The Bribie Islander Issue 184

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF COUNTRY

The Bribie Islander Magazine respectfully acknowledges and recognises Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as the Traditional Owners and Custodians of the lands, winds, and waters where we live, learn and work. We recognise their connection to land, sea, and community. We pay our respects and acknowledge the important role of Elders past, present and emerging for they hold the memories of the traditions, cultures, and aspirations of Australia’s First Nations peoples.

We acknowledge any Sorry Business that may be affecting individuals, families, and communities. We promise to be respectful, take lead from the community and walk together with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, communities, and organisations.

We recognise that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture is rich and diverse and that we have a responsibility to facilitate efforts that account for this to ensure equity for all. We celebrate Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander history, in particular the strength, resilience and courage that has occurred over time and now inspires current and future generations.

Dear Readers, Welcome to edition 184. We are just about to celebrate Valentine’s Day and to me, that isn’t just about or for partners. Recently we heard of a nine-year-old boy, Phoenix Myers who vanished from Woorim Beach at 1 pm on Sunday, who thankfully was located sometime later unharmed. There were a massive number of locals who all joined in the search effort to find this young boy, the amount of love and support shown to this family by our community is to me, the true spirit of Valentines.

Then we have Daniel, the owner of Camping Fishing Prospecting Bribie here on the island who spent his time on Australia day to go down to the waterfront for hours searching for a lost engagement ring. These are the things that show what a truly beautiful community we do live in, despite {from what I have heard} about the negative people who reside here. There may be a few “negative Nellies,” but every community has them, we are just very fortunate to have more wonderful people than the “Nellies”. That is what we need to keep in perspective.

So, feel free to put on a great smile on Valentine's Day, or any day for that matter and go out and be kind, maybe do a good deed for the day and spread some happiness and joy. God knows we all need a bit of that to keep us all going! I will leave you with one of my favourite quotes... “Happiness is a journey, not a destination.”- Buddha

Until next time, stay safe, take care,

Colin Walker

David Horrocks

Elaine Lutton

John Traill

Karyn Chalk

Katherine Miller

Kathy Vincent

Maria Christina

Marj Webber

Peter Schinkel

Debbie

LET’S TALK HAIR TRENDS WITH ECO HAIR Part

Eco’s hair products are personalized to each client and are made in our beautiful Sunshine Coast region, using only the best local natural ingredients for hair health and quality. Keeping up with your hair trends is now so much easier with these fantastic tips from Eco Hair and they also have a fantastic certified Organic Everescents and Clever Curl now with refill stations in store! What more could you want!

forefront. Hairdressers have done well to keep salons safe during the pandemic, but while consumers may not be making as many trips to the salon, the popularity of these looks will always be on the forefront and on the other side of the coin individuality and trying something new has also been on client requests.

creates soft edges and lift to fine hair. We can see trends most suitable to be soft mixed with a little bold to disconnect the norm, this will transform the most favourite styles into something fresh, modern and edgy. The trend of this new pixie short hair is seriously in and evidenced by more ladies

1. Side swept bangs

Side swept long bangs and side swept fringes- in short, curtain fringe which is (fringe parted on both sides) almost like Farrah Fawcett slash Dianne Keaton, but a little in between.

2. The Modern Pixie

1 1 2 3 8

These Are 2023 Hair Style

Predictions And Trends

Low Maintenance Looks

The movement towards low-maintenance looks will continue, with shorter cuts and natural colours at the

A fresh take on the Pixie, a variation of disconnected shape, being shorter on the bottom the before, with the signature pixie on top with all its softness, keeping it extremely easy to style and longer lasting on the bottom.

3. Mixing up the Pixie

We will be seeing the return of symmetrical feathery side fringes and bold lines in a shorter fringe with a lot of movement and texture, which

swapping their long locks for shorter more manageable do’s.

4. Natural textures

The natural hair movement is showing no signs of

frizzy or fine, people are blooming into who they really are, and so for some that might mean, they are going with the natural texture and shape of their hair. I see people who have curls more likely to accentuate that, rather than flatten them out. We are proudly a stockist for Clever Curl, Australianmade and owned natural products

and activate and help manage big curls and wavey thick hair, taking advantage of the wildest of hair and turning it into a flowy beachy look.

6. The Textured Bob steers away from the traditional look, adding texture to the mix is very chic, and easier to maintain and all you need is a touch of mousse to achieve a great soft casual new look.

7. The Blunt Bob  is another popular one for 2023, this bold cut requires a little more maintenance to keep it sleek, but also worth it as predicted bold blunt cuts will dominate 2023. All you really need is 10mins with a blow dryer or straightener.

8. Twist out

designed by curly girls for curly girls and full of moisture to tame coarse hair.

5. Layers Are back better than ever and are a fantastic look to add movement

There is no better way to achieve a gorgeous wavy texture, than with heatless waves. The twist-out is a playful protective style that can

get the job done. It's all about installing twists throughout your hair and leaving them to sit overnight. Once you unravel them in the morning, you’ll have a wavy pattern to show off.

9. Beach Waves & Bouffant Styles (body and movement)

If you have a swanky occasion a bouffant style is a solid choice, the retro-inspired do, hits all the right notes. As you may have seen Hollywood waves are a top choice for formals and weddings and are classic in style, feminine and easy to achieve.

10. Braids and Chignon Buns

Natural and beautiful, they create interest and feature when coupled together, giving the I did it myself look, sometimes less is more especially when you have an already gorgeous outfit to wear.

From the Eco Team @ Eco Village Hair

HOW DOES Secret RF Work?

Secret RF uses Radiofrequency (RF) and minimally invasive microneedles, that deliver precise energy into the deeper layers of the skin, as a result creating heat and activating a process called fractionated denaturing -breakdown of skin cells.

Secret RF stimulates the production of new elastin and collagen, the secret to achieving youthful, younger looking skin. It also tightens the elastic fibres and causes an increase in the lymphatic flow, which plays an important part in the way the body cleanses and detoxifies itself.

The Secret RF treatment is safe, effective and can be used on all skin types with minimal to no down time. It’s ideal for skin lifting, tightening and rejuvenation.

IDEAL TREATMENT FOR

• Wrinkles and lines

• Enlarged pores

• Pigmentation

• Acne

• Lax skin

• Scarring

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What to expect during treatment?

A topical anaesthetic will be applied prior to your treatment, making the treatment more tolerable. During the treatment you will a slight warmth over the area.

How long does the treatment take?

The topical anaesthetic cream requires 20 minutes to take effect prior to treatment. Depending on which areas are being treated, treatments can typically take between 25-45 minutes. What to expect after treatment?

You may experience mild redness or swelling after the treatment for 3-4 hours, but this will subside. How many treatments will I need?

This varies from patient to patient, but you will notice visible results after just 1 treatment. It is recommended to achieve more noticeable and superior results to have between 3-5 treatments, 4 weeks apart.

GOOD SKIN STARTS FROM WITHIN

Integrative skin care to support skin health from the inside, out.

VITA-SOL is the skin professionals’ choice for quality nutraceuticals to support skin health from the inside out. We believe in an integrative approach to skincare inspired by the concept of nutrigenomics and epigenetics. Here at L J Aesthetics, we understand that the best way to look good and feel great is through a well-balanced, healthy diet and lifestyle rather than a synthetic vitamin pill.

This is because whole foods come with a multitude of micronutrients, phytochemicals, fibre and prebiotics that work in synergy to not only provide us with important nutrients but also to activate the body’s own natural cellular defence systems such as detoxification pathway support, antioxidant production and reducing inflammation by downregulating proinflammatory pathways. Nourishing the body with nutrient-dense ingredients to assist cell integrity, hydration and antioxidant support is the foundation to a healthy gut and radiant skin.

We use & reccomend Vita-sol collagen powders as these products have been expertly curated by nutritional medicine practitioner and skin expert Fiona Tuck to contain the highest quality nutrients, phytochemicals, polyphenols, and prebiotics to nurture from the inside out. Best of all, these collagen powders are easy to incorporate into your busy daily lifestyle and work to enhance the efficacy of both topical skincare and professional skin treatments

COLLAGEN BOOST $69

100% Pure Marine Collagen Peptides

Support hydration, elasticity and ageing skin from the inside, out.

Our 100% pure marine collagen peptides are made from the highest quality wildcaught fish and hydrolysed for maximum bioavailability and effective absorption. The flavourless and heat stable peptides are easily incorporated into your daily lifestyle supporting skin hydration and minimising signs of ageing.

THE BENEFITS OF COLLAGEN BOOST

- Wild caught from pristine waters in the North Atlantic

- Single source, pure marine collagen peptides

- Hydrolysed for optimal absorption

- Unflavoured and easy to use

- No synthetics, artificial flavours or fillers

PURITY GREENS $69

Healthy Liver, Gut and Skin Support

Support a healthy gut microbiome and problematic skin.

Purity Greens is a certified organic blend of nutritionally dense ingredients that are rich in vitamins, minerals and prebiotics. With 32 wholefoods, Purity contributes to healthy liver and gut function, natural detoxification and nourishes the gut-skin axis to support problematic skin.

THE BENEFITS OF PURITY GREENS

Nutritionally dense and bioavailable formula

- Made from a blend of wholefood greens

- Australian Certified Organic (ACO) and vegan friendly

- Gentle extraction with no synthetics

- Refreshing greens taste with a zing of lime

FLEXIBILITY MINERALS $69

Nutritional Support For Hair, Skin And Nails

Flexibility Minerals is a multi-action formula that provides minerals, amino acids and antioxidants to support healthy and strong hair, skin and nails. The nutritionally dense formula is bioactivated and naturally flavoured with a delicious blend of chai spices and a touch of vanilla.

THE BENEFITS OF FLEXIBILITY MINERALS

- Rich in vitamins and minerals

- Nutritionally dense support for hair, skin and nails

- Made from 33 wholefood ingredients

- Delicious mild vanilla chair flavour

- Made without synthetics or fillers

SUMMER IS HERE!

Are You Interested In An Alternative To Having To Wear Mascara All Day Or Having False Eye Lashes, And To Be Able To Show Off Your Natural, Beautiful Lashes And Eyes?

A YUMI™ KERATIN LASH LIFT IS WHAT YOU NEED!

WHAT IS a YUMI™ Keratin Lash Lift?

•YUMI™ Lashes is an advanced keratin lash lift and enhancement technique that is designed to boost and lift the natural beauty of eyelashes in a painless, safe and noninvasive way, without the need for lash extensions (which can be potentially harmful to the natural lash). As a result of a Yumi™ Keratin Lash Lift, your lashes have a beautiful curve upwards and it gives them length, height and volume and

lasts between 6 and 12 weeks. This creates the universally desired "open eye look"

• A Push up Bra for the Lashes!

The Yumi™ Keratin Lash Lift gives a fabulous “Wow” factor enhancing your own lashes.

• Most people’s lashes grow straight out, with no curve, and can often look nondescript without the aid of a mascara.

• Either the Yumi™ Keratin Nourishing Serum and Yumi™ Biotin Serum (which gently stimulates the growth of lashes) is recommended to continue to nourish lashes and give longevity to the Yumi™ Keratin

Lash Lift – available to purchase at appointment.

• It is a relaxing treatment, which lasts up to an hour and a half, and Vanessa aims for an all round zen experience with gentle music and lovely setting. Clients have likened it to a therapy experience, where they can come and switch off and just relax for a while.

• GIFT VOUCHERS are available

The YUMI™ Keratin Lash Lift - also includes an Upper Lash Tint and Keratin Nourishing TreatmentAll Just for $99 !

Nutrimetics Products are also available. Australian brand, naturally enriched, cruelty free. Nutrimetics website: https:// www.nutrimetics.com.au/ vanessataylorforevervee

Follow on Instagram, Facebook and check out the Website for gallery of pictures and more info

Vanessa Taylor

M: 0412 273 530

Facebook: Forever Vee

Instagram: @vanessa.taylor. forever.vee

Website: ForeverVee.com

• Vanessa is a local resident to Bribie Island, with a love for Health, Lifestyle, Community and Wealth.

• Her Lash Lift and Beauty studio is based in Banksia Beach

• Bookings are available by prior appointment throughout the week (evenings and weekend by special request)

• Support Local especially Small Businesses!

Keratin Lash Lift

Is a lash-boosting treatment giving your natural lashes length, height, volume and shape, as well as a tint to make them look bolder and more defined. Enhanced with Keratin. Naturally complimenting your eyes in the most powerful way

Often it is our past that diminishes the joy of the present. If you were here with me in this moment of time, I would ask you to sit here in this space, feel the breeze upon your face, the warmth of the sun and watch the butterfly fluttering past, only focus on that. The past nor the future is present. This moment of time is called the “Now”, and this is where we should be focusing our energy.

Past experiences often block the joy of the present, so we must stop giving time to things that no longer exist, diminishing the happiness we can experience in the present. The phrase “letting go”, is the practice of acceptance; of the way things are, and from that a more peaceful and happier life.

There are times when we have to let go of something we have an emotional attachment to, be it a person or events that we were deeply connected to, at these times can feel like we are being asked to move on and forget altogether, that isn’t necessarily the truth either. It means not allowing yesterday to keep us stuck.

It would be nice for us not to experience pain and suffering,

though it is really is those moments where we gain our most powerful insights and we grow as a person. Letting go often feels like we are losing part of our identity, though when we embrace change, it allows us to find a part of ourselves.

The reality is, things are the way they are right now, it doesn’t mean forever! Our minds will create a belief we have about our thoughts. Be kind to yourself and choose to make it easy upon yourself.

There are some steps we can practice helping us on our way, these may include:

Being in the present: having gratitude for what you have right now. Sit down and write down what is wonderful in your life right now. Focus on all the abundance, remembering all the great things you have in your life.

Let go of the past: do not allow yourself to become fixated on yesterday, we cannot change it. We can learn from it and do better.

Believe that you can heal: some things are easier to heal from, though when we open ourselves up to the thought, we can heal from something that wounded us, we open ourselves up to growth and happiness.

Quietening your mind: Learn to meditate. Need help moving forward? Reach out and give me a call on 0405 361 882.

Always with love, Maria Christina x

It is a conversation I share often, with others relating to letting go of their past; beliefs about themselves, events or relationships.

Mind Management Through Holistic Healing

Make 2023 Your Year For Change

I’M WONDERING IF YOU KNOW THE REPORTED TOP 5 REGRETS PEOPLE SHARE, NEARING THE END OF THEIR LIFE?

1. I wish I had the courage to live a life true to myself, not the life others expected of me.

2. I wish I had forgiven more

3. I wish I had worried less

4. I wish I had been more honest

5. I wish I had stood up for myself

As a Master Coach and Clinical Hypnotherapist, Marcelle often found herself frustrated by the limitations of the traditional modalities of psychotherapy and coaching we are most commonly aware of. Many people feel they need medication when the thing they need most is

knowledge. Wanting more for her clients—and for herself—she began a journey to develop a united philosophy of mental, physical and spiritual health that equips people with the tools & strategies necessary to heal themselves.

After experiencing these lifechanging results herself after her own journey with breast cancer 11 years ago, only a few years after her first husband passed away, leaving her the sole responsibility to raise their three young children, she knew she needed to share the empowering tools and strategies she had learned with others—and soon Mind Management Through Holistic Healing was born. “I knew how it felt to feel alone, lost, misunderstood, not listened

to, even hopeless. Nobody should have to feel that way. We all need to feel supported and cared for”.

Marcelle offers private one-on-one Coaching and Hypnotherapy sessions from the sanctuary of her home. “The tools I teach you are life skills. They help each of us to navigate through difficult times.” By dealing with our emotions in a healthy way, so we not only build resilience but can thrive and over time, feel our sense of growth, leading us to feel more peace and fulfilment.

Marcelle says, “if you learn these skills and techniques, then you will gain the tools and strategies to overcome feeling overwhelmed or ‘stuck in a rut’. Instead, you will learn how to self-regulate your emotions, and this means you will feel calmer and more peaceful, and in turn, create a more vibrant, authentic, and joyful life. Everyone wants that, but often we don’t know how to

obtain it.”

Marcelle is also a Trauma Informed Coach. Drawing on the latest research from a diversity of scientific fields and healing modalities, Marcelle helps us recognize how adverse experiences and trauma in childhood live with us, resulting in whole-body dysfunction—activating harmful stress responses that keep us stuck engaging in patterns of co-dependency, emotional immaturity, and trauma bonds. Unless addressed, these self-sabotaging behaviours can quickly become cyclical, leaving people feeling unhappy, unfulfilled, and unwell.

