Pictured above: Recreational reserve adjacent to MI golf course TCC propose to rezone for new SES facility.
Magnetic Community News
21st June 2018
Picnic Bay To Lose Recreational Reserve?
Debbie Denison
Picnic Bay residents are up in arms regarding the TCC proposal to rezone 2 Hurst St Picnic Bay adjoining the golf course to house a SES facility for the island. The proposal is rezone a parcel of land 1620m2 in size next door the now vacant Naval Cadets Building.
The current SES building is located next door to the Citiwater building on 44 - 55 Kelly Street Nelly Bay Lot RP715779 which is zoned Community Facility.
The MCN put a series of questions to both TCC and the QFES requesting information as to why the SES would be moving from Nelly Bay where it is currently situated which is close proximity to other emergency services such as medical, fire and ambulance.
TCC has responded saying they were working closely with the Department of Queensland Fire and Emergency Services and the local State Emergency Service Group to find a suitable site for the new State Emergency Service building on Magnetic Island.
Local councillor Ann-Maree Greaney said the local State Emergency Service Group was growing and its current facilities were in need of a major upgrade.
“We have been working very closely with the Department and Council has proposed a parcel of land on Hurst St Picnic Bay that would be suitable for a new State Emergency Service building,” Cr Greaney said.
Many residents have asked why the Picnic Bay location is deemed to be the most suitable, Ms. Greaney went to say “The site is free from flooding and storm tide inundation and isn’t in an environmentally sensitive area.
“It’s also well located for access to necessary services and infrastructure and close to other community facilities in Picnic Bay.”
Magnetic Island Residents and Ratepayers Assoc. said they would need a lot more information on the proposed rezoning before they would make a submission to the proposal.
The MCN has become aware that Picnic Bay residents are currently circulating a petition for residents to sign objecting to the re-zoning proposal, as they ask why should Picnic Bay lose a recreational park which is used by the community, when there is other suitable TCC land available in Nelly Bay?
Cr Greaney said the next step is to apply to the Department of Natural Resources, Mines and Energy as the proposed site is currently an unused park and recreation reserve.
Long time Magnetic Island residents question the move from Nelly Bay to Picnic Bay as historically Picnic Bay is often the bay which is cut off in extreme weather events such as cyclones from other bays as Butler Creek floods.
“At this stage, the site selection is just a proposal and anyone in the community can have their say on what they believe to be the best site for the new State Emergency Service building. Community consultation will be running until June 30,” Cr Greaney said.
Cr. Greaney concluded by saying “There’s no doubt the local State Emergency Service Group need to have modern facilities but they also need to be in keeping with community expectations.”
Residents can make a submission to
Townsville City Council
PO Box 1268
Townsville, QLD 4810
Tree Planting Day on Magnetic Island to protect koalas
Townsville City Council is holding a Tree Planting Day on Magnetic Island this Saturday to provide food and homes for the local koala population.
Mayor Jenny Hill said she was proud to deliver on another promise by doing more Community Tree Planting Days in the Townsville region, starting with Magnetic Island.
“Magnetic Island is a unique location right at our doorstep and we’re doing everything we can to protect our beautiful koalas,” Cr Hill said.
“My team of councilors is committed to ensuring Townsville’s native plant species and wildlife are around for the next generation.”
Community Health and Environment Committee Chair Councillor Ann-Maree Greaney said the Tree Planting Day is a great way to involve the community in creating a sustainable future for Magnetic Island’s koalas.
“Magnetic Island is one of the few places in Australia where people can see a koala in the wild, which is why we need to ensure they have a home and food into the future,” Cr Greaney said
“This community tree planting day will help provide more food and homes for the local native wildlife.”
Volunteers will plant 500 eucalypt trees in the bushland on Apjohn Street in Horseshoe Bay.
Cr Greaney said the trees being planted are all native species to Magnetic Island.
“The new trees will help provide food for the koala hospitals on Magnetic Island and eventually homes for koalas once the trees are big enough,” Cr Greaney said.
“It’s a fun day out for the whole family – with a free sausage sizzle – and it will help ensure Magnetic Island has plenty of koalas into the future.
“Volunteers should bring a hat, gloves, sunscreen, enclosed footwear and water on the day.
There will also be face painting and a native plant for volunteers to take home on the day.
The Tree Planting Day will run from 10am to 12pm, Saturday June 23 at Apjohn Street, Horseshoe Bay (Behind Horseshoe Bay Sports and Recreational Centre).
18th June 2018
24th May 2018
Pictured above: Koopa in the Turtle Hospital. Photo: courtesy GBRMPA
A juvenile turtle affectionately known as ‘Koopa’ returned to the sea yesterday — on the eve of World Turtle Day — following a lengthy recovery at Reef HQ Aquarium Turtle Hospital.
‘Koopa’ is a hawksbill turtle — a critically endangered species — and was found in Cleveland Bay last October, malnourished and suffering from floatation syndrome after ingesting pumice stone and plastic fragments.
Without the help of Reef HQ Aquarium Turtle Hospital, ‘Koopa’ would not have survived.
“Plastics can block a turtle’s digestive tract. Gas builds up behind the blockage and causes the turtle to float, meaning they’re unable to dive for food or protect themselves from boat strike, sun burn or predation,” Reef HQ Aquarium curator Stephen Menzies said.
“Right from the start we knew ‘Koopa’ was a fighter. He showed a voracious personality and appetite, consuming an average of two squid a day.
“After regaining a healthy weight and his ability to dive for food, ‘Koopa’ was ready to be released back into the ocean in the outer Great Barrier Reef.”
It is rare to encounter juvenile hawksbill turtles within the inner Great Barrier Reef.
At this age, turtles are in their “lost years” and it is assumed they use ocean currents to head far out to sea before inhabiting a reef upon reaching 10 to 15 years of age.
‘Koopa’ was taken to Lodestone Reef and released by Adrenalin Snorkel and Dive staff on Tuesday, in the lead up to World Turtle Day (Wednesday 23 May).
World Turtle Day aims to increase knowledge of and respect for turtles and tortoises, and encourage human action to help them survive and thrive.
“World Turtle Day is a timely reminder to think about how much plastic you’re using, identify ways to minimise your use and help reduce the amount of plastic finding its way into our oceans and impacting on turtle populations,” Mr Menzies said.
To report a sick or injured marine turtle, please call 1300 ANIMAL (1300 264 625).
BACKGROUND
• Floatation syndrome can be caused by blockages in the digestive system. Turtles will try and eat anything they come across including marine debris such as plastic bags, cigarette butts, plastic fragments, fabric, styrofoam and fishing line. These items can block the digestive tract. Gas builds up behind this blockage, causing the turtle to float.
• Hawksbill turtles are critically endangered. Over the past 100 years, it is estimated their numbers have declined by 80 per cent worldwide due to humans hunting them for their shells.
• Reef HQ Aquarium’s Turtle Hospital cared for 239 patients since opening in 2009. Just under half have were successfully rehabilitated and released back into the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park. The majority of patients are green sea turtles, as they are generally found closer to shore feeding upon the seagrass beds around Magnetic Island and Cleveland Bay. Over one-third of patients suffer from floatation syndrome upon admittance.
10th May 2018
Partial Beach Closure For Restoration Works Horseshoe Bay
Debbie Denison
Townsville City Council crews will complete sand restoration works on Horseshoe Bay in the next fortnight.
Division 3 Councillor Ann-Maree Greaney said managing erosion in Horseshoe Bay is a priority for Council.
“Horseshoe Bay is a popular destination on Magnetic Island and regular restoration work is needed to keep it looking its best,” Cr Greaney said.
“The major factors causing the erosion are rainfall run-off and high tides.
“Council is developing a long-term plan to reduce erosion and make the Horseshoe Bay beach more resilient to weather events.”
In order for the restoration work to be undertaken a temporary beach closure will be in place from 14 May to 18 May while sand is moved from the eastern end of the bay to the affected areas.
However, the beach west of the boat ramp will remain open.
Residents are requested to remove any recreational boats or kayaks from the beach and Esplanade prior to 14 May so this vital restoration work can be completed.
To better manage the impacted area, Council will be enforcing its local law allowing only kayaks, jet-skis and other commercial operations to be permanently stored on the Esplanade.
Cr. Ann - Maree Greaney also announced at the MIRRA meeting that as Divisional councillor she had applied for funding in this years council budget for funding for a SEMP report and also funding for drainage works to be carried out in Horseshoe Bay.
Pictured above: WW2 veterans L R Colin Fulford, Dawson Reimers and Jack Lunn at the Magnetic Island Sub branch hall in Arcadia on ANZAC DAY. Over 500 peopple gathered for the dawn service at Alam Bay LEST WE FORGET. Photo: Debbie Denison
7th April 2018
Surrounded by family and friends Luke Gilbert and Matthew de Vries from Brisbane were married this afternoon on the foreshore of Nelly Bay. Photo: Debbie Denison
Pictured above: The wedding ceremony of Luke Gilbert and Matthew de Vries this afternoon on the foreshore of Nelly Bay. Their wedding is the first same sex marriage officiated on Magnetic Island. Congratulations guys!. Photo: Debbie Denison
Island Family Shines In Opening Ceremony of the Commonwealth Games
Pictured above: Magnetic Island's ocean loving Hinks family featured in the Opening Ceremony of the 21st Commonwealth Games on the Gold Coast tonight - you did us all proud!
Friday 6th April 2018
Council and RSPCA agree to transition animal services
Townsville Mayor, Jenny Hill, invited the RSPCA Qld to attend a meeting this week, regarding its plans to transition away from providing services in Townsville.
Cr Hill said the meeting was extremely productive and a way forward has been agreed to by Townsville City Council and the RSPCA Qld.
The agreement allows both organisations to focus on their core responsibilities, Townsville City Council focussing on animal management and the RSPCA on animal welfare and most importantly, fund those responsibilities.
“I’d like to thank the RSPCA Qld for meeting with me and holding such productive discussions,” Cr Hill said. “Both Council and the RSPCA want to ensure the highest levels of animal shelter services are provided to our community during this transition.”
By the end of the month Townsville City Council will manage the city pound operations and the RSPCA Qld will concentrate on the welfare responsibilities particularly its Inspectorate operations.
Council has generously offered to accommodate the Inspectorate needs with provision of pens and an office area.
RSPCA Qld CEO, Mark Townend said, “whenever you go into negotiations you look for a way forward and in this case, thanks to the very reasonable approach from the Mayor and support from her fellow elected members, an acceptable outcome has been achieved. Council will take over the management of the pound and the RSPCA can return to direct welfare and cruelty prevention programs. The animals of the region will be the big beneficiaries with an increased focus on animal welfare into the region.”
Festival 2018 officially launches today!
The wait is over with Festival 2018 and the Commonwealth Games officially launching at an Opening Event at Jezzine Barracks tonight.
The event will kick off at 5pm and audiences can watch Townsville’s own 1RAR band perform and catch the official Gold Coast Commonwealth Games Opening Ceremony on the big screen.
Townsville Mayor Jenny Hill encouraged residents to come along and get a taste of what is in store for the next 12 days.
“I’d really like to see residents and visitors at Jezzine supporting the opening for this amazing event,” Cr Hill said.
“We officially welcome our national and international athletes to Townsville tonight and this is our chance to show the world that Townsville is a destination city.
“I’m really looking forward to seeing Festival 2018 bring Townsville to life over the next 12 days.”
The festival’s major art installation, Uncontained, will officially open on Thursday 5 April and Queens Gardens will open on Friday 6 April.
Commonwealth Games Working Group Chair Councillor Kurt Rehbein said he is excited to see all the hard work and preparation in action.
“It’s been hard work getting ready for Festival 2018 and to see it all come together like this is really exciting,” Cr Rehbein said.
“Jezzine Barracks, Strand Park and Queens Gardens all look fantastic and are ready for the 12 days of culture, music, theatre, art and sport
“I really recommend that if you still haven’t booked tickets for the performances you do it now so you don’t miss out.”
Tickets are available now from Council’s website or the Box Office at Townsville Civic Theatre and Riverway Arts Centre.
The federally funded Hells Gates feasibility study commenced in May 2017, led by the Snowy Mountains Engineering Company (SMEC), and managed by Townsville Enterprise.
The Feasibility Study is assessing the viability of constructing a dam at Hells Gates to deliver the following potential benefits:
· Staged development of an initial 50,000 hectares of irrigated horticulture and broad-scale agriculture of both perennial and annual crops
· Augmentation of the Burdekin Falls Dam in support of industry (Galilee Basin etc.)
· Up to 1200 megawatt pumped hydroelectric scheme and 15 megawatt run-of-river hydro
· Long-term water security for the City of Townsville (Post 2035)
· Long-term water security for Charters Towers
The study is nearing completion and is expected to be released in May 2018.
The final phase of the study currently underway is the financial analysis being conducted by AEC. This will provide a preliminary finding on whether the project is capable of achieving a return on investment for government or private investors.
While the initial studies, including engineering and environmental reviews, point to the project’s technical viability, it would be a multi-billion dollar investment and the economics of that decision are still yet to be determined.
Any decision to move forward or otherwise with the Hells Gates project will be a negotiated process with government and will depend on the findings of the final report which will be released in May.
16th March 2018
Local firms encouraged to attend pipeline Information Session
Townsville City Council will host an Industry Information Session on the $215 million water pipeline on Tuesday, March 20.
The Information Session will bring together contractors, subcontractors and suppliers to provide details on the project and how local firms can secure work.
Townsville Mayor Jenny Hill said the Information Session would encourage local firms to be part of the pipeline project.
“This is project will create a huge amount of jobs in our city and we want as many local firms to be a part of it as possible,” Cr Hill said.
“The pipeline will need everything from gravel to site offices to heavy machinery and portaloos.
“There’s plenty of work available on the pipeline and we want to create as many jobs as possible so that’s why we want businesses to come to the Forum on Tuesday to find out how they can be a part of the project.”
The Information Session will be held at Reid Park, doors open at 8.45am for a 9am start. The event is expected to conclude at 10.30am.
Registrations are essential. To express interest in attending please RSVP toenquiries@townsville.qld.gov.au with the subject title “HPDP – Local Industry Information Session” and please provide details about your company and who will be attending.
RSVPs close 3pm, Monday, March 19.
12th March 2018
Water restrictions eased back to Level 2
Townsville residents will be able to use sprinklers on their gardens and wash their cars with a hose, after Council decided to ease water restrictions to Level 2.
Mayor Jenny Hill said the Level 2 water restrictions allow residents to use sprinklers twice a week – on an odds and evens system – and wash cars and boats using a hose on any day.
“Council reviewed all the relevant information on water use, dam levels and long-term forecasts before making the decision to ease water restrictions to Level 2,” Cr Hill said.
“We’ve also listened to the community to allow residents to wash their cars with a hose – instead of just using a bucket or water-efficient car wash.
“This is about getting the balance right between trying to prolong the amount of water in the dam while still allowing residents to use water how they want to.”
Handheld watering is allowed at any time on any day.
Level 2 water restrictions will commence from Saturday, allowing residents to use sprinklers on their gardens over the weekend.
Cr Hill thanked the community for being water wise during the long dry spell.
“Residents did a great job reducing their water use so we could get through the drought until a rain event arrived,” Cr Hill said.
“However, we all know how fickle the weather can be and that’s why we need to ensure the dam level doesn’t get too low too soon.
“We want to ensure we have water security until the $215 million pipeline is built at the end of next year.
“Praying for rain isn’t a strategy and that’s why Council is doing everything we can to ensure Townsville has long-term water security.”
Townsville Water and Waste Committee chairman Cr Paul Jacob said Council would continue to monitor the dam levels and would review the restriction level again if more significant rain falls over the catchment.
“If we get more rain over the dam and the level keeps increasing then we will again review the water restriction level,” Cr Jacob.
“Council understands how important our water is and that’s why we want to ensure we preserve such a precious resource while still allowing residents to use water when they need it.”
1st March 2018
Pictured above: Upper Gustav Creek Thursday 9,30am view from my balcony. Creek looking and sounding great and the birds are full of joy! Photo Debbie Denison
28th February 2018
Pictured above; Gustav Creek other side Sooning Street bridge debris builds up low tide 3.30pm. Photo Debbie Denison
Residents urged to stay safe and check Council’s Emergency Management Dashboard
A serious weather event is expected to hit Townsville later this afternoon and this evening, with heavy rainfall throughout the city.
