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Spooky Returns in 2025!
Residents of Mitchelton and beyond, mark your calendars: the muchloved Blackwood Street Halloween Festival is making a grand return in 2025.
After a necessary pause this year, plans are already underway to bring back the community favorite, Organising a festival of this magnitude demands unwavering commitment, and it has always been made possible thanks to the tireless efforts of dedicated volunteers.
The creativity of costumes at this much-loved spooky event are second to none!
Special appreciation goes to the Mitchelton Rotary, particularly Lee and Rod, whose leadership and hard work over the years have been the backbone of this iconic event.
In a show of support, Brisbane City Council has confirmed that the annual sponsorship for the festival is secured, ensuring financial backing for the 2025 event. The next step involves assembling a new organising committee, which will pave the way for the festival's highly anticipated return.
‘Get ready,’ said organisers. ‘Halloween 2025 will be bigger and better than ever.’
Local Heritage Calendar Unveiled
A special limited edition of 2025 calendars celebrating the 100th anniversary of the Enoggera School of Arts Memorial Hall has been produced by the Enoggera & District Historical Society. The society first issued a calendar in 2015 to mark the beginning of World War l. The price then was $10 and the 2025 calendar is the same price - unbelievable! The calendar will be available from:
• 1st December: Blackwood Street Farmer’s Market
• Sat. 1st December: Brookside Shopping Centre
• Every Thursday until 12th December: The Historical Society (Trundle St, Enoggera) from 9.30am - 12.30pm Preferred payment is cash or direct credit.
An example of some of the ‘old-school’ imagery you may find in the calendar
The Hills Echo is a FREE monthly publication, delivering 10,500 copies to the heart of The Hills District and its surroundings. Proudly 100% locally owned and operated, we embody the spirit of our community—living and breathing local life every day.
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ADVERTISE WITH US! 14,500 copies monthly
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At the helm of our paper is Katie Maclean, our dedicated Editor and Director, who resides in the leafy suburbs of Brisbane. Katie, a passionate local advocate and accomplished journalist, is
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Director/Editor, Katie Maclean
the driving force behind the growth and prosperity of Echo News. Often referred to as “The People‘s Papers,” we are committed to providing a powerful voice for our community.
Katie’s extensive experience spans rural newspapers, national magazines, and marketing, all of which have significantly contributed to our success. With her leadership, The Hills Echo continues to thrive, championing the stories that matter most to you.
Rates above are on a per month basis and include GST Casual Rate = One Off Advert, Regular Rate = 6months
The Hills Echo is bound by the Standards of Practice of the Australian Press Council. If you believe the Standards may have been breached, you may approach Echo News or make a complaint to the Australian Press Council in writing at www. presscouncil.org.au . The Council may also be contacted on 1800 025 712.
Distribution Method: Direct letterbox delivery around the North West suburbs of Brisbane. Copies also available for pick up from local magazine stands.
Published by: Echo Media Group Pty Ltd, ABN: 92 620 601 907
A: PO Box 243, Arana Hills, QLD 4054 PH: 0466 607 045 E: admin@echo-news.com.au echonewsbrisbane W: www.echo-news.com.au
Distribution areas: Ferny Hills, Everton Hills, Arana Hills, Ferny Grove, Keperra, Samford and Upper Kedron
Contact us at admin@echo-news.com.au or visit www.echo-news.com.au/advertising
All rights are reserved and the contents within this magazine are copyright and may not be reproduced without
from The Publisher. All care is taken by The Publisher, however responsibility is not accepted for errors or omissions and opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect those of The Publisher. At the time of going to press (26th November 2024), information contained within this issue is correct.
Bridgeman Christmas Festival Celebrates 11 Years
One of Brisbane’s biggest community Christmas events is celebrating its eleventh year and it’s back better than ever.
Bridgeman Baptist’s, Christmas Lights Festival on December 11-13 will feature thousands of lights, two unique shows, food, markets, carnival rides, carollers plus much more.
‘We’re so excited to be welcoming the crowds again to celebrate the season,’ said Senior Pastor Nathan Harris.
‘Christmas is a time for coming together and this is a perfect opportunity to invite family and friends out for a night of joy and fun.’
The festival, which takes place at Bridgeman Baptist Church, 379 Albany Creek Road, Bridgeman Downs, is free with the only costs being food, market items and canival rides.
