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Keith Moore, a cherished member of the Gaythorne Bowls Club, celebrated his 99th birthday on Monday, February 17.
With a remarkable 35-year tenure at the club and 20 years serving on its committee, Keith’s contributions have been pivotal in shaping the club’s legacy.
A resident of the community for 71 years, Keith is known not only for his skill on the bowls green but also for his unwavering dedication to community spirit. ‘I still look forward to our Friday sessions every week,’ Keith shared, highlighting his passion for the game even after nearly a century of life.
Over the years, his consistent presence at the club has made him a living icon in the local bowls scene. Fellow club members praise his commitment and friendly nature, noting that his enthusiasm and leadership have inspired many to take up the sport.
In recognition of his milestone, the club marked the occasion with a little party and cake after their session on Wednesday, 19th February. Echo News was invited to join in the celebrations, capturing the spirit of the event and the admiration held for Keith in the community.
His story is a testament to the joy of community, the power of perseverance, and the timeless appeal of bowls.
Welcome note from the Editor
Welcome to the March 2025 Edition of The Everton Echo!
Bringing this issue to life has been an absolute pleasure, packed with inspiring local stories, important news, and upcoming events that showcase the heart of our community.
I’m also excited to share that Talk of the Town, our weekly news podcast, is back and buzzing with fresh energy!
This month, Von is joined by a fantastic lineup of guests, from local legends to community changemakers, plus all the latest event updates. You can listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Amazon. As The Everton Echo continues to grow, one thing remains the same—our dedication to keeping local news free and accessible. Every month, we proudly distribute 10,500 copies across Everton Park, Stafford, Mitchelton, and beyond, all while staying 100% locally owned and operated. Thanks for being part of our journey—I can’t wait to see what the rest of this year brings!
Director; Echo Media Group Pty Ltd
Published by: Echo Media Group Pty Ltd, ABN: 92 620 601 907 . A: PO Box 243, Arana Hills, QLD 4054 P: 0466 607 045. E: admin@echo-news.com.au
W: www.echo-news.com.au
The Everton Echo is also a proud member of
The Everton Echo is bound by the Standards of Practice of the Australian Press Council. If you believe the Standards may have been breached, you may approach Echo News or make a complaint to the Australian Press Council in writing at www.presscouncil.org.au. The Council may also be contacted on 1800 025 712.
Copyright: All rights are reserved and the contents within this magazine 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. At the time of going to press (20th February 2025), information contained within this issue is correct.
Serves: 6 | Prep time: 20 min | Cook time: 35 min
Ingredients
• 900g potatoes, parboiled and cooled
• 150g feta cheese, crumbled
• 40g cheddar cheese
• Cracked black pepper
• 3 tablespoons sour cream, reduced fat
• 1 egg
• 3 tablespoons milk, reduced fat
• 1 teaspoon sriracha (hot chilli sauce)
• 1 large bunch of silverbeet, blanched and cooled
• 5 sheets filo pastry, reduced fat
Method
PREHEAT oven to 170°C. Line pie dish with baking paper.
CUT parboiled and cooled potatoes into slices and lay half over the base of the pie dish.
COMBINE half of the feta cheese with cheddar cheese and sprinkle over potatoes.
SEASON with pepper and place the remaining sliced potatoes over base layer.
MIX sour cream, egg, milk, sriracha and remaining feta together in a bowl and pour over potato.
CUT silverbeet leaves roughly in large pieces and lay over the potatoes.
SCRUNCH each sheet of filo into a loose ball and place on top of the pie.
BAKE in preheated oven for 35 minutes or until top is golden and crisp.
SERVE warm with a side salad.
Recipe courtesy of Yvonne Dalziel, Palmwoods Branch of the Queensland Country Women’s Association
After a period of inactivity due to COVID-19, the Stafford 12 Neighbourhood Watch group is set to relaunch with an Annual General Meeting (AGM) on Sunday, 30th March 2025 at 3pm.
The meeting will take place at Everton Park Green, located at the corner of Dargie Street and Namatjira Street.
Organisers are inviting residents within designated streets to take part in reestablishing the group, which aims to enhance safety, prevent crime, and foster stronger community connections.
Neighbourhood Watch plays a crucial role in crime prevention by encouraging residents to work together, stay informed, and collaborate with local authorities. With the relaunch of the Stafford 12 branch, community members have the opportunity to voice concerns, discuss local issues, and contribute to building a safer Everton Park.
Residents from the streets (and all streets within these boundaries) are listed below are encouraged to attend.
