Tag Archives: premier-anna
Qld Premier in Highfields for Christmas Concert
Premier Anna Bligh brought some Christmas cheer to seniors in Toowoomba/Highfields area with the annual Premier’s Seniors Christmas Concert at the Highfields Cultural Centre today (Tuesday 7th December) Qld Premier Anna Bligh and Member for Toowoomba North Kerry Shine on arrival for the Concert Premier Bligh said she was excited to be hosting the free concert and was looking forward to helping seniors in the Toowoomba region celebrate the festive season. “Seniors have made significant contributions to their communities and continue to make them,” Ms Bligh said. “I am thrilled to be here celebrating the spirit of Christmas with the seniors of the Toowoomba area and look forward to enjoying a sing-along to our favourite carols.” Representing Tomnet Toowoomba at the Premiers Seniors Christmas Concert in Highfields were Dorothy and Bill Woodside (Dorothy is an office volunteer) The Premier’s Senior’s Christmas Concerts began in 2001 and have since been held in 18 regional areas throughout Queensland. Member for Toowoomba North Kerry Shine said it was great news the concert was being held in Highfields. Allan Western, Melissa Western, members of the band and the Toowoomba East State School Choir The concert was compered by the charismatic jazz singer Melissa Western, performing solo and duet performances with her father Alan Western, a renowned jazz performer and entertainer in the UK and Australia. Also featured were performances by Toowoomba East State School Choir, Dance routines by Dance Central and poetry recitations by Highfields State School students. Bill Woodside won the Lucky Program prize, and was presented with a hamper by the Premier. Dorothy and Bill Woodside with Premier Anna Bligh and Kerry Shine MP. Bill could also have won an award for the best costume, looking the part of Santa, but wearing a kilt. He also carried a Condamine bell. The concert was followed by a morning tea. Carole Lyons, Cr Anne Glasheen and Annica Sheppard chatting at the morning tea. The QUEENSLAND Premier will host a second concert in Cairns on Friday 10 December. Continue reading
CareFlight investigating Toowoomba-based chopper upgrade
Following State Government funding of $1.64 million to enable CareFlight to operate 24/7, the organisation is hiring 10 extra staff and is considering an upgrade to its helicopter. Premier Anna Bligh made the announcement while visiting CareFlight’s Toowoomba operation with Member for Toowoomba North Kerry Shine. Tony Miller (CareFlight Pilot), Premier Anna Bligh, Member for Toowoomba North Kerry Shine On Toowoomba Hospital Helipad from left: Tony Miller (CareFlight Pilot), Premier Anna Bligh, CareFlight Bear, Member for Toowoomba North Kerry Shine, Paul Young (CareFlight Director), Ryan Purchase (Crewman) “I am now aware CareFlight is investigating upgrading to a helicopter which can fly longer distances. An upgraded chopper would also carry two patients instead of one and would be equipped with a hoist to enable patients to be winched out of difficult terrain. “CareFlight has already hired four extra staff including pilots and air crew and is planning to recruit a further six extra staff including pilots, air crew and casual doctors. “CareFlight begins operating seven days a week from this Saturday. Once these new staff members have been recruited and trained, CareFlight will move to a 24-hours-a-day operation – in about two to three months. This boost in a life-saving service will make a real difference to the region especially with the growth we are expecting,” Ms Bligh said. Member for Toowoomba North Kerry Shine, who campaigned strongly for the funding boost, said he was impressed with CareFlight’s implementation planning. “Once the state government support was announced, CareFlight really hit the ground running. Ihe people of the region will take great comfort in the fact that day or night CareFlight will be there when they are needed.” Mr Shine said. CareFlight CEO Ashley Van de Velde said the communities to be serviced by CareFlight were very supportive. “We are a not-for-profit organisation and it’s only through the support of our sponsors and now the State Government that we can offer this enhanced service to the region,” Mr Van de Velde said. Further Information: Phone: 4638 5755 Fax: 4638 4056 Email: toowoomba.north@parliament.qld.gov.au Continue reading
