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Members of the Lions Club of Brisbane Bunya joined forces with environment-minded volunteers for a session dedicated to beautifying the community and protecting local ecosystems.
The group worked tirelessly, planting native trees, sprucing up gardens, and organising the club’s shed, affectionately known as the Lions Den.
Among the volunteers were several newcomers with a passion for environmental causes. Their enthusiasm brought fresh energy to the day’s activities, particularly the planting of a large number of native plants, which will support biodiversity and enhance the local environment.
‘It was wonderful to see so many people come together for a common cause,’ said President Susan Coutts. ‘We’re always thrilled to welcome volunteers who want to make a difference, whether it’s in the environment or any of the other causes Lions support.’
The session ended with a well-deserved tea break, where volunteers relaxed, enjoyed biscuits, and swapped stories about their shared efforts.
The Lions Club is encouraging others to join their work, offering flexible opportunities to support causes that matter most to them, whether it’s environmental initiatives, fundraising, selling raffle tickets or turning those famous Lions sausages!
If you’re interested in getting involved, the Lions Club of Brisbane Bunya would love to hear from you. For more information, visit their Facebook page at www.facebook. com/LionsBrisbane/
Welcome note from the Editor
Welcome to the February 2025 Edition of The Everton Echo!
Creating this edition has been an absolute joy, filled with incredible local stories, news, and events that celebrate our vibrant community.
I’m also thrilled to announce that our popular weekly news podcast, Talk of the Town, is back and better than ever! This month, our host Von is bringing you an exciting lineup of guests— from local celebrities and inspiring community members to updates on epic events. You can tune in on your favorite platforms, including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Amazon.
While The Everton Echo continues to evolve, one thing will never change: my commitment to the Echo News platform being a free resource at the heart of the community. We’re proud to deliver 10,500 copies every month to Everton Park, Stafford, Mitchelton and surrounding areas—all while remaining 100% locally owned and operated. Here’s to an exciting year ahead—thank you for coming on the journey.
Director; Echo Media Group Pty Ltd
Published by: Echo Media Group Pty Ltd, ABN: 92 620 601 907 . A: PO Box 243, Arana Hills, QLD 4054 P: 0466 607 045. E: admin@echo-news.com.au
W: www.echo-news.com.au
The Everton Echo is also a proud member of
The Everton Echo is bound by the Standards of Practice of the Australian Press Council. If you believe the Standards may have been breached, you may approach Echo News or make a complaint to the Australian Press Council in writing at www.presscouncil.org.au. The Council may also be contacted on 1800 025 712.
Copyright: All rights are reserved and the contents within this magazine are copyright and may not be reproduced without permission from The Publisher. All care is taken by The Publisher, however responsibility is not accepted for errors or omissions and opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect those of The Publisher. At the time of going to press (24th January 2025), information contained within this issue is correct.
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Serves: 8 | Prep time: 15 min | Cook time: 20 min
Ingredients
• 2 sweet potatoes, cubed
• ¼ cup sliced almonds
• ¼ cup sunflower seeds
• 2 heads broccoli, stems removed, cut into small florets
• 1 pomegranate
• ½ cup parmesan cheese, shave
Dressing
• ½ cup natural yoghurt, reduced fat
• 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
• 1 lemon, juiced
• Cracked pepper
Method
PREHEAT oven to 180˚C.
CUT sweet potato into 1 cm pieces and place on a roasting tray. Bake for 15-20 mins or until golden. Set aside to cool.
TOAST almonds and sunflower seeds in a small fry pan until lightly browned. Set aside to cool.
FILL a bowl with cold water and ice and set aside.
BOIL a pot of water, add broccoli florets and cook for 30-60 seconds.
TRANSFER the broccoli to the iced water and leave until cooled.
DRAIN the broccoli and put in a large serving bowl. ADD pomegranate seeds, roasted almonds and sunflower seeds, parmesan and sweet potato to the broccoli.
MIX dressing ingredients in a small bowl and drizzle over salad.
TOSS the salad and place in the fridge to marinate for 15 to 30 minutes then toss again before serving.
Recipe courtesy of the Country Kitchens team
The Nest Community has seen a remarkable surge in textile donations over the past year, with the volume processed at its Textile Recovery Centre nearly tripling. This growth underscores the rising demand for sustainable practices and highlights the need for additional support.
To meet this challenge, The Nest has launched Stitch Together, a program designed to foster community participation in textile recovery and promote education about reclaimed materials. This initiative aims to engage schools, community groups, and individuals, amplifying the social and environmental impact of The Nest’s work.
A key partner in this effort is Community Bank Samford, part of Bendigo Bank, which awarded The Nest a $50,000 grant in its inaugural major grant round. Over the past 14 years, the bank has contributed more than $2 million into the Samford, Pine Rivers, and Narangba regions, supporting initiatives like Stitch Together.
The first project under Stitch Together is Turbo Rolling Bees, where participants roll donated fabrics to prepare them for reuse. These sessions, held at The Nest, provide a fun, fastpaced introduction to textile recovery while offering a sense of purpose and camaraderie. Groups that participate receive a $500 voucher for use at The Nest Haberdashery, encouraging sustainable crafting.
The initiative has already seen success. The Samford Valley Steiner School Parents and Friends Association participated to gather materials for their Twilight Christmas Market, while another group, organised by Nest volunteer Julie Hillier, processed 13 tubs of fabric rolls and 40 bolts of fabric. The voucher they earned was donated to local Girl Guide groups, inspiring further community involvement.
‘It’s intensive but rewarding,’ said one participant. ‘You’d be surprised how much fabric you can process in just five hours.’
With plans to expand Stitch Together throughout 2025, The Nest aims to foster a connected community that values both people and resources. Turbo Rolling Bees sessions are open to organizations, community groups, students, and corporate teams. Participants can also enjoy a complimentary drink at Hip Hops Brewers after their session.