‘This is a fantastic opportunity for residents to come together and have a direct say in how our Neighbourhood Watch group operates,’ said local organiser John McCaffery. ‘We’re eager to see strong community engagement and encourage everyone to get involved.’
Residents are urged to attend the AGM to contribute ideas and help shape the future of Neighbourhood Watch in Everton Park. For further information the advertisement isshown below. Alternatively for inquiries, email NeighbourhoodWatchStafford12@ gvcrisk.com Sat 22 Mar, 10:30am to noon
Mitchelton Rotary is gearing up for its 2025 Umoja Fundraising Event, a special evening dedicated to supporting the Umoja Orphanage Kenya. This year’s event will feature Cathy Booth, founder of Umoja and a member of the Bundaberg Sunrise Rotary Club, as the guest speaker.
Cathy will provide valuable insights into the orphanage’s journey, sharing its progress and the ongoing challenges in providing a safe and nurturing environment for children in need.
In 2020, Mitchelton Rotary’s fundraising efforts successfully contributed to raising the roof on the second children’s home, Sinnamon House, named in honour of the late John Sinnamon, a dedicated Mitchelton Rotarian.
Event Details:
Venue: Arana Leagues Club, Foundation Room, 247 Dawson Parade, Keperra QLD 4054
Date & Time: Saturday, 15th March 2025 – 5:30pm for a 5:45pm start
Ticket Cost: $10 per person
Meal: Attendees can join for dinner at the club’s restaurant (own cost) at 7:30pm
For those unable to attend but wishing to contribute, donations can be made via TryBooking, which provides a tax receipt. To book, search TryBooking Umoja Orphanage Fundraiser 2025 on Google. Bookings open from 1st February 2025. Alternatively, visit www.trybooking.com/events/ landing/1345085.
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Arana Netball Club is celebrating a milestone season, with a recordbreaking 226 players across 24 teams set to hit the courts in 2025—an increase of four teams from last year!
The club’s recent Sign-On Day was a huge success, welcoming new and returning players to its ever-growing netball family. The incredible turnout highlighted the sport’s increasing popularity in the local community and reinforced Arana Netball’s reputation as a welcoming and inclusive club.
‘This growth is a testament to the strong sense of community and support within Arana Netball,’ a club representative said. ‘We love seeing players develop their skills, form lifelong friendships, and enjoy the sport we all love.’
With more teams than ever before, the 2025 season promises exciting competition, new opportunities, and plenty of netball action. The club encourages players, families, and supporters to get involved—whether through volunteering, coaching, or cheering from the sidelines.
A big thank you goes to the dedicated volunteers who made Sign-On Day a success. The club can’t wait to see its players take the court and make 2025 an unforgettable season!
Mitchelton FC’s National Premier League Women (NPLW) team put on a determined performance against Gold Coast United FC at Teralba Park on February 15th, securing a 1-1 draw in a tightly contested match.
After a first-round loss to North Lakes FC, Mitchelton was eager to bounce back— and they got off to a promising start. In the 12th minute, Genevieve McDonald found the back of the net, finishing off a well-placed cross from Tiana Simon after a strong break downfield. However, their lead was short-lived, with Gold Coast United equalising just two minutes later.
From there, it was a battle of resilience, with Mitchelton’s defence holding firm against repeated attacking waves from Gold Coast United. Despite both teams pushing hard for the three points, the match ended in a draw, leaving them to share the spoils.
It was a gritty and determined performance from Mitchelton, showing their defensive strength and commitment to getting their season back on track.
For more information and upcoming fixtures, visit www.mitchiefc.org.au
Walking For Pleasure Brisbane Inc. is a community-driven group offering a fun and social way to stay active.
Originally established by Brisbane City Council in 1988 in collaboration with the Queensland Council on the Ageing, the group became an independent, volunteerrun not-for-profit organisation in 2002.
Open to all ages, the group hosts walks across various Brisbane suburbs, including Petrie, Albany Creek, Bracken Ridge, Sandgate, and Stafford. Each walk is approximately 6 km in length, led by dedicated volunteer walk leaders. Participants can enjoy a variety of walks, including heritage routes, riverside strolls, and nature walks, scheduled at different times of the day to suit various preferences. Beyond fitness, the group provides a welcoming space to meet new people, engage in conversation, and unwind over a cuppa after the walk. First-time participants can join two walks free of charge before deciding to become a member. An annual fee of $35 covers public liability insurance and minor administrative costs. To ensure accessibility and affordability, walks are planned around public transport, though participants should note that dogs are not permitted. For more details, visit walkingforpleasure.com
Local resident John Tennock has been honoured with the 2025 Lord Mayor’s Australia Day Green Heart Award for his exceptional dedication to environmental conservation and community service.
