







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.
HomeSafe ID has suddenly ceased operations, leaving thousands of Australian pet owners without access to crucial microchip details needed by vets, shelters, and councils. Local veterinarians urge pet owners to verify their pet’s microchip number and re-register with an approved registry—such as the Australasian Animal Registry (AAR), Central Animal Records (CAR), or Global Animal Registry (currently offering free re-registration amid processing delays). If you’re unsure of your pet’s microchip number, check adoption or vet records, or visit a veterinarian, local council, or animal shelter for a scan. Then, go to www.petaddress.com.au to identify your pet’s current registry. If your pet is registered with HomeSafe ID, transfer the registration immediately; a list of approved registries is available online or at www.car. com.au. Experts stress that re-registering is vital for ensuring lost pets are quickly reunited with their owners.
Welcome note from the Editor
Welcome to the March 2025 Edition of The Hills 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.
Maclean
As The Hills 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 The Hills District 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 Hills Echo is also a proud member of
The Hills Echo is bound by the Standards of Practice of the Australian Press Council. If you believe the Standards may have been breached, you may approach Echo News or make a complaint to the Australian Press Council in writing at www.presscouncil.org.au. The Council may also be contacted on 1800 025 712.
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.
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. Their work stands as a testament to the strength, resilience,
and limitless creativity of women everywhere. This year, Tawny Trails proudly adds its voice to this global celebration. 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).
1st March31st March 2025
• Bridgestone Turanza Serenity Plus tyres
• Bridgestone Ecopia car & SUV tyres (excludes Ecopia R710)
• Supercat SUV tyres (includes H/T & A/T excludes passenger car
• Bridgestone Dueler 4X4 & SUV tyres
• Bridgestone Alenza SUV tyres
We offer Auto Service
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
A heartwarming moment unfolded at Patricks Road State School in Ferny Hills as a group of students reunited with their Grade One teachers, Jasmine Molineux and Deborah Howe, for a special ‘then and now’ photo.
The original picture, taken for our February 2020 “Back to School‘ edition, captured the young students excited to be back at school as freshfaced first graders. Now, six years later, they stand together once more—older, taller, and ready to embark on their final year of primary school in Grade Six.
For both students and teachers, the reunion was a trip down memory lane, filled with laughter and nostalgia.
‘It’s incredible to see how much they’ve grown—not just in height, but in confidence and character,’said Jasmine.
As these students prepare for the next chapter of their schooling journey, this special moment serves as a reminder of how quickly time flies—and how the bonds formed in early education can last a lifetime.
Right; The Hills Echo February 2020 front cover . Below; The children reunited six years later.
The Quarry isn’t just a place to live... it’s a place that feels like home. For Brisbane locals Kirsten and Matt, it was love at first sight.
From the moment they stepped into The Quarry’s resort style amenity precinct, ClubQ, they knew this was where they belonged.
‘Within literally four hours, we [knew] we were going to take it,’ Kirsten shared.
The Quarry’s masterplan vision, strong community focus and elevated lifestyle offering was everything the couple was looking for and more.
Their new homesite sits proudly on The Quarry’s ridgeline, featuring breathtaking views of the surrounding mountain ranges and the natural beauty of Keperra.
After working closely with The Quarry’s in-house architect Marco - a complimentary service offered to new residentstheir dream home ideas were transformed into a reality.
‘You’ve bought not a house and a lot, you’ve bought into a lifestyle... whether you‘re on the fence or committed, they get it and they’ll help you along the way.’
The Quarry Sales & Display Centre at ClubQ is open daily from 10am to 5pm at 1004 Samford Road, Keperra. For more information, visit quarrykeperra.com.au today.
•Bank@Post
•Money Order
•Travel Insurance
•Foreign Currency
•Western Union
Services we can help with:
•Digital ID
•Land Title ID Check
•National Police Check
•Parcel Collect
•PO Boxes Available
•Instant Passport & ID, Photos walk in service, no appointments
•100 Point Check
•Great gift ideas for all ages
•ATO TFN Services – walk in service, no appointments
•Passport Lodgement - walk in service, no appointment
•Stationery & Stamps
•Travel Accessories
Shop 17a, 5 – 11 Patricks Rd, Arana Hills Plaza Shopping Centre, Arana Hills, Qld, 4054 Ph: (07) 33513411
Opening Hours: Mon - Fri 9am – 5pm www.australiapost.com.au
Staff: Dr Helen Byrnes
Dr Kirsty Bannan
Vetkind Vets
Ferny Hills
Fernlands Shopping Village
The Healing Touch: Pet
Acupuncture with Dr. Karina at Arana Hills!
