The Chin Wag August 19 2020

Chinchilla House N Tea 

Pre loved furniture, bubble 

tea, speciality teas, candles 

burners melts, clothes, 

shoes & much more... 

07 4665 5859 

Cnr 81 Wambo Street, Chinchilla 

Facebook: Chinchilla House N Tea 

E-mail : [email protected] 

Wednesday August 19 th , 2020 

Advertising: 0411 896 004 News Leads: 0413 727 890 

Postal: PO Box 226 Toogoolawah Q 4313 

Free in Chinchilla and the Western Downs 

Vol. 01 No. 05 

Buy & Sell 

Inside 

Public Notices 

Inside 

Western Downs 

Trade 

Directory 

Page 8 

Independently owned & 

operated publishing news 

about western downs 

issues & people 

Tricky 

Suduku 

Puzzles 

Inside 

Origin Energy has teamed up with the Chinchilla Commerce and Industry 

(CCCI) to build the economic and social health of Chinchilla and the 

surrounding regions. Pictured (L-R) Andrew Turner, Glen Fields, Robyn Haig 

and Shannon McDermott who are working to make this happen.

ZOE BELL 

[email protected] 

The Chinchilla Community 

Commerce and Industries (CCCI) 

are providing local residents to 

have their opinions heard and 

to assist them with the continual 

improvement of the liability of 

the region into the future. 

Hoping to deliver a robust and diverse 

economy where strong relationships that 

can be built with not only local business but 

the community alike, the CCCI are asking 

locals to fill out their 2040 vision priorities 

survey to help them to do just that. 

Already having some great initiatives 

such as the Chinchilla Botanic Parklands, 

improvements to the Chinchilla Weir, 

CCTV cameras in the town centre, 

increasing police roster and the upgrade 

of the Wambo Street and Warrego Highway 

crossing, the organisation is now focussing 

on what’s next. 

“We are excited to be reaching out to not 

only our valued members but to our entire 

community,” President of the CCCI Shannon 

McDermott said. 

Earlier this year the CCCI held a 2040 vision 

workshop where they consulted with CCCI 

members, the community, the council and 

local schools to identify a compelling vision 

of what Chinchilla may look like in another 

20 years. 

Mr McDermott said there were some great 

ideas and visions that were put forward 

during these workshops. 

“Ideas that brought a sense of optimism 

about our ability to transform our economy 

over the next 20 years to one that does not 

have a reliance on one industry sector and 

one that is self-sustaining,” he said. 

“A vision that aims to align passions 

and efforts to improve the liability and 

prosperity of our region into the future.’ 

“Our strong desire to celebrate our identity 

and preserve our history was evident. 

“Our people want to live in a modern town 

that maintains its rural feel and keeps us 

grounded to our country roots.” 

After the workshops these vision and 

ideas were summarised into five main 

liveability categories including Built and 

Natural Environment, Economic Prosperity, 

Social Stability and Equity, Education 

Opportunities and Culture, Entertainment, 

Recreation and Tourism. 

From the survey results these initiatives 

will be ranked to identify which of them are 

most important to the people. 

“Everyone’s decisions will help form the 

basis of the CCCI’s next five-year strategic 

plan and will also help to understand 

what is important to others within the 

community,” Mr McDermott said. 

“As we move into these next five years, I 

openly invite people to work with us and 

add their voice to help the CCCI achieve 

these outcomes for the benefit of all.” 

The survey takes about ten minutes to 

compete and you can access by visiting 

https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/ 

HCJJ89H or the CCCI Facebook page. 

The CCCI are then hoping to present 

preliminary results at our Year Ahead 

Breakfast on August 25 th 2020. 

Pictured: President of the CCCI Shannon 

McDermott 

LOCAL MP 

CROSSES 

FLOOR TO VOTE 

AGAINST PARTY 

Crossing the floor in Parliament is a 

rare event, but an LNP backbencher 

says he was forced to do just that in the 

August State Government sitting. 

Last week Member for Callide MP Colin Boyce 

voted against his party and didn’t support the 

Environmental Protection and Other Legislation Bill, 

on behalf of the Mining and Resource Industries and 

the Grazing and Farming Industries and everybody 

associated. 

The Bill, which passed, allows for an appointment 

of a commissioner who will provide advice on 

rehabilitation or best practice for management of 

land. 

Mr Boyce said the proposal to create a commissioner 

position seemed logical and reasonable on face 

value. 

"However, when you dig down into the substance of 

this proposal it's intent is entirely different," he said. 

