The resource industry's impact on Toowoomba skyrockets - Toowoomba Chronicle

The resource sector contributed 27% of Toowoomba’s total GRP for 2013-2014, a 5% increase on last year. AAP

FIGURES released by the Queensland Resources Council show a significant increase in the total economic contribution by the resource sector in Toowoomba since last year.

Released on Friday at the QRC State of the Sector luncheon in Brisbane, the figures show that for the 2013-2014 year, the resource sector contributed $2.5 billion to Toowoomba's gross regional product and injected $1.2 billion, by way of direct spend, into Toowoomba's economy.

Based on these figures, the resource sector contributed 27% of Toowoomba's total GRP for 2013-2014, a 5% increase on last year.

The results also revealed a significant win for the industry as a whole in the Darling Downs, with the sector now contributing 25% of the regions total GRP, up from 7% in 2010-2011.

In addition, at least one in five jobs across the Darling Downs are now also indirectly related to the resource sector.

Toowoomba and Surat Basin Enterprise's chief executive officer Shane Charles said these statistics highlighted the continued success of the region's thriving energy sector.

"These figures showcase the vitality of the resource sector in Toowoomba and the value it holds as a key economic driver for local business," Mr Charles said.

"It also reinforces that opportunities in the resource sector are not going anywhere and are actually going from strength to strength."

"This sector has proved to be an important part of the economy and we must strive to ensure all industries can exist and prosper."

Toowoomba team third as Rip City claims RBL title - Warwick Daily News

TOOWOOMBA Protech had to settle for third in the Ag Requirements Regional Basketball League despite hosting the finals.

The Toowoomba outfit finished the regular season third after the final round of matches on Saturday and Sunday at Downlands College.

Sunshine Coast-based Rip City was tied at the top of the ladder on 10 wins and four losses with Bundaberg's Oz Intensity, with Kingaroy fourth

Protech took on Oz Intensity in the semi-finals, with the Bundaberg squad prevailing 55-43 to progress to the grand final.

They faced Rip City in the decider after it downed a dogged Kingaroy 37-28 in the other semi-final.

Rip City proved too strong in the decider and defeated Oz Intensity 75-62 to take out the RBL premiership.

The Sunshine Coast team led at every change but had to work hard to hold off the consistent challenge from defending premiers Ox Intensity.

Shane Davis from Oz Intensity nailed three three-pointers in the first quarter but Rip City managed to lead 25-19 at the first change.

That advantage was seven points at the half and three-quarter time breaks before Rip City held on in the final term. Rip City's Sean Murphy was named man of the match.

Toowoomba's Academy Bucket Squad might have missed the finals but they managed to beat Rip City 46-45 in the last round on Saturday.

Dalby also managed to take out the womens final.

Results

Regional Basketball League finals

Grand final: Rip City 75 def Oz Intensity 62

Semi-finals: Oz Intensity 55 def Toowoomba Protech 43, Rip City 37 def Kingaroy 28

Toowoomba dogs have day out with new kennels - Toowoomba Chronicle

NEW HOME: Centenary Heights year 10 construction students (from left) Nathan Bizzell, Jack Austin, Mitchell Peckham, Kaleb Genrich, Andrew Lacey, Will Fitzpatrick and Connor Hills with RSPCA’s Gabi Crispin and Luna. Rachael Murray

A HIGH-SCHOOL project has come in handy for Toowoomba's struggling four-legged friends.

The Centenary Heights State High School year 10 construction students have built dog kennels - one to suit every shape and size - for their semester project.

The kennels will be donated to RSPCA Toowoomba.

Student Jack Austin said they made the kennels from scratch, working in teams.

Their teachers Jamie Hunt and Mike Hetherington were proud of what the students had accomplished and said having a good cause as the goal was a great motivator.

"This is a taster program to help students decide if they want to take on construction in senior," Mr Hunt said.

"Knowing what the project was for (the RSPCA) helped them keep that quality of work and got the kids thinking about a good cause.

"They've been keen knowing the RSPCA was involved and jumped on the idea from the start."

RSPCA's Gabi Crispin and her dog Luna were equally excited about the kennels, particularly as the organisation is at a point where it needs all the help it can get.

As Luna tested out the doggy homes, Ms Crispin

"We're at capacity. Our policy is not to put any animals down so if we can't fit them, we won't take them," she said.

"It's always a hard time of year. We've had so many people surrendering their animals and breeders who can't find a home."

To find out how you can help RSCPA visit their website at http://ift.tt/1pDLL3K toowoomba

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Toowoomba Tigers fall to Chargers in home ATL round - Toowoomba Chronicle

HOME court advantage could not help Toowoomba get over the line in the latest round of Asia Pacific Tennis League Queensland Conference on Sunday.

The Tigers hosted the full round of matches and played Tennis Brisbane Chargers at Toowoomba Regional Tennis Centre - USQ.

The Toowoomba men were unable to win a match going down 6-0 to the Chargers while the Tigers women lost 5-1 thanks to one victory by Arlena Day.

Toowoomba also lost 6-0 in men's and women's action against Beenleigh on Friday night as the win-less season continued for the Tigers.

"We played a few three-setters but unfortunately couldn't get any," Toowoomba manager Gavin Wright said.

The Tigers pushed their opponents but couldn't quite come up with crucial breaks at the right times.

"Our guys did a good job today. They fought hard," Wright said.

The short round-robin tournament wraps up this weekend and Wright was hopeful the Tigers could post a win given they should be at full-strength.

"We've got a couple of players coming back next week," he said.

Teams participating in the ATL Queensland Conference each host a round so Toowoomba had all teams playing at USQ yesterday.

Toowoomba now takes on Shaw Park at Beenleigh this Friday night in the final round.

Love letter child rapist moves to Toowoomba - Toowoomba Chronicle

Convicted rapist Christopher John McCoy, 21, from Kingsthorpe sent his eight-year-old Sunshine Coast victim a love letter from prison.

ATTORNEY-General Jarrod Bleijie has moved to close a loophole in the law which allowed a convicted child rapist, who currently lives in Toowoomba, to send his young Sunshine Coast victim a love letter from behind bars.

The move comes in direct response to a series of articles published earlier this year in the Sunshine Coast Daily which highlighted the loophole and the boy's mother's disgust and trauma at it being allowed to happen.

