Village News January Issue by Village News

NEW FARM - FORTITUDE VALLEY

JANUARY 2015

It’s time to vote PAGE 20

Village People: History boss exposed PAGE 18

Jodie Neilson has a candy-do attitude PAGE 27 We at the Village News wish you a

Happy New Year PHOTO BY ALISA CORK

KANGAROO POINT

NEWSTEAD

TENERIFFE

FORTITUDE VALLEY

BOWEN HILLS

NEW FARM

SPRING HILL

PETRIE BIGHT

WAKE UP ON THE RIGHT SIDE OF THE BED!

1699 1499

2199 3199

$$ Harbour Support Contempo Luxury

QUEEN MATTRESS QUEEN MATTRESS

• 3 zone dual micropocket pocketspring coil spring system system delivers total body support and minimal partner disturbance along with a pillow top for added comfort • Wool and cashmere comfort layer to keep you cool in summer $1799 NORMAL TICKET PRICE $2299

QUEEN MATTRESS QUEEN MATTRESS

Chiro Inspiration Contour

• 5 zone Sleepmaker Chriopractic spring system and the Graphene-infused memory foam helps confirm and support the body while you sleep • Tested and approved by the Chiropractors’ Association of Australia

NORMALTICKET TICKET PRICE PRICE $3199 $4199 NORMAL

FORTITUDE VALLEY Homemaker Centre South FORTITUDE VALLEY 1058 Ann St Homemaker Centre South 3252 9166 1058 Ann St 3252 9166

sleepys.com.au sleepys.com.au *Terms and conditions apply. Sale runs 1 July to 31 July 2014. Discount off regular ticket prices. Not to be used in conjunction with any other offer. No rainchecks. Not all products may be available in all stores. Finance not available on catalogue sale items. See staff for details. Accessories not included. *Terms and conditions apply. Sale runs 26 December to 31 January 2015. Discount off regular ticket prices. Not to be used in conjunction with any other offer. No rainchecks. Not all products may be available in all stores. Finance not available on catalogue sale items. See staff for details. Accessories not included.

Photo by ©Tuba Media Productions

Bus fight mum mystified, angry By Nick Moore

2.5km from its current starting point at the Teneriffe terminal, and to push on A MUM trying to fix a school bus about 2.3km from its current terminus run has been left baffled at Cr Vicki at RBWH to the Kelvin Grove college. Howard’s claim to be “working closely She said the trip could be cut to with the local community” on the issue, 30 minutes at most each way, giving and fuming that Cr Howard’s office students and families back precious has repeatedly and wrongly denied time, and cutting traffic congestion council’s power to alter bus routes. as more parents took up the public “She hasn’t contacted me or transport option. anybody I know,” said New Farm’s Ms Musgrave said that with high Tracy Musgrave, who approached Cr school starting from Year 7 this Howard’s Central Ward office last year year Kelvin Grove students could proposing improvements to the bus trip be aged just 11 and some parents to Kelvin Grove State College. felt uncomfortable sending an “I’m mystified as to who in the unsupervised child of that age into community the councillor thinks she’s the City or on a 2km trek along busy been working so closely Herston Rd. Plus, they’d be with.” carrying valuable and heavy Ms Musgrave’s initial laptop computers. approach to Cr Howard last Cr Howard has year proved fruitless so consistently declined to state she launched an e-petition, whether she supports the which council is now route change or whether she evaluating. would actively advocate for it Cr Howard’s office had within council. consistently claimed to Ms She did tell the Village Musgrave and the Village News that she was “working Tracy Musgrave. News that only the State hard to progress the petition Government’s TransLink to the appropriate level of could change bus routes, but Translink council” but prior advice from her and State MP Robert Cavallucci have office to Ms Musgrave on December 11 confirmed that routes and timetables revealed that the petition’s progress are solely the responsibility of council. was automatic. “As you have formally “I’m quite angry because they have petitioned council the process must been wasting our time,” Ms Musgrave continue and the petition will be going said. to the Public and Active Transport “We are on a deadline (the January Committee for consideration,” her 27 start of school). office wrote. “We’ve all been pushed to the Ms Musgrave is flummoxed as to sidelines and she’s had us going round why Cr Howard is withholding support, and round and round.” especially given the LNP councillor Ms Musgrave said local Kelvin Grove gave her full-throated endorsement last college students suffered two poor year to changes to CityGlider route 60, public transport options - either two which added a stop at the Gasworks. buses with a transfer and walk between “Is it because kids don’t vote?” Ms stops in the hectic CBD, or one bus but Musgrave said. a nearly 2km walk from Royal Brisbane “But guess what – parents vote.” and Women’s Hospital to the school. Ms Musgrave said she had kicked She said the trip could drag out to off an email campaign to Cr Howard’s about an hour each way. office, urging council to change the 393 Her plan calls for route 393 to start route before school starts on Tuesday, from New Farm ferry terminal, about January 27.

New Farm Hypnotherapy with over 25 years experience

STOP SMOKING PERMANENTLY ARE YOU DRINKING TOO MUCH? IfQuit you are concerned about how much or how often Smoking permanently and you drink, if things seem out of control, we can painlessly in just 7 days help. Using proven hypnotherapy techniques this • No drugs • will Nomake nicotine replacement unique program you feel healthier, fitter, better yourself you’ll be in control again • No about weight gainand • No undue cravings

CALL US TODAY Call 3254 1373 • No mood swings ON 3254 1373 www.brisbanehypnosisclinic.com.au/alcohol www.brisbanehypnosisclinic.com.au/smoking

Zahlia enjoys music time with brother Aeden before starting Year 7 at Kelvin Grove State College this month. Zahlia hopes the bus problems are fixed for her journey from New Farm.

What Cr Howard’s office claimed … “TransLink … are the correct authority who will make the decision in this instance.” - Cr Howard’s office to Tracy Musgrave on October 17. “Changes to bus routes are the responsibility of the State Government.” - Cr Howard’s office to the Village News on November 27. “Changes to bus routes are the responsibility of TransLink, as part of the State Government.” - Cr Howard’s office to Ms Musgrave on December 11.

What is actually the case … “The decision to instigate change or amend routes within the BCC area is not TransLink’s, it is a matter for the BCC ... (If) the BCC feel a change is warranted to any existing bus routes, they are in fact able to do so.” – Brisbane Central state MP Robert Cavallucci to the Village News on December 17. “Brisbane City Council (was) handed the responsibility for route and timetable changes to its network during their 2013 bus review.” – TransLink to Village News on January 6.

SUMMER CLEARANCE GENUINE REDUCTIONS SELECTED STOCK UP TO

75% OFF TRADING HOURS Monday 9:00am - 6:00pm, Tuesday 9:00am - 6:00pm Wednesday 9:00am - 6:00pm,Thursday 9:00am - 7:00pm Friday 9:00am - 6:00pm, Saturday 9:00am - 5:00pm Sunday 10:00am - 4:00pm

Ph: 3358 6466

| Shop 16, 85 Merthyr Road Merthyr Village Shopping Centre, New Farm January 2015 villagenews

Newstead Studio

85 Commercial Road, Newstead

New Farm Studio

2/15 Lamington Street, New Farm

P (07) 3358 3915 F (07) 3252 5035 E info@thebodyrefinery.com.au www.thebodyrefinery.com.au

Fees: $150 for the 10 weeks. Village News Readers will receive the course for $120*. This class will run on Thursday evening, at 6.30pm only and the classes are non-transferable. There is a maximum of eight people in this course.

Beginners Mat Program

*Not available with any other offer. Mention this ad to receive discount.

(10 weeks)

This is a 10-week-long program, running on Thursday evenings, at 6.30pm - commencing Thursday, 29th January, 2015. An introductory Pilates course for those who have had little or not Pilates experience. Starting with the basics and moving through the repertoire over a 10-week period, to give you the confidence to move into our other mat classes.

CALL 3358 3915

TO BOOK AN APPOINTMENT

Beginners Reformer Program

TODAY!

(10 weeks) Fees: $200 for the 10 weeks.

Village News Readers will receive the course for $170*. This class will run on Thursday evening, at 5.45pm only and the classes are non-transferable. There is a maximum of six people in this course. *Not available with any other offer. Mention this ad to receive discount.

This is a 10-week-long program, running on Thursday evenings, at 5.45pm - commencing Thursday 29th January 2015. An introductory Pilates course done entirely on the reformer. Starting with the basics and moving through the repertoire, to give you the confidence to move into our Sports Pilates classes.

WWW.THEBODYREFINERY.COM.AU

villagenews

Cinema enters new golden age

Even the local police are confused as they park the same way as a lot of residents and visitors. (Have your say at editor@newfarmvillagenews.com.au)

Back street tricks motorists

RESIDENTS and visitors to the Wool Stores at 24 and 50 Macquarie St, Teneriffe, must be confused about whether Hasting St (off Macquarie St) is a real street or a driveway to the apartments. A tradesman working on the building told the Village News the council parking inspector made daily trips to the area and get cars every day for parking on the wrong side of the road.

A spokesperson for the Brisbane City Council said: “Council signage clearly indicates that Hastings St is a street – not a driveway. BCC is unable to provide figures on infringements and compliance officers will continue to attend this, and other streets in Brisbane, when requested to do so by residents and businesses and apply the Queensland road rules.”

COLOUR movie lovers happy after New Farm Cinemas raised the curtain on four new screens. The Purple and Bronze rooms, opened in August, have been joined by the Red and Blue, and two premium Gold rooms. The new theatres have doubled capacity – the Red Room seats 100 cinema-goers, the Blue Room seats 88, and 30 each can luxuriate in the Gold rooms. That’s not counting the popular bean bags at the front of each auditorium for couples. But to really make it an occasion, the Gold rooms serve food and drinks at patrons’ seats in extra plush and comfortable surrounds. The menu offers a variety of in-cinema dining options including pizza, dips, cheese boards, desserts, plus beer and wine. For the holidays, blockbuster films such as The Hobbit: Battle of Five Armies, The Water Diviner, The Imitation Game, Taken 3 and Unbroken have been screening in the Gold rooms. All cinemas, however, feature the latest in projection technology, being fully digital and 3D capable. Ticket prices are $12.50 for 2D films in the standard cinemas and $21.50 for the Gold rooms. The cinema’s Purple Club, amongst other benefits, provides discounted tickets (for up to two) at $9.50 each for 2D films in the standard auditoriums, and

$19.50 for Gold Room admission. New Farm Cinemas has function packages and can cater for groups of up to 270. Featuring retro carpets, arcade games and vintage film memorabilia, this boutique-style theatre complex pays homage to the golden age of cinema. Originally built in 1921 as the open-air Merthyr Picture Palace, the cinema was remodelled in the 1930s to become the Astor, before transforming Into the Village Twin in 1970. Session times and tickets for the Gold Rooms are available at NewFarmCinemas.com.au.

February Advertising Deadlines Advertising: Thurs 22nd Jan Artwork: Tues 27th Jan Distributed: Mon 2nd Feb Distribution: 20,000

Published by Village News Publishing Pty Ltd ABN 90162090431

3254 4965

editor@newfarmvillagenews.com.au advertising@newfarmvillagenews.com.au PO Box 2551, New Farm Q 4005

www.newfarmvillagenews.com.au

HALF YEARLY CLEARANCE UP TO

30% OFF ORIGINAL PRICE MAISON SC OTCH

UP TO 50% OFF ORIGINAL PRICE CONTEMPORARY MENSWEAR

UP TO 50% OFF ORIGINAL PRICE WERE $289

Business Shirts

NOW $144.50 Selected Styles

BOSS SILK TIE NOW $89.95

WERE $149

50% OFF ORIGINAL PRICE BUSINESS SHIRTS SPORT SHIRTS

Selected Styles

UP TO 50% OFF ORIGINAL PRICE Selected Styles

Shop 11 Merthyr Village, 85 Merthyr Road NEWFARM RIGHT DOWN THE END next to Coles at Merthyr Village

January 2015 villagenews

By Alisa Cork SIX local artists have merged their talents to capture on canvas numerous historical homes featured in a soon-to-be-launched book commemorating the residential history of New Farm and district. The artists, each with a strong connection to New Farm, will paint a collection of local homes for the book entitled Homes with History on the New Farm Peninsula, which is about the history of original houses in the area. The book by local historian and author Gerard Benjamin is to be launched in New Farm on Saturday, February 28, by the New Farm and Districts Historical Society. The book follows the popular Reflections on New Farm that Benjamin coauthored in 2008. The new book conveys the stories behind some of New Farm’s many original houses. Twenty dwellings are covered throughout the book in detail, and another 20 are mentioned for their historical significance. “While there is architectural information, the book is really about people and offers a peek into the

social history of one of Brisbane’s oldest and most popular suburbs,” Benjamin said. An exhibition of the New Farm houses and streetscapes by the six well-known local artists will be held as part of the book launch celebrations. Renowned artist and New Farm’s own David Hinchliffe is one of the featured artists and his painting of Kingsholme House will feature on the book’s front cover. Though he exhibits internationally, Hinchliffe continues to call New Farm home. Jan Jorgensen’s colourful paintings of Brisbane’s historic nearcity suburbs continue to charm those who have grown up in Queensland’s yesteryear. Jorgensen has painted the former Riverhouse Gallery at 1 Oxlade Drive, and Fernside at 35 Villiers St. Another local peninsular artist, Stewart Free, won the Open Figurative Painting section at the 2014 Ekka. Free’s artworks for the exhibition include capturing the timelessness of Santa Barbara on Sydney St. For Trevor Downes, one of his painting has special meaning because it represents his search

Photo by Alisa Cork

New Farm artists help capture homes history

New Farm and Districts Historical Society artists Liesbeth Thie, David Hinchliffe, Trevor Downes, Jan Jorgensen, Philippa Webb, Stewart Free celebrate the upcoming book launch and art exhibition on the steps of 44 Moreton St. for the Downes’ family home. It was only through research for the book that the house owned and built by Downes’ forebears in the 1860s was identified. Philippa Webb’s naive paintings portray a world of colour and pattern in a decorative manner, often with a touch of humour. As well as other artwork, Webb is painting her home in Bowen Tce.

