JAN28-10

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First Australia Day for Indy Fourteen week old Indy McDonald won’t remember too much about her first Australia Day, but for parents, Stacey and Damon of Roxby Downs, being Australian and bringing up a child in a free country is something worth celebrating.

The couple has lived in Roxby Downs for the past three and half years and loves the idea of Indy enjoying the lifestyle and freedom regional Australia has to offer.

AUSTRALIA DAY AWARDS CITIZEN OF THE YEAR AND COMMUNITY EVENT OF THE YEAR

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ouncils across Australia are charged with the task of coordinating community nominations for local Australian Citizen, Young Citizen and Community Event of the Year.

In announcing the winners of the awards on Tuesday, Administrator of the Roxby Downs Council Bill Boehm said, “Today as part of our country’s Australia Day celebration we are recognising great Australians and their contribution to our community and to the Nation. This recognition of greatness happens at every level and ranges from acclaim for high profile Australians at national and state level to people barely known outside their own communities, but all stand equally, side by side, as champion Australians who epitomise what it is that makes our nation, our community, our people great.”

Mr. Boehm said, “It has been a difficult task to select the winners with excellent nominations received all of whom were worthy recipients of the award in their own right.

“Roxby Downs has an outstanding track record of rallying to, important causes, individuals in need and volunteering. We are also becoming better at acknowledging our volunteers and champions which is an important attribute for our community to have. Today is one of those occasions where we can pay tribute to our local heroes.

SEE WINNERS FOR ROXBY AND ANDAMOOKA ON PAGE 3

Volume 7, Thursday January 28, 2010

NEWS

NAB and Save the Children unite to help Haiti quake victims

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ave the Children Australia released $150,000 from its newly created Children’s Emergency fund to help children and their families affected by the devastating earthquake in Haiti, which has claimed thousands of lives and left millions in need of aid.

Funds from the Children’s Emergency Fund will be directed immediately to the most vulnerable children and their families in Haiti, and used to purchase life saving supplies such as medicine, food and water.

Australian Ian Rodgers working for Save the Children in Haiti said, “Children are the most vulnerable in this kind of crisis, and many may have lost their parents in the chaos of the earthquake.”

“It’s a hugely traumatic experience for any child to go through, and we have to make sure we get help and protection to children fast,” said Rodgers. “Port-au-Prince is densely populated and sanitation is already very bad. Many families don’t have toilets and piles of rubbish are strewn around the city.”

In Port-au-Prince, Save the Children’s offices suffered structural and water damage. Twenty four Save the Children staff members are still attempting to be contacted by Mr Rodgers and his team. Another thirty four are known to be safe.

Haiti is the poorest country in the western hemisphere and is prone to experiencing natural disasters. It suffered four hurricanes in a matter of weeks in 2008. The average life expectancy in Haiti is only 52 years.

Save the Children has worked in Haiti since 1985, primarily in the capital city of Port-au-Prince and the Central Plateau region, providing health, education, protection and food security programs to vulnerable children.

To Donate to Save the Children’s Haiti earthquake emergency appeal: • Call 1800 76 00 11 • Visit www.savethechildren.org.au to make a secure online donation • Donate at the NAB branch in Roxby Downs.

Page 2 – Thursday, January 28, 2010

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NEWS

STUDENTS ARE UNI BOUND Year 12 graduate Jodie Luscombe checks to see if she was accepted into the University course of her choice.

Students have bright futures

By Millie Thomas

They’ve dealt with studying for and completing exams, receiving their Tertiary Entrance Ranking and either being selected or not into their preferred courses. Safe to say, it has been a fairly stressful last few months for year twelves country wide, but finally, the results are in.

All successful applicants to courses were published in Friday’s edition of The Advertiser last week, with local Roxby students being accepted into commendable fields of interest.

The courses were extremely varied, rang-

ing from primary school teaching to civil engineering, behavioural science to architecture.

Amy Collins was accepted into a Bachelor of Communications and Media Management which she will be studying externally.

This means that she will be able to reap the rewards of remaining with her parents here in Roxby, staying near her friends, and being able to save money with a part time job.

Tristan Warneke has been accepted into his preferred course – a Bachelor of Justice and Society which he will be studying

at Flinders Uni this year.

This course could get him into a career such as an Administrative Officer or even a Criminologist. He is not sure where he will be living as his parents are sorting out the finer details for him.

Jodie Luscombe, local student and school captain here at Roxby Area School excelled at her studies, getting into her preferred course of Bachelor of Psychological Science. She is deferring for a year, and is starting her studies in 2011 at Uni SA’s Magill campus.

While there were no

pre-requisites for Jodie’s course, she still studied two subjects through Open Access last year, which she found difficult. “I was ready to quit.”

Jodie said she thought there was more that the school could have done for her, and for the other students. It has paid off for her now though, as she will receive bonus points for doing some subjects by correspondence.

Although Jodie said she was “relatively disappointed” with her final TER, she was accepted into her first preference, and through perseverance has been

given a wider scope of opportunities than what is offered here at Roxby.

Seventeen students in total were offered courses in the first round, some choosing to head straight down to Adelaide, some to study externally from home, and others forgoing study for a year or two and joining the workforce.

The days of nine til three, Monday to Friday, 2352 hours of holidays may be over for some, but hopefully with the promising courses that are on offer for our graduates they will be able, one day, to work whenever they’d like.

Helen is Roxby’s Citizen of the year

The Award for Australia Day Citizen of the Year goes to Helen Edwards.

Whilst in mid 2009 Helen left Roxby Downs and moved to Seaford Rise to be closer to her family, the sustained community contribution since 1988 over a 21 year period makes her a worthy winner.

According to her nominees Helen is someone who’s “community spirit makes all around her extremely welcome. She is a great ambassador for Roxby Downs. She enjoyed meeting new residents and visitors and her local knowledge was paramount. If she could not help she would know someone that could” Helen has an impressive record of community involvement including: Roxby Scrapbag Quilters Helen was a foundation member of the Roxby Downs Scrapbag Quilters. This group formed in 1992 after a quilting class was held at TAFE. The group still meet at the library on Saturday afternoons twice a month and has donated quilts for raffles or funds raised from raffling quilts to other community groups .

Cancer Council and Red Sands Helen is a cancer survivor. Helen supported the cancer council by

selling Daffodils on daffodil day in August and pink ribbons for pink ribbon day. (Most of the staff at the Area School would have at least one pink ribbon day T-shirt.)

Helen was a driving force in the formation of the Red Sands Branch of the Cancer Council in 2007, ensuring there was enough people at the first meetings to get things running. She was president of this group in 2007 and 2008.

In 2008 the Cancer Council of SA wanted the “Red Sands” to host a “Relay for Life” event. Helen thought they would be able to so an organising committee was formed with herself and husband Steve taking on prime roles. Helen and helpers set about organising one of the most successful and inspiring community events ever held in Roxby Downs. In 1988 Helen moved from Port Pirie to Roxby Downs with her husband Steve and transferred to Roxby Downs Area School as a SSO (Teacher’s Aid) where she worked until 2009.

The Award for Community Event of the Year goes to the Think Pink Golf Day On 13 June 2009 organised by the Roxby Downs Golf Club with assistance from the Reds Sands Branch of the Roxby Downs Branch of the Cancer Council of

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South Australia.

The overall aim is to not only showcase the golf club and increase women’s participation but also to only raise funds for a worthy cause which also placed cancer awareness at the forefront of the community.

These dual aims were admirably addressed with 86 women, mostly non golf players, coming to play, or attempt to play, golf at the Roxby Downs Golf Course.

This fun event was ably supported by Spotless Cleaning who donated prizes for the day. Overall $8,240 was raised for Cancer Research.

This type of event shows the unique Roxby creativity which the community is forever portraying to ensure that local community facilities are well used and in this case in a fun nature that ensured that whilst Roxby is remote we know how to have fun and support worthy causes .

The Australia Day Citizen of the year this year was awarded to two individuals. Peter Mcready for his work with the senior citizens and Greg Franklin for his work with the youth of the Andamooka community.

The Andamooka Australia Day event award went to the Bohemian Cabaret Organising Committee for 2009. www.themonitor.com.au

Helen Edwards Thursday, January 28, 2010 – Page 3

NEWS

Danger in the desert

By Millie Thomas

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ith summer well and truly now upon us, and fire danger season rife, it is important to know how to protect your house and your family during the long, hot summer days and also in the event of a fire.

It is in these circumstances that our local SES and CFS services are our lifeline.

There are numerous booklets located at the council which are free for you to take home and study, all of which outline the dangers of extreme heat and bushfires.

They outline how to overcome the repercussions of extreme heat, how to protect yourself and your home from a bush fire and how to know when to evacuate your house.

Some effects of extreme heat can include, but are not restricted to, dehydration, heat cramps, heat exhaustion or heat stroke. Everyone is at risk of the effects of extreme heat but in particular the elderly, the young, the pregnant, fatigued or ill, those who suffer from dementia, Alzheimer’s, heart or breathing problems, diabetes, mental health, obesity etc.

Trevor Kroemer, the Fire Prevention Officer with the Roxby Downs Council, advised that there are a number of factors that could contribute to a fire spreading through

Roxby. These include trees lining the roads and in our back yards, uncleared scrub and more prominently, the wooden bark chips that inhabit a lot of our front yards.

Trevor did point out that we are more likely to have a fire in town because of human error, rather than be affected by a bushfire from

out of town. Olympic Way, Axehead Road and the bypass road all act as small firebreaks in the case of an emergency.

And in regards to the recent heat wave? Trevor advises to simply stay out of the sun as much as possible, keep your fluids up and try to get the most of your workload finished early in the morning.

