The Hills Echo - June 2023

Creativity at every turn on the Arts Trail

Local art is a prominent feature once again in this year’s Samford and Surrounds Arts Trails. This popular event, organised by Creative Samford Inc., will be held in and around Samford during the first four weekends in June with some studios and art spaces open from Wednesday to Sunday. Fifty artists, across 20 studios are participating in the trail, with their studios open from 10am to 4pm daily over these four weekends. Visitors will be treated to a wide variety of arts and interesting places to visit, in the beautiful Samford District and surrounds. Featured artists and artisans include painters, sculptors, jewellers, felt makers and textile artists, ceramicists, furniture makers and even a body artist. Artists will open their studios so visitors can learn about their making process, view and purchase the art. This year, studios are open from Samford to Cashmere, Clear Mountain, Yugar and out to Dayboro. Once again, there are a great range of workshops available as part of the Arts Trail, with artists sharing their knowledge and experience in painting, sculpture, ceramics, encaustic painting and textile art. The workshops are outlined in the booklet which will be available at libraries, information centres and a variety of retail outlets.

For the first time this year, the Arts Trail will be running a ‘People’s Choice’ Award. Visitors to the Arts Trail will be encouraged to vote for their favourite artist every time they visit a Studio or Art Space. They will then go in the draw to win that artwork.

The Studio Guide, and photos of the People’s Choice entries, will be available for viewing on the Creative Samford website www.creativesamford.com

Samford artist Ann Russell will be showcasing some of her magnificent pieces at the upcoming Samford Arts Trail

Natasha Moore (and her furry friend) will be throwing the doors open to her studio. Photos courtesy of Dianne S Hodge

Racing Round The Tracks

A race report from the North Brisbane Mountain Bike Club

With the hotter days easing, the Mountain Trail Bike (MTB) racing season is under way. The North Brisbane MTB Club has representatives racing in many disciplines including Downhill, Gravity Enduro and Cross Country.

Downhill Report

The first round of the Boomerang Farm Down Hill Series was run on the 30th April with a record turnout of 206 riders from all over the state, including 3 riders from the North Brisbane Dirt Dogs. Tom Stutz in U15, Allick Tierney in U17 and Craig Collins in over 50’s age group. The course was fast and challenging with large drops, big gap jumps and ruthless rock gardens. Practice was very tricky due to overnight rain making some of the sections very slippery with a few riders coming to grief, thankfully nobody was seriously hurt. The course was running very well by the time race runs were called. Craig was riding smooth and finished 11th. Tom pushed hard and came away with 5th out of 30 riders. Allick scorched his way down the track finishing 2nd out of a huge 50 rider field. With the racing season in full swing a few club riders made the journey to Cairns for Crankworx where Tom Stutz brought home the gold medal in u15 Downhill!

Gravity Enduro Report

The second Round of the Rocky Trails Fox Superflow was held at Toowoomba on some very technical and rocky trails, it saw ten club members compete in various categories. Allick Tierney, Ben Malatzky and Julieanne White secured podium positions in their categories, whilst Craig Collins and Rohan

Coyle worked hard to finish in the top 10 for their categories. Special thank you goes out to the Ditchburn Family who put in a massive effort on the day, setting up and packing up the clubs tent and pit area, in addition to the full day of racing.

Cross Country

The club had 10 riders competing in the Sunshine Coast MTB festival hosted by local company in2adventure. This event hosted at Ewen Maddock Dam is an excellent introduction to Cross country racing and adventure triathlon for riders of all ages skills and ability. The club had three members finish on the podium in their categories for the 29km MTB race. Ben Malatzky, 3rd in 30-39, Paul

Beer, 2nd in 50-59 and Svic Walter 2nd in 60+. To get involved with the North Brisbane MTB Club, visit Facebook at www.facebook.com/ NorthBrisbaneDirtDogsMTB Happy Trails!

Tom Stutz, who brought home the gold medal in u15 Downhill race at Cairns for Crankworx

A Roaring Success For Red Ride

By Sheree Hoddinett

A sea of red rode through the streets of the Moreton Bay Region on Saturday May 20, raising awareness for domestic violence.

More than 200 bikes took part in the Moreton Bay Red Ride covering about 184km of road from Caboolture out to Redcliffe, down to Strathpine, across to Dayboro and then on to Woodford and Beerburrum before finishing back in Caboolture at the showground. An afternoon of festivities followed with a show and shine featuring 20 cars, loads of fun and entertainment for all family members.