Townsville residents should go to Council’s Emergency Management Dashboard at disaster.townsville.qld.gov.au for up-to-date information about the weather event, road closures and electricity faults.
Townsville Local Disaster Management Group deputy chair Cr Kurt Rehbein said the Dashboard was the best place to go for information relating to the serious weather event.
“The Dashboard will provide residents with the information they need to know to stay safe as we’re expecting significant rainfalls later today,” Cr Rehbein said.
“The information on the Dashboard will be updated throughout the day and is a one-stop shop for residents to find out about rainfall, flood warning and road clsoures.”
Residents in areas such as Kelso, the Bohle and Deeragun should regularly check the Dashboard as there may be some localised flooding.
Cr Rehbein said motorists needed to take extra care in the wet conditions and never drive on flooded roads.
“Don’t drive across any flooded roads – if it’s flooded, forget it,” Cr Rehbein said.
“We’re expecting a lot of rainfall later this afternoon and into the evening so where possible people should try and avoid being on the road.”
The Local Disaster Coordination Centre has been activated and the weather event will be monitored by Council, Queensland Police Service, the Queensland Fire and Emergency Services and the State Emergency Service.
Regular updates will be provided but the best place to check for up-to-date information is Council’s Emergency Management Dashboard.
Pictured above: Upper Gustav Creek 9.30am creek level has drop by about a metre since peek this morning. Photo Debbie Denison
TLDMG to stand up to monitor low-pressure system
The Townsville Local Disaster Management Group has stood up and will hold an operational meeting at 10.30am this morning.
The low-pressure system sitting above Townsville is causing significant rainfall and has the potential to cause flooding in areas around the city.
Deputy Local Disaster Management Group Chair Cr Kurt Rehbein said authorities would monitor the weather and provide updates to the community regularly.
“Significant amounts of rain has fallen across Townsville and more is expected. We want all residents to be safe in this weather,” Cr Rehbein said.
“It’s important that motorists don’t drive in flooded roads – if it’s flooded forget it – and people take precautions to ensure they stay safe in the wet.
“Council along with Queensland Police Service, Queensland Fire and Emergency Services and the State Emergency Service are all monitoring the low-pressure system and are ready to respond.”
Council crews and SES are responding to sandbagging requests for residents in the Deeragun area.
Cr Rehbein said Council was providing free sand bags and sand for residents who need them to protect their homes and property from flooding.
“The sand and sand bags are free and anyone is welcome to pick them up and take them back to try and protect their property,” Cr Rehbein said.
Sand and sand bags are at two locations:
Lou Litster Park, behind Officeworks
Transport and Main Roads Depot at the Corner of the Bruce Highway and Mount Low Parkway
Pictured above: Gustav Creek my back yard. Photos Debbie Denison
22nd February 2018
GBRMPA Stonewalls Groyne
Pictured above: Diagram of the proposed site of the trail sand bag groyne at Nelly Bay.
Debbie Denison
The much anticipated installation of the sand bag groyne in Nelly Bay has been dealt another setback with the GBRMPA who have not issued the necessary permits for works to proceed. At the MIRRA meeting earlier this month Cr. Ann Maree Greaney said “Council were shovel ready for work to proceed in March but council was still waiting for permits to be issued by GBRMPA”.
In a statement issued by GBRMPA yesterday “The Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority has received an application for a sand bag groyne wall in Nelly Bay and the application is being assessed.
The application is under assessment and no work can start until the appropriate permits from the Marine Park Authority and Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service have been given. The Marine Park Authority is waiting on more information from the applicant”.
In June last year the Palaszczuk Government announced funding for the project which is estimated to cost $210,000.
The proposed construction of the groyne will involve using sand-filled geo-textile bags and was based on the recommendations outlined in the Nelly Bay Shoreline Erosion.
TCC commissioned the SEMP report for Nelly Bay which was completed in 2010.
The MCN understands the information sought by GBRMPA involves another scientific study be prepared by the applicant which is TMR.
Member for Townsville Scott Stewart told the MCN “ We have to make sure we get this right the first time, the money is there, Council is shovel ready , this is tax payers money”.
The MCN sought comment from TCC, and Minister for Main Roads and Ports Mark Bailey yesterday, at the time of going to print we had not received a response.
The Palaszczuk Government already spends between $50,000 and $70,000 annually on excavating sand in the area that is relocated to nearby Nelly Bay Beach.
Questions need to be asked ‘The application for works permits was completed months ago, why has is taken the GBRMPA this amount of time to request yet another scientific report be completed?'
The GBRMPA were stakeholders in the preparation of the implementation of the SEMP for Nelly Bay, 8 years on since its completion are they now rejecting its recommendations?
14th February 2018
Pictured above: This campaign began in 2014 with a petition signed by thousands of people , nearly 4 years on Horseshoe Bay Foreshore is still being eroded and TCC continues with a band aid approach, with no long term solution - we ask where is the SEMP for Horseshoe Bay and where is the funding?
Procrastination within Council?
Debbie Denison
Frustration has turned to anger over councils inaction on long term policy for Horseshoe Bay Foreshore erosion. This follows council admitting no SEMP report had been completed and they were now looking for funding to produce a SEMP.
In September 2014 local resident Bill Downing began a petition to save the Horseshoe Bay Foreshore which was signed by thousands of people. In an MCN article 16-9-14 ‘Council To take Urgent action over Horseshoe bay erosion’ then Cr. Vern Veitch stated “An Erosion Mitigation Options Study that identifies potential solutions is almost complete and will help guide work council does now and in the future.
“The options study will also be important to enable medium term actions and forms the first part of a Shoreline Erosion Management Plan (SEMP) which will provide a longer term plan.
“The SEMP provides the detailed science essential to gain environmental approvals for any substantive works.”
David Stafford owner of Barefoot Art Wine told MCN “ I have attended so many meetings with councillors, engineers and locals regarding the foreshore over the years, it is frustrating this council still has not even completed a SEMP after all these endless meetings and reports .
He went on to say “How many studies have been carried out, this council doesn’t have any foresight to say we need do this and lets get it done.”
“ Surely Horseshoe Bay which is the most visited bay on the island deserves better, we don’t receive the joy of expenditure here at Horseshoe Bay compared to Alma Bay and if this was the The Strand it would have been fixed a long time ago”.
Peter Smith owner of Magnetic Jet said “ In my opinion what ever work they do here it needs to be done when the tides are low, not this time of year when the tides are high. Any work they do now the next high tide just washes it away. The sand that has been washed away from the foreshore is still in Horseshoe Bay it hasn’t left the bay, its just in a different place. “
Several years ago works were carried out with a front end loader and exacavators at the right time of year but this hasn’t happened recently.
Peter went on to say “ I believe some of the problem is that council has not planted any new trees to replace the 20 or so we have lost, they have not planted any stabilising vegetation and what ever reports have been done by the previous council have gone.”
MIRRA President Cameron Turnbull said “MIRRA will be pursuing funding for the SEMP and completion of its recommended works for the Horseshoe Bay foreshore.”
Norman Jenkins President of Tourism Magnetic Island told the MCN “A sustainable and clear management plan of the bay is needed to be communicated to the business and the community to maintain what is the highlight for many visitors to Magnetic Island”.
Surely there must be someone left after all the redundancies and retrenchments within council who knows the background and has the reports that have already been completed on Horseshoe Bay foreshore and is working towards a solution?
It would appear not.
Pictured above: Super Moon over Magnetic Island.
15th January 2018
Labor refuses to act on insurance premiums
Northern based Government Senator Ian Macdonald has called on the Labor State Government to ease cost of living pressures on local families by abolishing costly stamp duties, strata commissions and other levies on general insurance premiums.
Senator Macdonald said the move would immediately reduce household insurance premiums by around 9 per cent.
“For a local family whose insurance coverage costs $5,000 per year, that would mean an instant saving on the household budget of over $400 per annum,” Senator Macdonald said.
“It’s time Labor came clean and stopped using these stamp duties and strata commissions as a secret tax on North Queensland families.
“Skyrocketing insurance premiums have seen many residents across the North struggling to pay their bills and in many cases people are actually going without coverage because they simply can’t afford it,” Senator Macdonald said.
The Australian Government is undertaking major reforms to put downward pressure on insurance premiums through increased accountability and transparency within the industry, resulting in a fairer and more efficient sector.
24th December 2017
Pictured above: Santa waving as he busily hands out lollies and good cheer on the annual Santa Run here on Magnetic Island Christmas Eve. Photo courtesy Debbie Denison.
The Santa Bus on the annual Christmas Eve lolly run organised by the Magnetic Island Boat Club. Ho Ho Ho Merry Christmas.
Pictured above: Have a Happy & Safe Tropical Christmas from our home to yours from us here at Magnetic Community News. Photo courtesy Debbie Denison.
20th November 2017
Australian oceanographer honoured in new reef naming
Pictured above: Magnetic Island resident, the late Dr Don Kinsey, has been honoured with a Reef named after him. Photo courtesy GBRMPA
Magnetic Island resident, the late Dr Don Kinsey, has been honoured with a Reef named after him.
The life and work of late Australian scientist Dr Don Kinsey AM is being celebrated with a reef within the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park named in his honour.
The reef scientist and manager worked as the executive officer of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority from 1985 to 1992, going on to establish the Reef Cooperative Research Centre (Reef CRC).
Dr Kinsey pioneered science focused on metabolism and calcification rates of coral reefs, and gave an understanding of how fast coral reefs grow and how stresses degrade reefs.
Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority chairman Russell Reichelt said Dr Kinsey’s diverse scientific work and passion to share knowledge about the Reef had left a great legacy.
“Dr Kinsey was known for his eloquent radio and television media interviews, explaining Reef matters of deep consequence to the general public,” he said.
“He was acting chairman of the Marine Park Authority for a time and, with experience across the world in varied scientific areas, had a real drive to connect reef science with the public.”
Early in his career, Dr Kinsey designed and patented the oxygen electrode which enabled the instantaneous measurement of oxygen in seawater.
He also developed the methodology to measure carbon dioxide in seawater which is still in use today.
Much of this early work was either self-funded or helped by small grants.
The second international Coral Reef Symposium in 1973, convened by what was known as the Great Barrier Reef Committee, connected Dr Kinsey to larger scientific programs across the globe.
This led to him to managing projects at One Tree Island and later at Lizard Island.
Dr Kinsey completed a Doctorate of Oceanography, studying effluent sediment and reef degradation based in Kaneohe Bay, Hawaii.
He was then appointed as Director of a saltmarsh ecology program with the University of Georgia where he drew connections to Reef ecology.
Wanting to head back to Australia, Dr Kinsey accepted an offer to work for the Australian Institute of Marine Science between 1982 and 1985 then worked with the Great Barrier Reef Marine Authority until 1992.
His passion for the Reef did not wane after his retirement — he became involved with the University of the Third Age offering lectures, talks and trips to the Reef, always sharing current scientific findings.
Dr Kinsey passed away in October 2016.
The newly-named Don Kinsey Reef, reef number 22-101, is located 227km north-east of Yeppoon.
Don Kinsey Reef was officially named through a formal process involving the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority, the Royal Australian Navy’s Australian Hydrographic Office and the Queensland Government.
9th November 2017
Island’s Wish List For Up Coming Election
Debbie Denison
With the date of the up coming State Election finally announced the MCN sought comment from various associations on the island for their wish list.
MIRRA President Mr. Cameron Turnbull said “ We would like to congratulate the State Government for the funding to complete the walkway/ footpath on Sooning Street and also the new toilet block which is under construction in Horseshoe Bay. We now seek the redevelopment of the Forts car parking area, bus hub and associated facilities/”
Ms. Lorna Hempstead President said MICDA’s wish list is “Supporting Queensland Tourism Industry Council’s specific initiative around natural heritage (see below) with specific reference to a National Parks public hub at the entrance to the Forts to include more interpretation, better vehicle parking and bus set down
DEVELOP SUSTAINABLE BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES THROUGH QUEENSLAND’S NATURAL AND CULTURAL HERITAGE Commitment for new visitor infrastructure and experiences in Queensland’s protected areas of $50million over the next four years. A long-term commitment of the State Government to work with the Commonwealth Government to increase funding for the protection of the Great Barrier Reef to the level required to achieve the goals of the Reef 2050 Plan. Commitment of $5 million for the development of new cultural experiences and business opportunities, with a specific focus on Indigenous experiences. · Sustainable development of tourism opportunities in National Parks. · Increased funding to the Great Barrier Reef to meet 2050 goals. · Dedicated and coordinated commitment to Indigenous tourism development.
Commit to support the Port of Townsville in investigating and then implementing the highest quality dredging methods and the dumping of dredge spoil in a location that will neither impact on the Reef in general and especially on the eastern shores of Magnetic Island and our fringing reefs.
Increased support across the state and particularly for smaller communities (such as Magnetic Island) for positive youth engagement programs.”
Mr. Norman Jenkins President of Tourism Magnetic Island told MCN “ Our wish list is support for:
1.Underwater Museum.
2. Upgrade of the National Parks Walking Track Network on Magnetic Island
3. Continued Tourism support in industry development and promotion”.
We at the Magnetic Community News are seeking all three levels of government work together to achieve a new out patients clinic, a community centre/ cyclone shelter/cyclone recovery centre and a new SES building to be built on council land in Kelly Street across the road from the ambulance and emergency services centre , the reason for this particular location is this area is the first area on the island to have power restored after a cyclone or natural disaster.
Residents have also contacted the MCN requesting that funding be given for more walkways/cycle paths to be constructed across the island.
The Nelly Bay to Picnic Bay walkway to be completed.
The sealing of the West Point Road.
We welcome any other suggestions readers may have and please email us on magneticnews@bigpond.com with your wish list.
Seat of Townsville Candidates Profiles
LNP
Casie Scott
Casie is an award-winning journalist with over a decade of experience in radio and television news presentation and production. She has co-ordinated live coverage and reported on major events including cyclones, floods, inquests, royal visits and many other stories in between.
Since 2012, Casie has worked in crisis communications, specialising in the public relations and stakeholder engagement fields. She has worked as a Ministerial Adviser in Queensland and the Northern Territory, as well as holding a Departmental management role.
In January 2017, Casie was announced as the Liberal National Party Candidate for the State seat of Townsville.
Casie is a mother to a young daughter and is passionate about securing the future of Townsville by making it a safer and more prosperous place to live and work.
Labor
Scott Stewart
As the local State Member, Scott Stewart has worked hard to deliver for the people of Townsville and Magnetic Island as a dedicated member of the Palaszczuk Labor Government.
Scott Stewart is a former high school principal, a proud husband, and father of three who is passionate about the Townsville community.
Born in the Burdekin, Scott has lived and worked all over Queensland, before settling in Townsville, where he and his wife Jackie and their family have lived for more than 18 years.
As a former school principal, Scott is passionate about education, and sees the value of education as the key to personal success.
During his time as a principal, Scott was known for his willingness to try new initiatives and established a successful boxing program targeting truant and under-achieving students to re-engage with learning through the discipline of boxing.
Scott has become a strong and active leader within the Townsville community. He is a Rotarian and works tirelessly within his school communities to promote education and learning.
Scott is the Chair of the Education, Tourism, Innovation and Small Business Committee and has been appointed Temporary Speaker of the Queensland Parliament. These roles he conducts with integrity and impartiality, and is honoured to do so.
He is passionate about initiatives that are aimed at defining our future, in particular renewable energy.
Scott supports the many new renewable energy projects which are starting across Queensland and the many more which are in the pipeline.
He is proud of the fact Queensland has more renewable projects under development.
Scott believes in having a diverse range of energy options, including solar panels, which will provide a more diversified mix of energy for North Queensland.
He is excited by the fact it will increase the amount of energy generated by renewables to almost 17 per cent – more than double what it is now.
Scott is determined to keep energy assets in Queensland hands, to help keep costs low for the people of Townsville.
Scott is adamant that all profits from the Government’s energy assets are invested into reducing the cost for everyone.
