The Eatons Echo - August 2023

Dombrowski

Tools At The Ready For New Men’s Shed

With social isolation on the rise, the Men's Shed movement has never been more important than it is today. The movement provides a purpose and sense of belonging for so many men within the community. However, with popularity at an all time high, gents from the local area are struggling to find a shed to call their own with many struggling to travel the long distances to get to their nearest shed. Nevertheless, a group of local men have banded together to create a local shed aptly named The Dickson Community Men’s Shed. This new shed will provide a safe, supportive and friendly environment for men of all ages and will allow them to gather to volunteer, work, teach, learn and seek fellowship with other like-minded people. It will also provide a hub where men can relax with a cuppa, enjoy conversation and spend some time together making or repairing things.

With affiliation to the Men's Shed Association now complete, The Dickson Community Men's Shed immediate goal is to gather expressions of interest from gentlemen in the area who are interested in joining them. The Steering Committee consisting of Doug Gaw (President), John Connoly (Treasurer) and Des Leonard (Secretary) issues a warm welcome to anyone thinking of joining their shed.

‘We have started off very quietly with eight men in our membership. With formalities now complete, our aim now is to extend an invitation to the gentlemen in our local area to come and join us. This new shed will make a positive difference to the lives of the members and provide a great service to the community,’ said Des.

Although a physical address has not yet been established for

The Dickson Community Men's Shed, the group do have a potential site to house their shed's around the Brendale area that will hopefully be confirmed towards the end of the year. Open to men 18 years and older, anyone interested in learning more about The Dickson Community Men's Shed or wanting to help can contact Des Leonard on dicksonmensshed@ gmail.com

Dickson Men's Shed members Des Leonard, Mark Dunnell, John Connolly & Doug Gaw

Recipe of the month

Pea and Mint Risotto

The Eatons Echo is a FREE monthly publication delivering 14,500 copies per month of what matters to the Eatons Hill and surrounding areas. Our paper is 100% locally owned and operated, which means we don’t just talk about being local, WE ARE LOCAL; we live it everyday.

Distribution is carried out via direct letterbox delivery to homes and businesses in the suburbs of; Albany Creek, Eatons Hill, Warner and Cashmere. Copies can also be picked up from a variety of magazine stands within the above suburbs.

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Copyright: The Eatons Echo is produced by Echo Media Group Pty Ltd (The Publisher). All rights are reserved and the contents 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.

COVID-19: At the time of going to press (25th July 2023), information contained within this issue is correct. As the situation with the COVID health crisis is ever changing, we urge you to contact organisers of any events listed within our publication if you are doubtful about times and dates. For more information, visit www.echo-news.com.au or email admin@echo-news.com.au

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Ingredients

• ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil

• 1 brown shallot onion, finely chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, finely sliced

• 1 cup risotto or arborio rice

• 1 L chicken stock, hot

• 1 cup frozen peas

• ¼ cup mint leaves, chopped cracked black pepper

• 2 tablespoons parmesan cheese, grated

Method

HEAT oil in large pan then add onion and cook until translucent. Add garlic and heat through.

ADD rice and stir until each grain is coated in the oily onion mixture.

SLOWLY add the stock, about 100ml at a time, stirring until absorbed by rice before adding more. Repeat until you have added in all of the stock.

ADD peas and heat through until tender then add mint leaves and stir.

SERVE with cracked black pepper and parmesan cheese on top

Recipe courtesy of the Country Kitchens team

This recipe is brought to you by The Queensland Country Women’s Association’s (QCWA) Country Kitchens program. The program is empowering women through education and health is a priority for the Queensland Country Women’s Association (QCWA). The QCWA Country Kitchens program, funded by the Queensland Government through Health and Wellbeing Queensland, supports Queenslanders to adopt healthier lifestyles. To find out more about the program visit https:// qcwacountrykitchens.com. au/.

Bunya Takes on a Worldwide Stage for Buggy Championships

Last month the Asian Buggy Championships (ABC) took place at James Drysdale Reserve, Bunya. This world class event was hosted by local club Pine Hills Dirt Racing, and boy, did it not disappoint! Crowds flocked to view the exceptional field of competitors throughout the weekend-long spectacle. This competition brought together local, national and international competitors and was officially opened by Her Excellency the Honourable Dr Jeannette Young AC PSM, Governor of Queensland. She welcomed racers from around the Asia-Pacific, and congratulated the Pine Hills Dirt Racing Club on their hard work preparing for the event. The Governor’s visit included enjoying some on-track action, meeting racers and event officials. Also in attendance were Mayor Peter Flannery and Councillor Matt Constance of Moreton Bay Regional Council, who both participated in the ceremony and learnt a little more about the club and the sport of RC racing.

Streamed worldwide, the competition was strong. On track, the action kicked off on Thursday 13th July with controlled practice before a special practice session for non-local drivers in the evening. On Friday, seeding practice and the first two rounds of qualifying took place followed by qualifying continuing on the Saturday with two further rounds of qualifying before the finals races in the afternoon. On Sunday, racing continued with the main events taking centre stage, cumulating into the crowning of the winners. Needless to say, plenty of stories were told, with friendships and memories alike being made.