Liesbeth Thie has used her vibrant, colourful, graphic design digital illustrations to capture several homes in New Farm and Teneriffe. The artists each have a love for their work on the historical residences and will be present at the exhibition from 10am (book launch at 2pm) on February 28 at the Uniting Church Centre, 52 Merthyr Rd.

Three Point Classic®

European Auto Service Specialists ✓ The only Independent Service ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓

Centre in the area. New Car Service without voiding warranty at realistic prices. Experienced Technicians. FREE Pick Up and Delivery. Full range of Tyres Fitted and Balanced. Onsite detailing available. ALL WORK GUARANTEED.

MERCEDES-BENZ

Phone the team on 3216 1950

3-7 Maud Street Newstead | www.threepointclassic.com January 2015 villagenews

OUR BIGGEST 45% BEDROOM SEALY UP TO

SALE

OFF

ABSOLUTELY EVERYTHING ON SALE

SAVE

300^ Jasper

1299

QS Bed Frame

Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s amazing what a little snooze can do. snooze.com.au

Snooze Fortitude Valley. Homemaker The Valley, 650 Wickham Street, Fortitude Valley. Ph 3666 0455 ^Savings off normal ticketed prices. Valid 22nd December 2014 to Sunday 1st February 2015.

villagenews

Awe at masterly strokes on the river and canvas By Kerry Gillett It’s a great art, is rowing. It’s the finest art there is. It’s a symphony of motion. And when you’re rowing well, why it’s nearing perfection. And when you near perfection, you’re touching the Divine. It touches the you of yous. Which is your soul. - George Yeoman Pocock (18811976)

VillageArts

matches today. The first recorded rowing boat race in Australia was held in 1815, the first Oxford-Cambridge race took place in 1829, and the first YaleHarvard race was 23 years later, in1852. These races paved the way for the inclusion of rowing at the 1896 Olympics. Due to disastrous weather conditions at Athens, rowing debuted in 1900 at the Paris Olympics. The most prodigious painter of rowing scenes is Thomas Eakins (1844-1916), a famous American realist painter, who created more

by Kerry Gillett ROWING, like art, relies on “harmony, balance, and rhythm”. As an activity, rowing for transportation, war and leisure has been documented since ancient times in sculptural reliefs. The sporting aspects of rowing have been drawn, painted and printed since the 17th century when watermen on the Thames River, England, began to compete in rowing events for prize money derived from gambling. The inaugural Doggett’s Race commenced on the Thames in 1715. The watermen competed for Doggett’s red coat and an engraved dinner plate-sized silver badge that are still presented today. Formal competitions in the 1800s brought rowing for recreation and sport to all of society. Spectators would regularly number 50,000100,000 on the banks of rivers, which rivals many major football

than 84 works related to rowing. Eakins was the forerunner of 19th century painters who changed the focus of American art from landscapes to figurative realism. As a child he had been an ambitious athlete. As an emerging artist he was committed to portraying the world around him. He painted the activities that he enjoyed, which provided opportunities to demonstrate his interest in the relationship between art and science, particularly as it related to anatomy and geometry. In 1871, he painted The Champion Single Sculls (Max Schmitt in a Single Scull) to display his modern artistic progress acquired in Paris and Seville from 1866 to 1870. In the painting, Eakins paints himself in the background stroking the water on the Schuylkill River, Pennsylvania. He positions himself behind Max

Schmitt, champion rower, who was his close friend from high school. He skillfully depicts the trees on the shoreline that bookend the water’s reflections leading to the modern architecture of the bridge. This dynamic painting made an impact on the art world and the sporting world. Australia is not without its paintings, prints and memorabilia of the sport of rowing. The National Galleries of Australia and Victoria house trophies and medals dating back to the 1800s. In 1973, Lawrence Daws (1927-) created, using multiple stencils, the stunning image The Sculler. This image shows a lone sculler gliding across the Torrens River, South Australia. Daws, born in South Australia, has a soft spot for the state where, inspired by his mentor, Hans Heysen (1877-1968), he embraced watercolours and landscapes. Heysen encouraged him to study at the National Gallery Art School in Melbourne. During the 10-plus years he spent working, travelling, and studying overseas, Daws encountered the works of Thomas Eakins in Philadelphia for the first time. Daws noted that Eakins was a wonderful painter who produced beautiful rowing scullers.

Beauty in painting became very important to Daws. He found beauty in paintings, particularly the landscapes of Piero della Francesca (1415-1492). The cool, serene lights found in Piero can be seen in The Sculler. Like Eakins, Daws embraces the joy and tranquility of painting in the evening light. He also meticulously draws and crafts his compositions to embrace his environment and his time. As we live in a river city, where people paddle, it is interesting to think about the directness and simplicity between painting and rowing. Painting is built on dedication, practice, rigorous mental and physical discipline, which is the basis of rowing as a sport.

The Eyebrows Lounge Men and Women Walk in for -

• Threading • Facials • Hair cuts p 3195 3842

ThIS monTh’S SpecIal

Full set of eyelash extensions

ONLY $78 67 ASTOR TERRACE, SPRING HILL January 2015 villagenews

For the

best noticeboard in The

Maximum readership

Ads look great as The Village News is printed on high quality gloss coated newsprint stock.

Bowen Hills

get in front ofasour readers Village News it is engaged personally to all homes, businesses withdelivered 20,000 personally apartments and wool stores. hand delivered copies

Newstead

look great as The Village MaximumAds readership News is printed on high quality in The Village News as gloss coated newsprint stock. it is personally delivered

Local stories supporting all in our community.

to all homes, businesses apartments and wool stores. Fortitude Valley

Teneriffe

Spring Hill

New Farm Results driven advertising Results driven advertising as The Village News has many many as The Village News has long term term repeat repeat local local long businesses advertisers. advertisers. businesses Kangaroo Point Your Your potential potential customers customers receive receive The The Village Village News News which which is is delivered delivered in in suburbs that consist suburbs that consist of of educated, high educated, high net and networth worth and professional people. professional people.

3254 4965

e. advertising@newfarmvillagenews.com.au

With With strong stronglocal local advertising support The advertising support The Village Village News News is is now now in in its its 7th 7th year year of of publishing publishing locally. locally.

a. PO Box 2551 New Farm Qld 4005

www.newfarmvillagenews.com.au

villagenews By Alisa Cork TENERIFFE Chamber of Commerce business members are banding together to support one of their own by hosting an event supporting a locally established charity causing national impact, Walking Wounded, at the Triffid on February 5. Walking Wounded is a charity organisation established by New Farm resident Brian Freeman through his adventure company, Centori, raising in excess of $5 million to date for numerous charities. The Tribute to the ANZACs 2015 supports former Australian soldiers involved in recent conflicts and the families of those who lost their lives. Mr Freeman says the Walking Wounded fundraiser for The Tribute to the ANZACs will raise awareness of one of the hardest endurance events ever undertaken. “Walking Wounded is helping to rehabilitate and re-educate former Australian soldiers who have suffered either physically or mentally,” Mr Freeman said. “The Walking Wounded Tribute to the ANZACS event will bring people from across the country together to achieve something that has never been done before, in the centenary year of the ANZACs.” Previously a special forces soldier and officer in the Australian army, Mr Freeman has led many ordinary and

prominent Australians on adventures around the world. He is a twice published author and holds three personal world records in adventure endurance events. Mr Freeman’s knowledge and experience in adventure environments has led him to take on the biggest challenge yet in 2015. “Individuals and corporate teams from anywhere in Australia can participate in The Tribute to the ANZACs,” Mr Freeman said. “We need to make sure that we inspire these young men and women both in and out of the army and that support filters through to those who need it and help them to move on with their lives,” Mr Freeman said. Parents of fallen soldiers and returned young servicemen and women will travel with Mr Freeman on several parts of the journey, hoping to raise $2 million by the eve of Remembrance Day. Teneriffe chamber chairperson Anita Jakins, who is joining the Traverse of Australia walk with her staff, said the people of New Farm, Teneriffe and Newstead would be proud of the fact that one of their very own is undertaking such a massive cause to create positive change within the veteran community. “Bringing business and community closer together has always been a fundamental objective for the chambers in this area and to be able to showcase an event such as this locally is amazing,”

ARE YOU READY TO GET IN THE

BEST SHAPE OF YOUR LIFE?

Photo by ©Tuba Media Productions

Villagers lend a hand to Walking Wounded

Pictured at the Triffid is former soldier Dwayne Anderson, who served Afghanistan in 2010 and now works with Brian Freeman (right) as a Soldier Liaison Representative at Walking Wounded. Ms Jakins said. The chamber fundraiser will be held on Thursday February 5, commencing with the chamber gathering from 6pm-8 pm, after which the Triffid will open its doors to the public. The night will feature a concert with well-known Australian artists. The Tribute to the ANZACs begins on April 2 to Mount Everest and the Traverse of Australia commences from the tip of Cape York on June 1, running 65km every day for 84 days until Mr Freeman and his participating teams reach South East Cape Tasmania on August 23.

The Triffid venue at Newstead was established by one of the founding members of well-known Australian rock band Powderfinger, John Collins (also known as J.C.) and his partners, in March 2014 Show your support to the Tribute to the ANZACs by attending the event at the Triffid on February 5. Book now at admin@teneriffechamber.com.au. Follow the Walking Wounded on Facebook or visit www.walkingwounded.org.au. To register for the walk email brian@centori.com.au by 28 February.

ULTIMATE BODY

8 WEEK CHALLENGE Exciting new format!

STARTS FEBRUARY 7TH WITH WEEKEND HEALTH RETREAT

“In 8 weeks I dropped 18.5cm oﬀ my waist and 9.5% body fat. Take the challenge..It will change your life.” Kris

“I tried everything to drop fat from my stubborn areas and nothing seem to work. Doing the UB 8 Week Challenge, I lost 10kg of fat and 2 dress sizes in 8 weeks.” Sally

VISIT WEBSITE FOR FREE INFO KIT www.functionwell.com.au

January 2015 villagenews

villagenews January 2015

ROTARY Club of New Farm has a new president with former vice-president Denise Buckby stepping into the shoes of John O’Byrne who is spending more time overseas. Ms Buckby has been a Charter member since 2012. “Every member has something they can contribute to the local community,” she said. “We are a dynamic, passionate, fun but also serious group of people who want to give back in whatever way we can.” Ms Buckby, building manager of Freshwater Apartments, has lived in the area for many years and believes that Rotary is an excellent way of meeting likeminded people at the same time as being able to have an impact in the local area. “Rotary can have an even bigger impact with more members, meaning we can do more projects and take on bigger activities,” she said. Ms Buckby said the New Farm chapter was linked to Rotary groups around the world, each contributing to an international charity that supported the organisation’s biggest project, End Polio. Each Club also undertakes their own projects, including supporting the homeless, the education of young drivers and also young leadership programs. “We have had such great support from local government leaders and we hope that in the future, more people will join so

Photo by ©Tuba Media Productions

Ambitious Buckby takes Rotary reins

New Rotary Club of New Farm president Denise Buckby with rotarian Bruce Hunter. that they too can contribute their skills and passions to help the local community.” Other organisations the club links to include Footprints, the 139 Club, New Farm Neighbourhood Centre, and Yaleri, which educates future indigenous leaders. Recently, the group started a Probus Club for seniors, giving senior and retired people an avenue to meet. Rotary Club of New Farm is conducting a Citizenship Award Ceremony at the Riverside Centre with the Australia Day Awards on January 26. The club meets weekly at Access Arts Boardroom, 24 Macquarie St, at the base of the Australian Estates building. More information can be found at RotaryNewFarm.com or on the club’s Facebook page.

Flood-proofing upgrade shuts Sydney St ferry terminal BRISBANE City Council will close the Sydney St ferry terminal on January 5 2015 to begin major upgrade works to replace the temporary structure installed after the 2011 floods. Public and Active Transport chairman Cr Peter Matic said the new terminal would service CityCat and CityHopper services and would feature a flood-resilient pontoon and 9m-high pier, designed to deflect heavy objects from the terminal in flood waters. The gangway would remain accessible in most tidal conditions and would detach at the shore end in a flood, allowing it to rise with flood waters and swing behind the pontoon to avoid being struck by floating debris, Cr Matic said. “The upstream end of the pontoon will also act as a deflector in a flood event and its dual berth capacity will boost network efficiency.” Cr Matic said the upgrade to Sydney St terminal would also deliver accessibility improvements. “The new terminal will include features such as tactile signage, improved lighting, a

new accessible pathway from Sydney St to the terminal and an accessible gangway designed to maintain intermediate level landings even as the river rises and falls,” he said. “While this vital upgrade is underway, the Sydney Street terminal will be closed for a short period, however there are plenty of alternative transport options nearby, including bus services, CityCat services from nearby New Farm Park terminal. “Additionally there are some great active transport options available including CityCycle and Riverwalk.” The Sydney St terminal upgrade was expected to be complete by mid-2015 and is funded by the Australian and Queensland governments through the Natural Disaster Relief and Recovery Arrangements (NDRRA). The Sydney St Terminal Upgrade is one of 11 terminal projects under way this financial year, including the recently reopened Bulimba Terminal. For more information about bus and ferry services visit Translink. com.au or phone 13 12 30.

‘BRANDING’PACKAGE

NewYear

An eighth page gives you the opportunity to promote your business brand to our community.

EIGHTH PAGE

SPECIALS

30 Buy 12 ads ONLY $2520 + gst ($210 x 12 + gst) 50 Buy 6 ads ONLY $1470 + gst ($245 x 6 + gst)

over % off up to % off

‘LOUD & CLEAR’ PACKAGE The quarter page ad is the perfect size for your business to promote product and price with additional space to get your message out ‘loud and clear’.