‘Lights Festival has been an important community event for 11 years now and it’s been special to see how well it’s been received by locals with up to 8,000 thousand joining us across the three-nights last year,’ Harris said.
Since the early 2000’s Bridgeman hosted a well-attended ‘Carols in the Park’ event but in 2014 following several rained-out events pivoted to multifaceted festival which has grown year on year.
The event hit global headlines in 2022 with stories featured in the BBC, The Guardian and The Jerusalem Post amongst others when three camels used for a nativity scene escaped and ventured down a nearby road in the lead up to the event captivating motorists.
‘Cyrus’, ‘Benjamin’ and ‘Morgie’ returned safely and will be back again in 2024. Joining them will be some of the regions most talented musicians and 400+ volunteers that make the event happen across three nights.
AUSLAN interpreters will be available on night two (12 December) as well as a special ‘low Sensory’ space for those with additional needs. More information can be found at www. bridgeman.org.au/ christmas
The Christmas lights and the carollers are set to wow crowds again this year
Arana Hills Post Office
LOCALLY OWNED AND OPERATED
Services we can help with:
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•ATO TFN Services – walk in service, no appointments
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•Parcel Collect
•PO Boxes Available
•Passport Lodgement - walk in service, no appointment
•Instant Passport & ID, Photos walk in service, no appointments
•100 Point Check
•Great gift ideas for all ages
•Stationery & Stamps
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Shop 17a, 5 – 11 Patricks Rd, Arana Hills Plaza Shopping Centre, Arana Hills, Qld, 4054 Ph: (07) 33513411
Opening Hours: Mon - Fri 9am – 5pm www.australiapost.com.au
The Healing Touch: Pet Acupuncture with Dr. Karina at Arana Hills!
Discover how acupuncture can relieve pain, improve mobility, and reduce stress for your furry friends. Ideal for arthritis, chronic illness, and recovery from surgery. Many pets find it relaxing! Consult with our team to see if this natural treatment is right for your pet.
Special interest in helping flat faced dogs (pugs, french bulldogs, boston terriers, bulldogs) have happier lives
Veterinary care for your dogs, cats, backyard chooks & pocket pets
Puppy & kitten vaccinations, Health checks , Microchipping, Puppy Preschool, Desexing
www.vetkind.com.au
Hills Veterinary Surgery Everton Hills Shopping Centre Camelia Ave, Everton Hills Q. 4053 Ph 3355 6724
program to support kids reintegrating into communities. This will stop the detention system becoming a merry-go-round for the growing cohort of serious repeat youth offenders in Queensland. This plan will include 12 months of supervision and support, including education, skills training and community connection for every youth offender leaving detention.
Hills Players Shine in a Year of Laughter and Success
The Hills Players Group wrapped up a busy and successful year, delighting local audiences with engaging performances and popular events.
The LNP will put victims of crime first by rewriting sentencing principles and they will receive automatic updates relating to their cases. If the LNP forms government, they will increase the number of police on the beat, through retention and better resourcing.
The season kicked off with A Night with Robinson Crusoe, a play that captivated audiences despite facing production challenges along the way. Loyal patrons turned out to show their support, making it a memorable opening.
September brought the group’s annual trivia night, a beloved tradition that once again proved a hit. Hosted by the spirited Quiz Master, Andrew McMicking, the night was filled with lively competition, plenty of laughs, and exciting prizes.
The year concluded on a high note with The Miss Magnolia Senior Citizens Beauty Pageant, a comedy that left audiences in stitches and may well be one of the most celebrated productions the Hills Players have staged to date. The script’s wit, paired with perfectly cast quirky characters, kept laughter rolling through the theatre, with the cast receiving high praise for their performances.
Productions like these are a true team effort. The Hills Players extended thanks to everyone involved—from cast members to front-of-house staff, the light and sound crew, stage manager, and prompts. Special recognition went to new members, Jade and James, for their standout contributions.
As they look toward 2025, the Hills Players expressed deep gratitude for the continued support of their audiences. ‘Your patronage keeps community theatre alive,’ the group noted, sharing appreciation for the energy that a full house brings to every show.
Exciting plans are in store for the upcoming year, and the group encourages fans to stay up-to-date by following them on Facebook and reading Echo News.
Students from Albany Creek State School and Eatons Hill State at Parliament
www.echo-news.com.au
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.
The Hills Echo, August 2024 - Page 27
When
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What’s On in December at the Library?