Christopher John McCoy, 21, pleaded guilty in the Maroochydore District Court in January to recording himself committing sex acts on the young boy and was subsequently jailed for nine months .

He then sent his then eight-year-old victim a letter from jail in which he said he loved him and outlined how much he was suffering inside prison.

But under changes to the Corrective Services Act, introduced into State Parliament this week, it is now illegal for any prisoner to send, or attempt to send, distressing or traumatic correspondence to their victim or their victim's family.

Correspondence includes any documents, letters, emails or faxes.

The new offence now carries a sentence of up to six months behind bars.

The Sunshine Coast mother, who cannot be identified in order to protect her son's identity, said she was extremely pleased the loophole had been closed.

"It is a great result. It is a pity we had to go through it all, but it is awesome no other Queensland victim or their family will have to go through the type of distress and trauma that we did," she said.

"Honestly ... I am pretty happy about it."

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1. Love letter child rapist moves to Toowoomba


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6. Thirteen Somali men convicted of running child sex ring


7. Eleven weeks on and still no sign of young William

Mr Bleijie said he was shocked as everyone else when he found out via the Sunshine Coast Daily articles in May that McCoy had sent a letter to his young victim.

He said it was his duty to ensure Queensland families remained safe from predators from both inside and outside of prison.

Breavehearts founder Hetty Johnston said she was thrilled the government had responded to the community outrage McCoy sparked and introduced legislation that better protects survivors of this type of crime.

"One can only imagine how traumatising and triggering it would be for a victim to receive unwanted correspondence from an offender," she said.

"It is another attempt to manipulate and disempower them.

"This is a sensible, logical outcome, a win for victims and hopefully a deterrent for offenders." McCoy was released on parole last month.

Farmers to get welcome relief from Color Vibe fun run - Toowoomba Chronicle

PAINTED UP: Jenna Meyer (left) and Vanessa Pohlner’s outfits took on much brighter appearances by the time they finished yesterday’s Color Vibe 5km fun run at the Toowoomba Showgrounds. Nev Madsen

BRIGHT hues of powdered colour were blasted over thousands of eager runners for Toowoomba's first Color Vibe 5km fun run.

The party atmosphere drew more than 5000 people to the Toowoomba Showgrounds yesterday.

Their morning efforts were for a good cause, with funds raised destined to help drought-stricken Queensland farmers.

Toowoomba woman Rachelle Beneke and fellow runner Sharlene Wilkin said they wanted to support a good cause while enjoying the fun atmosphere of the run.

"I did the neon run earlier in the year and this is so much better," Ms Beneke said

"I'm having an absolute ball.

"We are childcare workers so why not just get in and get messy."

Peggy McMillan made a trip in from Dalby for the run.

"We are just here with some friends here from Toowoomba just to support the cause and have fun," she said.

"We think it's a great family day."

Bree Hoolihan (centre) is smashed with colour bombs during her run.

She said the atmosphere while lining up for the start of the run was great.

"It's a very good party mood."

Global Care Toowoomba volunteer Melissa Pedler said the charity would distribute the funds raised to people struggling on the land.

"We just want to be able to offer people hope in some capacity," Miss Pedler said.

"Whether it is financial aid or in some (other) capacity we just want to support them."

Toowoomba Tigers fall to Chargers in home ATL round - Toowoomba Chronicle

HOME court advantage could not help Toowoomba get over the line in the latest round of Asia Pacific Tennis League Queensland Conference on Sunday.

The Tigers hosted the full round of matches and played Tennis Brisbane Chargers at Toowoomba Regional Tennis Centre - USQ.

The Toowoomba men were unable to win a match going down 6-0 to the Chargers while the Tigers women lost 5-1 thanks to one victory by Arlena Day.

Toowoomba also lost 6-0 in men's and women's action against Beenleigh on Friday night as the win-less season continued for the Tigers.

"We played a few three-setters but unfortunately couldn't get any," Toowoomba manager Gavin Wright said.

The Tigers pushed their opponents but couldn't quite come up with crucial breaks at the right times.

"Our guys did a good job today. They fought hard," Wright said.

The short round-robin tournament wraps up this weekend and Wright was hopeful the Tigers could post a win given they should be at full-strength.

"We've got a couple of players coming back next week," he said.

Teams participating in the ATL Queensland Conference each host a round so Toowoomba had all teams playing at USQ yesterday.

Toowoomba now takes on Shaw Park at Beenleigh this Friday night in the final round.

Love letter child rapist moves to Toowoomba - Toowoomba Chronicle

Convicted rapist Christopher John McCoy, 21, from Kingsthorpe sent his eight-year-old Sunshine Coast victim a love letter from prison.

ATTORNEY-General Jarrod Bleijie has moved to close a loophole in the law which allowed a convicted child rapist, who currently lives in Toowoomba, to send his young Sunshine Coast victim a love letter from behind bars.

The move comes in direct response to a series of articles published earlier this year in the Sunshine Coast Daily which highlighted the loophole and the boy's mother's disgust and trauma at it being allowed to happen.

Christopher John McCoy, 21, pleaded guilty in the Maroochydore District Court in January to recording himself committing sex acts on the young boy and was subsequently jailed for nine months .

He then sent his then eight-year-old victim a letter from jail in which he said he loved him and outlined how much he was suffering inside prison.

But under changes to the Corrective Services Act, introduced into State Parliament this week, it is now illegal for any prisoner to send, or attempt to send, distressing or traumatic correspondence to their victim or their victim's family.

Correspondence includes any documents, letters, emails or faxes.

The new offence now carries a sentence of up to six months behind bars.

The Sunshine Coast mother, who cannot be identified in order to protect her son's identity, said she was extremely pleased the loophole had been closed.

"It is a great result. It is a pity we had to go through it all, but it is awesome no other Queensland victim or their family will have to go through the type of distress and trauma that we did," she said.

"Honestly ... I am pretty happy about it."

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5. Hiker took photo of black bear moments before it killed him


6. Thirteen Somali men convicted of running child sex ring


7. Eleven weeks on and still no sign of young William

Mr Bleijie said he was shocked as everyone else when he found out via the Sunshine Coast Daily articles in May that McCoy had sent a letter to his young victim.

He said it was his duty to ensure Queensland families remained safe from predators from both inside and outside of prison.

Breavehearts founder Hetty Johnston said she was thrilled the government had responded to the community outrage McCoy sparked and introduced legislation that better protects survivors of this type of crime.

