1 Feb 2012 | 20 Dec 2011 |   9 Nov 2011 | 20 Sep 2011 |  9 Aug 2011 | 18 Jul 2011 | 8 Jun 2011 | 11 May 2011 | 6 April 2011 | 

See the Events Page for a list of all activities

1 February 2012

Welcome to the first issue of our new e-news that we are calling Bushlark.

Annual Conservation Conference - 24th March 8.15 am

Eric Anderson (Conference Chair) is still wanting papers for presentations - This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it . The Conservation Conference will be the fourth one held by our Regional Branch. The venue is QUT Gardens Point Campus in Brisbane City. QUT is a major sponsor for this Conference. Registration forms are now available from our meetings page.

Birdlife Southern Queensland AGM - 24th March 4 pm

All members are urged to attend the AGM - that will be the inaugural one as BirdLife Southern Queensland. Importantly, all are asked to consider what part they can take in sharing as a committee or sub-committee member in this important year of consolidation. Several of the current committee will step down, so we need new volunteers. If you are unable to offer, maybe you could ask a friend or relative, or someone interested in bird life that you know, who has time to spare and who may enjoy taking on a role in the organisation. We know the Treasurer’s role is fairly responsible and time consuming, but someone has the skill and time to share this we're sure. And we think there must be someone in our area who could take on the role of helping with the newsletter since it is entirely done on computer.Most inter-member communication is by email. These two roles are essential to the group but can be done without a lot of birding knowledge.

The current convenor has served one year more than allowed under the organisations rules so we need a new one to take on this leadership role.  All positions on committee become available at the AGM. Nomination forms will be available on the website or ask for one from Secretary Julie Sarna This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it As we now have around 1000 members in our region, we anticipate generous offers for helping out in the above volunteer needs. Thank you for considering how you may help.

Warbler - Quarterly Newsletter

Bird surveys

Galilee Basin Expedition 15/4/12 – 30/4/12. Atlas surveys of the area under coal mining exploration lease north of Alpha. Grahame Rogers is organising this event This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .  First few days at Bimblebox. 

Pungalina-Seven Emu Survey from 23/6 – 9/7/12 – Leader Dez Wells– Two bulletins have been issued and participants selected with others on a waiting list in case of cancellations.  We have applied for $10,000 in funding from Norm-Wettenall Fund.

BSQ Photo Group news

The photo group continues with a monthly newsletter that discusses techniques and suggestions to improve both the taking and presentation of bird pictures and image enhancement. For further information, please contact BirdLife Southern Queensland Photo Group Moderator Tom Oliver: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

The Travelling Stock Routes legislation.

BCC Partnership surveys

These will continue in 2012 with a renegotiated contract with other properties added requiring extra travelling. Surveys will be done by local branches BirdLife Brisbane North and Birdlife Brisbane South. Coordination will be through Dez Wells as Land For Wildlife Liaison Officer.

Eastern Bristlebird update

Sheena Gillman and volunteers continue to survey EBB territories and to gain access to new areas where suitable habitat is identified looking for the elusive EBB. With threats to much of our rural land and changes in farm practice; more land holders are keen to know what they have. With the cooperation of DERM and NRM groups, EBB may evolve to adopting a farm project. South East Queensland Catchments is looking at funding to do surveys on suitable farms.

Wildlife Tourism - 3rd National Workshop

To be held 16-18 May 2012 at Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary. This event covers a lot of themes and topics. The current call is for abstracts on presentations as well as lots of other information that can be checked out on the website. There is a place for birding themes and we include this note to see if any members are prepared to take up the challenge to participate in this workshop as a presenter. Maybe we can also host a display stand? Let us also know if you can help please.

Appeal for new invention - Albatross Petrel & Turtle protection

A recently invented smart tuna hook which stops the killing of albatrosses from long line tuna fishing with the inventor busy commercialising his invention and is seeking support from the general public to do supportive trials. Our members may be interested to support this venture. View the project at their website.

Appeal to North Stradbroke Island birders

Member Mary Barram Ph 0407 136 346 This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it   would like to hear from you if you have records of birding observations for North Stradbroke Island. She wants to publish a book on Birds of NSI to enhance awareness and conservation of the birds. Mary is also a member of Friends of Stradbroke Island an environmental protection group.

Monitoring Assistance Required At Karawatha

Bird watching is more than just a hobby. It is a passion, and for some of us an obsession. For me it is all of the above and more: it is what I am studying at university. My name is Matt Davies and I am a prospective Honours student at Griffith University’s School of Environment on the Gold Coast. For my Honours thesis I am looking at doing a comparison of methods for surveying birds at Karawatha Forest Park on the southern side of Brisbane. The methods that I am looking to compare are: manual visual and acoustic surveys, automated acoustic sensors, and ‘Citizen Science’ surveys. ‘Citizen Science’ involves members of the public with an interest in the given field being involved with the collection of data. For my thesis the ‘Citizen Science’ component will involve conducting active surveys on Long Term Ecological Research plots that have been established by Griffith University at Karawatha. To undertake this I will be looking for as many volunteers as possible throughout the year who are able to assist by performing morning surveys at Karawatha. The surveys are not long, with each survey going for a duration of 20 minutes, and the level of experience in conducting surveys and bird identification does not matter. If you are interested in volunteering please contact me on 0409 053 486 or This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it . Feel free to contact me if you are interested and I will provide you with as much information as possible. The more twitchers the merrier.

Local Branch News

Dez met with several of our Local Branches to help them to send their activities to Webmaster Grahame Rogers to list on the web site.

Birds in Back Yards programs

Negotiations with city/regional councils is ongoing with Lockyer Valley, Logan, Scenic Rim and Toowoomba. These should develop during this year.

Items of note from the Committee

•  Dez Wells (Convenor) took advantage of school holidays to visit various  groups including the other two Queensland Regional Branches regarding options under our new organisation as BirdLife Australia.
•  Committee recently added Ross Smith and Neil Humphris to fill vacancies for the remaining months of the committee.
•  Committee voted to become members of the Environmental Defenders Office to received notifications of major developmental projects in Queensland.
•  Committee also has membership with the Queensland Conservation Council.
•  Sheena Gillman reports that the Lockyer Valley Regional Council brochure for Birding locations is close to publication. BSQ has offered help in financing the publication.
•  Gil Porter (Assets Officer) is working to update  BSQ assets and a few members helped check some of the items from BrisBOCA that are now held in a Storage unit with National Storage Kedron. Some correspondence folders will be archived at the Queensland State Library in due course. It is also likely that some items will be redundant to our operations and these will be advertised in the next issue of Bushlark. Such items as a Uniden 2-unit portable phone (in good working order) and a Linksys Broadband wireless router look like being among the items. Anyone interested in these items? Phone me on 3359 4388 or This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .

