Sergeant Darcy Kay from Gallipoli Barracks powered her way to a podium finish, claiming third place at the recent Commonwealth Championships in Fiji. Read more on page 3.
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Most people go to Fiji for a holiday – lifters go there to lift.
At the recent Commonwealth Championships in Suva, Sergeant Darcy Kay snatched her way to third position on the podium.
Missing the last Commonwealth Games because of illness, she has her eyes on the next one in 2026, and admits making it will take everything she’s got.
‘I think I was a bit nervous to admit that it was a goal the last time round and then missed out. It was really hard to come back from,’ Sergeant Kay said.
‘I’m going to be a little bit more ruthless this time around.’
At the recent qualifying event in September, Sergeant Kay was leading the competition when she hit her snatch.
Competitors are scored by the total amount they lift, across two different movements – the snatch and clean-and-jerk.
Being outmuscled by four kilos, Sergeant Kay lifted a total of 209kg, with the snatch taking up 96kg.
Canada took the top spot with a 213kg total followed by England hitting 211kg.
Having recently returned from an injury, Sergeant Kay was happy with her results and reaching a PB.
‘I was stoked. I’ve only recently gone back up in the weight categories,’ she said.
‘Competing as a 71kg lifter, I weighed in at 69kg so I still had a bit of size to catch up on with the other girls.
‘I’ve just committed to going a little bit heavier, so my weights have to get heavier as well. A snatch personal best at my age – I’m super happy with third.’
After being exposed to CrossFit, the personel training instructor made the jump across to weightlifting almost six years ago.
‘I love the travel; the places I get to go to and the people I’ve gotten to meet,’ Sergeant Kay said.
In what she called a “waiting game”, the 2nd Health Battalion member is now relying on her results to push her over the line into the next Commonwealth Games.
‘We’re all just sitting on the edge of our seats. You just never know who’s not competing and who will come out of the woodwork and put up a big total,’ Sergeant Kay said.
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Patricks Road State School is bursting with pride as its Girls’ Soccer Excellence team continues their unbeaten streak, claiming every trophy across local, district, regional, and South East Queensland school competitions over the past two years.
This talented team also swept up victories in two additional five-a-side tournaments, demonstrating not only skill but also an unstoppable team spirit!
Meanwhile, the boys' team has also had a fantastic run, securing a commendable second place last year and third this year. Both teams train before school twice a week during terms 1, 2, and 3, under the dedicated guidance of PE Teacher Dave Rogers. "Our students put their heart into every training session and match," Mr Rogers says. "We’re incredibly proud of both teams for their achievements and sportsmanship."
The PRSS Football Excellence Program is designed to foster both skills and teamwork and has become a point of pride for the Patricks Road State School community with sponsors Craig and Nicole Urquhart from “Samford Doctors”, also funding sleek new team uniforms for the program.
Many students in the program have gone on to earn esteemed placements in Football Excellence Programs at Brisbane State High, Kelvin Grove State College and Albany Creek State High School, creating pathways for students from Patricks State School participating in the football program .
The primary school’s Football Excellence Program has grown over the years, with the support of Pine Hills Football Club, who offer club grounds for weekly games and nurture many of the students through their club teams. This collaboration is
a cornerstone of the program, helping students develop both their athletic skills and lifelong love of the game.
It’s safe to say the school spirit is sky-high as Patricks Road State School continues to build champions both on and off the field.
Hills District resident David Haringcaspel is on a ‘personal mission to save the planet’ through an inspiring community composting initiative.
Nestled in the heart of Arana Hills at 197 Bunya Road, you will find David’s passion project—an array of home compost bins turned community-wide resource. His efforts serve as both a beacon of environmental responsibility and a rally for others to take similar, meaningful actions in the war on waste.
David has maintained his own compost bins for quite some time. However, it wasn’t until the ABC’s War on Waste program aired that he felt inspired to broaden his efforts. “I’ve had compost bins for many years, but they were not accessible to other people,” David shares with Echo News. “The ABC‘s War on Waste inspired me to make it available to the community.” This television series, known for spotlighting Australia’s ever-worsening, ever-neglected waste problem, encouraged David to take his passion for reducing waste to the next level—into the public eye.
David’s goals are ambitious, yes, but simple and achievable all the same. He is determined to minimise the compostable materials that end up in landfills—eventually on a worldwide scale. For now, his focus remains on the world immediately surrounding him. His household, for instance, which follows a strict recycling regimen, grows their own vegetables, and utilises programs like Containers for Change to repurpose recyclables. As well, by minimising soft plastic use— particularly cling wrap—David and his family lead by example in this fight to win the war on waste.
It’s been two years since David’s community composting efforts began, though a significant revamp around eight months ago has certainly enhanced its durability and appeal. ‘It has evolved,’ David explains. ‘Originally, it was made from timber pallets, but they eventually rotted out. Now, the plastic ones are going great.’ The transformation has not gone unnoticed—after his wife posted a photo of the setup on the local community Facebook page, interest in the project surged. David admits he isn’t active on social media himself, but the online post worked wonders in reeling in local support for his initiative.
His three-bay composting system, designed to handle the decomposition process efficiently, has proven both functional and sustainable.‘Turning the compost is hard work but rewarding,’ he notes.