Police News . . .

Driver fined $810

This week a number of traffic infringement notices were issued to road users who exceeded the speed limit, failed to wear seatbelts and failed to display their P plates.

One motorist received an $810 fine for driving an unregistered and uninsured motor vehicle.

Road users are reminded of the five causes of fatal road crashes: Speeding, No seatbelt fitted, Inattention, Fatigue and Drink/Drug Driving. Road Safety is Everyone’s Responsibility and Police ask that road users heed road safety warnings and always obey traffic rules.

On Tuesday, January 19, a 37 year old male was barred from the Roxby Downs Tavern for six months after bringing alcohol onto the premises, abusing staff and refusing to leave on January 18, 2010.

On Friday, January 22, police reported a 23 year old female from ANDAMOOKA for exceeding the prescribed concentration of alcohol. This female blew 0.166 and as result received a 12 month immediate disqualification. She will receive a summons to attend court at a later date.

On Sunday, January 24, two male juveniles were assaulted in the car park near the Lions Skate Park. Police are investigating the matter and are pleased so many witnesses have come forward. Police continue to encourage people to come forward with any information they believe may be helpful and to continue reporting all incidents.

At around 1 am on Sunday, January 24 a motor vehicle accident occurred at the T-intersection of Pioneer Drive and Olympic Way damaging the front yard of a nearby house. Police continue to make enquiries in relation to this and ask any witnesses to come forward with any information.

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

Trevor Kroemer holding up a fire prevention package that will be distributed in your letterboxes

SES - Cleaning up Australia one town at a time

By Millie Thomas

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lean up Australia Day is celebrating it’s twenty first birthday this year, and with that comes the hope and expectation that this year will be bigger than ever, in Roxby, in Australia, in the World.

Clean up Australia day was first started in 1989 by Australian yachtsman and builder Ian Kiernan. He was so disgusted by the state of Sydney and in particular the harbour, that he connected with Clean Up co founder Kim McKay AO and launched the internationally recognised event and foundation that we know today.

From the first “Clean up Australia” Clean up Sydney Harbour day in 1989 til now, the volunteers involved in the program have risen from 40’000 to more than 35 million people in 120 countries.

Roxby, at it’s largest, had 86 volunteers involved, and local SES volunteer and Clean up Australia day organiser Steve Moss, hopes to raise the bar this year.

Our local SES service not only turns out when there has been a

serious accident, spanning a radius of 300km, they go way beyond their call for rescues. For Steve to be involved in SES and Clean up Australia Day is an example of exemplary community spirit.

Stephen Moss is involved in organising Clean up Australia Day once again this year, and although nationally it is recognised as being held on Sunday, March 7th, Stephen decided to move Roxby’s version to the following weekend, Sunday March 14th, so that it does not fall on the long weekend. Thank you Mr Moss!

Stephen is better equipped this year, having purchased six new pick-up sticks, making the experience easier and faster. It is not an entire day of cleaning, as some of you might expect.

A relaxed atmosphere, depending on the weather, rubbish is picked up for a couple of hours, and then is followed by a sponsored barbeque and couple of beers.

Generally, however, the town is looking good. Mr Moss is impressed, saying that “Everything is nice and clean and tidy”.

An enthusiastic young helper at last year’s clean up Australia day Page 4 – Thursday, January 28, 2010

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NEWS

Hi-tech upgrades in Roxby Aaron Rosenzweig and Joel Nitschke will be regular visitors to Roxby Downs as service managers of the new IT hardware and programming for the Council.

Hardware upgrade for Roxby Council areas

By Celeste Lustosa Roxby Downs Council Office, Roxby Leisure Centre and the library will have their IT services replaced and upgraded.

IT Company Vintek has sent four of its consultants to Roxby and they have replaced the majority of hardware, in order to improve the speed and reliability of the services from Council, Leisure Centre and library.

“There are going to be many benefits from this upgrading and it will be much easier for the community when they need to have a service provided from either of the places we are working for,” said one of Vintek’s consultants, Joel Nitschke.

Mr Nitschke also said the new hardware should be good for the next couple of years.

But Vintek’s work is not done and two of their consultants are still going to be in town to make sure everything is working correctly.

“We have a three year contract and during this period our service will include visits

to Roxby every two weeks, for three days, to keep providing the best support possible,” Mr Nitschke told The Monitor.

Aaron Rosenzweig is the technical support director for Vintek and he said the public wireless will also improve with the IT upgrade.

“The new gear network we have put in the Council IT system works quicker and there has also been an improvement in the data security in everyone’s details.”

He also added that the public wireless provided by the Council Office will be faster and more stable.

Vintek is an Australian based and Australian owned IT consulting firm committed to making technology work for the clients. Their aim is to provide the most cost effective, long term solution for the clients’ needs, also providing consultation to many organisational structures across Australia of varying sizes.

The company was formed in 1988 and has been providing information technology sup-

port through multiple industries and has grown as a result of needs within these industries.

Roxby Downs Municipal Council resolved in July 2009 that the current IT server equipment was failing and in need of an upgrade, and the IT support and maintenance contract was due to expire at the end of February 2010.

It was determined that Council proceed with market testing of these services as such commissioned GHD to prepare a tender specification for the state of the art IT server and distribution system which would meet Council’s current requirements and future needs for the next five years. After an extensive tender program the contract was awarded to VINTEK Pty Ltd of Adelaide.

Vintek decommissioned all of the equipment removed from council facilities in line with Local Government requirements, and Council will review the usable equipment for possible distribution (if suitable) to local groups.

BHP’s copper production down while Prominent Hill production up

By Celeste Lustosa and John Pick

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HP said copper production decreased 12% compared with the December quarter in 2008, mainly due to the Clark Shaft outage at Olympic Dam, and industrial action at Spence, in Chile, while Prominent Hill owner OZ Minerals has marked its first successful year at the SA mine by exceeding its full-year copper and gold production forecasts.

“Olympic Dam ore hoisting continued to operate at approximately 25% of capacity,” the company said.

Mining of higher grade ore zones has been prioritised following the Clark Shaft incident and repairs to

the Clark Shaft haulage system are progressing well, it reported.

“Currently, Clark Shaft production is expected to resume in the March 2010 quarter, however, we will regularly review the repairs development.

“Production continues to be influenced by variability of ore sources due to the mix of open pit and underground mining,” the company added.

At Prominent Hill, Copper production for the fourth quarter was 36,497 tonnes, taking the full-year figure to 96,310 tonnes. That compared to the company’s prediction for the full-year of between 85,000 tonnes and 90,000 tonnes of copper.

OZ Minerals produced 30,526 ounces of gold in the three months

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to December, taking the 2009 figure to 75,535 ounces.

The company’s full-year gold production guidance had been 60,000 ounces to 70,000 ounces.

“This strong production performance was due to increased milling rates, good recoveries and high plant utilisation,’’ the company said in the statement.

The miner is forecasting that it will produce 100,000 to 110,000 tonnes of copper and between 80,000 and 90,000 ounces of gold per annum from 2010 to 2012. The cost will be between 85 and 95 US cents per pound in 2010.

OZ Minerals also produced 339,937 ounces of silver in the fourth quarter, taking the full-year figure to 700,177 ounces. www.themonitor.com.au

Thursday, January 28, 2010 – Page 5

COMMUNITY MATTERS

Redmond turns her back on Olympic Dam - says Foley

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eputy Premier Kevin Foley says Liberal leader Isobel Redmond’s decision not to meet with the world’s biggest mining company planning the world’s largest mine at Olympic Dam is an extraordinary admission by someone putting themselves forward as potential future Premier.

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Back to Birdsville at Easter

he outback town of Birdsville, in far western Queensland will come alive this Easter with a special ‘Back 2 Birdsville’ town reunion planned to celebrate 30 years of ownership of the famous Birdsville Hotel by long time friends Kym Fort and David Brook.

In 1979 the Birdsville Hotel was in a rundown state. A fire had caused significant damage to the building.

Owners at the time continued trading from the rear of the hotel, using a domestic fridge and two 44 gallon drums supporting a plank of timber which was the makeshift bar. In 1980 a syndicate of Adelaide businessmen purchased the building with the idea of repairing the front bar in time for the upcoming Birdsville Races. One of the investors, Kym Fort, was a builder. They achieved their aim and had the bar ready for the 1980 Birdsville Races. Soon after that, another local investor came onboard with a like mind and a vision for the future - David Brook, a local pastoralist. In 1981 the kitchen was extended and rebuilt, followed soon after by the restoration of the dining room. By the end of 1982 the original syndicate of businessmen had reduced to two, Kym Fort and David Brook.

This was the beginning of an enduring friendship between the two men and their families and a successful business that has seen the Birdsville Hotel prosper and grow from the ashes.

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“Given the Birdsville Hotel has been an integral part of the living history of Birdsville and many families and relationships have been a part of the last thirty years, we hope the ‘Back 2 Birdsville’ event attracts as many people as possible back to help celebrate this part of the town’s history,” says Kym Fort.

The event kicks off on Good Friday with a meet and greet and culminates Easter Sunday evening with a street party. In between there will be a local game of 20/20 cricket, a ‘trip down memory lane’ movie night under the stars, Easter Sunday church service, a street parade, Easter Bilby hunt for the kids, history displays and live entertainment.

Jo Fort General Manager for The Outback Loop (Birdsville and Innamincka Hotels) says “we are honoured to have Dick Smith officially open the weekend on Saturday night and present Kym and David with a special plaque in recognition of their contribution to both the Birdsville Hotel and the community as a whole.”

David Brook and Kym Fort are personally encouraging anyone with a connection to Birdsville through employment, friends, family, or just a past visitor to try and make it ‘Back 2 Birdsville’, and if you have never been before, then now is the perfect time.