20 December 2011

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year

Welcome to the members of BOCA who are now integrated into our one membership list.

Late Christmas/New Year Gifts?

What about a gift membership to BirdLife Australia? And don't forget the great Student Membership at $25 to encourage the younger ones. This is a gift that will continue throughout 2012.

Annual Conference and  AGM - 24th March 2012

Eric Anderson (Conference Committee Chair) is working on our inaugural Conference for Birdlife Southern Queensland. The Conservation Conference will be our fourth'. The venue is QUT Gardens Point Campus in Brisbane City. QUT is a major sponsor for this Conference. Registration forms will be available as soon as possible.

The inaugural AGM for BirdLife Southern Queensland will be held at the conclusion of the Conference. Members are urged to attend this important meeting and to consider what part they can take in sharing as a committee or sub-committee member. The amalgamated BA/BOCA organisation is Birdlife Southern Queensland on and from January 1 2012. The current committee will continue to 24 March when all positions become vacant and we will elect the first committee under the terms of BirdLife Australia.

Office Space

We are looking for office and storage space in Brisbane. We need a central room close to public transport for committee meetings, and to store a large amount of display materials and equipment. Does anyone know of spare space which might be available at a nominal rental?

Bird surveys on Bimblebox and stock routes

Three members surveyed Bimblebox Nature Refuge in November. On two separate occasions, the group heard the Black-throated Finch that is listed as Vulnerable. This will be followed up by another survey in the Gallilee Basin next year.

Galilee Basin Expedition 15 - 30 April 2012

There are black holes in the BA Atlas in the area where there will soon be the black holes of open-cut coal pits. Grahame Rogers ( This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it ) is organising a survey team to fill some of the holes.  First few days will be spent at Bimblebox.  BANQ and BAC are to be invited to participate.

Pungalina-Seven Emu Survey 23 Jun - 9 Jul 2012

Leader Dez Wells First bulletin outlining the details of the survey is available for download. We have received 40 interested participants thus far.  We have applied for $10,000 in funding from the Norm-Wettenall Fund.

BASQ Photo Group news

The photo group has continued to benefit from a monthly newsletter that discusses techniques and suggestions to improve both the taking and presentation of bird pictures and image enhancement. For further information, please contact BASQ Photo Group Moderator Tom Oliver: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .

The Travelling Stock Routes legislation.

The Queensland Transport, Local Government and Infrastructure Committee has completed its public hearings into the Stock Route Network Management Bill 2011. The submissions and the transcripts are available on their website. Paul Donatiu (NPAQ), Prof Hugh Possingham, and Grahame Rogers (Secretary SRC) were witnesses. The committee is due to report in February.

The issues of costs and intermittent grazing are still contentious. Since there is an election due early next year, the Bill may not be enacted before parliament dissolves. It is time to talk to the Parties about their policies on Stock Routes.

BCC Partnership surveys

These will continue in 2012 but the contract will be renegotiated as other properties will be added requiring extra travelling. Surveys will be done by local branches BirdLife Brisbane North and Birdlife Brisbane South, cordinated by Dez Wells  This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or phone 07 3886 8055.

Eastern Bristlebird update

Sheena Gillman continues to work on finding new sites for the elusive EBB. Various contacts have been made with the Department of Environment and Resurce Management, South East Queensland Catchments and others to extend observations and surveys. Of particular interest is a proposal to "Adopt a Farm". SEQC is looking at funding to do surveys on suitable farms.

Wildlife Tourism - 3rd National Workshop

This will be held 16-18 May 2012 at Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary. The current call is for abstracts on presentations as well as lots of other information that can be checked out on the website. There is a place for birding themes and we include this note to see if any members are prepared to take up the challenge to participate in this workshop as a presenter. Maybe we can also host a display stand? Let us also know if you can help.

Communications in 2012

Under the new BirdLife Australia guidelines, the next quarterly Newsletter (name to change from Rosella Ramblings) will be published by us but will be on the Birdlife Australia website. National Office will advise all members with email when it is available. For those members who do not list an email with National Office, arrangements will be made to print a copy of the newsletter to send out with the National Office quarterly magazine.
The monthly e-news will also be renamed (from Rosella Feathers) but the method of distribution will remain the same - National Office will send an email advising members with a listed email that the e-news is available.

Local Branch News

Dez Wells is meeting with several of our Local Branches to help them in the process of sending their activities to our Webmaster (Grahame Rogers) so they can be listed on the web site. Catchment areas for Local branches have now been determined.

BirdLife Brisbane North - a new local branch - currently being organised.

Birdlife Brisbane South (previously BrisBOCA) - a newly approved local branch - is drawing up their 2012 program with firm decisions to March to be added to our calendar soon.

BirdLife Gold Coast (formerly Gold Coast Birdwatchers - a new local branch with a good membership following. Regular weekly outings are held and are on our web site events page.

BirdLife South Burnett has 8 members and have had recent outings to some promising spots to see Black-breasted Button-quail - fresh platelets but no birds seen!

BirdLife Sunshine Coast Hinterland - no recent news

Birds in Back Yards programs

Negotiations with city/regional councils is ongoing with Lockyer Valley, Logan, Scenic Rim and Toowoomba. It will be interesting to see these develop in 2012.

Items of note from the Committee

• Dez Wells (Convenor) plans further visiting to Local and also the other two Queensland Regional Branches regarding options under our new organisation as BirdLife Australia.
• Committee member Paul Finn has resigned due to work commitments. New members elected to fill vacancies were Trish Ferguson and Judy Leitch who have been BrisBOCA committee members. We thanked Paul and welcomed Trish and Judy.
• The BASQ/BrisBOCA/BirdLife Southern Queensland Working Group items under discussion will now be taken on by the existing BASQ/BOCA committee.
• Committee agreed to support proposals by the Karawatha Forest Protection Society for upgrading the Quarry there to a more appropriate conservation habitat for birds.
• Glossy Black-Cockatoo Conservancy Representative Eric Anderson attended the Glossy Black Conservancy end of year review meeting at Mt Barney on 17-18 November.
• Committee supported the GBC letter to State government expressing concern on the impact of coal seam gas mines on GB Cockatoos.
• Committee voted to become members of the Environmental Defenders Office to received notifications of major developmental projects in Queensland.
• Committee also has membership with the Queensland Conservation Council.
• Sheena Gillman reports that the Lockyer Valley Regional Council brochure for birding locations is close to finalisation. BASQ has offered help in financing the publication.
• Greening Australia is seeking our input to survey sites to be nominated. Committee is looking at contractual arrangements to undertake this work.

9 Nov 2011

Office Space

The Governance Subcommittee of the Merger Working Group is looking for office and storage space in Brisbane. We need a central room close to public transport for committee meetings, and to store a large amount of display materials and equipment. (BrisBOCA used to have a small room at the Beenleigh Historical Village, but this is no longer available.) Does anyone know of spare space which might be avaiable at a nominal rental?

