NEWLY minted Chinchilla Race Club president Jo Rayner quipped to the Caller that “women make the world go around”, and that may well be true.
One thing is for certain, and that’s that women will make the horses go around when the club next month hosts another of its highly anticipated TAB race meetings.
In a proud display of country girl power the Chinchilla Race Club recently formed a committee made up entirely of women, and they’re taking on the task of continuing the town’s strong racing tradition with the same enthusiasm that Gai Waterhouse takes on a well bred two-year-old filly.
Chinchilla Race Club president Jo Raynor, secretary Michelle Gittoes, treasurer Kimberly Merritt, fashions on the field coordinator Tracey Handley, bar and catering manager Kylie Hindle and vice president Christine Merritt. IMAGE: Country Caller
The Chinchilla Race Club will hold the second of its two annual TAB meetings on Monday, May 17.
The first was held last month, and Raynor said the new and relatively inexperienced all-female committee had a successful first start.
“It was really hectic but we had a really great day, and a successful day,” Raynor said.
“I’m very lucky to have a really good, supportive committee. Although everybody’s very new to the job, everybody’s jumped in and helped where they can and everyone who came out to the races really seemed to enjoy the day.
“We’ve got an all female committee and we like to recognise all the women in racing in general. They do a fantastic job.
“But of course we’d love to have a few blokes to come along and get involved, if there were any around town who’d be interested in joining the committee. It’s a great club to be involved in and our big race days in November and December are a lot of fun.”
Chinchilla Race Club president Jo Raynor congratulating local trainer Rod Hay on a win (L) and thanking long-serving course caretaker Sandi Suey (R). IMAGE: Country Caller
Not only are the ladies in charge of Chinchilla racing new to their roles, some are new to racing all together, but were attracted to the club by the community spirit, excitement and theatres that country racing offers.
Raynor said TAB meetings were a valuable opportunities to showcase the strength of country racing to a national audience.
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“It’s always difficult to get people to the venue on a Monday, with everybody working, but we’re certainly been very happy with the numbers that have turned up for our TAB meeting,” she said.
“We make a bit of money across the bar and we did pretty well at the March meeting which was a bit of novice run for the new committee, so we did well.
“It’s fantastic, particularly for Chinchilla, and it’s really good for country racing that these little tracks can get that Sky Racing exposure.”
Throughbred Central racing broadcasters (L-R) Damian Courtney and Nathan Exelby. IMAGE: Country Caller
Speaking from the Chinchilla Race Club, Thoroughbred Central form analysts and racing broadcaster Nathan Exelby said Sky Racing teams always enjoyed bringing national sports programming to the bush.
“I grew up in the country and I grew up going to country race meetings. I just love them and I know what they mean to certain towns and how they bring people together,” Exelby said.
“For Sky to come out here, personally I’m loving it. They’re really nice days, driving out from Brisbane, and the racing’s always good, true to form racing.
“Country racetracks have just got a different feel to them. They got a real charm to them. They’re run by volunteer committees who do it for just the love of the game and I think people appreciate that.”
Thoroughbred action at the Chinchilla Race Club. IMAGE: Country Caller
CONTINUING to push for an ambitious regional dam project and attracting new resource development potentially in the pipeline, including nuclear energy, are part of a long term vision for the newly minted mayor of Queensland’s bustling Western Downs region.
Western Downs councillor Andrew Smith is among raft of new faces now at the helm of local government in regional Queensland, as the March council elections marked the retirement of some veteran mayors and the toppling of others in polling day upsets.
The Queensland Electoral Commission confirmed that two-term Maranoa mayor Tyson Golder has been outpolled by councillor Wendy Taylor in a shakeup which has also seen four new councillors elected to office in the Roma-based administration.
Wendy Taylor has been declared mayor of the Maranoa Regional Council, having outvoted two-term former mayor Tyson Golder
Longstanding Southern Downs mayor Vic Pennisi has been beaten by first-time independent candidate Melissa Hamilton, who won 47 percent of the vote over Pennisi’s 37 percent.
“I sensed at the outset that voters really wanted a different style of leadership and the mood for change was obvious from conversations I had during the campaign,” Hamilton said.
“I would like to thank Mr Pennisi for his 20 years of service on council. This is a long commitment not only from Mr Pennisi but also from his wife Sharon and his whole family in serving our community.”
Independent first time candidate Melissa Hamilton toppled local government veteran Vic Pennisi claim the Southern Downs mayoral office
Residents in the South Burnett region voted for experience in electing 20-year political veteran Kathy Duff, who will be officially sworn in as the region’s first female mayor. Duff takes over the role following the departure of former mayor Brett Otto.
