Our Logan Magazine - May 2014

Vol 28 May 2014

Calyn Hoad

Logan City’s very own superhero

Blanket drive warms up

Big budget business

BUILDING OUR COMMUNITIES BUSINESSES AND PRIDE

www.logan.qld.gov.au www.visitlogan.com.au

Logan City Council Contact Details

Phone: 1300 1 LOGAN* (1300 156 426) *Council’s 1300 number is only for use by customers within Logan City from a landline. When contacting us from a mobile phone or from outside Logan City, please phone 3412 3412.

Our Logan, Our City magazine

Rochedale South

LOGAN CITY DIVISIONAL MAP

Managing Editor: Deanna Nott Editor: Natalie Newell News Editor: Amy McKenna Writers: David Shaw, Nicole Barclay and Rebecca Waters Graphic Design: Natalie Matthews

Priestdale

Div 1

Underwood

Springwood

Daisy Hill

Woodridge

Div 2

Div 3

Slacks Creek

Logan Central

Shailer Park

Berrinba Forestdale

Editorial Enquiries: Amy McKenna 3412 4483 Advertising Enquiries: Marion Lawie 3412 4411

Kingston

Browns Plains

Hillcrest

Div 7

Our Logan is produced and delivered to every household in Logan City at a cost of 60 cents per household.

Marsden

Carbrook

Div 6 Crestmead

Bethania

Waterford West

Div 8

Greenbank

Div 10

Tanah Merah

Loganlea

Heritage Park

Boronia Heights

Cornubia

Meadowbrook

Div 5

Regents Park

Loganholme Eagleby

Edens Landing

Park Ridge

Front cover image: Calyn Hoad with his parents Shana and Ben.

Holmview

Park Ridge South Bahrs Scrub

Buccan

Windaroo

Chambers Flat

Munruben

Div 9 New Beith

Belivah

Logan Village

Stockleigh

Div 11

Bannockburn

North Maclean

Lyons

All content accurate as of 8 April 2014.

Beenleigh

Mount Warren Park

Photo by Nicole Barclay 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.

Div 12

Waterford

Logan Reserve

Wolffdene

South Maclean

Div 4

Correction We featured a recipe for Anzac biscuits in the April edition of Our Logan but omitted one ingredient: 1 cup of self-raising flour. Our apologies. You can see the correct version of the recipe at www.logan.qld.gov.au/ ourloganmagazine

Cedar Creek Yarrabilba Jimboomba Undullah

Kagaru

A Quick Response code (QR Code), is designed to be scanned by a smart-phone or tablet and provide an easy-to-use, quick-link to online content. To access exclusive content simply search and download a free QR reader from the app store, point your smartphone or tablet device’s camera at the QR Code and hover over the square.

Tamborine Cedar Grove

Cedar Vale Woodhill

Veresdale

Mundoolun

Veresdale Scrub

DE-SEXPO All entire cats and dogs welcome!

Mention this promotion and receive a FREE microchip supplied by Logan City Council for every cat and dog booked to be desexed at participating Logan vets during June and July 2014* PLUS…a FREE nail trim for dogs

Sunday 8 June 2014

AND…every responsible pet owner that takes advantage of this offer will go into the draw to win a fabulous prize for their pet*

10 am–3 pm Griffith University, Logan Campus, University Dr, Meadowbrook

For a list of participating vets phone 3209 3220 or visit www.logan.qld.gov.au/desexpo.

COMBINED VETS OF

DE

-SE LOGAN CITY COMMUNITY CLINI XING A ND MICROCHIP

C

*Conditions apply.

Mayor’s Message Community organisations are the lifeblood of Logan. They play an integral role in creating positive, lasting change in our city by supporting, sharing and caring for people in Logan. Our community organisations are a constant source of inspiration for me and I thank each of them for the valuable contribution they make to our city.

While we have many thousands of people in Logan who volunteer to keep these vital community groups running, I encourage those who aren’t yet involved to seek out opportunities to join a volunteer organisation, hobby group, local sports club or take up fundraising activities.

Mayor Pam Parker Phone: 3412 3412 Email: mayor@logan.qld.gov.au @MayorPam

Being part of a community is about more than simply living there – it’s about finding a place where you can add value for a greater cause and work with others towards a common goal.

I challenge you to step outside your comfort zone, meet new people and become part of something bigger than just yourself – you will discover enormous personal satisfaction from joining the greater family of thousands who make a positive difference in Logan.

Logan’s compassion and generosity was on proud display recently when our community rallied to support Beenleigh youngster, Calyn Hoad. Brave Calyn saved his younger brother’s life after he ran in front of an oncoming car, but, tragically, Calyn was struck. After many weeks in intensive care, Calyn is out of hospital and recently celebrated his eighth birthday. You can read Calyn’s inspiring story on page 4.

As Mother’s Day comes around for another year, it’s the perfect excuse to pamper our mums and there’s almost no one who deserves more pampering than Shana, Calyn’s mum. After a huge few months supporting Calyn through hospital and rehab, while at the same time looking after her two younger children, we thought she deserved a couple of hours to treat herself. Thanks to the generosity of Janelle Roche from Dermabliss at Dennis Road Medical, Springwood, Shana will enjoy a relaxing facial and massage as our little way of recognising her amazing strength and resilience.

Mayor Pam Parker with Amputees and Families Support Group patron, Mick Doohan, at the opening of the organisation’s new premises in Logan Central.

Cr Steve Swenson and Mayor Pam Parker joined Debbie and Ron Hill at the launch of Lighthouse Care Jimboomba.

Also in this edition, you can learn how to help keep our rescued and impounded animals warm this winter by donating blankets, sheets, towels and coats to our Animal Management Centre (page 13).

Check page 29 to see if you were spotted at Jazz and Shiraz and read the latest on the Beenleigh Town Square revitalisation project on page 7.

Until next time, Mayor Pam Parker

Mayor Pam Parker recently hosted a colourful International Women’s Day event at the Logan Entertainment Centre.

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Calyn Hoad Logan City’s very own superhero The Hoad family could never have imagined how dramatically their lives would change in one afternoon.

In August last year, eight-year-old Calyn saved his younger brother Kya’s life by pushing him out the way of an oncoming car, only to be hit himself.

Despite the severe head fractures he suffered, the extent of which shocked Brisbane doctors, Calyn beat all odds to survive. Now unable to walk, talk or eat, Calyn and brother Kya, sister Ashanti, mum Shana and dad Ben, are doing all they can to help him recover.

People have heard Calyn’s incredible story and have been overwhelmingly generous. Complete strangers from all corners of the country have donated their time, money and skills to transform the Hoad family’s Beenleigh house into a wheelchair-friendly home they can all enjoy.

In April, the Logan community united behind ‘Calyn’s Hero House’ fundraiser – a working bee ahead of the renovation.

The renovated house, coordinated by Carbrook’s Mike Marjanovic from Creative Commercial Projects and Sunday Night, will suit Calyn’s needs and help make life easier for him and the Hoad family, who have been staying with loved ones since the accident.

Then, almost a year later, Calyn and his family will finally be able to return home.

Aunty Rebecca Tatum, who created the Bringing Calyn Home campaign, said Calyn had improved significantly and continued to show signs of recovery.

“This kid’s fight is unbelievable, but so is his strength and determination,” she said.

“Calyn is taking it day-by-day, baby step by baby step, until he recovers to the best of his ability.”

Watch Channel 7’s Sunday Night program story about Calyn and his family by following the link below.

Meet Logan City’s bravest little boy, eight-year-old Calyn Hoad.

A fundraising trivia night will be held at Fitzy’s Loganholme on 24 May. Like the Bringing Calyn Home Facebook page and follow @ChildSuperHero on Twitter for details.

au.news.yahoo.com/sunday-night/

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Corporal Ben Roberts-Smith VC, MG visited Calyn at home.

Queensland Police officers paid a special visit to Calyn at his birthday party.

Calyn shared his 8th birthday with the community at Tudor Park PCYC in March.

Calyn and mum Shana arrive at Calyn’s 8th birthday party.

Calyn with Mayor Pam Parker, Councillor Steve ‘Superman’ Swenson, mum Shara, dad Ben, sister Ashanti 5 and brother Kya.

Logan is big (budget) business

W

Every drop adds up

Council is currently in lengthy and meticulous discussions, deliberating on a budget which is expected to be more than $700 million this year.

In our ever-busy lives, we take it for granted that with a simple flick of the wrist fresh, clean running water will be at our disposal.

hen you are responsible for one of the largest budgets of Australia’s 562 local councils, it is important to make every decision, and dollar, count.

And that is what Logan City Council will be doing next month when it hands down its 2014/15 Annual Budget.

The budget will be presented by Mayor Pam Parker and Governance, Finance and Economic Development Committee Chair, Councillor Luke Smith, at Council’s Administration Building on Monday 23 June.

Councillor Parker said the budget would reflect the difficult financial position residents continued to face.

