The Hills Echo - Oct 22

New Stairs For Nulty Trailblazing The Tracks

The Nulty Way stairs at Arana Hills are somewhat of an institution, with many locals using the staircase nestled amongst the eucalypts, as part of their exercise routines or to get to and from Cobbity Crescent and Plucks Road.

After 37 years of service, the 75 metres of staircase will be receiving a face lift to bring it up to speed with modern infrastructure standards. Improvements will include new pedestrian stairs, landings and handrails, making the staircase safer and more accessible for locals to enjoy even more. In addition, a short section of retaining wall at the top of the stairs and the adjoining footpaths at the top and bottom of the stairs will be added.

Construction is due to begin in late October and will take roughly six to eight weeks to complete depending on the weather. The construction team is expected to be on site between the hours of 6am to 5pm, Monday to Friday. Here is a bit of local history on how these stairs came about, thanks to local historian Melva A. Welch.

‘At the request of the local progress association in August 1985, a pathway was constructed between Cobbity Crescent and Plucks Road, it was named “Nulty Way’ by the Progress Association. The pathway was named after Tom Nulty, a wellknown president of the association who had served from 1971 for 5 and a half years concurrently, with an additional 6 and a half years as a voluntary editor of the local newspaper. He built his home adjacent to the pathway location and his family of four daughters became just as involved with their community as their father. In February 1982, the Nulty Way family moved to Fig Tree Pocket.’

Property Insights

A monthly race review from local Mountain Biking Club, The Dirt Dogs

The North Brisbane Mountain Bike Club has had a big year of racing, with many of our members taking part in competitions.

A few were seasoned veterans looking to renew rivalries, while others were new to racing, seeking an introduction to the experience and eager to get a feel of what it is all about.

Our riders represented the club in many event categories including Gravity Enduro, Endurance, Cross Country and Downhill in locations across SEQ, including Rockhampton, Toowoomba and even an event in northern NSW.

The biggest turnout was reserved for the Ipswich Fox SuperFlow event in August, which had 20 riders aged 12 years to 50+ in action. Riding together as a club made for an awesome experience, providing our first-time racers with the support to ease into the racing groove.

This year saw several club members on race podiums and two Season Champions in the U’13’s and Hardtail categories, as well as a 3rd overall in the 50 years+ category, for the Fox SuperFlow Season.

The club also runs local rides year-round including, Ladies Rides, Social Rides and Faster Paced Rides. If you are interested visit the clubs Facebook page at www.facebook. com/NorthBrisbaneDirtDogsMTB for more information and details.

New members are always welcome!

Great Service Sells Houses

As the tide moves to a buyer's market, we are reminding sellers of the important role that presentation plays in the marketing and sale of a property The tasks involved in physically preparing your home for sale can seem overwhelming and present a roadblock for some people, especially if the home has been in the family for 20, 30 or even 50 years

When you partner with Professionals for the sale of your home, you will not only have access to honest and experienced advice on how to best prepare your property but also access to a network of quality tradespeople ready to help you with your individual requirements

As agents focused on our local area, we are committed to providing the type of service and attention you deserve. It’s this level of personal attention to your property and your needs that will help create an extraordinary result without the stress

If you want to explore a clear and transparent approach to property sales that is simple and stress free, then call us for a free appraisal on 3164 7000.

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 (27th September 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 m th

Honey Soy Chicken Stir Fry

Serves: 4 | Prep time: 20 mins | Cook time: 15 mins

Ingredients

400g rice noodles

1 tablespoon olive oil

400g chicken breast, skinless and cut into strips

1 onion, finely sliced

1 carrot, sliced diagonally

2 celery sticks, sliced diagonally ½ red capsicum, thinly sliced

1 bunch bok choy, roughly chopped Sauce:

2 tablespoons reduced-salt soy sauce

2 teaspoons cornflour ½ cup vegetable stock

1 tablespoon honey 1 tablespoon sesame seeds

Method

PLACE noodles in large bowl, cover with boiling water for 1 minute, drain then refresh in cold water and set aside.

HEAT oil in a wok (or large pan), add chicken and cook for 5-10 minutes. Set aside.

COOK onion, carrot, celery, and capsicum for 2 minutes.

RETURN chicken to the pan, add bok choy, and cook for 2 minutes.

MIX cornflour and soy sauce to make a paste, then add the vegetable stock (hot), honey and sesame seeds and pour over the chicken and vegetables. COOK for a further 1-2 minutes until sauce thickens. COMBINE the chicken and vegetables with noodles and serve

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

Ascot Arana Striking High

Congratulations to Ascot Arana Hockey Club players

Georgia Harris, Lara Pyle and Amy Spall who recently represented Queensland at the Australian School Sport Championships.

Georgia Harris and Lara Pyle represented Queensland at the Under 16’s Australian School Sport Championships held in Hobart in August. Georgia Harris was named in the Under 16

Letter The Editor

Dear Editor,

I wanted to share an interaction between myself and the Morten Bay Regional Council that concerned traffic noise from large trucks travelling along Collins Road at Arana and Everton Hills.

Heavy vehicles were in some instances were operating what is called ‘engine braking’ when slowing or stopping. This was occurring prior to the Francis Road traffic lights, while travelling east on Collins Road. Very loud noises were being emitted from the vehicle’s exhaust systems.

I contacted our local councilor, Matt Constance on several occasions regarding this nuisance and subsequently signs were erected to abate this noise nuisance in suburban areas. A big win for residents in our area.

Rick L. Arana Hills.

Australian School Girls Merit Team and Lara Pyle was named as a shadow player for them.

Amy Spall represented Queensland at the Under 12’s Australian School Sport Championships held last month in Canberra. Her team was undefeated.

Both the Under 12 and Under 16’s Queensland teams won their Championships, bringing home Gold Medals.

Georgia Harris and Lara Pyle

October

Whatever your make or model, book your next service with one of our qualified technicians.

For the ninth year running, Bridgestone has been named the Most Trusted Tyre Brand in Australia offer Service

Most Trusted Tyre Brand

After a difficult six months for businesses due to the pandemic and extraordinary weather events, Keperra Country Golf Club is pleased to announce it is now oversubscribed heading into the 2022/2023 Sponsorship year.

Club General Manager Gavin Lawrence, said as well as the continuation of a three-year partnership with Principal Sponsor Tangalooma Island Resort, the Club was delighted to welcome back LawnPride Australia, Phil Carrington from Bank of Queensland - Aspley, Height 4 Hire, Whitehead & Crump Harcourts Solutions and Just Better Care Brisbane North as Major Sponsors. Also as Supporting Sponsors, Jeffrey McConaghy Jeweller, Everton Engineering and Sunshine Skips. The Club has also welcomed several new sponsors including Accelerate Communications, Inspire Health Services and 2 to 1 Garage Door Conversions.

Mr Lawrence said it had been a challenging period for the Club, with unprecedented damage to the golf course and infrastructure after the February flooding and subsequent heavy rainfall, as well as many Queensland businesses also impacted by both weather and the rise in COVID-19 cases once state borders reopened.

‘Our goal when we launched our sponsorship program last year was to connect with businesses in our community and provide opportunities for mutual benefit and support,’ Mr Lawrence said.

‘There was substantial interest expressed and we were excited to welcome new sponsors, as well as consolidate partnerships with existing supporters. Although the flooding interrupted our business operations and deliverables significantly, we thank all our supporters for standing with us and particularly those also impacted by events, such as Proof BBQ & Booze, whose Windsor restaurant was damaged by rain and flooding. We are excited that many of the connections we established will be ongoing throughout next year and we are extending support to Proof BBQ and its Toowoomba restaurant while they deal with the road to recovery.’

Mr Lawrence said there had been many recent highlights despite the difficulties, including the Clubs successful Junior Holiday Clinic in July, supported by Simon Whitehead and Drew Crump from Harcourts Solutions Real Estate and activations with aged care and disability service provider, Just Better Care Brisbane North, which celebrated its relocation to Arana Hills.

‘We’ve had great feedback from our partners about initiatives and opportunities, such as exposure on the Club billboard at the intersection of Samford Road and the Ferny Grove train line,’ he said.

‘Three of our lucky Club members also benefited from the generosity of Principal Sponsor Tangalooma Island Resort, which donated three, two-night holiday stays with dolphin feeding and a wildlife experience for a membership draw. We are looking forward to working with all our sponsors as we head into the next 12 months. Already there are exciting Club projects on the horizon, the biggest of which is a new short course and 28th hole, which will be constructed on what is currently the driving range. This project will improve the Clubs ability to introduce more juniors and newcomers to the game.’

Keperra Country Golf Club’s Membership, Partnership & Hospitality Manager Michael Dash with new sponsor Ben Bennett from 2 to 1 Garage Conversions

Heading to The Hills - Community Council Scheduled for Next Month!

Moreton Bay Regional Council’s new initiative to take meetings out of the Chambers and into the community is going from strength-to-strength!

Crowd numbers tripled between Samford and Deception Bay, then doubled again in Woodford, but the biggest crowd yet turned out on Bribie Island with more than 60 locals sitting in the gallery.

Mayor Peter Flannery said he hoped The Hills District Community Council meeting on November 16 would take things to the next level.

‘If we could get 100 people in the audience that’d be amazing, and it’s worth it for locals because all the Councillors and Directors will all be available to meet with you,’ Mayor Flannery said.

‘The Hills District is the perfect case study of how a polycentric city can look - here there are designated CBD areas centralised around retail precincts with frequent connectivity to bus and rail services.

‘It means development is focused here and development pressure is taken off suburban areas, where there are a lot of green corridors, active transport links and parkland. So we’re keen to talk about our submission to the ECQ about making Moreton Bay a polycentric city.’