A huge congratulations to members of the Pine Hills Dirt Racing Club Alex Bernadzik who took out first place and Zac Ryan (President of Pine Hills Dirt Racing) who took out third place in the Nitro Buggy in this prestigious event. The Pine Hills Dirt Car Racing Club is to be congratulated for the enormous efforts made to prepare their facilities for this world class event. For the past few years, the club has been pouring funds into infrastructure and improvements, with the goal to host a prestigious event like the ABC. From track design and construction, to building the Media Centre, marshal path to name but a a few of the things required, the club has delivered with Zac Ryan, President of Pine Hills Dirt Car Racing at the healm. All this hard work has culminated with one of the biggest and best events held in Australia for many years.

Asian Buggy Championship competitors with their cars

Local Skate Park Design Revealed

Local skaters, scooters, BMX riders and rollerbladers can rejoice with the refurbishment of the Albany Skate Park now on the horizon with works set to commence in January 2024.

By mid-2024 the old skate park at Albany Creek’s Old Northern Road will be demolished and re-built with new designs that have been created with input from the community under Moreton Bay Council’s Skate Park Renewal Program. Mayor Peter Flannery said just like roads and pavements, it was important to ensure Moreton Bay’s active infrastructure keeps up with the times.

‘We know locals love the outdoors, and we want to encourage even more people in our region to get out and enjoy their skateboards, scooters, BMX and rollerblades,’ he said. ‘When complete, these parks will be a gold-medal standard for this growing sport and hopefully some future champions from the Moreton Bay region.

‘Which is important on the path to the 2032 Olympics and Paralympics, because these kinds of upgrades might just be what inspires the next generation of athletes in our region.’ Not only will the Albany Creek Skate Park receive a new look, but the Morayfield Skate Park will also have a face lift with works commencing in October. Construction in Sheep Station Creek Park, Morayfield is due to start in October.

An artists impression from the street of the new Albany Creek Skate Park

An artist’s impression of the bowl at the Albany Creek Skate Park

Hockey Champs Going For Gold

Sponsors and Sport

An update from the Newmarket Bocce Club

by Mario De Marco, Secretary

Congratulations to Ascot Arana Hockey players Kara Bradley, Georgia Harris, Lara Pyle and Demi Walker who recently won the Gold Medal at the U18 Australian Hockey Championships in Hobart. These four talented young guns were a part of the U18 Queensland Maroon team that beat Victoria in the dying seconds of the Gold Medal match.

Fellow Ascot Arana Hockey Club member Amy Ryan was the Head Coach of the dominant Queensland Maroon team. After an extremely successful tournament, Georgia Harris and Demi Walker were selected for the 2023 Hockey Australia Women's Futures (U18) Squad. Players selected have been identified as potential Hockeyroos of the future.

I have spoken about sponsors many times. They are important to all sports. They not only showcase the sponsor but the club benefits as well, in many ways. On the 25th June, the Newmarket and Redlands bocce clubs played off for the Tony Rosa cup in honour of Tony who has been a larger-than-life sponsor of bocce for well over 30 years. The Newmarket club put on the usual great show, morning tea, lunch, actually superb lunch and raffle. To top it all off, one of our members Fausto Ceccato played the accordion during lunch and what a show it was! It’s great to say Newmarket took out 1st and 2nd place with Redlands in 3rd and 4th. The winning team Tony D, Tony S and Vittorio and in a close second was Mario, Bill and Gabrielle. Remember, there are no losers in bocce, we are all winners. You know who to call by now, so come on down and have a peek and maybe play some bocce.

News From The Pitch

An update from the Mitchelton Football Club

Mitchelton’s National Premier League Women’s U23 (NPLW U23) side ventured up to AJ Kelly Park to take on Peninsula Power on their home ground on Sunday 9th of July.

The two sides also have a history with Power beating Mitchelton in last years FQPLW U23 final, after Mitchelton finished top of the ladder. Mitchelton wore a specially designed jersey for the game to celebrate NAIDOC week. Unlike lasts years final Mitchelton put on dominant display to defeat Power 4-0. With goals to Audrey Farrell, Charlotte Andrew, Madison Lay and Samantha Bayer. The win keeps Mitchelton in the top four and if they keep up their good form they look to be finals bound. Fixtures and more information can be found on www.mitchiefc.org.au

Kara Bradley, Georgia Harris, Lara Pyle and Demi Walker

Vittorio, Tony D, Sponsor Tony R and Tony S

Samantha Bayer beats a defender in the NPLW U23 match

Local Athletes To Keep An Eye On

Members from the Cross Country team

A number of up-and-coming student athletes from St Paul’s School have risen to the top at the recent rose to the top at The Associated School’s premier co-educational inter-school sporting competition.

Year 12 students Lara Richards and Kate McComb were steady contributors to the Firsts Netball team, playing every quarter of each game and consistently performing against each team while Jayden Cutmore, also Year 12, has been recognised for his excellent player achievements in the Firsts Tennis team, winning every singles set throughout the entire season. Exemplary Year 12 St Paul’s students Kasey Camilleri, Tanner Baker and Mitchell Merritt were recently named as The Courier Mail’s picks for the TAS First XV Rugby team of the season after strong performances in each game. TAS Cross Country success also came for SPS with 9 students placing in the Top 5 for their year level as well as another 4 students making the Met North Cross Country team, who will compete at the QLD State Championships in July.

Arana Netball Club prides themselves on being a family-friendly club and this year especially is proving to be their strongest year of family representation for the club.