“Council is acutely aware of the financial challenges so many in our community confront on a daily basis and this is at the forefront of our mind during each and every budget deliberation,” she said.

“As a Council, Logan City has an enviable reputation for being able to deliver service excellence across our many and varied areas, all the while keeping the rates charged to the vast majority of our ratepayers to some of the lowest in the region – this will remain our focus.

“At this stage in the deliberation process I can reveal that we will again be focusing our attention on presenting a back to basics budget that delivers on the key priority areas of this council.

“These areas include: building our major infrastructure, city’s image and our environment, delivering service excellence, managing growth, and building communities.

“Unfortunately there just isn’t the money available at present to build new community facilities such as sports stadiums, libraries or pools – the community simply cannot afford it. Instead, we will continue to keep doing what we do best, delivering service excellence with as little financial impact on ratepayers as possible.”

Cr Smith said Council’s excellent customer service and diverse facilities and services provided residents with value for money.

“For $3.56 a day, which the majority of Logan City’s ratepayers are charged, residents have access to more than 100 services and facilities including waste collection and recycling, a wide range of quality sport fields, pools and facilities, entertainment venues, more than 2,000km of sealed roads, animal management, community centres, a host of enjoyable free family events, “We are committed countless bikeways and footpaths, street lighting and to providing best significant environmental value for money and waterway protection initiatives,” he said. and I believe we will “No matter how you look at it, this is value for money; people pay more than this a day for a coffee or pay TV.”

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again do that in the upcoming budget.”

And while Council can control the quality of the water and where it flows throughout Logan City, the one important aspect it has limited control over is the price.

Council will deliver its 2014/15 water and sewerage pricing on Friday 16 May at Loganholme Water Treatment Plant and has had to consider some important facts throughout the pricing deliberation.

It is true that Logan City residents and businesses pay more for their water services than some others in the region. But there is a reason for this.

Council purchases bulk water from the State Government for $2.63 per kilolitre (2013/2014 price). This price is higher than every other Council in the region.

When the water reaches Logan, Council circulates it through our water reservoirs and pipelines into homes and businesses. This, along with maintaining and operating Council’s $1 billion water infrastructure network, as well as the cost of electricity, costs Council 96 cents per kilolitre on top of the State Government’s $2.63 per kilolitre bulk water charge.

Council therefore charges customers $3.59 per kilolitre to cover the full costs of supplying water to properties. Of this final charge, the State Government’s component equates to 73 per cent while Council is responsible for 27 per cent of the water consumption bill businesses and residents pay.

Governance, Finance and Economic Development Committee Chair, Councillor Luke Smith, said since Council assumed responsibility of the city’s water business in July 2012, residents and businesses had benefitted in a number of key areas.

“Our customer service is excellent and our focus on responsible planning will ensure necessary infrastructure will be in place to meet the future needs of our growing community,” he said.

Learn about Logan’s water and wastewater services and saving water at www.logan.qld.gov.au/water

Do you care about your community and want to have a say?

Then tell us how you or your community would like to learn about and get involved with Council projects.

Beenleigh Town Centre project on track

To register your interest and ideas go to www.logan.qld.gov.au and click on “Have Your Say”.

Have your say

Submissions on the Draft Logan Planning Scheme 2014 close on 30 April. All submissions received will soon be reviewed.

To stay informed about the draft scheme, please go to www. logan.qld.gov.au/ draftplanningscheme, or call the planning team direct on 3412 4247.

An artist’s impression of Beenleigh Town Square.

B

y early-May, Council will have a shortlist of contractors for the second stage of the Beenleigh Town Square project head contractor tender process.

Planning and Development Committee Chair, Councillor Cherie Dalley, said the shortlisting of candidates for the second stage would be a detailed and thorough process.

“After this, the documentation will be completed and we will be seeking a lump sum price before starting construction in the second half of this year,” she said.

Cr Dalley said she was delighted with the progress to date with all aspects remaining on schedule despite some initial delays.

“That in itself is rather unusual on a project of this magnitude,” she said.

“But it is critical we keep to predetermined deadlines. Many of them have been determined by funding arrangements that have stipulated certain deadlines that had to be achieved.”

Connect to your Creek Week 17 to 25 May 2014

An opportunity to celebrate the diversity and beauty of Logan’s waterways - connecting people with their local creeks - through fun and engaging activities.

To find out what is happening in Logan during ‘Connect to your Creek Week’ visit www.logan.qld.gov.au/waterways

Councillor Jennie Breene (Division 12), said the promise of change was having a positive impact on the majority of businesses and residents in Beenleigh.

“Throughout the community consultation process everyone we have approached has been genuinely excited about this project and what it will mean not only for Beenleigh, but also for Logan City,” she said.

“The aspect that really intrigues the majority of people is the fact the City Rd roundabout is changing.

“A large number of residents we have spoken to see that roundabout as an unsafe area for motorists, cyclists and pedestrians and they are happy for that to be changed.”

But it is not only the changing of the much-maligned roundabout that will reinvigorate Beenleigh, the transformation of bitumen to open space will breathe fresh air and life into the CBD. “The project will remove around 50 per cent of the existing bitumen and turn this important part of the CBD into an urban green open space,” Cr Breene said.

“We are hoping, and I am confident, this project will be the catalyst to create more amenity in the town centre and hopefully that will attract further development.”

With construction set to shift into gear in the second half of this year, Cr Breene said the “best case scenario” would be a September 2015 completion date.

“The first part to be tackled as part of the construction is some early electrical and stormwater relocation works, followed by the roadworks and then hard and soft landscaping to the new town square,” she said.

“Once these have been done the architecture such as the civic platform, landscape structures and café will be installed.”

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COBRAS STRIKE at Tansey Park

Logan City Cobras President Benny Head with Cr Luke Smith at Tansey Park.

New Club President Benny Head said a new committee took over last year and was focused on creating a social atmosphere for players, families and the community.

“I was a supporter for three or four years and the club was struggling in terms of volunteers and committee members,” he said.

“When the committee vacated, instead of seeing the club fold, I volunteered and was elected president and started completely fresh.

“A lot of our players have partners and wives and they’re the type of people we want to bring back to the club.

“We have a new coach, Troy Beresford, and he’s super keen, he’s got a good attitude and he has a game plan in place. That’s something that was missing.”

The change is already happening.

More than 500 spectators have 8

turned out to recent home games at the Tansey Park oval – which is the same size as the Melbourne Cricket Ground.

“It’s about building team culture and building a good supporter base,” Benny said.

“My whole idea is to provide a community-based club where people can play sport.”

DIVISION 6 UPDATE Roadworks have been ongoing on Loganlea Rd but are expected to be complete in the coming months.

The third southbound lane is being reinstated at Logan Mwy and a signalised intersection installed to provide emergency vehicle access to the new Logan Hospital Emergency Department.

Councillor Luke Smith said it was good to see people returning to the club.

“Benny and the committee are doing a great job providing not only a place to play, but a great community asset where families can come and enjoy community sport.”

The Cobras, sponsored by Fitzy’s Loganholme and Battery World, are looking for volunteers to take up a range of positions including match day coordinators, canteen and ground set-up. Umpires over 18 years of ages are also required and the club will fund training. Email benny.head@ outlook.com or call 0418 834 442 to register your interest.

Cobras’ games are free to attend at Tansey Park. View the fixtures by scanning the QR code.

CR LUKE SMITH p: 3412 3412 e: lukesmith@logan.qld.gov.au Division 6: Bethania, Meadowbrook, Tanah Merah, Loganholme, part of Cornubia and part of Waterford West.

Refer to map on page two for divisional boundaries.

DIVISION 6 NEWS

T

ansey Park-based AFL team, Logan City Cobras, is making its mark on the local football league following a complete revamp of the club’s committee.

Alliance promotes community art in city’s west A vibrant and enthusiastic group of artists is promoting visual and performing arts to the western and southern suburbs of Logan from a new hub at Hillcrest.

Sherry Austin from the Logan West Community ArtShare Alliance Inc helps Amelia Cooper, 4, make a clay flower at the group’s recent open day. Images of some of the clay work.

Spokesperson Sherry Austin said the group’s calendar of classes offered something different each day.

“From painting, drawing, pottery and glass fusing to jewellery and beading, our members enjoy arts of all mediums,” she said.

The group held its first classes in September 2013 after moving into a Council-owned space under the Wineglass Water Tower at Orr Ct, Hillcrest.

“There wasn’t really anywhere on this side of town for artists to gather or the community to take part in classes, so when the opportunity arose to use this venue, we jumped at the chance,” Sherry said.

“We offer classes for everyone, no matter their skill level or age, and

have classes specifically for mothers, young children and people with mental and physical disabilities.”

Members can join the alliance for $5 a year.

“It’s a very rewarding experience to be involved with a group like ours and we encourage social interaction while people are learning new talents,” Sherry said.

