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Volume 4, Thursday 21st February, 2008

OPAL TOWN GOLD RUSH

Written by Les Rochester

ndamooka’s population is expected to double within three years following a ﬂood of development applications in the town worth more than $14 million. The opal town is now experiencing a ‘Gold Rush’ for real estate. The total development applications currently before the Building Assessment Commission provides for 520 bedrooms. This is comprised in a number of developments for double and single unit accommodation such as the 94 unit expansion at the Opal Hotel, another 62 units planned by Unique Accommodation and another planned development on the old caravan park site. President of the Andamooka Progress and Opal Miners Association Peter Allen said it is amazing really. “These developments are going to knock our services to death. We’re swamped.” He said. “We have another 300 undeveloped blocks in town that are available for development so I think the population of Andamooka will more than double within the next 2 to 3 years. “The state government is ﬁnally becom-

ing aware of the problems not only in Andamooka but elsewhere in the north. “Olympic Dam’s super pit, Prominent Hill and all of the other major mine developments within our region have caught them by surprise,” Mr Allen said. “It’s happening at such a fast pace that the government is now trying to catch up and get ahead of the game.” APOMA is planning to meet with government ministers in Adelaide later this month who have a direct responsibility for providing services in Andamooka. Meetings are planned with the Ministers for Health, Infrastructure, Roads, Water, Local Government and Police. “We’ve been lobbying the government for the past 18 months so we don’t get caught short,” Mr Allen said. “We urgently need a better power supply, sewerage, reticulated water, refuse facilities and government housing. “Our health services at the hospital are just coping even with the 17% increase in hospital visits in the past 12 months. “But when the population doubles, who knows what will happen,” he said. “Accommodation is just so tight in Andamooka at the moment that the police house has been let to a teacher so I’ve got to ﬁnd suitable accommodation for the new police oﬃcer when he is appointed,” Mr Allen said.

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Above: An old Studebaker drill rig forms part of a new mining museum at Andamooka. See photos Page 8.

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Above: Photo by Julie Matthews of the Cooper Creek Homestay.

The rise and fall of Cooper Creek Residents of Innamincka were given a taste of things to come recently, when the Cooper rose to about 2 metres at the causeway. Innamincka township received 27 mm of rain over two days. Scattered heavy rainfall in the area also caused many road closures. In the photos Quantec Geophysical employees, Joel Stockill and Yatha make the most of their enforced stay in Innamincka. They were photographed enjoying a white water adventure on the causeway. The summer rainfall not only replenished rainwater tanks, but stimulated growth of herbage and grasses on the parched gibber plains and sand hills near the town. The ﬂow resulted from heavy falls of rain over the hills to the north of Innamincka which caused Oonabrinta Creek to run

into the Cooper. The high water closed the causeway to traffic between February 2nd and February 5th. As the creek fell, water birds and birds of prey congregated to feast on schooling fish. Opportunistic fisher people also joined the birds. As water levels continue to fall, experts are predicting great fishing and yabbying in waterholes on the Cooper. A good haul of yabbies caught in one afternoon, on lines and in opera house pots, upstream of the causeway at Innamincka. The Cooper is expected to rise again when waters from the Queensland catchment areas reach Innamincka in the next few weeks. Charter flights from Roxby Downs to Innamincka can be arranged through Opal Air on 0400746537.

Above: Playing in Cooper Creek. Photograph taken by Lloyd George.

Above: Cooper Creek in flood mode! Photograph by Lloyd George.

Above: Cooper Creek. Photograph taken by Lloyd George.

Above: Photo taken by Lloyd George. Below: Geophysical employees Joel Stockill and Yatha in the Cooper Creek.

Open 7 days a week 6am till 11pm $8.50 Schnitzels Sunday Night - 14 different toppings and a buffet of salad and vegies for $8.50 Best Steaks on the highway according to Erin from The Monitor as well as the best Steak sandwiches!! Great selection of wines to satisfy any wine connoisseur! Spend $40 in one transaction (excluding fuel and accommodation), keep your receipt and receive 8c per litre discount on your next fuel purchase!! • Bar and gaming facilities • Friendly staff Fill up your car and your belly or stay overnight at Spuds Roadhouse in Pimba! Page 2 – Thursday, February 21, 2008

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World Kidney expert in Roxby Downs One of the world’s leading experts on kidney disease will visit Roxby Downs later this month to observe Australia’s first national screening program for chronic kidney disease. Kidney Health Australia with the support of the Federal Government and BHP Billiton has organised KEY – ‘Kidney Evaluation for You’, an early detection program to evaluate kidney function, cardiovascular health and diabetes in high risk individuals to be carried out in Roxby Downs. Anne Wilson CEO of Kidney Health Australia said: ”Professor Allan Collins, Professor of Medicine

at the University of Minnesota School of Medicine, and Director of Chronic Disease Research Group at Minneapolis Medical Research Foundation who is in Australia to lecture on Chronic Kidney Disease, will visit Roxby Downs on February the 27th. Professor Collins is also the Director and Principal Investigator for the U.S. Renal Data System Coordinating Centre and Director of the National Kidney Foundation’s (NKF) Kidney Early Evaluation Program (KEEP) Data Coordinating Centre. Professor Collins’s research interests

include epidemiology and risk factor analysis of hemodialysis patient survival, capitation analysis for end-stage renal disease patients and chronic kidney disease clinical and economic outcomes. Ms Wilson said with 1 in 3 Australian adults at increased risk of developing CKD, Roxby Downs, Andamooka and Woomera residents who are in the “high risk” category can book in to have a free KEY health check by calling Kidney Health Australia toll free on 1800 682 531. KEY is free and will be available on Monday 25th February at Andamooka

Community Health Service, Tuesday 26th February and Friday 29th February at Roxby Downs Health Services and Saturday 1st March at Woomera Community Hospital. Those in the high risk group include: anyone 50 years and above or 35 years and above if of Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander origin anyone with diabetes and anyone with high blood pressure (on or not on treatment). Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) is often referred to as the “silent killer” as 80 -90% of kidney function can be lost before an individual experiences

any symptoms. Yet the level of awareness of CKD amongst the general public and health professionals is low and many risk factors of CKD are modiﬁable. Dr Tim Mathew Medical Director of Kidney Health Australia who will be in Roxby Downs for the program said a KEY program is vital in Australia to reduce the burden of kidney disease and kidney failure and this program at Roxby Downs could be the start of one of the most important and eﬀective primary care programs to manage CKD in Australia.

Marathon admits environmental mistake

Woomera set for first Outback Games Woomera is to be the focus of the state’s ﬁrst organized Outback Games sporting festival planned for September or October this year. It’s being planned by The Outback Areas Community Development Trust. The Trust’s Hamish Press said regular competition is needed to boost sporting participation in the outback and build a sense of community. “Woomera is a good place to hold the games. “It’s a good central location. “They’ve got good infrastructure and the ability to be able to, I guess, accommodate a lot of people who want to visit the town,” he said. “But what we’re hoping is to hold an initial games in Woomera and

then in other years hold it in other locations as well.” Already it has been suggested there be cricket, golf, netball, tennis, darts and lawn bowls competitions held at this event. There will be activities to keep the kids busy too. Woomera has a cinema, ten pin bowling alleys, beach volleyball court, swimming pool and plenty of open spaces to utilise. It also has the Rocket Museum and an Aquaculture Centre. “We are also keen to have a social event in the evening as well,” Mr Press said. “Gymkhana events are also another thing we can consider for the Outback Games now the horse

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ﬂu has passed. “To help put together the Games in Woomera we need a committee that will represent their pocket of the Outback in what activities the Games consist of, and then getting teams from your area to commit to coming along,” he said. “To help organisers do this we will be providing free accredited training in the areas identiﬁed they need assistance with.” If you would like to take part in being on the committee or provide suggestions regarding the events that will take place at the games, give Hamish Press a call on 86485116 or 0447 485116. www.themonitor.com.au

Marathon Resources Limited has accepted the restrictions imposed on the company by the State Government after investigations conducted by PIRSA and the EPA on its disposal of exploration materials at its sensitive Mount Gee Arkaroola lease. Premier Mike Rann has announced that the Government is suspending indefinitely the drilling operations by Marathon Resources in Mount Gee at Arkaroola in the wake of a significant breach of the exploration conditions of that licence. The Government has received the initial findings of an investigation by officers from PIRSA that has confirmed a breach involving the unauthorised burial of a large number of exploration samples, drilling material and other waste. Marathon maintained that there was no significant environmental risk or health risk to visitors or wildlife at Arkaroola and this was confirmed by PIRSA and the EPA. Marathon Chairman, Mr Peter Williams said the company acknowledges an error of judgment in the manner in which exploration materials at Mt Gee were disposed of but the company had no intention of any breach. “All exploration material identified as being disposed of incorrectly would be immediately excavated, as soon as PIRSA approval was given, and removed off-site, and on-site rehabilitation will be completed to the satisfaction of the State Government,” he said. “Marathon remains committed as ever to the Mt Gee uranium project, one of the largest undeveloped uranium deposits in Australia. “The Company deeply regrets its actions. “It was an error of judgment which fell outside current practice and the tenor and excellent record of the Australian mining industry code,” he said. “From the outset of the investigation, Marathon has co-operated fully with authorities. “Further, we initiated our own internal investigation into our exploration practices

to ensure we were complying with our interpretation of the current guidelines.” Mr Williams also announced that Marathon had essentially completed currently authorized drilling activity at Mt Gee, and following discussions with the South Australian Government, had decided to demobilise the four rigs currently at the project. Two of the rigs have already completed operations and had been released from the site. The Company also announced that it would commission an independent report into the Company’s environmental practices and use the findings of the report to improve its operations, where necessary, in the Mount Gee area and to report back to Government. As part of the process, the independent expert will be asked to liaise with all project stakeholders, including the Aboriginal co-mmunity, pastoralists, owners of the Arkaroola Tourist Village, industry representatives and State and Federal government, and to identify all issues and address means to resolve them. Mr Williams said Marathon recognised the concerns expressed by the State Government and others into the manner in which the Company disposed of exploration materials at Mt Gee, and would suspend drilling operations until the matter was clarified. “With our normal exploration cut-off looming, we have completed sufficient drilling to enable us to conduct the next exploration phase, including environmental and other studies, and we have assembled the required technical details for continued mine planning work,” Mr Williams said. “Marathon has a strong focus on sustainable exploration, and seeks to limit any adverse environmental impact,” he said. “Whether it is Marathon or any other mining company, it is critically important to uphold the State’s reputation as welcoming of investment and exploration in a sustainable manner,” he concluded.

