24 June, 2010

PS good medicine for
Indigenous health gap

A whole-of-Government policy framework and plan of action has been announced by the Minister for Health in an effort to close the health gap between Indigenous and non-Indigenous people in Queensland.
   Deputy Premier and Minister for Health, Paul Lucas presented the Making Tracks towards closing the gap in health outcomes for Indigenous Queenslanders by 2033: Policy and Accountability Framework to a meeting of the Queensland Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Partnership last week.
   Mr Lucas said Making Tracks aimed to increase efforts across the entire health system, improve the management of existing illnesses, promote preventative health measures, address risk activities such as smoking and focus on the needs of urban Indigenous populations and isolated communities.
   Mr Lucas said while Australians enjoyed the second highest life expectancy in the world behind Japan, the life expectancy of Indigenous Australians was far lower than for non-Indigenous Australians.
   “What fundamentally concerns me is that the life expectancy for an Indigenous Australian born today is no better than it was for the average Australian born 55 years ago,” Mr Lucas said.
   “Australia has just about the best health system in the world – but it can never truly be the best until this gap between Indigenous and non-Indigenous life expectancy is closed.”
   He said the 2007 Council of Australian Governments’ target to close the gap by 2033 was highly ambitious, but something the Queensland Government was determined to achieve.
   “So we’re doing something different,” Mr Lucas said.
   “Making Tracks will allow us to be more strategic about where money in Indigenous health is spent into the future.”
   The Minister said Making Tracks was strongly based on evidence about what interventions had proven successful and which were most likely to close the health gap.
   He said funding would be directed to areas which accounted for 80 per cent of the health gap between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Queenslanders – cardio-vascular disease, diabetes, respiratory diseases, cancers, mental disorders and injuries.
   “As far as I know, Queensland is the first State to develop its own comprehensive, whole-of-Government policy framework and plan of action for closing the health gap by 2033,” he said.
   Mr Lucas said Making Tracks was accompanied by an implementation plan for 2009-10 to 2011-12 that outlined the immediate initiatives being implemented to close the gap.
   He said these initiatives included establishing a Centre of Excellence in Indigenous Primary Health Care at the Inala Indigenous Health Service and implementing strategies to tackle smoking rates and improve nutrition, physical activity levels and maternal and child health.
   The Implementation plan is to be renewed every three years.

24 June, 2010

Restructure to drive
new computer office

The former Queensland Government Chief Information Office (QGCIO) has been restructured into three new offices in the ICT Division of the Department of Public Works.
   The three Offices are ICT Policy and Co-ordination; Public Sector ICT Development; and Telecommunications, Broadband and Digital Economy Coordination.
   Executive Directors have been appointed to each Office, with the new structure expected to be formally in place by 1 July.
   Acting Executive Director of QGCIO, Alan Chapman has been appointed Executive Director of the ICT Policy and Co-ordination Office.
   Mr Chapman’s Office will take a whole-of-Government ICT policy development approach, covering the Queensland Government Enterprise Architecture, strategic planning and research.
   It will also include the ICT Portfolio Management Office, responsible for overseeing the program of work identified within the strategy.
   Chief Information Officer at the Department of Community Safety, Terry Beitz has joined DPW to take on the role of Executive Director of the Public Sector ICT Development Office.
   The focus of Mr Beitz’s office is stakeholder engagement and helping Agencies develop ICT workforce capability.
   Former Chief Information Officer at Queensland Rail, Dallas Stower was appointed Executive Director of the Telecommunications, Broadband and Digital Economy Coordination Office in February.
   This office is focused on the State’s telecommunications strategic direction, rolling-out broadband and the co-ordination of digital economy activities.
   The DPW Division housing the three new offices is led by Associate Director-General, Natalie MacDonald.
   “I am confident this new structure, under the leadership of Alan, Terry and Dallas, will provide comprehensive support for the ambitious agenda we have set ourselves in the implementation of Toward Q2 through ICT,” Ms MacDonald said.

24 June, 2010

CMC blows whistle on
Police Commissioner

The Commissioner for Police has been directed by the Crime and Misconduct Commission to outline his intentions for dealing with six police officers involved in investigations relating to the Palm Island death in custody of Aboriginal man, Mulrunji Doomadgee.
   The direction was contained in a Crime and Misconduct Commission report on an internal Queensland Police Service review of the original police investigation into the incident in November 2004.
   Chair of the CMC, Martin Moynihan said the initial police investigation and the subsequent internal police review were both seriously flawed.
   “While there is insufficient evidence to support the laying of any criminal charges, the conduct of four officers involved in the original police investigation is serious enough to warrant recommending consideration of disciplinary proceedings for misconduct,’” Mr Moynihan said.
   “The CMC has also recommended that the Queensland Police Service consider disciplinary proceedings against the members of the internal investigation team.”
   Mr Moynihan said although the officers did not act in isolation and the Police Commissioner supported the review process, they were “not without fault” and were “obliged to adhere to high ethical standards”.
   “I am now looking to the Police Commissioner to acknowledge the flawed and unacceptable conduct of the officers involved in both the initial police investigation and the QPS review,” he said.
   “He must step up, take strong, decisive action and restore the confidence of the public - and of its own members - in the Police Service.”
   Mr Moynihan said the Police investigations suggested a culture of “self-protection” within QPS and the belief that the best way to protect the Service’s reputation was for officers to ignore any sub-standard actions of their colleagues.
   “The investigations were characterised by double-standards and an unwillingness to publicly acknowledge failings on the part of the police,’ he said.
   Mr Moynihan said if the CMC was not satisfied with the Commissioner’s intended course of action, it would assume responsibility for the matter and apply to the Queensland Civil and Administrative Tribunal to begin disciplinary proceedings.
   He said a deadline of 2 July had been imposed on the Police Commissioner to report his intentions to the CMC, but that he would consider extending the deadline if the Police Commissioner had a compelling reason.
   The report, CMC Review of the Queensland Police Service’s Palm Island Review, was available for download from www.cmc.qld.gov.au

24 June, 2010

Trains pull in to
wireless station

Plans to roll-out wireless IT coverage on suburban Citytrains and eventually WiFi access for passengers have taken a step forward with Queensland Rail (QR) short-listing three potential service providers.
   A preferred supplier is now expected to be selected in August, with trials of the technology likely to begin in October.
   Minister for Transport, Rachel Nolan said the project’s primary focus was to provide wireless coverage to Citytrains to allow streaming coverage of on-board CCTV cameras.
   Ms Nolan said ultimately, additional benefits such as WiFi access would be allocated to passengers.
   “We have received substantial interest from companies working in this field; 29 submitted proposals which were highly detailed and technically complex,” Ms Nolan said.
   “The benefit from that process has been we have been able to select three very capable companies; Dimension Data, Wellard Technologies Ltd and Fujitstu, to move into the next phase of this process.”
   The Minister said she would be asking the three companies to submit their offers by July to allow the Agency to properly compare the proposals before making a final choice.
   “The priority for us is to have the network set up, and streaming CCTV implemented,” she said.
   “We will then work with the selected technology partner to develop the best business case and systems to implement WiFi coverage.
   “We are looking forward to having this system trialled and implemented, but we are going to make sure we get it right,” Ms Nolan said.

24 June, 2010

Sick men urged to
go for the doctor

The Health Quality and Complaints Commission has urged men to go to the doctor if they’re unwell and to register any complaints they have with the health system.
   Chief Executive of the Commission, Cheryl Herbert said men needed to understand that complaining was not the same as whingeing and she encouraged them to speak up.
   “Research tells us that men are far less likely to see a doctor regularly, and wait too long to seek medical attention when their prognosis or recovery chances are poor,” Mrs Herbert said.
   “Our data shows a similar pattern – only about a third of the 4,500 people who contact us every year are men.”
   She said as a result, the Commission was limited in how it could help.
   Mrs Herbert said in addition, men were less likely to follow through with their complaints than women.
   She said complaints made by men were generally more serious and involved issues such as unexpected or poor outcomes, misdiagnosis and poor management of chronic or terminal health conditions.
   “Every complaint is an opportunity for improvement – and men have just as great a role as women in improving our health system,” Mrs Herbert said.
   “For many men, the push to visit a doctor will come from their wife, partner or other family members
   “Similarly, it’s not unusual for female family members to become involved in complaints men make to us, as they’re the ones who encourage their men to complain.”
   Mrs Herbert said complaints about healthcare services must be made within one year of an incident, or the consumer becoming aware of an issue.
   The Commission is an independent body dedicated to improving the quality and safety of health services in Queensland.

24 June, 2010

Commission to study
COAG reform guide

The Terms of Reference have been released for an investigation by the national Productivity Commission into the economic impacts and benefits of reforms introduced by the Council of Australian Governments (COAG).
   The Terms have been formulated in response to COAG’s agreement that the Commission could report on its reform agenda every two to three years.
   In a joint statement, the Federal Treasurer Wayne Swan and Assistant Treasurer Senator Nick Sherry said the Terms of Reference would provide direction to the Productivity Commission as it prepared a framework report outlining its proposed reporting approach and future assessments.
   “These reports will assist the COAG Reform Council in its role of helping to enhance accountability and promote reform, and monitoring the progress of COAG’s reform agenda,” Mr Swan and Senator Sherry said.
   “The framework report will outline the Productivity Commission’s proposed analytical frameworks for assessing the impacts and benefits of reform, to be drawn on in its future reports.”
   Mr Swan and Senator Sherry said the reporting would cover realised and prospective economic impacts and benefits of the different reform streams including regulation, infrastructure and workforce productivity and participation.
   “Each report to COAG will give priority to informing Governments of the nature of reform impacts and benefits and the time scale over which benefits are likely to accrue, given COAG’s reform framework and implementation plans,” they said.
   “At the commencement of each reporting cycle, the Assistant Treasurer will provide directions concerning particular reporting priorities to be addressed within this broad framework.”
   Mr Swan and Senator Sherry said COAG’s reform agenda aimed to boost productivity, increase workforce participation, improve social inclusion, close the gap on Indigenous disadvantage and improve environmental sustainability.
   The Productivity Commission is expected to provide the framework report to COAG by 31 December this year and the first full report on the impacts and benefits of the reform agenda by 31 December 2011.
   The complete terms of reference were available from www.pc.gov.au

24 June, 2010

Doors open for
return to work

Nominations for the 2010 Return to Work Awards are now being accepted.
   With almost 300 nominations already received, workers compensation regulatory authority, Q-COMP, is urging anyone who deserves to be recognised by the industry and their peers to submit an awards application before nominations close on 2 July.
   The theme for this year’s awards is Above & Beyond, celebrating the work being put into developing and improving a strong return-to-work culture.
   Chief Executive of Q-COMP, Elizabeth Woods said nominations could be submitted by individuals who wanted to share their motivations or by friends and colleagues who knew someone deserving of acknowledgement from the industry.
   Ms Woods said she was overwhelmed by the number of strong award nomination applications already received.
   “The Return to Work Awards are giving individuals and organisations the opportunity to gain the recognition of their family, friends and peers as well as the workers’ compensation industry,” Ms Woods said.
   “The huge success of last year’s awards provided some amazing motivational stories and we are very much looking forward to building on this success in 2010.”
   The Return to Work Awards recognise each finalist with a certificate, and each award winner with up to $2,000 in prize money.
   Award winners from last year included the Department of Public Works (Large Employer Achievement Award), the University of Queensland (Self-Insured Employer Achievement Award) and Ursula Lone from the Scenic Rim Regional Council (Rehabilitation and Return to Work Coordinator Achievement Award).
   More information about the awards and nomination details can be obtained from www.qcompconference.com.au

24 June, 2010

Free go cards
all the go

Free go cards worth $10 in travel credits are to be given away in a campaign to encourage more people to use public transport.
   Minister for Transport, Rachel Nolan said the cards would be available at community events, online and through advertisements in local newspapers.
   “Up to 370,000 cards will be distributed from 28 June in addition to the 30,000 cards allocated to be distributed via the successful go ready sessions for seniors and pensioners,” Ms Nolan said.
   She said the take up of go cards had been “phenomenal” with the 100 millionth go card trip taken last month, less than two years after the roll-out was completed.
   “This year alone the go card take up has gone from 33 per cent of all trips to 60 per cent,” Ms Nolan said.
   “The go card giveaway aims to make it easier for those who have not yet made the switch to do so.
   “If you don’t travel by public transport often but still want the convenience of having a go card in your wallet, this is a great opportunity to get one for the first time,” she said.
   The Minister said the go card was working well, with complaints and adjustments down despite usage soaring.
   “The giveaway also coincides with the beginning of an exciting new era for train customers, with a new Government-owned corporation operating from 1 July,” she said.
   “The new Queensland Rail will be an integrated passenger and rail infrastructure business, serving the resources, freight, tourism and passenger markets.”

24 June, 2010

Hospitals scrub up in
national health check

An annual report of Australian Hospital Statistics from the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare has revealed Queensland hospitals are performing well when compared with their interstate counterparts.
   Deputy Premier and Minister for Health, Paul Lucas said the overall performance of Queensland hospitals was very pleasing.
   Mr Lucas said the report showed 1,697,281 separate surgeries were performed on admitted patients in public and private hospitals in 2008-09, up 5.3 per cent on 2007-08 compared with a national increase of 3.5 per cent.
   He said the average length of stay in Queensland’s public acute hospitals was 3.5 days compared to 3.7 days nationally.
   Mr Lucas said the report showed the number of people on waiting lists for longer than a year in Queensland was the lowest of any State or Territory at 1.8 per cent compared with a national average of 2.9 per cent.
   The Minister said the average emergency department wait time across the State for the most urgent category was less than a minute and across all five categories the average wait time was 42 minutes.
   “This is shorter than the time that you would expect to wait at your GP’s surgery for treatment,” he said.
   “Our $7.33 billion health infrastructure program – the largest ever seen in Australia – is under way to deliver more hospitals and health services across the State.
   “The $9.99 billion health component in this month’s State Budget also supports the continued recruitment of doctors, nurses, and allied health professionals to staff the new facilities.”
   Mr Lucas said the Australian Hospital Statistics 2008-09 Report is based on data provided by all State and Territory health authorities and could be accessed at www.aihw.gov.au

24 June, 2010

Police fraud group
gets away with awards

Queensland Police’s fraud and corporate crime team has been honoured with an international award for tackling payment card fraud, the latest of six major accolades in the past 15 months.
   The State Crime Operations Command’s Fraud and Corporate Crime Group picked up the International Visa Award for Dedication and Effort in Combating Payment Card Fraud, which acknowledged the team’s efforts in reducing and preventing identity theft and credit card fraud.
   The Group’s Computer Crime Investigation Unit was also awarded AusCERT’s Law Enforcement Award for its law enforcement work relating to online crime-fighting and investigations.
   Detective Superintendent Brian Hay was presented with the award for Individual Excellence in Information Security – the first time a police officer has received it.
   The individual award recognises the person who has provided the greatest overall contribution to information security in the areas of information security, community service, innovation, education, liaison, law enforcement, governance or leadership.
   DS Hay said while the awards were a great honour, the team would not be resting on its laurels.
   “Each week we are being approached by victims who have lost thousands,” DS Hay said.
   These people are not greedy or gullible, but are innocent people who have been targeted by ruthless individuals committed to ripping off members of our community.
   “It is not acceptable and we want to stop it.”
   DS Hay said fraudsters were constantly evolving with technology, making the task of apprehending them challenging.
   According to Queensland Police, in addition to the those awards the Fraud and Corporate Crime Group also picked up the same Visa and AusCERT awards last year and DS Hay took out the McAfee International Cyber Crime Fighter of the Year Award, making it six awards in 15 months.