All 18 teams have a family member playing in another teamnot only sisters, cousins, mums and aunties playing alongside each other, but mums coaching, parents managing and also brothers, dads and mums umpiring. In the Opens division, just under half of the players are mums of younger players and in one team, aunties and nieces get to play alongside each other. What a great representation of a family friendly club!

In May, the club gathered as many mums and daughters together as they could for this wonderful photo above. This is just a small representation of the Arana Netball family in 2023.

Just a small representation of the Arana Netball family in 2023

Local Running Champ Embarks on a Dawn to Dawn Dash

Being a marathon champion at face value and a warrior for great cause at heart, Nicole Jukes is truly a local legend in the making. This September, she alone will take on the task of a 24-hour ultramarathon up and down Sandgate’s Foreshore in order to raise vital awareness for local foundation, Small Steps 4 Hannah.

As the first Australian female to win a backyard ultra across the world, Nicole has plenty an achievement tucked under her belt. For those unfamiliar with the competition, backyard ultra is comprised of 6.7km laps every hour, on the hour, until only one person is left standing. Nicole is the first Australian woman to fight her way to the finish line, earning unwavering respect from the running community.

In order to accomplish her goals in regard to a 24-hour ultra-marathon she is set to embark on next month, Nicole will need a strong foundation of inner-fight and outward support. She will ride out this run solo, carrying her hopes of shining a light on violence and abuse in all of its forms. The activist for change shares with Echo News, “I want people, and particularly women, to know that they have a voice… that they need not be silenced and that they have a whole community behind them.”

Nicole’s run will commence at 7:30am, Friday 1 September, 2023, on the foreshore side of Sandgate Swimming Pool. Her finish line will be drawn within Sandgate Parkrun, which begins at 7:00am, Saturday 2 September. It is there and then that Nicole would love to see fellow runners and supporters come and say hi, offer support, and join her for the last half hour of her journey. Not only would those people be encouraging Nicole to keep her game face on, but they would also be helping fight for the same cause that Nicole will be running for—the Small Steps 4 Hannah foundation, which too advocates for the halt of violence and abuse.

Fighting her way through hardship is one thing Nicole has grown to best. After losing her son in 2010 to Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome, she discovered how to use running as her fuel to keep going, keep fighting. For if the one thing— loss of a loved one—hadn’t broken her, then the mental battle against the physical exertion of running sure wouldn’t. Nicole believes in there being a strength to long distance running, in that once one is to discipline their mind to endure the pain of running, they will find beauty in their own brawn.

As a victim herself of coercive control and abuse throughout life, Nicole was shattered by the heartbreaking, too-close-tohome story of Hannah and her children’s deaths at the hands of domestic violence. Rife in homes, workplaces and even community groups, abuse is everywhere around us, hidden only by silence. Though, as Nicole says, “I have a voice and I will use it as loud as I possibly can for those who can’t.” Her passion for speaking up against violence is one of the many reasons Nicole joined a local club, Run with Rob, which is a safe haven for female runners and runners in general. The friendly community of like-minded people Rob has brought together is very special—even more so as its current main charity is Small Steps 4 Hannah.

While Nicole’s 24-hour ultra-marathon is an individual feat, she would love her community’s support. Businesses will be able to donate $1 to SS4H to match every kilometre she

covers in the 24 hours, as well as the general public being invited to provide a one-off donation to SS4H. Businesses can also donate prizes for raffles throughout the event, and runners can purchase time slots to run a lap of the foreshore with Nicole (Runners to purchase a time slot to run a lap of the foreshore with me (either 5km, 6.5km or 11.5km laps) by way of a donation of their choice to SS4H). Most importantly, everyone and anyone are encouraged to come along at any time and show your support and cheer.

If businesses or individuals are interested in supporting, they can contact Nicole via her Instagram (@nicolejukes) or by email at byuaustralia@gmail.com or Robert Hopkinson at runwithrob4037@ gmail.com. Alternatively, visit the Go Fund Me Page at https://gofund. me/40d96d02 or scan the QR code to the right.

Echo News congratulates Nicole on her noble efforts and wishes her the best of luck!

Nicole admiring the sunrise at Sandgate Foreshore whilst training for 24hour ultra marathon fundaiser

Nicole with Run with Rob Founder Rob Hopkinson

Sip, Style, Support for Hummingbird House

Get ready Hills District for an exciting fundraising event coming to our region in October, all in support of Hummingbird House.

The Sip, Style, Support for Hummingbird House will be hosted by Style Your Way, a sustainable, pre-loved fashion boutique based in Ferny Hills. For the past two years, Style Your Way has donated a percentage of its profit to Hummingbird House—Queensland’s only children’s hospice that provides specialised paediatric palliative care services. The event will comprise of a fashion show, along with a high tea.

Lee Martin, founder of Style Your Way is encouraging local business to get involved and support this local event that will raise crucial funds and awareness for this charity.

‘I believe that with your support, we can amplify our impact even further to make a real difference. With the Federal Government recently announcing funding cuts to Hummingbird House, the organisation is now left with a significant shortfall to cover their $5.5 million annual costs. Your help is needed even more, and we warmly invite local businesses to be a part of this impactful endeavour as a proud sponsor.’

By becoming a sponsor, you not only contributing to a worthwhile cause, but your contribution will also make a lasting impact on the lives of those families who desperately need the services of Hummingbird House. There are several opportunities available, and any help would be greatly appreciated. Here are just a few:

Venue Sponsor ($500): Prominent logo placement, banner display at the event, recognition on event collateral and 2 tickets to attend the event.