The Healing Touch: Pet Acupuncture with Dr. Karina at Arana Hills!
Discover how acupuncture can relieve pain, improve mobility, and reduce stress for your furry friends. Ideal for arthritis, chronic illness, and recovery from surgery. Many pets find it relaxing! Consult with our team to see if this natural treatment is right for your pet.
Discover how acupuncture can relieve pain, improve mobility, and reduce stress for your furry friends. Ideal for arthritis, chronic illness, and recovery from surgery. Many pets find it relaxing! Consult with our team to see if this natural treatment is right for your pet.
Vetkind Vets
Arana Hills
Special interest in helping flat faced dogs (pugs, french bulldogs, boston terriers, bulldogs) have happier lives Staff: Dr Helen Byrnes
Special interest in helping flat faced dogs (pugs, french bulldogs, boston terriers, bulldogs) have happier lives
Veterinary care for your dogs, cats, backyard chooks & pocket pets
Veterinary care for your dogs, cats, backyard chooks & pocket pets
Puppy & kitten
vaccinations, Health checks , Microchipping, Puppy Preschool, Desexing
Puppy & kitten vaccinations, Health checks , Microchipping, Puppy Preschool, Desexing
Vetkind Vets
Everton Hills
5/10 Woodhill Rd, Ferny Hills Q. 4055 Ph 3351 0500
Fernlands Shopping Village 5/10 Woodhill Rd, Ferny Hills Q. 4055 Ph 3351 0500
18 Nepean Ave, Arana Hills Q. 4054 Ph 3851 1366
Arana Hills Veterinary Clinic 18 Nepean Ave, Arana Hills Q. 4054 Ph 3851 1366
Everton Hills Shopping Centre
www.vetkind.com.au
www.vetkind.com.au
Hills Veterinary Surgery Everton Hills Shopping Centre Camelia Ave, Everton Hills Q. 4053 Ph 3355 6724
Camelia Ave, Everton Hills Q. 4053 Ph 3355 6724
- 5pm
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.
that’s real chemistry
TerryWhite Chemmart Arana Hills
2 Patricks Road , Arana Hills P: 07 3351 6100
Open 7 Days: Mon - Fr: 7am to 8pm Sat & Sun: 8am to 8pm
Karen Brown & Rod Garozzo
Owners - TerryWhite Chemmart Arana Hills
TerryWhite Chemmart Ferny Grove Ferny Grove Shopping Village, 45-51 McGinn Rd, Ferny Grove P: 3351 2614
Opening 7 Days
Mon - Fr: 8am to 6pm Sat: 8am to 5pm, Sun: 8am to 1.30pm
Petros Ioannidis, Blaine Woods & Karen Brown
Owners - TerryWhite Chemmart Ferny Grove
Garozzo’s Mitchelton Pharmacy 34 Blackwood Street, Mitchelton P: 07 3355 2828
Open 7 Days: Mon - Fr: 8am - 5.30pm Sat: 8am - 1pm. Sun: Closed
Michelle Duncan, Ben Agyare & Rod Garozzo
Owners - TerryWhite Chemmart Mitchelton
TerryWhite Chemmart Dallas Parade Compounding 10 Dallas Parade, Keperra P: 07 3355 3905
Opening Hours
Mon - Fr: 8am to 6pm Sat: 8.30am to 1pm
Blaine Woods, Tahnee Simpson & Rod Garozzo
Owners - TerryWhite Chemmart Dallas Parade Compounding Pharmacy
www.echo-news.com.au
The Hills Players Community Theatre Group is thrilled to kick off their 2025 season with the hilarious comedy Old People Are Revolting by Devon Williamson.
Judging by the laughter during the first read-through, audiences are in for a treat! This witty and irreverent play follows the residents of Sunshine Retirement Village as they take a stand against City Hall when their rates rebate is suddenly scrapped. But the council has no idea what kind of chaos is about to unfold!
While packed with humor, the play also shines a light on societal attitudes toward senior citizens, offering a perfect mix of comedy and thought-provoking themes.