A beautiful day of fine, sunny weather set the scene for an event that was all about turning heads. Red Ride committee member Randall Macey was grateful for the sunshine and positive feedback they received about the ride.

‘It’s everything – the planning and behind the scenes stressing – it’s all worth it to see the smiles on people’s faces as the ride takes place. We actually had one lady that started tearing up because she realised what the event was for. So when you get people out in the community talking to you and recognising this is all about a good cause, it makes it so worth it.’

All too often now we hear about domestic related incidents happening to families out there and the Red Ride is all about trying to combat it from happening.

Creating awareness is a big focus of the Red Ride with participants encouraged to wear red or even add the flag featuring the event emblem to their bike. All funds raised from the day will be donated to organisations that provide services and support to victims of domestic violence.

Planning is already underway for the next Red Ride to be held

on May 18 next year, with members of the community already putting their hands up to take part. But none of it would be possible without the contributions of the many volunteers and sponsors.

‘Planning an event of this size takes quite a lot of combined effort,” Randall says. “There’s a lot of people involved in the background and a lot of unsung heroes. For everyone who helped out and did their bit, thank you so much!’

For further information about the Red Ride, please visit www. redride.org

Riders had red flags on their bikes (above). Some riders dressed up in costume with a red fairy on the left

Little Writer onto BIGGER Things

13-year-old published author Amiel Haddy has recently released the 7th book in his series of action-adventure novels.

Just last year, Echo News boasted the success of Amiel’s first release, as well as his dedication to the craft. From the age of 8, Amiel began his commitment to book-writing and worldbuilding, which ultimately led to the birth of Catman—the notorious superhero his series centres around. Although he is really an 8-year-old boy named Alex, ‘Catman’ spends this book series fighting off evil with his supernatural powers of flight, super-speed, retractable claws, and a super-sonic purr. And how does Alex maintain this wild and wonderful double life? A magic, shapeshifting ring, of course!

Amiel shares that it took him over 12 months to write, illustrate, and publish the final instalment to his series, Catman and the National Hero Tournament. The plot follows Catman and his fellow heroes as they complete four rounds of the tournament to earn points. “I would tell more,” Amiel says. “But I don’t want to spoil the story; you’ll have to read it to see!”

Amiel’s inspiration for the daring tale of test and triumph came from his enjoyment of Harry Potter and The Goblet of Fire, and its focus on the Triwizard Tournament. “I thought it would be fun to put Catman into a tournament with other heroes,” Amiel explains.

Readers can get their hands on a copy of Catman and the National Hero Tournament—or the whole series—by heading to Amiel’s mother’s profile on Facebook marketplace, Oriana M Haddy. A5 copies cost $20 plus $3.50 postage, or larger A4 copies cost $30 plus $6 postage. The cost quoted is for all seven books in the series. One day, Amiel hopes these books

earn a spot on the shelves of bookstores like Dymocks. For now, Amiel will be taking a temporary break from book writing to focus on his high school studies. With the Catman series now at a close, his next endeavour will be to write a more mature fantasy novel for older readers like himself. Echo News, for one, looks forward to its release!

Young author Amiel Haddy

State-of-the-art BMX track off and racing in Brendale

BMX'ers can rejoice with the official opening of one of the best BMX racing tracks in Australia at Nolan Park, Brendale taking place last month.

Mayor Peter Flannery attended the official opening at the new track and clubhouse for the Pine Rivers BMX Club. Other delegates in attendance were Pine Rivers MP Nikki Boyd, and councillors Cath Tonks (Div 9) and Cr Mick Gillam (Div 8) alongside 217 riders also taking part in the opening.

This new facility and clubhouse has been delivered to a standard capable of hosting national-level events and competitions. With BMX racing rapidly growing in popularity in Australia and specifically Moreton Bay since it was introduced to the Beijing Olympics in 2008, this track is certain to be a focal point ahead of the 2032 Olympic & Paralympic Games.

The $5.8 million project is a joint venture between the State Government and Moreton Bay Regional Council,

with the State Government contributing $1.95 million as part of the Queensland Government’s Unite and Recover Community Stimulus Package to help Queensland communities bounce back from COVID.

Pine Rivers BMX Club have experienced a considerable influx of riders over the past few years, and the talent

The impressive new track at Brendale shown by the youngsters is quite considerable as Mayor Peter Flannery explains.