"The mining and resource sector already implements 

and practises world’s best rehabilitation and 

environmental standards that are second to none. 

"To overlay another level of bureaucracy is totally 

unwarranted." 

Mr Boyce told parliament the committee report 

says that the Rehabilitation Commissioner will be 

appointed upon recommendation by the Minister, 

the Commissioner will take direction from the 

Minister and there are no specific qualifications 

necessary. 

This Bill creates the addition of another Government 

Department, for $8 million taxpayer dollars,” he said. 

"This clause is absolutely toxic in my opinion. 

"It affords the minister, especially someone that may 

well be given to extremes of ideology, an opportunity 

to effectively weaponise any and all directions that 

are given to the rehabilitation commissioner. 

"Effectively the rehabilitation commissioner may 

become a political hitman for a government of the 

day. 

"This is especially relevant where the current 

government is captive of a Cabinet with ideological 

and political leanings overwhelmingly favouring 

extreme green eco Marxists ideology and by default 

a stand of anti-agriculture, anti-resources, antidevelopment 

and therefore anti-employment and 

so anti-prosperity." 

Mr Boyce claimed the commissioner would not be 

an independent position. 

"To attach agriculture to this Bill, in particular 

requirements for an environmental authority for 

cropping and horticulture activities, is nothing short 

of appalling," he said. 

"The report notes that the Bill will align application 

requirements for an environmental authority for 

cropping and horticulture activities with matters to 

be considered when making a decision to grant the 

environmental authority.” 

Mr Boyce said he is deeply concerned for regions 

with the passing of this Bill last week Parliament 

and the revelations of the Federal Senate Inquiry in 

the fraudulent Reef Science that underpins the Reef 

Legislation. 

“Put simply, farmers will have to lodge a permit to 

plant their crops.” 

Mr Boyce said that the Callide Electorate is the 

economic engine room of Queensland and produces 

the food that feeds Australia, the fibre to put the 

clothes on your back and the materials to build 

homes. 

“We generate the power that keeps you warm at 

night; we provide jobs for thousands,” he said. 

“We provide the revenue that pays Public Service 

wages – and I will not see this 

capability 

compromised.” 

Should you wish to view the 

speech, it can be seen at www. 

colinboyce.com.au or on his 

Facebook page Colin Boyce – 

Member for Callide. 

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THE CHIN WAG - WEDNESDAY August 19 , 2020 - Page 2

RURAL ROAD 

USERS 

URGED TO 

TAKE ROAD 

SAFETY 

SERIOUSLY 

The Australia Government has 

joined the Australian Road Safety 

Foundation (ARSF), in urging all 

motorists using rural roads to 

reconsider their behaviour and 

put road safety first, during this 

Rural Road Safety Month and 

beyond. 

Rural Road Safety Month was launched in 

2018, following research showing rural road 

users were over-represented in the nation’s 

road toll for death and serious injury. 

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for 

Infrastructure, Transport and Regional 

Development Michael McCormack said, with 

rural road fatalities making up two thirds of 

last year’s national road toll, the community 

must come together and recognise that road 

safety is everyone’s business. 

“The Australian Government is committed to 

getting Australians home sooner and safer, 

which is why we committed $500 million for 

a Targeted Road Safety package to help keep 

Australian drivers safe as they emerge from 

COVID-19 restrictions — however, we cannot 

do it alone,” Mr McCormack said. 

“Last year 835 people lost their lives on 

regional roads, devastating their friends 

and communities and leaving behind 835 

mourning families. 

“It is the job of every motorist or rider across 

the country to help us bring that number 

down to zero because even one death or one 

crash on our roads is one too many.” 

Assistant Minister Buchholz said the Morrison- 

McCormack Government had put road 

safety high on the agenda and was working 

closely with road safety advocates, state 

and local governments and stakeholders to 

ensure investments were delivering targeted 

outcomes. 

“The Australian Government has a long-term 

plan, a 10-year infrastructure vision with a 

pipeline of projects and investment worth 

$100 billion. These projects will improve our 

road network and make safety improvements 

across the country,” Mr Buchholz said. 

“We have also opened the Office of Road 

Safety to provide greater leadership and 

coordination of road safety efforts at a 

national level. This is putting road safety at 

the forefront of our transport infrastructure 

investment program and is bringing all levels 

of government together.” 

Australian Road Safety Foundation founder 

and CEO Russell White said every driver, 

whether city or country based, must take 

ownership of their role in reducing the 

regional road toll. 