JOHNSTON WITHERS LAWYERS are now visiting Roxby Downs each month Offering professional legal advice and representation in most areas of law including: Industrial Employment Law Workers Compensation Wills Discrimination Law &

Criminal & Trafc Law Estates & Trusts Personal Injury

Medical Negligence Family & DeFacto Conveyancing

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Nic Kernahan and Emma Wilkinson will next be in attendance at the ofces of Lin Andrews Real Estate, 3 Richardson Place, Roxby Downs on 12 March, 2008. For appointments, contact us at:

17 Sturt Street, Adelaide SA 5000 Telephone: 8231 1110 (Adelaide) 8642 5122 (Pt Augusta) Fax: 8231 1230 Email: mail@johnstonwithers.com.au Web: www.johnstonwithers.com.au Regional ofces at Clare and Port Augusta (also visiting Whyalla) Thursday, February 21, 2008 – Page 3

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Woomera Defence clearance for explorer

Opal town gold rush

Southern Uranium Limited plans next week to start the drilling of a deep diamond core hole to test the promising Cocky Swamp iron oxide copper gold uranium target in SA’s Olympic Dam district. Located between Woomera and Olympic Dam, the Cocky Swamp target is buried beneath 865 metres of cover sediments and is primarily deﬁned by gravity geo- Continued from Page 1 physical data collected at the surface. However many other organisations in town and The margin of the target was drilled in 1980 by WMC the region have been caught out because of the with a single vertical diamond core hole that established sudden rush for accommodation. the IOCGU potential of the target. “Frontier Services have done a fantastic job in The target is secured under an Exploration Licence. town during the past 40 years, but they’ve been The EL is held 100% by Sunthe Uranium Pty Limited, a caught because the decision makers are in the city wholly-owned subsidiary of Southern Uranium. and haven’t realised the growing Tsunami of develThe drill program can now proceed following compleopment that has swept our region,” Mr Allen said. tion of Defence research activities at the Woomera Test “Really it is just fantastic, not only for the town Facility and approval this month by the WTF Director and the major problems we’re facing, but if it granting site access until mid April. wasn’t for the current boom in mining operations, The high-priority Cocky Swamp target has been upAustralia’s economy would be as sad as that currently graded in recent months. experienced in the United States. The company’s Managing Director John Anderson “18 months ago no one in government or the said the modelled body had a steep, northerly dip and an bureaucrats took us seriously let alone listened to estimated density of 3.7 grams per cubic centimetre. us. “These parameters are encouraging for the modelled body to be a high-density breccia-style haematite copper “But now we have their attention, big time,” he gold uranium deposit with dimensions similar to those said. of the mined Prominent Hill deposit,” he said. The face of Andamooka is changing ahead of this development with many long term residents now ADVERTISEMENT leaving making way for a newer breed. “Look, the town is in a lovely position at the moment,” Mr Allen said. “People of the town will beneﬁt one way or the other. “As an example many of our long termers whose homes were valued at $40,000 four years ago are now selling up for more than $200,000. “They’re leaving and buying cheaper homes in places like Kadina, Moonta and Wilmington. “They’re making a fortune,” he said. “Progress is progress, nothing stands still, change has come to Andamooka.”

Do you need help to stay at home? Commonwealth Carelink Centres Freecall™ 1800 052 222* www.commcarelink.health.gov.au Would you like information about the wide range of community care programs and services available to help you stay at home? Call Freecall™ 1800 052 222* or visit one of the Commonwealth Carelink Centres around Australia to get information about services in your local region. * Calls from mobile phones are charged at applicable rates

Above: Colin Fenney, Assistant State Secretary AMWU.

AMWU wants Alliance with Roxby

Lunch on the Run moves

The Lunch on the Run business in Tutop Plaza is making a move into the more populous shopping area of the Roxby Downs Mall. The new venture will be opened in about three weeks in what used to be the 420 Café opposite Woolworths in the Mall. Without spilling secrets, there’s some real innovation on the way when the new store opens.

The Australian Manufacturers Workers Union hopes to form an alliance with community groups and organisations in Roxby Downs to provide better services for the town’s youth. The Assistant state secretary of the union, Colin Fenney told The Monitor more needed to be done in Roxby Downs for its teenagers and young people. “We hope to get together with other community organisations to discuss what can be done and how we as a union can help,” he said. Mr Fenney has already spoken with Roxby Downs Police about the problems in town with children of a very young age wandering through the streets late at night. This particular problem is also going to be the focus of local police over the coming months. Mr Fenney said his union plans to build close relationships with the Roxby Downs community and oﬀer its support

in overcoming problems such as housing aﬀordability, better accommodation and service subsidies for workers at BHP Billiton and those employed by contractors. “There’s also a big problem in town with work-cover with a lot of contractors too scared to report incidents for fear of losing their jobs,” he said. “We’ll meet anyone who has a problem, anywhere and anytime and we’ll guarantee their anonymity in order to get a resolution for them. “With our young people we need to create opportunities for them, give them meaningful things to do, because if we don’t it’ll lead to break up of families. “Most young people leave home once they finish Year 12 because there’s no incentives for them to stay. “We need to broaden the scope for them, make them feel valued and provide good solid opportunities for them throughout their young lives,” Mr Fenney said.

Stephen Scott-Hoy B.Optom Need friendly, professional eyecare and quality fashion eyewear with a full back-up service? See the Eyebus when it visits. For bookings phone: Roxby Downs - 8563 0102 Andamooka - 8672 7007 Woomera - 8673 7473 Monthly visits - Examinations bulk-billed.

Look for the Eyebus on the following dates: Woomera - Wed, March 5th Roxby Downs - Wed, March 5th & Thurs, March 6th Andamooka - Thurs, March 6th Serving rural and regional South Australia since 1990.

Call in and see the team at the new look Raine & Horne Roxby Downs Office If you are looking for • Free Appraisals • Property Management • Sales Enquiries

ROXBY DOWNS Tues. 11 March at 7.30 pm Ambulance Station, Roxby Downs Hospital.

Raine & Horne Roxby Downs Shop 4/14 Tutop Street Roxby Downs SA 5725 Ph 08 8671 3355 Fax 08 8671 3366

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Above: Hayley pins the knickers on Captain Underpants at the Summer Reading Club party last week.

Signs – Don’t mean a thing Celebrating summer ‘No smoking, no animals, no rollerblades, no bikes permitted within this mall area by order of the management’, that’s what the signs in the mall say, so why has The Monitor been getting complaints about smokers, skate boarders and cyclists in that area? “It’s a safety issue,” Sportspower Manager Michelle Rowley said. “It’s mainly kids, not only younger kids, but teenagers as well, who should know better. “They go screaming through here on their bikes, scooters and skateboards and it is very awkward to say anything to them, some of them are ﬁne and apologise, other times you’ll get a mouthful of cheek, and what’s to stop them retaliating after the store is closed? “There are a lot of pregnant women

and young kids who walk through the mall, why wait until one of them is injured before doing anything about it?” she said. Ms Rowley approached the local representative of Savills, the company that manages the mall, and asked who should be monitoring issues like smoking in the enclosed area. “The Savills’ representative said she thought it was the council, but it is state legislation, so it seems to be a very murky area,” Ms Rowley said. “Apparently it is not a police issue, so it is hard to get the police to come down and monitor it, but I think it would be a good idea if the police could come down one or two afternoons a week, especially as many of the kids riding through the mall are not wearing helmets, which is a police issue,” she said. The Monitor approached Savills’

Property Manager Richard Stabile to try and shed some light on who is responsible for implementing the restrictions in the mall. “We put the noticeboards up last year in the hope that the community would comply,” Mr Stabile said. “And the non-smoking issue is part of one of the legislated Acts. “We rely on people to respect the property and do the right thing, but enforcing these things is hard to do. “Do you hire someone to patrol the area? “It is an issue that is not just conﬁned to our centre, it is a dilemma and as the managers we have to balance what is reasonable and fair. “When it comes down to it it’s about taking pride in your town and taking care of all of the facilities in Roxby Downs,” he said.