Annual Conference and Birdlife Southern Queensland AGM - 24th March 2012

Eric Anderson (Chair for Conference and AGM 2012) is working on what will be our inaugural AGM for Birdlife Southern Queensland. The Conservation Conference will be the fourth one held under the auspices of BASQ/BirdLife Southern Queensland. More details in later issues. A central venue is being checked out and will be confirmed in later news.

At this stage all members are urged to attend and importantly to consider what part they can take in sharing as a committee or sub-committee member. The amalgamated BA/BOCA organisation starts as Birdlife Australia (we'll be BirdLife Southern Queensland) on and from January 1 2012. The current committee will continue to 24 March when all positions become vacant and we will elect the first committee under the terms of BirdLife Australia.

Crows Nest Festival (14-23 October)

We trialled a display with a difference for the Crows Nest Festival (Qld) from 14-22 October.

Birdwatching on Horseback on Sunday morning started our activities with five participants. BIBY's Dr Holly Parsons joined us for Wednesday's morning display stall and evening power point presentations for Holly's Birds in Backyards, and Lesley Beaton's talk on How to Identify Birds. Holly was interviewed by a local reporter and we saw a good write-up with a picture of Holly, in the local Crows Nest Advertiser of 25th October.

Early morning walks on Thursday and Friday saw us enjoying Breakfast with the Birds at Ravensbourne National Park and Applegum Walk (Crows Nest). Despite a cold wind, the Ravensbourne NP group led by Lesley Beaton and including Holly Parsons, saw a number of notable birds including the Noisy Pitta. The group on the Applegum walk along Bald Hills Creek at Crows Nest also caught up with a Buff-banded Rail in our bird list.

The final Saturday (the really fun day) we hosted a display stall staffed with help from local members. We ran a competition using a new BIBY poster with birds that use different niches of habitat. A local bird book (Birds of the Darling Downs) was awarded to the first complete entry drawn that identified a bird in each habitat niche. We had lots of enquiries, questions about birds and sold some items throughout the day. Thanks to Ross and Cathy Smith (Brisbane), Vic and Pat Weaver (Maleny) and Angela Booth (Highfields) who joined with Grahame Rogers (Crows Nest) and Gil and Airlie Porter (Brisbane) to staff the display.

As part of the Festival there was a Photo competition on various aspects of birds that attracted 213 entries from all age groups. Also the winning poetry entry was one called "Birds in our yards".Overall we believe our presence worked well for us and made this attempt a successful longer-than-usual display presence.

Bird surveys on Bimblebox and stock routes

A few members will survey these areas for a week in November and also late April 2012. One objective is to sight the Black-throated Finch that has a Vulnerable listing.

Bimblebox Nature Reserve

Threat from Coal mining proposal. See their website for more information on what is happening. The web page has suggested responses (either of one page or six pages) that can be used to add your voice if you wish to use or amend these to send to the Coordinator General. Closing date for submissions is 19 December 2011.

BASQ Photo Group news

The photo group continues to grow and now has over 30 members. Interestingly, 6 members live on Bribie Island and, with the venue of a Bribie Island Library meeting room, they were able to organise a time and date for Tom Oliver to present to them 'Digital Cameras and Bird Photography  A Beginner's Guide'. Feedback received from this group, on the content of the presentation, has been most positive.

Please let Tom  know if any other groups would like him to present to them. For further information, please contact BASQ Photo Group Moderator Tom Oliver: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

Bribie Birds

This booklet (published by the Bribie Island Environmental Protection Association Inc) is available from BASQ. With information on birding spots and the 376 birds recorded on the island including photos of around 150 of the more commonly seen species it is a good reference. BASQ has copies available at $20 plus $5 post and packing. Enquiries to Gil Porter This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or by mail to BASQ - Bribie Birds - PO Box 5457 Stafford Heights QLD 4053,

The Travelling Stock Routes legislation.

The Queensland Stock Route Network Management Act 2011 has been introduced to parliament by Natural Resources Minister Rachel Nolan. There is a report on www.stockroutes.info. Grahame Rogers (Secretary Stock Routes Coalition) has already attended the public briefing by the Transport, Local Government and Infrastructure Committee.

Challenge Bird Count 2011

This is a 24 hour annual event that has been part of BrisBOCA activities and is being organised for 3-4th December. Les Cooper This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it   is coordinating the results. The objective is to see how many species your team can observe but also count and record the numbers of each species.

Healthy Waterways Report

This annual event presentation by Griffith University scientists on SEQ River systems was attended by some members of BrisBOCA.

Eastern Bristlebird update

Sheena Gillman met with a field ecologist reporting to NSW DPI Forestry Division who suspected seeing an Eastern Bristlebird near Woodenbong. Two site visits failed to find EBB, or identify a mystery bird. Kevin Harvey has been provided with the EBB sound CD for field use. He has been introduced to the relevant northern recovery team members to contact should he find EBB. Dr D Stewart and Sheena Gillman will be accompanied by Greg Neill to revisit Conondale IBA sites where EBB were heard/observed in September.

Volunteers - Moreton Bay Shorebirds

Francesco Bancala - PhD student, UQ - This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it   or mobile - 0432 872 758 is looking for helpers to count and video record shorebirds on different foraging and roosting sites around Moreton bay. Digital cameras and eyepiece adapters for spotting scopes will be provided. Two separate days in November - December and March - April are involved. Interested? Let Francesco know details - name, contact info including residential address (for site determination), availability (week, weekends etc), scope specifications, experience with digiscoping.

Wildlife Tourism - 3rd National Workshop

To be held 16-18 May 2012 at Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary. This event covers a lot of themes and topics. The current call is for abstracts on presentations as well as lots of other information that can be checked out on the website. There is a place for birding themes and we include this note to see if any members are prepared to take up the challenge to participate in this workshop as a presenter. Maybe we can also host a display stand? Let us also know if you can please.

OHS Sign-on forms

New forms have been designed for use in future for all leaders of official events (surveys, bird walks etc). After the event, completed forms need to be sent to the OHS Coordinator (Sheena Gillman). The new forms explain details of insurance cover for the under 16 and over 80 yr olds (see addendum at the end of this Rosella Feathers news) as well as the responsibilities of the leader. The forms will be available for download from our website.

Items of note from the Committee

• Dez Wells has been visiting with a lot of birding groups regarding options for being part of BASQ and BirdLife Southern Queensland - our new organisation
  
• Dez attended the BirdLife Board meeting in Melbourne on 5 November.
• The BASQ/BrisBOCA Working Group plans to meet again on November 26th.
• Gil Porter - Communications Officer - is looking at future options for Newsletter production. This will include consideration of content, style, frequency and method of distribution. A major change could be to distribute the newsletter electronically with only a few copies being printed for those not on the internet.
• Sheena Gillman reports that the Lockyer Valley Regional Council brochure for Birding locations is close to final proofing. BASQ has offered help in financing the publication.
  