The Nest Community is located at The Sheds, Unit 2A/264 South Pine Road, Brendale. Visit their website www. nestcommunity.org.au for more information.
Pine Rivers Park is set to come alive on Sunday, 9 March 2025, as the much-loved Moreton Kids Festival returns bigger and better than ever.
Promising the ultimate kids day out, City of Moreton Bay’s favourite family event will deliver a jam-packed lineup of free activities, live entertainment, and interactive zones designed to captivate children of all ages.
Highlights include a thrilling Hot Wheels Team Fun Zone, free amusement rides, craft workshops, face painting, and Queensland’s largest travelling outdoor wildlife exhibit. Adding to the fun, crowd-favourites Peppa Pig and Paddington Bear will grace the Ausbuild Main Stage for live performances. City of Moreton Bay Mayor Peter Flannery praised the event’s impact on the community.
‘The Moreton Kids Festival is a shining example of our commitment to creating unforgettable family experiences,’ Mayor Flannery said. ‘This year’s event promises endless joy, creativity, and adventure for kids.’
Acting CEO of Moreton Bay Region Industry & Tourism, Luke Edwards, highlighted the festival’s regional appeal.
‘Families travel from across South-East Queensland to be part of this special day. It’s incredible to see the smiles and memories created at this event,’ Edwards said.
Tickets for the Moreton Kids Festival are on sale now and are expected to sell out quickly. For details, ticketing, and program information, visit www.moretonkidsfestival.com.au.
Picabeen community centre has started 2025 with a burst of energy and a renewed sense of purpose, hosting a range of successful events and initiatives that are positively impacting residents
The year began with the much-loved community BBQ, a cherished tradition that brings neighbors together to share a meal and connect in a warm and welcoming environment. The centre’s op shop, The Change Room, continues to be a vital community resource. Offering a wide selection of quality second-hand clothing and goods, the shop not only provides affordable options for shoppers but also directs proceeds to support the centre’s various programs and services.
Community members are encouraged to visit for bargains or donate gently used items, contributing to the strength and resilience of the neighbourhood. English classes remain a cornerstone of the centre’s efforts, helping individuals improve their language skills in a supportive setting. These classes cater to all levels, from beginners to advanced learners, empowering participants to build confidence and form stronger connections within the community. For those facing financial challenges, the centre proudly offers the No Interest Loans Scheme (NILS). This program provides eligible individuals and families with interest-free loans for essential goods and services, reducing financial stress and fostering greater independence.With passionate volunteers, dedicated staff, and a vibrant community, the centre is looking forward to the opportunities the new year holds. For more information, visit https://picabeen.org.au
Declutter your home while making a difference by donating quality, usable items to support the Endeavour Foundation.
As one of Australia’s largest non-government organisations, the foundation provides vital opportunities for people with disabilities.
Donations of clean household goods can be dropped off at resource recovery centres in Nudgee, Willawong, Ferny Grove, and Chandler. Items are then sold at the Treasure Troves in Acacia Ridge and Geebung, offering an array of secondhand treasures such as furniture, homewares, books, sporting equipment, and more.
By donating and shopping at Treasure Troves, you not only help reduce landfill waste but also contribute to meaningful community initiatives.
Make 2025 a year of giving, sharing, and sustainable living. For more details or to find your nearest Treasure Trove, visit https://bnecouncil.cc/4h7HwZg
Affordable Medical Eye Care with no referral required
Medical Optometrists available to see the following conditions:
• Acute Vision Problems
• Diabetic Eye Disease
• Cataracts
• Age Related Macular Degeneration
Consultation only Gap Fee $63.70. Extra fees pending triage assessment advice.
Serious eye issues will be reviewed by our Private Ophthalmologist or referred to Public Emergency Care.
Conveniently located at Level 1 825 Zillmere Rd
Aspley . P: 07 3832 1700 for appointments
In today’s trend of downsizing and decluttering our homes, it’s the perfect time to go through those drawers and cupboards, to turn those unwanted items into cash.
Antique Buyers, and father-son duo, Mike and Nate, will be travelling the North Brisbane area for two weeks only, starting Saturday, 15th February. See page 11 for full details.
‘We are enthusiastic buyers, particularly interested in gold jewellery, whether broken or intact, antique jewellery, gold and silver coins, collectibles including military medals, and banknotes, as well as mechanical watches.’
‘Everyone has something we want to buy, and nothing is too small for our consideration. We are just as happy to buy one item, as we are buying 10,000!’ says Mike Cornish, the company’s chief buyer. If you are in doubt about any items you wish to sell, take them in for an instant appraisal. No appointment is needed.
Gold and Silver still at high prices
With the gold price still at higher than traditional levels, right now is an opportune time to explore your jewellery box and dig out those old gold chains, rings, and brooches, to turn them into cash. Mike emphasizes, ‘This is an ideal time to sell. We will buy anything made of gold – old jewellery, coins, virtually anything, even gold teeth! We also need silver in any form, including coins, and bars of any size.’
Old coins can toss up a rarity
Check those drawers and cupboards, you may have a rarity lurking amongst your coins. ‘We want to see any old foreign coin accumulations. Bags, tins, boxes, folders, however they
Rolex’s, old coins and gold are some of the items you may have in your cupboards that are in high demand
come, we will be quite happy to go through your coins on the spot and give you an idea of what we can pay. You just never know what can turn up!’
Rolex and mechanical watches wanted
Mechanical watches are needed urgently by the buyers.
‘Collectors at this stage want brands such as Rolex, Omega, Patek Philippe, Longines, and Seiko, just to mention some. These brands can command good prices depending on the model and condition.’ Mike explains. ‘If you are unsure, bring your watches in for an appraisal.’
Home visits are offered for those unable to make it to a venue, or those with too much to carry. Refer to the advertisement on page 11 for home visit times, then call Nate on 0426 820 646 to book your appointment.
