localtalk issue 17 december 2011

localtalk MAGAZINE

localtalk.com.au free // December 2011 // issue 17

feeling a lot likechristmas

2 LOCALTALK DECEMBER 11

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2 // LOCALTALK.COM.AU

Inside Cover by Robin Sellick

from his new book

Life & Times in the Republic of Broken Hill

www.republicofbrokenhill.com.au

LocalTalk Magazine is owned and operated by Brastin Pty Ltd (ACN 095 879 904) Shop 10 Exchange Arcade Argent Street Broken Hill NSW 2880. Copyright 2011 by Brastin Pty Ltd. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part is strictly forbidden without the written permission of the publisher. Brastin Pty Ltd accept no responsibility in respect of any

products, services or goods which may be presented in this magazine, or any errors,

omissions or mistakes in editorial references. This magazine can also be viewed online at:

www.localtalk.com.au

PRINTED BY BROKEN HILL PRINT

LocalTalk Magazine is made available FREE each month to each and every person with

over 100 locations stocking it in Broken Hill.

Editor-In-ChiefMiles Clothier

[email protected]

Sales & MarketingDeanne Lyall0400508659

[email protected]

Photographer Office Administrator

Niccy [email protected]

Andrew WestJason King

Niccy Starlet Ruby Lou

Ezekiel FrostBob Groves

Deirdrie EdwardsRawleigh Smith

Jenni BakerLyn Carthew

Golly the DogPaulette Mercer

Joel Sullivan

Front cover photography by Niccy Starlet.On the cover - Shondell Louise DeBrenni

Shop 10 Exchange Arcade 324 Argent Street, Broken HillNSW, 2880 - (08) 8087 5970

www.localtalk.com.au

Proudly supported by the Broken Hill Community Foundation

localtalk MAGAZINE

On December 1, Lifeline Broken Hill will receive an early Christmas present when thom, dick

and harry’s generously hand them a cheque for two thousand dollars.

Christmas day is supposed to be a fun, special day that is filled with love and family. Unfortunately, there are some less fortunate people who find the Christmas holidays to be not so pleasant. It’s important to give back to the community and help those people in need, if you shop locally, there is potential for more local businesses to be able to donate to local charities.

A donation tin will also be placed in thom, dick and harry’s and throughout December they’re offering a free gift-wrapping service, all they ask is that you make a donation. All the money raised in-store will also go to Lifeline Broken Hill. It doesn’t matter how large or small the donation is, every cent counts.

A special book launch took place at the Broken Hill Regional Art Gallery last month. The book,

Life and Times in the Republic of Broken Hill, was revealed to the public by photographer Robin Sellick, and writer Jack Marx.

A large crowd gathered at the art gallery for the unveiling, and among them were Mayor Wincen Cuy, comedian and writer Bryan Dawe, and the locals that were photographed by Robin for the book. Robin was thrilled at how many people attended the launch and feels grateful for all the support that both he and Jack have received.

The book is a remarkable take on the uniqueness of the Broken Hill locals who make the town so extraordinarily different. Life and Times in the Republic of Broken Hill is available from Browsers, Fancy That, and the Broken Hill Regional Art Gallery. It can also be purchased online at www.republicofbrokenhill.com.au

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DECEMBER 11 LOCALTALK 3

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17

5 New TV Channels 7 Christmas concert

10 Christmas Photo Comp12 Christmas Movies

15 Aussie Jingle Bells21-22 Christmas recipes

16 Teen Spotlight - Ethan Davis. 19 Ruby’s Corner.

28 Local Spotlight - The Figs.30 Eat Loval- Champion Pizza.

35 Service Guide.

Whats On

Regulars

LOCALTALK.COM.AU // 3

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ron perlman anD charlie hunnam in sons of anarchy


tV just starteD to kick-assWorDs localtalk

WAtch Out!

It wasn’t long ago that you couldn’t get a clear picture of SBS in Broken Hill, and if you did it was likely thatthe other two channels were out of service.

Since the introduction of Digital TV, Broken Hill now gets about ten more channels with crystal clear quality.

Southern Cross Austereo (GTSBKN) has been working hard since May of this year to install over 20 new transmitters to the Broken Hill/Spencer Gulf region. On December 14, Broken Hill will have five new television channels including 7Two, 7Mate, Go!, GEM and One—and all just in time for Christmas! In order to experience the new TV channels, you must own a digital set top box, or a digital TV.

The following are just some of the shows that viewers will be able to watch on the new channels.

