The Hills Echo - Dec 22

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

Est 1992 Est

DECEMBER 2022

TRAIL CARE CHAMPS

Ben Malatzky (centre) presented volunteers Craig Meinicke (left) and Matthew Dunn (right) with special jerseys for their contribution to the Northside Trail Care Alliance last month. Read more on page 3 We are their preferred provider

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Page 2 - December 2022, The Hills Echo

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Trail Care Champs!

These past several years have seen the mountain bike specific trails in Bunyaville and Samford conservation park maintained, improved and expanded.

This could not have been achieved without the hard work of an army of volunteers. The Northside Trail Care Alliance (NTCA) as part of the North Brisbane MTB Club are proud to have achieved 20 years of volunteer collaboration with Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service (QPWS), something that is very special in the trail care space.

To celebrate the NTCA are recognizing a number of key individuals from the past, as well as the present, who have contributed to the creation and growth of our volunteer organisation. Enter two such volunteers, Matthew Dunn and Craig Meinicke, who are the current NTCA trailcare coordinators for Bunyaville Conservation Park and Samford Conservation Park respectively. Both are experts NTCA volunteer Lochlan Dunn in environmentally sustainable trail maintenance and creation, and have dedicated long hours both on the tools and in the office with an eye to provide continued access and maintenance for our local trails.

Last month North Brisbane MTB Club and NTCA, in collaboration with QPWS, are proud to have completed the refurbishment of Trail #2 - Jurassic in Bunyaville Conservation Park.The project was implemented using a Queensland Government Community Sustainability Action grant along with North Brisbane MTB Club volunteers. QPWS Principal Ranger for Greater Brisbane Andrew Hoffman as well as QPWS Project Ranger Ian Witheyman where on hand to cut the tape and help (L-R) QPWS Principal Ranger for Greater Brisbane Andrew Hoffman, formally recognise Matthew and Craig for their NTCA volunteer Craig Meinicke, QPWS Project Ranger Ian contributions to trailcare, providing a few words Witheyman and NTCA volunteer Matthew Dunn opening the newly whilst each was presented with an NTCA jersey. refurbished Trail #2

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The Hills Echo, December 2022 - Page 3

Your Region. Your Paper The Hills Echo is a FREE monthly publication delivering 14,500 copies per month of what matters to The Hills District 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.

Distribution is carried out via direct letterbox delivery to homes and businesses in the suburbs of; Ferny Hills, Everton Hills, Arana Hills, Ferny Grove, Samford Village, Keperra and Upper Kedron. Copies can also be picked up from a variety of magazine stands within the above suburbs. ......................................

Copyright: The Hills Echo is produced by Echo Media Group Pty Ltd (The Publisher). All rights are reserved and the contents are copyright and may not be reproduced without permission from The Publisher. All care is taken

by The Publisher, however responsibility is not accepted for errors or omissions and opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect those of The Publisher.

COVID-19: At the time of going to press (29th November 2022), information contained within this issue is correct. As the situation with the COVID health crisis is ever changing, we urge you to contact organisers of any events listed within our publication if you are doubtful about times and dates. For more information, email admin@echo-news. com.au

Recipe of the month Seasonal Fruit Parfait

Serves: 2 | Prep time: 15 mins | Cook time: 15 mins

Ingredients

250g mascarpone cheese 250g raspberries, frozen 1 cup kiwifruit, fresh berries, mango or any other fruit in in season, roughly chopped 2 tablespoons roasted granola

Method

Made by locals, for locals YourMade local by community locals, fornewspaper locals

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Distribution Method: Direct letterbox delivery around the North West suburbs ofare Brisbane.

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Copies available for pick up Distribution Method: Direct letterbox delivery around NorthFerny Distribution areas: Ferny Hills, Everton Hills, Aranathe Hills, Distribution areas: Enoggera, Gaythorne, Everton Park, from local magazine stands.

West suburbs of Brisbane.

Copies also available for pick up Mitchelton, Alderley, McDowall and Stafford Grove, Keperra, Samford and Upper Kedron Distribution areas: Enoggera, Gaythorne, Everton Park, Distribution areas: Ferny Hills, Everton Hills, Arana Hills, Ferny from local magazine stands.

Mitchelton, Alderley, and Stafford Contact us at admin@echo-news.com.au Grove, Keperra, Samford and Upper Kedron Contact us McDowall atGaythorne, Distribution areas: Enoggera, Everton Park,or

Contact us at admin@echo-news.com.au or Mitchelton, Alderley, McDowallor andscan Stafford visit www.echo-news.com.au/advertising admin@echo-news.com.au visit www.echo-news.com.au/advertising Contact us at admin@echo-news.com.au or QR code to us book your advert online or Contact at admin@echo-news.com.au visit visit www.echo-news.com.au/advertising www.echo-news.com.au/advertising

Page 4 - December 2022, The Hills Echo

CHILL 2 parfait glasses in the refrigerator.

COOK frozen raspberries in a small saucepan on a gentle simmer for around 15 minutes or until very tender. Puree with a stick blender.

TRANSFER the raspberry puree into a small clean bowl and refrigerate until cool.

LAYER fruit, mascarpone and raspberry sauce in chilled glasses up to desired height, keeping each layer as distinct as possible.

TOP each glass with a sprinkle of granola.

SERVE immediately with long spoons or chill until ready to serve.

Recipe courtesy of Barbara McMillian, Dirranbandi branch This recipe is brought to you by The Queensland Country Women’s Association’s (QCWA) Country Kitchens program. The program Empowering women through education and health is a priority for the Queensland Country Women’s Association (QCWA). The QCWA Country Kitchens program, funded by the Queensland Government through Health and Wellbeing Queensland, supports Queenslanders to adopt healthier lifestyles.

To find out more about the program visit https:// qcwacountrykitchens.com. au/. www.echo-news.com.au

New Swim School Set For Arana Hills

A new swim school may soon be on the horizon for Arana Hills, with a development application being lodged last month.

The proposal put to Moreton Bay Regional Council, is seeking permission for a new Aquatic Achievers Swim School to be located within the Arana Hills Shopping Plaza, 5-11 Patricks Road, Arana Hills.

The proposed complex is to be located on the southern boundary of the existing shopping centre site and includes an enclosed 25m swimming pool, viewing area, change rooms and office/administration space, with the total gross floor area covering 890sqm. Included in the proposal is associated service and storage areas, landscaped gardens and parking for 50 cars.

The planners have stated that the proposal will not negatively impact upon the privacy and amenity of the adjoining residential area, with a maximum building height of 7m being stated in the development application.

For more information visit the DA Tracker on the Moreton Bay Regional Council website here www.moretonbay.qld. gov.au/Services/Building-Development/DA-Tracker and reference DA/2022/3372

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Arana Hills Shopping Plaza

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Prop o locati sed o new n of swim scho ol

A map illustrating the location of the proposed development

An artists impression of the new swim school

The Hills Echo, December 2022 - Page 5

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Page 6 - December 2022, The Hills Echo

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Seniors Celebrate at Awards Night

On October 20th, Ferny Grove State High School celebrated the achievements of their Year 10, 11 and 12 students at the 2022 Senior Awards Night.

The student recipients certainly lived up to the school motto ‘Always Aim High’ and their four key values of RESPECT, LEARNING, CREATIVITY and COMMUNITY! A big congratulations to all of the recipients and the school would like to extend thanks to everyone involved in the planning and execution of the night.

Ferny Grove State High School would like to mention a special thanks to all their wonderful guests and supporters who include; Mr Ian Ross, Mitchelton Rotary Club, Dr Judy Law, Samford Valley Veterinary Hospital, Chris Veraa, CQ University Australia, Arana Leagues Club, Mark Furner MP for Ferny Grove, Moreton Bay Regional Council, GACCQ German Australian Community Centre Qld, The Hills and District Chamber of Commerce, Major Christopher K Moroney, Battery Commander, 104th Battery 1st Regiment, RAA, Cr Steven Toomey, The University of Major Christopher K Moroney, Queensland, Golden Battery Commander 104th Battery, Valley Keperra Lions 1st Regiment, RAA presenting John Club Inc., Gaythorne with the Long Tan Award RSL Sub Branch Inc

Mr Shannon Rogers, HOD Music and Ms Melissa Rowse, HOD The Arts presenting Chiara with the Cultural Award

Darryl Robson, President Golden Valley Keperra Lions Club presenting Wayne with the Interhouse Shield for Kara Kara Staff: Dr Helen Byrnes Dr Michelle Barton Dr Anita Berger Dr Lauren McConnell Dr Katrina Price Dr Ema Bowman Dr Katie Knights

Fernlands Veterinary Practice

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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 www.echo-news.com.au

The Hills Echo, December 2022 - Page 7

ess n d n i K f O s t c Random A Welcome to our latest column, Random Acts of Kindness.

We all know our community rocks and it’s spirit is oozing with kindness, so to showcase this we are publishing ‘Random Act of Kindness’, a new column with submissions from our community. Have a read of Joseph’s submission below: “On Saturday November 12th around midday, I was travelling on Cobalt St, Keperra waiting in a line of traffic at the T intersection of Samford Road. Something caught my attention; on Samford Road an elderly lady was pushing a wheelchair with an elderly man onboard. As she struggled up the hill towards The Great Western Shopping Centre, the wheelchair came to a stop, a breather was needed in the midday sun.

A 4WD vehicle in front of me entered Samford Road from Cobalt Street with hazard amber lights flashing. To my amazement, a young lady alighted the 4WD and pushed the wheelchair with the elderly gent, up the hill towards Settlement Road. The 4WD vehicle’s driver kept the lights flashing until the wheelchair was on flat ground at the traffic lights. The elderly lady had also received a lift from the 4WD vehicle’s driver and was reunited with her partner at the top of the hill.

It was so touching to see an unsolicited, random act of kindness in assisting elderly strangers on their shopping excursion.”- Joseph T, Keperra If someone in the community has offered a random act of kindness to cheer you up, it can be something simple or a big favour, we would love to hear from you. It’s all about the thought that counts, please get in touch as we would love to share it with our readers, admin@echo-news.com.au

Page 8 - December 2022, The Hills Echo

A Christmas Message From Picabeen

Picabeen Community Centre will be holding its Christmas event on Tuesday, December 13th from 11am.

Everyone is welcome to come down and celebrate. As the year draws to a close, the Picabeen team would like to wish everyone a safe and happy festive season. The Community Centre will be closed from Friday, December 23rd and will reopen on Wednesday, January 4th. Please refer to their Facebook page, for more information on activity closures.