“Despite smaller population numbers, 109 

people have already lost their lives on New 

South Wales' rural roads this year, which shows 

that just one dangerous choice can have dire 

consequences,” Mr White said. 

"We will continue to see an unnecessary 

loss of life in rural communities until we 

acknowledge that all road users have a 

personal responsibility to ensure safety is front 

of mind when behind the wheel.” 

Mr Buchholz said there were many factors 

contributing to the road toll. 

“Road safety is everyone’s responsibility. When 

Advertise in The Chin Wag NOW - Call 0411 896 004 

ZOE BELL 


With a passion for building the 

economic and social health of 

Chinchilla and the surrounding 

regions, Origin Energy has 

teamed up with the Chinchilla 

Commerce and Industry (CCCI) to 

help make this happen. 

Early last week the two organisations signed 

a three-year partnership. 

General Manager, Condabri and Talinga, 

Alexandra Kennedy-Clark said by increasing 

people resources and financial resourcing to 

the CCCI she hopes to see Origin’s support 

result in an increase in memberships and new 

systems which will promote growth and help 

drive a prosperous economy in the Western 

Downs. 

“We’re also proud to see the partnership 

provide further resources to the BEST 

program, 

‘Bringing Employers and Students Together’, 

you get behind the wheel of a car, truck, bike or bus 

– you’re responsible for doing the right thing. Do not 

drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs, wear 

your seatbelt, stop for regular beaks, slow down and 

do the right thing. 

“The Australian Government is continuing to make 

targeted investments through the Black Spot 

Program to address high risk areas, to get people 

home sooner and safer. 

“Similarly, the Heavy Vehicle Safety and Productivity 

Program is upgrading danger points that experience 

high traffic flows of heavy vehicles. 

“While we will continue to invest in safer roads, there 

is always more to be done and driver awareness and 

behaviour is a big factor in road safety. 

“Our Government is also providing vital funding to 

revitalise the Driver Reviver Program, including $8m 

for site upgrades. 

“I encourage everyone to make the pledge to Choose 

Road Safety and support rural road safety month 

through hosting local events or sharing road safety 

information among staff, students, colleagues, family 

and friends,” Mr Buchholz said. 

Pictured: Manager of CCCI Robyn Haig and Andrew Turner. 

and assist in expanding the planned careers 

expo scheduled for later this year,” she said. 

“Both of these activities help students 

from the region to understand the diverse 

industries and career options available locally, 

helping them plan for exciting futures. 

“This support builds on our Origin Regional 

Assist Program which was recently 

announced, where we 

are providing services to assist small business 

and their employees in regional Queensland 

communities to access a range of counselling 

services through Converge International.” 

CCCI President Shannon McDermott said the 

partnership with Origin is playing a pivotal 

role in increasing the CCCI’s capability by 

supporting the transition to a full-time 

manager, in addition to existing part-time 

event coordinator and admin roles. 

“Having these resources available has enabled 

the CCCI to not only improve its ability to 

share information with its members but focus 

on new and improved ways to support local 

businesses and the community,” he said. 

Manager of CCCI Robyn Haig said instead of 

having to reduce CCCI services during the 

pandemic, and they have been able to launch 

new campaigns. 

“One of those was the Community Spirit 

Challenge to bring our community together,’’ 

she said. 

The partnership is also helping drive the 

development of a new five-year strategic 

plan for the CCCI, which is consulting with 

members, council, schools and the local 

community to understand what is essential 

for the region so that it can transition into a 

self-sustaining economy with a diversity of 

industries. 

With the support of Origin through this 

partnership, the CCCI is focused on delivering 

targeted help, encouraging innovation, 

supporting networking and identifying 

opportunities for its members and 

community into the future. 

For information on how to access the Regional 

Assist Program, or for more information 

about the Chinchilla Community Commerce 

and Industry, small business owners and their 

employees should contact their nominated 

Council Chamber representative. 


RURAL AID INVITES WESTERN DOWNS PHOTOGRAPHERS 

FOR ‘SPIRIT OF THE BUSH’ PHOTO COMPETITION 

The Westerns Downs is full of 

beautiful landscapes, stunning 

sunsets and some impressive 

farms which you can’t help but 

just pull out your camera and 

take a photo. 

Rural Aid is calling local photographers or 

budding photographers to do just and take 

part in their inaugural photo competition. 

Rural Aid CEO John Warlters said the 

competition is perfect for those who have a 

love for rural Australia. 

“We want to see images, ground level or 

aerial, of our Aussie farmers and their families 

and a depiction of what their life is like on 

the land or in the bush,” John said. 

