs the perfect place for him.

Simon was impressed with the Tavern upon first seeing it and has a strong desire to build on it.

“As far as facilities go, it’s all there but there are a few things I’d like to do to make it as comfortable and accommodating for patrons as we can.”

As a boss, Simon describes himself as a perfectionist, expecting the job to be done well, though he also hopes his staff have fun as well, which Simon believes will happen, describing his staff as fantastic and welcoming.

For Simon, the customer comes first and it is his intention to create a customer friendly environment where people will enjoy eating and drinking.

“If you come into the Tav and a staff member simply says ‘what do you want’ you get the feeling that you don’t want to drink here so the customer service issues will be my driving motivational tool.”

Simon is a friendly and approachable person, with a strong desire to discover what the people of Roxby want for their Tavern.

“There’s no point in me going ahead with my plans if the customers don’t want it so I will definitely be using the locals.

“I’m a first name basis persons and I will be using the community as a springboard for ideas.

It’s their place so I will be looking for their advice.

“I want to see more families coming in to the Tav. The kid’s area is a bit drab and droll so we’ll be looking at putting up murals and games.

“Every community is built with different customers so we’ve got to cater for everyone.”

When asked how he would fair with the competition from the Club, Simon was optimistic.

“Competition is great and Roxby is a big enough town to have the Club and the Tav. They’ve worked well together in the past and I see no reason for that not to continue. I’ve just come from a three pub town and we were fine together.

“At the end of the day it’s still competition but there’s no reason why we can’t sit down and have a beer together at the end of the day.”

Simon has big plans for the Roxby Tavern and Motor Inn, though as he said, it’s all about what the customers want.

“If it’s not broken, we’re not going to fix it; we’re not looking to reinvent the wheel but things will be happening around the Tav.” Simon is contracted with the Tavern for 12 months, though says if all goes well, which he believes it will, there is no reason for him to not be a long term resident.

Simon Howe is the new Manager of the Tavern.

involved and support your

Get

Community Radio Station BECOME A Visit www.roxfm.com.au or call 8671 2545 for more details

RoxFM VOLUNTEER

It’s affordable, fun and best of all it’s a great way to meet like-minded radio enthusiasts!

COMMUNITY RADIO “LOCAL, LIVE AND LOVIN’ IT” Page 14 – Wednesday, February 18th, 2009

www.themonitor.com.au

THE MONITOR – Your Community Newspaper

The

Monitor LIFESTYLE

Zeppy’s reviews TV Review: NCIS

Navy Cops Navy Criminal investigative Service or NCIS is essentially a cop show for the Navy. It sounds slightly odd but make no mistake, this is one good show.

As the title suggests, NCIS investigate the criminal activities related to the US Navy, whether it be the murder of an officer, drug running, enlisted personnel vanishing, rape or arms dealing, the team at NCIS are always on the case.

Each episode is gripping, mysterious and filled with excitement, making this the perfect show.

We centre on the lives of a group of NCIS agent, all of whom having very different personalities. Special Agent Gibbs is essentially the leader of the team. He is a hard ass ex marine with a dark sense of humour, a keen eye for detail and an almost paranormal ability to read people.

His underlings act like rival siblings, though their dedication to the job cannot be doubted. Tony is a chauvinistic womaniser who acts more like a teenager than and adult, whereas Kate is more like the big sister: proper, courteous and intelligent.

Add in a gothic forensic specialist, a bumbling, nerdy rooky agent, an Israeli Mossad Officer and a medical examiner with a keen interest in the past and you have a stellar cast.

What happens in the Navy in terms of criminal activity will surprise viewers while captivating them in the story line. Most episodes are self contained, with a few carry on plot lines. Missions such as preventing terrorist attacks on ships, stopping Al-Qaeda missions against the President, investigating the extortion of Marines and Naval Officers and, of course, murders are all in a days work for this crack team of investigators.

What I found so captivating about this show was the perfect mixture between comedy and drama. I was amazed at how the writers are able to write comedy into a scene of murder and then all of a sudden, make it dramatic and serious.

It is almost like watching real life, the way the characters act.

It is essentially a family situation concerning the characters’ relationships, with the team enjoying rants about their personal lives while dealing with their investigations.

The writers have also created a collection of characters so diverse and in depth the audience will be drawn to the show simply to discover more about them.

Special Agent Gibbs in particular is one such character I find fascinating.

He is a character with many levels, revealing only small titbits about himself when absolutely necessary. Though my favourite character by far would be the Gothic scientist Abby.

She is the team’s forensic investigator, though her petite

Movie Review: My Best Friend’s Girl

Better than most Upon sitting down to watch My Best Friend’s Girl, my first thoughts drew me to compare it with Hitch. For those unaware of the Will Smith comedy, it is about a man who aids “loser” men in getting their dream girl. After a mere five minutes into the movie, I realised I was wrong, though not completely.

We focus on main Character Tank, played exceptionally by Dane Cook. Much like Hitch, Tank helps men in keeping their dream girl. If

you have messed up a relationship, no matter how bad it is, Tank will guarantee he can get you back with your loved one. How? Simple: he dates them.

Now this may seen a little odd, though the genius in Tank’s method is quite clear. From the moment he takes his target out, Tank does all he can to sabotage the date, portraying himself as a rude, arrogant, chauvinistic creep in order to force the target to realise her previous partner was not so bad.