For two decades, John has played a pivotal role in local sustainability efforts, from bushcare initiatives to climate awareness projects. He has been an active member of the Wahminda Grove Bushcare Group and the Kedron Brook Action Group, working tirelessly on weed eradication and environmental audits.
John’s passion for sustainability extends to education and advocacy. He has collaborated with local schools to demonstrate energy consumption using a bicycle-powered generator and has championed solar panel adoption through informative talks. His involvement in sustainability fairs and Clean Up Australia Day events further reflects his dedication to protecting the environment.
As a key contributor to Transition the Grove Inc., John serves as both treasurer and webmaster, providing valuable local resources through an extensive website. In 2022, he was instrumental in launching Repair Café the Grove, an initiative that promotes waste reduction by repairing household items. Described as a quiet achiever who works tirelessly behind the scenes, John’s efforts continue to make a lasting impact on the community.
Brisbane City Council’s Sun Safe Suburban Playgrounds program is bringing much-needed shade to local parks! By June 2025, new shade sails will be installed at Gum Nut Nook Playground and Laurina Crescent Playground in McDowall.
Borrowing a line from Creedence Clearwater Revival— “Long as I remember, the rain been comin’ down…”— Queensland’s wet season is in full swing once again. While we often direct our frustration at Mother Nature, history reminds us that heavy rain, hail, and floods are nothing new to the Samford region.
Since the 19th century, Samford and its surrounds have endured their share of extreme weather events. As far back as 1893, when Brisbane suffered catastrophic flooding, Samford was also severely impacted. The South Pine River at Draper’s Crossing on Bunya Road saw its bridge completely washed away by the raging floodwaters.
History repeated itself in 1931 when another major flood swept through the area. The bridge over Samford Creek was submerged, and lower parts of Samford suffered significant damage.
Few can forget the devastating floods of January 1974. Once again, Samford was hit hard. While Draper’s Crossing Bridge managed to survive the force of the flood, the approach road was extensively eroded, rendering the crossing unusable for nine months until a new concrete approach was built.
Beyond flooding, Samford has also been hit by severe hailstorms, such as those in 1987 and December 1991, when torrential rain pounded Mount Glorious. The notorious Goat Track has frequently been closed for extended periods due to damage from extreme weather.
The newly appointed committee
The Newmarket Bocce Club kicked off the year with its Annual General Meeting on February 2nd, bringing together 36 members to discuss the club’s future and elect its 2025 committee.
The newly appointed committee members are: President: Tony D, Vice President: Silvio, Treasurer: Bill, Secretary: Mario, Committee Members: Carmelo C, Leo, Carmelo B, Tony S,, and Philippe With a strong leadership team in place, members are looking forward to an exciting year ahead for the club. Congratulations to the new committee—here’s to a fantastic 2025 for the Newmarket Bocce Club!
Bridge adjacent to the Samford Bowls Club during flood c.1991.
More recently, the 2011 and 2022 floods left their mark on the community, with heavy rain causing major inundation. In 2024, the Samford Bowls Club suffered significant flood damage, highlighting that even in modern times, nature’s force remains formidable.
Despite these challenges, Samford has adapted. The new bridge on Bunya Road, opened in 2018 and named “Broad Bridge” after a pioneering local family, has been designed to withstand future floods, offering some relief to residents.
For those interested in learning more about Samford’s history of floods, the Samford Museum holds a collection of photographs and records documenting past events.
Samford Historical Museum is open Wednesday & Sunday, 10 am to 4 pm.
The Serenata Singers have proudly awarded Barbara Anderson with Life Membership, recognising her incredible 50-year contribution to the choir. Barbara joined the group in February 1974, just four years after its founding as The Gap and District Musical Society. Now celebrating its 55th anniversary, the Serenata Singers have been enriched by Barbara’s dedication, enthusiasm, and unwavering presence. Beyond being a constant in the choir, Barbara has also performed in trios at concerts, sharing her musical talents with the community. Her passion and commitment have made a lasting impact, and the group looks forward to many more years with her. Congratulations, Barbara, and thank you for five decades of music, friendship, and inspiration!
Imagine there was a prescription your doctor could give you that would boost your mood for free.
Now, instead of imagining a prescription, picture a pair of sneakers. Imagine putting them on and going for a walk around your neighbourhood. It doesn’t have to be long. It doesn’t even have to be particularly fast, but once you get back home again, chances are you’re going to feel a whole lot better.
This is the magic of walking.
Get a physical, emotional and social wellbeing boost
Like many people, you might think of walking as a way of delivering positive benefits to your physical health -and it can! Regular walking can reduce your risk of heart disease and stroke, help you manage your weight and blood pressure, and help you maintain bone density, to name a few.