For more details, please see the advertisement on page 11, and for the full schedule, please see www.heritageint.nz.
The Pine Hills Netball Club is looking forward to the start of the winter netball season and to welcoming new and returning players back to the club for the 2025 season.
Following a successful 2024 season which saw 24 teams compete across the season. Pine Hills Netball
Club is excited for the start of the new winter season at Downey Park commencing in late April 2025.
The club offers a very well organised non-competitive program for girls aged 8, 9 or 10 and fields teams in all competitive age groups from 11s through to the open age division. During the winter season, all non-competitive and competitive teams play at Downey Park on a Saturday with optional participation in local association carnivals. While Pine Hills is a relatively small club, they pack a punch in terms of the experience they offer netball players and their families with exceptional coaching, great team spirit, strong player pathways and an enormous focus on fair play.
Founded in 1978, the club is based at the James Drysdale Reserve in Bunya and holds all team training and their Net Set Go program during the warmer months at the netball courts located at the Reserve. Each year, the club is keen to grow their player community and field a few more teams in the Downey Park winter competition. They are looking forward to welcoming all of their 2024 players back to the club and are also looking for new players across all age groups.
Whether you see yourself as an elite player, a social player or have never tried netball before, Pine Hills Netball Club is an excellent choice and will provide you with plenty of pathways for your netball journey. Registrations for the 2025 season are now open with grading to commence from mid February. To find out more about the club in general and the 2025 season, visit the Pine Hills
Netball Club website at www.pinehillsnetball.club or follow them on social media via Facebook and Instagram.
Chermside’s Nitro Boxing Fitness Centre is championing the next generation with its newly revamped youth boxing program, aimed at building confidence, camaraderie, and resilience among kids and teens.
The initiative, which has seen a surge in popularity thanks to local sponsorship, is more than just a fitness class—it’s a lifeline for young people navigating the challenges of school and adolescence.
‘We’ve seen incredible results,’ said Bec, Owner of Nitro Boxing Fitness Centre. ‘With support from our sponsors, the program has exploded. Parents are sharing stories of positive transformations in their children—from improved confidence to better behavior both at home and in school.’
The program, which is now entering a new phase, includes freshly renamed classes to reflect the progressive journey of its participants. The ‘Young Guns’ class caters to younger children, while older youth can advance through “Rising Guns Intermediate” and ‘Rising Guns Advanced.’
Beyond physical training, the gym provides a sanctuary for kids to develop vital life skills. Afternoons see a diverse group of young participants training together, forging friendships, and practicing time management and accountability as they plan extra sessions as a team.
One of the most striking impacts of the program is its role in addressing bullying. Parents frequently approach the gym with concerns about their children’s struggles at school. The results speak volumes: children who once dreaded the classroom now walk through its doors with renewed confidence.
‘One child was refusing to go to school but is now back fulltime,’ shared Bec. ‘The sense of belonging they find here as part of a team is transformative. The gym becomes a place where they feel supported and safe.’
Furthermore, contrary to the common misconception that boxing promotes violence, Nitro Boxing Fitness Centre emphasises emotional regulation and self-control. ‘Boxing teaches kids how to handle conflict in a positive and nonviolent way,’ said Bec. ‘They learn to develop and manage
their emotions, which helps them face life’s challenges with resilience and poise.’
As the program continues to grow, it’s clear that Nitro Boxing Fitness Centre is making a lasting impact on Brisbane’s youth— building not just stronger boxers, but well-rounded, confident individuals ready to tackle life’s challenges head-on.
For more information, visit https:// nitroboxingfitness.com.au or call 3359 4993 Class times are below.
• Monday & Wednesday
Rising Guns Intermediate, 4 -4.45pm, Rising Guns Advanced, 4.45 - 5.30pm
• Tuesday & Thursday
Young Guns (4-10yo), 4 - 4.45pm
• Saturdays - Combined 9 - 9.45am
Badminton, one of the fastest-growing sports in Australia, is gaining momentum in Brisbane, thanks to the efforts of the Brisbane Badminton Academy (BBA).
Based at the South Pine Sports Complex, the academy has quickly become a vibrant hub for physical activity, community connection, and inclusivity.
A highlight of BBA’s offerings is the immensely popular New Strings program. Held every Friday evening, this initiative has attracted over 100 participants, providing an accessible and fun introduction to the sport for people of all ages and backgrounds.
Local councillor Cath Tonks, who recently attended a New Strings session, praised the program for its positive impact.
‘It’s incredible to see such a diverse group of people coming together through badminton,” she said.
As the program continues to grow in popularity, Councillor Tonks expressed her hope that the academy can secure additional court space to meet increasing demand. In addition to New Strings, the Brisbane Badminton Academy offers a variety of sessions to cater to players of all skill levels and age groups: Tuesday: Adults’ session, 6pm - 9pm, Wednesday: Juniors’ session, 3.45pm - 4.45pm, Friday: New Strings program, .30pm - 8.30pm. To learn more, visit www. BrisbaneBadmintonAcademy.com
Since the running club, Run With Rob, was founded in 2014, it has been Rob Hopkinson’s ambition to expand the club to include kids that love to run or are interested in giving it a try.
His dream was finally realised when RWR’s Kids Running Club was launched in late December, giving local children the opportunity to start 2025 on the right foot.
In less than a month, it is a concept that is truly off and running.
‘By its second week, we had almost 30 kids participating,’ said Rob.
Meeting 4pm every Sunday afternoon at Sargent Reserve (58 Bunya Crossing Road, Eatons Hill), kids can look forward to a variety of fun and engaging running activities.
‘We start with an easy run to warm up, followed by some running stretches,’ said Rob. ‘Then, we dive into fun games that include team relays and fartlek running [a Swedish term meaning “speed play”, and is a running format that alternates between sprinting and jogging].