I was at first apprehensive about watching this f ilm, expecting the usual The Fray romantic Taylor Swift comedy

Top Ten Singles

YOU FOUND ME LOVE STORY GIVES YOU HELL The All-American Rejects GET SHAKY The Ian Carey Project MY LIFE WOULD SUCK WITHOUT YOU Kelly Clarkson LET IT ROCK Kevin Rudolf Feat. Lil Wayne EVERYBODY’S FREE Global Deejays Feat. Rozalla THE FEAR Lily Allen BURN Jessica Mauboy SOMEDAY SOON Natalie Bassingthwaighte

Top Ten Albums

IT’S NOT ME, IT’S YOU ONLY BY THE NIGHT THE FRAY FUNHOUSE TWILIGHT FEARLESS WORKING ON A DREAM WALKING ON A DREAM THE FAME PACKED TO THE RAFTERS

Lily Allen Kings Of Leon The Fray P!nk Soundtrack Taylor Swift Bruce Springsteen Empire Of The Sun Lady GaGa Soundtrack

THE MONITOR – Your Community Newspaper

Gothic exterior makes an enjoyable departure form the boring lab geek. She is smart, innovative and sexy, making her a thoroughly enjoyable character.

NCIS is a cop show, yes, but it takes a good step away from the city beat cop and focuses on the interesting world of the Navy.

The episodes are refreshing, new and bound to get the adrenaline pumping. This is definitely a show worth watching.

The verdict: 8/10

that fails to make me laugh and ultimately delivers an overtly predictable ending. I am happy to say I was mistaken. Yes, the ending is slightly predictable, though it is played down to an extent, making it just bearable.

American comedies often lack the most important characteristic: comedy. My Best Friend’s Girl thankfully, offered an improvement from the droll unfunny “comedies” out there. The humour in this movie is quite satirical and most certainly aimed towards the younger generation, though don’t let that stop you from seeing it.

The story, as the title suggests, is simple.

Tank’s best friend Dustin (played by Jason Biggs) opens his heart to the love of his life, only to have it crushed with an “I just want to be friends” line. Convinced he is destined for Alexis (played by Kate Hudson) he enlists the aid of Tank to bring her crawling back to him.

Tank accepts, and lo and behold, finds himself attracted to her. What follows is an affair of secrets and meaningless sex as Tank tries to keep the relationship from Dusty, opening the door for mischief, deceit and a whole lot of fun.

Of course, what comedy wouldn’t be complete without the funny supporting characters, who, let’s face it, are often funnier than the

main characters. In this case, the characters offering the most hilarity are Alexis’s best friend and roommate Ami and Tank’s father Professor Turner.

Ami’s comedy comes from the dark side. She is a Goth-like, brutally blunt nymphomaniac with an eye for reckless romantic encounters and pleasure toys. Professor Turner is much the same. Played outstandingly by Alec Baldwin, the professor is a teacher of women’s studies, though his passion for the subject comes more from the attractive students than the topic itself. What is funnier than an erotic best friend and a bigoted father?

Of course, there is an element of predictability in My Best Friend’s Girl, though thankfully it is covered with outrageous scenes involving random outbursts of anger, hilarious bouts of humiliation and, my favourite, the propositioning of the Mother of the Bride. My Best Friend’s Girl will not win any awards, but it is a film I found enjoyable, if for nothing more than to escape the reality of the world for 90 minutes of laughter. Enjoyable, laughable and slightly predictable, My Best Friend’s Girl makes for a good comedy for one of those quite nights in.

The Verdict: 6.5/10

Lily Allen debuts at Number One on ARIA Album Chart Lily Allen’s new album, “It’s Not Me, It’s You” has raced straight to number one on the ARIA Album Chart this week, eclipsing her debut album “Alright Still” which peaked at #7 back in 2006. At the same time, “The Fear” has earned Lily her first top 10 on the ARIA Singles Chart, moving up from 13 to 8 this week.

In addition to Lily Allen, there are two further top 40 album debuts this week. Coming in at #3 is The Fray with their sophomore release “The Fray”, the follow up to “How To Save A Life” which hit #1 on the ARIA Album Chart in March 2007, some 9 months after release. Impacting at #21 is Ben Lee’s “The Rebirth Of Venus”, his sixth album since “Breathing Tornadoes” was released in 1998.

www.themonitor.com.au

Wednesday, February 18th, 2009 – Page 15

The

Monitor EMPLOYMENT/CLASSIFIEDS

Early Learning Program up and running

ADELAIDE ACCOMMODATION WWW.SEACROFTAPARTMENTS. COM.AU. Semaphore $85 per night.

Phone: 0412 106 646 FOR SALE

Last Thursday saw the official opening of the Roxby Downs Community Early Learning Program.

Originally beginning as a simple conversation along the lines of “Wouldn’t it be great if we had this…” the members of the Early learning Program have come a long way in a short time to offer a fantastic program to the three year olds in town.

“We’re really excited, we started this in the middle of last year so it’s been a long time coming,” said Manager Michelle Stephens on opening night.

During her welcoming speech, Kylie Dospisil thanked everyone involved in making their dream of a DECS licensed Early Learning Program a reality.

“Make no mistake, a tonne of work has been done since those early days to get to the upgraded facility but I think it is safe to say that it has all been worth it.