GO!SeinfeldEntertainment TonightTMZMarried… with ChildrenJust Shoot MePower Rangers SamuraiKids’ WB WeekdaysBen 10Spin CityI Dream of JeannieGossip Girl

7TWOThe Martha Stewart Show The Dr. Oz Show Sons and Daughters

Coronation Street Designing WomenBrothers & Sisters Grey’s Anatomy

7MATEThe Six Million Dollar ManThe Incredible Hulk Adam-12Quantum Leap Malcolm & EddieXena: Warrior PrincessHercules: The Legendary Journeys The Drew Carey ShowHow I Met Your Mother

ONEThe DefendersBlue BloodsThe KillingJeopardy!America’s PortAn Idiot AbroadBlack GoldBurn NoticeCopsExtreme FishingFear FactorIce Road TruckersSons of Anarchy (pictured left)

GEMThe Golden GirlsTodayAlive and CookingThe ZooFriendsWeeds

6 LOCALTALK NOVEMBER 11


Christmas is almost here, so why not slow down and relax at Theatre 44’s one-off Christmas concert. With appearances from BIU Band, Anna Canillas, Outburst Singers, and the Youth Drama Group, it should be a great afternoon of entertainment.

The BIU Band is a local brass band that plays at different venues around town. Anna Canillas has a wonderful voice, as anyone who has heard her sing will agree. Outburst Singers are a group of young singers who will entertain the audience with a song or two. The Youth Drama Group is a group of high school students who will perform a short skit.

During the interval, the canteen will be selling homemade cakes and an assortment of hot and cold drinks. All of the money made from the Christmas concert will go towards maintaining the theatre, so that more shows can be put on next year.

Where: Theatre 44, 189 Wills Street When: Sunday, December 18Time: 2:30 pmCost: $5 at the door

concert!theatre 44 christmas

WorDs paulette mercerimage niccy starlet

Proudly present their Christmas concert, Deck the Halls, on Sunday, 18 December at 3pm in the Musicians Club auditorium.

The entertainment is being organised by Ken Barnett and will include a feast of Christmas music, featuring two Australian carols, a comedy item, and two carols by John Rutter.

The full Philharmonic Choir will perform and the concert will also feature solo guest appearances by Andrew Harris, Loraine Mcintyre, Anna Canillas and Diane Cotterill. Marilyn and John Harris will perfom a duet and Betty Pearson will entertain the audience with a recitation.

A group of choir ladies will also lead a Christmas carol sing-along.

A raffle will be drawn at the concert and raffle tickets can be purchased on the day for $1. The first prize is a digital TV with built in DVD player and the second prize is a Christmas hamper.

Concert tickets will soon be on sale at various sites around the city, or from any Philharmonic Choir member. Admission prices are: adults $12, concession $9 and children $6.

Come along for an afternoon of fun-filled entertainment and great value for money.

the broken hill philharmonic choir

repertory group at theatre 44

WorDs raWleigh smith


108 Galena Street - 8087 5382


localtalk VisiteD emma stenhouse in her quaint little seWing stuDio to talk about her neW business Venture, mint WilloW stuDio. What does Mint Willow Studio stock? Handmade gifts that are crafted with love.

When did you realise that you had a passion for sewing? I started sewing six months after our daughter died. It was something to keep me sane. At first, I didn’t even know how to sew a button on, but my mum taught me and my neighbour gave me her sewing machine. I got some books on sewing and that was how it started, about three and a half years ago.

Where does the name Mint Willow come from? Mint green is my favourite colour and I think there is something magical about willow trees.

When did you first think about starting a business? At the start of the year. I then thought about supporting SIDS and that became my inspiration. I wanted to do something positive.

Can the public view Mint Willow Studio’s lovely products?Yes, at the moment it’s by appointment.

What’s Mint Willow Studio’s involvement with SIDS and Kids? Before my daughter Asha passed away, I

thought SIDS and Kids only dealt with parents who had lost a baby from SIDS. I didn’t realise they gave support to grieving families that have lost their child due to other causes. After Asha passed away, I received phone support from SIDS. The helpline they have is a 24-hour service for people that are grieving. I also found support by logging into their online message board. I’ve made a lot of great friends through their message board. A lot of the people I’ve spoken to through SIDS were parents that had been through what I went through. I donate 10% of everything that I sell to SIDS and Kids, and I want to thank them for the support they have given to my family.

Are all of Mint Willow’s products handmade? Yes, at the moment. I’ve made everything in the studio myself. I’ve also recently started stocking my friends’ handmade products. I am happy to be able to support other mums that love to sew as much as I do. Because I’ve worked in childcare I wanted to make toys that are safe. The toys that Mint Willow stock are developmentally age appropriate and safe for kids to play with.

Where do you see Mint Willow Studio in five years? I’d like to go bigger and better later on and I’d love to eventually have a shop front.

Are your children a part of your inspiration? Definitely. Lachlan and Fraser are my top priority in life. They are also my little guinea pigs and I try out the products that I make on them.

Do you have any fundraisingevents coming up? Next year I will be holding a ‘do it in red day’, which is a fundraiser for SIDS. The idea is that you hold any kind of event and the theme for the event is ‘do it in red’. I will start planning that after Christmas.

emma stenhouse


chRIstMAs phOtO cOMp!