After an extremely tight contest in the west, former Barcaldine mayor Rob Chandler will return to the region’s mayoral office having secured 45 percent of the vote over Gary Peoples’ 42 percent.
Chandler previously served as Barcaldine mayor for 16 years from 2004 to 2020. The mayor who replaced him, Sean Dillon, has vacated the role to run for the seat of Gregory in the October state election, paving the way for Chandler’s return.
Returning Barcaldine mayor Rob Chandler and incoming South Burnett mayor Kathy Duff
Final results in the Western Downs election were declared only this week but the result in the mayoral race never seemed in doubt, as Councillor Andrew Smith held a comfortable lead throughout the counting period and finished with 76 percent of the vote.
Smith’s elevation to Western Downs mayor follows the departure of high profile two-term leader Paul McVeigh, whose tenure included a period of rapid renewable energy construction, a series of natural disasters and the horrific Wieambilla shooting in 2022 which put the region in international headlines.
Smith, from a proud Condamine farming family which also owns the town’s local pub, said it was imperative for his region to continue embracing new opportunities in the energy and intensive agriculture sectors.
Western Downs mayor Andrew Smith
“I want to take this opportunity to thank our two outgoing councillors and of course the former mayor, Paul McVeigh,” Smith said.
“Paul’s done a wonderful job and I think we are benefiting from his leadership throughout the last term. He has been inspirational and I want to see the good things that we’ve been doing as a council continue.
“The leadership role is purely about leading – not only your community but leading the boardroom. I like the challenge of getting a boardroom together as a united team.
“It’s not only about solving problems but it’s also about growing our communities and then making sure that we take full advantage of the opportunities come out that come our way.
“I guess that’s what’s driven me towards wanting to be leader because I see those opportunities and I don’t want our region to let them slip by.”
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The Western Downs region has experienced rapid growth since the mid 2010s in line with the development of the coal seam gas industry, which in recent years has paved the way for the rollout of renewable energy projects.
The Dulacca Wind Farm, the Coopers Gap Wind Farm and the 400MW Western Downs Green Power Hub solar farm are among some of the larger renewable generators in the region which are now operational. Several other assets are under construction or in the planning stage.
As the debate over the suitability and viability of nuclear energy in Australia gains momentum, Smith said he’d be open to welcoming the industry in the Western Downs if opportunities presented themselves.
“There’s a lot of opportunity that’s going to come our way in regards renewables and we need to make sure that we take advantage of anything that’s good for our region,” Smith said.
The Western Downs Green Power Hub solar farm outside Chinchilla
“We don’t play a large role in renewables in regards to setting targets – that’s for the state and the federal governments – but our role is to take advantage of what’s happening, or what can potentially happen, in our region.
“We have a reputation for embracing all opportunity. Are we the experts in nuclear energy? No. Do we have a full understanding of what it might bring to our region? No. But the Western Downs embraces opportunity and if nuclear energy was good for our region then we would have certainly have a look at it.”
Smith said the Western Downs Regional Council would also be continuing to advocate for progress on the proposed Nathan Dam and Pipelines Project, which would see a 888ML dam built on the Dawson River along with a 220km pipeline to feed water throughout the Dawson, Callide and Surat Basin regions.
And artist impression of Sunwater’s proposed Nathan Dam on the Dawson River
“One of the biggest issues that we see coming our way would be water,” Smith said.
“We’ll be advocating very strongly, as the previous council has, around bulk water and that will be with regard to Nathan Dam. That’s in our sites. We’ve had already some good conversations, we’ve delivered a pre-feasibility to the minister and they’re moving forward with that.
“There’s lots of industry in the wider region now that needs water and can use water. It’s not only about coal.
“We’ll certainly discussing regularly how we can get Nathan Dam in the spotlight and hopefully one day delivered for our region.”
EASTER in the Country celebrations will be brighter than ever this year when PCYC Maranoa and Senex Energy’s annual Senex colourXplosion fun run and walk bursts into action.
Held on Easter Sunday, entrants in the Senex colourXplosion can look forward to being showered in a vibrant kaleidoscope of colours when they take to Bassett Park in droves for the 5km fun run and walk. All profits from the event support PCYC Maranoa’s youth development programs.
Designed as a true family event, entrants are encouraged to wear fancy dress to run, walk, jog or even dance their way to the finish line. All participants receive paint powder for showering family and friends so everyone crosses the finishing line more colourful than when they started.
Senex Community Relations Manager Trevor Robertson
Senex Community Relations Manager Trevor Robertson said Senex is proud to again partner with PCYC Queensland as a sponsor for the event.