Cr Matt Constance (Div 10) said The Hills could be a great case study for the rest of the region.

He believes greater investment in The Hills business precincts and improving the efficiency of local roads, will greatly

enhance local lifestyle as our regional population grows.

‘This year’s budget is about balancing the needs of people with the needs of the environment. We know from your feedback in the Moreton Says survey that you want Council getting the balance between development and the environment right, which is becoming a key challenge with so many interstate people wanting to move here after last year’s lockdowns,’ said Cr Constance.

‘Council is embarking on a major program to protect koala habitats and our natural surrounds, with plans for new fauna crossings in our area in the coming years, including koala underpasses to reduce the risk of wildlife from entering the road corridors.’

This Community Council meeting will be a great opportunity for community groups discuss the future of the southern gateway to the Moreton Bay Region including the Hills District and Albany Creek communities.

In 2019, Council acquired 303 Dawson Parade for a future integrated civic centre and now the concept designs are now progressing this to the planning stage.

So, if you would like to know more about the development of 303 Dawson Parade, have your say on an environmental issue, or maybe you have a query to raise, whatever the question, head along to the Community Council meeting and have a chat with our local Councillors. The Community Council meeting will be held at The Hills District Community Centre on Dawson Parade, near the Leslie Patrick Park All Abilities Playground.

Tiptoe Through The Tombstones With The Hills Players

Friendship And Fun At Probus

The Hills Players in rehearsal for ‘Tiptoe Through the Tombstones’

Local community theatre company, The Hills Players Inc are excited to present their latest comedy, ‘Tiptoe Through the Tombstones’, written by Norman Robbins.

This delightful comedy is set to entertain the audience and promises a bucket load of laughter too! The play is set some months after the ghastly events at Monument House, from their previous play, “A Tomb with a View” which they performed in 2018. Please note, viewing of the previous play is not required to enjoy this latest production! The remaining Tomb Family members have been summoned by the Crusty Old Family Lawyer, Mortimer Crayle, to hear of their inheritance. This is where the fun begins because greedy Crayle has his sights set on the inheritance for himself. As the fog descends onto the gloomy mansion things and people are seldom what they seem. With poison, mysterious disappearances and dead bodies increasing, who will finally end up inheriting Monument House?

The production will take place at St Matthews Church Hall, Church Rd, Mitchelton, on Friday 28th October, Saturday 29th October and Friday 4th, Saturday 5th November at 7.45pm

Bookings can be made by calling 3351 4496 or 3355 7319 or email Margie.reid@bigpond.com

The Albany Creek Probus Club is looking for new members in your area. Probus provides you with the opportunity to join a social Club so you can meet other retirees on a regular basis, listen to interesting speakers and join together in social activities. They meet at Hornets Club on Graham Road, Carseldine, from 10am on the first Thursday of each month. To find out more contact Secretary Greg Early on 0407 960 588 or early.gregory1@ gmail.com

Share Your Story

Our best stories come from YOU! Email admin@echonews.com.au with submissions.

KIDS! WANT TO WIN A PRIZE? in the drawing below and hand it in to Red Rooster Arana Hills on Dawson Parade to go into the draw to win a voucher merchandise!! Entries open from the 1st October to 22nd October.

Between Before and After by Edita Mujkić BOOK of the Month

This breathtaking biography of escape from war, and an important contribution to migrant literature in Australia is published by local publisher, Hawkeye. Between Before and After has been described by Alice Pung as: “The story of one woman’s patience, resilience and finding joy amidst the suffering of war—a transcendental and wise book about exile and the power of enduring love”. It will change you, and ultimately fill you with the power of love.

Book synopsis

In 1992 Edita Mujkić fled war-torn Sarajevo with two young children, in a borrowed car, with two bags and fifty American dollars in her pocket. Her husband wasn’t allowed to leave. They believed it was only for a couple of months. After five months of waiting, Edita and her children moved to Northern England. Months turned into 600 days of involuntary separation. Australia beckoned. This compelling true story of courage, love and humanity is a reminder of the nightmares that those fleeing conflict endure and of the difference that the simplest acts of kindness make.

See what others had to say:

‘A beautiful, tender book about war and loss—and the triumph of two people’s love for each other and their children. A story for our times. It will make your spirits soar.’ Michael Cathcart, from ABC Radio National ‘A beautiful, earnest, story that brought tears to my eyes.’ Mikaela Oldham, Goodreads review

‘A haunting, deeply moving memoir that journeys from war-torn Sarajevo to suburban Melbourne via England. A remarkable story of family, love, loss and separation, illuminating the tragic human consequences of ethnonationalism, and serving as a warning for our own polarised times.’ Angela Smith, non-fiction writer and poet ‘This is a poignant and powerful memoir, artfully written and ultimately uplifting. I can't recommend it highly enough.’ Anne Freeman, author

Where you can find the book

Edita’s powerful story is especially relevant today, and will leave readers with a sense of hope, and a reminder that love persists. Between Before and After is available from all good bookstores and libraries, and online at hawkeyebooks. com.au Before & competition time here at Echo News! We are delighted to have a copy of ‘Before & After’ enter, fill in the details mail to PO Box 243, Arana Hills, QLD 4054 the details below to the subject drawn on the 1st November.

An Art Exhibition For All

A group of local aged care residents have a newfound love for art, after holding their very own art exhibition.

Residents from Regis Ferny Grove have been exploring their creativity through pencil work and paintings. The exhibition at the home featured the art works of the aged care residents, who had been working on their creative projects over the past couple of weeks. Fellow residents, family members and employees of Regis Aged Care came together to elect the winner of the special event, which went to Jean. ‘I was overjoyed to receive first place,’ expressed Jean.

Art therapy is a valuable way for residents to feel comfortable expressing their emotions through a creative avenue. It is an outlet that allows residents to show how they feel without using words, in a safe and welcoming environment. The creative process is also a rewarding activity, allowing a sense of self expression, accomplishment and pride in one’s work. The sessions are the perfect setting for enhancing creativity and building relationships amongst fellow residents.

The residents of Regis Ferny Grove are eagerly anticipating the next exhibition they will hold. Leading the team assisting with residents creative output is Justin, General Manager at Regis Ferny Grove. ‘I always thought it would be nice to deliver more to the community.’ Justin had spent 20 years working in luxury hotels across Australia, New Zealand, United Kingdom and Indonesia but like many people, the COVID-19 pandemic provided Justin with an opportunity to re-evaluate his career path. ‘I used to watch NGOs (Non-Government Organisations)

and peacekeepers go about their business in the media. I always had visions of doing more and contributing beyond hospitality.’ In August 2020, Justin started as the Assistant Manager (AM) of Regis Sandgate Musgrave in Brisbane. He then worked across several Regis Aged Care Homes during the 2020 festive period before being appointed AM of Regis Sandgate Lucinda for 12 months. In January 2022 he became the General Manager of Regis Ferny Grove. Justin’s passion and dedication to his new career path is clear for everyone to see. ‘We have so many opportunities to impact people’s lives,’ Justin said. ‘My eyes tear up just thinking about it. This is not a reaction you have working in the hospitality sector. I am trusted with some people’s most private moments and that is not lost on me.’ Justin says aged care is about improving people’s quality of life. ‘This is where they live—it’s not just where they go to get care and go home.’

‘We have discussions about aged care and the perception of what it’s about,’ Justin explains. ‘I think there’s a lot of misconceptions out there. People don’t know what to expect until they start working in an aged care home.’

The dedicated team on hand in the home work tirelessly to ensure the health and wellbeing of all residents is met. Fun and stimulating activities are a daily staple which keep residents engaged and allow for the development of new skills and hobbies. Residents keep in touch with the community with regular and varied outings, while activities inside the home are motivating and interesting. Regis offers a diverse range of care options including residential aged care, home care, retirement living, day therapy and day respite. Regis is one of the largest providers of aged care in Australia and cares for more than 7,000 residents each year.

Find out more about their care and career options by calling 1300 998 100 or visit www.regis.com.au

Students Speak Their Minds At Public Speaking Competition

Year 11 students at Mitchelton State High School were invited to speak their minds at the Brisbane Bunya Lions Club's 34th Mitchelton State High School Public Speaking Competition.

The contestants voiced their opinions at the annual contest which began as an opportunity for students to engage in public speaking before entering the Lions Clubs Australia national Lions Youth of the Year competition.

Lions Club of Brisbane Bunya President Ms Donna Hedges said, ‘Both competitions encourage young people to experience public speaking, share their opinions and help build their confidence and leadership skills.’

Aspiring law student Taliah spoke of the dangers of performative activism in social media, while winner Ameka, who wants to work as a geologist when she leaves school, spoke of bodily autonomy. Climate change was the topic chosen by Parker who, in the future, wants to work in aviation in the Australian Defence Force.

Ameka was presented with the Ian Dunsdon Memorial Trophy and will receive a bursary of $250.

Mitchelton State High School teacher, Mrs Marilyn Milner said, ‘The students delivered their speeches with passion, despite being nervous.’

‘They demonstrated the school vision - Engaging Minds, Connecting Hearts - while displaying our values of Respect, Engagement, Achievement and Lifelong Learning. ‘I am very proud of their courage and confident delivery before

Lions Club of Brisbane Bunya President Ms Donna Hedges, Mitchelton State High School students Tahlia, Ameka and Parker, Lions Club of Brisbane Bunya Project Chair Mr Frank Atkinson.

a live audience of over 30 people.

‘The students were very grateful to the Lions Club for this valuable opportunity to develop their skills,’ Mrs Milner said.

Lions Club of Brisbane Bunya Project Chair, Mr Frank Atkinson said the judges had a difficult time choosing the winner with such ‘formidable’ presentations.

Further Mr Atkinson thanked the Judges Toastmasters International Trevor Oxnam, and Lions Susan Coutts and Lyle Batley.

