The Hills Echo September 2024 by Echo News

Upper Kedron residents are calling for a change to the Ferny Grove- Upper Kedron Neighbourhood Plan to allow for a southern connecting road between Upper Kedron & Mount Nebo Road that is available for public use. Read more on page 3.

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Community Group Petitions to Change Neighbourhood Plan

By Shane Steele

Local resident and president of the Ferny Grove and Upper Kedron Residents Association, Mr Max Crane, has called upon the Ferny Grove community to sign his e-petition to the Queensland Government to amend the Ferny Grove-Upper Kedron Neighbourhood Plan to accurately reflect their desire for a southern connecting road between Upper Kedron and Mount Nebo Road.

Posted on 19 July 2024, and available on the Queensland Parliament’s website (parliament.qld.gov.au), the e-petition had collected 1003 signatures (at the time of writing this article). The e-petition closes 20 September 2024, and is being sponsored by The Honourable Mark Furner MP (Member for Ferny Grove). At its core, the e-petition is requesting Queensland Government do all within its power to ensure the Brisbane City Council conduct fair and accurate community consultations to amend the Neighbourhood Plan as a matter of urgency.

The Neighbourhood Plan, a legal document that forms part of BCC’s Brisbane City Plan 2014 to guide future development in the local area, was originally adopted in 2007 for the suburbs of Ferny Grove and Upper Kedron, as well as the area south of Cedar Creek.

From late 2015, BCC worked with the community to update the Neighbourhood Plan and following three years of planning and debates, the amended Neighbourhood Plan took effect on 21 September 2018.

Consultation on the amended Neighbour Plan was extensive, with BCC highlighting between November 2015 and December 2016, receiving 600 online survey responses and 330 submissions on draft strategy document. Additionally, BCC delivered four information kiosks, four Community Planning Team meetings as well as mal direct contact with council planners by letter, email and phone.

Additionally, BCC’s draft amendment update of the Neighbourhood Plan was made available for public notification from 1 June to 14 July 2017. Over the course of the notification, the council received 685 properly made submissions.

On 28 August 2018, the updated Neighbourhood Plan was formally adopted by BCC.

Despite this, Mr Crane argues numerous requests and submissions for a general road between Upper Kedron and Mount Nebo Road were ignored by BCC.

‘Upper Kedron has grown over that time and is growing south towards Mount Nebo Road,’ said Mr Crane. ‘At this time the planned road from Kosciusko Street to Mount Nebo Road is about 300 metres. The road is being paid for by the (private) developer. However, our Neighbourhood Plan states that the road is only for emergency vehicles, buses, cyclists and pedestrians. But not residents because the Neighbourhood Plan does not include residents’ vehicles.

‘Ferny Grove and Upper Kedron residents are appalled. (Consequently), the FGUK Residents Association has started a Queensland Government petition to change the Neighbourhood Plan.’

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Distribution Method: Direct letterbox delivery around the North West suburbs of Brisbane. Copies also available for pick up from local magazine stands.

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Community Group Petitions to Change Neighbourhood Plan

Continued form page 3

In correspondence from February 2024 between Cr Steven Toomey (Councillor for The Gap Ward) to the FGUK Residents Association (which is available on the latter’s website), Cr Toomey states, ‘Council’s hands are tied when it come to the creation of a public road connection from Upper Kedron to The Gap via Mt Nebo Road. In 2018, the State Government imposed a Ministerial condition that the link to Mt Nebo was restricted to emergency vehicles only. This condition explicitly excludes general traffic from this road condition.’

The FGUK Residents Association will be hosting their General Meeting and a Q & A with State candidates on the 8th September at 2pm at the Upper Kedron Hall, all are welcome.

For more information on the FGUK Residents Association, visit www.fguk. org or email FGUK.WebMaster@ gmail.com. You can access the e-petition by scanning the QR code on the right. For more information on the Ferny Grove – Upper Kedron Neighbourhood Plan, or to contact BCC, visit www.brisbane. qld.gov.au.

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Work is now complete on the intersection upgrade at Plucks, Caesar and Hutton Roads, Arana Hills This road safety project by the City of Moreton Bay Council was developed in response to a number of serious crashes at the location over a number of years.

