The Hills Echo April 2025 edition by Echo News

Going Above and Beyond

As Cyclone Alfred battered the region, the Arana Hills State Emergency Service (SES) and other local emergency crews worked tirelessly to assist the community.

From March 1 to March 12, 47 SES members were on the ground or supporting incident management, logging an incredible 1,800 hours of service—all while many juggled day jobs and personal impacts from the disaster. Alongside the SES, the Clear Mountain Fire Brigade and other emergency services played a crucial role in keeping residents safe and providing much-needed assistance. Their dedication highlights the strength and resilience of local heroes who step up when the community needs them most.

Emergency crews were especially grateful to the community for their support, with zero rescue calls—a sign that residents followed safety advice. Volunteers also appreciated the sneaky snacks dropped off at depots, the overwhelming gratitude from locals, and the ongoing support from City of Moreton Bay.

With strong public support, emergency volunteers appreciate a friendly wave or a simple thank-you when spotted out in the community. Their efforts during Cyclone Alfred serve as a powerful reminder of the vital role they play in times of crisis. If you are interested in joining your local SES, visit www.ses.qld.gov.au/join-us for more details.

Top image: Steve Kitchener, Karen Rogers, Alex Humphries, Josh Munn’s and Dylon Mackay. Bottom image: Arana Hills SES staff work tirelessly filling sandbags at the depot

Welcome note from the Editor

Katie Maclean

Welcome to the April edition of The Hills Echo. This past month has been a challenging one, with Cyclone Alfred impacting Brisbane’s southeast coast and leaving a trail of devastation. The uncertainty and hardship have tested our community, but in true Hills spirit, we have seen an incredible outpouring of support, kindness, and resilience. Neighbours have stepped up to help one another, ensuring our most vulnerable are cared for, and our emergency responders have once again shown extraordinary dedication and bravery. To everyone who has lent a hand, checked in on others, or played a part in the recovery—thank you.

This issue is a celebration of community—of the strength, generosity, and unwavering spirit that make our area so special.

Katie

Director; Echo Media Group Pty Ltd

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 thousands of copies across The Hills District and beyond, all while staying 100% locally owned and operated.

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 March 2025), information contained within this issue is correct.

Aspley Eye & Retina Centre

Affordable Medical Eye Care with no referral required

Medical Optometrists available to see the following conditions:

• Acute Vision Problems

• Diabetic Eye Disease

• Cataracts

• Age Related Macular Degeneration

Consultation only Gap Fee $63.70. Extra fees pending triage assessment advice.

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

Conveniently located at Level 1 825 Zillmere Rd

Aspley . P: 07 3832 1700 for appointments

Lions Club Celebrates Youth of the Year Success

The Golden Valley Keperra Lions Club recently hosted its annual Youth of the Year competition, showcasing the talents of seven outstanding Year 12 students from local schools.

Participants included four students from Ferny Grove State High School, two from Prince of Peace Lutheran College, and one from St James College. The competition, a prestigious national program run by Lions Australia for over 60 years, aims to develop leadership, citizenship, and public speaking skills in young Australians.

The event involved two key stages:

• A formal interview with three independent judges, where students were assessed on their knowledge of current affairs, school achievements, and community involvement.

• A public speaking component held at a Lions Club dinner meeting, where each participant delivered two impromptu speeches, followed

by a prepared five-minute speech on a topic of their choice. Each student demonstrated remarkable confidence and eloquence, making the judges‘ decision a tough one. Zaisha Davey from Ferny Grove State High School was named Public Speaking Winner, while Madi Thomas, also from Ferny Grove, claimed the overall title of Youth of the Year.

Following her local success, Madi advanced to the Regional Final at Bracken Ridge, where she performed exceptionally well in both her interview and speeches.

The Lions Youth of the Year program is designed to foster personal growth, helping young people refine their communication skills and engage with their communities.

For more information about the program or to get involved, contact Robert Wolfe, Youth of the Year Chair, Golden Valley Keperra Lions Club at 0409 688 675 or info@kakowan.org.au

Madi Thomas achieved the overall title of Youth of the Year

Golden Valley Keperra Lions Youth of the Year participants

Community Superstars Save $40K in Food Amid Cyclone Alfred

By Georgia Wright

In a heroic display of community spirit, local groups and businesses have united to redistribute $40,000 worth of food to those in need.