While David funds the project himself and is over a grand out of pocket, he is not seeking financial contributions. Instead, he hopes locals will contribute compostable materials, adhering to a simple rule: ‘Anything that was once living can
David at his community composting hub be composted, but I’ve asked that people don’t leave bones or lawn clippings. I don’t have sufficient volume [for that].’ In return, the end product of his composting process— rich, fertile compost—is available for free to anyone in the community. David sees this as a way to give back while furthering his environmental mission.
We see this as the selfless, admirable character David upholds to, which is exactly why we encourage all who are interested to contribute to his worthy initiative. For in a world where waste often feels overwhelming, David’s commitment to reducing landfill and promoting sustainability shines as an inspiring example. Through his composting project, he invites the community to join him in taking small but significant steps toward a green-thumbed future.
By Georgia Wright
Last year, an angel within our community took flight far too soon. At only five years young, Emily Borg tragically lost her battle with neuroblastoma—a rare and aggressive childhood cancer.
‘In spite of everything Emily faced…[she] was the picture of childhood happiness, yet she endured a nightmare beyond comprehension,’ Emily’s mother, Emma Cantrell, writes. ‘In her short time with us, she taught us more about life and love, and resilience and strength, than we would have ever learned without her.’
The grief surrounding Emily’s lost fight remains at the forefront of our community’s like-mind. So much so, a group of 21 locals have united to carry on Emily’s legacy of resilience and high spirits in an unexpected way.
At the heart of the initiative is Reg Behrens, a dedicated cyclist who first encountered Emily’s story through his participation in The Great Cycle Challenge, which was led by the Children's Medical Institute. The annual event, held for the duration of each October, encourages participants to set both cycling and fundraising goals in support of childhood cancer research.
In 2023, Reg joined the challenge as both a solo rider and as part of a riding group known as ‘Team Emily’. Together, the group raised an impressive $58,130, earning them recognition as the highest fundraising team for the event. This year, in honour of Emily, the Borg family entrusted Reg with leading the group. Reg describes this passing of the torch as being ‘an honour’, and shares that he changed the name to ‘Emily’s Team’ as tribute to the young girl.
Determined to surpass previous records, Reg set an ambitious goal this time round: 5,000 kilometres of riding and a fundraising target of $63,407—just above the highest amount ever raised in the event’s 12-year history. As of October 23rd, 2024, Emily’s Team has collectively cycled 4,156.2 kilometres and raised a staggering $87,804 for cancer research. Collectively, these absolute troopers have smashed fundraising records with a whole week still to go!
‘Getting into six figures for Emily's legacy would be an amazing achievement,’ Reg shares. And most certainly, this is a goal his team is working towards.
Emma and Brodie Borg, Emily’s father, along with extended family members, including Jesse and Bradley Borg, have also joined the cycling team. As well, Sarah Rasmussen, a close family friend and organiser of last year’s toy drive initiative, is again a driving force behind this year’s efforts. As one, these local legends unite to spread awareness and honour the gorgeous girl. They serve as a prime example of how, even in the face of loss, we have the power to create hope and change. With the fundraising window open until the end of November, the team is still striving toward their ultimate goal: to create lasting change in the fight against childhood cancer. As their wheels keep turning and time pedals onward, Emily's unwavering spirit shines brightly. She reminds us that, regardless of circumstance, to simply keep smiling is all that matters.
For more information on how you can support Emily’s Team, visit the event page for the Great Cycle Challenge Australia using this link: https://greatcyclechallenge.com.au/teams/ EmilysTeam
You can also get in touch with Reg via reg1968behrens@ gmail.com and 0431 435 795. Let’s join together and ride for a cause that turns heartbreak into hope, ensuring Emily’s memory lives on in the lives of children who need it most.
Emily’s last Christmas opening her presents. Little did her family know this would be her last Christmas with them.
The Brisbane Bunya Lions Club is hosting their annual Carols in the Park event on Saturday 14 December 2024 from 4pm - 8pm.
The much-loved community show will be held at Mitchelton Park on the grounds of Wests Mitchelton Junior Rugby League Football Club and everyone in the local community is invited to attend.
With free entry, parking, live entertainment, free face painting, children’s activities and rides, this event is perfect for all ages and has been attended by thousands since it began in 2015.
There will be a huge stage with sound and lighting, a fantastic lineup of entertainers with MC Ian Skippen leading the night and the Fabulous Lemon Drops there for the kids, AMMA School of Dance performers and a jam-packed lineup of all your favourite Christmas Carols.
And for the young ones, and the young at heart, Santa will visit to meet and greet with the children and will sit for family photos. All this followed by a spectacular fireworks display will end the evening.
With easy access to rides, activities for the kids, dinner, drinks and dessert vendors, all visitors are invited to bring along picnic rugs and festival chairs to sit on and enjoy the evening in comfort.
There will be an array of Christmas market stalls in support of local artisans in jewellery, fashion, candles, toys, collectibles, art, plants, other quality items and children’s activities.
Event Organiser Donna Hedges said the annual event promises to be a wonderful family outing.
‘It’s a chance to get into the Christmas spirit with your family, friends and the local community,’
‘This year will see more Christmas Carols than ever before.
‘We can't wait to welcome visitors to Mitchelton Park for a fun filled night of food, entertainment and free activities for the kids,” Donna Hedges said.
The Famous Lions Club Christmas Cakes and Puddings will be available for sale, and there will be a slay full of raffle prizes up for grabs.