The Change Room The team would like to thank the wonderful community for their support, by shopping in store and for the donations made. They are grateful for the friendships made with the volunteers and wider community.

The team wish everyone a wonderful and restful holiday break, and look forward to seeing everyone in 2023.

The Change Room will be open on the morning of Saturday, December 24th and then close for the holiday break at 1pm. Doors will reopen on Tuesday, January 3rd

www.echo-news.com.au

Expectations Exceeded at Inaugural Gala

On Friday 14 October, the NOW Business Network Group held their inaugural Gala Dinner to raise funds for the Down Syndrome Queensland Latch-On Program, with 320 guests in attendance.

The goal of the fundraising dinner was to raise $25,000 to help support 10 students through the Latch-On Program.

However, all their expectations were exceeded and the night was an outstanding success, raising over $40,600 and will provide 16 students with a place on this amazing program!

What a fantastic result!

The NOW Business Group are beyond grateful for all the support to help make this event the huge success it was. Not only did they raise a phenomenal amount of money, over 300 attendees witnessed their guests from Down Syndrome Qld having a wonderful time and helped to reinforce the importance of supporting the Latch-On program, where families report the benefits of the program as seeing their offspring realise their full potential including developing independence, confidence and living skills.

One particular guest, a father who has a young 14-year-old daughter with Down syndrome said through his tears on the night, “I always worried about my daughter‘s future. But looking around this room tonight at the love and support for these beautiful people and learning about the Latch-On program, I know she will be in good hands, and she will have a great future ahead.”

GET SOCIAL WITH THE HILLS ECHO

echonewsbrisbane

Members of the NOW Business Network with members of the Downs Syndrome Latch On Program

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

NEED AN ITEM REPAIRED? REPAIR CAFE THE GROVE CAN HELP, AND ONLY FOR A VOLUNTARY DONATION!

Repair Cafe The Grove operates a monthly, local Repair Cafe to promote repair as an alternative to tossing things out. Local residents can bring their broken items to fix them on the spot with the help of volunteer repairers.

There is no charge for repairs but a donation to cover operating costs is encouraged. However, you must be able to carry the item in and carry it out again whether we are able to fix it or not.

Cafe Dates: The fourth Saturday each month (except December) Location: Grovely Mitchelton Scout Den, 170 Blaker Road, Keperra.

For more information send an SMS to

0428 439 001

SCAN THE QR CODE TO BOOK YOUR TIME SLOT or go to https://transitionthegrove.org.au/repair-cafe

@repaircafethegrove www.echo-news.com.au

The Hills Echo, December 2022 - Page 9

Don't Forget Your Lions Cake This Christmas!

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.

Golden Valley Keperra Lions Kakowan Koffee Shop, James Drysdale Reserve, Jinker Track, Bunya: 7am - noon, 7 days a week

Brisbane Bunya Lions

Osborne Road Mitchelton Cake and Pudding Stall Teralba Park: 9am - 3pm

Saturday 3rd December, Saturday 10th December, Sunday 10th December, Saturday 17th December and Sunday 18th December.

Fresh Christmas Trees available on Saturday 10th December and Sunday 11th December. First in first served.

Brookside Shopping Centre - Opposite Terry White Chemmart Pharmacy : 9am - 3pm Tuesday 6th December, Wednesday 7th December, Saturday 10th December, Sunday 11th December, Monday 12th December, Tuesday 13th December, Wednesday 14th December, Thursday 15th December, Friday 16th December, Saturday 17th December, Wednesday 21st December, Thursday 22nd December, Friday 23rd December Albany Creek Lions

Pop down and see the friendly members of the Albany Creek Lions Club to grab your Lions Christmas Cake

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WORKSHOP: 2/1147 Southpine Rd, Arana Hills www.samfordautomotive.com.au Page 10 - December 2022, The Hills Echo

Bunnings Brendale, Cnr Old North Rd &, Kremzow Rd, Brendale Thursday 8th December, 10th & 11th December, 17th & 18th December C o l e s A l b a n y C re e k , Albany Creek Rd, Albany Creek

8th, 9th and 10th December Prices have gone up slightly this year, however you still get an exceptional product.

Both cakes and puddings are rich, fruit filled and moist and we are sure the whole family will thoroughly enjoy them.

Pricing: 1.5kg Cake is $19.00 : 1.0kg Cake is $15.00 : 900gm Pudding is $15.00 and our Mini 80gm is $2.00 each. www.echo-news.com.au

Lions High Tea Raises Over $5,000 for Childhood Cancer Research

Over 100 women came together recently at an afternoon high tea with the common goal of raising funds for the Australian Lions Childhood Cancer Research Foundation (ALCCRF).

The event was generously supported by the Anglican Parish of Grovely, and included raffle prizes donations from Tim Mander MP, Cr Andrew Wines, Cr Matt Constance and other handmade gifts from locals.

Lions Club of Brisbane Bunya Project Chair, Jocelyn Slater expressed her gratitude to all involved and said: ‘I would like to offer my heartfelt thanks to all the volunteers, who worked tirelessly at this event.’

‘Raising a total of $5,097 would not have been possible without all your support.

‘It was wonderful to see so many community groups in attendance including ladies from the Older Women's Network, Ferny Grove Garden Club, Mitchelton Day Club, Golden Valley Keperra Lions Club Inc.,’ Slater said.

Further, there was a display of The Gown Lounge evening wear, and beautiful performances by students from the Mt Maria College Music string ensemble.

All in all, it was a very successful afternoon for a great cause.

A delightful High Tea was enjoyed by all the ladies

The Gown Lounge wear display

Beautiful table settings

Arana Hills Post Office

So much more than just buying a stamp!

LOCALLY OWNED AND OPERATED • • • • • •

Services we can help with:

Bank@Post Money Order Travel Insurance Foreign Currency Western Union ATO TFN Services – walk in service, no appointments

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Digital ID Land Title ID Check National Police Check 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 • Travel Accessories

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

aranahillspostoffice www.echo-news.com.au

The Hills Echo, December 2022 - Page 11

An artists impression of what the Samford Gateway may look like

Samford Village Development - Have Your Say!

Dear Editor, A development application for shops, offices, health care services and food and drink outlets has been lodged with Moreton Bay Regional Council. The development, to be known as the Samford Village Gateway - DA/2022/4057, is proposed to sit on on the four blocks beside the Main Street and Samford Rd roundabout in Samford Village.

The development proposes one driveway entry on Main Street and a dual driveway out onto Junction Street. Anyone living in our lovely Village, Valley and surrounds are able to view this development proposal by visiting http://www.moretonbay. qld.gov.au/Services/Building-Development/ DA-Tracker.

Any residents wishing to submit their perspectives regarding this development may submit a ‘properly made’ submission.

Properly made submissions can be made once the development application is publicly notified for comments. Signs will be displayed at the proposed development site when the public notification period commences.

Information on how to submit a properly made submission can be accessed via the following link https://www.moretonbay.qld.gov.au/Services/ Building-Development/DA-Lodgement/ Submissions. Images of the proposal are below and in top left hand corner Mention Code NTHBRIS22 Regards, Maree when booking!

MAIN ST.

SA

MF

OR

DR

D.

A birds eye view of the development location

An artists impression of a view from the street of the proposed development Do you have an issue you would like to get off your chest or maybe praise someone in the community? Send your ‘ Letter to the Editor’ to admin@echo-news.com.au Page 12 - December 2022, The Hills Echo

www.echo-news.com.au

Consider Cooper’s Cans!

Eight year old Cooper Chapman is on a mission to earn his own money, along with doing his little bit for the planet through his initiative, 'Cooper's Cans'.

Cooper Chapman with just some of the recyclables he has collected

FREE Outdoor Theatre Set For Warner

A few years ago, Cooper asked his parents if he could start recycling cans and bottles to save for a trip to Adelaide. Cooper wanted to visit his best friend Flynn, as Flynn’s family had relocated for duties in the Australian Army.

This impressive young man printed flyers and delivered them to his neighbour’s letterboxes, along with displaying flyers in his local IGA. Cooper successfully reached his goal and made the visit to Adelaide. Cooper has continued his work and on a weekly basis collects cans and bottles before and after school. His next goal is to save money for another trip to Adelaide, as well as golf equipment and lessons.

If you are not already collecting recyclable containers, please consider Cooper’s Cans as he would LOVE to take them off your hands. Cooper can collect them from your mailbox every fortnight on recycling bin day, plus he can even supply you with reusable bags.

For more information visit his dedicated Facebook page ‘Cooper's Cans’ at www.facebook.com/coopers.cans

The Outdoor Theatre Community is bringing FREE local ‘pop up’ theatre to the community. Their first production is a modern-day take on a Shakespeare classic, at Dragonfly Park, Warner on December 10th, and 11th. Performances will also occur on December 17th and 18th, with a wet weather back up of Friday, December 16th. For more information visit www.facebook.com/ outdoortheatrecommunity

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The Hills Echo, December 2022 - Page 13

Housing lot sizes and affordability – your thoughts?

An update from the Ferny Grove & Upper Kedron Residents Association (FGUKRA) Australia’s housing crisis has been getting plenty of media attention recently.

Discussion is pointing to increases in homelessness, affordable rental accommodation getting difficult to find and first home buyers being priced out of the suburbs they want to buy in due to rising housing prices and interest rates. One suggestion coming from Government and Councils to alleviate this problem is to reduce the size of blocks of land for housing to bring costs of building a home down.

The traditional 24-32 perch (607-809 sq, mtr.) block of land is becoming less common these days. Instead, 400-450 sq. mtrs blocks are the norm in new developments and larger blocks in established areas are being split into smaller blocks for sale.

There are many differing opinions on the merits of smaller blocks. Some say this is a good thing and small blocks of land are all they want with lower maintenance required. Smaller blocks also mean less ‘urban spread’ assisting to preserve farming and bushland.

Others say smaller blocks of land destroy the existing ‘feel’ of a community and with increased population density, there Practical strategies for positive change flows an increased burden on public infrastructure like roads, schools, hospitals, parks, community and sporting facilities, Michelle McClintock shops, water supply and power supply. Smaller lots can also mean reduced size of urban gardens and concentrated roof surface areas leading to increases in the urban heat footprint.

