Fresh from hosting 7000 people from all round Australia celebrating the re-opening of the Waltzing Matilda Centre, Winton is preparing for something a little less arduous but no less valuable.
In just over a week the Isolated Children's Parents’ Association will convene for its annual conference in the town that produces poetry, dinosaurs and opals in equal measure.
On June 13 and 14, 250 delegates and guests will gather to discuss various issues, including small schools, distance education, communications and financial assistance.
ICPA Qld president, Kim Hughes, explained that "there are motions across all portfolios this year, some addressing longstanding ICPA lobbies like the need for adequate internet in rural and remote schools, as well as new ideas like the suggestion of a primary production unit within the curriculum".
Conference attendees will hear from award-winning singer/songwriter Sara Storer and columnist Kathleen Noonan discussing their country origins and careers, and will welcome Philip Mason, assistant secretary for the Universal Service Obligation taskforce, who is making the trip from Canberra.
Mr Mason will share information on the USO, and would like to hear the stories of rural and remote communities and their need for landlines.
The Department of Education will also have an IT support desk on hand where a technician will run a health check over people’s devices.
Sally Gall
Based at Blackall, CW Qld, where I've raised a family, run Merino sheep and beef cattle, and helped develop a region - its history, tourism, education and communications. Get in touch at 0427 575 955 if you've got a story idea for me.
Based at Blackall, CW Qld, where I've raised a family, run Merino sheep and beef cattle, and helped develop a region - its history, tourism, education and communications. Get in touch at 0427 575 955 if you've got a story idea for me.