Beverage & Food Sponsors: Seeking support in the way of gift cards to help cover the cost of catering for the event. Your support will be acknowledged at the event.

Raffle Prizes: Seeking donations of product and service vouchers that we can use as part of our raffle. Your donation will be acknowledged at the event.

The event will take place in October with the exact date and location still to be confirmed. If you are interested in supporting the Sip, Style, Support for Hummingbird House event, please get in touch with Lee on 0412 668 612 or email styleyourwaybylee@gmail.com. She will be forever grateful.

Lee Martin, Founder of Style Your Way with just a few of the fashions that may be on display at the Sip, Style, Support For Hummingbird House event

Visit and vote for the People's Choice Award!

News From The Den

An update from the Albany Creek Lions Club

July kicks off a new Lion’s year and like many volunteer organisations we are always on the look out for members! If you would like to join us and help the community in which we all live, drop us a line. There are many things in our Albany Creek and Eatons Hill area to enjoy. At Lions we try to help everyone within our bounds to enjoy it too. Sometimes folks out there need a hand but are a little shy to ask for it, so if you know a family member, a neighbour or just someone that might live near you that could do with a hand please do let us know we are only too happy to assist.

There are so many fantastic artworks in this year's Moreton Bay Region Art Prize, and you have the power to vote for the People's Choice Award!

Artworks are on display at the Pine Rivers Art Gallery, 130134 Gympie Road, Strathpine until the 19th August and locals are encouraged to pop down and have a look at the talented artists our region has to offer.

This year, artist Sam Cranstoun will be judging the diverse collection of artworks and the People's Choice Award winner will receive a prize of $500. The overall prize pool totals $10,000 for the Art Prize with a non-acquisitive prize of $5,000 for first place, $3,000 for second place and $1,500 for third place.

For more information, visit www.mbrc.qld.gov.au/galleriesmuseums/art-prize

We also know how important family is, so when joining the Lions, we make sure family comes first. For those who are still working full or part time, then your work comes next. Then if you feel you have a spare hour or two over a week, month or anytime then why not consider giving that to joining our Club and helping out.

Our club try to do as many and varied projects as possible and also help our local schools and churches when requested. We also have the opportunity in assisting Moreton Bay Regional Council from time to time with their events. New ideas with how our club can get involved with the community are always appreciated, so again, why not giving some thought to joining us and bringing some great new ideas with you.

We meet the 1st and 3rd Wednesdays of the month. The 1st being our Business Meeting at the Albany Creek Library and the 3rd is our Dinner/Social Meeting where we meet at Hornets Football Club. For more information, contact 0477 212 242 E: lion.kayesmith@bigpond.com

Sisters 4 Wildlife Fight 4 Change

By Georgia Wright

Once again, Containers for Change has shone a light on incredible young eco-warriors in our community through awarding Holly and Charli Garrity the Young Change Maker of the Year awards.

For the past four years, these Gap State High School students aged 12 and 14 have demonstrated steadfast commitment to protecting the environment. Their foundation, Sisters 4 Wildlife, has earned multiple awards, made headlines, and received donations and growing support from our community for their inspiring endeavours—but where did this all begin?

Born and raised animal lovers, all it took was one trip to Australia Zoo and a tour of its remarkable wildlife hospital for Holly and Charli to decide on taking action, too. The girls soon spotted a flyer for the Junior Visionary Wildlife Program and joined without hesitation. Through this program, they learned of the issues facing our environment and began raising money for the wildlife hospital, as well as raising support for injured, threatened, or endangered wildlife in their free time after school. Originally, Sisters 4 Wildlife was established with the goal of raising $1000 for the Wildlife Hospital, while the girls volunteered locally to restore animal habitats. Four years later, Holly and Charli are proud to say they have raised over $20 000—and counting!

As well, the little legends won Brisbane Waste Smart Champion Highly Commended in 2021 and were voted nominees for the All-Star Award in 2022. The latter achievement is a reflection of their work establishing the Great Gap Fashion Swap—an initiative to reduce fast fashion and textile waste in landfill. Holly and Charli were also finalists in the Visionary Wildlife Warriors of the Year in 2020 and 2021 and were ambassadors for Terra Cycles Pen Recycling Program. These ladies have sure kept their green-thumbs busy!

Naturally, the girls have had an enormous impact on their local Gap community and have many supporters who donate containers, attend their events, buy from their stalls, and encourage them along their journey. Jonty Bush and Steve Toomey are two of which, both helping out with any of their endeavours and projects. Holly and Charli’s mother, Jodie Garrity tells Echo News, ‘Without the support of the Gap community, they wouldn’t have been able to achieve what they have.’

Jodie also reveals that, as the girls’ mum, their achievement of Young Change Maker of the Year is ‘recognition of their unwavering commitment to their cause’. She believes they have truly made the local community a better place through protecting the environment and inspiring other local kids— and adults.

Holly and Charli agree, sharing, ‘Through this award we want to inspire other kids…and show them that no matter how young or small you are, kids can do amazing things with a big impact!’

Looking to the future, Holly and Charli hope to reach at least 100 000 recycled containers through Sisters 4 Wildlife, as well as expanding their Great Gap Fashion Swap to engage more locals. With all funds they plan to continue raising, the sisters want to help other wildlife rescue organisations such as Wildcare and Australian Seabird and Turtle Rescue. As for the girls individually, Holly hopes to become a paramedic or vet post-school, while Charli still dreams of a career at Australia Zoo.