There’s also argument that these objections NIMBY (not in michellemcclintock.com.au my back yard) complaints and should be ignored. info@michellemcclintock.com.au The specifications for councils to regulate these issues are set out in the various Regional, City and Neighbourhood Plans, but these are not necessarily seen as prescriptive legislation and negotiation can and does occur between councils and developers. Additionally, as these plans are reviewed, it is possible that pressure may be applied to communities to reduce the size of the housing blocks that can be developed in our suburbs or to allow more town house and unit complexes and small blocks of land (300-400 sq. mtrs.).

Are you familiar with your local plan ? Do you have a view you’d like to share with us about block sizes in new developments or sub-dividing?

Let us know what you think by emailing fguk. communications@gmail.com or go to our Facebook page.

FGUKRA researches and advocates for residents to all levels of government on local issues. To join for a once only $10 fee, please contact us at via email at fguk.communications@ gmail.com.

Life Coaching Psychology

0415 568 389

Page 14 - December 2022, The Hills Echo

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A Swinging Success at Keperra

October was a successful month for the Keperra Country Golf Club, with a win at the Queensland Golf Industry Awards. Furthermore, two of the club’s members picked up medals at the Special Olympics Australia National Games.

Keperra’s junior development program beat 12 other finalists to be named Junior Golf Program of the Year at the state’s 2022 Industry Awards night held on the Gold Coast.

Club General Manager Gavin Lawrence said it was welcome recognition for the program, which is under the stewardship of the club’s Teaching Professional Chris McCourt and PGA Association Professional Jake Newbery.

The program will receive a further boost with construction now underway for a six-hole junior short course on what has been the Keperra club’s driving range and practice fairway. This short course, which also delivers a valuable 28th hole, will enhance practice facilities and the club’s ability to introduce more juniors and newcomers to golf.

The two club members to bring home medals from the Special Olympics Australia National Games are Dylan Price and Stephen Lawley. They were part of the 19-strong golfing team representing Queensland at the Games and taking on the Country Club Tasmania championship golf course in Launceston. Both competed in Level 4, 9-hole competitions, with Dylan taking gold in Division 1 and Stephen scoring silver in Division 4.

Dylan’s winning performance included shooting a personal best of 48 on the final day of the three rounds. It was an extraordinary effort, especially considering Dylan fractured his left foot three weeks before flying to Tasmania with his family

Special Olympians Dylan Price and Stephen Lawley and caddy, fellow Keperra Golf Club member Jarrod Mann.

The injury occurred when a bottle of soft drink fell on his foot as he was stacking shelves at the supermarket where he works.

‘He took off his moonboot to play and there was lots of ice and elevating his foot between each day’s round. He was a real trooper and he didn’t complain. He has a pretty high pain threshold. The greens were tricky and fast and he played so well. He now has the set of medals: a gold, silver and bronze from the last three National Games.’

A gold medal isn’t all Dylan came back from Tasmania with: he now has an elusive hole-in-one to his name. After the Games, he, Terry and Jarrod played the three courses at Barnbougle, with the 14-hole short-course Bougle Run their last hit-out before heading to the Launceston airport to return to Brisbane.

Despite freezing rain and gale-force gusts, Dylan’s tee shot on the 11th landed in the cup. Not to be outdone, Terry scored his own hole-in-one on the 13th.

It was the icing on the Tassie trip cake for the Price family and puts Dylan and Terry in a select group of father-son golfers to score a hole-in-one in the same round.

Store Directory

FERNY FAIR SHOPPING CENTRE 170 Patricks Road, Ferny Hills

Proudly manage d by Beacon Real Estate

Ph: 325

7 2175

• Ferny Fair Medical Practice • Indian Appetite

• The Hair Pin

• Ferny Hills Physiotherapy

• The Farm Shack

• The Hills Bakery

• Value Plus Food Mart

• Patricks Rd Pharmacy • Massage

3351 4455

3351 5177 3351 5735

Dr Tom Bancroft

3351 0041

0449 944 406 3351 5300

3851 2969 3351 5277

0451 907 588

• Sullivan Nicolaides Pathology

3351 8783

80 Years Physiotherapy Experience How Ferny Hills Physiotherapy can help: ✓ Spinal injuries ✓ Neck & back pain ✓ Arthritis ✓ Upper/lower limb injuries & conditions ✓ Shock Wave Therapy ✓ Chronic pain ✓ Post-operative rehab & more ✓ Sporting injuries ✓ Work injuries ✓ Whiplash

New patients welcome

PERSONAL EXERCISE PHYSIOLOGY PROGRAMS ONLINE BOOKINGS AVAILABLE VIA www.fernyhillsphysiotherapy.com.au

Call 3351 5177 Shop 10, Ferny Fair Shopping Plaza, 170 Patricks Rd, Ferny Hills www.echo-news.com.au

MON - FRI: 7AM - 7PM BY APPOINTMENT, SAT MORNINGS: 8AM - NOON

The Hills Echo, December 2022 - Page 15

Winner, Winner Chicken Dinner!

Carolyn Martinez from Hawkeye Publishing, presents Marlene with her winning copy of biography ‘Between Before and After’ by Edita Mujkic.

Congratulations to Marlene Fennell from Aspley! Marlene was the winner of last months competition to win a copy of the gripping biography Between Before and After by Edita Mujkic, published by Hawkeye Publishing.

Marlene was thrilled with her win and said she’ll now enter every competition she can in the hopes of winning a cruise!

Page 16 - December 2022, The Hills Echo

A GEM of a hobby on your doorstep

An update from the Mitchelton & Districts Gem Club The Mitchelton & Districts Gem Club have not held any field trips this year, which is quite unusual for the Club. There has been the wet weather which has made access to some fields unsuitable for digging and there has been the closure of many digging areas.

The hobby is changing in that respect, as more fields become ‘out of bounds’ to gemstone fossicking and other favourite digging areas become ‘dug-out’. This leaves the Club members with attending gem shows, to source raw material.

Gem shows are held by many clubs in the local area, such as Caboolture, Bribie Island, Redcliffe, Beenleigh and Ipswich.

These shows are generally held in the cooler months from March until October. Our Club does not hold a show because there are no suitable sites available.

Gem shows generally allocate an area for ‘Tailgating’, where members sell their excess material. This is where members of clubs mainly source their cutting material from these days.

Next year during Easter, the National Gem & Mineral Show is being held in Queensland at the Dayboro Showgrounds. For four days, gemstone enthusiasts from all over Australia will gather to sell and swap their surplus gemstone and mineral specimens. If you would like to see dealers from all over Australia, come along to the Dayboro Showgrounds during the Easter long weekend.

Our Club workshop is closing on December 15th and reopens on Thursday, January 12th, 2023. For more information on our lapidary club phone John on 3351 1038 or Lloyd on 3351 2093.

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History

Cop Recreates Camp Mountain Train Crash

Former detective-turned-writer, Jack Roney, has brought to life Queensland’s worst rail disaster, which happened on our doorstep at Camp Mountain.

It was Labour Day – May 5th, 1947 – and the C17 class steam locomotive no. 824 left Brisbane from Central Station at 8:59am. The six carriages bustled with 215 men, women and children on board.

It was one of three trains headed to Closeburn so that workers from the Department of Customs and Excise could let their hair down at the family picnic day. Families were keen for a day of cricket, picnicking and dance in the wake of World War II having ended 19 months earlier.

But one hour into the trip, at a bend on the Samford Range, the lead carriage derailed and crashed with tragic consequences.

Sixteen souls never made it home; another 38 people were injured. Sadly, the dead included three children, the train’s fireman, and the train driver who made it to hospital but died the following day. Most of the dead and injured were travelling in the first two carriages.

An inquest deemed speed was to blame. The train driver was rostered on a course he’d never driven before and was exceeding the speed limit, most likely caused by applying brakes too late in the descent down the range.

The Camp Mountain train crash stands to this day as Queensland’s worst rail disaster.

Ferny Grove’s Jack Roney first heard about the crash while researching places to go bike riding with his family.

‘I discovered the Samford Cycle Link,’ Jack said. ‘And soon found that the track cuts through hilly bushland over Camp Mountain where there is a plaque in memory of those who lost their lives in the crash.’

The train line has since been pulled up and has been consumed by housing estates and almost eradicated from history.

The Yugar Tunnel, now home to a colony of bats, is one of the last physical remnants of the old train line that went all the way from Ferny Grove to Dayboro.

‘It became apparent that this significant historical event seems to have been lost over time, and that most locals have never heard of the crash,’ Jack said. ‘I wondered what it would be like to go back in time to that very day. I had also read about a rare blood moon and I tied the two themes together to create a historical story spanning over three generations with a twist of time travel.’

He’s referring to what is the author’s second novel, The

An illustration of The Yugar Tunnel by Paul O’Sullivan from the The Ghost Train and the Scarlet Moon

Jack Roney at the site of the Yugar Tunnel with his latest novel Ghost Train and the Scarlet Moon, published by Hawkeye Publishing. The book explores the bonds of friendship.

The divergence of detective work and writing is not lost on Jack. ‘Being a detective is centred around supporting victims of crime and building evidence against the offenders so they can face justice. It is a mix of personal contact with people during times of crisis, long hours, managing caseloads and juggling multiple investigations at any one time. At the heart of it, it is fundamentally about helping people. Writing, on the other hand, is a personal pursuit where I can escape from the chaos of the real world. Writing has been a form of therapy for me, a coping mechanism.’

Exclusive Discount for our Readers: If you’d like to buy Jack’s book, The Ghost Train and the Scarlet Moon, we’ve secured this 10% discount code from hawkeyebooks.com.au exclusively for our readers. Enter discount code ECHO10 at the checkout.

Tip: Did you know that if you prefer to borrow books from your local library, you’re still supporting your favourite authors?

Authors receive royalties from the library system based on how many times their books are borrowed. If you want your library to stock a book, ask them if they can add it to their collection.

Everton Mechanical Repairs 43 TIMMS ROAD, EVERTON HILLS

ACCOUNTANTS - TAX AGENTS T 07 3289 1700 F 07 3289 2110 E reception@rgoodman.com.au W www.rgoodman.com.au A on 32 Main ST, Samford (next to Farmers Hall) www.echo-news.com.au

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Ph: 3353 4447 The Hills Echo, December 2022 - Page 17

History

Memories From Break Up Days

An update from the Samford Museum Are you searching for a Christmas gift for someone who enjoys reading during the holidays? Ideas could include a local history book. A variety are on sale at the museum or via the online shop here www. samfordmuseum.com.au .

Break up day at Parker School c. late 1920s. copy of E. Walters photo From Samford Museum’s collection

Memories from the end of school year breakup days at Bunya School include, the large canvas bags storing bucket ice-creams in dry ice, ham sandwiches, rainbow cake, red and orange cordial.