In November, Scott helped unveil SeaLink’s proposal for a $56 million ferry terminal and transport hub, which has progressed to Stage 2 of the Market-Led Proposal approvals. A project he has supported since its start.
The project will provide a new, state-of-the-art ferry terminal for the region, including two new ferries. This will significantly boost connections between Magnetic Island and the mainland.
The Palaszczuk Government has also contributed $210K to the construction of the Nelly Bay Groyne to help hold back the effects of the movement of sand and water and its impacts on beachfront residences.
Subject to relevant approvals, work will start on this project early next year.
Scott is working hard for the people of Magnetic Island, and looks forward continuing this work
One Nation
Allan Evans
Although born in Brisbane Allan was raised in Townsville by his grandmother and his early years were spent between boarding schools in Cairns and Townsville. Like many youngsters of that era Allan left school at grade eight, aged fourteen. He turned his hand to many jobs to survive and one of these was as a Jackaroo on a sheep station near Hughenden.
At seventeen Allan joined the Navy qualifying as a Clearance Diver, seeing active service during a six-month tour to the South-East Asian region. After discharge from the Navy Allan and his young family returned to Townsville. Work was scarce. His first opportunity of work was as a labourer with the Copper Refineries in the smelter section. Twelve months on and he was offered a position as a commercial diver with the Townsville Harbour Board. Allan was one of the divers who worked on the pipeline to Magnetic Island bringing town water to the island for the first time. During his time with the Townsville Harbour Board, Allan successfully studied for his senior certificate at the Town High Night School. He then studied for many years for a Bachelor of Commerce degree often working two and sometimes three part-time jobs to support his family. Allthis hard work resulted in Allan successfully operating his own Management, Accounting andTaxation business for the past forty years to present day.
Allan is a member of the Institute of Chartered Accountants Australia and New Zealand, National Taxpayers Association Australia (NTAA), Townsville Chamber of Commerce, RSL Life Member, past member of Australian Society of CPA and Townsville Sunrise Rotary. He has represented Australia in his respective age group in Triathlon World Championships and more recently in 2014 became the Australian Champion at the Australian Natural Body-Building Championships.
It is clear Allan’s background provides him with an excellent understanding of the difficulties encountered by individuals and businesses. He also has the tenacity, focus and ability to face the challenges giving them his total commitment.
Allan is a proud Queenslander and citizen of Townsville committed to giving a voice to the concerns confronting the Townsville community today. He looks forward to the day when he will provide a strong representation for the seat of Townsville and the State of Queensland.
Townsville is a wonderful place to live, and I want to help ensure it stays that way.
The Greens
Rebecca Ryan
I work as a Radiographer at The Townsville Hospital and have done for over 7 years. I am best known however as the driving force of Townsville Bicycle Users Group (BUG).
My vision for the future of Townsville goes far beyond safe and convenient cycling. That is why I have taken the bold step of entering politics.
I have chosen to run with the Greens for many reasons but largely because they stand firm against corruption. Working with diverse opinions and agreeing on how to justly allocate funds for the maximum benefit of the community is a difficult enough ask but when you also have rampant corruption it is us who lose.
The LNP gutted the Crime and Corruption Commission (CCC), and Labor has done little to bolster its powers. The Greens want to give the CCC the teeth it needs to police dodgy politicians and public officials in Queensland.
4Labor and the LNP rely heavily on donations because it helps them win elections. It also corrupts their decision making. The Greens will do their best to ban corporate donations to political parties and “cash-for-access” meetings with Government Ministers and MPs, and jam the revolving door between politics and big lobbyists like the Minerals Council and property developers.
Community involvement in politics is essential to healthy and desirable development into the future. Please get in touch. I might not get there this election but I love this city, and I will continue to do my bit to help it to prosper.
8th November 2017
PUBLIC NOTICE
“MIRRA has resolved to do another survey/audit of terminal car park spaces.
This time, vehicles recorded as being left in spaces from week to week, will be reported to the appropriate authorities for action."
Police have charged a woman following investigations into a fatal traffic crash on Magnetic Island on June 1 this year.
Around 1am, police attended Sooning Street in Nelly Bay and discovered a mini moke had left the roadway and crashed into a power pole after failing to negotiate a roundabout.
The two men, aged 41 and 48, were pronounced deceased at the scene.
A woman who was driving the vehicle was taken to the Townsville Hospital with non-life threatening injuries.
A 26-year-old Richmond Hill woman has been charged with two counts of dangerous operation of motor vehicle causing death and driving under the influence.
The woman appeared in the Townsville Magistrates Court today and will next appear in Townsville Magistrates Court on December 13.
If you have information for police, contact Policelink on 131 444 or provide information using the online form 24hrs per day.
You can report information about crime anonymously to Crime Stoppers, a registered charity and community volunteer organisation, by calling 1800 333 000 or via crimestoppersqld.com.au 24hrs per day.
Pictured above: Cover of the 2018 Heritage Calendar the Honeymoon cottage at former Arcadia Guesthouse c1990. This building, used by service personnel on R & R leave during World War II, was relocated to Magnetic Museum 2014. Gift of Val Reid
22nd October 2017
HERITAGE CALENDAR 2018
Building Stories, the fifteenth in a continuing series of pictorial calendars produced by Magnetic Island History and Craft Centre can now be ordered for 2018. Almost 200 heritage photographs from the Magnetic Museum collection have been published in these limited edition calendars. The 2018 calendar, Building Stories, provides an insight into the stories behind some existing early buildings of Magnetic Island.
Only three structures on Magnetic Island are listed on the State Heritage Register – the Forts complex, the Picnic Bay school and the jetty at Picnic Bay.
Much of the Island’s built heritage has been lost to the ravages of nature and man’s intervention. Some heritage buildings have been preserved by relocation – both Butler Hut and Hayles Cottage were relocated by MIHCC when they were under threat of demolition.
Buildings with heritage values do exist: no grand edifices as on the mainland but buildings rich in the stories they tell of past owners, residents, activities and associations.
Calendars are $30 each including delivery within Australia. Payment will secure copies. Calendars will be ready for distribution toward mid-November. To make your order contact Zanita (0488050145 or zanita@optusnet.com.au) or call into Magnetic Museum at Picnic Bay, open 10am to 2pm daily, except Tuesdays.
6th September 2017
Another matchless SeaLink Magnetic Island Race Week comes to an end
Townsville Yacht Club’s SeaLink Magnetic Island Race Week came to an end this afternoon, after six days of sailing and fun - a sailing event like no other in Australia.
Once again the AP set the tone for the morning, as the heat took control and no breeze was to be found, so crews lazed around, enjoying a long breakfast, reading and chatting aboard or sipping coffee at Peppers Blue on Blue resort.
The AP was pulled down shortly after midday when on-water officials reported a 4-5 knot easterly which looked set to increase.
Coming into the final race, Peter Lowndes’ Lyons 49, Wine Dark Sea, led PHS Division 1 by five points from TYC Commodore, John Stokes Mach 1 and Adrian Walters Shaw 11 Metre Little Nico (NSW). This division sailed six races, one more race that the other divisions.
“We’re sweating on whether Mr Thompson (PRO Denis Thompson) will pull down the AP,” he said, referring to their leading position. No sooner had he said it than the AP came down.
And sadly their dream finished there when Adrian Walters and his Shaw 11 Metre Little Nico won Race 6 and took the series by four points from Wine Dark Sea with TYC Commodore, John Stokes finishing third with his Bavaria Match 38, Mach 1.
Little Nico, from Sydney, named for Walters’ daughter Nicoleta (nicknamed Nico and Little Nico), was a family affair with Walters’ wife Sonja and son Aaron sailing along with Mitch White, Peter Ryan, Steve Perks, Bryony Gregory and Gus Williams, who recently won the Youth Match Racing Worlds with Harry Price and Tara Blanc Ramos
“We couldn’t have asked for a better course,” Walters said ashore. There was a lot of reaching in 8-16 knots on a 19 mile course. It’s been a hard but fun week. The harder you go, the more you get punished on handicap, so it’s pleasing to win,” he said. “Mitch and the boys give it their all – we go out early training, practicing sets and gybes etc.
“It’s a fantastic regatta – very laid-back and chilled with a lot of camaraderie,” said the Maggie Race Week first timer.
Vanilla 2 and Vanilla 1 from Victoria were, paradoxically, on equal points sharing the Division 2 lead. The final race decided it in favour of Vanilla 2, skippered by Doug Shields, her third place today giving her seven point advantage over Vanilla 1, skippered by Steve ‘Harpo’ Harper. Little Miss Sunshine (Sam Pavic) also from Victoria, took third place.
Geoff Adams S99, Rampallion (Vic) led Division 3 from Rainbow (Stuart Cocker, Qld) and the elegant Oasis (David Keyes-Tilley, Vic), but it was the fun crew of Librian, owned by Stanley Barnes who stole the show and the top trophy by winning the final race .
Librian won by one point from Rampallion, with a further point to Rainbow – 10th and eighth respectively in the last race.
In the Non-Spinnaker Division, Lady Virginia (Nicholas Cable, (Vic) was in the top spot going into the final race and won from Lady Katherine (Peter McDonald, Qld) by just a point and Poppy (Michael Phillips, SA) by a further point. Both have been her toughest adversaries all week.
“We came all the way from Melbourne, we campaigned her at Hamilton Island and here at Magnetic – it’s our third time here – and we’re thrilled to win,” Cable said.
“We’ve had a lot of fun here – a lovely time – we really enjoyed Richard and Karen’s barbecue at Cape Upstart too. We did our very best today (they were third in this race which was won by Lady Katherine, with Chloe (Ian Burns), a local boat third. We had fierce competition. I’ll be 70 in April and feel like I’ve done it all – I can go happy,” he said.
The Multihulls were an all-Townsville affair led by Mistress (Dennis Coleman), with Salacia (Ian Johnson) and The Boat Graeme Etherton, hot on her heels, one point behind on equal points. So Coleman finally got the win he has hankered over for years.
Mistress, a Corsair Sprint Mk1, finished third in the final Race 5 to take the overall win by two points to Graeme Etherton’s Crowther Windspeed 32 Cat, The Boat, while Rupert King’s Re1066t jumped up into third after winning Race 5.
Coleman, whose crew is a tight-knit affair of eight years, includes son Nathan and Scott McInerney, a dab Contender sailor, who helms the boat.
Prior to racing, Coleman and McInerney agreed: “We’d be happy if they cancelled racing today – it’s our best shot – we’d win!”
“Actually I’d be happy if we were even second or third – it would be the first time, we always end up fourth,” said Coleman, who fixes machinery in a meatworks by day and works with pizzas by night and has never missed Magnetic Island Race Week.
“We always start out well, so when we win, the handicapper nobbles us. Today will be interesting to see how it pans out,” added McInerney as the pair received an SMS to say racing would get underway shortly.
“Despite small numbers this year, the competition is fierce. You have to sail well every day,” said Coleman who loves sailing so much, McInerney says “he’s told the crew: ‘If I die while we’re racing, finish first, then drag my body ashore.”
On one of their main rivals, Salacia, owner Ian Johnson, has sailed here every year since the event started “and this boat (a Lightwave 38).
“We’re a bit slower than the others, but we’ve done OK. I think the handicappers have done a good job with our fleet,” said Johnson who was thinking the weather might be a bit light on for them today.
“We absolutely prefer the windier days because we’re heavier, but having said that, we won on the really light day. We found a gust and then the race was shortened. Lucky us.”
The fleet as a whole benefitted from ideal mid-range breezes on the first two days of SeaLink Magnetic Island Race Week. Day 3 was light but gave those specialists their opportunities, and while an AP started Days 3, 4 and 5, competitors could not complain about those days, because as the racing progressed, so did the breeze.
Warm sunshine every day, flat water sailing some days, with a little swell and waves on others.
As Ian Johnson and others pointed out – seven degrees in Melbourne, excessive cold gale-force winds in Sydney, snow in Bass Strait and on Mount Wellington in Tasmania and cloudy cold wet days in Adelaide versus the sun, green flat water and tropical setting of Townsville and Magnetic Island. Not to mention the convivial company you find at this regatta.
“It’s like the old style regattas where everyone sits around on their boats at the marina chatting and then we’re all together ashore for the prize giving and entertainment,” Johnson said and many others echoed throughout the week.
At the official prize giving, the winner of each division will receive a framed Andrea Francolini photo of their boat taken during the week – a special prize that will be appreciated for years to come. The top three in each division will also receive trophies.
Pictured above: Lyn Coomber, Gwen Gifford with Cr. Ann Maree Greaney at the Nelly Bay Terminal Photo: Debbie Denison
22nd August 2017
Sunbus Magnetic Island Route 250 – Elena Street diversion
Please see below link for more information on bus diversion.
Several questions have been sent to Townsville City Council regarding this matter - we are awaiting their answers.
Townsville City Council response:
As part of an ongoing bridge inspection program, Townsville City Council identified the structure on Elena St to be over-stressed, and further investigation was undertaken with an external consultant.
Investigations determined that an 8 tonne load limit needed to be implemented. This is required by law.
Council is currently in the design phase to correct the structural capacity of the structure with final hydrology checks being done.
Remedial works are expected to begin prior to the start of the wet season with works anticipated to be completed by the end of March 2018.
Council has offered a revised temporary bus route to Sunbus and signage will go up tomorrow to advise heavy vehicles of the restriction.
Council’s waste services will ensure residents’ waste will continue to be collected.
Ergon Energy will interrupt power to parts of the Townsville central business district, Magnetic Island, South Townsville and Railways Estate for approximately two hours from late Wednesday night 16th August into Thursday morning.
An Ergon spokesman said power will be interrupted at about 11pm until 1am Thursday to enable crews to repair damaged equipment at the local substation following Tuesday afternoon’s fork lift incident.
“We believe this time will have the least inconvenience to the majority of customers. However we appreciate it will not be convenient for all customers. Our crews will work quickly to undertake repairs to an earth wire at the local substation and then safely restore power,” he said.
The repair work is critical and follows Tuesday’s incident where a fork lift contacted a power pole and wires resulting in damage at the nearby substation.
Major high rise accommodation centres with elevators and customers registered with Ergon’s Life Support Program in the affected areas are being contacted and advised of the power interruption.
15th July 2017
Boaties must keep watch for whales
Boaties need to keep watch day and night as more than 27,000 humpback whales and other whale species move along the Queensland coast from now until December.
Mike Joyce, Manager Southern Operations in the Department of Environment and Heritage Protection, said the risks to boaties and whales increased each year as whale numbers recovered from near-extinction in the 1960s.
“Winter and spring are times for great care on the water,” Mr Joyce said.
“Humpbacks are moving along the coast day and night during the migration, and can surface at any time without warning.
“These are unpredictable, 40-tonne mammals and you don’t want to get in their way.
“Humpbacks are known to nudge boats, and also to slap their tails when close to vessels, or leap out of the water when breaching.
“Southern right whales are also turning up in our waters.
“If your vessel does strike a whale you are required to complete a marine incident report for Maritime Safety Queensland, and also report the incident to a conservation officer.
“The best way to do that is to call the RSPCA on 1300 ANIMAL. The RSPCA will then pass on the information to a conservation officer in the area where the incident occurred.
“No-one may take a boat or Jet Ski within 500 metres or fly an aircraft closer than 610 metres from a ‘special interest’ whale like Migaloo the white humpback without authorisation," Mr Joyce said.
“For all other whales, and dolphins, the vessel approach limit is 300m for Jet Skis and 100 metres for other vessels, unless three vessels are already in the area, in which case the limit is 300 metres.
“In the whale protection zone of the Whitsunday, Lindeman and Gloucester island groups, where many humpbacks deliver their calves, no boat may go closer than 300 metres.”
“There’s a $630 on-the-spot fine for getting too close, and a maximum penalty of $20,814 for special interest whales such as Migaloo the white whale," he said.
“Follow the regulations for your own safety as well as the whales’ welfare.”
Details are at www.ehp.qld.gov.au.
Above: Concept Plan Walkway Nelly Bay
7th June 2017
Port of Townsville welcomes funding commitment for Channel Widening
Port of Townsville Limited (POTL) has welcomed today’s announcement by Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk that the Government’s State Budget will allocate up to $75 million in funding for the Townsville Channel Capacity Upgrade Project.