“Australia is a large country and we have 

many types of farmers across this land and 

on our oceans. Livestock from cattle to bees, 

different types of grain growers, fruit and 

vegetables, grapes for our wine growers and 

seafood – farmed inland and on the ocean. 

“These farmers are there supporting 

Australians with food on our tables and add 

substantially to our gross domestic product 

in the good times and continue to work hard 

during challenging times, such as drought, 

flood and fire. 

“Our farmers have been through so much 

and these images will also be a great 

way to show how they are faring in these 

challenging times. Of course, we’re also 

looking to support photographers across 

Australia who are also facing challenging 

times.” 

If you lack inspiration or are unsure what 

exactly to photograph, then Mr Warlters 

to check out the 

Rural Aid Australia 

Facebook and 

Instagram pages. 

He said they are full 

of great images of 

rural Australia and 

the farmers the 

charity supports, 

who also support them. 

“As well as giving the world a snapshot 

of farming life, the land and the bush in 

Australia, this competition is also a great 

way of showing off the photographic talent 

posting to our social media channels,” he 

said. 

“The added incentive is there are also great 

prizes to be won.” 

The top two prizes are gift cards and if you 

receive first place it is to the value of $500 

and $250 if you place second. 

Both third place and the people’s choice 

winners will receive a Rural Aid prize pack to 

the value of $100. 

The competition will run from 5pm AEST, 

Monday August 10, to 5pm AEST, Thursday 

September 3, 2020. 

Entrants must submit a high-resolution image 

by either posting the image on Instagram 

with the hashtags #RAPhotoContest & 

#SpiritoftheBush and tagging @ruralaid in 

the picture or by emailing the submission to 

[email protected]. 

Photos will then be added to stories and 

a highlight reel on the Rural Aid Instagram 

page. 

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JOURNALIST: Zoe Bell 

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CALL OUT TO ALL LOCAL TRADIES AND SERVICE PROVIDERS TO ADVERTISE YOUR 

BUSINESS CARD HERE EVERY WEEK - SERIOUSLY AFFORDABLE PRICES. 

CALL DUGALD ON 0413 22 52 01 OR EMAIL [email protected] 

GET TO MORE PEOPLE THAN ANY OTHER WAY EVERY WEEK! 

CHINCHILLA DISTRICT POLICE NEWS 

SPEAKER 

WDRC 

Mayor 

Paul McVeigh 

WELCOME 

Shannon 

McDermott 

CCCI President 

CCCI Members 

FREE 

Non-Members 

$30pp 

• At approximately 1:00 AM on Sunday the 

9th of August 2020, an 18-year-old male was 

intercepted on Windmill Street Chinchilla. 

As a result of the intercept, Police will allege 

that the male was driving an Unregistered 

and Uninsured motor vehicle. Further, the 

male person provided a specimen of breath 

for analysis and recorded a reading in excess 

of 3 times the legal alcohol limit (high range). 

The male’s licence was suspended until Court 

due to the reading exceeding 0.150. The 

male was issued with a Notice to Appear in 

Chinchilla Magistrates Court at a later date. 

• On the 8th day of August 2020, a male local 

aged in his 30’s was charged for Contravening 

a Domestic Violence Order. The male was 

arrested and transported to Chinchilla Police 

Station. The male was charged and released 

on Bail Conditions to Appear in Chinchilla 

Magistrates Court at a later date. 

• On the 8th day of August 2020, Chinchilla 

Police in conjunction with Dalby Criminal 

Investigation Branch executed a Warrant at 

an address in Chinchilla. As a result of the 

Warrant, a female person in her 30’s was 

charged with a number of drug related 

offences. The female was issued with a 

Notice to Appear in Chinchilla Magistrates 

Court at a later date. 

male from the Gold Coast was intercepted at 

the Crossroads of Chinchilla Tara Road and 

Kogan Condamine Road Chinchilla for the 

purpose of a breath test. As a result of that 

intercept, the male was charged with a Drink 

Driving Offence and will appear in Chinchilla 

Magistrates Court at later date. 

• On the 7th day of August and local man 

stated that he was at the Botanic Gardens 

Chinchilla where a number of items were 

alleged to have been stolen. Investigations 

into this matter are continuing with a 

number of leads being followed up by Police. 

COVID-19 

COVID checks of all licenced premises are 

continuing. 

Social distancing laws will be enforced, and 

where appropriate, enforcement action will 

be taken against individuals and licenced 

premises. 