Birds Australia Public Liability and Personal Accident and Illness Insurance Explained

Participants in Birds Australia's official activities have access to our Public Liability
Insurance and Personal Accident and Illness Insurance. "Official" activities are those that
the relevant Committee or authorised individual is aware of in advance and is recognised as
a Birds Australia activity. To be considered "official" the activity must be under the control
of an authorised Birds Australia Member. Non-members of Birds Australia participating in
official activities are also covered by the insurance policies. Both policies apply Australiawide.
At all times participants must act reasonably, i.e. they must adhere to safety briefings
and wherever practicable and reasonable they must not act to cause damage or injury nor fail
to act where damage or injury could be prevented.

Public Liability Insurance.

Public Liability insurance is designed to provide BA cover against legal costs, expenses and
liability to pay damages when the organisation or volunteers at official BA events are sued
by an injured party under common law. This would usually occur when it can be shown that
there had been an injury or damage caused through negligence. It covers non-members of
Birds Australia participating in official Birds Australia activities. This also protects Birds
Australia if an employee causes property damage or injury to a third party.

To ensure cover for Participants on official Birds Australia events they must be seen as
acting on Birds AustraliaÕs behalf and so there must be some form of agreement, either
written or understood, between Birds Australia and the individual. For most activities this
can be covered by each Participant signing a document confirming they have been briefed
on safety and other requirements and that they agree to follow all reasonable requests of the
activity leader. This document can also be the activity attendance record.

Birds Australia has $20,000,000 public liability insurance; a copy of the certificate of
insurance can be accessed on the Birds Australia website Extranet.

Personal Accident and Illness

This policy covers volunteers of Birds Australia involved in, or travelling to, an official
Birds Australia activity. The policy is restricted to volunteers aged between 16 and 80 years
old as it is intended primarily to provide some limited compensation for a loss of earnings
for employed people. It may not be adequate in all circumstances and Birds Australia
recommends that anyone in doubt should have private medical insurance. To ensure they
are covered by this policy all Participants must sign the Attendance Record which also
confirms they have been briefed on all health and safety aspects of the activity. By signing
this record they are also confirming that they believe their health will allow them to
participate and that they have disclosed any relevant medical condition to the activity leader.

The benefits available under this policy are

• Capital Benefits in the event of paraplegia or quadriplegia - up to $50,000.
• Weekly Accident Benefit - Up to $500 per week for up to 52 weeks.
• Injury Assistance Benefit - Up to $300 per week for up to 26 weeks.
• No cover is available for permanent total disablement for any person over the age of 65 years.

If further clarification is required please call National Office (03) 9347 0757.

20 Sep 2011

Crows Nest Digital Photo Competition.

Free entry. Closes 1 October..  $3000 in prizes. Five classes: 1    Australian Native Birds; 2    Birds as Food;  3    Birds as Pets or Hobbies; 4    Birds in Conservation; 5    Birds on the Web. Rules and entry forms:

Crows Nest Festival (14-23 October)

We are assembling a team for this display with a longer involvement and wider than usual range of Birds Australia activities from Sunday (16th) morning (Birdwatching on horseback) then from Wednesday 19th to Saturday 22nd October. See the website for the birds and birdwatching program. If you can help for any of these please contact Gil Porter This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .

CROWS NEST MOTEL has offered some special consideration for any members wanting to book in for more than one night. But Pauline and Branton advise that as there is a wedding in Crows Nest on the Saturday night that they are already getting enquiries about bookings. Therefore if any BASQ members want to book in please do so as soon as possible as they can't hold any rooms without a firm booking. Ring them on 4698 1399 or check out their website 

BASQ Photo Group news

The Photo Group has grown to 29, with newsletters emailed to members. Topics in the newsletters include "technical" information to help maximise efforts. The Critique Forum also provides popular practice and members are willing to submit bird images for critique and advice. For further information, please contact BASQ Photo Group Moderator Tom Oliver: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

Displays

Don't forget to drop by at these activities.
Westfalen Environmental Expo was held on Sunday September with Margaret Cameron (BASQ) and Jim Sneddon from Birds Queensland staffing a successful and appreciated display booth. 
Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary Bird Week (11-17 September) - We were unable to be there but the organiser will distribute brochures on birds that have been supplied. Also can you give Gil Porter ( This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it some help in notifying him of regular events in your area that also cover conservation emphases? Event name, date(s) and address (website etc) will be helpful to know and assist forward planning. We'd like to get into some new areas in 2012.

Volunteers for Display functions

If you can help out when we have displays it is useful to know before we organise these events and it shares the load. Contact Gil Porter ( This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .

MT BARNEY LODGE BIRDWEEK --  7-11 SEPTEMBER 2011 (Advertisement)

This year's annual event was quieter than usual but successfully listed 90 birds on that included a first with a Spotless Crake. Their next activity is on 16th October with an all-day (from 7am) People Protesting On Peaks. Check it out on the website

Bribie Birds

A new booklet published by the Bribie Island Environmental Protection Association Inc is available from BASQ. It has good information on birding spots and the 376 birds recorded on the island with photos of around 150 of the more commonly seen species. If you want a copy from us it is available at $20 plus $5 post and packing. Enquiries to Gil Porter ( This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or by mail to BASQ - Bribie Birds - PO Box 5457 Stafford Heights QLD 4053

The Travelling Stock Routes legislation.

The Queensland Stock Route Network Management Act 2011 has been introduced to parliament by Natural Resources Minister Rachel Nolan.There is a report on www.stockroutes.info.

SOUTH BURNETT COUNTRY BRANCH

Julian Bielewicz reports that the group have held several good outings recently. Julian is exploring possible access to less restricted areas of Tarong Power station for observations and surveys

Items of note from the Committee

Minutes of the last committee meeting 10 September are on the Meetings page

Dez Wells has been has been visiting with a lot of birding groups regarding options for being part of BASQ and BirdLife Southern Queensland - our new organisation.

Dez has also been speaker at a number of events including a workshop for Bribie Island Environmental Protection Association with over 50 participants.

Gold Coast Birdwatchers has been accepted as a country branch of BASQ following discussions with Dezmond Wells. See information on BASQ pages on the BA website.

The Working Group from BASQ and BrisBOCA, met on 14 August at Beenleigh Historical Village, with Graeme Hamilton CEO of BA and BirdLife Australia. This followed on from his meeting with us on the merger process for BA and BOCA. Sub-committees on Governance, Finances and Communications were set up to explore the options before us. At present these options are being worked on for presentation to a future meeting.