By Willmore Kindergarten

At Willmore Kindergarten we love to celebrate and explore important cultural events in our children’s lives. We are gifted with such a broad range of cultures and backgrounds amongst our families. It opens so many avenues for us to learn and appreciate how other people celebrate, live and the different rituals that some cultures have.

Recently we were able to put this into practice by holding our own lantern walk, based off the German tradition that celebrates the generosity of St Martin.

One of this year’s families is of German heritage and we were so lucky to have them come and share this beautiful tradition with us. The children were able to play out the story of St Martin, who is said to have cut his cloak in half to warm a beggar on a cold winter’s day in Germany. The children were then

able to make their own lanterns, honouring the kindness that St Martin showed. The lanterns symbolise the warmth that the beggar was gifted that day.

As part of learning about this beautiful tradition, the children and their families were then invited out to George Willmore Park, at dusk, to walk around with their

lanterns and sing ‘Laterne Laterne’ and ‘Ich geh mit meiner Laterne’ two German songs. The children were delighted to see their lanterns lit up against the evening sky and it was such a beautiful moment to share together. Thank you so much to the Klein family for teaching us about this tradition and sharing some insights into your family’s heritage.

When we come together and celebrate different cultures and traditions, it enables the children to identify and appreciate their belonging and significance in this world. (EYLF outcome 1. Children have a strong sense of identity. 1.3 Children develop knowledgeable and confident self-identities.) We get to share different parts of what make us unique and special and share those qualities with those around us. (Outcome 2. Children are connected to and contribute to their world. 2.2 Children respond to diversity with respect.)

We encourage you to explore your heritage and share some traditions or rituals with those around you. It may just be as magical as our lantern walk.

Lighting Up The Night At George Willmore Park Veterinary Mon-Fri, 9am

The Lanterns that were made by the children at George Willmore Park

The Klein Family

The Woodfired Oven - More Than Just Pizza

New restaurant The Woodfired Oven plans to swing open its doors in late October / early November this year on 2/290 Dawson Parade, Arana Hills. Wedged between Dominos and Peter Duttons office, this fresh slice of heaven has a long history of success.

Owners Chris Gill and his wife Lorelle, have lived locally for 28 years, growing up in The Gap and Keperra respectively— they now live just 500 metres from the shop. 6 years ago, Chris grew inspired by the many pizza ovens he’d built for customers of his Landscape Design & Construction business and chose to instal an oven in his backyard. After falling in love with its use, Chris dedicated his spare time to investigating the costs of opening his own food truck, and a year later the build was organised.

December 2017 was the year the couple spent their Christmas break cooking in their first food truck and working out the kinks. Early 2018 they held their first backyard event, which quickly progressed to an official February opening in Teralba Park. In 2019, the food truck business became a full-time deal. The business now has 6 regular locations each week: Wittonga Park in The Gap, Jubilee Park in Bardon, George Wilmore Park in Ferny Hills, Amarina Ave in Ashgrove, Alfred & Lucina Best Park in The Gap, and Teralba Park in Everton Park. They also provide private and corporate catering with a few public events thrown in, too. However, as their business has grown exponentially, they found that establishing an additional shop would allow for them to cater to their heavy flow of customers in an innovated way.

One of the reasons it is taking The Woodfired Oven so long to open their store is their quest to deliver a *chef’s kiss* perfetto

menu. Grand plans have been set in place to be realised in this store, which is why they advertise ‘More Than Just Pizza’. Chris tells, ‘With two smokers in the store we are planning on bringing back our smoked Pork and Beef Ribs, slow cooked and smoked meats that can be combined on a burger or as a side to a meal or on our loaded fries. We're developing our own range of Smash burgers, pork belly burnt ends, and more! You can buy a bucket of maple bacon as a side, and there will be some salads and other items as well. Of course, our wood fired pizza, deep dish ‘Detroit’ style pizza and garlic bread will also be on the menu. We also have a great range of desserts coming from Belgian Waffles, Gelato, Shakes, and Sundaes.’ What’s more, The Wood Fired Oven will serve to cater Coeliac and Gluten Free guests, so that everyone can come, sit, relax,

Woodfired Pizza’s welcoming shop front and find something delicious on the menu. They will be adopting a Fast Service restaurant style, with enough seating for people to still come and enjoy. Ordering can be completed online, in store, or via phone call.

So, if you are looking for a venue for a family get-together, a birthday party, or any celebration, The Wood Fired Oven will be able to cater for your needs. You can even hire out their Dining room for private events on Saturday nights. They are also looking into purchasing a projector and screen so they can host the big game on State of Origin nights.

A modern contemporary interior awaits at Woodfired Pizza

Sewing Solution To Period Poverty

In the Western world it can be easy to take for granted the access most females in our community have to sustainable menstrual health solutions. However, for some living overseas this is a privilege and not something that is easily sourced.

Nevertheless, a local not-profit organisation, Days for Girls (DfG) wanted to change that and is doing it, one step at a time. The group prepares and distributes sustainable menstrual health solutions to women and girls who do not have easy access to sanitary products. The organisation was founded in 2008, by American woman Celeste Mergens after visiting an orphanage in Nairobi, Kenya and discovering that menstruating girls were missing many days of school because of their periods.

Now DfG has a network of teams around the world, all working together to try to make a difference and we have a local team right in the heart of Brisbane’s Northside, who meet in Paddington. This branch alone has distributed 440 kits this year to Timor Leste, Papua New Guinea and the refugee camps in Somalia. The kits are distributed with a health education presentation. The team needs your help and is seeking more volunteers to sew components. They also require volunteers for non-sewing tasks which include packing, cutting, ironing and folding undies and washers. Members of the community may also help by donating funds, hosting a fundraising event or why not ask them to speak at your club or organisation to raise awareness!

DfG Brisbane Northside meet monthly for sewing and packing of kits at Rosalie Baptist Church Hall, Cnr Ellena St and Fernberg Road, Paddington.

A Successful Season for Arana Netball

This year Arana Netball entered the Downey Park winter netball season with 10 competitive teams.

The club were delighted to see six of their teams making it through to the Grand Final round, with three of those teams finishing as 2022 premiers. Well done to Arana 8 who came away with the under 12's premiers, Arana 5 who scored the cadets premiers and Arana 3 who took out the inters premiers.

The club would also like to extend a massive congratulations to their runners up teams; Arana 4 - Inters - runners up, Arana 7 - under 13's - runners up and Arana 1 who took out the opens runners up.

This was a great achievement for all the Arana Netball teams, including their four non-competitive teams during another great season.

Christmas Gift Inspiration Galore

An update from the Arana VIEW Club

The end of the year is fast approaching with only two meetings left for the year.

Arana VIEW Club’s November meeting is on Wednesday 2nd November at the Arana Leagues Club, Dawson Parade, Keperra 10.30 for an 11am start. The cost for lunch is $30 for a two course lunch with tea and coffee.

This meeting is their last ‘Make, Bake and Grow’ table for this year. There is sure to be wonderful items for everyone to purchase. Remember, Christmas is just around the corner, so this could be your chance to buy some gifts.

This meeting is also the Annual Cent Auction with more chances to purchase those Christmas Gifts. Have a look through your cupboards and bring along any unwanted items that could be added to the auction. This will be the group’s last real fundraiser for the year to support their 14 Learning for Life Students with the Smith Family.

The Fashion Parade at the September meeting was a huge success. Members purchased many items so everyone will be looking very smart at upcoming meetings. Another September outing was a trip to City Hall to view the Margaret McKinney jewellery collection followed by a high tea at Kerrie Craig Emporium. Furthermore, four of the members travelled to Adelaide for the VIEW National Convention.

Please contact Carol on 3355 5349 before 12 noon on Monday 31st October if you are attending this meeting. New members are always welcome

Arana 5 who took out the cadets premiers in this seasons Grand Final round

News From The Den

An update from the Golden Valley Keperra Lions Club by Paul Ryan

The announcement by Prime Minister, Anthony Albanese who declared a public holiday for the National Day of Mourning on 22nd September, allowed us to reflect on the life of Queen Elizabeth ll.

This was largely accepted by Australians, even though employers who must stay open will be faced with penalty rates of pay for employees.

At the time of writing this reflection, I was reminded that the 21st September is ‘World Gratitude Day’. A day where individuals and organisations can celebrate the meaning of gratitude in different ways. So rather than mourn the passing of Queen Elizabeth ll, we should be grateful for her life of service. A few notes from the Golden Valley Keperra Lions Club;

Your Golden Valley Keperra Lions Club works hard to support the community with approximately 70% of funds raised being returned to local projects – thank you for your support

This week we received our supplies of Lions Christmas Cakes and Puddings – please look out for these beauties at the usual venues, drop into Kakowan Koffee at James Drysdale Reserve or give us a call. Businesses, remember these can be an excellent gift to give your staff at Christmas.

Do you have a couple of hours free each week or fortnight? Do you like meeting people? Then maybe you would like to volunteer at our Coffee Shop. Training provided, mainly taking orders and table service of snacks. Give me a call, it may be the reason you need to get out of the house.

Australians have so much to be grateful for, unfortunately some don’t often see the blessings we receive until someone points it out to us. Americans may have this one right by writing into their constitution a national day of gratefulness, celebrated each year with their Thanksgiving Holiday.

Thanks again, Paul Ryan

Golden Valley Keperra Lions info@kakowan.org.au

Ph: 0409 688 675

Golden Valley Keperra Lions

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

Contact on 0409

Elope and get married on my beautifully decorated deck in Ferny Hills or at a location of your choice. Affordable Legals Only & Elopement ceremonies.

