Our Logan Magazine - March 2016

Volume 46 March 2016

POH GETS A TASTE for the City of Logan

FAREWELL

Mayor Pam Parker and Councillor Graham Able ARE YOU READY

TO VOTE?

BUILDING OUR COMMUNITIES, BUSINESSES AND PRIDE

Get ready to vote in the council elections on March 19

Rochedale South Underwood

Priestdale

Springwood

Woodridge

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Logan Central

Slacks Creek

1

Daisy Hill

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Shailer Park Cornubia Forestdale Browns Kingston Meadowbrook Hillcrest Plains Tanah Regents Merah Marsden Loganlea Park Heritage Park Boronia Bethania Waterford Loganholme Heights Crestmead West Edens Eagleby Greenbank Landing Park Ridge Waterford Beenleigh Logan Reserve Holmview Mount Park Ridge South Warren Park Bahrs Buccan Scrub Munruben Windaroo Chambers Flat Belivah Bannockburn North Maclean Logan Village Stockleigh Wolffdene South Maclean Berrinba

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10

7

6

8

12

9

New Beith

Lyons

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11

Yarrabilba

Undullah

Jimboomba

Cedar Creek

Kairabah

Kagaru

Tamborine Cedar Grove Cedar Vale Woodhill Veresdale

Veresdale Scrub

Mundoolun

Council elections are being held across Queensland on Saturday, 19 March.

four-year parliamentary terms for State Government.

All eligible Logan residents are required to vote for a councillor to represent their area or ‘division’ and for a mayor to replace the city’s outgoing mayor Pam Parker.

They will also be asked to vote in a one-off referendum on fixed,

The Electoral Commission of Queensland (ECQ) is responsible for running council elections in Queensland. You’ll find lots of information about voting in the election on its website — www.ecq.qld.gov.au

Carbrook

Do you have to vote?

Voting is compulsory if you are eligible to vote, and you may be fined for not voting. Each person can only vote once in the election.

To enrol to vote or to check your enrolment information is up to date, please call the ECQ on 1300 881 665. You have until 6pm on Friday 18 March, to enrol to vote or to update enrolment details.

How do you vote?

The most common way to vote is by visiting a polling booth, which must be in your enrolled local area. Polling booths will be open from 8am to 6pm on 19 March. You can find a list of polling booths, pre-poll centres and opening times online at www.ecq.qld.gov.au When you enter the polling booth, an issuing officer will ask for your name and address. They will mark your name off the electoral roll and will issue you with ballot papers.

• Shop 5a Jimboomba Convenience Centre, 133–145 Brisbane St, Jimboomba

You will be directed to a private booth where you can vote (please ensure you read the instructions on the ballot paper) before lodging your completed ballot paper in the ballot box.

• 26 Wilbur St, Logan Central (next to the library)

Polling booth officials can help you if you have any questions.

If you are unable to vote at a polling booth on 19 March, please contact the ECQ to make other arrangements. ECQ also provides a range of services to ensure that all electors have an equal opportunity to vote and are not disadvantaged because of personal circumstance, disability or language.

These pre-poll venues will be open:

Election results will be posted on ECQ’s website on polling night.

Pre-poll venues If you can’t vote on 19 March, you can cast your vote at one of the following pre-poll venues before election day: • Beenleigh Events Centre, corner of Crete St and Kent St, Beenleigh

• Returning Officer’s Office, 4/3878 Pacific Hwy, Loganholme

• from 9am to 5pm on Monday 7 to Friday 11 March and Monday 14 March to Wednesday 16 March • from 9am to 8pm on Thursday 17 March • from 9am to 6pm on Friday 18 March.

Has your division changed?

It’s important to check which division you are in this year, as some boundaries will change on election day. (This is done to ensure each division has a similar number of voters.)

Visit www.ecq.qld.gov.au to check if you will be affected by changes to division boundaries.

Our Logan is produced and delivered to every household in the City of Logan at a cost of 66 cents per household.

OUR LOGAN, OUR CITY MAGAZINE Managing Editor: Deanna Nott News Editor: Kate Bermingham Writers: Rebecca Waters, David Shaw, Toby Walker, Martin King Graphic Design: Dina Wirawan

Editorial enquiries: Kate Bermingham 3412 5866 or media@logan.qld.gov.au Advertising enquiries: Karen Tattersall 3412 5176

Front cover image: Poh Ling Yeow, Logan’s official food ambassador, is always on the hunt for fresh ingredients.

See story page 7.

Photo: Greg Gardner Produced by Logan City Council. None of the material in this publication may be reproduced without the permission of the Chief Executive Officer, Logan City Council.

All content accurate as of 13 February 2016. www.logan.qld.gov.au | www.visitlogan.com.au

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Goodbye Pam

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Many people who have met Logan’s passionate Mayor Pam Parker would agree her energy and enthusiasm for our city has been inspirational. However, Pam is looking forward to a new chapter in life when she retires from her position after the March 19 election.

Pam took some time out with Our Logan to reflect on her time at Logan City Council.

Few people know you started out working at Council in 1995. Tell us more…

I first commenced with Logan City Council in 1995, working in the Health Department for a period of 18 months. My love of helping the community was pulling me to run for the position of Councillor in 1997, which enabled me to make a contribution from the other side of the fence. All this experience was integral to my journey in stepping up to the position of Mayor in 2008.

How have you changed – personally and professionally – since then?

I have grown stronger, wiser and more resilient. I’d describe my style of leadership as strength, balanced with compassion, and outcomes driven.

What have you loved most about being mayor of the City of Logan?

I have had the privilege of meeting many extraordinary people from many different backgrounds and with different stories to tell. I’ve been humbled by their achievements, but most of all by so many volunteers who genuinely care for our community and devote their time to helping others. It is this community spirit which I believe sets Logan apart and has made me so proud to be the mayor of this great city.

employment, housing, transport, safety and social infrastructure in our city.

I’ve also found it very rewarding being associated with local charities and community organisations — and I am delighted that the Mayoress’ Community Service Committee has raised more than $1 million for Logan charities and not-for-profit organisations during my time as mayor.

I also derived great joy from the Mayor’s Reading in Schools program, as nurturing a love of reading in our children sets them up for a good education and secure employment in the future.

Why do you love Logan?

Our diverse and dynamic city, ideally located between Brisbane and the Gold Coast, is the perfect place for people to live, raise a family, study, work and recreate. We have leading schools, good employment prospects, affordable housing, great shopping and plenty of leisure activities right here on our doorstep. We also have an abundance of green space, parks and conservation areas, all of which offer us an enviable outdoor lifestyle.

Best of all, though, are the wonderful people who make up our city. Who wouldn’t love Logan?

What will you most miss about being mayor?

The people, and being able to help and care for them. I thank our amazing staff who over the years have helped me to help others. I love promoting Logan positively like there is no tomorrow, in order to build upon our community pride and attract investment to create jobs for today and for future generations.

What’s been the toughest part of the job?

What are you going to do next?

I love my job but the long hours can be challenging. While I can’t boast about a perfect work-life balance, I have now been able to reduce my working day to 13 or 14 hours, down from 18 to 20 hours in the early days after amalgamation.

Sadly, I think work-life balance is a struggle for many women in leadership roles as they often have to work harder than men to prove themselves fit for leadership. For that reason, there is great value having women in leadership.