Roadworks Alert for Settlement Road, The Gap

Roadworks are scheduled for Settlement Road between Kilbowie and Yarrabee Road, The Gap. Night operations will involve base repairs and a new surface installation. Motorists should expect delays, follow traffic control directions, and observe reduced speed limits during this period.

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QR code to e-petition

Frasers Property Hosts Heartwarming Morning Tea for Loneliness Awareness Week

In partnership with Ending Loneliness Together, Frasers Property Australia is committed to creating a culture of connection across its communities nationwide.

For Loneliness Awareness Week this year, the team at The Quarry invited local retirement village residents from Keperra Sanctuary to ClubQ for morning tea and scones. ClubQ is an architecturally designed, 4,600sqm+ amenity hub exclusive for future residents to enjoy with friends and family.

Bee One Third’s Jack Stone and Frasers Property Australia’s Community Development Manager Marion Allard hosted an insightful bee-ducational workshop, discussing the important role bees play in our ecosystem and in creating a culture of connection. Each guest was gifted their own jar of honey made by the bees thriving and living onsite at The Quarry.

If you are feeling lonely or know someone who is, Ending Loneliness Together is a fantastic resource. Let’s try and break the cycle, one connection at a time. For more info visit endingloneliness.com.au.

Photography by The Photo Pitch

GVK Lions Grow a Greener Future

In a united effort to combat climate change and enhance local ecosystems, the Golden Valley Keperra Lions Club (GVK Lions) participated in a tree planting event on 11th August.

They joined forces with the City of Moreton Bay’s Environmental Department and local volunteers to plant 70 trees and shrubs around the Kakowan Community Facility in Bunya as part of the ambitious Green Canopy Project, aiming to plant one million trees nationwide over the next three years. The plants, funded by the City of Moreton Bay, were carefully selected to thrive in the local habitat. Volunteers worked together to position, stake, and nurture each plant, leaving a flourishing green space that will benefit the community for years.

The GVK Lions’ efforts exemplify how local communities can contribute to the larger environmental movement.

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Unleash Your Culture!

Looking for a fun way to get active and connect with your heritage?

Community folk dancing is a joyful and engaging way to exercise while exploring cultural roots, especially those from Anglo-Celtic traditions.

As part of Moreton Bay Council’s Healthy & Active programme, folk dances are accessible to everyone at just $4per session. No experience or special attire is required— beginners are always welcome, and dances are taught on the spot. Live music is provided by the talented Phillip’s Dog at every event.

Community Folk Dances are run by Dr Heather Clarke and a group of dedicated volunteer musicians, dance teachers and helpers. Heather is a cultural historian who specialises in dance history with an Australian focus. There are regular dance sessions on offer plus, themed dances like Steampunk, Scottish Ceilidh, and Regency, and host the annual Jane Austen Ball in Dayboro. The group love to welcome newcomers to thier dances, and have devoted dancers who know the dances well and join in for performances. So pop along and unleash some culture! Contact Heather on 04 2206 7392 or visit www. historicaldance.au for more details.

Upcoming Dances:

• Samford Farmers Hall, 7.30pm - 9.30pm: Friday 13 September, 11 October, 8 November and 13 December.

• Community Centre Arana Hills: 22 Sept (Regency Dance), 27 Oct (Middle Earth Dance), 24 Nov (End of Year Party).

• Jane Austen Ball: 5 October in Dayboro

Shayne and Janelle French

Email: info@nwfs.com.au Website: www.nwfs.com.au

Please call 1300 881 223 to make an appointment.

Healthy Living for Healthy Older Adults

Health is important at any age, but it’s especially important for older adults. As we age, our bodies become more susceptible to disease, our energy levels and cognitive abilities decline, and our risk of chronic conditions, such as diabetes and heart disease, increases.

Fortunately, healthy eating and a healthy lifestyle can counter many of the negative e ects of aging. Eating a balanced diet and being physically active can help reduce the chance of developing chronic diseases, improve mood and quality of life, and help maintain strength, physical function, and cognitive abilities.

Eating nutritious meals is essential for good health, but preparing meals can be di cult, especially for older adults with

limited mobility or time. Gourmet Meals is here to help! Our meals are made with health in mind, using the best quality ingredients and no preservatives; and because they are portion-controlled, they make it easier for you to stay within your calorie and nutrition budget. This not only helps in managing your weight but also in maintaining an overall healthy lifestyle.