Small to medium wedding specialist Registered Celebrant & JP (Qual) Five Star Celebrant Ph: 0404 231 052 www.christinatowler.com.au

Celebrate with the Senior Committee Lunch & Techno ‘Hands On’ Session

Thursday 20th October 2022, 12pm to 3pm. Doors open 11.30am Arana Leagues Club Foundation Room

Enjoy a delicious meal of a Buffet Roast with baked vegetables, Dessert, Bread Rolls with Tea and Coffee. Cost: $25.00 Book via the website www.hillschamber.org.au

Click on Events, Go to Senior’s Lunch, Click on Get Ticket (with the number you wish to purchase), Follow the prompts.

Contact Judith 0431 159 921 or Leonard 0417 883 688 & Be Connected Week is Coming Up event

The Hills Echo, October 2022 -www.echo-news.com.au

A Gem of A Hobby is Just Around The Corner

An update from the Mitchelton & Districts Gem Club The Mitchelton and Districts Gem Club has its clubrooms located at 46 Ferneydell Street, Ashgrove. It is open every Thursday from 9am to 12 noon for sawing, cutting and polishing rocks and from 12pm to 3pm for silverwork. It is also open on Saturday from 1pm to 4pm. The club caters for Gemstone enthusiasts in the Northwestern area of Brisbane. We have a large range of machinery which members can use to cut and polish gemstone materials. We have a 24 inch diamond saw, right down to an 8 inch diamond saw and various sizes in between, to cater for all rock sizes. These saws operate in oil to keep the rocks cool while cutting and the rocks must be

thoroughly cleaned before they can go on to the next process, whether that is slabbing further or turning into a cabochon. We have also four cabochon machines and two diamond grinders, which are used to grind pieces of rock into shapes, including cabochons or ‘free forms’. Lapidary supply dealers sell ‘findings’ which you can buy to fit cabochons into. These ‘findings’ come in set sizes and are aligned to templates which you can use to mark out the shape of the stone you wish to cut.

If this type of hobby interests you, don’t hesitate to get in touch with either John on 0407 582 980 or Lloyd on 3351 2093 who will be only too happy to have a chat to you about the workings of the club. You can also visit us on our website – www. mitcheltondistrictsgemclub. wordpress.com or our Facebook page – Mitchelton and Districts Gem Club Inc.

BROOK HOTEL DEVELOPMENT

UPDATE

No doubt you will have noticed the development taking place at The Brook Hotel on 169 Osbourne Road, Mitchelton. Works are now well underway that will see a contemporary new tavern and hotel being constructed creating a vibrant dining precinct.

Please note, the north-west outdoor car park (between Big W and Toyworld/Rebel Sport) will be closed for works from 19/9/22 until the end of October ’22

Looking How To Lower Your Interest Rate? Here’s How!

By Scott Palazzi from Loan Market

The Reserve Bank of Australia announced another hike to the cash rate last month from 1.85% to 2.35%. This takes the total increase in the cash rate this year to 2.25 percentage points, up from a record-low of 0.1% in May.

With this increase, we have seen home loan interest rates increase across the board for both fixed and variable rates. People with a variable-rate loan will already have felt the hit to their hip pocket, but there are options available to them to help save money.

How much of a difference could lowering your interest rate make?

Let’s look at two loan amounts as an example.

From May until August, homeowners on variable-rate loans could have seen interest rate hikes of around 1.75 percentage points, depending on their loan. What does this look like in repayments?

If you had a $500,000 loan with monthly principal and interest repayments over a 30-year term and your interest rate increased from 3% p.a. to 4.75% p.a., your repayments would have increased from $2,108 to $2,608 - an increase of $500. If that loan was $1 million, repayments would have increased from $4,216 to $5,216 - an increase of $1,000.

So what difference can negotiating a lower interest rate make to your repayments?

Decreasing interest rates from 4.75% p.a. to 4.5% p.a. would reduce monthly repayments by $75 on a $500,000 loan and $149 on a $1 million loan. Furthermore,

decreasing interest rates from 4.75% p.a. to 4.25% p.a. would reduce monthly repayments by $148 on a $500,000 loan and $297 on a $1 million loan.

When we look to get you onto a better rate, there are a number of ways we can go about it. First, we can look to negotiate with your current lender. Alternatively, we can look at the broader market to see if you could be better served elsewhere. This is repricing or refinancing. Repricing versus refinancing

When we negotiate with your current lender to get you on a better deal, that is called repricing. This can be a straightforward process and your interest rate or fees change, but the lender remains the same.

If we find you a better deal with a different lender and move you across, it is called refinancing. Many lenders offer lower interest rates to new customers, and/or cashback incentives.

This will need to be weighed up with any potential fees charged in the change, so we will run the calculation for you and let you know if it would be beneficial for you over the longer term.

Beyond interest rates

Another thing to keep in mind is that interest rates aren’t the only way we could look to save you money. Lenders also charge fees depending on your deal. We can evaluate the current loan you are on and assess whether the features are still serving you.

I’m here to support you, call me on 0413 747 283 or email scott.palazzi@loanmarket.com.au

Buying Land ‘Off The Plan’

An update from the Ferny Grove and Upper Kedron Residents Association (FGUKRA)

The are a number of real estate developments across our surrounding suburbs at the moment that offer land for sale ‘Off the Plan’.

Usually these are housing lots that are part of a development, or stage of a development that has been submitted to the relevant Council for approval, but the approval has not yet been received.

This can involve purchasers signing a contract to buy land on the assumption or understanding that the land will or should be available for building on by a date. The contracts for the purchase of the land often will include a ‘Sunset’ date or clause when building commencement or full purchase must be made by.

These types of arrangements have the potential to leave ‘off the plan’ buyers extremely disappointed or facing considerable financial loss when delays in the approval process, or the actual construction of the roads and housing lots have not occurred by the time they understood the land would be available to them to build on.

To address this, the Queensland Government has recently sought community views on two matters relating to ‘off the plan’ residential property sales contracts:

• The use of sunset clauses by property developers (sellers) to terminate the contract.

• The early release of deposits to property developers (sellers). The consultation closed on the 14th September 2022, however, it is expected it will inform the Queensland Government’s review of the relevant legislation.

‘Off-the-plan’ land contracts are complex as they involve risks for developers and buyers. Our Association strongly encourages potential purchasers to have a detailed discussion with their lawyer before they sign any contract to purchase ‘off the plan’, so they are aware of any potential risks.

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

Aspley Artists Unite For Another Great Show

The Aspley Art Group will be presenting another selection of their art at the Aspley Hypermarket from Monday 17 October until Sunday 23 October.

The group are looking forward to seeing some new and familiar faces, and invite the whole community along to enjoy their exhibition. All paintings are for sale, and members are also delighted to consider commission requests.

If you are interested in joining the Aspley Art Group, they are always happy to welcome new members. Please speak to one of their friendly artists who can have a chat about the group’s activities and supply a membership form.

You can also check out their website for information about upcoming shows, tutorials and other activities at www. aspleyartgroup.org

30 Years Young And Still Going Strong!

An update from the Picabeen Community Centre

Picabeen Community Centre is holding their Annual General Meeting (AGM) on the Tuesday 18th October at 6pm at our Centre in 22 Hoben Street Mitchelton. This meeting is expected to take no more than 30 minutes.

From 6.30pm, the centre will be holding their 30th anniversary event to celebrate their 30th year! The whole community is encouraged to pop down and help them celebrate.

Picabeen Christmas Hampers

It’s the time of the year where the centre start to reach out to the community for an expression of interest for collecting nonperishable food items for our 2022 Christmas hampers. These hampers go out in December and provide much needed supplies and food to families within the community who are experiencing hardships. If this is something your business might be interested in, please contact the team on 3354 2555 or email info@picapeen.org.au.

Picabeen Change Room

The Change Room’s new trading hours are from 9am-4.30pm Monday-Friday and 9am-1pm Saturday. This is in response to community interest, and Picabeen is so thankful. There are some lovely spring clothing items in store at the shop located on Dallas Parade, Keperra and hope that you pop in and say hi! Keep up to date with the Change Room on Facebook at www. facebook.com/PicabeenChangeRoom

Picabeen Community Centre hope to see you soon!

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.

Nutrition for Toddlers: Wednesday 5th Oct. 10am - 11.30am

Join accredited dietitian/nutritionist Carly Booth as she discusses toddler nutrition for 1-4 year olds, practical tips, meal plans and serving sizes. Free. Bookings required.

Citrus Success: Saturday 15th Oct. 11am - Noon

Pick up tips on growing the most productive citrus trees from local gardening expert, Claire Bickle. Bring your questions on soil preparation, reliable varieties,

pest and diseases to watch out for, and the best fertilisers. Free. Bookings required.

Meditation is for Everyone! Friday 21st Oct. 11am - Noon

Everyone needs a way to develop a peaceful mind - if our mind is peaceful we can start to reduce our experience of problems and stress. Teacher Gen Kelsang Ani has based this talk on the book How to Transform Your Life by Geshe Kelsang Gyatso. Gen is an Australian Buddhist nun who has studied and practised Kadampa Buddhism with Venerable Geshe Kelsang Gyatso Rinpoche for over 20 years. This session will explore how we can use meditation to improve our resilience in daily life and how this in turn can improve our concentration, relationships, our health and wellbeing. You will learn how to do a simple breathing meditation, one that you can do anywhere, anytime and start to integrate a bit of peace into your busy daily life.

MOBILE MECHANICS THAT COME TO YOU!

Presented in conjunction with Tharpa Publications. Books available for purchase. Free. Bookings required.

Seniors Month: Cooking For One : Friday 28th Oct. 10.30am - Noon

Celebrate Seniors Month and discover how easy it is to cook for yourself with the Nutrition Australia QLD team. Watch a banana pancake cooking demonstration by an accredited practising dietitian, and then make tomato bruschetta, and asparagus, quinoa and mint salad to enjoy eating with the other workshop participants. Free. Bookings required.