I have served as mayor for eight years and as a councillor for 11 years before that – so I’m going to take some time to recharge my batteries, focus on my health and reconnect with my family and friends.

What are your favourite achievements as mayor?

During my early years as mayor, we successfully amalgamated three local government areas into one. Logan tripled in size and its population rose by 42 per cent – it’s now Australia’s fifth largest local government area by population.

I feel privileged to have helped put Logan on the map and grow it into a dynamic city by relentlessly promoting Logan and securing investment and jobs. Logan’s economy is now thriving, powered by more than 20,000 businesses employing more than 72,000 people.

One of the things I am most proud of is the City of Choice initiative, which is focussed on improving education,

I have been approached to become a member of various boards, and I am also passionate about empowering women and our youth with self-belief and leadership, so I will be taking more opportunities to speak with and mentor groups of women and young people. I think there’s a lot of self-doubt out there in the world, particularly with women and our youth.

The message is: “If you don’t believe in yourself, others won’t.”

Park your self-doubt and never stop learning or growing through life experiences.

Do you have a final message for the people of Logan before you retire on 19 March?

I love you Logan and thank you for believing in me as your mayor and for supporting my vision for today and the future.

I know nothing endures forever, but I hope I will be leaving a positive lasting legacy in your minds and hearts as a woman and leader who passionately cared for her community and the city’s future and was a true mayor for the people.

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Cr Graham Able – Career Highlights First elected as a councillor, April 1985.

Served on the Health Committee, Environmental Advisory Committee, Health and Community Services Committee.

Councillor calls it a day

Deputy Mayor, 1997 to 2004.

Mayor of Logan City, 2006 to 2008 Councillor, 2008 to 2016.

Animals and City Standards Committee Chair Key projects: Tygum Lagoon upgrade Logan Artists Association upgrades and gallery Berrinba Wetlands / South West 1 and South West 2 developments Logan Gardens and Logan Brothers clubhouse Browns Plains Waste and Recycling Centre Demeio Park upgrades Kingston Butter Factory Opening Logan Recycling Market Animal control and improvement

Veteran City of Logan councillor Graham Able will officially retire when voting booths open on 19 March, ending a fruitful career that has spanned more than 30 years.

First elected as the division councillor for Woodridge in 1985, Cr Able has seen many changes come to the city.

“I remember when I was first elected, we had very few street lights, footpaths and just two sets of traffic lights,” Cr Able said.

“We had a handful of parks and they could be considered cow paddocks.

“Now we have more than 900 parks.”

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Cr Able served on the Animals and City Standards Committee (previously the Health Committee) for many years. One of his biggest challenges was to rid the city of feral dogs and educate residents about responsible pet ownership.

“That has all changed now – we have rehoming programs that save the lives of animals we used to euthanise – and mandatory registration and desexing.”

Cr Able has been the driving force behind a number of major civic upgrades, including the creation of Logan Gardens, Berrinba Wetlands, the Kingston Butter Factory community facility and the major renovations at Tygum Lagoon and Demeio Park.

But in the end, it was working for the residents, community and the city that Cr Able said he most enjoyed.

“I have achieved all that I wanted to do, and more,” he said.

“I believe Logan is on the crest of some very good days ahead – I think this city will see much more good in it.

“I have loved this community, and helping my constituents has been my love, passion and joy.”

Cr Able will spend retirement with his wife Margie, four children, 15 grandchildren and his soon-to-arrive great-grandchild, and plans to continue serving the community in new ways.

Logan food ambassador Poh Ling Yeow spends time with Don Pham of NT Fresh Cucumber Farm at Park Ridge.

Keep your eyes out for Poh’s recipes in upcoming editions of Our Logan!

Poh impressed by

Logan’s fresh food

Celebrity chef Poh Ling Yeow is always on the hunt for fresh ingredients.

So she was delighted to discover some of the country’s freshest and tastiest produce while exploring the City of Logan recently.

Poh took a couple days out from her busy schedule to visit Logan, touring local farms and meeting some of the talented people who operate them.

“I really enjoyed getting out into the fresh air and finding out what Logan has to offer,” Poh, who hosts SBS cooking show ‘Poh and Co’, said.

“It was fantastic to meet some of Logan’s farmers and see how passionate they are about producing high-quality food.

“The enthusiasm of the farmers and producers reminded me of where quality has to begin when it comes to what's on your plate.

“It can't just be about the bottom line – the farmers have to actually care about their customers and these guys do."

As well as visiting The Berry Patch, Riverview Herbs, Evergreen 88, NT Fresh Cucumber Farm and Pleasant View (a dairy farm), Poh spent some time wandering around the Global Food Village (markets held on the corner of Station Rd and Croydon Rd in Woodridge each Sunday).

“I had heard about Logan’s reputation for producing fresh food, but I didn’t realise the full extent of this until I saw it.

“I was thrilled by the variety on offer – after all, this is what great cooking is all about.

“Many of the region’s producers are big names on the national food scene, supplying supermarket chains and large food companies.”

Poh has become Logan’s official food ambassador in a move to strengthen the region’s reputation as a major food centre, helping growers and producers create and maximise economic opportunities and promoting the region as a food tourism destination.

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Logan’s unsung heroes honoured Quota Beenleigh president Heather Christensen has been named the City of Logan’s Citizen of the Year, while long serving St Vincent de Paul volunteer Fay O’Toole received the Mayor’s Spirit of Logan Award in January.

Ms Christensen has been a member of Quota Beenleigh for 23 years, including four as treasurer and five as president.

She is also the club’s publicity officer and has convened the Quota Beenleigh City of Logan Eisteddfod for eight years.

Logan Mayor Pam Parker praised the women, who were recognised at the 2016 City of Logan Australia Day Awards at the Logan Entertainment Centre, for their selfless service to the community.

Ms Christensen mentors members of Junior Quota Clubs at Beenleigh, Loganlea and Windaroo Valley high schools and is an active member of the Beenleigh Yatala Junior Chamber of Commerce.

“We come together on Australia Day to celebrate what's great about our country and being Australian — and we have so much to be proud of here in Logan," she said.

Ms O’Toole has been an active volunteer with the St Patrick’s Conference of the St Vincent de Paul Society for 27 years, serving three terms as president and helping many people in need. She has also been an active member of St Patrick’s Parish for many years.

“We are lucky enough to have many unsung community heroes like Heather and Fay who are helping people in need.

"Their tireless efforts are both inspiring and humbling, and they have helped make Logan the thriving and diverse city it is today.”

While Ms Christensen and Ms O’Toole were recognised for extraordinary service to the Logan community, Mayor Parker said everyone could make a difference to the lives of those around them.

“Sometimes it is the small contributions that can make all the difference,” she said.

"Whatever their achievements, big or small, I am so incredibly proud of our residents who make Logan such a great place to live."

New citizens celebrate The City of Logan welcomed 168 people who became Australian citizens on Australia Day. Did you know our city has people from 217 ethnic backgrounds?

Mayor Pam Parker, centre, congratulates Heather Christensen, left, and Fay O’Toole on their Australia Day awards.

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DIVISION 10 NEWS

Logan Lightning FC secretary Eugene Radicke shows off the club’s new deck.

CLUB SPORTS NEW DECK Logan Lightning FC has expanded the deck at its Cornubia Park clubhouse, thanks to funding from Logan City Council, to improve the viewing experience for spectators.