The Arana Hills Library has a myriad of engaging and educational activities on offer throughout the month of December for children and adults alike.
To secure your event, visit www.mbrc.qld.gov.au/libraries/ events or call the library on 3883 5790
Messy Play: Thursday 19th December, 3pm - 4pm
Drop in and play with play dough, paint, craft and more. Dress for getting messy. Free. Facilitated by our friendly library staff. No bookings required. For under 5’s.
Night Before Christmas Storytime: Tuesday 24th December, 10.30am - 11.30am
Twas the night before Christmas, and all through the library, not a creature was stirring - except for you and your little ones! Gather the family for a special Storytime session filled with classic Christmas tales and festive songs that will fill your hearts
with holiday cheer. Free. No bookings required. For parents and children, 2-5 years.
Fun Factory: Weekdays during school holidays, 3pm - 4pm
You never know what could happen when you drop into the library these school holidays - there will be games, craft and fun for the whole family. Free. Facilitated by our friendly library staff. No bookings required. All ages.
Playtime: Every Monday, Thursday & Friday, 9.30am - 10am
Introduce your child to the wonderful world of free play. Have fun playing with your child, making up stories together and sharing in their delight as they make new discoveries. Playtime is a fully resourced opportunity for parents and children 0 - 5 years to play, pick up early literacy tips, network with other parents and make new friends.
Baby Rhyme Time: Every Tuesday, Wednesday & Saturday, 9.30am - 10am
Baby Rhyme Time helps develop the skills needed to communicate and to learn to read. In a friendly and relaxed environment you and your baby can learn rhymes, action songs and finger plays to share together. For parents and children, babies to 2 years.
Lego Engineers Club: 2nd & 4th Wednesday 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. No bookings required.
For more events at the Arana Hills Library visit, www. mbrc.qld.gov.au/libraries/events
Keperra
Locally Loved Couple Enters Retirement
By Georgia Wright
For over two decades now, walking into Camelia Casket and News meant being greeted with the familiar, smiling faces of Paul and Rose McKenna. The proprietors now look forward to their muchdeserved retirement—but not without being dearly missed by the community.
Since 2002, the McKenna’s have provided the Camelia Avenue newsagency with dedicated service and optimism. Their retirement closes a significant chapter in Everton Hills, but their devotion to the neighbourhood holds lasting impact.
The journey began for Paul and Rose as a sound business venture, but it quickly grew into something more. Managing the newsagency required early mornings and long hours—tasks the couple embraced wholeheartedly. They ran the shop as a team, taking turns throughout the day to balance business responsibilities and tending to their young family. Their cheery, approachable nature endeared them to customers.
‘Many of us would regard them as friends,’ local man Greg Hay shares fondly.
However, the developing digital age threw some spanners in the works for the newsagency’s success. With the advent of online newspapers and digital lotto sales hitting the industry where it hurt most, a drop in foot traffic was felt significantly. Despite these setbacks, Paul and Rose pushed onward, steadfast in their devotion. They maintained the newsagency as a community hub where residents could count on a friendly chat as they went about their day.
Since Paul and Rose announced their retirement, it’s no surprise that customers responded with an outpouring of well-wishes, sharing fond memories of the many years of service and kindness they brought into their lives. Though the transition will be bittersweet, their legacy leaves an indelible mark of connection within Everton Hills.
But do not fear—in the couple’s absence, all is not lost; Camelia Casket and News is now under new management by Chemist Brothers. In fact, Paul has recently remained on hand for a few final touches, tidying and wrapping up details as he prepares to fully hand over the reins. For those who miss Paul’s presence, Greg shares, “I believe if he is in the shop the roller door will be slightly ajar with a bucket.”
The McKenna’s’ retirement marks the end of an era for Everton Hills. Their absence will be “sorely missed”, but the friendships they fostered will not be forgotten. As a couple who have dedicated so much of their time to the community, they’re eager to finally enjoy a slower pace. They plan to fill their time with travel, reconnecting with Rose’s Thailand roots and exploring new destinations. As well, they are excited to see more of their not-so-young-anymore family!
Could You Offer Sprite a Forever Home?