QUARTER PAGE Buy 6 ads ONLY $2436 + gst ($406 x 6 + gst)

Buy 12 ads ONLY $4176 + gst ($348 x 12 + gst)

40%overoff

over % off

Phone or email to make a booking!

*Expires END OF JANUARY! *PACKAGES MUST BE PREPAID IN FULL. LIMITED PACKAGES AVAILABLE.

Mario p. 3254 4965 or m. 0409 892 146 e. advertising@newfarmvillagenews.com.au January 2015 villagenews

villagenews

COUNCIL CONNECTIONS Becoming an Australian Citizen is a big step; acknowledging the responsibilities of citizenship and accepting its privileges and responsibilities. It’s an important common bond for all Australians. Monday 26th January 2015 will be the 15th year there has been a community run Citizenship Ceremony in Hamilton and the second year in New Farm. Hamilton Rotary and New Farm Rotary always host a memorable day and everyone is welcome to join our newest Australians in celebrating at both these gatherings. •

Hamilton Town Hall (cnr Rossiter Parade and Racecourse Road), starting at 9am.

•

Riverside Receptions on Oxlade Drive New Farm starting at 1.30pm

We hope you will get time to celebrate our national day. For catering purposes just let us know if you want to come along.

393 Bus Petition Update Some readers will be aware that late last year a petition was lodged by Vicki in City Hall on behalf of residents regarding changes to the existing 393 bus route to benefit school children travelling to Kelvin Grove State College, so they do not have to change buses in the CBD. Vicki is fully supportive of providing a school bus service to Kelvin Grove State College for high school students and is continuing to advocate for this outcome on the petitioners behalf. Council must investigate robustly and thoroughly every petition received and consider the impacts on other passengers who use the Route 393 and the potential flow on impacts from any changes to the existing route to other bus passengers, many of whom connect to ferry services at Teneriffe. Council officers are working on various options to provide this new service as we speak. Unfortunately, this is not as simple as you may think and this modelling is a complex process involving timetabling and scheduling, bus turnaround opportunities, layover times and driver rostering. Any solution needs to ensure the impacts on other passengers using the service are considered. A decision on Council’s preferred option will be presented to Council’s Public and Active Transport Committee to consider in February. Council’s preferred option will then be recommended to Translink who are required to approve any changes proposed by Council. For further information or to be kept up to date on this issue please contact Central Ward Office.

Cr Vicki Howard – CENTRAL Ward P: 3403 0254 E: central.ward@ecn.net.au Cr David McLachlan – HAMILTON Ward P: 3403 1095 E: hamilton.ward@ecn.net.au 14

villagenews January 2015

Photo by Alisa Cork

Australia Day 2015

Instructors Greg Weber and Li Gao Nordic walking in New Farm Park.

Nordic walking Brisbane-style

IF Teneriffe physiotherapist Stephen Mahony had his way, everyone would be Nordic walking along the Brisbane River so that they could experience the benefits of using poles. Mahony’s interest in Nordic walking began after he tried the activity during a professional physiotherapy conference several years ago in Sydney. “I didn’t actually realise that I would also one day be training people in and advocating Nordic walking myself,” Mahony said. However, his interest in this specialised type of walking began to grow after he saw the benefits of the sport. “A lot of the benefits come from the fact that ‘four legs are better than two’, that we have the ability using poles to use our arms to support our body weight and assist us to move forwards,” Mahony said. Nordic walking is a form of fitness walking using specially designed poles and a specific technique that aims to maximise fitness benefits while reducing joint impacts. According to Mahony, Nordic walking is a common form of walking for fitness in northern Europe, particularly because it is used as a summer training activity for crosscountry skiers. “It is growing in popularity now in North America and also here in Australia because of the significant benefits it offers,” he said. The benefits Mahony espouses include activating 90 per cent of the body’s muscles, burning more calories and providing greater cardio fitness than regular walking. He says it can also reduce weight load and impact on joints, and strengthen and improve core stability, posture

and spinal mobility. “Nordic walking offers a greater workout with a perception of less exertion,” Mahony said. “Which is why it is great for anyone – from regular fitness enthusiasts through to people who have never exercised before.” According to Mahony, Nordic walkers usually fall into one of three categories - those with physical or mental health conditions; fitness walkers keen to use more muscles and develop core strength; and hikers or trekkers participating in trips such as the Oxfam Trailwalker, Kokoda Challenge, Tasmanian wilderness hikes, Everest base camp, Mt Kilimanjaro and Machu Picchu. Mahony’s business, Nordic Walking Brisbane based in Teneriffe, has three instructors each with Nordic Academy Australia certification. Lessons and exercise classes are available on the peninsula and Mahony and his instructors will soon run excursions around southeast Queensland. They aim to train about 30 teams participating in the Oxfam Trailwalker event this year. “We hope to build on that next year if we can demonstrate lower injury rates and higher finishing percentages than average,” Mahony said. “All things being equal we should achieve that - however our group is likely to be biased towards those who already have significant chronic injuries, are older, and know they’ll struggle to finish. We’re looking forward to the challenge!” Free “come and try sessions” are held regularly for those interested. For more information, visit NordicWalkingBrisbane.com.au

By Alisa Cork

HELPING people in need is not something too unusual for Teneriffe couple Alex and Lauren Chaudhuri. Both medical professionals, Alex an infectious diseases specialist and Lauren a clinical nurse in emergency, together they share a passion for supporting the people of their community. The Chaudhuris made a decision to join the Patrons of New Farm late last year, linking together with members of the local community that have the means to collectively support the disadvantaged who come to the New Farm Neighbourhood Centre. Alex and Lauren were impressed with the patrons and their ability to look after the homeless in the community. “While we are both privileged to be in careers that give us the opportunity to care for people on an individual basis, we have often also wanted to contribute at a community level,” Alex said. “As a physician, I come across people from all walks of life and am often grateful to find myself in a position to help them.” “We did not need to look much

R FLOO

FF O % 0

PT E-U

KS STOC

further than our doorstep to find New Farm Neighbourhood Centre and witness the commendable work they do in promoting social justice and inclusivity.” Similarly to her husband, Lauren finds fulfilment in her ability to provide care and comfort to people who present to the hospital she works in. “I think that many people may not see the homeless side of the suburb and that these people need our help too,” Lauren said. “They need to know that we are here and so it’s important that all different types of professional people join and help out in the way that they can - everyone’s contributions are important.” Even the Chaudhuri’s three-monthold puppy, Floyd, has a contribution to make to the community. Soon he will begin his training to become a visitor to ill and injured people in hospital. “We like to give back and do what we can to help,” Alex said. “The Patrons of New Farm gives us the opportunity to engage with other people in the community, and meet people from other walks of life.” As more and more young professionals join the Patrons of

Photo by Alisa Cork

Community minded patrons assist the disadvantaged

Community minded couple Lauren and Alex Chaudhuri with their puppy Floyd. New Farm, the opportunities for immensely satisfying decision and it collaborating and working in codid not take us much time to know operation to help the homeless that it was going to be worthwhile.” and people in need becomes more Alex believes an even greater achievable, according to Patrons of sacrifice would be to eventually be in New Farm co-convener Dr Jennifer a position to give their time to NFNC Egan. which they hope to be able to do As one of several driving forces someday soon. behind the organisation, Dr Egan In the meantime, Alex and Lauren says she is proud of the fact the are proud to be patrons of an Patrons are on their way to almost 50 organisation which they say has left members. an indelible mark on the close-knit The Patrons of New Farm was set social fabric of this suburb that they up by the board of the New Farm adore. Neighbourhood Centre and it has its own committee. If you would like to become a The Chaudhuris found the most Patron of New Farm, see who is a logical step was to become Patrons current Patron or know of New Farm so that they could make more about their work, go to a contribution to a greater cause. NewFarmNeighbourhood.org/ “For us it was an easy and an become-a-patron/

EMS

SEL

D IT ECTE

Custom handcrafted timber furniture

made in FFREE PPAARRKING

Brisbane

Showroom hours: hours: TuesdayMonday to Fridayto9am to 5pm • Saturday to 4pm • Mondays appointment Showroom Friday 9am to 5pm10am • Saturday 10am toby 4pm 3/1045 Fortitude Valley| Ph: | Ph: 3852 3989| |www.buywoodfurniture.com.au www.buywoodfurniture.com.au 3/1045 AnnAnn St, St, Fortitude Valley 3852 3989 January 2015 villagenews

villagenews O

20 ENI 15 NG

PRESENTLY TAKING ENROLMENTS The primary goal of a Montessori program is to help each child reach the fullest potential in all areas of life and to create a secure, loving and joyful environment in which the child can learn, grow, and become independent. We strive to educate each child to acquire self-esteem and a positive attitude towards learning. • Newly created Montessori Children’s House due to open early 2015 in Bowen Hills. • Custom made facilities that draw upon the natural concepts of beauty, harmony, simplicity and order. • Tailored Montessori classrooms geared to the child, creating a child-sized world that is safe for our children to proceed at his/ her own pace in which to explore, experiment, and to develop their love of learning. • We provide supportive educational care, within long day care hours, for 80 children aged 12 months to 6 years of age 52 weeks of the year. As an Eco-friendly and sustainable Community we incorporate the following products: • Cloth Hand Towels

The restored roof 214 Moray Street, New Farm.

Hail uncovers another clue

By local historian Gerard Benjamin.

NOVEMBER’S hail storm offered a silver lining to owners of the Queensland bungalow-style house at 214 Moray St who have always been keen to know more about their home’s history. “The hail marks penetrated our roof’s dirt and soot, and when we had it cleaned, we discovered Marseillespatterned tiles,” said owner Marcus Schmidt. “Tiles in pattern formation – supplied by Wunderlich – were apparently a first for Brisbane, a rarity and only popular in Brisbane between 1927 and the mid-1930s.” This correlates with when Marcus and Zulfi estimate that their house was built by Miss Emma McKenzie. She and her sister, Louisa, ran a school for primary children next door on the corner of Moray and Sydney streets,

which many long-time locals attended. Wilma Law, for instance, has a clear memory of her early years there: “The two Misses McKenzie were genteel ladies in long black dresses. Classes were upstairs on the veranda, and exercises took place downstairs under the house.” If only it were still standing, Marcus and Zulfi’s other next-door neighbour would have been Hinemoa, one of New Farm’s grand houses, home to solicitor and politician Sir Horace Tozer (1844-1916). According to Charles Bernays’ parliamentary pen-portrait, this gentleman would have been quite a neighbour: “He had a fine physique, a ‘hail-fellow-well-met disposition’ and magnificent pomposity …” The owners would love to hear from anyone who could tell them more about their home’s history, or even supply a photograph.

• Cloth Nappies • Green Cleaning products • Sustainable practices All meals are provided from our 5* rated kitchen by our Professional Chef.

For further details please contact the Children’s House Director: E: bhmontessori@avchildcare.com.au

P: 0411540033

www.avenuesmontessori.com.au

‘Learning for Life’

villagenews January 2015

Asbestos risk from old Newstead fibro plant played down QUEENSLAND Health has hosted community forums to address health concerns around the former James Hardie fibrolite plant in Doggett St, Newstead, and the former Wunderlich asbestos factory in Bellevue Ave, Gaythorne. Executive director of the Health Protection Unit Sophie Dwyer advised residents that the risks of asbestos exposure were very low, given that the factories closed in the 1980s. “People should be aware that the sites have not been used as asbestos factories for over 20 years, so any general ambient contamination outside buildings is likely to have washed away with subsequent rain and flood events,” Ms Dwyer said. “The greatest risk would have occurred when the factories were in operation and during close-down and clean-up.

“Queensland Health is working with other agencies to determine whether there are any current health risks for residents living in close proximity to the former plants.” An investigation was under way on areas surrounding the sites at Gaythorne and Newstead. “An environmental sampling program of the surrounding areas will incorporate recognised testing standards and sampling methods,” Ms Dwyer said. “If significant, above-background levels of contamination are detected as part of this investigation, recommendations relating to health protection or mitigation measures to manage ongoing risks to the community will be provided to the appropriate agencies.” People who were unable to attend the forum, but have questions around asbestos, are encouraged to call 13 HEALTH for advice.

villagenews

Vegie haters given green light to fear killer kale AS A child I would avoid eating my green vegetables at all cost. My despairing mother, hoping to make the vegetables more palatable, would add butter, season them with pink Himalayan rock salt and organic pepper from Sarawak.

tonyjonesdiary by Tony Jones tonyjones@newfarmvillagenews.com.au

She concocted elaborate sauces, like bearnaise, hollandaise and piquant cheese sauces but nothing could entice me to eat the despised verdure verdi. Now that I’m an adult, my aversion to green vegetables, while not so extreme, is still acute. I only accept green beans and the most tender of spring grown asparagus on my plate. I have a particular fondness for carrots and sweet potato; in fact, I enjoy a partiality to almost all other vegetables, as long as they are not green. Bearing this in mind, you can understand my lack of concern when I recently read the sensational headline in a health magazine, “It’s Official; We’re running out of Kale!” A big deal? I think not. For me, Kale is symbolic for all that’s tragically trendy, insufferably healthy,

grassy, gaseous and tasteless about the menu at your local hipster cafe. I do concede, however, it is indeed very healthy: It’s chock-a-block with bioflavonoids and antioxidants and other good stuff and has -according to the patron saint of white-people problems, Gwyneth Paltrow - more protein than beef. But tragically, at least for the hipsters, because of its enormous groover appeal, Kale is now in very short supply. Such is the star power of this superfood (Kale was the most popular baby name in 2014) that the Netherlands, the world’s biggest exporter of Kale seeds, has run out of every type of Kale seed. Australian producers are finding it difficult to keep up with the overwhelming demand for this leafy green superfood. Bruynen Farms, southeast of Melbourne, have stopped producing all other types of crops, in favour of this prized Brassica oleracea. On researching for this article, I made a startling discovery: Did you know that kale, superfood of the gods and your juicer, can kill you? Quite literally, kill you! And not just in the “If I have to drink one more green juice, eat another kale chip, I will throw myself in the path of a city council bus” kind of way. Journalist Jennifer Berman wrote a piece for The New York Times about how her doctor diagnosed her suffering hypothyroidism and told her not to eat