Club secretary Eugene Radicke said the 100 square metre roofed extension, which overlooked the soccer field, would also be used for the club’s social events.

“The deck is going to be a lot more comfortable for spectators and will provide a sheltered area for them so they don’t get sunburnt or rained on.

“From a viewing point of view, it will give everyone a lot better aspect.”

Mr Radicke said the club had also improved accessibility for people with a disability and installed stairs linking the deck and the soccer field.

Improvements to the stormwater system and downpipes were also made as part of the project.

Flying fox installed at park A new 35 metre flying fox is expected to be a popular attraction for children visiting Shailer Pioneer Park.

The flying fox, which was recently installed in response to requests from park users, is a welcome addition to the park’s play area.

Shailer Pioneer Park, which opened in 2012, also has a skate park, tennis courts, outdoor fitness equipment, a scenic wetland trail, barbecues, picnic shelters and plenty of open space for visitors to enjoy.

In 2014, it was recognised as one of Queensland’s best parks, winning the Parks and Open Space Development category at the Parks and Leisure Australia Awards.

More landscaping along Plantain Rd Positive community feedback about landscaping along Plantain Rd last year has prompted Logan City Council to further improve the look of the street.

A selection of similar native trees and flowering plants are being planted in medians between Shailer Rd and Scilla St to help create a strong identity for the area. The median on Mandew St and the islands on the corner of Plantain Rd and Shailer Rd are also being landscaped, with the work expected to be completed by the middle of the year.

You’ll find the park at 6–12 Harley St, Shailer Park.

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DIVISION 11 NEWS

Stories lay the foundations for learning A visit to the United States and an encounter with law enforcement inspired a near decade-long program of teaching kids to read in Jimboomba and surrounding suburbs.

The QuoCKa (Quota, Cops, Kids reading altogether) initiative encourages young children to develop a love of reading by giving away books and spending time reading in classrooms.

Quota International Jimboomba QuoCKa coordinator, Janet Hughes, says the program, which targets prep-aged students, has boosted children’s interest and reading ability.

Even one hour of reading could have a major impact on children, she said.

“You need to be able to read for things in life – to drive a car, follow a recipe to bake a cake, to be able to

follow patterns – it’s a critical first step in learning,” Ms Hughes said.

“We provide two books – one to the child and one to the school library – and then spend an hour reading in groups, sharing, asking questions, looking at the pictures and discussing the story.

“A lot of the students haven’t ever been read to, and in some cases they don’t own a book.

“You can see the difference from one week to the next. They are all very keen to get up and talk about the book at the end of the session.

“Some of the kids are very humorous – it’s clearly had an impact on them.”

Donations and grants, including funding from Logan City Council, are used to buy books for the QuoCKa program.

Jimboomba Art Show to be held in May The 2016 Jimboomba Art Show is fast approaching, with its new dates of 20 to 22 May just around the corner.

Artists are reminded that a limit of six items can be submitted, spanning six categories.

Works must be submitted by 9 May. Contact organiser Julie on 0408 434 018 or quotaartshow@hotmail.com or visit www.quotajimboomba.org.au for more information.

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Quota Jimboomba representatives Fay Reilly and President Robyn Carroll, with students Kindall McKenzie, Austin Davis, Tallulah Plamer and Caitlin Daak sharing a story.

Road works in Division 11 A number of road projects are underway across Division 11, and motorists are reminded to allow for extra time or consider taking a different route when driving their regular streets.

Ongoing projects include: • Darcy Edmunds Bridge replacement.

Traffic restrictions remain at the intersection of Cusack Lane and Brisbane St as work continues. Extra time might be needed in the area.

Detours remain in place.

• Road reconstruction continues along Boorah Rd, Jimboomba. Lane closures and lower speed limits may be in place. Work will continue until July, weather permitting.

DIVISION 12 NEWS

Linda hits the road after 30 years Linda Rowan is retiring after 30 years as administrator of the Beenleigh and Districts Senior Citizens Centre.

But that doesn’t mean she’s putting her feet up.

She’s now the centre’s honorary secretary and is hitting the road as a Meals on Wheels volunteer – just as she did before becoming administrator.

Beenleigh and Districts Senior Citizens Centre office manager, Karen Clayton, said the centre had gone from strength to strength under Linda’s guidance, growing into one of the largest in Queensland.

Linda had worked hard to attract government-funded services for people who were older or who had disabilities and to launch Queensland’s first centre-based day care service, she said.

“The centre will not be quite the same without her on deck,” she said.

“I hope that she puts as much effort into enjoying her retirement as she has all her years of working.

“If she does, her retirement will be truly amazing.”

Linda’s involvement with the centre stretches back to 1976, when Meals on Wheels was formed. She was appointed Welfare Officer/Administrator of the centre in 1986.

River Hills Rd upgrade underway Two sections of River Hills Rd, Eagleby, are being rehabilitated to improve safety for motorists.

Reconstruction of the busy road began in January and is expected to be completed in the middle of the year.

The work will be done in two stages – first between 172 River Hills Rd and Melrose Pl, then between 50 and 68 River Hills Rd, including the intersection at Swallow St – with almost half a kilometre of road being dug up and rebuilt. Drainage and kerb and channel works will also be conducted.

Logan City Council thanks people for their patience during the work, which requires some lane closures, reduced speed limits and reduced on-street parking. Drivers are advised to allow extra time to allow for possible delays associated with the work.

Council is endeavouring to minimise disruption to the community, completing most of the work between 6.30am and 4pm, Monday to Friday, and maintaining access to private properties.

Linda Rowan celebrates her retirement with Alice Dobson, 104, who is the oldest member of the Beenleigh & Districts Senior Citizens Centre.

For more information, call 3412 5436 or email roadmaintenance@logan.qld.gov.au 11

Thursday 3 March and Tuesday 29 March

Saturday 5 to Sunday 13 March

The Butter Factory Markets, 9am to 3pm, Kingston Butter Factory

The Body in the Library – Escape Room, Logan West Library, 6.30pm to 7.30pm Participants in groups solve themed puzzles in a race against the clock to unlock the door and make their escape. Visit www. loganlibraries.org/events_ calendar for bookings or for more information.

Saturday 5 March

Saturday 12 March

Parks Week What better way to celebrate Parks Week than to get out into the fresh air to join in an outdoor activity or explore one of the City of Logan’s 924 parks? There are many to choose from, including the popular Berrinba Wetlands, Underwood Park, Logan River Parklands and Riverdale Park.

Visit www.logan.qld.gov.au/ parksweek

Explore these new markets, which showcase an impressive range of local arts and crafts.

Sunday 13 March

Sunday 6 March Land Management and Conservation Incentives Day, 10am to 2pm, Chambers Flat Learn how to improve your land’s productivity and environmental condition at these special workshops.

Bookings are essential, with a maximum of two workshops per attendee. Email environment@logan.qld.gov.au or call 3412 4491.

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Clean Up Australia Day Help clean up Australia by collecting and removing rubbish from your local area. You can visit www. cleanupaustraliaday.org.au to find your closest clean-up site or to register your own site.

Family-friendly event.

Guardians of Scrubby Creek Story Walk, 9.30am to 11.30am, Kingston Join Missy Knox and her larger than life animal puppets as they bring to life the children’s book ‘Wajin: the Guardian of Scrubby Creek’, by Bev and Reg Knox. For children aged between four and 12. Email environment@logan.qld.gov.au or call 3412 4491 to book.