“Past trauma can make us feel stuck. Often, we don’t even realise how much it is disabling us. If you release these old patterns, then you get to move forward because you free yourself from past burdens.” I look forward to supporting and empowering you to become your best version of you”.

With Love & Kindness Marcelle

MIND MANAGEMENT THROUGH HOLISTIC HEALING

SPECIAL INITIAL OFFER

90 MINUTE TRANSFORMATINAL COACHING SESSIONIncluding various techniques and tools from other disciplines including Positive Psychology & Hypnosis, so you can gain the outcomes you want.

90 MINUTE TRANSFORMATINAL COACHING SESSIONIncluding various techniques and tools from other disciplines including Positive Psychology & Hypnosis, so you can gain the outcomes you want.

$89

$89

60 MINUTE HYPNOTHERAPY SESSION

• Empowerment & Mindset Coaching

• Empowerment & Mindset Coaching

• Releasing Trauma

• Releasing Trauma

• Releasing Stress & Anxiety

• Releasing Stress & Anxiety

• Relationship Coaching

• Relationship Coaching

• Anger Management Coaching

• Anger Management Coaching

$69

$69

Hypnotherapy can be used to improve many different issues you may wish to overcome emotions, and overwhelm. It is also used to gain more self-confidence, selfesteem so you can feel happier, more

60 MINUTE HYPNOTHERAPY SESSION –Hypnotherapy can be used to improve many different issues you may wish to overcome such as: the release of negative emotions, the feelings of stress and overwhelm. It is also used to gain more self-confidence, selfesteem so you can feel happier, healthier, more relaxed, and more empowered.

BOOK NOW! Your Transformational Coaching or Hypnotherapy Session

P: 0404 882 203

(Please phone, email or text) available: In Person at Banksia online or Phone

To Register your interest in Group Meditation & Hypnotherapy Sessions, Life Coaching Workshops - Please contact me via email, phone or SMS

To Register your interest in Group Meditation & Hypnotherapy Life Coaching Workshops - Please me email,

marcelle@marcelleburrows.com.au

www.marcelleburrows.com.au

CHANGING the NARRATIVE EVENT

By Narelle Dawson

‘Changing the Narrative’ had its inaugural beginning on Jan 26, 2021. It was a small gathering (50 people). Starting with an Acknowledgement of Country, the Jarjums did a Smoking Ceremony, followed by an explanation about the ‘Joondoburri Walk’ project, to where it was at that stage, then moved into the kindy to share in morning tea. Unfortunately, the event was cancelled in 2022 due to lockdowns. However, the 2023 ‘Changing the Narrative One Year at a Time’ event was a resounding success with approximately 250 people in attendance (possibly more). This year we were blessed to have Craig Weribone-Wright and Aunty Sharron Mirii Bell join us with song and dance. Both also gave powerful talks that captured the attention of all in attendance. Aunty Flo Watson shared her powerful story. A story that is difficult to hear but a story we all need to hear. The indigenous voice is very strong in Bribie, and it will only grow in strength from year to year. Bribie Kindy chooses to stand in solidarity with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and communities and we do not celebrate Australia on or around the 26th of January. As educators, we are aware that Early Childhood Australia made a statement in 2018 advising that they too stand in solidarity with Reconciliation Australia and do not endorse the celebration of Australia on or around the 26th of January as it is disrespectful to our country's First Nation peoples. Our gathering is about building connections and relationships and enjoying the land the sea and the sky that we are blessed to share.

Let's give you a little bit of Background about the space where we gather. The Joondoburri Walk Project commenced in 2016. It began with an Action Research Project and an idea that was shared with Traditional Owner Aunty Leisha Krause. Aunty Leisha endorsed the project, and this is when the work began. Following research of many of the surrounding plants and trees, permissions from other Traditional Owners through the MBRC legal process and working with and alongside Uncle Ron Team Bribie was able to begin to realise the vision. The main sign was designed and erected. A mud map of the walk that included some Joondoburri words.

Next came the individual 27 signs with botanical names and indigenous use whether it be a food source, medicinal or vessels and implements. Then followed the mural. The project was almost complete but then were offered to apply for a second Indigenous Languages Grant. This application was approved and then research began on a second Sign that shared Kabi Kabi words. We believed this was a good way to help procure local indigenous languages not only of the Joondoburri People but of the Gubbi Gubbi Nation also.

We approached Aunty Melinda Serico who designed the centre art piece of the new sign. As part of the grant approval, we also committed to publishing a book about the Joondoburri Walk. We very proudly worked with and alongside the Pumicestone Indigenous Education and Employment Council Jarjums, and Jarjums attending BICK to create the vision. We also included the voices of our local Elders and Wallah! We present to the community the book ‘The Joondoburri Walk’. The amazing wrap-around cover was designed by local past Bribie High Student Nicole Gulwell. This book will be gifted to all who contributed. It will also be gifted to all local schools, early learning centres and libraries. I would like to give special thanks to all of the Jarjums, Elders, Nanna Sue, all of Team Bribie and our amazing graphic artist Elissa Coghill for their unwavering support throughout the blood, sweat and yes, some tears too!

Thank you also to Ali King and Brook Savage who very generously shared in the cost of providing the sausage sizzle and drinks.

Finally, we would like to acknowledge that we are very proud partners with Pumicestone Indigenous Education and Employment Council and Bribie Island Environmental Protection Association, and we thank all of its members for their collegiality, support & friendship.

GROWING UP ON A LIGHTHOUSE!!

BY: KATHY VINCENT.

Can you even imagine what that must be like? No shops, hairdressers, I-pads, mobile phones, cars, roads to drive on, TV and no internet. How on earth would today's generation cope?

Sandy Edwards recently came to talk to the Pumicestone Passage Probus Club. She grew up on a lighthouse! Her father looked after 2 lighthouses while Sandy and her sister were growing up.

In some instances it sounds idyllic, playing on the beach in the glorious sunshine, swimming in pristine clear waters, no school to go to but there were disadvantages too. No doctor meant if you needed a doctor you were taken by boat. Sandy remembers all too well being ill and

being taken to the doctor in a boat. But there was a cyclone to contend with making the trip very dangerous. It makes me feel ill thinking about it!

A boat, the store boat, came every 2 weeks with vegetables and fresh produce so her mother had to work out very carefully what the family would eat. Of course, fish was a major part of their diet. She also made all the girl’s clothes for them. The school was by the radio, so no chance to mix with other children only when someone visited the lighthouse or if another lighthouse keeper’s family living there had children.

What an adjustment had to be made once the girls came into the real world! Sandy found it easier than her sister as she went to live with her grandparents while she trained as a hairdresser. Her sister was less fortunate and found it difficult to adjust to crossing the road if people were walking towards her until she got used to the new situation.

Sandy was happiest on Lowe Island lighthouse which is in a beautiful part of the ocean. It was also where Steve Irwin was taken after his accident as he had to be on land to be pronounced dead.

It was so interesting. Thank you Sandy, it really made us think.

New Year, NEW YOU, join VIEW !

Connect with other local women and support children in need

Bribie Island VIEW Club supports the education of 6 students through the Learning for Life program, ensuring they have what they need for the school year.

Anyone interested in becoming a member can call Kay Benson on 3408 1058 or 0410653628 or visit www.view.org.au for further information.

Bribie Island VIEW Club is on the lookout for new members who want to give back to their community and make new connections with women in the area. We welcome women of all backgrounds and ages to join us and look forward to welcoming new faces at our next monthly meeting.

VIEW, which stands for Voice, Interests and Education of Women, is a network of close to 300 clubs and over 14,000 women throughout Australia. It provides a place for women to connect in the community, enjoy social activities, and develop lasting friendships – all while supporting the work of The Smith Family’s Learning

for Life children’s education program. This program provides children with financial assistance for essential school supplies, access to out-ofschool tutoring and mentoring programs, and a Smith Family team member connected to the family who is on hand to support the child’s specific needs and interests.

The next Bribie Island VIEW Club function is the International Women’s Day Breakfast which will take place on Wednesday, March 8, 2023, starting at 8.00 am at the Pacific Harbour Golf & Country Club Banksia Beach.

If you would like to come along to this function, tickets go on sale from 13th February 2023. Please contact Stella Auchter at 0419 796 476 or stella31@outlook.com.au

10 years-experience in shockwave therapy

RADIAL /FOCUSED SHOCKWAVE THERAPY

Pictured are the 2023 Bribie Island VIEW Club Committee who were inducted on the 25th of January.

The collaboration between Suncare’s Boronia Cottage on Bribie Island and charity shop Busy Fingers is built on the shared commitment to helping the community and giving back. Busy Fingers Fundraising Inc recently approved another grant to the Cottage, allowing the beautiful new furniture to complete the ‘home away from home’ feeling.

What started over 30 years ago when four innovative ladies started knitting and crocheting for a stall outside the local Bribie Island IGA has grown into what is now a bustling shed in Folley Street. Run by 5 paid staff members and over 70 volunteers, Busy Fingers has become a community meeting place for the locals, especially important for social interaction in a world changed by Covid. Pauline Hindle, Busy Fingers President, says “We have become so much more than an Op Shop. We know our regulars by name and we share

family news. We welcome visitors and Peta, who has worked at our counter for over ten years, always has time for a chat and a laugh. We are part of the Bribie Island family but always with open arms to welcome visitors.”

Busy Fingers assists local voluntary and not-for-profit organisations on Bribie Island with funding. “The organisation applying to our committee for a grant has to be local, so the money stays on the Island, but we can assist with everything from furniture and technology to a bus”, says Pauline. For Nikki, Activities Co-ordinator at Suncare’s respite facility, Boronia Cottage, the relationship with Busy Fingers is more than just business. “We always appreciate when our grant requests are approved but we also love taking our customers to the Op Shop for an outing. Our elderly often have limited funds and there is something for everyone at the store. And the friendly, welcoming feeling

is just so special for our customers.” Funding is raised by donations made to the Op Shop. Pauline is thrilled by how many donations come through the door but reminds us that the goods donated do need to be saleable and largely undamaged. “If you wouldn’t buy it for yourself, we cannot sell it” she says.

Bribie Island is known for its beauty and open-hearted hospitality. Add to that a respite facility that has become known as ‘a home away from home’ for many of their aged guests and an Op Shop that continues to give back to the local community and you know you are in a very special place indeed. For more information on Busy Fingers

Fundraising Inc, visit the shop at 38 Cotterill Ave, Bongaree or follow their Facebook page @busyfingersbribie. To find out more about Boronia Cottage, see the Suncare website at Community Connections - Suncare Community Services or contact them at 1800 786 227.

The marrying kind?

What Aussies look for when it comes to longterm relationships

• More than half (55%) of men and women believe the most appropriate age for marriage is between 25 and 29 years old

• Almost two-thirds (62%) of people think one to four years of dating is appropriate before a couple ties the knot

• Nearly half (43%) of singles don’t want to get married, while 28% are unsure. That leaves just 29% of singles keen to tie the knot

• For four-fifths (82%) of Australians, honesty is the most important factor in deciding whether a partner is marriage material; only a third (35%) think attractiveness is important

• Only one in five (18%) of women say a partner’s income would influence their desire to marry, compared to, perhaps surprisingly, 23% of men

It may be the case that 65% of Australians believe you don’t need to be married to have a successful relationship, but that doesn’t mean people feel marriage is an outdated concept. In fact, almost half (42%) of Aussies believe marriage still has contemporary relevance. But, according to new research commissioned by eharmony, when you look at the traits

both men and women consider make someone marriage material, it’s factors like being honest (82%), trustworthy (79%) and respectful (74%) that come out on top. For eharmony psychologist Sharon Draper, this doesn’t come as a surprise.

“When you’re looking at the long term, these are the sorts of shared values that ensure people have the best chance of staying together,” said Draper. “When you consider the 21 factors on the list, being supportive at 73%, having similar values at 65% and being willing to compromise at 63% also rated highly. It’s a clear indication that people realise attributes like sexual compatibility (53%) and attractiveness (35%) might spark an initial attraction but may not guarantee rapport in a decades-long relationship.”

What makes someone marriage material?

Right down the bottom of the list are attractiveness (35%), ambition (27%) and a history of civility in the relationship (22%).

If you’re wondering how important ‘the spark’ is, 53% rated sexual compatibility as important, meaning it comes in at number 14 on the list.

While it was fairly even across the board between generations and genders, ambition seems

to be the trait where men and women differ most, with women making up more than two-thirds (69%) of the group who said ambition makes someone marriage material, with men only making up 31% of the group.

Women also considered someone’s ability to get along with their family (59%) and their friends (58%). Only 14% of women would marry someone of whom their family disapproved, compared to 25% of men who would go ahead with the ceremony anyway. Faith in the matter

It seems religious beliefs have little to do with marriage as we go into 2023, with more than half of those surveyed (52%) believing religion shouldn’t influence someone’s decision to marry a partner. A further third (33%) believes it depends on the situation.

Just 9% of Australians think weddings should take place in a church or other religious location. Of those, just a third (34%) were women. Similar values, however, is seen as important by about twothirds (65%) of respondents.

Other factors

When it comes to wanting children, 30% would marry a partner who said they didn’t want any, while 27% would not. A further 38% of those surveyed would weigh up the

situation before making their decision, while 6% were unsure what they’d do.

Only a quarter (25%) of women think children are better off when their parents are married, compared to almost half (42%) of men.

When it comes to protecting what we’ve worked for as singles, only 30% of people believe couples should sign a prenuptial agreement, while 35% say nup to the nup.

Perhaps not surprisingly when you look at studies of who is happiest – single women without a spouse or children – a larger proportion of men (34%) believe there are more benefits to marriage compared to the single life than women (20%).

As Valentine Day draws nears, there are signs of love and affection in the air and everywhere you look. Some people will go above and beyond in their declaration of love – showering their partners with gifts, flowers and adoring sentiments.

But beyond the roses, chocolates and greeting card poetry –what does love really look like? How can we know if we are in a genuinely loving relationship, or one where love is used to justify controlling and abusive behaviours?

Sadly, too many people in relationships can feel trapped by their partner’s ‘love bombing’ – a form of emotional manipulation, where one person can bombard another with excessive affection, flattery and gifts in order to gain control in a relationship or justify abusive behaviours. When their aggression or possessiveness is questioned, an abusive partner may claim they are acting out of ‘love’.

Yet love does not look like bruises you conceal from family and friends.

Love does not manipulate, intimidate, gaslight, or punish. Love does not tell you what you can wear, where you can go, who you can speak to, or how much you can eat.

True love lifts you up.

It listens, nurtures, and empowers.

It makes you feel valued and respected.

It supports your independence, your freedom, and helps you to grow.

It’s important to remember that not all domestic violence is physical. When one person in a relationship uses abuse or intimidating behaviour to control, dominate, humiliate or instil

WHAT LOVE LOOKS LIKE

fear in another person, that too is domestic violence. What might at first appear to be an isolated incident is commonly part of a pattern of abusive behaviour proven to be equally if not more harmful, and this is known as coercive control. Knowing and understanding the signs of coercive control can help people identify, and respond to, toxic relationships. Coercive control encompasses a number of controlling behaviours – from cutting off support systems, gaslighting to confuse or manipulate, limiting access to finances, and monitoring activity through tracking by GPS or phone.

The Queensland Government has committed to introducing legislation to criminalise coercive control before the end of 2023. In drafting legislation, the Government will consult broadly – with survivors, the community, domestic violence service providers, legal experts, and the Domestic and Family Violence Prevention Council – to ensure legislation is clear, thorough, and effective. Information about coercive control is also part of the updated Respectful Relationships Education being rolled out in Queensland schools this year. The new Respect program builds on the existing program, which was introduced in 2017, and includes new and strengthened information about consent, reporting of sexual assault, ethical decision-making, and the drivers of gender-based violence.

With proper education and support, our next generation of Queenslanders will navigate the world of dating with a greater understanding of the rights and responsibilities of individuals in relationships. They will be more aware of the drivers of domestic, family and sexual violence. They will see the signs of power and control, they will seek out help, and they will prevent further violence and abuse in their friendship circles, families and their own lives.

They will know what true love looks like.

Two boats out, with our sweeps, Jim and Fin, gearing us up in our first training session for coming regattas. Our subsequent paddles have been eventful both with practiced race starts and adjacent sightings of pods of dolphins, who seem to be perfectly at home with our boats. Perhaps they know we are of kin and mean them no harm!