Win this amazing prize pack ValueD at $200 thanks to shutterbug anD localtalk.

the first thing you need to do is email your best christmas photo to [email protected] or bring it into either the localtalk office or shutterbug in argent street.

next we’ll upload it to our facebook for the public to view and vote. the more people you get to vote the better chance you have of winning, so after you enter tell all your friends and family to find us on facebook and start voting.

only one entry per person, so choose carfully anD please amature photographers only.entries close anD Voting stops at 12:30pm on friDay the 23rD of December 2011, so get snapping.

NOVEMBER 11 LOCALTALK 11


Season’s greetings! The festive season is upon us once again. It is the time to reflect upon the year, to cherish our newly made memories with family and loved ones, and of course, to partake in just a little too much food and liquid merriment.

It is also a great opportunity to kick back and relax, and what finer way to relax than by watching a film. The great medium that as Fellini once said: ‘recreates life in movement, enlarges it, enhances it, distils it. It’s not just an art form; it’s actually a new form of life, with its own rhythms, cadences, perspectives and transparencies. It’s the way of telling a story.’

Of course, at Christmas time it’s only natural to gravitate towards the films that are Christmas themed, or at least set at Christmas time. This month, I recommend to you my top 5 Christmas films.

Bad Santa (2003) – This black comedy starring Billy Bob Thornton certainly isn’t for everyone, but for those that are just a little disdainful about the holiday season it is a crude, vulgar and often hilarious insight into a man initially devoid of Christmas spirit. This film is the perfect choice for those people who consider themselves immune to the festive season.

Die Hard (1988) – The quintessential action film; genre redefining. There is nothing quite like getting into the Christmas spirit than by watching Bruce Willis toting machine guns and single-handedly taking on a building full of terrorists that are staging a theft during an office Christmas party. The definitive holiday action classic. “Yippee ki-yay”

The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993) – This stop-motion classic brought to you from the mind of Tim Burton (Edward Scissorhands, Big Fish, Alice In Wonderland) is a dastardly ghoulish affair in which Jack Skellington, leader of Halloween town, discovers and consequently tries to take over Christmas Town. A sweet little fable for the kids with plenty for the adults also.

Home Alone (1990) – This is the film that made half a billion dollars worldwide and catapulted Macaulay Culkin into the spotlight. The tale of a little boy accidentally left at home while his family travel to Paris for Christmas. Learning to fend for himself, little Kevin McCallister must fight off two would-be intruders who try to rob the family home. Hi-jinks and slapstick ensue. One for the whole family to enjoy.

Love Actually (2003) – A romantic comedy set in London, following the love lives of eight couples that are all in some way loosely linked to one another. There’s something here for everyone to relate to, whether it be unrequited love, family devotion or just the awkwardness of a bumbling Brit trying to woo a woman with no idea what he’s doing (incredibly not played by Hugh Grant, who made a career out of this). Romantic comedy at its finest.

Merry Christmas to one and all. Till next time…

ezekiel frost

accorDing to frost: top 5 christmas films

billy bob thornton (Willie) - baD santa

bruce Willis (john mcclane) - Die harD

jack skellington - the nightmare befor christmas


Every Christmas Eve there is always a debate going on about what to watch. The lights on the Christmas tree flicker in the background as the family sit down to watch their first Christmas movie. The first movie of the night is for the

kids, which Mum and Dad hope will send them off to sleep so they can squeeze in a movie for themselves, before wrapping the rest of the presents.

A lot of families like to get together on Christmas Eve to sit in front of the television and enjoy some light-hearted Christmas movies. Miles, Editor In Chief of Local Talk, also likes to sit down to watch a movie on Christmas Eve. When Miles was a boy he would settle down in front of the TV with a big cheese pizza, just like Kevin McCallister (Macaulay Culkin) in Home Alone.

Miles and Niccy thought that this would be a great opportunity to share their favourite Christmas movies with readers. Here are some

great movies for you and your family to rent from the video shop this Christmas Eve.

Miles’ favourite Christmas movies * Home Alone [PG]: ‘I’ve loved this movie ever since I was a kid. I used to always picture myself as Kevin, because he was a little prankster. I am also a big John Hughes fan.’

* Die Hard [R]: ‘It’s an action and Christmas movie all in one, which is awesome.’

* Gremlins [PG]

* We Wish You a Turtle Christmas -TMNT [PG]

Niccy’s favourite Christmas movies * The Munster’s Scary Little Christmas [PG]: ‘They’re the kooky family we all love and they’re trying to fit into the Christmas festivities. It’s a funny, light-hearted, yet odd Christmas movie.’