This event is generously supported each year by Brisbane City Council’s Lord Mayor’s Community Fund and The Surburban Community and Multicultural Festivals Funding Program, Wests Mitchelton Junior Rugby League Football Club, Tim Mander MP, Cr Andrew Wines, Cr Tracy Davis, Echo News, Gaythorne RSL and Fleetcrew.
Movedby Real Estate Everton Hills is a Gold Sponsor again this year, and Principal Mike Rooney shared, ‘I have always been a big believer in returning support to the community that has always supported my family and I.’
‘We have become well known for our free community trailer that has been doing a great deal of help for a number of years, and as our business has grown, we can now do even more to become actively involved in giving back,’ Mr Rooney said.
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Art and nature lovers, mark your calendars! On Sunday, November 24, Tawny Trails will host its highly anticipated grand finale event for 2024, ‘Christmas on Tawny.’
This festive celebration offers the perfect blend of artistic discovery, natural beauty, and a sprinkle of holiday magic through local artists from Mount Mee to Mount Glorious throwing open their doors.
Tawny Trails invites the community to rediscover beloved local treasures and support the region’s vibrant arts scene by getting a head start on Christmas shopping. The event offers a unique opportunity to experience new artists and nature locations while embracing the “Live Local, Love Local, Support Local” mantra.
This year’s event introduces several exciting new artist locations:
Jamila Hume: Her art pays homage to nature’s colors, aromas, and gestures, capturing the beauty of the natural world in full bloom.
Ann Russell Studio: An immersive creative experience that sparks a passion for artistic expression.
Tatiana Afonina: Believing in the healing power of art, Tatiana guides visitors on a journey to discover what they need through creative expression.
Phoenix Sculpture Garden: A visit to the late Graham Radcliffe’s renowned garden is like stepping into a serene oasis, where art and nature harmoniously blend.
Tawny Trails 2024 also showcases gorgeous new natural locations including; Rocky Hole: Experience the calming effect of Hinterland waters and the Maiala Rainforest Walk: Let nature welcome and awaken your soul.
Aboriginal Bora Ring (Durn) at Samford: Gain a deeper understanding of the region’s rich cultural heritage. Additionally, the event has introduced Sculpture on Tawny, adding another layer of artistic beauty to the Tawny Trails experience.
For those looking to add a touch of excitement to their visit, the “Collect & Win” promotion offers the chance to win a fabulous mystery gift! Simply collect five different artist collector cards from participating locations, snap festive photos, and share them on social media, tagging Tawny Trails. The first five participants to complete the challenge will win a mystery gift valued between $50 and $350—just in time for the holiday season.
Celebrate Art, Nature, and Community Spirit
Christmas on Tawny promises a day filled with art, joy, and community spirit. Whether you’re searching for the perfect gift or simply want to soak in the creativity and natural beauty of the region, there’s something for everyone at Tawny Trails. For more information and a detailed map of the event, visit www.tawnytrails.com.
The Seniors Committee of The Hills and District Chamber of Commerce invite you to a Christmas Luncheon celebrating the joy of the Christmas season, the achievements of 2024 and the excitement of looking forward to the events we are creating in 2025.
The two course quality luncheon of roast buffet, dessert, tea and coffee will be held at the Arana Leagues Club on the 12th of December at a cost of $34 per person. Doors open at 11.30am. There will be raffles, a lucky door prize and a table of crafts for sale.
To book, visit, www.hillschamber.org.au . Click on ‘Events’ and go to ‘Seniors Christmas Lunch’, click on ‘Get ticket’ and put in the number of tickets required, follow prompts to finalise your purchase OR pay cash at the Arana Leagues Club foyer between 10am to Noon 28/ 11/ 2024. For more information, call John 0448 186 115 or Carolyn 0448 328 914
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Opening Hours: Mon - Fr: 8am - 5.30pm, Sat: 8am - 1pm. Sun: Closed Owners - TerryWhite Chemmart Mitchelton
The Garage Sale Trail is back this year, offering a guilt-free shopping spree that's both budget-friendly and eco-conscious.
Amidst rising living costs, the Garage Sale Trail offers a fantastic opportunity to discover affordable goods and earn some extra cash. By selling items you no longer need, you can significantly reduce the amount of waste destined for landfills, making a positive impact on the environment.
Mark your calendars for November 9th - 10th and 116th17th, as these two weekends promise a plethora of sustainable shopping options. You can also stay updated by following their Facebook page for the latest updates and information.
The initiative encourages households, streets, schools, and community groups throughout Australia to host garage sales, fostering a sense of community and neighborly connections while bargain-hunting.
In the run-up to the trail weekends, free online masterclasses will be available, offering insights from stylish Australians on how to style, mend, and shop for preloved items.Currently, 36 sales have been registered, potentially diverting a significant number of preloved household items from ending up as waste.
Fast fashion, a major contributor to landfill waste, has seen 17% of the trail's items consisting of clothing and fashion accessories.
To host your own sale or find a map to navigate the Garage Sale Trail, visit www.garagesaletrail.com.au. Join in on the eco-conscious shopping experience and make a positive impact on the planet and your budget.
Greg Scott, a valued member of our newspaper team, has been honored as the Ekka’s Volunteer of the Year, supported by Adjusta Mattress, for his outstanding service and dedication at the iconic Brisbane event.