We anticipated a great day, for the "Blessing of the Boats" in the Pumicestone Passage, Saturday 21st Jan. Unfortunately, the wind invoked very choppy conditions, but our two boats, to be blessed, ventured forth and back in a very challenging paddle for the sweeps, drummer and paddlers. It is normally so much fun to accompany the variety of boats, yachts and skiffs, as well as an opportunity to show the public "who we are and what we can do".

Bribie Dragons also enjoyed the opportunity to celebrate the 100 years birthday of Patricia Daly with her family and friends. Pat started paddling at 90! We quickly learned that Pat's sharp wit and dry sense of humour with her can-do attitude contributed to us all having so much fun paddling. Since 2013, until her last regatta at Kawana in 2016, she has been a source of encouragement and inspiration to us all. Hence her valued introduction "to our hall of fame" as a Lifetime member in 2021. We all wish her abundant Health and Happiness into her next decade.

Our "Australia Day "paddle, held on the Saturday after, was surprisingly peaceful without the usual amount of traffic above the water line. We were a little concerned about the amount of seagrass floating on the surface, but then, imagine our excitement, to spot two dugongs feeding, both in different areas. Just cruising along interacting with the turtles we'd encountered as well! "Another day in paradise", one might say. There were momentary lapses of concentration rather than the training! However, our sweeps managed to fit in a final race start before the hour was up. We finished by celebrating the January birthdays with cake and coffee at the Bribie Beach Shack."Another day in paradise", one might say. There were momentary lapses of concentration rather than training! However, our sweeps managed to fit in a final race start before the hour was up. We finished by celebrating the January birthdays with cake and coffee at the Bribie Beach Shack. We always welcome Survivors of Breast Cancer and their supporters and encourage them to enjoy the uplifting experience and exercise of dragon boating. For further information, contact Maree 0405550960

Bribie Dragons had a beautiful day for our first paddle of 2023.

BELOW: photo of Pat at her last regatta was at 93 the oldest survivor and the girl with her was the youngest at 27!!

Pat Daly's 100th Birthday celebrations at Coolamon Community centre.

Jim and his wife June have been local Bribie residents for the last 30 years, known and loved by many. During this time Jim participated in the Volunteer Marine Rescue and Sunshine Coast Antique Car Club. He passed away recently (06/01/2023).

Innisfail, north Queensland was where Jim was born preterm on 20/05/1935, the middle child of 7. (2 dying in infancy) His family resided in north and central Queensland, following his father’s work in the construction of roads, bridges and weirs.

His interests and hobbies included boating, fishing, table tennis, cards, ballroom dancing, playing cricket and listening to cricket games broadcast on the radio. He had a fascination with watches and clocks and always appreciated a quality pen. Jim entered cycling races on weekends as well as cycling to work each day. Jim was a Marksman in National Service and CMF. He was a Justice of the Peace for over 40 years and was a member of The Masonic Lodge wherever he lived. Jim’s first employment at the age of 13 was in the wool industry, handling wool through the sorting process at Capella where he spent time with his maternal grandmother. His earnings were 10 pounds per week including meals and board. These earnings greatly helped his family’s economic situation during that time.

A career in the PMG (now Telstra) began in Jim’s teens where he rose to the position of Senior Telecommunications Technical Officer before his retirement in 1988. He spent the next three years as a Welfare Officer at Sandgate Freemasons Home.

Jim won a Queensland Ballroom Dancing Championship and it was at Aub Pantons Dancing studio that he and

June met in 1953. That was to be the luckiest meeting of his life. June and Jim married on 17/08/1957 at St Matthews Anglican Church, Groveley and set up home in Tarragindi, Brisbane where their three children Robyn, Jamie and David were born.

Fortunately, June was a resilient wife as in 1964 Jim was promoted to a position at Mt Morgan, central Queensland where he installed many telephone exchanges in the local area and June created a loving and comfortable home for the young family. Jim, June and family enjoyed the 5 years living in the closeknit country community, gaining many friendships through their worship at the local Methodist Church. A sad occurrence during this time was the loss of the family

home through fire with their resultant return to Brisbane.

From 1970 to 1993, Jim, June and family lived in Brisbane, the children finished their schooling and they became grandparents, 9 little ones in 8 years, and in more recent years, greatgrandchildren, 10 and counting. What a joy for them. In 1993 Jim and June made a new home at Banksia Beach, settling into retirement there, with many school holiday visits from their families, Jim happily taking all their grandchildren on boat rides, fishing and swims in the pool. Jim was a Naval Cadet in his early teens sparking a passion for rope knots and splicing. In later years he used these skills for his own boating as well as gaining some casual work helping local boaties to safely secure their moorings.

Throughout his life Jim was the quintessential handyman, performing all home and vehicle maintenance, constructing his own box trailer and boat trailer. He loved electronics and made his own crystal sets, a battery free form of radio. He was especially proud of his 1960 Chevrolet, spending endless hours in it’s restoration and so pleased for it to be used at the weddings of family and friends.

Since 2018, Jim had many health concerns and life became more difficult. Until the end of his life he managed to maintain a positive outlook, being encouraged and cared for by June and supported by many neighbours, friends and family.

On the 6 th January 2023 Jim entered into Eternal Life, now safe in the arms of God. Forever loved and missed by many. He is survived by his devoted wife June, his sister Lynette, 3 children, 9 grandchildren and 10 greatgrandchildren. RIP Jim.

VALE JAMES DANIELL (JIM)

HUMOUR HUMOUR

BY: Elaine Lutton

Ifirmly believe that laughter is the most therapeutic of exercises, far outweighing any advantages that may be obtained by the consumption of apples, Yoga, meditation or even prayer. My family loved to laugh!

Before a black and white television entered our home, and even after that momentous event, we would sit down together and listen to the wireless, radio for the uninitiated. The fifties were the Golden Age of verbal wit; pictures would have proved a distraction when we could enjoy Life with the Lions, Rays a Laugh, The Al Read Show, Hancock's Half-hour and that most famous show of all, The Goons, No conversation was allowed only riotous laughter.   Each show had its own catchphrases, which we would compete with each other to

anticipate; the Ginger Tom from next door; I won't take my coat off, I'm not stopping; left hand hard down; luvely Dr Hardcastle; Tony Hancock complaining that his doctor had taken “a bloody armful” during his blood donation. Still, in use today from The Goons is Little Jim's single sentence, “He's fallen in the water”. This part was taken by Spike Milligan, in a piping, childish voice. I am willing to bet that no other oneliner, has achieved such note and immortality.

Of course, British Humour continued with TV. Who can forget Yes, Minister, that delicious satirical view of Politics and the Civil Service? I could mention many more examples but will cease, merely to claim that the British have the ability to laugh at themselves that surpasses all other Nations.

Is this what makes us so lovable? No comment is required.

This early introduction to humour primed me for my later addiction to any kind of comedic writing, from Jonathan Swift's biting essay, 'A Modest Proposal' on how to solve the Irish Problem by culinary experimentation on babes of twelve months, to Fielding's 'Shamela', a parody of Richardson's 'Pamela or Virtue Rewarded'. The reward was, of course, a wedding ring on her finger, regardless of the fact that the man in question had proved himself to be both a seducer and complete bounder, hardly the most promising husband material. Then onwards to Dickens and his multiplicity of comic characters. I vividly remember myself, as a schoolgirl, reading the P G Wodehouse stories of the intelligent valet Jeeves and his incompetent master, Bertie Wooster, way before the TV series was produced, and discovering the wit and the wisdom of George Bernard Shaw from reading the Plays and Prefaces we had at home. But the jewel in the crown, as far as I was concerned, was my discovery of comic verse. I was given an anthology of Comic and Curious Verse, published by The Penguin Poets, the verses selected by one, J. M. Cohen. Well worth the three shillings and sixpence so proudly printed on the cover of my early edition. It did not take me long to realise that there was more. Mr Cohen, appreciating that he was on to a good thing, quickly selected more verses, leading to my becoming the proud owner of 'More Comic and Curious Verse', swiftly followed by 'Yet More Comic and Curious Verse'. If the titles of these treasure troves lacked a little in imagination, the contents belied this. It was here I met, amongst many others, Edward Lear, Hilaire Belloc, Walter de la Mare, Edith and Osbert Sitwell, Lewis Carroll, G.K.Chesterton, Ogden Nash, and that most famous and prolific writer of verse, Anon.

Reading this verse and worse was not sufficient. In those days, my memory was like blotting paper; I only had to read a short verse once or twice

for it to remain, cluttering up my brain cells, in perpetuity. Longer poems took a little more effort but could be accomplished if the incentive were there. The longest poem I ever learnt was the Hunting of the Snark by Lewis Carroll. It was the subtitle that attracted me, An Agony in Eight Fits! This was highly appropriate to recite to myself as I stood outside the box office of a cinema, waiting for a lad, who never turned up, making me, I felt, an object of all eyes, the subject of pity and scorn. She has been stood-up, poor dear.

Yes, ladies, it has happened to us all! Count me amongst the Sisterhood of the Unappreciated.

Lest you should think that this ability to memorise “stuff” would lead to academic brilliance, I must disillusion you. I could never bring the same fervour to the learning of facts that my teachers of the time considered to be so essential to the education of young ladies. The conjugation of irregular verbs, declension of Latin nouns, the chemistry of phosphorus, botanical drawings, the solving of quadratic equations, and Newton's Laws of Motion, all still haunt my nightmares.

If there is an Afterlife, I intend to cross-examine my parents as to why they spent so much time, energy, and money trying to fit this square peg into a round hole. I desperately wanted to study English at University, but it was suggested that nursing was a more appropriate profession for a girl who would, at some point, be expected to earn her own living. Now I have nothing against nursing, some of my best friends are nurses, but I knew that I did not have the patience for this; no pun intended, so a compromise of sorts was reached. A Science degree, followed by the teaching of Biology, was to be my eventual fate.

However, recently I was much comforted when, on confessing to a Science, rather than the Arts Degree I coveted, I was told by a kind friend, to be of good cheer as, nowadays, they have a cure for this disease.

Busy Fingers...

WISHING A HAPPY AND SAFE NEW YEAR TO ALL OUR SUPPORTERS, CUSTOMERS AND FRIENDS.

I hope you had a wonderful Christmas with your family and friends and enjoyed your New Year celebrations. Wow 2023 already, the years are definitely getting shorter the older I get, someone needs to put new brakes on this bus I am on. I was looking through my laptop this morning and noticed that I had an article saved from early 2017, I was surprised because it doesn’t feel like I have been writing these articles for that long, I have to thank Cherrie for allowing me to continue to let you know what Busy Fingers is up to. We would like to thank all the people who have brought us some wonderful donations, and we apologise for any inconvenience when we have to turn people away when our trolleys and hallways are full. It happens when we have only a few volunteers on the day to sort and get them on the shelves, so please be understanding and refrain from abusing our outside volunteers, they are there to help and give us their time freely. We have sales on clothes often, as our storage room is full of winter clothing, we will also have sales on furniture when we have a full floor and more coming in, so we are always replenishing the shop with new items. Sales are written on the blackboard as you enter the shop.

DRIVEWAY AND PARKING SAFETY

Please adhere to the 5 KPH sign when entering the car park and be aware of people coming out of the shop, as we all know children often come charging out of the shop door and just run to their car without looking. We want to keep all our visitors safe while on our premises which includes the car park, so please take care. We are in the process of removing the plants that run the full length of the driveway, as they are becoming overgrown and full of weeds and the upkeep is taking too much of the volunteer's time. We plan to concrete or extend bitumen along this area to make parking and maintenance easier.

VOLUNTEERS

We always welcome new volunteers, so if you have a few hours spare please give us a call at 3408 1014 or pop into the shop and speak to Sonia, we are registered with Centrelink for Job Seeker requirements. Newcomers to the island can easily make new friends as we have an excellent group of volunteers working with us, it is also a wonderful way of supporting our beautiful island and its residents.

DONATIONS

Earlier in 2022 we donated two 12-seater buses, one for the Surf Club Nippers and one to Bribie Fishability, I was hoping to advise that they have finally been delivered, but alas due to the backlog of new vehicles caused by you know what, they will not be delivered until later this year. I will let you know when they are finally here. We have of course continued our support of VMR, Global Care and Bribie Hospice each month. At our last meeting, we were also able to grant a new couch for Boronia Cottage, a Kiln for the Gem and Fossicking Club and a Glass Kiln for the Leadlight & Visual Arts Working Together Group. The Bribie Men’s Shed also has a nice new Drill Press and Table, this year they hope to extend their opening hours, so any men out there that would like to make new friends and enjoy a few hours with the men go along and check it out.

REQUEST FOR PRESENTATIONS AND DONATIONS

If you are a member of an island club or association and require assistance, please let us know. We try to assist all not-for-profit associations and sporting clubs, we also assist the Police, SES, VMR and the BI Hospice. Our President Pauline is quite happy to come along to your club and present our aims and goals and how your club can apply for assistance. Please call 3410 1920 or email busyfingers1@bigpond. com if you wish to have a presentation or if you wish to apply for a grant of assistance. When applying for assistance please include a contact name and phone number and also a current equipment quote (from an island business if possible), tell us a bit about your association/club and membership and why you need the equipment you are requesting, and email it to busyfingers1@bigpond. com  Please be aware we only support Bribie Island  associations and groups, not individuals.

I would like to thank all our supporters and customers, and a very special thank you to the Bribie Islander and the staff for their continuing support throughout 2022, I hope we will continue to have your support this year, so we can continue supporting the Island residents and associations. I hope to see you in the shop soon. Sandra

How to Deal with Your Finances After a Bankruptcy

three bank statements and have a clear list of all the monies you spent on these expenses. It won’t be long before you discover where you’ve been overspending.

The last column should comprise your irregular expenses. These are costs that aren’t necessarily recurrent but come occasionally. Some of the things you should be having here include medical bills, gifts, and party expenses.

If you’ve recently filed for bankruptcy, it’s possible you’re looking for a fresh start to turn your finances around. If so, then you came to the right place. Although bankruptcy can be devastating and emotionally challenging, it can be corrected. Granted, bankruptcy can stay on your credit report for 10 years; however, there are several effective methods you can utilize to bounce back from the situation. Keep reading to discover how you can deal with your finances after a bankruptcy today.

Revisit your budget and fix it

There’s a high chance a faulty budget sets the stage for your current situation. At this point, you need to figure out where your original budget failed. If you understand exactly where you went wrong, you can correct the problem easily.

SO, HOW DO YOU DO IT?

It’s simple. Create a new budget sheet comprising three expense columns. The first column should contain the fixed expenses. List all your fixed monthly expenses, including house payments, car payments, and house bills.

The next column should contain the variable expenses. Here, include all your variable monthly expenses, including clothes, food, and entertainment. Take some time to check all your last

When you have a clear view of how you’ve been spending, you’d be better placed to plug any holes and make sensible spending trims.

BEGIN USING CASH

Have a limited amount of cash on hand to help you stay on budget and avoid charging more than you can afford on your credit card. Of course, you don’t have to use cash for all your purchases; all you may need to do is prioritize cash spending to save. For example, you’d be less likely to purchase the extra snacks at the grocery store if you find that you only have enough for necessities like milk or bread.

The main idea here is to make an effort to transition to spending cash only and reduce how much you rely on credit cards. To make this process easier for you, simply plan a budget and set aside a certain amount of cash you’re allowed to spend in each shopping category. When you spend that amount, avoid spending in the category until you receive your next check. Alternatively, you can move money from a different shopping category.

Bankruptcy is challenging, but you can benefit a lot if you take it as an opportunity to make a fresh financial start. Follow the tips we’ve discussed to reset your financial situation, raise your credit score and have a better financial future.

Mike Smith & Ken Wicks

HELPIN TIMES OF CRISIS

In Australia, when things go really wrong, there is help available. Our Neighbourhood Centre works with the assistance of both the Queensland Government, who provide our building and general funding to conduct a friendly, welcoming community meeting place, and the Australian Government, who provide funds so that we can assist people in financial crise who need emergency relief help with essential items such as food or medicines, or advocacy to arrange to pay their bills by instalments.

If you or someone you know are currently in dire financial straits and need help with, for example, food, medicine, or transport costs for medical or other urgent matters, the Neighbourhood Centre Emergency Relief Service is here to help.

Phone on 3408 8440 or call in (8.30am-3pm Mon-Thurs) to make an appointment to see our Emergency Relief Volunteers for practical support, information, or referrals to assist in your crisis. Unfortunately, they are able to offer limited assistances but be assured, they will work with you to help in ways that you are most comfortable with. The Neighbourhood Centre is operating within COVID-19 safety regulations. When you attend, please follow all directions from volunteers and staff so that we can all stay safe and healthy.