The selfless efforts occurred during Cyclone Alfred, when a power outage threatened to put all of Coles Ferny Grove’s perishable stock to waste. Instead of taking to the skip bins, Coles Ferny Grove manager Tim offered to donate the produce to SecondBite, a program focused on reducing food waste and hunger. As soon as the power cut and the freezers began to thaw, Tim’s plan was in action.

Volunteers and local organisations mobilised immediately.

Paul Slater, the selfless heart behind the Northwest Community Group, its SecondBite program, and the makeshift tent community in Musgrave Park, was first on the scene. Together, Paul and Tim temp-checked all perishable goods before roping in extra helping hands. Friend and fellow war on waste warrior Jo, who volunteers at Orange Sky Australia, Australian Red Cross, Lions Club of Brisbane Inner North and Community Canteen was already seeking food for emergency meals for those affected by the weather.

Jo made a call and Paul’s very own Lions Club of Brisbane Bunya came to the rescue, offering a cool room where $10,000 worth of meat and vegetables were stored safely within the hour.

The remaining stock was swiftly redistributed to local charities, including Emmanuel City Mission, which received

Volunteers at Coles Ferny Grove starting to pack up the perishable food.

$25,000 worth of stock. Tan’s Café and Takeaway, which partners with Nourish Street to feed those in need, also received $15,000 worth.

Paul expresses his pride and relief for the community’s efforts. He shares, ‘It‘s staggering to think that we just injected over $40,000 worth of food into our community. This is from meat, fruit, veggies, to everything down the freezer isle…This will sustain Emmanuel City Mission for a long time, as well as being

Everton News

used by Community Canteen, Nourish Street, and even Northwest Community Group Inc. to distribute food to people in need.’

Making Our Community Safer Plan

The LNP has announced, if elected, their ‘Adult Crime, Adult Time’ policy will restore consequences for actions with youth offenders to receive the same sentences as adults committing the same crimes. This is not only about keeping dangerous criminals off our streets, but also about sending a strong message to deter youth from committing crime.

Certainly, this remarkable union of forces was no small feat. Paul reveals that himself alone lifted and moved around 200 tubs of food while filling pantries in the pouring rain. ‘I’m exhausted but so energised by what we are achieving out there,’he says.

On behalf of the community, we thank Paul, Tim, Kim and the Coles Ferny Grove team, who worked tirelessly to sort and store food in the freezing conditions.

School Leaders Visit Parliament

The LNP has committed $175 million to our new ‘Staying on Track’ Program to deliver an intensive 12-month rehabilitation program to support kids reintegrating into communities. This will stop the detention system becoming a merry-go-round for the growing cohort of serious repeat youth 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.

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.

We thank the Lions Club of Brisbane Bunya—especially John—and the Emmanuel City Mission team, whom were on their 6th day of 24-hour coverage.

A special thanks goes to Costco Northlakes, who also contributed by donating lamingtons, muffins, bread and frozen fish.

Lastly, an honourable mention goes to Beau Haywood, along with his partner Jenny Ignacio and their family, who run Nourish Street Inc. The local group provides meals and camping gear for over 100 homeless individuals each week in the Moreton Bay and Pine Rivers areas.

These individuals’ unwavering dedication to the greater good is truly a reflection of the power of community in times of crisis. It is because of them, that countless individuals and families impacted by Cyclone Alfred could seek the support (and full stomachs) they needed.

Keep doing what you’re doing—your capable hands make the world a better place!

The Hills Echo delivers 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.

Golden Valley Keperra Lions

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

Contact

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.

Students from Albany Creek State School and Eatons Hill State at Parliament

Just some of the 40K worth of produce donated to SecondBite by Coles Ferny Grove

April Offers

1st April31st April 2025

Get the 4th tyre FREE

• Bridgestone Potenza tyres (excludes Potenza RE-71RS)

• Bridgestone Turanza Serenity Plus tyres

Get $150 cash back

• Bridgestone Dueler 4X4 & SUV tyres (A/T002 are included in the offer!)

• Bridgestone Alenza SUV tyres

We offer Auto Service

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

Games, Laughter & Good Company at The Gap Leisure Club

Looking for a fun and social way to spend your Wednesday mornings?

The Gap Leisure Club meets weekly at The Grove Sports Club, kicking off at 9:30 a.m. with morning tea and wrapping up around 12 noon.