Bookings are essential for anyone wanting to attend classes. A calendar of classes is available on the group’s website.

Learn more about the alliance by phoning 0412 332 535 or visit its Facebook page or http://lwcasa.org

Councillor Laurie Smith encouraged local residents to get involved with the classes and activities on offer at the centre.

“It was a lucky set of circumstances that contributed to the centre opening,” he said.

“I’d visited the Logan Artists Association premises at Loganlea just a couple of weeks before the ArtShare Alliance phoned me to say they wanted to set up something similar in the west.

“We went on the hunt for a facility that could cater for a range of arts and could be expanded and the rest, as they say, was history.”

CR LAURIE SMITH p: 3412 3412 e: lauriesmith@logan.qld.gov.au Division 7: Boronia Heights, Forestdale, Greenbank, Hillcrest, Munruben (part of), North Maclean (part of), Park Ridge (part of) and Park Ridge South (part of).

Refer to map on page two for divisional boundaries.

DIVISION 7 NEWS

Known as Logan West Community ArtShare Alliance Inc, the group offers classes to people with all levels of experience and recently conducted five weekends of master classes thanks to a Regional Arts Development Fund grant.

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A strange thing happened at Logan West Library last month – teens voluntarily locked themselves inside for hours at a time.

Caitlin Hernandez, Nelson Reed-Banyard (centre) and Courtney Johnson get into mystery month at Logan West Library.

But this wasn’t a puzzle or deep enigma; it was simply celebrating Mystery Month in March at the regular Lockdown at the Library.

Featuring gaming, activities and prizes, the themed lockdowns are a chance for teens across Logan to do something a bit different, and score some free pizza in the process.

Browns Plains resident Nelson ReedBanyard, 14, said the Lockdown at the Library events were a good chance to socialise and make new friends.

“It was fun – there was a lot of pizza, we played games, read some books, and met new people,” he said.

“I met some people from other schools which was fun.

“The library staff organised some games and competitions – I won a scavenger hunt on the internet.”

And would he encourage others to go?

The curious case of the vanishing pizza, and other tales of mystery

“No – because there would be less pizza for me!” he laughed.

Lockdown at the Library events are free events for kids run after library hours and supervised by library staff.

A full list can be found at www.logan. qld.gov.au/about-logan/calendar

Upgrade to Isle of Ely dog off-leash areas Construction is set to start on a secondary dog off-leash enclosure at Isle of Ely Park, Heritage Park to supplement the existing facility.

“The second park will be designed for small dogs, with larger dogs remaining at the existing enclosure,” she said.

eash Work on the dog off-l to enclosure is expected . th begin this mon 10

“The new park will be accessible via concrete pathway and will feature a water bowl, air lock gates, concrete under the fence to help prevent dogs getting out, as well as a rubbish bin, shelter and seating.

“Drainage works will also be undertaken at the existing park to create a more functional space.”

CR CHERIE DALLEY p: 3412 3412 e: cheriedalley@logan.qld.gov.au Division 8: Browns Plains, Heritage Park, Park Ridge and Regents Park.

Refer to map on page two for divisional boundaries.

DIVISION 8 NEWS

Councillor Cherie Dalley said a second park was needed after the original had proven popular.

LOGAN CITY RATEPAYERS

YOUR NEW BUNDLE 3 PER DAY

$ .56*

YOUR PLAN INCLUDES WASTE and recycling COLLECTION ROADS, BIKEWAYS AND PARKS LIBRARIES, ARTS AND HERITAGE

PUBLIC HEALTH AND SAFETY

COMMUNITY CENTRES AND EVENTS

ENVIRONMENT PROTECTION

SPORTS, RECREATION AND POOLS

ENTERTAINMENT VENUES

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COMMUNITY SUPPORT

ANIMAL MANAGEMENT

$ .56

* PER DAY

Arts and Heritage: Mayes Colonial Cottage; Beenleigh Historical Village; Logan Art Gallery; Kingston Butter Factory. Recreation and libraries: library facilities and services; cultural development; home library service; online learning; book clubs; computer classes; free internet. Community events: funding; support and Council-organised events. Entertainment: community centres; halls; sports fields; sports centres; gymnasiums; basketball; function centre. Aquatic centres: four Aqualogan centres and other aquatic centres supported by Council; learn to swim programs.

Community development: community well-being programs; support for community organisations. Roads; parks and public works: road construction and maintenance; bridges; footpaths; street and park signage; park; reserves and garden maintenance; mowing; tree maintenance and planting; playgrounds; bikeways; skate parks; park ranger services; streetscape management; public facilities; bus shelters; cemeteries.

Public health and safety: animal management; dog parks; immunisation programs; sharps collection and management; local law management; food safety; dangerous trees; overgrown and/or unsightly premises management; road safety. Household services: property information searches; recycling; kerbside pick up; waste management centre and transfer stations; building and development assessment and approvals; plumbing and drainage regulation and approvals; subsidised taxi service for seniors; pensioner concessions for rates and animal registration. Environmental protection: free tree program; environment awareness and assistance programs; recycle market; flood mitigation; pest and weed control. Vibrant and safe city: Bizconnect business centre; economic development; disaster management; growth management and strategic planning services; customer service centres; tourist centre; citizenship ceremonies; graffiti management; traffic management; crime prevention and safety cameras; street lighting; car parking regulations and enforcement; abandoned vehicles; building and development compliance; volunteering programs. *Average minimum general rate per day for the majority of Logan City residential ratepayers, excluding water and sewerage.

Discover free, fun activities in Logan and enjoy a happier, healthier lifestyle.

Heart Foundation Walking Being active on a regular basis is an important part of a healthy lifestyle and walking is a great way to look after your health.

There are number of existing walking groups in the Logan area that you can join.

Cost: FREE, operating all year round across Logan.

How to get involved: Phone: 3412 3412 or visit www.logan.qld.gov.au/ healthylogan This initiative was funded by the Australian Government.

Keep Calm and

Eat Safe Logan For more information go to logan.qld.gov.au/eatsafelogan

LOGAN

Proudly supported by

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Wallaby Stew an Australian review

Whether it’s chicken soup for the soul or a stir of the wallaby stew, one cannot deny that reading is a powerful thing.

Reading invites you to enter the life of someone else and, for a moment, experience what it would be like to walk in their shoes as they bare their souls on paper.

capable of, but one day during training, my world crashed around me.” – Wallaby Stew extract, Tiarne Augustine, Logan

When former Logan resident and Canterbury College year coordinator, Di Perkins, first read the inspirational Chicken Soup for the Soul to students in 2000, she recognised a need for an Australian version of the popular series.

“Minutes later after again losing and regaining consciousness I woke up in a CT scanner and was receiving multiple dye injections. The next and last thing I remember from the Logan Hospital was a female nurse telling me I was being immediately transferred… Three lengthy, traumatic days followed for my family. Upon waking, I learned that I had two brain operations. The first was due to a hematoma (blood clot), the size of an Australian fifty-cent piece... In September the following year, my doctor requested an interview as soon as possible to talk about recent MRI scans.” – Wallaby Stew extract, Andrew Bentzen, Logan

After retiring in 2012, Di embarked on a mission to find young people with inspirational stories to share.

The response was astonishing. As Di sat and sifted through the stories of children across the country, she realised her hunch had been spot on. Thirty seven young people, mostly in their mid-20s, feature in her book Wallaby Stew, with 26 of the most-touching stories coming from her hometown here in Logan.

“The book is divided into five sections; ambition, acceptance, adaptation, survival and love, and the variety of stories within each category not only hopes to inspire young and old, but ensures readers are welcomed into the souls of our Australian youth,” Di said.

Di shed tears with the young ones as they travelled back through traumatic events, only to be able to finally move forward as they re-read their recollections in black and white.

“There is such a wide cross-section of stories; Wallaby Stew is relevant to any age group.”

“The concept of Wallaby Stew sparks fond memories of Australian mealtimes, when the family most often sits around the kitchen table to discuss the events of the day,” she said.

“As a young child I had too much energy. Mum would find me swinging from the clothes line or sitting on top of our six-foot fence talking to the kids next door. This was when she enrolled me in gymnastics. I fell in love with it straight away… I pushed myself beyond what I thought I was

Proceeds from the sale of the book are donated to the Mater Children’s Hospital and a number of Logan charities. Wallaby Stew is available to purchase for $30 by emailing di@diperkins.com.

Tiarne Augustine triumphs over her adversities (Flexibility to create another road, Wallaby Stew).

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Andrew’s remarkable work ethic has saved his life (Work ethics underpin recovery, Wallaby Stew).

Blanket drive warms up

W

ith the chill creeping into the night air and winter just around the corner, it’s a good time to remember our lost and surrendered animal friends who’ll be spending some of the cooler days and nights at Council’s Animal Management Centre.

The centre is appealing for donations of blankets, sheets, towels and coats to keep impounded animals warm, particularly the young kittens, puppies and older dogs.