Lego Engineers Club: 2nd & 4th Wednesday of the month. 3.30pm4.30pm

Develop design thinking and engineering skills as you build and create with LEGO ® bricks. Meet other brick fans and complete challenges, group builds and more! Ideal for ages 6-12. Registration required.

DEVICE ADVICE: Get help using social media, library apps, your smartphone, tablet or iPad. Visit your library anytime for a quick fix, or for more complex issues talk to one of our friendly staff about scheduling time of one-onone assistance.

The Hills Echo, October 2022 -

A Winning Wedding Cake Takes Centre Stage

An update from the Brisbane North Cake Decorators Club

The next meeting for the Brisbane North Cake Decorators Club will take place on the 15th October at the Arana Hills Community Centre and it promises to be extra exciting!

Seder Yener, a celebrated Cake Artist, will be demonstrating the techniques and tricks of working with pastillage. He will create some amazing works of art during the afternoon. The demonstration will be start promptly at 1pm and there will be a small fee of $10 to attend. Please contact the club at brisbanenorthcakedecorators@gmail.com if you would like to attend.

Several members of the club were successful at the recent cake show in Upper Coomera with members scoring second place for the ‘Branch Wedding Cake’ which was voted for by the public. The club would like to extend a massive congratulations to everyone involved, they feel lucky to have such talented members in the group.

The Annual General Meeting took place at the September meeting where a new President and Secretary where elected, both of whom are reasonably new to the club. Furthermore, Sue from Central Branch showed members at the meeting how to make an Oncidium Orchid in sugar.

Visit the club’s Facebook page by searching Brisbane North Cake Decorators Association QCDA or email them for more information. New members are always welcome.

The club’s wedding cake that scored 2nd in the Annual Cake Show!

Sue from Central Branch showed members how to make an Oncidium Orchid in sugar

AUSTRALIA DAY AWARD NOMINATIONS OPEN!

Do you know someone doing amazing things in the community? Shine a light on our local heroes and nominate someone for a 2023 Australia Day Award! Nominations are open until 28th October through Moreton Bay Regional Council’s website www.moretonbay.qld.gov.au/Services/ Community-Support/Awards-and-Bursaries/Australia-DayAwards-Program

Opening Hours: Mon - Fri 9am – 5pm www.australiapost.com.au

Your local spring and wellbeing guide!

How is Oral Health Linked To Your General Health?

Did you know that oral health is linked to your overall general health?

It’s important to take an integrated approach to overall health, after all a healthy mouth can equate to a healthy body. Here are a few facts from local dental experts Admire Dentistry to help you achieve a healthier you.

How is Oral Health & Gut Health Linked?

A build-up of harmful biofilm on the surface of your teeth and gums cause gum disease. Gum disease creates an imbalance in the mouth’s normally healthy microbiome. This in turn creates a harmful biofilm build up which can then be ingested and travel to the gut. The gut is usually tough, however prolonged exposure will eventually disrupt a healthy microbiome. A weakened and inflamed gut is much more susceptible to other diseases.

How is Oral Health and SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19 linked)

A healthy mouth, can help against COVID-19. The mouth acts as an entry point for COVID-19. Poor oral

hygiene results in harmful biofilm build up, which has been found to increase the chance of bacteria travelling from the mouth to the lungs. While COVID-19 is primary a respiratory illness, evidence is suggesting gut health also plays a role. Recent research is showing that poor gut microbiome may influence the severity of COVID-19.

How can I minimise harmful Biofilm?

A tool that can help to remove the harmful biofilm that causes poor oral health, and therefore contributes to poor general health is the EMS AIRFLOW system. This system is the only technology that removes this harmful biofilm from inaccessible areas of the mouth in a minimally invasive way. The trusted Oral Health Therapists at Admire Dentistry are very knowledgeable and highly trained in the use of this system and are on hand to answer any questions you may have.

For more information, contact the friendly team on 3064 1044

Always Telling Your Kids To ‘Stand Up Straight’!?

The importance of good posture in growing brains and bodies

Postural strength is the ability to hold ourselves upright against gravity. Good posture comes from muscles around the spine, shoulders and hips activating properly with good endurance.

How does posture impact your child’s brain, body and ability to learn effectively?

Having optimal postural strength is an important driver for children to be able to use their brain effectively for concentration, focus and engagement; which in turn leads to better learning and play. When each area of the lower brain is functioning well it allows the higher part of the brain (cortex) to work optimally so a child can think and play optimally.

Where does good posture start?

Strong postural muscles start developing in the first year of life, beginning with lots of tummy time! Postural strength requires consistent firing of the postural muscles and this in turn leads to brain stimulation. As the muscles continue to build strength, the neural pathways in the brain also strengthen. This feedback system makes our posture strong and consistent.

Why are we seeing so many children with poor posture?

Our kids’ bodies are designed to move, a lot! When they don’t move enough this can cause a decrease in postural strength development. Common causes in babies and toddlers can include a lack of, or dislike, of tummy time and/or too much time in carriers. In kids and teens, some

common causes can be too much sedentary behaviour, increased screen time and/or a decrease in active play. How does poor posture affect the body and brain?

It can be harder to concentrate, keep up with peers, stay motivated in activities because a body with poorer posture takes a lot more energy to function.

Poor posture in children can look like rounded shoulders and upper back, head forward of shoulders, and an increased lower back curve. They may be constantly leaning on things or holding their head up in their hand when sitting at a desk.

Parents often tell us they find their child complains of tiredness when on family walks, bike rides or they completely avoid physical activity. Poor posture may also lead to fuzzy thinking and difficulty concentrating and completing mental tasks in a timely manner.

How can Chiropractic help?

As Chiropractors, our goal is to support your child to develop better postural strength by correcting areas of the spine that aren’t functioning properly.

At Function.allied.Health, we offer ‘Back to School Check Up’s’ to see how your child’s posture, school bag and shoes are all contributing to their postural health and development.

If you have any questions about your child’s postural strength or development, please get in touch to find out how we can help. And don’t forget Mums and Dads need good postural strength too!

Never Tried Reformer Pilates Before?

Why Function All Pilates is perfect for beginners

Have you always wanted to try Pilates but have been put off thinking it looks too difficult? If you’re a newcomer to reformer Pilates, we understand that it can seem a little intimidating at first with all those springs and ropes. The reformer machine is surprisingly easy to use and also a lot of fun!

We're here to explain why our reformer classes are PERFECT for beginners.

Let The Springs Do The Work

The reformer is designed with springs and levers to create resistance. The intensity of the exercises can be adjusted with the springs. Both the springs and straps of the machine provide support to assist with the movement, making it easier than a mat workout, which relies on your strength to lift your own body. As you become stronger, you can manipulate the spring settings so you can improve strength and mobility.

It’s Resistance Based But Low Impact

Pilates is a low intensity support and resistance based exercise that is designed to strengthen, lengthen and restore balance. It's even suitable for those suffering from chronic issues or recovering from an injury. The springs and ropes are specifically designed to enable you to work in the horizontal plane rather than weight bearing, reducing the load through your body. The low impact allows for repetitive movements to occur which in turn tones and strengthens the injured areas to speed recovery.

We Focus On Form And Function

Using a reformer to perform specific, individualised movements will give you a balanced, full body workout. The use of the springs on a reformer, globally strengthens the whole body to not just target the large muscle movers, but also activate the smaller stabilisers. Where there is uneven weakness, you are also able to work unilaterally to focus on and correct imbalances. And our instructors are always there to make sure you are doing the exercise correctly.

You Don’t Need To Be Flexible

In fact, Pilates enhances flexibility! Through the elongated movements and stretches incorporated into the workout, the body is able to adjust and respond to the exercises with regular training. The more you do it, the more flexible your body will become.

Every Exercise Has An Easy Option

The Reformer allows for a much more versatile workout in comparison to mat or body weight training. In every class our instructors provide different spring tension options as well as regressions and progressions to suit every level.

Try Our Foundations Class

If you are new to Reformer Pilates, try our Foundations class, it is designed for absolute beginners! Let our instructors know about any injuries or concerns, and they’ll look after you. We are here to help get you moving in a fun and functional way. Details on advert below!

Spring Clean Your Eating Routine!

It’s official: Spring is here! The days are longer, the air is fresher, and everybody seems to be in a cheerful mood.

For most people, this time of the year represents growth, blossoming of new things and new beginnings.

Everything is fresh and reborn whenever Spring comes around, including the bounty of fruit and veggies that come into season. It’s the perfect opportunity to allow more fresh, healthy foods into your diet to fill you up and clean you out. Here’s a list of different ways to eat healthier this spring:

Seek Out Spring Veggies

Seasonal produce that comes straight from the farm to the table contains many more nutrients and much more flavour than produce that has had to travel long distances, making it the better choice. Current spring veggies such as artichoke, silver beet, sugar snap peas and zucchini are packed with healthy nutrients to refresh your mind and replenish your body.

Make It A Veggie Good Morning

Eating veggies is beneficial at any time of the day and having at least one serving in the morning will help you meet your recommended daily serving of 2 to 3 cups. Why not sneak your favorite spring vegetables into your morning protein of choice; such as making a veggie omelette, avocado toast, or veggie breakfast-tacos?

Get Your Fruit Goodness

Studies suggest that your body gets more out of certain fruits at certain times of the year. Eating fruit that is in season is more than just a matter of having your apples

or paw paws when they taste the best. Fruit that is harvested at its peak time of ripeness contains higher nutritional values such as Vitamin C, folate and carotene which typically diminish very quickly when stored for a long length of time. The fruit may also cost less, so it’ll be much easier for you to reach your required intake of recommended daily servings without breaking the bank.