* The Nightmare Before Christmas [PG]: ‘Tim Burton’s classic cult Christmas movie with a dark side. The quirky, twisted, odd characters in this Christmas movie make it an interesting take on Christmas Eve celebrations.’

WorDs localtalkour favourites

billy bob thornton (Willie) - baD santa

jack skellington - the nightmare befor christmas

macaulay culkin (keVin mccallister) - home alone


Dashing through the bush, in a rusty Holden Ute, Kicking up the dust, esky in the boot. Kelpie by my side, singing Christmas songs, It’s Summer time and I am in my singlet, shorts and thongs.

Oh! Jingle bells, jingle bells, jingle all the way, Christmas in Australia on a scorching summers day, hey! Jingle bells, jingle bells, Christmas time is beaut, Oh what fun it is to ride in a rusty Holden Ute.

Engine’s getting hot; we dodge the

kangaroos, The swaggie climbs aboard, he is welcome too. All the family’s there, sitting by the pool, Christmas Day the Aussie way, by the barbecue.


Come the afternoon, Grandpa has a doze,

The kids and Uncle Bruce, are swimming in their clothes. The time comes ‘round to go, we take the family snap, Pack the car and all shoot through, before the washing up.


aussie jingle bells

Broken hillBillies- merry xmas


A young local apprentice chef shares his story about his passion for cooking… Ethan Davis

Ethan’s parents suspected that their son had a love for cooking at a young age. Ethan used to stand on a box in the kitchen to see over the counter when he was helping his mother bake sweet goods. Like every child, Ethan was guilty of indulging in the leftover cake mix, but his main love was seeing the end result of what was created.

By age 15, Ethan was initiated into the busy hospitality industry at the Southern Cross Hotel’s restaurant. Ethan was happy to start off by washing dishes and scrubbing floors, but just knowing that he had a foot in the door was exciting for him. Once Ethan knew his way around the kitchen he started assisting the chef and cooking meals. Learning how to cook steak, schnitzel and kangaroo was fantastic experience for Ethan.

When Ethan started his new job, he was still in his senior year at Willyama High School. Juggling high school as well as his job was a struggle, but Ethan was determined to succeed at both. In 2010, Ethan successfully completed his HSC while at the same time working to reach his potential in the hospitality industry. Ethan craved a new cooking challenge and now that he was older he wanted something

more permanent. After completing his HSC, Ethan was accepted into an apprenticeship at Broken Earth restaurant. It was the chance he had been waiting for.

Eleven months on, and Ethan is thriving at Broken Earth restaurant. Working under the talented chef Katie Clifford, Ethan is learning everything about high quality foods. It is only the first year of his apprenticeship and Ethan has already had some great experiences. When TV personality Iain “Huey” Hewitson of Huey’s Cooking Adventures came to Broken Hill, Ethan assisted Katie on the hit show to produce a high quality Broken Hill dish. Another proud moment for Ethan was when he cooked a meal for famous singer-songwriter, John Williamson.

Ethan is blessed to be in the position that he is in right now. To be learning his trade overlooking the lights of Broken Hill is a spectacular opportunity. After completion of his apprenticeship, Ethan plans to travel the world, cooking and inspiring young chefs by what he has learned.

You never know, perhaps one day we will be watching Ethan’s Cooking Adventures.

Smoked bacon rashers with fried eggs, grilled Italian chipolata sausages, oven roasted mushrooms and roma tomatoes, all served on fluffy buttermilk pancakes Or Toasted ciabatta bread$17.50

Crispy potato rosti served with smoked salmon, poached egg wilted baby spinach and verjuice hollandaise.$15.50

Smoked Boston baked beans served on olive oil sourdough with parmesan and rocket.$15.50

French toast with grilled smoked bacon rashers and maple syrup$15.50

Blueberry and ricotta pancakes served with lemon curd and double thick cream$15.50

Oven baked field mushrooms topped with Fetta and sundried tomatoes with grilled gypsy speck and toasted sourdough.$17.50

Freshly baked croissant served with fluffy scrambled eggs and wood smoked ham$15.50

Grilled smoked bacon rashers with (2) fried eggs served on toasted olive oil sourdough$15.50

Breakfast parfait of fresh seasonal fruit, crunchy toasted muesli and a vanilla rosewater yoghurt.$10.50

A taste of what ethan is serving up for brunch @ broken earth


After completion of his apprenticeship, Ethan plans to travel the world, cooking and inspiring young chefs by what he has learned.

WorDs localtalk image niccy starlet

ethan DaVis @ broken earth


Below is a list of problem foods and how they can affect your dog.