“We have brought Jayman up with the knowledge that we are very lucky to have our health and a roof over our heads,” Mrs Anthony said.

“We always give change to fundraisers in shopping centres where I explain to my son what the money is for and how it will better another person’s life.”

Mrs Anthony said she first took Jayman and her niece, Nia, to the Animal Management Centre to explain there were animals who didn’t get cuddles on the couch like their own dog, Alvin.

“We left after a small visit and the kids asked if they could earn pocket money cleaning their room and our kitchen so they could buy toys for the cats and dogs at the centre – so we did,” she said.

The blankets, sheets and towels are used to line the animals’ cages. This a great way to repurpose old or unused linen rather than it being thrown out.

Logan residents Lucy and Naaman Anthony, and their son Jayman, answered Council’s call for a similar cause to donate toys over the busy Christmas period. Mrs Anthony said that giving to those in need was something she and her family found extremely rewarding.

“It’s an ongoing project and we try to get involved in a different volunteer program every holiday.

“We give what we can, when we can and I hope our story will encourage others to do the same.”

All cats and dogs purchased during winter are able to take their donated items to their new home.

This gives them something familiar to transition with into their new lives.

Items which can be donated to the Animal Management Centre include: Warm and fuzzies Blankets Towels Tea towels

Sheets Pillowcases Bathmats

NB: Items that contain stuffing cannot be accepted because of the risk of choking.

Fun and frivolous Squeaky toys Tennis balls

Interactive toys Chew toys

Deliver donated items to: Animal Management Centre 213 Queens Rd, Kingston 8.30am to 4.30pm, Monday to Friday 9am to 2pm, Saturdays

For more information or to express your interest in sewing coats for the “pound puppies,” contact 3412 5397 or visit Council’s Animal Management Centre at 213 Queens Rd, Kingston.

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ramps up Are you looking for something fun to do over the weekend?

Maybe you’re aged between 13 and 17 and want to learn some gnarly skills?

Jayden Moss, 12, and Trent Hatch, 13, test their skills at Crestmead Skate Park with Cr Phil Pidgeon.

The weekly skateboarding development workshops are a City of Choice initiative and are rolling out in partnership with the Queensland Government and Skateboarding Australia, with two hour workshops held across various skate parks in Logan every Saturday morning.

Councillor Phil Pidgeon said the program was all about increasing our youth’s participation in sport and recreational activities right across the city.

“I’ve seen these workshops in action and have to give credit to the coaches and kids who participate – it’s a healthy, energetic and interactive atmosphere which has to be seen to be believed,” he said.

Marsden State High School’s Riders Club is a similar initiative which aims to improve years 8 and 9 students’ confidence through skill building.

The proactive program, supported by Council’s Youth Events Grants, has been credited for its role in helping students develop a healthy respect for skate parks, police and the wider community through developing a sense of ownership.

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Marsden’s Youth Support Coordinator, Sera Roqica, said the program was a way of encouraging students to take more of an interest in their education and rewarded students for positive behaviour.

“The students who take part in the program are required to adopt and display the appropriate behaviour and attitude towards their education,” she said.

“It encourages our students to actively improve their levels of social engagement and also allows them to develop positive relationships with the local police.”

Cr Pidgeon said he considered both programs to be a step in the right direction for the city.

“It’s about focusing the right resources on programs which interest youth,” he said.

“The proof is in the pudding, so to speak, and it’s great to see our programs and facilities playing such a positive role in our children’s development.”

KRANK’s Streetwise Learn to Skate lessons are held every Saturday from 9am-11am until June 2014 across various skate parks in Logan City.

CR PHIL PIDGEON p: 3412 5509 e: philpidgeon@logan.qld.gov.au Division 9: Chambers Flat, Crestmead, Jimboomba, Logan Reserve, Logan Village, Munruben Forest, North Maclean, Park Ridge South, South Maclean, Stockleigh and Waterford West.

Refer to map on page two for divisional boundaries.

DIVISION 9 NEWS

The KRANK program may be just what you’ve been looking for. The popular youth initiative, which aims to encourage kids to get active and engaged in local events, has recently expanded to include the Streetwise Learn to Skate lessons.

Cr Darren Power with Slacks Creek Rugby League Club President RJ Pont and his willing band of volunteers.

Tackle count restarts for Tigers A fixture on the Logan rugby league landscape for more than 40 years, the club has trod a troubled path recently and owes its return from the brink of closure to a dedicated group of volunteers, led by newly-appointed president, RJ Pont.

The new committee has breathed new life into Daisy Hill’s Usher Park; working tirelessly every weekend to rectify the issues with the ageing and structurallyunsound clubhouse and improve the field’s playing surface.

Councillor Darren Power said Council uncovered a host of safety and maintenance issues last year, which left Council no choice but to close the clubhouse in October.

“This club has a long and proud history and Council wanted to work with the club to try and keep it operating,” he said.

“I have to commend the new committee, which has come on board knowing the extensive and costly challenges it faced. All members have worked tirelessly so the local junior players can still play the sport they love.

“Council has matched the $50,000 the club received from the State Government to fix the club’s lighting and I will continue to liaise and work closely with the club and offer financial support wherever possible.”

Mr Pont said the club was committed to giving juniors an avenue to enjoy rugby league, improve their fitness and skills, and develop friendships.

“We had about 185 players last year and have lost about half of them due to what happened. We are committed to rebuilding and getting the number of players back to the level it used to be,” he said.

DIVISION 10 UPDATE A mural featuring 29 cockatoos in a wildlife and water setting has been painted at Shailer Pioneer Park as a backdrop to the Matthew Lambert skate bowl.

Work has resumed on the Roselea Park redevelopment.

Kerbside clean-up starts for Daisy Hill and Shailer Park on 26 May.

“We offer teams for players from under six to under 13 and they don’t have to have played before.

“We have developed a detailed threestage project plan and know we can get this club back to what it used to be.

We have the right people dedicated to junior rugby league continuing to have a home in the area.”

Players interested in registering with Slacks Creek Rugby League Club can visit the club on Monday and Wednesdays from 5.30-7.30pm. Proof of age is required and each child must be accompanied by an adult.

Phone 0422 122 866.

CR DARREN POWER p: 3412 3412 e: darrenpower@logan.qld.gov.au Division 10: Carbrook, Cornubia (part of), Daisy Hill (part of) and Shailer Park.

Refer to map on page two for divisional boundaries.

DIVISION 10 NEWS

After taking a number of hits that all but forced it from the field, Slacks Creek Rugby League Club is well and truly back in the game.

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New facilities for Glenlogan Lakes Park New public amenities will be installed at Glenlogan Lakes Park in the next few months.

Councillor Trevina Schwarz said the overwhelming popularity of the park had prompted the improvements which would complement work to restore the dam wall and the park’s path network.

“Glenlogan Lakes is a great spot to wander, have a picnic and enjoy the open space and serenity,” she said.

“Final design has been completed and I would expect construction to start soon, weather and other considerations permitting.”

Little Athletics upgrade One half of an important facilities upgrade at Jimboomba Little Athletics Club is now complete.

Heaven now a place on Earth as orange angels settle in Jimboomba became heaven on earth last month, with the city’s newest group of orange angels opening a base of operations in the south-west.

The new $170,000 Councilfunded facility brings Jimboomba State Emergency Service (SES) online for operations.

Jimboomba SES group leader Craig Guy said the unit’s location would help ensure prompt response in times of need, bringing peace of mind to residents in the immediate area.

“In the past, we’ve driven from our headquarters in Daisy Hill to here,” he said.

“The Australia Day floods in 2013 hit the Jimboomba area harder than the 2011 event and highlighted the need for a unit this side of Jimboomba Creek.

“We’ve got local knowledge for out here as well – this is our little community.”

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Only officially established in March, Jimboomba SES is keen to recruit new members to fill its ranks.

“We train on the first Wednesday of every month and anyone is welcome to come down. Just call the SES hotline on 132 500 and ask for Jimboomba SES.”

Councillor Trevina Schwarz said new female toilets and change facilities had been built at a cost of $70,000 with a male facility expected soon.

“The male facilities are currently in the planning stage and will include an upgrade to the existing septic system,” she said.

“Both sets are demountable so they can be relocated in the future if required.

“I’m delighted Council could help provide a much-needed upgrade for the local athletes and supporters.”

The budget for the facility and septic upgrade is $100,000. Construction of the male facilities is expected to start later this year.

The group’s role is wide and varied with SES members called on to perform many tasks including missing person searches, storm recovery and flood boat operations.

CR TREVINA SCHWARZ p: 3412 5511 e: trevinaschwarz@logan.qld.gov.au Division 11: Cedar Grove, Cedar Vale, Flagstone, Greenbank, Jimboomba, Kagaru, Lyons, New Beith, North Maclean, South Maclean, Undullah, Veresdale, Veresdale Scrub and Woodhill.

Refer to map on page two for divisional boundaries.