Members enjoy a variety of games, including card favourites like 500, 5 Crowns, and Pennies from Heaven, as well as the board game Sequence and classic Bingo.

For just $5 per session, attendees not only get a morning of entertainment but also social membership at The Grove Sports Club. New members are always welcome, so come along, meet new friends, and enjoy some friendly competition!

Upcoming Events Set to Entertain

The Hills Players’ Annual Trivia Night is back and promises to be a highlight on the social calendar once again. Set for Friday, May 10, at 7pm at St Matthews Hall, Mitchelton, the event offers a fun-filled evening of brainteasing questions, great prizes, and lively competition.

Participants can book a table with friends or join a team on the night by calling 3351 4496 or emailing hillsplayers@gmail.com. With spots filling fast, early bookings are encouraged to avoid missing out. Meanwhile, rehearsals are in full swing for the group’s upcoming production, The Old People Are Revolting by Devon Williamson. Scheduled for June 6-7 and 13-14, the play follows a spirited group of seniors from Sunshine Retirement Village who take a stand after losing their rates rebates—leading to a hilarious and unexpected revolution.

Tickets will be available in May, and audiences can expect plenty of mayhem, merriment, and a few surprises along the way. Stay tuned for updates via the Hills Players’ Facebook page and The Hills Echo.

NEVER MISS AN EDITION!

Luxurious living defined at The Quarry

4 bed | 2 bath | 2 car | $1.85M*

Embrace the best of both worlds at The Quarry, where hilltop serenity meets a short 9.5km journey into the heart of Brisbane –perfect for the weekday hustle or weekend adventures.

Every land lot within Brisbane’s highest masterplanned community benefits from an elevated canvas, capturing the essence of panoramic views, natural light and tranquil surrounds to create your forever home and ultimate sanctuary.

The Quarry is proud to present a brand new house and land package that features never-to-be-built-out panoramic views and effortless open plan living to complement the quintessential Queensland lifestyle.

You’ll experience luxury at its finest in the Roonsleigh homes with an expansive kitchen, living and dining space being the heart of the home, complete with a butler‘s pantry, top-end European appliances, stone benchtops and a 2.7m ceiling height. Upstairs there are four well-appointed bedrooms including an oversized master retreat, three living areas and 2.5 bathrooms.

The heart of the community is ClubQ, an already completed resort style amenity precinct that is immaculately maintained all year round so you can spend more time living the life you’ve always wanted. Featuring a 25m lap pool, entertainer’s kitchen, dining zones, sunset lounges and a kick and play oval, it’s a relaxed and inviting space where neighbours become friends and life’s best moments are celebrated together.

A once-in-a-lifetime opportunity awaits those who seek a new Brisbane dress circle address.

To find out more about this special home, reach out to The Quarry’s Project Sales Managers via the contact details below.

Tina Edwards | 0418 708 217 | tina.edwards@frasersproperty.com.au

Greg Rogers-Hulme | 0424 923 630 | greg.rogershulme@frasersproperty.com.au

*Price is from

The Quarry’s brand new home and land package, Roonsleigh, which is available turnkey from $1.85 million

Elevated views from Roonsleigh ridgeline overlooking the surrounding mountain ranges

The Quarry’s Resort style amenity at ClubQ is exclusive for resident use

Artist Impression

Arana Hills Post Oﬃce

•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.

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

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

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

Tramway Museum Commemorates Last Tram Journey

The Brisbane Tramway Museum is set to commemorate a significant moment in the city’s transport history—the final tram journey, which took place 56 years ago on April 13.

On that night in 1969, Tram 554 was driven into the Milton workshops at midnight by then-Lord Mayor Clem Jones, marking the end of Brisbane’s 70-year electric tram era. During its operation, the tram network carried millions of passengers with an impressive safety record. Today, the museum preserves this rich history, housing a collection that includes one of each tram model used over those seven decades.

As part of Tram Heritage Day, visitors will have the rare opportunity to ride in these historic trams, from the oldest ‘Matchbox’ tram built in 1901 to Tram 554, the last of Brisbane’s fleet, constructed in 1964. Vintage Brisbane City Council buses, which replaced the trams, will also be available for joy rides.