24 June, 2010

Fair Trading sells
compliance message

Inspectors from the Townsville Office of Fair Trading have descended on traders in Mt Isa, Ayr and Charters Towers to check compliance levels as part of a continuing monitoring program.
   Minister for Fair Trading, Peter Lawlor said local Fair Trading inspectors visited security providers, real estate agents, motor dealers and second hand dealers to ensure they were licensed and complying with the requirements of their industry.
   “The inspectors also did random checks of retail shelves to ensure products were scanning correctly for customers,” Mr Lawlor said.
   “I am pleased to report generally that most traders were found to be doing the right thing.
   “What is disappointing though is that four $1,500 infringement notices were issued due to breaches in the security provider industry.”
   The Minister said one security firm received two notices for engaging unlicensed security providers in Mount Isa. The two unlicensed workers also received fines.
   MP for Mount Isa, Betty Kiernan said there was no excuse for employing someone without a valid licence.
   “It can easily be avoided by asking to see someone’s licence before you hire them - and those who work without a licence are also committing a serious offence,” Ms Kiernan said.
   “This is a warning to all security providers in the Mount Isa region and State-wide, if you are unlicensed you face maximum fines of up to $50,000 for an individual or $250,000 for a company.”
   Mr Lawlor said the OFT offered a free online search facility which allowed the general public to check security provider and other licences. It was at www.fairtrading.qld.gov.au

24 June, 2010

Problem of old age
is age old issue

Queenslanders have been called on to “act as one” against the growing problem of mistreating older people.
   Minister for Community Services, Karen Struthers said 1,153 calls had been received by the State-Government funded Elder Abuse Prevention Unit’s hotline over 12 months, with 750 cases of abuse reported.
   Speaking before the launch of the Government’s Act as One Against Elder Abuse campaign, Ms Struthers said most cases of mistreatment of older people went unreported.
   She said she hoped the campaign would raise public awareness of the issue.
   “It’s a sad fact that some people in our society take advantage of the most vulnerable whether it be through neglect, emotional and financial abuse or causing physical harm,” Ms Struthers said.
   She said the campaign would include a series of posters displayed in public places such as libraries, schools, medical centres, churches, community centres and hospitals to raise awareness of the issue.
   Ms Struthers said shame and embarrassment often made it difficult for people to reveal abuse but that raising awareness was a step towards giving people the confidence to report it.
   “It’s a complex community issue that requires attention from everyone,” she said.
   “We want people to be having conversations about it and delivering the messages that elder abuse, like any other form of violence in our society, will not be tolerated.”
   The State Government funds the Elder Abuse Prevention Unit as well as seniors legal and support services in Cairns, Hervey Bay, Toowoomba, Townsville and Brisbane.
   The Elder Abuse Prevention Unit hotline is 1300 651 192.

24 June, 2010

Nightwear fires are
no pyjama game

A demonstration of the flammability of children’s nightwear at the Safehome Fire Education Centre in Petrie has been conducted to reinforce a warning to parents to put safety first when keeping the family warm.
   Fire officers extinguished a blaze of highly flammable children’s pyjamas as Minister for Fair Trading, Peter Lawlor reminded parents of the additional dangers that winter brought.
   “The winter chill has set in and people are keeping warm with blankets, heaters, fires, hot water bottles, and pyjamas, but people should be aware at this time of year there can be a greater risk of scalds and burns,” Mr Lawlor said.
   Queensland Fire and Rescue Service responded to 542 house fires during June, July and August in 2009, with research showing house fires to be more common in winter.
   Mr Lawlor said the fiery demonstration showed just how quickly material could catch alight.
   “Some clothing styles and fabrics are more flammable and dangerous than others; however, all fabrics will burn so children should be kept away from heaters and fires at all costs,” he said.
   Mr Lawlor said under the Australian Standards, labels must be included on pyjamas, night dresses, dressing gowns, bathrobes, infant sleeping bags and some loose-style boxer shorts.
   He said a low fire danger label, featuring black text on a white background, covered garments made from low fire danger fabric and garments that were styled to reduce fire danger.
   The high fire danger warning features a flame symbol printed in black on a red label and covers garments made from materials known to be a high fire danger and long, flowing styles of nightwear.

24 June, 2010

MS sufferers win
power boost

Sufferers of multiple sclerosis in Queensland are to become eligible for reduced electricity charges from 1 July under a new concession scheme announced in the recent State Budget.
   Minister for Community Services, Karen Struthers said people with MS needed to use air conditioning and heating to keep their body temperature stable in an effort to stop their condition worsening.
   Ms Struthers said the rebate of $216 a person would help health-care card holders with MS meet the expense of running air conditioners and heaters throughout the year.
   “When you’re on a low income, running heating and cooling can add to costs that may already be difficult to meet,” Ms Struthers said.
   “We want to give Queenslanders a hand where we can and that’s why we’re introducing this new rebate.”
   The Minister acknowledged the work of the MS Society of Queensland in advocating for the new $1.4 million Medical Cooling and Heating Electricity Concession Scheme.
   She said the new concession joined other electricity rebates and concessions available to assist pensioners, low income households and those with specific needs.
   Ms Struthers said electricity rebates for pensioners would also increase from $190 a year to $216 a year from 1 July.

24 June, 2010

Electricity cable is
power for the people

A $1 billion, 700-kilometre high-tension power line from Cloncurry to Townsville has been declared a project of State significance.
   Premier, Anna Bligh said private entities CuString and Leighton Contractors had joined forces to solve the northwest’s power shortfall with plans for the proposed ‘CopperString’ project.
   Ms Bligh said the Government would work with the private companies to conduct a feasibility study into the venture, which could link existing and future mines in the North West Mineral Province to the national electricity grid.
   The Premier said this followed the independent Sims Review which determined the private sector should fund infrastructure to address the region’s electricity shortfall.
   “The North West Minerals Province around Mount Isa is one of the most significant base and precious metal mining provinces in the world, with production in 2007-08 valued at $7.5 billion,” Ms Bligh said.
   “This is a once-in-a-generation opportunity for this crucial mineral-rich area to find the energy it needs to power Queensland past 2030.”
   She said the results of the feasibility study were due later this year and would allow the major energy customers to assess if the proposed project represented a better solution than local generation over the next 20-plus years.
   Ms Bligh said the proposed 275-to-300-kilovolt transmission line was declared a Significant Project by the independent Coordinator-General, Colin Jensen.
   She welcomed the declaration which meant the project would now undergo a rigorous Environmental Impact Statement to identify and mitigate its environmental effects on the surroundings.
   Ms Bligh said the transmission line was intended to complement rather than replace existing energy infrastructure in North and North West Queensland.

24 June, 2010

Education grants
get top marks

Two educational institutions in Queensland have been successful in securing support from the Commonwealth Government’s Education Investment Fund.
   The University of Queensland (UQ) will receive funding for a new medical imaging research and Griffith University’s Nathan campus has been funded to build a new sustainable teaching and research building to integrate sustainable business, engineering and environmental science disciplines.
   Announcing the grants, the Federal Minister for Education Julia Gillard said the Universities’ projects would improve the quality and diversity of the education offered to students.
   Ms Gillard said the projects would also help future generations of Queensland students get the skills they needed to fill jobs and deepen the nation’s research capability.
   Federal Minister for Innovation, Industry, Science and Research, Senator Kim Carr said the Government had extended the third round of the Education Investment Fund to include an additional $200 million.
   “This additional funding has been provided for projects that focus on teaching and research, particularly the areas of climate change and sustainability, bringing the total national funding to $550 million,” Senator Carr said.
   “Investing in the quality and diversity of our tertiary education system will advance our green skills agenda and reinforce our reputation as a world leader in innovation and research.”

24 June, 2010
OSR has ‘tweet success
The Office of State Revenue has joined Twitter to provide members of the public with updates on new web tools, changes to legislation and reminders of upcoming events.
   The OSR said it would monitor its Twitter page during working hours and provide the public with short updates of 140 characters or less.
   The OSR Twitter page could be visited at www.twitter.com/OSRQueensland

PSC advises on DET jobs
A Public Service Commission Directive has been issued to provide guidance on the retention of job applications for School Leader positions in the Department of Education and Training.
   Directive 9/10, Recurring Vacancies – School Leader Roles, says applications received for School Leader positions can be used to fill subsequent recurring vacancies arising from 1 January to 31 December 2011 without further advertising.
   It says subsequent school leader vacancies must be identical to the original except in job location and that the original advertisement must state applications would remain current up to 31 December.
   The Directive can be accessed at www.psc.qld.gov.au

ATSI survey launched
The Queensland Public Sector Union is undertaking a survey of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Workers to find out how they feel about workplace issues.
   The survey was developed to help union ATSI delegates establish how widespread reports of issues with career progression and management practices are within Queensland Health and will pinpoint issues workers think need to be addressed.
   The survey is expected to take a few minutes to complete and could be accessed at www.qpsu.org.au

Stadium funding up
An additional Federal investment of $2.5 million has been made towards a state-of-the-art sporting stadium for Mackay.
   The additional funding will ensure the stadium includes National Rugby League-standard lighting, seating on three sides, a sealed car park, upgraded hospitality facilities and a community room.
   When complete, the stadium will have a 12,000-seat capacity with improved parking and drop-off facilities including for disability access, and better security and walkway lighting.

More time for Council
Sunshine Coast Regional Council has been given an additional 30 business days to process public submissions on structure plans for Caloundra South, Palmview and Maroochydore,
   The additional time was deemed necessary due to the high level of interest in the three new structure plans, with over 2,500 submissions received during the public consultation phase.
   The plans will cater for roughly 32,285 new dwellings supporting commercial, retail, recreational, community and educational land uses.

Traffic lights are go
The first set of traffic lights for Home Hill have been switched on in the heart of the town.
   The $800,000 controlled pedestrian crossing on Eighth Avenue is expected to boost safety for people crossing the busy Bruce Highway.
   Also included is a pedestrian refuge on the western service road and two parking spaces for people with disability.

Cane grower reminder
The Queensland Fire and Rescue Service has reminded cane growers they need to obtain permits before burning cane, tops and trash in most circumstances
   A permit is not required when a grower’s cane production area is bordered on every side by other cane land that does not include a gazetted road water course or farm building.
   Special circumstances only applied to sugarcane, tops or trash and permits could be obtained from local fire wardens for all other burning purposes.
   Further information was available from www.ruralfire.qld.gov.au

17 June, 2010

Electric cars spark
public consultation

A public consultation paper on the issues surrounding electric cars has been released by the Acting Minister for Climate Change and Sustainability, Annastacia Palaszczuk.
   Ms Palaszczuk said the paper, An Electric Vehicles Roadmap for Queensland, detailed issues that needed to be addressed before electric vehicles arrived on the Australian market next year.
   “If Queensland is well prepared for their introduction, electric cars can play a huge role in cutting our emissions,” Ms Palaszczuk said.
   “Reducing transport-related emissions will help Queensland meet its ambitious Q2 target to cut Queenslanders’ carbon footprint by one third by 2020.”
   She said the paper looked at how to ensure electric cars would not be a drain on the electricity grid.
   “We’ll be looking closely at the short and long-term impacts of electric vehicles on the existing electricity grid and taking them into full account when developing infrastructure improvements such as intelligent grid design and advanced metering systems,” Ms Palaszczuk said.
   “In addition to the impacts on the electricity grid, some of the priority areas canvassed in the Roadmap include the environmental impacts of electric vehicles, the regulatory standards they’ll have to comply with, the development of a charging infrastructure, how the industry is likely to develop and the encouragement of renewable energy market sectors.”
   The Minister said global investment in the production of electric vehicles was accelerating rapidly with major car companies such as Renault-Nissan and Mitsubishi planning to deliver their electric models to the Australian market by 2011.
   “We need to be prepared for a market transformation if we’re serious about reducing transport-related emissions as Queensland’s population and associated car use continue to grow,” she said.
   Submissions on the consultation paper, which was available from www.climatechange.qld.gov.au, close on 19 July.

17 June, 2010

PS chimes in with
gongs from Queen

Public Servants have featured prominently in the Queens Birthday Honours List with one being made an Officer of the Order of Australia (AO), three becoming Members of the Order (AM), one receiving the Medal of the Order of Australia and five receiving Public Service Medals (PSM).
The honours were announced by the Governor-General, Quentin Bryce.

OFFICER OF THE ORDER OF AUSTRALIA (AO)

Judith Rose MUNRO AO
Brisbane City Council
For distinguished service to local government, particularly the Brisbane City Council, and to the community through contributions to business, professional development and philanthropic organisations.
Ms Munro is Chief Executive of the Brisbane City Council

MEMBER OF THE ORDER OF AUSTRALIA (AM)

Professor David George GARDINER AM
For service to university administration at the Queensland University of Technology, to legal education, and to a range of professional associations.

Peter HENNEKEN AM
For service to the public sector in Queensland, particularly as a leader in policy development in the fields of industrial relations and vocational training.
Mr Henneken Acted as Director-General of the Department of Employment, Economic Development and Innovation.