“The volunteers and employees at PCYC Maranoa work tirelessly to support with our local community,” Trevor said.
“PCYC Maranoa’s delivery of vital regional youth development, crime prevention and community engagement programs that meet local community and youth needs are essential and so important to support.
The 2023 ColourXplosion at Bassett Park in Roma
“The best part of the day is that with Senex’s support, every dollar made on the event will be poured back into the Maranoa community.
“Senex is delighted to once again be supporting the greatest and the most colourful family event in the region.”
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PCYC Maranoa Manager Sergeant Dion Horn said the event is a win for anyone who gets involved whether they cross the finish line first, last or somewhere in between.
“It’s a win win event for the community, being a great opportunity for families to have a fun time and join with friends, neighbours and others all while raising vital funds to support PCYC’s work in their community,” Dion said.
“Fundraising events like the Senex colourXplosion make an invaluable difference in our local community and I’d like to extend a heartfelt thanks to those who support the event by taking part, our event sponsor Senex and our hardworking PCYC team.”
2023 SENEX COLOUR-X-PLOSION
Andrew Reeson is using community events to engage with voters. IMAGES: Supplied
A CATTLE farmer accused of killing three neighbours at the front gate of his remote North Queensland property allegedly declared he would “end this once and for all” before fetching a rifle from his ute and gunning them down in a close range, execution style killing.
New details in the case against accused triple murderer Darryl Valroy Young were heard yesterday in the Bowen Magistrates Court, more than 18 months after the 61-year-old allegedly killed his neighbours Merv and Maree Schwarz and Maree’s son, Graham Tighe.
The shooting occurred about 8am on August 4, 2022, after Mr Young allegedly called his neighbours for a meeting at the entrance to his property, Shannonvale, to resolve an ongoing, bitter dispute over a boundary fence line and accusations of cattle duffing.
Mr Young is also charged with the attempted murder of Ms Schwarz’s second son, Ross Tighe, who suffered a gunshot wound but managed to escape and raise the alarm before being airlifted to Mackay Hospital.
The court heard Ross Tighe still has a bullet lodged in his abdomen and suffers severe Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder from seeing his mother, brother and stepfather gunned down at the boundary of their property.
“The prosecution brief clearly makes out that this meeting was, in effect, a meeting at the front gate of Mr Young’s property to sort out some rather significant differences that had arisen,” defence barrister Douglas Wilson said.
“It wasn’t a meeting that any of the parties would have expected, on the police or Crown material, to be one of a normal chat with a neighbour over the fence. It was a dispute that was to be sorted out.”
The court heard Mr Young was initially met at the Shannovale front gate about 7.30am by two engineering contractors, who’d arrived to resume carrying out surveying work for a prospective wind farm project in the area.
(L-R) Graham Tighe, Maree Schwarz and Merv Schwarz
Graham and Ross Tighe arrived in one vehicle about 7.45am and Merv and Maree Schwarz arrived in a separate vehicle about 7.55am.
“It is alleged that there was some discussion between the parties and at the conclusion of the discussion it is alleged the defendant says ‘I will end this once and for all’,” police prosecutor Sgt Emma Myors told the court.
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“It is alleged the defendant then retrieved a firearm from his vehicle and continued to shoot and kill victims Mervyn Shwarz, Maree Schwarz and Graham Tighe, and injure witness Ross Tighe in the abdominal region.
“It is alleged that five rounds were fired. It is alleged that none of the victims had a firearm with them. Witness Ross Tighe, who was injured, initially hid and then fled in the vehicle he attended the location in”.
The front gate of Darryl Young’s property, Shannonvale, where he allegedly killed his three neighbours. IMAGE: Country Caller
Sgt Myors said Ross Tighe was met by a contract cattle musterer who was working for the Tighe-Schwarz family at the time on their property, which is named Sutherland.
She said the police were made aware of the shooting about 9am and that Mr Young was arrested on Shannonvale about 5pm.
“Police conducted a search of the property and the firearm that was used in the shooting was not recovered,” she said.
Map showing the location of cattle station Shannonvale
“Police located four fire cartridge cases at the scene in the immediate vicinity of deceased victims.
“Later, during police searches, police located one spent cartridge in the defendant’s dwelling. In the same search police also located a partial packet of unspent ammunition in the defendant’s car.
“The four fire cartridges that were located at the scene have been ballistically matched to the one spent cartridge located in the defendant’s dwelling, which had been fired from the same gun.”
The boundary fence line at the centre of the dispute between Darryl Young and his alleged murder victims. EXCLUSIVE IMAGE: Country Caller
Mr Young’s lawyers are making an application to cross examine Ross Tighe, the sole survivor and only eye witness to the shooting, when the case reaches a Magistrates Court committal hearing.