"One can only imagine how traumatising and triggering it would be for a victim to receive unwanted correspondence from an offender," she said.

"It is another attempt to manipulate and disempower them.

"This is a sensible, logical outcome, a win for victims and hopefully a deterrent for offenders." McCoy was released on parole last month.

Get blasted at Toowoomba's first Colour Vibe - Toowoomba Chronicle

IN COLOUR: An explosion of colour will fill the Toowoomba Showgrounds during the Color Vibe 5K fun run. Megan Hall

THE Toowoomba Showgrounds will be showered in a kaleidoscope of colour when it hosts the Colour Vibe this Sunday.

The global phenomenon has put a bright spin on fitness as runners are blasted with colourful powder over a five kilometre course.

Inspired by India's Holy Festival of Colours, a Hindu celebration of spring, love and friendship, and life, this fun run is an opportunity for residents to let their hair down and release their inner child.

Originating in Utah in the United States, The Colour Vibe has held runs across the globe.

"It has been a blast bringing the fun of the Colour Vibe to Australia," event organiser Michael Keuler said.

"The event is all about being active while having as much fun as possible.

"It isn't a race and participants aren't timed. Anyone of any age can take part and that's what makes it so great."

TOP STORIES ONLINE

1. Love letter child rapist moves to Toowoomba


2. Brisbane's 'biggest storm since 1985': Premier


3. VIDEO: Explosion shockwave felt for kilometres


4. Elderly man 'plays dead' in attempt to avoid arrest


5. Hiker took photo of black bear moments before it killed him


6. Thirteen Somali men convicted of running child sex ring


7. Eleven weeks on and still no sign of young William

After holding Colour Vibe events in Brisbane and Bundaberg earlier this month, Mr Keuler said the Toowoomba event would be the biggest Australian Colour Vibe run to date.

"We have had an incredible response from the people of Toowoomba with more than 5000 people expected to participate," he said.

"I think the family-friendly atmosphere of the Colour Vibe is one of the reasons it has become so popular.

"There will be a DJ playing music as well as other attractions which will create an awesome atmosphere for everyone involved."

The event will also raise money through its affiliation with charity organisation Global Care.

"Global Care was identified as a community leader, and the Coluor Vibe decided to reach out to Global Care to fundraise and increase exposure for their essential efforts in Toowoomba and throughout Australia," Mr Keuler said.

Registrations for the Colour Vibe 5K run are open until Sunday. However runners are encouraged to sign up early to avoid disappointment.

"We are excited for the first Toowoomba Color Vibe. It's going a whole heap of fun," Mr Keuler said.

TOOWOOMBA COLOR VIBE

•   What - 5km fun run


•   Where - Toowoomba Showgrounds


•   When - Sunday, November 30. Gates open at 7.30am for 9am start.


•   Cost - Adult entries are $52. Children aged 1-12 years are free.


•   For more information visit http://aus.thecolorvibe.com/toowoomba.php

Coffee shop puts twist on Toowoomba's cafe culture - Toowoomba Chronicle

Head barista Kaycee Pawluk serves coffee to a customer. Photo Sarah Green / The Chronicle Sarah Green

A NEW drive-through coffee shop is set to open its doors in the Toowoomba CBD today.

Nonstop Coffee in Ruthven St will officially open to paying customers, but has been operating by word of mouth since last week.

Manager and company director Nev Siebenhausen said the coffee shop was aiming to please the growing coffee culture in Toowoomba.

"We are aiming at providing a premium coffee experience, in a drive-through format," Mr Siebenhausen said.

"We've gone a little bit further than that and partnered with Amore. They import beans from Papua New Guinea and Nicaragua and we've bought them to Toowoomba."

TOP STORIES ONLINE

1. Love letter child rapist moves to Toowoomba


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5. Hiker took photo of black bear moments before it killed him


6. Thirteen Somali men convicted of running child sex ring


7. Eleven weeks on and still no sign of young William

The drive-through coffee shop, run out of a shipping container, is adding a twist to the traditional coffee shop menu.

Mr Siebenhausen said there would be a children's packed lunch available at an affordable price which was a healthy alternative to traditional tuckshops.

"We've done research informally with mothers, parents, schools and groups and found there's an interest in affordable packed lunches," Mr Siebenhausen said.

"The children's lunch will have a piece of fruit, a fruit popper, half a wrap and cheese and crackers for $5.50."

The menu will also feature a breakfast-to-go menu, with bacon and egg paninis and ham and cheese croissants, a range of muffins and slices and a healthy lunch menu.

Mr Siebenhausen said the low key opening was a way to teach new employees the ropes without an onslaught of customers.

A grand opening will be held early next year.

Rally in Toowoomba against ABC cuts - Toowoomba Chronicle

ANGER about the $254 million funding cut to the ABC led Toowoomba residents to protest outside the ABC Southern Queensland office in Toowoomba this morning.

A small yet vocal crowd of thirty people chanted "no ifs no buts, stop Tony's cuts" and held up signs to passing motorists.

Rally organiser and casual on-air ABC presenter Megan O'Hara Sullivan said the protesters weren't happy about the cuts and decided not to suffer in silence.

"The ABC is a loyal and trusted companion to many people," she said.

"Even though 30% of people don't live in capital cities there is a creeping metro-centralism.

"We're losing a medium to tell our story and hear the voices we want to hear which are things that are important to us in regional Australia.

"We fear that we will lose the national broadcaster for weather and emergency information."

Toowoomba residents upset about the recently announced cuts to the ABC protesting outside the ABC Southern Queensland studio. Andrew Backhouse

Friends of the ABC Queensland president Ross McDowell said the protest was about bringing to the attention of Toowoomba residents the "devastation of the cuts" to Australia's national public broadcaster.

"In rural areas people depend on the ABC for their news and for general entertainment," he said.

"If you take away or diminish those services, the people are the ones who are hurt.

"The ABC provides a popular service in Toowoomba and is free and independent."

Protester Daniel Carvosso said the cuts seemed to be a political attack on the ABC.

He said the cuts that worried him the most were to the state-based 7:30 Report programs.

Labor candidate for Toowoomba North Kerry Shine said he loved the ABC and had listened to it since he was a child.

"The reasons given for the cuts just don't wash with me, it's an ideological move by Tony Abbott.

"The ABC should be adequately and properly funded, it's a vital service to the community."