Chinchilla Police encourage Licencee’s and 

Patrons to familiarise themselves with COVID 

restrictions from the Qld Government. 

. 

For Non-urgent Crime Think Policelink, 

phone 131 444 or visit www.policelink. 

qld.gov.au 

If it’s an Emergency, life threatening and 

happening now call 000 (Triple Zero) 

• On the 8th day of August 2020, a local 

man has reported the theft of a trailer from 

a property on Red Hill Road Chinchilla. 

The trailer was located on a large property 

adjacent to a shed. Investigations are 

continuing into the matter. 

• On the 7th day of August 2020, a 26-year-old 

Health & Therapeutic 

1 set of Wagner aluminium forearm 

crutches, adjustable height $40 Ph 

0417 723 229 Chinchilla 

Home Furnishing 

Modern metal frame bed, queen, slate 

base, never been used $300 Ph 0417 

723 229 Chinchilla 

Solid wooden chest with 6 drawers 

and mirror, GC $80 Ph 0417 723 229 

Chinchilla 

Country style kitchen hutch, solid 

wood, GC, $170 Ph 0417 723 229 

Chinchilla 

Niagara massage recliner and lift chair, 

new condition $950 Ph 0418 623 444 

Old dining room hutch, in good order 

Ph Charlie 0415 061 674 Chinchilla area 

Single lift bed with massage $150 Ph 

0418 623 444 Dalby 

Horse & Saddlery 

4 stock saddles $400 for the pick Ph 

Charlie 0415 061 674 Chinchilla area 

Old time sulky Ph 0415 061 674 

Chinchilla area 

Assorted horse gear Ph Charlie 0415 

061 674 Chinchilla area 

Miscellaneous 

Large suitcase on wheels, used once 

$45 Ph 0417 723 229 Chinchilla 

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CHINCHILLA 

REGULAR DATES 

Chinchilla Uniting Church 

31 Middle St 

9.30am Sunday Worship 

Pastor Tanya Errey 

Ph 4662 7318 

Life Church chinchilla 

117 Cemetery Road 

10am Sunday Morning Service 

Zoom prayer meeting 

Tuesday 7pm 

Tony Kuster 0427 628 469 

Annette Kuster 0412 731 970 

www.lifechurchchinchilla.org 

Facebook Life church Chinchilla 

PLACE YOUR REGULAR 

MEETING DATES HERE! 

EMAIL: 


PHONE 

0411 896 004 

Chinchilla Country Market 

3 rd Sunday of month 

Chinchilla Showgrounds 

(unless grounds are booked) 

7am start Ph Lindley or Marie 

0439 074 088 

Jondowae Lions Market 

3 rd Sunday of month 

Lions Park Jandowae 

3rd Sunday of the month 

Ph Norma (07) 4668 5486 

EVENT CALENDAR 

2020 

AUGUST 

18 - St Joseph’s Catholic Primary 

Bravehearts Child Protection and Safety 

Session. 1.50pm 


Preppie 4 a Morning - a come and try day 

for 2021 prep students - 9am - 11am 


Book Week Parade at 9am in the school 

hall 

SEPTEMBER 


Child Protection Week Liturgy - 2.15pm 

NOVEMBER 

15 - Chinchilla Country Market 

Chinchilla Showgrounds 

3rd Sunday of month 

(unless grounds are booked) 

7am start 

Ph Lindley or Marie 

0439 074 088 

28 - Official Opening of the Tara & 

District Art Exhibition 

6pm Tara Function Room 

19 Fry St, Tara 

Ph 1300 268 624 

29 – Tara & District Art Exhibition 

Tara Memorial Hall 

19 Fry Street, Tara (until December 2) 

PLEASE CHECK ANY COVID 

RESTRICTIONS PRIOR TO ANY 

OF THESE EVENTS 

Grandma’s Boyfriend 

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WAG NEWSPAPER 

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for all of the details. 

A 5-year old boy went to visit his 

grandmother one day. While playing with 

his toys in her bedroom while grandma 

was dusting furniture, he looked up and 

said, “Grandma, how come you don’t have 

a boyfriend?” 

Grandma replied, “Honey, my TV is my 

boyfriend. I can set in my bedroom and 

watch it all day long. The TV evangelists 

keep me company and make me feel so 

good.The comedies make me laugh. I’m 

so happy with my TV as my boyfriend.” 

Grandma turned on the TV and the 

picture was horrible. She started adjusting 

the knobs trying to get the picture in 

focus. Frustrated, she started hitting on 

the backside of the TV hoping to fix the 

problem. 

