The Hills Echo - December 2023

Ph: 0466 607 045 E: admin@echo-news.com.au www.echo-news.com.au

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DEC. 2023 Est 1992

PEDALLING KINDNESS

Ben Wallis is at work on a mountain bike that has been built from spare parts. The bike will be offered for donation by the local mountain biking community.

Read more on page 3 We are their preferred provider

Phone (07) 3351 2731

Shop 6/ 126 Ferny Way, Ferny Hills, QLD 4055

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Page 2 - December 2023, The Hills Echo

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Spreading Wheels of Joy

In a heartwarming display of community spirit, Stuart Murray, a local resident, discovered an opportunity to make a difference when he realized he had enough spare bike parts to construct an entire bicycle.

Noting the financial challenge many face in affording mountain bikes suitable for off-road single-track riding, Stuart’s observation sparked an inspiring idea which he took to his local club, the North Brisbane MTB club. Stuart proposed the idea of members pooling their spare parts to assemble bikes for donation to those in need. The suggestion received enthusiastic support from the club and its members, leading to a concerted effort to restore and upgrade not just one but two full bikes. The collective effort kicked off with the club gathering to dismantle the bikes and assess necessary components for the rebuild.

However, word soon got around the Mountain Biking community and quickly gained traction beyond expectations.

The Mountain Biker shop in Stafford magnanimously donated an additional two bikes and extended support by aiding in assembly and sourcing essential parts for the bikes.

Recognising the bikes' weathered condition, the club sought a solution, reaching out to Ben Wallis Paints. Ben, showing immense generosity produced two unique and special designs at cost, repainting the bikes and adding a touch of vibrancy.

While progress flourished with the bikes' restoration, the club pondered the best means to put the bikes to use within the community. Stuart suggested collaborating with OpentraX, a local small business dedicated to introducing individuals of

Matt, Greg, Mark and Alex of North Brisbane MTB club piecing together a bike for donation varying ability levels to outdoor activities in a supportive and secure environment. The club unanimously decided to donate the bikes to OpentraX, ensuring these bicycles find riders who can experience the joy of mountain biking.

This wonderful initiative wouldn't have been possible without the collective efforts and support from various quarters. The North Brisbane MTB Club members, Darren and his team at "The Mountain Biker" in Stafford, and Ben from Ben Wallis Paints who all played pivotal roles in bringing this benevolent project to fruition.

This incredible initiative not only refurbishes bikes but also OPERATING HOURS: embodies the true essence of community compassion and Wednesday - Saturday inclusivity. It's a shining example of how a shared passion • LUNCH: Noon - 2pm, for biking can translate into•making a meaningful difference DINNER: 5.30pm - 8pm in the lives of others.

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The Hills Echo, December 2023 - Page 3

PRE ORDER YOUR

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Leon Field—The Best in His Field

In the world of gymnastics, dedication and sheer persistence are the cornerstones of success. For 11-year-old local gymnast and Patricks Road State School student Leon Field, these qualities have been at the core of his inspiring journey for the past three years.

Being a grade 6 student on the brink of high school, Leon dedicates most of his afterschool hours to competitive gymnastics. His journey began at Lawnton Gymnastics Club, where he took the leap of joining a team 12 months ago. From the get-go, Leon was determined to follow in the footsteps of successful Lawnton athletes. In order to stand among the best, he understood that he’d need to work with the club’s top-notch coaches and supportive team environment, which drove him to sign up to the club in the first place. Of course, it has all paid off in his favour. While he continues to climb the ranks at Lawnton, his current goal is to achieve working at the prestigious levels of 5 and 6 in the sport. Leon tells Echo News that his favourite elements of the sport are performing on the high bar, pommel, and rings.

So, what's next for this ambitious gymnast? After just missing out last year due to results, Leon’s heart is set on making Queensland’s development team in 2023. Having unwavering Leon Field with team mates commitment to reach this long-

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Leon Field in action; Image courtesy of Medal Shots

standing goal, Leon is determined to train harder and prove himself a second time round. Leon also dreams of being selected for the coveted Team Future group, which would allow him to train at the Australian Institute of Sport (AIS) in Canberra a few times a year.