‘Additionally, as a parent myself, I understand how important it is to keep kids active and promote a healthy lifestyle from a young age. Seeing the need, and having a personal investment in the well-being of children, we decided to launch the kids running club. It’s been a fantastic way to encourage fitness, build community, and instil a love for running in the next generation.’
Running has been proven to offer various physical and mental health benefits for children of all ages. Some of these include improved cardiovascular health, stronger bones and muscles, improved mood, better sleep and multiple cognitive benefits such as improved memory, concentration and decisionmaking.
Importantly, it provides something fun for kids to do outside.
The minimum age for children to join RWR’s kids running club is four, in which shoes are compulsory and bringing a water bottle is highly recommended.
‘We offer a free trial for the first session,’ said Rob. ‘If they enjoy it, and wish to continue, we have an annual membership of $42 for children [and $52 for adults seeking to become a member of RWR and participate in organised runs and events]. This membership is through Qrun and includes insurance, access to Queensland Athletics events, and weekly runs with the group for those who want to do more running.’
For more information, please come along any Sunday at 4pm to Sargent Reserve (58 Bunya Crossing Road, Eatons Hill). Alternatively, you can email Robert Hopkinson at runwithrob4037@gmail.com
By Georgia Wright
Brisbane athlete Valerie-Ann Abbott wins gold at the 2024 Kettlebell World Championship—not once, but seven times!
In recent years, kettlebell training has earned its place among Australia’s increasingly popular sports. More and more fitness enthusiasts are taking a liking to its versatile, challenging yet effective nature. This growing appeal has led to kettlebell workouts becoming a common feature within Australian gyms. Curious? Check out your local!
Our community’s very own Valerie-Ann Abbott was one such fitness enthusiast. The Nundah resident first became involved in kettlebell training through gym, after her kettlebell-qualified gym coach nudged her toward taking up Saturday morning classes. Then toward participating in a beginner’s competition.
‘I had never weight-lifted before,’ Valerie-Ann confesses to Echo News. ‘I thought to myself…this will be the first and last competition I do in it. Little did I know, I would attend my first World Championships a few years later [2015] in Dublin.’
First…and certainly not the last. In October 2024, the amateur athlete travelled alongside her team of 8 to Corfu, Greece, for another taste of Kettlebell World Championship.
‘Competing internationally is a special experience that is very character building and something that I’m grateful to this sport for making it accessible to someone like me—a busy professional.’
Valerie-Ann’s demanding job as a Product Lead of a global platform reduces her capacity to train. To keep up to scratch, she aims for four training sessions a week, each programmed online by her Scotland-based coach. The sessions are full-body, strength and endurance based, so often the actual lifting component is short-lived compared to the extensive warm-ups and accompanying exercises. However, every second of training was beyond worth the difficult workfitness juggle. Valerie-Ann earned 7 Gold and 1 Bronze medals at the World Championships, as well as being an asset on two winning relay teams in both adult and veteran categories. Ironically, it is the Bronze medal Valerie-Ann holds dearest, as it was achieved on her first attempt competing in the ‘Professional’ category. This means she was lifting with 24kg, as opposed to her usual 16kg.
‘As well as my own achievements, our team of 8 came home with a total of 46 medals and 3 relay trophies. That’s 34 gold, 9 silver and 3 bronze medals, 2 gold place trophies and 1 silver place trophies!’
Simply too many to count, in summary!
And a total shock to Valerie-Ann, who ‘would have been happy’ to make the podium just once. The 7-times gold medallist attributes her success to a few key factors.
One, being her long-ago adopted motto ‘train hard, compete easy’. Essentially, by mixing up the variables in her training— temperature, times, diet, accessibility to day-to-day comforts—she reduced her risk of becoming unnerved by unexpected circumstances on the day.
The strong camaraderie and teamwork within the Australian team also fuelled their overwhelming victories. Valerie-Ann explains, ‘Team Australia is known for the support we provide our teammates…It’s an individual endurance sport, so when you are on that platform and you are in pain with your brain and body telling you to stop, hearing your teammates’ support means the world. Many times, it can be the difference between reaching your goal or not. Those voices push you through!’
Beyond the competition itself, Valerie-Ann was also struck by the diverse range of athletes, from a 6-year-old competitor to one over the age of 76! Kettlebell lifting is truly sport for all ages—and it is quickly climbing Brisbane’s fitness scene. Abbott’s success is proof enough of the growing strength of Brisbane’s kettlebell community.
‘We have two primary clubs here in Brisbane with some kettlebell coaches dotted all the way up the QLD coast. Four of the eight team members that went to Corfu are from these clubs. To me, I think it shows that the opportunity to represent your country and do well is accessible to everyone. It also helps solidify the quality of trainers we have locally.’
For those considering kettlebell sport, Valerie-Ann pushes newcomers to get amongst the action. “If you have never tried it but you are interested in it, come along to one of the classes we offer,” she encourages. ‘Not only are you gaining an amazing sport, but the community of people within are amazing, too… Just remember, the sport is highly technical and that does not come over night. Trust the process and find a good coach that can get you to that next level. After 11 years in the sport, I’m still learning!’
Looking ahead, our local lifting legend is focused on competing at next year’s World Championship in Milan, Italy. Her goal is to expand her participation in the professional category and, eventually, to claim a gold medal in it.
Echo News wishes Valerie-Ann Abbot the best of luck with all future endeavours!
With over 35 years of experience in the gas industry, James Penny is the trusted expert you can rely on. After moving from the UK 18 years ago, James worked with a local Gold Coast gas company and a major gas producer before launching his own business eight years ago.
James specialises in installing, servicing, and repairing gas appliances and systems, including water heaters, stoves, fireplaces, and caravans. He also issues gas safety certificates, ensuring your systems are safe and compliant.
