SOMERSET Regional Council is taking a proactive approach to managing flying fox colonies ahead of state government changes later this year which could see local governments become the principal manager of colonies.

Earlier this month the Minister for Environment and Heritage Protection announced a new direction for the management of flying fox roosts which could see a shift in management of colonies appointed to Councils.

Somerset Mayor Graeme Lehmann said while the extra responsibility has not yet been passed onto Council it was important to be proactive.

“Council has always worked with the State Government, where possible, to manage roosts and acted in the interests of residents who have contacted Council with concerns about bats,” Cr Lehmann said.

“Traditionally the number of complaints Council receives about bat colonies has been minimal however if the state government reassigns responsibility of bat management to local government Council could see a significant increase in complaints coming forward.”

Cr Lehmann said Council does not have expertise or experience in how to effectively manage bat roosts but was committed to doing the best for residents.

On Wednesday, 22 May, Somerset Regional Council endorsed implementation of an interim policy for the Management of Flying Fox Roosts.

“The key objective of the policy is protection of human health and amenity while recognising conservation of local flying fox populations,” Cr Lehmann said.

“The policy provides a responsible balance between managing complaints and concerns about flying foxes and the conservation of these native animals.”

Residents are encouraged to contact the state government about flying fox colonies before contacting Somerset Regional Council until management of bats has been officially transferred to local governments.

Twin Bridges/ Somerset Shire

SOMERSET Regional Council is adding cameras and electronic signs to the region’s flood early warning network.

Three river monitoring cameras and several electronic water over road signs will be installed across Somerset to better inform residents of a potential flood event.

These devices will add to Council’s existing state-of-the-art Flood Early Warning System which was installed last year.

Somerset Regional Council Mayor Graeme Lehmann said the purchase of additional equipment was an investment in the region and highlighted Council’s commitment to disaster preparedness.

“These cameras will provide Council officers with eyes on the ground across various locations. This capability will prove invaluable to delivering residents with accurate information in real time,” Cr Lehmann said.

“It will also assist Council staff in communicating impending road closures to residents due to dam releases or heavy rainfall.”

Council will purchase at least three cameras that will have the capability to operate day and night and will relay information and images in real time to not only Council but various emergency service personnel.

The cameras will be solar powered and have the capacity to last at least five to seven days on limited sunlight.

Cameras will be installed at Fernvale and Kilcoy.

Electronic water over road signs will be installed at various locations across Somerset however exact locations has not yet been decided.

Council will spend about $200,000 on the software and signage which has been partly funded by the Local Government Grants and Subsidies program.

This photograph shows no resemblance whatsoever to the cast, their stage gear or their relatives ( maybe that’s going too far)

Pirates of the Curry Been

has been years in the making. Maybe a slight exaggeration . Let’s say two months, involving late night scripting and rehearsals in back yard Toowoomba whilst pacifying the local residents. It is a labour of love for Ruby Slipperz and Tania Scherf, our morning News presenter, who sees herself on Broadway or in the London Theatre district before she turns 80. Ruby just sees herself on stage every day. For those of us lucky enough to have witnessed two previous performances, it is amazing to witness ‘live’ the talents of these two plus other reluctant budding actors in this free for all frolic with music, ham and great visual effects. If you’re bored, looking for something different and need a good belly laugh, grab a few friends and book a table. It will be a night you won’t forget in a hurry. Two shows and well worth the modest price.

It is with much pleasure that….

The Funny Bone Comedy Theatre Restaurant returns for yet another caper.

If you remember Robin the Hood, you’ll love The Pirates of the Curry Been.

Entertainment from Ruby Slipperz, The Sherriff, Tonie Prasser and the entire cast of people who wish to remain anonymous ( they wish to keep their day jobs) There’s dancing too with Niko who has penned a few tunes..

Rumours International

323 Ruthven Street, Toowoomba   Saturday June 1.

First in, best dressed.

$55 per head and includes a pirates meal ( whatever that is) but it’s sort of Caribbean.

Prepare yourself from 6.30pm Bookings at Rumours or call 0409 263384

As the mercury starts to fall across the State, the Queensland Fire and Rescue Service (QFRS) is urging residents to put fire safety first.

Winter is a typically busy period for firefighters, with more fires occurring in June, July and August, than any other time of year.

Last year, almost two fires were caused by cooking equipment every day in Queensland during the winter months. Kitchen fires are especially dangerous because they start very quickly and can spread to the rest of the house in just minutes.  Make certain too your Smoke alarms are operating and fully charged.

Dear River949 Admin Staff:
Tzu-Chi Charity Foundation run

the Appreciation Day events and winter food-aid distribution at the Ipswich State High School Hall on the 25th of May 2013 ( Saturday) from 1:30 till 4:00PM.

There will be a tea ceremony for encouraging the children to respect and appreciate  to their parents for raising them up. Also, they are going to give out 500 Environmental Eco Scarves as a gift to the guests who attend the Appreciation events to bring home.
Also, they will do another event on the same day which is the Winter Food Aid distribution for the people who held the Centrelink pensioner concession card or health care card, ID need to prove when collect the food parcel and free environmental blanket, limit 500 family. One per family. They also give out to the family who held the centrelink pensioner concession card or health care card for $50 Gift Voucher from Brassall Shopping Centre, Max 200 family. One per family.
Will you please help us to announce on the radio to let the family who is eligible for the winter food distribution to collect the food parcel and gift voucher, and all other public who can join the Appreciation day ( tea ceremony and  environmental recycling clothes show).
Your help will be appreciated.
Kind Regards,
Bonnie Huang