Meet the beautiful and loving greyhound Sprite. Currently based in Toowoomba, Sprite is under the dedicated care of I Want A Greyhound, Inc. (IWaG), a rehoming organisation that works tirelessly to match these gentle dogs with loving families. Over the years, many greyhounds have found homes, but Sprite, with her boundless energy
and zest for life, has somehow been passed over again and again. Sprite doesn’t fit the ‘couch-potato’ mold that many imagine when thinking of greyhounds. Instead, she’s a lively, whip-smart six-year-old who thrives on activity and would make the perfect companion for an active household. This unique trait, however, has meant she’s often overlooked by families searching for a quieter pet. The ideal home for Sprite would be one without other pets or young children, where she could have the space and attention she deserves. IWaG is eager to share more about her playful quirks, her intelligence, and the joy she brings to those who know her. If you can offer Sprite a forever home, please email hello@ iwag.com.au, call 0421 298 970 or visit www.iwag.com. au for more information.
that’s real chemistry
ARANA HILLS
TerryWhite Chemmart Arana Hills
2 Patricks Road , Arana Hills P: 07 3351 6100
Open 7 Days: Mon - Fr: 7am to 8pm Sat & Sun: 8am to 8pm
Karen Brown & Rod Garozzo
Owners - TerryWhite Chemmart Arana Hills
FERNY GROVE
TerryWhite Chemmart Ferny Grove Ferny Grove Shopping Village, 45-51 McGinn Rd, Ferny Grove P: 3351 2614
Opening 7 Days
Mon - Fr: 8am to 6pm Sat: 8am to 5pm, Sun: 8am to 1.30pm
Petros Ioannidis, Blaine Woods & Karen Brown
Owners - TerryWhite Chemmart Ferny Grove
MITCHELTON
Garozzo’s Mitchelton Pharmacy 34 Blackwood Street, Mitchelton P: 07 3355 2828
Open 7 Days: Mon - Fr: 8am - 5.30pm Sat: 8am - 1pm. Sun: Closed
Michelle Duncan, Ben Agyare & Rod Garozzo
Owners - TerryWhite Chemmart Mitchelton
KEPERRA
TerryWhite Chemmart Dallas Parade Compounding 10 Dallas Parade, Keperra P: 07 3355 3905
Opening Hours Mon - Fr: 8am to 6pm Sat: 8.30am to 1pm
Blaine Woods, Tahnee Simpson & Rod Garozzo
Owners - TerryWhite Chemmart Dallas Parade Compounding Pharmacy
Embracing Community and Fresh Produce
An update from the Hills Organic Garden
The days are warming up and our garden is drying out quite rapidly. Most of our winter/spring crops have finished bearing and now need pulling out and throwing into the compost bays.
Growing in the hotter months becomes a little difficult as the plants need to be watered frequently and it gets too hot to work in the garden. However, we still have a few tomato plants which continue to produce fruit and hopefully we will have some potatoes and watermelons shortly.
We have a wonderful group of very keen members at the garden who work very hard keeping the garden neat and tidy and we receive a lot of compliments from the general public with regard to how ‘lovely’ the garden always looks.
The Hills Organic Garden is a great place for ‘green thumbs’ and lovers of 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 chemicalfree 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 0415 856 532 for information.
60 Years and Still Going Strong!
An update from the Mitchelton and Districts Garden Club Inc
The Mitchelton and Districts Garden Club Inc. celebrated a remarkable milestone in October— its 60th anniversary—with a luncheon held at the Arana Leagues Club.
This festive gathering brought together current members, Lifetime Members and local dignitaries, all of whom were excited to honour six decades of shared passion for plants and community engagement.
Speeches from Club President, Ros Morton, and founding members reflected on the club‘s early days and life over the years, emphasising the sense of camaraderie and community that has been a hallmark of the club’s meetings.
QCGC President, Phil Adams, and Committee Member, Jillian Mahoney, were special guests at the event. In his address, Phil highlighted the club’s commitment to fostering a love for gardening and providing a space for people to learn and connect. He concluded by kindly presenting the club a certificate on behalf of the QCGC, in recognition of this outstanding achievement. In a highlight of the celebration, founding members, Margaret Morrow and Berenice Corvi, together with longest-standing President, Pat Killoran, performed a cake-cutting ceremony in honour of the club‘s enduring legacy. All those present toasted to many more years of happy gardening and connecting with like-minded people.
Christmas Markets Calendar
If you are looking for a bit of Christmas gift inspo, check out the fabulous Christmas Markets taking place in our region.