“Donations and grants from Alliance One, Andamooka CWA, Lavrick Engineering, Lyn Breuer and individuals from our own group gave us the necessary money to purchase building and program supplies.

“Donations of goods from local businesses allowed us to run a raffle with great prizes, which raised

ANDAMOOKA, House and 2 vacant adjoining blocks $320k or 2 vacant adjoining blocks $80k each.

Enquiries: 03 5562 7960 LIMIT FREE A $400,000 Annual Income Potential www.limitfree.com.au COMPUTER SERVICES COMPUTER services visiting Roxby Feb 21st. Virus removal, upgrades, trouble shooting. We come to your house or business.

Phone Quinten at Rural Computer Services 8667 2331 or visit www. ruralcomputerservices.com PT AUGUSTA FLEA MARKET Sunday 22nd February Coles undercover car park Port Augusta 8.30a.m.

– 12.30p.m. Store holders bookings essential Enquiries: 8642 3459 ROXBY TAKE AWAY AND PIZZA Are looking for staff. Must be able to work nights and weekends. As shop is open 7 days a week. Come in and see us or phone 8671 0320

over $2,500 and the hours of kind support given so generously by local people to perform the required building works has been phenomenal.”

Special mention was given to Beenham Elite, who performed all the required plumbing works free of charge and donated a child’s size toilet and sink.

“It’s just really fantastic community spirit shown by so many members of the Roxby Community,” said Kylie.

The program is licensed to have 15 children on the premises, with

28 children registered for the various time slots already.

The program operates on Tuesday morning and Thursday morning and afternoon, though has the capacity to run Monday, Tuesday and Thursday mornings and afternoons.

Manager Michelle Stephens urges all families with a three year old child to attend and gain valuable skills before proceeding to Kindergarten and Primary School.

For further information, contact Michelle Stephens on 0439 683 609.

Early Learning Program Group

www.health.sa.gov.au

EASY FIND

YOUR BUSINESS

BUSINESS INFO

DIRECTORY

Stephen Scott-Hoy B.Optom

Ne e d fri end ly, professi onal e ye c are and quality fashi on e ye we ar w ith a fu l l b ack-up s er v i ce?

For bookings at:

ROXBY DOWNS

ANDAMOOKA

Ph 8563 0102 Mond ay 2 nd & Tues day 3 rd March

Ph 8672 7007 Tues day 3 rd March

WO OMER A

Ph 8673 7473 We dnes day 4 t h March

Examinations bulk-billed Serving rural and regional South Australia since 1990

ACCESS

OUTBACK DANCE AND DRAMA

We offer a range of activities in a fun, non-competetive learning environment. Catering for all age groups, we offer the following classes: CURRENT CLASSES • Latin Dance & Zumba • Mixed Dance • Cheerleading • Music & Movement

P-0458 167 408 E-outbackdanceanddrama@yahoo.com.au

The

C

CHIROPRACTIC

COMING SOON • Self Defence & Defencercise • Classical Ballet • School Holiday Club!

• Drama, Circus, Little Sports

Monitor

CLASSIFIEDS

SELL EVERYTHING

Dr Mark Barns

SELL your unwanted goods, cars, caravans, furniture, etc

PHONE 8645 0880

ALL CLASSIFIEDS MUST BE PRE PAID

BLD - 173944

Ph 8671 1234 Fax 8671 2823 Mob 0407 711 234 Shop 5/14 Tutop Street, Roxby Downs, SA

Pt Pirie & Adelaide Depots

By Appointment Only

By Fiona Pillar Dip Remedial Cert IV Bowen

Ph: 0417 860 130

•Remedial & Sports •Bowen Therapy •Traditional Thai •Hawaiian Ka Huna •Foot Massage •Relaxation & Pain Relief

Page 16 – Wednesday, February 18th, 2009

Senior First Aid 1 or 2 Day Courses Roxby Downs Nationally accredited HLTFA301B

$150.00 per person

Contact Steve Moore 0429 883 842 remoteindustrial@bigpond.com

grooming service

Antique & Household Removals Local, Interstate & Country Storage & Delivery Specialists

Ph: 0427 716 173 Roxby Downs À Pt Augusta À Pt Pirie

Heated hydrobath Clipping Blowdry and nail trims

Sherri Seery Phone for appointment 0423393280 Pick up and delivery service Eftpos facilities

EME

Life Changing Massage

Ph. 08 8663 2467 Fax. 08 8663 2225 57 – 61 Herbert Street, Laura SA 5480 Email. laurie@midnorthbuilders.com.au

DUSTY DOGS

PROVIDING A COMPLETE SERVICE •General Repairs •Fencing •Carpentry •Cabinet-making •Plumbing •Gas-Àtting •Electrical •Carpet/Vinyl •Painting •Refrigeration

~ Low cost building supplies ~ Tools ~ On site delivery ~ Design Service

Highly experienced local trainer Other emergency training also available

Consults at 97 Pioneer Drive, Roxby Downs THURSDAYS 4 pm - 9.30 pm FRIDAYS 7.30 am - 12 noon Instant health fund rebates • 24 hour/7 day booking & enquiry service

Mid North Builders Supplies

Evans Mini Earthworks

HeavyTruck Licences, HR, HC (Semi) Regional & Country Areas Serviced For enquiries and bookings: Phone: 8244-4374 Or 0417158098 Email: adelaidetrucktc@bigpond.com 660 South Road, Wingfield. S.A.

www.themonitor.com.au

Provides the following services in Roxby Downs & Andamooka • Bobcat Hire • Tipper Hire • Post Hole Boring • Sand, Gravel, Barkchip, etc.