‘Pine Rivers BMX Club have been at the forefront of that popularity surge by producing a number of junior world champions and providing an outlet for kids to enjoy themselves,’ he said.

This new track now complements the work that has been carried out down the road at the South Pine Sports Complex. The complex is now set to be one of Queensland’s largest multisport facilities with roughly 6,000 sports club members playing over 20 different sports at the site.

*Please note: Residents are required to be a Pine Rivers BMX Club member to use the track at Nolan Park.

FERNY GROVE

Regis Ferny Grove

At Regis, we understand that ageing can come with its own set of challenges.

That’s why for the past 30 years, we’ve been dedicated to helping senior Australians find joy and fulfillment in every day. Our permanent and respite care services are designed to meet your unique needs and support you in realising your wellbeing goals.

At Regis Ferny Grove, you can expect to be treated with the utmost respect and dignity. Our caring and compassionate team will work with you to create a personalised care plan that fits your individual needs and preferences.

If you’re looking for a place to call home, where you can live a meaningful life surrounded by people who care, look no further than Regis.

To learn more about Regis Ferny Grove, please call 1300 998 100 or visit regis.com.au

regis.com.au | 1300 998 100

Bowling Out A New Menu

Mouth-watering Lamb Rump, Sri Lankan Curry, and Crispy Pork Belly Salad —these are just three of the spectacular meals you will find at the Ferny Grove Bowls Club these days. And just wait until you see the rest of the menu!

Upon the previous caterer leaving, the Ferny Grove Bowls Club decided to take charge of the restaurant themselves, and with Head Chef Roshan at the helm they haven’t looked back. Although only 23 years of age, Nepalise born Roshan has a wealth of experience and culinary wisdom at his fingertips.

After completing his studies at the Queensford College Brisbane City in Commercial Cookery, along with gaining an Advanced Diploma in Hospitality Management, Roshan kickstarted his career—and fine-tuned his impeccable skillsets—at a variety of accoladed restaurants including Spicers Retreat, Sous Chef Industry Bins - experience many a chef can only dream of.

However, lucky for us, Roshan has now found home at the Ferny Grove Bowls Club and with a team of 4 behind him, the crew are whipping up mouth-watering delights with their Modern Australian cuisine. Using only the freshest of ingredients and locally sourced produce, the menu has been welcomed by the community and also encompasses your typical “Bowlsy” delights including a kids menu, seniors specials and regular evening specials.

All that being said, the Ferny Grove kitchen certainly knows how to make your experience one to remember. Whether it’s a wedding, a work function, or simply a family breakfast, the team will ensure you leave with a smile on your face and a happy food baby beneath your belt with custom menus tailored

to your requirements. And things don’t get mundane at the club with the menu being ‘changed up’ every quarter to offer the community variety throughout our seasons. So, what are we waiting for, Brisbane locals? Come on down to the Ferny Grove Bowls and Community Club to get amongst the action!

The Ferny Grove Bowls Club is located at 20 Tramway Street, Ferny Grove. The restaurant is open Wednesday to Saturday from noon to 2pm for lunch and from 5.30pm to 8pm for dinner. Sundays operate on a lunch only basis from noon to 3pm. To make a booking, call 07 3851 1889. Takeaway and catering also available.

Master Your Fear Of Public Speaking

Like many of us, you have probably found speaking in front of an audience terrifying. Luckily for us, we have the Toastmasters group right on our doorstep. Toastmasters can be rewarding, challenging, educational, exciting and a great way to meet and make new friends. Stafford Heights Toastmasters (SHTM) is all this and more. Their club was formed in October 1982 and last year they celebrated the clubs 40th anniversary. Since then, they have helped many members, both past and present, to become more confident public speakers. The club welcomes all people over the age of 18 years. So, if public speaking is a skill you want to improve then please contact the club on 1300 920 621 or email shtmenquiry@gmail.com. They meet at the Chermside Library meeting rooms,on the 1st, 3rd and 5th (if applicable) Tuesdays of each month 7-9pm

What's On

AT

FREE

Kick back and enjoy some live music from the Brisbane Shadows Players on the 2nd Sunday of the month

LAWN BOWLING AT GAYTHORNE

Whether it’s a birthday or team building, Barefoot Bowling to guaranteed FUN and available at the club LINE DANCING AT GAYTHORNE

Budding dancers are welcomed to join our local group of line dancers on Fridays at 9.30am CITY 8 BALL POOL