Thursday 17 March

Saturday 19 March

Tuesday 29 and Thursday 31 March

RoboCreations, 3.30pm to 5.30pm, Logan West Library Use LEGO EV3 and other platforms to build and explore different forms of robotics (for ages 10 to 17 only).

Visit www.loganlibraries.org/ events_calendar for bookings or for more information.

Friday 18 March

Rock Climbing, 10am to 2pm, Mabel Park, Slacks Creek Enjoy some fresh air while building your courage and fitness by climbing an eightmetre tower and abseiling back down. All abilities and ages are catered for. Part of the Live Well Logan program.

No bookings required.

Outdoor Rock Climbing for Kids, 10am to 2pm on 29 March (Shailer Park) and 31 March (Mount Warren Park) Learn how to rock climb during the school holidays while enjoying the great outdoors. Part of Logan City Council’s Krank Program.

Ages 12 to 17. Register by calling 3342 2806 or emailing matt@basezero.com.au

Monday 21 March Eats and Beats, 5pm to 9pm, Jimboomba Held on the last Friday of every month, Eats and Beats is a monthly pop up food truck and music festival making its way all around the City of Logan. For more information visit www.visitlogan.com.au/ eatsandbeats or like Eats and Beats Logan on Facebook.

Saturday 19 March Earth Hour at Tygum Lagoon, 5pm to 8pm, Waterford West Enjoy acoustic music, food, a family craft workshop (please RSVP for workshop) and other activities in the lead-up to Earth Hour. Lights will go off between 8.30pm and 9.30pm, when Earth Hour will be held world-wide.

Harmony Day The City of Logan has a lot to celebrate on Harmony Day.

Tuesday 29 March to Friday 1 April

Harmony Day encourages all Australians to embrace cultural diversity and to share what we have in common.

The central message for Harmony Day is that ‘everyone belongs’, but the theme for this year’s celebration is ‘our diversity is our strength’.

Visit www.harmony.gov.au for more information.

KRANK school holiday program KRANK offers awesome school holiday fun for 12 to 17 year olds. There are plenty of free and low-cost holiday activities to enjoy, such as self defence, outdoor rock climbing, soccer golf, arts and crafts workshops, cooking classes and go karting. Visit www.logan.qld.gov.au/krank for more information. Bookings are essential and open on Monday, 22 March.

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DIVISION 1 NEWS

Did you know red symbolises good luck in China? That’s why many people dress in red and hang red lanterns while celebrating Chinese New Year.

Ven. Chueh-Shan welcomes people to visit the temple.

Thousands join Chinese New Year celebrations Thousands of people turned out to celebrate Chinese New Year at Priestdale’s Fo Guang Shan Chung Tian Temple on 7 February.

Traditionally celebrated over two weeks, Chinese New Year is a very important holiday for Chinese people, according to the temple’s abbess, Ven. Chueh-Shan.

“Chinese New Year is about family unity,” she said.

“A lot of people bring their families here to celebrate the beginning of the new year.

“This is the year of the monkey – it’s believed people born this year will be active, smart and agile.”

Highlights of the temple’s Chinese New Year celebration, which was sponsored

by Logan City Council, included a blessing ceremony, a lion dance (believed to bring good fortune), and the opportunity for people to ring the blessing bell and make a wish for the year ahead.

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The temple’s cultural open day, which was held on 14 February, was also popular, with many people taking the opportunity to explore the beautiful temple and learn more about Buddhism.

Chung Tian Temple, which means “Middle Heaven”, was constructed in 1992 and is architecturally designed to resemble a Chinese palace.

Visitors are welcome at the temple between 9am and 5pm from Tuesday to Sunday, with the teahouse open from 10am to 2pm on those days.

The temple offers guided tours for groups (bookings required), Buddhist, Tai Chi, meditation and calligraphy classes, chanting services, baby blessing ceremonies, wedding ceremonies, tea ceremonies and tea ceremony lessons. It also has an art gallery, which hosts high-quality exhibitions celebrating Chinese culture.

Visit www.chungtian.org.au or call 3841 3511 for more information.

New mountain bike trail opens Riders have been making the most of Underwood Park’s new mountain bike facilities since they opened in January.

Brisbane South Mountain Bike Club vice president Darren Flood said riders had been impressed by the extensive upgrades to the track.

“It’s extremely successful — it’s getting an enormous amount of use,” he said.

“It’s exceeded everyone’s expectations.

We couldn’t be more thrilled.”

A new mountain bike skills course, pump track, trials area and shade shelter were also added to the park using funding from the Queensland Government, Logan City Council and Brisbane South Mountain Bike Club.

Mr Flood said the club was hosting its Summer Sprint Series at the track, with the last of these four events scheduled for 13 March. Visit www.bsmc.asn.au for more information.

DIVISION 2 NEWS

Logan loses a source of its living history

Ian Rohl

Shavarn sprints to success There’s one thing Shavarn Wheatley Maki likes better than running – and that’s winning.

The 12-year-old Browns Plains girl is sprinting after her Olympic Maki eatley dream, fuelled h W n r Shava by unwavering determination and inspiration from role models Sally Pearson and Usain Bolt.

“I’m just a really competitive person,” Shavarn said.

“I’ve always liked to run and I want to become an Olympic runner.”

Shavarn won first place in the 12-year-olds’ 100m, 200m and 4 x 100m relay races at the Commonwealth Bank State Championships 2015 in October, before achieving personal bests to take out 5th place in the 200m and 7th place in the 100m race at the nationals in December.

Shavarn is trained by Commonwealth Games gold medallist Monique Miers (nee Dunstan) at the Queensland Sport and Athletics Centre three days a week, and can be spotted running in her Logan neighbourhood most other days.

Improvements to Logan Gardens The network of paths in Logan Gardens will be completed in March, with approximately half a kilometre of paths to be added to make a paved circuit through the grounds. A new off-leash area for small dogs will also be built, allowing the pre-existing off-leash area to be used exclusively for larger dogs.

The people of Logan recently said farewell to Ian Rohl, a lifelong community member whose local heritage traced back to 1871, when his great grandparents immigrated to Logan from Great Britain.

Ian shared his knowledge about his family and his life through local history projects and oral history interviews, where he recorded his knowledge and recollections with the local studies librarian.

Ian was born in 1934, at the height of the great depression, and grew up in Kingston, attending Kingston State School.

After leaving school at 15, Ian trained as an apprentice electrician and began work with shipping company Burns Philp, which owned the Penneys store in Brisbane. He married at 25 and moved to Woodridge.

He worked for G J Coles (now Coles) after it acquired Penneys before working at Castlemaine Perkins brewery for two years, returning to work for Coles and finally working at Westpac Bank.

Ian maintained strong ties with his extended family, spending much time at Mayes Cottage.

His connection with Mayes Cottage was almost broken when the property was acquired by the Queensland Housing Commission in 1974 and scheduled for demolition.

Only a long drawn out campaign by a local action group saved the cottage, which is now heritage listed, from destruction.

Ian later became president of the Logan City Historical Museum, based at the Kingston Butter Factory. A record of Logan’s history, as told by Ian, now resides in Logan City Council Libraries and in the fond memories of his family and wife Lillian.