He said people in country areas were fond of the ABC and were devastated by the cuts.

Toowoomba Tigers fall to Chargers in home ATL round - Toowoomba Chronicle

HOME court advantage could not help Toowoomba get over the line in the latest round of Asia Pacific Tennis League Queensland Conference on Sunday.

The Tigers hosted the full round of matches and played Tennis Brisbane Chargers at Toowoomba Regional Tennis Centre - USQ.

The Toowoomba men were unable to win a match going down 6-0 to the Chargers while the Tigers women lost 5-1 thanks to one victory by Arlena Day.

Toowoomba also lost 6-0 in men's and women's action against Beenleigh on Friday night as the win-less season continued for the Tigers.

"We played a few three-setters but unfortunately couldn't get any," Toowoomba manager Gavin Wright said.

The Tigers pushed their opponents but couldn't quite come up with crucial breaks at the right times.

"Our guys did a good job today. They fought hard," Wright said.

The short round-robin tournament wraps up this weekend and Wright was hopeful the Tigers could post a win given they should be at full-strength.

"We've got a couple of players coming back next week," he said.

Teams participating in the ATL Queensland Conference each host a round so Toowoomba had all teams playing at USQ yesterday.

Toowoomba now takes on Shaw Park at Beenleigh this Friday night in the final round.

Love letter child rapist moves to Toowoomba - Toowoomba Chronicle

Convicted rapist Christopher John McCoy, 21, from Kingsthorpe sent his eight-year-old Sunshine Coast victim a love letter from prison.

ATTORNEY-General Jarrod Bleijie has moved to close a loophole in the law which allowed a convicted child rapist, who currently lives in Toowoomba, to send his young Sunshine Coast victim a love letter from behind bars.

The move comes in direct response to a series of articles published earlier this year in the Sunshine Coast Daily which highlighted the loophole and the boy's mother's disgust and trauma at it being allowed to happen.

Christopher John McCoy, 21, pleaded guilty in the Maroochydore District Court in January to recording himself committing sex acts on the young boy and was subsequently jailed for nine months .

He then sent his then eight-year-old victim a letter from jail in which he said he loved him and outlined how much he was suffering inside prison.

But under changes to the Corrective Services Act, introduced into State Parliament this week, it is now illegal for any prisoner to send, or attempt to send, distressing or traumatic correspondence to their victim or their victim's family.

Correspondence includes any documents, letters, emails or faxes.

The new offence now carries a sentence of up to six months behind bars.

The Sunshine Coast mother, who cannot be identified in order to protect her son's identity, said she was extremely pleased the loophole had been closed.

"It is a great result. It is a pity we had to go through it all, but it is awesome no other Queensland victim or their family will have to go through the type of distress and trauma that we did," she said.

"Honestly ... I am pretty happy about it."

TOP STORIES ONLINE

1. Love letter child rapist moves to Toowoomba


2. Brisbane's 'biggest storm since 1985': Premier


3. VIDEO: Explosion shockwave felt for kilometres


4. Elderly man 'plays dead' in attempt to avoid arrest


5. Hiker took photo of black bear moments before it killed him


6. Thirteen Somali men convicted of running child sex ring


7. Eleven weeks on and still no sign of young William

Mr Bleijie said he was shocked as everyone else when he found out via the Sunshine Coast Daily articles in May that McCoy had sent a letter to his young victim.

He said it was his duty to ensure Queensland families remained safe from predators from both inside and outside of prison.

Breavehearts founder Hetty Johnston said she was thrilled the government had responded to the community outrage McCoy sparked and introduced legislation that better protects survivors of this type of crime.

"One can only imagine how traumatising and triggering it would be for a victim to receive unwanted correspondence from an offender," she said.

"It is another attempt to manipulate and disempower them.

"This is a sensible, logical outcome, a win for victims and hopefully a deterrent for offenders." McCoy was released on parole last month.

Get blasted at Toowoomba's first Colour Vibe - Toowoomba Chronicle

IN COLOUR: An explosion of colour will fill the Toowoomba Showgrounds during the Color Vibe 5K fun run. Megan Hall

THE Toowoomba Showgrounds will be showered in a kaleidoscope of colour when it hosts the Colour Vibe this Sunday.

The global phenomenon has put a bright spin on fitness as runners are blasted with colourful powder over a five kilometre course.

Inspired by India's Holy Festival of Colours, a Hindu celebration of spring, love and friendship, and life, this fun run is an opportunity for residents to let their hair down and release their inner child.

Originating in Utah in the United States, The Colour Vibe has held runs across the globe.

"It has been a blast bringing the fun of the Colour Vibe to Australia," event organiser Michael Keuler said.

"The event is all about being active while having as much fun as possible.

"It isn't a race and participants aren't timed. Anyone of any age can take part and that's what makes it so great."

TOP STORIES ONLINE

1. Love letter child rapist moves to Toowoomba


2. Brisbane's 'biggest storm since 1985': Premier


3. VIDEO: Explosion shockwave felt for kilometres


4. Elderly man 'plays dead' in attempt to avoid arrest


5. Hiker took photo of black bear moments before it killed him


6. Thirteen Somali men convicted of running child sex ring


7. Eleven weeks on and still no sign of young William

After holding Colour Vibe events in Brisbane and Bundaberg earlier this month, Mr Keuler said the Toowoomba event would be the biggest Australian Colour Vibe run to date.

"We have had an incredible response from the people of Toowoomba with more than 5000 people expected to participate," he said.

"I think the family-friendly atmosphere of the Colour Vibe is one of the reasons it has become so popular.

"There will be a DJ playing music as well as other attractions which will create an awesome atmosphere for everyone involved."

The event will also raise money through its affiliation with charity organisation Global Care.

"Global Care was identified as a community leader, and the Coluor Vibe decided to reach out to Global Care to fundraise and increase exposure for their essential efforts in Toowoomba and throughout Australia," Mr Keuler said.

Registrations for the Colour Vibe 5K run are open until Sunday. However runners are encouraged to sign up early to avoid disappointment.

"We are excited for the first Toowoomba Color Vibe. It's going a whole heap of fun," Mr Keuler said.

TOOWOOMBA COLOR VIBE

•   What - 5km fun run


•   Where - Toowoomba Showgrounds


•   When - Sunday, November 30. Gates open at 7.30am for 9am start.


•   Cost - Adult entries are $52. Children aged 1-12 years are free.