Give Healthy Snacks A Chance

Skip the chips, candy bars and fries that give snacking a bad name. Stock your refrigerator with healthier snack alternatives such as chopped vegetables and sliced fruits, along with ‘grab-and-go’ snacks like fruit and veggie smoothies, fruit skewers or overnight oats with berries.

Eat Mindfully

Mindful eating means paying attention to your food and savoring it as you eat. This allows you to actually eat with pleasure and reduces episodes of binge eating. When you really focus on your food during mealtimes, you will appreciate the flavors, smells, and textures more, which will help you feel more satisfied.

Healthy Eating Made Easy Gourmet Meals is here to help you in making healthier food choices because what you eat matters. Whatever you’re in the mood for, you are sure to find something on their menu! All meals are made from only the freshest seasonal produce and ingredients, are wholesome and nutritious, plus they are served snap-frozen to keep their freshness and flavours intact.

So if you want real food that is healthy and tasty, place your order now on their website or call 1300 112 112.

Reduce your salt intake for a healthier heart

Whether you’re working full time, a busy parent, or younger adult with a hectic social calendar – it can be hard to keep track of your average salt intake and maintain a healthy diet.

But a high intake of salt often leads to increased blood pressure and the risk of heart disease for you and your family.

Sadly, there are often no visible signs of high blood pressure, which means many people don’t even know they have it.

Despite being unable to see or feel it, it is certainly a health risk to be taken seriously.

Other than high blood pressure and heart failure, high salt intake is also commonly associated with conditions such as kidney stones, uid retention, strokes and osteoporosis.

Reduce your risk by making healthier choices each day, and the rst step is avoiding processed food.

Seventy- ve per cent of our salt intake comes from packaged and processed foods we eat daily such as

bread, cereals, processed meats, cheese, sauces and spreads.

High levels of salt are also added to foods such as packet soups, pies, sausage rolls, sausages, processed meat, pizzas and frozen meals.

For a healthy heart – and to improve your health in general – make the switch to Gourmet Meals. Not only will you be able to eat a variety of dishes that are salt-reduced and fat reduced, but you’ll save time at the supermarket as well as cooking and cleaning at home.

At Gourmet Meals, we can help you eliminate processed foods, excessive carbs and sugars in your diet as our meals are all portion and calorie controlled and contain little or no additives.

Gourmet Meals are packed with avoursome whole foods and vegetables and are all high in bre and protein, and 100% gluten free.

Ask for a copy of our exciting new menu today or go visit the website.Vegan and vegetarian meals now available.

A Wealth Of Wisdom For Your Wellbeing

By Mary from Mary’s Place of Wisdom

At Mary’s Place of Wisdom my niche is working with children and families, where I offer one-on-one counselling, either in person with COVID practices in place, online or via the telephone. I am also delighted to offer a variety of workshops, more details can be found at www.marysplaceofwisdom.com.au

If you are thinking about attending counselling, you may want to also look into energy healing through REIKI and Australian Bush Flower Essences as these can complement counselling through calming the body, mind and emotions.

I am fully equipped to help you through your journey, with previous experiences in teaching and supporting children with Behavioural and Social Emotional issues. This is strengthened by my desire to complete an Advanced Diploma in Holistic Counselling, Graduate Certificate in Artistic Therapies, and Emotional Literacy for Children. This sits perfectly with my Masters in Education degree, majoring in Special Education and my Honours Degree in Education with a focus on Boys‘ Literacy. Children‘s lives cannot be compartmentalised. Their emotions, behaviours, education and social interactions affect all areas of their lives.

Also included in my repertoire of skills is Expressive Therapies and Energy Healing. It never ceases to amaze me how truly wonderful these therapies are. Intuitively, I

had included many of these processes in my classrooms with great success and continue to see this in the counselling setting.

Furthermore, I am delighted to include Artistic Therapies in the services offered at Mary’s Place of Wisdom. Through trust, self-discovery, emotional release and integration, Artistic Therapies allows the client to explore and communicate those feelings too difficult to put into words. You will find children are exceptional at this type of therapy as they play with clay, draw with crayons, paint with watercolour, use symbols to solve problems in the sand tray and through the dramatic art of movement and sound.

For more information, please visit my website www. marysplaceofwisdom.com.au or give me a call on 0407 315 919

Ingredients:

1.5 cups old fashioned rolled oats

1/2 cup peanut butter

1/3 cup pure maple syrup

1/3 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

Method

Mix ingredients together in a bowl.

Put in fridge to chill for 30mins. Enjoy!

Ladies That Lunch

An update from The Mitchelton Branch of the Older Women's Network Qld Inc

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 them for any or all of their get togethers.

Upoming events are as follows:

Tues 4th Oct. 10am: Techno Coffee Kakawan Coffee, Bunya Community Centre, Jinker Track Sat 8th Oct. noon: Lunch Arana Leagues Club

Tues 11th Oct. 10am: Coffee Cafe Lagarto Samford Valley

Sat 15th Oct. Coffee Birds & Bees, Everton Hills 10am

Tues 18th Oct. 10am: Techno Coffee Cafe 63 Stafford City

Wed 26th Oct. noon: Lunch at the Arana Leagues Club. No Monthly meeting Tues 1st Nov. 10am: Techno Coffee Morning Leagues Club

Tues 8th Nov. 10am Coffee Cafe Lagarto, Samford Valley 10am.

The aim of the 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 three 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.

A Novel For Living Strong & Free

Local resident, Annie Baxter is excited to be one of the contributing authors to the book, Strong and Free Vol.2.

The book was launched in Australia last month and is written by strong women around the globe, who have broken free from the constraints put on them and are now living free and aligned lives. The stories shared are beautiful examples of how much you can achieve if you are determined to improve your life. Strong and Free Volume 1 was a number one best seller in Australia.

For more information on how you can purchase the book, contact Annie via her Facebook Group https:// bit.ly/MetoMum

A Royal Visit At Albany Creek

An update from the Samford Museum

A recent visitor to Samford Museum told us she is the daughter of a former headmaster, who lived in the Head Teacher’s residence at Albany Creek State School.

She was surprised to discover the story behind the first building, the Head Teacher’s residence from Albany Creek State School had relocated to the museum grounds in 1984 and was thrilled to share her memories.

To commemorate the 1954 visit by Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip, the Commonwealth Government of Australia presented school children with a small souvenir booklet. At the time Her Majesty’s Australian and Queensland Representatives were His Excellency the Governor General and Commander in Chief of Australia, Field Marshall Sir William Slim GCB, GCMG, GBE DSO, MC; and His Excellency the Governor of Queensland Lt. General Sir John Lavarack KBE, CB, CMG, DSO. The Royal couple’s Australian tour stretched from 18th February until 1st April with the Queensland leg spanning 9th -18th March. Memories of this and other visits by Her Majesty the Queen and Prince Phillip, how we saluted the flag each morning when on parade and when ‘God Save the Queen’ was our anthem, came flooding back in recent days following her passing.

Museum members provide an educational program in line with the school curriculum, display and maintain the collection of relocated historical and purpose-built buildings and objects displayed within these buildings and around the grounds.

Many skills are required to keep the society and its collection maintained and operational. A comprehensive local history

1954 Royal Visit Souvenir Booklet On Display at the Samford Museum research library is available to researchers. If you have some time and talents which could benefit Samford Museum, our Secretary would be pleased to hear from you or visit on Sunday or Wednesday between 10am and 4pm. For more information, email info@samfordmuseum.com.au or call 3289 2743

History Fact: Grapes, oranges and vegetables were grown on farmland in Ferny Grove and dairying flourished in the 1870’s

Kelvin Grove’s History Revealed

An update from the Enoggera & Districts Historical Society

Following public interest from last month’s article on Dr Tom Bancroft, in this edition we have some information about his father!

As Brisbane traffic roars along Kelvin Grove Road, motorists may wonder after whom Bancroft Park is named.

It is named for Dr Joseph Bancroft, who was born in Lancashire in the mid-1800’s, studied medicine in Manchester, and at age 19 married Ann Oldfield.

They set sail for Australia and in 1865 Dr Bancroft commenced practicing medicine in Brisbane. He purchased land in inner north west Brisbane known as ‘Three Mile Scrub’. He renamed the area ‘Kelvin Grove’ by which the suburb is known today.

Dr Bancroft became known for his experiments improving food and fabric outputs for the local colony. He invented new surgical instruments and used native plants for medicinal purposes. Later, he served as President of the Queensland Medical Board, the Health Officer for the City of Brisbane and was the first medico to set up professional rooms (property then called ‘Carlton’) in the now well-known Wickham Terrace medical precinct.

The photo on the right is of Dr Bancroft at his Carlton medical facilities.

The Enoggera & Districts Historical Society Inc. (EDHS) welcomes continuing contributions from local residents about stories and identities for our region from years gone by. Visit the Enoggera Memorial Hall any Thursday morning between 9.30am and 1pm.

Take care, everyone. Andrew McMicking, President

KEDRON ARTS GROUP PRESENTS

LOCAL ART & CRAFT SHOWS

Brookside Shopping Centre, 159 Osbourne Rd, Mitchelton

10th - 16th October 2022

CRAFT ONLY. Last show for the year, don’t miss out! Kedron Arts Group (KAG) consists of local artists and crafts people, and provides the opportunity for members to showcase and sell their work to the public. KAG donates a % of all sales to nominated local charities, such as Karuna Hospice, Drought Angels, A Brave Life and Qld Rural Fire Brigade.

For more details email kedronartsgroup@gmail.com

Dr Bancroft at his medical premises

Learning a new skill, such as a craft, doesn’t just make you the cool person who knits at the pub. Lifelong learning has benefi ts for mental health, wellbeing and even cognitive function. Even better, learning in person can boost your sense of social connection and community.