However, Leon’s gymnastics journey is not simply about what he aspires to achieve; it's also about the support and opportunities he's found along the way. He is set to be part of the Ferny Advanced Sporting Teams at Ferny Grove High School next year. This program is tailor-made for individual athletes, like Leon, to achieve their sporting goals, all while striving to maximize their performance in their chosen sports.

It's a testament to the support system that surrounds Leon and his fellow athletes as they chase their dreams.

Leon’s inspiring story is a reminder that, with hard work and the right foundations, we can all achieve our dreams. The future is bright for this young gymnast, and we are thrilled to see what heights he will reach.

The Hills Echo, December 2023 - Page 5

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Page 6 - December 2023, The Hills Echo

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Reflecting on a Year of It’s Not Christmas Without a Lions Cake Theatrical Triumphs

An update from The Hills Players Community Theatre Group

‘Where did the year go?’ Well for the Hills Players, 2023 it was another full one, with their program of two plays and a Trivia Night.

Can you believe it is only a few weeks until Christmas!

I think you will all agree, that it is just not Christmas without a delicious Lions Christmas Cake or Pudding.

So where can you find one of our terrific cakes you may ask? Well, you will find the Lions out and about selling these decadent treats on the listed dates and locations below.

Kakowan Koffee Shop, James Drysdale Reserve, Jinker Track, Bunya: 7am - noon, 7 days a week (GVK Lions) Osborne Road Mitchelton Cake and Pudding Stall - Teralba Park: Saturday 2nd, 9th and 16th December 2023, 9am 3pm (Brisbane Bunya Lions) Brookside Shopping Centre - Opposite Terry White Chemmart Pharmacy: 5th - 8th & 18th - 23rd December. 9am - 3pm (Brisbane Bunya Lions) Bunnings Brendale, Cnr Old North Rd &, Kremzow Rd, Brendale Saturday 2nd, 9th, 16th and 23rd December. Sunday 3rd, 10th and 17th December (Albany Creek Lions) Coles Albany Creek, Albany Creek Village, Albany Creek: Thursday 7th & 14th December. Friday 8th &15th December.

Saturday 9th & 16th December. (Albany Creek Lions)

The first production for the year was the Festival of One Act plays, aptly named ‘Dysfunctional’. Each play entertained the audience with its sliding scale of dysfunction and mayhem.

Our Trivia Night in September was another great success with Trivia Guru Andrew McMicking at the helm, it was always a guaranteed fun night out for all who attended.

The year ended on a high note for the Hills Players, with the riotous fun of the last production ‘Four Old Broads’. It was an Australia premier and a huge hit. The waves of laughter from the audience, testimony to the witty script and delightfully eccentric characters.

A big thank you to those who contributed to making the play one of our best. The cast; of course, Front of House, Light and Sound Crew, Stage Manager, Prompts. But our biggest thanks go to our patrons, who come along to our shows and support local amateur theatre. It means the world to the Hills Players.

We’re excited for what 2024 has in store. Be the first to know what the group is up to by watching out for the latest news in future editions of the Echo News and following us on Facebook. We would love to welcome younger members to our group. A diverse membership, opens up opportunities for a bigger selection of plays to choose from; and to bring to the stage for our patrons. Till next year, warmest wishes for a safe and Merry Christmas from all the Hills Players.

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The Hills Echo, December 2023 - Page 7

By Georgia Wright

Toy Drive Honours an Angel

Five-year-old Emily Borg, a deeply loved member of our community, has devastatingly lost her battle against a rare cancer. To honour their angel’s passing, Emily’s family has organised a Christmas toy drive for children at the Queensland Children’s Hospital.

‘It is with broken hearts and shattered dreams that we share with you that our light and our laughter—our daughter Emily—left us yesterday for her next big adventure,’ writes her mother, Emma Cantrell.