• Macadamia nuts can cause paralysis and other side effects, which can eventually lead to death

• Broccoli can lead to gastrointestinal irritation

• Peaches and plums can cause inflammation of the small intestine

• Fat trimmings from meat can cause pancreatitis

• Chocolate can cause an abnormal heart rhythm, which can eventually lead to death

• Onions and garlic can destroy red blood cells, causing anaemia

• Grapes can cause kidney failure

• The fruit, leaves, and seeds of Avocado contain Persin, which can be lethal to dogs

• Cooked bones can splinter and tear your dog’s insides, causing internal bleeding

• Ham can be hard for dogs to digest properly

• Alcohol affects the liver and can cause vomiting, diarrhoea, central nervous system depression, problems with coordination, difficulty breathing, coma and even death

• Raw eggs can cause skin irritations

• Sugary foods can lead to obesity and diabetes

The warning signs to look out for in dogs include:• Weakness• Lethargy• Vomiting• Loss of appetite• Difficulty breathing• Rapid or very slow

breathing• Diarrhoea• Blood in faeces

• Problems with coordination

• Restlessness• Depression • Fever • Muscle tremors• Seizures • Sudden changes in the

dog’s behaviour

It is best to feed dogs a good brand of dog food, and dog treats that are specifically made for dogs. It can be difficult to resist feeding your dog when it is looking at you and pleading for a tasty treat, but the best way to keep your dog from getting sick is by feeding it the right food.

Training tip of the month: touchDogs crave mental stimulation and when they don’t receive it they can start to display behaviour such as digging, barking, pacing and chewing, which

indicates that they are bored. Try training your dog to respond to the command ‘touch’, in order to earn food from you. To teach this trick to your dog, place your flat hand out in front of you with your palm facing the sky, and move it near your dog’s nose. When your dog moves his nose over to sniff your hand and makes contact, say ‘touch’ and give the dog some food. Practise this a few times with your dog and it will learn that when you say ‘touch’, it means they should touch their nose to your hand. You will eventually be able to move your hand to different areas and your dog will walk over to touch your hand for a piece of kibble. Remember to say ‘all done’ after you feed the dog, and show them your empty hands. This lets your dog know that the training session is over.

Dangerous Foods at christmas

it is the festiVe season again; the season of gooD fooD anD happy holiDays With family anD frienDs. it is also the time of year When many Dogs get sick from eating fooD that is

Dangerous to them.

jasper


Hi guys, Yes, it’s the little white snowball that loves to dig, and loves to fill you in on the latest doggy gossip. Don’t you just love the photo of me in my Christmas outfit? My Mum took the photo before Christmas because it’s now far too hot to wear doggy clothes.

There are a lot of doggy costumes that come out at Christmas, but please think about your doggy being too hot. Christmas in Broken Hill means a hot summer day. Instead of dressing us up in our finest, think about keeping us hydrated. We may look cute in Santa’s coat and Mrs Claus’ dress, but we doggies need to stay cool in summer.

Remember that we need plenty of water (not eggnog) and that we want to lay about under the air cooler, not ride around in the car delivering Christmas presents. For those doggies with hair, we want our hair to be cut back so that we can stay cool and not look like a big Christmas snowball.

I hope you all have an amazing Christmas and get lots of fun presents. This summer, be mindful of my four legged friends in the heat and remember that you can always call the local RSPCA for summer tips.

Drop me a bone at: [email protected]

ruby’s corner

Hi, my name is Golly. I am a black Maltese Shitzu, and I live with my brothers and sisters. On October 13 I decided to go for a wander, but I got lost and couldn’t find my way home. My mum put up posters and put many ads in the paper and radio to try and find me.

Many people were out looking for me. My mum thought the worst, however on the night of October 28 a nice man from Stirling Vale Station on the Adelaide road found me and rang mum to come and get me. I had been wandering for 15 days with little to no food and water. When mum saw me she couldn’t believe it. I was very skinny and full of prickles. My paws were worn but the nice man that found me gave me a delicious bone to chew on. I went home and had a nice bath and hopped up on the bed to go to sleep. Since then I have slowly been putting on weight and am happy to be home with my brothers and sisters. Will I wander again? Who knows, but I do have a very nice tracking device now!

ruby’s mates

kouta james

golly

beau jacker

pancackes teddy


Try making this delicious White Christmas recipe for your family to indulge in over Christmas. The great thing about making White Christmas is that there is no oven baking involved. The slice is very rich and sweet, and is best served by cutting it into small pieces. White Christmas is a great Christmas gift idea and looks lovely when stylishly gift-wrapped.

Serves: 30Preparation time: 15 minutes

Ingredients: 3 cups Rice Bubbles1 cup full cream powdered milk1 cup of coconut250g copha¾ cup icing sugar 30g glacé apricots30g glacé cherries, red and green½ cup sultanas30g pineapple

Method: 1. Line a 28 x 18cm baking tin with baking paper.

2. Melt copha until it reaches a smooth consistency. Add melted copha and all other ingredients to a large mixing bowl. Mix thoroughly.