Performances will take place in early June, with exact dates to be announced soon. Stay updated via future editions of the Hills Echo or follow the Hills Players on Facebook for details.
As always, a successful production relies on a dedicated team both on and off stage. If you’re interested in getting involved—whether in stage management, front of house, or behind the scenes—the Hills Players would love to welcome you. Rehearsals are held every Monday at St Matthews Hall, Church Road, so feel free to drop by and introduce yourself. Get ready for an evening of laughter and anarchy as the Hills Players bring Old People Are Revolting to life!
“Keep your face always toward the sunshine, and shadows will fall behind you.”
– Walt Whitman
An update from the Arana Hills & Districts Senior Citizens Club Inc
The Arana Hills & Districts Seniors resumed their 2025 weekly meetings on Friday, January 24th.
If you missed the first gathering, we’d love to welcome you in the coming weeks! If you met anyone over the holidays who might be interested in our activities, bring them along— first-time visitors can attend free of charge.
You don’t have to be old to join; anyone over 55 is welcome. Admission is just $5, which includes coffee, tea, and biscuits, while yearly membership is only $7. Our venue is the Arana Hills and District Community Hall at 291 Dawson Parade. Bingo and cards are scheduled for Fridays on February 7th, February 14th, and March 7th. Hoy and cards will be held on February 14th and 28th. Indoor bowls takes place every Friday and Wednesday from 1 to 3 pm.
On Fridays, you’re welcome to join both morning and afternoon sessions—just bring lunch if you plan to stay. If you’re new to any of the games, friendly assistance is always available. Best of all, our venue is fully air-conditioned, so don’t let the summer heat keep you away!
Parking is hassle-free, with plenty of spaces available. For more details, contact Marcia at 0438 786 871.
Affordable Medical Eye Care with no referral required
Medical Optometrists available to see the following conditions:
• Acute Vision Problems
• Diabetic Eye Disease
• Cataracts
• Age Related Macular Degeneration
Consultation only Gap Fee $63.70. Extra fees pending triage assessment advice.
Serious eye issues will be reviewed by our Private Ophthalmologist or referred to Public Emergency Care.
Conveniently located at Level 1 825 Zillmere Rd
Aspley . P: 07 3832 1700 for appointments
Progress on the Gordon Road and Ferny Way project is now complete despite some weather-related delays.
Local authorities acknowledge the understandable frustration that was caused by these setbacks but stress the significant improvements that the project has delivered. Key enhancements include:
• Installation of traffic signals
• Additional traffic lanes designed to separate through-traffic from turning vehicles
• Signalised pedestrian crossings at the intersection
• A new shared cycle and footpath linking Samford Road and Gordon Road
• Upgraded landscaping and street lighting
• Comprehensive road pavement reconstruction These upgrades are expected to improve traffic flow and enhance pedestrian safety, marking a major step forward in local infrastructure.
City of Moreton Bay is set for substantial growth over the next 25 years, with the population projected to rise from 484,400 in 2021 to 792,700 by 2046
A vibrant community hub is on the horizon for Samford Parklands after the Australian Government and City of Moreton Bay jointly committed $2.2 million to create a new Village Green. Designed to become the beating heart of Samford, the project will feature an expansive lawn, BBQ and picnic facilities, play areas for children, and landscaped gardens with shade trees.
Mayor Peter Flannery welcomed the funding, saying it underscores the region’s growing status as a thriving hub in South East Queensland. “The Village Green will bolster our community’s cultural and social fabric,
Quick empowering workouts to help you be the best you can be everyday for everybody.
Life gets messy, busy, complicated and unpredictable sometimes. In the New Year, an ‘all or nothing’ approach to your New Year’s health focussed resolution just doesn’t last. So, incorporating a plan that is realistic and sustainable is of upmost importance.
Focusing on daily choices that are achievable and simple will create changes that don’t just last until March when your effort and energy has run out, but are long lasting. Here are 12 real-world ways that can help you achieve your health
Exercise is medicine and along with a manageable eating and lifestyle plan you will see the change and feel the difference. This is not Bootcamp but a sustainable way to live in your body and love your life.