SOME OTHER USEFUL LOCAL COMMUNITY CONTACTS

Please note that for most organisations, you need to first make an appointment.

St Vincent de Paul Society has Australian Government funding for Financial Crisis

BRIBIE ACCOUNTING SERVICES

ELECTRIC CARS

As an employer, you previously needed to pay FBT on electric cars provided to your employees. From 1 July 2022, you will now be exempt from paying FBT on benefits provided for electric cars that meet all the following criteria:

• the car is a zero or low emissions vehicle

• the first time the car is both held and used is on or after 1 July 2022

• the car is used by a current employee or their associates (such as family members)

• luxury car tax has never been payable on the importation or sale of the car. Registration, insurance, repairs, maintenance and fuel expenses provided for eligible electric cars are also exempt from FBT.

For more information on your specific circumstances, please don’t hesitate to contact me.

and Material Aid – Emergency Relief and works with people in need locally. Phone 1800 846 643, or from their local Address: 43a First Avenue, BONGAREE, QLD, 4507 (near the primary school), Ph: 07 3408 3747. Opening times: Tuesday: 8am - 11:30am, Thursday: 8am - 11:30am, Friday: 8am - 11:30am.

TRANSFORMATION CARE CENTRE STOREHOUSE: PH. 3410 0365. 197 FIRST AVENUE, BONGAREE.

Tues, Thurs 8.30 am—11.30. Bring a cold bag with you if you wish to purchase from the refrigerated section. Low-cost essential items.

Caboolture Community Action Group at http://www. caboolturecommunityaction. com/ is at 23 Hayes Street, 4510 Caboolture. Ph: 5309 4122. They help local people and people who are homeless.

719

BRIBIE ISLAND

NEIGHBOURHOOD CENTRE IS GETTING A WELLDESERVED UPGRADE!

Bribie Island Neighbourhood Centre are the ones getting the support they need, after supporting our community for so long. We attended a meeting with the Minister for Communities and Housing, Minister for Digital Economy and Minister for the Arts

The Honourable Leeanne Enoch, Member for Pumicestone Ali King and the wonderful team at the Bribie Island Neighbourhood Centre this week about a new, purpose-built neighbourhood centre for Bribie Island to deliver better services.

Bribie Island will soon be home to a new, purpose-built neighbourhood centre, with the current centre at Bellara to be demolished and replaced as part of a $3 million funding commitment from the Palaszczuk Government.

Member for Pumicestone Ali King said the Bribie Island Neighbourhood Centre has been serving the community well for many years but needs an upgrade to continue to meet the growing demand for support.

“I’m absolutely thrilled to announce that the Palaszczuk Government has committed funding to build a brand new, fit-for-purpose centre on site here in Bellara,” Ms King said. “This is a huge win, and an exciting new development for the Bribie Island community, opening the door for more services and supports for local people in need. “Not only will this new centre deliver better services for locals, but it will also provide good job opportunities during construction.”

A tender is currently out for the design of the new centre, with the tender for construction to be issued midyear. Minister for Communities and Housing Leeanne Enoch said demolition of the existing centre is anticipated to begin later this year, with construction of the new centre forecast to be completed next year.

“During construction, neighbourhood centre services will be delivered from an alternative site in the local area, ensuring people are still able to access the services and supports they need,” she said. “The replacement of the Bribie Island Neighbourhood Centre forms part of our commitment under the Communities 2032 strategy

to build new neighbourhood and community centres and upgrade existing centres across the state. “In the 202223 State Budget, I announced a $39 million investment to build new centres and make significant improvements to existing centres, as part of our record $115.8M funding boost to the Neighbourhood and Community Centres sector. “Neighbourhood and community centres are the cornerstones of their communities, and we are committed to ensuring that these centres are well equipped to continue to meet the needs of Queenslanders, supporting connected communities and local responses to issues such as social isolation and loneliness. “This is another boost for the Bribie Island community, following our record uplift in operational funding for the neighbourhood centre in the 2022-23 by more than $100,000 to $238,000.”

Anne-Louise Williams, President of the Bribie Island and District Neighbourhood Association Incorporated Management Committee, said, “The Committee, Employees and Volunteers have received the news we had been waiting for, for years… that our long-desired purposebuilt neighbourhood centre was to become a reality”. “The news of the development of a new centre was like music to our ears as we could finally vision that we could have a centre that would meet the needs of our growing community demands. “Having a purpose-built centre will benefit our community at large in a broader service delivery as we will have the room to deliver more services to those in our community who require our support”.

I have to say, after having a good look at the current centre, these guys have been doing a fantastic job working in limited space which provides such a huge service for our residents. In saying that, it was clearly evident that if they had a centre that was more accessible to people with disabilities etc, how much more they could achieve. I was actually very surprised at what they have managed to achieve so far working in a centre with limited facilities. These guys are amazing and I cannot wait to see what they achieve with their new purpose built centre. Congratulations to all involved, it truly is well deserved.

DEAR PUMICESTONE Brand New Neighbourhood Centre For Bribie!

Such great news about our $3 million investment to rebuild the Bribie Neighbourhood Centre!

The very first time I visited the Neighbourhood Centre and saw the amazing work the team does out of an undersized and out-of-date building, I knew we needed to get it rebuilt.

For those who don’t know it, the Bribie Neighbourhood Centre is located at 9 Verdoni St Bellara, and it offers services including counselling, emergency food relief and help navigating social services.

The Neighbourhood Centre team are the heart and soul of our community, and the staff and volunteers do a really wonderful job.

The Centre is the first point of call for some of our most vulnerable community members. But there are also other reasons to visit the Neighbourhood Centre, like doing a course, to learn new skills or simply connect with others.

The current building was once a dental surgery with a residence upstairs, which means it has lots of tiny rooms, odd corners, and awkward stairs.

While the Neighbourhood Centre team use every square inch of the space as best they can, it’s been a constant struggle!

This investment means we can start from scratch and create a new purpose-built Neighbourhood Centre to serve our Bribie community so much better.

The past couple of years have seen unprecedented demand for services due to COVID and now cost-of-living pressures.

During tough times our community always has a safe and welcoming place to turn.

We’ve also increased funding for food distribution services like OzHarvest so food goes to those who need it most instead of being wasted.

Planning and consultation for the new Neighbourhood Centre is underway, and construction is expected to begin late this year, and finish in 2024.

The Neighbourhood Centre might look a bit different during the build, but it will stay open and keep delivering services throughout.

The staff are looking forward to having a new purpose-built facility that will be accessible to everyone and let them offer even more services.

They tell me they are also looking forward to finally having a staffroom too!

I worked hard to get funding for the new Bribie Neighbourhood Centre because I know how important it is for our community.

If you know of a project that needs support please don’t hesitate to reach out to my office on 3474 2100 or by email at pumicestone@parliament.qld.gov.au

Warmly, Ali

PS. Don’t forget to have your say on the next Bribie Island Bridge! Community consultation closes on the 27th of February!

Because of this, our Palaszczuk Government almost doubled their ongoing annual funding to $238,000 last year.

You can have your say by visiting www.yoursay-projects. tmr.qld.gov.au/bribie-island-bridge or contacting the project team on 1800 783 016 or by emailing them at Bribie.Island. Bridge@tmr.qld.gov.au

Held on Saturday, 10 June 2023, Moreton Bay PrideFest will coincide with World Pride Month and celebrate region’s growing LGBTQIA+ community.

Moreton Bay local Courtney Act will headline the entertainment, which will also include Sneaky Sound System, Thelma Plum, DJ Havana Brown and DJ Harry K and the Fluffy Superstars.

Moreton Bay Regional Council Mayor, Cr Peter Flannery said he wanted Moreton Bay to be a place where everyone felt accepted and included for who they are.

“This is a community celebration, so I hope to see a broad cross-section from our whole community turning out to not only support our LGBTQIA+ community but also enjoy a stellar line-up of superstar performers,” Cr Flannery said.

“It will be an explosion of colour, music, dance, and comedy like nothing Moreton Bay has ever seen - but there’s a serious purpose to this party amid all the celebrations.

“Young LGBTI people are five times more likely to attempt suicide than their peers and transgender people are 15 times more likely to attempt suicide.

“That’s something that has to change, so we will be donating $5 from the sale of every ticket to assist Headspace and help them deliver their important outreach programs.

“In fact, here in Moreton Bay one-in-three young people who use Headspace services come from the LGBTQIA+ community.

“By coming along to PrideFest you will help this great charity to support people in our community.”

Moreton Bay Region Industry & Tourism CEO,

Shane Newcombe said PrideFest will highlight the support services and networks available to the LGBTQIA+ community.

“Moreton Bay PrideFest has a vision to make the region a happier, healthier, safer and more culturally rich and diverse place for the LGBTQIA+ community,” Mr Newcombe said.

“The event will empower current and future generations to be their true selves and feel accepted and proud of who they are, regardless of their gender identify or sexuality.”

Moreton Bay PrideFest is organised by Moreton Bay Region Industry & Tourism on behalf of Moreton Bay Regional Council.

Moreton Bay PrideFest will donate a portion of ticket sales to Moreton Bay and South East Queensland LGBTQIA+ charities and organisations.

CRUISE 2022/23

HUNDREDS OF MORETON BAY LOCALS, INCLUDING BUSINESS LEADERS, COUNCILLORS AND SCHOOL CHILDREN HAVE CREATED A HUMAN PRIDE FLAG TO CELEBRATE THE LAUNCH OF MORETON BAY PRIDEFEST.

Vegetable Frittata

A protein rich, veggie packed frittata. They’re also so versatile – fill them up with all your leftover veggies ready to eat for breakfast and lunch in the week ahead! The ingredients can be swopped over for your preferred vegetables.

Ingredients - 6 Serves*

8 eggs

1/4 cup light sour cream

200 g cottage cheese

1 cup marinated artichoke hearts, cut into 4

1 spring onion, chopped

1 cup broccoli, cut into small florets

1 cup baby spinach, blanched, squeezing out excess liquid

4 basil leaves

*Serving size calculator is approximate, feel free to adjust by adding a pinch here and there as needed

Method

1. Preheat the oven to 190C.

2. Whisk the eggs, cottage cheese and sour cream. Season with salt and pepper.

3. Oil a baking dish and pour half of the egg mix into the base. Add the artichoke, spinach, spring onion, broccoli and basil, then pour the remaining egg mixture on top.

4. Bake for 30-40 minutes or until the centre is puffed and the tops are golden.

More about this recipe - Nutrition per serving, Calories 178.32kcal/746.09kj, Total Fat 11.05g, Carbs 4.46g, Sugars 2g Protein 14.69g, Sodium 473.24mg, Fibre 1.86g

W E D N E S D A Y S

A C H I C K E N P A R M I G I A N A S E R V E D W I T H C H I P S A N D S A L A D O R

C R E A M Y M A S H & S E A S O N A L V E G E T A B L E S * .

N B : G l u t e n F r e e s u r c h a r g e a p p l i e s $ 2 0 S P E C I A L O F F E R $ 0 S P E C I A L O F F E R

T H U R S D A Y S

Y O U R C H O I C E O F O N E , T W O O R T H R E E A U T H E N T I C C U R R Y D I S H E S

S E R V E D W I T H S C E N T E D R I C E & A C C O M P A N I M E N T S . M I L D , M E D I U M

O R H O T H O T H O T ! * .

S P E C I A L O F F E R F R O M $ 2 0

F R I D A Y S

o n d i t i o n s a p p l y S u b j e c t t o a v a i l a b i l i t y n o t a v a i l a b l e i n c o n u n c t i o n w i t h a n y o t h e r o f f e r n o t r e d e e m a b l e f o r c a s h n o t t r a n s f e r a b l e O f f e r m a y b e c h a n g e d a t a n y t i m e a t m a n a g e r ’ s

m a g e s a r e f o r i l l u s t r a t i v e p u r p o s e s o n l y N o t a v a i l

$ F R E E S P E C I A L O F F E

There is a degustation dinner coming to the Bribie Island Golf Club on Saturday, February 25th which follows on to the very successful degustation night last year and allows chef Brian to flex his cooking skills with wines to match

The entertainment this year will be jazz themed which from memory will be a first in a long time and the wines I have selected will be from several regions and countries including France, New Zealand, Tasmania and Australia to add to the interest for the night.

On arrival, I selected an interesting French Blanc de Blanc from Charles Pelletier which will refresh the palate for what is to follow.

The first course is Mountain top wild Mushrooms on Sourdough Bread which will be paired with The Angove Lost Farm Tasmanian Pinot Noir an earthy wine that has recently won a double gold medal at the Melbourne Wine Show.

The second course comprising of Dukkha Crusted Salmon with sweet potato mash, green asparagus with lemon Hollandaise will be served with The Mount Riley Sauvignon Blanc from The Marlborough Region of New Zealand, this wine showcases the best of this style.

The third course of Duck, Hazelnut and orange salad, pan-fried duck breast, roasted hazelnut served with orange rocket salad with fig vinaigrette accompanied with The Mount Riley Pinot Gris.

The main course will be a Succulent Jack Creek Black

Angus Beef Flank, Grilled Beef Flank Confit tomato, rocket, fried polenta, and asparagus with a port reduction served with a Cabernet Sauvignon from Hollicks of Coonawarra a favourite of mine.

To finish this outstanding line-up will be a deconstructed lemon lime meringue, lemon curd, lime meringue, native desert lime, and mandarin gel with thyme shortbread served with Hollicks ‘The Nectar’ Botrytis Riesling.

If this fantastic line-up appeals then you will have to act quickly as it will be limited seating so give Catherine a ring in the office at the Bribie Golf Club on 3408 1457.

Valentine’s Day is just around the corner and obviously French Champagne comes to mind, we gave Mumm French Champagne a good rap for Christmas and that would be my choice or for something really special go for The Perrier Jouet Belle Epoque with each bottle adorned with hand-painted flowers, surely a way to capture the heart of your loved one. Locally sparkling wines from Mumm Tasmania, also from Tasmania Arras Sparkling wines made by the sparkling wine master Ed Carr, Australia’s most awarded sparkling winemaker, is giving the French a run for their money, Chandon Brut from Victoria will never let you down

In a recent edition of The Winelander, we discussed the growth of the Endeavour Group which after being floated on the Australian Share market by Woolworths as a stand-alone liquor enterprise taking all of Woolworth's liquor interests allowed the company to concentrate on its grocery business Endeavour has announced a further vineyard purchase which to date would certainly be the highest profile and that is Cape Mentelle from Margaret River. This is surprising given Cape Mentelle was owned by The LVMH group (Louis Vitton Moet Hennessy) one of the most valuable private companies in the world. Why this purchase surprises me is not the range now owned by The Endeavour Group, Krondorf from The Barossa, Oakridge wines from The Yarra Valley, Chapel Hill and Shingleback from McLaren Vale, Riddoch from The Coonawarra, Isabel Estate from Marlborough in New Zealand and Joseph Chromy from Tasmania, it is that these wines will now be sold exclusively by the groups own liquor outlets as I assume that Coles outlets of Liquorland, Vintage Cellars and First Choice Liquor, Independent liquor outlets will be excluded from selling these brands.

As an agent myself for many years, this portfolio would be like having a jewellery store of wine brands however I can’t see The Endeavour Group employing a team of reps calling on Liquor stores and restaurants when the wines are being sold in BWS, Dan Murphy’s, Cellarmaster and Langton’s Auction House.

Cheers Philip Arlidge

arlidge@bigpond.com.au

From Lily Bollinger of Bollinger Champagne fame discussing her love of her wine, an oldie but a goody and just in time for Valentine’s Day.

“I drink Champagne when I’m happy and when I’m sad. Sometimes I drink it when I’m alone. When I have company I consider it obligatory. I trifle with it if I’m not hungry and drink it when I am. Otherwise I never touch it-unless I’m thirsty.

HELPING YOU LEAD A FRUITFUL LIFE

Banksia Fruit Barn which you all would know previously as Wrights Fruit barn is family owned and operated, servicing the local community for the past 36 years and has now taken it to the next level!

Now not only do they stock fresh fruit juices and smoothies and freshly made fruit salad, now they have Rico's Deli with a delicious array of deli meats, cheeses, pasta etc. Banksia Fruit Barn is also stocked up with Maleny Dairies products, an award-winning, family-owned and operated business that consistently produces top-quality, delicious, natural and healthy dairy products for all Australians. Banksia Fruit Barn proudly supports Australian farmers, with their fresh produce and products being sourced from local suppliers and growers wherever possible.