Greg’s enthusiasm and cheerful attitude were recognized by supervisors in each of the activations he worked on during the Ekka. He consistently showed up to his shifts with a positive outlook and completed
We are beyond proud of our Greg
every task with dedication and energy.
As one of the volunteer assistants, Greg played a key role in guiding other volunteers to their assigned activations and helping them understand their roles. His support was invaluable, making him an essential part of the Ekka’s volunteer team. This award is a well-deserved recognition of Greg’s commitment, and we are incredibly proud to have him as part of our staff. Congratulations, Greg!
Crime, actions as adults keeping sending a crime.
‘Staying 12-month reintegrating into becoming a repeat youth months of training leaving sentencing relating to increase and better
Arana Netball Club’s free summer clinic has been a huge success, with two fantastic sessions already completed! Participants have enjoyed coaching, engaging drills, and the opportunity to sharpen their netball skills while meeting new friends.
The club aims to create a welcoming environment for all, encouraging individuals of all ages to explore netball and develop their abilities. Feedback from attendees has been overwhelmingly positive, with many expressing gratitude for the opportunity to learn and connect with fellow players. Arana Netball Club is committed to nurturing talent and building a strong community around the sport.
Students from Albany Creek State School and Eatons Hill State at Parliament
Deputy Principal Ms Mackenzie Burn with students
Congratulations Deputy Principal Ms Mackenzie Burn at Mitchelton State High School.
As the season approaches, the club looks forward to welcoming new members and continuing to promote netball as an enjoyable and inclusive activity.
Keep an eye out on our social media for all information to sign on for the 2025 season.
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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31 of the most influential teachers across QLD have been recognised for their commitment, innovation and dedication taking honours in the 2024 Annual Teach X awards. These awards showcase the outstanding contributions from teacher to both their school communities as well as their profession.
Deputy Principal at Mitchelton State High School, Ms Mackenzie Burn was the well-deserved recipient of the Excellent Leadership in Teaching and Learning Award for her remarkable work at the High School.
Mackenzie was quick to acknowledge publicly that this award is for ‘all of us’ and that it showcases the collective work of the wider school community – the ‘Mitchie Family’.
Mackenzie has been recognised by the Queensland College of Teachers for spearheading key initiatives with staff that have made a lasting impact on the school community:
• Partnering with The Learner First, where, through Contributive Learning, she has empowered learner agency and aligned core work with the school vision—Engaging Minds and Connecting Hearts—to inspire individual excellence in every learner within the Mitchie school community.
• Connecting Junior Secondary teachers with nearby primary schools as part of the school’s On Track for Success team.
• Launching a Student Leadership Program that integrates student voices into our school culture.
Amazing work, Ms Burns!
The Everton Echo delivers 10,500 copies per month of what matters to Everton Park and surrounds. 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.
The much-anticipated Samford Parklands parkrun made a vibrant debut on Saturday, September 14th, drawing an impressive crowd of 514 runners for its inaugural event. A mix of enthusiastic locals and avid parkrun tourists descended on Samford to experience the newest addition to the region’s outdoor community offerings.
The excitement surrounding the event has been clear, with strong local support evident not just in the high turnout, but also in the wave of volunteers who have stepped up. Event organisers have expressed gratitude for the help of over 60 dedicated volunteers, many of whom will continue to play an active role in future parkruns. The influx of volunteers has been so generous that new roles have been created to ensure a welcoming and enjoyable atmosphere for participants each week.
The Samford Parklands parkrun course itself is a scenic twolap route, weaving through the picturesque South Pine River and circling the Samford Rangers Football Club. The course features a mix of footpaths and an 800-metre paddock section, where participants run alongside grazing cows—a unique touch that adds to the rural charm of the event. The course, which starts near the Samford Bowls Club, has been officially approved by the Moreton Bay Regional Council (MBRC) and is marshalled by volunteers who ensure a smooth and safe experience for all.
Aaron Setterfield, a committee member, highlighted the appeal of the setting, saying, ‘It is great to have this community activity in our valley. Samford is such a beautiful place to come and visit and even more beautiful when running!’
The driving force behind the parkrun’s success is Tricia
Lush scenery awaits at the Samford Parklands parkrun
Velthuizen, who has dedicated countless hours to bringing the event to life. Her efforts have united dozens of volunteers and made the Samford Parklands parkrun a reality, earning her widespread recognition and gratitude from the community. The feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, with firsttime attendee Kayleen praising the event’s organisation: ‘Delightful team here! We felt so welcomed. A fairly easy mix of path, grass and firm ground, clearly marked and marshaled. Lovely scenery, with cows! Really enjoyed this parkrun.’
In addition to the outpouring of volunteer support, the parkrun has been bolstered by the generosity of its Foundation Sponsors, whose $7,000 contribution covered essential costs such as event equipment and insurance. The financial backing and local enthusiasm have laid a strong foundation for the parkrun to thrive in the years to come.
Heather, another participant, echoed the community sentiment: ‘Great new parkrun! A lovely course and a great community vibe. I look forward to returning.’
Looking ahead, as the Samford Parklands development progresses, there are plans to explore options for expanding the course, potentially shifting to an out-and-back route to further enhance the experience for runners and walkers alike.
Cr Darren Grimwade, who has been a strong supporter of the initiative, noted that the parkrun has already cemented itself as a valuable addition to the Samford community.
