Note 9 - Pension and Retirement Plans (Detail) - Accrued benefit liability (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2011
Current accrued benefit liability	$ 717	$ 709
Noncurrent accrued benefit liability	9,431	9,056
Total accrued benefit liability	$ 10,148	$ 9,765