Official registration for the event is FREE and can be made by visiting www.theoutback.com.au. All registrations will receive a free reunion survival pack upon arrival in Birdsville. Registrations are encouraged for catering purposes.

Solar power for Coober Pedy is all hot air

he federal member for Grey Rowan Ramsey has said in a speech to Parliament that by repeated refusal to answer any questions about the Solar Power Station at Coober Pedy, the Minister for the Environment Peter Garret has virtually confirmed his promise was just so much hot air.

Mr Ramsey recently spoke in Parliament on his undelivered promise and said “the Federal Labor Government is very fond of strutting the stage with big announcements but has been found wanting on delivery”.

The following is a transcript of his speech – “on February 19th 2008 the Minister for Environment, Heritage and the Arts, jointly with the South Australian Premier, Mike Rann took no less an opportunity than the 3rd International Solar Cities Congress, in Adelaide to announce the building of a 7.1 million dollar Solar Power Station for Coober Pedy.

“You can imagine how excited the locals were. It all made sense, because if solar power makes sense anywhere it would be in the middle of the desert, where the locally generated power costs 80c per kilowatt per hour,” said Mr Ramsey.

The power plant is due to be up and running by the end of the

Page 6 – Thursday, January 28, 2010

Mr Foley says Olympic Dam is set to become the single largest project in the State’s history and Mrs Redmond’s reported admission she won’t meet the company just demonstrates that she has no grasp of the economic importance of the mine to the State.

According to a reporter in The Advertiser, BHP Billiton executives had offered to meet with Mrs Redmond but that offer had not been accepted.

The report went on to say that: Mrs Redmond said she has not attempted to meet BHP executives before the March Poll because she has a “lot on her plate”.

“So she can find the time to be tazered for a political stunt but she can’t find the time to meet BHP-Billiton to find out more about the Olympic Dam project,” Mr Foley says.

“The role of Premier is for a serious and informed politician; Mrs Redmond again demonstrates she is not up to that.”

Mr Foley says what makes her admission even more extraordinary is that she continues to make public statements that jeopardise the future viability of the project without any real understanding of the scope of Olympic Dam and the supporting infrastructure.

Mrs Redmond on ABC Radio on Tuesday 19th again called for the desalination plant that will provide water for the project, to be moved from the company’s preferred site at Point Lowly to another location on the west coast. …that for a mere 32 kilometres extra of pipeline we could have a deep sea desalination plant which would therefore service Olympic Dam just as easily and it beggars belief to me that 32 kilometres of extra pipeline could possibly cost half a billion dollars.”

The Deputy Premier says the company was yet to even complete its detailed response to issues raised by Government and the public from the Olympic Dam Environmental Impact Statement.

Mr Foley says BHP Billiton’s response to those concerns will be addressed in a supplementary EIS due to be published later this year.

“Yet here we have Mrs Redmond out jumping the gun, committing the desalination plant to another location without one shred of scientific evidence to support it.”

Mr Foley says the Liberals have been warned by BHP Billiton that their policy to force the company to relocate their planned desalination plant west of Ceduna would ad hundreds of million of dollars to the project cost and would force the abandonment of the whole expansion.

“It puts into jeopardy an estimated 23 000 jobs that will be created by the expanded mine and huge economic development for the Upper Spencer Gulf.

“She says she doesn’t understand why such a move would be so costly. If she bothered to meet with the company she would find out.”

The Deputy Premier says Mrs Redmond claims her location for the desalination plant south of Penong on the far west coast is only 32 Km further than the Point Lowly site – than in itself calls into question even her basic understanding of the geography of the region.

“I think she better have a closer look at a map.

“Apart from the fact that there are no power lines or basic infrastructure at her location, her plan also fails to take into account a giant salt lake, flood plains, the Defence Department’s Woomera Prohibited Area, Aboriginal Heritage issues and national parks – none of which have been surveyed for a pipeline.

year but it has not even been started.

The Coober Pedy news reported on March 2009 that Coober Pedy Mayor, Steve Baines said that “as a result of making enquiries from EnGen and Solar Systems about the progress of the proposed solar power station at Coober Pedy, we have been advised by Mr Barry Hendy from Solar Systems that this project will no longer go ahead.

“The government made this big announcement about a seven million dollar power station at Coober Pedy. All the rumours are that they’re not going ahead.

“I’ve asked questions to confirm it, I’ve asked questions in parliament, I’ve asked the Speaker to ask the Minister to respond, and they’re not responding. It’s all very well to make big announcements; anyone can make announcements and do nothing about it. It was supposed to be up and operating by the end of last year,” Mr Ramsey said.

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OPINION

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EDITORIAL

Immigrants celebrate Australia

By Celeste Lustosa

Last week’s HOT TOPIC: Do you think Roxby Downs should have a dry zone?

Hooray! Someone is finally thinking. A dry zone in the streets of Roxby CBD bounded by Pioneer Drive, Olympic Way, Stuart Road and Arcoona Street would be a great trial for the hours between 10pm and 5am.

It is sure to stop a lot of smashed bottles and the vandalism that usually follows.

Over It, Roxby.

Dry zones work in other places, - why not here?

Joe, RD. Suggested dry zones are yet another restriction. I thought we lived in a free country, but I must be wrong!

O. Pressed.

Yes I agree about dry zones between 1pm and 7am. These public areas are being vandalized by late night party goers as the police have cracked down on party goers etc.

Absolutely disgusting mess I saw at the Lions Park during December there was to be a children’s bbq breaky with Santa, The three years olds could not take their shoes off because of the broken glass….

These drunks should have consideration for other people.

Annoyed. Roxby downs.

That does not mean I don’t do the same for Brazil, as it doesn’t matter how happy I am with my choice to live here and how much If anyone asked me a couple of years ago what I thought about I love Australia, I will always be a Brazilian but I am definitely one Australia, I am pretty sure that although I would not have much Brazilian that is completely in love with Australia. information, I would only say positive things about it. I’ve always had a great feeling about this country, but at the same time, I’ve never considered living there, until the opportunity to be a Rotary GSE member came.

After spending five weeks in South Australia in 2008, visiting different and unique places such as Adelaide – including Walkerville, Salisbury, Glenelg, among other suburbs, Clare, Barrossa Valley, Port Augusta, Roxby Downs, Peterborough, Goolwa, and Two Wells, my great impressions became the best ones. I was wrong about many things though – Australia has much more to offer than any Brazilian would think.

Places are beautiful, organized, clean and safe, just like what I’ve seen when I lived in Europe. But there’s something very different about Australia… Australians have the Brazilians joy and natural happiness, something you cannot find in many European places.

I always thought it would have to be a choice between happy or organized. You Australians get the best of Europe and the best of Brazil, and that makes your country one of the best places to live, as far as I am concerned.

I have been in Australia for over a year now and after all I’ve experienced here, I do feel a little Aussie… Australia does feel like my other home! And I don’t think there’s ever going to be a way to thank Rotary enough for the opportunities i have been given.

As we have a big number of people from overseas living in Roxby Downs, I think my thoughts are probably shared by many.

I believe all of us immigrants should respect and embrace the Australian values, at all times, and that includes celebrating the Australia Day, paying our respects on Anzac Day, and so on. I also believe that all immigrants should make the effort to speak English, as that is the language spoken here.

The immigrants, not the Australians are the ones that have to adapt; as we were the ones that made the choice to migrate.

So, as every Australian, I celebrate this beautiful country on Australia Day and all the other days of the year.

So Kylie is coming out of the cupboard and says she likes women too!

Who cares really, it’s just a publicity gimmick and just keeps her name in the headlines.

AJ, RD Digital television for the masses in Roxby. If it is here by the end of the year I’ll be amazed, but to have TV from the south and not NT or Western Queensland will be something most of us have wanted for a long time.

PL, Roxby Downs

HOT C I TOP

Do you think we should have a new hospital, new sports stadium in Adelaide or better roads in the outback?

Letter to the Editor Flaws in broadband announcement I have had numerous calls from rural and regional journalists

asking about the National Broadband Network in their area.

Minister Michael O’Brien’s announced last week that the Rann Government is efficiently addressing 350 South Australian broadband black spots through a multi-million dollar privatepublic partnership project in conjunction with Adam Internet.

Some of the flaws in Minister O’Brien’s announcement and Rudd Labor’s NBN: · Senator Conroy has promised a fibre network to 90% of Australians, ignoring many farmers and other rural and regional Australians in areas such as Andamooka and Woomera – all who have the most to gain from fibre. · The so called ‘Adam-Max’ broadband black spot rollout is an expensive distraction from the shortcomings of Rudd Labor’s National Broadband Network (NBN). · Not one new internet connection has been delivered under the NBN policy in 2 years since the Rudd Government’s election. · Minister O’Brien and Premier Rann know action on blackspots is long overdue, and know that the NBN won’t deliver any action until 2017, if (in some cases) at all. · Taxpayers continue to pay the NBN Co CEO $1.95m/year and a discredited ex-Labor MP $500,000/year to be head of Government Relations and External Affairs. · Federal Minister (for Broadband) Conroy, still won’t answer nuts and bolts questions about the rollout and viability of the $43 billion NBN. And the Government’s chief infrastructure adviser, Infrastructure Australia, didn’t appear before our Senate Committee inquiring into the NBN – so just who is accountable for Rudd Labor’s NBN policy? · The Coalition’s OPEL proposal would have delivered improved services to 1.5 million premises in rural and regional Australia, equipping homes with satellite or wireless broadband services by December 2009.

The demand exists now; rural and regional Australians can’t be left to languish till the NBN due-date of 2018 – if it is ever delivered at all.