To make it even easier for you Banksia Fruit Barn offers FREE home delivery for all orders over $20 and they are now also open on Sunday!!! And just to add a yet another bonus for you, if you spend $20 you will get to go in the monthly draw! (monthly winners to be announced in the Bribie islander magazine).

1st prize $100 Voucher to spend in store

2nd prize $50 Voucher to spend in store

3rd prize $20 Voucher to spend in store

Banksia Fruit Barn has great weekly fruit n veg specials as well, so what more could you ask for? The best fresh fruit and vegetables in town, a range of gourmet grocery lines, a fresh continental deli, and a juice bar!! Banksia Fruit Barn is passionate about food and loves sharing their passion with our wonderful community. The produce tastes beautiful and it lasts. The staff are so friendly and welcoming, with good old-fashioned service, come in and give junk the boot, eat some fruit!

Beachmere District Community Markets

The B.D.M.S. Community Markets are held at the Men's Shed 53 Rogers Street Beachmere, every 1st Saturday of the month 7.30am - 12 Noon.

Bribie Island BICA Markets

The Bribie Island BICA Markets are held at Brennan Park, Bongaree, the 3rd Sunday of each month from 6am -12pm

Bribie Rotary Markets

The Rotary Markets are held at Brennan Park, Bongaree on the second Sunday of each month from 6.30am – 12 noon

Queensland Cancer Council Markets

The Cancer Council Markets are held at Brennan Park, Bongaree on the first Sunday of each month from 7am to 12 noon.

The Sylvan Beach Munch Markets (Farmers Market)

The Munch Markets are held in the park opposite the Bribie Island Hotel on the 1st Saturday of each month from 9am to 2pm

Banksia Beach Market

Bribie Harbour Shopping VIllage is held on the last Saturday of each month 8am to 2pm

The Bribie Island Comm Plant Nursery

The BribieIsland Community Plant Nursery is open Tues to Sat 8 am to 12 pm

The Bribie Island Lions Market

2nd Sat of the month at Tintookie Park Woorim 7am - 1pm.

Bribie & District Woodcrafters Assoc & Bribie. Island Gem Club Open Day and Markets

Our Markets Are Held On The Last Sun Every Month 8am - 12pm Contact Ian Trail 0401 134 384

THE OVERLAND Telegraph

THE OVERLAND Telegraph

Episode 3Desperate Negotiations

By Al Finegan

AFTER TEN YEARS IN SOUTH AUSTRALIA, CHARLES TODD HAD ESTABLISHED HIMSELF AS AN INSPIRED ASTRONOMER. HE WAS ALSO A COMPETENT WEATHER FORECASTER AND THE MOST COMMITTED TELEGRAPH EXPERT IN AUSTRALIA. HIS SALARY HAD INCREASED, AND THE TODDS’ POSITION IN ADELAIDE SOCIETY SEEMED SECURE.

During this period, the Todds lived happily together. Alice thrived on her relationship with Charles, her position in society, and the raising of their children, yet the health of her Cambridge family was a concern. In 1861, she persuaded Charles to spend a substantial portion of his annual income to send her and five-year-old Lizzie on a trip back to England. She purchased a berth on Irene, setting sail on 19thDecember 1861. Months on the high seas seemed worth it to see her family again. Alice’s sister Sarah wrote a letter to Charles describing Alice's arrival. “A few nights ago, I heard a carriage coming down the street and soon there was a loud knocking at the door. Dear Papa hurried down, while Mama and I waited anxiously on the landing. “Mama,” cried Papa, “it is our dear Alice and little Elizabeth.”

After the initial delight at her arrival, she began to feel like an intruder. None of her family had seemed remotely interested in hearing about her promised land and she felt left out of their gossip. Where she had imagined a triumphant return to the bosom of her family, she discovered that her nephews and nieces were shy of her and Lizzie, and her parents were absorbed in their other grandchildren. Alice became desperately homesick and needed to return to her husband, as it became clear to her that her true home was in Adelaide with Charles and her children. When she arrived back in Adelaide after nearly a year’s absence, her son Charles, by now 3, refused to kiss her. Nevertheless, it wasn’t long before she restored her family home to normal, and a contented Alice knew that this was where her destiny lay.

Charles, meanwhile, was jubilant that the continent had been crossed. He grilled John McDouall Stuart about the details of his explorations, wanting to know exactly how wet the “top end,” near the embryonic port of Darwin, could get, and whether there was enough water for horses in the centre. Stuart reassured him that there was no sea in the centre, and that, with only one exception, at a place now called Attack Creek, the few Aborigines he had met seemed friendly. Satisfied that he could do it, Todd wrote to

the governor, “The erection of an overland line to the North Coast should be regarded as a national work, in the carrying out of which, all the colonies should unite.”

The various interested parties in Australia and Britain agreed. From discussions in Britain, three options emerged for the Telegraph line route, all originating from Batavia (Jakarta) by submarine cable. The first would be to Moreton Bay on the East Coast. The second would be to Perth, WA. Finally, to the North Coast, followed by a landline to Queensland. A line across the centre to Adelaide wasn't even in discussion. It was agreed however, that whichever the route chosen, the cost would be astronomical. Buying into the debate, Ronald Guzman, an American cable company owner from the US, said that he had the answer. He argued that he had managed to raise over £1,000,000 to lay a cable from Britain to America. He was a spiv, but an impressive one. He favoured the Queensland route as being the most profitable (for him). He wrote to Lord Stanley, Colonial Secretary in London, with his plan, then sent his brother Francis to butter up the Colonial Office and persuade them that the scheme, which was going to cost £800,000, was a bargain.

Guzman travelled to Australia to talk to the colonial governments, with a view to getting them on side. He landed first

in Adelaide. As soon as he set foot in town, Charles steered him to the bar of the only smart hotel and, over a bottle of claret, laid out his plans. He spoke convincingly to Guzman stating that an overland route through the centre would be only a quarter of the cost of a line along a swampy coast and jungles. After receiving counter arguments in Qld, Guzman retreated, complaining that the colonies had opinions of their own and it was, “a discouraging factor.”

With Guzman’s departure, and a now disinterested Colonial Office, it was another three years before anyone thought about a Telegraph line to Australia. In the meantime, Todd continued discussions with Stuart to learn as much as possible from his north/ south crossings. Stuart’s health was deteriorating rapidly. In April 1864, he was farewelled from Adelaide to return to England. Todd settled down, reluctantly shelved his plans, and resumed a happy contented life with Alice and the children. Then, in 1869, Charles’ reverie ended. The Telegraph construction and maintenance company which had laid the line to India, announced that they had plans to connect to Australia. Sherard Osbourne, the Managing Director, stated that he would do this if he could partner an Australian colony or company to share the costs and the profits. In London, MPs were dismissive of a Telegraph link as being too expensive, too difficult, and bound to end in failure. Charles immediately lobbied the SA government to allow him to make a proposal directly to Osbourne. Some politicians developed cold feet, with one MP calling it, “an egregious plea of insanity,” and another said, “a blatant white elephant.” But the new governor of SA, James Ferguson, did not want a British Australian link that bypassed his colony.

The Times of London bought into the argument, publishing a letter from a prominent businessman, Dalrymple Ross, who contended that the size of trade with the Australian colonies necessitated a link with the home country. Ross pointed out that, “… by 1867, the population of Australia had grown to over 1.5 million, and the number of livestock to 50 million, and with 2 million acres of land under cultivation. The total number of letters sent the year before had been nearly 27 million, and the mining interests had already made £5M profit.” The editor of The Times concurred, publishing an editorial demanding that a line should be expedited. The Colonial Office, under parliamentary pressure, dusted off the earlier proposals. They agreed that a line should be constructed, and the first choice should be a line built from Darwin to Normanton in Qld, thence overland to connect with the existing terminal in Rockhampton.

When Todd received the news that their plan didn't include Adelaide as the hub of the new system, he was frantic. He addressed the SA parliament, explaining the situation, stating that their failure to be the hub for Australia, would mean that Adelaide would be consigned forever to be a backwater town. Consequently, the SA Government sent a letter to Osbourne’s company saying that they would be prepared to pick up the tab for a landline to Adelaide. On Todd’s advice, it promised to deliver the landline in two years for only £120,000. Osbourne knew he had been offered a bargain, but he also needed to talk to Qld to see what they could offer.

Charles convinced the SA government that they needed to do something spectacular to secure the contract. With Charles’ urging, it passed a bill to allocate funding for him to prove that SA was capable of constructing the north/ south line. Only a few dissenting voices muttered that this was a “childish game of opening your mouth and shutting your eyes.” Todd was told to press ahead. He made a public appeal for assistance to win the contract, explaining the benefits in terms of employment and commercial possibilities. The SA colony rallied to his cause. Charles ordered 100 Afghan camels with their drivers from Egypt, 6 heavy harnesses, 45 pack saddles, 300 collars, and many map cases, instrument cases and haversacks for the officers. His planned line would consist of a single strand of 8-gauge galvanised iron and purchased a sample from a company in Manchester. He bought insulators from Germany, and batteries and relays from England. A bakery produced hardtack biscuits. A farmer from Booyooloo station invented a way of preserving beef chunks in gravy which they canned with red labels and nicknamed “bully beef,” (so creating a staple which served Australia and the British Empire for 100 years), all designed to make the overland crossing possible.

Meanwhile, the happy Todd home suffered, as Charles became unbearable, working 20 hours a day. Alice could barely cope with the tension. By 1870, she had given birth to another child, Alice Maud Mary, and now with four children under 15 she needed a lot of support. But she was also increasingly desperate for a link to her homeland. When her father died in 1865, he didn't even know that he had a new four-month-old grandchild. Alice, ever faithful, remained steadfast, maintaining a calm and well organised home for Charles.

By 11th April 1870, when Osbourne arrived in Australia on a fact-finding mission, Charles’ preparations were complete. Osbourne’s first port of call was Adelaide. Public involvement was now so great that the newspapers devoted pages to

his arrival. With Osbourne as the guest of honour, the whole town turned out to see the exhibition of equipment, food supplies, and animals that Todd had accumulated. Charles made a speech declaring that crossing the centre would be the cheapest solution, contending that SA only had to deal with desert, while Queensland had to negotiate jungles and swamps. Osbourne left, impressed.

He was in no hurry and waited while the two colonies competed for the contract. On 4th June 1870, he wrote to the SA government, “The cable will be landed at port Darwin by 31st December 1871. Will the SA government pledge themselves to have a landline open for traffic by 1st January 1872?” It was a tight call, but SA agreed. Meanwhile he negotiated with Queensland, telling them that the company would lay a line to Normanton if Qld would guarantee the cost of the additional cable to Rockhampton. The Queensland government agreed.

Despite all his efforts, Charles’ contacts reported that it seemed as though Qld was still going to win the contract. The line had only to be a third of the distance and their treasury was flush with cash from cattle and gold. SA had almost nothing in its treasury and was being drained of good men by the day as they went off to pan for gold in other colonies.

In a last desperate attempt at success, Charles sent a letter to Osbourne stating that he was so confident of success, that if he went over the 18-month deadline, SA would start paying penalties of £70 for every day’s delay. For Osbourne, this was the tipping point. The contract was signed in June 1870. The line had to be open on 1st January 1872. Charles knew that his city of only 184,000 people would be ruined if he failed.

Queensland was furious. William Cracknell, their Superintendent of Telegraph wrote to the British government saying that the South Australians were deluded, and in any case, his state had already built some of the land link. It was too little too late. Charles had won the day. Todd wrote in his diary, “Then perhaps for the first time, I fully realised the vastness of the undertaking I had pledged myself to carry out. It was my last ambition which I had eagerly looked forward to, but now that its weight really rested on me, I must confess at times it seems too heavy to bear.”

SA's future was now suspended on a thin metal wire.

FLINDERS AND BONGAREE - Great Mates

Pioneers to be remembered on Bribie

MY LAST HISTORY PAGE WAS ABOUT THREE GREAT MATES - BONGAREE, FLINDERS, AND TRIM THE CAT. THIS ARTICLE TELLS A LOT MORE ABOUT THEIR AMAZING EXPLOITS TOGETHER, AND THEIR VISIT TO BRIBIE ISLAND IN 1799.

BONGAREE was the first known Aborigine to circumnavigate Australia and

contribute to the knowledge of Australian people and coastline. He was a sharp intellect who quickly made a mark on the fledging colony and in 1798 went on a 60day trip to Norfolk Island on HMS Reliance, where he met the young English naval lieutenant Matthew Flinders. Flinders was so impressed with Bongaree’s friendly demeanour and bravery that the following year he took him on his coastal survey voyage to Bribie Island and Hervey Bay on the Norfolk Bongaree was a very good diplomat and overcame language barriers to ascertain the wishes of indigenous people they encountered along the coast. Flinders also took Bongaree on his

most exploratory voyage, the first circumnavigation of Australia on the Investigator in 1802/03 during which much of Australia’s unknown coastline was mapped.

Flinders wrote that Bongaree was “a worthy and brave fellow who saved the expedition numerous times “, and as the only aborigine on board, he served a vital diplomatic role as they made their way around the coast overcoming different language barriers. Flinders later wrote in his book of Bongaree’s “good disposition and open and manly conduct and his kindness to the ship’s cat named Trim”. Back in Sydney Bongaree was given old military clothing including a cloak and hat and granted 15 acres of land at

Georges Head. He had several wives over the years, including his last Cora “Gooseberry” who was known as his Queen. Bongaree remained influential within his own Aboriginal community, taking part in corroborees, trading fish, and helping keep the peace. He died at Garden Island in Sydney in November 1830 and was buried in Rose Bay, and his obituary was printed in The Sydney Gazette and The Australian.

REMEMBER BONGAREE

Bongaree was a popular subject for early portrait painters and was captured in 18 portraits and other wider landscapes or groups. His were among the first full-length oil portraits to be painted in the colony and the first to be

Barry Clark

Bribie Island Historical Society

published as a lithograph. His name is only commemorated by the Bongaree settlement on Bribie Island and a coastal walk in Sydney from Chowder Bay to Georges Heights, where his farm was located. The only known sculpture of him is a small bust by Aboriginal sculptor Laurie Nilson in the Mosman Town Hall, Sydney.

I think it would be appropriate to have a life size sculpture of Bongaree right here on Bribie Island to remind us of the remarkable man our settlement was named for, with his good friend and great cartographer Matthew Finders, and their significant role in the naming of Australia. The important role of Bongaree in the exploration of Australia seems to have been almost lost. There are many statues and memorials to Matthew Flinders in Australia and around the world, and even the cat Trim, but as far as I am aware not a single statue of Bongaree has been erected anywhere to recognise his achievements. The place named Bongaree on Bribie Island is where it should be.

MATTHEW FLINDERS

The son of a surgeon born in Donington, England, on 16 March 1774, and at the age of 14 was inspired to be a mariner after reading “Robinson Crusoe” . He joined the royal Navy and sailed with William Bligh (of mutiny fame) bringing breadfruit from Tahiti to the West Indies. In 1895 at age 21 he sailed to Sydney with George Bass and Bennelong , an aborigine who lived where the Sydney Opera House now stands, who was returning from a trip to

England.

Bass and Flinders initially sailed in a very small boat around Tasmania, and then Flinders with his midshipman brother Samuel, took Bongaree on the Sloop Norfolk to explore Morton and Hervey Bays that had been first sighted and named by James Cook in 1770. On that 6-week trip they spent 16 days around Bribie Island and Moreton Bay. When they first landed on Bribie Island the locals tried to grab Flinders cabbage tree hat, resulting in confusion and a shot being fired and a spear thrown. Flinders named the area “Skirmish Point” recalling a similar incident experienced by James Cook at

continent on the Investigator. While Flinders was away in England

Bongaree helped establish a new convict settlement at the mouth of the Hunter River later to be called Newcastle.

While in England Flinders married his childhood sweetheart Ann Chappell planning to take her back to Australia with him, but Banks would not allow it, so Ann was left behind. Flinders sailed back to Australia in 1801 and mapped the south coast and Great Australian Bight, before meeting French explorer Nicolas Baudin aboard the Geographe off Kangaroo Island on his way to Sydney.

Months later Baudin arrived in Sydney with his crew very sick with scurvy, such that only 12 of the 170 crew could work the ship. Flinders crew helped the Frenchmen into port, where they stayed recovering in tents beside Flinders crew for many months. This friendship and assistance seems ironical as Flinders was taken prisoner of War by the French in Mauritius a year later, on his way back to England, after completing a circumnavigation of the Australian continent with Bongaree.