•   For more information visit http://aus.thecolorvibe.com/toowoomba.php

Coffee shop puts twist on Toowoomba's cafe culture - Toowoomba Chronicle

Head barista Kaycee Pawluk serves coffee to a customer. Photo Sarah Green / The Chronicle Sarah Green

A NEW drive-through coffee shop is set to open its doors in the Toowoomba CBD today.

Nonstop Coffee in Ruthven St will officially open to paying customers, but has been operating by word of mouth since last week.

Manager and company director Nev Siebenhausen said the coffee shop was aiming to please the growing coffee culture in Toowoomba.

"We are aiming at providing a premium coffee experience, in a drive-through format," Mr Siebenhausen said.

"We've gone a little bit further than that and partnered with Amore. They import beans from Papua New Guinea and Nicaragua and we've bought them to Toowoomba."

TOP STORIES ONLINE

1. Love letter child rapist moves to Toowoomba


2. Brisbane's 'biggest storm since 1985': Premier


3. VIDEO: Explosion shockwave felt for kilometres


4. Elderly man 'plays dead' in attempt to avoid arrest


5. Hiker took photo of black bear moments before it killed him


6. Thirteen Somali men convicted of running child sex ring


7. Eleven weeks on and still no sign of young William

The drive-through coffee shop, run out of a shipping container, is adding a twist to the traditional coffee shop menu.

Mr Siebenhausen said there would be a children's packed lunch available at an affordable price which was a healthy alternative to traditional tuckshops.

"We've done research informally with mothers, parents, schools and groups and found there's an interest in affordable packed lunches," Mr Siebenhausen said.

"The children's lunch will have a piece of fruit, a fruit popper, half a wrap and cheese and crackers for $5.50."

The menu will also feature a breakfast-to-go menu, with bacon and egg paninis and ham and cheese croissants, a range of muffins and slices and a healthy lunch menu.

Mr Siebenhausen said the low key opening was a way to teach new employees the ropes without an onslaught of customers.

A grand opening will be held early next year.

Rally in Toowoomba against ABC cuts - Toowoomba Chronicle

ANGER about the $254 million funding cut to the ABC led Toowoomba residents to protest outside the ABC Southern Queensland office in Toowoomba this morning.

A small yet vocal crowd of thirty people chanted "no ifs no buts, stop Tony's cuts" and held up signs to passing motorists.

Rally organiser and casual on-air ABC presenter Megan O'Hara Sullivan said the protesters weren't happy about the cuts and decided not to suffer in silence.

"The ABC is a loyal and trusted companion to many people," she said.

"Even though 30% of people don't live in capital cities there is a creeping metro-centralism.

"We're losing a medium to tell our story and hear the voices we want to hear which are things that are important to us in regional Australia.

"We fear that we will lose the national broadcaster for weather and emergency information."

Toowoomba residents upset about the recently announced cuts to the ABC protesting outside the ABC Southern Queensland studio. Andrew Backhouse

Friends of the ABC Queensland president Ross McDowell said the protest was about bringing to the attention of Toowoomba residents the "devastation of the cuts" to Australia's national public broadcaster.

"In rural areas people depend on the ABC for their news and for general entertainment," he said.

"If you take away or diminish those services, the people are the ones who are hurt.

"The ABC provides a popular service in Toowoomba and is free and independent."

Protester Daniel Carvosso said the cuts seemed to be a political attack on the ABC.

He said the cuts that worried him the most were to the state-based 7:30 Report programs.

Labor candidate for Toowoomba North Kerry Shine said he loved the ABC and had listened to it since he was a child.

"The reasons given for the cuts just don't wash with me, it's an ideological move by Tony Abbott.

"The ABC should be adequately and properly funded, it's a vital service to the community."

He said people in country areas were fond of the ABC and were devastated by the cuts.

Toowoomba Tigers fall to Chargers in home ATL round - Toowoomba Chronicle

HOME court advantage could not help Toowoomba get over the line in the latest round of Asia Pacific Tennis League Queensland Conference on Sunday.

The Tigers hosted the full round of matches and played Tennis Brisbane Chargers at Toowoomba Regional Tennis Centre - USQ.

The Toowoomba men were unable to win a match going down 6-0 to the Chargers while the Tigers women lost 5-1 thanks to one victory by Arlena Day.

Toowoomba also lost 6-0 in men's and women's action against Beenleigh on Friday night as the win-less season continued for the Tigers.

"We played a few three-setters but unfortunately couldn't get any," Toowoomba manager Gavin Wright said.

The Tigers pushed their opponents but couldn't quite come up with crucial breaks at the right times.

"Our guys did a good job today. They fought hard," Wright said.

The short round-robin tournament wraps up this weekend and Wright was hopeful the Tigers could post a win given they should be at full-strength.

"We've got a couple of players coming back next week," he said.

Teams participating in the ATL Queensland Conference each host a round so Toowoomba had all teams playing at USQ yesterday.

Toowoomba now takes on Shaw Park at Beenleigh this Friday night in the final round.

Love letter child rapist moves to Toowoomba - Toowoomba Chronicle

Convicted rapist Christopher John McCoy, 21, from Kingsthorpe sent his eight-year-old Sunshine Coast victim a love letter from prison.

ATTORNEY-General Jarrod Bleijie has moved to close a loophole in the law which allowed a convicted child rapist, who currently lives in Toowoomba, to send his young Sunshine Coast victim a love letter from behind bars.

The move comes in direct response to a series of articles published earlier this year in the Sunshine Coast Daily which highlighted the loophole and the boy's mother's disgust and trauma at it being allowed to happen.

Christopher John McCoy, 21, pleaded guilty in the Maroochydore District Court in January to recording himself committing sex acts on the young boy and was subsequently jailed for nine months .

He then sent his then eight-year-old victim a letter from jail in which he said he loved him and outlined how much he was suffering inside prison.

But under changes to the Corrective Services Act, introduced into State Parliament this week, it is now illegal for any prisoner to send, or attempt to send, distressing or traumatic correspondence to their victim or their victim's family.

Correspondence includes any documents, letters, emails or faxes.

The new offence now carries a sentence of up to six months behind bars.

The Sunshine Coast mother, who cannot be identified in order to protect her son's identity, said she was extremely pleased the loophole had been closed.

"It is a great result. It is a pity we had to go through it all, but it is awesome no other Queensland victim or their family will have to go through the type of distress and trauma that we did," she said.