It can also do wonders for your emotional wellbeing. Research shows that people who engage in regular exercise tend to have better mental health.
‘Physical activity has been shown to improve mental health symptoms both in those with and without mental illness,’ says Dr Oscar Lederman, a senior accredited exercise physiologist and a researcher in the University of Technology Sydney’s School of Sport, Exercise and Rehabilitation.
‘Symptoms like depression, anxiety and low self-esteem, as well as cognitive symptoms like memory and retention, can improve with even small increases in activity.’
What’s more, walking presents an excellent opportunity to enhance social health, which is the wellbeing we experience as a result of our relationships with others. By walking with friends, neighbours or with a walking group, you can transform a regular walk into an opportunity to connect with the people around you.
All exercise is good exercise — including walking.
One of the challenges of starting an exercise habit is that it can feel like a big commitment, particularly if it’s been a while since you’ve been active. This is where walking shines: you can set your pace, choose your distance and build a walking habit over time.
‘Walking, even at a low-intensity level, can significantly benefit mental health, and research strongly supports this. Studies show that small increases in physical activity can have both immediate and long-term benefits,’ says Dr Lederman. The good news? If you’re ready to get walking, Heart Foundation can help. Heart Foundation Walking is one of Australia’s largest free walking programs, with over 350,000 registered walkers and more than 700 walking groups across the country. No matter your location, age or fitness level, you can find a Heart Foundation Walking group near you.
If you’d prefer to walk on your own schedule, you can sign up for a free Personal Walking Plan that’s been developed by exercise and behaviour change experts and tailored based on your current level of activity.
Read more about Heart Foundation Walking, explore walking groups near you, and take the first step towards building a regular walking habit.
Visit www.walking.heartfoundation.org.au/start-group or call 13 11 12
‘Seaside Elegance’ by Running Duck Studio
With International Women’s Day approaching, Tawny Trails invites visitors on a unique journey through art, celebrating the strength, resilience, and boundless creativity of women.
More than just a single exhibition, Tawny Trails is an art trail that winds through the region from Mount Mee to Mount Glorious, showcasing the diverse perspectives and experiences of talented female artists.
International Women’s Day, first observed in the early 1900s, is a global celebration of women‘s social, economic, cultural, and political achievements. It serves as an opportunity to reflect on progress made, call for change, and recognize acts of courage and determination by ordinary women who have played extraordinary roles in their communities and beyond.
Female artists make significant contributions to the cultural landscape through their unique visions and artistic expressions.By showcasing their work, Tawny Trails acknowledges the vital role they play in the art world and beyond. Art serves as a powerful tool for empowerment, providing women with a platform to express themselves authentically, connect with their inner strength, and build confidence. By sharing their creativity with the world, these artists inspire others to embrace their own artistic potential. For more information and to access the trail map, visit www.tawnytrails.com. The main trail event takes place on Sunday, March 30th.
Tawny Trails is proudly supported by the Queensland Government through Arts Queensland and Running Duck Studio (www.rds.ink).
The new citizens that were welcomed on Australia Day at the awards ceremony
The Mitchelton Rotary Club proudly hosted its 22nd Annual Citizenship Ceremony on Australia Day 2025, welcoming 37 new citizens into the local community.
The event was presided over by Enoggera Ward Councillor Andrew Wines, while Member for Everton Tim Mander delivered the official Australia Day address. Attendees were also treated to a special performance by the Jubilee Singers, who led the singing of the National Anthem and performed three medleys of classic Australiana songs.
The ceremony was held at Arana Leagues Club, which generously provided the Foundation Room as well as a morning tea for all guests.
The Mitchelton Rotary Club extended its gratitude to the Jubilee Singers, Arana Leagues Club, Councillor Andrew Wines, MP Tim Mander, and the dedicated Rotary members who volunteered their time to ensure the event’s success.
The annual ceremony continues to be a meaningful occasion, celebrating new citizens and fostering a sense of belonging within the community.
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A miniature Cobb & Co Coach has arrived at the Samford Museum and is displayed in “The Mews” building along with several other horse-drawn carriages.
This model was built by Mr Vern Barnett and friends from Dayboro. It was completed in 2000 and is kindly on loan to the Samford Museum from the Dayboro Lions Club. Horse-drawn carriages provided an important transportation link between Brisbane and major outlying Queensland country centres, carrying passengers and the mail, during the 19th and early 20th century. Established in Melbourne in 1853, during the Victorian gold rush era, the operation was not originally named Cobb & Co., but was to be known as “The American Telegraph Line of Coaches”. The name-change to “Cobb & Co” was chosen by four American investors, one being Mr. Freeman Cobb (1830-1878) from Massachusetts, who was sent from America to establish the new service in Victoria.