With such a successful launch, the Samford Parklands parkrun is poised to become a beloved fixture for both locals and visitors, offering a weekly opportunity to enjoy fitness, camaraderie, and the natural beauty of the Samford Valley.
If you are looking for a bit of Christmas gift inspo, check out the fabulous Christmas Markets taking place in our region. December dates will be in the next issue!
Jan Powers Farmers Markets
Blackwood Street, Mitchelton | 6am - noon
Acoustic musicians set the mood for a laidback Sunday morning as local providers and regional farmers offer an array of homegrown produce and handmade goodies to dedicated and loyal market shoppers. Fill your green bags with locally grown fruit and vegetables, quality meat and sustainable seafood, freshly baked bread and pastries, artisan deli lines and pantry items from spices to spelt flour.
Samford Valley Markets
St Paul's Anglican Church, 12 Mt Samson Road, Samford | 7am - noon
Shop for produce, find a bargain, enjoy brunch and indulge in truly great coffee– all in the delightful leafy grounds around the St Paul’s Anglican Church. Between 40 and 50 diverse stalls carry an amazing range of goods and services. The markets are famous for their welcoming atmosphere and their country charm
Christmas on the Green - Mini Market
Mount Maria College Mitchelton | 4pm - 8pm
Bring the whole family, invite some friends and bring a picnic blanket. Bring your Christmas shopping list and get your shopping done at the Mini Market. There will also be food trucks and a bar, entertainment by Cory Hargreaves, performances by Mt Maria music, Colour Run (paid entry), some free activities for the kids and more! Grab your FREE entry ticket here: www. trybooking.com/CVYAP
Art With Altitude Markets
Mount Glorious Community Hall | 9am - 4pm
This two-day family-friendly event will include a quality craft market, barista-made coffee, food and live music. Artworks for sale will include a variety of media - oil, watercolour and acrylic paintings, sculpture, jewellery, ceramics, glasswork, pen-and-ink drawings, photography, fine furniture and woodwork and fibre-art. Will also be held on Sunday 17th November
Keperra Baptist Church Christmas Twilight Markets
Keperra Baptist Church, Samford Road, Keperra | 4pm - 7pm
Homemade crafts great for Christmas gifts. There will also be a sausage sizzle too, so come and have some fun! If you would like a table for your crafts, the cost is only $20. Call Lyn on 0411 336 460 or email somerville64@ bigpond.com
FRIDAY 22ND NOVEMBER
Albany Creek State School’s Twilight Markets
696 Albany Creek Road, Albany Creek | 5pm - 8.30pm Albany Creek State School Twilight Markets are an annual
community event. With over 40 stalls indoor and outdoor, food trucks, facepainting and live music, this free event is sure to interest every member of the family.
SATURDAY 23RD NOVEMBER
Carseldine Christmas Twilight Markets
532 Beams Road, Carseldine | 4pm - 10pm
This 18th of November, defrost your cold heart with a cup of Christmas cheer at Brisbane’s beloved Christmas market, Carseldine Christmas Twilight Market! Strive for your Santa bod with gourmet eats and sweets and get those stockings stocked with the goods from bespoke makers. Get ready to rock the night away with festive entertainment and live music.
Bray Park State School Christmas Markets
Bray Park State School, 5-25 Hopetoun Street, Bray Park, | noon - 6pm
Bray Park State School P&C invite you to join us at our Christmas markets. Come along and get a head start or maybe finish your Christmas shopping.
The Embroiderers’ Guild Queensland Christmas Markets 149 Brunswick Street, Fortitude Valley | 9am - 1pm Entry is free. There will be two floors of stalls selling quality handmade gifts, as well as an opportunity to add to your stash at the Secondhand Rose stall where you will find assorted embroidery and craft items, needlecraft books and magazines. There will also be a raffle drawn on the day.
Fab Finds Christmas Market
Geebung Bowls Club, Geebung | 8am - noon
This event will be a Christmas wonderland of secondhand treasures and exciting new finds. Small businesses, artists, creators, makers, and Fashionistas will showcase a unique mix of new, handmade, or second-hand goods. Enjoy the sunshine, browse our outdoor stalls and finish off the morning inside the air-conditioned hall.
VEND Marketplace Christmas Markets
1768 Sandgate Road, Virginia | 4pm - 9pm
With over 130 stores inside and a pop up market outside with around 40 more stalls (each night will have different stall holders!), there will be something to please everyone. Plus there’s a café on site open for dinner, including some Christmas specials, a playground, jumping castle , FREE facepainter, and a cocktail bar for the adults.
Aspley Hornets Christmas Carols and Markets
50 Graham Road, Aspley | 4.30pm
In collaboration with Aspley Rotary, you are invited to the FREE Annual Christmas Carols & Market event! The AFL field will transform into a Christmas Wonderland, with markets, rides, food trucks, a live band, carols, plus a visit from Santa! Christmas is around the corner, so don’t miss out!
On Friday, 16th August 2024, All Abilities Australia, a local small business in Southeast Queensland, hosted its inaugural Gala evening. Held at Victoria Park attracted over 150 attendees for a night dedicated to raising funds and celebrating inclusivity. The event, held to support the purchase of a wheelchairaccessible vehicle, raised an impressive $50,000 towards the cost of ‘The Shoodle Shuttle.’