Races for children and parents. A sack race meant jumping along in a real potato sack and in the three -legged race, ladies laddered stockings were good for tying legs together. The prize books awarded to each child were a feature after the usual races.

All the goodies were provided by funds the committee had raised at dances held during the year. All schools had their own fun days, which may have been a day at Redcliffe, with children travelling in the back of several farmer’s trucks or a walk along the local creek.

After a busy year hosting school groups and visitors, including research enquiries and assisting Samford Sate School 150 Committee, members are looking forward to a short break, before preparing for Australia Day in late January. The museum will close for the holidays on Wednesday, December 14th at noon for the members Christmas lunch. Please phone Geoff on 0417 610 983 should you have enquiries regarding the museum opening times during the school holiday break.

The Samford Museum members wish to thank the Echo team for their support during the year. Best Wishes to the team and to the readers for very happy and safe Christmas and New Year.

Did you know?

Ferny Hills State school opened its doors in 1970 and was formally called Ferny Way State School

Got a local history fact? Let us know! Email admin@ echo-news.com.au Page 18 - December 2022, The Hills Echo

www.echo-news.com.au

Love, Actually…

History

An update from the Enoggera & Districts Historical Society

Love comes in many forms and at this time of year, here’s a few things to think about doing between now and Christmas Eve. • Call or message an old school friend you haven’t chatted to in years. See how they are. What have they got up to since leaving school?

• Contact a family you know who have had a loved one pass away this year. Check to see if they need any further support or help with anything.

• Think of a favourite teacher you had during school. Reach out with an email or call. Let them know how integral they were in helping set you up for your future career and life.

• Do you know of someone doing it tough? They may be down due to being bul-lied at work, or someone may have had a relationship break-up, or they could have lost their job?

Why not take them out for a coffee, heck that they are okay and ask them is there anything you can do to help.

• Think of a local cause, club or community activity you are interested in. It could be an environmental group, a Men’s Shed, the local soccer team, a community centre, even a historical society! Look them up and get their contact details, find out how you can get involved and help out.

• Reach out to someone you had a falling out with during the year. See if you can patch things up and start afresh.

• Visit the wonderful Christmas lights display in Cobalt Street, Keperra (see pic) and watch the magic in children’s faces! BELIEVE.

Be sure to grab your copy of the Enoggera & Districts Historical Society’s 2023 calendar

Merry Christmas and a Happy 2023 to all in our wonderful community from the Enoggera & Districts Historical Society inc. Take care over the holiday season, especially when travelling on the roads and around water.

The 2023 Enoggera Historical Society calendars now on sale for $10! For enquiries phone 3355 2230. Don’t forget to check out our Facebook page or visit www.enoggerahistory.org Peace and goodwill, Andrew McMicking. President Family History Group: 1st Tuesday of the month from 6pm - 7.30pm at Arana Hills Library Interested in your family history or genealogy? Come and meet with your local Family History Group. No bookings required.

ARANA HILLS UNITING CHURCH

Christmas Services Christmas services at the Arana Hills Uniting Church are as follows: • Christmas Eve: Sausage sizzle starting at 5.30 pm followed by Carols and Readings at 6.30 pm • Christmas Day: Service will be held at 8.30 am

All welcome!

Cnr Cycas and Alstonia Streets, Arana Hills www.aranahillsunitingchurch.org.au www.echo-news.com.au

The Hills Echo, December 2022 - Page 19

Page 20 - December 2022, The Hills Echo

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Over the Hills (and still going!)

An update from the Hills Chamber of Commerce Senior Committee News Are you interested in art? The Over the Hills Art Group

gathers each Friday meets each Friday at the PCYC from 10am to 12pm. Teacher Julie is ready on hand to assist with our efforts and everyone is welcomed.

Maybe you would like to assist with the Gardening Group at the library, or does a Reading Group sound more like you? If you would like to join in, you don’t have to be a Senior for these activities. Contact John 0448 186 115 Want to know more about Technology? We are conducting a Technology Program in the Arana Leagues Club Boardroom, on the second Wednesday of the month, commencing 14th December. Cost $15, from 10.30am to 12.30pm. To book, Go to the Technology Session on the Events page of the Hills Chamber Website and follow the prompts. Contact Judith 0431 159 921

Seniors Christmas Lunch - Celebrate With Us!

Our annual Seniors lunch will be taking place at the Arana Leagues Club on Thursday 15th December from 11.30am - 2pm. A delicious roast with vegetables and Dessert will beserved along with tea and coffee. Cost is $25. Book for the event via www.hillschamber.org.au, click on Events and go to Senior’s Christmas Lunch. Then click on Get Ticket with the number you wish to purchase. Follow the prompts.

A Welcome is extended to All Seniors for this event. Contact

Carolyn on 0448 328 914 or John 0448 186 115 for more details.

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Lunch With Our Local Ladies

An update from The Mitchelton Branch of the Older Women’s Network Qld The Mitchelton Branch of the Older Women's Network Qld Inc (OWNQ) meets formally and informally throughout the month and you are welcome to join us for any or all of our get togethers.

We always welcome new members!

We get together each week and December is a time to celebrate. The dates are: • Tues 6th Dec. Techno Coffee, Kakawan 10am • Sat 10 Dec. Lunch Leagues Club 12pm • Tues. 13 Dec. Cafe Lagarto, Samford Valley 10am • Sat 17 Dec. Coffee Birds & Bees, Everton Hills 10am • Tues 20 Dec. Techno Coffee Leagues Club 10am The aim of our group is to provide information to women relating to a healthy outlook on ageing and to meet in a friendly, social atmosphere. OWNQ Mitchelton is part of a state-wide organisation with groups in 3 states of Australia, as well as a National Branch. There are also Older Women’s Networks in the UK and the USA among other countries. We are a part of a great organisation.

For more information about Mitchelton OWNQ ring Judith on 0431 159 921.

“You’ve gotta dance like there’s nobody watching, love like you’ll never be hurt, sing like there’s nobody listening, and live like it’s heaven on earth.” —William W. Purkey

The Hills Echo, December 2022 - Page 21

Curtain Call For The Players

Learn to Bowl in 2023 for Free!

The Gaythorne Bowls Club would like to thank all the visitors who came down to their club this year, your support has been incredible!

The cast and crew of Tiptoe Through The Tombs

Well that’s a wrap! ‘Tiptoe through the Tombstones!’ is done and dusted!

The Hills Players Inc would like to thank all their wonderful audiences who came and supported them. With plenty of laughter supplied during the shows it made all the long hours spent rehearsing worth it for the cast and crew of the show. The Players also loved hearing all the wonderful feedback about the show from attendees and hope to see everyone next year at their next production, whatever that may be!

For more information about this terrific local theatre group, visit www.hillsplayers.com If your community organisation is looking to increase numbers, or you have a story to share, drop us a line at Echo News, admin@echo-news.com.au

If you are looking for a new hobby, or simply would like to meet new people, the club are once again hosting free ‘Introduction to Lawn Bowls’ sessions in 2023. Listed below are the dates of these upcoming sessions.

March – every Tuesday evening from 6pm to 8pm May – every Wednesday morning from 9am to 11am September – every Wednesday morning from 9am to 11am October – every Tuesday evening from 6pm to 8pm The club also has fabulous facilities on offer so if you are looking for a venue for your next social function, get in touch with the friendly team by calling 3855 2725, email admin@gaythornebowls.club or visit their website at www. gaythornebowls.club The Gaythorne Bowls Club is located at 18 Prospect Road, Gaythorne. You can also keep up to date with news and events at the club on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ gaythournebowls.club A Merry Christmas and a Happy New year is extended to the whole community from the Gaythorne Bowls Club.

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Phone: 07 3293 0555 Email: info@holycrossfunerals.com www.holycrossfunerals.com An Outreach of the Catholic Church Page 22 - December 2022, The Hills Echo

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Funerals with Faith www.echo-news.com.au

N O R T H W E S T B R I S B A N E' S

PROPERTY GUIDE The property market is red hot at the moment. With this in mind, Echo News is delighted to bring the North West Brisbane Property Guide to our newspapers. Read on to discover tips and tricks to help sell your home, maximise return and get ready for market.

Buying at Auction - What you need to know

If you’re heading to auction to buy your dream home, make sure you’re aware of the differences between buying a house under standard procedures as opposed to buying at auction.

In short, if you buy at auction its final. There is no finance clause, no cooling off period, no get out of jail free card. The house is yours which means you need to have our building and pest reports finalised, and finance secured!

Before the Auction Before the auction, make sure you; inspect the property, arrange your finance, get a property valuation, do your own research of the market and get a copy of the contract. In addition, it is wise to obtain legal advice about the terms and conditions in case you’re the successful bidder. Remember to do all the necessary checks, such as a title search, building and pest inspection and a land tax clearance search.

At Auction Set a budget before the auction and stick to it. If you are the successful bidder, you will have to settle the contract, even if you can’t afford it.

Registered bidders If you want to bid, ask the auctioneer if there have been late changes to the contract (they must announce the terms at the start of the auction too) and ask any questions you have about the property also register with the auctioneer as only registered bidders can bid on the day. The auctioneer will give you a unique identifier such as a numbered paddle.

Reserve Price The reserve price is the minimum sale price that the seller will accept. A seller doesn’t have to set a reserve price, but most will choose to have one. The auctioneer is allowed to tell you whether or not the seller has set a reserve price. However, the auctioneer must not tell you the reserve price itself. Once the reserve price is reached during bidding (or no reserve price is set), the property will be ‘on the market’.

The Successful Bidder If you are the successful bidder, you must sign a contract immediately. There are very serious legal consequences if you cannot settle the sale on time.

North Brisbane’s most trusted finance experts Dream Financing hosts a team of highly experienced mortgage brokers have more than 30 years’ industry experience and an extensive list of lender contacts to help you secure the best loan available to suit your needs.

Services Offered: • Refinancing • Home Loans • First Home Buyers • Investment Loans • Business Loans • Equipment Finance • Car/Boat/Camper FInance • Self Managed Super Funds Accountancy services: Compliance, Business Advisory, BAS, Succession Planning & Self Managed Super Funds

Call Brenton on 07 3519 7680 brenton@dreamfinancing.com.au

Unit 32 302 South Pine Rd, Brendale dreamfinancing www.echo-news.com.au

260+ FIVE STAR GOOGLE REVIEWS www.dreamfinancing.com.au The Hills Echo, December 2022 - Page 23

Property Guide

Page 24 - December 2022, The Hills Echo

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Property Guide

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The Hills Echo, December 2022 - Page 25

Property Guide

Renovating should always ADD $$$

By Tracie Ellis, Founder & CEO of Renovators Directory

Home owners all renovate for different reasons.