Defence barrister Douglas Wilson said the cross examination would relate to “the state of the relationship between the parties, particularly the accused, the deceased persons and Mr Ross Tighe before and on the day of the alleged incident occurring.”
“We’re seeking to obtain a higher degree of specificity … on the conversations and actions of the accused, the deceased persons and Mr Ross Tighe immediately before and during the incident,” Mr Wilson said.
“Mr Ross Tighe is an essential witness in this case. He is an eye witness to a very, very significant set of charges and there are very significant consequences for Mr Young if he is convicted.
Alleged shooting victim Ross Tighe and his partner, Kaitlyn. IMAGE: GoFundMe
“He is in the position to be able to give evidence in relation to the background or relationship between the parties and the disputes that existed at the time of the alleged commission of these offences.
“If I could be so bold as to say he is the principal prosecution witness and he is certainly the only eye witness that the prosecution has.”
Police prosecutor Sgt Emma Myors said it would be an unnecessary “fishing expedition” for the defence to cross examine Ross Tighe because the three statements he’d provided to police on the day of the shooting, the day after the shooting and a month after the shooting were “entirely consistent”.
“His version is also corroborated by the physical evidence found at the scene, that being the location of the spent casings, the location of his hat, the location of each body of his deceased family members and the location of the vehicles that were used to travel to the incident location,” she said.
Shooting victim Ross Tighe with his partner, Kaitlyn. IMAGE: Facebook
“This information has been sought and covered in detail and it has remained consistent in each account given by this witness.
“To then have the victim cross examined in relation to these matters on information that has already been given it can only be described as a dress rehearsal (for Mr Young’s trial).
“This is a fishing expedition just to illicit some information that may or may not be useful to them (the defence) and in my submission is that is not a substantial ground in the interests of justice.”
Dt Snr Sgt Chris Eaton (right) outside Bowen Magistrates Court with relatives of Merv Schwarz, Maree Schwarz and Graham Tighe. IMAGE: Country Caller
Sgt Myors said cross examination would likely trigger Ross Tighe, who has been diagnosed with severe post-traumatic stress disorder.
“This is a man who witnessed the alleged mass murder of his mother, his step father and his brother and he has a permanent physical reminder of this incident on the day.
“There is a bullet that remains lodged in his body that cannot be removed.
“I have two doctors that can attest to this victim’s diagnosis of severe post traumatic stress disorder as a result of this incident, which would be seriously aggravated if he is required to be cross examined.”
Barrister Douglas Wilson said if the application was successful, the defence would agree to cross examine Mr Tighe in a closed court, in the absence of Darryl Young.
The court has reserved its decision on the application until Friday, April 12.
CLOSING the knowledge and skills gap between imagining a large public art project and seeing it delivered will be key to unlocking the transformational power of art in country Queensland, according to those already helping breathe new life into regional communities.
“The Watering Hole” mural on Thallon’s GrainCorp silos. IMAGE: Annette Green
“I think a lot of our rural communities in Queensland have a really big appetite (for art) and understand the value in having public art in their communities – I find that particularly with western Queensland communities,” Leigo (pictured below) said.
“In the competing demands of some of the regional councils we work with, I just see that the smaller the community, the more remote it is, the hungrier it is for economic opportunities and to drive tourists to the region.
“I don’t have to convince those mayors or those councillors or the staff of those councils that art is a good thing, they just get it.”
Katie Whyte is a visual artist based in Toowoomba. IMAGE: Country Caller
While demand is there, what’s often missing is where to start to turn a bold idea, into reality.
It’s an issue Toowoomba artist Katie Whyte (pictured above) is familiar with, having worked closely with regional councils including Toowoomba to add colour and character to public spaces through large mural projects.
She has also recently launched her own public art consultancy service to support regional artists as they navigate working with organisations to bring their vision to life.
“All councils that I’ve worked with are learning; they’re learning the value of public art and visual art in general and how to work with artists so that’s something that’s a work in progress,” Whyte said.
“It’s definitely changed a lot in the last few years and the process of being commissioned, design consultation right through to completing a project and the maintenance of a project, has improved greatly in the last couple of years.”
Katie Whyte’s work “Spring in the Air” on Toowoomba’s Carnival Lane. IMAGE: Supplied
Whyte credited work done by the National Association for the Visual Arts for increasing awareness of industry standards and guidelines on things like fees, but said artists like her had also been educating councils and community groups while they delivered projects.
“I think the gap between having an artist with an idea and having public art completed and in a community is a large skill set and knowledge and that’s something that is learnt,” Whyte said.