2013/2014’s trendiest roughage. Berman’s passion for kale had landed her in some sort of vegetative-like reality, where she discovered everything that was good for her (green vegetables, soy milk, flax, quinoa) was actually bad and vice versa. Her doctor advised she would better off eating chocolate and drinking cola than juicing carrots and eating large quantities of kale! Admittedly, my anti-kaleisim could be dismissed as anti-trend proselytizing, which can be just as annoyingly homiletic as arguments made by fad food devotees. But consider this excerpt from Shape Magazine, which admittedly had a pretty sceptical take on the whole “killer kale”phenomenon: “Very high intakes of cruciferous vegetables … have been found to cause hypothyroidism (insufficient thyroid hormone) in animals. There has been one case reported of an 88-year-old woman developing severe hypothyroidism and coma, never to recover following consumption of an

estimated 1.0 to 1.5 kg/day of raw kale for several months.” I hear the hipster gourmets crying scornfully, “That amount is equal to eating 15+ cups a day of the cruciferous greens! No one in their right mind does that!” And I do admit, most things consumed in excessively large enough quantities will probably cause you to stop breathing or some other equally traumatic interruption to your otherwise pleasant life. And yes, this kale thing seems only to be a problem for people with hypothyroidism. Nevertheless, at least one person has died from eating these superfoods, so feel free to drop that into the discussion the next time you find yourself losing the argument with an evangelistic hipster lecturing you on the health benefits of super green foods. It may, at the very least, give you a momentary breather, and time to find an alternative or fresh argument. After all, a herring, red or otherwise, will be always be far tastier than the ignominy of eating humble pie or in this case, dreaded vegetable greens.

WEEKLY MEAL DEALS

Brunswick Hotel Bar & Grill thebrunswickhotel.com.au | 3850 0000 569 Brunswick Street, New Farm

We promote the responsible service of gaming & alcohol. alhgroup.com.au January 2015 villagenews

villagepeople

History boss big part of peninsula past

villagepeople by Gary Balkin

handle procrastination,” he confessed. “I get frustrated by inaction.” To many people who know him, Ross is a wealth of knowledge about New Farm and the suburbs around us. To some, he is a pillar of the Uniting Church. To others, he is or has been a voice and doer of Brisbane Lifeline, Blue Care, Merthyr Family Day Care, Teneriffe Festival, and the most interesting New Farm and Districts Historical Society. Ross has been awarded the Advance Australia Award (1982) for service to the community and in 1979 the BEM for service to the unemployed and the disabled. Ross has done so much more in the 30 or so years since. His occupations have included branch manager of Tasman Building Society, state manager of Voca Communications, director of Reverse Garbage, project officer with Work for the Dole, a manager with DrugARM Recycling Warehouse, and several other important consultancy and management jobs with the unemployed, including manager of Mt Gravatt Training Centre for 18 years. Whew! Ross Garnett picked up his work ethic and people skills in the humble family store, a grocery and produce shop, Garnett’s Shop in James St. I followed Ross’s story of life growing up in the shop … … “1972 was the end of an era when the Garnett’s shop in James St, New Farm, was sold out of the family after about 84 years of service to the community. The photo on this page is of my parents, May and Bert, with me as an 18-year-old, and was taken in about 1962/1963 when we celebrated 75 years of service. “In 2007, the shop which had been operating as a glazier’s shop was sold again and then demolished. “Growing up in a shop was not an easy life for a family. It was unusual in those days for both parents to work. 18

villagenews January 2015

My mother had to be super organised as a working mother. However, we learnt many life skills there. From a young age my brother Jeffrie and I discovered the value of hard work and of ‘doing our bit’ in the family.” Ross tells of the origin of his family in Australia: “My great-grandfather, Daniel Garnett, migrated to Brisbane from UK in 1884 with his wife and six children between the ages of 8 and 24. I do not know his exact occupation at the time of migration – there is some talk of him being a stonemason, but the postal records of 1888 have him living in James St., New Farm, and listed as a grocer. The Kingsholme Estate where the shop was located was opened up for sale in 1886, so the family must have been one of the earliest settlers in this part of New Farm. “It seems Daniel Garnett was also a Primitive Methodist minister and served in several different places, so we suspect that the shop was actually run by members of the family, including my grandfather Ernest and his wife Emma. In the early days, it appears the Garnett family may have owned all the properties between Browne St and Annie St and it was commonly called ‘Garnett’s Hill’, though most properties were lost when the family fell on hard times during the Depression. “Various members of the family are listed in postal records as having lived in this section of James St, and my grandparents Ernest and Emma lived next door to the shop. This was the home where Ernest and Emma brought up their family, and where my parents Bert and May lived with them and other members of the family when they were married and up until after I was born. “My parents re-modelled it in the late 60s ready for retirement, but sadly my Dad died before he was able to move there. This house still stands today. “Dad was from a big family and my grandfather was on the committee that raised funds to build a local school. The New Farm State School was opened in 1901. They expected about 300 pupils and 580 turned up. “After Ernest died, my Grandmother Emma and my Dad’s older siblings ran the shop but they did not really know how to do it well and the business gradually ran down, not helped at all by the Depression and the Rat Plague which ruined all the stores of grain and flour. The bubonic plague was caused by rats from the ships visiting Australian ports in the 1920s. The Teneriffe wharves were not far from our shop. “Probably there were more people working in the shop than it could

Ross Garnett (left) with Cr Howard and Gerard Benjamin.

Photo by Rachel Sherman

ROSS Garnett is a doer, not a ‘gonna’ doer. Ross has lived in New Farm all of his 70 years, and his contribution to the community has been consistent and greatly valued. You name it – Ross has put his hand up to volunteer for most things whenever a group needed a president or just help and guidance … … “I have always been unable to

Ross with his parents at the James Street family store. sustain because jobs were scarce and my cousin who was more my father’s age than mine said some of them ‘had their hands in the till’. “In the early days, orders were taken by going to people’s homes then when the order was made up it would be delivered on the bicycle with a basket on the front. Bert and May had a phone from the very beginning and those people who had a phone would phone their order through. The shop phone was also a community phone – they would take messages for local people and I remember going to get neighbours to come to the phone for calls. “Dad or someone else would also go to people’s homes with a notebook to take down grocery orders then Mum and Dad would make them up in boxes and Dad would deliver them in his latter day Chevy. “Originally there had been a big storage shed at the back where a six-horse dray could be backed into to unload the groceries and produce.” “The family turned the shop more into self-service by 1960, but we still did deliveries. I started working full time in the shop when I was 15 and as soon as I had my driver’s licence. It was my job to deliver the groceries. No one locked the doors of the houses in those days and I would go up the back steps (tradesman’s entrance) and call out “grocer” and put the box of groceries on the kitchen table. Then I would unpack the box so that I could take it back to the shop with me. “Today, all traces of the Garnett shop have gone, as have many of the people who valued the service they received. I still live in New Farm, not more than 200 yards from the site of the shop. The site now has two shop fronts not dissimilar in structure from the original shop with four units

behind where our original house attached to the shop had been built.” Ross and his wife Desley have three adult daughters who have all achieved in their own ways and of whom Ross is very proud. They have all caught the characteristics of reliability and commitment from their father. There are also three grandchildren who bring much delight. The three girls all showed a great interest in music. Kelvin Grove High had a great instrumental music program, and when Ross attended his first meeting, an AGM, of the instrumental music parent support group, Ross of course volunteered to be president. Today he claims they were the the most rewarding few years he may have experienced – and oh boy, that’s saying something! Ross often comes up with creative ideas to celebrate history. One of his favourite projects was organising “Astor Picture Show Revisited” in 1989 and again in 2009. He recalled: “ We showed ‘Movietone News’ launched by God Saves the Queen, and the main feature was Dad and Dave Comes to Town – a silent film accompanied by the old style Wurlitzer Organ.” The current project of New Farm and Districts Historical Society is a book about historic homes in New Farm and nearby which will be launched in February, supported by an art show of historic homes by artists with a connection to New Farm. Ross reminisced with the writer, a teacher in 1958-59 at NFSS, of the train line from Teneriffe to Shorncliffe for the annual school break-up picnics of the 1950s. The community is very fortunate to have its 70-years-a-citizen Ross Garnett at the helm of its historical society. Oops, and of so many other comminity projects.

Awash with the frock of the new TRACING the Brisbane River on a map is like playing with a curl. It wraps around your fingertip and forces momentum. Never still, the tide kisses the banks with the new water it gives then takes the old and changes it forever.

villageview by Beth J Leach It’s one of my favourite times of year in the river city. Hundreds of thousands head to the coast for summer holidays and the busy streets that usually have a great deal to do become eerily calm, deserted playgrounds ripe for cricket, ball games and remote-control speedways. But my spin bowling technique will have to wait. About a year ago I decided to create a wholesale fashion label to complement my retail business and the first collection of dresses just arrived. Betty Peach, the label, I am thrilled to say, was picked up by a big Brisbane fashion agency and I’m preparing their first delivery.

Every step’s been a steep learning curve. From visiting China and reaching the negotiating table, to creating the branding, designing my own textile prints, patterns, going through the sample process and freight arrangements. More than ever I appreciate the amount of work and intellectual property of each garment. We’ve decided the dresses should be hand-washed to further soften the beautiful cotton before sale so I’m in the process of doing this. Up to my elbows in the most velvety of waters, my arms push and pull the garments in a slow motion, imparting love into each one and connecting with them individually before they leave again. It’s been a long-distance relationship. Stepping from the side of fashion “buyer” to “designer” in the age-old merchant system has made me ever more conscious of the cognition of acquiring knowledge. It’s a bit like the river. It merges the new with the old knowledge and changes it forever. The surge of the idea, the sediment of experience, the excitement or terror in the deep darkness of the unknown all dissolve into one. Meanwhile, throughout this very special summer, the city keeps its hush as the ringlet river goes about what it always does; giving, taking, never to be the same again.

Prominent Australians who attended include(left to right) Psychologist Paul Martin, Christine Forster (Tony Abbott’s sister and Sydney City Councillor), Shelley Argent OAM national spokesperson PFLAG, Dr Sharon Dane UQ researcher, Australian Human Rights Commissioner Tim Wilson, Brisbane grandmother Kath Trotter, National director Australian Marriage Equality Rodney Croome and Reverend Dr Peter Catt Anglican Dean of Brisbane.

Videos urge marriage equality PARENTS and Friends of Lesbians and Gays (PFLAG) have publicly released a series of videos of prominent Australians calling for marriage equality. The videos were recorded at a public forum in August 2014 inside the Uniting Church, New Farm. The church's Reverend Chris Holden and some parishioners were in the audience to show their support, as were ordained clergy from multiple denominations. The Anglican Dean of Brisbane, Reverend Dr Peter Catt, was one of the guest speakers.Politicians from across the political spectrum were represented, with speeches by MPs Graham Perrett and Teresa Gambaro (in the audience), and a letter of support from Senator Larissa Waters read out. Others speakers featuring in the videos included Prime Minister Tony Abbott's sister Christine Forster, Human Rights Commissioner Tim Wilson, a Brisbane grandmother, Graham Perrett (MP), psychologist Paul Martin, a Christian mother and others.All of the videos can be viewed here http:// www.pflagbrisbane.org.au/resources-multimedia/video

Are you trying to get pregnant? As a nurse, midwife and acupuncturist, I’m well qualified to help with all stages of your fertility & pregnancy journey.