Happy Birthday Red Sands! At the beginning of last year Community Development Officer Michelle Hales met with a group of passionate locals about forming a Roxby Downs branch of The Cancer Council SA. The idea was embraced so eagerly that after a very short gestation period the Red Sands Foundation was born. Twelve months on, the branch is preparing to hold its very ﬁrst AGM, and the whole community is invited to attend. “The Red Sands Foundation raises money for all types of cancer,” President Helen Edwards Above: Red Sands Chairperson, Helen said. Edwards and Secretary, Mandie Arnold. “We had an outstanding ﬁrst year, raising in excess of $5,000 for TCCSA. rible disease. anyone has been wanting “Supporting the TCCSA “We invite all com- to get involved in this helps raise awareness in munity memb ers to very worthy branch, they Roxby Downs of this ter- attend our AGM, so if should attend,” she said. THE MONITOR – Your Community Newspaper

B r a n c h s e c r e t a r y, Mandie Arnold said the group is looking for new members. “We would particularly welcome anyone from BHP Billiton so the Red Sands Foundation could benefit from the company’s matched giving program,” Ms Arnold said. “It is good to be involved in something that benefits people other than our immediate families. “Cancer is bound to touch the lives of all of us in some way. “It would be nice to know that our efforts may help find a cure or prolong a life,” she said. The Red Sands Foundation AGM will be held at the Roxby Downs Community Library at 7pm on Tuesday, March 11. www.themonitor.com.au

at the library

The Roxby Downs Community Library held a party last week to celebrate the success of its Summer Reading Club. “Fifteen children completed the Summer Reading Club and had a great time reading over the Christmas holidays,” Community Library Manager, Marie Trezise said. “The Summer Reading Club is a national program put together by the

Australian Library and Information Association. “Basically it encourages kids to read over the summer break, which is important as studies have shown that if kids have long periods where they don’t read their reading levels drop,” she said. The Summer Reading Club, which was designed to improved literacy and reading skills, runs every year and is open to children aged 5 -16.

Upcoming meetings... Health Forum

March 3

Family and Youth Forum

March 5

Arts and Culture Forum

February 27

Sport and Recreation Forum

March 4

Community Board

February 25

Volunteering Partnership

March 3

Under discussion... Arts and Culture Forum

Revisiting the Community Plan

Sports and Recreation Forum

Establishment of a Community Bus

Environment Forum

New Environment Program

Meetings held Community Board

Education & WPT

Arts and Culture Forum

Alcohol & Substance Abuse

Family and Youth Forum

Environment Forum

Community members wishing to have input to discussions at Community Board meetings must notify Executive Oﬃcer, Michelle Hales on 0418 833 818 prior to the meeting date. Please note: Forums (Excluding Health and the Alcohol and Substance Abuse Partnership) are open to the general public. The Community Board encourage all members of the community to attend and participate. For further information on any of the Forums or Partnerships please contact Michelle Hales on 0418 833 818.

Thursday, February 21, 2007 – Page 5

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ave you noticed the language being used by federal government ministers of late and now being mouthed as fact by electronic media commentators? It’s all to do with slogans and key-phrasing. In other words it’s a form of brainwashing. You say it long enough and often enough it becomes accepted as fact. The latest phrase I’m talking about is….”With our current high inflation”….blah, blah, blah. When you key-phrase you condition the population to accept what you’re saying is true. But let’s have a real honest look at our current economic climate. Glenn Ste vens the

Governor of the Reserve Bank of Australia in an address to Australian Business in London on January the 18th said the fact that inﬂation expectations have been low and pretty stable has helped Australia. “Central banks have played a key role in anchoring expectations,” he said. The inflation rate is measured by changes in Consumer Price Index (CPI). The CPI is an index that measures the quarterly changes in the prices of a selected weighted “basket” of consumer goods and services. The basket includes a wide range of goods and services purchased by metropolitan households, such as food, alcohol and

tobacco, clothing and footwear, housing, health, transport, communication, recreation and education. This method of measuring inflation is the one that most people and businesses would be familiar with, it is known as the headline inflation rate. However the Bureau of Statistics figures show that in 2007, half the growth in overall prices came in just two areas: housing costs and rising finance charges. And that was before the banks made their controversial rises this month to pass on higher lending costs to home mortgages. The Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) attempts to keep the inflation rate in the targeted range of between 2% and 3%. Since 1998, the RBA

has used the headline rate of inflation to assess monetary policy changes and keep inflation within the targeted range. Another me a sure of the inflation rate is the underlying rate of inflation. The underlying rate of inflation is calculated by removing one-off economic impacts. For example, seasonal effects such as higher food prices that are caused by drought or when the RBA tightens its monetary policy by increases in interest rates. The treasury uses this method of measuring inflation for the purpose of economic forecasting. Since the September quarter in 2005-06 when the CPI (a measurement of inflation) was running at 2% it has increased to just 3% for the December quarter in 2007-08. So how can we justify the continued talk of …..”With our current high inflation…..” The unions are expected to push for wage rises nationally during the next 12 months and they’re looking at tying some of those rises into a proposed increase in superannuation

contributions. It is on record that unions nationally spent and donated more than $20 million dollars towards the Labor Party and an advertising campaign against Work Choices during the last federal election. So is the talk about “Our High Inﬂation” preparing us at this early stage for the impact of those wage rises on the nations economy? Am I skeptical? Where’s the questioning of Prime Minister Rudd about this talk? Key phrasing worked well during the election. Remember the slogan, “Working Families”. Remember the union TV advertisement of an employer threatening to sack a female worker if she didn’t go into work on call for overtime? After the election in the postmortem it was discovered that many people in the community thought that was a “real event” because they had seen it on a current aﬀairs show. So key-phrasing certainly does help condition the population. But are we really that stupid?

Letters to the Editor The new renovations to the Cultural Precinct compliment the social coffee mornings for mothers with a play area and toys to entertain the children and give Mothers a chance to relax. But do those same Mothers stop to think who cleans up their child’s mess? Over the past week I have observed chaos when those relaxed Mothers leave, not only is there the usual broken biscuits ground into the floor, now the hard working staff have to PICK UP THE TOYS AFTER YOUR CHILDREN!! Idea! What about teaching your children to tidy the toys before you leave? It worked for me when my children were little, you never know it might even rub off and they do the same at home. Name and Address Supplied.

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Andamookaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s mining museum The opal mining town of Andamooka has grabbed relics of its past history and put them on display in a new open air mining museum on the approach road to town. Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll now notice on the left hand side of the road in front of the playground a collection of dozers, Studebaker drilling rigs, and an old excavator. Theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve been placed there by the Andamooka Progress and Opal Miners Association with the help of local residents and businesses, to recognise the townâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s link to its Opal mining history. Last weekend the final â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;jewel in the crownâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;, an Excavator, was towed from the four mile opal ďŹ elds where it has sat idle and open to the elements for the past 60 years. The Monitor was on hand to record the event as the Excavator was chained up to a modern day Bulldozer and towed to what will be its ďŹ nal resting place, alongside the rest of the gathered machinery that makes

up the mining museum. In the 1990â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the Excavator was used as the backdrop to the annual school photographs and has been viewed by many thousands of tourists over the years. APOMA President Peter Allen said much of the machinery was donated by the owners of Unique Accommodation which was clearing its block ready for building units. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll lay some blue metal down and place descriptive signs up on each piece of equipment telling of the role it played in developing the opal ďŹ elds of Andamooka,â&#x20AC;? Mr Allen said. APOMA thanks Andrew Collins from Northern Earthmovers, Peter and Eric Hansen and Tom Radford for their volunteering eďŹ&#x20AC;orts and support in making the museum a reality. â&#x20AC;&#x153;It just shows what a small town can do without all of the red tape,â&#x20AC;? Mr Allen said.

Above: Nearing the end of itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s journey. Below: An old dozer takes itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s place in the museum.

Above: The tracks still work as it makes itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s way up the hill. Below: An old tipper.

Solomons Flooring is a rapidly growing franchised retail group with over 70 stores throughout Australia. Now, there is an incredible opportunity for a motivated individual or couple to start their own Mobile Franchise business with one of Australiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s leading retail brands. Why Solomons Roxby Downs could be right for you! s ,OW COST ENTRY GETS YOU OFF TO A ďŹ&#x201A;ying start s ! BUSINESS THAT IS CASH mOW POSITIVE from Day 1 s 0ROFESSIONAL HIGH IMPACT ADVERTISING and promotions s %XPERT MANAGEMENT ADVICE AND SUPPORT

Below: Old Studebakers on display.

s 3OLOMONS IS A .ATIONAL BRAND ICON s &RANCHISEES ARE NOT COMMITTED TO large stock holdings s &IXED AND KNOWN OVERHEADS s 3OLOMONS FRANCHISES HAVE PROVEN resale value If you are interested in operating your own business, be ďŹ nancially independent and backed by the security of being part of a successful national network, then 3OLOMONS 2OXBY $OWNS COULD BE FOR YOU ConďŹ dential Interviews will be held in 2OXBY $OWNS IN THE NEAR FUTURE For details of this exciting opportunity call: Chris Taylor - General Manager T: 0414 577 703 E: christaylor2@bigpond.com www.solomons.com.au

THE MONITOR â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Your Community Newspaper

www.themonitor.com.au

Thursday, February 21, 2007 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Page 7

The

Monitor NEWS

Above: Surpassed by technology.

Above: Taking it’s place alongside other relics of the past. GREY14573B

Above: “How are we going to move this thing?”

Above: The Excavator, the final piece in the display. Below: Some of the old drill rigs on display.

If you can’t reach your doctor and you’re not sure what to do next, call healthdirect Australia – a free health advice line available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Our Registered Nurses will help you with symptoms, health problems and advice on when to see a doctor or health service, and where to ﬁnd them. So next time you have a health concern, just make the call. Calls from landline phones are free; mobile charges may apply. A joint initiative of the Australian Government and the governments of the ACT, NSW, NT, SA and WA.