Eric Anderson (Chair for Conference and AGM 2012) is working on what will be our inaugural AGM for Birdlife Southern Queensland. The Conservation Conference will be the fourth one held under the auspices of BASQ/BirdLife Southern Queensland. More details in later issues

Gil Porter - Communications Officer - is looking at future options for Newsletter production. This will include consideration of content, style, frequency and method of distribution. As noted in recent issues of Rosella Feathers a major change could be to distribute most through electronic means with only a few copies being printed. If members have suggestions of what content would be helpful Gil Porter ( This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it would like to hear from you.

Sheena Gillman reports that the Lockyer Valley Regional Council brochure for Birding locations is close to final proofing. BASQ has offered help in financing publications.

Eric Anderson and Dezmond Wells represented BASQ at the launch of the Glossy Black Conservancy Guidelines at Indigiscapes on 15 September. Congratulations to Eric Anderson for the informative input from a birding perspective into the guidelines.

Following the resignation of a committee member we now have three vacancies awaiting willing volunteers. Please contact Secretary Julie Sarna This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it if you can join the committee.

9 Aug 2011

Publications

The comments in July's Rosella Feathers about BASQ's review of our publications has drawn some responses to support email publication of Rosella Ramblings. Send in your comments too as we would like to hear from as many as possible. Note that any changes will not happen until after January 2012 in any case. We are keen to hear from you on our future directions. Suggestions welcome to Gil Porter by This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or mail to BASQ Communications, PO Box 5457 Stafford Heights QLD 4053.

BASQ Photo Group news.

The Photo Group continues to grow, with two newsletters emailed to members. Topics covered in the newsletters included the 'Rule of Thirds', Head Angle and Digital Image Workflow. Future newsletter topics will include Birds in Flight, RAW versus JPEG and the Use of Fill-in Flash. The Critique Forum is also proving to be  extremely popular and several bird images have been submitted by members for critique and advice. For further information, please contact BASQ Photo Group Moderator Tom Oliver by This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

Displays

The Scenic Rim Eco-Expo (Westerman Park, Beaudesert) - Sunday 7 August. Sheena Gillman reports that it was a very worthwhile day of activity. An early morning birdwalk was rewarded with lots of water birds. And the interest of visitors including children collected lots of magazines and brochures and enjoyed Sheena's Morcombe iPad bird book explorations!

Westfalen Environmental Expo (Dunlop Street, Collingwood Park) - Sunday September 11. BASQ is teaming up with BQ and BrisBOCA to staff a display.

Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary Bird Week (11-17 September) - We are considering a possible display on 17 September as part of the event, but we need helpers from the nearby area. URGENT please - email Gil Porter This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it if you can help staff this display.

Crows Nest Festival (14-23 October) - We are assembling a team for this display with activities from Wednesday 19 to Saturday 22 October in particular. If you can help for any of these please contact Gil Porter This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

CROWS NEST MOTEL (Advertisement)

Come and join us for our Crows Nest Festival 2011, 14th - 23rd October. The Theme is OUR BIRDS feathers, food and fun. Enjoy the beautiful scenic country side that over 300 of the 800 species of Australian birds inhabit.
Our Motel is set in peaceful parklands, close to National Parks, lakes and walking tracks. We are located along the picturesque New England Highway, which is a tourist delight with cafes, art galleries, antiques and so much more. We serve home style cooked evening meals for you to enjoy.Two night package deals, also weekly rates are available. Visit our website , phone 07 4698 1399 or This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .

Volunteers for Display functions

I have a few volunteers responding to this call to help staff display stands. If you can help it is useful to know as we organise these events and it shares the load. Contact Gil Porter This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

MT BARNEY LODGE BIRDWEEK --  7-11 SEPTEMBER 2011 (Advertisement)

The annual Mt Barney Lodge Birdweek is quickly approaching. Over one exciting week, there will be guided tours, slideshows and structured workshops to extend your birding knowledge. This program is suitable for amateur or intermediate birders. Featuring Barry Davies (2009 EcoGuide of the Year) as lead bird guide, and accomplished wildlife photographer Michael Snedic.

Come and take part in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere, with great food, country accommodation and spectacular mountain scenery only 90 minutes drive from Brisbane and the Gold Coast.Scenic

Rim concerns

The Keep the Scenic Rim Scenic group would like to have help with representing their concerns over possible coal mining in the area. Have a look at the web site and respond if you feel moved to support them. BASQ Conservation sub-committee is looking into the matter.

Bribie Birds

This is a new booklet published by the Bribie Island Environmental Protection Association Inc and replaces an earlier publication. BASQ has some copies of this book that carries information on good birding spots and the 376 birds recorded on the island with photos of around 150 of the more commonly seen species. If you want a copy from us it is available at $20 plus $5 post and packing. Enquiries to Gil Porter This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it   or by mail to BASQ - Bribie Birds - PO Box 5457 Stafford Heights QLD 4053

The second NSW Travelling Stock Routes Conference 28 July 2011.

There is a report on www.stockroutes.info. It was a very productive meeting, and we are confident that the post-conference working group will advance the campaign to conserve the NSW Travelling Stock Routes and Reserves for all their values. See www.stockroutes.info/index.php/campaign/30-nsw-travelling-stock-routes-conference

Items of note from the Committee

• BASQ's mailing address is PO Box 5457 Stafford Heights QLD 4053 for correspondence
  
• Dez Wells has been to another Birdlife Committee meeting in Melbourne.
• A Working group with 4 members each from BASQ and BrisBOCA, with Dezmond Wells as Chair, working toward a merger of these two groups. A meeting is planned for 14 August. More in future news.
• Ross & Cathy Smith have just returned from a month's caretaker duties at Bowra
• Graeme Hamilton CEO BirdLife Australia will be available at a meeting in the Brisbane Area on 14 August to update us on the merger progress and to discuss some options. Enquiries to Grahame Rogers This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .
• Sheena Gillman is working with Lockyer Valley Regional Council on a couple of projects for Birding locations with an offer of help in financing publications.
• Eric Anderson represented BASQ for the Burnett-Mary Regional Group habitat mapping.
  

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18 Jul 2011

New Committee members.

BASQ is pleased to announce that Executive Committee member Julie Sarna has accepted to be our Secretary following the resignation of Simon Stirrat who has taken up a position overseas. We also welcome Sandra Gallienne who has accepted a committee membership position. Two committee member vacancies await willing volunteers. And we would appreciate help for the important activities as Editor of Rosella Ramblings and also for the Urban Corridors' Surveys Coordinator. Please contact Convenor Dezmond Wells This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or phone 07 3886 8055

Special Merger Information session with Graeme Hamilton

Preced by a BrisBOCA outing: 8:00 am Sun 14 Aug.  Eagleby Wetlands Walk. Varied Habitat. Meet at the carpark near Kerkin Hall off Logan Street, UBD 264 N17. Contact Sandra Gallienne on 07 5546 4960 if you require further information. (Late starters are welcome)

The information session will take place over lunch at the cafe in Old Beenleigh Town, 205 Main St, Beenleigh, starting at 12 noon. (Near the Beenleigh Visitor Information Centre). No entry fee needed to attend the cafe.