The Nest Community CEO Roz Fenson said the skill sharing model at The Nest is a mutually beneficial way of learning a new craft technique.

‘Not only do participants benefit from the expertise of our amazing volunteers, but sharing their knowledge and experience is a way to boost the wellbeing of the teachers,’Ms Fenson said.

‘Through sharing their skills, our volunteers are transferring a lifetime of knowledge and experience, whether it’s craft techniques or their general wisdom. You can learn pretty much anything online these days, but nothing beats sitting with someone and having a personal hands on lesson to embed the knowledge.

‘There’s also an inherent kindness in giving your time to others and there are huge benefi ts to both giving and

Destress And Learn A New Skill receiving kindness. It boosts mental and physical wellbeing and creates a sense of community.’ Volunteers at The Nest Community regularly share their skills in crochet, knitting, embroidery, quilting, sewing and basket weaving. Classes are run by a volunteer mentor and supported by other volunteers who can assist attendees with techniques and tips. ‘Skill sharing is

traditionally a way to teach and preserve skills and transfer knowledge through generations,’ Ms Fenson said.

‘People learn in different ways and by attending a class you can have the full experience of learning through listening, watching and doing. Plus, unlike a video online, you can ask questions and get immediate feedback on what you’re doing.

‘Learning new skills has been shown to improve cognition and memory, potentially slow down ageing, reduce stress, and boost your sense of happiness and wellbeing.’

In addition to workshops and courses, The Nest Community also offers a Yarn Birds social group for people who have completed a workshop or already know how to knit or crochet. There is also a monthly Fashion Revamp Club for those interested in upcycling, mending and restyling wardrobe favourites into fresh items. Inexpensive craft supplies for all classes are available through The Nest Haberdashery thrift shop.

Visit The Nest Community at 720 South Pine Road ,Everton Park Monday to Friday from 10-1pm or Saturdays from 10am-4pm. Alternatively, find a craft workshop at www. thenestcommunity.org.au

A workshop in progress at the Nest Community

A great deal of benefits can be reaped from becoming a volunteer

Dickson News

Peter DUTTON MP Federal Member for Dickson

In memoriam: Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II

We are deeply saddened by the death of Her Majesty The Queen. For over 70 years, she devoted her life to the service of the people of the Commonwealth.

Between 1954 and 2011, The Queen visited Australia 16 times. Her first visit in 1954 – the first by a reigning sovereign –remains the largest event in Australian history. It is estimated as much as 75 per cent of the country’s population saw The Queen and Prince Philip in person during this tour. Her reign spanned sixteen separate Australian Prime Ministers. Thank you, Your Majesty, for everything.

2023 Dickson Community Awards

Nominations are now open for my annual Dickson Community Awards which will be presented on Australia Day, Thursday 26 January 2023. These awards celebrate the achievements, talents and drive of ordinary people, businesses and organisations who have made extraordinary contributions in what has been another challenging year.

If you know of an individual, business and/or organisation who’ve gone above and beyond throughout this year, please visit my website www.peterdutton.com.au and nominate them for an award. Nominations for the 2023 Dickson Community Awards close 5pm Friday 25 November 2022.

Be prepared

The Bureau of Meteorology has officially declared a third consecutive La Nina, which means we’ll be seeing above average summer rainfall again this wet season. To be prepared and to stay up to date, all residents should consider signing up to MoretonAlert, Councils free alerts and warning systems app: www.moretonbay.qld.gov.au/Services/DisasterManagement/MoretonAlert

Good luck!

Good luck to all the Dickson finalists at this year’s Moreton Bay Business & Innovation Awards:

• Drone Games

• Lawnton Aquatic Centre

• Oncall Group Australia Pty Ltd

• Just Better Care Brisbane North

• Belco Custom Trailers

• EJ Australia

• The Mural Shop

• SRJ Walker Wayland Pty Ltd

• Integrate PHYSIO

• Lillybrook Dental Surgery

• Springers Solar

• Elexon Mining

• Cashmere Syrups

• Encircle Ltd

• Stationery Aid

• The Carers Foundation

• The Youth Development Foundation

• Ocean View Estates

• The Store of Requirement

• Bray Park State High School – Shnoompy Boy Designs

• PHL Photos (Mt Maria Petrie - Yr 11)

What’s important to you?

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.

Have You Spotted A Platypus Yet?

Did you know that Sandy Creek at Albany Creek is home to the Platypus and its habitat.

To raise awareness about this shy and gentle native marsupial Moreton Bay Regional Council have erected information boards at three locations along Sandy Creek listed below.

1. At the pedestrian bridge in Cuthbert Park (behind Albany Creek State School).

2. Near the playground in Tom Simpson Park.

3. At the pedestrian bridge in Tom Simpson Park (behind 19-21 Avon Crescent).

Here is a bit about this magnificent marsupial...

Description: Platypus have a large sensitive bill, flat tail, short legs and webbed front feet. They are often referred to as a combination of a duck, beaver and an otter.

How do I spot one? If you are looking to spot one of these delightful creatures, they often float low in the water, with their head and rump visible above the water line. You should look out for circular ripples as these are created when a platypus dives. The best times to spot these animals is at dawn and dusk when they are out and about in the water. Platypus are shy animals so try and keep quiet!

Happy Platypus spotting!

The Hills Echo, October 2022 -www.echo-news.com.au

THE FERNY REPORT

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

Ferny Grove Markets Update

As I indicated last month, negotiations have been continuing over the future of the Ferny Grove Markets. In September I hosted a meeting between Queensland Rail (QR), the Department of Transport and Main Roads and Colin, the Ferny Grove Markets operator, to determine the next steps for the Ferny Grove Markets.

A preliminary agreement has been reached between QR and Colin to explore the possibility of holding the markets in the multi storey carpark. There are still a number of issues to work through – including the practicalities of access and site hire costs, but we are closer to a long-term solution. I am pleased that all parties in the meeting had goodwill towards ensuring the markets have a long-term future on site.

As a next step, I am organising a site visit for Colin and the QR team to inspect the facility to determine its suitability. I will have further to say once this inspection has occurred.

Traffic and Transport Consultations

Thank you to everyone who put in submissions for the record investments in traffic and transport in the Ferny Grove Electorate. The Department of Transport and Main Roads (TMR) have posted the community consultation report on the Samford Road Intersection Project to its website for public viewing. It can be accessed here: https://bit.ly/3qYdIqb. The next phase of the project will include the installation of the right-hand turn pocket from Samford Road into Glen Holme

The Queensland Government has provided $200,000 to Moreton Bay Regional Council to plan the design of the Hills District Civic Centre at 303 Dawson Parade. Recently I met with Mayor Flannery and Cr Constance to inspect the site and look over the preliminary draft proposal.

Street and will commence construction in 2023. The Gaythorne Railway Station Park and Ride Project consultation closed on 25 September. TMR will now consider the public submissions and will publish its finding next year. The proposed expansion will deliver around 140 additional parking spaces for commuters, upgraded parking facilities for people with disability, new bike storage facilities and improved lighting and CCTV. At present, the Gaythorne Park and Ride Project is only funded for the investigation phase.

You may remember our article from the August edition of the Echo Newspapers about local ballerina Emily Sprout, who was off to the 2022 Sydney Eisteddfod Ballet Scholarship Final?

Well, we are delighted to report that on Sunday, August 28th

Esteemed Scholarship Awarded To Local Ballerina at the Sydney Opera House Concert Hall, Emily was awarded the outright winner!

She was one of eight promising young Australian ballet dancers who competed in the final. Emily was awarded a total prize pool of $18,000 consisting of a $15,000 scholarship, as well as $3,000 to further her studies in classical ballet.

Congratulations Emily! Emily Sprout

I was delighted to invite players from Mitchelton Football Club, Pine Hills Football Club and Albany Creek Excelsior Football Club to a reception at Queensland Parliament to wish the Matildas luck for their game against Canada. It was great to have these future stars involved in this fantastic event and give them the opportunity to meet some of their Matilda icons.

With Australia and New Zealand to host the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup, it was excellent to see the excitement in the next generation of Australian women’s soccer players. I wouldn’t be surprised if we saw some of these awesome young stars competing professionally in the future.

A steadfast reign of service has come to an end with the sad passing of Queen Elizabeth II.

The Queen devoted her life to the betterment of the Commonwealth and its people. Queen Elizabeth II represented a superb example of loyalty to her duties until the very end. The Queen provided unwavering support for Australia and for Queensland in our most challenging times and her kindness and compassion will never be forgotten.

I offer my condolences to the Royal Family and to the people of the United Kingdom. I was honoured to be able to sign the condolence book for Queen Elizabeth II at Queensland Parliament House recently.

To keep up to date with what is happening in your local area visit my Facebook TimManderMPEverton or website timmander.com.au

If you would like to contact me, please phone my office on 3535 1100 or email: everton@parliament.qld.gov.au

Tim Mander MP Tim Mander with local football players

Tim Mander MP signing the condolence book for Queen Elizabeth II at Queensland Parliament House

Woolshed Nostalgia From The Horses Mouth

For local residents, the Australian Woolshed will hold many fond memories, but none more so than the founder and owner of this iconic tourist attraction himself, Ken Mander-Jones .

Here at Echo News, we were delighted to receive a submission about this incredible gentleman and the history surrounding the Woolshed.

For those of you who are not familiar with the Australian Woolshed which operated from 1982 to 2006, the attraction was located at Ferny Hills not far from Samford. In its heyday the award-winning tourist destination, attracted thousands of visitors from around the world each month. The Australian Woolshed mimicked an outback sheep station featuring exhibitions like ram shows, sheep shearing, billy tea and damper making and bush dancing. The highlight for many was the native wildlife on display including koalas, wombats, dingoes, emus and crocodiles. Many birthday parties were hosted at the waterslides and miniature golf course.