Page 8 – Thursday, February 21, 2008

www.themonitor.com.au

THE MONITOR – Your Community Newspaper

REAL ESTATEReview R you right with R-value

Ensuring your home ceiling has the appropriate R-value insulation is one of the single most important measures to make it more energy eďŹ&#x192;cient. Insulation works by slowing down heat transfer and its performance is measured by thermal resistance or R-value. The higher the insulationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s R-value the more eďŹ&#x20AC;ective it is at resisting conducted heat ďŹ&#x201A;ow out of your home during winter and in during summer. Community Programs Manager, Mr Nick Branson said that appropriate R-value ceiling

insulation means a naturally warmer home in winter and cooler home in summer. Products with the same R-value will provide the same insulating performance if installed correctly. The recommended ceiling insulation Rvalue for a home is R 3.0. Appropriate R-value insulation will reduce your need for heating and cooling, will minimise the capacity size of any heating and cooling appliances you do need and mean that thermostat settings can be lower in winter and higher in summer.

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Mr Branson said this will result in significantly lower home heating and cooling running costs and greenhouse gas emissions. â&#x20AC;&#x153;For every 100 kilowatt hours (kWh) of electricity saved you will save the equivalent of about 2000 black balloons full of greenhouse gas,â&#x20AC;? he said. When installing insulation, always ensure a minimum clearance of 200mm near halogen lamp down lights and 50mm for incandescent lamp down lights to reduce the risk of a house ďŹ re.

House for sale in Andamooka Tidy investment property. Recently renovated 3 bed home, new 9ft ceilings, spacious rooms. Beautiful solid polished Jarrah ď&#x20AC;&#x201A;oors throughout. Shed 6m x 8m double door opening. Fully fenced large block 1500m2, 2.5hp split system air con. Offers over $250,000 neg. Contact: 0427 727 458

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want to move. A great property in the centre of Wallaroo. Walk to shops, schools, pubs, beach. Nothing

is far away. The home itself is a magniďŹ cent 3 bedroom, 1 bathroom, open plan living and

30 Pommern Way,Wallaroo, S.A. The boat, air berth and furniture also available for sale $ 95,000. Not many homes of this quality are available for purchase in this exclusive area.

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balcony. Open plan living with modern kitchen, this home is only 4 years old. Ducted reverse cycle airconditioning throughout makes sum-

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â&#x20AC;&#x153;More properties are also available for sale in Adelaide and all suburbs, right down to the south coast, whether to live in or rent out for investment.â&#x20AC;? THE MONITOR â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Your Community Newspaper

www.themonitor.com.au

Thursday, February 21, 2008 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Page 9

REAL ESTATEReview

Weak front on housing affordability

YORKE PENINSULA

25 Walter Street - MAITLAND

10 & 12 Cooper St - PORT CLINTON

Double Block on 2 Titles Price: $250,000 Internet ID: 104293176 Agent Name: Wendy Burman 0407708742 Seaside hideaway. 4 bedrooms with spacious open plan lounge/ dining and good sized kitchen. Lovely outlook through picture windows. As new bathroom. Ducted evaporative cooling. Double lock up garage. Walk In/Walk out with quality furniture. Pretty, easy care native garden. Quiet stroll to waterfront and wide sandy beach. This whole area is full of interesting wildlife and rich with crabs. 2 Titles1720sqm Approx.

20 Matta Tce - PORT CLINTON Beat the Boom Price: Low $200,000’s Agent Name: Wendy Burman 0407 708 742 2 bedroom, o/plan, ceiling fans, reverse cycle air-conditioning. Tinted windows in lounge, additional casual sitting room ideal for reading or sewing. Main bedroom WIR, 2nd bedroom BIR. Low maintenance, sustainable garden. Paved indoor/outdoor BBQ area. Room for boat, caravan, cars. Good sized garage, carport, sheds. Block 1832 sqm approx.

Circa 1915 Sandstone Villa Price: Offers Mid $300,000’s Agent Name Wendy Burman 0407708742 Jarrah Àoors, high ornate ceilings, polished ¿replace, central arched hallway and leadlight. 3 double bedrooms, ceiling fans and a lounge/dining room of grand proportions. Custom built timber bench tops in kitchen, walk-in pantry. Study, timber Àoating Àoor. 2 car garage, valuable side access from Rogers Terrace. Easy care gardens. The high hedge makes it very private. Close to parks, play ground, schools and shops all withing walking distance. A truly magni¿cent offering and an outstanding opportunity.

Phone 8671 2683 to place your ad today!

Housing aﬀordability lished house prices over remained very weak in the quarter. South Australia at the Housing affordability end of 2007. only managed a gain of 0.8 The latest report from the Commonwealth Bank and Housing Industry Association shows that housing affordability fell by 4.1 per cent in Adelaide in the December 2007 quarter. This reﬂected an interest rate rise in November and strong growth in estab-

per cent in Regional SA and was down by 1.8 per cent in annual terms. HIA Executive Director, South Australia, Robert Harding, said that while higher interest rates would see affordability decline further in early 2008, national housing policies to boost the supply of new

86713355 Commercial Of¿ce Space Available from 6th April, 2008 Approx 81m2 shop frontage, great location with good amenities and access. Phone Wayne Lawson on 0421 636 338 or Kate Bastian 0434 124 719 for more details. 86713355 For Lease Zoned light industrial all on approx 1500m2 of land in an ideal location with easy access. Includes 6 bay 3 phase powered workshop with air conditioned of¿ce. Approx 10m x 10m shed with industrial air conditioning, bathroom, toilet, also separate & comfortable 3 bedroom living quarters that consists of large walk in robe, large living room with slow combustion heater, separate kitchen, large storage room, 5 air conditioners, front verandah, double carport and pergola. Phone Kate Bastian 0434 124 719 for further details.

dwelling stock had a vital role to play in restoring housing affordability to acceptable levels. “We are currently witnessing significant upward pressure on established house prices and a further tightening in rental markets. “However, the Federal Government has a number of policies on the table that will ensure a greater supply of affordable housing, which in turn will relieve this pressure,” Mr Harding said. “The recently announced First Home Super Saver account s prov ide an important platform to promote and reward saving among aspiring first home buyers while also reducing inflationary pressure. “The speedy implementation of measures to complement this policy by way of boosting housing supply will counter the consistently weak outcomes for home affordability. “The Housing Affordability Fund to reduce the cost of infrastructure borne by final buyers and the National Rental Affordability Scheme to generate affordable housing stock for lower income renters are examples of positive policies to address the crisis,” Mr Harding concluded.

an r t lec t o e Se tmen onlin t allo men art ap

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Image/LJH/Dunes 21-2-08

Page 10 – Thursday, February 21, 2008

featuring state-of-the-art display model

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• Automatic membership to The Links Port Hughes Greg Norman-designed championship golf course when you purchase

Choose your allotment or executive apartment centred • Allotments, 450 sqm to 800 sqm, on the planned Greg Norman-designed championship from $165,000 to $575,000 golf course, The Links Port Hughes. • Executive Apartments from $345,000 to $1.625m Come & soak up the potential of the State’s most exciting residential estate and resort in the making • Golf course frontage, golf course views, sea views with a world-class lifestyle precinct. • Under two hours from Adelaide The Dunes Port Hughes... where you can create the brand • Magniﬁcent climate, great amenities, ﬁshing, boating new home or weekend retreat of your dreams.

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THE MONITOR – Your Community Newspaper

WHAT’S

ACROSS THE REGION SPORT

All welcome Contact Kenton Maloney 0408 797 158

Friday February 22nd Roxby Downs Bowls Club Night Owls 8pm

Karate 6pm -8.30pm Squash 7pm - 9pm

Roxby and Districts Cricket Association Saturday February 23rd 8.30am Olympic Dam v Wanderers at Roxby Downs Saturday night February 23rd 5.30pm Rogues v Woomera at Woomera Monday, February 25th Karate Auditorium Colts (Age 5-12) 6pm Juniors/Adults 6:45pm Contact Tracey Fouet 0400 894 429

Australian Breastfeeding Association Roxby Downs Branch Friday’s 9.30am - 11am coﬀee morning Dunes Cafe

Nippy Gym - Auditorium 9.30am - 11.30am Roxby Downs Desert Dirt Circuit Car Club night meeting Saturday March 1st

Doctors’ New Specialised Drug Telephone Number for Medicare Use. 1800 700 270 Crisis Care Counselling Uniting Care Wesley Port Augusta Regional Women’s and Children’s Support Services call 1800 655 716 or call the crisis care line on 13 16 11. For immediate response if feeling stressed call 0428 326 529 to speak with a counsellor 24/7

Roxby Downs Dirt Kart (go-karts) Club night meeting March 1st

Indoor soccer 6 -7pm Volleyball 7pm - 9pm Tuesday,February 26th Squash 7pm - 10pm

indoor soccer 6pm - 7pm

HEALTH

Colts (Age 5-12) 6pm Juniors/Adults 6:45pm Contact Tracey Fouet 0400 894 429 Women’s & Mixed netball 6pm - 9.30pm Thursday, February 28th Indoor Soccer Leisure Centre Social matches from 6pm

Health Forum March 3rd Sport and Recreation Forum March 4th 7.30pm

Playgroup St Barbara’s Parish School Phone Jakki 86712323

Family and Youth Forum March 5th

Roxby Downs Health Services Coﬀee Mornings, Thursdays 9.30am to 11.am at the Dunes Café.

Mt Dare Hotel Open every day 8:00am -9:00pm, 7 days.