Mayes Cottage is now a house museum, open to the public every Thursday and Friday from 10.30am to 4pm.

More historical information about Mayes Cottage can be found on the Logan City Council website at www.logan.qld.gov.au/mayescottage 15

DIVISION 3 NEWS

From little things big things grow Kingston-based Substation 33 has been recognised as one of Australia’s leading social enterprises in an international search for ideas with entrepreneurial flair.

One of five national finalists in the Chivas Regal Venture initiative, Substation 33 shared the stage with prominent startup success stories like Our Say and Pollinate Energy, which provides affordable solar products to people living in Indian slums.

Substation 33 collects, recycles and re-purposes electronic waste, offering an opportunity for long-term unemployed and under-employed people to gain workplace experience.

Substation 33 founder, Tony Sharp, said the enterprise diverted 100,000kg of electronic waste from landfill and provided 7350 hours of paid employment in 2014.

Substation 33 founder Tony Sharp with a 3D printer built by one of the program’s volunteers.

“It’s great to see this idea receive some recognition on the national and possibly international stage and it proves that awesome things are happening in Logan,” he said.

“We have people from all walks of life here each day manually pulling apart equipment, sorting components and that kind of thing.

“It gives people somewhere to come and learn some of the basic behavioural expectations that would be placed on them in the workplace.”

Visit Facebook or www.substation33.com.au to find out more about Substation33.

Meakin Rd upgrade underway

Logan City Council has begun work to improve the infrastructure around the popular Meakin Park sporting complex, with approximately $2 million being invested.

Work has started to replace the water main on the western side of Meakin Rd, between Queens Rd and the Meakin Park Sports Club.

This will be followed by a major rehabilitation project on a 430 metre section of the road from Queens Rd to Veldt St, with detours to be in place.

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Council will also install new directional and information signage to promote Meakin Park and local sport, while new footpaths will be installed from Football Queensland’s headquarters to Queens Rd, and continue to the Logan City Rugby Union Club.

Council will take every effort to reduce the impacts on the local community and motorists as much as possible.

For more information, please call Council on 3412 3412.

LOGAN :

Cityof Choice

HEALTH AND TRANSPORT KEY THEMES FOR POTENTIAL PHASE 2 Integrated health services, improved public transport and linking local people to local jobs are among the key themes emerging in early planning for a potential second phase of the Logan: City of Choice initiative.

The initial City of Choice Two-Year Action Plan 2013-2015 was rolled out after the 2013 Logan: City of Choice Summit and has delivered major game-changing projects for the Logan community.

A second phase of the initiative is being considered to ensure this great work continues.

Priorities are being refined through targeted workshops and an initial survey of community members who have been involved with City of Choice since the 2013 summit.

Ten experts - including four professors - were invited to a City of Choice Leadership Team meeting on 4 December 2015 to discuss transport, cultural and social cohesion, chronic health, safety, employment, city pride, city planning and development and smart city technology.

Program improving children’s lives

Stay tuned for more information on Under 8s Week activities in May 2016, when beloved children’s author Mem Fox will make a special appearance at the Logan Entertainment Centre.

Feedback is also being sought from government, non-government and community partners.

The new council, which will be elected on 19 March, will be presented with the proposed framework and key themes of a potential second phase of the Logan: City of Choice initiative before broader community engagement begins.

Flagship projects of the first phase of City of Choice included the Logan Together collective impact initiative for pre-birth to eight-yearolds, the Logan Renewal Initiative to enhance social housing, and Under This Sky: Logan's Musical Celebration.

Among other things, a second phase of City of Choice would strive to develop an employment pipeline, respond to domestic and family violence problems, build community cohesion, address community health and improve public transport.

The last half of 2015 was a whirlwind of activity for the Logan Together project, and locals are encouraged to get involved as the campaign continues to build momentum in 2016.

More than 1,000 people are already actively helping create the best life opportunities for Logan kids thanks to community members, funders and industry and government partners.

Last year Logan Together partners launched some fantastic initiatives that will make a big difference for local children, including a partnership between Communities for Children and Kingston State School to foster social and emotional wellbeing and Education Queensland's Teacher Education Centre of Excellence.

If you’re interested in the initiative’s upcoming activities, subscribe to the Logan Together e-newsletter online at www.logantogether.org.au/subscribe or follow it on Facebook.

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LOGAN

OFFICE OF ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

office of Economic Development

Business Support

Beenleigh Town Square inspires towering investment Beenleigh will soon have a new skyline, with a $300 million high-rise development recently approved by Logan City Council.

Located on a two hectare block beside the railway station, the proposed development includes three 12 to 15-storey towers and two four-storey towers.

It will include a retirement and aged care village with 450 independent living units and 300 residential aged care rooms. Residents will have access to communal residential facilities including therapy rooms, day spa and pool, gardens and outdoor recreational areas.

Cromcorp Managing Director Greg Poole said the development would bring people back to the heart of Beenleigh.

“We’re going to build an integrated village with facilities and multiple levels of care within the development to cater

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The signs point to changes on the horizon in Eagleby as Zarraffa’s prepares to move in.

for people with a disability and of all ages – consistent with the ‘aging in place’ concept,” Mr Poole said.

“The development will accommodate about 1,000 residents, create up to 1,500 jobs and will also attract people back to the heart of Beenleigh with a shopping, cinema complex and café precinct.

“We saw the potential in Beenleigh and jumped at the opportunity - where else could you find such a great property so close to transport and all facilities?”

Flagstone will include a new regional park.

Economic boost for Eagleby Eagleby looks set to receive an economic boost after Tonken Property Group purchased a $12.5 million property beside the M1 in December.

Its sister company Zarraffa’s Coffee has announced plans to base its global headquarters – including its head office, training, packaging and franchising operations – at the 124 Distillery Dr site.

Tonken Property Group has also revealed a long-term plan to develop the 5.4 hectare site, which was once expected to house a proposed outlet retail centre, into a retail and food precinct.

Logan Mayor Pam Parker said the investment in Eagleby would deliver employment opportunities for the City of Logan.

"Having the national headquarters for such a well-established and high profile organisation such as Zarraffa's Coffee at the site, along with the adjoining Beenleigh Rum Distillery, will be a major drawcard for locals and tourists alike,” Mayor Parker said.

"Our Economic Development and Development Assessment teams have provided much needed initial support

and are committed to ensuring the best outcomes for the new owners and the city.

"The site in question has long been an eyesore as an unfinished development at the southern entry point of our city so I am pleased Tonken Property Group has purchased it and plans to do something so positive with it.”

Flagstone bridges housing gap One of the City of Logan’s communities of the future has reached another milestone.

Developer Peet Group began taking registrations from interested buyers for the Flagstone estate’s newest residential section in January, ahead of the land going on sale this month.

A community open day held last month gave people an opportunity to walk across a newly-constructed rail bridge and see the location of Flagstone’s 126-hectare commercial centre.

Declared a Priority Development Area by the State Government in 2010, the 12,000-lot Flagstone development — jointly delivered by the Peet Group and industry super fund MTAA Super — is eventually expected to house 30,000 people and provide 10,000 jobs.

It will include more than 330 hectares of public open space, 200 kilometres of walkways and bike paths, sporting fields and a new regional park. Stage one of the park is due to open at the end of this year.