With extensive experience in commercial kitchens, James has worked with countless hotels, restaurants, and cafés, earning a reputation for keeping businesses running smoothly. Here’s what a satisfied customer had to say:
“Can’t praise James enough. He came to investigate a leak, arrived on time, and quickly identified the issues. He even suggested a better option than what was previously installed and got it sorted immediately. Pricing was fair, and the peace of mind was priceless. Cheers, James—you’re certainly our first point of call!”
Now based in Albany Creek, James serves Northern Brisbane and the Sunshine Coast. For reliable and professional gas services, contact James
P: 0400 864 844 W: www.jamesthegasmanpenny.com
Shannon Donoghue is the passionate dynamo behind Hayward House Furniture, a locally-owned business transforming tired kitchens into vibrant, functional spaces. Settling in Cashmere nearly a decade ago, Shannon and husband Leigh fell in love with the area’s charm. Their path toward sustainable living began with Shannon’s passion for minimising environmental impact. What started as a personal project, refinishing furniture around their home, soon evolved into a calling to help others breathe new life into their kitchens without the need for a full renovation.
Hayward House Furniture was born from this vision. Working from their Cashmere workshop, Shannon specialises in refinishing laminate, timber, melamine, and thermofoil kitchen cabinets, providing homeowners with an affordable and eco-friendly alternative to traditional renovations. With a commitment to sustainability, quality finishes, and personalised service, Shannon has built a business that embodies her values and serves the community she loves.
Whether it’s a kitchen, bathroom, or laundry, Hayward House Furniture offers a stylish and sustainable solution for transforming your home.
P: 0422 655 781
W. www.haywardhousefurniture.com.au
Michael Goslin-Matthews joined The Australian Trade College in Year 11, driven by a passion for carpentry. He quickly secured a school-based apprenticeship with KCS Constructions, where he is thriving while gaining invaluable hands-on experience and learning the realities of tradie life.
With the college’s flexible schedule, Michael is balancing his senior studies—completing his QCE on campus in Scarborough three days a week—while working two days per week and undertaking six-week work blocks throughout the year. This allows him to begin his Certificate III in Carpentry and build a solid foundation for a future in the trade.
Led by Chris and his team with over 35 years of industry expertise, KCS Constructions has been a trusted name in boutique renovations since 2009. The company prides itself on delivering beautiful, high-quality transformations with integrity, open communication, and a client-focused approach.
For inquiries or to receive a quote, please contact the team on the details below.
P: 0432 049 941 W. www.kcsqld.com.au
Jamie Bone, owner of ICS Technologies, brings 40 years of international experience in the telecommunications industry, spanning both phone carriers and private companies.
Based locally, ICS specialises in tailored telephone systems and handles everything from data cabling to wired and wireless networking, lines, and internet services. Jamie’s extensive expertise includes designing and managing phone systems for large-scale organisations like the Queensland Government (35,000 phones), Energex, and Brisbane City Council (5,000 phones each). He has also conducted line audits for Optus and state governments in Queensland and New South Wales.
For nearly 20 years, ICS has served the local community, offering additional services such as digital signage, interactive flat panels, backup power solutions, and cooling systems.ICS can also coordinate electrical cabling, security cameras, access control, and IT services through trusted partners, making it a one-stop shop for businesses setting up or relocating.
Many businesses overpay for phone and internet services, and ICS takes pride in improving service quality and functionality while reducing costs.
P: 0403 533 174 W: www.icstech.com.au
Hello and welcome to 2025. Newmarket VIEW had a remarkably busy and exciting end to 2024.
The pop-up stall held at Brookside Shopping Centre raised the incredible amount of just over $2,000. Our club would like to pass on our thanks to Brookside for providing the opportunity to hold the stall, to the many people who brought our wonderful and varied craft items and most importantly to our amazing members who spent many, many hours making the most beautiful items that were sold on the day and many of our ladies who assisted on the stall - thank you to all
This amazing amount raised will potentially assist us to add to our Learning for Life Student program. Our club currently sponsors eight wonderful Australian kids through the program who are Tiarenune (8), Abigail (11), Mitchell (12), Paige (12), Amy (13), Tony (15), Adam (17) and Roudwan (17).
With over one million Australian children living in poverty, growing The Smith Family’s reach and impact has never been more important.
The support of VIEW Clubs and its members, through fundraising, volunteering and advocacy in the community is vital. It helps The Smith Family to continue its work with young Australians helping them to realise their full potential. Newmarket VIEW Club provides a place for women to connect in the community, enjoy social activities and develop lasting friendships – all the while supporting the work of the children’s educational charity – THE SMITH FAMILY.
Our club currently meets on the 4th Tuesday of every month (first meeting 28th January) at the Alderley Ams. Due to the
current economic climate the club has advised that they are unable to continue to provide our club a free meeting room every month and a charge will apply in 2025.
Whilst our club understands the Alderley Arms situation to remain a viable business, it does means that we may need to reduce either our current sponsorships or cap future sponsorship.
Therefore, we are asking the Echo readers for help. If you have or are aware of a venue that will allow around forty ladies to meet each month and share a meal, please contact Shirley (President) on 0448 556 214 or Margaret (Secretary) on 0408 988 672
If you are interested in attending either our monthly meetings or some of our regular social events in 2025 to find out more information about our club,ring either Shirley or Margaret or email newmarketview@gmail.com.
Art enthusiasts have an exciting opportunity to view the creative works of the Kakowan Art Group at Albany Creek Library this March. The exhibition highlights the diverse talents of local artists who meet regularly at the Kakowan Community Facility in Bunya.
Supported by a Moreton Bay Regional Council grant, with GVK Lions Club acting as the auspice, the Kakowan Art
Group has thrived, offering year-round opportunities for creative expression and community connection.