The event will offer more than just nostalgia, with a sausage sizzle, donut stall, coffee wagon, and refreshments available on-site. The museum’s spacious grounds provide the perfect setting for a picnic-style afternoon tea or evening meal.

The Brisbane Tramway Museum proudly acknowledges the support of the Brisbane City Council in preserving this piece of the city’s heritage.

Heritage TRAM

Photo: BrianMartin

that’s real chemistry

ARANA HILLS

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

FERNY GROVE

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

MITCHELTON

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

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

Michelle Duncan, Ben Agyare & Rod Garozzo

Owners - TerryWhite Chemmart Mitchelton

KEPERRA

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

Arana Netball Kicks Off Season with Family Fun Day

Arana Netball brought the community together on Saturday, March 15, for its annual Family Fun Day—a lively afternoon filled with games, a free sausage sizzle, and plenty of fun before the season officially begins. The event saw a fantastic turnout, with families enjoying the chance to connect, meet new teammates, and celebrate the growing club. With over 200 players across 24 teams, Arana Netball continues to thrive, strengthening its positive impact on the local community.

The success of the day was made possible by the dedication of the club’s hardworking committee, along with generous support from Arana Sports and Arana Leagues Club, which provided equipment and a sausage sizzle for attendees. As the new season gets underway, Arana Netball looks forward to building on this momentum, welcoming new players, and fostering a strong sense of community both on and off the court.

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

As the cooler months roll in, it’s the perfect time to get involved in community activities! We’re excited to welcome new members who have taken up Indoor Bowling, a fun and social game for all ages. If you know someone interested, bring them along for a free trial!

Our club is open to anyone 55+, with a $5 admission (includes coffee, tea, and biscuits) and a $7 yearly membership.

Location: Arana Hills & District Community Hall, 291 Dawson Parade Games Schedule: Indoor Bowls – Wednesdays & Fridays, 1-3 PM, Bingo & Cards – April 4, 25 & May 2, Hoy & Cards – April 11, (No meeting on Good Friday, April 18)

Feeling energetic? Join both morning and afternoon sessions on Fridays— just bring your lunch! New to the games? We’re happy to help.

Parking is hassle-free, with plenty of spaces available. For more details, contact Marcia at 0438 786 871

The Family Fun Day participants

Quilting Queens return to Brookside

The Quilting Queens bi-annual stall is back at Brookside Shopping Centre this month.

After their sister Maureen’s passing in April 2021, sisters Carmel, Delia, Rosemary and Geraldine came together more formally to become the “Quilting Queens” and immersed themselves in the quilting world to celebrate bright and caring Maureen. All five sisters hail from north Brisbane – Everton Park, Everton Hills, McDowall, Albany Creek and Lawnton. The Quilting Queens host stalls at shopping centres twice a year, with the aim to give all their proceeds to charity. Every dollar goes straight to the charity, with the sisters taking no costs out. Over the last four years, The Quilting Queens have raised $70,000 for local charities. The Quilting Queens Handmade Stall will take place on Saturday 5 April 2025 from 8am – 1pm at Brookside Shopping Centre near Terry White Chemist.

www.echo-news.com.au

The Quilting Queens

Scouts Remember Their Founder At Grinstead Park

A Fitness-Focussed Resolution That’s Worth Keeping

Scouts from Northwest Brisbane gathered on Saturday, 22 Feb 25, to celebrate the foundation of Scouting, and the birthday of their founder, Lord Robert Baden-Powell 186 years ago.

body.fitness.forever

75 local Scouts and 40 leaders and parents gathered at the Scout Chapel in the centre of Grinstead Park, Enoggera, built on the site of an old Scout Hall west of Shand Street. Guests included Councillor Tracey Davis, and Councillor Andrew Wines.

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

Youth from the Venturer Section (14.5-18 yrs) enacted scenes from the life of Lord Robert Baden-Powell, a distinguished British soldier who established Scouts in 1907 to challenge youth to “Be Prepared”, to venture into the outdoors, and to lead productive lives in the community. Scouts is now the largest youth organisation in the world.

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

. Eat slow, chew your food.

BCC Councillor Tracy Davis supervises as Scouts plant trees in Grinstead Park

District Commissioner, Judith Brumler, led the Scouts as they renewed their promise to do their best to do their duty to their God, their country and to help other people.

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.