Well done girls and keep up the incredible work!

Holly and Charli Garrity

The Voice Of VIEW

The VIEW resolution process enables VIEW Club members to identify issues on which they agree action should be taken and then gives them the means of making their voices heard.

Resolutions are also important for enabling women to use their voice on national matters that are important for the future of Australia. Resolutions and their debate are a major component of ‘The Voice of VIEW’ with the goal of bringing them to the attention of government bodies.

To make a difference and understand how your voice can be heard email Helen, the President of the Brendale Evening VIEW Club on hlhdwh@bigpond.com or visit www.VIEW. org.au.

We host dinner meetings on the third Tuesday evening of the month at Aspley Hornets Football Club, 6.30pm for 7pm start. The guest speaker on the 15th August will be Sue-Ellen Kusher talking about ASIO agents living in The Gap. Pop along for an informative night and some fun. RSVP’s can be sent to brendale.view@gmail.com. Unable to join the ladies at the dinner meeting? There is a Coffee and Chat morning held on the first Saturday of the month, 10am onwards at White’s Coffee Co in the Bracken Ridge Tavern.The club are hosting a sausage sizzle on the 19th August at Bunnings Brendale, Corner Old North Rd & Kremzow Rd, Brendale. The community is invited to attend and help the club raise much-needed funds for The Smith Family children. VIEW is the largest community sponsor of students within The Smith Family’s Learning for Life program and Brendale Evening VIEW Club will be represented at the Dickson Senior Expo South Pine Sporting Complex, South Pine Rd., Brendale from 9am to 2pm on 22nd August 2023.

Pine Rivers Rendezvous

Hostesses Marianne and Debbie welcoming new member Doris to last month’s meeting

The Pine Rivers VIEW club meets for lunch on the third Wednesday of each month at the Murrumba Downs Tavern on Dohles Rocks Road.

It is a vibrant and friendly club for women who support The Smith Family. Members also enjoy coffee mornings and social activities during the month. On the 2nd August members will be getting together at 10.30am at the Crepe Cafe in the Aspley Homemaker City.

At the 16th August a meeting will be held and guest speaker Dr James Lergessner, a well known author and historian will be giving a talk.

For further details please contact Helen on 0417 639 800 or check out www.view.org.au

Friendship and Fun at Probus

The Albany Creek Probus Club is looking for new members, including couples and singles, in your area.

Probus provides you with the opportunity to join a social club so you can meet other retirees on a regular basis, listen

to interesting speakers and join together in social activities. They meet at Hornets Club on Graham Road, Carseldine, from 10am on the first Thursday of each month. To find out more contact Secretary Greg Early on 0407 960 588 or early.gregory1@gmail.com

Introduction to Tai Chi

Beginners Intake starts

Sat 2 Sept @ 8:30-10:00

“Come and try for free”

“The healing art of Qigong is included with the Tai Chi program” Enoggera Memorial Hall, Wardell St Enoggera

Team Up For Trivia!

The Hills Players are gearing for a fun-filled evening of Trivia and would like to extend an invitation to the community to join them!

Tai Chi Internal Arts is a not-for-profit community organisation

Sing with Us! Serenata Singers’ Open Invitation

The Serenata Singers is a friendly community choir based in The Gap. We are celebrating 53 years of singing in 2023 and would welcome new members. No audition is necessary. An ability to read music is helpful, but not required. The choir sings a variety of popular and show tunes, spiritual and folk songs.

The choir has a new musical director, Guillaume LemayYates with lots of enthusiasm and patience. We rehearse every Monday starting at 7.00 pm at The Gap Uniting Church auditorium, 1050 Waterworks Road, The Gap. You are welcome to meet choir members, find out about the choir, and join in or simply observe a rehearsal.

If you can hold a tune and love to sing, the Serenata Singers may be for you!

For further information, check us out at: https://serenatasingers.org.au/

The Annual Trivia Night will be held on 9th September 2023 at St Matthews Church Hall, Church Road, Mitchelton. Andrew McMicking, Trivia Quiz Master extraordinaire will be the ‘host with the most’. If you love a fun night out, the challenge of some tough general knowledge, a lot of laughs and great prizes, then you don’t want to miss out. So, grab a group of friends, or come along solo and the crew will find you some Trivia buddies for the night. You will find more information and booking details in the advertisement below. In other exciting news, the dates for their next play have also been confirmed. So pencil in either the 27th/28th October or the 3rd/4th November 2023. Now all the Hills Players have to do now is pick the right play! So, stay tuned for the big announcement.

Some of the Hills Players members in their previous play

Christmas Comes Early to the Cake Decorators

An update from the Brisbane North Cake Decorators Club

The next meeting of the Brisbane North Cake Decorators is on Saturday 19th August, commencing at 1pm. We meet at the Arana Community Hall, Dawson Parade, Arana Hills.

This meeting will be a workshop preparing decorated cake toppers with a Christmas theme. Every year we donate decorated cupcake-sized fruit cakes to our local meals on wheels at Mitchelton (now known as Caring Cuisine) for delivery to their clients. In previous years we have donated up to 300 of these cakes. So, our afternoon will be busy preparing the toppers to be placed on the cakes closer to Christmas. We will also be adding the finishing touches to our display piece for the upcoming cake show.