Visiting Allied Health Service Occupational Therapist Speech Pathologist Dietician Podiatrist Child Adolescent Mental Health Services For appointments phone 1800 819089 Hearing Services March 17th - 9.00am - 2.30pm For an appointment call 1800 006 303 Roxby Downs Community Health Swimming Group for Mums With Prams every Friday morning Swimming pool 9am - 10am

School Terms 2008 Roxby Downs Kindergarten Phone 86710455

Cultural & Leisure Precinct Movies Friday, Saturday, Sunday, Tuesday (see schedule below) Phone 8671 2001

Andamooka Thursday 6th March Roxby Downs Wednesday 5th March and Thursday 6th March Woomera Wednesday 5th March

For further details on Community matters call Michelle Hales on 8671 0010

GENERAL INFORMATION

Coﬀee Mornings for Families Meet and chat for all families. New comers especially welcome. Every Friday Playgroup

Every Week Visitor Information Centre 8.30 - 5.00 Mon-Fri 9.00am - 3.00pm Sat 9.00am - 2.00pm Sun Phone 8671 2001

Roxby Downs Family Practice Phone 8671 3231 Roxby Downs Medical Practice Normal hours 9:00am-5:00pm Saturday morning by appointment only. Phone 8671 1900

ladies Social Basketball 8.45am - 10am Wednesday, February 27th Karate Auditorium

Volunteering Partnership March 3rd

Toddlers Story Time Fun for young children and mums Roxby Downs Library Richardson Place Tuesdays 9:30 am – 10:30 am

EVENTS & ENTERTAINMENT

Eyebus Come-n-try soccer 3.30pm -5.30pm

for more information.

Roxby Downs Girl Guides meet at the Christian Community Church Monday nights 6-8pm. More leaders required. Call Kristie 0427072710 Roxby Downs Childcare Monday - Friday 6.30am-5.30pm Phone 8671 0911 for details

Term 1 Jan 29th - April 11th Term 2 April 28th - July 4th Term 3 July 21st - Sept 26th Term 4 Oct 13th - Dec 12th

Every Sunday Raptors Cycling Club Social Bike riding group from 8am at the Stuart Road roundabout

Events in the Far North: William Creek Bronco Branding – 15th March 2008 Oodnadatta Races May 17th

Roxby Downs Market Days 2008 March 15th May 17th June 21st August 16th September 20th October 18th November 15th

Marla Bronco Branding April 26th Oodnadatta Bronco Branding 12th July Roxby Downs Lutheran Church

COMMUNITY MEETINGS Gym Cultural & Leisure Precinct Mon, Wed & Friday 6 am - 12pm & 2pm - 9pm Tues & Thurs 6am - 12pm & 4pm - 9 pm Saturday 8-12pm Sunday 11-2pm Phone 86710500 Roxby Downs Community Library Monday to Friday 8.30-5.00pm Saturday 9.00-12pm. Phone 8671 0660

Sunday school 9.30am every sunday during school terms

Community members welcome to attend any meeting of the Roxby Downs Community Board.

Roxby Downs Netball Association Registrations close February 29th Season starts April 4th

March 13th - 9.30am- 11:00am Normal weight gains Roxby Downs Health Seminar Room Community Board February 25th 7.30pm Council Board room Arts and Culture Forum February 27th 7pm

Bingo every Sunday 1.30pm Tuckerbox in Andamooka. All proceeds go to the community Soul Food Sunday February 24th 11am at Dunes Cafe

ROXBY DOWNS CULTURAL & LEISURE PRECINCT REGULAR SCHEDULE Cultural Precinct Visitors Information centre Dunes café Art Gallery

SPORTS CALENDAR Monday

‘Burning South’

Volleyball 7pm - 9pm

Photography

Karate - 6pm - 8:30pm Tuesday

Open Mon – Fri 8.30am – 5pm

Ladies Social Basketball 8.45am - 10am

Sat - 9.00am - 3.00pm

Come-n-try Soccer 4.00 - 6.00pm

Sun - 9.00am – 2.00pm

Squash 7pm - 10pm

Leisure Centre

Wednesday Women’s & Mixed Netball 6-9:30pm

Mon, Wed & Fri – Fri 6am

Karate 7pm - 8:30pm

– 12pm, 2pm - 9pm

Thursday

Tues & Thurs - 6am - 12pm, 4pm

Nippy Gym – Auditorium

Saturday 8am - 12pm Sunday 11am - 2pm

Feb 1 - March 3

Squash 7pm-9pm Indoor Soccer 6pm - 8pm Karate 6pm – 8.30pm

Touch Football 7.30pm (town oval)

Mon –Fri 8.45am-12pm

Friday Indoor Hockey 5pm - 9.30pm

FEBRUARY AMERICAN GANGSTER Rated: MA Duration 157mins There are two sides to the American dream. In 1970’s America, a detective works to bring down the drug empire of Frank Lucas, a heroin kingpin from Manhattan, who is smuggling the drug into the country from the Far East. Sat 23rd - 12pm & 7.30pm Tues 26th - 7pm

Pool Opening Hours General Public Mon - Fri: 3pm - 6pm Weekends: 10am - 7pm

9.30am - 11.30am

Creche for patrons of the centre

THE MONITOR – Your Community Newspaper

exhibition

Indoor Soccer 6pm - 7pm

Gymnasium

- 9pm

Phone: 8671 2001 Fax: 8671 2021 EVENTS OUTBACK CINEMA

Lap Swimming Mon, Wed & Fri: 6am - 8am Mon - Thurs: 6pm - 7pm Weekends: 9am - 10am

www.themonitor.com.au

CHARLIE WILSON’S WAR Rated: M Duration 101mins A stiff drink. A little mascara. A lot of nerve. Who said they couldn’t bring down the Soviet empire. A drama based on a Texas congressman Charlie Wilson’s covert dealings in Afghanistan, where his efforts to assist rebels in their war with the Soviets have some unforeseen and long-reaching effects. Fri 22nd - 7.30pm Sun 24th - 12pm

Sat 23rd - 3pm

Thursday, February 21, 2008 – Page 11

Arts & Youth News More funding for regional events

Hobnobbing with the big wigs

Regional events and festivals are being invited to apply for funding support as part of the state government’s ongoing commitment to regional tourism. Applications for the 2008-2009 regional events and festivals program and the community events development fund are now open. The funding encourages event organizers to promote and market their events successfully and maximise the beneﬁts for tourism in South Australia. Tourism Minister Jane Lomax-Smith said regional events and festivals generate great pride in communities around the state. “They are a proven drawcard for attracting visitors to South Australia’s regional areas, boosting the local economy, generating greater spending and creating employment opportunities. “These funding programs are oﬀered

on an annual basis to support regional communities. “While many large-scale events are based in Adelaide, regional festivals and events held across South Australia every weekend of the year are vital to regional towns and must be encouraged,” she said. The 2007-2008 program supported more than 80 events across the state. Funding from the program can be used for event promotion, media and marketing activities and the closing date for this current round is Monday March 31st. Events are assessed against a series of criteria which includes potential for tourist visitation, likely media coverage, future viability and timing in relation to the tourist season. Organisation can apply through the government website at www.events. southaustralia.com

Above: Nicole Head celebrated her first birthday on February 8.

Above: Keitah will celebrate her third birthday on March 2 and sister Kelsey turned four on January 27.

Roxby’s newly formed Youth Advisory Council (YAC) will be hobnobbing with some of South Australia’s most inﬂuential people next month when a delegation from Roxby travels to Port Augusta to meet with the Oﬃce for Youth. The state government department will be holding consultations all over the state, canvassing young people about their views and issues. “We want to tap into the fresh and lateral thinking that young people can bring to the table,” Youth Minister Paul Caica said. “We want their input on how we run services and programs for the community and how we can do it better. “We also want to hear their thoughts and ideas about how South Australia moves further ahead in achieving the ambitious goals outlined in South Australia’s Strategic Plan,” he said. YAC Coordinator Perdita Cooper said it is important that a delegation of youth from Roxby Downs attend the consultations. “We will be going so Roxby Downs can be involved in the consultation process in relation to the future of South Australia and its young people,” Ms Cooper said. “From a local perspective we want to get our town put on the map, particularly from a young person’s point of view. “It will also give us a chance to meet with other YACs, pass on what our YAC is doing and learn from those that have been established for longer,” she said. Topics pencilled in for discussion at the consultations include employment, public transport, personal safety, health, voting and volunteering.

Local artist Dave Kovac Above: Jess Finzel (r) celebrated her 18th birthday recently. Pictured with Emma Killeen.

“Lake Mary”

la ai

$325 unframed $525 framed

Limited Edition Giclee Prints This professional quality printing is done with high tech printers using archival inks & papers. EFTPOS available

Contact Dave on 0409 726 252

PH: 8671 2545, SMS: 0407 979 918 www.roxfm.com.au Programs may change without notice

Osborne’s say farewell to Roxby Long time Roxby Downs residents Geoff and Wendy Osborne are leaving the warm climes of the desert for the cold and wet west coast of Tasmania at Zeehan. Geoff has scored a job working at the Zeehan zinc mine and starts work there on Monday week. Both Geoff and Wendy are frantically packing and plan to leave town on Monday next week. They’ll leave big shoes to fill at community radio station RoxFM which is expected to be run by a small committee in the meantime.

Arts Matters Written by Rodney Mitchell

f you’ve picked this paper hot of the press dance down to the auditorium tonight and see Raw Dance Raw Metal at 7:30 PM.