BOOK NOW 3172 0638

• Suite 354, Level 8, 225 Wickham Tce, Spring Hill

www.fertilitypregnancyacupunctureclinic.com.au January 2015 villagenews

ELECTION 2015 KIRSTEN LOVEJOY: THE GREENS

GRACE GRACE: ALP

Time to fix our crowded schools, clogged roads

Committed to fighting for more jobs

BORN a Brisbane girl but growing up in the outback New South Wales’ town of Broken Hill, I understand the issues facing cities and regional areas. I love my inner-city community and I love Queensland. My family heritage spans multiple countries and continents from many generations back and I have a strong appreciation for family, community and a sense of belonging. I know that diversity is what makes our communities rich and vibrant and our environment is what keeps us healthy and prosperous. People, the economy and environment are inextricably linked and I deeply value the knowledge I Greens candidate Kirsten Lovejoy. gained in this through my science sustainable design that reflects the degree and post-graduate studies at values of this community and which Griffith University. protects our green spaces. I will not I have lived in Spring Hill with my let this community’s needs be swept husband and two children for the aside. past 10 years. When I’m not being a • Our people are important and parent, I work full time and volunteer equality is vital. We must ensure in the community and I can often be equal treatment, rights and seen cycling from one activity to the responsibilities for next. all are embedded It is fortunate in policy and that I thrive practice to on being busy, I know that diversity is protect our most because as what makes our communities vulnerable. Health a volunteer and community community rich and vibrant and support services advocate I have need to be put our environment is been very busy back on track fighting for better what keeps us healthy because our inneroutcomes across city community and prosperous. the spectrum of actually cares issues. about others Key issues and recognises for Brisbane the value of Central include addressing statepreventative care and proactive school overcrowding and growth, investment in our people. better planning and development, • Ad-hoc public transport projects bolstering health and social support do not address overall needs services, and reducing congestion and have led to increasing traffic through improved public transport. congestion. In Parliament, I will push for smarter, more affordable public • Our state schools are overcrowded transport and bikeways. and land-locked but despite this the • It’s great that all the parties LNP closed Fortitude Valley State finally agree with the Greens that School and looked set to sell much protecting the Reef now is critical. It needed Brisbane Central State was the Greens first who raised the School land. This disregard for the alarm over the dumping of dredge huge growth in demand for all our on the Barrier Reef and we need inner-city schools needs to stop. a voice in Parliament to ensure A genuine and strategic planning this attack on our most important process should be undertaken to national treasure does not happen avoid pressure for space and costagain. blowouts down the track. • The planning and development This photo and candidate profile heel has come down hard and fast article on Kirsten Lovejoy was on our inner-city suburbs with little supplied to the Village News by respect shown for our people and Kirsten Lovejoy. businesses. We want and need

IT’S January and we’re in full election mode already! Like you, it feels like our family holiday is just a distant fond memory. Even though the election was called while many of you were still on holidays enjoying the sounds of the ocean and the sand beneath your feet, or you’ve returned from your annual camping trip, or you’re just simply kicking back at home, the reality is, it’s election time, and I have put my hand up to run for the state seat of Brisbane Central. This election is an opportunity to make sure our community will be represented by someone who will Grace Grace chatting with New Farm stand up for us. I believe I am that local Linda Whatman. person. Just like my parents, I have the position of General Secretary lived in our electorate of Brisbane in the Queensland Council of Central all my life and have seen Unions’ 115-year history. many changes. From there For instance, I became a our community member of is blessed parliament, Just like my parents, with some of serving the the best of electorate I have lived in our electorate of Brisbane’s of Brisbane Brisbane Central all my life cafes, Central from bakeries and 2007–2012. and have seen many changes. restaurants, I currently which makes For instance, our community is work for the it hard for Queensland blessed with some of the my husband, Nurses Union, Michael, and best of Brisbane’s cafes, where I have I to keep our seen first hand bakeries and restaurants, special treats the impact to special that job cuts which makes it hard for my occasions. had on nurses, husband, Michael, and I to Over the past midwives and three years, their families. keep our special treats to however, we I have special occasions. have seen chosen to nurses cut spend my from the Royal life fighting Brisbane and for others, Women’s and I can make a difference for Hospital; we have seen the closure Brisbane Central. I will fight for of the Fortitude Valley State more local jobs. School; and we have watched as I will always put the interests of the Newman Government pushed our local community first. That’s through changes to town planning my commitment to you. laws, paving the way for overThis election is a chance to development in our area. make a difference. I will stand up Let me tell you a little about for you, I will stand beside you, I myself. As a busy working mum, will listen to you, and I will fight I understand the importance for you. of having a job and the daily So on Saturday, January 31, I’m challenges we face, particularly asking for your vote, and together with health, education, the cost we will make a difference. of living and balancing work and family life. This photo and candidate profile I have worked in and around article on Grace Grace was government services all my adult supplied to the Village News life. I was the first woman to hold by Grace Grace.

villagenews January 2015

ELECTION 2015 ROBERT CAVALLUCCI: LNP

Stick with me and together we’ll stay on right track

Robert Cavallucci says he’s served up results in health, education and jobs. QUEENSLAND and Brisbane are great initiative, I’ve assembled many of places to live and work with bright the leaders of our Brisbane Central futures. But with more uncertainty community. From sporting club facing the rest of Australia and presidents, to the CEOs of many of the world, we need to make sure our service providers and community Queensland stays on track to secure groups as well as leaders from our that bright future. business community, together we And now that we’ve set the right seek to not only improve outcomes financial foundations, we’re able to for those who struggle the most in truly afford our community, better schools but develop real and hospitals plans to create a My 20-year plan includes with improved real community a state-wide first initiative roads and in the inner city more police. including a desire of master planning each of But we need to to grow a first keep a strong the state schools, meaning class community team with a hub through finally we have a real plan for strong plan in an expanded uncertain times. New Farm delivering the best education If we go off Neighbourhood outcomes. track now, the Centre. progress we are Dealing with starting to see alcohol-related will be at risk. harm in our community is imperative After six months of work, shortly I if we are to achieve lasting and will be delivering my 20-year plan for generational change towards anti-social education. My 20-year plan includes behaviour and the drinking culture in a state-wide first initiative of master Queensland. As the architect of the planning each of the state schools, ‘Safe Night Out Strategy’ I’ll continue meaning finally we have a real plan for implementing the most comprehensive delivering the best education outcomes plan in Australia to reduce alcohol and our kids deserve for the future. This drug-related harm in our community, plan will go out to the community for with improved policing, harsher electorate-wide consultation. penalties, education in our schools and An indoor multi-purpose sports hall safe and supportive environments. at Kelvin Grove State College, improved Through strong economic outdoor sports and play facilities for management we are seeing real New Farm State School and better progress in health and education, more ventilation and amenity for the hall at jobs in a stronger economy and less Windsor State School are some of the crime. The job is not done, but together kinds of educational infrastructure that we will get there – if we stay on track. have been identified. Now that the hard decisions have been made, if I’m reThis photo and candidate profile elected as part of an LNP government, article on Robert Cavalluci was these will be delivered. supplied to the Village News by Through my ‘Chamber of Community’ Robert Cavalluci.

2015 QUEENSLAND ELECTION TIMETABLE DATE

ACTIVITY

Close of Nominations

12 noon Tuesday - 13 January 2015

Pre-Poll Voting - Declaration (In Person)

Starts: 9:00 AM Monday - 19 January 2015 Ends: 6:00 PM Friday - 30 January 2015

Pre-Poll Voting - Declaration (Postal) Applications

Starts: Tuesday - 6 January 2015 Ends: 6:00 PM Wednesday - 28 January 2015

Pre-Poll Voting - Declaration (Postal) Voting

Starts: 9:00 AM Wednesday - 14 January 2015 Ends: 6:00 PM Saturday - 31 January 2015

Pre-Poll Voting - Electoral Visitor Applications

Starts: Tuesday - 6 January 2015 Ends: 6:00 PM Wednesday - 28 January 2015

Pre-Poll Voting - Electoral Visitor Voting

Starts: 9:00 AM Wednesday - 14 January 2015 Ends: 6:00 PM Saturday - 31 January 2015

Pre-Poll Voting - Declared Institution

Starts: 9:00 AM Tuesday - 20 January 2015 Ends: 6:00 PM Saturday - 31 January 2015

Polling Day

Starts: 8:00 AM Saturday - 31 January 2015 Ends: 6:00 PM Saturday - 31 January 2015

Cut-Off for Return of Postal Ballot Papers

6:00 PM Tuesday - 10 February 2015

Deadline Return Writ

Wednesday - 11 March 2015

Good luck but sorry THE Village News wishes all the candidates standing for the Brisbane Central seat at the January 31 state poll good luck. But, we are sorry, that due to the snap decision to call this election last week, we are not able to give the local campaign more coverage, as we had planned to do. As our next edition is out on February 2 we will also not be able to cover the results unless we delay our publishing date. With our deadline only a few days after the calling of the election we have not been able to give any coverage to candidates other than the three major parties as featured here. These are the frustrations of having a monthly newspaper so we might have to look at increasing our frequency sometime this year. We also invited the three major parties to place advertising and we only received one. As the Village News has a strong readership of our printed edition we might leave the ongoing debate about the election to the specialists in social media. When voting remember to visit a polling booth at your local school as they will be fundraising with food stalls. All the best, editor.

January 2015 villagenews

villagenews

SOME OF OUR COMMUNITY LEADERS GOALS FOR 2015

NEW Farm local Kristie Lahey can take her furniture and lighting studio business to the next level thanks to a $30,000 grant from AMP’s Tomorrow Fund. Ms Lahey and her partner, Rhys Thomas, have been building and selling furniture that uses only locally sourced materials through their online store Nooko & Co out of their tiny one-bedroom apartment for the past year. Despite demand booming, they have been unable to grow their business because of money and space constraints “The AMP grant will enable us to rent a studio or workshop on either a short-term lease or secure a shared studio space,” Ms Lahey said. “This funding will also allow us to purchase studio and software equipment, pay for certification and testing of our lighting products to ensure we meet Australian standards and expand our range. “Having a studio space to work from will enable us to promote Australian-designed and made products to a broader audience and grow community knowledge about the importance of supporting Australian manufacturing,” she said. AMP Director Media and Community Relations Julia Quinn said 64 per cent of Australians were held back from achieving their dream by money and AMP wanted to help those whose dream would also benefit the community. “Money shouldn’t always be the obstacle for talented people who have a commitment to something that will make a difference in Australia,” Ms Quinn said. Ms Lahey said competing with low-cost imports and replica furniture was the greatest challenge and would also use the grant to

Photos by ©TobyScott

AMP grant boosts furniture business

Nooko & Co’s Kristie Lahey assert Nooko & Co in the market. “Our goal is to develop Nooko & Co into a sustainable design practice, while promoting the longevity, quality, and craftsmanship of Australian design and manufacturing industries,” she said. The AMP Tomorrow Fund has given away $1 million to Australians who are working hard to chase a dream but need a little financial help to get across the line. Visit: ampstomorrowfund.com.au. Visit: nookoandco.com.au.

Domestic • Commercial • Industrial

Air-Conditioning 22

villagenews January 2015

IN the first quarter of 2015 my goal is similar to many others who want to start the year off focussed on their health, family and their careers. The interesting thing, however, is that if your health and fitness is the main focus and you achieve milestone goals of getting more fit, the mind becomes sharper and you gain more energy, which allows you to be more successful at work. This hopefully will lead to a more balanced life with your family and friends. Therefore, my goal starting day 1 (well, maybe day 2) of 2015 is a total focus on health and fitness first (that means no excuses as to why I can’t go to the gym … no excuses) and less time indulging at the local eatery or pub. Don’t worry local Valley Chamber of Commerce members, I promise to still contribute to the local economy, just maybe less frequently. When I achieve my first quarter goal, the rest of my personal and professional goals and desires will follow suit. Robin Maini, director Elite Point 3 and president of the Valley Chamber of Commerce

I’M looking forward to assisting the Lord Mayor implement the recommendations of the recent Parking Taskforce - not least of which is 2015’s free 15-minute parking at the 7715 metered parking spaces outside of the CBD and 1100 spaces in our CBD carparks. Increased parking turnover means it will be easier for you to pop into your favourite shop in James St, to stop and drop your scripts in to the pharmacy on Boundary St, Spring Hill, or to pick up your favourite takeaway at Gasworks – it’s a winwin for residents and local small businesses. Early in the year I’m going to be establishing the New Farm Park 100 Committee to continue the celebrations of New Farm Park’s Centenary. Following on from our Jacaranda plantings last November, this year will mark the centenary of our historical rotunda and I’ll be working with the group to deliver some fantastic local community events. My focus for our parks is to make sure they are ship-shape for the very special events planned around ANZAC day in April. Cr Vicki Howard, Central Ward

WE have a goal to keep crime trending down across Fortitude Valley and adjacent areas. The Valley area will continue to see significant changes to the landscape and demographics with the proliferation of major residential and commercial hubs. So, it is important the policing model is fluid to ensure calls for service are met in a timely and professional manner. Regarding property crime, the vast majority of offences are preventable, with inadequate security providing easy opportunities for thieves. This year will also see an increase in mobile police beats and pop-up police posts across the residential and business precincts of the Valley. This provides an opportunity for police to engage with our community as well as providing a high-visibility policing presence in locations not normally considered our policing hot spots. I am also pleased to see the expansion in size of the Fortitude Valley Police Bike Squad. This squad has been successful since it started in 2011, providing rapid response to incidents in the Valley and playing a pivotal role in community engagement and crime prevention. Inspector Ray Brownhill, Fortitude Valley police

“FOLLOWING up a great 2014 for the Patrons of New Farm, I would love to see us reach 50 Patrons in 2015 to enable us to do more for our community. I’m also very excited about pulling together another Handball Festival at the Powerhouse! On a personal level I plan to practise yoga regularly, foster my creativity and eat some really good cake.” Fiona Hunt, New Farm Neighbourhood Centre co-ordinator

villagevoice Wise up on Engine Room eatery, BCC urged IF only council would heed local businessman and experienced restaurateur Stephen ‘Chooky’ Holmes’ words of warning (“Evesdropping in Teneriffe”, December”), regarding their wasteful plan to establish a restaurant in the Historic Engine Room. He sees the council’s folly in attempting to establish a less than viable restaurant in the building. Ratepayers will recall the initial spin put on the project by councillors Howard and Schrinner that the Engine Room would be transformed much along the lines of the End of the Road cafe in Brunswick St.However, that was not to be and what Teneriffe residents have been handed is a 60-seat licensed restaurant. Despite hundreds of objections, council’s own appointed committee dismissed all community arguments against the restaurant and proposes to go ahead. Mr Holmes points out the “excessive cost to build it, and the legal fees to defend it”. Unfortunately for a few locals who are determined to fight council’s proposal, those people will be paying twice: directly from their own pockets for their legal costs, and also by funding the council’s lawyers through their own rate payments. In other words they are paying to fight themselves! Why has the council decided to become a developer in order to convert the Engine Room into a licensed restaurant at ratepayers’ expense; despite the objections of the community to a project that will result in the loss of amenity for residents together with those who use the park and involve significant modifications to a heritage building? Particularly when a viable community-use option that Mr Holmes refers to has been proposed. The community-oriented museum option would dovetail with the popular Submariners’ Walk and comply with the council’s original coffee shop/cafe spin. In doing so it would attract visitors to the area, surely something positive for the Teneriffe community and businesses? Rather than be dictated to by the greater Brisbane City Council, should not our local councillor consider the needs and wishes of local ratepayers by ensuring our Engine Room is employed for community use as was originally intended? Ken Hoy

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Character and moderation go out with a bang I HAVE just re-read Beth Leach’s Village View in the November issue. A heartwarming and sensitive article regarding the Queenslander worker’s cottage occupied by her husband’s business, New Farm Chiropractic. A four-storey, 40-apartment block within centimetres of the cottage has resulted in cutting back its awnings, like cutting off its ears. Fortunately it will now not have to listen to noise emitting from the construction or to the concerns of the locals as this development continues but it will also not be able to feel the warmth of the Queensland sun. The likelihood is that this house will probably not have to bear this for much longer as it will be demolished or taken elsewhere, hopefully to where its ears will be replaced and it can provide further happiness to others.