Teys Australia gets top treatment for sustainability Beenleigh-based meat processor Teys Australia won the top prize in the 2015 Premier’s Sustainability Awards late last year.

Teys Australia, the country’s second largest red meat processor, was recognised for working to reduce its carbon footprint using on-site wastewater treatment systems at its Beenleigh and Rockhampton facilities.

The systems will replace non-renewable energy sources with renewable energy generated on site, reducing reliance on fossil fuels.

Teys Australia has six beef processing facilities in Australia’s eastern states.

Its flagship operation in Beenleigh employs more than 800 workers from surrounding suburbs and supplies beef to national retailers like Woolworths and international markets.

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DIVISION 4 NEWS

Viola Hamilton is opening her garden to the public in April.

Garden paradise opens to public Viola Hamilton spends every spare minute in the garden, and her passion has seen her Bahrs Scrub property blossom into a hidden paradise.

Viola and her husband Neil are opening their garden – which has been featured on the television program Gardening Australia – to the public on 9 and 10 April.

Entry fees will be donated to Mission Possible, a local not-for-profit group that sews for people in need, while Soroptimist International volunteers will run a café to fundraise for their work to transform the lives of women and girls.

Viola said she was looking forward to sharing her passion for gardening with others.

“I love gardening because it’s stressfree and it gives me time to think about other things,” she said.

“I love listening to the birds and seeing butterflies flying around the garden.

“It’s very relaxing.”

Viola’s Patch, located at 280 Beaudesert-Beenleigh Rd, Bahrs

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Scrub, will be open from 10am to 4.30pm on 9 and 10 April. Activities include a demonstration on propagating perennials and bromeliads at 11:30am each day, a guided garden walk at 12.30pm each day and a competition for children (every child wins a prize).

The $2.63 million second stage of the wastewater project will see 660 metres of new pipelines, connections and maintenance holes installed in Mount Warren Park.

Entry is $8 for adults, $6 for concession card holders and free for children.

Most of the work will occur on government-owned land between Mt Warren Blvd and a wastewater pump station near Milne St.

Work begins on stage two of Bahrs Scrub wastewater network

A section of Ratz Park and a pedestrian footpath connecting Yorkshire Cres and Ratz Park will be closed during the construction period. There will be a signed detour for pedestrians.

The second stage of a major project to provide a new wastewater network for Bahrs Scrub has begun.

The project will ensure the network has capacity to cope as the Bahrs Scrub development area’s population grows by an estimated 10,000 people over the next 15 years. A Local Area Development Plan proposing construction of 4,400 homes and retail and commercial facilities was approved in 2012, after Bahrs Scrub was identified as a centre for urban growth.

About 800 metres of new wastewater pipelines were installed along Mount Warren Blvd (between Merrow St and Rochester Dr) during the $3.7 million first stage of the project.

The second stage, which is expected to be complete mid-year, is being managed by the Logan Water Infrastructure Alliance. Please call 3412 9600 or email community@ loganwia.com.au for more information about the project.

DIVISION 5 NEWS

Stamps make mark with society Stamp lovers (or philatelists) from Logan and beyond have gathered for an annual stamp collecting day.

Hosted by the Logan Philatelic Society, the event drew hundreds of stamp collectors and curious observers from across the South East and interstate.

operating for over 40 years and plans to open a youth club this year.

According to the Society’s Ann Lopez, the event attracts a strong following each year.

“Our members are here to help — they are very knowledgeable and happy to help,” Ms Lopez said.

“There will usually be about five or six dealers, 16 clubs coming with books, a bargain table, an auction, and canteen serving breakfast, lunch, and afternoon tea,” Ms Lopez said.

“We can teach new members how to clean, put stamps in books and look after collections.”

“It’s an annual event, always held on the third Sunday in February.”

The Logan Philatelic Society has been

The Logan Philatelic Society meets monthly in Slacks Creek.

Email info@loganstamps.net for more information.

In Brief A number of city beautification projects and road upgrades have been completed around Division 5 in the last few months, including: • Beautification of two major roundabouts along Third Ave with new shrubs and trees planted and new woodchips.

• A drainage upgrade and road widening along Leatrice St in Marsden. This work incorporated new gully pits, a new concrete footpath and new kerb and channel. Council thanks residents and motorists for their patience while this work was completed.

Arthur Pengelly (left), with Andre Burras, discussing a collection ahead of this year’s collectors day.

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DIVISION 6 NEWS

Jeta Gardens’ new high care living facility, Jade, resembles a hotel more than a retirement home.

Jeta Gardens Founder Choe Lam Tan in the courtyard of the facility’s newest building, Jade.

Bethania’s retirement revolution Fifty jobs will be created at Bethania retirement and aged care resort Jeta Gardens in coming months as the facility continues its expansion.

The award-winning resort has built high-care accommodation for another 72 people in a new building, Jade.

With spacious 12-room wings and staff facilities discreetly hidden behind twoway windows, the building has the look and feel of a home or hotel rather than a traditional aged-care facility.

Jeta Gardens founder and managing director Choe Lam Tan said 40 jobs had been created since the building opened in June last year, and another 50 jobs would be created as new residents moved in this year.

“We are looking after people from

Rail crossing relief

almost every cultural background at Jeta Gardens but I think the real revolution here is that we have developed a model that has removed the negative stereotype of aged care that many Asian people have,” he said.

“With a low-set luxury design that puts an emphasis on hospitality, respect and wellbeing, we have created a place that people enjoy living in and their families enjoy visiting.”

Jeta Gardens plans to build 12 new villas, a 48-unit independent living apartment development and another aged-care building with 96 beds during the next three years.

Motorists wait for the train to pass at the Bethania rail crossing on Station Rd.

Streets in Tanah Merah and Loganholme will be given a makeover this month.

Landscaping and a general tidy up will occur at the intersection of Barokee Dr and Drews Rd, with soil treatment and new plants going in.

Similar works are planned for the intersection of Hampton St and Drews Rd. The new plants will include drought tolerant native plants and some flowering plants

Mr Tan said the $50 million investment would help Jeta Gardens reach its goal to accommodate 2,000 residents and 1,000 staff by 2022.

Omaru St in Loganholme will also benefit from some landscaping this month.

Calls to improve emergency access to Bethania have been heard, with Logan City Council committing $200,000 to a Queensland Rail project to construct an emergency crossing of the rail line.

Queensland Rail has announced plans to build an emergency vehicle crossing between Church St and Holzheimer Rd.

Bethania residents and Council have spent several years lobbying Queensland Rail about the crossing, airing concerns about emergency vehicles being prevented from accessing parts of Bethania when the railway line was blocked by trains or closed due to level crossing malfunctions.

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Street improvements in Loganholme and Tanah Merah

The crossing would only be for emergency vehicles, with Queensland Rail staff unlocking its gates when emergency vehicles needed to cross the rail line.

Council is contributing $200,000 to the $660,000 project, which will be delivered by Queensland Rail.

For more information and updates, please contact Queensland Rail on 13 16 17 or visit www.queenslandrail.com.au

Council operating hours for Easter 2016 The availability of some Council services will change over the Easter holiday period.

Customer service centres (Logan Central, Beenleigh and Jimboomba) Closed Friday 25 March and Monday 28 March.

Libraries Closed on Friday 25 March, Saturday 26 March and Monday 28 March.

Animal Management Centre Open Saturday 26 March.