Emma and her partner Brodie Borg’s world changed forever on Wednesday 1st March, 2023, when their little girl was diagnosed with neuroblastoma, an aggressive childhood cancer. Emily’s condition was initially mistaken for a viral infection and consequent inflammation of the hip joint when she developed a limp and lost her appetite entirely. However, in lieu of Emma acting on mother’s intuition, further tests were undertaken, and a grapefruit-sized tumour was discovered in Emily’s abdomen. Within four weeks, the cancer had spread to her spine, her bones, and her head.

While receiving the best possible care at the Queensland Children’s Hospital, Emily underwent 6 months of intensive chemotherapy treatment and surgery.. It wasn’t until June 28th, 2023, that Emily’s surgeon, Dr Borzi, emerged from the operating theatre with nothing short of a miracle: ‘I got it all,’ he told Emily’s family, regarding the last remnants of Emily’s tumour. However, celebrations were cut short when Emily developed a rare infection after receiving a bone marrow transplant—her eventual cause of passing. Sadly, Emily would have overcome the infection if she were not immunocompromised after receiving intense chemotherapy.

Emma writes, ‘Emily left us in the same way she came to us: in our arms, surrounded by love, with no trace of cancer in her body.

‘In spite of everything Emily faced…[she] was the picture of childhood happiness, yet she endured a nightmare beyond comprehension. 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.’

Emily at the Queensland Children’s Hospital during her treatment

Page 8 - December 2023, The Hills Echo

Emily last Christmas opening her presents. Little did her family know this would be her last Christmas with them.

To spread awareness and honour their gorgeous girl, Emily’s family arranged for a local toy drive to take place. To put smiles on sick children’s faces this Christmas, they have set up a Christmas tree—dubbed ‘Emily’s Tree’—at Whisk & Grind Cafe, 6 Bunya Park Drive, Eatons Hill. The tree will be used as a drop off point, where community members can donate new toys to patients at the Queensland Children’s Hospital. Now, two more drop off points have opened: LJ Hooker Albany Creek on 5/25 Ferguson Street, and Professionals Priority Ferny Hills on 5/126 Ferny Way. As Emily’s family is overwhelmed by our community’s enormous generosity, so is Emily’s Tree, with hundreds of donations from kind-hearted locals now surrounding it. The initial goal of 500 presents is sure to be broken soon, but locals are urged to keep them coming! All toy donations will be delivered to the hospital on December 18th.

To dearest Emily, we thank your pure heart and kind soul for rubbing off on our community. Your unwavering spirit has reminded us that to simply keep smiling is all that matters.

You will be remembered and missed by all.

Emily’s Tree at Whisk n Grind Cafe, Eatons Hill is already overflowing with presents.

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A Decade of Community, Growth, and Gratitude

By Jenna Hodgekiss, President of Arana Netball Club People who don't volunteer often ask me why I continue to put my hand up? Can't someone else do it? Well, yes anyone can and should put their hand to help at least once in their life. I have been volunteering at Arana Netball for the past 10 years.

Over the past five years the amazing volunteers at this club have managed to rebuild our numbers by providing a family friendly, all inclusive, supportive and positive atmosphere.

This year our committee has had eight new additions to the table, six of those being young players at our club.

It's not just the committee who keep our club going. We have coaches, umpires and managers who assist with duties during the season. Recently we held a free summer netball clinic.

We are able to offer the amazing free clinic to the community every year, and this is due to our wonderful volunteers. This year we had 65 children attend the clinic, which was run by 16 of our dedicated coaches.

During my time at the club I have made life long friends who have walked beside me in my journey. I've been married, had kids, raised a family. I've progress my career, I've lost people I love, I've cried, I’ve smiled and I’ve laughed. All while being supported by the amazing community that surrounds me here at Arana Netball. The more we give the happier we feel. Thank you all our amazing volunteers, the whole community benefits from the time you put in. We couldn't do this without you.

Some of the wonderful volunteers on the Arana Netball Club Committee

Christmas Markets SATURDAY 9TH DECEMBER

Carols in the Park Christmas Markets

Wests Mitchelton Junior Football Club, Mitchelton | 4pm - 8pm This market supports our local artisans in jewellery, fashion, candles, toys, collectibles, art, plants, other quality items and children’s activities.