SATURDAY 7TH DECEMBER
Arana Hills Uniting Church Markets Cnr Alstonia and Cycas Streets, Arana Hills | 9.30am - 12.30pm Market stalls will include crafts and gifts, cakes, sweets, jams and preserves and BBQ food. All are welcome.
Christmas on Main Markets Station Road, Samford | 5pm - 8.45pm Follow the red bows and twinkling lights of Main Street Samford to support local traders, cafes and restaurants and share some Christmas Cheer! You can enjoy Late Night Shopping, Christmas Specials, Music at Venues, Carols at and activities for the kids.
SUNDAY 8TH DECEMBER
Old Petrie Town Christmas Markets 901 Dayboro Road, Petrie | 5pm - 9pm Christmas Markets are in full swing every Sunday until Christmas. The festive market stalls will offer great gift ideas together with specialty shops and gift stores .
Eatons Hill Christmas Markets and Carols The Crossing Church, 12 Eatons Crossing Road, Eatons Hill | 4pm9pm There will be Christmas markets, food trucks, live Christmas entertainment, and a free jumping castle for the kids! Market stall enquiries email ehaccommunity@ gmail.com.
Chermside Christmas Festival Centrepoint Church, 240 Hamilton Road, Chermside | 3pm - 8pm Enjoy carols by
candlelight shows at 3pm and 7pm, plus a community festival from 4-7pm with food trucks, market stalls, kids' activities, and more. Free and family-friendly!
WEDNESDAY 11TH DECEMBER
Bridgeman Christmas Lights Festival 379 Albany Creek Road, Mitchelton | 5.30pm - 8.30pm Enjoy a dazzling show, live Bethlehem story, Tunnel of Light, food stalls, boutique markets, and fun activities for kids. Everything except food and rides is FREE! Also taking place on the 12th & 13th Dec.
SATURDAY 14TH DECEMBER
Carols in the Park Christmas Markets Wests Mitchelton Junior Football Club, Mitchelton | 4pm - 8pm Support local artisans in jewellery, fashion, candles, toys, collectibles and more. Email brisbane-bunya@lionsq3. org.au
Redcliffe Twilight Markets Recliffe Parade, Redcliffe | 4pm - 9pm Bespoke goods from makers and creators, mixand-a-mingle the night away with roaming entertainment, live tunes and plenty of kid’s activities.
SUNDAY 15TH DECEMBER
Pine Rivers Park Christmas Twilight Markets Pine Rivers Park, Strathpine | 4pm - 8pm Take a stroll under festoon & festival lighting and enjoy local crafts, jewellery, handmade goodies, toys and more.
WEDNESDAY 18TH DECEMBER
Epic Travels European Christmas Market 11 Mawarra Crescent, Ferny Hills | 4pm - 8pm
Aspley Eye & Retina Centre
Affordable Medical Eye Care with no referral required
Medical Optometrists available to see the following conditions:
• Acute Vision Problems
• Diabetic Eye Disease
• Cataracts
• Age Related Macular Degeneration Consultation only Gap Fee $63.70. Extra fees pending triage assessment advice.
Serious eye issues will be reviewed by our Private Ophthalmologist or referred to Public Emergency Care.
Conveniently located at Level 1 825 Zillmere Rd Aspley . P: 07 3832 1700 for appointments
Wrapping Up A Roaring 2025
An update from the Golden Valley Keperra Lions Club by Paul Ryan
As Lions the end of year is always exciting, we have worked hard during the year and look forward to a Christmas with friends and family.
A Fitness-Focussed Resolution That’s Worth Keeping
rides, fireworks and so much more.
While we’re always looking for more volunteers, our members completed many projects and raised much-needed funds for our community. Some of our activities this year include:
Life gets messy, busy, complicated and unpredictable sometimes. In the New Year, an ‘all or nothing’ approach to your New Year’s health focussed resolution just doesn’t last. So, incorporating a plan that is realistic and sustainable is of upmost importance.
Our final big event is ‘Hills Carols’ at George Wilmore Park on 7th December starting at 4pm.
Please come and enjoy our entry-free event – hopefully, we won‘t get rained out this year. The event promises plenty of fun for all with entertainment lined up, carols, food trucks, Golden Valley Keperra Lions
Volunteers feel happy, live longer, gain selfconfidence and enjoy the company of like minded friends.
Focusing on daily choices that are achievable and simple will create changes that don’t just last until March when your effort and energy has run out, but are long lasting. Here are 12 real-world ways that can help you achieve your health goals in 2024.