There‛s plenty to see and do this down at your local Bowls Club, just check out what‛s on offer CLUB

Some of the Stafford Heights Toastmasters

Healthy Living for Healthy Older Adults

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

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

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

limited mobility or time. Gourmet Meals is here to help! Our meals are made with health in mind, using the best quality ingredients and no preservatives; and because they are portion-controlled, they make it easier for you to stay within your calorie and nutrition budget. This not only helps in managing your weight but also in maintaining an overall healthy lifestyle. With Gourmet Meals, you can enjoy a variety of delicious and nutritious meals, without having to worry about meal preparation or shopping for ingredients. Simply remove your Gourmet Meal from the freezer, heat, and enjoy! Furthermore, the convenience of having these meals delivered to your door makes it easier than ever for you to eat right and right on time!

HOME DELIVERY OF READY MADE MEALS

New Customers use the code word INTRO and receive a FREE MEAL

✔ Gluten Free

✔ Wholesome and nutritious

✔ Convenient ready-made frozen meals

Call

✔ Australian owned and operated

✔ Tastes like home cooking

✔ Home delivered or available in stores

Minimum order $55 (excl delivery of $8.50) applies, one per customer

What's On At The Library?

The Arana Hills Library has a host of exciting activities planned in the upcoming month. To secure your event, visit www.mbrc.qld.gov.au/libraries/events. For more information, call the library on 3883 5790 or pay them a visit at 63 Cobbity Crescent, Arana Hills.

Music Exploratorium - Thursday 29th June, 2pm - 3pm

Discover the science behind sound and music with our range of science experiments! Ages 8-11 years.

Imagination Trail - Saturday 1st July, 10.30am - 11am

Let's tell a story together! Become the hero of your own tale in this adventure role play with the Australian Acting Academy. Ages 7-12.

Larrikin Puppet Show - Wednesday 5th July, 2pm - 3pm

Sing, dance and play along with the feel-good antics of Larrikin Puppets! Ages 8 and under.

Book Discussion Group: 1st Friday of the month, 2pm - 3pm Which books have rocked your world? Enjoy a lively discussion of your favourite books and authors. Fine your next great read. For adults. No bookings required.

Board Game Club: 1st Saturday of the month, 10.30am - 11.30am Grab your friends after school for some friendly competition with our board games and card games. Drop in. All ages welcome. Free. Facilitated by our friendly library staff.

Lego Engineers Club: 2nd & 4th Wednesday of the month, 3.30pm - 4.30pm Develop design thinking and engineering skills as you build with LEGO ® bricks. Meet other brick fans and complete challenges, group builds and more! Ideal for ages 6-12. Registration required.

T

E

W

A

Special interest in helping flat faced dogs (pugs, french bulldogs, boston terriers, bulldogs) have happier lives

Puppy & kitten vaccinations, Health checks , Microchipping, Puppy Preschool, Desexing

Veterinary care for your dogs, cats, backyard chooks & pocket pets

Glenn Chandler, Dip. C.H. Everton Park since 1997

WOMEN IN BUSINESS

MEN IN BUSINESS

Next month, the ladies will be moving over as the gents take the spotlight in our Men in Business showcase. If you have a male employee, or perhaps you, the business owner has major talents, experience or qualifications you would like our community to read about, get in touch! This feature is a fantastic way to expand on the services your business may offer. For more information or to book email admin@echo-news.com.au

Judy Polkinghorne

Owner/Tour Escort - Girls On Tour

Judy Polkinghorne was an Accountant in a former life for a multi-million dollar I.T. company but left all that behind in 2007 to take a leap of faith and start “Girls On Tour”.

With a husband who doesn’t like to travel, Judy has for the past 16 years, been making travel dreams come true for inspirational and adventurous women all over Australia and NZ and is extremely proud of the business she has built.

Girls On Tour is a Queensland owned and operated travel business based in Mooloolaba offering small group, women-only tours internationally and in Australia. “Spanning 59 countries over all 7 continents, you can definitely say we’ve ticked off a lot of personal ‘bucket list items’ for our travellers from The Arctic to Antarctica and everything in between. Most recently returning to Egypt after the forced travel bans, I am finding that the desire of my clients to explore the world is very strong,” says Judy.

“We’ve added some exciting Aussie trips and international ones again too to our calendar in 2023 and 2024”.

Created exclusively for women who love to explore and meet new people, Girls On Tour offers you the excitement of world and domestic travel with the least amount of fuss on your part.