• General Yard Cleanup • Rubbish Removal For your FREE quote, please phone Ian: 0439 287 205 or Jodie: 0400 087 066, or Email: emearthworks@bigpond.com Locally owned business!

THE MONITOR – Your Community Newspaper

The

Monitor NEWS

Volleyball in shots

COUNCIL SNIPPETS

BUSHFIRE PREVENTION

Saturday 1st November saw the start of the Fire Danger Season. This will continue until 31st March, 2009.

Some points to consider: - Leaning up around yards -Clean out gutters -Trim trees, especially those brushing against the house -Clear undergrowth where possible -Make yourself fully aware of the BBQ regulations When cleaning the rubbish, be aware of snakes and rodents. Please make known the total fire ban days.

Incase of Fire dial 000. When next visiting the council office, please take your free copy of Preparing for Bushfires.

PAYMENTS

IIff you are unable to come into the council office during work hours, we do offer payment of any accounts via the Internet or credit card facility via the phone. Please call the office on 8671 0010 for details.

GENERAL INFORMATION for Electricity & Water - Autopays & Direct Debits - All MONTHLY AUTOPAYS AND DIRECT DEBITS are taken out on the 20th of each month.

- All QUARTERLY AUTOPAYS are taken out on the DUE DATE of the Notice - All QUARTERLY DIRECT DEBITS are taken out on the 20th day of which the notice is due.

ELECTRICITY

Accounts for 31 December 2008 quarter have now been issued.

Accounts not paid by the 2nd February, 2009 have incurred a late payment fee. Please also note as of 1st January 2009, electricity tariffs increased. A flyer has been issued with your quarterly accounts.

WATER

Accounts for 31 December 2008 quarter have now been issued.

Accounts not paid by the 16th February 2009 have incurred a late payment fee. Please also note as of 1st January 2009, water charges increased. A flyer has been issued with your quarterly accounts.

DEPOSIT OF RUBBISH

Under Local Government Regulations it is an offence to dump any rubbish on a public road or place. This will incur a fine.

RECYCLING

The Opal Rd landfill does accept recycling or you can take it down to BSH in Gosse Street.

Plastic containers are to be cleaned and no lids are to be left on. They accept paper, cardboard and plastics. It is appreciated if sorted.

OPAL ROAD LANDFILL OPENING HOURS

The Opal Road Landfill is open from 1pm – 6pm, seven days a week. This is a FREE service. For Further information contact BSH Waste Solutions on 8671 1154.

Collect your free magnet when next in the Council office.

ADVERTISING ON COUNCIL INFRASTRUCTURE

Advertising on Council infrastructure such as light poles can attract expiation notices under the Local Government Act. If you spot any such advertising please notify the Council.

THE MONITOR – Your Community Newspaper

Monday February 9 the Volleyball Season started with a crowded Round Robin.

Lots of new people and new teams will add more fun to the 2009 competition.

Web: www.roxbycouncil.com e-mail: roxby@roxbycouncil.com.au Office hours: Mon to Frid – 9am to 5pm.

After hours Emergencies, please phone 0419 892 870.

HOME POOL SAFETY

Whilst in this incredible heat wave, we are concerned as to the possibility of danger around the home swimming pool. Please ensure that all pools are surrounded by a child proof fence. It must meet the required government standard AS 1926.1. Information can be obtained by any of the following methods, visiting the web site www.planning.sa.gov.au/go/building policy, phoning (08) 83030602 or collecting a brochure from the Roxby Downs Council.

ILLEGAL PARKING

This is a friendly reminder from Council, that parking in the following zones is illegal: WITHIN THE ROXBY DOWNS TOWNSHIP: -A loading zone -A drop off zone -A disabled park WITHIN THE RESIDENTIAL STREETS: -A nature strip -Local Government land.

-Vehicle left on side of the road for greater than 24 hours -Parked in the opposite direction of oncoming traffic.

Under the Local Government Act, Council has the power to instigate Infringement Notices and/or impound the vehicle(s) for the noted offence. If infringement notices are not paid by the due date, then a fine will apply. Please make yourself aware of all the parking regulations and signage.

INFRINGEMENTS

If infringement notices, whether it be parking or dogs, are not paid by the due date, then a fine will apply and court action will be taken.

DOG REGISTRATION

Dog g registrations are for 12 months in the financial year m calendar. (July 08 – June c 009), NOT 12 month calendar year. Grace period for y registration expired on 31 August u 2008; thereafter an $80.00 . expiation fee applies under Section 33 of the Dog and Cat Management Act. Please also ensure that all dogs over the age of three months are registered, failure to comply can again result in an $80.00 Expiation Notice being issued. Cheaper fees shall apply for proof of desexed, micro chipped or trained dogs.

Make sure when changing your address, you also change the address of your dog(s).

CHANGE OF ADDRESS

If you are changing your address, you are required by law to notify all relevant departments. The council offer you a one stop shop, in so much as you can change the address of your electricity, water, voting, motor vehicles and dogs.

RATES

08/09 Financial year Rates have been declared and have been issued.

Due date for the 1st Quarter was 30th September 2008, due date for the 2nd Quarter was 16th December 2008. The next two quarter due dates are the 17th March and the 16th June 2009. If you have any enquiries please contact Bronnie Warren on 8671 0010 during office hours.