RSVP to Grahame Rogers This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or 07 4698 1727 by 8 August

Publications

 With changes arising from the merger to BirdLife Australia, BASQ is also reviewing our publications. Currently Rosella Ramblings is an 8 page colour-printed quarterly and is included with Wingspan issues. Rosella Feathers is our monthly e-news.

We note the trend by many Regional Groups to use email distribution of newsletters. We are considering whether we should also do this to minimise publication and distribution costs. Over recent years we have been fortunate in having a very economical printing deal, but this will end with September's Rosella Ramblings. Costs per issue will double after that to around $1500 per issue ($6000 pa). Some members have advised National Office that they prefer to receive Rosella Ramblings electronically and it is currently available for download from the BA website.

An electronic version could continue as a colour issue and could have a flexible number of pages that is not practical to achieve in a print copy production. Options include making the default issue electronic, and for a very limited number of 4-page printed black and white copies only for those who opt for a printed copy. National Office advise that around 170 of our 800 members do not list an email address. We do not know whether any of those use the internet at libraries or other locations to access the web.

We are keen to hear from you on our future directions. Suggestions welcome to Gil Porter by This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or mail to BASQ Communications, PO Box 5457 Stafford Heights QLD 4053.

BASQ Photo Group news.

We now have 22 members in the group and it is still growing. Tom Oliver (Photo Group Moderator) has sent out the inaugural newsletter to members. Tom is working with PhotoBOCA group (Melbourne) to explore links with a new BirdLife Photo group. For further information contact Tom by This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

Displays coming up

Wildlife Expo - 7 August - Westerman Park, Beaudesert. If you can help for part of the day contact Sheena Gillman by This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it . See also their website.

We are looking at a possible display on 17 September as part of the Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary Bird Week (11-17 September), but we need helpers from the nearby area.

We are assembling a team for the Crows Nest Festival from 14-23 October with activities from Wednesday 19-22 October in particular. If you can help for any of these please contact Gil Porter This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .
Note also their Digital Photo Competition - entries due 1 October.

CROWS NEST MOTEL (Advertisement)

Come and join us for our Crows Nest Festival 2011, 14th - 23rd October. The Theme is OUR BIRDS feathers, food and fun. Enjoy the beautiful scenic country side that over 300 of the 800 species of Australian birds inhabit.
Our Motel is set in peaceful parklands, close to National Parks, lakes and walking tracks. We are located along the picturesque New England Highway, which is a tourist delight with cafes, art galleries, antiques and so much more. We serve home style cooked evening meals for you to enjoy.Two night package deals, also weekly rates are available. Visit our website , phone 07 4698 1399 or This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .

Volunteers for Displays

We have a few volunteers responding to this call to help staff display stands. If you can help it is useful to know as we organise these events and it shares the load. Contact Gil Porter This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .

Glossy Black-Cockatoo Birding day - 22 May

Despite the rain the event was quite successful. Ninety nine birds were seen and a further four heard on the day.. A full report will appear later in Rosella Ramblings.
The next Birding Day when a coordinated region wide census will be done for this endangered bird is planned for September 2012. To check out what is happening, or to record sightings of the Glossy Black-Cockatoo, go to the website.

MT BARNEY LODGE BIRDWEEK --  7-11 SEPTEMBER 2011 (Advertisement)

The annual Mt Barney Lodge Birdweek is quickly approaching. Over one exciting week, there will be guided tours, slideshows and structured workshops to extend your birding knowledge. This program is suitable for amateur or intermediate birders. Featuring Barry Davies (2009 EcoGuide of the Year) as lead bird guide, and accomplished wildlife photographer Michael Snedic.

Come and take part in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere, with great food, country accommodation and spectacular mountain scenery only 90 minutes drive from Brisbane and the Gold Coast.

Scenic Rim concerns

The Keep the Scenic Rim Scenic  group at would like to have help with representing their concerns over possible coal mining in the area. Have a look at the website and respond if you feel moved to support them. BASQ Conservation sub-committee is looking into the matter.

Bribie Birds

A new booklet published by the Bribie Island Environmental Protection Association Inc., replacing an earlier publication. BASQ has some copies of this book that carries information on good birding spots and the 376 birds recorded on the island with photos of around 150 of the more commonly seen species. If you would like a copy from us it is available at $20 plus $5 post and packing. Enquiries to Gil Porter This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .

Forward Notice - our next Conservation Conference and AGM

This will be held on March 24 2012 at a location to be determined. Eric Anderson is Conference Manager and will be making plans for this important event - the first one for us as a BirdLife Australia group in Queensland.

Items of note from the Committee

• BASQ has a new mailing address at PO Box 5457 Stafford Heights QLD 4053 for correspondence
• A Working group with 4 members each from BASQ and BrisBOCA, with Dezmond Wells as Chair, working toward a merger of these two groups. More in future news.
• Sheena Gillman was appointed as the Occupational and Health Safety Officer for BASQ. Attendance forms available from Sheena Gillman by This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .
• Donation of $300 sent to the Sunshine Coast Environment Council to assist conservation of local birds in coastal habitats.
• Sheena Gillman is working with Lockyer Valley Regional Council on a couple of projects for Birding locations with an offer of help in financing publications.
• Eric Anderson is BASQ's representative for the Burnett-Mary Regional Group habitat mapping.
• BASQ is working with Toowoomba City Council on a Birds in Backyards poster.
• Sunshine Coast Regional council is finalising their Birds in Backyards poster and birds brochure with help from BASQ.Our Website is adding pages of information constantly so check it out.
  

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8 Jun 2011

Your country needs you

BASQ still needs two committee members and others for some of our important activities - Editor - Rosella Ramblings and Urban Corridors' Surveys Coordinator. Please contact Convenor Dezmond Wells This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

BASQ Photo Group news.

We now have 14 members in the group and it is still growing. Tom Oliver (Photo Group Moderator) sent out information on How to Critique Bird Photos and the inaugural newsletter will be delivered shortly to members. Tom is discussing with PhotoBOCA group (Melbourne) to explore possible links with a BirdLife Photographers group. For further information contact Tom This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

Sunshine Coast Pelagic trip

We're looking at an inaugural winter trip on Saturday June 11. The cost is $120 per person. Please let Greg Roberts ( This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it ) know urgently if you want your name put down.