"Honestly ... I am pretty happy about it."

TOP STORIES ONLINE

1. Love letter child rapist moves to Toowoomba


2. Brisbane's 'biggest storm since 1985': Premier


3. VIDEO: Explosion shockwave felt for kilometres


4. Elderly man 'plays dead' in attempt to avoid arrest


5. Hiker took photo of black bear moments before it killed him


6. Thirteen Somali men convicted of running child sex ring


7. Eleven weeks on and still no sign of young William

Mr Bleijie said he was shocked as everyone else when he found out via the Sunshine Coast Daily articles in May that McCoy had sent a letter to his young victim.

He said it was his duty to ensure Queensland families remained safe from predators from both inside and outside of prison.

Breavehearts founder Hetty Johnston said she was thrilled the government had responded to the community outrage McCoy sparked and introduced legislation that better protects survivors of this type of crime.

"One can only imagine how traumatising and triggering it would be for a victim to receive unwanted correspondence from an offender," she said.

"It is another attempt to manipulate and disempower them.

"This is a sensible, logical outcome, a win for victims and hopefully a deterrent for offenders." McCoy was released on parole last month.

Get blasted at Toowoomba's first Colour Vibe - Toowoomba Chronicle

IN COLOUR: An explosion of colour will fill the Toowoomba Showgrounds during the Color Vibe 5K fun run. Megan Hall

THE Toowoomba Showgrounds will be showered in a kaleidoscope of colour when it hosts the Colour Vibe this Sunday.

The global phenomenon has put a bright spin on fitness as runners are blasted with colourful powder over a five kilometre course.

Inspired by India's Holy Festival of Colours, a Hindu celebration of spring, love and friendship, and life, this fun run is an opportunity for residents to let their hair down and release their inner child.

Originating in Utah in the United States, The Colour Vibe has held runs across the globe.

"It has been a blast bringing the fun of the Colour Vibe to Australia," event organiser Michael Keuler said.

"The event is all about being active while having as much fun as possible.

"It isn't a race and participants aren't timed. Anyone of any age can take part and that's what makes it so great."

TOP STORIES ONLINE

1. Love letter child rapist moves to Toowoomba


2. Brisbane's 'biggest storm since 1985': Premier


3. VIDEO: Explosion shockwave felt for kilometres


4. Elderly man 'plays dead' in attempt to avoid arrest


5. Hiker took photo of black bear moments before it killed him


6. Thirteen Somali men convicted of running child sex ring


7. Eleven weeks on and still no sign of young William

After holding Colour Vibe events in Brisbane and Bundaberg earlier this month, Mr Keuler said the Toowoomba event would be the biggest Australian Colour Vibe run to date.

"We have had an incredible response from the people of Toowoomba with more than 5000 people expected to participate," he said.

"I think the family-friendly atmosphere of the Colour Vibe is one of the reasons it has become so popular.

"There will be a DJ playing music as well as other attractions which will create an awesome atmosphere for everyone involved."

The event will also raise money through its affiliation with charity organisation Global Care.

"Global Care was identified as a community leader, and the Coluor Vibe decided to reach out to Global Care to fundraise and increase exposure for their essential efforts in Toowoomba and throughout Australia," Mr Keuler said.

Registrations for the Colour Vibe 5K run are open until Sunday. However runners are encouraged to sign up early to avoid disappointment.

"We are excited for the first Toowoomba Color Vibe. It's going a whole heap of fun," Mr Keuler said.

TOOWOOMBA COLOR VIBE

•   What - 5km fun run


•   Where - Toowoomba Showgrounds


•   When - Sunday, November 30. Gates open at 7.30am for 9am start.


•   Cost - Adult entries are $52. Children aged 1-12 years are free.


•   For more information visit http://aus.thecolorvibe.com/toowoomba.php

Big crowd of runners delight in colourful fundraiser - Toowoomba Chronicle

BRIGHT hues of powdered colour were blasted over thousands of eager runners for Toowoomba's first Color Vibe 5km fun run.

The party atmosphere drew more than 5000 people to the Toowoomba Showgrounds this morning.

Their morning efforts were for a good cause, with funds raised destined to help drought-stricken Queensland farmers.

Toowoomba woman Rachelle Beneke and fellow runner Sharlene Wilkin said they wanted to support a good cause while enjoying the fun atmosphere of the run.

"I did the neon run earlier in the year and this is so much better," Ms Beneke said

"I'm having an absolute ball."

"We are childcare workers so why not just get in and get messy."

Peggy McMillan made a trip in from Dalby for the run.

"We are just here with some friends here from Toowoomba just to support the cause and have fun," she said.

"We think it's a great family day."

She said the atmosphere while lining up for the start of the run was great.

"It's a very good party mood."

"Everybody is out to have a good time.

Global Care Toowoomba volunteer Melissa Pedler said the charity would distribute the funds raised to people struggling on the land.

"We just want to be able to offer people hope in some capacity," Miss Pedler said.

"Whether it is financial aid or in some (other) capacity we just want to support them."

Toowoomba Tigers fall to Chargers in home ATL round - Toowoomba Chronicle

HOME court advantage could not help Toowoomba get over the line in the latest round of Asia Pacific Tennis League Queensland Conference on Sunday.

The Tigers hosted the full round of matches and played Tennis Brisbane Chargers at Toowoomba Regional Tennis Centre - USQ.

The Toowoomba men were unable to win a match going down 6-0 to the Chargers while the Tigers women lost 5-1 thanks to one victory by Arlena Day.

Toowoomba also lost 6-0 in men's and women's action against Beenleigh on Friday night as the win-less season continued for the Tigers.

"We played a few three-setters but unfortunately couldn't get any," Toowoomba manager Gavin Wright said.

The Tigers pushed their opponents but couldn't quite come up with crucial breaks at the right times.

"Our guys did a good job today. They fought hard," Wright said.

The short round-robin tournament wraps up this weekend and Wright was hopeful the Tigers could post a win given they should be at full-strength.

"We've got a couple of players coming back next week," he said.

Teams participating in the ATL Queensland Conference each host a round so Toowoomba had all teams playing at USQ yesterday.

Toowoomba now takes on Shaw Park at Beenleigh this Friday night in the final round.