SERVICE SA

Service SA operates at the Council Office on Wednesday and Thursdays ONLY, between the hours of 9.00am and 4.30pm. Council provides Transport Services including Vehicle and Boat Registrations and Licensing Transactions. No learner written theory tests will commence after 4.00pm.

What’s On s p o rt s

MONDAY KARATE - Auditorium * 6:00pm - 8:30pm VOLLEYBALL - Leisure Centre 16th Feb resumes season 6:30pm - 8:30pm SPIN - Pulse Gym 7:00pm

TUESDAY COME-N-TRY-SOCCER (JUNIORS) - Indoor Courts 3:30pm - 6:00pm SENIOR INDOOR SOCCER - Indoor Courts ** Resumed 13th Jan for social games Competition matches commence late February 6:00- 8:00pm SQUASH - Leisure Centre Resumes on 3rd March 7:00pm - 9:00pm TOUCH FOOTBALL - Town Oval 6:30-9pm Grand Final scheduled for 24th Feb SENIOR BASKETBALL - Indoor Courts 7pm-10pm

WEDNESDAY SPIN - Pulse Gym 6:00am KARATE - Auditorium * 6:00pm - 8:30pm WOMEN & MIXED NETBALL Resumes 18th Feb / 6pm - 9:30pm

THURSDAY NIPPY GYM - Auditorium 9:30am - 11:30 am SENIOR INDOOR SOCCER - Indoor Courts ** Resumed 13th Jan for social games Competition matches commence late February 6:00pm Social matches SQUASH - Leisure Centre Resumes on 3rd March 7:00pm - 10:00pm SENIOR BASKETBALL 7pm-10pm

FRIDAY INDOOR HOCKEY Resumes 13th Feb Juniors 5:00pm - 6:30pm Seniors 6:30pm - 8:30pm ASSOCIATION NETBALL Season commences in May TENNIS 7:15pm - 10:00pm

SATURDAY JUNIOR BASKETBALL 9am-5pm FOOTBALL Season commences April Football- pre-season training has commenced TENNIS 6:00pm - 10:00pm ASSOCIATION NETBALL Season commences in May CRICKET Grand Final scheduled for 28th March

SUNDAY SOFTBALL - School Oval

10am Junior learn and play sessions SWIMMING: Training currently underway. Training days are Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday. Training times differ during the week.

ROXBY DOWNS SPORTING CAR CLUB 2009 Saturday 21st February Night meeting

* Contact Reinhardt Viljoen on 0428 843 921 ** Contact Daniel Neyland on 0404376391

www.themonitor.com.au

Wednesday, February 18th, 2009 – Page 17

The

Monitor SPORT

Marvellous century by Wyatt

By Gerard Secker

Allen Woolford miss hits a big shot, landing it safely in the outfield.

A brilliant unbeaten century by Roxby Rogues skipper Randall Wyatt paved the way for his side’s easy ten wicket win over the Woomera Redbacks at O’Donoghue Oval on Saturday night.

The game was scheduled to be held last fortnight but high forecast temperatures forced a cancellation and both teams agreed to hold it over until last week.

The Redbacks batted first and posted their highest score of the season with a tally of 185 for the loss of five wickets and must have given victory a chance.

However the opening pair of Wyatt (119) and Paul Trotta (50) could not be parted and they brought up the winning runs in the thirty third over.

For the home side Adam Willis 67, Chris Pillar 36, Mitchell Blackie 27 and Andy Searle 26 not out contributed strongly with the bat and Micky Ingold and Willis were the most economic of the eight bowlers used.

Wyatt, whose three figure knock included 4 sixes and eleven fours, also took two of the five wickets to fall in the Redbacks innings.

SCORES Woomera Redbacks Pillar c & b Wyatt - 36 Willis c Nethery b Trotta - 67 Rye lbw b Smith - 10 Blackie b Wyatt - 27 Searle not out - 26 Budden lbw b Nethery - 5 Payne not out - 0 Sundries - 14 TOTAL - 5/185 Bowling: Ferguson 7-1-0/36, Nethery 7-1-1/39, McDonald 4-0-0/17, Smith 8-

2-1/22, Jackson 3-0-0/10, Trotta 6-1-1/22, Wyatt 5-0 2/27 ROXBY ROGUES Wyatt not out - 116 Trotta not out - 50 Sundries - 18 TOTAL - 0/187 Bowling: Willis 7-2-0/25, Searle 5-00/37, Ingold 5-0-0/18, Blackie 3-0-0/20, Payne 5-0-0/26, Watkinson 2-0-0/16, Budden 2-0-0/15, James 2-0-0/15, Gill 2-0-0/5

DEVILS DOMINATE

Allan Woolford took his first hat-trick in Roxby Districts cricket as Olympic Dam defeated Wanderers by 96 runs in their Sunday morning encounter at Roxby Downs Oval.

The bowling feat from the evergreen all rounder cleaned up the Swaggies tail and finished with the figures of 5/29 from six overs.

The Devils batted first and compiled 8/220 from their 40 overs at the crease due mainly to a hard hitting 79 not out from Ross Mill and 66 by Woolford in an unaccustomed role as an opener.

Cameos came from Craig Nichols, Shawn White, and Rein Geraghty as Mill with two mighty sixes and nine fours played every shot in the book to rescue the innings from 5/105 to the final total.