The little boy heard the doorbell ring so 

he hurried to open the door.When he 

opened the door, there stood Grandma’s 

minister. The minister said, “Hello son is 

your grandma home?” 

The little boy replied, “Yeah, she’s in the 

bedroom bangin’ her boyfriend.” 



DO YOU HAVE WHAT IT TAKES? 

ZOE BELL 


Still in high school looking at a 

job advertisement for Shell QGC 

apprenticeships and traineeships, 

well-known Chinchilla local Oliva 

Mutch (pictured above) didn’t 

apply because she didn’t think 

the job was for her. 

A year ago she was six months out of high 

school, working a casual and thought to 

herself that she needed to create something 

and challenge herself. 

So, this time when she saw the same Shell 

QGC advertisement she applied and was 

successful in gaining the position, stating it 

was one of the best things she ever did. 

MIGAS, together with the Shell-operated 

QGC business, are searching for the next 

generation of locals to join QGC’S onshore 

natural gas business in the Western Downs 

region. 

Currently, they have had 33 young people 

from the Western Downs through the 

Apprentice and Trainee program since it 

launched in 2017 and they are looking for a 

further twelve to join that list. 

Now eight months into her traineeship where 

she is completing her certificate three in 

process plant operations, Miss Mutch says she 

has learnt so much in such a short time. 

“I came in not knowing much about the job 

and mechanical work,” she said. 

“One of the biggest things I’ve learnt is the 

process of how the equipment and the plant 

removes water from the gas and how to set up 

isolations, so it’s safe for mechanical people to 

work on a piece of equipment.” 

Before applying for the position, Miss Mutch 

did admit that she was a little worried about 

the job because it was such a male-dominated 

industry. 

However, after her first shift, she found the 

work culture was excellent, and everyone was 

friendly and welcoming, which made her feel 

at ease quickly. 

She works seven days on and seven days off 

with another trainee working the other shifts. 

In relations to study, she isn’t required to 

go to TAFE and instead has an assessor that 

comes out and marks her and signs her off on 

her modules before they are then sent back 

off to TAFE. 

“It’s challenging,” she said. 

“You are always learning, and when you think 

you know something, there is something else 

you need to know. 

“Even operators are still learning new things.” 

With hopes to being an operator five years 

down the track and eventually transitioning 

into an office-based role as a maintenance 

scheduler, the young trainee believes this role 

gave her excellent experience about what the 

jobs are and what skills they require. 

Wishing that she applied in her first year out 

of high school, Miss Mutch would encourage 

any potential young person thinking of 

applying in the upcoming intake not to 

hesitate and apply. 

“It’s an amazing opportunity that doesn’t 

come around often and sets you up for the 

future so just go for it,” she said. 

“Your name is in the industry, and you get the 

experience behind you as well. 

“Even if you’re not the most confident person, 

to enter into an industry like this, I would say 

go for it. 

“I know a lot of females would be like this, 

but they just need to go for it because it’s an 

amazing culture to be in and people always 

want to help you and give you the best 

training possible no matter what gender you 

are.” 

Applications open this Friday, August 21 and 

to apply you can visit their website www. 

migas.com.au/jobs.qgcpathways. 

This year I 

pledge to ... 

1. Shop Local 

2. Use Local 

3. Eat Local 

4. Enjoy Local 

... and support 

the local 

businesses 

that support 

me and my 

community 

Sore eyes? 

Zoning out? 

Yawning? 

Driver Fatigue: Wake up to the signs. 


Here for Life 

Authorised by the Queensland Government, Brisbane. 

THE CHIN WAG - WEDNESDAYAugust 19 , 2020 - Page 7

TIME TO GET CREATIVE THANKS TO NEW BUSINESS 

Advertise in Chin Wag NOW - Call 0411 896 004 

ZOE BELL 


unique experience or to indulge their creative 

side. 

“Workshops will be starting up very soon,” she 

said. 

“Classes includes macramé, jewellery making, 

mosaic, crochet bowls, crazy art, flower 

arranging, cookie decorating, soap making, 

candle making, barbed wire garden art class 

and many more.” 

The first workshop will be a dip and sip class 

where participants will be able to drink their 

favourite wine and create a squiggly cow 

masterpiece. 

The children will be the next ones to benefit 

with this new form of entertainment with a 

workshop in store specially for them. 

It is scheduled for Thursday, September 24 at 

11am and 4pm 

“All events will be posted on the Whistle Stop 

Facebook page,” she said. 