If you are interested in cake decorating but not able to find the time to attend meetings, our Cake Show in September is offering some courses by well-known decorators for a reasonable fee. There are figurine, royal icing and buttercream courses available, and all are posted on our Facebook page. One of our members is teaching the new trend in buttercream cakes called the cartoon style. The show is on 8th-10th September at the Upper Coomera Community Hall.

The team love to see new members and can be contacted on their Facebook page, Brisbane North Cake Decorators Association QCDA or via email brisbanenorthcakedecorators@gmail. com

Custom T Shirts

A COPY OF ‘Remember Triple Zero Heroes’

It’s competition time here at Echo News! We are delighted to have a copy of ‘Remember Triple Zero Heroes’ to giveaway! To enter, fill in the details below, and mail to PO Box 243, Arana Hills, QLD 4054 OR email the details below to admin@echo-news. com.au with BOOK COMP in the subject line.

Name:..................................................................

BOOK of the Month

Remember Triple Zero Heroes by J.E. Miller

This story of mateship and courage is familiar to Julie Miller, SES team leader and author of new children's book Remember Triple Zero Heroes, the second in the successful Remember series.

"This is a book to make all emergency responders feel valued, respected and acknowledged," Julie said. "The story shines a light on a variety of emergency responders."

Remember Triple Zero Heroes explores the work of firefighters, police officers, paramedics, SES volunteers, and more.

"These people are heroes in our communities, and I'd love to see them getting more support and acknowledgement," Julie said.

Hawkeye Publishing Director and former volunteer firefighter Carolyn Martinez is thrilled that Remember Triple Zero Heroes recently shortlisted in Speech Pathology Australia’s Book of the Year award in the 8 – 10 year age category.

Queensland Police Service Commissioner and ambassador of Remember Triple Zero Heroes Katarina Carroll said that the story resonates with her experience as a child who dreamed of being a police officer.

The story uses a symbol of shoes throughout to convey its message – it encourages readers to step into the emergency responder's shoes, appreciate that heroes come in many forms and types of shoes, and inspire children to think about how they can be heroes too and follow in their footsteps.

"That's the nicest part about the book," the Police Commissioner said."I chose my policing shoes very early in life, so it rings true."

Remember Triple Zero Heroes is available from https:// hawkeyebooks.com.au and all good book stores

Queensland Police Service Commissioner Katarina Carroll with author Julie Miller and Hawkeye Publishing Director Carolyn Martinez

What's On at the Library

There are some fascinating special events coming up at the Albany Creek Library in the upcoming few months. To make a booking visit mbrc.qld.gov.au/libraries/events, or contact the library on 5433 2638.

Writing Masterclass: Introduction to Screenwriting

Saturday 9th September, 10am - 1pm

Create your own unique manga characters with artist David Lovegrove. Be inspired by David's double-handed dream scribble approach, then create your own hero manga and monster character for them to befriend or battle. Ages 12 - 17.

SCHOOLS HOLIDAY EVENTS

Decorate a T-Shirt or shirt

Thursday 21st September, 11.30am - 1.30pm

Bring a cotton t-shirt and make your own custom design iron-on transfer to decorate it using our Cricut machines. Ages 13-17.

Amazing Australian Stingless Bees

Friday 22nd September 10.30am - 11.30pm

Take a look inside a hive and discover the inner workings of a live colony of Australian stingless bees with Bee Yourself. Plus, have a taste of the delicious, medicinal honey! Ages 5-10.

Emergency Services Exploratorium

Friday 22nd September, 2pm-3pm and Friday 29th September, 11am - noon

Discover the science and engineering behind our emergency services with a range of experiments and activities. Ages 8-12.

Coil Weaving

Monday 25th September, 3pm - 5pm

Make your own earrings or basket and connect with each other in this coil weaving workshop with proud Wakka Wakka woman, Kristine Ellis. Ages 12-17.

Drawing Cute and Crazy Pets

Tuesday 26th September, 11.30am - 12.30am

Learn to draw cute and crazy looking pets with Phil from Comic Express. In this step-by- step class you learn how to make a character look cute or crazy. Plus, find out about inking and speech bubbles. Ages 8-12.

Beeswax Strips

Tuesday 26th September, 12pm-3pm

Cut down on plastic wrap forever and make and take home two beautiful beeswax wraps. Ages 12-17.

mBot Robot Challenge

Wednesday 27th September, 11am - noon

Solve challenges using different types of mBot robots. Launch a catapult and test your driving skills on our obstacle course. Ages 7-12.

Llamas in Libraries

Friday 29th September, 2pm-4pm

Love a long-necked llama? Drop in to pat one of these South American cuties. Ottaba Llamas can answer all your curious questions. All ages.

REGULAR EVENTS

LEGO Engineers Club

1st & 3rd Friday of the month, 3.30pm - 4.30pm

Develop design thinking and engineering skills as you build and create with LEGO ® bricks. Meet other brick fans and complete challenges, group builds and more! Ideal for ages 4-12. Bookings required.

NEW! Boardgame Club

4th Friday of the month, 4pm - 5pm

areas

• Meals and nappies provides

• Music, Visual Arts & Spanish curriculum included

Grab your friends after school for some friendly competition with our board games and card games. All ages welcome.

NDIS Pop Up Information Kiosk

4th Friday of the month, 10am - 1pm Do you have questions about NDIS? Drop in and chat with Carers Queensland and the Benevolent Society Staff. No bookings required.