3. Compress mixture into tin and refrigerate until firm.

4. Cut into serving sized slices.

whItE chIRstMAsREcIpE


Classic Cherry Cheer Punch Christmas Ingredients:500ml vodka650ml Cherry liqueur6 bottles champagne ( or keep adding to taste)2L Fruits of the Forest juice1L dry ginger ale1L soda water1pkt frozen Fruits of the Forest berry mix¼ cup mint leaves (optional) MethodPlace 200ml vodka 300ml Cherry Liqueur and ½ L Fruits of the Forest juice in plastic cups Freeze overnight.Put the fruit into a large bowl or bucket. Pour in the remaining vodka, Cherry Liqueur, fruit juice, dry ginger ale and soda water.Add six or more bottles of chilled champagne, along with the frozen cups, mint, stir and enjoy.

Lyn’s awesome

cherrycheer

When I was a child, I used to read Christmas storybooks. I would look at the illustrations and discover a white snowy Christmas where the kids in the stories were making snowballs, constructing a snowman, and drinking warm eggnog.

I would imagine the feel of snowflakes falling onto my arms, only to snap out of my daydream when I looked up at the hot, red dirt that surrounded me as I sat in my backyard, in Broken Hill. I used to dream of a white winter Christmas, and I am sure that on the other side of the world someone was dreaming of a summer Christmas.

I appreciate the Aussie Christmas experience and know that there is so much to enjoy.

Pool parties are a must during the holidays, and watching my family splash around in the pleasantly cold pool is so much fun. As the sun sets, the barbecue fires up and cold beverages are cracked open to a big cheer by all.

Instead of buying heaters, we are running out to buy fans and instead of sitting in a hot bath, we are sitting in a cold-water shell-shaped pool that we just bought from the Reject Shop. People can be seen walking around wearing bathers under their clothes, and thongs are worn religiously throughout the summer (Havaianas would be getting a buck or two over the summer holidays).

During the Aussie Christmas holidays, we should remember to carry these essential items in our

bags: * Sunscreen * Water* A pair of thongs* Sunglasses* A hat

Please think about the positives of a summer Christmas and look forward to the summer fun that you can have with your family. At the end of the day, family is what should matter at Christmas. Family coming together to share a bon-bon or two is the pure spirit of Christmas—it’s not just about presents.

I hope that you all have a wonderful Christmas, and just have fun!

WorDs localtalk

summer christmas

WorDs anDreW West image archiVe


The Broken Hill Chamber of Commerce is starting a new campaign to promote local business. They have noticed that the potential for business opportunities is going out of town. Often the local people in Broken Hill haven’t even been considered for tenders. The Chamber decided it would be a good time

to arrange a campaign to try and keep the money in Broken Hill.

The Chamber are asking anyone who is buying anything to consider local business as an option. Whether it’s a consumer, or a business seeking supplies, please give the local a go. We should be proud of our town and our businesses because they are a part of the heritage of our city.

It has been estimated that between 20 to 30 million dollars worth of business goes out of

Broken Hill every year, which is a lot of money. Even 10% of that amount would create employment for between 30 and 40 people.

It seems easier to use the internet, or callt a store in Mildura to get goods delivered. But if we all did this, we would have no local

shops and perhaps even not much of a town left in the future. However, it’s not all up to consumers. Local businesses have to deliver customer service that meets the expectations of the consumer. Businesses also need a good marketing strategy so that they can tell the community what they have to offer.

It’s been a tough year and it is up to all of us to make next year better, so remember to give local a go.

“Whether it’s a consumer, or a business seeking supplies, please giVe the local a go. We shoulD be prouD of our toWn...”

WorDs anDreW West image archiVe


On July 29, 1945 Broken Hill mining was recovering from the repercussions of war and the townsfolk rallied together to host a huge Monster Carnival. Over 7000 people attended the event and

in addition to the usual carnival attractions, the Council arranged a Wheelbarrow Derby. This event inspired local miners to race their wheelbarrows and demonstrate the strength and unity that Broken Hill is renowned for.

In the 1970s, Menindee road was the site of another wheelbarrow event, The Lake to Lake

Run, which finished at the Zinc Lakes. Training for the event was a must, and wheelbarrows were fitted with a keg of beer to allow for a celebration at the finish.

1983 was Broken Hill’s Centenary year, marking 100 years since mining first began in the town. To celebrate, the Centenary Committee organised The Centenary Push, in honour of the Wheelbarrow Push from Burra to Broken Hill that took place in the late 1870s. When the rich copper mines of Burra began to wind down, some miners left Burra and pushed their barrows

towards the riches of Broken Hill. The Centenary Push commemorated the link between Broken Hill and Burra.