DIVISION 11 NEWS

Craig Guy (left) with Hayden Glisson and Cr Trevina Schwarz inspecting the new SES facility.

Evocca College opens doors on new HQ

Evocca College CEO Robert Gordon and Governance, Finance and Economic Development Chair Councillor Luke Smith at the Evocca building in Springwood.

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ational training provider Evocca College has moved into the landmark building next to the Pacific Motorway in Springwood, vacated by Devine last year.

The well recognised building has had a $550,000 refurbishment and is now Evocca’s national head office, housing between 60 and 80 staff.

The company is experiencing phenomenal growth, with 500 employees across branches in Queensland, New South Wales and Victoria, and another 10 colleges set to open this year.

Evocca was named the Australian Council for Private Education and Training’s 2013 VET Provider of the Year for its nationally recognised

and accredited training in business, multimedia, IT, community services, events, travel and tourism.

Evocca joins other big names like Ceva Logistics, Snap Fresh and Tip Top that have decided Logan City is a perfect location to set up their business.

Governance, Finance and Economic Development Committee Chair, Councillor Luke Smith, said having a company like Evocca College take up such a pivotal building was a huge vote of confidence in Logan City as an ideal place to invest.

“More companies are realising the area is the perfect location to base their business,” he said.

“Having the Evocca College headquarters here in Logan City, as

well as five training colleges in the area, is also a great benefit for our young people who can access training locally, helping them to get the skills they need to secure their dream job.

“Training providers like Evocca give people hope, help people access better training and even change their career mid-life. We are very excited they decided to have their headquarters right here in Logan.”

Evocca College CEO Robert Gordon said Evocca was growing at a rapid pace.

“We had our first branch in Beenleigh, the second one in Woodridge, the third one in Browns Plains and now multiple branches in Beenleigh covering multiple services - this is now the hub of national business,” he said.

Marketing your small business Does your business need help with traditional and digital marketing? Two courses that will help: FREE BizConnect Marketing series Four half day workshops held weekly each month.

Where: Choose between 150 Wembley Rd, Logan Central or Jimboomba Library, Jimboomba

Digital Connect Series Four half day workshops held weekly in June 2014 Where: 150 Wembley Rd, Logan Central Cost: $200 inc GST

For more information and bookings Phone: 3412 4888 Email: loed@logan. qld.gov.au

office of Economic Development

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May

Events in Logan 3

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7.30pm to 9.30pm. Melbourne International Comedy Festival Roadshow, Logan Entertainment Centre, 170 Wembley Rd, Logan Central. Adults $30 It’s that time of year again - the ultimate comedy road trip returns! We’ve let the superstars of Australia’s biggest comedy festival off the leash and on to the road. From Hobart to Hong Kong and back, the Melbourne International Comedy Festival Roadshow is a comedy odyssey. Phone LEC on 3412 5626 or visit www.loganentertainmentcentre.com.au for more information or to buy tickets.

until 10 May Logan Art Gallery, Cnr Wembley Rd and Jacaranda Ave, Logan Central Celebrate the Queensland Festival of Photography with two extraordinary exhibitions at Logan Art Gallery: Ever Present: Photographs from the Queensland Art Gallery Collection 1850-1975, and Beauty of Nature’s fury by local photographer and ‘storm chaser’, Marty Pouwelse.

Photo: Marty Pouwelse, Pittsworth lightning, 2012. Beauty of Nature’s fury is supported by the Regional Arts Development Fund (RADF).

RADF is a Queensland Government, through Arts Queensland, and Logan City Council partnership to support local arts and culture.

International Composting Awareness Week Visit Grand Plaza Shopping Centre at Browns Plains on Friday 9 May between 9am and 5.30pm to discover the easy steps to creating a natural fertiliser while improving soil structure and water retention in your garden. Register by calling 3457 2400 or email loganwe@envirocom.com.au 4.30pm to 5.30pm. The Deep – based on the book by Tim Winton, Logan Entertainment Centre, 170 Wembley Rd, Logan Central. Standard entry $15.

Logan children can learn more about Alice and her family, who live by the sea in this puppet show. Every day her family goes down to the jetty for a swim. Alice is scared of the deep.

Even with all the encouragement in the world, Alice is scared to swim where the ocean turns from green to blue. But an unsuspecting swim with the local dolphins changes all of that.

Brought to you by Australia’s champions of puppetry, Spare Parts Puppet Theatre.

Bring your fourlegged friends to Logan Gardens and join this year’s Million Paws Walk.

Dogs must be vaccinated, friendly and registered with Council to participate.

Even people without pooches are welcome to join in the fun.

7am to noon. Jimboomba Country Markets, Jimboomba State School, Mt Lindesay Hwy, Jimboomba.

Check out more than 300 stalls selling fresh fruit, vegetables, and flowers, as well as arts and crafts and bric-a-brac. Entry is free, and dogs are not permitted.

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9.30am to 3.30pm. Sports and Classic Car Festival, Griffith University – Logan Campus, University Dr, Meadowbrook.

Classic cars of all makes and models will be on display.

Food and drinks will be available for sale and a mini train will transport visitors from the large parking areas to the car display. Event proceeds directed to The Prostate Council of Australia. Phone Mike on 0417 193 611 for more information.

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9am to 1pm. Creative Markets, Springwood State School, 94-120 Springwood Rd, Springwood.

Purchase some of the best handmade items from more than 60 stallholders or enjoy face painting, a jumping castle and plaster painting. Food and drinks are also available for sale.

Admission and parking is free.

Celebrate your city’s heritage in a free family fun-filled day. The popular The Time Before Festival, (previously called Mayes in May) is Logan’s heritage event, held as part of the Queensland Heritage Festival at Mayes Cottage and Kingston Butter Factory, Kingston.

10am to 2pm Sunday 4 May Kingston Butter Factory, Milky Way, Kingston

For more things to do in Logan City, go to www.visitlogan.com.au or download a copy of our latest events guide, Your Passport to events and activities in Logan City (March – May 2014).

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Time ticking on city plan comment

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fter three months of shopping centre pop-up kiosks, public events and online mapping searches, public comment on a draft city planning scheme for Logan is drawing to a close.

Residents have until 5pm Wednesday 30 April to make a submission or do a quick property search to find out what the draft scheme means for them.

Combining three existing planning schemes into one, the project is one

of the most complex planning tasks completed by Council.

The plan will guide development for the next 20 years, including providing for 70,000 new dwellings and 130,000 new residents.

Consultation on the draft planning scheme also represents one of the biggest community engagement activities undertaken by Council in recent years.

Council’s dedicated web portal received thousands of unique visits, staff completed hundreds of face-toface interactions at community events and a number of public submissions were received.

Submissions will be considered before a final planning scheme is adopted in the coming months. For more information, go to www.logan.qld.gov. au/draftplanningscheme or call the planning team on 3412 4247.

Avoid angst, be aware In an effort to reduce the angst surrounding buying a property, Council provides an array of building, plumbing and drainage approval information services.

Buyers can obtain extensive approvals and inspection records for Logan properties as well as copies of approved building plans which are available on application.

The information can provide clarity on what buildings or structures are approved as well as what plumbing and drainage systems are approved on a premise.

Potential purchasers can also arrange for rates searches to be conducted and access all available and relevant flooding information. Visit www.logan.qld.gov.au or phone 3412 3412 for more information.

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Sesquicentennial

the sweetest celebration

Cr Jennie Breene with Beenleigh Yatala Chamber of Commerce President Lawrie Dore` and Executive Administration Officer Michael Rose.

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ith a history built on sugar and home to Australia’s oldest rum distillery, it is little wonder many in the community have a sweet spot for Beenleigh.

“Council has given its full support to all planned activities which will certainly help us make them something the community will enjoy and remember,” he said.

Beenleigh’s 150th - a taste of what’s to come!

Renowned for its quaint charm and glimpses into days gone by, Beenleigh has found itself in a unique position this year. Not only will the town blow out the candles to mark its 150th (sesquicentennial) anniversary, but it will also turn the next page in its colourful history with the start of the long-awaited Beenleigh Town Square project.

“We are particularly excited about the B150 Birthday Bash in October – it should be a fantastic event; the perfect way to mark a milestone as significant as this.”

• Quilters Association Open Day: 14 June

“The best way to celebrate a birthday is with a party – and with an almost endless stream of anniversary events planned, there promises to be something for everyone,” Cr Breene said.

Mr Dore` said a host of activities would signal the town’s all-important milestone. Many of the events are listed on the Chamber’s website, www.bycc. com.au 20

• Cane Festival Parade: 31 May

• Beenleigh Eisteddford: July • PCYC Gala Ball: 26 July • Beenleigh Show: 12 -13 September • B150 Birthday Bash gala ball: 11 October • Music in the Park: 19 October • Beenleigh State School Community Festival: 17 - 18 October

“Beenleigh represents our colourful history and how we weave that into our modern lifestyle; it really is a unique town and we want to celebrate that,” he said.