Botany Bay 29 years earlier.

The Norfolk had to be beached for repairs at Whitepatch where they saw large empty huts with arched roofs and found shields and strong fishing nets. Their Interaction with the Bribie residents was friendly but cautious, as the fear of firearms had obviously spread. While the Norfolk was being repaired, they took the boat up the Pumicestone river, walked to the Glasshouses, saw Dugong and black swans, and danced and sang with the locals. Bongaree gifted one of his own spears and his woomera throwing stick to them. They tried hard to speak each other’s names calling him MID-GER PLINDAH and his brother DAM-WELL and Flinders wrote the three names of YEL-YEL-BAH and YEE-WOO and BO-MA-RIGO . The exchange of names indicates a special relationship that resulted from Bongaree’s services as intermediary.

After 11 days on Bribie they returned to Sydney where Flinders achievement were soon recognised and in 1800 he was invited by Joseph Banks (who sailed with Cook) to return to UK to lead an exploration of the whole southern

Flinders and Bongaree, so I will complete the story in the next issue.

MORE BRIBIE HISTORY

Historical Society monthly meetings are on the second Wednesday of each month at 6;30 pm at the RSL Club with great guest speakers and visitors are always welcome. See more stories and photos of Bribie history on our Web Site Bribiehistoricalsociety.org.au and Blog Site http://bribieislandhistory.blogspot.com or contact us on bribiehistoricalsociety@ gmail.com

Crosswords - QUICK & CRYPTIC

Across

1 Open to inducement (11)

9 Funambulist’s support (9)

10 Deadly non-poisonous snake (3)

11 Bum (5)

13 Rash kid (anag) (7)

14 Nurture (6)

15 Requites (6)

18 Object (7)

20 Additional (5)

21 Relieve from — free (3)

22 Easily made to feel disgusted (9)

24 Resolute (11)

Down

2 Urge on (3)

3 That will teach you a lesson! (2,5)

4 Conflicting (2,4)

5 Independent ruler in Arabia (5)

6 Oil (9)

7 Drawing of a human with the head represented by a circle and the body by straight lines (5,6)

8 Deep diving vessel for underwater exploration (11)

12 Remove the load — Rubens did (anag) (9)

16 Facial feature (7)

17 Second shot at tennis (6)

19 ___ Brush, a fictional red fox (5)

23 Tavern (3)

Across

6 Leave it as it is my boy? - On your head be it (7)

7 Caveat required to cover jockey (5)

9 The season for a sailor? (4)

10 Inclination for writer to sit with unknown (10)

Down

1 Old set went astray - give it a rest (6,4)

2 Oops! I'd mangled a wood-lice (6)

3 Enthusiastic about hobby? - not I unfortunately (4)

4 Health drink for sick teenager (5,3)

CRYPTIC

184

11 The German and her Pole will lead to more cunning result (8)

Solution no 16,443

13 They count outsiders as irritable (6)

15 Popular vote has short PM for Australia (4)

17 Monster from Hardy novel (5)

18 The head sees it as savoury with the right emphasis (4)

19 Revolution sees the French backingIt's to do with backbone (6)

20 Little scamp put on a performance with journalist - inspired! (8)

23 I miss piano played more quietly (10)

26 Graceful or dreadful, it produces some of the upper-class (4)

27 Once, art nouveau was a bit much (5)

28Pay them out - I know what it's like (7)

SOLUTIONS

QUICK SOLUTION 184

5 Does strange verse (4)

6 A big hit by accident, has the manuscript revised (5)

8 A cog needed to repair the cart (7)

12 They start in the middle of a circle (5)

14 Italic typo error has some relevence (10)

16 Agent gets a lift - do it again (7)

17 His job is direction on board (8)

21 On time to get the action going (6)

22 Nearly, finally, premature (5)

24 Mark my words - it's a record (4)

25 Might I be a cross old goat? (4)

Air Fryer Crumbed Babybel Cheese

INGREDIENTS

2 eggs

40g (1/4 cup) plain flour

200g bag Mini Babybel Original, wax coating removed

2 cups crushed Twisties

Sweet chilli sauce or tomato sauce, to serve, optional

Step 1

Whisk egg in a bowl. Place the flour and the Twisties in separate bowls. Dip the Babybel cheeses in flour and shake off excess. Dip in egg then in the Twisties, pressing firmly to coat. Repeat with egg and Twisties to double coat.

Step 2

Place in the basket of an air fryer and spray with oil. Air fry at 170C for 5 minutes or until crisp.

Mia’s Miracle

You may have heard of the savage attack upon our dog by another dog as we walked along the beachside park at Banksia Beach.

The attack on our dog Mia occurred on Friday 4th November. Many of you will have followed Mia’s progress on Facebook from her receiving life-threatening injuries to her amazing recovery and return to our care at home.

Allowing her story to be published was not to receive any notoriety but as a warning to others as to what can happen to your family pet whilst walking in a “safe” area where others may have dangerous dogs not under control.

Whilst we wish to thank all the kind people who assisted in many ways toward little Mia’s recovery there are some who deserve a special mention.

Katie and her fiancé who were picnicking for their towel to wrap Mia in and her partner for driving me home to get my car. Help at that time may have been lifesaving.

Tina’s initial posting on Facebook was a warning

to other dog lovers and the community rallied.

And a special thanks to wonderful KES (FB) who provided regular updates regarding Mia’s progress and recovery. People we have spoken to and judging by the responses on Facebook have really appreciated the regular updates on Mia's recovery. A special thanks to those who donated Thanks to “My Belly Pupcakes and Dog Treats”; Lauren and Shelley. They very quickly donated the hamper, with so many things in it, to be raffled as a fundraiser. They also let Sue set up a table and chair for the raffle in their market stall, they talked to their customers about Mia and sent them over to Sue to buy tickets.

And what about Sue? Sue put her hand up, never having done anything like it before, being out of her comfort zone, and boy, did she run with it! Fortunately her neighbour, also Sue, was literally on call when it was so busy. What a great team.

The 2 Sam’s, who organised stalls, one at the Munch Markets and one at the

Banksia Beach Harbour Market, many thanks. All of this would not have been possible without the cooperation of the administrators of the FB Bribie community groups who allowed KES to post Mia’s story. Also letting people know about the raffle when they realised KES was updating people on a community concerning Mia's welfare, and that included the draw date of the raffle. So, thank you to the Administrators.

Fortunately, we have the Queensland Veterinary Specialists located at North Lakes. They operate a 24hour service and without their facility and the services offered, we would in all probability not been able to save our Mia.

As it was, she spent the first week in their ICU and when she was well enough handed over to the Surgical section for two weeks to get her well enough to be returned to us for twice-weekly visits and wound management. Total treatment lasted about six weeks involving at least 25 return trips to QVS.

We were overwhelmed by the support Mia received from the Banksia Beach dog lovers and feel so fortunate that we chose to live in such a wonderful community.

Sincere thanks, Phil, Maralyn & Mia

TO PUNISH OR NOT TO PUNISH PART

2

In this issue and future ones I will refer to puppies and dogs as puppies and using the male gender.

In the last issue I wrote that punishment should never take place and one of the main reasons it doesn’t teach your puppy what or how to behave. Everything your puppy does is normal behaviour – barking, jumping, digging, mouthing, even growling plus everything else he does. His behaviour comes from Evolution, Nurturing from his mother, learning from his littermates and environment or experiences. The most important learning or imprinting stage is between 3 – 17 weeks old. It is this stage that environment comes more into play, so if the puppy is taught what to do then he will never be seen as a naughty puppy. Unfortunately as puppies are cute they’re allowed to do certain behaviours even encouraged until

its not cute anymore. Two very good examples are puppies jumping and mouthing. Then when they get bigger jumping and mouthing is no longer acceptable and we try and stop the puppy doing it which only makes the matter worse. (I will discuss this in future articles). It is also hard for us to be 100% consistent. We may sometimes allow our puppies, for eg to jump and other times he gets scolded. This only confuses him and as jumping is a natural behaviour he will persist until he is punished and then repeats it and never seems to learn. The poor puppy is then seen as being naughty and stupid. If the problem keeps persisting he could end up in animal shelters due to bad behaviour and boisterousness. Punishment is not the answer but understanding and teaching him how to behave is.

Happy trainingYvonne

Yvonne's Dog & Puppy School

Yvonne Bishop (Dog Behavioural

Trainer)

Professional member APDT, PPGA

MORSE & CLIVE

Puppy Classes: 7 wks to 16 wks of age

6 Week Dog Training Classes. Private Consultations available 0416 102 071

LOUI

SPORT CROQUET CELEBRATES AUSTRALIA DAY.

Kathy Vincent

One thing the Croquet Club are really good at is having fun!! Yes, we have serious competitions, social games and Gala days but we are always ready for a bit of fun! For me, Australia Day means celebrating the fact that we live in such an amazing country. It would be great if we could all feel that and be happy.

We have many born and bred Australians in the Croquet Club, but we also have members from the United Kingdom, New Zealand and other countries too all ready to celebrate living here. Especially when you look at the rest of the world you realize how lucky we are. Recently a survey showed that Australia is the country where people live the longest. We have 2 members in their 90s in our club as well as 40-year old’s, perhaps it’s croquet that keeps them young?

Well, the bunting was up, the flag was raised, the anthem was sung, and breakfast was served, eggs, bacon, sausages, baked beans and damper of course. Lamingtons for morning tea and tucker box lunch. It doesn’t

MORETON BRIBIE BRIDGE CLUB:

Sat 21 Jan 2023

N/S 1 L Groves & J Medhurst

2 R & C Cowley  3 S Watson & R Sutton

E/W 1 R Webb & L McLaren 2 I

Best & L Wilson 3 R Medhurst & R King

Wed 25 Jan

N/S 1 A Jones & D Rubin 2

S & C Watson 3 R King & A

Tywanek

E/W 1 L Heap & B Connell 2 C & S Watson 3 H & G Shephard

Sat 28 Jan

N/S 1 S & C Watson 2 L Carr & J Wright 3 R King & N Everson

E/W 1 J Medhurst & L Groves

2 J Easey &C McAlister 3J

Newton & K Cohen

BONGAREE BOWLS MEN'S RESULTS

Scroungers Sat 21st Jan

1st Gideon Croukamp, 2nd

Peter Brown, 3rd Judi Irvine, 4th Mike Flint

Wed 4's Jan 25th Winners

Dee Morrison, Ross Bryant, Terry O'Neil, John Morrison

Runners Up Mick Falvey, Errol

Fender, David Vaughan, Arne

Jensen Scroungers Sat 28th

Jan 1st

Bob Thirwell, 2nd Peter Brown, 3rd Mike Giles, 4th

Wayne Wieland.

get much better than this. Well, actually it does because we were able to play 4 games of golf croquet too. But what were people wearing??? Certainly not the usual uniform. Some people wore flags and one member even went as far as temporary tattoos!!! But a good time was had by everyone.

Why not come down to the Croquet Club and have a go? We have several come-andtry days in the near future come and join us. See you there.

Wed1 Feb

N/S 1 K Cohen & J Newton 2

S & C Watson 3 R Webb & J Wright

E/W  1 C & S Wagg  2 LHeap & B Connell  3 G & S Barnulf

BICBC: Mon 23 Jan

N/S 1.  M Peterson & D Quinan

2. M Arthur & R King 3 M Peart & D Quinan

E/W L Wilson & M Hardy 2

D Dowling & J Easey  3 F McLaren & N Denvir

Mon 30 Jan

N/S 1 D Quinan & M Peart 2 J

Easey & M Arthur 3 R King & N Everson

E/W 1. A Jones & M Courtney

2 L Wilson & M Hardy 3 R Deacon & L Grove

Wed 4's Feb 1st

Winners Steve Pomroy, Trevor Mickelborough, Jimmy Parker, Ant Gordon

Runners Up Gary McCarthy, Col Valentine, Ian Patterson, Graham Symonds

Thurs Jackpot pairs Feb 2nd

Winners Adam Veen, John Bell

Runners Up Ian Patterson, Graham Symonds

BONGAREE LADIES BOWLS

Friday  20th January

Winners:  Sandra Scott, Brenda Hutchinson

R/U:  Wendy Rollason, Arne Jensen

Tuesday 24th January  Winners:  Kim Hagan, Tracey

Pugliano R/U:  Brenda Hutchinson, Doreen O’Halloran

Bonus Draw: Kin Hagan, Tracey Pugliano

Tuesday 31st January Winners: Doreen O’Halloran, Brenda

Hutchinson    R/U: Marg O’Keefe, Peter McQueen

BRIBIE BOWLS CLUB

Mens Pairs Results Fri 13 Jan

Winners: J Howarth, M Beutel

Runners up: F Grimsey, A

Kinnear

Out of hat winner: K Thornton, B Ferguson

Out of hat winner: K Burdon, S Root

Out of hat winner: M Andrews, C Wilson

Bunny: R Brinton, L Deakins

Random Select Fours Results

Saturday 14 January 2023

Highest Margin: E Hookey, P Andrews, L Hackwood, F Crockett

Lowest Margin: D Neumann, T Bishop, G Twigg, J Lonsdale

Out of hat winner: G Frew, H Groves, T Phillips, S Platt

Out of hat winner: B Smith, M Young, P Gee, G Mulpeter

Out of hat winner: P Neumann, W Hoelsher, S Brown, L DeRoule

Tuesday self-select triples

results 17 January 2023

Winners: M Nganeko, W Ritchie, L Tweedle

Runner’s Up: W McDougall, D McDougall, J Brazier

Out of hat winner: A Kinnear, B Doe, P Ryan

Out of hat winner: R Glasser, F Grimsey, T Phillips

Out of hat winner: M Ramage, J Sutherland, N Ramage

Bunny: R Hunter, J Ferguson, C Kelly

Wednesday Scroungers 18 Jan

1st: A Russell

2nd: L Hackwood

3rd: B Doe

Self Select Pairs Results

Wednesday 18 January 2023

Winners: K Ford, S Mitchell

Runners up: M Garfield, E Bateman

Out of hat winner: S Hose, N Gray

Out of hat winner: G Teakel, I Cooper

Out of hat winner: M Andrews, C Wilson

Bunny: M Durham, M Prewett

Random Select Triples Results

Thursday 19 January 2023

Out of hat winners: P Boyland, L Hackwood, M Wright

Out of hat winners: R Glasser, S Platt, G Riley, T Bishop

Out of hat winners: R Follett, P Conn, B Kelly

Out of hat winners: M Andrews, J Smith, K Bennett

Mens Pairs results Friday 20

SOLANDER BOWLS CLUB

W/E 04/02/2023 Tuesday:

Winners: N. Lopera, T. McCormick & C. Langley.

R/U: J. Gillies, M. Whiteside & J. Pursehouse.

Wednesday:

Winners: A. Dehnert & D. Brown.

R/U: S. Hillen & M. Power.

3rd: D. John & C. Avenell. Jackpot ($340) No winner.

Thursday:

Winners: J. Gemmell, D. Wilkins & A. Wilkie.

R/U: B. Pursehouse, J. Pursehouse & A/ Larsen.

3rd: S. Hillen, T. Curtis & B. Curtis.

January 2023

Highest Margin: D Orth, D Kaatz

Runners up: Z Elmore, J Howarth

Out of hat winner: G Teakel, E James

Out of hat winner: R Williams, W Broad

Out of hat winner: K Thornton, K Fuller

Out of hat winner: B Castle, D Bowers

Bunny: W McDougall, G Mewett Random Select Fours Results

Saturday 21 January 2023

Highest margin: R Glasser, BJ Adams, L Mather, S Williamson

Lowest margin: G Frew, L De-

Roule, I Gillard, W Hoelscher

Out of hat winner: B Castle, T Phillips, W Langford, M Wright

Out of hat winner: W Ebert, J Dunn, G McEniery, G Hutchinson

Self-Select Triples Results

Tuesday 24 January 2023

Winners: R Glasser, F Grimsey, T Phillips

Runners up: T Smith,B Robinson, W Kelly

Lucky Draw: T Bennett, V

Adams, B Lamb

Lucky Draw: J Oliver, B Castle,

Jackpot ($243) No winner.

Friday:

Winners: K. Henshaw & Rob Henshaw.

R/U: A. Lavender & B. Jackson.

1st Rnd: M. James & R. Reilly.

2nd Rnd: R. Horsfall & W. Stuart.