“I don’t think a lot of councils were aware of that process beforehand so I think through this growing together and working together, a lot of information has come from that.
“I think it’s wonderful when councils recognise and understand the artists in their community and their needs and understand the need for professional development.”
Local artist Katie Whyte on site at her latest Toowoomba mural “Around the bend”, corner of Neil and James Streets. IMAGE: Castle and Crown
Private businesses and developers are also being called on to consider more partnerships with artists, to help create unique tourism destinations and enriched customer experiences based on murals, sculptures or other outdoor art attractions.
Katie Whyte has worked with a wide range of businesses, including popular Toowoomba cafe Burrow.
“Quite a few years ago I approached them for a mural and they’ve been wonderful to work with,” Whyte said.
“That’s been such a big impact on my career working with them, and it’s also become iconic for them.
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“I think when businesses and artists work together and it benefits both and both are treated professionally, AKA both are paid fairly and have their rights, it’s a really beautiful process.”
Whyte told the Caller she’d recently worked with a developer to deliver a 70m long mural which had received “amazing feedback”, and it was a great example of businesses not only supporting arts and cultural stories, but contributing to a region’s greater good.
“They had such overwhelming positive, public feedback from the community, so I think getting businesses to understand that working with an artist is an asset, not just to your property but to your business identity and also how you see your business’s impact on the community.”
The FIND: Public Arts Summit was a two day event in Bundaberg. IMAGE: CQU
Last month Whyte was a guest speaker at CQUniversity’s ‘FIND: Public Arts Summit’ in Bundaberg (pictured above), where around 75 artists and stakeholders from across the state met to learn and tackle some of the challenges standing between them and a public art project in their region.
“For public art projects to get realised – to make our regional communities more vibrant, more exciting more creative places to live – we need more than just artists who are keen to do the work,” Trudi Leigo, also the event organiser, said.
“We need businesses and organisations who want to commission the artists, and that was the beautiful thing that we had those people in the room.
“We also had people who were programming public art, so we had a number of regional councils from across Queensland send staff to the event.
“Lots and lots of regional communities have a real deficit of skills and expertise when it comes to public art and we can’t address that in a two day summit, you can’t solve a problem that easily but we just hope that this is a stepping stone that launches people in the right direction.”
CAN you picture your picture winning part of a $6000 cash prize pool?
Well, there’s just days to make this a possibility with entries for the Wandoan Photo Challenge closing this Friday, March 15. (CLICK TO ENTER)
Long term sponsor Senex Energy has increased the prize money to $6000, making it the biggest prize pool ever offered in the competition’s eight-year history.
WATCH: Wandoan Photo Challenge 2024
The three new Open categories for 2024 are: Dusk till Dawn, Wild n Free and the highly anticipated Drone section which is for all photos taken with a drone.
The Small Town, Big Country category has returned for all other photos which don’t fit these categories.
The youth category of Small Town, Big Country offers $500 prize money to those 18-years-old and under.
Joint Wandoan Photo Challenge Coordinator Hope Powne encouraged everyone to throw their hat in the ring by entering the Wandoan Photo Challenge.
SLIDESHOW – Past Winners
Tania Baker – 2’s company, 3’s a crowd
Katie-Frith – Dancing in the sunlight
Georgina Dahl – sunset over hay shed
Jacinta Cummins – When you have every little girl’s dream – your own pony
Kel Kelly – afternoon stroll with Mum
Jessica Crisp – The next generation
Taylah Sharpe – Smokey Views
Chris Sinnamon- When is lunch
Troy Tomkins – Storm rolls
“It’s a great way to showcase the things that make our community so special,” Hope said said.
“We’ve had really amazing photos in previous years including action shots from the rodeo, beautiful family photos, animals, cropping, farming and all the things that really showcase and resonate with the local Wandoan region.”
Senex Community Relations Manager Trevor Robertson said Senex was delighted to sponsor the Wandoan Photo Challenge again.
“The Photo Challenge has earnt its reputation for giving locals and visitors alike the opportunity to showcase Wandoan’s great lifestyle and region,” he said.
“The Photo Challenge is a highlight of the Wandoan Show and I know everyone is looking forward to seeing this year’s shots.”
This year’s judge, Cathy Griesheimer from Toowoomba Camera House, will bring nearly three decades of experience in the photography industry to her role as judge.
The top 30 photos she shortlists will be displayed at the Wandoan Show on April 5 and 6 for people to vote for the People’s Choice prizes.
All photos must be taken within a 100 kilometres radius of Wandoan as the crow flies taken between March 25, 2023 and March 15, 2024.