The Hillbrook Anglican School Sustainability day

Saturday 4th June saw our team at a Birds Australia display stand. Lots of visitors -particularly in the morning period - and many brochures and magazines were shared through the day. Thanks to Julie, Sheena and Tom who staffed the display from 8am to 4pm and to Airlie, Gil and Ross who helped either setup or take down the stall.

Volunteers for Displays

We have a few more displays targeted in coming months. BASQ will have a stall at the Wildlife Expo - August 7 (Sunday) 9am-5pm.  Sheena Gillman is to head up our presence that is at Westerman Park Beaudesert (near the Beaudesert High School and corner of Brisbane St and Enterprise Drive). If you can help out please let Sheena know  ( This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it ) or Gil Porter ( This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it ). Then, tentatively for mid September at Currumbin Wildlife sanctuary and following that the commitment for October for Crows Nest Bird Week. Volunteers to help staff display stands help spread the word that we are around. If you can help it is useful to know as we organise these events and it shares the load. Let Gil Porter know by This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it ..

Lyrebird survey.

The Tamborine Mountain Natural History Association Bird Group will be conducting a Lyrebird survey on Saturday 18th June. Surveyors will meet at 6am at Witches Falls National Park car park, then head off to the survey areas to start recording by 7am and return to Witches Fall by 9.30am.
If anyone would like to assist with the surveying contact Jeff Eller ( This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it ) asap so that he can work out survey teams.

Tamborine Mountain IBA

Tamborine Mountain outing planned for July 4-8 Ð Please contact Convenor Dezmond Wells This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or phone 07 3886 8055

MT BARNEY LODGE BIRDWEEK --  7-11 SEPTEMBER 2011 (Advertisement)

The annual Mt Barney Lodge Birdweek  is quickly approaching. Over one exciting week, there will be guided tours, slideshows and structured workshops to extend your birding knowledge. This program is suitable for amateur or intermediate birders. Featuring Barry Davies (2009 EcoGuide of the Year) as lead bird guide, and accomplished wildlife photographer Michael Snedic.

Come and take part in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere, with great food, country accommodation and spectacular mountain scenery only 90 minutes drive from Brisbane and the Gold Coast. The 10% Earlybird Discount is valid until 1 July 2011.

BrisBOCA walk

On Wednesday 8th June, BrisBOCA plan a walk at Eagleby Wetlands, meeting at the carpark at 0800.  Thursday 9th June BrisBOCA have a walk planned at Wearing Park, Munruben meeting at the Greenhill Rd Picnic Area at 8:00 am UBD map 279 K/13 Ð sightings data is part of a project with  Logan City about the wetlands they manage. Please contact Sandra Gallienne if you would like to attend, preferably the night before the walk, on 07 5546 4960

Scenic Rim concerns

The Keep the Scenic Rim Scenic  group  would like to have help with representing their concerns over possible coal mining in the area. Have a look at the web site and respond if you feel moved to support them. BASQ Conservation sub-committee is looking into the matter.

What bird should be the logo for Birdlife Australia next year?

A good logo should be
1. an iconic Australian bird
2. easily recognisable by the general public (rather than exciting to bird watchers)
3. reasonably common around Australia

BA  AGM Perth 21 June.

Six members of BASQ attended this historic occasion to support the merger of BA and BOCA: Dez Wells, Grahame and Donalda Rogers, Eric Anderson, Diana O'Connor, and Julie Sarna

BASQ-BrisBOCA merger

A Working group is being established with 4 members each from BASQ and BrisBOCA, with Dezmond Wells as Chair, working toward a merger of these two groups. More in future news.

BASQ Committee

Minutes from 7 May meeting on Meetings Page

Crows Nest Digital Photo Competition

This competition is part of the Crows Nest Community Festival 14 – 23 October 2011 .  There are substantial prizes. See the Coming Events page on the Crows Nest website and the Festival webstie.

CROWS NEST MOTEL (Advertisement)

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11 May 2011

BA-BOCA merger

Don't forget to get your proxy in. Post it before the end of this week! The BASQ Committee unanimously support the merger.

Your Regional Group needs you.

BASQ is still seeking volunteers for two committee members and for some of our important activities - Editor - Rosella Ramblings, Occupational Health and Safety Officer, and Urban Corridors' Surveys Coordinator. Please contact Convenor Dezmond Wells This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

BASQ Photo Group.

The initial response is very encouraging with eleven survey forms requested and ten forms completed and returned. The topics that received the most positive responses were those that centred on friendly, supportive group activities.  For example:

• Having a friendly forum in which to submit bird photos for critique and helpful guidance (9 out of 10)
• Being with a group of like-minded people (9 out of 10) 
• Outings (9 out of 10)
  

The survey results were discussed at the recent committee meeting and Tom Oliver (Photo Group Moderator) will be sending a document entitled How to Critique Bird Photos to the members who responded to the survey. This will help bird photographers evaluate their own images, as it is a compilation of concepts to consider when critiquing their own or someone else's bird image. Any members interested in further details about the Photo Group please contact Tom, This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

Sunshine Coast Pelagic trip

We're looking at an inaugural winter trip on Saturday June 11. The cost is $120 per person. Please let Greg Roberts This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it know if you want your name put down.

Display at the 2011 Peace Festival, Warwick

Ray Licene reported that the BASQ information table was worth having. The posters, brochures and magazines made a good display, with plenty of things to give away. The morning was busy and 20 - 30 people came up to chat. Thanks to Ray and helpers who staffed the display.

Volunteers for Displays?

We need volunteers to staff display stands at various locations. Most are close to Brisbane or main country centres. If we know who might be available to help it will be useful when committee gets requests. Gil will make a list so advise him ( This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it ) if available. These events gets our name and activities known and we can urge visitors to join Birds Australia to strengthen our voice and impact.
Displays in early June - Sat 4th - Enoggera - Hillcrest Anglican School and also at Narangba - CREEC

Conondale IBA Survey

Note the further change to the dates for this outing. Now scheduled for September 19-23 (Monday to Friday). Please contact Convenor Dezmond Wells This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it   or phone 07 3886 8055

MT BARNEY LODGE BIRDWEEK --  7-11 SEPTEMBER 2011

The annual Mt Barney Lodge Birdweek  is quickly approaching. Over one exciting week, there will be guided tours, slideshows and structured workshops to extend your birding knowledge. This program is suitable for amateur or intermediate birders. Featuring Barry Davies (2009 EcoGuide of the Year) as lead bird guide, and accomplished wildlife photographer Michael Snedic.
Come and take part in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere, with great food, country accommodation and spectacular mountain scenery only 90 minutes drive from Brisbane and the Gold Coast. The 10% Earlybird Discount is valid until 1 July 2011

Scenic Rim concerns

The Keep the Scenic Rim Scenic (KTSRS) group would like to have help with representing their concerns over possible coal mining in the area. Have a look at the web site and respond if you feel moved to support them. BASQ Conservation sub-committee is looking into the matter.