Professor Alan Frank ISLES AM
Chidren’s Hospital
For service as a hospital administrator, medical educator and specialist in the field of paediatric respiratory medicine.

MEDAL OF THE ORDER OF AUSTRALIA (OAM)

Janice Mary RICKARDS OAM
Griffith University
For service to the library and information sciences, and to education.

PUBLIC SERVICE MEDAL (PSM)

Thomas Norman FUSSELL PSM
Public Works
For outstanding public service in Queensland through the promotion of architecture and building design.

Over the past 48 years, Mr Fussell has undertaken a wide range of duties and initiatives that have delivered outstanding results for the people of Queensland and the architectural profession in Australia.
   He has also promoted the profession in Queensland, nationally and internationally through his involvement and support of professional associations.
   Mr Fussell initiated and championed the national push for ‘Digital Modelling’ in the building design profession. He has shown leadership in influencing and pursuing the increased selection, appointment, education and deployment of architectural students in Queensland. He has also been responsible for a number of major operational shifts in the design and construction operations within the Department of Public Works.
   In addition, he has played a fundamental role in support of the Environmentally Sustainable Design process that aims to provide sustainable design outcomes when applied to building projects.
   The successful outcome of several initiatives can be attributed to his achievements that have benefited the Queensland community.
   Mr Fussell has demonstrated exceptional service through his commitment to developing the highest quality of building design, education, technology and mentoring over an extensive period.

Peter James MULCAHY PSM
Education and Training
For outstanding public service through leadership in the development of key improvement and accountability initiatives across schools in Queensland.

Mr Mulcahy has made an outstanding contribution to education in Queensland for over 45 years as a teacher, principal, inspector and director.
   He has played a pivotal leadership role in the development, implementation and review of the School Improvement and Accountability Framework employed in Queensland state schools in recent years. His vision for and implementation of the Framework has impacted every community across Queensland where there are government schools.
   Mr Mulcahy also played a significant role in implementing ‘Destination 2010’ - the major operational plan guiding schools’ targets and planning.
   His outstanding leadership in the dimensions of school accountability and school improvement illustrates and attests to his innovation in program and policy development.
   Mr Mulcahy has contributed significantly to education in Queensland due to his dedication, commitment and vision in leading key improvement and accountability initiatives across state schools.

Warren Gordon ROWE PSM
Gold Coast City Council
For outstanding public service through leadership in creative town planning and urban design solutions, particularly in the Gold Coast region.

Mr Rowe has demonstrated exceptional public service through his contribution to town planning and development in south east Queensland, particularly in his role as Director of Planning, Environment and Transport with the Gold Coast City Council.
   Mr Rowe has been instrumental in the overall planning of the ‘fabric’ of the Gold Coast for over 15 years. Since his appointment, the city’s population has increased from 312,000 to over 500,000.
   The scope of his contribution to the strategic planning of the city has extended from green space, nature conservation, floodplain management and bushfire strategy to urban design and infrastructure planning.
   Mr Rowe has aimed to place the Gold Coast at the forefront of planning, and played a key role in establishing a School of Planning and a Chair of Planning within the Griffith University Gold Coast Campus.
   Mr Rowe is widely acknowledged for his outstanding leadership in creative town planning and urban design solutions for the region. He is also recognised for his outstanding contribution to education and development of student planners and young planning professionals in south east Queensland.

Dr Judith Ann WILLIAMS PSM
Bundaberg Base Hospital
For outstanding public service to the Wide Bay region as the Director of Paediatrics at the Bundaberg Base Hospital.

Dr Williams has displayed exceptional public service through her contribution to Paediatrics at Bundaberg Base Hospital and her role in improving child safety in the Wide Bay region.   Dr Williams created the Health Passport Clinic at the Hospital to assess children who have been identified with child safety concerns, and formed the multidisciplinary Child Advocacy Team that discusses cases where children do not warrant intervention through the Department of Child Safety but may be at risk of harm and without support.
   Dr Williams has forged invaluable links with the Indigenous community and health workers to create better outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children. She has helped to break down barriers for Indigenous people to access mainstream services with the Hospital and the community.
   Dr Williams has fostered a culture of excellence in the Paediatric Service provided at the Hospital. She promotes evidence-based medicine and encourages and conducts training and education for all staff, and has developed protocols and services in enhancing the effectiveness of Child Safety to the Wide Bay Health Service.
   Dr Williams has also been instrumental in effectively integrating International medical graduates into the Australian medical system.
   Through her work as Director of Paediatrics, Dr Williams has made an outstanding contribution to Queensland Health, particularly through her development of an efficient and patient focused unit against which Queensland Health has benchmarked their patient care standards.

Elizabeth Anne WILLIAMSON PSM
Education and Training
For outstanding public service to the performing arts in Queensland education, particularly through the delivery of Creative Generation.

Mrs Williamson has made an outstanding contribution to education in Queensland, particularly through the coordination and delivery of Creative Generation.
Mrs Williamson has been the producer/director of Creative Generation - State Schools Onstage for over 5 years.
   Since 2005, Creative Generation has annually showcased students’ talents and provided quality performing arts opportunities to state schools.
   Mrs Williamson’s dedication and initiation have resulted in students from varying cultural backgrounds travelling from far reaching communities to regional and city centres to access and connect with professional performing artists. With particular focus on involving Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students and students from rural, regional and remote areas, the program provides students with the rare opportunity to learn and perform alongside Queensland’s leading artists.
   Mrs Williamson aims to make a difference to young people’s lives through positive performing arts experiences.
   Her outstanding commitment to promoting performing arts in schools and her professional execution of Creative Generation have resulted in the advancement of the performing arts in Queensland education.

17 June, 2010

Workers’ comp
rehabilitated

Changes to the State’s Workers’ Compensation Scheme designed to ensure the long-term future of WorkCover Queensland and offset rising costs from common law claims have been approved by Parliament.
   Minister for Industrial Relations, Cameron Dick said despite the changes, Queensland’s workers’ compensation premiums would remain the lowest of any State and would continue to protect injured workers.
   “Queensland’s Workers’ Compensation Scheme suffered significant losses as a result of the global financial crisis and the Government had to take action to ensure its ongoing stability,” Mr Dick said.
   “Workers will still have unfettered access to common law claims while employers will continue to benefit from low premiums.”
   He said the changes meant WorkCover Queensland had been able to contain average employer premiums to $1.30 per $100 of wages for 2010-11, up from $1.15.
   The Minister said this compared with Victoria, the State with the next lowest employer premium costs, which had an average premium of $1.34 per $100 of wages in 2010-11.
   Mr Dick said the changes to the Workers’ Compensation and Rehabilitation Act 2003 would harmonise with the Civil Liability Act 2003, aligning liability and contributory negligence provisions and capping damages.
   “With a solvency level exceeding 100 per cent, WorkCover Queensland is still in a very strong financial position,” he said.
   “These changes ensure that WorkCover Queensland will continue to have a strong future.”

17 June, 2010

New Act builds
up city future

A new Act of Parliament that establishes a legislative framework for the City of Brisbane and updates its 86-year-old original has been passed and will come into force on 1 July.
   Minister for Local Government, Desley Boyle said the City of Brisbane Act would commence operation at the same time as the Local Government Act 2009, giving all Councils across Queensland a new modus operandi.
   “The City of Brisbane Act gives Brisbane City Council the legislative framework it needs for 21st century Local Government,” Ms Boyle said.
   “The original 1924 City of Brisbane Act amalgamated two cities, 10 towns and 13 shires.”
   The Minister said while the previous Act had served Brisbane well, the city had changed immensely since 1924.
   Ms Boyle said the new Act would take Brisbane forward as a modern, progressive and new-world city.
   “The Act recognises in law the Establishment and Coordination Committee which is like State Cabinet and is chaired by the Mayor and chairs of Council Steering Committees,” she said.
   “The Act clarifies roles and definitions, cuts out unnecessary red tape and contains updated provisions from the old Act which are also unique to Brisbane City Council, such as provisions dealing with the City Botanic Gardens and Brisbane River crossings.”
   Ms Boyle said the Act mirrored the State-wide Local Government legislation’s
principles-based approach, giving Councils the necessary flexibility to develop their own policies, operational procedures and processes.
   “For the first time the legislation is user friendly for everyone, especially ratepayers and Council staff,” she said.

17 June, 2010

Cattle battle leads
to meaty fines

A recent Court decision in Goondiwindi which saw five people fined a total of $114,000 for bringing cattle into Queensland without a health certificate showed that Biosecurity Queensland was protecting the State’s beef industry, according to Minister for Primary Industries, Tim Mulherin.
   Mr Mulherin said Queensland’s beef industry was worth around $3.38 billion and that bringing stock into the State without the proper permits could put it at risk.
   “Biosecurity Queensland will act on any violation of the legislation designed to protect the State’s beef industry,” Mr Mulherin said.
   “The matter was heard over two Court hearings in which two parties were fined $50,000 each and the remaining three parties were collectively fined $14,000 for the offences.
   “This is the biggest collective fine for this offence in Queensland.”
   The Minister said three parties were also charged with introducing a prescribed species into Queensland that related to cattle from a herd infected with Bovine Johne’s Disease.
   The breaches related to two different consignments of cattle, totalling 198 beasts, which were moved from NSW into Queensland in March 2009.
   “Bovine Johne’s Disease is a chronic, wasting disease in cattle caused by bacteria. It has a long incubation period, causes chronic diarrhoea which leads to emaciation and eventually death,” Mr Mulherin said.
   “Queensland has remained free of Bovine Johne’s Disease to date and forms part of the national Protected Zone for the disease
   “Biosecurity Queensland will enforce entry requirements of beasts into Queensland to prevent the spread of diseases like Bovine Johne’s Disease.”
   Investigator with Biosecurity Queensland, Craig Elliott said any cattle that posed a biosecurity risk, including those suspected of carrying Bovine Johne’s disease, would be quarantined.
   “This case has shown how seriously we consider the illegal entry of livestock into Queensland,” Mr Elliott said.

17 June, 2010

On-the-spot fines
spot-on for police

The police power to issue on-the-spot fines for public nuisance offences is to be extended across the State following a 12-month trial in South Brisbane and Townsville.
   Premier, Anna Bligh said the introduction of a ticketing system for public nuisance offences was recommended in a Crime and Misconduct Commission (CMC) report on the issue.
   “The CMC found that 60 per cent of summary offences dealt with in the Magistrates Court were offences of public nuisance and that 97 per cent of defendants either pleaded guilty or were found guilty after they failed to appear in Court,” Ms Bligh said.
   “Cabinet approved a 12-month trial of on-the-spot ticketing for Public Nuisance offences in addition to existing powers to arrest or issue an offender with a notice to appear in Court.”
   The Premier said Griffith University had been engaged to undertake an evaluation of the trial.
   “The Griffith report concludes that tickets are a cost-effective means of dealing with public nuisance offences,” she said.
   “During the trial 46 per cent of all persons ticketed had no previous criminal history and only one per cent of people who received tickets contested them before the Courts.
   “The report also found the trial led to improved workload efficiencies for both the Courts and police service.”
   Minister for Police, Neil Roberts said public nuisance ticketing allowed police to spend more time on the beat responding to the needs of the community, instead of doing paperwork.
   “In implementing State-wide public nuisance ticketing, the Queensland Police Service will focus on maximising the use of alternatives to enforcement action, where appropriate, and to ensuring that ticketing does not unreasonably impact on vulnerable social groups,” Mr Roberts said.
   The trial found Indigenous people were up to 14 times more likely to be dealt with for public nuisance offences and five times more likely to be ticketed than non-Indigenous people, but that this overrepresentation did not increase with ticketing.

17 June, 2010

Minister wrings hands
over water prices

Local Councils and Council-owned water distributor-retailers have been urged to keep prices low to avoid putting pressure on householders in the South East.
   The call has been made by the Minister for Natural Resources, Stephen Robertson.
   “We know that people are under financial pressure right now and that is why we have urged Councils to minimise the impact on consumers from their retail water prices,” Mr Robertson said.
   “Councils should follow the State Government lead in limiting water price rises – the State Government supplies bulk water and since 2008, has limited price rises at around $68 a year for average households.”
   He said that unlike some Councils, the State Government did not make a profit from water charges.
   Mr Robertson said retail water and sewerage charges were the responsibility of Councils.
   “Councils are in a position to limit price rises and they need to take ownership of any increases that may impact on their communities,” he said.
   “It is up to the Council-owned water distributor-retailers to run their businesses for the people of South East Queensland, not for profit.”
   Mr Robertson said claims that South East Queensland (SEQ) urban water reforms were responsible for Council-controlled water price rises were misleading.
   “It is time for SEQ Councils to be honest and stop blaming the State for their choices and I challenge them to run their businesses for the benefit of South East Queenslanders.”

17 June, 2010

Fair Trading checks
off charity checker

A new search facility on the Office of Fair Trading’s website will allow visitors to the site to check whether certain charities are authorised to collect money in Queensland.
   Minister for Fair Trading, Peter Lawlor said the new Queensland Charities and Associations Online Register (QCAOR) was developed by the Office of Fair Trading- which registers charities in Queensland - to make information more accessible to the public.
   “Previously you made a phone call to do a check but now you can simply jump on the website and type in a name,” Mr Lawlor said.
   “The search, which verifies information against a public register of charity records, allows you to see if the organisation you’ve been approached by or are dealing with is authorised to collect money or fund-raise in Queensland,” he said.
   The Minister said most charities did the right thing but from time to time there were organisations which collected without being authorised to do so.
   He said the free tool identified organisations registered under the Collections Act 1966 which requires organisations wishing to publicly raise funds in Queensland to register with OFT.
   Mr Lawlor said in addition to the search, people who wanted more specific information about a registered charity could request documents for a small fee, including audited financial statements.
   Charity registration checks could be conducted at www.fairtrading.qld.gov.au

17 June, 2010

Naidoc week to start
without preamble

Preparations are gaining pace for the 2010 Naidoc Week celebrations which are due to kick off on 4 July.
   Minister for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnerships, Desley Boyle said celebrations would be conducted across the entire State.
   “We are privileged in Queensland to lay claim to this rich cultural diversity yet how many Queenslanders can actually name their local Traditional Owner groups or know what the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander flags represent?” Ms Boyle asked.
   “Naidoc Week is a time to reflect on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures, their significant part in our history and the important contribution they will play in Queensland’s future.”
   Ms Boyle said the theme for 2010 was based on the new preamble to the Queensland constitution that recognised Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as the First Australians.
   “The Government will be promoting this strongly during Naidoc Week 2010,” she said.
   The Minister said Naidoc Week would celebrate the success of young Indigenous people in fields such as art, sport, medicine, law, mining and defence.
   “Naidoc Week is a special time for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Queenslanders and I encourage all Queenslanders to participate in the celebrations this year, no matter how large or small,” she said.
   Ms Boyle said Naidoc Week activities would be held across Queensland with festivals listed for Logan, Inala, Acacia Ridge, Mackay, Deception Bay, Maryborough, Ipswich and South Brisbane.
   A list of festivals and events was available from www.communities.qld.gov.au
   The acronym Naidoc stands for the National Aboriginal and Islander Day Observance Committee.