All Abilities Australia began as a niche dance studio, offering adaptive and inclusive dance classes specifically designed for individuals with disabilities. Founded with the belief that everyone should have the opportunity to dance, the organization has since expanded its services. In 2021, they launched a day program for school leavers that still places dance and movement at its core but now also focuses on building independent living skills, continuing education, and fostering meaningful connections within the community.
One of the organization‘s primary challenges has been providing community access for participants who require wheelchair transport. Many participants need specialized travel options, such as a modified wheelchair-accessible vehicle, to move safely. The van, aptly named “The Shoodle Shuttle” in memory of one of the program’s beloved participants, Madeleine “Madi” Shoobridge, will cost around $100,000, including necessary modifications to ensure it can accommodate two wheelchairs with secure tie-downs and a rear-entry ramp.
Madi Shoobridge, affectionately known as ‘Shoodle,’ tragically passed away earlier this year. Her vibrant spirit and passion
for adventure continue to inspire the team at All Abilities Australia, and the van serves as a tribute to her legacy.
The Gala’s fundraising success was driven in part by an auction, which featured artwork created by the participants of All Abilities Australia under the guidance of Brisbane artist Deb O‘Toole. One of the standout pieces of the night, the artwork embodied the creativity and community spirit that defines the organization. Additionally, the event saw the support of their Diamond Sponsor, Volo Modular, whose contribution played a pivotal role in the evening’s achievements.
In a fun and light-hearted twist, silent auction prizes included a couple of live fish in bowls, which quickly found new homes among the attendees. Guests also enjoyed the music of local performer Jimmy P, while Olympic gold medalist and emcee, Brooke Hanson OAM, expertly guided the evening‘s proceedings, adding to the night’s memorable atmosphere.
‘We’re so grateful for the generosity of everyone who attended and supported the Gala,’ Annabelle Busine, Director of All Abilities Australia . ‘Madi’s zest for life was present in every step we took that night, and her spirit will continue to guide us as we work towards making our services more accessible for everyone.’
With the funds raised, All Abilities Australia is one step closer to making “The Shoodle Shuttle” a reality, continuing their mission to ensure that all individuals, regardless of their abilities, can participate fully in their community.
If you would like to donate towards the Shoodle Shuttle, please contact hello@allabilitiesaustralia.com
update from the Hills Organic Garden
The last few months have been amazing for the garden. The weather has been good with mild temperatures and intermittent rain to keep things growing well.
As a result, we have been enjoying the fruits of our harvest and each Sunday take home an abundance of produce. However, things are now starting to slow down a little with the warmer weather approaching and not a great deal growing.
Summer is a time of rest for the garden but there is still plenty of work for our members to do. As our plants stop producing, they will die back and go to seed. After the seeds are collected, they will then be chopped up and placed in the compost bays to break down. By next Autumn, we should have some rich compost for our gardens.
The Hills Organic Garden is a great place for ‘green thumbs’ and lovers or organic vegetables to come and enjoy the company of like-minded people as well as being able to grow, harvest and eat healthy vegetables.
Our garden is a community venture where volunteers work together to grow a chemical-free harvest which they can all share. We are a friendly group of garden enthusiasts, so why not come along on a Sunday afternoon between 3pm and 5pm and have a chat. 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 hog.org.au , search ‘The Hills Organic Garden’ on Facebook or phone 041 585 6532 for information. We look forward to meeting you.
We were very fortunate to receive a Grant from the Moreton City Council recently which allowed us to build more garden beds at the garden. The Moreton City Council has been very supportive of our Community Garden over the years for which we are extremely grateful.
Six families took part in Arana Hills Uniting Church’s Make a Manger event on 2 December last year. Children, ranging in age from 10 months to 15 years, assembled wooden manger kits with guidance from parents and church members. The smiles on everyone's faces, especially when the mangers were completed, showed how much they enjoyed the experience and took pride in their creations. After building the mangers, families gathered for a Nativity play, Christmas carols, and gift-giving. The broader Hills community was invited to join in the festivities, which included browsing homemade crafts, gifts, jams, preserves, cakes, and sweets, while admiring the finished mangers. This unique Brisbane event will return this year on Saturday 7th December, offering kits for fifteen families. The community is once again welcome to enjoy the festive atmosphere, homemade food, craft stalls, and carol singing while watching the families build their mangers. More information is one the advert on the adjacent page.
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Medical Optometrists available to see the following conditions:
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Take a day trip to the beautiful rainforest village of Mount Glorious where Art with Altitude, held on the weekend of 16th /17th November, will showcase the creative communities of Mount Glorious and Mount Nebo.
Held in the newly rebuilt Mt Glorious Community Hall, and now in its fabulous eighth year, the two-day event will offer artworks in a variety of media - oil, watercolour and acrylic paintings, sculpture, jewellery, ceramics, glass-work, graphite pencil drawings, photography, fine furniture and woodwork, and fibre-art.
Complementing the art exhibition, this family-friendly event includes a range of quality market stalls, plus food and barista coffee. Stop a while to watch fascinating craft demonstrations,
and listen to some live music, while the kids enjoy the children’s playground.
The gold coin entry donation puts you in the draw for a lucky door prize – an artwork by one of our talented mountain artists, and be sure to enter the raffle for three chances to win a weekend away at Mt Glorious.