WITH the Local Government Election ramping up, former Toowoomba Region Mayor Paul Antonio has thrown his support behind new candidate Trevor Manteufel’s race for Toowoomba Regional Council.
One of 27 candidates to put their name forward as a councillor for the TRC, Mr Manteufel has prioritised water security, reducing red tape, addressing the council’s service to residents and ratepayers, and improving the council’s approach to developments.
Recently Mr Antonio said he was delighted to support Mr Manteufel’s bid to become a councillor for the Council.
“He understands the regional aspects of the Toowoomba Regional Council, but in recent years, he has had a big involvement in the urban area as well. He brings a lot to the table and he is well worth supporting,” Mr Antonio said.
Since announcing his candidacy in early January, Mr Manteufel has been busy listening to residents from around Region, meeting with people from Clifton, Pittsworth, Highfields, Jondaryan, Goombungee, and Cambooya.
Trevor Manteufel announces his nomination for councillor, Toowoomba Regional Council (TRC) in the 2024 local government election.
Tuesday January 9, 2024
“A common consensus among the residents, no matter where they’re from is that they want their local government to use common sense moving forward,” Mr Manteufel said.
“Our outlying communities feel like they have been overlooked by the council, saying the services they receive are not what they used to be.
“Currently the TRC is operating at about 15 to 20 per cent under their employment capacity which is affecting all the services the council offer to residents.”
Wanting to address the Region’s water security, Mr Manteufel said he wanted to see a new dam built in the region.
“While we have a small amount of water from Wivenhoe trickling in, we need a new dam to keep up with the demand of the increasing population arriving every day,” Mr Manteufel said.
Trevor Manteufel on the campaign trail for Toowoomba Regional Council
As the Toowoomba Region continues to welcome more people each year, Mr Manteufel has been critical how the council’s approach to development over the past term.
“Some of the recent development decisions that have been made have been wrong, there is too much red tape within the TRC impeding commercial and residential developments,” he said.
“Out at the Western Downs, it’s noticeably easier for projects to be approved, bringing new homes and businesses to their region.
“Thank you Paul for your support, it’s time to bring some common sense to the Toowoomba Regional Council.”\
I am Sophie Bougoure, a first-time candidate, and I am proud to call the Western Downs my home.
Growing up in the community of Tara, I learned the values of responsibility and giving back from my family. After completing my education at Downlands College in Toowoomba, I dedicated four impactful years to serving in the Royal Australian Navy, where I developed essential skills in discipline, teamwork, and leadership.
Following my service, I sought to gain a global perspective, spending two transformative years in England. However, the Western Downs called me back, driving my involvement in various local initiatives aimed at community development.
The diminishing connection between councils and community governance post-amalgamation has been a driving force behind my decision to run as a councillor. I believe in reinstating the importance of community-driven decision-making within our councils.
I am running as a candidate for the council election because I am deeply committed to the growth and prosperity of the Western Downs. As a sixth-generation resident, I understand the region’s history, values, and challenges intimately. I believe in preserving our rich heritage while embracing progress and innovation.
Through my involvement in community events and advocacy for infrastructure improvements, I have gained a profound understanding of the needs and aspirations of our residents. I am determined to address critical issues such as employment opportunities, healthcare access, and sustainable development.
SLIDESHOW
If elected, I will work tirelessly to foster economic growth, improve community services, and protect our natural resources. My strong connection to the Western Downs and my dedication to community service make me the ideal candidate to represent this region in the council election.
Together, we can build a brighter future for the Western Downs, honouring our past while embracing progress and prosperity. With your support, I am ready to be the voice that our community needs in the council chambers.
OVER the last 6 years, Business Navigator coaches have assisted over two hundred small businesses, through tailored advice and coaching, peer networks, and workshops open to all small business in the community. Now entering its seventh year, Business Navigator Western Downs is undergoing a change of leadership.
After almost three years in the Lead Business Coach role, Paulene Rorich is stepping away from the program to embark on a well-deserved career break.
Paulene Rorich shares, “Working with small businesses in the Western Downs has been a truly fulfilling experience. I am so inspired by the talent, passion and grit of my small business clients.
They put their heart and soul into their businesses, and as a business coach, it is a real joy to see these businesses grow and succeed. I will certainly miss that.”
As the baton is passed, the program welcomes Amanda Maurice to the role of Lead Business Coach. Amanda is a familiar and respected figure in the local business community, having lived and worked in the Western Downs region for over a decade.
Her familiarity with the local business landscape positions her well to guide Business Navigator Western Downs into its next chapter.