With Gourmet Meals, you can enjoy a variety of delicious and nutritious meals, without having to worry about meal preparation or shopping for ingredients. Simply remove your Gourmet Meal from the freezer, heat, and enjoy! Furthermore, the convenience of having these meals delivered to your door makes it easier than ever for you to eat right and right on time!

READY MADE MEALS

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What’s On in September at the Library?

The Arana Hills Library has a myriad of engaging and educational activities on offer throughout the month of September for children and adults alike. To secure your event, visit www.mbrc.qld.gov.au/libraries/events or call the library on 3883 5790

Edible Native Plants - Friday 6th September, 9am - 10am

Easy to grow and delicious to nibble - learn about wonderful local native plants for your garden with Bushtekniq. For Adults. Join us for a planting bee after the talk in our community gardens at Arana Hills and Bribie Island libraries. Free. Bookings required.

Fun Factory (all ages) Monday-Friday: 16th - 20th and 23rd - 27th September, 3pm - 4pm

You never know what could happen when you drop into the library these school holidays - there will be games, craft and fun

for the whole family. Facilitated by our friendly library staff. All ages. Free. No bookings required.

Sweet Art :Tuesday 17th September, 11am - noon

Celebrate the 60th anniversary of the colourful, magical world of Roald Dahl's children's classic Charlie and the Chocolate Factory in this fun workshop. Work with a range of 2D media, including paints, markers and collage, to create a vibrant food design inspired by the colourful patterns and shapes of confectionary and desserts. Ages 6-9. Free. Bookings required.

Messy Play:Tuesday 24th September, 3pm - 4pm

Drop in and play with kinetic sand, play dough, painting, craft and more. Dress for getting messy. Facilitated by our friendly library staff. For under 5s. No bookings required.

Roald Dahl Lego Build: Wednesday 25th September, 3.30pm - 4.30pm

Join us for this special Roald Dahl themed LEGO event. Develop design thinking and engineering skills as you build and create. Meet other brick fans and complete challenges, group builds, and more! Ages 5-8. Free. No bookings required.

Macramé Dreamcatcher: Thursday 26th September, 3pm - 5pm

Create a macramé dreamcatcher with Ness from Macramé SweetNess. Age 12-17. Free. Bookings required.

Roald Dahl Exploratorium : Friday 27th September, 2pm - 3pm

Discover a world of pure imagination with science experiments inspired by the wonderful world of Roald Dahl. Ages 8-11. Facilitated by our friendly library staff.

For more events visit, www.mbrc.qld. gov.au/libraries/events

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ARANA HILLS

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FERNY GROVE

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MITCHELTON

Garozzo’s Mitchelton Pharmacy 34 Blackwood Street, Mitchelton P: 07 3355 2828

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

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Explore Creativity on Tawny Trails

Tawny Trails opens its doors to visitors on the last Sunday of each month, offering a carefully curated journey through the creative heart of the Moreton Bay Hinterland.

The trail weaves through the country charm of Woodford, the rolling green hills of Mount Mee, and the scenic backdrop of the Glass House Mountains at Ocean View, before leading to the culturally rich and historic towns of Dayboro and Samford. Branded as "The Creative Living Experience," Tawny Trails invites participants to explore what it means to live creatively. Visitors can engage with artists in their studios, discover inspiring creative spaces, and immerse themselves in locations that spark artistic inspiration.

As spring breathes new life into Queensland’s landscapes, September on Tawny Trails becomes a celebration of blooming wildflowers, crisp air, and creative exploration. Known for offering more than just art on the wall, Tawny Trails has expanded its offerings by introducing Sculpture on Tawny—an immersive experience that blends outdoor artistry with the beauty of nature.

The northern end of the trail now features The Hand of Plato at the Mathema Gallery and "Alert," a kangaroo sculpture by award-winning artist David Ellsworth, recently showcased at Sculpture by the Sea. Visitors are also encouraged to stop by the Dayboro Art Gallery, where local artists, including Mam Oman, display their sculptural works, such as a charming bush turkey made from paper mâché.