If you’re single, widowed, divorced, married or you just don’t have someone to travel with, Girls On Tour is for you. With a return business rate in excess of 40% it’s clear that women love travelling with Girls On Tour and the fun loving like-minded women they attract. For more information, give Judy a call or visit her Facebook page or website.

P: 0409 057 417

www.girlsontour.com.au

girlsontouraustralia

Mention Code NTHBRIS22 when booking!

Hayley Grant

Meet Hayley Grant, founder of HMG Home Loans

based in beautiful Samford.

Upon finishing high school in 1995, Hayley had big dreams of joining the police force and began studies to make this a reality.

Whilst studying, Hayley started a part time job with Suncorp Bank and soon became a revered member of the team impressing each and every executive as she climbed the corporate ladder. Ultimately, this saw Hayley becoming a Lending Manager at Chermside - one of Suncorp's busiest branches in Brisbane. This was the beginning of an unforeseen career in finance.

After 15 years with Suncorp, and many national awards as a Lending Manager, she took a massive leap (along with many sleepless nights) and started her own company - HMG Home Loans. She was 32, single and had just purchased a home in Hamilton. Talk about pressure! It was the unknown, the lack of a stable income (and only income) and starting a business from scratch.

In her first year as a Mortgage Broker, Hayley won the 'New Broker of the Year' award at a national conference. This was to be the start of many award recognitions for the hard work she has put into establishing and running this successful business solo.

Fast forward to 2023, Hayley is a mother of two, Charlotte (8) and Cooper (5). She continues to run her business full time from home and is actively involved in the kids’ school and the local community. She was recently recognised for these efforts and awarded the Peter Dutton 2023 Dickson Community Service Award on Australia Day. After 28 years in finance, Hayley still loves what she does and derives joy and satisfaction from helping clients achieve their financial goals whilst guiding them along the way. Contact Hayley today on the details below for more information regarding her services.

P: 0407 671 822

E: hayley@hmghomeloans.com.au

www.hmghomeloans.com.au

Natalee Sands

Owner - Aesthetic Blinds & Design

“I have many clients say they felt daunted by the task of choosing new window coverings, and that I make the process easy. It’s the biggest compliment”

Natalee Sands

Natalee Sands is the Founder of Aesthetic Blinds and Design - a trusted local business offering custom-made blinds and shutters, with a personalized service.

After a decade in the window furnishings industry, Natalee created Aesthetic Blinds to not only supply a huge range of quality Blinds, Shutters and Curtains, but to take the hard work out of the process.

Now, 12 years later Aesthetic Blinds has gained a reputation in the community for being a trusted source of quality custom-made products, sourced from local manufacturers.

In fact, Natalee makes the job of finding blinds and shutters easy and works with her clients to achieve their desired result. The first step is to have a personal inhome consultation, where she will discuss your windows, doors and requirements for light, heat and air control, as well as the look you would like to create. She will also bring her huge range of samples, in addition to a photo gallery, to help clients visualise the finished look. Once a product is chosen, Natalee will then keep her clients up-to-date with the ordering and installation processes. “I’m very proud of the large range I supply; there is so much variety available, and I love to assist local home owners to create the vibe they are looking for in their home,” says Natalee.

BLINDS, CURTAINS & SHUTTERS

Let’s work together to create window coverings for your space, a reflection of your individual style and day to day needs.

• Verishades

• Roller Blinds

• Curtains

• Shutters

• Roman Blinds

• Panel Glides

• Venetians & Verticals

• Outdoor Solutions

This Hills District local of 17 years loves the local community , and is very much part of it with her husband and 2 daughters.

• Cushions & Bench Seats

So, if you are renovating, building or simply need a change, contact Natalee to find out the options on offer.

P: 0413 842 009

Contact Natalee for friendly personal service & to discuss your options.

Ph: 0413 842 009

sales@aestheticblinds.com.au

E: natalee@aestheticblinds.com.au

www.aestheticblinds.com.au

Director - HMG Home Loans

Lions - More than Just a Sausage Sizzle

An update from the Golden Valley Keperra Lions Club

Well it’s certainly been a couple of months since we’ve updated the community on our activities as your Lions Club in the Hills District.

