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Job Prospects A Christmas Boon For Retrenched Peabody Workers

Ostwald Bros will be making Christmas a little brighter for the 200 Wilkie Creek coal workers made redundant by US coal giant Peabody Energy.The resources and infrastructure services group has stepped in to offer some hope to the workers faced with voluntary redundancies following the recent announcement by Peabody Energy to close its Wilkie Creek coal mine near Dalby.

Ostwald Bros CEO Brendan Ostwald said Peabody Energy had invited Ostwald Bros to meet with the workers in Dalby to discuss future employment opportunities. “This is a difficult time for the coal workers and their families and Ostwald Bros will work with Peabody Energy to do all we can to help those affected by the closure of the Wilkie Creek coal mine,” Mr Ostwald said.

“We are inviting the workers to an information session in Dalby on Thursday night where we will be detailing the job opportunities Ostwald Bros has on offer. “We are gearing up for major projects in 2014 and we need more people to join us. We hope to be able to find a place for the coal workers within our company.

Western Downs Regional Council Mayor Ray Brown said the information night was a great initiative and encouraged workers facing redundancies at Wilkie Creek coal mine to attend. “The Council is very keen to see these workers and their families stay in Dalby,” Cr Brown said. “Ostwald Bros is a great local company and I fully support their efforts to keep these workers in our region.”

Based in Dalby, Ostwald Bros is currently recruiting around 300 staff for awarded and pending contracts from coal seam gas clients in the Surat Basin. Ostwald Bros has a wide range of positions currently available from truck operators to leading hands, labourers, project managers and more.

The information session for Peabody workers will be held at the BMO conference centre, 178 Drayton Street, Dalby at 5pm on December 19th. Those unable to attend can visit the Ostwald Bros website and submit their interest for jobs listed on the careers page or call 1300 Ostwald (1300 678 925).

Workers facing job losses as a result of closures in the car manufacturing sector are also encouraged to enquire about available jobs with Ostwald Bros.

Submitted by:Karen Wong
Sequel Communications
Ph 07 3251 8144

 

2013 A Strong Year For The Toowoomba Region

Toowoomba Region Mayor Paul Antonio has labelled 2013 as a ‘strong and productive’ period for the region. “The past 12 months has seen some very positive developments for this region across both economic and social contexts. I am proud of what my colleagues and I have achieved throughout the year,” Mayor Antonio said.

Listing highlights such as the Toowoomba Bypass Forum and subsequent commitment by the Federal Government to construct the vital link, construction beginning on the Outer Circulating Road in the CBD and announcement of $10 million in Royalties for Regions funding to upgrade the Warrego- O’Mara Road intersection, Mayor Antonio said Toowoomba was finally receiving the infrastructure it deserves.

“Vital infrastructure has been lacking in the region for some time but this year we’ve been able to secure funding commitments that will change the Toowoomba region for ever. Throw in the construction of a privately funded airport, and plans for an inland rail link passing through Toowoomba and it is clear the region is well on its way to a brighter future.”

Council also oversaw close to $200 million in Natural Disaster Relief and Recovery Arrangements (NDRRA) funding following the flood events of 2010/2011 and the 2013 Australia Day flood event. “Flood recovery across the region has been a mammoth task, with the biggest road recovery program this region has ever faced. I want to thank all Council staff for their hard work in this area,” he said.

Among many exciting developments, this year has also seen Toowoomba become a Refugee and Migrant Welcome Zone, plans take shape for the construction of a new library, and the region host a raft of exciting sport events.

“When we really take in what Toowoomba has to offer, it’s not surprising we were named one of Australia’s most family friendly cities in 2013. “This is a wonderful community and I thank all residents and community groups for the remarkable contribution they make to the liveability of the region.

“On behalf of my colleagues and staff of Toowoomba Regional Council, I wish all residents a safe and Merry Christmas and I look forward to serving you in 2014” said Mayor Antonio.

Submitted by:Andrea Frost
Strategic Communications Officer
Office of the Mayor

Toowoomba Regional Council

Blue Care Crow’s Nest Holds Open House To Celebrate 60 Years Of Blue Care

Blue Care Crow’s Nest is joining Blue Care’s 60th anniversary celebrations with an open house on Friday, December 13 from 2pm and 4pm, at Blue Care Crows Nest Community Care.