17 June, 2010

Kangaroo industry
to bounce back

Trials of a system for improving efficiencies and export opportunities in the kangaroo meat industry have been declared better than expected.
   Led by the Department of Employment, Economic Development and Innovation (DEEDI) and Safe Food Production Queensland, the trials of new ‘traceback’ technology could lead to more efficiencies than were first envisaged.
   Minister for Primary Industries, Tim Mulherin said new radio frequency identification (RFID) tags and barcodes used to trace kangaroo products from the paddock to the export market had performed very well.
   “This is great news for Queensland’s kangaroo meat industry,” Mr Mulherin said.
   “The RFID trials have indicated the technology is doing exactly what it is designed for. They’re easy to use, read data quickly and signal an alert when harvested kangaroos have been too long in getting to a chiller box.”
   The Minister said the trials had been expanded to include an audio component and colour coded light system to alert users to any harvest issues due to their initial success.
   “The RFID tag system could also eliminate paper based returns for kangaroo harvesters which will allow export customers to have confidence in the traceability and verification of Australia’s kangaroo meat product,” Mr Mulherin said.
   “It could make product traceability faster and easier and this is an important market access issue.”
   He said the Government had also worked closely with AgForce and the macropod industry to rekindle trade opportunities with Russia which was Australia’s biggest export market for Kangaroo meat until it banned it last August due to hygiene concerns.
   “AgForce arranged a bilateral agricultural trade and investment tour by Russia’s new Trade Commissioner and Commissioner Yuri Aleshin visited Roma and Dinmore to learn more about Queensland agriculture,” Mr Mulherin said.
   He said the trial results indicated carcasses were being delivered to chilling facilities within specified time limits.
   “We now have firm evidence that this technology is quicker, eliminates errors associated with tag data and identifies breaches of food safety requirements,” Mr Mulherin said.
   “I am certain the success of our recent trials using traceback technology showed the trade envoy that there are market opportunities in the kangaroo industry,” he said.

17 June, 2010

Funding game on for
kindergarten grants

A second round of funding has been announced for long day care services in Queensland to encourage service providers to deliver kindergarten programs using qualified teachers.
   Minister for Education and Training, Geoff Wilson said under the funding program, care services would receive at least $1,200 per eligible child to offset the cost of providing a specialist kindergarten program.
   Mr Wilson said the initiative was being offered in a bid to reach the Government’s 2014 target of providing every child in the State with access to kindergarten.
   “Statistics show more than half of Queensland’s kindy-aged children attend long day care services, but only a small number of them are taking part in a kindergarten program taught by a qualified teacher,” Mr Wilson said.
   He said services in disadvantaged areas would be eligible for greater subsidies to help local families access kindergarten.
   “We want to give parents more choice about where to send their children for a quality early years education program,” the Minister said.
   “Providing funding to assist long day care services to deliver kindergarten is just one of those options.
   He said the introduction of kindergarten in long day care services should not come at any extra cost to parents already accessing care at those services.
   Mr Wilson said the first round of funding under the 2010 Kindergarten Pilot Program was held last year and attracted an “overwhelming response.”
   “We originally planned to involve up to 100 long day care services in round one but due to strong interest, 141 services were selected to participate in the pilot,” he said.
   “I expect this second round to be equally as popular with long day care services.”
   President of Childcare Queensland, Gwynn Bridge welcomed the second funding round, saying the sector strongly supported the initiative.
   Applications for funding close on 29 June and further information was available from www.education.qld.gov.au

17 June, 2010

Principals lead from
head of the class

Queensland’s school principals have been thanked and congratulated for their leadership and commitment to the State’s education system.
   Minister for Education and Training, Geoff Wilson thanked the principals for their hard work and commitment while attending a reception for members of four principals’ associations.
   Members of the Queensland Association of State School Principals, Queensland State P10/12 School Administrators Association, Queensland Secondary Principals Association, and the Association of Special Education Administrators Queensland were present at the reception.
   Mr Wilson said the Government recognised that strong, visionary leadership at the school level was crucial to the delivery of world class education for all Queensland students.
   “We want Queensland to be among the top-performing states in literacy, numeracy and science,” he said.
   “To do this we need school leaders who are dedicated to using their skills in innovative and creative ways to further their students’ interests and also the interests of the broader community.
   “I acknowledge the role principals and school leaders have in lifting student performance and express my thanks for their commitment to education in Queensland.”
   Mr Wilson said there were significant changes taking place that would alter the education landscape in Queensland over the next few years.
   “National partnerships are targeting literacy and numeracy, and student achievement in low socio-economic status school communities, as well as improving student pathways from high school to work, training and higher education,” he said.
   “And we are considering further reforms through the A Flying Start for Queensland Children Education Green Paper, including a proposal to move Year 7 to secondary school from 2014.”

17 June, 2010

‘Judas goat’ leads
other kids astray

Rangers from the Department of Environment and Resource Management have successfully rounded up a herd of goats and removed them from Orpheus Island National Park in the Great Barrier Reef east of Ingham.
   Acting Minister for Climate Change and Sustainability, Annastacia Palaszczuk said a ‘Judas goat’, equipped with a radio transmitter, had led the hunters to the herd.
   “The Judas goat technique takes advantage of the fact that goats are herd animals,” Ms Palaszczuk said.
   “A goat is fitted with a radio transmitter and then tracked until it joins the herd, making it much easier for the goats to be located and removed.”
   She said it had been a tricky operation as it was carried out in poor weather and the goats were located on cliff faces on the eastern side of the island.
   “In spite of the difficulties, the project was successful,” Ms Palaszczuk said.
   “Goat removal is an ongoing program for Orpheus Island. Goats can multiply relatively quickly and survive in harsh terrain, so rangers need to keep constant watch.”
   She said if left unchecked, goats would destroy any vegetation lower than one or two metres and could wipe out entire habitats for reptiles, mammals, birds, frogs and insects that rely on the same vegetation to survive.
   Goats were introduced to Australia with the First Fleet in 1788 and have caused widespread damage to native wildlife and vegetation ever since.
   They were released on offshore islands as a source of food for lighthouse keepers.

17 June, 2010

Police put brakes
on hoon vehicles

Queensland Police have reported they’ve impounded over 20,000 motor vehicles under the State’s anti-hooning vehicle impoundment legislation.
   Minister for Police, Neil Roberts said the tough laws “hit offenders where it hurt” by taking away their vehicles, while protecting the community from irresponsible drivers.
   “Our anti-hooning laws are the toughest in Australia,” Mr Roberts said.
   “It’s a clear message to hoons that their vehicles will be seized if they don’t behave responsibly on our roads.”
   The Minister said under ‘Type 1’ vehicle confiscation laws introduced in 2002, Police could target anti-social driving behaviour including street racing, time trials and burnouts.
   He said in 2007 an extension to impoundment laws meant they applied to drivers who repeatedly drove unregistered and uninsured vehicles, drove unlicensed or disqualified, drove while over the high alcohol limit, failed to provide a specimen of breath or blood for testing, drove while under 24-hour suspension or drove illegally modified vehicles.
   Mr Roberts said the new ‘Type 2’ provisions allowed police to impound a vehicle for 48 hours after a first repeat offence.
   “Reckless driving in our community will not be tolerated – if you don’t follow the rules we will get you off the road,” he said.
   “As at 10 May 2010, Queensland Police have impounded a total of 20,336 motor vehicles under our vehicle impoundment legislation.”
   Mr Roberts said of the vehicles impounded, more than 4,800 had been eligible for application to a Magistrates Court for further sanction, which could include an impoundment of three months for a second repeat offence or forfeiture to the State for a third.
   Acting Chief Superintendent Col Campbell from State Traffic Support said the behaviour of some drivers needed to change.
   “The time has come for drivers to accept responsibility for their actions when they are in control of a vehicle,” Superintendent Campbell said.

17 June, 2010

Minister buys into
consumer warning

The Minister for Fair Trading has urged consumers to take care when shopping during the stock take sale season to avoid blowing the budget and spending more than they can afford.
   The Minister, Peter Lawlor said while sales could be an excellent way to pick up much-needed items at a cheaper price, the hype could cause some consumers to fall into debt.
   “I recommend that you work out a budget at home to avoid overspending or making the wrong decisions about purchases,” Mr Lawlor said.
   “Remember, just because something is on sale it doesn’t mean you have to buy it.”
   Mr Lawlor advised shoppers to think about what they needed and could afford, and to consider what else their money could be used for instead of buying an unneeded object.
   He said it was important for consumers to know and understand their refund rights and responsibilities, particularly while shopping during the sales season.
   “All consumers have the right to ask for a refund, even if the goods are on special,” Mr Lawlor said.
   “However, this only applies when the goods have a fault that you could not have known about at the time of purchase, or they are not the same as the description provided by the salesperson or advertisement.
   “You can also request a refund if the product does not match the sample you were shown at the time of purchase or does not do the job that it was intended for.”
   Mr Lawlor said refunds did not have to be given if the purchaser changed his or her mind or found the same item cheaper elsewhere.
   “Some businesses may offer refunds in some of these circumstances as a sign of goodwill, but they aren’t required to by law,” Mr Lawlor said.

17 June, 2010

Illegal fisher
caught out

The Queensland Boating and Fisheries Patrol has seized hundreds of illegally-caught fish after executing a search warrant in Townsville.
   Minister for Primary Industries and Fisheries, Tim Mulherin said the over 300 whiting were found in a recreational fisher’s caravan – 298 above the legal possession limit of 30.
   Mr Mulherin said the alleged offence showed a blatant disregard for the State’s fishing rules.
   “The regulations ensure our fisheries are sustainable, yet here is one person who thinks it’s acceptable to take more than their fair share,” he said.
   “It is not acceptable for anyone to ignore Queensland’s fishing rules and regulations and this should be a lesson to anyone who thinks they can get away with it.”
   Townsville District Officer of the Queensland Boating and Fisheries Patrol, Robert Ibell said the investigation was ongoing but the number of whiting confiscated was well in excess of the legal bag limit.
   “This incident should be a reminder to everyone that a bag limit refers to the total number of fish an individual can legally take and have in their possession at any one time – it does not apply on a per day basis,” Mr Ibell said.
   “The maximum penalty for exceeding the bag limit is $100,000.”
   Mr Mulherin said officers of the Patrol carried out 43,687 fisheries inspections in 2009 which resulted in a total of 1,094 fines or prosecutions for illegal fishing and 670 cautions.
   “I’d like to thank QBFP for the work they do in educating fishers about bag and size limits and for enforcing the rules,” he said.
   Residents concerned about possible breaches of fishing regulations could contact the 24-hour Fishwatch hotline on 1800 017 116.

17 June, 2010

Communities to fare
well from welfare

An institute associated with Griffith University is to manage a trial of family welfare programs in four communities in Cape York.
   A total of $356,000 has been made available for the new programs in Aurukun, Coen, Hope Vale and Mossman Gorge as part of the Cape York Welfare Reform trial.
   The programs will be aimed at developing strategies to address problems such as family violence and gambling while simultaneously improving health outcomes for communities.
   Minister for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnerships, Desley Boyle said the Cape York Institute for Policy and Leadership at Griffith University, would receive over $256,000 to roll out the programs in the trial towns.
   “Gambling can have serious impacts on child and family wellbeing which can undermine the positive gains we are starting to make on other fronts of the welfare reform trial such as school attendance,” Ms Boyle said.
   “What these new programs will do is deal with problems head on.
   “This includes trialling new and innovative solutions in partnership with the communities themselves.”
   The Minister said $100,000 would be allocated to Queensland Corrective Services to fund new programs for local Commissioners which address family violence, substance abuse and reoffending.
   “In a first, Queensland Corrective Services will train the local Commissioners to run the Ending Family Violence program in their towns,” Ms Boyle said.
   “This new initiative will strengthen what they’re doing, with an estimated 300 people in the four trial communities to be put through the Ending Family Violence program”
   She said if the trial was successful, the programs would be considered for expansion to other Cape York communities.

17 June, 2010
TV campaign airs
A new television commercial encouraging people to visit Queensland’s inland destinations while they are at their greenest has commenced.
   The $100,000 initiative from Tourism Queensland aims to remind travellers of the diverse and fertile landscapes throughout the south-west and western regions of the State.
   The commercials are expected to build on the nine per cent increase in domestic holiday visitors to Queensland’s outback recorded in 2009.

Oonoonba plan out
The proposed structure plan for new the 83 hectare Urban Development Area (UDA) at Oonoonba in Townsville is to be released for community comment on 21 June.
   The plan details key land uses and infrastructure needs for the site, and includes a proposal for up to 900 lots - with 50 per cent of the homes at or below the city’s $365,000 median house price.
   The structure plan would be available for public comment from 21 June to 2 July from www.ulda.qld.gov.au

Police recruits graduate
A total of 81 recruits to the Queensland Police Service have graduated from the Oxley academy as first-year constables after seven months of training.
   The constables will take up positions throughout Brisbane, Bundaberg, Sunshine Coast, Logan, Gold Coast, Ipswich and Toowoomba.
   They come from a variety of backgrounds including education, professional, trades, hospitality, human resources and administration and will be stationed in the following regions: Metropolitan North (18); Metropolitan South (Oxley 6, South Brisbane 8, Wynnum 2); North Coast (Bundaberg 5, Sunshine Coast 11); South Eastern (Logan 7, Gold Coast 10); and Southern (Ipswich 7, Toowoomba 7).

UQ scientists find gene
University of Queensland scientists have discovered the gene which regulates the size of a plant and provides resistance to diseases.
   The discovery, reported in the international scientific journal, Nature, is expected to have important consequences for green genetic engineering.
   Members of the university’s research team were studying a plant called mouse-ear cress when they made the discovery.