Aspley Hornets Christmas Carols and Markets 50 Graham Road, Aspley | 4.30pm 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 Rose Wilson corner, so don’t miss out!

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The Hills Echo, December 2023 - Page 11

News From the Den An update from Paul Ryan from the Golden Valley Keperra Lions Club

Lions across the World are an amazing group of people who assist not only in their own Community (70%) but also Nationally (20%) and Internationally (10%).

Last month our district held its annual convention at the beautiful tidy town of Millmerran on the Darling Downs.

Here, we enjoyed some excellent presentations from: Lions Hearing and Medical Alert Dogs, Nick Steiner from the Mini Farm Project, the Lions Youth in Search team and National Membership Chair – Ann Eldridge.

It has been a busy time of year for the Lions as we continue to assist Grovely State School with their Breakfast Club, help out Council with local events such as the Carnivale and Hills Carols at George Wilmore Park (we’re hoping we don’t get rained out this year!) We have also been helping out a magic show run each year run by International Entertainment with all tickets donated to disadvantaged families. Additionally, you can watch the magic show virtually via your computer or smart TV. We continue to maintain Beverly Place, which is a beautiful little park at the start of Ferny Way. You must pop down and enjoy the serenity! Plans are also in the works for the Citizenship Ceremony that we host each year on Australia Day. Fifty new Australians will again pledge allegiance to Australia – a day full of excitement for applicants, their families and members.

Regular BBQs continue to take place at Harvey Norman – Everton Park, Habitat Earling Learning Centers, Bunnings, School Fetes, Cooking Donuts at Bracken Ridge Train Ridges.

Page 12 - December 2023, The Hills Echo

Paul Ryan in the newly spruced up Kakowan Garden, with its resident Lion!

If you are around one of these areas, come down and enjoy a snag or two!

Our major activity is the lease of the Kakowan Community Facility where we hire out the rooms and run Kakowan Koffee from 7am to noon every day. We have professional Barista’s with our volunteers completing the other tasks such as; sales, ordering, food preparation, waiting tables and cleaning in 2.5 hour shifts. I have been busy sprucing up the garden, so please pop down and enjoy it, along with a morning cuppa!

Our club has a goal to establish a youth group for ages 20+, operating independently, to carry out community service projects they are passionate about. For example, in the environment, social justice, education, and finance genres.

While it’s early days your indication of interest would be most welcome, please email cottontrees@bigpond.com for details.

This month Golden Valley Keperra Lions Club welcomes new members, Karel de Laat.

Thanks again, Paul Ryan – Golden Valley Keperra Lions M: 0409 688 675 E: info@kakowan.org.au or cottontrees@bigpond,com

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The Hills Echo, December 2023 - Page 13

Local Heritage Calendar Unveiled

71.

The Enoggera Historical Society has launched its highly anticipated 2024 calendar, a treasure trove of captivating images that capture the rich history of the local region.

Overflowing with striking photographs from bygone eras, this calendar promises to be a nostalgic journey through time.

Priced at an affordable $10, the calendar is a steal for history enthusiasts and locals eager to explore the heritage of Enoggera and its surroundings. The calendar's imagery paints a vivid picture of the area's evolution, showcasing landmarks, landscapes, and snapshots of community life that span across the decades. To secure a copy, email enoggerahistory@gmail. com or pop into the Enoggera Memorial Hall on a Thursday morning. The team will also be at Brookside Shopping Centre on December 9th and 10th with a dedicated stall near the chemist.

TidBits

December 2023

An update from the Arana Hills & Districts Senior Citizens Club Inc We are close to the end of another year so we wish everyone and their families a jolly and healthy festive season. My, don’t the years go fast! They seem to race by. The final function for this year is Friday 8th December and the startup date in 2024 will be Friday 2nd February at The Hills Community Hall, 291 Dawson Parade, Arana Hills. To join our friendly social club yearly membership is only $7, admission on activity day is only $5, which includes coffee tea and biscuits, so give it some thought. The pandemic and the cancellations of meetings during those years has been one of the reasons we lost an extra number of our people over that time. We are very keen to improve that situation by welcoming new members. For more info, ring Marcia on 0438 786 871

Christmas Funnies!