This afternoon they worked with our Roxby Downs Area School Rave Dance Group who are preparing again for the Rave Dance Competition in Port Pirie in August. If the last two visits we have had from Raw Dance in 2007 are any indication, I imagine the workshops went very well. The Adelaide Fringe kicks off this Friday. Port Augusta has a regional Fringe Event stating on February 14. The Presenters’ Group is looking at applying to Country Arts SA for a guarantee against loss to bring Sean Choolburra here on the Thursday prior to his appearance in Port Augusta. There are a few acts that are circulating in the region in this season so there is good opportunity to minimise travel costs. The Melbourne Comedy Roadshow is coming here as part of the Mainstage Country Arts SA Performing Arts Tour. Along with Raw Dance: Raw Metal, it is one of two acts that Mainstage has programmed into Roxby Downs this year. The Comedy Roadshow will be here on a Sunday night. It is an enormous commitment from Country Arts SA and the regional arts fund to offer us these shows at no cost to Roxby Downs. This is Federal money channelled through an independent trust. If we can build audiences around these events we can turn it into an earner, for Roxby Leisure or the Arts and Culture Forum. Families in Roxby Downs are arranged around the shift structure at their workplace and the school timetable. I think we will go out whenever the opportunity presents; as long as it doesn’t go on too late on a week night. Raw Dance came on a Wednesday. It will be interesting to see if we can turn out for the Comedy on a Sunday in June. There was an enthusiastic meeting at the cinema last Wednesday to discuss the co-ordination of 20th birthday celebrations. It needs to be spelled out whether this group is a working party of the Arts and Culture Forum or an independent committee. If it is a working party of the Forum it will be able to access the auspice of the Community Board Inc. If not, it will need to be auspiced by some other incorporated body. We need to flesh out the program, the budget and the auspicing arrangements in time to make funding deadlines in February and March and to have a coherent case to put for local corporate sponsorship. One of the urgent jobs identified at the meeting was to create a social/events calendar for Roxby Downs and region. I believe the Sports and Recreation Forum has made a start on this. If you have events programmed please contact our VIC on 8671 2001. They can help compile the information. Have your say through the Forums or your local sports group. How are you celebrating the 20th birthday year?

Monday 7 - 9am 9am 11am - 12pm 12 - 1pm 1 - 3pm 3 - 5pm 5pm 5 - 8pm

Easy listening music JOB BOARD Easy listening music AUSTRALIAN COUNTRY with Wendy Easy listening music ROXFM’S YOUTH PRESENTERS JOB BOARD Easy listening music

Thursday 8 - 9am 11.30 - 1pm 3 - 5pm 4pm 5pm 5 - 6pm 6 - 7pm 8 - 10pm

NEWS & MUSIC (JOB BOARD) with Ray BLAST FROM THE PAST with Annette ROXFM’S YOUTH PRESENTERS CRICKET REPORT JOB BOARD MAD COW & THE ABATTOIR with Ben & Art KALEIDOSCOPE with Teya RETROSPECT with Laura & Paul

Tuesday 9am 11.30 - 12pm 12 - 1pm 1 - 3pm 3 - 5pm 5pm 5 - 7pm 7 - 8pm

JOB BOARD BLAST FROM THE PAST with Annette BLAST FROM THE PAST with Annette Easy listening music ROXFM’S YOUTH PRESENTERS JOB BOARD CULINARY SHOW with Barb & Ben BLUES SHOW with Murray

Friday 4am 9am 7am - 1pm 1 - 2pm 2pm 3 - 5pm 5 - 6pm 8 - 10pm

CRICKET REPORT JOB BOARD Easy listening music AUSTRALIAN COUNTRY with Wendy COUNCIL NEWS ROXFM’S YOUTH PRESENTERS DRIVE TIME / JOB BOARD COMFORTABLY NUMB with Geoﬀ

Wednesday 7 - 9.30am 10-12pm 1 - 2pm 2 - 3pm 3 - 5pm 5 - 6pm 7 - 8pm

Easy listening music/ JOB BOARD Easy listening music NOT QUITE COUNTRY with Wendy WHAT’S COOKING AT THE CLUB ROXFM’S YOUTH PRESENTERS NEW ANNOUNCERS with Ben LATIN ROCK with Jariel

Saturday 8am - 12pm GAUD-MORNING with Gordon 1 - 8pm Easy listening music 8pm - 12am Easy listening music Sunday 8 - 12pm 12 - 1pm 8 - 10pm

YOUR STANDING IN IT with Geoﬀ NEW AUSSIE MUSIC with Fin & Murray SUNDAY MELTDOWN (Heavy) with Sam & Steve

COMMUNITY RADIO “LOCAL, LIVE AND LOVIN’ IT” Page 12 – Thursday, February 21, 2008

www.themonitor.com.au

THE MONITOR – Your Community Newspaper

The

Monitor EMPLOYMENT

Planning for Roxby’s future

he Roxby Downs branch of Career Employment Group (CEG) is set to expand, swelling its ranks with a second field officer. “We are trying to secure a second field officer as the number of apprentices we have has expanded to a point where it is unmanageable for only one officer,” CEG Field Officer Phil Lacey said. “If we are to maintain the quality of our service we need another officer to share the workload. “My time will be increasingly taken up with BHP Billiton apprentices, our other clients deserve to have the same time devoted to their needs. “We are looking for somebody who enjoys working with young people,

Avoiding avoidable accidents Young people are significantly more likely to suffer a fatal injury at work, according to Minister for Employment, Training and Further Education, Paul Caica. “People between 15 and 24 have a 75 percent greater chance than their more experienced counterparts of suffering fatal injuries on the job,” Mr Caica said. “We cannot afford to continue to put our young workers at risk,” he said. To counter this, the state government is urging public and private sector employers to ensure all new staff are given training in safe work practices. “Failure to correctly induct a new or young worker in all aspects of their job can have disastrous consequences, for the individual and for the business,” Mr Caica said. The government recommends inductions cover issues such as known hazards in the workplace, the emergency and first aid procedures, hazard identification and incident reporting procedures, the location of workplace amenities and facilities and an introduction to the key safety personnel and supervisors.

enjoys a challenge, is a good communicator and is self motivated,” he said. Mr Lacey said that by putting on apprentices now Roxby companies will be better prepared by the time the expansion of the Olympic Dam Mine begins. “By training apprentices we are addressing the shortfall in the workforce,” Mr Lacey said. “We are looking towards the future. “The people we put on as apprentices today will be fully qualiﬁed tradespeople by the time the expansion is in full swing, providing a pool of skilled labour to Roxby Downs,” he said. For more information contact Megan on 8645 6800, or check out the advertisement in this week’s The Monitor.

Immediate opportunities for hands-on, customer orientated people to join Australia’s leading tyre retailer. Experienced/ trainee tyre ¿tter wanted. Nationally accredited training. Above award rates, excellent super & company uniform provided. Driver’s lic essential. Advancement opportunities. Applications and enquiries: Peter BEAUREPAIRES 4 Gosse St, Roxby Downs SA 5725 8671 2856 04931_aus_store@beaurepaires.com.au

Woomera Districts Football League have the following positions available for the 2008 season: •

Bar Tenders and Canteen tenders

•

Umpire coordinator and umpires both Junior and Senior umpires

•

Gate takers

•

Score board attendants for the Woomera & Districts Football League Inc season of 2008 Please send all correspondence to: The Secretary PO Box 330 Roxby Downs 5725

Admin / Sales – Roxby Downs • • •

All applications / tenders close on the 31st March, 2008

Roxby Downs National Company Growth Opportunity

A. Noble & Son Ltd are leading suppliers of Lifting, Rigging, Mining & Fishing Equipment, with 14 branches throughout Australia. We are seeking an energetic, motivated and reliable Admin / Sales person to join our Roxby Downs Branch. Your day to day duties will include: • General administration • Phone & counter sales • Order Entry and Invoicing • Coordination of access and training requirements for Nobles personnel working on site at BHP Billiton • Liaising with customers, suppliers and other Nobles branches • Purchasing stock and supplies To be successful in gaining this role you will: • Be versatile and Àexible and have a strong focus on customer service • Have sound administrative ability and con¿dence using Microsoft Word, Access and Excel • Be enthusiastic and organised and possess excellent communication skills • Have strong organisational ability and effective time management skills • Demonstrate motivation and initiative. Sales experience, product knowledge in mining or heavy industry and knowledge of BHP Billiton’s systems will be viewed favourably, although is not essential. Reporting to the Branch Manager this full time permanent position will commence as soon as practical and remuneration will be based on relevant skills and experience. Applications close 29/02/2008 Forward written application to the State Manager A. Noble & Son Ltd PO Box 130 En¿eld Plaza SA 5085 or via email to adelreception@nobles.com.au

Jobs for the boys… and girls Employment rates in South Australia are at an all time high, and no where is that more evident than in Roxby Downs, where the proposed expansion of the Olympic Dam mine is set to boost job numbers signiﬁcantly for the region. Labour market figures released last week by the Australian Bureau of Statistics prove that there are more South Australians in work now than ever before. “South Australia achieved a new record high with trend full-time jobs, with 900 new full-time jobs, taking the total number of South Australians in full-time work to 534,900,” Employment Minister Paul Caica said. “And youth unemployment dropped 2.9 percentage points in this state last month to go down to 18.4 per cent, equal to the national rate. “South Australians are continuing to show conﬁdence in their job prospects, with the participation rate remaining at 63 percent, the highest level in nearly two decades. “I’m particularly pleased to see that we have achieved our South Australian Strategic Plan target for annual jobs growth, with has reached 2.6 percent over the past year, to equal the national rate,” he said. THE MONITOR – Your Community Newspaper