3. Eat healthy meals. You will not lose weight by skipping two meals a day. Your body needs quality adequate calories from carbohydrates, proteins and fats.
create local jobs during construction, and drive economic growth in one of our most cherished recreational areas,” Flannery said. Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Catherine King stressed that quality community facilities are vital for connected neighborhoods. “This investment will enhance quality of life, boost social inclusion, and strengthen community ties,” King said, noting the project is part of the Thriving Suburbs Program.
4. Include exercise snacks in your day. Maybe one minute of steps, squats or wall pushups whenever possible. This keeps your energy levels boosted whilst burning calories.
Local Councillor Darren Grimwade described the new Village Green as a major win for the area. “It’s set to become a popular gathering space where residents and visitors can enjoy the outdoors and each other’s company,” Grimwade said. Construction is slated to commence in mid-2025, with the Village Green expected to be completed by late 2026, marking a significant step forward in fostering community cohesion at Samford Parklands.
5. Learn about how food affects your body, so you can burn fat more efficiently.
6. Strength training is your secret weapon. Muscle preserves age, keeps you toned and takes up less space than fat.
7. Schedule exercise sessions for 20 or 30 minutes - you don’t need hours in the gym. Check in with yourself, show up and prepare the night before.
8. Plan for bad days. You can still succeed by doing what you need to do most of the time.
9. Find your fit. You have everything you need inside of you to get you where you need to go.
10. Enjoy the journey. Make it part of your new lifestyle and enjoy what you do.
11. Sleep should be your priority. Getting adequate sleep reduces the amount of food people eat during the day and your food choices are wiser.
12. Getting adequate water is amazing for weight loss as a natural appetite suppressant and helps remove waste from your body.
A healthy resolution doesn’t need to focus on weight loss. Create a wellness resolution/goal to live a healthy, happier life on any day you decide to start. Give local Fitness & Nutrition coach Kim a call on 0407 919 to help you achieve your New You in 2024. The Hills Echo delivers 10,500 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.
www.StevenToomey.com.au Facebook.com/TheGapWard @TheGapWard
The Arana View Club commenced its 28th year of service with its Annual General Meeting at the Arana Leagues Club, where a new committee was elected. The leadership team for 2024 includes President Hilary, Vice President Bonnie, Delegate Helen, Secretary Karen, Treasurer
Kath, Assistant Treasurer Carol, and Program Officers Loris, June, and Robyn.
Monthly lunch meetings with a guest speaker are held on the first Wednesday of each month at 10:30 am for an 11am start.
The club’s official 28th birthday celebration will take place on April 2nd, with members encouraged to wear something blue to mark the occasion. In addition to its charitable efforts, the club organises a variety of social outings, ensuring members enjoy both meaningful contributions and plenty of fun.
Looking ahead, Brisbane will host the National View Convention from September 5th to 7th, 2025, at the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre. For more information about the Arana View Club, please contact President Hilary at 0421 047 451
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 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.
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.
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 10:00 am start. Entry is $5.00. We hope you can join us!
Garden pests can wreak havoc, but cayenne pepper offers a simple, chemical-free solution. Just sprinkle a quarter cup in your garden every few days—harmless to plants but a strong deterrent for critters. Enjoy healthier, untouched greenery with this natural remedy!
When you lost all your excuses, you found results
Offering the same top service including...
• ‘A Grade’ guaranteed repairs
• Logbook Servicing, Major & Minor
• Tune ups
• Brake & Clutch
• Front end repairs & wheel alignment
• Safety Certificates
• Engine o/hauls & second hand engines
The Arana Hills Library has a myriad of engaging and educational activities on offer throughout the month of January for children and adults alike. To secure your event, visit www.mbrc.qld.gov.au/libraries/events or call the library on 3883 5790
Art Adventures with Pine Rivers Art Gallery: Wednesday 12th March, 11 - 11.30am
Join us to adventure through the world of art with the team from Pine Rivers Art Gallery. Learn about the latest exhibitions and create your own work of art with a hands-on craft activity. Free. Facilitated by our friendly gallery staff. No bookings required. For under 5s.
Sew a drawstring backpack: Saturday 15th March, 10.30am - 12.30pm
Sewing a backpack is a fun project that lets you express your unique sense of style. Local artist Mel Brady will help you to use a sewing machine to make your own backpack to take home in this beginner-friendly workshop. Free. Bookings required. For adults.