At the southern end of Tawny Trails, two new locations invite visitors to experience the magic of Ann Russell’s

eclectic sculptures and the tranquil beauty of Graham Radcliffe’s Phoenix Sculpture Garden. The garden, nestled within a rainforest setting, seamlessly integrates marble and bronze sculptures, offering a world-class encounter with art and nature.

‘Journey From Atlantis’ sculpture by Graham Radcliffe

For those looking to take their time along the trail, Tawny Trails’ scenic valley is perfect for slowing down and enjoying a picnic amidst picturesque parks or at the renowned Ocean View Estates Winery. Stay connected on social media and the Tawny Trails website https://tawnytrails.com for the latest updates on events, artist features, and behind-the-scenes looks. Supported by the Queensland Government through Arts Queensland and Running Duck Studio, Tawny Trails invites everyone to embrace the spirit of spring and discover the creative wonders waiting along the trail.

Thriving Harvest Despite the Chill

An update from the Hills Organic Garden

This year has been slightly colder than the last, but the seedlings have thrived, and each week the team brings home fresh produce.

The group continues to plant snow peas and beans, anticipating another crop before the hot weather arrives. The snow pea harvest has been particularly bountiful, allowing everyone to take some home each week. These peas add a satisfying crunch to stir-fry meals. The potatoes are looking healthy, promising a good yield, while the strawberry plants, though slow to ripen, appear vigorous. Hopefully, the strawberries will ripen soon—if the birds don’t get to them first. Pumpkins have been plentiful, leading to some delicious pumpkin soup made by members. The broccolini has also produced well this year, offering a fresh and tasty treat straight from the garden. With spring just around the corner, there is hope for a few more months of pleasant gardening weather before summer’s heat sets in. The flowering basil continues to attract bees, and there should be a chance to harvest seeds once the plant dries. Both the parsley and garlic are thriving.

The HOG community is a friendly group who offer people in the Hills District the opportunity to grow vegetables using organic principles. Age is no barrier so feel free to pop along one Sunday afternoon to have a chat and a look around the beautiful garden. Members meet on a Sunday afternoon from 2pm - 4pm at 416 Bunya Road, Bunya next to the Off Leash Dog Park. Visit www.hog.org.au for information.

Mitchelton Garden Club

Meetings are held at The Enoggera Memorial Hall (entrance via Trundle St) on the first Thursday of the month at 9:30am for a 10am start. Entry is $5 and morning tea is provided. Visitors are most welcome. For more info email mitcheltongc@gmail.com

Dazzling Daylilies

An update from the Ferny Grove Garden Club

The next meeting of the Ferny Grove Garden Club will be on Friday, 27th Septembert, at 1pm. The club meets in St Matthew’s Church Hall, Church Road, Mitchelton.

The guest speaker for the month will be Michael Gibson who will present his expertise on growing daylilies. We will also be holding a plant stall and members will be bringing plants to sell or exchange.

New members are welcome. For more information please telephone Elizabeth: 07 3851 0568

OUR TEAM IS GROWING

We are thrilled to announce the arrival of Dr Aruna Gurubilli to our esteemed medical team at The Keperra Clinic!

Returning to the Keperra area with a wealth of experience and a passion for comprehensive general practice, Dr Gurubilli brings a diverse skill set and a commitment to excellence in patient care.

Areas of Expertise:

• Paediatric Medicine: Dedicated to the health and well-being of our youngest patients.

• Chronic Disease Management: Providing personalised care plans for long-term health.

• Women’s Health: Specialised in addressing unique health needs across all stages of life.

• Family Planning: Offering expert guidance and support in family planning decisions.

Specialised Procedures:

• Mirena and Implanon Insertion and Removals: Proficient in these contraceptive procedures, ensuring comfort and safety.

Experience and Background: Dr Aruna Gurubilli completed her training and practiced as a GP in the UK before bringing her expertise to Brisbane in 2015. Her international experience enriches our clinic’s commitment to delivering high-quality healthcare to our community.

Join the team in welcoming Dr Gurubilli to The Keperra Clinic. Schedule your appointment today to experience compassionate care and expert medical guidance for you and your family.

Let’s thrive together in health and wellness with Dr Aruna Gurubilli at our side!