Closed on Friday 25 March, Sunday 27 March and Monday 28 March.

Immunisation clinics The immunisation clinic at Logan Central Library open from 3.30pm to 7pm on Thursday 24 March.

The clinics at Marsden Library, Logan North Library and Hyperdome Library will close on Friday 25 March and Saturday 26 March.

Waste Bin collections continue as normal on Friday 25 March and Monday 28 March and the Browns Plains Waste and Recycling Facility will be open on both these days.

Greenbank, Logan Village, Beenleigh and Carbrook waste and recycling facilities will be closed on Friday 25 March but open on Monday 28 March.

Indoor sports centres

The Logan Recycling Market will be closed from Friday 25 March to Monday 28 March.

Gym opening hours

Cornubia and Logan Metro indoor sports centres will be closed to the public from Friday 25 March to Monday 28 March due to private events. Mount Warren centre will be open the same hours as the gym (see below).*

Mt Warren gym and courts

Logan Metro Gym

Logan North Gym

25 March 2016

Closed

Closed

Closed

Closed on Friday 25 March, Saturday 26 March and Monday 28 March.

26 March 2016

8am to 1pm

8am to noon

10am to 2pm

27 March 2016

8am to noon

9am to 1pm

10am to 2pm

Logan Art Gallery

28 March 2016

8am to noon

Closed

Closed

Mayes Cottage

Closed on Friday 25 March, Saturday 26 March and Monday 28 March.

Logan Entertainment Centre Closed from 5pm Thursday 24 March to 8am Tuesday 29 March. The box office will be closed during this time but tickets and information will be available online at www. loganentertainmentcentre. com.au

Aquatic centres Closed on Friday 25 March. Open from 10am to 4pm from Saturday 26 March to Monday 28 March.

*Please note the above opening hours could change due to private bookings. For information on court closures, group fitness classes and other operating hours visit www.insportslogan.com.au

Emergencies • For Council-related emergencies at any time, phone 3412 3412. • Call 000 for police, fire and ambulance.

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Everything you need to know in an emergency at your fingertips

Logan City Council now provides public access to its “disaster dashboard” – the same information it uses to monitor and manage disaster situations as they unfold.

You won’t miss a thing when it comes to knowing what’s happening during disasters and emergency situations.

A wide range of information is available in one spot – weather warnings and

radar, local road hazards and closures, power outages, CCTV monitoring of creek crossings, an interactive map, 612ABC streaming radio and more are all on the website and available from any internetconnected device.

The site is useful 24 hours a day, seven days a week – with social media feeds from Council, Queensland Police, Queensland Fire and Emergency Services, Department of Transport and Main Roads, Ergon Energy, Queensland Rail, Translink and more. The site also features Google Translate (on desktop devices) as well as disaster preparedness information.

Why wonder what’s going on when you can be the first to see it?

The disaster dashboard is accessible at www.disaster.logan.qld.gov.au

ADVERTISEMENT

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DIVISION 7 NEWS

Greenbank Football Club players (back) Anthony Papasavas, Thomas Naicker, Hayden Brook, Tyson Everett, (front) Bella Everett, Makenzie Brook and Anastacia Naicker are ready for the 2016 season, the club's 40th year in the community.

Ruby celebrations light up 2016 football season They wear the green and gold, but ruby red will be an important colour for Greenbank Football Club Inc this year as it celebrates four decades of fun, fitness and families.

President Anthony Phung said the club prided itself on having a family-friendly atmosphere, with players aged from under 6s to seniors for boys, girls, men and women.

"We're also a very multicultural club," he said.

"Football is a beautiful game that keeps you healthy and active and helps you meet new people.

"It's not just a sport, it's a way of life. We live and breathe football but

also live and breathe our family atmosphere."

Stay fit with new senior fitness stations

The club celebrated its 40th anniversary with a Legacy Cup competition in January and hopes to keep the party going with Park Ridge Football Club, which is also celebrating its 40th year in 2016.

Dedicated fitness stations for senior residents will be installed at Boronia Bushland Reserve in coming weeks.

Greenbank Football Club welcomes new members who would like to play with its teams in the Football Brisbane competition. For more information, email admin@ greenbankfc.com or visit the club's Facebook page (search for Greenbank Football Club Inc).

Set in tranquil bushland under shady trees, the fitness equipment will include a bench workout, balance beam, hip spring, wave bar, snake beam and a specialist senior fitness unit. The facility will incorporate a rubber wear surface and seating.

Work is expected to be complete by early April, weather and site conditions pending.

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DIVISION 8 NEWS

1-World store manager Kay Wellauer enjoys a coffee in front of the donor acknowledgement wall.

Charitable beginnings in Browns Plains Browns Plains’ newest charity shop is changing the way people shop for pre-loved bargains.

Shoppers are welcomed into the Grand Plaza Dr storefront with pops of bright orange and green.

It’s a large and well organised retail space that has led customers to ask if they have come to the right place.

There’s also a corner café inside where people are invited to take a break and enjoy a free coffee and biscuit.

1-World CEO Matt Dudgeon said the charity had engaged local employment programs to give people work experience in the store, which opened in December.

Funds raised through store sales support an orphanage for children with disabilities and provide water 26

1-World stor e manager Kay Wellaue keeps busy r filling the ra cks at the Browns Plai ns shop.

filtration equipment to under-developed communities in rural Vietnam.

People can drop clothing into donation bins at the front of 1-World’s Browns Plains store and Mr Dudgeon said the charity was keen to connect with local businesses that could host a collection bin.

“We want to support youth development so we are getting young people in, or people that have been unemployed for a long time, so they can re-train and it gives them the confidence to get back into the workforce,” he said.

Businesses that would like to support 1-World can contact Matt on 1800 196 753.

Visit www.1-world.org.au for more information.

Browns Plains gets better drainage An $8 million upgrade of stormwater drainage in Browns Plains is progressing well, with the work expected to be complete by the middle of the year.

The Forestglen Cr Catchment Master Drainage project began in November and has included installation of new stormwater infrastructure, gully pits and manholes in Forestglen Cr, Box St, Sherwood Dr, Woodland Cr and Glendale Cr. Road resurfacing, minor kerb and channel replacement and line marking will also be carried out on affected streets.

The upgraded stormwater infrastructure will provide greater drainage capacity in storms, reducing the severity of local flooding for properties previously affected by stormwater runoff.

DIVISION 9 NEWS

Bob Ryan (left), and Allan Pettigrew, are looking forward to work beginning.

Historical society expanding Swift progress has been made on building a new shed at Logan Village Green, with the slab laid and the first walls to go up soon.

The shed will expand the capacity of the Logan Village Historical Society, providing much needed storage and exhibition space.

Logan Village Community Centre president Alan Pettrigrew said the committee was very excited about the progress being made.

“Boystown will be starting construction work in early March, and the project will take 16 weeks to complete,” he said.

“We are very satisfied – it’s a great achievement for all concerned.

“The Community Centre is now starting work on plans to expand the craft centre and a coffee shop – it’s very exciting.”

Boystown will project manage construction, with a number of at-risk youth and long-term unemployed people given the opportunity to learn new skills and gain work experience.

In brief A number of projects have been completed to improve traffic conditions and beautify city roads around Division 9.

• New traffic lines have been painted along 94 streets, helping to improve road safety and conditions. Work included repainting chicanes, traffic islands and other important line markings.