Rural and regional Australians deserve equivalent access to equivalent broadband services at equivalent prices.

Senator Mary Jo Fisher Chair of the Senate Select Committee into the National Broadband Network

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www.themonitor.com.au

Thursday, January 28, 2010 – Page 7

COVER UP!

These days there’s purpose-designed personal insurance for each potential risk. For example, many company superannuation funds offer access to ‘group risk’ cover, which provides their members with cost-effective cover for death and total and permanent disablement, as well as salary continuance insurance, which pays an income for up to 2 years in the event the employee has suffered an accident or illness and is unable to work.

There are a number of benefits of having your insurance through your superannuation arrangements, including the likelihood that your employer has been able to negotiate a more favourable deal on your behalf in terms of costs and conditions.

mal component of your company superprovided insurance.

After all, how would you and your family manage if your income dried up because you were unable to work for an extended period of time?

And before you say, “it won’t happen to me”, consider this: 1 in 3 Australians will suffer an accident or illness during their working lives that will require them to have 3 or more months off work. Could your cash reserves cope with a 3 month no-pay period? Mortgage or rent payments, car loans, credit cards and general living expenses don’t stop just because your pay does.

Big Sky Financial Solutions offers a convenient insurance cover checkup.

However, even if you have access to Call 1300 700 189 to take advantage of group through your company super, it’s this service. well worthwhile to talk to your adviser to make sure the cover is sufficient. This Big Sky Financial Solutions is because group risk cover is based on a Disclaimer: This publication has been preperson’s age or income; it doesn’t take into pared for general information and has not account their personal circumstances. considered any particular person’s investment objectives, financial situation or needs.

So, for example, if you have children Accordingly, no recommendation (express or a mortgage you may find you need to or implied) or other information should be acted on without obtaining specific advice top up the cover.

Personal insurance cover is also available through life insurance companies.

The usual choices are: • term life cover, which pays the agreed sum on the death of the insured person or on diagnosis of a terminal illness; • total and permanent disablement cover (TPD), which is often attached to the term life cover policy.

TPD cover pays out when the person insured is unable to return to work as a result of an accident or illness; • trauma or critical illness cover, which pays a lump sum on diagnosis of certain specified medical conditions; and • income protection, which pays up to 75% of the insured’s salary or wage if that person is unable to work as the result of an accident or illness.

• Money experts recommend income protection as a good risk management idea for everyone earning a salary or wage, which is one of the reasons its company equivalent – salary continuance – is a nor-

from an Authorised Representative of Big Sky Financial Solutions. Big Sky Financial Solutions (ABN 95 133 452 589) is a corporate authorised representative (CAR 331478) of Outlook Financial Solutions Pty Ltd. (ABN 40 083 233 925, AFSL 240959)

It will be Schulz Hobbs’ pleasure to introduce Roxby Downs & District businesses to a powerful business advisory tool, MYOB Profit Optimiser. This is the special subject for the next Business Breakfast Session on Tuesday, 2nd February at 7.30am (to 8.55am) at Roxby Serviced Offices, 1a Tutop Street.

What can you expect to gain from attending the breakfast?

Some of the outcomes for you will be: 1. help you to understand the key drivers of your business and how they impact on profit, cashflow and return on capital 2. make better business decisions 3. make your General Ledger into an easy to read “financial scorecard” 4. to add value to your business 5. how to get instant answers to complex questions 6. turn numbers into KNOW HOW 7. enjoy the networking with other progressive Business Owners, as is usual at the regular Roxby sessions

These impacts will be a helpful push along in the temporarily stalled Roxby business cycle. The combination of Optimiser with Industry Benchmarks turns numbers into knowhow.

If this MYOB Profit Optimiser can give you one or two actions to focus over the next quarter, then it will have been hugely important to your business and lifestyle. It is also relevant to consider that several of the major banks now use a similar product in-house on their clients’ figures to establish the possible improvement and viability of those client businesses.

The session is limited to a maximum of 10 guests for comfort and ease of communication, therefore bookings are essential.

For more information about the Breakfast Session or to book in, please call Warren Hobbs on 0411 744740 or email whobbs@shd.com.au or visit www. schulzhobbs.com.au .

If you wish to separately arrange a time with Warren Hobbs, he will be in Roxby and Andamooka on 1st and 2nd of February....please ring if wish to arrange a FREE introductory discussion about your business or tax matters. Schulz Hobbs per Phil Stockwell or Warren Hobbs visit monthly .

Job seekers to gain upper hand despite unemployment

Job hunters could be back in the driver’s seat this year despite predictions that unemployment will continue to rise until mid-2010, according to one of Australia’s largest recruitment firms.

List of “hot” issues for 2010 are: Growth in new jobs - Employers tell us

if you’re not earning

p.a.

00 $5,0cher a . winel voitu apply ions ils. d v n a o tra and c or det s ef Term e instor Se

switch to a Big Sky Term Deposit now

Visit us at the Roxby Downs Service Centre at Shop 3, 14 Tutop St, Roxby Downs, call us on 8671 2555 or visit www.bigsky.net.au Big Sky Credit Union Ltd ABN 51 087 651 358 AFSL 240735 BSB 803-228 Interest rates are subject to change without notice. Early redemption is subject to appoval. An interest rate adjustment or penalty may apply. Interest rate is per annum.

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Open your Term Deposit to start earning 6.35% p.a. today… and you will automatically go into the draw to win a $5,000 travel voucher.

Page 8 – Thursday, January 28, 2010

Turn numbers into knowhow over a free breakfast

they sense new optimism in the market. They are thinking of long-term strategies to strengthen their business and this includes planning for recruitment during 2010.

Restless workers will move - Following a particularly tough year, we will see a significant increase in the number of employed people changing jobs as their confidence grows. Many job shoppers will be ‘passive job seekers’ – those in jobs quietly looking out for a new opportunity.”

Return of the skills shortage - As we emerge from the economic downturn, the challenge for talent will once again rear its head. Already there are shortages of particular skills. Financial and Commercial Analysts, Estimators, Business Development Managers and technical IT specialists are some examples.

Good and bad employers sorted - Employees were front-row spectators to their company’s GFC response. During the downturn, the ‘good’ employers maintained their focus on their employees’ career development and staff relations. These companies are well-placed to attract the top talent in 2010.

Strong temp market will continue - This risk-free solution for clearing backlogs or helping with project work will remain popular with employers during 2010.

Temping or contracting does offer some advantages for candidates too such as a variety of assignments and organisations while adding skills and experience www.themonitor.com.au

to your CV. Return of candidate bargaining power - Companies tightened the purse strings in 2009. Many employers leveraged their sudden power in the job market by raising the bar on what skills and qualifications they wanted as well as hiring talented people on salaries lower than would be the case in the good times.

Employers need to communicate with staff - The renewed focus on open and honest communication between management

and employees is a positive change of 2009 that we hope will remain. Employees still want to be reassured that their company is performing. They have become genuinely interested in the senior management team and their decisions.

Forced career change permanent for some - Redundancies and the tight labour market meant many people took jobs they wouldn’t normally consider. The feedback from the market is that some workers are embracing a life of less work pressure and do

not intend to return to their old job now the market is picking up and vacancies are again available.

Generation Y still hungry for more - Prior to the GFC, Generation Y had only known a job market where there was a skills shortage. The GFC was a reality check for this generation, and they have become more flexible (about the sort of work they will take). An increase in turnover rates as this generation of candidates look for a new role to achieve is to be expected.

THE MONITOR – Your Community Newspaper

NEWS

Simon says…

Farewell Roxby!

MEETING DATES

- Environment Forum, Feb 9. 7.30pm - Culture Forum, Feb 17, 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.

JOINING FORUMS

A

Millie Thomas reports

s the Roxby Tavern Manager’s 12 month contract draws to an end, Simon Howe looks back on the year, and laughs. The regulars from the front bar, the staff and the friends he has made have kept his infectious character alive and thriving.

Don’t think Simon is leaving because he wants to, his young children have drawn him back down south. He mentioned reflectively had he not the important family ties that he does then “Roxby is one of those places where you come here for one year and end up staying for 10”.

For the next year, at least, Simon will be managing the Woodcroft Hotel, and in a direct swap, the manager from Woodcroft will come up here. Ultimately, Simon has ambitions to buy a pub of his own, but his first priorities are his children.

After speaking both to Simon, and the Thirsty Camel bottle shop manager Kim Taylor, they are unsure of what is in store for the Tav for the next 12 months. Kim expects that much like Simon, the new manager, Matt Daw will concentrate on the quality of the food and the service and nightlife in the front bar. He doesn’t believe there will be any changes to the bottle shop, however the Oasis restaurant should undergo some drastic changes.

“The Oasis needs a helping hand… Chives has made an impact on the popularity of the

Oasis”, he said.

And of the new manager, Matt Daw? Everyone seems to be kept in the dark a bit, no one really knowing what he is like or what to expect.

Simon outlined that there are plans drawn up to extend the smoking bays both in the front bar and the café bar, but pending decisions made by The Jones Group, who own the Tavern, it is unsure when these will go ahead.

Also, a new till system will be installed at some stage early this year, hopefully helping staff to process meal orders more efficiently.

Finally, Simon, more affectionately known to his mates as “Shamwow” was asked to explain his unusual nickname. He simply stated “you’d better ask the cricket boys about that one” and with that, Simon leaves the desert with some

All Australian citizens encouraged to enrol to vote on Australia Day 2010 As thousands of the newest citizens enrol to vote this Australia Day, the Australian Electoral Commission (AEC) is urging all Australian citizens to make sure they are enrolled to vote as a federal election is likely to be held sometime this year.