Business Navigators incoming Lead Business Coach, Amanda Maurice
“I’m delighted to join the Business Navigator Western Downs team. I have watched the program develop and deliver great results over the years, so when I saw an opening in the team, I was keen to jump onboard”.
Behind every successful program, there’s a knowledgeable and collaborative team, and Business Navigator Western Downs is no exception: the team consists of three business professionals: a lead business coach, a generalist business coach, and a marketing advisor.
The Business Navigator Team: Suzanne Woods (Generalist Business Coach). Amanda Maurice (new Lead Business Coach) and Ailsa Cass (Marketing Advisor)
Suzie Wood, a seasoned generalist business coach, brings a wealth of experience and a knack for problem-solving to the table. Ailsa Cass, Marketing Advisor, adds a creative touch, ensuring businesses get the spotlight they deserve.
“Our team approach is about utilising our diverse skills to provide tailored advice and functional support for small businesses. From business management advice and financial analysis to specialised marketing strategies, our team has a lot to offer businesses that are ready to grow”, explains Suzie.
Ailsa Cass, who has a passion for turning businesses into brands, adds, “Marketing isn’t just about promotion; it’s about telling your unique story. We work closely with businesses to craft authentic narratives that resonate with their audience.”
Business Navigator Marking Advisor, Ailsa Cass
Amanda Maurice brings over 20 years’ diverse work experience including hospitality and events, management accounting, economic development and financial counselling, as well as qualifications in business and accounting.
Amanda’s approach to coaching blends practical wisdom with genuine care, an ideal fit for supporting businesses across the region.
The Business Navigator Program
The Western Downs Business Navigator program, an initiative of Shell QGC’s business, provides pro-bono coaching to small businesses based in the Western Downs region.
Clients engage with the Business Navigator team at various stages of their small business journey.
“Everyone starts off small. A lot of our clients are owner-operators who wear multiple hats and fill different roles within the business at one time or another,” Ailsa said.
“They’re doing the HR, the marketing, the payroll. This can have a real impact on business owners. We help them take a step back to understand what is needed for the business to thrive and grow.”
The team also works with more established clients looking to super-charge their growth, whether by employing more staff, building a better digital presence, or finding new markets for their products and services.
For many small business owners, particularly those early in their business journey, financial constraints can be an obstacle to getting the support they need to develop their business. This is the catch 22 that a pro-bono program like Business Navigator overcomes.
“We are so fortunate to have this unique program in the Western Downs. It enables growth-ready small businesses to get the support they need without the financial burden of commercial advisory services”, says Amanda.
“By removing the financial obstacle, local small business owners can experience some of the benefits of coaching”.
Five Benefits of Business Coaching
1. Improved Clarity and Direction:
Business coaching provides a dedicated space for a business owner to gain clarity on their vision and goals. Through guided conversations, a coach helps define objectives, ensuring that the business owner has a clear sense of direction. This newfound clarity minimizes ambiguity and allows the owner to make decisions that align with their overarching vision.
2. Increased confidence:
Confidence is a key attribute of successful business owners, but it doesn’t always come naturally. Many small business owners don’t consider themselves ‘business people’ and often doubt their business skills. Working with a coach boosts confidence by providing both affirmation and constructive feedback, as well as developing foundational business knowledge and skills.
3. Extra accountability and motivation:
Accountability is a powerful driver of achievement. A business coach holds the owner accountable for their goals, encouraging consistent progress. This simple notion is usually highly motivating, and many of our clients have achieved long-held goals simply based on the motivation of accountability.
4. Maintain work-life balance and well-being:
People often start small business because they want more freedom. But many small business owners end up grappling with work-life balance, leading to burnout. Business coaching assists in managing priorities and staying focussed on the original intent of the business venture. Coaches help identify areas where the business owner can delegate or streamline tasks, contributing to a healthier work-life balance. This focus on well-being is crucial for sustained success and fulfillment.
5. Experience personal and professional growth:
A business coach acts as a mentor and guide, supporting the business owner in their personal and professional development. Running a small business can be a lonely journey, particularly as a businessowner is without people who understand the challenges. A business coach help make that journey less lonely and more rewarding.
Despite the immense benefits of business coaching, there are some things to consider before launching into a coaching program.
“You need to be ready for business coaching” says Suzie.
“Along our coaching journey, we will mostly likely challenge your status quo, ask you to step out of your comfort zone, and expect you to invest in your business.
If you are at (or over!) capacity with your time, mental space, and emotional and financial resources, now might not be the best time to take on a coaching program.”
“But if you can make space for us, we’d love to help you grow.”
If you are a small business owner based in the Western Downs and you would like help growing your business, contact Amanda Maurice on amanda@navigatorwesterndowns.com.au to arrange an obligation-free discovery session.