Tax Matters

TYRE FITTER / TECHNICIAN EXP’D / TRAINEE

Career Employment Group Inc Field Of¿cer Located in Roxby Downs

Looking for an Enjoyable Lifestyle Change? Want to spend more time with your family? Flexible Working hours to ¿t in with your lifestyle? Want job satisfaction every day? Company vehicle for private use appeal to you? Would you enjoy working for a well-established progressive company who are passionate about addressing the future trades shortages? Want your own new of¿ce with Admin support staff? If this sounds like you, we would welcome you at Career Employment Group. Are you interested in making a positive difference to the skills shortage in your community? Do you enjoy working with young people? Want a job working for a dynamic, progressive company? Have you got proven OHS&W skills and a sound understanding of the Roxby Downs community and environment? Do Àexible working hours and diversity in work appeal to you? Do you have a Certi¿cate IV in Workplace Assessor and Training? (Preferred but the right person will be trained in these highly regarded nationally recognised quali¿cations). Career Employment Group is looking for a motivated self-starter to work closely with your local Employers, Schools, Australian Apprentices, Trainees and TAFE’s. Above Award wages for the right person, Àexible working conditions, a company car and mobile phone provided. Please send a letter of Application detailing your interests, skills and your current resume with three referees to: Ms Shelley Jonker Deputy General Manager Career Employment Group Head Of¿ce PO Box 490 WHYALLA SA 5600 General Enquiries to Megan - Executive Assistant Phone: (08) 8645 6800 Applications close Friday, February 22, 2008 www.ceg.net.au “Employing and Training today’s youth for tomorrow’s skilled workforce”

Tax Deductions – Part 1 With Christmas out of the way and the new year starting now is a good time to go through those receipts that usually get thrown in the bottom draw or in a shoebox and decide which ones should be kept for tax returns and which ones can stay in the shoebox. I believe that now is a good time to have a look at what is tax deductible and to make sure that we keep all the necessary receipts to make sure that you get the best tax return possible. Work related expenses that are claimable, are those expenses that are incurred whilst performing your job. Some of the categories to consider include: • • • • • •

Tools and Equipment Protective Items such as sunglasses & sunscreen Union Fees Work related books journals and trade magazines Work related telephone usage Stationery and small items

There are substantiation rules in place so the more receipts that you retain for those work related items the better. A common question relates to mobile phone usage. Work related calls from a personal mobile phone can often be claimed but it is important to retain copies of phone bills or a log of phone usage to substantiate these calls for tax. Self education is another area that can provide a tax claim for many people. There are many rules that apply to this area but basically the education must relate the taxpayers employment in his/her current job, either to maintain that job or to seek increased income by improving skills required for the job. To use myself as an example, if I were to study further accounting or tax subjects this would be deductible, however if I were to study Massage this would not be deductible. Many donations are claimable however there are a few conditions that must be satisfied. Firstly the recipient must be registered with the ATO (Usually they print this on their receipt) and secondly it must be a donation. Raffle tickets, purchases of pens or items are not officially considered as donations and therefore are not tax deductible. Contributions to School Building funds are another item that is usually claimable. If you would like a free envelope to keep your receipts in with a checklist of tax deductions please call Roxby Downs Accounting on 1300 728 048 or email tony@bde.net.au with your name and address and we will send this out to you. Tony Dutton is the principal of Roxby Downs Accounting and is regularly in the area to assist locals. Don’t forget if you have not lodged your tax return yet time is running out. Tony will be available in March in Roxby to help you complete this.

Rewarded! Developed! Challenged! Remunerated! Incitec Pivot – Far North Queensland Operations produces Ammonium Phosphate fertilisers for domestic and international use. Our plant at Mt Isa, the largest of its kind in the world, uses Sulphur Dioxide emissions from local smelting facilities to manufacture Sulphuric Acid. The acid is then railed to Phosphate Hill and used in the fertiliser production process. Positioned for continued growth we have positions available for experienced:

Sulphuric Acid Plant Trainers • $120K+ Package • FIFO Townsville • 8/6 Roster Reporting to the Senior Production Trainer and working in conjunction with plant Team Leaders, you will be responsible for the delivery of high quality competency-based training packages and for ensuring that the plant operations technical performances are of the highest standard, along with maintaining safe operations and identifying opportunities for continuous improvement. Your accountability will extend to the development and management of the knowledge of technical procedures on the plant. You will be proactive and results driven; you have a strong focus on safety and quality work and thrive in an environment where you will be required to build strong working relationships with people at all levels. You will be computer literate, with a working knowledge of SAP being advantageous. You will be ﬂexible, conscientious, quality oriented and able to effectively lead a self-managed team. Your detailed knowledge of sulphuric acid plant operations and the ability to effectively impart that knowledge will make you a stand out candidate for the role. Working with Incitec Pivot Limited offers great diversity, real opportunities to advance your career and excellent remuneration packages. Please direct your enquiries to Greg Penola on (07) 4747 0501 or email Greg.Penola@scfertilisers.com.au for more information. Reference: 415676.

Incitec Pivot are committed to Zero Harm for everyone, everywhere. www.themonitor.com.au

Tax refunds in 14 working days at a great price * Visiting Roxby Downs all year round.

1 Tax Return from $130 2 Tax Returns from $205 * Subject to ATO process.

Roxby Downs Accounting

Phone during ofce hours on

1300 728 048

Thursday, February 21, 2008 – Page 13

The

Monitor CLASSIFIEDS

Warning to all dog Council snippets and cat owners

TRANSPORT / REMOVALS

FOR SALE 26FT Caravan – Hard Annex Site 22 Roxby Downs Caravan Park. Partly furnished Double and Single Beds, Fridge, Microwave, Two air-conditioners, cooking utensils, TV and cabinet table. Van has a shower. Carport. Price $35,000 ONO Phone 0418 840 358 THE Continental Shelf. Fresh Seafood, Dairy and Smallgoods. Port Lincoln, Porter Street Plaza. Plant and Equipment and Stock. W.I.W.O $65000 firm. More info call 86831600 or 0427156484. GENUINE ENQUIRIES ONLY PLEASE 2 bedroom unit in Myall Grove Caravan Park. One year old, fully furnished including own inside laundry. In outstanding condition. Includes site fees paid until 30th June. $155,000.00. Contact CHRIS: 0418 181 085. PUBLIC NOTICES

Rowan Ramsey

Pt Pirie & Adelaide Depots Antique & Household Removals Local, Interstate & Country Storage & Delivery Specialists

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

Copper Coast Removals F u r n i t u r e Removals to or from Roxby Downs, Leigh Creek, Port A u g u s t a , Coober Pedy and surrounding areas, now available by Copper Coast Removals. For competitive rates call Ian on 0448 358 420 or 88233412 anytime

Arid Recovery will again be conducting baiting for feral cats and foxes. Hand Baiting will be conducted from the 3rd March, 2008 and is ongoing with replicate baiting taking place. 1080 poison baits will be placed within a 10-15km radius of the Arid Recovery fence to reduce feral cat and fox numbers in the area surrounding the reserve. Baits will not be distributed: Within 10km of Roxby Downs township Within 2km of Olympic Dam village Within 10km of Andamooka township Within 20m of Olympic Way, Andamooka Rd and the Boreﬁeld Rd Baits will be distributed by hand: Within the Olympic Dam Mine Lease Within surrounding pastoral properties Baiting will be carried out from March 3, 2008. Baits are poisonous to domestic pets, so please restrain your dogs/cats or ensure they wear muzzles when in these areas. Do not touch any small, dried meat you may ﬁnd lyin on the ground within baiting zone. Baits remain posonous to pets for prolonged periods of time. For further information please contact Arid Recovery on 8671 8282 or email: arid. recovery@bhpbilliton.com

Federal Member for Grey For assistance with Federal issues, please contact my Electorate Ofﬁces located at:

WHYALLA - 45a Playford Avenue Phone: 08 8645 4255 Phone: 1300 301 651 (local call cost)

hmaC078883

PORT PIRIE – 104 Ellen Street Phone: 08 8633 1744 Phone: 1300 301 742 (local call cost)

RENTAL PROPERTIES HISTORIC House for rent in the centre of beautiful Melrose, fully furnished $250/ week. (sorry no pets, children, or smokers) phone 08 8598 4161

EASY FIND

YOUR BUSINESS

BUSINESS INFO

DIRECTORY EME

PROVIDING A COMPLETE SERVICE

BLD - 173944

•General Repairs •Fencing •Carpentry •Cabinet-making •Plumbing •Gas-fitting •Electrical •Carpet/Vinyl •Painting •Refrigeration

Evans Mini Earthworks

banking where members benet Everyone in Roxby Downs can enjoy the benets of banking with Big Sky.

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

Visit us in Tutop Street or call 8671 2555

Monitor Print and Design

Darren Lind

All your printing needs handled locally

darren.lind@nationwidelending.com.au

Specialising in Business Cards Full colour - gloss and matt

Opal Road Landfill Opening hours The Opal Road Landfill Opening Hours are 1pm – 6pm, seven days a week. Residents are encouraged to utilise this FREE service as the dumping of litter in reserves or lands surrounding the town attract an expiation penalty fee of $315.00 as per the Local Government Act. 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. Dog Registration Dog Registrations for 2007/08 financial year are now overdue. Grace period for registration expired on 31 August 2007. Therefore and $80 expiation fee can apply, plus an expiation fee of $80 for every 14 days the dog remains unregistered. Rates The third instalment notices for rates were issued on 18/02/2008. The due date for payment is 17/02/2008. Please contact Bronnie Warren at the council on 8671 0010 with any enquiries. Water Payments for the December 2007 quarter are now overdue. Late fees have been applied. Please pay immediately to avoid further action. Electricity Electricity Billing Notices quarter ending December 31, 2007 are now overdue and reminder notices have been issued with late fees applied. Please pay by the due date to avoid further action. Parking Please be aware that there has been an increase in the expiation fee for parking in a bus zone, it has gone up to $73 from $47. Local Website Visit your local website. Read what’s new at www.roxbycouncil.com.au Service SA On Wednesday and Thursdays only between the hours of 9.00am and 4.00pm, council provides Transport Services including Vehicle and Boat Registrations and Licensing Transactions. Rubbish Collection Residents are reminded that there is a limit of one bin per household for weekly rubbish collection and that it is the resident’s responsibility to ensure that bins are in serviceable condition with closable lids that prevent flies and birds from accessing rubbish. Please be diligent as littering attracts an Expiation Penalty Fee of $315.00 – ie over flowing bins. Waste Oil Disposal Council operates a waste oil collection facility at the Roxby Downs Landfill Site. Disposal of all used motor oil at this facility is free. For further information, contact Council on 8671 0010 or BSH Waste Solutions on 8671 1154. No cooking oils, coolants, diesel or diesel blended fuels (bio Diesel) are to be deposited into the unit. This facility is open 1pm – 6pm seven days. Council Office Hours – General Monday to Friday – 9am – 5pm For all after hours emergency’s please contact the Emergency Phone on 0419 892 870.