“If you are a local who has a craft and would 

like to teach a class plus get in contact with 

me also because we are always looking for 

more people to get involved.” 

The store is normally open seven days a week 

from 9am till 4pm, however will be closed 

when Ms Ashcroft must travel to attend to her 

macramé workshops. 

Last year Chinchilla and 

surrounding residents fell in love 

with a Christmas pop up shop 

that sold locally handmade gifts, 

so much so they kept asking the 

owner if it was going to open 

again this year. 

Occupying the shop in Heeney Street opposite 

the Club Hotel a few months leading up to 

Christmas, business owner Debbie Ashcroft 

had bigger and better plans for this year. 

”I thought about it and decided I’d do it in a 

bigger building and also have a small cafe 

attached so people could enjoy homemade 

cakes and pastries as well as coffee and tea 

while they look around the shop or while they 

are doing workshops,” she said. 

So last week yet another local business 

opened its doors to the public when Ms 

Ashcroft launched Whistle Stop Café and 

Handmade Gifts. 

Located on Chinchilla Street opposite the 

Chinchilla train station, and just waiting on 

its coffee machine to be fully up and running. 

“I’m not a full-blown cafe just a very small 

coffee shop selling locally made goods,” she 

said. 

“I’ve had very busy days since opening and 

everyone that’s visited has commented on 

how nice the shop looks and what a great 

idea it is.” 

Hoping to showcase the talent of local 

Western Downs Artisans, Ms Ashcroft sells 

their work in store on their behalf. 

Currently the store has over 25 local artisans 

that have their creative items in store and she 

unfortunately had to turn people away due to 

current lack of space. 

However with a dedicated kids table for 

children to sell their crafts with commission, 

Ms Ashcroft is always looking for children’s art 

to earn them some extra pocket money. 

“I already have nine year old Charlotte’s craft 

that I sell for her with no commission, so if 

there are any other children who like to sell 

handmade items in store, I would be more 

than happy to take them,” she said. 

To add to the already impressive business, Ms 

Ashcroft future plans involve holding art and 

craft workshops in store. 

These will be run during the evenings and 

on weekends for anyone who is looking for a 

THE CHIN WAG - WEDNESDAY August 19, 2020 - Page 8

ZOE BELL 


The stage was set for a big match 

under the lights at the Chinchilla 

recreation grounds on a Saturday 

night as the Chinchilla Bears took 

on Dalby in the local derby and 

the game did not disappoint. 

Time was reaching the 42nd minute in the 

second half, and the teams were locked in 

a tight arm wrestle with plenty of scoring 

opportunities from either side but both 

were unable to make them count on the 

scoreboard. 

With two minutes left on the clock, it looked 

like a zero a piece was going to be the final 

score before somehow, the teams were finally 

seperated by a goal. 

Chinchilla reined superior, scoring a goal 

Email sports results & news to: [email protected] 

CHINCHILLA BEARS DOWN DALBY IN LOCAL DERBY 

ZOE BELL 


From the humble beginnings of 

under 10s netball in Miles to the 

big stage where players she used 

to look up to play, Kylie Salisbury 

is now preparing for the biggest 

competition of her netball 

journey. 

After a knee injury prevented her from 

trialing for the Darling Downs Panthers 

under 16 team three years ago and she was 

unsuccessful in getting to the side for the 

under 18 Ipswich Jets, the luck has turned 

around this year for the young netballer. 

On Thursday last week, Kylie was given 

the exciting news that she has finally been 

successful in securing her place in the Darling 

Downs under 18 Panthers team and she will 

battle it in the Nissan state titles. 

“This year was my last year to do anything 

higher than the Chinchilla netball, being the 

last under 18s so I was like I’ll go and give it 

one last crack,” she said. 

“I’m so excited. 

“It’s going to be so great to play in a higher 

league with a lot more experienced players 

and I’m hoping that by playing better players 

that it will improve my game. 

“I’m a little bit nervous because being a 

shooter it’s like ‘oh my god I hope I get the 

shots in,’ so I’ve been shooting more shots in 

the backyard.” 

Kylie has been playing netball for almost ten 

years and has gone through the ranks at the 

in the final two minutes and pinching the 

victory over their cross town rivals. 

Captain of the team Jonty Calleja said there 

was one difference that led to his team 

winning the match. 

“It all came down to hunger,” he said. 

“You could really see that the boys were 

hungry for the win in the second half. 