Cobb & Co Coaches began operating in Queensland in 1866 with a trip from Brisbane to Ipswich, costing passengers six shillings, and later in 1868 with a route from Brisbane north to Gympie. Routes along longer distances were gradually set up, and, by the 1870s, a service began from Dalby to Roma. Horse “changing stations” were established every 30 miles (48km) or so. The coach driver would sound a horn or bugle one mile from the changing station so that the fresh horses were ready and no delay occurred.
The trip from Dalby to Roma would cost a passenger five pounds per day, and, if the passenger required a bed and a meal along the way, an additional two pounds and six shillings was added to the cost of the trip. Drivers were paid between ten and fourteen pounds per week, with free meals included. Travelling from Brisbane, the first change of horses was at Tom Petrie’s property “Murrumba Homestead” which was 16 miles (25km) from Brisbane. After a while, this became too much of a burden on his property and a hostel was established on the corner of River Street and Old Dayboro Road, North Pine (now Petrie). There was another changing station built near the corner of Buckby Street and Gympie Road (now Strathpine). Again, it was established as a hotel/hostel but did not have a licence to operate as a hotel. No Cobb & Co service was established in or near the Samford Valley; intending passengers needed to travel across to Gympie Road to access the service.
A century after its establishment in 1925, the Enoggera School of Arts and Memorial Hall is set to mark its 100-year milestone with two special events, organised by the Enoggera Hall Committee and the Enoggera Historical Society.
The first celebration, a ‘Stump Capping’ event, will take place on Sunday, July 20, from 2-4pm. This traditional ceremony, once a popular way to raise funds for community projects, will honour the hall’s foundations while bringing the community together in a festive atmosphere. A second event in November will commemorate the dedication of the Memorial Hall, with further details to be announced. Full program details and booking information for the July event will be available next month. Meanwhile, history enthusiasts can visit the Kate Perry Library, which is open every Thursday from 9.30am to 1pm and on the first Saturday of each month from noon to 3pm
The Brisbane North Cake Decorators Association is off to an organised and creative start in 2025, with members already hard at work preparing for their annual displays.
The next meeting will be held on Saturday, 15th March, at 1pm at the Arana Hills Community Centre on Dawson Parade. Following a short business session, members will take part in a mini workshop to begin assembling items for their upcoming displays in early July. With both the annual Cake Show and a library display at Arana Hills Library on the horizon, the group is ensuring everything is well-prepared in advance. February’s meeting was a lively and entertaining affair, with members trying their hand at crafting “quirky” birds. Thanks to Robyn and her team, who pre-prepared the base shapes, everyone had the opportunity to complete their own unique creation. The result was a delightful collection of comical birds, adding to the growing display items for the year ahead. Those interested in learning more or getting involved can connect with the group via their Facebook page, Brisbane North Cake Decorators Association QCDA, or by email at brisbanenorthcakedecorators@gmail.com.
Country music fans in Brisbane’s northern suburbs have a reason to celebrate, as the Northern Suburbs Country Music Club marks its 50th anniversary this May.
Operating in the Strathpine, Lawnton, and Bald Hills areas, the club has long been a hub for country music lovers—whether they sing, play an instrument, or simply enjoy listening.
The club holds monthly socials on the third Saturday of each month at the Bald Hills Memorial Hall (2126 Gympie Road, Bald Hills), starting at noon, welcoming all who appreciate live country music. For those looking to hone their skills, practice nights are held every Wednesday from 6pm to 9pm at Saint Faith’s Anglican Church Hall (corner of Sutherland Street and Samsonvale Road, Strathpine).
Over the years, the club has been a launching pad for many musicians, including a now-famous former member—Keith Urban, who joined at just 13 years old before rising to international stardom.
Whether you’re an aspiring performer or a devoted fan of country music, the club offers a friendly and welcoming space to share in the love of the genre.
For more information, contact President Jim on 0401 178 087 or Secretary Rhondda on 0416 085 575.
Jim Dionysius- President for the Northern Suburbs country music club
Looking to join a friendly group of card players? A welcoming group of ladies meets on the 2nd and 4th Monday of each month at Kakowan Community Centre, 2 Pine St, Bunya. Come for the cards, stay for the fun!
For more details, contact Bronwyn at 3264 6208 or Margaret at 0403 955 040.