Whether it be to liberate your indoor/outdoor space, modernise your old home or are looking to sell.

Regardless of your motivation, every dollar you invest should add value to your home.

Perhaps your property hasn’t been renovated for a number of years, you might be considering making some changes. Now more than ever we are all spending a great deal of time within our home, so our everyday living areas need to function well.

It is no secret that renovations come with a great deal of hard work, determination and upheaval. The results should outweigh the efforts and struggles along the way.

An oldie but a goodie You may have lived in your home for many years and have pushed aside the fact that you need to renovate. An unmaintained home can be problematic. Broken tiles, structural issues and an inconvenient layout may be impacting your day to day life.

Taking time to carefully plan which aspects of your home need attention, you can create mini projects which will come together with your overall main vision, and lift the value of your home.

To sell Looking to put your home on the market? There are certain renovations that are crucial to secure buyer interest including: • Quality kitchen (indoor/outdoor); • Modern bathroom; • Outdoor entertaining area with a point of difference.

Creating value is about being cost effective in your decisions and not spending more than your category of house could fetch

Page 26 - December 2022, The Hills Echo

on the market. Set reasonable expectations of your property’s market price and work towards that. Decorating your house as inoffensively as possible, minimising loud colours, or amenities that only appeal to a small segment of the population.

Simultaneously, adding touches that appeal across the board, like a walk-in shower and lots of storage throughout the house are good investments.

Remember, value comes from how much other people are prepared to pay. Buyers must be able to imagine themselves moving in effortlessly.

DIY v’s Industry Experts With reality shows ever present, home owners can be lulled into a false sense of security considering tackling renovations on their own. Engaging industry professionals will always give you a high quality outcome. They have the skills and experience to help you consider what is feasible and what is not, what your total costs will look like and the timeframe for the entire project.

With the help of professionals, not only will you be spending only what you need, but you can also prevent wasting time, money and valuable resources. Embarking on a renovation by yourself with a view to DIY is ok, so long as you are prepared for the project to cost you more, take a lot longer to complete, and are aware that the process will possibly be a little frustrating.

With careful planning and industry experts onboard, every dollar you spend will lift the value of your home.

With an entire career spent in construction, Tracie Ellis is well respected for her industry knowledge. She is now leading the way to an exceptional experience in home renovation solutions for business and consumers alike.

www.echo-news.com.au

Property Guide

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The Hills Echo, December 2022 - Page 27

Property Guide

Six Tips To Save Money As The Cash Rate Rises Again

The Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) again increased the cash rate for the seventh month in a row in November. The cash rate increased from 2.6% to 2.85%.

Australians are feeling the pinch as interest rates rise across the board. Whether paying off a mortgage or saving to purchase property, the cost to service a loan is increasing. This combined with high inflation, growing cost of living and relatively stagnant wage growth has made it an important time to double down on saving money where possible.

While you may not be able to avoid increasing interest rates if you are on a variable interest rate or an expiring fixed rate loan, there are a number of ways you could still save money.

Six tips to save in an interest-rate-rise environment Some ways you could save money while interest rates continue to rise include: 1. Refinance: Speak with a broker to see if you can reprice or refinance your loan to a lower rate or for lower fees.

2. Consider your package: Your broker can also check if your home loan package suits your needs. Switching to something more basic if you are not using all the features could save you in fees. Or if you would make use of additional features that could save you money, such as an offset account, your broker can run the calculations for you to determine if it is worth switching.

3. Change the term: You could consider extending the term of your loan to lower repayments. Keep in mind this means you

Page 28 - The Hills Echo, December 2022

will be paying more over the life of the loan, but is an option if you are experiencing cash flow problems now.

4. Check your budget: By making note of all your expenses, you could identify areas where spending could be reduced. This could include memberships, subscriptions or luxury purchases.

5. Offset account/redraw facility: If you have an offset or redraw facility, now is a very good time to make use of them.

By putting money into your offset or additional repayments on your loan, you will save on interest which becomes even more money as interest rates rise.

6. Extra repayments: If your loan allows for it, consider making extra repayments now, which can save you money in the long run as interest rates continue to rise.

If you are looking for ways to save on your home loan, speak to Scott Palazzi from Loan Market for a free, no-obligation home loan health check. Scott can also discuss your options and right strategy to achieve your goals. Give him a call on 0413 747 283.

Quick ways to make your garden look great

Sprucing up your garden can add major value to your home, but you don't have to spend a fortune! Here are some tips to give your garden a cheap and cheerful facelift • Lay artificial grass.

• Add some storage.

• Keep things neat with pots.

• Edge the lawn.

• Treat yourself to new furniture.

• Screen off unsightly areas.

• Install automatic sprinklers.

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What's On at the Arana Hills Library The Arana Hills Library hosts a variety of events each month. Here is a wrap of just a few happening in September. To book 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.

Fun Factory: Monday to Friday 12th December - 23rd December. 3pm - 4pm.

Drop in these school holidays for games, craft and fun for the whole family. All ages. Free. No bookings required.

Facilitated by our friendly library staff.

Fold Christmas Decorations: Tuesday 13th December, 2pm - 3pm Make a Christmas candle decoration using recycled books for sustainable festive cheer. Free. Bookings required. Facilitated by our friendly library staff.

Make a Christmas fairy bauble: Wednesday 14th December & Friday 16th December, 2pm - 3pm Use yarn and felt to make a cute and colourful Christmas fairy to add to your tree. Free. Bookings required. Facilitated by our friendly library staff.-08eeeee Sphero bridge building challenge (6-11 years): Thursday 15th December, 2pm - 2.45pm Your challenge is to build a bridge for the Sphero robot. Ages 6-11. Free. Bookings required. Facilitated by our friendly library staff.

Family History Group: 1st Tuesday of the month.

6pm - 7.30pm Interested in your family history or genealogy? Would you like to swap research tips with other enthusiasts? Could you use some advice or assistance in researching your family tree?

Would you like to know more about the genealogy resources at your local library? Come and meet with your local Family History Group. No bookings required.

Full service mobile mechanics come to your home, site or Baby Rhyme Time: Tuesday, Wednesday & workplace at a time that suits you.

Saturday, 9.30am - 10am BUSINESS | COMMERCIAL | PERSONAL Baby Rhyme Time helps develop the skills needed to communicate and to learn to read. In a friendly and relaxed environment esy you and your baby can t • Cars, Vans, 4WD’s r learn rhymes, action songs Cou hicle • Major, Minor & Logbook servicing and finger plays to share ve able! il • General Repairs & Maintenance together. For parents and ava children, babies to 2 years.

• Warranty on Parts & Workmanship Lego Engineers Club: 2nd & 4th Wednesday CALL of the month, 3.30pm 4.30pm WORKSHOP: 2/1147 Southpine Rd, Arana Hills www.samfordautomotive.com.au Develop design thinking and engineering skills as you build and create with • Your local resident LEGO ® bricks. Meet other painting company brick fans and complete • Servicing Brisbane’s challenges, group builds and northside for over 10yrs more! Ideal for ages 6-12.

• All domestic & Registration required. commercial works Conversational • Professional & friendly staff English: Every Tuesday, 2pm - 2.30pm • Quality materials & tools used Learning conversational English can be relaxed and fun. Join us for a chat Platinum Painters is owner operated with new friends. Free. No & we have no bookings required - just subcontractors drop in.

MOBILE MECHANICS THAT COME TO YOU!

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DEVICE ADVICE: Get help using social media, library apps, your smartphone, tablet or iPad. Visit the library anytime for a quick fix.

The Hills Echo, December 2022 - Page 29

thefarmshack.com.au

0449 944 406

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Farm Fresh Woodfired Pizzas

nsored by

Terms and Conditions: If you are 12 years of age or under, Name:.........................................Age..................

We will select 1 winner from each age category:- 0-2yrs, colour in the picture above. Fill out 3-4yrs, 5-6yrs, 7-8yrs, 9-12yrs. Each winner will receive your details and mail to:- Echo Media Phone or Email: a voucher for 2 free pizzas at The Farm Shack. One Group, PO Box 243. Arana Hills ......................................................................... entry per person. Entries close noon, 29th December.

4054 or email to Winners judged on 29th December admin@echo-news.com.au Extra copies available for download from www.echo-news.com.au/christmascolouring The Hills Echo, December 2022 - Page 30 www.echo-news.com.au

WIN FREE PIZZA!!!

KIDS Christmas Colouring In Competition!

S po

The Latest From

The Little Echo

The Little Echo

A creative platform giving our youngest citizens a BIG voice A LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

Since launching in May last year, November 2022 has been the most jampacked month yet for The Little Echo.

It kicked off with a week of meticulous planning and decision-making behind the scenes of Padua College’s annual writing competition, which The Little Echo opted to sponsor this year. Three outstanding winners were selected and awarded $100 prize money on Padua College’s assembly by myself. I have been working closely with the school’s writing club since Term 3.

I also recently represented The Little Echo at the ‘Live Simply, Use Less’ social event at Club Oxley, where we made connections with like-minded members of the community, as well as finding opportunities for both the Little Echo and myself as a journalist. At the event, our Georgia Wright at The Little Echo HQ ‘Little People, Big Voices’ display about sustainability and nature earned a feature, which coincided with the display’s appearance at the Moreton Bay Regional Council’s Community Meeting in Arana Hills that same day.

What’s more, the TLE Team also travelled all the way to Caboolture Library for a meeting with Karen Withers, who was involved in The Little Echo’s successful holiday workshops held at Arana Hills Library. Coming off the back of the meeting, it is safe to say similar opportunities and events await on the horizon.

In addition, the ‘Little Echo Raodshow’ is now underway and you will see our MASSIVE 2m by 2m display (pictured below) travelling around local community organisations, events and businesses over the next coming months. Last month it was featured at the Qld Wildlife Artists Society Inc’s art exhibition at the Brisbane Botanical Gardens.

Currently, you can have a look at our display at the Arana Hills Library.

Amongst all the rushing around, the Little Echo team has also been hard at work behind the scenes, pulling together a media kit, content for social media, our e-newsletter, and the website, as well as advancing digital literacy skills in order to take The Little Echo’s platforms to the next level.