The $193 million Channel Capacity Upgrade, which is Stage 1 of the $1.64 billion Townsville Port Expansion Project, will widen the shipping channels to accommodate larger ships.
POTL Chief Executive Officer Ranee Crosby said that the project would future-proof the port by ensuring it remains competitive and viable for major shipping lines and providing certainty for industry investment into the region.
“Being able to accommodate larger ships will have significant and far reaching benefits for Northern Australia; larger ships are more efficient, which means lower operating costs per unit, particularly for container and car ships.”
“By widening the channel North Queensland will be competitive for exporters and provide lower freight costs for importers. Townsville will also be able to attract larger cruise ships, providing a much needed boost to the local tourism industry.”
POTL Chair Renita Garard said that today’s announcement was a huge milestone for the project and future trade opportunities for the Port of Townsville.
“Since 1864 the Port of Townsville has been the economic cornerstone of this region, supporting around 8,000 jobs,” said Ms Garard.
“It supplies a population of nearly 800,000 people with essential everyday goods, allows our farmers to export agricultural products, and mining company’s need the port to export minerals.
Townsville Port is also a strategic port for Northern Australia’s Defence capability, and is enabling the city to become a genuine player in the booming cruise industry in North Queensland.
The project will return $580 million in benefits to Queensland, providing the safest, most cost effective and environmentally sustainable solution for meeting the freight requirements of North Queensland.
Dredging work for channel widening could commence in 2018, subject to environmental approvals and final funding, meaning the region would begin to see larger ships visiting Townsville within two years. The Channel Widening Project will take up to six years in total with completion in 2023.
POTL has submitted an Environmental Impact Statement to State and Federal regulators for final assessment which has included comprehensive scientific assessments and consultation processes to address key issues and controls to ensure the health of Cleveland Bay is safeguarded.
POTL has completed a Business Case for the Channel Capacity Upgrade which has assessed funding options. With the State Government’s $75 million funding commitment, POTL is now in a position to finalise full funding to ensure this vital project for North Queensland and Northern Australia proceeds.
Two men have passed away this morning after being involved in a single vehicle traffic crash on Magnetic Island.
Shortly after 1.00am police were called to the crash at Sooning Street, Nelly Bay and discovered a mini moke had left the roadway and collided with a power pole after failing to negotiate a roundabout.
Two men were pronounced dead at the scene.
The 25-year-old, female driver of the vehicle was taken to the Townsville Hospital with unknown injuries
The Forensic Crash Unit investigations are continuing. Anyone with information about this crash is urged to contact police.
1st June 2017
Concept plans provide preview of city’s bus hub
Conceptual designs for the CBD Bus Hub are now available on line to provide the community with a snapshot of what the new facility will look like.
The release coincides with the call for tenders for the detailed design of the project and follows initial consultation with local businesses and residents in areas adjoining the proposed facility in Ogden and Hanran Streets.
A decision on the tender for the demolition of a council owned building in Ogden Street, which is central to the plan, is due in June with work expected to start in July.
Planning Committee chairman and Deputy Mayor Cr Les Walker said feedback from the community would inform the detailed design process.
“This facility has been a long time coming and will provide major activation of Ogden Street and the adjoining area. It’s important we get it right in terms of usability and design,” Cr Walker said.
“We have taken on board feedback from consultation with local stakeholders and a number of issues and ideas including noise, traffic flows, streetscaping, lighting, security and potential impacts on amenity.
“That input will now be considered in the detailed design work and the consultation with locals will continue throughout the design process.
“The current location is the best option we have with in the inner-city and we want to achieve the best outcome for the CBD revitalisation. At the same time we want to mitigate potential impacts on people who live in the local area.”
The bus hub has received $4 million in funding from the Palaszczuk Government and is being project managed by the Townsville City Council.
As part of the project, the council purchased the old hardware store site in Ogden Street to enable an access road to be constructed for buses to loop around the former Urban Quarter shopping complex.
Member for Townsville Scott Stewart said the project would play a major role in revitalising Townsville’s CBD and encouraged residents to view the plans.
“The bus hub will transform the heart of Townsville’s CBD in many ways,” Mr Stewart said.
“Public transport and the ease of access to the CBD’s shopping and restaurant precincts will be vital in the future. The bus hub is key part of the broader plan to revitalise the CBD and will integrate with the new stadium and link with the $28 million waterfront promenade,” he said.
“I urge Townsville residents from all suburbs to view the concept designs and have their say on the design. We welcome all feedback, to help produce the final, detailed design.”
Tenders for the detailed design contract will be open for three weeks. The design and consultation process will be carried out over a three to four month period with construction of the bus hub expected to be completed next year.
Tony Ireland Stadium will host the main lead-in match to this year’s opening First Ashes Test at the Gabba with the touring English team to play in Townsville for the first time since 1962. Cricket Australia and Queensland Cricket today announced that England would play a Cricket Australia XI in a four-day match in Townsville from 15-18 November as part of their build-up to the First Test from 23 – 27 November at the Gabba. Queensland Cricket Chief Executive Officer Max Walters congratulated the Townsville City Council and Townsville Cricket on their efforts to ensure the match would be played in North Queensland. “Cricket fans in North Queensland will now have the chance to enjoy international cricket in their own backyard and experience first-hand the 2017 Ashes campaign,’’ he said. “Tony Ireland Stadium has earned an enviable reputation in recent seasons. As one of only three International Cricket Council (ICC) accredited venues outside of a capital city and featuring a 1000 seat grandstand, excellent player facilities and the ability to incorporate potential broadcasting capabilities, we consider TIS as leading the way as an international cricket venue in regional Australia.’’ “Cricket acknowledges and values Council’s continued support of cricket in Townsville and the considerable investment in facilities at TIS which have secured the success of previous events. "It also complements our desire to inspire grass-roots participation in the game as well as deliver positive impacts for the local economy and provide opportunities to promote the destination both domestically and internationally,” Walters said. Townsville Mayor Cr Jenny Hill said hosting the England tour match was a huge honour for the city. “When it comes to cricket nothing compares to an Australia-England match and this is fantastic news for the city and sporting fans throughout the north,” Cr Hill said. “The council has worked very closely with cricket authorities at a local, State and national level to secure the match and it’s fantastic that they have put their faith in the city with today’s announcement. “Townsville will attract huge attention with the lead-up match before the First test and we look forward to the influx of fans and of course the Barmy Army.” In recent years, TIS has hosted international one-day and first class matches featuring the likes of Papua New Guinea, Ireland and Hong Kong as well as the Final of the 2012 ICC Under-19 World Cup and last year’s Quadrangular winter ‘A’ series featuring teams from India, South Africa and Australia. The my FootDr Queensland Bulls played their first Sheffield Shield match at the venue last season when they defeated Western Australia while the ground record was set in 2007 when a T20 match between the Bulls and Victoria attracted 10,024 fans. While it will be the first time that England has played at TIS, Townsville hosted the MCC in 1962-63 when the touring Ashes squad played a two-day tour match against Queensland Country at the Sports Reserve. Current Australian Test batsman Matthew Renshaw was on hand today at the announcement and affirmed player satisfaction with the venue. “I was here during the winter series and the venue couldn’t have performed better,’’ he said. “I’m sure the fans will enjoy the chance to see what England have to offer before the First Test gets underway.”
19th May 2017
Residents urged to report potholes to council
Townsville residents are urged to report any potholes caused by the heavy rain of the past few days to council.
Potholes can be reported via the online form on council’s website www.townsville.qld.gov.au (under About Council/Report a Problem) or on the mobile Apps - iCouncil for iPhone and iPad, or Snap Send Solve for Android.
Residents can also call council’s Customer Service Centre on 1300 878 001.
Infrastructure Committee chair Cr Mark Molachino said the cooperation of the public was needed.
“Residents are the eyes and ears of the city and we need their help to identify any problem areas,” Cr Molachino said.
“Our road crews will be working around the city to fill potholes and ensure the local roads are safe for motorists.
“Reporting it via the website or app means we can dispatch crews as quickly as possible.”
7th May 2017
First look at pathway plans
A new concrete pathway stretching from Yates Street to Base Backpackers will complete the ‘missing link’ for pedestrians and cyclists, boosting safety and promoting tourism.
Preliminary plans for the proposed pathway were released late last week with MIRRA members getting a first look at the concept on Saturday (May 6).
A further community feedback session on the proposal will be held at the RSL Hall from 10am-11am on Saturday May 20. The concept proposal will also be uploaded to council’s website for viewing.
The project is one of 51 projects from across Townsville to receive funding under the State Government’s Works for Queensland program.
All projects met the Government’s criteria that they be unfunded works and could be completed by November.
Divisional Councillor Ann-Maree Greaney presented the plans to MIRRA and also walked the route with group members on Saturday morning.
The proposed pathway will stretch for 1160 metres along the coastal side of Sooning St and Nelly Bay Road.
The footpath will provide a safer passage for both pedestrians and cyclists along the notoriously narrow roadway.
The project will also involve an upgrade to the two Base Backpackers bus stops and installation of a new taxi rank as well as a 15m span bridge over the Creek outlet, near the Serene Place intersection.
“Residents living along the proposed pathway will receive a letter from council soon, outlining the extent of works,” Cr Greaney said.
“There will also be an open information session for others who may be interested in having a look at the plans and discuss issues including the impact on vegetation at the RSL Hall on Saturday May 20 from 10am-11am.
“This is a big project for the island and will make a big difference in terms of safety for all road users but it’s important everyone has the chance to have their say and I urge everyone to attend the open information session or view the plans on council’s website.
“We’ve had many, many requests for this work over the years so it’s terrific to know that it’s finally happening and that the pedestrian and cycle network between the Picnic Bay walkway and the commercial area of Nelly Bay will be connected.
“We’re also taking the opportunity to upgrade the Base Backpackers bus stops and installing a new taxi rank given the high number of people that use these facilities.”
Council is working with relevant government agencies to obtain development approval, with construction to get underway as early as August. A funding condition, the project will be complete by November.
18th April 2017
MIRRA Place Carpark Users On Notice
MIRRA Members undertook a survey of cars parked in the Nelly Bay carpark over a period of a fortnight in March.
At the end of the first week, it was established that 26 cars in the carpark had not been moved all week, with an average number of between 50 and 60 cars being present in the carpark each morning, prior to the first ferry.
At the end of the second week, it was established that 23 cars had remained parked all week and 4 cars had in fact remained parked and not moved for the fortnight.
There were also 3 cars parked without plates and again, the average number of vehicles parked of a morning prior to the first ferry, was about 50.
It is therefore apparent that town people with Island residences are parking the vehicles they use on the weekend, in the carpark during the week, to the disadvantage of Island residents.
MIRRA therefore believes the practice to be unfair and therefore puts the owners on notice that, if they persist in leaving their vehicles in the carpark on a week to week basis, the registration numbers of those vehicles which have already been recorded, will be given to Transport, to enable ticketing.
A further survey in the car park will be conducted in May.
Cameron Turnbull
President – MIRRA
11th April 2017
Power secured for Easter on Magnetic Island
Ergon Energy is transporting large generators to Magnetic Island today to secure and supplement the island’s power supply for Easter.
Three ‘Pegasus” generation injection units and five other smaller generators will be installed at the Island’s three main bays and connected to Ergon’s network.
Customer Delivery Manager Mark Biffanti said the generators were all about making sure the island had enough power for the peak Easter period.
“The generators are needed as one of the island’s main submarine cables malfunctioned late last week. We suspect anchor damage but can’t confirm that until we get it out of the water today. “
“The remaining cable continues to supply the island but the generators will ensure there is adequate power to meet demand over the Easter holiday period,” Mr Biffanti said.
The damaged cable sits in three metres of water on the sea floor about 600 metres off shore near the Nelly Bay Harbour rock wall.
“Specialist cable technicians are on site. A sling will be put under the cable and it will be winched onto a pontoon where it will stay until repaired. “
“Our crews will work quickly to get it back into service which is expected next week. However, the time frame is also conditional upon the extent of damage,” he said.
While crews are working on the damaged cable, other crews are on the island and will position the generators and connect them to the network.
There are no power interruptions expected when the generators are connected.
“We understand the importance and significance to the island of Easter and the school holiday period and these generators will make sure the tourism operators and local shops have enough power to trade over this period,” he said.
4th April 2017
Down to business for City’s Water Taskforce
Members of Townsville’s intergovernmental Water Taskforce met for the first time today, officially kick starting investigations into solutions for the city’s water security.
Independent chairman, Townsville businessman Brad Webb, said the Taskforce was off to a positive start.
“My message to the members of the Taskforce is straight to the point - our community demands an outcome to the city’s water security issues,” Mr Webb said.
“The Taskforce has brought all three levels of government to the table – Federal, State and the Townsville City Council - to investigate the options and we are getting down to business.
“Our task is to have a draft report outlining the preferred options ready to present to both the Prime Minister and the Premier at the end of June.
“While the Taskforce is working to an extremely tight timeframe, the work must be thorough and must include engagement with community groups and residents.
“An important part of the process will be a series of community meetings later this month to enable people to ask questions and put forward their views.
“We will also be launching a dedicated webpage to provide the community with information on the work of the Taskforce.”
An expert advisory panel has been appointed to assist the Taskforce with its investigations of infrastructure options, as well as water demand strategies including water efficiency programs and water saving technologies.
Part of the Townsville City Deals agreement, the Townsville Water Taskforce was set up by the Australian and Queensland Governments in partnership with the Townsville City Council.
Townsville Water Taskforce
Independent chairman Mr Brad Webb
Members:
Mr Adam Sincock, Director, Urban Water and Competition Policy, Department of Agriculture and Water Resources
Mr Paul Simhauser, the Director-General of Queensland’s Department of Energy and Water Supply Department
Ms Adele Young, CEO of the Townsville City Council
The taskforce will be supported by an expert advisory panel which includes Townsville community engagement specialist Lewis Ramsay.
29th March 2017
Council to repair Horseshoe Bay erosion
Townsville City Council will carry out remedial work on the Horseshoe Bay foreshore on Friday to repair erosion caused by big tides.
Temporary restoration work on the beach is planned for Friday afternoon when damage from high tides is expected to ease.
Council’s Community Health and Environment Committee chair Cr Ann Maree Greaney said it was important to ensure the beach area was safe for the start of the school holidays.
“The Horseshoe Bay beach is highly susceptible to erosion, especially during the cyclone season, and council has plans in place to respond to situations like this,” Cr Greaney said.
“Staff are gearing up to move sand up the beach to reinforce areas where the tides have caused washed out areas on the foreshore.
“The work is planned for Friday when the tides and wave action are expected to ease. Any earlier would risk having the work washed away again.
“Council will get the work done as soon as possible with the busy school holiday period starting this weekend.”
Hazard meshing will be in place from tomorrow in areas worst affected as a safety precaution. Council machinery suitable for the beach work is being transported to the island.
The council will continue to monitor the foreshore area
28th March 2017
TLDMG Cyclone Update
Based on the latest advice from the Bureau of Meteorology, Townsville has now been removed from the cyclone warning zone, however, areas south of Townsville, including Cungulla and Cleveland Palms, are still within the cyclone watch zone.
The Bureau has advised that there is no longer a risk of storm surge for residents at Cungulla and Cleveland Palms, so those residents who evacuated are advised it’s safe to return to their homes.
The city’s cyclone shelter in Heatley is now closed, as well as the Places of Refuge (North Shore building, Suncorp building and council’s 143 Walker St).
Council’s Disaster Co-ordination Centre will cease operations later today, however staff will continue to monitor the situation off-site and concerned residents can still call council on 1300 878 001.
Normal council services will recommence tomorrow.
Residents who missed today’s rubbish collection are advised to put their bins kerbside by 6am tomorrow for a catch-up collection.
Residents are asked to remain vigilant due to strong wind gusts and are asked to stay out of waterways and creeks.
Townsville Mayor and TLDMG chair Cr Jenny Hill praised Townsville residents for their response in preparing for Cyclone Debbie.
“While Townsville escaped any destructive winds and flooding, it is reassuring to see Townsville residents took all necessary steps to prepare for the potential of this cyclone,” Cr Hill said.