In reply Wanderers, who were without the services of Ryan Selkirk, Ryan Briggs and Matt Watkins and batting one man short, found the task way too formidable despite the efforts of Charith Anthony and Tim Arthur.

Anthony, who opened the innings and was lucky to survive two very confident appeals, carried his bat for 45 runs and Arthur struck out bravely for his score of

Junior Basketball

R

ning two games, drawing one and losing two to be placed 4th in the overall competition.

This was a huge improvement over their previous tournament in Pt Augusta where Coached by Darren Smith, they did not win a game. the boys were the big improvWell done to the Boys, ers at the tournament, win- Coach and supporters.

oxby Downs under 12s went to Why alla to play in a regional basketball tournament last weekend.

LEFT: The Roxby Downs under 12 Basketball team were big improvers at this year Carnival.

Senior Basketball in shots

GYMKHANA

42 but the last six wickets fell in a space of 20 runs.

On the other side of the ledger Olympic Dam were missing their captain Wayne Moroney, carnival stalwart Darren Leonard, the McEvoy brothers and Nigel Shinnick so the points were well earned.

SCORES OLYMPIC DAM Woolford b Carroll - 66 Eckermann run out (Arthur) - 10 Nichols c & b Dunk - 23 Prior b Carroll - 0 Botes c Wilson b Dunk - 0 Mill not out - 79 White c Mitchell b Thompson - 14 Warren c Wilson b Smith - 0 Geraghty c Grimston b Smith - 12 Hoffmann not out - 7 Sundries - 9 TOTAL - 8/220 Bowling: Grimston 4-0-0/20, Paxton 4-0-0/25, Carroll 8-1-2/32, Anthony 30-0/14, Smith 8-1-2/46, Dunk 5-1-2/23, Thompson 5-0-1/22, Wilson 3-0-0/28 WANDERERS Anthony not out - 45 Wilson c Eckermann b Nicholson - 2 Smith c Botes b White - 19 Arthur c Prior b Woolford - 42 Carroll c Nixcholson b Woolford - 2 Dunk c Nichols b Woolford - 0 Thompson c Prior b Hoffmann - 0 Grimston c Nichols b Woolford - 5 Luke b Woolford - 1 Mitchell lbw b Woolford - 0 Sundries - 8 TOTAL - 124 NOTE: Ryan Paxton did not bat Bowling: Nicholson 8-2-1/17, White 8-0-1/47, Botes 3-0-0/17, Woolford 6-05/29, Hoffmann 3-0-2/10

Touch Footy

results

Semi-Final Samoa 10 defeated Solomon Islands 6 Noble Knights 3 defeated Tonga 2 Noble Knights progress through to the Grand Final.

Indoor Hockey

results

Blues 7 defeated Hot Shots 1 Scorpions 11 defeated Pythons 4

Senior Basketball results

Saturday 4th April 2009

Men’s Basketball February 10

BBQ and bar facilities - no eskies please Gymkhana Admission $15.00

Rods defeated Benchwarmers 66 points to 27 points

GYMKHANA PROGRAMME 1.

Proceeds to RFDS and local charities Saturday Night @ Gymkhana Ground $10 Dinner & Dance

Featuring live band

Hard Road Including Champion Horse and Rider Trophies Presentations and Auction

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

Childrens Events a) Bending Race b) Barrel Race c) Flag and Barrel d) Potato Race e) Monte Carlo (under 10 yrs) Hitout 800m Barrel Race Thread the Needle William Creek Cup Gretna Green Potato Race

8.

9.

10.

11.

12.

13.

14.

15.

16.

17.

18.

High goal scorers: Cody Kenny and Todd Paul: 18 points each Tyler Golding: 12 points

Ladies Hack Race Bending Race Flag and Barrel Race 800m Sprint Walk Trot Gallop Old Timers Race Teams Race (600m) Children's Flutter 400m Consolation Race 500m Ladies Throwing the Broom Kids Money Scramble

Hornridge Lakers defeated Devils 39 points to 28 points High goal scorers: Damien Smith: 19 points Shaun Freeth: 13 points

Jets defeated Chocles 61 points to 28 points High goal scorers: Danni Stetco: 24 points Nick Thompson: 18 points

MOTOKHANA PROGRAMME 1.

2.

3.

Bending Race Barrel Race Mono Event

4.

5.

6.

Women’s Basketball February 12

Gretna Green Night Horse Race Short Circuit Course

A Grade

Cougars defeated Devils 58 points to 25 points

Sponsorship and prizes to be announced

High goal scorers: Ali Knights: 20 points, and Grace Hollitt: 14 points Jessica Laslo: 8 points

GYMKHANA - Registered horses allowed. Only limited number of saddles and skull caps available, so please bring others to help us out. Stock saddles only.

All riders do so at their own risk and must wear skull caps and sign waiver forms.

MOTOKHANA – All riders to wear helmets, all riders to be breathalysed.

Children Riders: Under 10 years and 10 - 15 years.