The start of the year has brought plenty of heat and humidity, with just enough rain to keep the weeds and grass growing at a rapid pace! As a result, our mowers have been working overtime, and there’s always weeding to be done in the garden beds.
While not much is thriving at the moment, ongoing maintenance keeps us busy. Our rosella trees, however, are producing a fantastic crop, which means there’s plenty of homemade rosella jam being made. Our dragon fruit vine has given us a few beautiful flowers, though we’re still waiting to see if any fruit will follow.
March is a time for preparation in the garden. We’ll soon be enriching the soil with fresh compost and fertilizer in readiness for our April and May plantings. Crop rotation is key, so we’ll be carefully planning our beds to ensure we’re not planting the same vegetables in the same spots as last year.
Our community garden is a place of pride for our members, who work hard to keep it looking tidy and welcoming for both volunteers and visitors alike. The Hills Organic Garden (HOG) is a friendly and inclusive group, providing people in the Hills District with the opportunity to grow their own vegetables using organic principles. No matter your age or experience level, you’re welcome to join us!
We meet every Sunday afternoon from 3pm to 5pm during the summer months, with members also tending to the garden throughout the week to water and carry out general maintenance.
You’ll find us at 416 Bunya Road, Bunya, right next to the Off-Leash Dog Park. Annual membership fees are: $20 for adults, $30 for families, $10 for juniors.
For more information, visit hog.org.au, search for ‘The Hills Organic Garden’ on Facebook, or call 0415 856 532.
We’d love to welcome you to our garden!
An update from the Mitchelton Garden Club
The Mitchelton and Districts Garden Club is taking an exciting step towards enriching the experience of its members by diversifying its guest speaker program. While gardening remains the heart of the club, the committee recognizes the value of lifelong learning and the benefits of covering a broader range of topics.
Traditionally, the club has hosted expert gardeners and horticulturalists to share insights on plant care, seasonal gardening tips and sustainable practices. While these sessions remain a staple, the club will be inviting speakers on topics such as health and well-being, and government support schemes for seniors. This new program of talks will begin with a presentation from the Stroke Foundation in April.
Club President, Ros Morton explains the motivation behind the change: “Our members have a deep love for gardening, but they also have a wide range of interests. By expanding our speaker list, we’re creating more opportunities for social engagement, personal growth and practical learning.”
By diversifying its guest speaker program, the Mitchelton and Districts Garden Club is not only strengthening its community but also fostering a spirit of curiosity and lifelong learning among its members.
New members and visitors are always welcome to take part in this evolving and engaging program. For updates on our guest speakers or any further information, please email mitcheltongc@gmail.com.
Our meetings are held on the first Thursday of the month, at the Enoggera Memorial Hall (entrance via Trundle St). Doors open at 9:15 am and morning tea is available before a 10am start. Entry is $5. We hope you can join us!
Anyone with a garden knows pests can devastate anything and everything in no time at all. Rather than reaching for the latest and greatest chemical invention at the hardware store, consider using a little cayenne pepper to keep those pesky critters away. Cayenne won’t harm your plants, but it will keep unwanted animals and bugs from munching on all your hard work. All you need to do is sprinkle a quarter cup throughout your garden every few days and you’ll begin to see healthier plants without chewed-up leaves and half-eaten fruit.
Stafford Garden Club’s March meeting will feature Phil Adams, a passionate begonia enthusiast known for his exceptional potted varieties.
Phil will share expert tips on growing healthy, vibrant begonias, whether in sun or shade. With their succulent-like leaves and hardy nature, wax begonias thrive even in dry conditions, making them a great choice for any garden.
Join the club on March 20 at the OES Hall, corner of Kitchener Rd and Bohland St, Kedron. Morning tea kicks off at 9:30 am, offering a chance to browse the plant stall and admire member exhibits before the 10am meeting.
New members and visitors are always welcome! Connect with the club on Facebook (@StaffordGardenClubBrisbane) or email staffordgardenclub@gmail.com for more information.
The next meeting of the Ferny Grove Garden Club will be on Friday, 21 March at 1 pm.
At this meeting, the Ferny Grove Garden Club are looking forward to a presentation by Darryl Ruprecht about his trek through New Guinea in search of the Queen Fern.
Darryl has just completed his sequel, an exhilarating literary odyssey titled ‘The Queen Staghorn: A
Platycerium Adventure Across New Guinea.’
This enthralling journey plunges deep into the heart of New Guinea, meandering through the lush interiors of both Papua New Guinea and Western Papua. His unwavering quest? To unveil the elusive giant staghorn fern, none other than the massive Platycerium wandae, commonly known as the Queen staghorn, reigning supreme as the largest of them all.