The group, which gathers on Friday mornings, focuses on building social well-being while helping members develop their artistic skills and confidence. Members are encouraged to pursue their individual artistic practices and participate in facilitator-led workshops. Popular sessions have included Gelli printing, collage, and collagraph printing.
A key inspiration for the group‘s work comes from the grant-funded project, Mapping Moreton Bay. This initiative invites artists to interpret the unique essence of the Moreton Bay region in their own style, resulting in a rich tapestry of perspectives showcased in the exhibition.
New members are always welcome to join the Kakowan Art Group, where a passion for art and community come together. For more information and to see examples of their work, visit their Facebook page: Friday Art at Kakowan.
Be sure to visit Albany Creek Library this March to experience this vibrant celebration of local talent and creativity.
KEDRON ARTS GROUP PRESENTS
Taigum Shopping Centre, 3rd February - 16th February
(Craft 3rd - 9th Feb. Art 10th - 16th Feb)
All items are for sale and there will be a raffle box!
Kedron Arts Group (KAG) consists of local artists and crafts people, and provides the opportunity for members to showcase and sell their work to the public. KAG donates a % of all sales to nominated local charities, such as Karuna Hospice, Drought Angels, A Brave Life and Qld Rural Fire Brigade. For more details email kedronartsgroup@gmail.com
Christmas and New Year have come and gone, and the community garden has entered its holiday mode with very little growing at the moment.
Summer is a quiet period for the garden, aside from essential maintenance to tackle the challenges of the hotter months. Weeding the beds, mowing, and whipper-snipping are top priorities to keep the garden neat and tidy. With the recent heavy rains, the grass and weeds have grown rapidly, demanding extra attention.
The members take immense pride in their community garden, ensuring it remains tidy and inviting for both themselves and visitors who often stop by to admire it.
Although not much is growing right now, most of the garden beds are resting during the summer heat. In March, preparations will begin with fertilizing and composting in readiness for the winter planting season.
This is an exciting time for the gardeners, as they look forward to selecting what to plant in April, nurturing their crops, and eventually enjoying the fruits of their labor during the harvest in August and September.
The Hills Organic Garden community is a friendly and welcoming group, offering Hills District residents the chance to grow their own vegetables using organic principles. The group prides itself on fostering a sense of community and creating a beautiful space for all ages to enjoy.
During summer, members gather every Sunday afternoon from 3pm to 5pm to tend the garden, with additional maintenance carried out during the week. Visitors are encouraged to drop by for a chat and a tour of the garden at 416 Bunya Road, Bunya, next to the Off-Leash Dog Park.
Annual membership fees are affordable, with rates of $20 for adults, $30 for families, and $10 for juniors. For more information, search The Hills Organic Garden on Facebook or call 0415 856 532.
Whether you’re a seasoned green thumb or a curious beginner, The Hills Organic Garden is the perfect place to grow, learn, and connect with nature.
Joining a garden club offers far more than a chance to exercise your green thumb - it’s also a wonderful way to cultivate meaningful social connections, or perhaps nurture relationships with family and friends. Whether joining as an individual, a pair or even as a small group, garden clubs bring people together, creating a sense of community around a shared passion for plants and caring for the world around us.
Garden club membership offers the opportunity to get together with people on a regular basis. Over time, our club has welcomed husband and wives, mothers and daughters and small groups of friends as members. It continues to provide a space where people of all ages and backgrounds can bond over a common interest, sharing knowledge, experiences and tips. Membership also provides opportunities for social outings and community engagement. Each month, our committee shares information about upcoming horticultural shows and events happening in our area and beyond. Our club also participates in various community events throughout the year, including the Twilight Years Expo and the Enoggera Historical Society’s Open Day. These shared experiences are open to all our members and are immensely enjoyable.
For many, garden clubs offer a sense of belonging, especially for those seeking new connections, transitioning into retirement or wanting to enrich their existing bonds with loved ones. Our meetings are held on the first Thursday of the month at the Enoggera Memorial Hall (parking in Trundle St), where visitors and new members are most welcome. Doors open at 9:30 am and entry is $5.00 - which includes morning tea. There is always an interesting guest speaker to learn from, and raffles to win. Why not try your luck? We hope to see plenty of new faces in 2025!
Tip!
Did you know? Adding coffee grounds to your compost boosts nitrogen levels, helping create nutrient-rich soil for your plants!
Stafford Garden Club’s February meeting will feature Helen Rattenbury as the guest speaker.
Helen, an expert on Geraniums and Pelargoniums, will share innovative ways to upcycle plastic, glass, and metal waste into practical and decorative garden items.
The meeting will be held at the OES Hall, corner of Kitchener Road and Bohland Street, Kedron, on 20 February. Morning tea, a plant stall, and exhibit viewing will begin at 9:30 am, followed by the meeting at 10 am.
Visitors and new members are welcome. For more information, visit Stafford Garden Club Brisbane on Facebook or email staffordgardenclub@gmail.com
The next meeting of the Ferny Grove Garden Club will be on Friday, 28 February at 1 pm.
The club meets at St Matthew’s Church Hall, Church Road, Mitchelton. This meeting will be the Annual General Meeting. There will be the usual monthly competition and afternoon tea, but there will be no guest speaker.
The club would like to meet new members interested in gardening and friendship.
For further information please telephone Elizabeth, 07 3851 0568.
Repurpose old, mismatched spoons as funky garden markers!
Flatten the bowl of each spoon, paint it and write the name of a plant on it with a permanent marker or paint, and stick the handle into the soil. Functional, shiny, and delightfully whimsical!
We’re sharing an important message from some of our local businesses to help raise awareness.
The Wood Fired Oven and Domino’s on Dawson Parade, Arana Hills were broken into last month in the early hours of the morning (around 4am). While nothing of significant value was taken (no money is kept on-site, and only a counter phone was stolen), the businesses now face the costs of replacing windows and other damages.