Art and crafts are for sale at a range of price points, offering you a one-stop Christmas shopping trip, and a lovely day out, in idyllic surroundings!
Follow Art With Altitude on Facebook and Instagram for a sneak peek at what’s for sale.
Mount Glorious is a beautiful place to enjoy the cool refreshing mountain air, have lunch at one of the local cafes, or go for a walk in the National Park.
Just minutes from Samford, North West of Brisbane, Art with Altitude will be open from 9am until 4pm on the 16th & 17th of November at the Mount Glorious Community Hall- mark it in your diaries now!
Art with Altitude is proudly sponsored by Community Bank Samford and City of Moreton Bay, with thanks to Cr Darren Grimwade.
Ascot Arana Hockey Club is celebrating an incredible achievement, as two of its junior players, Josie Burgess and Ruby Price, have been named in the 2024 School Sport All Australian Girls Hockey Team for the under-15 age group.
Both Josie and Ruby, talented players and proud Ascot Arana juniors, represented Queensland at the School Sport Australia competition held on the Gold Coast this past August. The Queensland team triumphed in the competition, defeating Western Australia 3-0 in the Grand Final. In a fantastic result, both girls were selected as two of just five players from the Queensland team to be named in the prestigious All Australian side. Ascot Arana Hockey Club is incredibly proud of Josie and Ruby's success, which highlights the club’s dedication to fostering young talent.
Discover the monthly thrifting event at Gaythorne Bowls Club, held on the last Sunday of every month. It‘s conveniently located near public transportation and has ample onsite parking. With 45 stalls filled with quality second-hand fashion, you‘ll be spoilt for choice with unique finds, including plants, art, crafts, and Bric-a-brac.
Date : Sunday 24th November
Time: 8am - noon
Location: Gaythorne Bowls Club
In a spirited showdown on Tuesday, 8 October, the Alfa and Fiat car clubs gathered for their annual bocce tournament, a beloved tradition that has been going strong for several years.
Club members faced off at the bocce club, not only to compete but to enjoy a night of camaraderie, games, and great food. Four rounds of bocce were played, with players showing off their skills on the court. In the end, it was the Fiat car club that emerged victorious, winning by an impressive margin of 89 to 51. The evening also included a delicious pizza dinner and a celebratory trophy presentation, adding to the festive atmosphere. Fiat club members Tony Di Sipio, Mario De Marco, Silvio Rotili, and Natale Zaini took on the role of adjudicators, ensuring fair play throughout the games. The win was a fantastic result for the Fiat team, marking another memorable chapter in the club's history. As both clubs look forward to next year’s tournament, the Fiat team will relish this hard-fought victory.
As the year swiftly draws to a close, the Brisbane North Cake Decorators Association is ramping up preparations for the festive season, with a host of events and activities lined up.
The association is inviting the public to visit their cake stall at the Christmas Markets held at St Mark’s Church Hall, The Gap, on December 7th. Located at the corner of Waterworks Road and Kullaroo Street, the market promises a range of goodies available for purchase, just in time for the holiday season.
The group has also been busy planning their final meetings and
October’s gathering will feature a handson workshop where members will create beautiful wafer paper ranunculus flowers.
November will bring the association’s final meeting for 2024, which will include another creative workshop followed by a Christmas party and festive afternoon tea.
In recent months, the association has remained active and engaged. In September, member Victoria shared her findings from a cake show she attended earlier in the year, showcasing the latest trends and techniques in cake decoration.
Victoria with her wafer paper ranuncula workshops for the year.
Meanwhile, Robyn participated in a workshop led by renowned cake decorator Verusca Walker, where she crafted a lady figurine in fondant. Robyn’s work will also inspire the association’s display at the 2025 Cake Show, with planning already underway.
For those interested in staying up-to-date with the Brisbane North Cake Decorators Association’s activities, they can be followed on Facebook or contacted via email at brisbanenorthcakedecorators@gmail.com
Your handwriting is excellent at revealing strengths, dormant abilities, weaknesses and blocks. Some of the less supportive traits can be changed for the better. However, just being aware of key issues can be very helpful. First step is an intuitive analysis of your writing, followed by a Clairvoyant review looking for additional information and future possibilities.
As I am polishing up old skills and developing new ones, the reading will be free (approximately 30 minutes by phone).
To discuss, contact me at readingswithray@gmail.com
Please include your first name, phone number and best time to call (must be over 18).
To celebrate 75 years of the ‘Commonwealth’, the History of Parliament and publisher St James’s House (both UK based) have produced a publication titled ‘The Commonwealth at 75’.
The publication explores the origins, history and impact of the Commonwealth up to the present day, including the coronation of King Charles III.
As part of this project, selected organisations and institutions were invited to participate in the publication due to their achievements in their field of expertise, their shared values with the Commonwealth and their contribution to their local community.
Prince of Peace Lutheran College (Everton Park) was one of the educational institutions selected to participate in this project.
Head of College, Mr Simon Hughes, said he was proud Prince of Peace was chosen to be involved in this project.
‘Contributions from organisations such as ourselves help tell the story of the Commonwealth and how it has evolved. These stories highlight the achievements and progress we’ve made across social, technological, commercial and cultural spheres.
It is an honour to be part of this publication,’ he said.
‘The Commonwealth has placed a particular focus on education and culture, along with trade, health, the environment and innovation, and has wanted to use stories like ours as the backbone for the publication’.