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!

Finance Consultant

0419 929 737 • • • • • •

Home Loans Investment Loans Home Equity Release Debt Consolidation Self Employed OK Renancing & Leasing

Contact: 8671 2683 for an obligation free quote A service of The Monitor Newspaper Page 14 – Thursday, February 21, 2008

www.themonitor.com.au

THE MONITOR – Your Community Newspaper

The

Monitor SPORT

Late change to basketball There’s been a late change to the basketball program with a double header planned for the weekend of March 1st and 2nd. This will allow the finals to be played before the grand final on the March the 15th. The semi finals will be on Saturday and the Preliminary finals on Sunday March the 2nd. The under 12 and under 14 Adelaide carnival is on the Adelaide Cup weekend on March 8th to the 10th and no local games will be held. The Junior basketball grand final is on March the 15th and that evening the Senior basketball grand final is on. The under 16 and under 18 Adelaide carnival is on the March 29th weekend.

As for the games this weekend only under12’s boys and girls and under 14 boys ﬁnished their games due the power outage. Under 12 boys Wildcats defeated Raptos 31 to 9 Cruisers defeated Spirits 31 to 24 Under 14 boys Sonics defeated Bullets 47 to 30 And 1 defeated Wizards 33 to 28 Under 12 girls Red Devils defeated Wildcats 36 to 25 points 36ers defeated Lightning 22 to 2 points White Pointers defeated Goldminers 44 to 20 points

Swaggies in fine form A punishing unbeaten century by Ryan Selkirk paved the way for Wanderers to defeat Roxby Rogues by 53 runs at Roxby Downs oval on Saturday morning.

The big left hander who ﬁnished on 123 made the Rogue’s side pay for several ﬁelding lapses before drinks by cutting loose after the break and scoring over a hundred runs in the last twenty overs.

Olympic Dam easily defe ate d the hapless Woomera Redbacks to the tune of nine wickets at Woomera Oval on Saturday evening. Wo o m e r a w h o a re having a terrible season

were dismissed for a paltry 86 made in 30 overs and the Devils were rarely troubled in reaching the target with opener Scott “Popeye” Prior scoring an unconquered half century.

OPEN 7 DAYS

Post Ofce & Motel

Above: Bowls action at the Night Owls competition on Friday nights.

Netball Association gears up for Season 2008 By Michelle Casserly The 2008 Netball season will start in April with Michelle Paull at the helm as the new President. This season the association has decided to trial some new ideas to make the sport more enjoyable for players and spectators. Fees have been lowered as the association has eliminated the Family Fund Raising Levy. The cost is now only $95.00 for Seniors, $85 for Juniors and $3.00 per week for Minis. The first $40 must be paid before a player can take the court and the remaining fees before the start of the third week of competition. With the elimination of the fund raising levy we will be expecting a lot of fundraising activities throughout the year. Senior games will be in for a change with all games now being held on Friday nights at 6pm and 7:30pm, commencing Friday April 4th. The association hopes that the change will aid the ladies in beating the heat and encourage more spectators to attend. The Senior competition is seeking interested players and teams for both A

and B grade before registration closes on February 29th. Junior teams will still be playing on Saturday mornings 9 & U at 9am, 11 & U 10am, 13 & U 11am and 16 & U 12.15pm. The Adelaide Thunderbirds, our state netball team are coming to town. In August ﬁve team members from the Thunderbirds will be coming to Roxby Downs to hold a clinic and a major fundraising event. Stay tuned for updates and further information as it becomes available. All players interested in Squad training for all grades will commence on Sunday April 6th at 11am on the Leisure Centre’s outside Netball courts. The 11 & U team will attend the Spencer Gulf Regional Championship while the 13 & U and 15 & U teams will attend the Spencer Gulf Regional Championship and the Adelaide Country Championship. This year the association is considering sending the teams to the Orroorroloo carnival as a lead up to the other championships. If you require any further information please contact the Roxby Downs Netball Association Inc. Secretary Michelle Casserly on 8671 1332 or email roxbynetball@hotmail.com.

Roxby Districts Sporting Club Inc.

All existing and intending players are invited to: Pre-season Training Senior Football Monday’s – 6.00pm Wednesday’s – 7.30pm (Roxby Downs town oval) Senior Netball Monday’s – 7.00pm (School oval)

Would like to invite expressions of interest for both: A & B Grade Senior Netball Coaches for Season 2008 Please send all correspondence to:

Further details contact: Secretary Coach Justin Owens Craig Paull 0405 439353 0447 821379

For any further information please contact: Jane Rogers, R.D.S.C Inc. Netball Representative Phone No: 0407 710 798

Secretary R.D.S.C Inc. PO Box 235 Roxby Downs S.A 5725 Applications close Wednesday, 5th March, 2008 New Players Welcome

THE MONITOR – Your Community Newspaper

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

Monitoring the SA fishing scene Compiled by Peter Medhurst

Local Hotspot

Land Based

Murray Mouth Mullow ay captures have hit the headlines over the past week. Anglers have landed a number of 30lb specimens mixed in with the soapies on oﬀer. Both Sp’s and shiners have done the damage. The best times are on an out going tide matched up to early dawn or dusk.

Ski Beach near Tumby Bay has Kingfish patrolling the shores. Backy Point has Salmon mixed into a large school of Salmon Trout. Early morning is the best time and half pilchard baits are working a treat. Mullet are at Red Rock Bay in the south east. Carp have been landed up to 4kgs at Swanport Reserve on The Murray River.

Boaties Garfish and big Snook in the Rapid Bay area are keeping the locals well fed. The Gar are not monsters but a decent burley trail will get you a feed. Blue Swimmers from Pt Gawler to Hallet Cove are available to the drop netters Normanville to Carrickalinga has the odd Whiting being caught however pannie Snapper are showing up in the normal King George grounds. Nene Valley Crayﬁshermen have done well in the pots over the past week.

Have a Photo or Fabulous Fishy Tale Email pete@fishingcharterbrokersaustralia.com

FishWatch 1800 065 023 South Australian Illegal Fishing Hot Line

Snook are fantastic to eat fresh, don’t bother freezing them though.

Fishing Charter Brokers Australia www.ﬁshingcharterbrokersaustralia.com

0405 063 233 Affordable ‘Single Day’ & ‘Multi-Day’ Blue Chip Fishing Adventures “Rocky & Greenly Island” 5 day April 2nd - 6th, 2008 Tuna, Samsonﬁsh, Kings, Snapper, KGW Max 2 spots ONLY - $2150p/p - All Inclusive 1 OFF ‘live aboard’ Adventure www.themonitor.com.au

Thursday, February 21, 2008 – Page 15

RATES ON HOLD! An announcement to home buyers in Roxby Downs At Alliance One people are our priority, so I am pleased to announce to you and the wider community that for the remainder of the financial year we will NOT be increasing our variable mortgage interest rates independently of the Reserve Bank of Australia official rates. While this may be going against the current trend of other financial institutions, including major banks and some of the larger credit unions, our commitment is a significant and market leading move that will provide you with direct benefits and savings on your existing and future home loans. As a mutual organisation our members and community come first. Alliance One is owned by its members, so our focus is on returning benefits to you and your community, including better interest rates. Although we fund nearly 90% of our loans from member deposits, the cost of retaining and attracting deposits has increased substantially due to the extremely high demand for liquid (cash) assets in Australia. That being said, we are willing to absorb this increase in costs for the benefit of our members and other people in the community who want a home loan at a competitive interest rate. Our current standard variable rate is 8.80%pa. This is a full 0.22% lower than the standard variable rate at some other financial institutions. This may be a really good time for you to review your current loans and discuss other options in terms of repayment terms, interest rates and products, which our experienced Financial Services Consultants can assist you with. We remain a safe, competitive and fully regulated financial institution offering a full range of banking services for the whole community. Alliance One Credit Union is the only regionally based financial institution in South Australia with a membership base of over 20,000. We have branches established in Whyalla, Port Lincoln, Roxby Downs and Clare, with current assets under management exceeding $150million including a loan book in excess of $130million. Would you like to feel valued? Call us on 1800 814 766 to discuss your current mortgage.

Phil Lynch Chief Executive Alliance One Credit Union Ltd

● Home and Investment, Car and Personal loans ● Visa credit card ● Savings and Investments ● General insurance ● Consumer Credit insurance ● Australia-wide Access ● Business and Merchant banking ● Financial Planning ● Specialty services

Page 16 – Thursday, February 21, 2008

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THE MONITOR – Your Community Newspaper