Drama award opens
Queensland artists have been urged to submit entries for the 2010-11 Queensland Premier’s Drama Award before it closes on 30 June.
   The winner of the Award will work with industry experts to produce a fully-staged play, to be presented by Queensland Theatre Company in its 2011 main stage season.
   Since the inception of the award in 2001, 15 plays have been developed.
   Further information was available from www.qldtheatreco.com.au

Program prevents falls
A program designed by Queensland Health to prevent falls is helping elderly Gold Coast residents.
   Director of Health Promotion for the Gold Coast Public Health Unit, Kylie Cocks, said the 10-week program endeavours to prevent falls, improve health and maintain independence in older Queenslanders.
   Ms Cocks said it delivered gentle exercises to build strength and balance and informative presentations to raise awareness of the risk factors of falls.

OK for Milton development
A mixed use development integrated with Milton train station has been approved by the Minister for Planning following his decision on 16 April to call in the development, which is adjacent to the station.
   The Minister, Stirling Hinchliffe said after further studies by the Board of Urban Places and Department of Infrastructure and Planning Officers, he had approved the development with conditions.
   Conditions include reducing the maximum height of the building to 30 storeys; an extra $1 million on top of Council’s original $5 million in developer contributions and a $52,500 contribution to public art works.

10 June, 2010

Budget adds up to
growth and services

In bringing down the 2010-11 State Budget on Tuesday, the Treasurer, Andrew Fraser has committed the State to improving frontline services, supporting job growth, enhancing public transport and growing regional areas.
   Mr Fraser announced an extra 316 teachers and teacher aides, 203 police positions, 75 ambulance officers, 24 operational firefighting personnel, 720 nurses, 300 allied health professionals and 180 doctors.
   Minister for Police, Neil Roberts said the Queensland Police Service had been allocated a $1.8 billion operating budget for 2010-11, a $110 million increase on last year.
   Mr Roberts said along with financing additional policing positions, the funding would be invested in new technology such as a Weapons Licensing System, a computer-aided dispatch system and speed cameras.
   Premier, Anna Bligh said $17.1 billion would be funnelled into infrastructure and building projects in 2010-11 in an effort to create jobs.
   Ms Bligh said 57 per cent of building program funds ($9.75bn) would be spent on projects outside Brisbane in recognition of the importance of regional areas.
   “If we want to encourage more people to live in the regions then we need to have the services and infrastructure in place,” she said.
   Ms Bligh said a $4,000 Regional First Home Owner Boost would also apply for regional buyers on top of the $7,000 grant already provided by the State to encourage more people to move or stay in the regions.
   The Premier said public transport would also receive a boost, with the construction of a major new rail line in Springfield moved forward two years to help manage population growth and improve transport services.
   “Quality public transport like this not only means that people can live further away from the city without having to drive but it also delivers major environmental wins as well,” Ms Bligh said.
   She said Local Governments would also receive additional funding to strengthen cultural attractions such as art galleries and museums.
   Attorney-General, Cameron Dick said a Court Building program, more frontline staff and improved legal aid services were the focus of the Justice portfolio’s record $1.046 billion budget.
   Mr Dick said the Crime and Misconduct Commission, the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions, the Office of the Adult Guardian and the Queensland Civil and Administrative Tribunal also received funding boosts.
   The Treasurer said the Budget was expected to return to surplus for 2015/16 but admitted it was unlikely to impress Queenslanders who are expected to save just $24 a year due to reduced compulsory third party insurance.
   “It is not a blockbuster fairytale but one that turns the page,” Mr Fraser said.
He said the Government remained committed to the $15 billion in asset sales as they would help the State reclaim its AAA credit rating.

10 June, 2010

Industrial waste levy
not a throwaway line

Waste management in Queensland is to be brought into line with other States with the introduction of a levy for industrial waste going to landfill.
   Premier, Anna Bligh said households would be exempt from the levy, which would apply from 1 July 2011 and be charged at $35 per tonne for general waste and $50 and $150 per tonne for low-hazard and high-hazard waste respectively.
   Mr Bligh said Queensland had been one of Australia’s biggest waste generators for too long, with organisations often choosing landfill over recycling options.
   “Furthermore, other mainland States not only have a waste levy but are actually increasing them, exposing Queensland as an even cheaper place for interstate companies to dump their waste,” Ms Bligh said.
   She said land waste in the State was unsustainable and if it wasn’t addressed, would result in a “shocking situation” with more rubbish tips encroaching on urban areas, increased rates for waste management and sky-rocketing greenhouse gas emissions from landfill.
   Treasurer, Andrew Fraser said the Government would work closely with industry, the development sector and Local Government to ensure the industry waste levy underpinned a new comprehensive waste strategy for Queensland.
   “The industry waste levy will be lower than in New South Wales and Victoria, but it needs to provide sufficient incentive to recycle waste rather than send it to landfill,” Mr Fraser said.
   “The largest portion of funds raised by the levy, totaling about $380 million over four years, will be reinvested in helping the transition to better waste practices in partnership with Councils.”
   Acting Minister for Climate Change and Sustainability, Annastacia Palaszczuk said that over the next nine years the new waste strategy was expected to build a strong waste management sector, support around 7,000 jobs and cut landfill by 33 per cent.
   Ms Palaszczuk said the levy would apply to 34 Local Government areas which accounted for 99 per cent of the population.
   The State’s peak environment group, Queensland Conservation, welcomed the levy saying it would drive investment in resource recovery and create new green jobs.

10 June, 2010

Roadside drug tests
yield high results

The Queensland Police Service’s Roadside Drug Testing Unit has performed over 32,000 roadside drug tests since testing was first introduced in December 2007.
   Minister for Police, Neil Roberts said the results of the tests were alarming, with one in every 50 drivers (630) testing positive for illicit drugs.
   Mr Roberts said the 600th driver who tested positive was caught at Beerwah on 3 April during the State Easter Road Safety Campaign.
   “Despite our messages about the dangers of drug driving, too many Queenslanders are getting behind the wheel while under the influence of illegal substances,” he said.
   “Driving while under the influence of drugs seriously impairs a driver’s judgement, just like driving under the influence of alcohol.”
   Mr Roberts said cannabis was the drug most often detected through roadside saliva tests, followed by methyl amphetamine and ecstasy.
   “The test administered by police takes around five minutes with motorists providing a saliva sample for analysis,” he said.
   “A first offence carries a penalty of up to $1,400 and a disqualification period of up to nine months.”
   Police Commissioner Bob Atkinson said roadside drug tests could be undertaken anywhere and anytime throughout the State.
   “The Roadside Drug Testing Unit will continue to deploy State-wide to assist regional police in enhancing road safety,” Commissioner Atkinson said.

10 June, 2010

Future to draw on
planning blueprint

Long-term planning for Brisbane is to be better coordinated through the joint State Government and Brisbane City Council River City Blueprint, according to the Minister for Infrastructure and Planning, Stirling Hinchliffe.
   Speaking at the first River City Blueprint Forum, Mr Hinchliffe said the planning project had been designed to synchronise the five-kilometre area around Brisbane’s CBD.
   “The people of Brisbane have told us loud and clear that they want an innovative and forward-thinking response which addresses the city’s growing pains while also preserving our enviable lifestyle and character,” Mr Hinchliffe said.
   “We will continue to work with Brisbane City Council to ensure State and Local Government infrastructure planning and land use is coordinated to provide the best outcomes for Brisbane.”
   Premier, Anna Bligh and Lord Mayor Campbell Newman launched the River City Blueprint project last year to develop a new approach to planning, however the blueprint itself is yet to be released.
   Over 1,600 stakeholders and residents offered feedback on planning in Brisbane during a three month consultation that ended in May.
   Chair of Neighbourhood Planning, Councillor Amanda Cooper said community input provided the basis of themes addressed at the forum.
   “The forum will examine options for how to overcome key challenges for Brisbane including how to provide urban amenity, affordable housing options, and other community facilities to cater for users of the inner city and to provide an attractive place to work, live and play,” Councillor Cooper said.
   “The blueprint considers the issues under the general themes of sustainability, liveability, prosperity, connectivity and inclusion.”
   She said the blueprint would also explore options for shifting the development trend from being river-oriented to transit-oriented.
   The report for the forum is expected to be available at the end of the month while the draft River City Blueprint is to be released for public comment in September.

10 June, 2010

Online licensing in
sights for weapons

A new online weapons licensing system is set to streamline the process of applying for and renewing weapons licences.
   Minister for Police, Neil Roberts said the new system would replace the current mainframe system and four ancillary applications.
   “There are strict gun laws in place in Queensland that require every weapon to be registered with the Queensland Police Service,” Mr Roberts said.
   “Currently more than 100,000 police station attendances are required each year by members of the public to lodge and pay for licences, renewals and permits to acquire applications and more than 100,000 firearm transactions from gun dealers are managed using paper forms and manual data entry.”
   Mr Roberts said the new system would allow applicants to submit their details on the internet and would free up police officers and civilian staff to undertake other duties.
   He said the system would be implemented in two stages, with the first, which includes designing and developing the software, expected to be finished by the end of the year.
   Mr Roberts said stage two, due to be completed during 2011, would incorporate further enhancements including integration with Policelink - the new non-urgent police contact service.
   The Minister said the Queensland Police Service had undertaken considerable research into the most suitable replacement for the existing licensing system.
   “The new system will interface with the Queensland Police Records and Information Exchange system giving police the ability to have immediate and up-to-date information for operational policing needs,” he said.

10 June, 2010

New Board aboard
Queensland Rail

A new management board for Queensland Rail has been announced by the Minister for Transport, Rachel Nolan.
   Ms Nolan said the board would focus on passenger service and maintaining the regional rail network.
   “Queensland Rail will provide passenger rail transport and travel services in the South East corner and from Brisbane to Cairns and west to Mount Isa, Longreach and Charleville,” Ms Nolan said.
   “Under our asset sales program passenger services are being retained by the State.
   “[The] announcement formalises a process that means passenger services no longer compete with freight trains and coal tracks for Government funding.”
   She said the members of the board were Stephen Gregg (Chair), Dawson Petie, Leo Keliher, Maureen Hayes, Julie-Ann Schafer, Denise McMillan-Hall and Merren McArthur.
   Ms Nolan welcomed Cairns-based Mr Gregg as chair saying he had a range of experience in tourism and management.
   “Stephen is an award-winning executive with a background in marketing, transport and events,” she said.
   “His background is ideal to take this new passenger-focused icon to a new level.”
   Ms Nolan said Queensland Rail would manage all passenger train services including Citytrain, Tilt trains, Sunlander, Westlander, the Spirit of the Outback, Inlander and tourist trains like those that run the Kuranda Scenic Railway.
   She said it would also run the South East Queensland metropolitan rail network including the Caboolture/Gympie, Beenleigh/Robina, Ferny Grove, Shorncliffe, Doomben, Cleveland and Rosewood/Ipswich lines; the metropolitan rail network control based in Mayne, Brisbane; Queensland’s regional rail network, except the dedicated coal network, and the Queensland Rail Heritage Museum.

10 June, 2010

Student reports in
class of their own

The Queensland Studies Authority has published an online report on the achievements of students who attended Year 12 last year.
   Minister for Education and Training, Geoff Wilson said the report was the most detailed ever and gave a further breakdown of overall positions and vocational education and training (VET) qualifications.
   Mr Wilson said for the first time, Queenslanders would be able to see school-by-school the number of students with a tertiary entrance rank (overall position) and the number of VET qualifications.
   “This delivers on our commitment to increase school transparency and accountability through information on student and school achievement,” Mr Wilson said.
   “It’s important that parents and the wider community have confidence in the quality of education that is delivered in all Queensland schools.”
   He said more than 78 per cent of the State’s 43,547 Year 12 graduates achieved a Queensland Certificate of Education (QCE); over18 per cent received an overall position of one to five and more than 38 per cent received a vocational education and training (VET) qualification Certificate II.
   More than 200 students received an International Baccalaureate Diploma.
   Mr Wilson said the best measure of a school’s success was its ability to fulfill its students’ aspirations, whether they were to attend university, learn a trade, enter employment or earn a vocational qualification.
   “Our State needs the student who trains to be a fully qualified electrician or plumber as much as we need the one who studies to be an accountant or doctor,” he said.
   “The information shows there is now tremendous diversity in our schools and our students are continuing to pursue a range of pathways.
   “Parents should use the information as a guide, remembering there are many factors that make a school suitable for a student.”
   The full report was available from www.qsa.qld.edu.au

10 June, 2010

Artists put hearts
into art attack

Several international artists have received major commissions to create works for civic buildings and public parks in Queensland.
   Premier and Minister for the Arts, Anna Bligh said the latest round of funding from art+place, the Queensland Government’s Public Art Fund, would see $1.545 million invested in public art projects across the State.
   Ms Bligh said Japan’s Yayoi Kusama was one of four artists engaged to create work for the new $600 million Brisbane and Supreme District Courts.
   “The work of Ms Kusama, now in her 80s and considered one of the leading artists of her generation, was a hit at the Queensland Art Gallery’s Asia Pacific Triennial of Contemporary Art in 2006-07,” Ms Bligh said.
   “Her public art work will join work from Mirdidingkingathi Juwarnda Sally Gabori, a Bentinck Island artist from the Gulf, and Queensland artists Gemma Smith and Sebastian di Mauro for the new Court building constructed by the Department of Justice and Attorney-General and set to open in 2011.”
   The Premier said leading British sculptor and photographer Andy Goldsworthy would create a major art work for the Conondale Great Walk in the Sunshine Coast hinterland.
   “Through funding under a number of initiatives including art+place and major building projects, we are developing public art opportunities for Queensland, national and international artists to create art works that will inspire the public and enhance parks, buildings and city streets,” she said.
   Ms Bligh said art+place had allocated $12 million to Queensland’s public art since 2007 with 90 permanent and temporary public art projects completed or under way.