Community members who have been involved with or worked for the centre, are invited to attend.

The open house event, which includes an anniversary cake cutting ceremony, is free, yet the Blue Care team welcomes gold coin donations.Service Manager Debbie White said the open house is a great opportunity to celebrate Blue Care’s 60th anniversary with the community..

“The event also recognises the ongoing commitment of Blue Care staff members in the Crows Nest community,” Ms White said.“This open house event comes at a special time for us as this year we celebrate Blue Care’s 60th anniversary of making a difference to people’s lives across Queensland and northern New South Wales.

Community members who would like  to attend the celebrations need to RSVP by Thursday, December 12.To RSVP, please phone Janelle Macdonald at Blue Care Crow’s Nest Community Care on 07 4698 1496.

Blue Care Crow’s Nest Community Care assists clients with services, including home care, centre based respite and in home respite, as well as social support and domestic assistance.

Submitted by:
Albert D’Aprile
PR & Social Media Coordinator
Blue Care

Toowoomba Tennis International Takes Out National Award

In only its second year, Toowoomba’s own tennis tournament has aced the national tennis circuit.

The 2013 Hutchinson Builders Toowoomba International has been awarded the Australian Tennis Awards Most Outstanding Tournament of the Year. This award acknowledges events that provide a ‘complete package’ both on and off the court.

Tourism and Events portfolio leader Cr Geoff McDonald said “Toowoomba Regional Council was involved in all aspects of the event through the Sports Tourism Project.” He believes the  tournament was rewarded for providing a positive atmosphere and developing strategies to engage local sponsors, media and the wider community.

“So this award wasn’t just about delivering a successful tennis tournament. This success was due largely to the number and quality of community engagement activities delivered in the lead-up to and during the event,” Cr McDonald said.

These events included:
• AO Blitz activations
• Tennis in the Park (Queens Park)
• Indigenous Come and Try Tennis Afternoon
• Various school visits to the event
• Hutchies Corporate Challenge presented by Taylor’s Removals (which raised over $9,000 for RACQ Careflight).

“Thanks to the Toowoomba International organisers, the event grew substantially this year with added features such as the Women’s Draw – presented by new sponsors Tilly’s Crawler Parts – and the enhancement of VIP hospitality functions.

“Another reason for the tournament’s success was due in no small part to the strong partnership between Toowoomba Tennis Association, Hutchinson Builders and Toowoomba Regional Council,” Cr McDonald said.

Submitted by:
Jenny Foxton
Senior Communication Officer
Toowoomba Regional Council
jenny.foxton@toowoombaRC.qld.gov.au

 

TRC Spreading The Festive Spirit At Regional Christmas Events

A new lightweight sleigh will take Santa on visits to many Toowoomba region Christmas celebrations in coming days.

Toowoomba Regional Council Tourism and Events portfolio leader, Cr Geoff McDonald, said the new sleigh had  performed well on its initial ‘flights’ and would be put into heavy service for the festive season.

Cr McDonald said Council was proud to be associated with numerous community Christmas celebrations. “I encourage residents to spread the Christmas cheer by joining celebrations in their town or district,” he said. “Christmas may be directed at children, but these festivities are planned for all ages.

“There are Council-supported Christmas events and many other community events for people to enjoy.”

Toowoomba Regional Council is supporting the following events yet to be held:

Cecil Plains Carols by Candlelight: Starts at 5pm on Wednesday, December 11. Carol singing starts at 7pm and Santa will make a special appearance along with his sleigh at 8.30pm.

Millmerran Xmas in the Bush: At the Millmerran Football Grounds on Thursday, December 12 starting at 6pm. The event features children’s rides, family entertainment, craft and food stalls.

Pittsworth Xmas in the Park: On Friday, December 13 from 5.30pm in Centenary Park. Attractions include Great Scott the fire twirler, street performers Mimi and Sam and a host of family activities. Santa visits from 7pm.

Crows Nest Christmas in the Park: Carnival rides in Centenary Park from 4.30pm on Friday, December 13. Also school choirs, carol singing and Santa will arrive at 7.30pm.

Clifton Christmas Street Carnival: King Street will be closed from 6pm on Friday, December 13 for a barbecue and ice-creams. Santa will visit children and the hospital. Multi-draw raffles and family activities run to 10pm.