Eremaea Birds

This is an on-line birding atlas built from lists provided by members. The taxonomy is based on the latest update to The Clements Checklist of the Birds of the World.

Members have the ability to enter their own lists, and to retrieve a variety of personal reports such as life lists, target species lists, trip lists, observation reports, birding statistics, trip maps, etc. Lists can be sent automatically to the Birds Australia Atlas from Eremaea

Sites are created, edited and shared by members. Sites are moderated to ensure consistency with the guidelines provided.

Other services provided to members include email notifications regarding observations of selected species, regional checklists, taxonomic updates and the ability to send a message to another member. Sub-species are now catered for.

BASQ sponsors Birdline Central & Southern Queensland. This is a site for the reporting of rare or unusual birds outside their normal range, unusually high or low numbers, early or late arrivals or departures for migrant species and interesting behaviour or unusual habitat usage. The BSCQ region covers a large area from south of Ayr to the New South Wales Border and west to the Northern Territory border.

Items of Note from the Committee

• Dezmond Wells has accepted appointment to the Birds Australia Council
• Seven BASQ committee members met officers from National Offices of Birds Australia and BOCA and BOCA group members to voice some questions regarding the proposals on amalgamation.
• Tamborine Mountain outing planned for July 4-8 Ð Contact Dezmond Wells - This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or phone 07 3886 8055.
• Committee approved the sub-committees at the 7 May meeting. See website for a full listing
• Displays  See Events page . If you can help staff an event let Gil Porter know please ( This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or phone 07 3359 4388)
  

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6 April 2011

BASQ Conference

On Saturday March 26 in the Abel Smith Lecture Theatre at the University of Queensland we had 65 registrants for the Conference. Birds Australia's President Alison Russell-French was present with us this year. The day started off with Tom Oliver's well-attended workshop on digital cameras and bird photography.

At the conclusion of the Conference, Alison presented member David Stewart with Honorary Life Membership for his 50 years of membership with RAOU/Birds Australia. David spoke on his involvement in birding over the years including his life work on recording our bird calls. He also mentioned his work with Michael Morecombe in producing the Michael Morecombe eGuide to the Birds of Australia - an App for iPhone, iPod Touch and iPad and shortly for other systems (Android etc).

BASQ's AGM was held following the Conference. President Alison Russell-French gave us an update about the current action on the proposed amalgamation of BA and BOCA. This will be considered at the AGM's of both organisations in May. Alison encouraged every member to vote when the package was sent out to members, and emphasised to send in proxy votes that are just as important as voting from those present at the AGM.

Convenor Dezmond Wells presented the Annual Report 2010. This document is available on request from Gil Porter This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it as a pdf file or if needed, a quantity of printed copies are available to post. Elections were then held and following a motion to extend Dezmond Wells' tenure for one year, he was re-elected Convenor. No nominations were received for the position of Deputy Convenor. The positions of Secretary, Treasurer, and eight committee positions were then elected as follows - Secretary - Simon Stirrat, Treasurer - Paul Matthews and committee members are Anita Cosgrove, Paul Finn, Greg Ford, Sheena Gillman, Tom Oliver, Gil Porter, Grahame Rogers and Julie Sarna. In addition to the new committee there are a number of members who assist various activities. We are nevertheless keen for volunteers for the Deputy Convenor, as well as some of our important activities - Armchair Twitch Coordinator, Campouts and Outings Officer, Editor - Rosella Ramblings, Occupational Health and Safety Officer, and Urban Corridors' Surveys Coordinator. Please contact Convenor Dezmond Wells This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .

Calling Glossy Black-Cockatoo volunteers

The Glossy Black-Cockatoo Conservancy Census for 2011 is on May 22. Volunteers are needed in many areas across South East Queensland to participate in both the training days and the census. Please log in to www.glossyblack.org.au for more information.

Proposed New Activity Group for BASQ

Tom Oliver has offered to develop a Photo group in BASQ. If you would be interested in joining such a group, please advise your interest to Tom  This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .

BASQ Sales items

We have had a small stock of for sale items over the years but lost a lot of such stock in the recent Brisbane Floods. We are grateful to Birds Australia Western Australia who sent us some of their sale stock for us to use as fundraisers. This included a couple of their lapel badges (BA Emu and a Yellow Robin @ $5 ea) and a selection of note cards for $1 each. These cards are great to use for various needs - birthdays, anniversaries, thank-you notes, or just keeping in touch. We will have a picture and information in the June Rosella Ramblings.

Display at the 2011 Peace Festival, Warwick

BASQ will again staff a display on Sunday May 1 in Leslie Park. We need volunteers to staff the display stand from 9am to 4pm, to hand out materials, including membership brochures etc. If you can help please contact Ray Licence This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it ; phone 07 4661 5229 or 0409 277 742.

From time to time we get requests to participate in display stands at various locations. To do this successfully we need volunteer staffers. Most of the displays are in close proximity to Brisbane or main country centres as noted above for the Warwick event. It would be an advantage to know who might be available to help and whether that is just for your local area (or within a reasonable distance) or if you could travel a bit further afield. We propose making up a list, so please advise Gil Porter This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it . This will be handy for when committee gets such requests. We could check with possible available staffers to help us decide if we can take up the offer. These are events where our name and activity gets known and we can urge visitors to join Birds Australia to strengthen our voice and impact.

Conondale IBA Survey

Note the change to the dates for this outing. Now scheduled for April 18-22 (Monday to Thursday). If you can assist please contact Dezmond Wells as soon as possible: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or phone 07 3886 8055. We're searching for the Eastern Bristlebird in this previous northern range. In addition we'll also search Black-breasted Button-quail.

An appeal from member Toni Sherwin at Kilcowera Station

Hi to the people who asked to have a copy of the Kilcowera Station newsletter emailed to them - I need your help! My old, not so faithful computer died a few days ago and I am trying to get some of my contacts back through this means. So please, if you are a past or future visitor or simply interested in receiving our chatty and informative newsletter all about Kilcowera, send a quick email to This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it to let me know you'd like to receive the next newsletter that is due out soon. Cheers, Toni.

Items of Note from the Committee

• Dezmond Wells has accepted appointment to the Birds Australia Council.
• BASQ Committee is updating the Calendar of Activities 2011. Any suggestions? Contact Dezmond Wells - This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it
• Any areas interested in being considered as a Branch should contact Convenor Dezmond Wells - This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it
• Tamborine Mountain outing planned for June/July Ð leader required urgently please if this event is to go ahead.
• Thanks to the many members who responded to the call for Wingspans to use at our Display functions. We have a great supply at present so if you have copies, hang on to them and we will call on you again when we need to replenish supplies. Great response.
• Next Committee meeting is May 7 at Dezmond Wells' home, Narangba.
  

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