What do you call a reindeer ghost?

Cari-boo!

Where do Santa’s reindeer stop for coffee? Star-bucks!

Why does Santa have 3 gardens?

So he can ho, ho, ho!

Staff: Dr Helen Byrnes Dr Michelle Barton Dr Anita Berger Dr Lauren McConnell Dr Katrina Price Dr Ema Bowman Dr Katie Knights

Special interest in helping flat faced dogs (pugs, french bulldogs, boston terriers, bulldogs) have happier lives

Experts in Preventative Care and and keeping our pets healthy

Puppy & kitten vaccinations, Health checks , Microchipping, Puppy Preschool, Desexing

Veterinary care for your dogs, cats, backyard chooks & pocket pets

Fernlands Veterinary Practice

Fernlands Shopping Village 5/10 Woodhill Rd, Ferny Hills Q. 4055

Ph 3351 0500

Arana Hills Veterinary Clinic

18 Nepean Ave, Arana Hills Q. 4054

Ph 3851 1366

www.vetkind.com.au

Everton Hills Veterinary Surgery

Everton Hills Shopping Centre Camelia Ave, Everton Hills Q. 4053

Ph 3355 6724

Due to staff shortages our opening hours have changed. Our new opening hours are now: Everton Hills Veterinary Surgery: Mon - Fri, 8am-6pm | Arana Hills Veterinary Surgery: Tues, Wed & Fri 8-6pm.

Mon & Thurs, 8am - 7pm & Sat 8am - 1pm | Fernlands Veterinary Clinic: Mon-Fri, 9am - 5pm Page 14 - December 2023, The Hills Echo

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What's On At The Library?

The Arana Hills Library has a host of exciting activities planned in the upcoming month. To secure your event, visit www.mbrc.qld.gov.au/libraries/events. For more information, call the library on 3883 5790 or pay them a visit at 63 Cobbity Crescent, Arana Hills. For more free school holiday activities go to mbrc.qld.gov.au/libraries.

Schol Holiday Events Fabulous Lemon Drops - Friday 5th January, 10am -11am Get up dancing and singing with Vanessa and Dez from Fabulous Lemon Drops. Ages 8 years and under. Bookings required.

Messy Play. Thursday 11th, Friday 15th & 19th January, 3pm - 4pm Drop in and play with play dough, paint, craft and more.

Dress for getting messy! For under 5s. No bookings required.

Fun Factory- Mon. - Fri in school holidays, 3pm - 4pm You never know what could happen when you drop into the library these school holidays - there could be games, craft and fun for the whole family. All ages. No bookings required.

Regular Events

Family History Group: 1st Tuesday of the month of the month, 6pm - 7.30pm JP’s in the Community: Every Tuesday, 4.30pm - 6.30pm Conversational English: Every Tuesday, 2pm - 2.30pm Board Game Club: 1st Tuesday of the month of the month, 6pm - 7.30pm I

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Golden Valley Keperra Lions Volunteers feel happy, live longer, gain selfconfidence and enjoy the company of like minded friends.

Contact Paul on 0409 688 675

TAX | BUSINESS | SMSF | BOOKKEEPING

T 07 3289 1700 F 07 3289 2110 E reception@RGAaccounting.com.au W www.RGAaccounting.com.au A on 32 Main ST, Samford (next to Farmers Hall)

The Hills Echo, December 2023 - Page 19

Enjoy a Whimsical Journey Through the Past of Playtime

In a charming corner of the Samford Museum, a time capsule of childhood wonder awaits as the Toy exhibit showcases a delightful array of cherished playthings. Completed in 2012, this whimsical exhibit invites visitors to embark on a nostalgic journey, evoking sentiments of days gone by.

Just some of the toy exhibits at the Samford Museum

Upon entering the room, both children and adults find themselves captivated by the enchanting display. A magical niche in its own right, the Toy Museum houses a diverse collection of toys, each a conversational piece representing multiple generations. Generous donations from original owners have transformed this space into a treasure trove, allowing future generations to relish the timeless joy these toys once brought.