“I also thank all organisations involved in Townsville’s disaster management response to this weather event.”
Staff and resources remain on standby to provide recovery support to our southern neighbours.
Roads remain open
Townsville schools will re-open tomorrow
Townsville Airport will re-open at 4.30am tomorrow
Facebook (Townsville Disaster Information) as well as Twitter account (@TCC_News).
TLDMG Cyclone Update
TDLMG chair and Mayor Cr Jenny Hill warned residents that Townsville remained in the cyclone warning zone despite Tropical Cyclone Debbie tracking south of the city.
“Based on the latest advice from the Bureau, Townsville should be prepared for dangerous winds later today,” Cr Hill said.
“Cyclone Debbie is just to our south, and will continue to be a threat until it crosses the coast and moves out of our region.
“While other communities are facing the full force of Cyclone Debbie, Townsville residents should remain vigilant, stick to your cyclone plan and stay at home until the danger passes.”
The Disaster Co-ordination Centre remains operational with all necessary emergency services available. Tropical Cyclone Debbie will is be monitored around the clock.
Staff and resources are also on standby to provide recovery support to our neighbouring communities to our south.
You should listen to updates
All schools are closed today
No rubbish collections today. New collections times to be advised
Facebook (Townsville Disaster Information) as well as Twitter account (@TCC_News).
27th March 2017
TLDMG Cyclone Update
Townsville and Magnetic Island residents should remain vigilant and prepared for dangerous winds from Tropical Cyclone Debbie according to latest advice.
Tropical Cyclone Debbie is currently a Category 3 system and is expected to intensify to Category 4 strength before it crosses the coast between Ayr and Mackay tomorrow morning.
TLDMG chair and Mayor Cr Jenny Hill warned residents that Townsville remained in the cyclone warning zone despite Tropical Cyclone Debbie tracking south of the city.
“Based on the latest advice from the Bureau, destructive winds could still reach Townsville by 8am tomorrow morning depending on the final path of the cyclone overnight,” Cr Hill said.
“The Disaster Co-ordination Centre remains operational with all necessary emergency services available. Tropical Cyclone Debbie will be monitored closely throughout the night.”
“Staff and resources are also on standby to provide support to our neighbouring communities to our south who are tonight bracing for the full force of Cyclone Debbie.”
You should listen to updates
All schools will be closed tomorrow (Tuesday)
No rubbish collections tomorrow. New collections times to be advised
Public Cyclone Shelter at Heatley and Places of Refuge are staffed and open
Facebook (Townsville Disaster Information) as well as Twitter account (@TCC_News)
Above: Presto Breakwater Nelly Bay Sunday 4.00pm
Above: Tidal surge area
16th March 2017
Council to support Magnetic Island film festival
A film festival to be held on Magnetic Island later this year has received the support of council.
The Community and Cultural Development Committee this week agreed to provide a $27,920 grant to the Magnetic Island Community Development Association for one year, to go towards the Barrier Reef Film Festival, September 7-10.
Festival organisers are expecting to attract about 6,500 attendees, including island residents, mainland residents and tourists.
Committee chair Cr Colleen Doyle said the festival was an exciting opportunity for Magnetic Island.
“This is a great way to attract more people to the island as well as provide island residents with unique entertainment,” Cr Doyle said.
“It also opens up possibilities for film makers with workshops planned and a chance for associated creative industries to get on board.
“Council will also waive the venue hire fees of $400 for Alma Bay and Geoffrey Bay for the event.”
The $27,920 will include ticketing, marketing, equipment hire, film costs and more.
Magnetic Island divisional councillor Ann-Maree Greaney said she would like to see the association work with the island’s cafes, restaurants and associated operators, so as many island businesses as possible benefit from the influx of people coming to the festival.
UPDATE: A man missing from Magnetic Island has been found safe and well.
Michael Johnson, 54, was being examined by paramedics but appeared unharmed.
He went missing from Nelly Bay yesterday afternoon after leaving on foot to walk to a house 250m away.
A search has resumed at Magnetic Island for a man missing since yesterday afternoon.
Earlier
Michael Johnson, a 54-year-old man from Nelly Bay (Magnetic Island), was last seen about 2.15pm when he left an address on Kelly Street on foot for an address at Warboys Street, some 250 metres away.
Police hold concerns for Michael’s welfare as he suffers from a medical condition.
Michael is described as Aboriginal, 175cm tall, proportionate build and brown eyes.
He was last seen wearing a black and white shirt with horizontal and vertical stripes, dark coloured knee length shorts and thongs.
A combined search and rescue operation including water police, rescue helicopter 521 and around 16 SES volunteers are involved in the search today.
Anyone with information should call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
8th February 2017
1700km of NQ coast to have no on-site BoM technicians: MP
BoM responds to automation concerns
Denise Secomb
Meteorological observations from the Bureau of Meteorology's Townsville and Rockhampton will be fully automated by the end of 2019-20, with observations from the bureau's Mackay and Longreach offices to be fully automated by the end of the 2016-17 financial year, according to Queensland Regional Director of the bureau, Mr Bruce Gunn.
Among the concerns noted by Magnetic Community News about the automations was an allegation by the Member for Dawson, Mr George Christensen, that when technical officers were removed from the Mackay bureau in August, and then in Townsville as well, it would mean no BoM technicians along a 1700km stretch of the Queensland coastline.
Mr Gunn replied to this concern, saying the former Minister for the Environment, Mr Greg Hunt, wrote to Mr Christensen on April 26, 2016 to advise that of the two bureau staff members (both observation staff) employed in Mackay, one had retired and the bureau had extended the deployment of the remaining staff member to March, 2017.
Mr Gunn said: “The bureau's observing systems strategy involves a staged, phased approach resulting in fully automated regional stations by 2020-2021. We continue to work to our planned timeframes for automation of regional weather stations and redeployment of our valued technical and observations staff.”
He told MCN: “The bureau is currently implementing a strategy to automate its observation equipment and consolidate the location of its weather observations and technical staff, with these changes planned for completion nationwide by 2020-21...Affected staff will remain at their station until the equipment at their station has been fully automated. All affected staff will be offered redeployment options within the Bureau of Meteorology.
“By 2021, all automated equipment in Queensland will be monitored and regularly serviced by bureau technicians working from observation operations hubs at Brisbane and Cairns. With the consolidation of the hubs, the maintenance program will be more proactive and effective to ensure the performance of the bureau's observing network is improved across the whole region.
“There are no changes to deployments of forecasting staff as part of the strategy to automate observation services. Forecasting operations in Townsville will not be impacted by the redeployments of our technical officers. The affected staff are not forecasters, they are meteorological observers and technical officers and are not qualified to provide professional advice in emergency situations or, in the case of Mackay and Longreach, to repair and maintain complex equipment.
“On October, 2013 the Next Generation Forecast and Warning System (NextGenFWS) commenced operation in Queensland. This system has dramatically increased the availability of seven-day forecasts to communities across Queensland with rural and remote communities now enjoying the same standard of forecast that was previously only available in Brisbane. With the roll out of the NextGenFWS, the bureau concentrated public forecasting services into capital city regional forecast centres.
“The bureau's support for emergency services remains very strong. Specialist detailed tropical cyclone, severe weather and flood forecasting advice for emergency services in regional Queensland is provided by the bureau's Queensland Regional Office in Brisbane. Given the complexity of the science associated with major events such as cyclones and floods, the Regional Forecasting Centre in Brisbane continues to be the point of truth regarding critical advice for emergency services as it has for many years.
“Service delivery has been enhanced through the embedding of forecasters within the Queensland Fire and Emergency Services State Disaster Co-ordination Centre at Kedron. This forecasting capability is in place to ensure that emergency services are well informed before and during major events. The embedded capability is well versed in the needs of emergency service managers throughout the state and provides specialised advice throughout the year.”
Community concerns about the automation of Bureau of Meteorology field offices in North Queensland were also taken up with the current Minister for the Environment and Energy, Mr Josh Frydenberg, with the help of the Minister Assisting the Premier on North Queensland, the Member for Mundingburra, Ms Coralee O'Rourke.
Mr Frydenberg replied to MCN: “The bureau is committed to providing the best possible weather forecast and warning services. This commitment requires ongoing delivery of service improvements and efficiencies through making use of the best available technology.
“Automation, together with consolidation of staff, will deliver a marked improvement in the service the bureau provides to all of North Queensland. Both the quantity and quality of data will be vastly enhanced and the observations service will be more responsive to support forecasters in severe weather situations.
“The bureau has assured me the affected staff are not weather forecasters, they are meteorological observers and technical officers. The role of these staff is primarily to take meteorological observations and to maintain observing equipment. They are not qualified to provide professional advice in emergency situations. Once field stations are automated, the observers and technical officers based at those offices will be offered redeployment to one of eight specialist hubs across Australia, including Cairns and Brisbane. There they will support the operation of the observing network across the whole region...
“The automated equipment in North Queensland will be monitored and serviced by bureau technicians working from Brisbane and Cairns. The bureau has very low failure rates for its observing systems and multiple sources of information, including radars, satellites and automatic weather stations. If there is a failure at a critical time, the bureau is able to draw on alternative sources of information while making repairs.
“The bureau has worked hard to explain these changes to the community, including offering community information and consultation sessions in Rockhampton and Yeppoon … and a briefing to key media and community stakeholders in Mackay...
“I am advised the bureau is continuing to work to identify any local issues associated with field office automation and to provide information to address any concerns raised.
“The technical improvements through automation complement the Australian Government's significant investments in a new bureau super-computer in the 2014 Budget. This investment will enable the bureau … to provide more accurate and localised weather information, such as the location and timing of severe thunderstorms and cyclones, improved timing and direction of wind changes in fire weather and better flood warnings.
“Recent years have seen a rapid improvement in the bureau's services to the people of Queensland, in particular to regional areas. Seven day forecast services across the country through the graphical MetEye interface, longer lead-time tropical cyclone tracks, an increased frequency of tropical cyclone warnings and graphical severe weather warnings have all been released to better inform communities of impending weather.”
Townsville’s Water and Waste Committee chairman Cr Paul Jacob has urged residents to continue to be watchful of water use as the city waits for wet season rains.
Levels at Ross Dam remain largely unchanged at 14.61 per cent today, up from 14.01 on the weekend.
This is despite up to 50ml falling directly over the dam in the past four days.
Up to 60ml has been recorded in the catchment around Woodstock, but this would be unlikely to boost dam levels, Cr Jacob said.
“The reality is that the drought conditions has rendered the ground dry and we will need more than a few short bursts for runoff to make it to the dam,” Cr Jacob said.
“There is still plenty of time to receive good rainfall to replenish the dam but in the meantime, everyone should be conscious of their water consumption and stick to the restrictions.
“While we are pumping from the Burdekin Dam, we must all continue to do all we can to make our water supply stretch as far as possible.
“Average daily water consumption came in at 93.04 mega litres over the past week, which goes to show how much water use is on gardens and lawns.”
Paluma Dam is at 58 per cent.
Dam levels
02 Jan – 14.01% (prior to rain)
03 Jan – 14.14%
04. Jan – 14.17%
05 Jan – 14.25%
06 Jan – 14.61%
Average daily water consumption
30/12/2016 - 95.07
31/12/2016 - 86.89
1/01/2017 - 121.33
2/01/2017 - 89.54
3/01/2017 - 96.87
4/01/2017 - 87.62
05/01/2017 – 73.97
13th December 2016
Council limits use of weeper hoses
Weeper hoses will be restricted in line with Level 3 water restrictions.
Council today voted to limit their use to four hours per week - one hour in the morning (6am-7am) and one hour in the evening (6pm-7pm) on the odds and evens system.
The decision was made after community feedback, and consultation with the councillors and staff.
The change will commence on December 19.
Mayor Jenny Hill said the change was necessary to prolong the need to move to Level 4 restrictions for as long as possible.
“Our target on Level 3 restrictions is 100ML per day and if we can stick to those levels then there will not be a need to move to Level 4 restrictions,” Cr Hill said.
“Many residents have done the right thing and used weeper hoses to protect trees and garden beds and this will ensure those people are not disadvantaged.
“Our current pumping from the Burdekin in conjunction with Level 3 consumption targets is a sustainable strategy until the drought breaks.”
Watering days:
Odds – Wednesday and Sunday
Evens – Tuesday and Saturday
9th December 2016
Pictured above: Colin Fulford aged 25. Photograph circa 1941.
Col celebrates his 100th Birthday today 9th December
"HAPPY 100TH BIRTHDAY
COLIN FULFORD
FROM THE ENTIRE MAGNETIC
ISLAND COMMUNITY"
1st December 2016
Urgent call to curb excessive water use
Townsville residents have continued to exceed water consumption targets despite the threat of Level 4 restrictions.
More than 115ML a day was drawn in the past week (November 24-30), well over the Level 3 target of 100ML.
Mayor Jenny Hill said residents needed to share the burden of restrictions and urgently cut back on water use, particularly outdoors.
Weeper hoses were of particular concern with water patrol officers reporting a sharp rise in their use, Cr Hill said.
“While weeper or dripper hoses are allowable under the current restrictions due to their relatively low water use, they are designed to be used on garden beds, not lawns.
“Despite this, we continue to receive reports of people running them in open spaces all day, every day.
“To be clear, the Ross Dam is at 14.46% and falling daily. Unless consumption drops in line with current restrictions, we will be forced to re-examine allowances, and that includes weeper hoses.”
Compliance patrols have been stepped up with three cars now operating at various times throughout all suburban streets day and night, seven days week.
All calls to the new water hotline are also being investigated as a matter of priority, with officers responding to calls as they come in.
On the spot fines of $365 for an individual and $1828 for a company will be issued to those caught flouting restrictions with council warning residents may also be fined based on photographic evidence provided by the public.
“These are tough measures and it’s sad that there are some in the community who continue to ignore the restrictions,” Cr Hill said.
“We have proven that we can meet the Level 3 targets, even on watering days. So being forced to adopt Level 4 would only be due to people not doing the right thing.
“Townsville is drought declared and we are pumping water from the Burdekin Dam but it’s imperative we all do our bit to stick to the water restrictions in order to see us through.
“It’s also important to note that while the residents of Townsville are working to cut back their usage, we are calling on the State and Federal Governments to step up and address water security for the region in the long term. The City Deal process would be the perfect avenue for this.”
Council has further reduced irrigation in the city’s parks and gardens by 60% since last week, up from 44%.
Water consumption for the past week was as follows:
24/11/2016
115.31
25/11/2016
121.68
26/11/2016
99.69
27/11/2016
120.85
28/11/2016
110.21
29/11/2016
122.76
30/11/2016
117.10
28th November 2016
Townsville CBD parking spots change with the times
Time limits for some parking zones in Walker and Stanley Street have been extended as a result of public feedback.
Council voted on the changes as part of a suite of adjustments to CBD parking in July.
The changes reflect the need for additional time for people accessing the courthouse as well as the Event Cinemas, where neighbouring parking bays will move from 2hrs to 4hrs.
Meanwhile, 11 bays in Stanley Street, between Hanran Street and the creek have changed from 2hr to all-day to better align with other bays in the immediate surrounds. Also, 19 bays on King Street, near Reef HQ has been changed from 8hr to 4hr parking.
Infrastructure committee chairman Cr Mark Molachino said council had made the adjustments based on feedback from the community and to reflect commercial activity in the area.
“Time limits have been changed in a couple of targeted locations to improve convenience,” Cr Molachino said.
“Our city has grown and in some areas we have paid parking alongside free parking, which is totally inconsistent and in some cases, confusing.”
The cost of parking in the CBD remains unchanged at $1 per hour to a maximum of $6 per day. Free parking will continue to be available at the Dean Street and Leichardt Street carparks, the Sturt St cutting, and along Dean St and nearby streets.
The plan will also see a change to some paid and free parking zones throughout the city early next year.
This includes the conversion of off-street car parks at the top of Eyre Street to paid all-day parking, and changing 4hr parking to all-day parking in the Aplin Street car park (beside Norm Hyatt Locksmith), and 8hr paid parking on Jones Street and a section of Flinders Street.