THE announcement that a notoriously troubled rural hospital will be completely rebuilt, and the offical start of construction at two other new rural health facilities, is being welcomed by opposition MPs who say designated housing will be also crucial in addressing rural health workforce shortages.
A $150 million spending spree by Queensland Health’s Darling Downs division will include a rebuild of the Chinchilla Hospital, which is approaching 2,000 days of maternity “bypass” according to Callide MP Bryson Head.
Construction has now officially begun with ceremonial sod-turnings last week at the new $22.6 million Tara Hospital and $28.5 million Millmerran Multipurpose Health Service Facility. The government also recently announced an upgrade to the Jandowae Hospital.
WATCH: Sod-turning at new $22.6 million Tara Hospital
“I certainly welcome the announcement of any investment in healthcare in my community and rural Queensland in general, but it’s certainly been an overdue announcement,” Bryson Head said.
“There’s been problems at the Chinchilla Hospital for many years now and those problems have certainly contributed to the fact that Chinchilla still doesn’t have a maternity service.
“The government has claimed that the maternity service has been on bypass, and yet it’s been on bypass for many years which suggests to me that it’s closed.”
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Health Minister Shannon Fentiman said the new Chinchilla Hospital would provide emergency and inpatient services, specialist surgical services and community health and outreach services.
No promises have been made with regard to Chinchilla’s struggling maternity service, which made headlines in 2022 when a local mother was forced to give birth on the side of the Warrego Highway after being directed by staff to travel to Dalby.
“The new Chinchilla Hospital will be a gamechanger for this rapidly growing community,” Fentiman said.
“Making sure Queenslanders in every corner of our state have access to world class healthcare is a top priority for the Miles Government.”
Health Minister Shannon Fentiman. IMAGE: Supplied
“It’s fantastic that our significant investment towards Chinchilla will also create local jobs during construction and attract more medical professionals to the region,” Fentiman said.
Construction of the new hospital, which will be built at the same Slesser St site as the existing hospital, is scheduled to begin early next year.
Upgrades to hospitals at Laidley, Boonah, Moranbah, Cow Bay and Jandowae have also been announced under the government’s $1 billion Building Rural and Remote Health Program.
Callide MP Bryson Head. IMAGE: Country Caller
Bryson Head, whose electorate of Callide also includes Bileola where the local hospital has reached 550 days of maternity bypass, said funding to house healthcare workers was also essential.
“Part of the problem is there hasn’t been enough investment in rural health care and these facilities to encourage staff to stay there,” he said.
“Everywhere needs more accommodation, so I certainly encourage the government to consider gaps in housing for staff and ensure that that’s addressed with any new allocation of funds.”
Darling Downs Hospital and Health Service chairman Mike Horan. IMAGE: Country Caller
The new Tara Hospital development will include nine units to accommodate nursing staff and a four-bedroom house for medical and clinical staff.
Darling Downs Hospital and Health Service chairman Mike Horan said the new facility provide emergency care, palliative care, a 12-bed inpatient unit, and adult mental health, clinical and outreach services.
“I think it well help us not only with the retention of staff but also the attraction of staff at the Tara Hospital,” Horan said.
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“Just attracting doctors to some of our towns has been difficult and we have a real issue with workforce, but in the Darling downs we have kept all of our hospitals going through the use of locums. It’s incredibly expensive but we’ve been able to do it.
“In a way, the locum system is somewhat mirroring what happens in the mining industry, where people used to live and work in the communities and now there’s a tendency for people to want to live somewhere else and do two weeks on, one week off.
Speaking at the Tara Hospital sod-turning, Warrego MP Ann Leahy said addressing healthcare shortages in rural and regional areas would help to fix problems that were plaguing Queensland Health in the cities.
Warrego MP Anny Leahy. IMAGE: Country Caller
“It’s fantastic to see. This has been a project that I’ve been pushing for quite some time,” Leahy said of the Tara Hospital redevelopment.
“It’s really interesting to learn that because of the consultation that I pushed for with the local petitioners here in Tara, that they are able to get really important staff housing on site at the hospital with the redevelopment.
“That is a real game changer because we know that we’ve got those workforce challenges across there regions. It just makes it so much easier to attract staff to new facilities like this.
“I don’t think that regional health has been in the lights as much as it should be, but it means so much for actually dealing with the log jams that happen further down with ambulance ramping and things like that in Brisbane and Toowoomba.
“If we fix those problems and don’t have people having to go down to those communities, then we take the pressure off those major hospitals. That’s why things like CT scanners are so important in rural areas.”