If your business, community organisation or educational establishment would like to work with The Little Echo or become a sponsor, please get in touch with me at georgia@echo-news.com.au Please enjoy the next few pages of submissions from our young creatives! Have a fun and safe festive break!

Georgia x

Digital Editor, The Little Echo

‘The Little Echo Roadshow, currently at the Arana Hills Library

www.littleecho.com.au

www.echo-news.com.au

Check out our resident ’Reviewer’ Ryan’s latest review on the website

Thank you to Ester and the team at the Qld Wildlife Artist Society for helping us set up our display

thelittleecho.au The Hills Echo, December 2022 - Page 31

The Little Echo

Pa du a Com p eti ti o n Wi n n e r s

The Little Echo Last month The Little Echo was delighted to sponsor a writing competition at Padua College, We were {Writing}

incredibly impressed with high calibre of entries presented to us for judging. After much deliberation, we finally selected the winners, each of whom won a $100 visa voucher. Below is the winning entry by Nicolas F (Year 12) for the Year 10, 11 and 12 category the winner with his story entitled The DoubleEdged Sun. Next month we will be publishing more winning entries so keep your eyes peeled!

The Double-Edged Sun

By Nicolas F, Year 12 at Padua College A lone house sat amongst vast expanses of golden fields, an elegant soft glow warmed the pale dulcet tones of the house.

Amidst the colourful brightness, a boy sat on the veranda — the dumbstruck awe that gleamed from his face could only be from one thing: the sun.

In the distance, the clouds were like great wings of gold and yellow that rolled towards the solitary house in huge wreaths; only brief, powerful beams of the sun could shine through.

The faraway mass of crimson radiance was like a shower of glowing stones from a volcano — glorious to behold and enhanced every moment in splendour.

As the boy’s happiness and delight grew, it nearly convinced him of the harmless paradisiacal world the sun gifted him.

Nearly paradisiacal. Fragments of a memory danced at the forefront of his mind — constantly teasing and mocking him. He missed his father so much — only vaguely remembering some of his final words to him before he left: “Protect our land as | protect our country”. Tears gleamed in the boy’s eyes, as a sad, solemn smile tugged on his face in remembrance. ‘If only he was here to see the splendour of the sun, then this would truly be a paradise’, he thought longingly. The boy had pondered and dreamed the same thought every day, for over a year. Trying to piece together the fragments. It wasn’t fair that he was alone in a place with such a serenely stunning sun, with rich and varied dyes and mellowness of light. A place where the cattle contentedly grazed as the sun warmed the fields for fruitful harvests.

Lost in a world of thought, the boy wandered aimlessly throughout the paddock dotted with cattle. His tanned skin felt the warmth of the sunlight comfort him caringly. The relaxing whisper of water trickled through the rocky ridged fortress of the makeshift dam by the house, soothing his gloomy thoughts. As he gazed in wonder at the sleeping cattle — which were as big as boulders — he noticed something that clawed his attention away from the magnificent beasts.

A flower. A lone banksia flower amidst a pool of death and decay. Horror welled inside him as he observed the single flower’s vibrancy engulfed and defoliated by the bleak destruction and death of other flowers that surrounded it.

Confusion turmoiled deep within him. It was as if he had finally awoken from the blissful hypnotic dream that he lived. The intoxicating smell of death drowned his senses.

Dry, dead grass crunched underfoot as he listened to the melancholy song of a swallow, which echoed sardonically in his head. He lifted his gaze to the sky; the harsh sun stared at him with implacable deadliness, cruelly illuminating a breath-taking splendour on the distant dark clouds. This devastating betrayal knocked the breath from his lungs. Has his entire life been muddled with falsehoods and deceits?

The boy looked back at the cow in front of him — sleeping.

No, not sleeping. Dying! The cow stared at him, her eyes misted with accusation and fear, as if saying “This is your Page 32 - December 2022, The Hills Echo

doing”. The boy felt the guilt crawl up his spine, as the cow sighed away from existence, it’s now lifeless eyes still bored straight through his soul. Already, he could see ants marching across the limp form before him, as if they sensed his kill. Flies swarmed to the dreadful stench of already rotted flesh as he endured the cruel caws of a distant crow.

The boy knew it was his fault. His careless love of the scorching summer sun blinded him, its betrayal shattering him to his core. He stared across the paddock, as if noticing for the first time the death and destruction that awaited his home. The bemoaning cattle were sprawled like unmoving rocks across the thirsty paddock, begging for fresh grass.

Above all the barren, burnt fields, the sun flourished as it mercilessly towered over its desolation. His heart suddenly an unbearable weight in his chest, the boy’s knees buckled as he collapsed to the ground. It was at that moment —in complete agony and hurt — when his fragmented memories connected. The complete shock illuminated his face as he remembered...

‘Protect our land as I protect our country Gerry,’ his father’s voice mottled with pride and surety. ‘| know how you love these sunburnt fields but you must care for them. Keep them green my boy. The sun isn’t your friend out here.’

‘Twill. I promise.’ Gerry swore assuredly.

‘I know you won‘t let me down my boy’. His father gave him one final smile, as he straightened his uniform, manned his rifle and walked away from him forever.

Gerry’s memory faded and the full force of reality struck him again. Tears fountained from Gerry’s eyes, as he wept.

Wept for his complete carelessness and cruelty. Wept for the lifeless forms soon to surround him. Wept for his failure to his father. His final promise. He had ignored and forgotten his father’s final words; it has cost him dearly. He lay there sprawled, where seconds felt like hours.

Time was irrelevant as he hunched over and drowned in his misery. The endless silence finally began to weigh him down, until there was nothing. Nothing but silence and emptiness...

‘Crack’. Gerry stirred from the depths of his despair.

‘Crack’. A frown formed on Gerry’s face as the familiar sound came to him. The fortified frontier of clouds raced across the horizon, its ghastly shadow dispelled the crimson light. ‘Crack’. Streaks of amber light danced throughout the gathered darkness; their wrath fought the golden radiance of the sun for dominance in the sky. ‘Crack’. Gerry guffawed and looked disbelievingly at the flamboyant spectacle he witnessed. ‘Maybe this is a sign’ Gerry thought hopefully.

‘A sign for change. A sign of redemption and a better future’.

Gerry stared upon the clash of wills that loomed in the sky, their rage echoed across the fields. Concealed, the sun’s authoritative hold over the lands vanished, as the cool, wet air dismissed the murderous heat-haze. The clouds cried in triumph for the arid and wilted fields, their tears splattered life everywhere they touched. Gerry soaked in the feeling of water scurry along his arms, as he endeavoured to redeem his father’s promise until he returned home.

www.echo-news.com.au

Sto r ie s Fro m St.W i lli a m s

The Little Echo

In collaboration with the Young Writers Club at St. Williams Catholic primary school, The Little The Little Echo {Writing} Echo is delighted to present just a few of the short stories from the Club’s budding writers.

The Lost Kiwi

Lost

Once upon a time there was a kiwi named Kie. He was having a walk in the park with his mum and dad buuut he got lost and then a thunderstorm came, but luckily Kie found a cardboard box. It was getting late so Kie snuggled up and went to bed.

In the morning Kie dug up slugs, bugs and creepy crawlies to eat for breakfast. And he found a spider named Legs and Legs said, “Do not eat anymore spiders so they can help us survive”.

The next day Legs and Kie got to work. They sharpened sticks for spears and made a barrier of rocks. And then a …. rattlesnake came.

Kie and Legs were ready. They fired their spears and threw rocks.

When they threw another spear, they pinned the tail, but the rattlesnake got away.

Two weeks later the same rattlesnake came back with King Cobra.

The battle was tense. The snakes got close, but the team went for attack several times but missed and then they trapped King Cobra.

Kie stabbed King Cobra in the belly but the rattlesnake said he will return and dashed away into the bushes.

After the big fight, Kie and Legs slept soundly for two days!

When they woke up, they were really hungry, so Kie got to work.

Digging up a pile of slugs, bugs and creepy crawlies.

The pile lasted two days. On the second day, Kie’s parents came.

Kie was so happy that they had a big feast. Kie and Legs told their story and then Kie’s parents told theirs, so they lived in the cardboard box forever.

Lost boy, names Nate, he’s 13 years old. He’s on the street on a dull Sunday afternoon.

Nate was dreading the next day at school beginning with long walk home. Trudging along with no friends to accompany him along the way.

At home he dragged himself through the door and his Mum asked him how his day was, and all that came back was a muffled “fine”. Nate took himself into his room and pulled his covers over him as he wished he was like the other kids, had friends, had play dates and people who ate lunch with him, but most of all he wanted a… Dad. Nate lost his father when he was 10 years old in a car crash. Every night he had dreams about having someone who was appreciative of him other than his mum, loving caring mum. She tried to make his life better in any way possible from taking him to see some of her friends who had kids of the same age as him.

No matter what she tried nothing worked. It was Friday afternoon, and he was walking home from school as usual.

Out of the corner of his eye he saw a puppy. It had no owner and no friends. Just like him, lost.

He decided the only logical thing to do is take the opportunity and take him home and maybe he could become his friend. The dog was black and white, and it easily occurred that it was a boarder collie. Nate loved animals the most and identified it almost immediately. Nate decided a good name for it would easily be … Kate! Nate and Kate they would be best friends, companions. This was Nate’s chance to have his first best or normal friend. He knew his only obstacle was Mum. Nate’s mum was tall with bright blue eyes and short orange hair and always wore lots of makeup to cover up her freckled face. Nate’s mum, named Sharon, didn’t particularly like animals; let alone dogs. Nate picked Kate up and she gave him an affectionate nip on his finger. ‘Ow’ squeaked Nate as Kate looked up at him apologetically and licked him. He found a piece of reed from the creek and thought he could use it as a ‘leash’ and there was some old ribbon on the ground as a collar so he could walk him home. As he turned the sharp right onto his street his mum was out the front gardening, and when she saw the dog, she pulled a face that Nate had never seen before. It was like a smile but a frown at the same time. The first thing his Mum said was a causal ‘What’s her name?”. ‘Kate’ said Nate. And she’s my friend”.

by James C (Year 2)

Dreaming with eyes open

by Audrey H Year 1

Once there was a little bear named Billy.

He was brown and peach coloured. He lived in a dark and cosy cave.

Billy loved to dream about food, being a superhero and it raining glitter.

One day Billy went for a walk from his cave into the forest where he met a fairy name Miss Twinkles.

Miss Twinkles used her magic to turn Billy’s dreams into real life.