Bulls defeated Wanderers 53 points to 35 points High goal scorers: Katica Cockshell: 18 points, and Bec Penglase: 17 points Sam Luckett: 8 points

AGM Sunday 5th April 10am @ Gymkhana Grounds

B Grade

All welcome to attend, volunteers needed on committee and to assist at events

Cougars defeated Eagles 35 points to 29 points

Enquiries: PRESIDENT Randall Crozier Anna Creek Station Ph: (08) 8670 7978

SECRETARY Kelli-Jo Kovac Roxby Downs Ph: (08) 8671 3009

High goal scorers: Hannah Ridge: 12 points Amber and Deanne Hancock: 8 points each

TREASURER Helen Williams Nilpinna Station Ph: (08) 8670 7975

Miners defeated Neons 28 points to 25 points

Email: info@williamcreekevents.com

High goal scorers: Teagan Paull and Bonnie Moroney: 8 points each Charlee Dalgleish: 6 points

www.williamcreekevents.com

“We have the nags you bring the swags” Page 18 – Wednesday, February 18th, 2009

www.themonitor.com.au

THE MONITOR – Your Community Newspaper

The

Monitor SPORT

Name

Laps

Maddison Cordy Matilda Cordy Millicent Cordy Andries Niemann Julia Weltner Billy Weltner Kristien Nieman Hannah Wurfel Tori McGauchie Nicole Scholefield Anneka Niemann Logan Casserly Centain Casserly Michaela Mooney Caitlin Abbott Annalise Abbott William Abbott Dawid Niemann Susanna Kruger Tanya Fyfe Rachel Young Kane Mooney Joel Longmire Darren Lowe Matthew Lowe Tony McGauchie Georgia Greenfield Tori Capursco Sarah Crane Melissa Esterhauzin Florencia Moraga Eug’ene Van Niekerk Tayla Scholefield Jake Gotch D’Arcy Gotch Erin Greenfield Andrew Fonseca

156 100 34 352 236 297 56 276 242 70 10 36 176 223 257 11 100 80 229 290 262 209 24 278 88 148 180 12 28 30 236 74 122 127 100 134 62

TOTAL

5345

Swimmers lap 166 kilometres O ver 5,300 laps, or 166.4km, were ing 297 laps.

Swimmers ranged in age from adults down to swum by the Swim Club last fortnight as part of the annual Lapathon four year olds, all managing to swim a fantastic amount of laps in the 2.5 hours allocated. fundraiser.

37 swimmers hit the lanes to help raise money for the Swim Club by completing as many laps as they could within a 2.5 hour period.

Swimmers were allowed to rest at the ends of the pool, though exiting the water ended their participation.

A spectacular 352 laps were completed by Andries Neimann, with Billy Weltner achiev-

Past Lapathon’s have been extremely successful, with up to $10,000 raised from the day.

This year, the Swim Club is hoping for at least $5,000 to help fund medals, trophies and the presentation nights, though so far, figures have not yet been released.

“It’s our biggest fundraiser for the year and it’s a great opportunity for the members to re-

1 4

L

ast Friday saw a collection of Roxby swimmers compete in the Junior Sprints to register for the Adelaide State finals in March.

15 talented youngsters have been selected to represent the region at the finals.

The event was open to all swimmers between 7 and 13 years, who swam

3 1.Eugene Van Niekerk 2. Wendy Lowe 3. Tony McGauchie 4. Annalise Abbott 5. Michaela Mooney 6. Susy Kruger 7. Melissa Esterhuizen

T

their hearts out to qualify.

“It’s a really great opportunity for them to get to Adelaide and swim against the metropolitan swimmers,” said Swim Club Head Coach Phillipa Weltner.

“This allows them to gain an idea of where they are in the state and it’s a really great opportunity for them to meet other swimmers across the state.”

Congratulations and good luck go to the following swimmers who will represent the region at the finals:

Caitlin Abbott Alex Lowe William Abbott Matthew Lowe Annalise Abbott Tayla Scholefield Harrison Abbott Eugene Van Niekerk

well teams Young Guns and ConHydro and welcome new team Slow Punchers.

This year there are seven teams in the association, meaning one team will have a bye each week, though an eighth team is currently The Indoor Soccer League would like to fare- sought to even out the competition.

7

6

Kristien Niemann Dawid Niemann Julia Weltner Billy Weltner Andrew Fonseca Rebecca Longmire Florencia Moraga

Soccer season starts

he 2009 Soccer season has begun, with the first game played on Tuesday February 17 and with a new season comes new teams and rules.

5

2

Junior Swimmers represent region

By Zak Zeptner

ally push themselves and pull through the pain barriers and really surprise themselves on what they’re capable of,” said Swim Club Head Coach Phillipa Weltner.

“Every year it’s one of those events were the member really learn a lot about themselves.”

Phillipa also commented on her surprise and the endurance levels of the swimmers, particularly the younger ones.

“When the little ones, who at the beginning of the season could barely swim a lap, swam over 100 laps, we were very shocked.”

Anyone interested in forming another team is welcome to do so and should contact Daniel Neyland.

A collection of new rules have been added for players of the 2009 season and can be obtained from David Neyland@bhpbilliton.com

Roxby Downs Netball Ass.inc.

Registration Forms available from: SPORTSPOWER ALL COMPLETED FORMS TO BE RETURNED TO SPORTSPOWER Player Registration Closes 20th March 09 Senior Team Registration Closes 20th March 09 Age Groupings: Minis 5yrs to 7yrs : Net Set & Go: $45 per season for coaching and kit 9 & U: 2000, 2001, 11 & U: 1998, 1999, 13 & U: 1997, 1996, 17 & U: 1995, 1994, 1993,1992.