Fortunately it will now not have to listen to noise emitting from the construction. I live opposite this development in a 1920s Queenslander that I have tried to renovate and redevelop to encompass the feel of its heart. When I first walked into my home in Kent St, it had fantastic warmth, which I believe is due to wonderful family moments from the generations who have lived here. It was the family home of the Smiths since the early 1950s and had been a guest/boarding house prior. Whatever the other origins, it reflects happy vibes and in Beth’s words, “If only these walls could talk”. I operate a business from my home which is Cream Gables providing bed and breakfast accommodation and I know from all the wonderful reviews and comments that my guests also experience this wonderful feel. I have had major concerns trying to operate my business since this apartment development commenced and recently in a conversation with the project manager I made reference to the building’s closeness to the New Farm Chiropractic cottage. His reply was “we are allowed to” and that is exactly what this is all about - Brisbane City Council is allowing over-development of sites in Brisbane without regard to the local neighbourhood plan or local opinion and without

Have you say about your community to editor@newfarmvillagenews.com.au

concern as to what it is like to live whilst these developments are being constructed. When a new development is proposed, we are invited to have our say, but that is exactly all it is - “a say”. Council pays no attention nor makes a decision on what you put forth. You will be provided with a copy of the planning approval and advised that you can lodge an objection with the Planning and Environment Court (but it will cost you). You will then have a copy of what the development company is supposed to comply with. However, if you have an issue (I had many: sandstone dust engulfing the home becoming an abrasive agent, dust and dirt covering inside and out, but the main objection NOISE! Rock-breaking equipment drilling continually from 6.30am till 6.30pm for some 10 weeks … this is like torture and shakes the whole house.) Due to all this noise and night works happening without notice, my business suffered and I wrote to council and the developers to get some definition of construction times and notice regarding night works and road closures. This was at the end of July. No reply, so further emails were dispatched, Cr Vicki Howard contacted, but still no reply. Fed up with no response for some two and a half months and then massive construction noise emitting from the development site from 5.45am, l wrote directly to the Lord Mayor’s office on October 14. This resulted in a letter from council defining construction times and the MD of the building company arranging a meeting with me on October 16. Finally some action and then a letter from the Lord Mayor some weeks later, but to this day some of my questions remain unanswered by council. In fairness to the construction company, they have now been trying to put measures in place to ease the early commencement of noise but I am still having issues. They are in actual fact working mostly within what council and the EPA allows but I believe, as do most other people to whom I have spoken who are dealing with nearby construction sites, the time frames are unreasonable. With all the major construction happening in Brisbane and in particular our peninsular, government and council need to know that we do not accept these hours and as Beth states, council needs to moderate building heights and highdensity development, so we can retain some of our heritage and history. Sterile apartments will never

replace the feel of these old homes, so let’s keep some standing and with “dignity”. Anne Menken Cream Gables Bed and Breakfast 70 Kent St, New Farm

New river eatery plan flawed

I WRITE to agree with “Chooky” Holmes’s paragraph in his column, Evesdropping, in Village News, December 2014. How the council could even consider making the Engine Room in Macquarie St into yet another restaurant on the river is beyond comprehension - mine and close to four hundred other locals who signed petitions objecting to the plan. The cost of the fit-out alone would be prohibitive and good luck to the tenant trying to make a living. Others are struggling even with wellestablished restaurants. Barbara Graham, Teneriffe

Missing watch returned

WHEN Teneriffe local Christian Rochadames lost his watch after taking a sauna in his building, Saratoga, in mid-December, he was devastated. So much so, that he posted flyers across New Farm and Teneriffe asking the finder to please return the watch that held much sentimental value for him. The flyers read “LOST TAG HEUER Dear neighbour, although it may look good on your wrist, I would really appreciate if you would return it.” Christian had given up all hope until recently he opened his letterbox to find the missing article there. “It’s the first watch I ever bought with my first paycheck almost eight years ago,” Christian said. “It has lots of meaning to me and I am so grateful it has been returned.” Christian says his faith in human kindness has been restored and he would like to thank the person from the bottom of his heart for returning it. “If that person is reading the Village News, thank you for your kindness.” Alisa Cork

HAVE YOUR SAY: EMAIL US:

editor@newfarmvillagenews.com.au. January 2015 villagenews

villagenews

League legend Crocker was fit for greatness

HARRY (Mick) Crocker, the later representative Australian rugby league champion forward of the 1950s, was born of Isabel and Henry Crocker in riverside inner-suburban Brisbane in 1927, leading into the Depression years. He was a real outdoor Aussie kid of that era, running the streets and sailing the river looking for fun, and in older years he kept on running the streets, every morning, getting fit, fitter, fitter. Mick had severe injuries and/or illnesses at ages 6, 15 and 19, which laid him up in hospital for months at a time, but it all made him more determined to be the fittest he could. The last 12 months of 2014 (see September issue of VN) were difficult times for Mick as old injuries flared, and he twice spent time at St Vincent’s Hospital, Kangaroo Point. Each time he recovered from deep coma. Mick was a humourist and a homespun philosopher. His great mate Fred Harris had shared a premiership together with Mick for Brisbane Souths in the early 1950s. When Fred passed away a month ago, Glenn had to go to Mick’s bedside to tell him. Mick could not speak coherently at that stage. He simply saluted. That said it all. Like Mick, his mates were salt-

of-the-earth men, all humble and modest, hard-working, enjoyed a good laugh, all of the same temperament and character. At 18, Mick had joined Souths, but the following year he was in hospital again for months. Then at 20, he was in the first grade side. In Mick’s career, he played 17 Tests for Australia, 19 games for Queensland, and three for New South Wales. At his funeral, four blazers or jerseys were hanging on a wall, and the fourth one, the blue one, was the NSW one. There were bets that it had not seen the light of day from his wardrobe since he arrived back in Brisbane in 1956. In fact, the writer seems to recall Mick denying he ever donned the blue jersey. Mick also was very proud of a special match where he played against NSW – he was chosen by the US team to play for the American

All Stars on their tour here. It was 1955. In 1950, Mick’s maiden Test was against the UK in 1950 in the famous Second Test. He played wonderfully and the win paved the way for the series decider which led to Australia winning their first Ashes series in 30 years. Mick had kept running on the streets in the mornings, and he was named “the fittest footballer in Australia”. It was through the years of pain, determination, endurance, sore legs and feet, which led him to his on-field aggression, great cover defence, running incursions, but … off the field, Mick was just the good guy next door. In 1954, Mick was offered the then biggest recorded fee in Australian rugby league to play for Parramatta. He would have stayed with Souths here in Brisbane, but his parents’ house had been destroyed

by fire, and Mick wanted to replace it. So Sydney-bound went Harry Crocker. Mick played his last year of rugby league in Winton. He worked with the Main Roads Department for 32 years as a contracted truck driver. Sadly, his beloved wife June passed away in 2004. In 1966 Mick turned to golf for sport with the then popular Melbourne Hotel social golf club. In 1973 he joined Victoria Park Golf Club, and he enjoyed constant golf at Vic Park for many years. The writer often took Mick to the football, usually along with the great Duncan Hall, his old ‘roomie’, his room-mate on the Kangaroo and inter-state tours together. Mick’s ill-health continued to spoil his goforward attitude, but he suffered it all out to the end. He had dieldrin poisoning for years, and when he tried a mate’s cure-em it affected his bone strength. To top it all off, he fell out of a tree while pruning, breaking a shoulder and eight ribs. In the last weeks Mick was moved into a nursing home in Maleny, the town where daughter Michele now lives. His big heart gave out three days prior to his 87th birthday. Harry “Mick” Crocker, the muchadored grandfather of six leaves Michele and family, and son Glenn and family.

Activities, trips boost holiday fun

Enr o 201 l now for 5 – 2016

St Joseph’s Kangaroo Point offers families the latest in contemporary teaching and learning, technology, extracurricular activities and the benefits associated with a high quality, inclusive Catholic education. • Warm and welcoming environment amidst picturesque grounds • Nurturing faith-filled community • Balanced curriculum catering to individual needs • Dedicated professional staff • Academics, the Arts and Sports excellence • Air Conditioning & Interactive Whiteboards in every classroom • 1:1 Laptop Program for Years 5 & 6 • Technology rich learning for all year levels • Instrumental Strings Program • Choral Program • Private Music & Speech Lessons • Established cultural tradition

For further information please contact the school office on

3391 5397 or visit www.stjosephskpt.qld.edu.au 24

villagenews January 2015

Jake and Xavier put the finishing touches on their sauce recipe, part of the pasta challenge at Jabiru Kids in January. VACATION care activities at New Farm State School will give kids the chance to chill out over the Christmas holidays with cool activities. Jabiru Kids’ vacation care programs at New Farm will keep boredom at bay with activities ranging from recipe design to magic tricks. Jabiru Kids New Farm manager Chu Lee said kids could cool down with dry ice experiments, Australia Day slip and slide fun, water balloon relays and a trip to the movies to see Penguins of Madagascar. “The children are very excited about our excursion to Dreamworld and our visit from Pro-scooters to teach us radical scooter and skateboard moves,” Chu said. Children from all primary schools are welcome at Jabiru’s vacation care programs at New Farm State School until January 23, 2015. To see the full program, visit www.jabiru.org.au/kids or phone Jabiru on 3254 1210 or 3269 0044.

villagenews

Trouble landing a flat for fear of wingdings WHEN two very attractive young women enquire about the availability of a flat in New Farm, the landlord is only too happy to offer them an inspection. The girls love what they see, and all is agreed about when they’ll move in. The landlord happens to ask the girls’ occupations. “Air hostesses,” they reply. Suddenly the landlord remembers that the flat is mysteriously unavailable.

historicalsociety by Gerard Benjamin This was the era when ‘air hostess’ equated with partygoer par excellence, the bane of many landlords. The suburb was particularly popular with aircrew, being close to the city and on the way to the airport, and there was a TAA hostel in Bowen Tce (on the site of the current-day Bowen Place highrise, near the Barker St corner; only the hostel’s ornate brick fence remains). Patricia Merlehan, who graduated with her TAA “wings” in the ’50s, remembers the hostel as a large timber colonial with many bedrooms. “Being based in Brisbane in

my early years with TAA, I did not go there very often – but I do remember being rostered to attend in 1959 for a demonstration of the new traymobile service. I have a photograph showing who attended that day. I moved to fly out of Sydney in 1960, and on odd days spent some hours there between flights,” said Patricia. Both the original Australian National Airlines (ANA) hostel (corner of Bowen Tce and Langshaw St, now Alkira Court), and around 1955, the Ansett hostel (in Moray St, between Langshaw and Moreton) are gone. Of course, many New Farm flats were rented by flight crew who were based in Queensland. Living right in the centre of the suburb’s aircrew buzz was Donna Cameron (nee Neal) who, with her sister Allwyn, joined TAA in the early 1950s. The girls’ parents owned Khandallah, the striking green and white house on the corner of Bowen Tce and Moreton St. There must have been aviation vibes attached to the house. Donna’s parents had left the land near Charters Towers to come to the city. They bought the property in 1936-37 from a WWI pilot, Captain Charles C. Matheson of the Australian Flying Corps. Post-war, Capt Matheson was a flying instructor. One of his star

pupils was Mrs H.B. Bonney (1897-1994) who learnt to fly in secret for fear of her husband’s disapproval. She went on to become the Australian pioneer aviatrix who, in 1938, flew solo from Brisbane to London. Training for an air hostess in the early ’50s lasted six weeks. In Donna’s case, when she moved back home to Brisbane, she was scheduled for DC3 flights on routes to Birdsville, Townsville TAA air hostess Donna Cameron grew up at Khandallah and Charters Towers, in Bowen Tce, which was once owned by flying instructor along with many Capt Charles Matheson. cattle properties Ansett hostel in Moray St. “When around Queensland. we eventually married it meant my She’d be the only hostess aboard the leaving the airline because that was DC3, with its two pilots. the rule,” Donna said. “Most passengers were property Next year will be the 50th owners flying back to their stations, anniversary of Wings Away, the and sometimes a landing strip would organisation for former TAA air be located on a cattle property. It hostesses. was customary in those days for the property owner to call the entire To mark the milestone, a book crew for tea at the homestead,” said is being compiled by historian/ Donna. archivist Patricia Merlehan Donna’s future husband, Ian who may be contacted on: Cameron, was an Ansett pilot from patriciamerlehan@bigpond.com. Melbourne, who was staying at the

Join push to help bolster grandparents’ rights

BY the time you all read this, Christmas will be a happy memory, 2015 will be well under way and I hope you all have a prosperous, happy and healthy year.

seniorsvoice by Tony Townsend

In October 2014, the Australian Senate handed down its report into “Grandparents who take primary responsibility for raising their grandchildren”. For many years grandparents and their supporters, including National Seniors, have been making representations to politicians of all parties and at all levels. In 2006 these resulted in a change to federal family law to include grandparents specifically and have been the catalyst for many other important changes in laws in various states. The recent report from the Senate enquiry, though, is far more significant as it embraces all manner of support. The 18 recommendations address issues such as advice and assistance, financial support, legal support and enhanced mental support for the children - many of whom are severely

traumatised - as well as kinship care, informal care, and the role of child protection authorities. For this very reason, it is vital that everyone does their little bit to make sure these recommendations are

For many years grandparents and their supporters, including National Seniors, have been making representations to politicians of all parties and at all levels. expressed in law. The enquiry received 176 submissions which in relation to the numbers of grandparents needing assistance is quite a small number. Unless a great many more voices stand up and demand action, the impetus of this report could be lost. We do not know how many grandparents or relative carers there are in the New Farm region who take primary responsibility for their grandchildren but we would urge you, or indeed any one you know of in this situation, to make an appointment to see your federal and state members of parliament and explain to them why it is important to you that all recommendations in the report

are implemented in full. A copy of the report can be downloaded from http://www.aph. gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/ Committees/Senate/Community_ Affairs/Grandparent_Carers/~/media/ Committees/clac_ctte/Grandparent_ Carers/report/report.pdf The Queensland Council of Grandparents will address the issues faced by grandparents denied a relationship with their grandchildren at a forum planned in April focussing on the mental health of both grandparents and grandchildren in this situation.