Billy thought he was dreaming with eye’s open because.…

• He had amazing superhero powers • He had an entire table of his favourite food, and it actually was raining glitter.

Billy and Miss Twinkles ended up being best friends and because of this friendship, everyday Billy thought he was dreaming with his eyes open.

by Patrick A Year 4

“The more that you read, the more things you will know. The more that you learn, the more places you’ll go.” – Dr Seuss www.echo-news.com.au The Hills Echo, December 2022 - Page 33

The Little Echo - Art & Photography

PHOTOGRAPHY

The Little Echo

Cooper G, 17 years old

Frankie W, 17 years old

Charlie S, 12 years old

ART

Ameila D, 8 years old

Georgia W, 19 years old

Melanie S, 13 years old Ashleigh

Senya W, 11 years old Scan to submit your artwork!

Seth G, 15 years old For more creativity visit www.littleecho.com.au or send YOUR submission to georgia@littleecho.com.au Page 34 - December 2022, The Hills Echo

www.echo-news.com.au

A Call From The Stafford Community

For many residents, the Stafford Bowls Club sitting on 352 Stafford Road will garner many fond memories of family friendly times, barefoot bowls and catching up with friends.

Since the closure in 2016, what was a much-loved community hub now sits in disrepair. Nevertheless, after approval from Brisbane City Council, the lease of the facility that was held

by Crushers Leagues Club has been transferred to the Brisbane Racing Club (BRC). As part of the deal, BRC proposes to refurbish the premises at a cost of $7.5 million, with the proposed facility including alfresco dining, a sports bar, cafe, room for 78 gaming machines and an extra 140 square metres of floor space.

However, is this what the community wants? Should big business be allowed to take over a community asset? As the lease was not put out to tender to seek expressions of interest, there have been many calls to Brisbane City Council. This has been from within the Stafford community to bring the Stafford Bowls club back to the community, with calls to cancel the lease granted to the Brisbane Racing Club.

For many local residents this land is valuable, not just in terms of monetary value but a site where the community can connect with one another again and reform the missing link within the area. As local resident Anna explains; ‘Stafford Bowls Club is an incredibly important hub for local residents. It has the potential to allow access to a community and family-friendly NEVER MISS green space with a connection and link to our sporting clubs through to the Kedron Brook providing a AN EDITION! healthy and more active lifestyle.’

‘However we don’t support this proposed business, nor the

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The Stafford Bowls Club process by which the decision was made.

‘The community would benefit from a hub like the Grange precinct. Grange features a community garden and verandah at the library, two playgrounds, a bowls club and the football fields. All these facilities are located in a thriving community which provides access to green space, and a family-friendly venue. There is also a great example of a family friendly hub in the former Moorooka Bowls.’

A Facebook page has been created for community members to connect regarding this matter. Search ‘Stafford Community Hub not Race Club’ on Facebook or scan the QR code below.

The group is holding a gathering at Gibson Park, Stafford (beside the Stafford Bowls Club) on Sunday 18th December at 10.30am.

Residents are invited along for a picnic and conversation about their Stafford vision for QR Code the future. Furthermore, if you have any to Stafford information regarding the history of the site Community the group would love to hear from you. Please contact staffordcommunity@gmail.com Club not Race Club Page with information.

The Hills Echo, December 2022 - Page 35

A Joyous Jersey To Celebrate 45 Years

In 1977 a group of women who loved the game of netball came together and formed the club we know today as Arana Netball Club.

Club members with their commemorative jerseys

For 45 years Arana Netball has been a part of the Hills community and has enjoyed a rich history in the Brisbane netball community.

To commemorate their 45th year in Netball, the club released a special club jersey. The jersey was made available to all members to purchase, allowing each person to add their own personal touch with their name. The jersey features the club’s logo and year of establishment and all Arana Netball Club members wear the jerseys with pride and they serve as a treasured token of 45 years in Netball.

Arana Netball are very proud of their history providing a supportive, family orientated sporting experience for local netball community.

They are one of the smaller clubs in the Downey Park Netball Association however that doesn't stop them from being competitive.

It is with great pleasure that the club congratulate their teams xxxx for making the finals in 2023 and to teams xxxxx for their grand final wins.

When Santa Came To Town

Page 36 - December 2022, The Hills Echo

For the 6th year in a row, local Christmas fanatic and spreader of seasonal joy David Williams arranged the much-anticipated Eatons Hill Santa event on Friday 2nd December. With COVID-19 restrictions now at an all time low and after two years of hit and miss, the event was the biggest it’s been since pre-virus times.

The foundation of Eatons Hill Santa was built upon the backs of local emergency services, including QPS, QLD Ambulance, SES, and Military Police, which together comprise the parade of vehicles hitting the streets. The set routes are posted on the Eatons Hill Santa Facebook page.

As in previous years, this year saw one of the vehicles rigged up as Santa's sleigh and Santa was again on the procession this year. Much to the children’s delight, lollies were handed out and they were offered seats in the vehicles.

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Dickson News Peter DUTTON MP Federal Member for Dickson

Merry Christmas On behalf of my family, staff and I, 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 2023. Please enjoy your holidays and stay safe on the roads.

Christmas Card Competition Thank you to all the students who entered my annual Christmas Card Competition. This year’s theme was ‘My favourite Christmas memory.’

Congratulations to the 2023 winners: Prep - Mia from Ferny Hills State School; Year 1 – Amelia from Kallangur State School; Year 2 – Marlise from Mount Samson State School; and Year 3 – Teyah from Dayboro State School.

I have enjoyed meeting winners and hosting pizza parties for them and their classmates. Please keep an eye out for your Christmas card in the mail.

Peter DUTTON MP Federal Member for Dickson

Working hard.

Getting results.

Peter Dutton MP with students from Mt Samson State School School Leavers Congratulations to all students who graduated this year - I wish you the best of luck in your future endeavours.

A Brave Life Congratulations to Melissa Redsell for receiving the 2023 Qld Australia’s Local Hero Award. Melissa does incredible work in our community to support young mothers’ dealing with challenges such as domestic violence, poverty, trauma, relationship or family breakdown, unplanned pregnancy and homelessness.

For more information on Melissa and A Brave Life, visit: www.abravelife.com.au Backing local small businesses and jobs Just recently, I attended the Brendale Business Connect end of Year Christmas breakfast, where I spoke about the importance of small businesses to our local economy.

If you would like me to visit your business in 2023, please get in touch with my office via email – contact details are below.

2023 Dickson Community Awards Thank you to everyone who took the time to nominate a local resident, business and/or organisation for the 2023 Dickson Community Awards. The awards will be announced and presented on Australia Day, Thursday 26 January 2023.

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. .

Contact Me Please get in touch with me at peter.dutton.mp@aph.gov.au or 3205 9977. Stop by one of my mobile office caravan visits, or drop in to my office in Strathpine to let me know what your priorities are for our community.

3/199 Gympie Road, Strathpine QLD 4500 07 3205 9977 peter.dutton.mp@aph.gov.au peterdutton.com.au PeterDuttonMP Authorised P. Dutton, Liberal National Party of Queensland, 3/199 Gympie Road, Strathpine QLD 4500.

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The Hills Echo, December 2022 - Page 37

THE FERNY REPORT

by Mark Furner M.P.

State Member for Ferny Grove Have a happy and safe holidays I hope you and your family have a wonderful time this Christmas/New Year and remember to stay safe always.

With the increased likelihood storms and flooding it is more important than ever before to be prepared this season and make sure we all look out for each other.

Business Basics Grants The latest round of the Queensland Government’s popular Business Basics grants has now opened for registrations of interest with $5 million available to small businesses.

The Business Basics grants of $5000 have been very popular with Queensland small businesses and with $5 million available in this round, 1000 small business will benefit for this latest round.

Due to the previous popularity of the Business Basics grant, we have made the application process easier this time to ensure all small businesses that are interested have an equal opportunity to apply.

Registrations of interest are open until 11.59pm on Monday 5 December 2022, eligible businesses will then be invited to submit their funding application from 9am on Monday 12 December 2022 and will have until Monday 23 January 2023 to apply.

Businesses that need a hand to improve their operations can subscribe to Small Business Connect for updates on the next

steps for this round of Business Basics by visiting www. business.qld.gov.au/grants-schedule or calling 1300 654 687.

Round One of the $100 million Go for Gold Fund has now opened!

The Go for Gold Fund is providing infrastructure and sporting equipment for school children to achieve their sporting best and potentially compete at the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

This funding round will provide $7m for schools to purchase sports equipment to encourage greater participation in sport.

The fund is open to state and non-state schools. Projects that benefit the wider community will also be prioritised.

The first (current) round of the Go for Gold Fund is offering up to $5,000 equipment grants for all sports, from traditional to emerging. The second (future) round will include infrastructure projects. Visit shorturl.at/ejnq4 for more information on behalf of your school.

I had a chance to drop into the Ferny Grove Women’s Shed at the Tramway Museum to see some of the amazing skills and fantastic work being done there. If you are interested in finding out more email theshedatfernygrove@outlook.com

THE SERENATA SINGERS Love to Sing? WOULD LOVE TO MEET YOU!

The Serenata Singers is a community choir based in The Gap, Queensland which sings a variety of popular, traditional, spiritual and show tunes. PreCOVID, the choir performed regularly in aged-care facilities and for local community groups.

More details at https://serenatasingers.org.au/

ANXIETY | SMOKING ALCOHOL | WEIGHT LOSS & ANY OTHER DIFFICULTIES

HYPNOSIS Caring, qualified, experienced

Glenn Chandler, Dip. C.H. Everton Park since 1997

Page 38 - December 2022, The Hills Echo

For more information or to Book Online brisbanehypnosis.com.au 3354 4555 | Mon-Sat www.echo-news.com.au

Everton News

from your State Member for Everton TIM MANDER

Volunteer of the Year Sarah Dixon

Young Volunteer of the Year Carla Wilson

I am proud to once again have hosted the Everton Volunteer Awards, a fantastic community event which recognises the efforts and contributions of our hardworking volunteers across many different organisations.

The ceremony was attended by over 100 people who showed their appreciation for the tireless volunteers, ranging from 14 to 88 years old! Events like these truly make me proud to represent Everton, and it was a great pleasure to be able to present the deserving award winners with a small token of my appreciation on behalf of the local community.

A special shoutout to Sarah Dixon who took home the Volunteer of the Year Award for her tireless work and dedication for almost a decade to Albany Creek Excelsior Football Club.