10 trees provided by Brisbane City Council were planted by youth and parents with the aim of providing future shade and contributing to the health of our environment. It was tough digging in the hard Grinstead soil, but the youth persevered and got all the trees in.

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.

After the service the youth also explored far and wide in Grinstead Park, completing an Orienteering course and finding out about the different types of trees in Grinstead Park.

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.

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

Scouts participated from 6 local groups – McDowall-Bunya, Everton Park, Enoggera, Grovely-Mitchelton, Wahminda Park (Ferny Grove) and Samford. To find your local Scout Group in the Northwest go to https://scoutsqld.com.au/

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

Cr Steven TOOMEY

Councillor for The Gap Ward

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.

www.StevenToomey.com.au

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.

When you lost all your excuses, you found results

Everton

Mechanical Repairs 43 TIMMS ROAD, EVERTON HILLS

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 fitted

What’s On in April at the Library?

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

Messy Play: Wednesday 9th & 16th April, 3pm - 4pm

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

Fun Factory: Mon. 7th April - Fri. 11th April and Mon. 14th April - Thurs. 17th April, 3pm - 4pm

You never know what could happen when you drop in to the library these school holidays. Our Fun Factory will engage you with games, craft and activities for the whole family.

Free. Facilitated by our friendly library staff. No bookings required. All ages. Make a Plushie: Tuesday 8th April, 2pm - 3pm

Create your own animal plushie. Choose a design and then glue and sew your own cuddly companion.

Free. Facilitated by our friendly library staff. Bookings required. Ages 7-11.

Guinea Pig Pat & Play: Thursday 10th April, 11.30am - 12.30pm

Get the chance to hold a guinea pig and see how cute they are!

Plus, find out how to care for them in this interactive session with Hoofprints. Free. Bookings required. Children only require tickets to this event. Ages 4+.

Junior Gardeners: Friday 11th April, 2pm - 3pm

Dig into gardening fun! Pot up your own seasonal seedling and paint a stone marker for your garden. Free. Facilitated by our friendly library staff. Bookings required. Ages 6+.

Meet a Koala: Tuesday 15th April, 11.30am - 12.30pm

Meet a captivating koala and learn about them and other native animals with the D’Aguilar Wildlife team. Get the chance to take a photo of the koala as it sits on its special eucalyptus perch. Free. Bookings required. Everyone attending (both adults and children) requires tickets. This helps us support our furry friends. All ages.

Monster Slime Exploratorium: Thursday 17th April, 1pm- 2pm and 3pm-4pm (2 sessions)

Is slime a solid or a liquid or is it just monster snot? Explore the ooey-gooey science of slime by conducting three different slimy experiments. Free. Facilitated by our friendly library staff. Bookings required. Ages 8-11.

Autumn Planting Season Begins

An update from the Hills Organic Garden

As the scorching summer months give way to the cooler days of autumn, members of the Hills Organic Community Garden (HOG) are preparing for a busy and productive season. With the extreme heat and humidity over summer, very little produce was grown, but with the arrival of autumn, the community is eager to get planting once again.

This month, significant work is underway to prepare the garden beds for planting. The soil is being replenished with fresh compost and fertiliser, allowing it time to rest before young seedlings are introduced. Planting will commence when temperatures drop, giving the crops the best chance to thrive.

A variety of vegetables will be grown this season, including broccoli, spinach, radish, snow peas, silver beet, cauliflower, cabbages, zucchinis, eggplant, lettuce, beetroot, and tomatoes.

To maintain soil health and ensure a successful harvest, crop rotation is carefully practiced, preventing the same crops from being planted in the same beds as the previous season.

Autumn is a particularly exciting and busy time at the community garden, with newly planted seedlings requiring regular watering and fertilising to establish strong growth.

The HOG community is a welcoming group, offering residents of the Hills District the opportunity to grow fresh produce using organic principles. With members of all ages involved, newcomers are always encouraged to visit, have a chat, and explore the garden.

The group meets every Sunday afternoon from 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m., with members also attending throughout the week for watering and general maintenance. The garden is located at 416 Bunya Road, Bunya, next to the Off-Leash Dog Park. Annual membership fees are $20 for adults, $30 for families, and $10 for juniors. For more information, visit hog.org.au, search for “The Hills Organic Garden” on Facebook, or call 0415 856 532.

New members are always welcome—come along and grow with us!