At a glance:
· 65 bays in Walker St, in front of the courthouse, have been converted from 2hr to 4hr
· An additional 25 bays in Walker St, between Blackwood St and Stanley St, have also been converted to 4 hourly in line with those in Blackwood St to better service movie patrons
· 11 bays in Stanley Street, between Hanran Street and the creek changed from 2hr to all-day
· 19 bays on King Street, near Reef HQ, from 8hr to 4hr parking
21st November 2016
LNP announcement of plastic bags ban welcomed by AMCS
The Australian Marine Communications Society (AMCS) welcomes the LNP’s announcement that they are supporting the phase-out of single-use plastic bags in Queensland.
Queensland Opposition Leader Tim Nicholls today announced the new environment policy in Cairns.
AMCS is pleased to see that both degradable and biodegradable bags are included in the announcement.
AMCS Marine Spokesperson James Cordwell says “Plastic pollution travels easily from land to sea. It blows in from bins and garbage dumps, or flows through stormwater drains into our waterways and eventually the sea. Once in the ocean, degradable bags in particular slowly break down into smaller and smaller pieces which are eaten by animals at the bottom of our food chains.”
He continued “Larger pieces of plastic floating in our oceans are readily mistaken for food by marine life such as the green sea turtle, and can lead to marine life becoming entangled and strangled or choked and starved.”
“There is now solid support for the QLD Government to make the crucial move to ban single-use plastic bags, as we put an end to an era of these highly damaging items from impacting on our marine environment.”
17th November 2016
Search on for Strand Ephemera artists
The search is officially on for the artists who will transform Townsville’s Strand as part of the 2017 Strand Ephemeraexhibition.
The 2017 event will be the 9th time the nationally acclaimed Strand Ephemerahas transformed The Strand with sculptures and artworks in various media.
Coordinated by Perc Tucker Regional Gallery, Townsville City Council, the event reached new heights in 2015 with more than 138,000 visitors attending the 10-day biennial event.
Council’s Community and Cultural Development Committee Cr Colleen Doyle said she expected crowds to the 2017 Strand Ephemera would again be treated to an array of works.
“In past years we have exhibited work that has provided inspiration, insight, and humour in equal measure,” Cr Doyle said.
“I look forward to seeing what the 2017 event will bring to our beautiful foreshore.”
Artists are invited to submit concepts for Strand Ephemera using entry forms available from Perc Tucker Regional Gallery and Pinnacles Gallery, or as a download from council’s website www.townsville.qld.gov.au
In developing proposals, artists are asked to consider the specific site for which the work is intended.
Selected works will be on display along The Strand, from 28 July – 6 August 2017.
Successful applicants will be granted a $5,000 artist fee to support them in making their work, and vie for a major $10,000 prize. A People’s Choice Award will also be offered.
KEY DATES
APPLICATION CLOSING DATE: 5pm Friday 24 February 2017
SUCCESSFUL APPLICANTS NOTIFIED: 5pm Friday 10 March 2017
EXHIBITION DATES: Friday 28 July - Sunday 6 August 2017
15th November 2016
Pumping to commence as Ross Dam hits 15 per cent
Water will flow through the Burdekin pipeline for the first time in 10 years from tomorrow.
Townsville Mayor Jenny Hill said pumping would be initiated around 9am Wednesday morning with Townsville’s Ross Dam expected to hit the 15 per cent trigger point.
Cr Hill said water would travel more than 30km from the Haughton Channel, near Giru, before making outfall in the head of Ross Dam. The water will then have to travel a further 5km before it reaches the main body of water in the Ross Dam.
“Council has access to 10,000 megalitres of High Priority water from SunWater and an agreement for the rights to 110,000 megalitres of Medium Priority water, with the high priority allocation being enough to supplement reserves in Ross River Dam through to mid-2017,” Cr Hill said.
“Council has budgeted for a deficit forecast for a worst case scenario of $6.7 million to cover the cost of pumping water from the Burdekin until the middle of next year however, rain in the catchment and a reduction in pumping during the wet season will result in a much lower figure.
Water and Waste Committee Chairman Cr Paul Jacob said the pipeline would deliver up to 130ML of bulk water a day, safeguarding the city against another failed wet season. Level 3 restrictions will remain in place.
“It’s important to understand that even with the pumping, between 20 and 40ML of the 130ML pumped will be lost through evaporation at very low dam levels, meaning the level in the Ross Dam will continue to fall. We will still need water restrictions in place until it rains to see us through the drought,” Cr Jacob said.
“I ask residents to continue their good work in reducing water use, and help to meet the city’s consumption target of 100ML a day.”
The pipeline was established in 1988 to provide a back-up to supplies in times of drought.
The last time the city pumped from the Burdekin was in 2006 when the dam dropped below 5%.
The Ross River Dam has a catchment area of 750kms2 and a current capacity of 233,187ML.
Details of water restrictions are available on the council’s website link
Level 3 restrictions ban the use of sprinklers. Hand held water 6-7am and 6-7pm. Odds and evens apply. Council Parks and Gardens irrigation is reduced by 44%.
Breaches of the water restrictions can incur an on the spot fine of $365 for an individual and $1,828 for a company.
7th November 2016
Q&A session part of council’s recycling week program
Residents will have the opportunity to have their recycling questions answered thanks to a Facebook Q&A session on Wednesday to coincide with National Recycling Week, November 7-13.
Council’s recycling experts will be online on council’s Facebook page from 12pm-3pm to answer questions such as what can and can’t be recycled, what happens with the rubbish and tips on increasing recycling around the home.
During the week, Townsville residents are urged to take a closer look at their rubbish habits and how they can help to reduce the amount of rubbish that ends up in landfills.
The annual event hopes to raise public awareness of the benefits of recycling and to dispel some of the myths around what can and can’t be put into the yellow-lidded wheelie bins.
Townsville Water and Waste Committee chair Cr Paul Jacob said Townsville City Council provided 74,500 properties with waste and recycling services and annually collected 12,500 tonnes of recyclables.
“The more we can recycle, the less goes to landfill,” Cr Jacob said.
“Items such as car batteries, TVs, computers, clean metals, used oil, gas bottles and clean soil can all be recycled for free at council’s transfer stations.
“Items that should be regularly recycled include steel and aluminium cans and aerosols, glass bottles and jars, paper and cardboard products like pizza boxes and plastic bottles and containers.”
Cr Jacob said one of the biggest mistakes residents made was putting their recyclables in plastic bags.
“We really need to get the message out there not to bag recyclables,” he said.
“It makes sorting difficult and has the potential to cause damage to the machinery at the recycle facility.”
During National Recycling Week, council will host a pop-up stall at the Cotters Markets on Sunday, November 13.
The stand will feature recycling competitions, composting and DIY worm tubing. There will be prizes up for grabs including movie tickets, compost bins and worm farms.
Pick up great household recycling tips while you’re there.
Many Islanders will be saddened to hear of the death of Ian “Macca” Macmillan formerly of Compass Crescent, Nelly Bay. Macca will be remembered as the affable taxi driver who established his own rank on the cool Harbour wall in Nelly Bay, and later as the friendly telephone voice who took your details for a taxi ride at the call centre on The Island. A man big in stature and in spirit, Macca was a friend to many locals, and a champion taxi dispatcher 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for about five years. Macca will be farewelled at a memorial service at the Northreach Baptist Church, 38 Canterbury Road, Kirwan next friday the 11th November at 11.oo am, conducted by Celebrant Amanda Medill. All are welcome to attend.
KENNETH ROGERS – 21/05/1940 – 02/11/2016
A TRIBUTE FROM MAGNETIC ISLAND BOWLS CLUB
Another of our Past Presidents, Ken Rogers, passed away on Wednesday afternoon after almost a year of fighting bowel cancer which was detected in a blood test following back surgery last November.
Kenny was so resilient and intent on defeating this affliction, that he entered a team in MM20, the 20th Anniversary of our Magnetic Magic Weekend of Bowls, and continued to assure us throughout the year that he and his team would be in attendance. It was only eight days prior to the event that he finally conceded and withdrew his team.
Ken will be remembered as an Electrical Contractor and an Ergon employee on the Island residing in Magnetic Street, Picnic Bay.
Kenny joined the Club in 1992 having not previously been a Bowler. But he was obviously a fast learner as the listing below shows. But there was one outstanding achievement for the Club which he was part of. He was a member of the Sub-Committee of four who dared to dream and started the Magnetic Magic Weekend of Bowls in 1997 – thus the reason for his determination to try to participate in MM20.
Kenny was Club President in 1999 – 2000 and again in 2006 – 2007.
He won Club Championships as follows:
‘B’ Singles in 1995.
‘A’ Singles in 1997 and 1998.
Open Pairs in 2005, 2007 and 2008.
Open Fours in 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2006*, 2007 and 2008.
*In 2006 he led his team to win the North Queensland Champion of Champions Fours.
Kenny and Claudia moved to Mission Beach in 2009, but he maintained his connection with our Club as a Dual Member.
After trialling some of the Clubs in that district, Kenny settled on the Silkwood Bowls Club where he served as President and Secretary in recent years.
From 2014 he enthused Members of that Club to enter two teams in ‘The Magic’. Through his efforts a strong bond has formed between the Members of our two Clubs. Hopefully this will continue into the future.
Ken was 76 and is survived by his Wife Claudia, and three Daughters, Jo-Anne, Lisa and Sue. To them we convey our sincere condolences.
Rest in Peace, Kenny.
4th November 2016
Ferry Fares To Increase
On Tuesday SeaLink announced that as from the 15 th November ferry fares would increase.
SeaLink will continue to operate up to 18 services a day between Townsville and Magnetic Island. The standard adult fare to Magnetic Island will increase by 50 cents each way.
SeaLink’s General Manager, Paul Victory told the MCN “The majority of residents and regular visitors to Magnetic Island travel on a Flexi ticket which will increase from $102 to $105 for 10 trips’ or $10.50 per trip. Even more cost effective ferry fare prices are available for workers or for people willing to buy monthly and six monthly ticket options to Magnetic Island where travel is further reduced”.
With regular use of our monthly ticket a return fare is $16 and a six monthly ticket the one way fare reduces to $7.00 per trip, or $14 return.”
SeaLink confirmed there will be no increase in Group fares for school children to Magnetic Island and no increase to our tourism trade partners. The School Holiday $60 family fare will also continue with no increase and the half price saver on the 7.05am service to Magnetic Island also continues.
Fares have not increased to Magnetic Island since August 2012, Ferry fares will also increase to the Palm Island service on 15th November.
SealInk have stated that increase is due to significant increase in fleet maintenance costs including vessel supplies, increase in Government passenger landing fees, port leases and licenses taking fees and charges to in excess of $750k per annum and increase in core wage costs to in excess of $3m per annum.
SeaLink will continue to invest into the Magnetic Island and Palm Island fleet over the next few years and plans to upgrade our fleet by 2020. SeaLink General Manager, Paul Victory told MCN “The comfort, convenience and reliability of our fleet is paramount for the success of the travel routes for resident and visitor travel”.
Paul went on to say “We are proud to continue our support for local community groups and organisations such as the Arcadia Surf Life Saving Club, Magnetic Island Bowls Club, Magnetic Island AFL team, the Naval Cadets, and on Palm Island the schools, Obe Geia, Cathy Freeman Foundation and local QRL teams”
Paul concluded by saying “ We are proud annual sponsors of Magnetic Island Race Week, the Australian Festival of Chamber Music, The Magnetic Island Swim, the Magnetic Island Adventurethon and other events on Magnetic Island. Our commitments to Palm Island extend to developing tourism opportunity, investment into tourism infrastructure and working with the community.”
14th October 2016
Independent Review reveals need for management overhaul
Townsville City Council today released the full Nous Group review report following a period of consultation with staff and unions.
Big reforms include cutting a third of management (22 positions) to achieve $5M in annual savings, running a leaner council with three operating divisions instead of five, and commencing a series of 24 projects that will drive greater efficiencies across council.
Council CEO Adele Young will lead the Review and project implementation including establishing a Business Transformation Taskforce that will help guide the delivery of the projects over the next 12 – 24 months. The Taskforce will be led by the CEO and will include private sector leaders in fields such as economic development and community engagement.
Townsville Mayor Cr Jenny Hill restated her earlier commitment that the new sleeker, management structure would not impact front-line staff or services.
“In total 24 projects will be activated to cut red tape, simplify operations, and work to boost local economic development and jobs,” Cr Hill said.
“Today’s decision delivers on a core commitment my team made to the residents of Townsville to reform what has been an overly bureaucratic business into a higher performing and more productive service for our community.”
Chief Executive Officer Adele Young said the implementation of priority projects would begin immediately with transition to the new structure expected to occur on Wednesday October 26.
“The new structure will be transformational for council, not just for financial sustainability and easing pressure on rates, but for building trust and confidence with the community,” Ms Young said.
“I have elevated in the structure the importance of economic development to capture the job and growth opportunities in front of the city currently, and sharpened our focus on decision making to ensure customers see us as faster, simpler and better to deal with.”
Management review key recommendations
Cut 22 management positions, removing a tier of senior management.
· Savings estimated at $5 Million annually
Consolidate number of divisions from five to three
· Infrastructure and Operations Division
· Planning and Community Engagement Division
· Chief Financial Officer (Division)
24 projects to roll out over 12 months – 24 Months
To target red tape, drive efficiencies and financial sustainability, economic development, community partnerships, including:
Reduce management by 1/3
Cut corporate overheads from 45% to 35%
Slash excessive labour hire
Savings through better council purchasing and local procurement
Cut credit cards by 50%
Boost council e-business by 50%
Cut light fleet by 50%
13th October 2016
World-wide scoop for Magnetic Island
Pictured above: The common Irukandji jellyfish, Carukia barnesi, is only 1cm tall, with four tentacles that may reach up to a meter. It is small enough to easily pass through stinger nets, so protective clothing is recommended (Photo courtesy: Dr L. Gershwin).
Denise Secomb
Today Magnetic Community News brings you a world-wide scoop – we bring news of a Jellyfish App that is due for imminent release internationally,
The Jellyfish App, as it's called, will include a geo-code feature enabling users to key in Magnetic Island for information on known jellyfish here and risk and treatment factors.
Developed by Dr Lisa-ann Gershwin, director of Australian Marine Stinger Advisory Services, together with two colleagues, cutting edge information on the app can be found on thejellyfishapp.com.
Dr Gershwin is Tasmania-based but has been studying jellyfish in Queensland waters for 20 years and internationally for 25 years.
She says the app was due to be released last week but was instead being tweaked. Release is imminent.
MCN uncovered this news while speaking with Dr Gershwin at the weekend after reading in the Whitsunday Times of an irukandji sting in the Whitsundays last week, heralding the start of the Stinger Season in tropical Queensland waters.
Tropical Australia's stinger season kicked off late in September this year, with two irukandji stings recorded in Darwin, according to Dr Gershwin.
All swimmers are advised to swim at patrolled beaches and to report all stings to lifeguards on duty who will render medical assistance.
Not only will your outcome be optimised but the information then can go into a database that will help with an Early Warning System being developed for stinger seasons.
However, Dr Gershwin said it was early days yet for the development of this system.
Locals generally know to swim in the Horseshoe Bay and Picnic Bay stinger nets during the stinger season, described by Dr Gershwin as lasting from anywhere in late September through to early June, to avoid being stung by the deadly box jellyfish, as the Chironex fleckeri is called locally.
Dr Gershwin has observed that busy stinger seasons in the tropics of Northern Australia, including tropical Queensland, tend to follow summers of high jellyfish activity in the Northern Hemisphere. While this potential correlation has yet to be studied formally, she feels that it is worthy of investigation as a potential season predictor.
That said, she says based on these observations, we may be in for a busy stinger season.
The nets are due to be deployed on Magnetic Island by Uninet on October 25 or 26. A Townsville Lifeguards spokesperson said yesterday that drags of patrolled beaches for jellyfish would begin in the next couple of weeks but no stings of any kind were recorded for Magnetic Island and Townsville region last season.
Horseshoe Bay beach is patrolled by Townsville Lifeguards daily, as is Alma Bay but Picnic Bay is patrolled and the water sampled only during the school holidays when club lifeguards are on duty.
Dr Gershwin said she was keen for the new app to take the guesswork, fear and misinformation out of swimming all over the world.