“Any 50/50 opportunities in the first half 

would be won by Dalby but in the second half 

if it were an 80/20 ball we would win it in the 

second half.” 

Despite a slow start and Coach Stewart Hope 

stating the goal should have come a lot 

sooner, he said a goal is still a goal and that 

the team will take the win. 

“At half time we had a bit of a chat about 

what we had to do and the second half we 

improved. 

“We swapped a few players into different 

positions, and they stepped up to the task, 

Miles Netball Association, Chinchilla Netball 

Association and has completed the Darling 

Downs Cubs training session which she said 

have all helped her get to where she is today. 

Her success has come through a lot of hard 

work and dedication with the athlete training 

a minimum of three days a week. 

“On Tuesday night I coach the under 8s in 

net-set-go in Chinchilla and then train for the 

Darling Downs inter-district before playing in 

the ladies’ competition at Chinchilla,” she said. 

“Then on Wednesday I play ladies netball in 

Miles and on the weekends is when I play the 

competitions.” 

Training has not been scheduled yet, however 

the competition is set to be played from 

September 20 to September 22 at Nissan 

arena, which is where all the Suncorp Super 

Players play, meaning excitement levels for 

Kylie are at an all-time high. 

The Darling Downs team is made up of 

netballers in Toowoomba and they will battle 

it out against other teams from the Brisbane 

area. 

By the end of three days, an Under 18s 

Queensland side will be chosen. 

“That would be amazing but unfortunately 

living out here makes it a lot harder,” Kylie 

said. 

“I was going to originally go to Toowoomba 

and trial for the Panthers team that played 

in a weekly competition with the Brisbane 

teams. 

“However, it’s a long way to travel for training 

three times a week in Toowoomba. 

“I was supposed to be in Toowoomba after 

I finished school, but I got offered a job as a 

teacher aide at the primary school in Miles. 

which made a better second half. 

“It was a tough game and always is against 

Dalby. 

“They have got up against us a couple of 

times, but generally we are the ones who get 

up against them which is always good for the 

local derby side of things.” 

Hope gave special mention to Jayden 

Markham, Nick Guymer, Mark Johnston and 

Jonty Calleja who all played a standout game. 

“Jayden did really well,” he said. 

“We put him in a different position in the 

second half, and he excelled at that position. 

“All four of them always put in 110 per cent 

effort week in and week out.” 

After a less than ideal start to the season and 

COVID interrupting it, the Bears are starting 

to get back into the swing, and despite a 

few injuries, the squad is slowly getting back 

together. 

They currently sit fifth on the ladder, but 

So, I just study online and work now. 

“I would have to be a lot more dedicated to 

moving to make it. 

“This competition will probably be maybe 

where it ends but I would have loved to go 

further but I can’t say right now it will happen 

in the future as much as I wish I could.” 

Kylie thanks her coaches over the years from 

Miles and Chinchilla, stating she couldn’t 

have done it without them. 

“I also have to thank my family for taking me 

everywhere,” 

she said. 

“I couldn’t have 

done it without 

an escort. 

A 

congratulations 

also has to be 

given to Kylie’s 

sister Amity 

and fellow Miles 

netballer Nikkita 

Finden who 

were selected 

as training 

partners for the 

team. 

If someone from 

with five home games to come and already 

winning both home game this season, they 

may prove to be a force to be reckoned with. 

“We are working hard to try and make this 

our fortress where we try and win,” Hope said. 

“We have a bigger field than most and should 

try and use the width. 

“However, that doesn’t always work because 

most of the Toowoomba fields are smaller so 

you can get used to playing to a smaller field. 

“Therefore, that’s definitely something we 

will be trying to work on in the future at home 

using our width a bit more.” 

The Bears have a bye next week before they 

are back at home against the Goondiwindi 

Roos. 

The game will be held at the Chinchilla 

Recreation Ground and kick-off will be at 

7pm. 

YOUNG NETBALLER GOES FROM GRASSROOTS 

NETBALL TO THE STATES BIG STAGE 

the selected 

team is unable 

to play, then the 

duo will have 

the opportunity 

to hit the court. 

However, with 

both at the age 

of 17, it’s likely 

that the pair will continue to work hard and 

trial again next year. 

“My sister is a defender and I’m a shooter, so I 

hate playing against her,” Kylie joked. 

“She’s pretty good and I think she’ll do well 

next year.” 

Pictured: Netball star Kylie Salisbury in action 

on the netball court. 

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THE CHIN WAG - WEDNESDAY August 19, 2020 - Page 9

The Chin Wag August 19 2020

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