Saturday: No Bowls

RESULTS - W/E 28/01/2023 Tuesday:

Winners: S. Strasser, A. Anderson & A. Mehmet.

R/U: R. Clements, M. Dawson & A. Matheson.

Wednesday: Winners: I. James & R. Dickson.

P Patrikeos

Lucky Draw: N Ramage, J Sutherland, G Riley

Lucky Draw: A Kinnear, B Doe, P Doe

Scroungers Results Wednesday

25 January 2023

1st: L Hackwood

2nd: C Stroud

3rd: A Russell

Self-Select Pairs Results

Wednesday 26 January 2023

Winners: R Ferguson, J Ferguson

Runners up: K Perkins, C Perkins

Out of hat winner (triples): G Riley, P Campbell, F Crockett

Out of hat winner (triples): L Tweddle, C Smith, I McLelland

Out of hat winner: S Swain, J Howarthy

Bunny: D McDougall, W McDougall

Random Select Triples Results

Thursday 26 January 2023

Winners: I Gillard, S Mitchell, W Hoelscher

Runners Up: C Stroud, T Phillips, M Young

Out of hat winners: G Frew, J Smith, G Mellors

Out of hat winners: J Murray, M Roberts, S Williamson

R/U: T. Curtis & B. Curtis.

3rd: V. Jones & B. Hill.

Jackpot ($258) Not won.

Thursday: No Competition – AUSTRALIA DAY.

Friday:

Winners: A. Kinnear & B. Doe.

R/U: E. Holiday & K. Tucker.

1st Rnd: P. McCarthy & S. Ross.

2nd Rnd; K. Henshaw & R. Henshaw.

Saturday: Winners A. Anderson & R. Harris.

R/U R. James & T. Nash.

Greg: 0481 106 220

MATTREST

BEDDING

SLEEP RIGHT, SLEEP TIGHT . . .

Medicoil ICE

SensIce fabric – helps to regulate body temperature and keep you cool

Graphite memory Foam –This Ultra-fresh treated foam, creates the ultimate sleep experience combining a highly breathable sleep platform

5 zone pocket springs with side edge support

BRIBIE HARBOUR SHOPPING VILLAGE SHOP 5, 25 SUNDERLAND DR

HANDY HINTSand tips

SAVE MONEY BY BUYING THE LEAST EXPENSIVE DISHWASHER SOAP, THEN ADD A FEW TEASPOONS OF VINEGAR TO THE DISHWASHER. THE VINEGAR CUTS THE GREASE AND LEAVES THE DISHES SPOT-FREE AND SPARKLING

To slow the tarnishing process of silver, place a piece of chalk in your silver chest or drawer. The chalk will absorb moisture and your silver will not tarnish so quickly.

IF YOU PLACE BAY LEAVES IN ALL YOUR KITCHEN DRAWERS AND IN THE FLOUR AND SUGAR CONTAINERS, YOU WILL KEEP ANY CRAWLING CRITTERS AWAY.

Mice can’t stand the smell of fresh peppermint – so plant it around your house or put some oil of peppermint on a piece of cloth and place it in locations you suspect the mice may be visiting.

FOR A QUICK ANT KILL, MIX 2 CUPS OF BORAX WITH ONE CUP OF SUGAR IN A QUART JAR. PUNCH

HOLES IN THE LID AND SPRINKLE AROUND THE OUTSIDE OF YOUR

Another way to get rid of ants is to pour Ivory Liquid Soap around where they are. This is apparently the only soap that works.

TO UNCLOG PLUGGED DRAIN, TRY USING A CUP OF SALT MIXED WITH A CUP OF BAKING SODA – NO LIQUID. POUR THE DRY SOLUTION INTO THE DRAIN, FOLLOWED BY A POT OF BOILING WATER.

To raise the nap of carpeting after heavy furniture has matted it down, place one or two ice cubes on the area overnight. In the morning the carpet should be back up.

TO REMOVE MOST COFFEE STAINS FROM FABRIC, MIX EGG YOLK WITH WARM WATER AND APPLY UNTIL THE STAIN IS GONE. COOKWARE CAN BE CLEANED BY FILLING THEM WITH WATER AND DROPPING IN COUPLE OF DENTURE CLEANING TABLETS. LET STAND

FOR 30-45 MINUTES.

When postage stamps have stuck together, try placing them into the freezer for about 10 minutes – they should come apart without damaging the glue.

ANY CLOTH MATERIAL THAT HAS CHEWING GUM STUCK TO IT CAN BE PLACED INTO THE FREEZER. AFTER ABOUT AN HOUR THE GUM SHOULD BREAK OFF EASILY.

If your white socks are getting dingy, place them into a pot of water, add 2 pieces of lemon or a teaspoon of lemon juice and soak for about 10 minutes. Then wash as you normally would.

TO REMOVE A CORK FROM INSIDE OF EMPTY WINE BOTTLE, POUR SOME AMMONIA INTO THE BOTTLE, SET-IN WELL-VENTILATED LOCATION. IN A FEW DAYS, THE CORK WILL BE GONE.

If red wine is spilled on a carpet, it can be cleaned with shaving cream, then sponged off with water. Club soda alswo works.

Tomatoes are delicious herbaceous annuals and one of the easiest crops you can grow, even in a small space. If you’re a beginner gardener or had challenges, follow these practical tips for growing terrific tomatoes and a healthy abundant harvest.

HOW TO SELECT TOMATOES

Tomatoes (Solanum lycopersicum syn Lycopersicon esculentum) are members of the Solanaceae (Nightshade) plant family. Their relatives include potatoes, chilli, capsicum and eggplant. There are a huge number of varieties. So, how do you narrow it down to what is best for you? Obviously, the most important consideration is to choose cultivars suited to your climate. Locally adapted tomatoes tend to be more resilient to weather conditions, pests and diseases.

3 Considerations when

Selecting your Tomato Cultivar

1. Firstly, whether to grow heirlooms, hybrids or grafted varieties. Do you want to save seeds or space?

2. Secondly, do you want large or small sized fruit? How

do you intend using them in cooking and do you want to preserve them?

3. Thirdly, whether to grow indeterminate or determinate varieties. Your space, microclimate and growing season will influence this decision too.

1. Heirloom vs Hybrid vs Grafted Tomatoes

Heirloom Tomatoes

First, heirlooms or heritage tomato varieties have been carefully saved for purity and handed down for generations – at least 50 to 100 years. For this reason, I favour old fashioned heirloom tomatoes because are grown for their flavour, size, yield or other beneficial characteristics like disease-resistance. Heirloom cultivars grow ‘true-to-type’ (identical to their parent plant). Their seeds are open pollinated by insects or the wind. Therefore, the key benefit of heirlooms is you can save seeds and grow future crops for free. You know they will produce an identical tomato. So, once you have grown your favourite varieties, try breeding

GROWING TERRIFIC TOMATOES

your own cultivars. Choose the best characteristics that are adapted to your garden conditions. Then, save seeds so you enjoy future harvests with the same tomato traits. Learn more about saving and sourcing seeds.

Hybrid Tomatoes

Next, hybrids are the result of a controlled pollination method. This is where pollen from two different species of tomatoes is crossed intentionally by a gardener. The purpose is that each parent plant provides a beneficial characteristic (such as early maturity). Thus, producing a better plant in the next generation.

Hybridization does happen randomly in nature too. If you choose hybrid seeds you will see them labelled as ‘F1.’ This indicates a variety that has been bred specifically for a desired trait. Hybrid plants tend to produce bigger harvests and grow better than the two parent varieties due to ‘hybrid vigour.’ This sounds good, right? BUT the fruits grown from F1 plants will

produce genetically unstable, sterile seed. Consequently, you can’t save seed to use in following years. Why not?

F1 hybrids do not grow ‘true-to-type’ like heirlooms or grow as strong in the next generation. Hybrid plants will revert back to one of the parent cultivars. This means you have to keep buying new seed every year. So, hybrids are not a very sustainable choice and certainly more expensive! There’s huge pressure on seed banks globally. For food security, it’s safer to be self-reliant with the freedom to grow food from your own seed stocks.

Grafted tomato plants

Finally, grafted tomatoes are formed by joining two plants together. They are grown on vigorous, disease-resistant resilient rootstock. They produce a larger harvest, without compromising flavour. Grafted tomatoes can be ideal for container gardeners because you don’t need as many plants or as much space. You can also graft your own tomatoes.

With Anne Gibson themicrogardener.com

Finding the right person to carry out your building project is essential.

CHOOSING THE RIGHT CONTRACTOR

WHO MUST HOLD A QBCC LICENCE

When you're getting building work done it's important to use a licensed contractor,

as they have the relevant qualifications and experience to complete your job. Why should you always use a licensed contractor?

With all the do-it-yourself programs around, people can be forgiven for believing anyone can deliver an awardwinning home renovation

in a weekend. The reality is very different, as are the potential pitfalls of using someone unlicensed. Using an unlicensed contractor increases the likelihood of defective and unfinished work. It may void your access to Queensland Home Warranty Insurance, a scheme designed to assist homeowners when these issues occur. Licensed contractors have proven they have the skills and experience to perform the work they are licensed for, so they are the obvious choice for your next construction project.

HOW TO SPOT AN UNLICENSED CONTRACTOR?

One tell-tale sign of an unlicensed contractor is the lack of detail provided in their advertising. They may also promote a low price for their services to help disguise this fact. All licensed contractors in Queensland are required by law to provide specific details in any advertising for their

services.

These details are:

Contractor's name - a contractor can be a person or a business. This must match the name the QBCC licence is registered under.

The QBCC licence number - this is unique to that contractor.

If you are after general maintenance work under $3,300, the contractor must state in their ad that they can only do work up to this value. So, if you see an ad without these details, there's a chance they may be unlicensed.

QBCC DIRECTORY

The easiest way to find a licensed contractor is using the QBCC's free find a local contractor online search. It allows you to select the type of work you want done, as well as a location and radius. Your results will be a list of all contractors in that area, along with their licence class and contact details.

If you have a licensee's licence number or name, you can

look them up on our QBCC licensee register. This function offers more information, including a complete licence history. You may find this helpful to narrow down the licensed contractors you're considering.

To find out more about a licensee you can use our QBCC licensee register. They give you information about the type of work they do, as well as their history (any disciplinary action).

You can also call QBCC licensee register on 139 333 with the contractor's name, business address and licence number.

REFERRALS

One of the most effective ways to find a contractor is to get referrals from family or friends. You'll get insight into the quality of the builder's work, and the standard of their customer service.

INTERNET SEARCH

If you don't know anyone who has recently built, you can go online and search for contractors in your local area using your browser.

ADVERTISEMENTS

If you're looking through the ads in your local newspaper, a tip to make sure you get the right person for your job is to look at their specialty. A contractor who is doing only one type of construction work is likely to have more experience and knowledge in that area.

OTHER OPTIONS

Another way of finding a contractor is to take note of any building work going on in your neighbourhood. There will always be a sign on display, which should contain all the builder's contact details. You can also contact industry associations, like the QMBA or HIA, as well as building material suppliers and hardware stores.

It is important to ensure the right people with the right qualifications and practical experience are performing your work. By engaging a licensed contractor, you minimise unnecessary risks to your family's health and safety.

Benefits Of DOG Swimming Pools

Dogs are an important part of our lives, and we always look for ways to keep them healthy, happy and active. One of the ways to achieve this is by providing them with a dog swimming pool. A dog swimming pool offers many benefits, not only for our furry friends but also for us, their owners.

Dogs need exercise and physical activity to stay healthy and fit, and a dog swimming pool provides just that. Swimming is a great form of exercise for dogs as it provides a low-impact workout, making it perfect for dogs of all ages, sizes, and abilities. This low-impact workout is great for dogs who

may have joint problems, as it helps to reduce the stress on their joints and provides a workout without causing pain. Your furry friends also need mental stimulation, and a dog swimming pool provides just that. Swimming is a fun activity that can help to relieve stress and anxiety in dogs, making them happy and relaxed. This can help to improve their overall mental and emotional well-being, reducing the likelihood of behavioural problems such as separation anxiety and destructive behaviour.

A dog swimming pool is an also great opportunity for owners to bond with their dogs.

Swimming together is a fun activity that can bring owners and their dogs closer together, improving the bond between them. This bonding time can also help to improve the overall relationship between the owner and their dog, making them feel loved and appreciated.

Swimming in a dog swimming pool can help to improve the overall health of our furry friends. It can help to improve their cardiovascular health, strengthen their muscles, and improve their breathing. Swimming can also help to improve their immune system, reducing the likelihood of illness and disease.

A dog swimming pool can

also be used for hydrotherapy. Hydrotherapy is a form of physical therapy that uses water to help dogs recover from injury or illness. The buoyancy of the water helps to reduce the stress on their joints and muscles, making it a great form of therapy for dogs. Hydrotherapy can also help to improve the range of motion in dogs, making them more mobile and flexible.

In conclusion, a dog swimming pool provides many benefits, not only for our furry friends but also for us, their owners. Swimming is a great form of exercise for dogs, providing a low-impact workout that is perfect for dogs of all ages, sizes, and abilities. It can also help to relieve stress and anxiety in dogs, improving their overall mental and emotional wellbeing. Bonding with owners through swimming can also improve the overall relationship between owners and their dogs, making them feel loved and appreciated. Swimming in a dog swimming pool can also help to improve the overall health of our furry friends, reducing the likelihood of illness and disease.

Real Estate local

Sally Grant, Leading Real Estate Agent - Bribie & Surrounds*

Sally's customer service skills are the best you could have in a real estate agent I have dealt with many agents throughout the years and Sally would be at the top of those and one of the best to have working for you Her work ethic is second to none.

Paul Marchese, Seller

What an amazing experience it has been having the sale of my property in the hands of Wilson And Co! The service has been absolutely remarkable! Professional, courteous, a joy to be treated with respect and support, and a beautiful touch of personal interest that made for a delightful experience. A special thank you to Sally for such a great outcome! You won’t find better than Wilson And Co!

Thank you Sally for the professional sale of our home Easy transaction with you working non stop. We would recommend you to anyone - great service, excellent outcome And we saved thousands!

Carol Hetherington,

Seller

Marion & John Hall, Sellers BETTER

*Source: https://www realestate com au/find-agent/bribie-island---greater-region-qld

CAMPAIGNS BETTER OUTCOMES plus GST

WHERE can asbestos be in the home?

ASBESTOS WAS A POPULAR BUILDING MATERIAL IN THE 20TH CENTURY. MOST BUILDINGS CONSTRUCTED – OR RENOVATED –BEFORE 1990 CONTAIN ASBESTOS. IF YOUR HOME WAS BUILT BEFORE 1990 IT CAN CONTAIN ASBESTOS. ASBESTOS CAN BE LOCATED IN ANY ROOM OF THE HOUSE. Asbestos sheeting and asbestos cement might be found in a wide range of products and places including:

• cement roofing, gutters and downpipes

• fencing

• outbuildings like gardens sheds and kennels, the outdoor toilet

• cladding for walls and ceilings

• backing for tiles and kitchen splashbacks

• underneath carpet or vinyl flooring

• insulation in roofs and conduits

• electrical meter boards. How to find out if your home contains asbestos

• You can’t tell if a material contains asbestos just by looking at it. Only scientific testing of a sample can confirm this. So, if you think a material might contain asbestos play it safe and treat it like it is until you’ve had it confirmed. Asbestos becomes harmful when it is disturbed, damaged or deteriorating as asbestos fibres can be released.

• You can find out for sure if your home contains asbestos and if it needs to be removed by getting an asbestos assessment done by an asbestos professional. If you don’t own your home, you should contact the owner or property manager as a first step.

• A major benefit of using an asbestos professional who is

Asbestos & Silica Related Diseases

qualified in the safe removal and disposal of asbestos is that in the event of an incident you should be covered by the professional’s insurance. If you do it yourself, it’s unlikely that your home insurance would cover the associated removal or clean-up costs that would be necessary to prevent further harm to human health.

What rules apply to asbestos in the home?

Dealing with asbestos is the responsibility of the homeowner. Home improvements can disturb asbestos-containing materials and cause health and safety concerns.

Asbestos presents a very real health risk if:

• you renovate without first finding out if your home contains asbestos

• if you don’t use asbestos professionals to make it safe or remove it

• if you work with asbestos material without undergoing specialist training

• if you work with asbestos material without the proper personal protective equipment and don’t follow safe practice. There are some simple steps you can take to reduce the risk:

• know where asbestos could be in your home. If in doubt, get the product tested, or assume it is asbestos

• plan ahead to prevent disturbing and releasing asbestos fibres, especially when renovating

• safely remove it if damaged or in poor condition

• engage a licensed asbestos removalist when undertaking major home renovations or demolitions where asbestos might be present.