A Sweet September in the Works

A Fitness-Focussed Resolution That’s Worth Keeping

The Brisbane North Cake Decorators will hold their next meeting on Saturday, 21st September, starting at 1:00pm at the Arana Community Hall, 291 Dawson Parade, Arana Hills. This meeting will include a bi-monthly business update followed by a demonstration of new techniques and ideas discovered by President Victoria at the International Cake Show earlier this year.

forward to these enriching experiences. For more details, interested individuals can contact qcdaeventcoordinator@ gmail.com

Life gets messy, busy, complicated and unpredictable sometimes. In the New Year, an ‘all or nothing’ approach to your New Year’s health focussed resolution just doesn’t last. So, incorporating a plan that is realistic and sustainable is of upmost importance.

September is a particularly busy month for cake decorators across Queensland, with the state’s first weekend seminar in several years taking place from Friday, 6th to Sunday, 8th September at the Brisbane International Virginia, 21 Zillmere Road, Boondall. The event promises to offer an array of exciting demonstrations and workshops led by interstate guests. Members of the Brisbane North branch who attend are looking

Quick empowering workouts to help you be the best you can be everyday for everybody.

Exercise is medicine and along with a manageable eating and lifestyle plan you will see the change and feel the diﬀerence. This is not Bootcamp but a sustainable way to live in your body and love your life.

The Brisbane North Cake Decorators are dedicated to fostering a love of cake decorating and are always eager to share their knowledge. Visitors are warmly invited to attend meetings. More information can be found on their Facebook page, Brisbane North Cake Decorators Association QCDA, or by emailing brisbanenorthcakedecorators@gmail.com.

Focusing on daily choices that are achievable and simple will create changes that don’t just last until March when your effort and energy has run out, but are long lasting. Here are 12 real-world ways that can help you achieve your health goals in 2024.

1. Eat protein for breakfast to keep your insulin levels steady and appetite satisfied.

2. Eat slow, chew your food.

TidBits

An update from the Arana Hills & Districts Senior Citizens Club Inc

3. Eat healthy meals. You will not lose weight by skipping two meals a day. Your body needs quality adequate calories from carbohydrates, proteins and fats.

Australian Association of Independent Retirees

When this article has gone to print, Spring will be in the air, for most people it is their favourite time of the year.

4. Include exercise snacks in your day. Maybe one minute of steps, squats or wall pushups whenever possible. This keeps your energy levels boosted whilst burning calories.

Call Kim today for a quick chat and health check 0407 919 143

Brisbane North Branch book Wills, Death & Taxes made simple. So come along and bring a friend!

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5. Learn about how food affects your body, so you can burn fat more efficiently.

6. Strength training is your secret weapon. Muscle preserves age, keeps you toned and takes up less space than fat.

It is a great time to get out and potter in the garden, and whilst that may give us a lot of satisfaction, it is also very important to stay involved in the wider community. So, if you are looking to get involved in a local group now is the perfect time to start, so come join us!

7. Schedule exercise sessions for 20 or 30 minutes - you don’t need hours in the gym. Check in with yourself, show up and prepare the night before.

8. Plan for bad days. You can still succeed by doing what you need to do most of the time.

9. Find your fit. You have everything you need inside of you to get you where you need to go.

10. Enjoy the journey. Make it part of your new lifestyle and enjoy what you do.

11. Sleep should be your priority. Getting adequate sleep reduces the amount of food people eat during the day and your food choices are wiser.

You don’t have to old to join our club as anyone over 55 years is welcome. We meet at the Arana Hills and District Community Hall 291 Dawson Parade and there is ample car parking available. Admission on the day is $5 and includes coffee, tea and biscuits, yearly membership is only $7. Bingo and cards are played on the 6th and 20th September and 4th October. Hoy and Cards are played on Friday 13th and 27th September. Indoor Bowls are played every Friday and Wednesday from 1pm - 3pm. If you feel you have enough energy to take part in the morning and the afternoon session just bring something for lunch. Don’t forget first time visitors are free, no payment needed, so give it a go. For more information about any of the above ring Marcia on 0438 786 871.

12. Getting adequate water is amazing for weight loss as a natural appetite suppressant and helps remove waste from

The Hills Echo delivers 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.

A healthy resolution doesn’t need to focus on weight loss. Create a wellness resolution/goal to live a healthy, happier life on any day you decide to start.