All Lions clubs are busy in the community, but most residents only see us as the sellers of our beautiful Christmas Cakes and running Sausage Sizzles at Bunnings, schools and Harvey Norman. While these activities provide us with funds to support our community, being a Lion is so much more than just cooking sausages. Over the last few months we have held: Youth of the Year competition: A competition where local High School Students are interviewed, present prepared speeches and have to think on their feet by answering impromptu questions in front of an audience. The National Winner receives a $5,000 prize and the chance to travel around Australia presenting to other Lions Clubs School Chaplaincies: We have provided funding to allow children to attend their school year camps, where their families circumstances did not allow attendance.

Scam Alert: We attended a training session with Ron Watson from the Office of Fair Trading where he showed us how to protect ourselves against this increasing threat.

Hillbrook School Indigenous Day: This year on Friday 26th May we supported Hillbrook to have a successful Indigenous Day.

Hills Carnivale: While our club assists with the running of this event, this year we will have an information stall to answer all those questions you might have about what Lions do in the community.

Kakowan Community Facility: We recently donated a defibrillator to the centre, hoping they will never have to use it. Lions Medical Research Foundation: This month we donated $3,000 to this Queensland and Northern New South Wales Foundation. This Foundation is different to the many Medical Foundations in Australia. Our Foundation is different in two significant ways. Firstly we financially support new researchers how don’t have the funds to progress their area of research. New researchers need to demonstrate funding of $100,000 per annum for a number of years before applying for mainstream grants. Our successes include Prof Ian Frazer for the cervical cancer vaccine, Kidney Transplant Technology, Cord Blood Research, Brisbane Eye Bank, Brown Snake Antivenom and recently Ovarian Cancer Early Detection.

We also support high school students from remote areas to come to Brisbane to work on research projects to expand their knowledge.

Oh - and did I mention, we also have fun socialising every month to keep our batteries charged. Dinners at Arana Leagues, The Grove, Gaythore RSL, Movie Night at Kakowan Community Facility. You know what they say about all work and no play!

We also have a terrific Book Swap at the Kakowan Community Facility, so if you woould like to pop in and swap a book, please do. It is fully stocked at the moment with books for the whole family.

GVK Lion Col Hambrecht with the spectacular Book Swap at Kakowan Community Facility that was handmade by their volunteers

More volunteers are needed, however you don’t have to be a Lion, just someone who wants to share the gift of their time. Thanks again, Paul Ryan – Golden Valley Keperra Lions Ph: 0409 688 675 Email: info@kakowan.org.au or cottontrees@bigpond,com

Ascot Player Strikes High For Australia

Arana Ascot’s Jade Smith playing in her Australian A Team Strip

Congratulations to Arana Ascot Hockey Club’s Jade Smith, who secured one of three additions to the Australia A team for their two matches against India.

Jade, who is an Albany Creek local is one of the club’s premier players in league 1. Arana Ascot could not be

prouder of their player as she joined the Australian team that features a selection of Australia’s best emerging women’s hockey talent. The games took place on the 25th and 27th May at MATE Stadium in Adelaide with Australia winning 3-2 in game one and India winning 2-1 in game two. Again well done Jade, the local community and your club are so proud!

News from Arana VIEW Club

The luncheon meeting for Arana VIEW Club will be held at 10.30am for 11am on Wednesday July 5th at Arana Leagues Club, Dawson Parade,Keperra. A two course lunch for $30 including tea and coffee will be included. There will be raffles and a lucky door prize with the guest speaker being Hose Sarmiento -Indooroopilly Cyber Scams.

For bookings phone Carol 3355 5349 by Thursday noon in the week before the meeting if you are attending lunch. VIEW welcomes new members and visitors to our meetings and other social activities organised each month so members have a chance to make new friends.

Cake Show Coaching in Full Swing

Preparations are in full swing at the Brisbane North Cake Decorators HQ for the Annual Cake Show that is coming up in September at Upper Coomera. At the recent May meeting, members enjoyed a demonstration by Robyn who showed the group how to create articles for their displays. The group look forward to putting this knowledge gained into practice and will create some of these articles at the June workshop. The Brisbane North Cake Decorators were also delighted to surprise Fay, one of their longest serving members, with a Life Membership of their Branch. The next meeting will be on 17th June, commencing at 1pm at the Arana Community Hall, Dawson Parade Arana Hills. New members are always welcome at the club! For more information, visit Facebook Brisbane North Cake Decorators or email brisbanenorthcakedecorators@ gmail.com

An update from the Brisbane North Cake Decorators Club

Planting in Progress

An update from the Hills Organic Garden

Planting has begun in earnest with Beetroot, Snow Peas, Pak Choy, Spinach, Lettuce, Beans and Silverbeet being planted. The soil is still warm so the plants should be able to establish a good root system before the colder weather arrives.