Love letter child rapist moves to Toowoomba - Toowoomba Chronicle

Convicted rapist Christopher John McCoy, 21, from Kingsthorpe sent his eight-year-old Sunshine Coast victim a love letter from prison.

ATTORNEY-General Jarrod Bleijie has moved to close a loophole in the law which allowed a convicted child rapist, who currently lives in Toowoomba, to send his young Sunshine Coast victim a love letter from behind bars.

The move comes in direct response to a series of articles published earlier this year in the Sunshine Coast Daily which highlighted the loophole and the boy's mother's disgust and trauma at it being allowed to happen.

Christopher John McCoy, 21, pleaded guilty in the Maroochydore District Court in January to recording himself committing sex acts on the young boy and was subsequently jailed for nine months .

He then sent his then eight-year-old victim a letter from jail in which he said he loved him and outlined how much he was suffering inside prison.

But under changes to the Corrective Services Act, introduced into State Parliament this week, it is now illegal for any prisoner to send, or attempt to send, distressing or traumatic correspondence to their victim or their victim's family.

Correspondence includes any documents, letters, emails or faxes.

The new offence now carries a sentence of up to six months behind bars.

The Sunshine Coast mother, who cannot be identified in order to protect her son's identity, said she was extremely pleased the loophole had been closed.

"It is a great result. It is a pity we had to go through it all, but it is awesome no other Queensland victim or their family will have to go through the type of distress and trauma that we did," she said.

"Honestly ... I am pretty happy about it."

TOP STORIES ONLINE

1. Love letter child rapist moves to Toowoomba


2. Brisbane's 'biggest storm since 1985': Premier


3. VIDEO: Explosion shockwave felt for kilometres


4. Elderly man 'plays dead' in attempt to avoid arrest


5. Hiker took photo of black bear moments before it killed him


6. Thirteen Somali men convicted of running child sex ring


7. Eleven weeks on and still no sign of young William

Mr Bleijie said he was shocked as everyone else when he found out via the Sunshine Coast Daily articles in May that McCoy had sent a letter to his young victim.

He said it was his duty to ensure Queensland families remained safe from predators from both inside and outside of prison.

Breavehearts founder Hetty Johnston said she was thrilled the government had responded to the community outrage McCoy sparked and introduced legislation that better protects survivors of this type of crime.

"One can only imagine how traumatising and triggering it would be for a victim to receive unwanted correspondence from an offender," she said.

"It is another attempt to manipulate and disempower them.

"This is a sensible, logical outcome, a win for victims and hopefully a deterrent for offenders." McCoy was released on parole last month.

Get blasted at Toowoomba's first Colour Vibe - Toowoomba Chronicle

IN COLOUR: An explosion of colour will fill the Toowoomba Showgrounds during the Color Vibe 5K fun run. Megan Hall

THE Toowoomba Showgrounds will be showered in a kaleidoscope of colour when it hosts the Colour Vibe this Sunday.

The global phenomenon has put a bright spin on fitness as runners are blasted with colourful powder over a five kilometre course.

Inspired by India's Holy Festival of Colours, a Hindu celebration of spring, love and friendship, and life, this fun run is an opportunity for residents to let their hair down and release their inner child.

Originating in Utah in the United States, The Colour Vibe has held runs across the globe.

"It has been a blast bringing the fun of the Colour Vibe to Australia," event organiser Michael Keuler said.

"The event is all about being active while having as much fun as possible.

"It isn't a race and participants aren't timed. Anyone of any age can take part and that's what makes it so great."

TOP STORIES ONLINE

1. Love letter child rapist moves to Toowoomba


2. Brisbane's 'biggest storm since 1985': Premier


3. VIDEO: Explosion shockwave felt for kilometres


4. Elderly man 'plays dead' in attempt to avoid arrest


5. Hiker took photo of black bear moments before it killed him


6. Thirteen Somali men convicted of running child sex ring


7. Eleven weeks on and still no sign of young William

After holding Colour Vibe events in Brisbane and Bundaberg earlier this month, Mr Keuler said the Toowoomba event would be the biggest Australian Colour Vibe run to date.

"We have had an incredible response from the people of Toowoomba with more than 5000 people expected to participate," he said.

"I think the family-friendly atmosphere of the Colour Vibe is one of the reasons it has become so popular.

"There will be a DJ playing music as well as other attractions which will create an awesome atmosphere for everyone involved."

The event will also raise money through its affiliation with charity organisation Global Care.

"Global Care was identified as a community leader, and the Coluor Vibe decided to reach out to Global Care to fundraise and increase exposure for their essential efforts in Toowoomba and throughout Australia," Mr Keuler said.

Registrations for the Colour Vibe 5K run are open until Sunday. However runners are encouraged to sign up early to avoid disappointment.

"We are excited for the first Toowoomba Color Vibe. It's going a whole heap of fun," Mr Keuler said.

TOOWOOMBA COLOR VIBE

•   What - 5km fun run


•   Where - Toowoomba Showgrounds


•   When - Sunday, November 30. Gates open at 7.30am for 9am start.


•   Cost - Adult entries are $52. Children aged 1-12 years are free.


•   For more information visit http://aus.thecolorvibe.com/toowoomba.php

Big crowd of runners delight in colourful fundraiser - Toowoomba Chronicle

BRIGHT hues of powdered colour were blasted over thousands of eager runners for Toowoomba's first Color Vibe 5km fun run.

The party atmosphere drew more than 5000 people to the Toowoomba Showgrounds this morning.

Their morning efforts were for a good cause, with funds raised destined to help drought-stricken Queensland farmers.

Toowoomba woman Rachelle Beneke and fellow runner Sharlene Wilkin said they wanted to support a good cause while enjoying the fun atmosphere of the run.

"I did the neon run earlier in the year and this is so much better," Ms Beneke said

"I'm having an absolute ball."

"We are childcare workers so why not just get in and get messy."

Peggy McMillan made a trip in from Dalby for the run.

"We are just here with some friends here from Toowoomba just to support the cause and have fun," she said.

"We think it's a great family day."

She said the atmosphere while lining up for the start of the run was great.

"It's a very good party mood."

"Everybody is out to have a good time.

Global Care Toowoomba volunteer Melissa Pedler said the charity would distribute the funds raised to people struggling on the land.

"We just want to be able to offer people hope in some capacity," Miss Pedler said.

"Whether it is financial aid or in some (other) capacity we just want to support them."