Primary Producers and the Past

An update from the Samford Museum

August is traditionally one of our colder winter months with frosty mornings and strong, cold, westerly winds. It is also when the ‘Ekka’ is held.

We all have childhood memories of our visits there. So much to see without going to sideshow alley; that was another visit in itself! Beef and dairy cattle, sheep, pigs, birds, decorated cakes and flowers were some must see sections. Then there were the District and Junior Farmers, later known as Rural Youth, with exhibits combining all the primary products from the district into a picture. Local clubs were in Upper Kedron, Samsonvale and Dayboro during the 1950’s and 60’s.

Others will have memories of leading prize winning cattle in the Grand Parade. Anna Edwards (nee Burne) is no exception. Her brother-in-law John Edwards and his wife Eunice née Scott called their farm on the other side of Upper Camp Mt Road to the Scott family, ‘Auchen Flower’. Both the Scott and Edwards families exhibited their cattle in the RNA Brisbane Exhibition. Anna led Ayrshire cows exhibited by both the Scott and Edwards families.

Anna’s father Len Burne, a shared owner of Kinetone Productions, always photographed the Grand Parade so it could be shown in their newsreels at cinemas all over the countryside.

The only way to watch the news back in the fifties was at the cinema before the main movie.

Samford Museum is open Wednesdays and Sundays from 10am to 4pm. Wednesday is working bee day when members working throughout the museum complex will happily stop work to chat about the role they play in preserving and presenting Samford’s history. They will also explain how you too can become an active member.

A small admission is charged as The Samford District Historical Museum Society Inc. is self- funded except for successful grant applications for specific projects. Call 3289 2743, Email info@samfordmuseum.com.au or visit our website and Facebook page also.

HEALTH & WELLNESS GUIDE COMING SOON!

Back by popular demand, Echo News is delighted to present our local health and wellbeing guide, The Health Hub in the upcoming September and October issues.

This informative guide showcases some of the best health and wellbeing products, services and professionals that North West Brisbane has to offer and is a fabulous opportunity to promote your business to our local residents.

We are offering FREE editorial and advertising rates are available to suit every budget!

For more information, email admin@echo-news.com.au

Samsonvale junior farmers field day to Metro Milk and Bottle Works in 1951

Herbal Teas And More

update from the Mitchelton and Districts Garden Club

Thriving Not Just Surviving

An update from the Hills Organic Garden

At the August meeting, the Mitchelton and Districts Garden Club will be welcoming Rose Graham to speak on the topic of Herbal Teas. Rose is a knowledgeable presenter and her talk will be engaging, informative, and inspiring for attendees, fostering a deeper appreciation for the world of herbs and their diverse uses in the realm of tea and beyond.

August Gardening

Apply fertiliser this month, but only if it there is water available (preferably watering before and after application). Fertiliser on dry soil can be wasteful or even damaging. Be careful not to burn shallowrooted plants like azalea and remember to keep highphosphorus fertilisers away from sensitive natives like grevillea and banksia (if in doubt buy a product especially formulated for natives).

Common hedge types and summer-flowering shrubs can be pruned now to control the size and shape of the bush and to stimulate new growth e.g. ‚Geisha Girl‘ Duranta, Murraya paniculata, Lilly Pillies, Abutilon, Bauhinia galpinii (www.queenslandgardening.com/ august.html).

As for weeds, Bindii grows in the Winter and go to seed in early Spring. The best time to target Bindii is in Winter before it produces the seed pod and spreads throughout your lawn. Keep on top of Bindii through prevention by regularly fertilising and watering your lawn (www.pestandlawnwarehouse.com.au).

Our Club will next meet at The Enoggera Memorial Hall (entrance via Trundle St) on Thursday August 3, 2023 at 9:30am for a 10:00am start. Entry is $3.00 and morning tea is provided. Visitors are most welcome. Feel free to contact us via email at mitcheltongc@gmail.com or find us on Facebook @mitcheltongardenclub.

Safety At Home

From the Ferny Grove Garden Club

The August meeting of the Ferny Grove Garden Club will be on Friday, 25th August, at 1 pm. The club meets in St Matthew’s Church Hall, Church Road, Mitchelton.

An officer from the local Police Station will come to the club to advise members on taking care of themselves in the home and in their surroundings. Safety precautions to avoid unwanted intruders will be given and members should feel much safer with these techniques.

For more information please telephone Elizabeth 07 3851 0568.

The garden is looking absolutely amazing at the moment with lovely cool weather allowing our plants to thrive. Plus, we had a little bit of rain at the beginning of July which is always nice.

Our snowpeas are producing extremely well and the rocket and lettuce are thriving which is great to put in our salads. The silverbeet, shallots and cabbages are being shared amongst our members and we should be able to start pickling some beetroot soon. The young lemon tree has given us a few lemons for the first time and we look forward to what next year will bring. Climbing beans and broad beans have just started to get a go on and we have had some delicious carrots. At the end of our working day, we always seem to go home with a basket full of goodies.

The beautiful weather we are experiencing at this time of the year has allowed for a good roll-up on a Sunday afternoon. Not only do we enjoy the gardening aspect of the Community Garden, but the social interaction is an added bonus.

At the moment, the herb garden has flowering basil thatis attracting the bees, society garlic, thyme, mother of herbs and parsley. All great to put in soups and casseroles during the winter months.