Mr Dore` and Mr Rose said businesses and groups planning an event to mark the milestone could add it to the Chamber of Commerce’s calendar of events.

“The chamber itself will celebrate the milestone by launching its new website - the ideal site to visit for the latest information for businesses,” Mr Dore` said.

Visit www.bycc.com.au for more information.

CR JENNIE BREENE p: 3412 3412 m: 0411 658 297 e: jenniebreene@logan.qld.gov.au Division 12: Beenleigh, Eagleby, Edens Landing and Holmview (part of).

Refer to map on page two for divisional boundaries.

DIVISION 12 NEWS

Councillor Jennie Breene and Beenleigh Yatala Chamber of Commerce President Lawrie Dore` and Administration Officer Michael Rose said the milestone, like any major achievement, would be celebrated in grand style and involve all areas of the community.

Mr Rose said other activities planned for the sesquicentennial included a multicultural street market, school art and culture competitions, and the everpopular Beenleigh Cane Festival which Beenleigh Rotary will host on 31 May.

• Chaplaincy Benefit Dinner: 9 May

take Brisbane stages by storm The Bofingers are an example of the talented young people here in Logan City.

The four siblings are stealing the spotlight, each scoring major roles in popular musicals, plays and dance acts.

The John Paul College (JPC) students – Bryce, 16, twins Jai and Kieran, 13, and Amelia, 10 – each dance, act and play at least one instrument.

Jai has recently performed in Queensland Theatre Company’s Macbeth, having toured Australia and New Zealand with the musical Mary Poppins last year as character Michael Banks.

His twin Kieran is dancing in Queensland Ballet’s Coppelia this month, while older brother Bryce has previously performed in the Queensland Theatre Company Youth Ensemble.

Clockwise from left: Amelia, Bryce, Kieran and Jai Bofinger.

This edition and future editions of Our Logan will feature talented students from Division 1.

JPC Performing Arts Deputy Director William Wallace said the Bofinger siblings were stand-out performers.

“We’ve had various talented students throughout the years but these three boys are a level above what the average student would be,” he said.

Mum Trudi, a music teacher, said her children were lucky to have the chance to perform in national productions and work with world-renowned directors.

“It’s a big commitment to establish those skills and it’s an eye-opener into what life is like as a performer – it’s tough,” she said.

Jai, who will play the lead role in JPC’s major musical production of Oliver later this year, said the first time walking out on stage could be nerve-racking.

“Having nerves isn’t a bad thing,” he said.

“If you don’t have nerves it means you don’t have fear, and that can be dangerous.”

Councillor Lisa Bradley said Logan had a reputation for being the home of future stars – Dami Im, Savage Garden and Catherine McNeil to name a few – and that tradition was continuing.

“Our local students have bright futures ahead of them, whether it be in dance, music or sport because of their hard work and commitment.”

The long-term plans for Priest Gully were put to the public earlier this year, with a great turnout of people visiting community consultation sessions with Councillor Lisa Bradley and Council’s Parks branch to have their say.

The major project encapsulates the long-term vision for Priest Gully. The concepts were designed to improve the waterway area through the parkland from Springwood Rd to Priestdale Rd and crossing three suburbs – Rochedale South, Priestdale and Springwood.

External funding will be sought for improvements for managing bushland areas, existing playgrounds, youth zones, fitness stations, providing interactive experiences with the creek, and a new board walk.

The concept plans can be viewed at Cr Bradley’s mobile offices. Scan the QR code for details. Contact Cr Bradley to provide further feedback or suggestions.

CR LISA BRADLEY p: 3412 3412 e: lisabradley@logan.qld.gov.au Division 1: Daisy Hill (part of), Priestdale, Rochedale South, Springwood (part of) and Underwood (part of).

Refer to map on page two for divisional boundaries.

DIVISION 1 NEWS

Community has its say on Priest Gully plans

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All the fun of the (book) fair

Ever wanted to live a life of mystery and intrigue?

Perhaps you daydream about jetting off to a faraway place?

Or time travelling to days gone by or days yet experienced? Perhaps getting into the mind of heroes and villains fascinates you.

There is only one place you can do all of this and more: in the pages of a book.

A simple book is not only a welcome escape for young and old, but it also opens the doors to countless possibilities.

Woodridge North State School teachers are only too aware of the power of reading and have initiated a number of projects aimed at promoting reading among children.

Among these initiatives is the school’s popular annual book fair. To be held from 27 May to 2 June, the book fair not only raises much-needed funds for the school’s library but also highlights the importance and benefits of reading.

“Our major focus is to raise our reading results. We have a number of fun ways 22

of doing this,” Principal Muriel Collings said.

“It is well documented that children who read succeed and we want to give our kids the best possible chance of becoming life-long learners. Reading is the most important prerequisite in the journey of life success.

“If we give them the tools then we can set them on a pathway for a positive future.

“The book fair allows us to promote not only the benefits of reading to students and their parents, but also allows us to raise much-needed funds to replenish our library stocks and other resource materials.”

Cr Russell Lutton with Woodridge North State School Principal Muriel Collings and Deputy Principal Dave Hartley.

“The work the staff at the school do is truly admirable; they are making a real difference to the lives of the children and not only are they enjoying it – the kids are having a great time as well.”

Ms Collings said the school hoped to raise about $3,000 from this year’s book fair.

In a further effort to attract students to the wonderful world of books, selected students were treated to an excursion to the Somerset Literacy Festival in late March. Mr Hartley joined the students on the excursion.

Councillor Russell Lutton and Mayor Pam Parker have supported the book fair by donating $350 each for the school to buy new books to sell at the fair.

“The teachers at this school have a genuine passion for reading and this enthusiasm is contagious; the work they have done to instil a love of reading is admirable,” he said.

“I guess when you have an awardwinning author on staff (Deputy Principal Dave Hartley), promoting the enjoyment of reading comes naturally.

CR RUSSELL LUTTON p: 3412 3412 e: russelllutton@logan.qld.gov.au Division 2: Woodridge, Logan Central, Kingston and Underwood.

Refer to map on page two for divisional boundaries.

DIVISION 2 NEWS

Woodridge North State School Book Fair will be held in the school’s Arthur St, Woodridge, grounds from Tuesday 27 May to Monday 2 June. Phone 3380 6333.

Stay safe; be prepared When the 2013 Australia Day floods hit South-East Queensland, many Logan suburbs and residents were affected, with some properties losing power for up to three days.

Worrying stories emerged of elderly residents trapped in their homes by floodwaters without electricity or a telephone – leaving friends and family unable to check on the welfare of their loved ones.

As is often the case, it is only when disaster strikes that we realise how ill-prepared we are.

Council and a number of groups throughout the city are trying to remedy that by actively promoting the need for residents to be prepared at all times for disaster.

One such group is the Crestmead 40+ Club.

While the club was established to provide activities, guest speakers and entertainment for Logan City residents aged 40 years and over, it has now ventured into the important area of disaster preparation.

Club president Robin Gallen said the club had implemented guidelines and documentation to help residents create their own 72-hour disaster survival kits.

“The kit can be anything; I have a backpack which can hold important documents and belongings,” she said.

Robin said the kits were not designed to cater for large-scale emergencies but would provide shortterm access to important documents and items.

“The emergency kits are filled with things from the home like photocopies of identification and medical prescriptions, as well as money,” she said.

“They may not be accepted everywhere, but some documentation is better than no documentation - especially when you lose them in a disaster.”

Robin said friends and family of members who had opted to organise an emergency kit were pleased at their understanding of the need to be prepared for disaster – even out of traditional storm and fire season.

“My son told me he was proud of me for being proactive and taking responsibility for myself in times of disaster - he even gave me the backpack for the emergency kit,” she said.

The Crestmead 40+ Club meets every Friday at Crestmead Community Centre and offers a range of activities.

Story by Zac van Manen.

Cityof Choice

LOGAN:

Hitting all the right notes The largest community musical production Logan has seen was unveiled in late-March.

Singers, dancers, choirs and musicians were in abundance at LEC and a number of other locations across the city as the Queensland Music Festival (QMF) came to town.

Local music sign-on sessions were held from 22-29 March to uncover the amazing talent that already exists in Logan City to allow QMF, spearheaded by jazz musician James Morrison, to start preparing Logan’s Musical Celebration.

Logan’s Musical Celebration, to be held in mid2015, addresses a priority of the Logan: City of Choice Action Plan – to bring people together to share and enjoy cultural diversity and provide opportunities for community arts and cultural expression.

Establishing a signature event that is community owned and driven and encompasses different elements including music, food and dance, was a key action from the Logan: City of Choice Summit.

During the sign-on sessions, Melbournebased hip-hop star Morganics and multiinstrumentalist/performer Shenzo met with local talent interested in taking part in Logan’s Musical Celebration production.

Demand to be part of the Musical Celebration process was so overwhelming, QMF staged “open-house” drop-in sessions for the first time.