Give local Fitness & Nutrition coach Kim a call on 0407 919 to help you achieve your New You in 2024.

Netballer’s New Clubhouse Coming Soon

A development application has been submitted for the demolition of the existing clubhouse and the construction of a new, modern facility at 468 Rode Road, Chermside.

The proposal aims to provide the Brisbane Netball Association with updated amenities to better serve its members and visitors.

Funded by a State Government Grant, the project will see the current clubhouse and associated buildings demolished to make way for a new, elongated structure. The design focuses on creating a more consolidated facility that will enhance the experience for players, umpires, and spectators alike.

The new clubhouse, which will cover a floor area of 298 square metres, will be a single-storey building standing six metres high. Its elongated design will run along the fence line, with the new layout aiming to better integrate with the existing netball courts.

However, the redevelopment will also bring changes to the surrounding area, including the car park. The redesigned parking area will loose four car parking spaces and some landscaping. To offset this, the proposal includes amendments to the southern carpark, adding seven new parking spaces, as well as the introduction of nine motorcycle spaces, bicycle racks. Additional features of the development include new landscaping and a 1.8-meter fence along the western boundary.

The Brisbane Netball Association’s new facility is expected to provide a more refined and comfortable environment, ensuring that the club can continue to support the local netball community effectively.

Arana’s Weight Reduction Club Welcomes You

Looking to lose weight but unsure where to begin? Or maybe you’re struggling with motivation and need some extra support? Consider joining the Weight Reduction Club of Arana (WRC of Arana), a notfor-profit organization run entirely by dedicated members and volunteers.

As part of the Weight Reduction Club of Queensland (WRCQ), it serves the community by offering support

and encouragement for achieving weight loss through a healthy diet and lifestyle. The club welcomes men, women, and children aged 12 and up.

The WRC of Arana meets weekly at the Arana Hills Uniting Church, corner of Cycas Street and Alstonia Street. Meetings are held every Tuesday, beginning with a 10:00 AM weigh-in, followed by a 10:30 AM session. These meetings track progress, offer motivational awards, and feature guest speakers on topics like nutrition, exercise, and health. The club also organizes social activities such as cooking demonstrations, ‘Bring, Buy and Try’ days, and ‘Good News Week.’

The WRC of Arana is a friendly group where members enjoy social interaction and camaraderie. Led by a hardworking, enthusiastic committee, the club aims to make each meeting engaging and beneficial for all.

If you’re interested in a supportive environment to help with weight loss, the WRC of Arana invites you to attend a meeting. Newcomers are welcome and if you decide to join, the fee is $35 for the first year, $25 annually thereafter, and $4 per week. For more information, contact Sharon on 0407 933 903,.

Shrek Set

For The Stage

Shrek, Fiona, Donkey and all your favourite fairytale creatures take to the swamp stage this SEPTEMBER! BG Performing Arts are delighted to present Shrek Jnr!

Doors Open: 2pm (show 2:30pm)

Venue: Mitchelton SHS Performing Arts Centre, 754 Samford Road, Mitchelton QLD 4053

Price: $25 per ticket (Ages 3+) ($30 at the door)

Tickets: https://www.trybooking. com/events/landing/125506

An artists impression of the proposed new clubhouse

Splash into the Swimming Season

The Ferny Hills and District Swimming Club is inviting new members to dive into its vibrant community as the swimming season kicks off. Operating out of the Ferny Hills Aquatic Centre, the club offers a supportive environment for swimmers of all ages and abilities.

This not-for-profit, volunteer-run club hosts weekly meets every Friday night during Term 4 and Term 1. These events provide swimmers the chance to race against others of similar skill levels, with a focus on achieving personal bests rather than merely winning. Races cover all four strokes—freestyle, butterfly, breaststroke, and backstroke—over varying distances, ensuring swimmers of all levels can participate. The club’s welcoming atmosphere encourages social interaction both in and out of the pool. Children from different schools build friendships while competing, enhancing confidence and camaraderie. The structured yet fun setting also teaches swimmers the rules and protocols of competitive swimming.