Police have been notified, and video footage has been provided. If you were on Dawson Parade last month in the early hours, saw anything out of the norm and have dash cam footage of any vehicles in the area, your help would be greatly appreciated. You can remain anonymous and upload footage directly to the police report using a secure link.
Unfortunately, this isn’t an isolated incident—several fast food outlets have been targeted between 3–4 am recently, one of which was Red Rooster (Albany Creek). Even if they’re only inside for seconds, the damage adds up.
Businesses, please take precautions: Don’t leave money in tills overnight, double-check security measures, keep an eye out for suspicious activity.
Let’s rally behind our local businesses. Show your support by visiting them this week—it makes a big difference during tough times like this.
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40 Years of Service in Mitchelton
• Free first consultation
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“LEGAL SERVICE - PERSONAL AND BUSINESS”
Over the past few months, I had the pleasure of showing student leaders from our local schools around Parliament on a personal tour. This is a fantastic tradition we have amongst our school communities, and as always, it’s a great day out. It's always a pleasure to chat with the students about their ambitions and concerns and it's refreshing to hear the younger generation's perspective on today's issues.
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p22 - February 2025, The Everton Echo
The Hills Players are stepping into 2025 with renewed energy and a packed calendar, promising another stellar year of entertainment.
After closing 2024 on a high with their hit production, The Miss Magnolia Senior Citizens Beauty Pageant, the group is gearing up for two exciting plays and their ever-popular annual Trivia Night.
The first item on the agenda is the Annual General Meeting, followed by the much-anticipated selection of their first play for the year. To expand their repertoire, the Hills Players are calling for new members, especially males of any age and women aged 18-40, whose involvement would enable a broader choice of productions.
Not ready to take center stage? There’s room for everyone! The group also seeks volunteers with sound and lighting expertise or those willing to help out front-of-house during performances. Whether you’re a seasoned thespian or simply curious about the magic of theatre, there’s a place for you.
To join the Hills Players or learn more, email hillsplayers@ gmail.com. Stay tuned for updates on their first production in the next edition of The Everton Echo or follow them on Facebook.
The Seniors’ Committee of the Hills and District Chamber of Commerce is kicking off 2025 with an exciting and informative talk on Monday, 17th February, at 10am.
Titled Travel for Seniors, the session will be led by Luke Ballard, owner and operator of Epic Travel, in his newly renovated office and auditorium at 11 Mawarra Crescent, Ferny Hills—right across from the Ferny Hills mail exchange. Luke will share valuable insights into travel within Australia and abroad, providing tips and answering questions to help make planning a breeze. A highlight of the talk will be the introduction of Luke’s new escorted tours, an initiative designed to take the hassle out of travel. These tours, ideal for singles, couples, and especially seniors, aim to offer stressfree and enjoyable travel experiences.
The event will also include a delightful morning tea. To ensure catering arrangements are in place, attendees are encouraged to RSVP in advance.
For bookings or further information, please contact John: 0448 186 115 or Carolyn: 0448 328 914 or email jdgoodship@ hotmail.com
Picture this: Maryborough, Queensland in midJanuary. 10,000 Scouts aged 12-15 gathered in the tropical city for the 2025 Australian Scouting Jamboree.
Amid steamy weather, torrential rain, and an abundance of mud, participants from across the country – along with international guests from places such as Japan, the UK, and Canada - come together for an unforgettable 10-day adventure. While the official Jamboree lasted 10 days, Scouts from Queensland enjoyed an extended 12-day experience, immersing themselves in jampacked program designed to challenge, entertain, and inspire. From dawn to dusk, Scouts were kept busy with a diverse range of activities that showcased the best of Scouting skills, teamwork, and outdoor adventure.
One of the standout features was The Summit, a sprawling vertical activity area that included thrilling challenges such as ziplining and abseiling. Participants also got their hands dirty in the popular mud obstacle course, challenged each other racing motorised eskies, and dove into quieter STEM activities like robot soccer and 3D printing. For a change of scene, excursions to Maryborough, Australia Zoo, and Hervey Bay provided an exciting break from the campgrounds.
Night-times were equally as high-energy. The Scouts were treated to a nightly line-up of entertainment, including concerts by Australian pop sensations Sheppard, Amy Shark, and DJ Havana Brown and a comedy performance by Dave Hughes. While the activities were exciting, the Scouts also faced the practical challenges of camping for an extended period. Every Scout patrol was responsible for pitching their tents, cooking their own meals, and maintaining their campsite – all while trying to keep the persistent mud and puddles at bay. Some even had to get creative, using planks and sticks to build makeshift bridges over the muddy paths.
For 13-year-old Thomas Knight from Enoggera Scouts, the Jamboree was a chance to push his limits and experience new things. When asked about the highlights, Thomas was quick to mention the motorised eskies, which he described as ‘cool, creative and crazy’ and the laser tag set up in the trees, which he found ‘just plain fun.’ He was also impressed by the size of the Jamboree's mall, where he found food vans, the Scout shop, and got to hang out with people from all over the world.
The Jamboree wasn’t just for Australian Scouts – international participants from countries like Sri Lanka, Sweden, and Papua New Guinea brought an exciting global element to the event. Thomas had the chance to meet Scouts from South Korea and New Zealand, learning about unique aspects of their Scouting programs.
Despite the fun, the Scouts also had to contend with the less glamorous side of camping. Thomas mentioned that dealing with the mud and dirty bathrooms was one of the biggest challenges. ‘There was so much mud, a truck even got bogged trying to deliver mulch to help cover it!’ he laughed. ‘But you just had to suck it up.’
For Thomas, the preparation provided by his local Scout group, Enoggera Scouts, made the experience easier to navigate. He credited his Scouting skills – including tent setup, cooking, and even strategies for abseiling – for helping him make the most of his time at the Jamboree.