“The Logan production is already on an entirely different scale to anything similar we have done before in terms of the level of interest already generated,” Mr Morrison said.

How prepared are you for disaster or emergency?

“But those that missed their chance this time don’t need to panic – there will be other opportunities to get involved; this was just stage one.”

Council provides residents with extensive information and advice on how to prepare yourself, your family and your home for disaster.

For more information on Logan’s Musical Celebration, call Queensland Music Festival on 3010 6612 or email logan@qmf.org.au

Visit www.logan.qld.gov.au/community-support/ disasters-and-emergencies

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Wellbeing centre empowers Logan women From its tucked away office in Springwood, the team at Logan Women’s Health and Wellbeing Centre is making a dramatic difference.

every day, they also benefit their families and friends and the broader community through their education work,” he said.

Stacey Ross (with Cr Steve Swenson) and staff from the Logan Women’s Health and Wellbeing Centre.

The move to the Springwood office last year brought with it new staff and a refreshed atmosphere.

Improving the lives of local women, especially those most at risk of poor health, is the name of the game for this group, mainly through free counselling for women over 14 years who live or work in Logan City and their families.

“In the past six months, we’ve seen more than 1,800 women and it continues to grow,” Manager Stacey Ross said.

“When we tell people we’re a free service, we don’t have a waiting list and the only criteria is that women are over 14, people are shocked.”

Community education makes up the rest of their work. The Centre offers outreach programs in local schools, host guest speakers and run social activities like yoga, gypsy hooping and morning tea, designed to establish

“The feedback has been really good and we’re now looking at new, sustainable fundraising ideas that will help us continue into the future,” Ms Ross said.

social circles for local women while promoting a healthy lifestyle.

“We’ve been helping Logan women for 22 years and we’re working really hard to continue that service,” Ms Ross said.

“I’m really proud to be a part of it.”

Councillor Steve Swenson said Logan Women’s was an essential service for the city.

“The team don’t only help improve the lifestyles of those women they see

Membership to the Logan Women’s Health and Wellbeing Centre includes access to members only morning teas, reduced rates for workshops and eligiblity for the ‘Women of Strength’ program.

The eight-week program, which starts this month, is designed to empower women by improving self-respect, recognising self-value and learning to encourage others.

Visit www.loganwomen.com.au or call 3808 9233.

Logan’s Shotgun Shannon takes on boxing queen Local boxing champ Shannon O’Connell took on world number one Diana Prazak in the World Boxing Council women’s superfeatherweight (59kg) title earlier this year; the most prestigious prize in professional boxing. The fight was called off after just five rounds – too early in O’Connell’s opinion – and Prazak kept the title.

“It was like she had bricks in her hands,” she said. “But I was fitter than her and the fight was getting closer.” WBC was impressed with O’Connell’s performance and promised her a shot in her own weight division, two divisions lighter than the Prazak fight.

Roadworks to improve the safety of Barbaralla Dr, Springwood, are now complete. Concerns were raised about large vehicles mounting the kerb, putting pedestrians and road users at risk, because of insufficient space to turn.

Traffic lights were relocated to align with new intersection markings and the road was resurfaced at the same time to reduce costs.

CR STEVE SWENSON p: 3412 3412 e: steveswenson@logan.qld.gov.au Division 3: Daisy Hill (part of), Kingston (part of), Slacks Creek, Springwood (part of) and Underwood (part of).

Refer to map on page two for divisional boundaries.

DIVISION 3 NEWS

DIVISION 3 UPDATE

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Fun times ahead for Mt Warren Park youngsters Exciting new play equipment has been installed at Mt Warren Park after a recent act of vandalism at Quinton Court Park.

Councillor Don Petersen said vandals had damaged a swing, slide and some climbing panels at Quinton Court Park that could not be replaced quickly or without high costs.

“We didn’t think it was fair that residents be without their park equipment for a long period of time, so we were able to track down new equipment that could be installed sooner,” he said.

“But, in a boost for our local youngsters, we’ve decided to add in some new equipment to make Quinton Court Park even better. This includes a merry-go-round, a digger in the sand, as well as concrete edging, signage and a new rubbish bin.”

A native tuckeroo tree will also replace the existing cadaghi tree that can harm native bees in the area.

Cr Don Petersen at Quinton Court Park.

“I’m really excited by these improvement works – the community will benefit greatly from what was a negative with this new equipment.”

Car park a bonus of nearby roadworks

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More than 700 tonnes of gravel have been transported to the park from Pioneer Dr, which has been rebuilt over the past six months by Council crews.

Councillor Don Petersen said the $800,000 Pioneer Dr road reconstruction project had created a stronger and smoother surface.

“Council has invested a significant amount of funds into Pioneer Dr to improve safety for the long term,” he said.

“It has also paid off for users of Big River Country Park as we have been able to recycle the excavated materials for a new gravel car park and access road. This is an innovative way of saving Council money while also providing an extra facility for the community.”

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Cr Petersen thanked residents and Pioneer Dr users for their patience while the reconstruction project was completed.

CR DON PETERSEN p: 3412 5504 e: donpetersen@logan.qld.gov.au Division 4: Bahrs Scrub, Bannockburn, Belivah, Bethania, Buccan, Cedar Creek, Holmview, Jimboomba, Logan Village, Mount Warren Park, Mundoolun, Tamborine, Waterford, Windaroo, Wolffdene and Yarrabilba.

Refer to map on page two for divisional boundaries.

DIVISION 4 NEWS

new car park is being built at Logan Village’s Big River Country Park thanks to materials recycled from a nearby road upgrade project.

Cr Able and Fr Sunil Paul welcome residents with open arms.

P

Celebrating community strength

roof that one person can make the world of difference, Logan resident Father Sunil Paul has brought the Marsden community closer together through his words of compassion.

Since moving to Logan City late last year, the modern-day priest has been a dynamic force in encouraging people from all walks of life to celebrate their diversity, strengths and community spirit.

“When I was first asked to come to Logan, I had this perception the city was a very violent and rough place, but I wanted to help the community,” he said.

“Now I know the reality; I think the view of Logan is exaggerated. There’s incidents which happen in every city – Logan is no different to other cities.

“Logan has a very vibrant and strong community and everyone’s really rallied around me in support of what we’re doing.”

Councillor Graham Able said he first heard about Father Paul by word of mouth and had since seen the popularity of his services skyrocket, growing from just 50 people to more than 400 people in six months.

“He’s had such a positive effect on the community; he fills the parish right to the rafters every weekend,” he said.

“I think it’s his attitude to life that’s important. It’s such a simple practice and a quality we should all strive to possess but he’s welcomed people from all sorts of backgrounds, cultures and religions with open arms.

“He’s setting a positive example for future generations and using the gifts, talents and strengths of our community to care for those in need.”

with Mayor Pam Parker and Cr Graham Able 10am to noon Wednesday 14 May 2014 Donut King, Marsden Shopping Centre, Marsden

In an exciting development for Division 5, Council has purchased a property on Demeio Rd and announced plans to develop a new multi-million dollar park for the city.

young people,” he said.

Councillor Graham Able said the additional recreation space would provide an area the whole family could enjoy, including a garden tower playground custom designed for the park.

Cr Able said stage one had started and would involve the construction of a shared pedestrian and cycle path from Berrinba Wetlands to the new park.

“It’s about providing challenging play experiences for a range of ages,” he said.

“The garden tower is made up of climbing nets over three levels and is designed to assist in developing mobility and coordination skills in

“The park will also have a flying fox, swing set, picnic shelters and seating; with 500 new trees to be planted as part of the project.”

“We’ve also allowed for a 20-vehicle car park so people from all over the city can visit,” he said.

CR GRAHAM ABLE p: 3412 3412 e: grahamable@logan.qld.gov.au

Construction of the playground is expected to start by mid-2014 with the park expected to be open early in the new year, weather permitting.

Division 5: Berrinba (part of), Browns Plains (part of), Crestmead (part of), Kingston (part of), Loganlea, Marsden and Waterford West (part of).

Refer to map on page two for divisional boundaries.

DIVISION 5 NEWS

Park plans blossom

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Creek connection helps build communities Sometimes, the ties that bind a community can be woven in the most unlikely circumstances.

Sweating it out in dense lantana thickets on the banks of Slacks Creek in the dying heat of summer, 10 workforce development participants have found that although they may seem different, they have more in common than they think.

Karen Caldwell sedated fish at a field clinic in Cedar Grove before surgery.

Secret life of fish to be revealed The habits of some of Logan’s best known but most reclusive residents are likely to be exposed.

Generations of anglers have prized Australian bass, native to the Logan and Albert rivers, but until recently not much has been known about the species’ movements up and down the river, of their spawning habits or migrations through other catchments.

Now a joint project between Council, the State Government, Seqwater and the CSIRO will attempt to find some answers through a dedicated tag-and-release project.