10 June, 2010

New fire network
fans education

The Department of Emergency Services is to help address fire safety in local communities by developing a network of Mitigation and Education Officers (MEOs) and volunteer community educators.
   Minister for Emergency Services, Neil Roberts said the newly appointed officers and educators would provide bushfire and fire safety education to communities by promoting fire safety programs and rural-specific initiatives.
   Mr Roberts said volunteer community educators held non-operational roles and would be supported by MEOs who were full-time employees of the Queensland Fire and Rescue Service.
   He said MEOs would participate in critical community mitigation and education activities.
   “It is anticipated that up to 3,000 volunteer community educators will eventually be recruited to support local communities,” Mr Roberts said.
   He said the network was being established in response to the interim findings of the Victorian Bushfires Commission.
   “While Queensland’s natural disaster risk profile is very different from that of Victoria, the Queensland Fire and Rescue Service had been working to address the Commission’s findings and ensure the State’s fire safety,” Mr Roberts said.
   He said last year there were more than 4,000 vegetation fires across Queensland, making it one of the worst fire seasons on record.
   “That’s why it’s essential we get programs in place at a grassroots level to assist people in our local communities with fire safety and preparedness,” Mr Roberts said.

10 June, 2010

Celebrations balloon
for Queensland Week

Community groups and other organisations will be invited to play a greater role in Queensland Week from next year with the Government offering sponsorships for community events and celebrations.
   Premier, Anna Bligh said the Queensland Week program celebrated the State’s official separation from New South Wales as an independent colony.
   “From next year we intend to make it even more special by inviting eligible Queensland organisations and community groups to get involved and join us in the celebrations for a truly State-wide celebration,” Ms Bligh said.
   “We will be offering sponsorship between $2,000 and $10,000 to host community events during Queensland Week 2011 - Saturday 4 to Monday 13 June.”
   Ms Bligh said Queensland Week presented an opportunity for people to celebrate and reflect on what it meant to be a Queenslander.
   “Queensland Week is all about celebrating our people, our places and our stories,” she said.
   “This sponsorship program is an excellent opportunity for local communities to contribute to a State-wide program of diverse, inclusive and innovative community events.”
   Ms Bligh said groups could hold a range of events such as community barbeques, festivals or concerts.
   “Whichever form it takes, it must be community-focused and celebrate what’s great about Queensland or an existing event or format that can be adapted to a true Queensland celebration,” she said.
   More details about the grants can be obtained from www.queenslandweek.qld.gov.au or phone (07) 3405 5215. Applications are now open and close 3 September 2010.

10 June, 2010

Rugby League and
AFP tackle privacy

The Australian Federal Police has teamed up with the National Rugby League to give NRL players advice about privacy on social networking sites and protecting personal and financial information online.
   Coinciding with National Cyber Security Awareness Week which began last Sunday, members of the AFP are visiting the Brisbane Broncos, Gold Coast Titans and North Queensland Cowboys this week to deliver seminars on online safety and welfare.
   The AFP visited the Brisbane Broncos on Tuesday to raise awareness of internet security issues among players.
   National Manager of High Tech Crime Operations at the AFP, Neil Gaughan said awareness was the “best weapon for online security.”
   “NRL players may have a higher profile than many people, but anyone’s reputation can be damaged and anyone can be vulnerable to online crime if preventative measures aren’t taken to protect your own personal information,” Assistant Commissioner Gaughan said.
   “These presentations aim to give players information so they can better protect themselves, their club and the NRL online.”
   He encouraged all users of social networking sites to ensure they activated privacy settings and limited access to personal information.
   The NRL/AFP program was piloted when the AFP was invited to give online safety seminars to each of the Under 20 Toyota Cup squads as part of the 2010 NRL Rookie Camps.
   Following positive feedback from players and clubs, the NRL and AFP have come together to deliver the same presentation to all 16 NRL teams.
   Welfare Officer for the NRL/Rugby League Players’ Association, Nigel Vagana said the initiative was an extension of the AFP’s existing partnership with the NRL/RLPA Education & Welfare program.
   “People are using social media and networking sites more and more these days and it is important players understand how to use these sites safely,” Mr Vagana said.
   “With the help of the AFP we want to educate our players about potential risks so they can take steps to prevent problems occurring.
   “As professional footballers, they are often easily recognised and sometimes more vulnerable than most but, in reality, online safety is something everyone should be aware of.”

10 June, 2010

Long serving
JPs get justice

Three centuries of community service by Toowoomba Justices of the Peace and Commissioners for Declarations have been recognised by the Attorney-General, Cameron Dick and the MP for Toowoomba North, Kerry Shine.
   Mr Shine said it was impossible to put a value on the contribution JPs made to community development and the well-being of their fellow citizens.
   “JPs hold an essential position in our community and play an important role in the administration of justice in our State,” Mr Shine said.
   “The combined total of years of service the volunteers have dedicated is most impressive, and I commend them on their desire to continue their justice training.
   He said the duties of a Justice of the Peace involved witnessing such documents as statutory declaration and more complex affidavits.
   “JPs handle up to 3,500 matters throughout Queensland each day and undergo extensive training and assessment in legislation and other legal matters to hold these positions” Mr Shine said.
   “Once qualified, they are required to maintain their levels of knowledge,” he said.
   Mr Dick said Queensland’s JPs performed vital legal functions for the community so it was important that the public could access them easily.
   “There are 783 registered JPs and Commissioners for Declarations in the Toowoomba North electorate, including the many who generously commit their own time to operate at our local JP signing centres,” Mr Dick said.
Certificates of service for 60 years were awarded to: David Watts, Marjorie Mathie, Ronald Gardiner, Margo Curtis and James Bere.

10 June, 2010

Reef water rescuers
flush with success

A partnership aimed at improving the quality of water flowing to the Great Barrier Reef lagoon, has been declared a success by its creators, Queensland’s Regional Natural Resource Management Groups and industry bodies
   Chair of Queensland Regional NRM Groups Collective, Mike Berwick said the Reef Rescue partnership had resulted in improved management practices for over half a million hectares of land.
   Mr Berwick said the $200 million, five-year initiative was funded by the Federal Government’s Caring for Our Country Program.
   He said the program had been running for just two years and had already resulted in significant change.
   “In the past two years, we have entered into contracts with more than 1,480 land managers to improve their practices,” Mr Berwick said.
   “We have helped graziers erect 700 kilometres of fencing to minimise erosion, trained and engaged more than 2,000 land owners, supported cane farmers to improve fertiliser practices over 93,000 hectares and helped those in the horticulture industry improve soil management and tillage over 25,000 hectares.”
   He said one of the most remarkable elements of Reef Rescue was that for every dollar the Australian Government has contributed, nearly two more dollars were contributed by farmers.
   Mr Berwick said the Commonwealth’s $27 million investment had resulted in over $73 million worth of on-ground works and improved practices.
   “What makes Reef Rescue work so well, is its partnership approach,” he said.
   “Here, we have industry groups, farmers and our regional natural resource management groups working hand-in-hand to protect the Great Barrier Reef.”
   Six Regional Natural Resource Management Groups and four Industry Groups are partners in Reef Rescue.
   The participating organisations are Burnett Mary Regional Group for Natural Resource Management; Cape York Sustainable Futures; CANEGROWERS; Growcom; Queensland Dairyfarmer’s Organisation; NQ Dry Tropics; Terrain NRM; Reef Catchments Mackay-Whitsunday; Fitzroy Basin Association; and AgForce.

10 June, 2010

Tourism campaign
is plain sailing

Tourism Queensland’s inaugural Queensland Season of Sailing campaign has officially begun with visitors urged to get involved in the sailing community.
   Minister for Tourism, Peter Lawlor said the campaign highlighted the State’s winter sailing events which stretch from Brisbane to North Queensland
   Mr Lawlor said tourism packages running from 6 August to 7 September had gone on sale on 1 June and showcased sailing events at Central Queensland, the Whitsundays and Townsville.
   “The $100,000 campaign is the latest in a series of aggressive and innovative tactical Tourism Queensland campaigns designed to encourage Australians to escape the winter cold,” Mr Lawlor said.
   He said Tourism Queensland was working with Yachting Australia to ensure the campaign reached the sailing fraternity and their friends and family and convinced them to head to Queensland to experience the festival atmosphere surrounding the events.
   Mr Lawlor said the campaign also highlighted how easy it was for those who wanted to stay and sail in those regions to get there while all the sailing event excitement was in full swing.
   “Queensland is Australia’s premier sailing destination and I think a lot of people don’t realise they can get out and experience what the destinations have to offer, get a taste of what it’s like to sail and in some cases even take part in the racing,” he said.
   Mr Lawlor said Tourism Queensland had worked with Capricorn Tourism, Gladstone Area Promotion and Development, Tourism Whitsundays and Townsville Enterprise to develop packages that covered the stay-and-sail experiences.

10 June, 2010

Indigenous operators
doing the business

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander business operators and entrepreneurs recently attended a Reconciliation Business Forum in Brisbane.
   More than 100 people came together to learn and discuss how to develop their businesses.
   Treasurer and Minister for Employment and Economic Development, Andrew Fraser described the forum as a great success.
   “Among the attendees were representatives from communities like Thursday Island, Palm Island and Doomadgee and businesses operating in civil construction, tourism and training,” Mr Fraser said.
   “Encouraging and supporting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander businesses to grow can help families and whole communities share in economic prosperity and secure a brighter future.”
   Acting Director of Employment and Indigenous Initiatives, Adam Stevenson said the Forum was part of the State Government’s Reconciliation Action Plan 2009-2012.
   “This year the Reconciliation Business Forum had four teams in friendly competition for the title of ‘Master Business’ who worked closely with the Indigenous facilitators to develop an executive business plan, a marketing campaign, a head of joint venture agreement or a tender document,” Mr Stevenson said.
   “The team from the tendering workshop took the title, but it was an enjoyable and informative event for all and it helped the Queensland Government spread the word about the support we offer Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander businesses.”
   Deputy Director General of the Department of Employment, Economic Development and Innovation, Mark Bermingham spoke at the business breakfast launching the event.

10 June, 2010

Regional events
cash in on grants

Funding of more than $1.4 million has been announced to help support 60 regional events across Queensland.
   The events range from world professional kite surfing on the Gold Coast to the Mission Beach Film Festival in the Far North and the Bedourie Ute and Wagon Muster in the west.
   Premier, Anna Bligh said the events would bring great benefits to their host regions
   “They attract tourists to the area, increase economic activity, support jobs, and boost community spirit,” Ms Bligh said.
   “Recipients for this round of funding include a mix of tried-and-true events such as the Birdsville Races and newer or first-time events such as the Ingham Wings and Wheels Airshow.”
   The Premier said funding would be delivered through the Queensland Events Regional Development Program (QERDP).
   She said the latest round was the largest amount of funding ever provided, supported the highest number of events in the program’s history and had received a record number of applications.
   “Since the program began in 2001 we’ve invested $15.3 million in 705 events throughout the State,” Ms Bligh said.
   Submissions for Round 19 of the QERDP close on 6 August and cover events held from 1 January 2011 to 30 June 2012.
   Applications and further information were available from www.queenslandevents.com.au

10 June, 2010
PS Awards looming
Time is running out to nominate for the national Public Service Awards for excellence in Local, State and Federal Government service.
   Run by the Queensland branch of the Institute of Public Administration Australia, the awards recognise best practice in the PS in seven categories, which are:
   Individual: Young Leader of the Year (under 35), Public Sector Professional of the Year (over 35), Regional Queensland Leader of the Year and Patron’s Award for Excellence in the Public Sector.
   Team: Best Practice in Local Government, Best Practice in State Government and Best Practice in Federal Government
   Nominations close on Thursday 24 June and information is available www.qld.ipaa.org.au

Daylight Saving done
The Premier, Anna Bligh has announced the Government will vote against holding a referendum on introducing daylight savings in Queensland.
   Ms Bligh said regional Queenslanders were overwhelmingly opposed to a split that would allow South East Queensland to adopt daylight saving while the rest of the State remained on standard time.
   “There are a number of people – including myself – who would love to see daylight saving in the south-east corner but we accept that we are a Government for the whole State,” she said.

PS Invited to sleepout
Senior Public Service managers are being invited to take part in Queensland’s contribution to the national St Vinnies CEO Sleepout.
   The event challenges business and community leaders to experience homelessness first-hand for one night to gain insight and change social opinions on the issue.
   The Queensland Sleepout will be held at Brisbane’s Suncorp Piazza on 17 June. Further information was available from www.ceosleepout.org.au

Boat for Mackay
Mackay has been announced as the base for a new inflatable response boat that will be used to help release whales entangled in shark nets.
   The $24,000 vessel is smaller and more manoeuvrable than the model it replaces and has been specially designed to make the job of freeing whales from shark nets safer and easier.
   It brings the Queensland Boating and Fisheries Patrol fleet at Mackay to four. The patrol is the compliance arm of Fisheries Queensland.

Art Fair expands
Theatre and film are to be added a range of other visual and performing arts as part of an expanded program for this year’s Cairns Indigenous Art Fair.
   The fair, which runs from 20 to 22 August, brings galleries together with Indigenous art centres at a major marketplace.
   Art work by more than 200 Aboriginal and Torres Islander artists will be on sale at the fair which also features a symposium, an expanded schools program, Message Sticks Indigenous Film Festival, an Art Fair concert, dance, music, children’s activities, talks and forums.

Expo visit
Treasurer, Andrew Fraser is to head a Queensland Government delegation to the Shanghai World Expo this month.
   The visit will coincide with Queensland Week at the Expo’s Australian Pavilion, which runs from 20-26 June.
   Minister for Primary Industries, Tim Mulherin will also attend the World Expo from 21 to 26 June, hosting a number of business events in Shanghai including a key showcase of Queensland’s food and wine.

Airport upgrade
A major upgrade of Cairns Airport’s instrument landing system (ILS) by Airservices Australia has begun.
   The ILS is a radio navigation aid that supports the safe and efficient movement of air traffic in and out of the airport.
   The $3 million upgrade and maintenance work have been timed to ensure minimal disruption to travellers and is expected to be completed by September.

Murri Court opened
The new Murri Court in Toowoomba has been officially opened, bringing the number of established Murri Courts in Queensland to 17.
   Murri Courts provide a forum where Indigenous Elders, respected persons, Community Justice Groups and the Indigenous offender’s family can be involved in the sentencing process.
   Murri Courts have now been established in Brisbane, Caboolture, Cairns, Caloundra, Cherbourg, Cleveland, Charters Towers, Coen, Ipswich, Mackay, Maryborough, Mt Isa, Richlands, Rockhampton, St George, Toowoomba and Townsville.