Cricut framed quote: Friday 28th March, 2pm - 3pm
Create a personalised picture featuring your favourite inspirational quote in a photo frame. Choose a quote, select your font, and use a Cricut vinyl cutting machine to cut it out. Take home your unique artwork to impress your family and friends. Free. Bookings required. For adults.
Storytime: Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays,10.30am - 11am
Storytime is a great way to develop a love of reading and introduce your child to books. Experience the magic of stories, action rhymes and songs with your child at the library. For parents and children, 2-5 years.
Storydogs: Every Monday, 3.30pm - 4.30pm
When children read to a dog, the outcomes are amazing! With their calm and loving nature dogs provide a magical environment that helps children relax, improve their literacy skills, and confidence. Book your child for a 15-minute, individual session on Mondays 3:30 PM - 3:45 PM, 3:45 PM - 4:00 PM, 4:00 PM - 4:15 PM, 4:15 PM - 4:30 PM. Excluding public holidays. Baby Rhyme Time: Every Tuesday, Wednesday & Saturday, 9.30am - 10am
Baby Rhyme Time helps develop the skills needed to communicate and to learn to read. In a friendly and relaxed environment you and your baby can learn rhymes, action songs and finger plays to share together.
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! •
Are you better off today than you were two-and-a-half years ago? Do you feel safer and more secure? Is our country more united?
The feedback I’m getting reflects the need for a clear plan to get Australia back on track. A Liberal National Government will focus on helping families by strengthening our economy, keeping inflation low by cutting wasteful spending, reducing red tape, and easing the tax burden on small businesses. We need affordable and reliable energy, balancing renewables with gas and zero-emissions nuclear power. A plan which is 44% cheaper than Labor’s renewables only policy.
Housing affordability must improve, which is why we will invest in critical infrastructure, support first-home buyers, and restore a sustainable migration intake.
I am committed to safer communities by tackling violent crime, strengthening our borders, and improving online safety for children. Access to quality healthcare will also be a priority, with more support for GPs, increased bulk billing, and expanded Medicare-subsidised mental health services. It’s time to restore confidence, ease cost-of-living pressures, and ensure a future where all Australians can get ahead.
Congratulations to our local community heroes recognised in the 2025 Australia Day Honours List!
• Keith Boulton OAM was awarded Medal of the Order of Australia.
• Susan Burley ACM received the Australian Corrections Medal.
• David Brazel AFSM received the Australian Fire Service Medal.
• Mark Sellin AFSM received the Australian Fire Service Medal.
• Colonel Martin Levey AM (Mil) was named a Member of the Order of Australia (Mil)
Thank you all for your service, your achievements bring immense pride to our Dickson community, and we celebrate your well-deserved recognition.
I have completed close to 3,350 local visits in my mobile office, assisting residents with local issues. Recently, I was able to help locals with Services Australia (Centrelink) concerns, Veterans Affairs matters, road problems, and more. If you see me out and about with my caravan, please drop in. I would be happy to meet you and see how I can help you.
What’s important to you?
Feel free to reach out to my office anytime if you need assistance at peter.dutton.mp@aph.gov.au or (07) 3205 9977. You can also visit me during my mobile office stops or drop by my office in Strathpine to share your community priorities. For regular updates on what‘s happening in Dickson, you can sign up for my eNewsletter at www.peterdutton.com.au, or head over and like my Facebook page.
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.
News from your State Member for Everton TIM MANDER
Crime, actions as adults keeping sending a crime.
‘Staying 12-month reintegrating into becoming a repeat youth months of training leaving sentencing relating to increase and better
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
Volunteers feel happy, live longer, gain selfconfidence and enjoy the company of like minded friends.
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.
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.
Publication/Issue: The Hills
TERMS & CONDITIONS, please read carefully
Up to 3 proofs are offered free of charge from MAC
changes or proofs provided to the client will incur a
Check spelling, headings, text and phone numbers. Once artwork is
Pty Ltd will not accept responsibility for incorrect copy or
spelling, headings, text and phone numbers. Once artwork is
will not accept responsibility for incorrect copy or layout.
Please note, if your ad is colour, this proof does not represent accurate colour reproduction. produced by MAC Group Publications Pty Ltd is subject to copyright and remains Group Publications Pty Ltd. Reproduction elsewhere, in whole or part, is prohibited except permission of the copyright holder. A release fee for use of artwork will apply.