The exhibits boast a colorful array of dressed dolls, standing as timeless symbols of childhood companionship. The room comes to life with the vibrant presence of the iconic bright yellow Tonka Steel Classic range of vehicles, books of varying sizes scattered throughout, and the timeless appeal of Meccano pieces that have been captivating imaginations since 1898.

Pram enthusiasts will appreciate the display of big perambulators, primarily crafted from cane in earlier times.

Diecast and miniature model cars, representing various makes and colors, add an extra layer of excitement to the collection, offering a nostalgic trip down memory lane for many hobbyists.

The teddy bear, a universal favorite among youngsters, graces the exhibit in various sizes and materials, each with its unique charm. Replica dollhouses, a cherished pastime for play, showcase intricate handmade furnishings, while a slim timber paling with wheels at one end and a handcrafted horse's head at the other sparks memories of cowboy and Indian adventures.

Visitors can indulge in a "cuppa" at tiny tables and chairs, complete with small cups, saucers, and exceptionally small teapots set out for enjoyment—a simple pleasure that adds a touch of realism to the whimsical journey through time.

For those eager to immerse themselves in this captivating collection, the Samford Museum welcomes all to Station Street, Samford Village.

Admission is $5 for adults and $1 for students, with doors open every Wednesday and Sunday from 10 am to 4 pm. For more information, contact (07) 3289 2743 or visit www. samfordmuseum.com.au

Local Project Updates

Page 20 - December 2023, The Hills Echo

• Colo Street Storm Water Upgrade • James Drysdale field extension • Grevillea Street drainage upgrade • Collins Road Active Transport Missing Project Link • Resurfacing - Flinders Way, Albany Creek

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Open 7 Days: Mon - Fr: 8am - 5.30pm Sat: 8am - 1pm. Sun: Closed

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Visit us online at www.terrywhitechemmart.com.au www.echo-news.com.au

The Hills Echo, December 2023 - Page 21

Learn the Art of Bridge

For those who enjoy the thrill of card games, there's an exciting opportunity to explore the world of bridge!

The Hills District is now home to its very own bridge club, situated at 20 Tramway Street, Ferny Grove, in a modern, airconditioned building. This vibrant club is actively welcoming newcomers and offers free lessons for those eager to venture into the fascinating realm of bridge, making it an ideal introduction to this captivating game.

Under the guidance of a skilled instructor, participants will delve into the intricacies of bridge in a friendly and welcoming environment. This experience not only provides a gateway to learning the game but also serves as an excellent opportunity to forge new friendships along the way.

The beginner's lessons are scheduled to commence on Saturday 3rd February from 10am to noon, and will be held at the Arana Bridge Club. The course spans over nine weeks, and post-completion, there will be opportunities for assistance with play sessions. While the lessons themselves are free, it is highly recommended to purchase the accompanying textbook, available for $30. To secure your spot, be sure to make a reservation as bookings are essential. Please reach out to Jim Taylor at 3289 0033.

The Arana Bridge Club is dedicated to providing the local community with an engaging platform to enjoy the game of bridge. This low-cost activity is perfect for individuals seeking mental stimulation, a rewarding challenge, and the chance to socialize with like-minded individuals. It's an opportunity you won't want to miss.

For further inquiries or to register for the upcoming lessons, please contact Phil Chappel at Arana Bridge Club via 0421 737 620.

Page 22 - December 2023, The Hills Echo

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- GA R D E NI NG -

Embracing Summer's Arrival

An update from the Hills Organic Garden As the days grow warmer and the garden dries out, members of the Hills Organic Garden have been hard at work, making the most of the transition from winter to summer.

With the majority of their winter and spring crops now harvested, the focus has shifted to tidying up the garden and preparing for the hotter months ahead.

Growing vegetables in the scorching Australian summer can be challenging, but dedicated gardeners at the Hills Organic Garden are undeterred. They continue to care for their flourishing tomato plants, capsicums, and silverbeet.

Additionally, they have planted pumpkin seeds with high hopes for a bountiful harvest in the coming months.