Traffic plans for comment
Community members have been invited to have their say on a major urban congestion study for Mackay to help shape future road plans for the region.
   Minister for Main Roads, Craig Wallace said input from the community, industry and business on traffic flows and safety issues on the Bruce Highway would help engineers and road planners develop a strategic plan for the region.
   Public information days are to be held on 17 and 23 June and consultation will be open until Friday 9 July. Further information on the consultations was available from www.brucehighwaymackay.qld.gov.au

3 June, 2010

Growth strategy to
halt growing pains

The Government has released its response to the Queensland Growth Management Summit, promising 47 new initiatives and actions to manage growth across the State.
   Premier, Anna Bligh said the summit had been a wonderful opportunity to listen to the community and she was pleased to deliver her response, Shaping Tomorrow’s Queensland.
   Ms Bligh said while the response wasn’t a “magic wand” for dealing with growth problems facing the State, it had committed the Government to six major priorities underpinning growth management strategies.
   “Shaping Tomorrow’s Queensland focuses on shaping our future, strengthening our regions, promoting livable and affordable communities, delivering infrastructure, protecting our lifestyle and environment, and connecting communities,” Ms Bligh said.
   “These themes will be supported by 22 new initiatives and 25 new supporting actions to manage growth across the whole State.”
   The Premier said key new initiatives forming part of Shaping Tomorrow’s Queensland included establishing a new office within the Department of Infrastructure and Planning- Growth Management Queensland; a Queensland Regionalisation Strategy; an $11,000 Regional First Home Owners Grant; a Queensland Infrastructure Plan; an Infrastructure Charges Taskforce; transforming the inter-urban breaks in South East Queensland into green space and outdoor recreational areas; and delivering new satellite communities.
   Ms Bligh said the 47 new initiatives and actions would be shared across State Agencies with the Department of Infrastructure and Planning building on its existing regional planning strengths with a broader growth management role.
   “It is clear from the summit that the Queensland Government must manage growth properly to minimise the impacts on our environment and way of life, provide the regions with new opportunities and keep Queenslanders in jobs,” she said.
   “The Government response signals a new era of growth management so Queensland can continue to capitalise on the benefits on offer.”
   Ms Bligh said all levels of Government and the community would work together to continue a dialogue on managing growth.
   Shaping Tomorrow’s Queensland: a response to the Queensland Growth Management Summit was available for download from www.qld.gov.au/growthsummit

3 June, 2010

Agency and taskforce
taken to task

A new Government Agency and new taskforce have been announced as the ‘foundation stones’ of growth management in the State.
   Growth Management Queensland (GMQ) and the Infrastructure Charges Taskforce have been established as part of the Government’s response to the Growth Management Summit.
   Premier, Anna Bligh said the two bodies were “foundation stones” and important steps towards the Government’s growth management response.
   Ms Bligh said GMQ would be the nerve centre of the Government’s growth management agenda.
   “This new Agency is charged with delivering a focused and coordinated approach to growth management in Queensland,” Ms Bligh said.
   “It will ensure that the Government’s regional planning for things like infrastructure and housing is closely aligned with our regionalisation policy.”
   She said GMQ would coordinate land use planning, infrastructure delivery and economic development led by its new Chief Executive, Paul Low, who is currently Associate Director General of the Department of Premier and Cabinet.
   Ms Bligh said the new Infrastructure Charges Taskforce would look at how Local Governments deliver infrastructure for new development in Queensland.
   “It is clear that getting infrastructure charges right is a critical issue for housing affordability,” she said.
   “I firmly believe developers should continue to contribute to the significant costs of infrastructure - but I acknowledge that charges need to be both simpler and more certain.
   “This issue has been a problem for too long. We need certainty and consistency and we are going to nail this once and for all.”
   The Government’s response to the Growth Summit, Shaping Tomorrow’s Queensland, was available in full form www.qld.gov.au/growthsummit

3 June, 2010

Infrastructure plan
to make inroads

Infrastructure planning in Queensland is in line for a major shake-up as the Government realigns its growth management strategies following the Growth Management Summit.
   Under a new Queensland Infrastructure Plan (QIP) the Government’s entire capital works program will have a renewed focused on managing population growth.
   Premier, Anna Bligh said the QIP would be a long-term planning document for the State similar to the South East Queensland (SEQ) Infrastructure Plan and Program.
   “For the first time we will have a State-wide plan that will anticipate infrastructure needs in growing regions as we deliver on regionalisation to help take the pressure off the south east corner,” Ms Bligh said.
   “The new Queensland Infrastructure Plan will integrate the existing Queensland Roads Investment Program (RIP) and SEQ Infrastructure Plan and Program (SEQIPP) as well as other State infrastructure planning documents.”
   She said the first QIP would be delivered next year and include key features such as a blueprint of road, public transport, health and education infrastructure needs; a prioritisation, sequencing and maturity assessment of projects; and a plan incorporating significant economic development activities and associated infrastructure needs.
   Ms Bligh said consultation with SEQ Councils about existing dwelling targets in their regions would also a major new direction of QIP and would highlight the link between infrastructure investment and dwelling targets.
   “At the Growth Management Summit, some Councils said the new dwelling targets for the local areas did not match up to their expectations,” she said.
   “We have listened, and will give Councils the chance to sit down with Government and confirm the forecast dwelling numbers for our region, within the existing urban footprint.”

3 June, 2010

New transport office
gets green light

A new Office of Sustainable Transport has been launched in the Department of Transport and Main Roads to deliver more sustainable transport solutions for Queensland.
   Minister for Transport, Rachel Nolan said that because transport accounting for more than 10 per cent of the State’s total emissions, the State needed to take a “long hard look” at how Queenslanders travelled.
   “The Office of Sustainable Transport (OST) will aim to deliver more sustainable transport solutions for Queensland,” Ms Nolan said.
   “This dedicated team is charged with taking a futuristic look at transport solutions across the State,” Ms Nolan said.
   “I’m serious about reducing the State’s greenhouse gases and we’re committed to achieving this through a number of targeted initiatives led by the new office.”
   She said the Department of Transport would spend $1.4 million to trial hybrid electric-diesel buses, with a 12-month regional trial to start later this year in Cairns.
   Ms Nolan said a second trial would be undertaken within South East Queensland once the results of the first trial were assessed.
   “These buses could make a serious difference,” she said.
   “They could cut emissions by up to 40 per cent over a traditional bus, if United States trial results are achieved here in Queensland.”
   The Minister said the buses used an electric motor and a diesel engine, with excess energy stored inside the battery and recycled when needed.
   Ms Nolan said Government would seek advice from key stakeholders on OST policies including the RACQ, Australian Conservation Foundation, Queensland Conservation Council, Bicycle Queensland, Rail Back on Track, Queensland Trucking Association, Queensland Bus Industry Council, Taxi Council of Queensland, and the Heart Foundation.
   She said the OST would also work closely with the Australian Conservation Foundation and the Queensland Conservation Council on a Sustainable Transport Forum.

3 June, 2010

Rail on track for
recruitment drive

Queensland Rail is embarking on a major recruitment drive for more than 120 apprentices.
   Premier, Anna Bligh said Queensland Rail (QR) was so confident about continued growth in the coal industry it was opening up opportunities in various trades in one of the biggest recruitment campaigns of the year.
   “They are looking for apprentice electricians, mechanical fitters, telecommunication technicians, vehicle builders, carpenters, plumbers, painters, sign writers and there’s even a cookery apprenticeship,” Ms Bligh said.
   “The new apprenticeships are being offered both in the passenger service of the new Government-owned corporation, Queensland Rail and the new coal and freight company QRNational.”
   She said QR was scouring the State for the best candidates and would provide solid training and experience to successful applicants.
   “QR is a freight and passenger business positioned for growth with major infrastructure projects happening right across the State, and to deliver that growth and quality services for its customers QR is planning now for the future,” the Premier said.
   Ms Bligh said QR employed 96 new apprentices last year and that the 25 per cent increase in demand was evidence of its “strong commitment to growth.”
   She said advertisements would appear in newspapers across the State for positions available in Brisbane, Bowen, Emerald, Gladstone, Jilalan (near Sarina), Mackay, Maryborough, Moranbah, Pring (near Bowen), Redbank, Rockhampton, Stuart, Toowoomba and Yukan (near Sarina).

3 June, 2010

Medal pins hopes on
Queen’s approval

A plan to introduce a National Police Service Medal (NPSM) has reached the stage where it can be recommended for the Queen’s approval.
   Secretary to the Federal Cabinet, Senator Joe Ludwig said the medal recognised the ethical service, significant commitment and unique contribution of sworn members of Australian police services across the nation.
   Senator Ludwig said police officers serving on or after 30 October 2008, who had completed at least 15 years police service, would be eligible for the medal.
   He said Commissioners would also be able to recommend awards for officers who have served less than 15 years, if their period of service was terminated by death, injury or disability caused by their service.
   Senator Ludwig said the NPSM would be awarded irrespective of any entitlement to other awards, and that the National Medal would continue to recognise the long service of Australian police officers.
   Federal Minister for Home Affairs, Brendan O’Connor, said the medal was another way for Australians to express appreciation for the dedication and sacrifice of the nation’s long-serving police officers.
   Chief Executive of the Police Federation of Australia, Mark Burgess welcomed the announcement.
   “We’re very pleased that the National Police Service Medal is about to become a reality for the hard working men and women of Australia’s police forces,” Mr Burgess said.
   “This medal will recognise the invaluable service Australia’s police officers give communities across our country 24 hours a day seven days a week.”
   The plan to establish the NPSM was announced in December 2008 with consultations with police representatives commencing the following year to determine the eligibility criteria and medal design.
   Senator Ludwig said the views of Federal, State and Territory Police Commissioners and policing organisations were also considered.
   The Queen’s agreement to the criteria will now be sought, along with the design and placement in the Order of Wearing. It is expected that issuing of the NPSM will commence later in the year.

3 June, 2010

Model cities the
new fashion

Master Plans for three new model communities are to be developed by the Urban Land Development Authority in the south and western growth corridors of South East Queensland.
   Under the initiative, the Urban Land Development Authority (ULDA) will take responsibility for three major greenfield areas - Ripley Valley, Greater Flagstone and Yarrabilba.
   Premier, Anna Bligh said the successful ULDA model would be used to plan whole cities in Queensland for the first time.
   “For the first time the ULDA will be the architect of entire cities and what that means is that these new cities, which will be home to around 250,000 people, will work better than anything we have seen in Queensland before,” Ms Bligh said.
   “These will be model communities where children can walk to school, workers can live near to their public transport and families will be guaranteed green space for recreation and the lifestyle that Queensland is famous for.”
   She said directing population growth in the west would take the pressure off sensitive coastal areas.
   Minister for Infrastructure and Planning, Stirling Hinchliffe said the ULDA would be responsible for planning and assessing developments in the new cities.
   “The ULDA has the ability to assist developers, Councils and the State Government to resolve some of the remaining hurdles to get these development areas to market,” Mr Hinchliffe said.
   “The initial planning work by the Ipswich Regional Council and Logan City Council indicates that development within these three areas has the capacity to deliver in excess of 100,000 new homes.”
   Chief Executive of ULDA, Paul Eagles said the Authority would create innovative and practical solutions to enable the delivery of financially viable, staged infrastructure.
   “A preliminary investigation reveals that the sites are not greatly fragmented, so once the outstanding infrastructure issues are resolved, first stage development areas could be identified and brought to the market early,” Mr Eagles said.

3 June, 2010

Red Cross blown away
by disaster training

Emergency Management Queensland and the Australian Red Cross have teamed up to teach people with disability, their carers and their families how to prepare for and cope with natural disasters and emergencies.
   The launch of the Queensland version of The Red Cross REDiPlan resources includes a booklet and worksheets outlining the proper course of action in the event of a natural emergency.
   The resources outline four steps to prepare for an emergency: being informed, making a plan, getting an emergency kit, and knowing your neighbours.
   Minister for Emergency Services, Neil Roberts said establishing partnerships with groups like the Australian Red Cross was an important part of protecting all Queenslanders.
   “More than 800,000 Queenslanders have a disability and this initiative is focused on guiding them through strengthening their existing support networks and informing individuals how to improve their preparedness and resilience to natural disaster risks,” Mr Roberts said.
   “People with a disability or their family or carer can use these resources as a useful reference in developing their own personal emergency plans, emergency kits and evacuation kits.”
   Mr Roberts said the REDiPlan initiative was a step towards building a more resilient State.
   “Understanding the needs and capabilities of a person with a disability during a natural disaster helps make an emergency situation less stressful and potentially saves lives,” he said.
   Queensland Executive Director of the Australian Red Cross, Greg Goebel, welcomed the partnership.
   “This collaboration extends our reach to people more vulnerable to the impacts of emergencies, as well as their families and carers, and ensures they have access to appropriate information and materials to assist them prepare their households for an emergency,” Mr Goebel said.
   “We are pleased to have the support of the Queensland Government on the REDiPlan project.”
   The REDiPlan resources are to be provided to all Queensland local and Government libraries, all independent schools and State special schools.
   Reference copies will also be provided to networks and associations that provide support to people with disabilities to include in their resource collections.
   The REDiPlan was also available online at www.emergency.qld.gov.au

3 June, 2010

Coal mine proposal
done and dusted

Queensland’s Coordinator-General has declared a proposed $1.5 billion coal mine near Alpha a significant project.
   The proposal will now undergo a rigorous environmental assessment.
   Premier, Anna Bligh said the South Galilee Coal Project could generate 2,000 construction jobs, a permanent workforce of 750 people and numerous support jobs for suppliers and contractors.
   “This ambitious project has the potential to operate for at least 40 years and it is a massive vote of confidence in Central Queensland and the resource industry here,” Ms Bligh said.
   “It is the fourth major coal mine proposal in the Galilee Basin and could produce up to 20 million tonnes per annum of high-volatile, low-sulphur steaming coal for export to international markets.
   “The project will target thermal coal at depths suitable for both open cut and underground mining over the next 43 years, if it passes the strict environmental criteria.”
   Coordinator-General, Colin Jensen said a significant project declaration was not an indication of approval or support for a project.
   “This declaration is recognition of the significant complexity of the project, the substantial benefits it may bring and the need to carefully assess its impacts and how they could be mitigated if the project is approved,” Mr Jensen said.
   “This means it requires an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) under the State Development and Public Works Act 1971.”
   He said the EIS process and assessment would be managed by the Department of Infrastructure and Planning on his behalf.
   Minister for Infrastructure and Planning, Stirling Hinchliffe said the South Galilee Coal Project would utilise common user rail and port infrastructure required for the Alpha, Kevin’s Corner and Waratah projects to export coal through Abbot Point.