• Several streets have been landscaped, with improved garden bedding, new plants and general clean ups.

Locations include Bumstead Rd, Augusta St and Waratah Dr in Crestmead, and Beutel, Waters and Carnation streets in Waterford West.

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Putting planning in your hands Developers in the City of Logan now have a convenient online tool to estimate costs associated with infrastructure contributions to support new developments.

Available in the Logan Interactive Mapping Tool, the new function allows users to understand the infrastructure charges associated with a proposed development before they commit to a project.

Infrastructure charges help fund essential public infrastructure, such as water, sewerage, stormwater and community facilities.

Council collects these charges to ensure these services can be provided in the right places, and at the right time, to support growing Logan City communities.

Believed to be the first online infrastructure charges estimator designed for public use in Australia, the tool provides convenience and flexibility through an instant online estimate, saving a phone call or visit to Council during business hours.

You can explore the interactive functions of the City of Logan’s planning scheme online at www.logan.qld.gov.au

Course helps seniors get tech savvy Digital technology can make everyday tasks such as shopping and banking easier and help people stay in touch with friends and family – the only problem is, not everyone knows how to use it.

Logan City Council libraries are providing free training for seniors who want to get tech savvy, with the support of Telstra and the Queensland Government.

Supported by friendly trainers, attendees can learn about computers, tablets and smartphones and how to use them for shopping, banking, business, communication and recreation purposes.

Please call your local library or email libraries@logan.qld.gov.au for more information about Tech Savvy Seniors Queensland.

Play and learn at the library Did you know research shows that up to 90 per cent of a child’s brain development happens in their first five years?

Homework Help Want a quiet place to study? How about some advice on your assignments? Visit www.logan.qld.gov.au for locations, dates and times for free Homework Help sessions at selected local libraries.

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Parents and carers play a vital role in helping children grow and learn so they have the skills they need to start school. The First 5 Forever family literacy initiative encourages people to spend time with babies and children, talking, playing, reading and singing with them.

Logan City Council libraries hold a range of First 5 Forever sessions – including Baby Time, Toddler Time and Story Time – to help parents and carers develop children’s literacy and communication skills.

Visit www.loganlibraries.org, call your local library or email libraries@ logan.qld.gov.au for more information.

The First 5 Forever initiative is funded by the Queensland Government and is supported by Logan City Council.

Funding for arts projects available Applications for funding from the Logan Regional Arts Development Fund (RADF) will be accepted from 22 March to 3 May. Professionals and emerging professionals from all art forms including dance, music, design, museum and cultural heritage, new media, visual arts, writing and theatre are encouraged to apply for grants to help them practice their art for and with the community.

To find out more about the grants, call 3412 5426 or visit www.logan.qld.gov.au/RADF You can book into a free Introduction to Grant Writing workshop, which will be held at Beenleigh Library from 10am to noon on Saturday 5 March. Bookings are essential by 3 March and can be made by calling 3412 4130 or visiting www.loganlibraries.org/events_calendar

$2 taxis for aged pensioners Did you know aged pensioners (and their carers) can catch a taxi between their home and the nearest major shopping centre for $2 a trip?

Community Services Grants on offer From little things, big things grow! Have you been working on an idea or program that will build or assist the City of Logan community?

You may be eligible to apply for one of Logan City Council Community Services Grants, of up to $5,000.

Applications close on Friday 25 March.

Visit www.logan.qld.gov.au/ communityservicesgrants to learn more.

Logan City Council subsidises the service, which is operated by Yellow Cabs and operates from Tuesday to Thursday.

Call 3412 3412 or visit www.logan.qld.gov.au for more information.

Kerbside Clean Up collection dates Green and bulky waste will be collected from kerbsides in Loganlea, Waterford, Waterford West and Park Ridge between 6am Monday 7 March to 5pm Friday 18 March.

Restrictions apply. Visit www.logan.qld.gov.au or call 3412 3412 for more information.

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They’re back! Andy and Terry’s treehouse is now 52 storeys tall, but there’s no time to play!

Mr Big Nose has mysteriously disappeared — and Jill has fallen into a deep sleep and Andy and Terry just can’t wake her up. Can they solve the mysteries and survive the dangers that test even their ingenuity?

The team behind the hit adaptations of The 13-Storey Treehouse and The 26-Storey Treehouse return with this imaginative and engaging play, which brings Andy Griffiths and Terry Denton’s latest bestseller to life on the stage.

11.30am and 1.30pm Friday 27 May and 11.30am Saturday 28 May Tickets start at $12 per person.

Storytime Ballet: The Sleeping Beauty A dreamy kingdom full of magical fairies, a beautiful sleeping princess and a prince searching for his true love…

The Australian Ballet will perform in the City of Logan for the first time, bringing fairytale favourite The Sleeping Beauty to life in a new stage production.

Join the wedding party with Aurora, follow her Prince through the woods and meet their friends Cinderella, Little Red Riding Hood, the Big Bad Wolf, Puss in Boots and Bluebird.

Packed with dazzling dancing, sparkling tutus and enchanting Tchaikovsky music, this is the perfect first ballet experience for boys and girls.

Be a part of the magic at this live, interactive and narrated ballet that will cast its spell in under an hour – and have your little ones dancing down the hallway when they get home! Don’t forget to dress up in your favourite ballet-inspired outfit.

2pm and 4pm Thursday 7 April and 11am and 2pm Friday 8 April Tickets start at $29 per person.

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The ambulance rescued 2361 animals in the City of Logan in 2015. That’s about 45 a week!

The animal ambulance took Logan Barn Owl “Burt” to the Brisbane RSPCA Wildlife Hospital for treatment after he injured his wing while caught in barbed wire fencing. He was transferred to Currumbin Wildlife Hospital before being released back into the wild.

Animal ambulance to the rescue Possums, birds, lizards… Wayne Linsell has had them all in the back of his ambulance – animal ambulance, that is.

Wayne is one of 24 people who volunteer for the dedicated animal ambulance service provided by the RSPCA and Logan City Council.

And he says he loves it.

A cherry picker was used to rescue this kookaburra, which became caught in power lines at Rochedale South, before the animal ambulance took him to the RSPCA Wildlife Hospital for treatment. He was given the all clear by vets and released back into his home territory later that day.

“I retired three years ago and I felt a bit guilty having so much free time,” he said.

“I read about the animal ambulance and thought it seemed ideal for me.”

Staffed by volunteers, the ambulance operates 24 hours, seven days a week and is primarily used to assist sick, injured and orphaned wildlife in the City of Logan.

Animals rescued by the ambulance are usually transported to the RSPCA's Brisbane Wildlife Hospital or Animal Hospital for specialist vet treatment.

The RSPCA is seeking more volunteers for the service. Volunteers must be 25 years or older and hold a current open ‘C’ class driver’s licence.

Visit www.rspcaqld.org.au for more information.

Animal emergency?

You can call 1300 ANIMAL (1300 264 625) any time – the RSPCA’s hotline is manned 24-7.

Visit www.logan.qld.gov.au/wildlife for tips on dealing with sick or injured wildlife.

Mitch on top of the world Congratulations to Mitch Larkin who was crowned the International Swimming Federation’s men’s swimmer of the year in Budapest in January. Logan City Council awarded Mitch keys to the city after he represented Australia at the 2012 Olympic Games.

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