New Farm branch is in recess over the festive season and our first function in January is an Australia Day sausage sizzle in New Farm Park on Tuesday the 20th. Our February general meeting will be on Wednesday the 4th at 9.30am at the Merthyr Uniting Church when we will be entertained by Claude Tranchant, author of Boots to Bliss. For further information on any of our activities or to learn more about National Seniors, please call Tony Townsend on 33152523 or go to our website NSANewFarmBranch.com.

LEICHHARDT STREET DENTAL A PERSONALIZED SERVICE TO HELP YOU ACHIEVE HEALTHY FABULOUS TEETH FOR LIFE Aesthetic dental solutions to restore and maintain your oral health. Anxious? Gentle Wand numbing and “Happy Gas” sedation. Convenient free parking and evening appointments.

Call Today to experience the benefits of Modern Dentistry

Phone: 3839 7279

Suite 8 Oxygen, 170 Leichhardt St Spring Hill

www.leichhardtstdental.com.au January 2015 villagenews

FOOD • WINE • DINING • FOOD • WINE • DINING • FOOD • WINE productions around Brisbane. Locals are loving this new addition to the neighbourhood.

PRESS’D

QA HOTEL

COLD-PRESSED juices are giving fruit juice the comeback it was looking for. Ensuring fruit juices are as raw and nutritious as possible, cold pressing is allowing the health conscious to indulge, knowing the goodness from select fruits and vegies is retained with no nasties added in. Press’d on Commercial Rd offers every combination possible and if you don’t see it on the massive menu, then create your own potion. I liked the Teneriffe Sunrise with watermelon, pineapple, orange and lime but you can get as complex as you like with organic and exotic produce.

IF you like pub grub then the QA Hotel is the place to grab a good feed and relax with a beverage. The QA is best known for its US pork ribs, slow cooked for several hours and smothered with house barbecue sauce and served with the quintessential beer battered chip. My choice, however, was the pumpkin and gorgonzola arancini with garlic aoli and a glass of Snake and Herring Tough Love from the Margaret River region. The sharp and tasty morsels from the QA’s fingers and forks menu contrasted nicely with the cool and crisp chardonnay.

BLUE SKY COFFEE

Villagefood by Alisa Cork

BLURRED

LAMINGTON St, New Farm, has a new arrival on the coffee lounge scene. Blurred is a concoction of cool contemporary and trendy food and beverages with a retro industrial feel. Breakfast and lunch is just their thing and the acai bowl with mixed berries, seeds, coconut and dried banana was delightful. The walls are adorned with graffiti art and posters of all the upcoming gigs and

THEIR mantra is ‘Life’s too short to drink bad coffee’ and I wholeheartedly agree. The hot summer weather lends itself perfectly to a cold drip coffee which Blue Sky serves up with a lemon wedge and their house specialty – a frozen sugar cane cube. A popular spot for cyclists on the weekends, the place is filled with cycling memorability and new models from the Chappelli Cycles showroom in the same building on Kyabra St.

SUGAR JAR

TUCKED away within the depths of retail heaven on James St is a little treat called the Sugar Jar. Really good coffee served in a cup just the right size for a big day ahead, plus several speedy choices for brekky. Sweet treats and healthy morsels for those on the go and watching the carb count. Behind the counter is a selection of spelt, gluten free and the old fashioned sweets - avec sugar of course!

MEDICAL BRISBANE

M JA

N AN

ST N FORTITUDE A HL VALLEY X AC L c M ST N O TS ER X B ST RO R IMA U TH AR

END OF THE ROAD CAFE

THE coffee is very, very good and the spot is picture perfect. The End of the Road Cafe prides itself on their coffee which is why it’s the go-to place for a cup whilst hanging out at New Farm Park. Perhaps it’s also why the bridge ladies at nearby New Farm Bowls Club look forward to their regular hand-delivered coffee each week. Make sure you venture right to the end of Brunswick St to try it out. 26

villagenews January 2015

villagefood

MAKING confectionery for a living in the suburb she calls home, and for the people she calls neighbours, is a dream job as far as confectioner Jodie Neilson is concerned. We all know New Farm Confectionery’s products, but most may not be aware of the face behind this growing local brand.

community cravings by Alisa Cork

Looking for just the right vocation in life, Jodie has had several career changes and several location changes before finding just the right ‘fit’ for her. And found it she has, loving every minute of it. “I was personal assistant for an executive in Sydney, and working too many hours and trying to keep up with massive social obligations was just way too much,” Jodie said. “At that time, if you had suggested I would be making and running a confectionery business when I turned 40, I would have said you were crazy.” But being the office assistant, the bookkeeper and the HR manager in her previous life has helped Jodie to prepare for the business that she would eventually have. A career change at 30 propelled her closer to a passion for good and authentic food. Jodie became an apprentice chef at Moray Cafe, believing cooking would be the thing that made her feel complete. But that too somehow fell short, even though it gave her even more insight into what she really loved doing. “Ever since I started working in

cafes, I’ve always focused on the sweet side of the menu,” Jodie said. “I would always find myself gravitating towards desserts and confectionery.” Soon after training as a chef, Jodie started a family, then worked for catering companies whilst enjoying regular overseas travel. This is where she obtained a real sense of what made her tick. “Europe has a confectionery range that just doesn’t exist in Australia,” Jodie said. “I continually came back home to crave the confectionery you can find walking down the streets of Paris.” What Jodie refers to does not include the ‘garish’ lolly snakes and chocolate bars that kids find on everyday Aussie supermarket shelves. “We don’t have the artisan and boutique-style confectionery in Australia that is available in Japan and Europe,” she said. It was when she observed workmen coming into a cafe in Paris on their break to buy confectionery that Jodie realised there was something missing from the Australian market. “People love their special treats and at the same time they are trying to be more health aware and eat better than before,” Jodie said. “If the confectionery is not full of artificial colours and flavours, then you know it’s OK for you to have occasionally.” From that point, the penny started to drop and New Farm Confectionery was born. Jodie began experimenting with different recipes and creations. She put her hand up for the New Farm State School fete, finding ways to sell lollies that would appeal to parents and children alike. Jodie started out very small at the Eagle Farm Markets last February before moving on to Eat Street

Photo by Alisa Cork

Sweet treats hit the spot as Jodie finds her bliss

Jodie Neilson has a candy-do attitude since unwrapping the joys of confectionery. around Easter, and is now planning to open a shopfront in Brunswick St next to New Farm Cinemas this month. It has been a fast ride since November 2013 when Jodie first found her place in the world with New Farm Confectionery and she is so happy with the way her journey has unfolded. “To have my very own kitchen, packaging and retail space is so very exciting!” Jodie said. “I live it, dream it, and eat it. I also have some fantastic failures but mostly it’s working out better than I could have ever imagined. To be living and working right here in New Farm,

with my family close by and doing what I love is a dream come true.” Marshmallows, salted caramels, honeycomb and mint chocolate bark - it is all a delicious labour of love for Jodie. All New Farm Confectionery is gluten free, with no added preservatives or artificial colours or flavours. “My long-term goal was to have my own kitchen and retail shop and meeting that goal now so quickly is huge,” Jodie said. “I don’t want to be in every supermarket, I just want to know my customers - I may not know all their names but I love to see them come back time and again.”

MOBILE LENDER • Access to over 30 lenders • With over 850 products • Free up front property valuations

• Discounted Rates

YOUR LOCAL LENDER HOME LOANS

INCOME PROTECTION

Let me help you review or secure your next home loan.

CAR LOANS

Ph: 0400 782 762

www.moneyquest.com.au/Tony.Durston Anthony Durston is a credit representative (CR Number 431337)of Ratesonline.com.au Pty Ltd (Australian Credit License No. 384404)

January 2015 villagenews

villagesocials Russian Xmas Party at Spring Hill at Urban Hotel

Valley Chamber of Commerce held its Xmas party at Brisbane BMW

Photos by www.facebook.com/ tubamediaproductions

Nicola Williams, Dean Weiss & Mimi Le Natalja Solntseva, Lola Belousova & Veta Cl

Renata Webster, Anastasia Astridge, Leah St & Alena Esther

Elena Tkachenko

Tatiana Ponomareva

Ma Shiralee Sutherland & Lisa

Olga Raevskaya & Inessa McIntyre

Ebony Lee & Dene Harris

Amanda Cooper & Richard Bodley

It’s time to forget the dieting cycle &

Rediscover you

Lose weight and keep it off Clinically proven results that last Focus on living, not ‘dieting’ Break the cycle - for life It’s time to rediscover a happier, healthier lifestyle. Find out more at lifeshape.com.au/rediscover Book an initial assessment today!

Freecall 1800 567 348 28

villagenews January 2015

Oksana Kat

Veronica Tsiros & Crystal

MATTRESS LIQUIDATION DISCOUNT BEDS King Latex Pillowtop 5 Zone Pocket Spring

Queen Luxury Plush Memory Foam 7 Zone Pocket Spring

ONLY $799

ONLY $999

*Base Extra $349

NOT $1999

*Base Extra $249

NOT $2899

PH 0422 173 808 10am-5pm 7 DAYS 3/23 Stratton Street Newstead

ALL SIZES - HUGE RANGE - DELIVERY AVAILABLE

villagesocials Ray White New Farm Summer Auction Event

Teneriffe Chamber of Commerce Xmas party at Balfour Kitchen

Photos by www.facebook.com/ tubamediaproductions

Simeon Ong, Leah Ong, Amanda Cooper & Lynley Welsh

n, Kirralee Couch Corey Jones, Emily Davidso & Caitlyn Lancashire

Shenal Yigitbas & Ruby Kiriyama Jude & Graham Turner

Murray & Shiralee Sutherland

Richard Bodley & Randall North

Matt Lancashire & Sam Mayes

Danielle Jones, Amanda Cooper & Lynley Welsh

Amy Jorgensen & Gemma Deal

• Security Doors & Grilles • Steel Doors, Grilles & Gates • Security for Bi-fold Doors Ruby Kiriyama, Kate Kapiris, Matt Lancashire, Gordon Lewis, Tom Lyne & Karla Lynch

• Aluminium Shutters • Retractable Insect Screens

It is never too early or too late to learn a new language! ITALIAN LANGUAGE COURSES

• Blinds & Awnings • Privacy Screens • Window Exchange • Pet Doors

February 23, 2015 Semester 1 starts Phone 0401 927 967 26 Gray Street, New Farm info@dante-alighieri.com.au

www.dante-alighieri.com.au

3856 0144

www.stylewisesecurity.com.au January 2015 villagenews

villageclassifieds

PHYSIO • • • •

Neck pain Back pain Sports Injuries Dry Needling

Domestic Locks Supplied and Installed Emergency 24 hour After Hours Service New and Used Safes Alarms and Access Control Commercial Locks and Restricted Key Systems

Ph: 3392 3020

kpadmin@allsportsphysio.com.au

Your local locksmiths since 1875

www.hareed.com.au

Level 2, 22 Baildon St Kangaroo Point

3854 1154

Opposite the Story Bridge Hotel

www.allsportsphysio.com.au

Lindsay’s

New Farm Shoe Repairs

New Farm Unit Specialist & Body Corporate Specialist

• • • • • • •

Mobile: 0411 181 173

A/H 3358 3982 Fax: 3358 3982 Email: ferdinands1@optusnet.com.au www.errolsplumbing.com

Mobile Bookkeeper Fe Be Dee Bookkeeping

Pet tags Pens Plastic name badges Trophies Jewellery Glass Plastic signs made to order

Level 2, 22 Baildon St Kangaroo Point

fbdbookkeeping@hotmail.com

www.rechargehq.com.au

Opposite the Story Bridge Hotel

HOLIDAY HELP

villagenews January 2015

Enjoy the benefits of a personal assistant at home; hire a personal concierge.

FREE UP YOUR TIME TO ENJOY LIFE.

M: 1300 762 004 www.timesquared.com.au

Mobile Phones and Battery Expanders Cordless Phones Digital Cameras Laptops/Netbooks Watches/PDA/Game Consoles Power Tools and Hobbies Eneloop Rechargeables

As well as Garage Remotes.

sayso speech pathology

info@rechargehq.com.au

Allow us to assist... · Housesitting · Personal shopping · Housekeeping · Bachelor assistance

• • • • • • •

MASSAGE Ph: 3392 3020

0407 033 921

Batteries and Chargers to suit:

PHONE: 3358 2580 88 Merthyr Rd, New Farm

Feona Duncombe

Phone Mario on 3254 4965 or email advertising@newfarmvillagenews.com.au to make a booking!

ALL BATTERY SUPPLIES AND GARAGE REMOTES

PHONE: 3358 2580 88 Merthyr Rd, New Farm

Come and find out why some of the biggest sporting clubs use our therapists

• Registered BAS Agent • General Bookkeeping • Accounts Payable and Receivable • Account Reconciliations • BAS lodgement • Preparation and liaison with Accountants, if required

FREE

Now Offering:

SErviCES iNClUdE: Bathroom renovations • Blocked drains • drain Camera inspections • Hydro Jetting • Hot Water Services • Burst Pipes • leaking Taps • Backflow Prevention devices • Garden reticulation • dishwashers • Commercial installations

BUY 3 CLASSIFIEDS AND GET THE 4TH FOR

Lindsay’s

New Farm Shoe Repairs

COMPUTER ENGRAVING

With over 30 years experience in the plumbing industry, specialising in New Farm and inner city Brisbane area.