The club would like to meet new members interested in gardening and friendship. The club meets at St Matthew’s Church Hall, Church Road, Mitchelton. For further information call Elizabeth, 07 3851 0568.
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Picabeen Community Centre, located in the heart of our area, continues to serve as a vital resource for those in need and a hub for fostering community connection.
Offering a wide range of programs and services, Picabeen is committed to supporting local families, individuals, and groups from all walks of life.
Picabeen’s food hamper service ensures that local families and individuals can access the essential support they need. These hampers are available to those facing financial hardship, helping to alleviate some of the pressures many are currently facing. Additionally, the No Interest Loans Scheme (NILS) is available to help with the cost of essential items, such as white goods or furniture, without the burden of high-interest rates.
Engagement and Social Connection
Picabeen’s community BBQ, held every Tuesday at 12pm, is a shining example of how the Centre brings people together. Free and open to all, this regular event offers both a meal and an opportunity to connect with others in the community, helping to combat social isolation.
The Centre also runs English Language classes on Tuesday and Friday mornings, providing a vital service for nonEnglish speaking residents to improve their language skills and integration into the wider community.
For our youngest community members, Playgroup sessions are held every Monday and Friday morning, offering a fun and safe environment for children to interact, learn, and grow.
Youth Programs
Picabeen’s Youth Team plays a key role in supporting the area’s younger residents. Safe Space on Wednesday afternoons is a dedicated initiative for members of the LGBTQI+ community, providing a safe and inclusive environment for them to share experiences and find support.
The Centre also offers a High School Drop-in session on Thursday afternoons, where teenagers can access a safe space for relaxation, advice, or just a friendly chat. In addition, Social Connections is held on Tuesdays, offering an opportunity for youth to build friendships and connect with others.
At The Change Room, the Centre’s op shop in Keperra, the generosity of local donors is always appreciated. The shop is eager to receive good-quality clothing donations, which are sold to raise funds for Picabeen’s food pantry. All proceeds from the sales directly support the Centre’s programs, making it a valuable resource not only for those in need but also for those looking to declutter and give back to the community.
Picabeen Community Centre’s programs continue to go from strength to strength, making a lasting impact on the lives of many. We encourage everyone in the community to get involved and take advantage of these incredible services. Together, we can continue building a stronger, more connected community.
offenders in Queensland. This plan will include 12 months of supervision and support, including education, skills training and community connection for every youth offender leaving detention.
100th Year Anniversary of Rostrum – Club 3 Celebration
For those looking to build confidence, sharpen communication skills, or master public speaking, Rostrum Club 3 at Everton Park Library offers a welcoming and supportive environment.
The LNP will put victims of crime first by rewriting sentencing principles and they will receive automatic updates relating to their cases. If the LNP forms government, they will increase the number of police on the beat, through retention and better resourcing.
Whether struggling with nerves when speaking to strangers, feeling unprepared in meetings, or simply seeking intellectual stimulation, Rostrum provides practical training in public speaking, leadership, and meeting skills. Members come from all walks of life—students, professionals, retirees, and job seekers—all united by a common goal: becoming better communicators.
Wed 12th, 19th & 26th March 9:30am to 11am
Brisbane City Council provides free vaccinations to eligible residents (aged from 6 weeks and above) through our community immunisation clinics. Bookings are required to attend a clinic as walk-ins cannot be accomodated. For more information, visit the events section of the Brisbane City Council website www.brisbane. qld.gov.au
Students from Albany Creek State School and Eatons Hill State at Parliament
At the heart of Rostrum is its structured development program, Frontiers, designed to guide members through a series of speaking challenges. Each club meeting offers hands-on practice, constructive feedback from experienced coaches, and an encouraging space to grow. Visitors are welcome to attend two free meetings to experience the club firsthand. Rostrum Club 3 meets every Thursday from 7pm to 8:30pm at Everton Park Library. For more information, visit www.rostrum.com.au or email qldclub3@rostrum.com.au.
Residents who have made a booking must attend the clinic by no later than 15 minutes prior to the clinic closing time. Everton Park Library is located at 573 South Pine Road, Everton Park.
Over the past few months, I had the pleasure of showing student leaders from our local schools around Parliament on a personal tour. This is a fantastic tradition we have amongst our school communities, and as always, it’s a great day out. It's always a pleasure to chat with the students about their ambitions and concerns and it's refreshing to hear the younger generation's perspective on today's issues.
The Crisafulli Government is reducing red tape and unnecessary costs to make it easier for builders, tradies and subbies to get on with the job and help ensure homes are built sooner.