1. Eat protein for breakfast to keep your insulin levels steady and appetite satisfied.
• Grovely SS – Breakfast Club, BBQ – Harvey Norman Everton Park, Donuts - Steam Train Rides Bracken Ridge, Containers for Change, Beverly Place – Park Maintenance, Kakowan Community Facility, Kakowan Koffee – your coffee shop, Food Collection for – Picabeen Community, Eye Glasses Collection, Tree Planting – Green Canopy, Bunnings BBQKeperra, Stationery Aide – Support, Community Support – Via Chaplains, plus so much more!
2. Eat slow, chew your food.
3. Eat healthy meals. You will not lose weight by skipping two meals a day. Your body needs quality adequate calories from carbohydrates, proteins and fats.
Christmas goodies are now on sale and can be found at your closest Lions Club, local outlets, or if you are a business wanting to gift cakes to staff or suppliers, give us a call and we will deliver:
• $20 - 1.5kg Christmas Cake • $16 - 900g Pudding
• $16 - 1.0kg Christmas Cake • $10 - 400g Pudding
4. Include exercise snacks in your day. Maybe one minute of steps, squats or wall pushups whenever possible. This keeps your energy levels boosted whilst burning calories.
Thanks again
Paul Ryan – Golden Valley Keperra Lions
5. Learn about how food affects your body, so you can burn fat more efficiently.
E: info@kakowan.org.au
M: 0409 688 675
6. Strength training is your secret weapon. Muscle preserves age, keeps you toned and takes up less space than fat.
SENIORS XMAS LUNCH!
7. Schedule exercise sessions for 20 or 30 minutes - you don’t need hours in the gym. Check in with yourself, show up and prepare the night before.
8. Plan for bad days. You can still succeed by doing what you need to do most of the time.
9. Find your fit. You have everything you need inside of you to get you where you need to go.
10. Enjoy the journey. Make it part of your new lifestyle and enjoy what you do.
11. Sleep should be your priority. Getting adequate sleep reduces the amount of food people eat during the day and your food choices are wiser.
12. Getting adequate water is amazing for weight loss as a natural appetite suppressant and helps remove waste from your body.
A healthy resolution doesn’t need to focus on weight loss. Create a wellness resolution/goal to live a healthy, happier life on any day you decide to start.
Give local Fitness & Nutrition coach Kim a call on 0407 919 143 to help you achieve your New You in 2024.
The Seniors Committee of The Hills and District Chamber of Commerce invite you to a Christmas Luncheon. 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. Cost is $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 . 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
Merry Christmas
On behalf of my family and staff, we wish you and your family a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. It has been a privilege to represent you in Canberra this year, and I look forward to working together to continue delivering for our community in 2025, which promises to be a significant year with the upcoming federal election.
Please enjoy your holidays and stay safe on the roads and in the water.
Salvation Army Pine Rivers Christmas Hamper
My office in Strathpine is collecting donations for the Salvation Army Pine Rivers to help make Christmas brighter for families facing a difficult time. Please feel free to drop in and place your donations in the collection box such as; tinned ham, tinned fruit, tinned potatoes, tinned peas, plum pudding, long-life custard, Christmas bon bons/crackers, candy canes, shortbread/biscuits, packet of lollies, packet of chips, cereal, long-life milk, bottle of soft drink.
Your support will make a real difference!
Vale Yvonne Chapman
Many in our community will be deeply saddened by the passing
of Yvonne Chapman, former Councillor, Deputy Chair, Mayor of Pine Rivers, Queensland’s first female cabinet minister, and a dear friend to many.
Her long and distinguished career, which spanned from 1976 to 2008, was a testament to her dedication to serving our community.
Kirilly and I extend our sincerest condolences to her family and many friends.
Yvonne was a local legend and will be missed.
Christmas Card Competition
Thank you to all the students who entered my annual Christmas Card Competition. This year’s theme was ‘Australian Christmas Traditions.’
Congratulations to the 2024 winners: Prep – Laila from Petrie State School; Year 1 – Heath from Undurba State School; Year 2 – Keidis from Ferny Hills State School; and Year 3 – Laela from Kurwongbah State School.
2025 Dickson Community Awards
Thank you to everyone who took the time to nominate a local resident, business, and/or organisation for the 2025 Dickson Community Awards. The awards will be announced and presented on Australia Day, Sunday, 26 January 2025.