Electoral Commissioner, Ed Killesteyn said enrolling to vote was an important part of fully participating in Australian life and it was a concern that over 1.3 million eligible Australians are currently not enrolled.

“A federal election could be held sometime in 2010, so this Australia Day is an opportune time for all eligible Australians to make sure they are enrolled to vote or, if they have recently moved, to check that their enrolled address is up-to-date,” Mr Killesteyn said.

To enrol to vote or update your enrolment simply complete and return an enrolment form, which is available on the AEC website at www.aec.gov.au, or pick up a form at any AEC office, Australia Post outlet, or at any Medicare, Centrelink, or Australian Tax Office.

THE MONITOR – Your Community Newspaper

It’s compulsory for all Australian citizens aged 18 years and older to enrol to vote, and you must be enrolled before you can vote in Australian elections.

The AEC website also has enrolment information translated into 26 languages and contact details for the telephone interpreter service.

www.themonitor.com.au

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

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

FURTHER INFORMATION

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

WEATHER conditions

FROM WED 27 JANUARY TO SUN 31 JANUARY

W

T

F

S

S

ROXBY DOWNS

26/43 25/38 20/37 23/36 25/34

PORT AUGUSTA

25/37 21/35 21/36 22/38 23/34

COOBER PEDY

27/44 28/37 21/37 25/38 25/37

LEIGH CREEK

27/43 26/36 23/34 22/34 24/33

ADELAIDE

18/33 18/32 18/31 18/39 19/32

Thursday, January 28, 2010 – Page 9

MONITOR ON THE MOVE

Brazilian journalists, Sabrina Gaiva and Laura Petraglia check out a copy of The Monitor in Brazil.

HONEYMOON

Ross and Nicole Bush enjoyed a stay in Roxby as part of their honeymoon.

Beautiful Butterfly

Keitah used lots of pink on her beautiful butterfly she made at the Library.

READ ON THE WILD SIDE Monique (right) and Karrie below were two of the many children who enjoyed the holiday activities at the Library.

Jo Culf and Karen Russell farewell Carrie Clark at the Dune’s Cafe

Page 10 – Thursday, January 28, 2010

www.themonitor.com.au

THE MONITOR – Your Community Newspaper

Champagne Friday

Sarah, Jodie, Suzy and Lulu enjoy champagne at the movie marathon

Movie Marathon

Kimberley Teare & Katica Cockshell enjoy the Twilight Movie Marathon on Friday night.

Holidays

Billie - Jo and Hannah colouring during the Alvin Marathon break

Very Impressed

Marcos Lemos, chief editor of Mato Grosso’s largest newspaper in Brazil reading The Monitor.

Thumbs Up

Troy and Connor give thumbs up to the Alvin Marathon

Good Friends

Girl’s Night Out

Prue Duldig, Elyse Weir, Emma Killeen, Lauren Fagan, Kateland Fraser and Kristelle Cockshell on Friday night.

Kim, Shelle and Bec enjoy the movie marathon with good friends.

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Thursday, January 28, 2010 – Page 11

NEWS

y teralign are happ d John Lee of In Tony Wilkinson anwith the building of the police to be associated station

ABOVE AND LEFT: The second stage of the foundation slab for the new Roxby Police Station was poured and finished off in the early hours of last Thursday morning.

Pictures by Annarien Robbertse

Cop shop on target

By Millie Thomas The anticipated completion of the new Roxby Downs police station is drawing nearer and apart from the disappearance of the BMX track locals have not had much indication of what to expect.

Candetti, who won the contract, is in the process of building other monumental structures around South Australia. These include the $100 million state of the art Marion swimming complex, as well as a police station complex at Christie’s Beach.

They have won prestigious awards for the Port Augusta Police complex contract from the Royal Australian Institute of Architects.

Candetti is working closely with architectural group Greenway Architects, as well as contracting companies from Ad-

elaide and local Roxby Downs contractors Integralign and Biancos.

Integralign is providing the man power during the first stage, earth works and civil works.

The project, which is estimated to be finished in September of this year at a cost of around $10 million, will accommodate approximately 36 policemen, including a forensic department. The building includes forensic labs and testing areas, cells, a courthouse, numerous offices as well as an administrative area, police training area and secure parking for police patrol vehicles, clients, including disabled parking and access.

As far as the earthworks and civil works are concerned, Integralign has paved the way for success in future construction and development for this modern facility, with

Be a member of RoxFM

By Celeste Lustosa Aside from that fact that you support a community initiative, there are several reasons why you should become a RoxFM member.

“Being a member of RoxFM is a great way to support community radio and be kept in the loop with what’s going on at the station,” said RoxFM manager Kristina Meredith.

Although you don’t have to become a radio presenter, you can host your very own radio show.

“Free training is provided to all prospective DJs and you don’t need to have any prior experience. Anyone can do this, provided they’re over 13 years of age.”

Like many community initiatives, RoxFM relies on the efforts of its volunteers to keep the station going. So if there’s a skill you’d like to contribute, just contact the station manager.

Be part of a community. By joining the RoxFM family you too can get involved in RoxFM social events and initiatives.

If you have been a member for 6 months or more, you are eligible to nominate for a position on the RoxFM Board.

Members can also vote at AGMs (votes limited to 1 for Community Groups, Corporate Members and Families, only persons over 18 can vote).

Corporate and community membership entitles the bearer to 30 free 30 second radio spots for the year.

Page 12 – Thursday, January 28, 2010

www.themonitor.com.au

Corporate and community members will also have their logo published on the RoxFM web site.

Membership costs: Individual: $30 Family: $50 Student/Concession: $15 Associate (Persons between 12-18 years of age): $10 Community Group: $50 Corporate: $100 For more information contact Kristina on (08) 8671 2545 or visit the website: http://www.roxfm.com. au/membership where you can download the 2010 membership form.

THE MONITOR – Your Community Newspaper

NEWS

I am

woman

Chocolate to help you lose weight

It’s the news we’ve all been waiting to hear: chocolatiers in Spain have invented a chocolate that can help you lose weight.

The chocolate is called Lola and it contains ingredients designed to trick your body into thinking you are full and therefore restrict overeating.

On display in Madrid for the international chocolate show, Lola will initially be sold only in Spain but there is the possibility of making its way to overseas markets, hopefully Australian market soon enough.

Before you book your trip to Spain, you might want to know that the chocolate does have a green tinge to it, due to some unusual ingredients, and it also costs almost $10 for a pack of five, which as a woman willing to lose weight and not willing to give up the chocks, I believe it’s worth every cent.

The inventors recommend people eat one or two of the chocolates an hour before eating to give the chocolates time to work effectively.

The colour of the chocolate is slightly green due to the addition of spirulina, microscopic algae, which has high levels of nutrients that can have weight-loss benefits.

The makers also claim that amino acids in the recipe stimulate the production of a hormone in the brain that suppresses the appetite.

The idea of a product designed to suppress hunger is not a new one, weight-loss toothpastes, soups, pills and other forms of lollies have been tried with limited success. But now it’s chocolate we are talking about and they certainly have my vote to put it on the market as soon as possible.

The 5 things guys notice 6 seconds after you meet A

ccording to a new study, a person’s physical appearance allows others to form surprisingly accurate first impressions. So you may want to think twice about what kind of image you’re projecting with these traits dudes check out immediately.

1. Your Smile - Does it seem sweet and genuine? Does it seem awkward and forced? Does it seem like you ate a sesame-seed and parsley salad for lunch based on what’s lodged between every single one of your teeth?

2. Your Hair - Guys have no idea what split ends are, and if you mention roots, they just think of the band. But they do look to see if your hair looks soft and as though it would smell good.

THE MONITOR – Your Community Newspaper

3. Your Cleavage - Guys like to look at your chest. Now, that’s not to say they think all women should unbutton their shirts to their bellybuttons at funerals. But they will notice how you’re showing off what you’ve got.

4. Your Makeup – If you’re wearing so much makeup that it looks like you’ve painted an entirely new face on top of your actual face, guys will wonder if you’re trying to cover up some bizarre deformation—or if you’re Gotham City’s most dangerous criminal mastermind.

5. Your Skin - You know that blemish you’ve been obsessing over all day because it’s so huge?

Chances are guys won’t even notice. What will they notice? If you look like jaundiced because of an over enthusiastic tanning.

Do you feel like you’re fighting a losing battle when your kids continually make a mess?

Tidiness doesn’t come naturally to children. Sorry, but that’s the reality and if you have children you might have learned it by now.

So, from pre-school age model the behaviour you want them to have by showing them how to put their clothes and toys away. They’ll take the easiest route to getting a result, so make sure you design storage within reach and that it’s inventive and doesn’t need a map to navigate.

Look at things like colourful pegs, coat hangers, fabric bags, plastic crates and cardboard boxes, hanging rails and open bins. Whatever you do, don’t confuse creativity with chaos; encourage order by having designated areas in the bedroom for games and toys, reading and books, clothes and bed. Remember storage should be flexible as it has to adapt and grow with the child, from toddler to teen to young adult.

Set the rules. It’s not only about learning to keep their room tidy; children have to tow the line in your domain, too.

Keep a stylish serving tray with handles on the coffee table. Make sure your kids know to return the remotes and drinking glasses to this place Place an attractive box or plastic crate by the front door and demand that your children put their shoes in there, instead of kicking them off in the living room.

Most children’s clothes are better suited to folding than neatly hanging on a rail, however a great idea for the time-poor teen, is to simply have them put their T-shirts and jeans, shoes and underwear in pull-out crates stacked on open shelves.

Keeping law and order in the family realm is rather liberating, but keep in mind there’s always room to grow.

Summer fashion is in the air You are now invited to take a moment and have a think about your summer wardrobe. Summer is a great time to get creative with colour and show off your favourite style.