‘We were selected due to our focus on a holistic and contemporary approach to education, our emphasis on the pathway of each student and our vision to see each one able to contribute positively to their communities and society.
‘The publishers also noted the importance of our commitment to a faith-based education also this aligns with the King’s advocation of faith in education.’
Mr Hughes was interviewed by Russell Myers, one of the official royal correspondents.
‘We know there are many schools doing amazing things in their communities and for their students. We are humbled and honoured to be part of such a unique and important milestone,’Mr Hughes said.
It is anticipated that the publication may be used as part of Commonwealth Parliament openings and celebrations.
The book will be released next week, as part of the Commonwealth’s 75th anniversary celebrations, at Westminster Abbey.
at a dairy farm near Walloon, c1898. Image courtesy of Queensland State Archives.
The “bails” represent an early and significant part of dairy history. A bail is where cows were confined during milking, often defined by partitions or stalls depending on the setup. Typically, bails had a roof with open ends, a wall at the back, and an open front where cows would enter and exit. In front of each cow was a hollowed-out tree log filled with feed. The purpose was to position the cow, disinfect the udders, and hand-milk the cow while seated on a stool.
In the late 1800’s, numerous dairy farms sprang up along local creeks, including the South Pine River, where water was vital for livestock. Cows were milked by hand, and the milk was poured into shallow “settling dishes” from which cream was skimmed and placed into cans. Farmers had designated collection points where other farmers would transport the cream to Enoggera Railway Station for shipment to the Kingston Butter Factory.
As progress took hold, the 1920’s saw some farmers introduce milking machines powered by oil engines. Dayboro’s Terror Creek even had its own butter factory. However, dairy farming was not without challenges—floods, droughts, cattle tick (which caused red-water fever), and poor nutrition due to lack of quality grasses. This led to the introduction of paspalum grass, lucerne, and cattle pumpkins as alternative feeds. By 1937, more milking machines were in use, increasing the efficiency of dairy farms. The adoption of refrigeration in 1956 allowed for daily milk transportation by truck to dairy factories, and by 1968, milk cans became obsolete. Technology continued to evolve, and a visit to a robotic rotary milking dairy in the Scenic Rim illustrated the advancements. In this fully automated system, cows could enter at any time, day or night. A machine at the entrance would scan their identification, denying entry if the cow had already been milked or was unwell. The cows would enter a bay, have their udders washed, and the machine would attach the cups for milking. Once done, the cows would receive a back massage from a large brush before returning to the field. Today, the traditional bails and hand milking have mostly disappeared, replaced by mechanized systems.
The Samford Museum is open on Wednesdays and Sundays from 10am – 4pm. Entry is $5 for adults and $1 for children. Group bookings are welcome. For more information, contact 3289 2743 or email info@samfordmuseum.com.au
Did You Know? Dairying in Australia started with nine cows. We now have 1.65 million!
Reviewing your goals? Looking for a group of inspiring, motivating and energetic individuals? Come join the Run With Rob running group at Eatons Hill, Ferny Hills or Warner. We guarantee it will be life changing and just the motivation you need.
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An update from Cr Andrew Wines, Enoggera Ward
West Arana Hills Old Boys Community Bowls Day
September saw the West Arana Hills Old Boys Association come together once again for their annual Community Bowls Day. I’m proud to say that this event has now raised over $30,000 for various community organisations over the past nine years. My team was competitive, for a time, but the community were the real winners.
Second Turf Pitch Brings Excitement to Ashgrove Cricket
The Ashgrove Cricket Club has been working towards installing a second turf pitch at the Enoggera Memorial Fields. It was fantastic to be involved in the ribbon cutting. Their
Cutting the ribbon at the Ashgrove Cricket Club to celebrate the opening of the second turf pitch vision of having two quality pitches is now a reality, and I was more than happy to be able to assist both with navigating Council, as well as a small Council Grant. The club marked the occasion with an all-teams match, a fitting way to kick off the season and celebrate their fantastic new facilities. Improving our community facilities is a key focus of mine, and upgrading the fields is just one more example of how we are working to make our district even better.
Halloween Festival will Return in 2025
We had to hit pause on this year’s Blackwood St Halloween Festival, but rest assured, it’s coming back in 2025. Organising an event of this scale takes a lot of commitment and hard work, and it‘s always been made possible by the dedicated volunteers. I would like to thank the Mitchelton Rotary, in particular Lee and Rod, and all the volunteers for their longstanding commitment to organising this iconic event. They have been the backbone of this event over the years and their dedication does not go unnoticed.
Council’s annual sponsorship for this festival is locked in, and once we have new organising committee in place, the event will go on! This event isn’t just about costumes and candy—it’s about bringing the community together. We may have missed it this year, but get ready, because Halloween 2025 will be bigger and better than ever.
Email: admin@imanpainting.com.au https://www.imanpainting.com.au QBBC Licence: 15105109, Fully Insured, ABN 58 624 931 237
customers in the Nth West area, including Samford, Dayboro, Clear Mountain, ‘The Valley” and the Ferny Grove area
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THE ECHO NEWS “Local Listings” Trades and Services Directory is the local go-to place for residents to find a local trade or service. This directory is inserted into all 3 of our community magazines. Contact us for more info. admin@echo-news.com.au
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