The Building Reg Reno will deliver immediate relief for tradies sick of being slowed down by unnecessary paperwork and provide support for the 270,000 Queenslanders working in the $59 billion industry. Changes will include:
Scrapping unnecessary financial reporting for more than 50,000 individual operators in the self-certifying licensee categories.
Providing more time to meet new fire protection licensing rules to minimise disruption to important work.
Scrapping occupational licence fees for plumbers doing fire protection work.
Fast-tracking the digitising of licensing and administrative processes which are still paper-based. These changes will deliver a place to call home for more Queenslanders by reducing the administrative and paperwork burden on builders.
Queenslanders can now access the realtime performance of 25 major hospital emergency departments and seven Satellite Health Centres, providing transparency into what is happening in the state’s health system. Critical information on the website such as median patient wait times and the number of patients who have been triaged and waiting for treatment will be updated every 15 to 30 minutes.
Queenslanders will have the most current and accurate information about their local emergency or urgent care options to help prepare and understand what the wait time or experience might be like.
On Australia Day, I had the privilege of attending citizenship ceremonies at Arana Leagues Club and Kakowan Community Centre to welcome new Australians to our great country! I’m honoured to be a part of this long-awaited day that holds special meaning for so many in the community! •
by Mark Furner M.P. State Member for Ferny Grove
My coffee catch ups are a great way for myself to connect with people outside of regular office hours and have a yarn in a less formal setting.
If you are a resident of the Ferny Grove Electorate, drop in, grab a cuppa and have a chat about the things which matter to you. My shout!
• March 8 8:30AM to 10:30AM Coffee on the Way, 120 Ferny Way, Ferny Hills.
• March 15 8:30AM to 10:30AM Stellarossa, Arana Plaza, Arana Hills.
In the first six months of the former Miles Government’s 50 Cent Fare reform, Queenslanders saved over $181 million in public transport fares.
Many people have spoken to me about how this small reform has made a big change in their lives and easing the cost of living.
We have seen an increase in patronage of almost 20% in that time and we have seen a drop in road usage as more people take the train or the bus to work.
Now it’s time to lock in this reform and make it permanent. We have introduced a Bill into Queensland Parliament to preserve this cost-of-living support for all time.
It is my hope the Crisafulli Government will see reason
KEDRON ARTS GROUP PRESENTS
Stafford Shopping Centre, 17th - 23rd March (Art Only)
All items are for sale and there will be a raffle box!
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
and give Queenslanders peace of mind by backing in this important reform.
Sadly, we have already seen the Premier drop the bombshell that he is walking back his commitment to deliver “heavy rail to Maroochydore by 2032, no ifs, no buts, no shortcuts”. Even Sunshine Coast Mayor Roasanna Natoli has said the linking Brisbane to the Sunshine Coast by rail is vital for the 2032 Olympics and beyond.
We can’t afford to drop the ball now on infrastructure reforms now!
By now every household in the Ferny Grove electorate should have received a 2025 calendar to hang on your fridge. If you missed out, more are available in my office at the Ferny Grove Shopping Village at 51 McGinn Road Ferny Grove.
An update from Cr Andrew Wines, Enoggera Ward
Better transport for Brisbane
I couldn’t be more excited about the recent developments in Brisbane’s transport system. With the launch of the Brisbane Metro, getting around the city just became a whole lot faster and easier.
The new Brisbane Metro M2 services, running from the University of Queensland (UQ) to the Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital (RBWH), are nothing short of a gamechanger. This route connects three major hospitals, as well as important institutions and key destinations throughout the city. Whether it’s a trip to work or university, a hospital visit, or just exploring the city, the Metro can get you there sooner. Council is committed to improving the broader Brisbane Bus Network. Local commuters can look forward to continued upgrades that will make our public transport system even more efficient and accessible.
Delivering upgrades for local community clubs Council continues to deliver upgrades for our local sports clubs. The recent upgrade to the car park at Wests Mitchelton Rugby League Football Club (RLFC) is a win for all the players and supporters who attend. Not only that, but the Gaythorne Bowls Club also received a much-needed car park upgrade, making it easier for everyone to enjoy their favourite activities without the hassle of parking issues.
I’ve long supported the Grovely-Mitchelton Scout Group, most recently assisting with flood restoration at their Blaker Road building. Community organisations like this build resilience and leadership, and their achievements deserve recognition.
Last month, I attended the Grey Wolf Awards, celebrating the Cubs reaching this milestone—well done. It was an honour to be ‘scarfed up’ by Scouts QLD Chief Commissioner, Geoff Doo. These young Scouts have shown dedication and perseverance. Their success is well-earned, and I look forward to seeing them continue to thrive.
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