Magnetic Island's jellyfish are among some 230 jellyfish species in the world which will be featured. The aim is to put the information in the context of what is dangerous or life-threatening and what is not for any geographical area where you visit throughout the world.
“A person stung by a box jellyfish can die in an average of four minutes – generally long before an ambulance has time to get there,” says Dr Gershwin. “Deaths have been recorded two minutes after a deadly box jellyfish sting. We want people to have this information and to make safe swimming choices.
“Most life-threatening stings in tropical Queensland are from irukandjis, though.”
In the tropics, the treatment for box jellyfish, irukandji and stings of unknown origin is the same – pour vinegar over the affected skin.
Dr Gershwin said there had been two known deaths from Irukandji Syndrome in Queensland: one at the reef off Port Douglas, the other in the Whitsundays.
“Many more people have been affected, though.”
She said the statistics belie the real risk that is present which varies with wind conditions. A number of drownings in the tropics may therefore also be due to Irukandji Syndrome.
Dr Gershwin said: “Irukandkji Syndrome symptoms can include: nausea and vomiting; difficulty breathing, profuse sweating; lower back pain; abdominal cramping; and high blood pressure that can cause strokes and ultimately death.”
She said the sting can be difficult to see whereas Townsville Lifeguards spokesperson, Russell Blanchard, described box jellyfish stings as leaving whip-like welts.
During the stinger season, even in the nets when swimming, most wear full-body lycra “stinger suits”, as they're known colloquially on Magnetic Island, The stinger suits are like a huge “rashie”, which surfers wear the world over, but the lycra stinger suits also covers arms and legs.
The nets keep out box jellyfish but not irukandjis, according to Dr Gershwin.
Visitors can buy full-body lycra stinger suits from Island Fever, Horseshoe Bay, or buy or hire them from Fish'n 'N' Fuel'n in Nelly Bay.
Dr Gershwin recommends the lycra-style rather than mesh-style stinger suits.
Rather than be frightened of jellyfish, she recommends being vigilant and making safe swimming choices, including asking the lifeguards about beach conditions before entering the water.
On Magnetic Island, beach conditions are recorded on blackboards by lifeguards at patrolled beaches daily.
Pictured above:The Australian deadly box jellyfish, Chironex fleckeri, reaches up to 30cm across the body. The stinger nets offer a high degree of protection from this species (Photo courtesy: Dr L. Gershwin).
27th September 2016
Council adopts organisational review recommendations
Townsville City Council today adopted the recommendations of an independent organisational review that is expected to reduce management numbers, slash red tape and improve productivity.
Townsville Mayor Cr Jenny Hill said the council would implement the review conducted by the Nous Group immediately, seeking budget savings to keep downward pressure on rates and improve council’s customer focus.
Ms Hill said the review recommended a range of projects to improve council’s operational performance, including an immediate restructure of the council administration and cutting an entire layer of management.
She said Nous had identified that council was significantly over-managed and this had led to poor decision making and a risk averse and overly bureaucratic culture.
“Council will cut the number of operational divisions from five to three and introduce a new, flatter management structure that combines two existing layers of management into one,” Ms Hill said.
“We will not however know the final number of positions that will go until the CEO is able to complete a process of consultation with all of the affected managers.
“Once that process is complete we will release the final report, which will also detail immediate and long term projected savings from its implementation.”
Cr Hill said the sleeker management structure would not impact front-line staff or services.
“Today’s decision delivers on a core commitment my team made to the residents of Townsville to transform council into a leaner business, focused on delivering value for its community,” Cr Hill said.
“This review should have happened in the last term of council, but I couldn’t get the support I needed in the council chamber to get it through.
“This time around we have a mandate to deliver our policy agenda and today we are following through on our promise to make the council leaner and back in tune with the needs of our residents.”
Council and the CEO are committed to releasing the full review following proper communication and consultation with staff.
The Executive Summary of the Nous Group Review is available on our website
Buskers needed for biggest event on T150 calendar
Calling all entertainers … Townsville City Council is seeking expressions of interest for buskers to perform at the upcoming T150 Defence Force Air Show and Townsville Bulletin Sky Show.
Musicians, singers, roving performers, clowns, dancers and entertainers of all kinds are sought for the event on Saturday, October 15 on The Strand.
Selected buskers will be paid a $100 performance fee per 1.5 hour timeslot with the opportunity to busk for money as well.
Community and Cultural Development Committee chair Cr Colleen Doyle said this was a great opportunity for local performers to get exposure.
“We’re expecting around 80,000 people along the Strand for that event so this is a unique chance to be seen, get performance experience or to just share your talent with the community,” Cr Doyle said.
“This will be an amazing event for the city and we want local people to be involved.”
There will be no power allocated, so all buskers must be fully self-sufficient and all equipment easily portable.
To be eligible to apply, buskers must fill out an online registration form on council’s Vendors and Suppliers page and hold a Townsville City Council Busker’s Permit, which is free. Visit the Payments, Rates and Permits section of council’s website for details – townsville.qld.gov.au
Applications close Wednesday, September 28 at 5pm and successful applicants will be notified Friday, September 30.
24th September 2016
Dump for free on long weekend
Residents will have three days of free access to Townsville’s waste facilities during this year’s free dumping long weekend ahead of the cyclone season. Townsville Water and Waste Committee today endorsed a staff report recommending the event be held from Saturday, October 1 to Monday October 3.
Residents will once again have unlimited free dumping access to dispose of domestic and green waste at the Jensen, Hervey Range, Stuart, Toomulla and Bluewater facilities as well as Magnetic Island. Committee chairman Cr Paul Jacob said the three days of free dumping was a prime opportunity to clean up the yard ahead of the cyclone season, which officially commences on November 1.
“Gates at the landfills will be open to give residents the opportunity to clean up around their yards and homes ahead of the cyclone season,” Cr Jacob said. “Residents can make as many trips to the tip as they need.”
Parents in lurch for holiday care
Denise Secomb Working parents of primary school-aged students have been left in the lurch by an extremely late cancellation of the PCYC Magnetic Island Vacation Care Program on Friday, leaving them scrambling to find care for their children for the September school holidays. P&C spokesperson, Helen Mowat, who told Magnetic Community News about the consternation the cancellation of the holiday program had caused, said the P&C was advised of the cancellation at 1.07pm Friday, the day term 3 ended. “We only received the school holiday program by email the day before,” she said, “which didn't leave much time for parents to make bookings. “There is a new co-ordinator of After School Care on the island for PCYC but I don't think that's where the problem lies. This should have been sorted out ages ago and staffing be in place in preparation for this busy period. They offered a good school holiday program.” However, Helen said PCYC needed to make the school holiday program available to parents earlier and to be taking advance bookings some time ago. Another parent with whom MCN spoke, who did not wish to be named, said: “It's not like Maggie parents can just go down the road and get another placement. For some working parents, the school holidays are their busiest period because they rely on their tourism. They need a reliable service.” Helen continued: “It took us 12 months to do all the leg work to get PCYC in place. Last school holidays there were a number of days the service was fully booked. So PCYC can't claim it's under- utilised. “I'd like to see parents put their names down for when the new term starts and for PCYC to be organised enough to take bookings for Week 2 of the school holidays and for this not to happen again.” PCYC general manager of operations, Kel Clarke, was contacted a number of times to make comment but had not done so at the time of MCN's extended production deadline for the press edition. We hope to have a reply to our emailed questions for the online edition.
STOP PRESS
PCYC replies to criticism
The Queensland Police-Citizens Youth Club has advised Magnetic Island parents and other members of the community that it was unable to operate its usual vacation care program during the September school holidays.
PCYC Operations General Manager, Mr Kel Clarke, stated: “The quality of care at our facilities is paramount and we are committed to creating a safe environment for all children in our care. Rather than put any child or Educator at risk, we made the decision to suspend services over the school vacation period.
“This service requires a minimum of four staff members to conduct the program, in order to cover breaks and the full operational hours.
“Despite all our efforts, we were unable to secure sufficient staff with the appropriate qualifications to operate the program.
“Running the program with too few suitably qualified staff would not be acceptable to PCYC, nor would it meet our legislative obligations.”
Mr Clarke said while he understood cancelling the vacation care program would be inconvenient for parents and care givers, safety needed to come first.
“Affected parents and guardians were invited to send their children to the Aitkenvale or Castle Hill PCYC instead and that offer still stands,” he said.
“We regret that on this occasion we are unable to provide this service to the community.”
Members of the community with questions about the closure are encouraged to call Melissa Flanders, PCYC Outside School Age Care Operations Manager on 3909 9555.
17th September 2016
Public comment invited on proposed permission system improvements
The Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority (GBRMPA) is seeking public feedback on proposed changes to its system of granting permits for activities in the Marine Park.
As part of its commitment to streamline processes while maintaining high levels of environmental protection, the agency is undertaking a major review of its permission system, which includes revising key policies and guidelines, and amending the Great Barrier Marine Park Regulations.
GBRMPA’s general manager for biodiversity conservation and sustainable use Bruce Elliot said the updates included new guidance material for permit applicants and the public on how permit decisions are made.
“The proposed changes will strengthen the system by improving consistency and transparency through a range of guidelines so the process and the basis for decisions is clearer,” Mr Elliot said.
“It will also ensure better integration with processes relating to Australia’s national environmental law, the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999.”
Key changes being proposed include:
an updated risk assessment procedure to consistently consider all values of the Marine Park (biodiversity, heritage and social values)
guidelines for considering indirect or flow-on impacts that may be caused by a proposal
guidelines on the use of drones
guidelines on assessing potential impacts to social, historic heritage and Indigenous heritage values
expanding opportunities for tourism-related whale-watching, provided they comply with existing approach distances and other whale protection regulations
introducing longer term permits where risks are deemed acceptable (such as tourism programs)
introducing checklists of information that needs to be submitted before an application can be accepted
changing the types and frequencies of inspections required for fixed facilities.
Mr Elliot said the documents out for public comment were developed or updated after an initial round of public consultation was held between October and December 2015.
“During that period, we sought feedback on what changes the community, including permit applicants and holders, would like to see to the permission system,” Mr Elliot said.
“Respondents identified a need for greater transparency of decision-making, availability of information on how decisions are made and streamlining of processes.
“We have taken on board that feedback and reflected this through improvements to our environmental impact management policy, and the development of new application and assessment guidelines.
“I encourage interested stakeholders to comment on all or any of these documents.”
The draft documents are also consistent with recommendations from the Australian National Audit Office, which released a report into the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority’s permission system in 2015.
Changes are expected to take effect for all new permit applications received on or after 1 July 2017. No amendments are being introduced to the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Act 1975 or Zoning Plan.
The period for submissions is open until 4 November 2016.
Documents and information on how to submit comments are available at www.gbrmpa.gov.au.
12th September 2016
Magnetic Island paramedics celebrate Ambulance Week with station open day
It’s Ambulance Week from September 12 to 16 and the Queensland Ambulance Service is inviting the community to join in the celebrations.
This year also signals 25 years since 96 individual Queensland Ambulance Transport Brigades (QATB) transformed into one state-administered service to become the Queensland Ambulance Service as we know it today. It is also 25 years since Local Ambulance Committees (LACs) were introduced to maintain the ambulance service’s close connection to the community.
To celebrate this, Magnetic Island Ambulance Station is holding a station open day to give locals a chance to discover more about QAS and its vital work as well as learn how to keep their loved ones safe and help them in an emergency.
As Magnetic Island is a joint Emergency Services Facility, Queensland Fire and Emergency Services (QFES) will also be present on the day.
QFES will conduct a Road Crash Rescue scenario to demonstrate the specialised cutting equipment they use to extricate patients trapped inside a vehicle. This scenario will also showcase how QFES and QAS work together to treat patients in emergencies.
If you live in or around Magnetic Island, drop by the combined station and learn how to conduct CPR, check out the vital medical equipment in use and have a Q/A session with paramedics, LAC volunteers and firefighters.
WHO: QAS and QFES Magnetic Island staff and volunteers will hold a station open day and Road Crash Rescue scenario to celebrate Ambulance Week
WHEN: 10am - 2pm Thursday, September 15, 2016
WHERE: Magnetic Island Ambulance Station
52 Kelly Street, Nelly Bay
Program:
10:00
* Opening and introduction from paramedics, LAC volunteers and QFES Captain
10:30
* CPR Awareness training session
* QFES fire safety training
11:30
* Road Crash Rescue scenario
12:00
* Sausage sizzle and steak
12:30
* Emergency vehicles familiarisation
* Station tours
12:45
* CPR Awareness training session
* QFES fire safety training
14:00
* Closing words and thank you
Activities throughout the day:
* Face painting
* Meet and greet local paramedics, firefighters and LAC members
* Learn how to become a QAS volunteer driver or auxiliary firefighter
* Grab a ticket in the IGA Meat tray or IGA Foodworks voucher raffle with proceeds going to the LAC
9th September 2016
SeaLink Queensland launched their new campaign video on Magnetic Island last night (8 September 2016) that has garnered more than 6,000 online views in less than 24 hours.
The campaign video encapsulates the beauty of Magnetic Island and the memories made on each and every visit. Elements of the campaign features local businesses and newly appointed SeaLink ambassador Jade Holland.
The 90-second video, produced by Townsville's Bluekino highlights some of Magnetic Island's top experiences while setting out a list of Holiday Rules including "Shoes are optional, goggles are not", "No holiday is complete without ice-cream" and "Stop, look, listen, feel and forget".
SeaLink Queensland General Manager, Mr Paul Victory said the new look and feel successfully positions Magnetic Island as a must-visit destination for holiday-makers of all kinds.
"Our values as a travel company centre on making memories and we're proud to align this vision by showcasing what tourism operators on the Island offer as a holiday destination that help make Magnetic Island unique," said Mr Victory.
"The reception from viewers at last night's premiere screening was even better than we'd expected and this campaign will mark a new era for marketing our business and Magnetic Island to the world."
The clip will be followed by new safety videos on SeaLink's Magnetic Island services, starring Townsville's own country star Jade Holland and Magnetic Island local’s.
Holland said she was proud to announce her new affiliation with SeaLink Queensland.
"I've always been a passionate North Queensland girl and honestly believe Magnetic Island is one of the most beautiful slices of Australia, if not the world," said Holland.
"I used the Island as the backdrop of my latest music video for 'Good Day' and am really excited to get to expand on promoting Townsville through my music by working closely with SeaLink."
The video can be found on the SeaLink Queensland’s Facebook page and at their website www.sealinkqld.com.au – Where you will also find great school holiday deals this September!
8th September 2016
$3.3m cost for dump capping revealed
Denise Secomb
An estimated $3.3million will be spent on the job of capping the Picnic Bay dump, according to the latest figure from Townsville City Council released to islanders at the weekend.
Division 3 councillor, Cr Ann-Maree Greaney, brought the council employee who is the designer of the Picnic Bay landfill capping, Hayley Page, with her to the Saturday annual general meeting of Magnetic Island Residents and Ratepayers Association, where the extent of the costing was revealed.
Ms Page told the meeting Level 3 watering restrictions had influenced council thinking on the issue.
She said the landfill site had been shaped and capped with clay to prevent exposure of the site via erosion.
Ms Page said: “We would normally follow the clay cap with a topsoil cover and then plant grass but Level 3 water restrictions would not allow for the establishment of the grass.
“Instead we are going to cover the landfill site with synthetic matting while the landfill settles. This will take 18 months to two years, then the permanent cap will be installed and grass will be planted. The site will then be fenced for up to 30 years until it is declared safe and it will revert to public space. The whole process is expected to cost $3.3million.”
There were three suggestions made by residents at the meeting in relation to the dump:
* that an island resident could be appointed to monitor run-off into the creek;
* that the golf club recycled water line from the Cockle Bay Sewage Treatment Plant could be extended to the dump; and
* that a bore could be sunk at the dump site so the cap could be covered with topsoil and grass be watered in immediately to help stop erosion.
Ms Page said she was yet to work out the best way forward for treated water to be used from the sewage plant.
There was concern raised that further development for Nelly Bay could be stalled by inadequate infrastructure with the Cockle Bay Sewage Treatment Plant now at full capacity.