SPECIAL

60 McLachlan St Fortitude Valley (parking onsite)

GRAPHIC + WEB DESIGN

keeping your brand strong + consistent across all media design@minodesignstudio.com.au

minodesignstudio.com.au

Book in for Term 1 and get ready for 2015! speech sounds + clarity listening + understanding reading readiness reading + spelling stuttering adults + children dimity williams

t: 0413 307 167

e: enquiries@speech-pathologists.com.au

peninsulaproperty All the awesomeness is taken care of for you 98 VILLIERS STREET, NEW FARM

TALKING PROPERTY WITH HAESLEY

UNIT PRICE GROWTH TIPPED TO STAY STRONG

January 2015 villagenews

We’re Selling Are You ? Personally, when I look back at 2014, I will remember it as the year that confidence returned to the property market. Interest rates are at an all-time low (and were for most of the year); we saw shorter days on the market, lower stock levels and extremely high auction clearance rates. Registered bidders at Auctions are a tell-tale sign of confidence, I can’t remember the last time we had more than 10 registered bidders at Auctions on a regular basis, and now it’s not uncommon by any means. Buyers are seeing value, and confidence continues to grow. Nobody can predict the future; however my prediction is that 2015 will be bigger and better. For the Ray White Farm office, we will aim to raise the bar in 2015. We pride ourselves on setting the benchmark in both service and results, and our reputation for honesty and integrity in all that we do is something we take very seriously. With over $300,000,000 in sales and some of Queensland leading real estate agents, the platform is in place for a great year in 2015 for the New Farm office. There will be more buyers and new and exciting developments taking place. To all those that have dealt with us here at Ray White New Farm throughout the year, we hope that your experience was an enjoyable one, and if you had any questions at all with regards to anything real estate, please don’t hesitate to contact us. There is absolutely no doubt in my mind that there will be an influx of buyers in the New Year, so if you are considering selling, we would love the opportunity to speak with you.

TRACK RECORD Number of Properties SOLD in 2014

250+

DAYS ON MARKET On average we sell our properties in

Compared to Brisbane’s average of approximately 80 days.

Circa $300M

AUCTION SUCCESS RATE

72%

So far this year we have successfully sold 72% of our advertised auctions either before or on the auction date.

3 2 days

Total volume of properties SOLD so far in 2014

Disclaimer: This information is being provided by Australian Property Monitors, Price Finder and MyDesktop (Ray White New Farm’s CRM System) based on settled sales as of 30 December 2014. It’s accuracy can not be guaranteed. Parties should rely on their own enquiries and Ray White New Farm will not be liable for errors or admissions herein.

YOUR LOCAL MARKET LEADERS MATT LANCASHIRE 0416 476 480

HAMISH BOWMAN 0410 044 463

CHRISTINE RUDOLPH 0400 943 984

TOM LYNE 0423 696 862

RAY WHITE NEW FARM

AMY JORGENSEN 0411 483 474

IVO KORNEL 0412 301 439

PHILLIP HARRIGAN 0400 043 426

JEREMY SZYMANSKI 0418 856 487

@rwnewfarm

ANJANETTE PARKER 0411 526 490

KIRRALEE COUCH 0418 871 554

SABINE FREITAG 0488 332 256

SCOTT DARWON 0401 151 090

RAY WHITE NEW FARM

BRANDON WORTLEY 0447 269 591

NICHOLAS GIVEN 0439 193 920

SAM MAYES 0402 094 553

SIMON PETRIE 0439 668 867

@rwnewfarm

Bring on 2015!

SAM MAYES SPRING HILLâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S NUMBER ONE AGENT Sam was an absolute professional from the moment we contacted him requesting him to act on our behalf for the sale of our property, right through until settlement. His after sales customer service is also brilliant. We're very happy and grateful to have chosen someone with Sam's knowledge, skill and personality. Thank you Sam. You're a man of true integrity whom we would recommend to anyone wishing to find an agent to really look out for you and understand. All the best. Rachel and Brian

SAM MAYES 2014 RESUTS NUMBER OF houses SOLD

NUMBER OF APARTMENTS SOLD

Value of Property Sold

$34,000,000

D MME L O HA

S THE

D UN

165 Gregory Terrace Spring Hill Qld 4000 Rarely does a block of this size become available this close to the city. Located on one of Spring Hill's most sought after streets, across from striking park-lands, there is more to this house than meets the eye. The block is 470 sqm and boasts city skyline views from the land level itself. The house was designed and constructed in the 1950's by renowned architect, Dr Karl Langer who was famous for his subtropical architecture. The design reflects Dr. Langer's modernist approach to climatically responsive architecture. The lightweight glazed structure along the eastern and southern sides of the building core, facilitates opening to prevailing breezes in summer and enclosure in winter.

SAM MAYES | 0402 094 553 | 07 3358 0624 | sam.mayes@raywhite.com

the tale of 2 feasts $1500 p/w

CONTEMPORARY, CENTRAL & CHIC 305/41 Robertson Street, Fortitude Valley

THIS FAMILY HOME HAS IT ALL! 257 Moray Street, New Farm

$600 p/w

For years I’ve worked up until the final seconds the very day before Christmas. Mobile phone slung from the hip, firing spin and looking to close out the last deals of the year. If fact, any real estate agent who’s been around the traps will bore you on Christmas day with stories of long negotiations that filled their evening the night before. And for many agents up and down the East Coast of Australia this would have been their Christmas Eve. But what about rentals? In last month’s column we talked about the Brisbane rental market being the casualty of the booming sales market. Well while the sales market fires to Chrissy, it normally naps in January and while it does the rentals market normally booms! The big question in the property investment market is, what will January 2015 be like for investors?

$1650 p/w QUINTESSENTIAL NEW FARM HOME! 1 Abbott Street, New Farm

$420 p/w COURTYARD APARTMENT WITH POOL 3c/172 Oxlade Drive, New Farm

Many of us in property management were back at the keyboard 5th January (while sales agents enjoy a well earned break) and we will have a keen eye on the ‘top end’ rental market. This economy is fuelled mainly by accommodation allowances and interstate migration. A market that thrives in a strong economy. This market has been hard to pin down with headlines of ‘housing boom’ levelled by ‘resources bust’ and then unemployment rising just to keep things interesting. As an office we service the majority of inner city rentals above $1000p/w and over the last couple of weeks, I can share we have seen enquiry rise. In speaking with our relocation agents there is a strong sense from them that January will bring a fresh wave of interest. But other than ‘the vibe’, ‘the feel’ or ‘the belief’, I am yet to see any hard facts.

$550 p/w TOWNHOUSE PET FRIENDLY! 1/79 Annie Street, New Farm

$490 p/w INNER CITY OASIS A97/41 Gotha, Fortitude Valley

January is the time when we see the highest number of properties become available and they are met by an eager wave of tenants keen to secure a property before Australia Day. It’s when we get our highest prices and we use these results to move the market forward throughout the year.Separated by only a month are these two big feasting events: Christmas and Australia Day. But they signal two very different milestones in property. Christmas closes out a sales year, while Australia Day tells the story to investors for the year ahead. The 2014 sellers would’ve been toasting champagne, eating prawns and cackling on Christmas Day celebrating a bumper year! But the investors will have to wait, because their news will come in at the end of the month. If it’s a strong January, it’ll be a bumper year for everyone, if it’s quiet, It could spell another year of lacklustre rental prices. It’s only time that will tell whether the Australia Day BBQ will serve ham or spam burgers for Brissie investors. But rest assured some things don’t change and I, along with many agents, will still be boring in-laws and everyone else with stories of record sales, long negotiations and why it’s always a good time to buy and sell real estate....

$1100 p/w COTTAGE WITH MODERN TOUCH 10 Mark, New Farm

$795 p/w UNIQUE TOWNHOUSE 38 Wellington Road, Red Hill

peninsulaproperty

All the awesomeness is taken care of for you

THE transformation of a New Farm with all the improvements taken colonial at the prime location of care of and little maintenance 98 Villiers St is nothing short of required. incredible and is a welcome arrival Outside, every detail has been to the local property market. Once considered with a huge water tank an ordinary cottage, this home stashed away under the driveway now stands proudly rebuilt, using linked to an automatic watering the finest of modern architectural system which looks after the resources and skills at hand. garden, which consists mainly of The renovation was extensive native plants. and long overdue, but definitely The resort-style pool area offers worthwhile, an entertaining according to space to wow Ray White New visitors, featuring Farm’s Ivo Designed to be practical and to a courtyard with Kornel. built-in barbecue, make living easy, the home’s “I have never outdoor kitchen seen a property generous open plan inside has and a solarin which such heating system for a minimalist approach with a opulent fittings the lap pool and and finishes spa. luxurious feel, and makes the have been Designed to most of its stunning city views. used, and they be practical complement the and to make house perfectly,” living easy, the Kornel said. “The home’s generous home was built by the owners to live open plan inside has a minimalist in and they have added every luxury approach with a luxurious feel, and available to them.” makes the most of its stunning city Kornel said the property is suited views. for professionals, young families The chef’s kitchen is appointed in or empty nesters and is perfect for two-pac cabinetry, stone benchtops busy people looking for a house and integrated Miele appliances.

The property will suit professionals, young families or empty nesters. With a focus on entertaining, the deck and entertaining areas. dining area is within easy reach and With its own C-Bus, security and close to a spacious lounge area. video intercom and surround sound The upper floor consists of a systems, ducted air-conditioning luxury master suite and an adjacent and vacuum maid, this home room with front access to the street couldn’t do much more for its new works as either a home office or owners. second bedroom. The ground level has two double Now for sale via private and bedrooms with built-in robes, exclusive inspections, contact modern luxury bathroom and Ivo Kornel for more information separate powder room. A lounge or on 0412 301 439 or email ivo. media room flows through to the kornel@raywhite.com

WIN 1,000,000 Qantas Points Glen Boyle Senior Sales & Marketing Executive

0431 766 567 @ gboyle.newfarm@ljh.com.au @urlocalagent

LJ Hooker New Farm 3146 5400 newfarm.ljhooker.com.au 36

villagenews January 2015

O IN TO G AW DR THE an have simplyisal done appra efore b arch 31st M

Local knowledge, innovative marketing & expert advice.

peninsulaproperty

Unit price growth tipped to stay strong STRONG demand and increasing buyer confidence have created a strong outlook for peninsular property heading into 2015, according to the the Real Estate Institute of Queensland. REIQ research analyst Yvette Burton is forecasting continued growth in New Farm, Newstead and Teneriffe this year, following a strong recovery that gathered momentum throughout 2014. “Brisbane’s riverside suburbs of New Farm, Newstead and Teneriffe, where a large proportion of dwellings are units, performed strongly over the year to September 2014,” Ms Burton said. “All three suburbs saw doubledigit growth in their unit median sale price compared to a year ago, with Newstead and Teneriffe Brisbane’s two most expensive unit suburbs, closely followed by New Farm in fourth place. “We believe all three peninsular suburbs will continue their stellar performance in 2015 and that there’s some real upside for further capital gains for astute buyers.” Ms Burton said over the September quarter unit sales volumes in Teneriffe were up 25 per cent on the previous quarter, with the biggest increase seen in the sub-$500,000 price bracket. “Meanwhile New Farm saw its unit sales increase by over 50 per cent due to some new unit sales,” she said. “While Newstead saw a slight fall in overall sales activity, there’s still strong

demand for properties in the suburb and good prospects for further growth in property values.” Ms Burton said it wasn’t just unit sales that were performing strongly, with buyers also snapping up properties in the coveted peninsular house market. “According to REIQ data, Teneriffe’s prestige house market performed well over the quarter with five houses all priced in excess of $1 million changing hands,” she said. “In New Farm, Brisbane’s second most expensive suburb for median sale price, volumes were up markedly over the September quarter, with strong sales volumes in the $500,000 to million-dollar price point. “House sales in the million-plus price point were also up on the June quarter, with eight prestige homes selling over the period.” Ms Burton said a shortage of available stock in Newstead and Teneriffe in particular was creating intense competition among buyers. “There isn’t a strong supply of prestige housing on good sized blocks so close to the CBD and that’s

why buyers are prepared to pay a premium for these types of peninsular properties,” she said. “In Newstead and Teneriffe, just under five per cent of properties have come on to the market over the past 12 months and those that do are selling at an average discount of around five per cent on the asking price. “Meanwhile in New Farm, houses are selling at a much faster rate than the Brisbane average and are also seeing an average vendor discount of around five to six per cent.”

REIQ Research Analyst Yvette Burton.

A PROFESSIONAL APPROACH TO BRISBANE PROPERTY MANAGEMENT Any real estate agent can lease a property. The skill is in obtaining the highest possible price with the most suitable tenants given the current market. This is what sets Joshua George and the team at Ray White East Brisbane apart. We develop targeted marketing campaigns designed to establish awareness and interest in your property using a variety of media. Contact Joshua to list your property with Ray White East Brisbane during the month of January to receive a complimentary professional advertising package.

Joshua George Business Development Manager

0407 706 760 www.joshuageorge.raywhite.com

villagenews January 2015

17/64 Browne Street, New Farm 2 bed | 2 bath | 1 car For Sale

$599k +

Open

Saturday 11.00 - 11.30am

Contact

Mark Lowrey 0412 462 592 styleproperty.com.au/1P1534

MAKE IT HOME MAKE IT HOME SOONER SOONER Jordan McLennan with with Jordan McLennan 368 111 04050405 368 111 styleproperty.com.au styleproperty.com.au