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
TidBits
December 2024
An update from the Arana Hills & Districts
Senior Citizens Club Inc
We have no activities scheduled for December, but we want to thank all our members for their support over the past year. The committee wishes everyone a happy and festive season and hopes to see you back on January 24, 2025. You might even meet friends at gatherings during this time who would like to join us!
Staying connected with the local community is great for mental and physical wellbeing, and it‘s a fun way to make new friends. Our activities—Bingo, card games, and indoor bowls—are suitable for all ages over 55.
Admission is $5 and includes coffee, tea, and biscuits. Yearly membership is $7. We meet at the Arana Hills and District Community Hall, 291 Dawson Parade. Bingo and cards are played on Friday mornings, with indoor bowls every Friday and Wednesday from 1-3pm. You’re welcome to join both morning and afternoon sessions on Fridays—just bring lunch!
First-timers join as visitors for free, and we’re happy to guide anyone new to the games. For more info, contact Marcia at 0438 786 871.
Mitchelton Gardeners Working Bee
Saturday 14th December. 8.30am
Visit the Mitchelton Library garden to help tend the citrus and herb garden and join in easy gardening tasks. Mitchelton Library, 37 Heliopolis Pde, Mitchelton
Everton News
Thank You
from your State Member for Everton TIM MANDER
for re-electing me to serve you for another four years. You've placed your trust in me to continue working on behalf of our great community, and I am committed to delivering the changes that matter most to you.
As we reflect on the past year there are many people to be grateful for in our community. Thank you to our schools and their P&C's, our many sports clubs who keep our community active, our services clubs and to our small businesses who keep our local economy thriving.
No matter who you voted for, I will continue to fight for our community.
I wish you and your family a safe and happy Christmas and I look forward to continuing to deliver outcomes in Everton.
-Tim Mander MP
Our First 100 days.
Queenslanders demanded a fresh start and the LNP is committed to delivering it. In the first 100 days of office, the LNP will:
• Legislate the Making Queensland Safer Laws by the end of the year.
• Abolish stamp duty for first home buyers.
• Form an Independent Infrastructure Coordination Authority and commence a 100-day review of the Brisbane Olympics to ensure a memorable and successful games.
The LNP will deliver the fresh start that Queensland needs. Carols in the Park
The Brisbane Bunya Lions Club will be hosting their annual Carols in the Park on Saturday 14 December. The event will be held at Mitchelton Park from 4:00pm to 8:00pm, with free entry, parking, plenty of activities for the kids and a fireworks display to cap the night off.
If you're looking to make a last-minute bid to the ‘nice’ list, you can see Santa, who will be there for you to meet and take photos. We hope to see you there!
For more information please visit: www.brisbane.qld.gov.au/ whats-on-and-events/event/brisbane-bunya-lions-carolsin-the-park-177687215
Remembrance Day
On 11 November, Remembrance Day, I had the privilege of laying wreaths at Eaton's Hill State School and Gaythorne RSL. It is important that we gather to remember the bravery and sacrifice of those who defended our Nation. Thank you to all our schools who commemorate this very significant event.
THE FERNY REPORT
by Mark Furner M.P. State Member for Ferny Grove
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. Its time to get ready.
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 and make sure you are prepared, check the website: https://www.getready.qld.gov.au/
State
Election Results
I would like to take the opportunity to thank everyone for your support at the state election in October. It is very humbling to be returned to represent you for a fourth term.
This time round I am not in government – but that won’t stop me advocating for our community. Over the first three terms I have been in office we have seen record investment in our local schools, roads and public transport infrastructure – and I won’t be letting this new government off the hook in squandering this excellent base of local investment.
I will also continue to hold my coffee catch ups and have a stall at the Mitchie Market, so please feel free to drop by and have a chat about the things which matter to you!
Local sporting and community groups should also consider contacting my office for marquee loans, raffle prizes and letters of congratulation for milestone birthdays and anniversaries.
Please connect with my office at ferny.grove@parliament. qld.gov.au for assistance.
Merry Christmas
My staff and I would like to wish you and your loved ones a merry Christmas and a happy and safe new year!
The new amenities block and forecourt with outdoor learning and yarning circle areas is now open and fully functional at Ferny Hills State School! Recently, I caught up with Principal Brad Geisel to inspect the new facility.