President of MIRRA, Cameron Turnbull, noted that $5million was being spent on The Strand in Townsville and said he felt the island was being neglected. Among projects he put forward as pressing was the need for a permanent toilet block at Horseshoe Bay and a walkway from Yates Street to X-Base in Nelly Bay.
Cr Greaney said she was determined that the be achieved during her four-year term but noted it was not in this year's budget. She has agreed to look into progress on the toilet block.
Residents made it clear to Cr Greaney they are unhappy with the diminished standard of cleanliness in the Picnic Bay Mall since a new contractor took over, with one resident saying wedding bookings were suffering. He has prepared an illustrated report for Cr Greaney which also highlights park areas around the island which are not suitable for weddings at the moment that need to be addressed.
Cr Greaney said council was examining council's tendering process but she could not say more until it was officially announced.
Residents made it clear they did not want to see the island economy suffering from this process.
All previous office bearers were elected unopposed, with Cameron Turnbull president, Ewe Cheng Koo vice-president, Mary Allen treasurer, and Mary Vernon secretary.
The next MIRRA monthly meeting will be held on Saturday, October 8, 2016, at 10am at the Magnetic Island RSL, Arcadia.
Sealink Magnetic Island Race Week: A unique week of fun comes to a close
Unique is the only way to describe Sealink Magnetic Island Race Week which wrapped up today after the record 71 entries concluded their courses - some halfway around Magnetic Island to pretty Horseshoe Bay return, the rest on a shorter course to White Rock return.
Magnetic Island Race Week is the last of the northern regattas, which traditionally starts with the Land Rover Sydney Gold Coast Yacht Race, then moves to the Brisbane Great Keppel Race, Airlie Beach Race Week and Audi Hamilton Island Race Week.
Townsville Yacht Club has come up with the right recipe for those who make it this far north and are tired out from serious grand prix racing. It should be proud of the event which celebrated its 10th year in 2016.
Event Chairman and Club Director Mike Steel and his co-organisers have done a wonderful job from the ground up, this year taking over running the event from sponsor, Sealink.
The Club invited competitors heading here from Hamilton Island to a barbecue on the beach at Cape Upstart. Inaccessible by land, and totally unique to this event, around 100 people attended and dined on seafood donated by the Club.
“Competitors supplied the drinks. It was a wonderful night with a big fire on the beach. The seafood was fresh and it was really beautiful gesture enjoyed by all,” said Fair Winds owner, Mark Chew.
The location and setting is unique too. Conducted from Peppers Resort where the majority stay, a one minute walk from the Nelly Bay Ferry, Peppers has it all. Everything is within a one minute walk – the marina, restaurant, rooms, pools, a local IGA store and cafes. There is no need to wander far – only on lay day to experience the rest of the compact picturesque island.
Mike Steel, owner of the yacht Boadicca, along with Rear-Commodore, Tony Muller (owner of Brava), also support the event by racing at it, as they did again in 2016. TYC board members and general members are behind the event 100 percent, supported this year by entries from other parts of Queensland and as far flung as Victoria, NSW, South Australia and Tasmania.
“I am very happy with how it’s gone. It’s rewarding when skippers come up to you and shake your hand and thank us for what the Club has put together.
“When you walk around, everyone has a smile and is having fun. The whole mood we have tried to put into place – it’s a party, it’s fun – has caught on. I thank the 20 people on our team who help put Sealink Magnetic Island Race Week together and to our many volunteers who have worked so hard this week. We’re all looking forward to doing it again next year.”
Sealink Magnetic Island Race Week started with 21 entries 10 years ago; that’s equates to a 30 percent increase over a short period of time.
And the conditions and courses could not be complained about. It’s warm and mainly breezy. The opening day eased competitors in with 6 to 13 knots of breeze, enough to keep everyone interested and active. Day 2 was very light, but sunny and warm, and the final two days, after a lay day delivered the quality in easterly winds of up to 20 knots.
Elena Nova, chartered from Craig Neil by Andrew Pearson found the groove early on to claim first overall in IRC, counting four wins from five races. It is the fourth time he has attended the event and is just as enthusiastic as ever, despite an 'oops' in the windward/leeward race today.
“It (fourth) was our worst result – a result of too much Pommery champagne last night,” Pearson said. “We had to haul the spinnaker out of the water, but we didn’t hit the start boat. The rest was good. After all the effort Craig Neil (boat owner) has put into the boat, it has reached its potential.”
On the event as a whole, Pearson said: “I still believe what Bob Steel said last year; it is the best regatta on the eastern seaboard.” His crew concurred, as did those moored next to them on Champagne.
“Denis and his team did their usual great job – we had great racing and great conditions.”
Denis Thompson and his race management team set daily courses to suit the conditions, allowing yachts to return to the dock in time for the afternoon festivities, where it became one big party. On the penultimate evening, guests were ferried to TYC for a cocktail party.
Poppy’s owner Michael Phillips, who has come all the way from South Australia commented: “It’s a fantastic regatta, but we should have done better. The average age on our boat is 66 and we’ve all had a great time and we’d love to come back.”
Well known Sydney sailor, Peter Sorensen has done the regatta a few times. “We’ve enjoyed ourselves thoroughly, despite a few mishaps, including running into Middle Reef yesterday and breaking a jib halyard today.
“We’ve loved the entertainment and particularly enjoyed the MC (Scott Hiller) – he made the regatta for me – kept us entertained – he lifts the whole entertainment,” said ‘Sorro’, who chartered IRC third placegetter Botany Access Cocomo.
After a day on the water, it’s back to Peppers for the daily prize giving over drinks and barbecue food, or dinner at the restaurant, right in front of the action, where you can view the daily racing and dockside antics on the big screen.
It’s a fun regatta, and a few crews dressed up each day. Stanley Barnes’ Librian crew kept us guessing with different dress. Goddesses one day, Disney characters the next and on the final day it was the Supremes. Librian has attended every Sealink Magnetic Island Race Week since its inception and will be here again next year.
Because it is such a unique event, the prize giving is a buffet dinner in Peppers Restaurant for all competitors. Remember when we used to do that at regattas years ago?
For the first time there is a Perpetual Trophy – the winner of each division will have their yacht’s name engraved on this inaugural trophy. In another first, each crew of a division winner will receive a gold medallion.
Overall prize winners receive a bottle Pommery champagne, a Sea Hawk voucher for two gallons of boat paint and a Musto cap, while second and third places receive prizes from Ross Haven Marine and Musto.
2. FLASHDANCE II, Brian Evans, CSC, 17 - 2, 7, 6, 2
3. 2S FORTIFIED, Graham Van Brederode, TYC, 18 - 7, 8, 2, 1
By Di Pearson/SMIRW media
5th September 2016
Townsville siblings on mission at Sealink Magnetic Island Race Week
Pictured above:Jenifer Jurss and her brother Simon Graham on Boadicca
Photo: Andrea Francolin
A Townsville brother and sister competing at the 10th anniversary Sealink Magnetic Island Race Week have their sights on a much tougher goal – the 628 nautical mile Sydney Hobart Yacht Race.
Simon Graham 40, and his 34 year-old sister, Jenifer Jurss, lost their father David Graham in January 1995 when he was swept off the yacht Impetuous while returning from the 50th Sydney Hobart. Graham had taken part in the race on Impetuous without incident, but fate stepped in on the return journey.
Despite an intense three-day air and sea search, the 40 year-old husband and father was never found. Simon was nearly 18 and Jenifer just 12 at the time.
Simon points out, “I am almost the same age Dad was when he lost his life.”
Fast forward nearly 20 years, and the cards dealt the pair another cruel blow, when their father’s brother, Andrew, disappeared in mysterious circumstances after the social worker left his workplace at the Christmas Island Detention Centre.
In September 2014, Andrew, in his mid-50’s, finished work on a Friday, telling colleagues he was going for a swim at Winifred Beach. He was supposed to return to his workplace on Tuesday, but failed to arrive.
It was three days before the alarm was raised and authorities spent a further three days searching the jungle and sea. The ruling was death by misadventure.
“It was like living through losing Dad again. I was 12 when Dad died, Simon was turning 18 two weeks after he died, says Jurss who is married with two children, 5 and nearly 3.
“We were kids when Dad died, but adults when Andrew died. Adults deal with this sort of scenario very differently to kids who have a greater capacity to move on with things,” she says, admitting she has little knowledge of the father who left them prematurely.
This week the two are competing at Sealink Magnetic Island Race Week aboard Boadicca, owned by Townsville Yacht Club director Mike Steel, who is also Event Chairman for Race Week. Steel is teaching them the ropes for the much harder voyage ahead.
“This came about, because in my mind, I always wanted to learn about Dad. After losing Andrew, it solidified that fact. I’ve been thinking about it a lot more since Andrew - so I started sailing. Mike has been very good to us.
“We want to do the Sydney Hobart in Dad’s memory, to honour Dad and our uncle,” Jurss says. “And to raise awareness for the Missing Persons Advocacy Network. They provide support and guidance to loved ones and family members of those who goes missing. They’re great for guidance and assistance.
“I sent them an email back in June to say I am planning on doing the Sydney Hobart. I plan to fundraise and at the same time I can help lift their profile.”
Jurss adds: “I thought doing it (the Sydney Hobart) would be easy. I didn’t realise it’s a little like climbing Everest; you need to prepare and train. You need to know people to get on a boat.
Although they have no offshore experience, the two are not novice sailors. Simon sailed at Westernport in Victoria when he was very young: “The waves were high, I was terrified and I threw up, sick as a dog,” he said, smiling at the remembrance.
“I bought a Nacra (multihull) in the late 90’s after Dad died, so we sailed a little bit. We also sailed in Burnie (Tasmania) and now here.”
“We always had an interest,” adds Jurss.
Simon admits: “It’s hard up here to get offshore experience, and hard to go south to get it. Ever since Dad went missing, I decided I wanted to do the race. I think I would have done it anyway, but life got in the way. And we know it’s a big ask for someone like us to come in from outside after a crew has trained together for a long time.”
Jurss is now looking at paying her way, as there are commercial yacht charterers who take a mix of experienced and paying crew: “That’s Plan B, because it costs $8,000 – quite a bit of money. I have $4,000 now, so I still need to fund raise for the rest,” she says.
“Our hope has always been that we could find someone, somewhere, who would take us offshore sailing and in the Sydney Hobart. We would love to come to Sydney and get some experience if someone would take us,” Jurss ends.
By Di Pearson/SMIRW media
Sealink Magnetic Island Race Week: Round Island Race
The breeze have arrived in timely fashion at Townsville Yacht Club’s Sealink Magnetic Island Race Week, allowing Principal Race Officer, Denis Thompson to send the 71 record entries on a Round the Island course, taking in the entirety of Magnetic Island and starting at 11am.
Thompson said he would send IRC, Performance, Cruising 1 and the multihulls on the longer 20 nautical mile version, while Cruising 2 and 3 and Non-Spinnaker Cruising would take on the shorter 14 mile course.
“Malice (Mal Richardson’s carbon catamaran which is also taking part this year) has the record of 80 minutes for this race, which he took in 2011,” Thompson said.
Today’s forecast early on his for 13-14 knot winds coming from slightly south of east. Winds will build during the afternoon to 20-25 knots, ideal for this longer race on the penultimate day of the regatta.
Competitors are ready and looking forward to the race after enjoying a layday yesterday.
Well known veteran Victorian campaigner, Bruce Taylor, is here minus his boat Chutzpah, instead helping Victorian mate, David Currie, aboard his Farr 40 Ponyo.
“We’re looking forward to the race. We got on a power boat yesterday and had a look at the course – checking out the tide and winds. We’re hoping we get the windward/leeward races that were scheduled for today, tomorrow, so we can get back in the game though,” Taylor said.
Light win a boon for Jimmy’s Ghost at Sealink Magnetic Island Race Week
A slow start to the day at Sealink Magnetic Island Race Week, when the wind refused to play ball and race management was forced to delay the planned 11am start until they were able to get the IRC, Performance Racing and multihull classes away from 12.15pm, and while the conditions did not suit some, it was a boon for others.
Simon Monfries sailed his Hartley Custom, Jimmy’s Ghost to a win in Cruising Division 3. That he won at all was something of a surprise, as Monfries sailed the boat two-up and the twosome were able to set spinnakers because of the light air.
“We had a fantastic start – we actually started with the right division today – we were late to the start yesterday,” Monfries, who represents Townsville Yacht Club said.
“We had an excellent spinnaker run and everything went well. The light air made it easy for us to set a kite, if it had been windy, it would have been ‘forget it’. Everything just fell into place.
“I originally had more crew, but they pulled out at the last minute, which was really annoying, but we’re getting around alright and enjoying it very much. It’s our first time here and we’ve met heaps of great people – it’s fantastic and the organisers are doing such a good job,” Monfries ended.
Not all were well behaved. Antsy to get off the start line, there were individual recalls in at least three classes, including Dennis Coleman’s Mistress, a Corsair Spring MK1 representing event organiser, Townsville Yacht Club. Like her fellow transgressors, Mistress lost time having to re-start.
Finally, as predicted, wind on the Townsville side of the course, but little off Magnetic Island, so it was a little slow going in places, but a beautiful day out nonetheless.
Malcolm Richardson’s Nacra 36c, Malice, was the first boat drop kite and round the mark near Middle Reef after a long run, but was taken on a course away from the mark.
Richardson, who has his nine year-old son Giles and 12 year-old daughter Grace sailing with him explained: “Apparent wind took us away from the mark – it’s not always directional sailing on multihulls. We enjoyed the day. Beautiful conditions and Malice lights up fast in any increase of pressure.
“We’re looking forward to a good finish to the regatta too, because we’re expecting big breeze for the last two days. It’s a family affair this week with my son and daughter and we’re all having a great time,” ended Richardson who last raced here around five years ago when his carbon Nacra 36c was new.
Malice was first home and first overall, beating Mistress and Graeme Etherton’s The Boat.
In IRC Racing, the Andrew Pearson skippered Elena Nova had another cracker of a day to score her second win of the series, in fact yesterday’s top three remain the same, with David Currie’s Ponyo second and the Peter Sorensen skippered Botany Access Cocomo third.
Wayne Miller’s Zoe, with Mark Vickers in the skipper role, won Performance Racing from Leon Thomas’ Guilty Pleasures VI and Elena Nova.
Tommorrow is a layday. Racing continues on Monday from 11am. The fleet is represented by boats from Queensland, Victoria, NSW, Tasmania and South Australia.
Sealink Magnetic Island Race Week: Light airs weren’t in the brochure
A light fluky second day at Townsville Yacht Club’s Sealink Magnetic Island Race Week will keep competitors guessing and on their toes according to race management, but it doesn’t seem to have dampened the enthusiasm of competitors who were up bright and early, ready for the day ahead.
The 10th anniversary seems to be striking a chord with the record 71 entries, as old friends catch up and in true yachtie style, ‘tell lies’ over breakfast and the prize giving each evening.
This morning, the event’s Principal Race Officer, Denis Thompson, had re-thought plans to send the IRC, PHS, the four Cruising divisions and Multihull fleets on an islands course, as conditions do not favour a longer race.
“I’ve changed my mind. Instead it will be a 15 nautical mile course for IRC/Performance, Cruising 1 and Multihulls. Cruising 2 and 3 and Non-Spinnaker Cruising will do a 12 nautical mile race,” Thompson said.
“There will be lots of marks and courses will take the boats towards Townsville where the forecast is showing more breeze – 12-15 knots this afternoon from the east-south/east and east. Otherwise, the breeze will be all over the place. The forecast is for 5 to 6 to maybe 8 knots closer to Magnetic Island.”
Either way, it will be another fun day on the water for all. This morning, Vicki Hamilton and her Akarana crew themed up in ‘Formal and Burlesque’ for the day ahead. They may have an unfair advantage, distracting the rest of the fleet, which could mean a win.
And with a lay day scheduled tomorrow, it will be a big night back at Peppers Resort at Magnetic Island where the daily prize giving is held over a few drinks, with a band to entertain afterwards.
Thompson will reconsider holding a longer islands race on Monday, once he has a clearer picture of the forecast.
Pictured above: The whales are back, with the first whales of the season for Magnetic Island sighted at Florence Bay on Sunday by folk on the Earlybird Fishing Charters. Photo: courtesy Jullian Taylor.