To keep up to date with what is happening in your local area visit my Facebook page TimManderMPEverton or visit my website www.timmander.com.au If you would like to contact me, please phone my office on 3535 1100 or email everton@parliament.qld.gov.au

A Caketastic 2022 Wrap Up

An update from the Brisbane North Decorators Club Another successful year of activities is almost over.

Looking back over the last 12 months, I think we all feel that we have thoroughly enjoyed ourselves, as well as learnt some new ideas and techniques in cake decorating. We finished this year with a Christmas Break up dinner at the Kedron Wavell Services Club.

Now to complete all those Christmas Cakes. We held a successful stall at the Keperra Baptist Church Twilight Markets, where our small decorated Christmas cakes were well received. Our small cupcakes for the clients of Mitchelton Meals on Wheels are being finished and this year we are aiming to make 200 or more of these. We having been doing this for over 30 years and enjoy being able to support this great service to the community.

Our meetings commence again in January, on the 3rd Saturday of the month and are held at the Arana Hills Community Centre on Dawson Parade, commencing at 1pm. We love to see new members come along and discover our craft. Check out our Facebook page by searching Members Donna and Kaye Brisbane North Cake Decorators Association QCDA, for more information. We wish everyone preparing cakes for the market stalls a wonderful Christmas and look forward to another great year of Cake decorating in 2023.

www.echo-news.com.au

The Hills Echo, December 2022 - Page 39

Local Olympian Swims To Success

Ferny Hills and District Swimming Club and members were excited for Harry Cahill, as he had been selected to be a part of Special Olympics (SO) Qld team and participate in the SO Australia National Games, that were held recently in Launceston.

Harry entered four races, the 100m butterfly, 100m breaststroke, 200m breaststroke and one medley relay, competing in the butterfly leg.

After viewing the entry list, Harry was encouraged to ‘just have fun’ and he did exactly that. With a positive mind set, Harry came home with 2 silver medals, in both breaststroke races and a 4th in the 100 fly and medley relay, despite his blistering performance to bring the team into medal contention. After his success, Harry was able to relax and enjoyed catching up with friends in Launceston.

But there was not much downtime for Harry, as his performances won him a place in an Australian team headed for the Virtus Oceania Asia Games 2022. This is a multi-sport event and the swimming leg was held in early November, at Brisbane Aquatic Center in Chandler.

Harry competed well and placed in all his races, see below: • Mens 100m Freestyle – 4th • Mens 100m Butterfly – DQ lost his goggles • Mens 200m Breaststroke – 3rd • Mens 50m Breaststroke - 3rd • Mens 50m Butterfly – 2nd • Mens 100m Breaststroke -3rd Ferny Hills and Districts Swimmer Harry Cahill It was a very full program, with the results showing where his talents for swimming lay in butterfly and breaststroke.

Harry would like to thank everyone including club mates and coaches for the support during this period. The Ferny Hills and District Swimming Club are very proud to have a swimmer of Harry’s experience and ability with the club, showing kids what can be achieved through dedication and effort.

Ferny Hills and District Swimming Club is supported by Professionals Priority Ferny Hills, BJL Electrical Solutions Keperra and Arana Leagues Club, Arana Hills.

Page 40 - December 2022, The Hills Echo

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The Hills Echo, December 2022 - Page 41

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Page 42 - December 2022, The Hills Echo

CONCRETING

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Call now for a FREE QUOTE to get rid of the following pests: • • • • •

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The Hills Echo, December 2022 - Page 43

Your Local

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Page 44 - December 2022, The Hills Echo

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SPACE FOR SALE

Join Our Directory!

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Distribution Method: Direct letterbox delivery around the North West suburbs of Brisbane.

Copies also available for pick up from magazine stands, MBRC library, coffee shops and childcare centres in the local area Distribution areas: Everton Hills, Arana Hills, Ferny Hills, Ferny Grove, Upper Kedron, Keperra, Grovely, Samford and Bunya

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WINDOW FURNISHINGS

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www.aestheticblinds.com.au The Hills Echo, December 2022 - Page 45

Gardening

A Community Venture To Embrace

An update from the Hills Organic Community Garden The days are warming up and our garden is drying out quite rapidly. Most of our Winter and 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, as well as some capsicums and silverbeet.

We have a wonderful group of very keen members at the garden who work very hard keeping the garden neat and tidy.

We receive many 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 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 3.00 p.m. and 5.00 p.m. 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 www.hog.org.au, search ‘The Hills Organic Garden’ on Facebook or phone 0407 582 980 for information.

We look forward to meeting you and wish everyone out there in the Hills Area and surrounds a VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS AND A HAPPY AND HEALTHY 2023.

Garden Club History

An update from the Mitchelton and Districts Garden Club On December 1st at the Enoggera Memorial Hall, the Mitchelton and Districts Garden Club will hold its 2022 end of year meeting before going into recess until the first Thursday in February 2023.

Attendance at the December meeting is for members and invited guests only. End of year activities such as presentation of prizes to successful exhibitors and entertainment will take place.

After the guest speaker at the November meeting, this club conducted its A.G.M. All executive positions were declared vacant. Pat Killoran, who has served as president for a few months short of twelve continuous years, announced she would not be available for re-election.

In fact she felt it was time that she made a clean break from the garden club. When Pat and Jack, (her husband, now deceased) became members in the 1970’s or 80’s, they were great workers for the club, exhibiting and helping to prepare for and set up displays. Pat was left without transport after Jack’s death and ever since, has walked a distance, from her home to the hall, with a knapsack on her back and a basket in her hand. She has accepted invitations to other functions to represent this club, sometimes having to catch two sets of public transport and then ending up with a fifteen minute or more walk to the destination. On many occasions Pat has baked biscuits and cakes for the club’s morning teas. On meeting days Pat was always the first person to arrive at the hall and the last one to leave, after checking everything was in order. It would be hard to find a more dedicated member of a club, and Pat is wished good health, peace and happiness for the future.

You could say December is a maintenance month for gardeners. Any fruit or vegetables that have dropped to the ground should be picked up and left in a black plastic bag in the sun. This is to destroy disease organisms, before being placed in the rubbish bin. Also now is a good time to check if spraying is needed for fruit fly activity. Make sure there’s adequate mulch on garden beds and water indoor plants more often. Should you be going away on holidays for a week or two, arrange for someone to keep an eye on your plants.

Meetings are held at the Enoggera Memorial Hall on the first Thursday of the calendar month at 10am except January.

The club will be in recess until the first week in February.

Festive greetings to all.

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

Shayne and Janelle French Students at Albany Hills State School created a beautiful remembrance garden in the school grounds at a tribute to our fallen soldiers. Students from each class created their own poppy for the garden

Page 46 - December 2022, The Hills Echo

Email: info@nwfs.com.au PO Box 2094, Keperra Qld 4054

Please call

1300 881 223 to make an appointment.

www.echo-news.com.au

Counselling Corner

Boundaries! You've Got This.

This article is brought to you by Social Worker, Elena Bishop. Elena is the director of Supportive Therapy and Social Work in Arana Hills.

She has a wealth of knowledge and insight into the industry.

This month Elena talks about the importance of setting boundaries.

Have you ever been around someone when they do something that makes you uncomfortable but you don’t know what to say without offending them or making a scene? Or when people won’t take NO for an answer? It’s essentially wanting to stand up and speak up for yourself but you have been shamed in the past or feel powerless. This can be from mates, in-laws or even work colleagues. There is a great art to successfully putting up healthy boundaries and there can also be a lot of barriers to using your voice.

Humans need to feel like they belong. Sociology suggests the worst punishment for a human is being outcast or ostracised from the social group. It signals terror within our bodies, and it threatens our survival. Our brains still think we are caveman, so we are safer in numbers. This is why it’s hard to disappoint others. ‘People Pleasing’ can also be taught in childhood, do as I say, otherwise you will get a punishment, is something children can experience. So as adults, we feel the need to conform to make others happy, at the expense of our own happiness because we don’t want to feel like a disappointment.

Also, it’s impossible to have boundaries if we have low self-

worth, why would we stand up for ourselves, if we don’t really value ourselves? Quick tip, to get higher levels of self-esteem and internal worth, we first need to start with compassion.

Back on track, there are six main boundaries. Physicalpersonal space, who can touch you, where when and how.

Emotional-how you allow other people to talk to you, or if they take responsibility for their mistakes towards you.

Relationships-behaviour towards yourself that you will not accept – can be romantic, friendships or family. Time-that it is important to you where you want to spend your time and how much you dedicate to yourself. Material-limits on how much you spend personally, as well as resources or money you give or loan to others. And finally, sexual-you are deciding your comfort level with sexual experiences, as well as the sharing of personal details.

Boundaries are healthy and normal and to have healthy relationships, boundaries should be respected. If you are having trouble setting boundaries, there are a couple of tips that may help. First, start with your self-esteem. Believe in yourself. Truly understand your boundaries and what makes you uncomfortable. Second, in a difficult situation, you could try a ‘compliment sandwich’. Say something nice - then the boundary - then something nice. Delivering a difficult message can be easier if it aligns with your values. Third is “Clear is kind, unclear is unkind”, says Brene Brown. If you are honest, everyone knows where we all stand. Fourth is practice consistency, repetition, and patience. Don’t give up. Even if you practice in the mirror or in the car by yourself and see how it makes you feel. If you are uncomfortable saying no, perhaps offer an alternative. Don’t let people put you down or shame you for standing up for yourself, repeat it and stand firm. If they keep breaking your boundaries, there needs to be enforced consequences. “I asked you not to text me after 9pm, if you do it again, I’m blocking you”. If they do it again, then follow through and block them. Logically, if you don’t have respect for yourself, how will others respect you and your needs? This is the ultimate in self-care. This is how you protect yourself, if this makes you feel nervous, come in talk with someone.

Do you know that if you text 0477 13 11 14 between 6pm - midnight when you are in need of support, a trained Lifeline crisis support worker will text with you? So if you are feeling overwhelmed or having difficulty coping, please drop them a text.

D NEEAL LEG P? HEL

Your local solicitor 7 days a week

3 Conveyancing 3 Family Law & Divorces 3 Wills & Estates 3 Power of Attorney

3 Leases 3 Prepare Contracts 3 Debt Collection (QCAT) 3 Traffic Matters

RING 7 DAYS: 0417 731 042 670 Albany Creek Rd, Albany Creek ron@ronlawsonlawyer.com.au www.echo-news.com.au

The Hills Echo, December 2022 - Page 47

Page 48 - December 2022, The Hills Echo

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