Beyond personal development, participation at Ferny Hills Swim Club motivates swimmers in training to hone their skills in a race setting. Competing in swim meets as part of a team adds an extra layer of excitement, with the season culminating in the Club Championships and Presentation Day. On this day, both age-group champions and swimmers who achieve the most personal bests are celebrated.

The club also offers a strong community vibe for parents and carers, who can get involved by volunteering at events, fostering new connections while supporting their children.

New members are encouraged to attend the club’s sign-up morning on Saturday, 14 September, from 7:30 to 9:30 a.m. at

the Ferny Hills Aquatic Centre. For more information, contact the club at registrarferny@gmail.com or follow them on Facebook at @FHDSC. Dive in and experience the best of community swimming, from local events to a potential path toward Brisbane 2032!

Golden Valley Keperra Lions

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

Sashes, Shenanigans, and Senior Showdowns

Looking for a night out filled with fun and laughter?

The Hills Players have just the ticket with their upcoming production of The Miss Magnolia Senior Citizens Beauty Pageant.

This lively comedy promises an entertaining evening with a witty script, an engaging storyline, and quirky characters sure to delight the audience.

Set against the backdrop of the 7th Annual Beauty Pageant at Magnolia Place Assisted Living Facility, the competition is fierce despite the contestants’ ages. Resident Martha Parcell is convinced this is her year to take the crown, but audience favorites Beatrice, Imogene, and Eaddy have other plans. Expect plenty of surprises, including a tambourine-playing squirrel, dueling Elvis impersonators, and an unfortunate spray tanning mishap. Get ready for a night of side-splitting laughter as the mayhem unfolds on stage.

Following the roaring success of their previous production, The Four Old Broads, tickets are expected to be in high demand. Be sure to book early to secure your seat for this hilarious performance of The Miss Magnolia Senior Citizens Beauty Pageant.

Show dates are November 1st, 2nd, 8th, and 9th at 7:30 PM. The venue is St. Matthew’s Church Hall, Church Road, Mitchelton. To book, call 3351 4496 or 3355 7319, or email hillsplayers@gmail.com

Don’t miss out on a fantastic evening of live theatre!

Aspley Eye & Retina Centre

Affordable Medical Eye Care with no referral required

Medical Optometrists available to see the following conditions:

• Acute Vision Problems

• Diabetic Eye Disease

• Cataracts

• Age Related Macular Degeneration Consultation only Gap Fee $63.70. Extra fees pending triage assessment advice.

Serious eye issues will be reviewed by our Private Ophthalmologist or referred to Public Emergency Care.

Conveniently located at Level 1 825 Zillmere Rd Aspley . P: 07 3832 1700 for appointments

THE FERNY REPORT

by Mark Furner M.P. State Member for Ferny Grove

I am fighting to fix the Dawson Pde Level Crossing Everyone who lives in the area knows what a major bugbear the level crossing on Dawson Parade is.

The Miles Government is rolling out a new plan to address problematic level crossings in Southeast Queensland (SEQ) and has committed to building no new level crossings on future passenger rail lines in SEQ. The program is aimed at improving safety, traffic flows and public transport reliability at and around level crossings. It also allows us to prepare for increased rail services when Cross River Rail is completed. A planning study is the first step towards a business case for each crossing included in the program and establishes a list of short and long-term solutions for each crossing. Where the crossing is found to meet the criteria, the project will then move to a business case, and when approved, is budgeted and is then at last constructed.

Study Business Case Budget Build

Depending on traffic volumes and safety considerations, options range from reconfiguring intersections, widening nearby roads, and installing traffic lights to building rail or road overpasses. All options are on the table and solutions will be driven by experts.

I have nominated the Dawson Pde level crossing for consideration and am seeking to have some news to report shortly as I consider it meets the criteria to be included in the program.

Public Transport Records Broken

The Miles Government’s 50 cent Public Transport Fare Trial is proving to be immensely popular with an 11.1% jump in public transport usage across the networks and record usage for weekend travel. Under the trial, all Translink journeys are only 50 cents – no matter where you live, or how far you travel. Energy retailers’ smart meter sting to end Queenslanders shouldn’t be ripped off at the meter, which is why the Miles government is doing what matters to protect households. At present, SEQ retailers can assign any customer on a smart meter to a ‘time-of-use tariff’. They are only obliged to notify the customer of the change before the next bill is sent. This can create significant bill shock for customers.