If you’re confused by brights or mesmerised by metallics, here is some information that can point you in the right direction.

For black devotee’s – Remember black isn’t a colour; it is an absence of colour, which makes it the hardest to wear. To escape wearing black try other dark colours, work out which one suits your skin tone best by holding them up to your face and seeing which one make your complexion look best. Try wearing different hues and textures of the colour together.

When it comes to exposing knees or various skirt lengths for women over 40 it really depends on how good their legs are and how confident of them they are.

If you want to wear shorter skirts but don’t feel confident about your legs, then leggings are a great way to cover them up.

Are we too old for thongs? What footwear should we look towards for summer?

Flip flops are great for a beach holiday and relaxing at the weekend, but to make your outfit that bit more special, giving you a more elegant walk and a bit of height, what about wearing a pair of wedges?

They are more stable than high heels, so much more comfortable and easier to walk on, plus they lengthen the legs tenfold.

In terms of body shape the rule with patterns, geometrics included are always the same. Wear the patwww.themonitor.com.au

tern; don’t let the pattern wear you. Larger chested ladies should still to smaller prints and beware of bolder prints.

Thursday, January 28, 2010 – Page 13

LIFESTYLE

Book Reviews Go with the Flow What an apt title for any account of travel with Rex Ellis.

Rex’s tales of the outback will give you the wish to see and experience the real Australia yourself.

A book more wide ranging that an emu on steroids, Go with the Flow in keeping with the author’s other five books, describes some of the more unusual safaris that Ellis has operated – along with a few outback practical jokes and voices his frustrations with the government and the bureaucracy, inaction and ineptitude that is impeding social and environmental development.

Join Rex on boat trips down flooded inland rivers and meet those who travel with him. Experience the trials and wonders of treks by camel, or on foot, through harsh, remote and challenging Australian countryside.

Rex’s entertaining anecdotes are interwoven with unique insights into his passions, which include Peugeot cars and birds of prey; and he introduces the readers to his amusing forays into the world of multi-level marketing and tourism awards, as well as offering insider information on

the hoax that was the Nullarbor nymph.

We are also reminded on the harsh reality that is the outback in summer in the tragedy of the Page family.

Anyone who has spent time out in the bush – or who dreams to- will find much to learn and wonder at in the pages of this Rex Ellis book. The outback is either right there with you, or never far away.

The former owner of the Birdsville Pub back in the 1970’s inland boat safaris became a specialty after Rex made the first and only crossing of Lake Eyre by boat during the 1974 floods. Since then he has followed most of the inland’s flooding rivers and after pioneering long haul desert camel expeditions Rex has crossed all the Australia deserts.

When not travelling or writing, Rex plants native trees and pursues his interest in wildlife, in particular, birds.

Rex Ellis’ other books include Bush Safari, Mulga Madness, Outback by Camels, Ten Thousand Campfires, Boats in the Desert and Map of the Australian Deserts.

For many reading Rex’s tales of the outback will give you the wish to see and experience the real Australia for yourself.

‘Beat the heat’ in Roxby

By Celeste Lustosa

She also told The Monitor that last week one of the

brought a cake and took the opportunity to Summertime in Roxby Downs can be a pretty mothers celebrate her daughter’s birthday. stressful time for parents as the heat is on and the So, if you missed the ‘Beat the Heat’ activities this sumkids are on holidays from school. mer, you can catch up next summer.

Apart from that, many of the activities in town can be closed for up to seven weeks and that leaves parents without options of activities for the children.

The Community Health Services have been providing a fun option, at no cost, for the Roxby residents to ‘Beat the Heat’.

‘Beat the Heat’ activities happen on Wednesdays, from 9 to 11am, at the Lion’s Park. Everyone is welcome to join, there’s no cost, no bookings needed; all you have to do to participate is come along with the kids and let them have a good time while you can catch up with other parents.

“We try to get everyone out before it gets too hot on the day,” said Jo Culf, Coordinator, Strengthening Our Families and Welcome Projects from Roxby Downs Health Services.

Mrs Culf also said that although the ‘Beat the Heat’ activities are finished for this year, they will happen again next year.

“This year, there was very little happening in town during the summer holidays and parents approached us to help them find things for the children to do.

“This is also an opportunity for everyone to get together, it’s very relaxed and we bring balls for the kids to play and give them a couple of activities to do,” Mrs Culf said.

Tips & Warnings about summer heat: • Shade makes a difference! If you need to be in the sun for a long time, wear a visor or light sun-hat.

• Light shoes are necessary for ultimate cooling.

Avoid boots and high-tops. If your feet are cool, so are you!

• A cool dip in the pool is a great way to cool off- and great exercise!

• ALWAYS wear sunscreen when you are going to be exposed to the sun's rays. Even a short time in the sun can cause sunburns.

• Overcast days don't always mean you can't burn. Wear that sunscreen!

• If you are feeling faint, nauseous, weak or disoriented, seek medical help immediately. Hyperthermia and heat-stroke are serious, and can lead to illness and even death.

Aston, Charlize and little Teliqua having a ball at the recent “Beat the Heat Day at the Lions Park.

Page 14 – Thursday, January 28, 2010

www.themonitor.com.au

THE MONITOR – Your Community Newspaper

‘New Year in Your Ear’ winners

By Celeste Lustosa Roxby residents were invited to nominate their 5 favourite songs from 2009 to go in the running to win a number of great prizes last year. The ‘New Year in your Year was promoted by RoxFM. The winners were: 1st Prize: 3 Day Double Pass To Womadelaide 2010 and a Guitar Hero 5 Pack, donated by RoxFM and The Roxby Downs Club, went to Amber Goldsworthy-Spiers;

LIFESTYLE

2nd Prize: A Classic Collectables Holden Car, donated by Autopro Roxby Downs, went to Kellie Falkinder; 3rd Prize: Tennis Pack, donated by Sportspower Roxby Downs, went to Sheree Moroney; 4th Prize: Entertaining Pack, donated by Roxby Hourglass Jewellers, went to Cath Keller; 5th Prize: RoxFM Pack, donated by RoxFM went to Krista Sutton.

RoxFM congratulates all the winners!

Call for more apprentices

R

eports of skills shor tages on the horizon has prompted a move by a training group to ask employers to hire apprentices in preparation.

Ai Group chief executive Heather Ridout this week urged employers to take advantage of Federal Government incentives supporting apprentices, to assist in the economic recovery.

“While skill shortages were less evident during the global economic and

financial crisis, as we start to see a return to growth it’s clear that the shortages were just below the surface,’’ Ms Ridout said.

“Our research has shown that during the coming year, skills shortages are anticipated for a range of key occupations,’’ she said.

Ai Group SA director Stephen Myatt said South Australian businesses had indicated skills shortages were inevitable in areas such as electrical trades, mechanical engineering and fabrication.

“I think manufacturing

is coming out of what has been a pretty tough 12 months, but all the data we are getting from our members is showing that in their view there will be skills shortages,’’ he said.

“On the horizon we have a number of new big projects; the Air Warfare Destroyers, the upgrade of Olympic Dam and a number of infrastructure projects so now is the time to take people on.’’

Two killed in the Far North

T

wo people have died after the car they were travelling in rolled in South Australia’s far north.

The deaths take the state’s road toll so far this year to 14 - more than three times what it was at this time last year.

Police on Sunday said the crash occurred about 22km south of Marla about 3pm (CDT) on Saturday.

A silver Toyota Lexcen sedan travelling north along the Stuart Highway left the road and rolled several times.

The driver of the car - a 40-year-old man from the Northern Territory - died, as did a 39-year-old woman from the Ernabella Community near the Territory border.

THE MONITOR – Your Community Newspaper

www.themonitor.com.au

Thursday, January 28, 2010 – Page 15

EMPLOYMENT/CLASSIFIEDS FOR SALE

FOR SALE

FOR SALE

TENT SALE Big discounts + Free Freight to Roxby Downs. Full range of Camping & 4WD gear at www. kampers.com.au 03 5024 2200 MITSUBISHI Triton Dual Cab 4x4, 2.5lt GARAGE SALE Turbo Diesel, 5 speed, 152, 000kms. Reg. 9 Mulgaria Crescent, S392-AEB. $5,000 Roxby Downs Sat, o.n.o. Phone: 0427 Jan 30th. 9am to 727 458 noon. Some items include: Dish Washer, Portable Airconditioner, Swimming Pool, Hand Tools, Gas Bottle, Roses, Banana Palms, Other plants, Double bed base and mattress, Sheets, Clothes, Side HOLDEN Commodore Board (under frog), Equipe VYII 2004, Cane Baskets, CD 93,000 km, 3.8L 4 Holder. speed automatic.

Registered til May 2 0 1 0 S 7 6 0 - A B W, ACCOMMODATION excellent condition.

One owner. Car comes A D E L A I D E w w w. with full service history. Additional tinting, seacroftapartment. com.au Semaphore upholstery protection. $85 per night. Phone $12, 900 o.n.o. Call: 0425 355 355 0412 106 646.

TOYOTA Landcruiser 4 wheel drive. Dual fuel, good tyres. Well maintained motor. Very reliable. Reg S336 AEB $5,500 o.n.o.Phone: 0458 595 446 GOT something to buy or sell? Then you can’t beat The Monitor for value and coverage.

Phone our office today on 8671 2683.

DIRECTOR The Roxby Early Learning Community Group is a community based, not for

GENERAL goods for sale - Farmers Ramps FREECYCLE large tilting and portIRONING Board, Good able - Versatile as they Condition. Phone: 8671 suit car, ute or 4wd.