A little rain would be good to keep our plants growing and thriving. However, we have a good group of keen members who will water regularly throughout the week and weekend.

At the moment our herb garden has flowering basil which is attracting the bees, society garlic (which has beautiful lavender flowers which are edible), thyme, tarragon, mother of herbs and garlic chives.

The HOG community is a friendly group who offer people in the Hills District the opportunity to grow vegetables using organic principles. Age is no barrier so feel free to come along one Sunday afternoon to have a chat and a look around our beautiful garden.

As we head into winter and the days get shorter, our members will now meet on a Sunday afternoon from 2pm to 4pm. As well, they also attend the garden through the week to water and do general maintenance.

You will find us at 416 Bunya Road, Bunya, next to the Off Leash Dog Park. Membership Fees per year are $20 for adults, $30 for family and $10 for Juniors. Visit www.hog.org.au, search The Hills Organic Garden on Facebook or phone 0415 856 532 for information. We look forward to meeting you.

Native’s for Diversity

From the Ferny Grove Garden Club

The June meeting of the Ferny Grove Garden Club will be on Friday, 30 June, at 1 pm. The club meets in St Matthew’s Church Hall, Church Road, Mitchelton. At the meeting we will enjoy the gardening expertise of Architect and Landscape Architect, Lawrie Smith, who will speak on ‘Known and Unknown Native Plants – Diversity of specimens for the garden’. During Lawrie’s career, he has maintained a strong social philosophy primarily concentrating on the provision of specialised parkland, open space developments, as well as involvement with major national and international exhibitions which provide and introduce people to quality urban environments and enhanced lifestyles through innovative landscape and amenity horticulture initiatives. For more information, please telephone Elizabeth: 07 3851 0568.

Weeds: The Good, the Bad and the Ugly

An update from the Mitchelton and Districts Garden Club

The last few weeks have been a busy time for executive members of The Mitchelton and Districts Garden Club which participated in The Twilight Years Expo at Arana Hills.

Also, at the June meeting a farewell function was held for Pat Killoran who retired from the club towards the end of 2022. Pat, apart from being president several other times, has recently served continuously as president for almost twelve years. Her club membership covers well over fifty-five years, and she is wished peace, good health, and happiness. The next Garden Club meeting at the Enoggera Memorial Hall is on Thursday, 6th July. The guest speaker, Helen Rattenburg‘s topic is Good/Bad Weeds in the Garden. According to Encyclopaedia Britannica, the definition of a weed is a plant considered undesirable, unattractive and troublesome, especially one that grows where it is not wanted and spreads quickly! There’s a saying - One year’s seed, seven years, weeds. How true it is! One such weed is the Dandelion, but its herbal qualities are beneficial for good health too. Some others are Clover, Onion Weed, Oxalis. etc. Attend this meeting to see what Helen has to say. Visitors and new members are most welcome and admission is $3 with morning tea provided from 9.15am. The meeting commences approx. 10 a.m. More information is on The meeting commences at 10am. More information is on Facebook @mitcheltongardenclub

Dickson News

On Thursday 11 May, I delivered my second Budget in Reply speech in Canberra where I laid out my plan for a stronger economy and a stronger Australia and easing the cost-of-living crisis on struggling Australian families and small businesses. As Leader of the Liberal Party, I will work hard to hold the Government to account and to ensure the interests of our community and every day Australians are put first and foremost.

King Charles III

On Saturday 6 May, King Charles III and Queen Camilla were crowned.

The ceremony brought together thousands of dignitaries from all over the Commonwealth and the world to witness the historic event in London. Many millions of tuned in to witness history in the making.

The Monarchy has a long history in Australia. It serves as a unifying symbol of stability and tradition and will continue to hold an important place in the hearts of many Australians for many years to come.

Dickson Seniors Expo – Save the Date Planning is underway for the 2023 Dickson Seniors Expo to be

held on Tuesday 22 August at the South Pine Sports Complex, South Pine Road, Brendale.

Entry is free with attendees treated to live entertainment, guest speakers and complimentary showbags. There are also giveaways, raffle prizes and a chance to win a $500 grocery gift card.

Organisations and businesses interested in hosting a stall at the 2023 Dickson Seniors’ Expo can contact my office in Strathpine – details below.