Yarraman Christmas Carnival: At the Rec Grounds on Saturday, December 14 from 4pm. Enjoy free rides, food stalls, music and a visit from Santa at 6.30pm. Fireworks from 7.30pm, entertainment to 10pm.

Millmerran Carols by Candlelight: The Millmerran Ministers’ Carols by Candlelight are on Wednesday, December 18 at Domville Place in Campbell Street.

Wilsonton Community Carols: The free family event runs from 5-9pm on Friday, December 20 at McGregor Street oval, Wilsonton. Children can see 28 barnyard animals and enjoy rides. Food, drinks and glow sticks will be on sale. Band performances and carols feature on the Wilsonton Progress Association’s event. Santa will drop by with TRC’s fireworks from 8.50pm.

Oakey Community Carols: A free family event at the Oakey Cultural Centre lawn with children’s activities from 4pm on Sunday, December 22. A sausage sizzle from 6pm is followed by carols from 7pm. Organised by the Oakey Christian Leaders’ Network, the evening features local and regional performers. The function will move inside the Oakey Cultural Centre if it rains.

Submitted by:
Angus Moffatt
Media Relations Officer
Angus.Moffatt@toowoombaRC.qld.gov.au

 

 

Toowoomba Civic Welcome For Afghan Community

Toowoomba Regional Council Mayor Paul Antonio, councillors, Afghan community members, Mercy Family Services and TRC Community Development staff will be present at a welcome function on Monday, December 9th for members of the Afghan community.

Many of the women and their children have arrived via refugee and humanitarian channels and Council’s Community Development branch is working with Mercy Family Services’ Settlement Grants Program, Threads of Change (funded by the Department of Social Services), to arrange a city tour and introduction to Toowoomba.

The program also is part of Toowoomba Regional Council’s Refugee Welcome Zone initiative.

Submitted by:
Angus Moffat
Media Relations Officer
Toowoomba Regional Council
E: Angus.Moffatt@toowoombaRC.qld.gov.au

 

Council Connections: Week 1, December 2013

Toowoomba Regional Council Connections

The weekly program keeping you up to date with Toowoomba Regional Council’s facilities, activities and services.

Council Connections with Darren Burton

This week Darren talks about the next Council meeting, no joining fee for gym membership at Toowoomba and Highfields, Kim McCosker’s author visit, Carols by Candlelight at Highfields, pre-amalgamation phone numbers changing to 131 872, artist submissions for Toowoomba Regional Art Gallery, public input on Council’s draft pest management plan, free mulch at TRC waste facilities, joining a walking group, the CHANGE Program health survey to be drawn soon and Council’s after-hours emergency number.
Follow Toowoomba Regional Council on Twitter @ToowoombaRC

Christmas In The Park In Crow’s Nest

Crow‘s Nest & District Christmas in the Park will be on Friday 13th December from 4:30 pm, starting with rides for children from 9 months tsanta-clauso 12 yrs. Crow’s Nest Rural Fire Brigade will have a special treat for the children, Blazer the Fire-Fighting Koala will be there and there will be opportunities for parents to take photos

There will be food and novelty stalls, Lions BBQ, Scouts selling drinks, the Show Society Ham Wheel, glow products and entertainment from about 5 pm. Our local Line Dancers will encourage you to join them for a dance after they show us how it’s done. Crow’s Nest Business Alliance will draw their Major Promotion Prize at 5:30 and Christmas Lights Competition Winners will be announced.

We will be entertained again this year by J.a.m.,as they present a children’s program. There will be a Christmas message and Crows Nest School Choir will perform, and then Community Carol Singing with local singers. Santa is expected to call in at 7:30 pm to reward all the good girls and boys. Ignite Youth will finish off the evening.

If you would like to be involved as a volunteer for an hour, please contact Marg Barnes or Jeff Close. Toowoomba Regional Council has provided Santa’s transport, and Crows Nest Lions Club and Heritage Bank have helped his elves . And our thanks to Crow’s Nest Rural Fire Brigade members who have volunteered to help with the cleanâ€up.

Submitted by:
Marg Barnes
Secretary CNDTPA Inc.
Helping Keep Crows Nest Strong

Ph 4698 2103
Mob 0407 650 512