The Centenary Push included runners and teams from all states. The barrows were loaded with a miners kit consisting of a shovel, a pick, an axe, a bar, two blankets, two billies, some water, flour, salt and sugar. The barrow also contained two beers, as an acknowledgement of the fact that Broken Hill had the highest number of pubs per capita in its richest years. Training for the race was taken seriously, because the 94.1km leg of


the race from Terowie to Yunta was regarded as the deadliest stretch of the run. Names like Hash House Harriers and Barrow Boys gave the run a team spirit, and the Dampier Salt Shakers were the team that took the $10 000 prize winnings from this race. John Williamson even wrote the song ‘Paint your Wheelbarrow’ for the event. The races between Burra and Broken Hill were repeated in 1986 and 1988.

To commemorate these events and our birth as a mining city, the prolific local women’s art group, Gaara Arts Inc, are currently holding

an art exhibition titled ‘One Barrow, One Shovel: The Great Wheel Barrow Pushes’ at The Albert Kersten Mining and Minerals Museum. The exhibition includes a display of historical memorabilia from the wheelbarrow pushes. The display includes an original wheelbarrow, souvenirs and pictorial history. Gaara Arts Inc has been exhibiting for three years and recently held a smaller version of the Burra to Broken Hill Wheelbarrow Push at Burra Regional Art Gallery. The exhibition runs until January 14, 2012 and includes displays from painters, textile and jewellery artists, printmakers and sculptors.

‘one barroW, one shoVel: the great Wheel barroW pushes’

A BARROW OF hIstORy

WorDs DeirDre eDWarDs image archiVe


hill FM has a new segment called Secret Sound in which listeners have to guess an odd sound that is played to them over the radio. Listeners have

the chance to win over $1000, thanks to the Democratic Club’s, Pulse nightclub. This may sound like an easy task, but it is actually quite tricky because the sound is always an odd sound that a lot of people struggle to guess.

Single mother, Donna Marcon, hit the jackpot when she guessed the correct answer to a particular sound. LocalTalk is still amazed at how Donna guessed correctly, because the sound was the noise of thumbtacks being thrown from one hand to the other. In all honesty, Donna is also baffled as to how she guessed the sound correctly. Donna was listening to the Secret Sound segment and decided to call the station and make a guess. The pressure of being put on the spot made Donna give an answer that she thought would be wrong, but to her surprise the radio announcer told her that she had won.

Hill FM and Ben Offord of the Democratic Club, were happy to call Donna into the station to announce her prize. Ben was pleased to hand Donna a cheque for $1930.

Donna is thrilled to have won and would like to thank Hill FM and the Democratic Club. Donna says she is going to think about how she will spend her prize money. One of her options is to visit her daughter and new granddaughter in Townsville.

a winner at last


image miles clothierWorDs localtalk

Donna marcon With her cheque


<<<

If you remember local band The Figs, then this month is your chance to catch them live again for the first time in eight years. The band, consisting of band members, Jim Niarros (drums), Justin Roberts (vocals), Mick Burrows (lead guitar), Serg Bressinelli (rhythm guitar) and Con Prentos (Bass), is reforming for a cause. They are playing a series of special gigs in December to raise money for Emily Roberts, Justin’s two-and-a-half-year-old daughter, who is off to Sydney for a life-changing operation. ‘We were already jamming together just for fun and we thought—let’s play some gigs and raise some money.’ says Jim. Emily was born with the rare blood condition, Diamond Blackfurn Anemia. She was diagnosed at eight weeks old and has been forced to undergo regular blood transfusions ever since. The only cure, which has a bright prospect for success, is a bone marrow transplant. The transplant is made more encouraging due to the fact that Emily’s sister is a perfect match as a donor.

‘Besides the bone marrow transplant there is nothing else that can be done,’ says Justin. ‘Based on worldwide statistics, the operation has an 80% chance of success and the fact that it is in Australia will enhance that further.’

The operation will take place in Sydney and Justin, Emily and the family will need to spend three months there during Emily’s treatment. Justin’s wife and her friends have been raising money to help support the family on their trip by holding cake stalls, and the band wanted to help out too.

For those who haven’t heard The Figs perform, they play a range of cover songs from bands such as Foo Fighters, the Living End, Shihad, Metallica and Blink 182. They will be performing at the Southern Cross Hotel on December 9, and at The Palace on December 17. Jim says that the band is looking forward to playing the gigs and hopes to get as many people down to the venues as possible. ‘We wanted to encourage people to come and support a great cause, even if they don’t really like the music we are playing. We will have donation tins set up and people can donate some money if they want to.’ Head to the Southern Cross and the Palace Hotel this December for your chance to hear The Figs. You will have a great night and help a fantastic cause for a local family. If you can’t make it but would like to help out, contact Local Talk and we will put you in touch with Justin.