Under this change, SEQ households which have been moved to a ‘time of use tariff’ following the installation of a smart meter, will now be able to revert to a flat tariff if they wish. This reform is designed to pair with the Australian Energy Market Commission’s three-year ban on tariff changes without consent - an initiative spearheaded by the Miles Government.

Mark Furner MP at the Dawson Parade level crossing

The Dickson Seniors’ Expo

This year’s Seniors’ Expo was a great success, with almost 2,000 visitors and over 100 stalls. Thank you to the Dickson Seniors’ Council for their hard work in organising the event and making it better each year. I started the Dickson Seniors Expo in 2004 with the help of the Dickson Seniors’ Council to support seniors in our community. I have been proud to host and sponsor it every year since.

Thanks also to the volunteers who make this event such a success. I look forward to seeing you all at the 2025 Dickson Seniors’ Expo

Educational Resources

Once again, my children’s charts were popular at the recent shows and festivals, particularly the Australia map received an overwhelming response.

Just a reminder that these educational resources to help your youngsters with schoolwork are available free from my electorate office in Strathpine. Contact details below. They include multiplication and alphabet charts; numbers chart and of course the Australia map.

Peter’s Australia map educational resource has received an overwhelming response at recent shows and festivals

National Police Remembrance Day

Every day, our men and women in blue willingly place themselves in harm's way to protect us all. On 29 September, National Police Remembrance Day, we honour those who have upheld the law through their service and sacrifice in the line of duty.

We thank them for serving the law and protecting our communities to the end.

Australian National Flag Day

Australian National Flag Day took place on Tuesdsay 3 September 2024, marking 123 years since the Australian flag was first flown in 1901 at the Royal Exhibition Building in Melbourne. Australian National Flag Day has been officially celebrated every year since 1996, following a proclamation by the Governor-General.

Our flag inspires love of country, gratitude to our forebears, loyalty to our nation, and dedication to its future when it matters most.

Stay connected

For regular updates with what’s happening in Dickson, you can sign up to my eNewsletter at www.peterdutton.com.au, or head over and like my Facebook page.

If there is anything I can do to help or any local issues you’d like to raise, please send me an email at peter.dutton.mp@ aph.gov.au or call my office in Strathpine on 3205 9977

Netball News

As finals approach for Arana Netball, the club are excited to see the competitive teams reach for the top spot in their divisions. This year, they have a new record of seven prospective teams heading into Preliminary Finals! It is exciting for the whole community to see how the club has progressed over recent years. For more information about the club visit www.arananetballclub.com.au

Everton News

from your State Member for Everton TIM MANDER

My Commitment to the South Pine Rd and Stafford Rd Intersection

Since I was elected in 2012, I have fought for the issues that matter most to the Everton electorate. This includes the ongoing battle to upgrade the South Pine Rd and Stafford Rd intersection in Everton Park. Stage 1 of this upgrade, Everton Park Link Road, has been completed, but there will be no advantage from this road until we get funding for stage 2, which is the untouched South Pine Rd and Stafford Rd intersection. For over 10 years, I've continuously urged the Labor state government to fix this frustrating bottleneck. The LNP have the right priorities for Queensland, and if the LNP forms government, I commit to finally upgrading this intersection.

Monthly Meet-Ups with Expert Guest Speakers

Brisbane North Retirees Inc. meets every third Friday of the month at the Geebung RSL Club, 323 Newman Road, Geebung at 9:30 am in the Newman Room. Additionally, the Finance and Investment Discussion Group meets on the second Friday of each month at the same venue. These events offer retirees and their families an entertaining and informative look at various topics, along with an opportunity to socialize over tea or coffee. For more information, please contact Graeme Wilson at 0413 441 080.

Vietnam Veterans’ Day Memorial Service

On the 18th of August I attended the Vietnam Veteran's commemorative service at Gaythorne RSL. It was my privilege to be invited and to lay a wreath in memory of the sacrifices of over 60,000 Australians who served in the Vietnam war. The near 10-year conflict saw 523 people pay the ultimate sacrifice and more than 3,000 people were evacuated with wounds, injuries or illness. Thank you to Gaythorne RSL for hosting a wonderful commemorative service.

0499 882 391