2068 Portable, strong- new stock has just arrived 8 sets only. Be quick ph FOR SALE 0408877769.

profit organisation. We are a DECS licensed facility, providing educational programs for 3-year-old children. We are seeking an enthusiastic, motivated and experienced qualified childcare DIRECTOR who is interested in becoming employed with our fun, supportive and dedicated team. Potential candidates will be required to hold a Diploma of Community Services - ChildCare or equivalent, current first aid and mandatory notification training.

The program operates on Monday, Tuesday & Thursday within school terms. The position is part-time, approximately 20 hours per week.

Please direct enquires to 0439 683 609.

FRESH eggs for sale, Roxby area $3 doz. Ph 8671 1373.

Please send a cover letter and current C.V., outlining your qualifications and experience to: RELCG PO Box 196 Roxby Downs

Situations Vacant 2003 Ford Falcon Futura Wagon. Ex. Condition, perfect family car. Six cylinder semi automatic. Rego expires January 2010.

Reg. XKK-799. $11,200 ono. Phone 0439 864 059

SA 5725 Closing Date: Friday 29th January 2010

AGENTS REQUIRED INTERNET MARKETING Dynamic Company “Work from Home”. Flexible hours - ground floor opportunity. earn $2,000+ per week. Ph: 0431 176 818

Page 16 – Thursday, January 28, 2010

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THE MONITOR – Your Community Newspaper

Roxby home by 47 runs in Association game

R

oxby Districts scored a comfortable 47 run victory over a Mount Maurice representative side in their 45-over encounter at Woomera Oval on Saturday evening.

A Man of the Match performance by Jason Carroll saved the home side after a shaky start against a dogged bowling attack and some brilliant fielding by the visitors.

Sensational catches by Myles McCallum and Jordan Authur gave Kieran Blackwell two early wickets and after Ryan Selkirk and Adam Willis departed the “Wedgies” were looking down the barrell at 4/35.

Allan Woolford scored a quickfire 27 but chased one wildish delivery too many and was snapped up by keeper Scott Kuerschner off the bowling of McCallum.

The score stood at 5/65 when Carroll came to the crease and without addition to the score Adrian Boulton’s patient innings of 9 ended when he holed out to Foulis to give Paul Authur his second wicket.

This brought Craig Wilson to the middle with 24 overs left to bat and only four wickets in hand and Mount Maurice in the box seat The batting pair had other ideas and put on a face saving 89 runs in 20 overs before Carroll on 59 was bowled by Damian Smith.

Wilson who continued on to post 36 runs and Ross Mill 11 not out (with some help from the tail enders) lifted the final total to 9/177 at the end of 45 overs.

Mount Maurice bowled and fielded particularly well all night but were unable to break the crucial partnership that got the home side out of jail.

The wickets taken were shared with Smith, Paul Authur, Blackwell and Foulis all taking two wickets each and McCallum one.

The visitors needed four runs per over to win and opened with Tyson and Jordan Authur against a new ball attack of Boulton and Toby Ferguson.

Tyson Authur was the first to go caught behind by Randall Wyatt off Ferguson followed by Kuerschner (c Wyatt b Joel Nicholson) with both batsmen only managing seven runs each.

Wyatt made it three catches in a row when Jordan Authur fell to the bowling of Nicholson for a well made 28 and Mount Maurice were 3/61 after 20 overs.

The visitors were unable to post worthwhile partnerships and lift the run rate as Roxby Districts did and lost momentum as wickets fell steadily during the remainder of the innings.

SPORT

Carroll claimed three middle order wickets including the important scalp of Mick Skull in concededing only 21 runs from nine overs to compliment his batting effort.

Ryan Selkirk and Willis mopped up the lower order and Mount Maurice were all out for 130 in 43.3 overs.

Kym McEvoy umpired the whole match from the non-strikers end in another stirling effort for local cricket.

SCOREBOARD Roxby Districts Moroney c McCallum b Blackwell ...

6 Wyatt c J Authur b Blackwell ...........

4 Selkirk c O’Dea b P Authur ..............

16 Willis b Foulis...................................

1 Woolford c Kuerschner b McMullan 27 Boulton c Foulis b P Authur .............

9 Carroll b Smith ................................

59 Wilson c O’Dea b Smith ..................

36 Mill not out .......................................

11 Ferguson b Foulis ...........................

2 Nicholson not out ...........................

2 Sundries ..........................................

4 Total ................................................ 9/177

Bowling: Foulis 9-0-2/30 Blackwell 9-12/30 P Authur 9-2-2/25 McCallum 6-0-1/22 T Authur 5-0-0/22 J Authur 4-0-0/26 Smith 3-0-2/21

Mount Maurice Authur T c Wyatt b Ferguson ..........

7 Authur J c Wyatt b Nicholson ..........

28 Kuerschner c Wyatt b Nicholson .....

7 Skull b Carroll ..................................

21 O’Dea c Nicholson b Carroll ............

14 Slee c & b Willis ..............................

8 Smith c Willis b Carroll ....................

7 Blackwell c Willis b Selkirk ..............

28 McCallum c Nicholson b Selkirk ......

8 Foulis not out ..................................

0 Authur P b Willis . ............................

0 Sundries ..........................................

2 Total ................................................ 130

Bowling: Boulton 6-0-0/20 Ferguson 7-21/17 Nicholson 5-0-2/13 Woolford 8-0-0/22 Carroll 9-2-3/21 Willis 6.3-0-2/27 Selkirk 20-2/9

Man of the Match - Jason Carroll (Roxby Districts)

Jason Carroll was named man of the match after top scoring with 59 and was the best with the ball grabbing three wickets for 21in a fine all round performance.

WHAT’S ON sports MONDAY FITBALL -Pulse Fitness - 9:00am - 10am KARATE - Auditorium - 6:00pm - 8:30pm

THURSDAY X-TRAINER - Pulse Fitness - 6:00pm - 7pm

TUESDAY

FORTHCOMING SPORTS

BUTTS AND GUTS - Pulse Fitness - 9:00 - 10am

SPEEDWAY - First meeting Feb 6 Night meeting SPEEDWAY - State Titles March 5, 6 and 7 SPEEDWAY - March 20 night meeting TENNIS - Summer season recommences January 30 and 31 ADELAIDE CUP - March 8

PILATES/YOGA - Pulse Fitness - 6:00pm - 7pm TOUCH FOOTY - Town Oval - 7:00pm - 9:00pm

WEDNESDAY PILATES/YOGA - Pulse Fitness - 9:00am - 10am KARATE - Auditorium 6:00pm - 9.00pm

THE MONITOR – Your Community Newspaper

IF you have sporting events you would like included in this section please phone Lauren on 8671 2683

www.themonitor.com.au

Thursday, January 28, 2010 – Page 17

SPORT Jason Bretomes spots for Andrew Roberts at the gym in Roxby last week.

Exercise safely this summer With summer here, anybody who is active needs to prepare for the hot conditions or run the risk of heat injury, warns Sports Medicine Australia.

Exercising or playing sport in hot or humid conditions can lead to dehydration, heat illness and sometimes the more serious consequence of heat stroke.

Sports Physician and Sports Medicine Australia spokesperson, Dr David Bolzonello says heat injuries can be avoided, if the right precautions are taken.

“Heat illness is a serious matter that can result in the life-threatening condition of heat stroke, if left untreated.

While people need to exercise regularly to stay healthy, they should take certain precautions if exercising in a hot or humid environment,” said Dr Bolzonello.

“Those exercising need to know what can contribute to heat illness, such as high air temperature, heavy clothing, high humidity, lack of fitness and high exercise intensity.

They should also know the symptoms of heat illness – light-headedness, nausea, headache, confusion, not sweating, and aggressive or irrational behaviour.

“Knowing how to prepare for heat illness, what causes it and what to look out for will help people avoid it,” said Dr Bolzonello.

Children may also be at a greater risk due to their bodies responding less efficiently to heat, feeling hotter and having greater difficulty getting rid of heat from their body.

To help active children and adults exercise safely this summer, Sports Medicine Australia offers these timely tips:  Stay hydrated by drinking water before, during and after exercise.  Schedule activity to avoid the hottest part of the day.  Take rest breaks, in the shade if possible.  Wear light coloured, lightweight and loose fitting clothing that allows easy evaporation of sweat from the skin. Wear sunglasses, 30+ sunscreen and a hat.  Reduce the duration and intensity of a warm up to minimise an increase in body heat and temperature.  Do not take part in strenuous activity if you have recently experienced a high temperature, infection, diarrhoea or vomiting.  If you have a medical condition such as asthma, diabetes, a heart problem, epilepsy or obesity, are taking medication, or are pregnant; you may experience difficulties exercising in the heat. If unsure you should seek advice from a sports medicine professional.  Persons suffering from heat illness can recover rapidly with assistance – laying down in a cool place, removing excess clothing, wetting skin or using ice packs, and drinking cool water. However if symptoms do not improve, seek medical assistance.

Kimba Cup increase to $20,000

Miners serious about Flag in 2010

The 2010 Kimba Cup will be run at Port Lincoln on Sunday, March 21st .

It is an eight event card featuring the $20,000 Kimba Cup, a speciality race of $10,000 and six races of $8,000.

The Club is currently offering patrons the opportunity of booking marquees from a low price of $90.00, which includes entry and an extensive range of fine food, beer, wine and soft drinks.

For the experts of fine wines and country killed meats there will also be a beef steak and burgundy marquee complimented with seafood, cheese and green and, of course, cold beer and soft drinks at a cost of $120.00 per head.

Kimba Cup Day dovetailing into the Port Lincoln racing carnival owners and trainers have a great opportunity to bring horses over and reap some of the good rewards.