WorDs jason king image miles clothier

thE FIGsARE BAck!

emily roberts

2011 figs. jim niarros, mick burroWs, justin roberts, con prentos, serg bressinelli


LS - 45

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2011 figs. jim niarros, mick burroWs, justin roberts, con prentos, serg bressinelli


the Champion Pizza Bar has new owners, Chad and Helen Heffernan. The pizza bar has been refurbished by Chad, who is a self-employed carpenter and joiner as well as an expert in everything that is pizza. Helen has experience in customer service as a hairdresser, and has worked in cafes before. With a lot of hard work from Chad and Helen, Broken Hill now has a new, local family business that is dedicated to serving great cuisine. Chad has a passion for pizza and he jumped at the opportunity to take over his favourie pizza bar. He has tried pizza all over Australia and has now released his own range at Champion.

Champion not only have the best pizza available in Broken Hill, but they also offer a new range of homestyle pasta dishes. They also have vegetarian pasta, pizza and lasagna on the menu, so there is something for everyone. There is extra service if you choose to eat in at the neat and tidy cafe-style dining area, and home delivery is also available.

Chad and Helen are currently looking into getting a new oven to satisfy demand and reduce the waiting time for their valued customers. There are also plans to open for lunch in the new year, and several new dishes are to be added to the existing menu.

Head to 27 Sulphide Street for aChampion meal between 5PM and 10PM, Tuesday - Friday.

WE ARE thE chAMpIONs!


...he has trieD pizza all oVer australia anD

has noW releaseD his oWn range at

champion.

WE ARE thE chAMpIONs!WorDs anDreW West

images miles clothier

helen anD chaD heffernan


Perilya is constantly looking for people who are interested in working in the local mining industry. If you are interested in long-term work that may involve training, Perilya would like to hear from you.

The level of technology has increased, so training is more important than ever. Perilya have a system where employees can work their way around different positions to build experience, which may take several years. They need people who want to stay on a long-term basis, because it is important that the job is done properly. Safety is of utmost importance and it does take time for people to learn how to operate safely in a hazardous environment.

There are many varied jobs at Perilya and some people are employed having had no experience in mining at all. Perilya employ people in a varied range of trades, along with professional staff in engineering, geology and metallurgy. If you are interested in working with the team at Perilya, you can send your resume and any other relevent information to them via their website at www.perilya.com.au/jobs. Keep in mind that Perilya wants people that are willing to stay and learn, because it is important to keep experienced employees on the job.

Employment for the future

WorDs anDreW West image miles clothier


in the January edition of localtalk Magazine

Merry Christmas

& Happy

New Year

Merry Christmas

& Happy

New Yearfrom Management & Staff at

Look out for our exciting 2012 course offerings

Look out for our exciting 2012 course offerings

Enrol Now!Enrolments are now open.

Places are limited!

BUSY KIDSChild Care

Catering for children aged 2 - 5 years

Full day or casualcare available

Friendly family environment

Professional, fun, passionate team

Visit www.busykidschildcare.com.au to download an enrolment form or call Jenny

on 0401 088 840 for more information.


The Broken Hill Chamber of Commerce congratulates

THE SHELL MEMORIAL SERVICE STATION

(Interpersonal Service)

SUMMALICIOUS (Catering Excellence)

THE ASTRA & ANDREW BEVARNE (Creative Innovation) Hot Food – Cool Jazz

For a demonstrated commitment to

Customer Service Excellence November, 2011.

Please contact the Chamber if you would like to nominate an individual or organisation for

an Award. The Chamber would like to thank Award sponsors:

As Christmas approaches, let’s think about how we spend our money and gift our choices back to our local community.

With the Give A Local A Go Campaign taking its place on the local marketing stage, Christmas one of the most important times of the year to consider how we spend our Christmas dollar. While it is easy to surf the new may argue that it is easy to surf the net for goods, what is the cost to our community? Where we chose to eat, shop and spend our free time makes us Broken Hill. Giving A Local A Go increases the capacity of our local businesses to provide sponsorship for sporting teams, fundraisers and events and increases the opportunity for our kids to work experience for our children and local traineeships and apprenticeships. Let’s support our local families and businesses this Christmas Think Local First – Buy Local When You Can. The Board of the Broken Hill Chamber of Commerce would like to wish everyone a very safe and Merry Christmas and a successful 2012.

Find us at: 164 Argent Street, BROKEN HILL, NSW, 2880. Ph: 08 8087 2236 / M: 0400 872 236.

Stuck on an idea for Christmas?

Why not buy a gift voucher from one of our local retailers?

The number of products and services offered by Broken Hill retailers are endless…. Car tune up, body massage, night out on the town, movie night,

MERRY CHRISTMAS

sERvIcE GuIDE

‘Exchange Arcade’

Merry ChristMas to all

localtalk issue 17 december 2011

Documents

republic of broken hill

lifeline broken hill

broken hill locals

broken hillnsw

brastin pty

special book launch

robin sellickfrom

christmas day