Toowoomba Tigers fall to Chargers in home ATL round - Toowoomba Chronicle

HOME court advantage could not help Toowoomba get over the line in the latest round of Asia Pacific Tennis League Queensland Conference on Sunday.

The Tigers hosted the full round of matches and played Tennis Brisbane Chargers at Toowoomba Regional Tennis Centre - USQ.

The Toowoomba men were unable to win a match going down 6-0 to the Chargers while the Tigers women lost 5-1 thanks to one victory by Arlena Day.

Toowoomba also lost 6-0 in men's and women's action against Beenleigh on Friday night as the win-less season continued for the Tigers.

"We played a few three-setters but unfortunately couldn't get any," Toowoomba manager Gavin Wright said.

The Tigers pushed their opponents but couldn't quite come up with crucial breaks at the right times.

"Our guys did a good job today. They fought hard," Wright said.

The short round-robin tournament wraps up this weekend and Wright was hopeful the Tigers could post a win given they should be at full-strength.

"We've got a couple of players coming back next week," he said.

Teams participating in the ATL Queensland Conference each host a round so Toowoomba had all teams playing at USQ yesterday.

Toowoomba now takes on Shaw Park at Beenleigh this Friday night in the final round.

Love letter child rapist moves to Toowoomba - Toowoomba Chronicle

Convicted rapist Christopher John McCoy, 21, from Kingsthorpe sent his eight-year-old Sunshine Coast victim a love letter from prison.

ATTORNEY-General Jarrod Bleijie has moved to close a loophole in the law which allowed a convicted child rapist, who currently lives in Toowoomba, to send his young Sunshine Coast victim a love letter from behind bars.

The move comes in direct response to a series of articles published earlier this year in the Sunshine Coast Daily which highlighted the loophole and the boy's mother's disgust and trauma at it being allowed to happen.

Christopher John McCoy, 21, pleaded guilty in the Maroochydore District Court in January to recording himself committing sex acts on the young boy and was subsequently jailed for nine months .

He then sent his then eight-year-old victim a letter from jail in which he said he loved him and outlined how much he was suffering inside prison.

But under changes to the Corrective Services Act, introduced into State Parliament this week, it is now illegal for any prisoner to send, or attempt to send, distressing or traumatic correspondence to their victim or their victim's family.

Correspondence includes any documents, letters, emails or faxes.

The new offence now carries a sentence of up to six months behind bars.

The Sunshine Coast mother, who cannot be identified in order to protect her son's identity, said she was extremely pleased the loophole had been closed.

"It is a great result. It is a pity we had to go through it all, but it is awesome no other Queensland victim or their family will have to go through the type of distress and trauma that we did," she said.

"Honestly ... I am pretty happy about it."

TOP STORIES ONLINE

1. Love letter child rapist moves to Toowoomba


2. Brisbane's 'biggest storm since 1985': Premier


3. VIDEO: Explosion shockwave felt for kilometres


4. Elderly man 'plays dead' in attempt to avoid arrest


5. Hiker took photo of black bear moments before it killed him


6. Thirteen Somali men convicted of running child sex ring


7. Eleven weeks on and still no sign of young William

Mr Bleijie said he was shocked as everyone else when he found out via the Sunshine Coast Daily articles in May that McCoy had sent a letter to his young victim.

He said it was his duty to ensure Queensland families remained safe from predators from both inside and outside of prison.

Breavehearts founder Hetty Johnston said she was thrilled the government had responded to the community outrage McCoy sparked and introduced legislation that better protects survivors of this type of crime.

"One can only imagine how traumatising and triggering it would be for a victim to receive unwanted correspondence from an offender," she said.

"It is another attempt to manipulate and disempower them.

"This is a sensible, logical outcome, a win for victims and hopefully a deterrent for offenders." McCoy was released on parole last month.

Get blasted at Toowoomba's first Colour Vibe - Toowoomba Chronicle

IN COLOUR: An explosion of colour will fill the Toowoomba Showgrounds during the Color Vibe 5K fun run. Megan Hall

THE Toowoomba Showgrounds will be showered in a kaleidoscope of colour when it hosts the Colour Vibe this Sunday.

The global phenomenon has put a bright spin on fitness as runners are blasted with colourful powder over a five kilometre course.

Inspired by India's Holy Festival of Colours, a Hindu celebration of spring, love and friendship, and life, this fun run is an opportunity for residents to let their hair down and release their inner child.

Originating in Utah in the United States, The Colour Vibe has held runs across the globe.

"It has been a blast bringing the fun of the Colour Vibe to Australia," event organiser Michael Keuler said.

"The event is all about being active while having as much fun as possible.

"It isn't a race and participants aren't timed. Anyone of any age can take part and that's what makes it so great."

TOP STORIES ONLINE

1. Love letter child rapist moves to Toowoomba


2. Brisbane's 'biggest storm since 1985': Premier


3. VIDEO: Explosion shockwave felt for kilometres


4. Elderly man 'plays dead' in attempt to avoid arrest


5. Hiker took photo of black bear moments before it killed him


6. Thirteen Somali men convicted of running child sex ring


7. Eleven weeks on and still no sign of young William

After holding Colour Vibe events in Brisbane and Bundaberg earlier this month, Mr Keuler said the Toowoomba event would be the biggest Australian Colour Vibe run to date.

"We have had an incredible response from the people of Toowoomba with more than 5000 people expected to participate," he said.

"I think the family-friendly atmosphere of the Colour Vibe is one of the reasons it has become so popular.

"There will be a DJ playing music as well as other attractions which will create an awesome atmosphere for everyone involved."

The event will also raise money through its affiliation with charity organisation Global Care.

"Global Care was identified as a community leader, and the Coluor Vibe decided to reach out to Global Care to fundraise and increase exposure for their essential efforts in Toowoomba and throughout Australia," Mr Keuler said.

Registrations for the Colour Vibe 5K run are open until Sunday. However runners are encouraged to sign up early to avoid disappointment.

"We are excited for the first Toowoomba Color Vibe. It's going a whole heap of fun," Mr Keuler said.

TOOWOOMBA COLOR VIBE

•   What - 5km fun run


•   Where - Toowoomba Showgrounds


•   When - Sunday, November 30. Gates open at 7.30am for 9am start.


•   Cost - Adult entries are $52. Children aged 1-12 years are free.


•   For more information visit http://aus.thecolorvibe.com/toowoomba.php