What’s important to you?

I’m working hard to make our community even better, but I can’t do it on my own. I need your help to make sure we get the priorities right for our community.

With your help, and by working together, we can get the upgrades, facilities, and opportunities our community needs.

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.

QIMR BERGHOFER Medical Research Cent Auction

When: Sunday 25th June, 1pm (doors open at 11am)

Location: OES Project Hall Cnr. Kitchener Road and Bohland Street, Kedron Details: Refreshments, raffles. Every door ticket wins a prize.There are over 200 prizes. Cost: $3 Bookings: Call Lorraine 3263 1337.

Peter DUTTON MP Federal Member for Dickson

Everton News from your State Member for Everton TIM MANDER

Youth Crime Epidemic

Enough is enough. How many more tragedies have to occur before the Palaszczuk Government implements real reform to combat the youth crime crisis tearing our State apart. Unfortunately, our district has not been immune from the youth crime crisis that has gripped our state.

I’ve had a number of local residents come to my office to personally communicate the ordeal their families endured as victims of young criminals. Properties being broken into, cars and valuables stolen and in one incident, the offending youths returning on three occasions, the last time armed with a tomahawk to bash the front door in! These crimes have not only cost the victims thousands of dollars in damages, their trauma, as a result of these home invasions, is real and ongoing. There must be consequences for actions, detention as a last resort must be removed and we need gold standard early intervention that diverts young offenders away from a life of crime.

Winner of Colour Run

Albany Creek State School

celebrated the end of the first Term with their annual Colour Run. I couldn’t resist joining in the fun armed with a super water pistol! It was an additional honour to donate a bike for the winner of the Colour Run Raffle and present it to her on assembly.

Congratulations Ellie!!!

grateful to be included and participate in many of the Anzac Ceremonies across the Everton Electorate.

It is always an honour to be invited and I truly appreciate the importance of these events in our community. I find it encouraging to see so many of our local schools and sporting clubs participating.

Senior School Leader’s Lunch at Parliament House

This month I had the pleasure of welcoming the senior school leaders from Prince of Peace College and Northside Christian College to Parliament house for a tour and lunch. It is always interesting and refreshing to listen to the younger generations’ views on tackling some of today’s issues.

Anzac Ceremonies

Anzac Day is our national day of remembrance to honour those who have fought for our freedom, and I am always moved and

THE FERNY REPORT

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

New hall for Oakleigh State School

Last month I had the very great pleasure to join with Oakleigh State School leaders Harper Ackland, Tadgh Jaffrey, Emily O’Brien, Charlotte Effeney, and the Oakleigh School team to turn the first sod on the new hall.

Oakleigh alumni have told me the school has been working towards building a hall since the early 1950s! In 2020 I promised the Oakleigh community that a re-elected Palaszczuk Government would build the long-awaited hall and now we are delivering on that promise. Construction is expected to commence shortly.

Construction update for Mitchie Special School

Also, recently Mitchie Special School Principal Sheldon Hooper invited me to inspect the progress of the construction of their new facilities. At over fifty years of age, Mitchie Special School was badly in need of an upgrade – and the Palaszczuk Government is delivering that upgrade for some of the most vulnerable students in our community. The new learning site will include specialty classrooms, breakout areas, amenities, and a new admin and staff area. The project is due to be completed later this year.

School Tours

In the past month many of the schools in the Ferny Grove Electorate sent leaders to tour Queensland Parliament. The questions the student leaders asked were informed and insightful. I am always inspired by the attentiveness and interest of our local students and am inspired by their determination to build the future.

Thank you to Oakleigh State School leaders Harper Ackland, Tadgh Jaffrey, Emily O’Brien, Charlotte Effeney for helping me turn the first sod on their new school hall!

Active Clubs Grants

The latest round of the Active Clubs program has delivered $30,000 to twelve local clubs as part of the Queensland Government’s 10-year strategy to further enrich the Queensland way of life and build on our strong community foundations to deliver better health and well-being outcomes for all Queenslanders.

The grants provided will fund local sport and active recreation organisations and will support volunteers and provide opportunities to increase participation.

Coffee catch ups

Drop in to one of my regular coffee catch ups and have a chat about the things which matter to you. My shout!

• 24 June 8am, Grounds of Origin, 4 Patricks Road Arana Hills

• 8 July 8:30am, Priorities, 2/95 Samford Road, Alderley