Improve Your Garden Soil This Autumn

An update from the Mitchelton Garden Club Club member, Chris Anderson, enriches his soil with compost.

Autumn in Brisbane and all subtropical regions is the perfect time to improve garden soil. After the intense summer heat and heavy rainfall, soil can become depleted, compacted or waterlogged. By enriching and conditioning the soil now, gardeners can ensure healthier plants and better yields in the coming seasons.

One of the best ways to rejuvenate soil is by adding organic matter. Compost, aged manure and worm castings help improve soil structure, boost microbial activity, and provide essential nutrients. A layer of compost worked into garden beds will enhance water retention and aeration, creating the ideal environment for plant roots to thrive.

Mulching is another key autumn task. A thick layer of organic mulch—such as sugarcane mulch, lucerne or bark—helps regulate soil temperature, reduce evaporation, and suppress weeds. As the mulch breaks down, it further enriches the soil, adding valuable organic content.

For sandy soils that drain too quickly, incorporating organic

matter like compost and biochar will improve moisture retention. In contrast, heavy clay soils, which can become compacted and waterlogged, benefit from the addition of gypsum and coarse organic matter, which improve drainage and aeration. Finally, autumn is the perfect season to check soil pH. Many subtropical soils tend to be acidic, and applying garden lime can help balance pH levels, making nutrients more accessible to plants.

By focusing on soil health in autumn, gardeners can ensure lush, productive gardens throughout the cooler months and into the next growing season.

Meetings are held on the first Thursday of the month, at the Enoggera Memorial Hall (entrance via Trundle St)at 9:15 am.

www.echo-news.com.au

Everton News from

Ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred

I would like to commend our community for supporting each other during the extreme weather event of ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred. Whilst many Queenslanders were preparing for the impacts, our essential workers were striving hard to provide the services our communities need. I want to thank all the health care workers, emergency response services, energy providers and SES at Arana Hills who acted around the clock to ensure Queenslanders remained safe. There was also a tremendous effort put forward by grocery stores and their employees who were met with the high demand of restocking shelves and providing necessary food and supplies. It is inspiring to see that in times of need, we can always count on Queenslanders sticking together and showing up for our community.

Personal Hardship Assistance is available for eligible residents in all Brisbane and Moreton Bay areas that have been impacted by the weather event. Eligible residents can apply at https://www.qld.gov.au/community/disastersemergencies/disasters/money-finance/eligibility-apply/tcalfred-march-2025 or call the 24/7 Queensland Community Recovery Hotline on 1800 173 349.

Funding support is available to sport and recreation organisations to help eligible not-for-profit organisations in disaster-declared areas. All eligible clubs can apply for help through the Disaster Recovery Program via: https://www. qld.gov.au/recreation/sports/funding/disaster-recovery.

your State Member for Everton TIM MANDER

The Crisafulli Government has delivered on a key election commitment, injecting more than $44 million into Queensland state schools to address behavioural issues with students. Schools will have the opportunity to spend the additional funding in the best way they see fit to tackle the behavioural needs specific to their classrooms. The funding can be used to hire new support staff, or increase the hours of existing teacher aides, speech pathologists, physiotherapists, and occupational therapists. The Crisafulli Government is delivering on its commitment to ensure every Queensland child can thrive in the classroom.

Neighbour Day

It’s almost here… the Neighbour Day Easter Event! We are once again hosting this festive community event which will include lots of fun kids’ games and activities, free face painting, delicious food, music, stalls and much more! Of course, we can’t forget the main event of the day… the spectacular Easter Egg Hunt sponsored by Hicks Real Estate! Come on down to Teralba Park on the 13th of April to be part of this funpacked day!

Date: Sunday 13th of April

Time: 9:00AM – 11:30AM

Location: Teralba Park, Pullen Road, Everton Park 4053

School Funding Boost

Rebuilding Together After TC Alfred

Our community once again faced a tough challenge in the aftermath of ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred, and the rebuilding process has taken time. There’s still a big job ahead, but seeing our community unite during this difficult time has been truly uplifting. I have no doubt that we have emerged stronger and more resilient than ever.

Thank you to Mayor Flannery, our local Councillors and Council teams, as well as our Police, emergency services, frontline workers, and volunteers who stepped up to keep us safe and support those in need, especially during the clean-up.

Your efforts have been inspirational.