3 June, 2010

Growth continues
in national parks

Queensland’s national parks are to be boosted by a 42,500-hectare area in southern Cape York Peninsula.
   Acting Minister for Climate Change and Sustainability, Annastacia Palaszczuk said Mulkay, west of Cooktown, would become Alwal National Park (Cape York Aboriginal Land).
   Ms Palaszczuk said in the latest in a series of historic land agreements, the park would be jointly managed by the Olkola Aboriginal Corporation Land Trust and the Department of the Environment and Resource Management.
   A second property known as Kalinga, spanning 37,000 hectares, has also been handed back to traditional owners under the agreement and will include a 2,700-hectare nature refuge.
   Ms Palaszczuk said the agreement was an important milestone for Indigenous land rights and another win for conservation in Queensland.
   “Alwal National Park is an area that not only deserves the highest possible protection, but has enormous cultural significance,” she said.
   “This is the fifth jointly owned and managed national park and brings the total area of jointly managed Indigenous national parks in Queensland to 274,635 hectares.”
   Named for the endangered golden-shouldered parrot, which has significant nesting habitat in the park, Alwal also protects habitat for the rare Cape York rock-wallaby and endangered red goshawk bird.
   Ms Palaszczuk said under the land agreements the Government would support employment and training of Aboriginal rangers and help the Olkola Aboriginal Corporation Land Trust protect Aboriginal cultural heritage in the park.
   She said the Government purchased the Mulkay and Kalinga properties because of their high conservation values.

3 June, 2010

Price not right for
share scammers

Open access to company share registers is to be restricted under plans to clamp down on unsolicited share purchase scams.
   Federal Minister for Financial Services and Corporate Law, Chris Bowen said the draft laws were necessary because previous investor protection measures, such as mandatory disclosure of a company’s current share price, had failed to stop share offer scams.
   “Unscrupulous operators have continued to prey on vulnerable investors, duping them into handing over their shares for well-below market prices,” Mr Bowen said.
   “The Government is now acting to put these charlatans out of business.”
   The reforms will allow companies to refuse to hand over copies of their member registers where that information is not being sought for a proper purpose.
   At present, a company must provide a copy of its member register to anyone who requests it and pays a small fee.
   Mr Bowen said associated draft Regulations specified a non-exhaustive list of improper purposes, including accessing a register for the purpose of making an off-market offer to purchase securities in a listed company. He said genuine takeover bids would be exempted from the regime.
   “This legislation is designed to balance the needs of those seeking legitimate access to registers with the rights of those whose personal information is contained in the register,” Mr Bowen said.
   The legislation will require those seeking a copy of a company’s register of members to state the purpose for which they will use it.
   Mr Bowen said it would be an offence to make a false or misleading application for access to a register; use information obtained from a register for an improper purpose; or disclose information obtained from the register, knowing it was likely to be used for an improper purpose.
   He said compliance costs for companies would be reduced by allowing for a register maintained on a computer to be inspected on a computer; prescribing the formats in which a copy of the register can be provided; and establishing a tiered fee structure for those seeking access to the register.

3 June, 2010

Taxi plan has
hire purpose

Industry consultation on the recently released Taxi Strategic Plan has been encouraged in a bid to improve customer service and accountability within the industry.
   Minister for Transport, Rachel Nolan said the plan was the first ever for the industry and set out a vision and action plan for taxi services in the State until 2015.
   Ms Nolan said the plan aimed to increase transparency by extending the requirements for companies to publish their waiting times.
   “Our aim is to make taxi response times public so the community is able to see how effectively the taxi fleet is meeting performance standards,” Ms Nolan said.
   “If public transport providers can improve their level of accountability to their customers through publishing performance data, then there is no reason that taxi companies can’t do it too.”
   She said once the plan had been considered by the Taxi Industry Advisory Council it would be made available for public feedback.
   Ms Nolan announced major changes that would be progressively rolled out from 1 July to enhance standards within the taxi industry including better training for applicant taxi drivers and a requirement that applicants meet new English language skills standards before qualifying for a licence.
   “This builds on the changes introduced last November that require applicants to be aged over 20 years and hold an Australian drivers’ licence for at least 12 months before they can drive a taxi,” she said.
   “The Taxi Industry Compliance Unit, established by the Government in 2009, regularly conducts random inspections to ensure drivers and vehicles meet the standards.”

3 June, 2010

New road markings
leading the way

Successful trials in North Queensland have proved the worth of the brighter and wider road line markings that light up for drivers at night and during the wet.
   Minister for Main Roads, Craig Wallace said due to the success of the trials $6 million would be spent on rolling out the ‘visibead’ technology across regional Queensland.
   Mr Wallace said he was keen to see the new large glass beads that reflect light embedded in the line marking pain on regional roads.
   He said the line markings were 50 per cent wider than normal and sprayed with the beads to create a highly reflective surface that drivers could see more clearly and from greater distances.
   “The larger beads also stand out in wet weather, so motorists can see the line markings more clearly,” Mr Wallace said.
   “They also last longer than conventional line marking.
   “The effect is amazing when you consider that each glass bead is only 1.4mm in size.”
   The Minister said Rockhampton would be one of the first cabs off the rank in the roll out of the new beads.
   Member for Keppel, Paul Hoolihan said the issue of safer roads was high on the agenda for the local community.
   “We’re the undisputed beef capital of Australia and that means there’s a lot of freight movement right across the region,” Mr Hoolihan said.
   “These new visibeads will go a long way towards making our roads safer for all motorists, particularly in the wet season.”
   The trials were conducted on the Bruce Highway between Bowen and Cairns and other major arterial roads including the Townsville Ring Road.

3 June, 2010

Ageing paper smoothes
out inquiry wrinkles

The Productivity Commission has invited public comment on an Issues Paper it has produced in preparation for an inquiry into the aged care system.
   Federal Minister for Ageing, Justine Elliot said the Caring for Older Australians inquiry would set out structural reforms for Australia’s aged care system and future workforce requirements, including the development of options to ensure the sector has access to a sufficient and appropriately trained workforce.
   Mrs Elliot said the inquiry would also examine regulatory arrangements, the interests of special needs groups and the path for transitioning from current arrangements to a new system without an interruption to care.
   “The Productivity Commission’s inquiry will develop detailed options for redesigning Australia’s aged care system,” Mrs Elliot said.
   She said it followed agreement by the States and territories that the Commonwealth would take full policy and funding responsibility for aged care.
   “Australia has an ageing population and by 2050 nearly one-quarter of the population will be aged 65 years or older so it is important that we make sure that we have a system of care in place to meet this increasing demand,” Mrs Elliot said.
   “Australia’s aged care system provides targetted, affordable and high quality care and it is important to ensure that it is equipped to meet care needs into the future.”
   She said the issues paper identifies several challenges facing the aged care sector, including the fact that Australia’s population is ageing and, on average, living longer – which means many more older Australians.
   The Productivity Commission said it would examine the social, clinical and institutional aspects of aged care in Australia, building on past reviews of the sector, and would develop options for reforming the funding and regulatory arrangements across residential and community aged care.
   It would also look into the interests of special needs groups, including people living in rural and remote locations, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, culturally and linguistically diverse communities, and veterans.
   Mrs Elliot urged older Australians to contribute to the inquiry, along with carers and families, aged care service providers, staff, as well as consumer and training organisations.
   Initial submissions to the Commission are due by 30 July 2010 and the Commission is to release its draft report in December and provide a final report to the Commonwealth Government in April next year.
   More information is available from www.pc.gov.au

3 June, 2010

Corridor plan allows
wall-to-wall growth

Public comment has been called on a proposal to declare an infrastructure corridor from Wandoan to Banana as a State Development Area.
   Minister for Infrastructure and Planning, Stirling Hinchliffe said the four-week consultation would focus on a proposed alignment of the new infrastructure corridor that would clear the way for a new railway corridor.
   Mr Hinchliffe said once an SDA was declared potential development for that area was overseen by the Coordinator-General.
   “The growing demand for commodities globally has renewed the focus on the development potential of the thermal coal deposits and gas reserves of the Surat Basin in south-west Queensland,” Mr Hinchliffe said.
   “The declaration of a proposed Surat Basin Infrastructure Corridor could pave the way for a new 210-kilometre railway to connect the townships of Wandoan and Banana – proposed infrastructure known as the Southern Missing Link.”
   He said it was possible that other infrastructure services such as pipelines and transmission lines could be developed within the infrastructure corridor in the future to facilitate development in the Surat Basin.
   A private consortium called the Surat Basin Rail Joint Venture (SBRJV) has an exclusive mandate to develop the Surat Basin Railway project.
   Under the terms of the mandate, the State Government would acquire and own the railway corridor and if the project was developed successfully, the Government would then lease the railway corridor to the SBRJV for construction and operation of the railway.
   Coordinator-General, Colin Jensen said if a SDA was declared a planning scheme would be developed for the land.
   “Under the development scheme, the Coordinator-General takes on responsibility for assessing new land uses, including infrastructure proposals, in consultation with other relevant Agencies and Local Governments,” Mr Jensen said.
   “The development scheme for the proposed Surat Basin Infrastructure Corridor SDA will provide, manage and plan land primarily for an open access railway of regional and national significance, to facilitate economic development.”
   Consultations close 25 June and further information including maps of the corridor was available from www.dip.qld.gov.au

3 June, 2010
Minister slams price increase
The independent Queensland Competition Authority’s decision to increase electricity prices by 13.29 per cent this year has been described as disappointing by the Minister for Energy.
   The Minister, Stephen Robertson said the Government was aware of the huge impact the price hike would have on the average household.
   “We are disappointed in this decision and we know Queensland families will be too,” Mr Robertson said.

Payrise for ACT PS
Staff of the Australian Capital Territory Public Service have been offered an increased pay deal including a 2.5 per cent pay rise from 1 July and a $650 signing-on bonus for eligible employees.
   The Community and Public Sector Union welcomed the one year agreement, saying it was an increase over the ACT Government’s previous offer of 4.75 per cent over two years.
   The $650 bonus would be in lieu of back pay from April.

Lab for new hospital
A pathology laboratory is to be established at the same site as the new Queensland Children’s Hospital when it opens in South Brisbane in 2014.
   The laboratory will be located in the Queensland Children’s Hospital Academic and Research facility, next to the new hospital.
   When fully operational, the laboratory is expected to process more than 298,000 tests a year.

Awards picture perfect
The 2010 Premier’s Multicultural Photographic awards are now receiving entries based on this year’s theme, A Multicultural Future…for all of us.
   Queenslanders will vote for their favourite photo as part of the awards, which carry a total of $13,800 in prize money and are open to amateur and professional photographers of all ages.
   Entry is free and photographs can be submitted online at www.multicultural.qld.gov.au
Entries close on 23 July.

Water takes on mines
The National Water Commission has called for mining activities to be incorporated into water access and planning frameworks.
   CEO of the Commission, Ken Matthews said the Commission took the view that mining activities should operate under the same rules as other water users.
   ‘Including mining and related industries in water access and planning regimes will help Governments, mining companies and other water users to better understand and manage the local and cumulative effects of mining activities on our precious water resources,” Mr Matthews said.

Test for airport gear
Navigation aids at airports and airstrips around Queensland are to be checked by Airservices Flight Inspection Service as part of a national program to ensure aviation safety.
   The accuracy of over 500 pieces of critical air navigation equipment is checked on a three-year rotational basis.
   Equipment will be checked at Brisbane, Rockhampton, Collinsville, Townsville, Cairns, Scherger, Bundaberg and other locations across the Country.

Ambulance facility opens
The Queensland Ambulance Service’s Regional Staff Development Unit at Woolloongabba has been officially opened.
   Located next to South Brisbane Ambulance Station, the unit will allow the training of specialist QAS staff such as paramedics and corporate personnel.
   The facility has been operating for a month.

Win for first home owners
First home owners are now able to access the Regional First Home Owner boost after its start date was moved forward from 1 July to 1 June.
   The $11,000 grant, which includes the new $4,000 regional boost, aims to attract people to areas other than the south east of Queensland and to entice local first home buyers to stay in their communities.
   Information on how to apply for the boost was available from www.osr.qld.gov.au

PS good medicine for Indigenous health gap

Restructure to drive new computer office

CMC blows whistle on Police Commissioner

Trains pull in to wireless station

Sick men urged to go for the doctor

Commission to study COAG reform guide

Doors open for return to work

Free go cards all the go

Hospitals scrub up in national health check

Police fraud group gets away with awards

Fair Trading sells compliance message

Problem of old age is age old issue

Nightwear fires are no pyjama game

MS sufferers win power boost

Electricity cable is power for the people

Education grants get top marks

Electric cars spark public consultation

PS chimes in with gongs from Queen

Workers’ comp rehabilitated

New Act builds up city future

Cattle battle leads to meaty fines

On-the-spot fines spot-on for police

Minister wrings hands over water prices

Fair Trading checks off charity checker

Naidoc week to start without preamble

Kangaroo industry to bounce back

Funding game on for kindergarten grants

Principals lead from head of the class

‘Judas goat’ leads other kids astray

Police put brakes on hoon vehicles

Minister buys into consumer warning

Illegal fisher caught out

Communities to fare well from welfare

Budget adds up to growth and services

Industrial waste levy not a throwaway line

Roadside drug tests yield high results

Future to draw on planning blueprint

Online licensing in sights for weapons

New Board aboard Queensland Rail

Student reports in class of their own

Artists put hearts into art attack

New fire network fans education

Celebrations balloon for Queensland Week

Rugby League and AFP tackle privacy

Long serving JPs get justice

Reef water rescuers flush with success

Tourism campaign is plain sailing

Indigenous operators doing the business

Regional events cash in on grants

Growth strategy to halt growing pains

Agency and taskforce taken to task

Infrastructure plan to make inroads

New transport office gets green light

Rail on track for recruitment drive

Medal pins hopes on Queen’s approval

Model cities the new fashion

Red Cross blown away by disaster training

Coal mine proposal done and dusted

Growth continues in national parks

Price not right for share scammers

Taxi plan has hire purpose

New road markings leading the way

Ageing paper smoothes out inquiry wrinkles

Corridor plan allows wall-to-wall growth