Using active acoustic tags, Australian bass, sea and fresh water mullet are being caught and surgically implanted with tracking devices that will monitor their movements through the rivers.

The tags will be tracked by one of the largest networks of monitoring devices on the eastern seaboard, providing the first detailed account of the life of freshwater and estuarine fish.

Participants hailed from many nations across the world, including Burmese migrants arriving in Australia via refugee camps in Thailand after nearly two decades in transit.

Others were long-term unemployed Australians looking for better job prospects.

They soon found that while they may come from vastly different backgrounds, they could both learn something about local creeks and make a difference to the community in the process.

Most importantly, they also learned about each other.

Now, graduating with recognised study towards a Certificate 3 in Horticulture and a range of new skills under their belts, the participants feel they are better equipped to find a job.

The project has been funded by the Australian Government and delivered in partnership between Council and ACCESS Community Services as part of the Slacks Creek Recovery Project.

More than a simple tracking program, the species are considered key environmental health indicators for the rivers, and will provide Council with new information on river health, preferred habitat and key locations along the rivers.

The process is remarkably simple: fish are caught from the wild using cast nets and taken to a dedicated field clinic for sedation.

Once anaesthetised, a small incision is made in their bellies, then the tag is implanted with surgical stitching used to seal the gap.

The fish are then given a dose of antibiotics to prevent infection.

The information will be used to guide the implementation of Council’s River Recovery Plan.

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The graduating class celebrate its success.

Photo Competition

#LOGANHIDDENGEMS

Thank you to everyone who participated in our Hidden Gems competition. More than 1000 entries were received. Here’s a sneak peak of some of them and watch out for the June edition where the winners will be revealed.

To view the entries go to www.visitlogan.com.au/hiddengems.

Photographed by K. Butt - Nature and Wildlife

Photographed by A. Munns in Daisy Hill Koala Sanctuary - People and Places

Water tower photographed by A. Cowley - People and Places

Water skiier photographed

by J. Cabe - Action and Adventure Art installation photographed

by R. Dyer - Arts and Culture

Photographed by S. Cameron Action and Adventure

More than 600 people turned out to see acclaimed jazz singer Grace Knight from the Eurogliders, David De Vito, Scat, Renae Suttie, Laura Mitchell and Mal Wood and Friends at March’s Jazz and Shiraz. Guests kicked up their heels at the LEC while enjoying the gourmet food and wine from local providers.

Congratulations to Dorothy Wellington from Bethania who won the mystery weekend away and Line Kime from Browns Plains who won the Robbie Williams tickets for submitting their feedback.

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Trevor

races towards record

Fighting the stereotype

Trevor Slaughter in South Australia.

W

hat if you could accomplish something rarer than man walking on the moon?

Many would think it impossible, but that’s exactly what Logan resident, Trevor Slaughter is vying to achieve.

Later this year, in an Australian record attempt that could win the 59-year-old his lifelong dream, Trevor will put his purpose built, 11.8 metre streamliner to the ultimate test at Australia’s Land of Speed, Lake Gairdner.

“The plan is to become the first Australian to break the world speed record for a wheel driven vehicle,” he said.

Trevor said the vehicle, with its 2,500 horsepower piston engine and money-can’t-buy custom tyres built to withstand speeds of 1,000km/h, came as a culmination of more than 30 years of research, design and manufacturing trials.

“We’re racing an incredibly unique vehicle at significantly high speeds, without taking in consideration the terrain and environmental aspects such as wind and surface temperature, which are outside of our control,” he said.

“To put the Australian and world record attempts into perspective, more men have been to the moon than driven faster than 643km/h on earth.

“At speed, the car will cover a kilometre in under six seconds.”

All things going to plan, New Beith’s adrenalin junkie will claim the Australian land speed title for a wheel driven vehicle exactly 50 years after his childhood idol Sir Donald Campbell sped into the record books at an astonishing 648km/h.

Following that, the team has its sights set on smashing the world record by reaching 800km/h on the famous Bonneville salt flats in Utah, USA.

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Alex Leapai recently visited his former school, Woodridge State High School, to talk to students.

Logan’s own lionheart, Alex Leapai, has been making an impact outside the ring; taking time out from his all-important world title preparations to provide local teens with a bout of reality.

The 111kg boxer became a household name last month when he earned the right to fight reigning champion, Wladimir Klitschko, for the undisputed world heavyweight title.

Leapai’s life has not been all smooth-sailing and celebrity status, with the gentle giant openly admitting to troubles with the law in his earlier days.

“I used to wag school because my ‘mates’ said it was the right thing to do; they got me onto drugs and drinking at a very young age,” he said.

“My actions lost me the respect of my family; I got banned from football and wound up in prison, missing the birth of my son.

“I made the wrong choices and I paid the consequences – that’s the message I’m trying to get across to these kids.

“Listen to your mum and dad and make the most of the opportunities you have at hand.”

Woodridge State High School Principal, Geoff Sippel, said he was thrilled to have the former student, Leapai, and his high school sweetheart, wife Theresa, return to their old stomping ground.

“Alex’s history is no secret but it’s great to see how he’s worked so hard to turn it into a positive,” Mr Sipple said.

“It’s often the real-life truths that hit hardest and I think our students really benefitted from hearing his story and witnessing the determination that got him to where he is today.”

With an undeniable passion to be the best man he can be, the everhumble Leapai hopes his story will serve as a lesson for teens of today.

“Hard work pays off and when you’ve got good people around you pushing you in the right direction, you can achieve anything you set your mind to.”

International Compost Awareness Week, 5-11 May 2014 Have you ever considered home composting? Now is the perfect time!

Home composting is a form of backyard recycling that turns your organic waste into a valuable, free, natural fertiliser all year round!

Items suitable for composting include:

Caring for your compost is as easy as remembering ADAM!

Ÿ Grass clippings Ÿ Dead leaves &

A for Aliveness - the bugs & critters in your compost

bin help to breakdown the materials D for Diversity - a mix of different organic materials = healthy compost!

A for Air - let the air in by regularly turning or mixing your compost pile M for Moisture - add water to your compost pile to keep it moist

Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ

flowers Fruit & veggie scraps Shredded paper Eggshells Tea & coffee grounds Hair/ fur Vacuum cleaner dust

Rethinking Waste in Logan Logan City Council is dedicated to promoting home composting and encourages residents to keep organic waste out of landfill.

More information about composting is available on the Council website: www.logan.qld.gov.au.

DISTRIBUTION WATER SUPPLY RESERVOIR

Your home

business

Logan City Council $0.96 WASTE WATER TREATMENT PLANT

*Figures based on 2013/2014 Logan City Council budget

$0.96 Logan City Council Services

WATER GRID

Water Consumption Pricing $3.59 per KL State Government bulk water $2.63

BULK WATER SUPPLY RESERVOIRS

TREATMENT PLANTS

$2.63

Logan City Council

State Gov.

Dams

and community

Roadside Weed Treatment Div Suburb 12 Beenleigh, Eagleby, Edens Landing, Holmview 4 Bethania, Waterford, Windaroo, Mt Warren Park, Yarrabilba 11 Jimboomba (Flagstone) 2 Kingston, Logan Central, Woodridge

Month Div Suburb April 5 Loganlea, Marsden, Waterford West, Berrinba April/May 8 Browns Plains, Crestmead, Heritage Park, Park Ridge, Regents Park May 10 Carbrook, Cornubia, Daisy Hill, Shailer Park May/June 6 Loganholme, Meadowbrook, Tanah Merah, Waterford 3 Slacks Creek, Underwood June/July 7 Boronia Heights, Forestdale, Greenbank, Hillcrest 1 Priestdale, Rochedale South, Springwood, Underwood Rural residental areas will be advised of roadside treatment prior to starting.

Month June/July July/August August August/Sept Sept/Oct Oct/Nov

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Sunday 4 May 2014 Mayes Cottage & the Kingston Butter Factory, Kingston

10am - 2pm

Enjoy free entertainment and family fun!

Market stall items, food and drinks available for purchase.

Step back in time and celebrate Logan’s heritage at The Time Before Festival (previously Mayes in May). This free event, held at Logan’s most historic addresses, Mayes Cottage and Kingston Butter Factory, makes for a great family fun day out.

The cottage will be open with museum displays and free guided tours. For kids there will be horse and carriage rides, animal farm, face painting, and tomato planting. There will also be pig racing, sheep shearing displays, vintage cars, whip cracking, craft and hobby demonstrations, country music and much more.

YOUR STATION

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tones

YOUR STATION The Time Before Festival is supported through funding from the Australian Government’s Your Community Heritage Program.

Getting There Catch public transport to Kingston Train Station or park at the Kingston Butter Factory (Milky Way, Kingston) and get the free shuttle bus to Mayes Cottage.

The bus will run regularly between 10am and 2pm and accommodates prams and wheelchairs.

For more information:

Phone: 3412 4819 Email: events@logan.qld.gov.au