This community-driven venture, located at 416 Bunya Road, Bunya, adjacent to the Off Leash Dog Park, boasts a passionate and hardworking group of members. Their efforts have not gone unnoticed, as they regularly receive compliments from the general public about the garden's picturesque appearance.

The Hills Organic Garden is a haven for green thumbs and organic vegetable enthusiasts. It provides a space for likeminded individuals to come together, cultivate chemicalfree produce, and enjoy the fruits of their labor. Volunteers collaborate to maintain the garden, ensuring a communal, shared harvest.

For those interested in joining this friendly group of garden enthusiasts, Sunday afternoons from 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. offer the perfect opportunity to visit, have a chat, and learn more. Annual membership fees are affordable, with rates set

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at $20 for adults, $30 for families, and $10 for juniors.

To stay informed and get in touch, you can visit their website at www.hog.org.au, follow "The Hills Organic Garden" on Facebook, or contact them directly at 0415856532. The Hills Organic Garden community extends warm wishes for a very Merry Christmas and a Happy and Healthy 2024 to all residents in the Hills Area and its surrounding neighborhoods.

FERNY GROVE GARDEN CLUB: The next meeting of the Ferny Grove Garden Club will be on Friday, 23rd February, at 1 pm at St Matthew’s Church Hall, Church Road, Mitchelton. This will be their AGM. For more information please call 07 3851 0568.

The Hills Echo, December 2023 - Page 23

Page 24 - December 2023, The Hills Echo

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Everton News from your State Member for Everton TIM MANDER Everton Volunteer Awards

Recently we gathered to recognise and celebrate the hard work and many achievements of our Everton volunteers.

Without the tireless efforts of volunteers our communities would find it difficult to accomplish many things. Please join me in congratulating and celebrating these wonderful people.

Our Everton Volunteer of the Year for 2023 is Carolyn Hohnke, whose continuous and devoted service to Bunya Residents Association, Bunya Neighbourhood Watch, The Hills District Chamber of Commerce, and the Samford Show Society (to name a few) has always been carried out wholeheartedly and she is very deserving of this award.

Our outstanding category winners are as follows: Community Volunteer – Brian Herron – Nexus Care School Volunteer – Narelle Beaton – All Saints Parish School Albany Creek Sports Volunteer – Michelle Moten – Everton Park Sharks Amateur Swimming Club Youth Volunteer – Addison Taylor – Mitchelton Football Club

Everton Volunteer of the Year for 2023 Carolyn Hohnke with Tim Mander MP

What’s Happening for Christmas Locally?

Addison Taylor

Brian Herron’s daughter collecting award on his behalf

Michelle Moten

Narelle Beaton

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Once again I’m looking forward to celebrating this wonderful time of year with our community and families. We have two fabulous events coming up, the first of which is: Brisbane Bunya Lions Club Carols in The Park Saturday 9th December 2023 - 4pm to 8pm Wests Mitchelton RL Football Club, Mitchelton Park, Corner Samford & Prospect Roads, Mitchelton This event has everything for families – free entry & parking, face painting, rides and Christmas market stalls with fireworks at 8pm. And then we have: Eatons Hill Santa Parade and Community Event.

Friday 15th December 2023 from 4:45pm.

Fire, Ambulance, SES and Police will be escorting Santa around the streets handing out goodies which will be followed by an event at the Wantima Golf Club with Family Movie, food trucks, entertainment and fireworks Don’t miss these fabulous family events! I’d like to take this opportunity to wish everyone in our Everton Electorate and communities a very Happy Festive Season and a Safe and Prosperous year in 2024.

The Hills Echo, December 2023 - Page 25

THE FERNY REPORT

by Mark Furner M.P. State Member for Ferny Grove Ferny Grove Park ‘n’ Ride now open

When I first began doorknocking in 2014 to win the seat of Ferny Grove the number one issue people raised was the need for more parking at Ferny Grove Station. As a result of these requests, I promised to fight for that parking increase.

Today I am pleased to report the Palaszczuk Government, in cooperation with the Federal Government and private enterprise, has delivered on that promise.