The HOG community is a friendly group who offer people in the Hills District the opportunity to grow vegetables using organic principles. Age is no barrier so feel free to come along one Sunday afternoon to have a chat and a look around our beautiful garden.

Members meet on a Sunday afternoon from 2pm to 4pm and they also attend the garden through the week to water and do general maintenance.

You will find us at 416 Bunya Road, Bunya next to the Off Leash Dog Park. Membership Fees per year are $20 for adults, $30 for family and $10 for Juniors.

Visit www.hog.org.au, search ‘The Hills Organic Garden’ on Facebook or phone 0407 582 980 for information. We look forward to meeting you!

An

HOG members tending to the garden

Everton News from your

Proposed Northside Road Tunnel

A transport tunnel in Brisbane’s northwest has been mooted for years. Whilst the Brisbane City Council recently announced their preferred option being a multi transport modal along the Northwest Transport corridor, the State Government is proposing an alternative between Kedron and Carseldine providing connections to the Bruce Highway to and from the Sunshine Coast, Legacy Way, Clem 7, M1 and Centenary Highway.

I encourage you to have your say, when the opportunity arises in coming months, so your opinion can be heard.

Mitchelton Park Run Breakfast

I think I chose the coldest morning of the year to attend the Mitchelton Parkrun this month. Instead of running myself, I provided free breakfast to the runners! It was encouraging to see so many turn out on such a chilly morning.

We have 2 Parkruns in our Community – Mitchelton and Bunyaville. They start at 7am every Saturday morning – they are free, fun, and friendly. It’s a great way to get out, meet people and have fun while being active – you can walk, jog, run or just cheer on from the sidelines ! For more information you can visit their websites:

https://www.parkrun.com.au/bunyaville/ https://www.parkrun.com.au/mitchelton/

State Member for Everton TIM MANDER

What Could Your Community Group Do With $35,000?

The next Gambling Community Benefit Fund (GCBF) funding round for Queensland’s community groups opened on Monday 17th July. Not-for-profits and community groups in Queensland can again apply for grants of up to $35,000. Whether it is for lighting sports fields, new IT equipment, training for volunteers or for organising a community event, the breadth of items and events that can be funded is extensive. I encourage any local not for profit or community organisations to apply.

Applications are open now and will close at midnight on Thursday 31st August.

A Busy Week For Schools

An entertaining morning was spent with the Year 6 Hospitality and Cultural Leaders from Albany Creek’s All Saints Primary School touring Parliament House, followed by a lively lunch with lots of conversation and laughs while sampling foods never tried before – well done girls!

I also attended Eatons Hill State School Academic Awards Program, where I was given the honour of addressing the school and presenting some awards. It is rewarding to see the students receiving recognition for working hard and achieving such great results.

Top: Tim Mander MP congratulating students at Eatons Hill State School for their achievements.

Bottom: Year 6 Hospitality and Cultural Leaders from Albany Creek’s All Saints Primary School touring Parliament House with Tim Mander MP

Tim Mander MP at Mitchelton Park Run

Dickson News

Peter DUTTON MP

Federal Member for Dickson

Dickson Seniors’ Expo

The Dickson Seniors’ Expo is just weeks away and is looking to be our biggest yet. It will provide seniors with an opportunity to connect with healthcare providers, retirement and assisted living facilities, community organisations, health and wellness as well as federal, state and local government services. There will also be plenty of entertainment, raffles, prizes and your chance to win a $500 grocery gift card. Entry is free, but bookings essential.

When: Tuesday 22 August 2023

Time: 9.00am – 2.00pm

Where: South Pine Sports Complex, 620 South Pine Road (enter via Cribb Road), Brendale

To book: Simply scan the QR code or you can call my office on 3205 9977 to register.

I look forward to welcoming you at the 2023 Dickson Seniors’ Expo!

Supporting our local community groups

I’ve always been dedicated to supporting local community organisations and initiatives, so I am delighted to announce that through Round 8 of the Stronger Communities Programme, I was able to assist with securing funding for upgrades to

equipment and facilities for the following recipients:

• Willmore Kindergarten & Preschool

• Ferny Hills District Guides

• Samford Valley District Bowls Club

• Albany Creek Masters Swimming Club

• Probus Club of Albany Creek

• Albany Creek Scout Group

The Stronger Communities Programme was an initiative of the former Coalition Government and assisted many grassroots organisations with financial support for small capital projects. The decision by the Albanese Labor Government to cut the programme following the allocation of Round 8 funding is very disappointing to many communities right around Australia, including ours.

Vietnam Veterans Day

18 August 2023 is Vietnam Veterans’ Day, and we remember the more than 60,000 Australians who served in the conflict between 1962 and 1972. We have many local veterans, and we should be incredibly proud of their service to our country. This year marks the 50th anniversary of the end of Australia’s involvement in the Vietnam War. A medallion and certificate will be available for every living veteran, widows of veterans and other family members of those who served in the Vietnam War. Applications can be made online through the Department of Veterans' Affairs. If you don’t have access to a computer, you can call 1800 838 372 and say the word ‘medallions’ when prompted.

Stay connected

For regular updates with what’s happening in Dickson, you can sign up to my eNewsletter at www.peterdutton.com.au, or head over and like my Facebook page. If there is anything I can do to help or any local issues you’d like to raise, please send me an email at peter.dutton.mp@aph.gov.au or call my office in Strathpine on 3205 9977