Representative Squads: NOMINATIONS are OPEN for anyone interested in COACHING a representative team or assisting as support staff...

11 & Under 13 & Under 15 & Under 17 & Under Senior Team/Masters Team Nominations for Coaching Position close: Feb 27th 09 email: roxbynetball@hotmail.com Spencer Gulf Carnival 24th May 09 Adelaide Country Championships 5th - 8th June 09 PO Box 560 Roxby Downs roxbynetball@hotmail.com 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 THE MONITOR – Your Community Newspaper

www.themonitor.com.au

Wednesday, February 18th, 2009 – Page 19

Monitor SPORT The

Your Community Newspaper ~ Roxby Downs

www.themonitor.com.au

Phone (08) 8671 2683

Fax (08) 8671 2843

Roxby Wins Regional Title

By Ray Goldie and Gerard Secker

C

huffed was how Gerard “Yogi” Seeker, President of the Roxby Downs Cricket Association, said he felt after the Association’s representative team won cricket’s SA Country Carnival.

An annual event which commenced in 1926, the SACC is a Mecca for country teams and players who get to match their skills against teams and players from across the State.

Sponsored by BHP Billiton and managed by Graham Warren, the team set themselves a series of goals and by Friday afternoon, it was mission accomplished.

From a field of 16 teams, each team plays five

104 over games over a week at different grounds across Adelaide with a point system built around games and innings won, runs scored and wickets taken.

The Roxby team won all five matches, defeating teams Belalie Mokota, Alexandria, Rocky River, Murdoch Hill and Barossa and Light.

Roxby was the only team in the competition to go through undefeated.

The Roxby Team’s feat was even more impressive when you consider that all the grounds they played on had turf pitches, which play very differently to our drop in hard wicket at the Town Oval.

Not only did the team have to adjust to the pitch but it also meant wearing different, fully spiked, foot wear.

Team Manager Graham Warren said, “At some-

time over the five days every player contributed towards a win. It was an excellent team effort. One standout was Charl Botes who took 23 wickets and a best game figures of 4 for 32 in the last match. As a reward, Charl was named in the Team of the Year.”

Graham Warren also came forth in the Team Organiser of the Year, just three points behind the winner.

Graham reported that it was a great team effort all week by all the players and they deserved to bring home the Chris Hartwig Shield and the Advertiser Trophy for winning the annual competition.

“The team was hard at it on the field offering no mercy to their opposition but equally they were first to thank their opposition for the game and share a drink after the match. This was indicative

of the professional manner all the team members conducted themselves with on and off the field.”

Ryan Selkirk was an excellent Captain and leader who capped off the win with an excellent speech when receiving the Trophy on behalf of the team and the Association. Ryan particularly thanked BHP Billiton for their sponsorship.

It has been announced by BHP Billiton representative Jason Schell that the company intends to continue its support for a representative side to attend the carnival in the coming years.

The tournament has given the Association a realistic view of the local standard of cricket as measured against other regional areas across the State.

“We have some great players here and obviously we have set high standards,” said Yogi.

MONDAY Roxby Districts 144 (W Moroney 66no C Wilson 34) defeated Belalie - Makota 115 (C Botes 3/15) and 3/81 (C Botes 3/10)

TUESDAY Roxby Districts 9/185 (C Nichols 63) and 2/125 (R Selkirk 60 C Botes 34) defeated Alexandra 95 (C Botes 6/26)

WEDNESDAY Roxby Districts 177 (D Leonard 77 W Moroney 37) defeated Rocky River 77 (C Botes 4/36 S Nethery 3/18) and 3/114

THURSDAY Roxby Districts 7/195 (D Leonard 44 C Nichols 39 W Moroney 30 R Selkirk 30) defeated Murdoch Hill 135 (C Wilson 4/26 J Carroll 3/28 C Botes 3/46)

FRIDAY Roxby Districts 8/178 (R Selkirk 64 J Carroll 40) Barossa and Light 83 (C Botes 4/32)

Members of the winning team show off their shield at Sunday’s local cricket match.

What’s happening at the Roxby Downs Cultural & Leisure Precinct TOUCH FOOTY GRAND FINAL Tuesday February 24 Town Oval- 7:15pm

roxbyleisure

Presentations to immediately follow at Dunes Café 8:15pm

phone 8671 2001

All players encouraged to attend.

outbackcinema

this week >

COUNTRY ARTS SA ‘Our Mob’ A collection of Aboriginal Artwork February 9 til March 9 Roxby Leisure Art Gallery

HOTEL FOR DOGS Rated PG Duration 100 mins.

SEVEN POUNDS Rated M Duration 123 mins.

No stray gets turned away. Two kids secretly take in nine stray dogs at a vacant house. Stars Emma Roberts, Jake T. Austin, Don Cheadle and Johnny Simmons.

Screens: Saturday 21st Feb. 7:30pm, Sunday 22nd Feb. 12noon, Tuesday 24th Feb. 7pm.

An IRS agent with a fateful secret embarks on an extraordinary journey of redemption by forever changing the lives of seven strangers.

Stars Will Smith, Rosario Dawson, Woody Harrelson and Michael Ealy.

Screens: Friday 20th Feb. 7:30pm, Saturday 21st Feb. 3pm.

Page 20 – Wednesday, February 18th, 2009

www.themonitor.com.au

THE MONITOR – Your Community Newspaper