The new Park ‘n’ Ride F e r n y G ro v e has now been operating Park ‘n’ Ride for a number of weeks and parking pressure at the station has been greatly improved. I have even been told by people who have gone to use the carpark after 9am that they were able to easily secure a car space – something which was very rare previously.

It has been a long road and I thank everyone for their patience.

Major local projects

Opening of the Ferny Grove Park ‘n’ Ride in November like the new Ferny Grove Park ‘n’ Ride don’t just happen. It is only through the patient support of the community and the backing of engaged local groups that we were able to deliver this much needed upgrade.

In addition to the thousands of locals who told me we needed a major parking expansion at the station, local community groups like the Ferny Grove & Upper Kedron Residents Association and The Hills & Districts Chamber of Commerce have provided strong support for this vital local project.

That’s why I was proud to be joined by Carleen and Max from the Residents Association and Craig from the Chamber of Commerce for the opening of the Park ‘n’ Ride at the Ferny Grove Railway Station.

Now stage two is underway. It will provide more amenity for our community with new residential units, shopping, day care, a gym, and cinemas. Please be aware traffic conditions at the site have changed to allow for the next phase of the development.

Get Ready for Extreme Weather Season

We are now well into Queensland’s storm season and locals all know how sudden and dangerous our extreme weather events can be. Emergency Services Queensland advises everyone to follow the three steps: 1. Understand your risk; 2. Make a plan; 3. Pack a kit.

To find out more check the website: https://www.getready. qld.gov.au/

Merry Christmas

Page 26 - December 2023, The Hills Echo

From my friendly staff and I we wish you and your loved ones a merry and safe Christmas and a happy new year. My office will be closed over the Christmas break but will open again on Monday 8 January 2024.

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Dickson News Peter DUTTON MP Federal Member for Dickson

Merry Christmas On behalf of my family and staff, I would like to wish you and your family a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. I am looking forward to seeing many of you at end of year functions, school graduations and other events in coming weeks.

I have been proud to represent you in Canberra this year and I am looking forward to working together to continue delivering for our community in 2024. Please enjoy your holidays and stay safe on the roads.

Ferny Grove Train Station Car Park On Friday 10 November, the multi-level car park at Ferny Grove Train Station officially opened.

This was made possible with an $11 million (Federal) investment from the previous Coalition government investing and strong support from our local community - despite the Palaszczuk government trying to stop the project.

Ferny Grove Station is now safer and easier to access to get to work, school and back home.

Scan the QR Code to see how we got there!

Peter DUTTON MP Federal Member for Dickson

Working hard. Getting results.

Christmas Card Competition Thank you to all the students who entered my annual Christmas Card Competition. This year’s theme was ‘My Australian Christmas.’ Every year we receive hundreds of entries and it’s always hard choosing the winners.

Congratulations to the 2023 winners: Prep - Maddox from All Saints Primary School; Year 1 – Sienna from Albany Creek State School; Year 2 – Hayley from Genesis Christian College; and Year 3 – Jasmine from Living Faith Lutheran Primary.

Feel free to drop into my office in Strathpine to view many of the entries on display in the foyer.

2023 School Leavers Congratulations to all students who graduated this year - I wish you the best of luck in your future endeavours.

2024 Dickson Community Awards Thank you to everyone who took the time to nominate a local resident, business and/or organisation for the 2024 Dickson Community Awards. The awards will be announced and presented on Australia Day, Friday 26 January 2024.

I’m looking forward to having the opportunity to acknowledge all recipients who have made outstanding contributions to the communities in which they live, work, volunteer and study.

Stay connected For regular updates on 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

Share Your Story!

Email admin@echo-news.com.au

✔ Financial Advice ✔ Managed Funds ✔ Direct Shares ✔ Superannuation ✔ Retirement and Pension Planning ✔ Insurances ✔ Home Loans ✔ Tax Planning ✔ Investment Properties

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• Tune ups • Brake & Clutch OPEN 8am to • Front end repairs & wheel alignment 5pm Monday to • Safety Certificates • Engine o/hauls & second hand engines fitted Friday

Ph: 3353 4447 The Hills Echo, December 2023 - Page 27

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Page 32 - December 2023, The Hills Echo

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