When asked if he would recommend attending a Jamboree, Thomas’s answer was simple: ‘Yes, easily. It’s just fun. You get to meet new people and try things you’ve never done before.’
He also had a glowing endorsement for Scouting in general. If you too would like to give Scouting a try, contact Enoggera Scouts at contact@enoggera.scoutsqld.com.au or visit them in action on their Open Day Sunday 9th February from 10-2pm at their Hurdcotte Street den. They cater for both boys and girls aged between 5 and 25. And if you’re an adult wanting to get in on all the fun too, inquire about being a leader.
Abseiling was a hit with the Scouts
Wishing you a Happy New Year filled with laughter, good health and unforgettable memories. Cheers to a fantastic year ahead!
100 Day Plan – What We’ve Delivered
- Legislated the Making Queensland Safer laws
- Secured funding for a safer Bruce Highway
- Eased pressure on renters and first home buyers by allowing First Homeowner Grant recipients to rent out a room without penalty
- Unlocked church and charity-owned land for community housing
- Established a Parliamentary Inquiry into volunteering to strengthen community participation
Parliamentary Inquiry into Volunteering in Queensland
This inquiry was established by the Queensland Government to raise awareness and deepen understanding of volunteering and its crucial role in all Queensland communities. The report will provide a valuable opportunity for members of the community to share their views on what a cohesive volunteering system might look like and identify the current barriers that volunteers are challenged with. The inquiry will report on:
- Opportunities to increase emergency response volunteering and how to optimise the support and integration of volunteers aiding with natural disasters and community recovery
- Opportunities for First Nations peoples volunteering, including in remote and discrete communities, and the role of First Nations volunteering in Closing the Gap
- Opportunities for the Queensland Government to leverage all portfolios to support growth in volunteering across Queensland, including through hosting the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games
- The unique challenges experienced by people from diverse backgrounds, genders, age groups, abilities and locations, and opportunities to improve volunteering participation, accessibility and experience for these groups
Please have your say on this valuable review by visiting https://www.parliament.qld.gov.au/Work-of-Committees/ Inquiries
Submissions close on 28 February 2025
Save The Date – Neighbour Day Sunday 13th April
Sunday 13th April 2025 is fast approaching and it’s time for our annual Neighbour Day Easter Extravaganza! This fabulous community event includes stalls, music, food, kids’ games and activities, free face painting and much more. Of course, the main feature is the Easter Egg Hunt sponsored by Hicks Real Estate! This fun-packed event will take place at Teralba Park, Pullen Road, Everton Park between 9:00am -11:30am on the 13th of April! We hope to see you there!
by Mark Furner M.P. State Member for Ferny Grove
YMCA Youth Parliament
Nominations for the 2025 YMCA Queensland Youth Parliament are open and young people with an interest in government, policy and community development are strongly encouraged to take up this competitive opportunity to represent the electorate.
Each year, one Youth Member aged between 15-and-25 is selected for every electorate in Queensland, forming the Queensland Youth Parliament.
YMCA Queensland Youth Parliament is an accredited education program supported by the Queensland Government, with students earning a credit towards their Queensland Certificate of Education upon completion of assessment.
For more information on the program or to apply, visit www. ymcaqyp.org.au. Nominations will close at midnight on Friday 14 February.
Gambling Community Benefit Fund Grants
Round 123 is now open for registered community groups, not-for-profits and sporting groups.
Round 123—$35,000 is now open and closes at midnight on 28 February 2025.
Round 124—$100,000 super round—closes 30 June Round 125— $35,000 standard grant round—closes 31 October.
More information about the GCBF, including how to apply can be found here: https://www.justice.qld.gov.au/initiatives/communitygrants
I know community groups, P&Cs and sporting clubs are some of the biggest advocates for local projects that strengthen our community. If you would like further information or advice on how to proceed in applying for a grant, please don‘t hesitate to contact my office at ferny.grove@parliament.qld.gov.au
Electorate Office Services
My office has a number of services open to not-for-profit groups. We are able to loan marquees for functions, provide donations for raffles and are able to secure Queensland Flags.
My office has been asked on a number of occasions for Portraits of the King or for Australian, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Flags. These are available from Federal Members of Parliament – so if you are looking for these items, please contact your Commonwealth Member of Parliament.
An update from Cr Andrew Wines, Enoggera Ward
Keeping our kids safe with improvements to safe school travel infrastructure
With the school year kicking off, we’ve made critical upgrades to ensure safer travel for students. On Ashbourne Street in Ashgrove, we’ve wrapped up major safety and access improvements, including:
• Widening and lowering the footpath to street level
• Upgrading loading zone line markings
• Adding a low retaining wall
• Improving lighting
• Removing trees to make way for a better footpath, with replanting and landscaping completed
Additionally, we’ve installed a new supervised crossing on Frasers Road near Tay Street. This crossing is a game-changer for local families, ensuring students can get to and from school more safely.
These upgrades reflect our commitment to creating safer, more accessible pathways for everyone in our community. I’m excited to see these changes make a real difference for families in Ashgrove and beyond.
Welcoming new Australians!
A big thank you to the Mitchelton Rotary Club for hosting this year’s Australia Day Citizenship Ceremony. It was a privilege to welcome our newest Australians and celebrate this important milestone with them.
This photo is from last year’s ceremony—a great reminder of the pride and community these events represent
Improving our bus network
Council is committed to improving the bus network to get you home sooner and safer. For those travelling around the city and university, the new metro service is up and running, and here in Enoggera Ward, we’ve added a new district school service—Route 742.
This service is designed to ease overcrowding on the 362 and will align perfectly with afternoon bell times at The Gap State High School. Last year, we introduced Route 926, another district school service, to improve connections for students. Our bus network is evolving, and we’re focused on making it easier for students to get to school and university. These changes are about delivering practical, reliable solutions for our community.
Riding the new district school service, Route 926 which launched last January
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