As usual, all the normal facilities will be available and there will be plenty of activities to entertain the children too.

For further information, please contact the Kimba Secretary Bud Woolford on 0408 894 863 or Kimba President Bill Butterfield on 0427 375 094.

The Roxby Downs footballers have hit the track running with the Miners being the first club to start preseason training this year. In the early days of January the players took it upon themseves to get organised and a couple of weeks ago were attracting as many as 20 players to the trainings.

The Miners are serious about going one better this year and with a good pre-season hope the premiership that has eluded them for the past two years can be achieved in 2010.

To advertise here call SALES on 08 8671 2683 Page 18 – Thursday, January 28, 2010

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THE MONITOR – Your Community Newspaper

SPORT

Roxby swimmers blitz state swim meet . . .

Julia is new State Champion

S

By Millie Thomas

urrounded by red dirt, with no coastline for over 200km, it is hard to imagine a young Ian Thorpe or Libby Trickett coming from our community.

The results from the recent South Australian Country Championships swimming meet at Loxton in the Riverland would be enough, however, to convince you otherwise.

The team consists of Alex Lowe (Club Captain) Billy Weltner (Club Captain) Julia Weltner (Deputy Vice Captain) Tori McGauchie, Flo Moraga, Cat Moraga, Matthew Lowe, Phillipa Weltner (Coach) Tony McGauchie (Coach) and Wendy Lowe (team manager).

There were a lot of excellent results at the swim meet, with nearly all swimmers achieving their personal best recorded times, some by as many as a few seconds. An excellent result, especially whilst performing under the pressure of a state competition.

Julia Weltner excelled, becoming South Australian champion for 11/U 100m butterfly with a time of 1:30.80. This was five seconds fastest than she had ever swum butterfly before. Julia has been swimming competitively for about four or five years.

“The swimmers who did not make the finals did an amazing job” said Phillipa Weltner, the team’s coach. “Our club had the youngest competitor in the event -Matthew Lowe competing at age 9. He was able to contest with swimmers two years older than him and even beat a few of them.”

There were several other commendable results within the team; Billy Weltner - 12 -13 yrs 100m Butterfly (Placing

5th) in a time of 1:27.57 - 12 -13 yrs 100m Breaststroke (Plac

ing 6th) in a time of 1:41.87 - 13/U 200m Individual Medley (Plac

ing 7th) in a time of 3:10.17 Julia Weltner

- Female 11/U 100m Freestyle

(Placing 5th) in a time of 1:20.29 - Female 11/U 100m Butterfly

(Placing 1st) in a time of 1:30.80 Flo Moraga - Female 11/U 100m Backstroke

(Placing 7th) in a time of 1:39.00 Tori McGauchie - 16 - 17yrs 100m Backstroke

(Placing 7th) in a time of 1:29.19 The dedication of the swimmers, coaches and organisers alike enables the opportunity for these young swimmers to have a fighting chance against clubs who are closer to more modern facilities and to the swim meets themselves, which can be held from Berri to Port Pirie – not including interstate competitions.

Julia is going down to boarding school in Adelaide next year in year eight. “If I could continue swimming competitively after school I would”, said Julia. Hopefully with the opportunities that boarding schools offer, this will be possible.

Coach with experience for The Magpies

By Millie Thomas Shane Moroney, family man, mentor, coach. As the new coach for the Hornridge footy club, Shane brings his experience in footy, which spans decades.

With 263 A grade games and 96 B grade games, as well as years of coaching on the west coast, Shane hopes to bring something different to the team.

So much is Shane’s dedication to Hornridge that at age 50 last year, he jumped in and played a couple of games when the team was short.

Another indication of Shane’s dedication to footy is the life membership he was awarded back on the west coast, where he lived before moving to Roxby two years ago.

When Shane moved here with his family, he started supporting Hornridge mainly because his son, Wayne, had started playing for them. However, his daughter at one stage played for the mini minors, and Wayne also plays cricket for OD, so there is no prejudice against the other teams, just healthy competition.

Wayne works for Heading contractors and really likes living up here in Roxby. “I find the people to be really good, they like their sport, and are good mates off the field as well, which is what I like to see.”

Shane was assistant coach last year, and saw the team through a heartbreaking loss to Roxby Districts in the early stages of the finals. “Roxby were too good that day… it did hurt us.”

What is surprising about Shane, who both he and his family live, eat and breath sport is that before coming up to Roxby he had vowed to retire from the sport when he first moved here. This vow was quite obviously short lived, and as soon as he became involved in supporting Hornridge, he realised that footy would be a large part of his life that he would miss.

Craig Barber has attained the role as assistant coach. “He’s really keen, and has initiated training whilst I’ve been away,” said Shane.

THE MONITOR – Your Community Newspaper

Woomera & Districts Football League Inc. The Woomera & Districts Football League is calling for BAR and CANTEEN Tenders for the 2010 football season.

All correspondence to: The Secretary of the W&DFL PO Box 330, Roxby Downs, 5725 Or email: woomeradistricts@sanfl.com.au

Tenders close 26th February 2010.

The W&DFL is also seeking scoreboard attendants, gate keepers and boundary and field umpires. www.themonitor.com.au

Thursday, January 28, 2010 – Page 19

SPORT www.themonitor.com.au

Phone (08) 8671 2683

Fax (08) 8671 2843

Scott Humphries named Australia Day Sportsperson of the Year Roxby’s Scott Humphries was announced as the Australia Day Sportsperson of the Year at the annual Australia Day Awards held at the pool on Tuesday.

Scott’s outstanding contribution to the local sporting community is highlighted by his implementation of the Triathlon and the Desert Dash Fun Run. Both events not only benefit local competitors, but have also given the town and region great exposure with both events sanctioned by State organisations and attracting people from all over the State.

Scott organised the first event in 2007 and now is working on the third event to be held in March this year. The success of past events are a testament to Scott’s exceptional organisational skills, his passion for sport and his underpinning knowledge of sporting dynamics.

The Roxby Downs Swim Club, The Roxby Raptors Cycling Club and the Hash House Harriers Running Club are all invited to contribute by Scott who miraculously is not only the chair of the organising committee, but also the Race Director on the day and a coach for participants throughout the lead up and helps by preparing training programs for people racing in the event.

Scott enjoys running and cycling himself and sacrifices his own desire to compete locally and hosts the event instead allowing others to enter, this means he often travels out of town, to places such as Adelaide and Port Lincoln to compete in Triathlons himself.

With the success of the Triathlons, Scott also scoped the community and identified the want from people in town for a Fun Run. Hence the Desert Dash was born in 2009, which exceeded initial estimates of 100 participants with over140 people taking part. This is also on the Roxby Downs Calender for an annual event.

As any community volunteer would appreciate it takes enormous patience and an enormous personal contribution to take on arranging events such as these.

Roxby Downs and anyone with a desire to have a go have been the real winners from the contribution that Scott Humphries has made to the Sporting Community.

Jack is a junior sports star

Jack Daly is Roxby’s Junior Sportsperson of the year

Football and Basketball are the two main passions of the Roxby’s latest Junior Sportsperson of the Year.

Jack Daly was presented with the honour of being named the Australia Day award recipient last Tuesday after an outstanding year in 2009.

After being in the Roxby team which won the grand final of the Regional SAPSASA competition the young sports star was selected to play in the State team which played at the National Championships at Maroochydore. Jack was so popular among his peers his was named vice captain of the SA team which played in the grand final against eventual winners, Victoria.

But football is just one area where Jack excels.

After showing great potential in the local area for his skills in Basketball, Jack through his dedication and extra training was selected in the State Junior Basketball team which in the past week was competing in the National Country Basketball Championships at Albury.

A wonderful winner who has a promising sporting career ahead.

Justin Clements is changing lives of troubled young people

Boxing champ in town

J

By Celeste Lustosa

ustin Clements was only 12 years-old when he began boxing in England, where he was born.

But his outstanding skills were recognised by Australian professionals and he was invited to fight representing Australia in a championship in 1996.

The professional boxer has done pretty amazing things in his career, which includes two Aussie titles, lots of wins in England and Australia, and also knocking out opponents in only second rounds.

He has been in Roxby Downs for only four weeks and he started his heavy training as he wants to make a come back this year.

“I want to get back to the ring and retire as a champion,” he says.

If he wins the Australian championship this year, he will be a champion for the third time.

But the most impressive part of Justin’s life is not what he does to his opponents in the ring, but how he has been helping children change their lives through sport.

“I was training aboriginal children and teenagers in the Northern Territory, where I lived, before moving to Roxby and just trying to guide them to a healthy path, linked with sports.”

According to Justin, his work with youth was to help them control their anger and get self discipline.

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“My main goal was to help these kids keep out of trouble.

“With some guidance everyone can go along the long way, be successful and happy. With sports, you can achieve that and also be healthy and fit.”

Justin also told The Monitor he wants to keep helping children here in Roxby. All the training he provides is as a volunteer and all he needs is the proper place to do it.

“I want to help people and many think that boxing is about violence, but like every other sport is mostly about discipline.

“What I teach the children is how to talk through their problems, as well as work on their confidence in themselves and how to protect themselves.”

The champion said that boxing can also help women protect themselves, and it is obviously a good way to get and keep fit and toned.

He also guarantees that boxing can be great fun.

“It’s all about making the practise of the sport as enjoyable as possible and I think boxing can be fun.”

After interviewing Justin, I realised he has an amazing successful story, as he said he was a ‘troubled kid’ but turned the tables around and became a champion and an inspiration to many of the children he helped along the way.

He made what we could call a violent sport into a career and a way to help people.

“I am not after the money, I want to help people and put something back to the sport that changed my life around.”

THE MONITOR – Your Community Newspaper