At the height of its popularity the Australian Woolshed hosted 1,000 ram shows annually and had 75,000 foreign tourists visit. The onsite restaurant served 100,000 meals a year and was the third-biggest user of Polaroid film in the state.

Ken’s vision for the Australian Woolshed was somewhat inspired by his days working on the land as a farmer in regional Queensland. ‘I was running a sheep property at Dirranbandi and in the 1960’s we had the most shocking drought that I’ve been associated with. There was 12 months where it didn’t rain,” Ken said. “That made me start thinking that there had to be better things in life than running a farm in a drought. I moved into cattle, but soon that industry was falling off the cliff too.’

After selling his farm and livestock and moving to Brisbane in 1979, Ken and his wife Margaret started working on their vision to develop a theme park, originally known as Rainbow Valley. ‘I started a tourist attraction with a waterslide for a start – the first waterslide in Brisbane – to get a bit of cash flow. I always had the idea of a woolshed because I knew the sheep industry. It was always going to be the main part of the business.’

‘People told me plenty of times that they thought I was crazy. We were building it all on 22 per cent interest (rates). It was always going to take a number of years to be viable and that’s exactly what it did become.’ With the Crocodile Dundee movie exposing the ‘land down under’ to a foreign audience of millions, Ken notes ‘the Australian tourism industry became quite profitable’.

After a name change to Australian Woolshed, the tourist attraction welcomed a seemingly endless stream of overseas visitors, particularly from Japan, China and Singapore seeking an Aussie ‘outback’ experience.

‘What I enjoyed most was reaching the international markets and the pleasure we gave people that went there and appreciated it. That was most satisfying,’ Ken said.

‘I also loved the bush dances. Most nights we would have a full house, absolutely packed out with 300 people. It was extremely successful.’

Ken’s favourite animals at Australian Woolshed were the koalas that would crawl up his leg and sit on his shoulder, which ‘people couldn’t believe was possible’. He also loved the rams ‘which would walk on stage by themselves’ for three shows held each day.

Sixteen years after Australian Woolshed closed, Ken stills meets people who visited the tourist attraction and he receives “always complementary” feedback about their experiences. Ken now resides at a local residential aged care community. Ken now resides at the Carinity Brookfield Green residential aged care community.

Ken Mander-Jones with some of his many Queensland Tourism Awards

Australian Woolshed founder Ken Mander-Jones now lives at the Carinity Brookfield Green aged care community in Brisbane

Gardening During The Hotter Months

An update from the Hills Organic Community Garden

The months of Autumn, Winter and Spring have provided us with an abundance of wonderful vegetables including cabbages, beans, snow peas, baby spinach, silverbeet, kale, carrots, leeks, lettuce and cauliflowers. In addition, our strawberry garden has been producing some very nice fruit and our broad beans are flowering nicely, attracting the bees and we look forward to picking some broad beans in the next few weeks.

However, with the warmer months approaching, our planting will slow down and the gardens will have a well earned rest.

There have been quite a few tomatoes plants which will be producing some fruit soon. As our plants die back they will be chopped and placed in our compost bays to break down, which will create some fantastic compost for the gardens next Autumn.

The Hills Organic Community Garden have a wonderful group of members who help out every Sunday to carry out chores as well as having the added bonus of social interaction.

The Hills Organic Garden is a great place for ‘green thumbs’ and lovers or organic vegetables to come and enjoy the company of like-minded people as well as being able to grow, harvest and eat healthy vegetables.

The garden is a community venture where volunteers work together to grow a chemical-free harvest which they can all share.

If you would like to join this friendly group of garden enthusiasts, why not pop along on a Sunday afternoon between 2pm and 4pm 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 a 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!

Water saving tip!

ONLY WATER YOUR LAWN WHEN IT NEEDS IT

If your lawn springs back after stepping on it, it doesn't require watering. When you do water, a good soaking every now and then is preferable to frequent, light watering.

Learn More About Gerberas

From the Ferny Grove Garden Club

The next meeting of the Ferny Grove Garden Club will take place on the 28th October. Members will enjoy a talk by Geoff Robinson on Gerberas. Here is your chance to learn how to grow them, keep them healthy and discover more about the various forms of this bright, cheerful plant. The club meets at 1 pm, on the last Friday of each month at St Matthew’s Church Hall, Church Road, Mitchelton. For more information, please contact Elizabeth on 07 3851 0568.

An update from the Mitchelton and Districts Garden Club Learn More About the Brilliant Bonsai

The November meeting of the Mitchelton and Districts Garden Club will take place at the Enoggera Memorial Hall on Thursday 26th October, provided there are no restrictions in place. Bonsai is the topic of guest speaker, Bruce Harkness. In August the Brisbane City Council opened a new Bonsai House at the Mt. Coot-tha Botanic Gardens where one of the largest publicly owned Bonsai collections is housed. ‘Bonsai’ comes from the Japanese language - a word which means ‘plant in a tray’. It’s the skill and artistry of its creator that makes Bonsai look aged and so fascinating. Do you know Bonsai may take on the age of the plant from which it is propagated? That means a cutting grown from a fifteen year old shrub and trained to grow in bonsai style could be called a fifteen year old bonsai. While Bonsai may be displayed indoors for a couple of days, they are not indoor plants and should be grown outdoors.

For those who make their own compost, if you can turn the heap each week it will help make prunings and other vegetation decompose rapidly. More heat will be created if you add some blood and bone fertilizer, and odours will disappear as more oxygen passes through the mixture. Any weed seeds or other pests will be destroyed by the heat. Plant hardy summer annuals such as zinnia, marigold, petunias, etc. and plant vegetable seedlings periodically to ensure a continuous supply, rather than have the whole patch come to maturity at the same time. Here are two tips shared by Barbara Beerling, guest speaker at the September meeting. She said to leave lettuce seeds in the refrigerator for a few days prior to planting and to always wash tomato seeds you want to save, Apparently there’s a fermenting element in the tomato juice which interferes with germination.

Entrance to the Enoggera Memorial Hall is at 36 Trundle Street. The hall is close to public transport and accessible by wheelchair. . Meetings commence immediately after morning tea which is served at 9.45 a.m. Visitors and new members are most welcome. For more information please phone the president, Pat, on 3356 1256.

Bringing Back The Spark

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 maintaining the spark in a long-term relationship

Relationships can be hard work, especially if we have a habit of avoiding conflict, sweeping things under the rug, or shutting down because we feel attacked. It’s interesting because as humans we all want love, we all want to feel special and we all want to feel like the person in our life genuinely loves us and chooses us first. Sometimes I use an example with clients from the movie, The Secret Life of Pets. Here we see Max the puppy get worried because he thinks when his loved one leaves for the day, they forget about him. Sometimes, we forget that our partner loves us, we just assume the other person knows we love them and this can lead to taking each other for granted. So how can we then make a secure relationship, where we always remember that we are loved and respected? Firstly, let’s discuss things what can hurt the relationship before we learn how to build up our relationship. The Gottman Institute, which is one of the world’s leading relationship institutes, suggests there are four predictors to separation - criticism (personal attacks/judgement), stonewalling (walking away during conversation or chooses not to engage), defensiveness (excuses for their behaviour) and contempt

(ridicules, mocks or is sarcastic). These can lead your partner into feeling abandonment or rejection - that they are not valid or heard within the relationship. They feel that their opinion is not important and they are an inconvenience, which then increases the distance between partners, as they feel like they can’t be vulnerable or connect any more as it will lead to hurt. We then feel we need to ‘save face’ and that being open is a weakness alternatively we shut down and withdraw. When we have been burnt, the pain is all too familiar and we don’t want it to happen again.

When we don’t have the communication tools in our toolbox, we are constantly getting triggered or repeating generational cycles from previous relationships or our parents- so it can be difficult to see there is a problem. Generally speaking, we can have a predictable cycle in relationships where the first person is not feeling valued, appreciated, or respected, so they will criticise their partner but to their partner it will feel like an unprovoked attack and then they will follow with defensiveness. Both parties are now dysregulated and move into their flight or fight, freeze or fawn responses. We are not able to be in the moment and cannot be rational or understand the consequences. This leads us to sometimes do or say things we regret. When we get into these arguments, how do we then ‘Repair the Rupture’ in our connection? How do we make each other feel safe again?

When we can learn how we think and our responses to why we are triggered, we can then understand how to ‘soothe’ ourselves and regulate our nervous system into feeling safe again – so we can reengage into healthy conversation. This is building our toolbox. We can then learn that being vulnerable, open and emotionally exposed isn’t scary – if our partner is able to respectfully receive us. This is also about learning our emotional needs, if we don’t know what they are, then we can’t ask for them to be addressed. The best thing about a healthy relationship is understanding and meeting each other’s emotional needs. Have you heard of ‘love languages?’ Please take an online quiz to find out what yours and your partners is. What we do for others to make them feel loved, is our love language, this includes; Words of Affirmation, Physical Touch, Quality Time, Acts of Service and Receiving Gifts. The funny thing is that we generally have different love languages in relationships. When we are not getting what we give, we feel a disconnect that our partner is not giving us love –but they are in their love language.

There are no such things as a perfect relationship, we are all different and we all have unique needs. Sorry to burst your bubble but The Spark is an illusion. It is really feeling that someone genuinely cares for us, that we are still voluntarily trying to make an effort with each other, like we did in the honeymoon phase. Then, our beautiful connections can lead to intimacy. Knowing our partner won’t hurt us, that hey understand us and won’t use things against us.

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. They listen without judgement and provide a safe space to discuss your needs, worries or concerns. They will also work with you to explore options for support.