Labor’s energy disaster is punishing Australians

Three years ago, Anthony Albanese and Labor promised cheaper power bills. Instead, they’ve delivered some of the highest electricity prices in the world.

The Australian Energy Regulator recently released more bad news—starting in July 2025, Australian households will be paying up to $1,300 more for electricity than Labor promised. This year alone, household electricity bills in Southeast Queensland are set to rise by 5.8%.

At the next election, Australians face a clear choice: another three years of soaring power bills and energy chaos under Labor, or a real plan to deliver cheap, clean and reliable energy under the Coalition.

ANZAC Day

ANZAC Day is our chance to let our servicemen and women – past and present – know that their service and sacrifice is remembered, appreciated, and honoured. This year marks 80 years since the end of the Second World War. In Europe, the war ended on 8 May 1945, VE Day, when Germany surrendered. However, for Australia, the war didn’t end until 15 August 1945, when Japan accepted the surrender terms, marking Victory in the Pacific (VP Day).

Local Leadership to get Australia Back on Track

Through Project Pivot in Strathpine, they’re helping at-risk young Australians build confidence, find purpose, and create a better future.

An elected Dutton Coalition Government will commit $1.3 million from a revitalised Safer Communities Fund to ensure this life-changing work continues—helping young people stay out of crime and substance abuse and move towards education, employment, and community connection.

Getting Australia Back on Track means keeping families, businesses, and communities safe.

Contact Me

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

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

Gerry Blackwell and her team at The Youth Development Foundation Limited (YDF) are changing lives in our local community.

www.echo-news.com.au

Ex-TC Alfred

THE FERNY REPORT

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

Natural disasters bring out the best and the worst.

With cyclone Alfred bearing down on South-East Queensland over the weekend of 8 and 9 March, communities braced for its impact. Many residents and businesses lost power for several days. While some people in our communities were impacted more than others some organisations like Northwest Community Group, run by Paul Slater, swung into action.

Paul approached Coles in Ferny Grove to see what food items may be available to provide to people in need. Coles staff and Paul’s volunteers gathered more than $40,000 fresh and frozen non-saleable items to help the community.

Paul’s volunteers teamed up with other non-for-profit organisations who provided for people affected by the weather event, as well as emergency workers and homeless people. These people are the salt of the earth who reinforce the spirit of humanity when things are tough, and I commend them for their community spirit.

On a more concerning note, I was disappointed to see that the Crisafulli Government had omitted both Brisbane and Moreton Bay Local Government Areas from the Disaster Recovery Financial Assistance Payments.

I was pleased that both areas were finally activated – after my office had strongly advocated for locals to be able to access the payments – but it is my view this delay should not have occurred.

Samford Road Upgrades

The Samford Road safety improvements project along a 1.5km stretch over the Ferny Hills range between the Lomandra Picnic Area and Camp Mountain Road is now complete. This length of road has always been the most dangerous in the area and the delivery of this project will go a long way to reduce the total number and severity of crashes on the road.

Queensland Police Service Graduation (QPS)

In March the QPS graduated their largest graduation in 33 years with 155 new officers. These recruits began their training as part of the expanded QPS recruitment strategy under the Miles Government. The strategy included recruiting people from various backgrounds and experiences such as previous law students, business owners and security officers, as well as officers with previous policing experience from New Zealand, the UK, and South Africa.

Congratulations to Tim, Bev and the Ferny Grove Coles Team for working with Paul Slater and the Northwest Community Group during Ex TC Alfred

TERMS & CONDITIONS, please read

Up to 3 proofs are offered free of charge from MAC Group Publications design services. Any further changes or proofs provided to the client will incur a $50 charge per proof produced.

Check spelling, headings, text and phone numbers. Once artwork is approved, MAC Group Publications Pty Ltd will not accept responsibility for incorrect copy or layout. Please read all copy carefully. Check spelling, headings, text and phone numbers. Once artwork is approved, MAC Group Publications Pty Ltd will not accept responsibility for incorrect copy or layout. if your ad is colour, this proof does not represent accurate colour reproduction. All material produced by MAC Group Publications Pty Ltd is subject to copyright and remains the property of MAC Group Publications Pty Ltd. Reproduction elsewhere, in whole or part, is prohibited except with the express permission of the copyright holder. A release fee for use of artwork will apply.