Everything You Should Know About Tree Health

Tree health is a concern for everyone who cares about natural spaces or spends time in or around trees. Trees can be a powerful and inspirational presence, as well as an important part of the ecosystem and our lives. Strong trees feel good to walk under, provide shade during the summer heat, and reduce air pollution. They help adjust Earth’s climate, produce oxygen through photosynthesis, provide homes for animals, and prevent erosion by holding soil in place with their roots that are built like anchors into the ground.

Threats to trees can come from insect infestation, disease, and physical injury. These are not limited to urban areas but are found in forests, woodlands, and even home landscapes. Tree health is affected by a wide range of factors, including individual species’ biology and genetics, the environment in which it is found, and its location within that environment (such as exposure to sun and wind).

Observable Yearly Growth

Most trees have an observable yearly growth pattern. The tree’s annual rings can help determine its age, show the timing of when it was planted or transplanted, and indicate when a tree is stressed. You can count the number of rings on certain parts of the tree. Often you will count them on the trunk, but you can also count them around branches or even twigs. By counting

annual rings in a pattern for several years, you can figure out how fast that tree grows each year.

Living Branches

The tree is responsive to its environment. Limbs can be affected by diseases, heavy winds, drought, or other environmental stresses. Limbs that are dead or dying can affect the overall health of the tree. If a limb dies, it will often break off when it falls to the ground, so you can count limbs as they fall away. After a couple of years, you will notice a pattern in how many new limbs grow each year and how quickly they grow.

Healthy Bark and Trunk

A tree’s health can be determined through its bark and trunk. The bark reacts to stresses that it may experience. If the bark has scales or cracks, it is likely to suffer from drought or wind damage. Count the number of grooves in the bark, then compare them to where you found healthy branches and twigs.

Full, No Bare Patches or Spots

Bare patches or spots on the tree are one sign of a disease. You can spot bare patches or spots on the tree using your bare hands (use rubber gloves to protect your hands from diseased sap), binoculars, a magnifying glass, or even a smartphone camera. If you spot any of these

signs it should be reported immediately. Anytime you see any disease symptoms, it is important to report them to your local conservation office so they can intervene and try to prevent the spread of a serious infestation.

Healthy Leaf Characteristics

You can tell a lot about a tree by the way its leaves look. Leaves that are thick and healthy will be large and green, with no holes or scars. You can twist or pull the leaves gently to see if they come off easily; a healthy leaf will not fall off even when it is twisted or pulled. You should also see that the buds are green or brown, not black. Their presence on the tree must be monitored because they grow into new leaves and branches, which allows the tree to recover from damage.

Recognizing Disease Symptoms

Diseases are one of the biggest threats to tree health. Every year diseases affect millions of trees throughout the world, reducing their strength and causing them to die. Whether they are caused by insects, fungi, bacteria, or viruses, diseases attack every part of a tree and cause it to become weak. These problems can spread quickly if not handled correctly.

Conclusion

The best way to know if a tree is in good health or not is to observe it regularly. This method allows early detection of problems, which gives you more time to take action and prevent the spread of diseases. Help maintain good tree health by keeping an eye on our trees and recognizing the signs of trouble so they can be addressed quickly.

The Benefits of a Magnesium Pool

The Benefits of a Magnesium Pool

SWIMMING POOLS HAVE DEVELOPED IN SO MANY WAYS OVER THE YEARS, AS HAVE OUR VIEWS ON HEALTH. THIS IS WHY SO MANY PEOPLE ARE NOW CONVERTING TO MAGNESIUM MINERAL POOLS. BUT WHAT DO YOU KNOW ABOUT THEM? ARE THEY EXPENSIVE? AND ARE THERE REALLY ANY ADDED HEALTH BENEFITS?

Both saltwater and magnesium pools work well to sanitise and maintain a healthy pool for you and your family, however there are many benefits to having a mineral pool. These include

• A reduced level of chlorine whilst still keeping the water healthy

• Crystal clear water

• Your eyes will experience little to no irritation

• Mineral pool water feels silky smooth, making it a pleasure to experience

• Child and infant friendly

A MINERAL POOL CAN DO WONDERS FOR YOUR HEALTH

The minerals used are 100% naturally occurring with no synthetic additions, which is a fantastic option if you are health conscious. Besides the reduced chemicals, some of the health benefits of magnesium include:

• A natural detoxification of the body

• Soothes the skin

• Relaxes muscles

• Relieves stress and anxiety

• Alleviates aches and pains

• Assists with skin or respiratory conditions

On top of this, there is the added environmental benefit of reduced chemical usage. The minerals are healthy for plants, so your diluted backwash water can even be used to water your garden.

Can you easily convert from a chlorine or salt water pool to magnesium?

Converting to a mineral pool from a salt water pool

Converting your saltwater pool into a magnesium mineral pool is easy. There’s no need to replace or upgrade a salt water chlorinator to a magnesium system. Simply test your salt/TDS levels by taking a sample into Aquaneo. Balance your pool water, add your minerals and that’s it!

Converting to a mineral pool from a standard pool

Firstly you’ll need a salt and/or mineral water chlorinator. There are many models on the market, so talk to the team at Aquaneo to see which is best for you.

Is it expensive?

It’s not as expensive as you’d think. The initial start-up cost of bags of mineral salts would depend on the size of your pool, and ongoing maintenance minerals are really quite low. You will need to check your magnesium levels once a month, or after heavy rainfall or high water evaporation. Just bring in a sample of your pool water and we can do that for you free of charge.

TALK TO THE EXPERTS

For all things pool and spa, call 1300 279 502, or visit us at 179 First Avenue in Bongaree.

OR “Click and Collect”

LIFE FLIGHT VISIT

At the recent VMR Bribie Committee Meeting they had a guest Visitor Tony Preston from RACQ Life Flight where Tony presented a presentation on the Life Flight operation and as well a de brief was held on a recent May Day Call of Cape Moreton where VMR Bribie, Life Flight and Water Police were involved. Tony also took time to have a look at Bribie One and talked about the possibility of some joint training exercises..

creams dipped with nuts and chocolate (or not) for dessert. The usual raffles were held along with some others kindly donated by Thomas Mieni. Commodore Ces Luscombe welcomed everyone and thanked all for making the evening enjoyable: - Kelly and her Social Committee, the BBQ Boys, meal and raffle Ticket Sellers, and the Bar Team.

SUNSET DRINKS

Friday 20th January 2023

51 Active members and partners attended the first Sunset Drinks for the year. The Social Committee dished up Bangers and Mash, beef and/or chicken sausages, with plain or onion gravy, fried onions, mashed potato, with peas, carrot, and corn. With waffles cone ice-

Chris Hadley recounts stories of his recent ventures to Peter Morton, Wayne Sclater, and Ray Fox.

Traill Public Relations Officer - Volunteer Marine Rescue Bribie Island

Commodore Ces Luscombe and VMR Secretary Gary Voss showing Life Flight’s Tony Preston Bribie One.

Tony Preston and VMR Bribie Secretary and Coxswain Gary Voss discussing details of recent May Day off Cape Moreton.

Mike Pobar is presented with his Commodore’s Award from the AGM, as part of the Maintenance Team, as he was unable to attend.

Wayne Hook delivers another tray of cooked sausages.

Brenda Allardyce and Betty Snell ensure all the raffle ticket stubs are in the “Barrel”.

BBQ Boys Graham Patrick, Dave Smith, and Mike Pobar see to it that the “bangers” are cooked evenly!

Andrew Wilmot receives his raffle prize from Commodore Ces and Vice Commodore Wayne.

Vice Commodore Wayne Sclater and Commodore Ces Luscombe presented Kaye Hammond with her 5-Year Service Badge.

Brenda Allardyce, Mike Phillips, and Peter Morton in the meal serving line-up with Carol Pobar and Sharyn Giles behind the meal counter.

Vice Commodore Wayne Sclater and Commodore Ces Luscombe presented Sheryl Traill with her 10-Year Service Badge.

John Traill is presented with the first raffle prize by Commodore Ces Luscombe and Vice Commodore Wayne Sclater.

Brenda Hammond receives her raffle prize from Commodore Ces and Vice Commodore Wayne.

Mike Looney receives his raffle prize from Commodore Ces and Vice Commodore Wayne.

Chris Beanlands receives his raffle prize from Commodore Ces and Vice Commodore Wayne.

EARLY DAYS OF VMR (Continued) 1997 - 2000

A further name change to Volunteer Marine Rescue (VMR) Bribie Island Incorporated was granted in March 1997. The sole reason for the existence of Volunteer Marine Rescue groups is the saving and preservation of life at sea. Any other tasks performed, such as towing of disabled vessels, transporting persons, or assisting with boating events etc – is a secondary service provided to the public. As at July 2014 membership was in excess of 1100 members and still produced a quarterly journal “Bay Watch”, although it is now in A5 size.

VMR Bribie Island is one of twenty-six squadrons affiliated with Volunteer Marine Rescue Queensland. Its area of operation covers about 500 square nautical miles, including Pumicestone Passage, northern Moreton Bay and into the deep waters of east Moreton. The unit may also be used outside this area as requested by Queensland Water Police. The unit liaises with the Water Police and major Search and Rescue (SAR) activities are generally controlled by the Search and Rescue Mission Co-ordinator (SARMC) who is a Police Officer. On occasions activities may be controlled by the Australian Maritime Safety Authority, based in Canberra.

VMR Bribie Island active members include crew, radio operators, maintenance crews, administration staff, fund raisers and social committee members are all volunteers.

2023 YEAR RADIO ROOM STATISTICS

1,730 Calls, 562 vessels logged on, 28 Vessel Assists, 163 Sitreps, 91 Requests, 7 overdue vessels, 1 Vessel Tracking, 75 Radio Checks, 1 Weather Broadcasts, 0 Securite Broadcasts, 1 Pan Pan 0 MAYDAY.

VHF 65.7%, 27MHz 0%, Phone 19.7%.

GWN 2.0%

SAFETY DAVE

THE FRENCHIE’S MESSAGE:

Safety Dave says now that the weather is improving please check your LIFE JACKETS:

• do you have the appropriate life jacket for the whole trip?

• are the life jackets suited to the activity being undertaken?

• do you have one jacket for everyone on board?

• are the jackets in good condition and correctly labelled?

• if boating at night, do the jackets have reflective tape on them? and

• do you have an appropriate sticker/label showing where the life jackets are stored?

Many boaters have their jackets still in their original packaging – this leads to lack of effective inspection

and the deterioration of the straps. This in turn also makes it difficult to fit in an emergency.

The bottom line – life jackets should not be stowed and forgotten. They are difficult for a novice to put on in an emergency, and then it’s too late to realise they are inappropriate for the intended person in that emergency. Skippers should inspect each before each trip, show all passengers how to wear and have them easily accessible for use,

JAN VESSEL ASSISTS:

FRI 20/01 1621PM –9m Yacht member with broken steering cables required a tow from Creel Bend to mooring at Bongaree.

SAT 21/01 0831AM

– 12m Yacht member drifting towards other boats and Bribie Bridge; required a tow to Bongaree mooring.

SUN22/01 0716AM –

4.5m Dinghy nonmember out of fuel requiring a tow – B2 attended Dinghy assisted by another vessel, no further action required.

SUN 22/01 1301PM

– Tender from 14.8m Cruiser member broken down, required a tow from off Toorbul to Toorbul Boat Ramp.

TUE 24/01 1357PM –4.6m Tinny member 1km off Woorim with fuel issues required a tow to Spinnaker Sound Marina.

WED 25/01 1221PM –5.8m Runabout member with motor issues required a tow from Red Beach to Pacific Harbour canals.

THU 26/01 0732AM –7m non-member with crack in transom 25km NE Cape Moreton required escort back to Spinnaker Sound Marina.

THU 26/01 0814AM – 5.4m Half Cabin non-member with motor issues at Mission Point, stood down made it back under own steam.

THU 26/01 0956AM –2m Jet Ski non-member with motor issues required a tow from Yellow Patch (Moreton Is.) to Bellara Boat Ramp.

THU 26/01 1014AM –9m Cruiser member not starting required a tow from near Spinnaker into Pacific Harbour canals.

THU 26/01 1228PM

– 6.5m Half Cabin non-member with

motor failure required a tow from between Tangalooma and Cowan Cowan to Spinnaker Sound Marina.

FRI 27/01 0643AM –6.4m Centre Console non-member with motor issues required a tow from behind Tangalooma Wrecks to Scarborough Harbour.

SAT 28/01 1137AM – 10.5m Catamaran non-member lost gears at mouth to Pacific Harbour required a tow into Pacific Harbour.

MON 30/01 1104AM –4m Tinny member motor won’t start South of Bridge required a tow to Bongaree Boat Ramp.

MON 30/01 1425PM – 6m Cuddy Cabin member with faulty fuel pump required a tow to Toorbul Boat Ramp. Banksia Beach.

Mike Looney has his raffle prizes examined by all at his table, from left: Mike, Liz Radajewski, Rob and Vanessa Taylor, Jen Herbert, Andrew Wilmot, and Natalie Hill.

Gwen McNamara enjoys the surprise dessert!

Ray Fox proved age was no barrier to enjoying an ice-cream in a waffle cone.

Commodore Ces Luscombe also presented Mike Phillips with his Commodore’s Award from the AGM on behalf of his RSL Raffle Team Fundraisers.

Patrol 1 Shark Cat - 2 x Yamaha 225hp outboards .... Patrol 2 5.2m Cuddy Kevlacat 2 x 70hp Yamaha outboards. Patrol 2 tows the floating pontoon and part of the walkway into place. The pontoon and walkways were delivered to Spinnaker Sound Marina for unloading from the trucks and floated across to Bellara. (Follow-on articles will be published in subsequent Issues of this magazine).

Pauline Amourous on bar duty.

FISHING, BOATING AND ADVENTURES

Hello anglers, While this heat and humidity is uncomfortable for us, it has bought Mangrove Jack to the bite. Good catches have been reported from Coochin creek, Glasshouse creek down to the Bribie canals, whole squid and mullet as bait.

Flatheads are still in the passage in numbers. Our Junior Angus has been having a great time with hard body and soft plastic lures. Armour Prawn Chasebait lures have also been working well.

School mackerel, cod, flathead, bream, and grunter bream have been caught from the jetty. Snapper to 54cm, Jew, Venus tusk fish and big grunter bream have been caught from under the bridge.

Reports from the channel marker say catches have been very patchy, some school mackerel to 70cm but lots of smaller ones. Many anglers have said they are being busted up on heavy gear, sharks maybe?

Copyright Chasebaits

The Armour Prawn is a super tough hard body prawn built to battle big fish. With a hard flicking tail, lifelike profile and tough hooks and split ring, this will become your go-to lure. Use the front tow point to glide across the flats or use the rear tow point for hard vibing action to really get some attention. In the shop $19.95. Tight lines and screaming reels. doc

BRIBIE BAIT TACKLE &

BIKES

BRIBIE BAIT TACKLE & BIKES

Family owned since the 90’s

Family owned since the 90’s

Largest range of bait and fishing tackle on Island with expert advice for all fishing & cycling needs 3408 1347

Largest range of bait and fishing tackle on Island with expert advice for all fishing & cycling needs

TRADING HOURS: Mon - Fri 7am - 5pm Sat 6.30am - 5pm | Sun 6.30am - 4pm

TRADING HOURS: Mon - Fri 7am - 5pm Sat 6.30am - 5pm | Sun 6.30am - 4pm

Bribie Island AND Moreton Bay

Responsible Crabbing Responsible Crabbing

or no-take crabs can be released unharmed. Ideally, you should not leave gear unattended for more than 7 days. If you’re not sure when you’ll be back, take it with you.

DO• Make sure your crab pot/ dilly is heavy enough and has enough rope attached to the float, so it’s not lost in strong tidal currents. Lost crabbing gear can harm marine animals and becomes marine litter.

• It's best practice to make sure your pots/dillies are in water deep enough at all

stages of the tide so marine animals caught in the gear are not exposed to the sun and unwanted crabs can be released alive

• Sort your crabs on a potby-pot basis to remove any notake crabs before moving on. If you don’t, any illegal catch in your pot is considered to be in your possession

• Check your pots/dillies regularly to ensure any bycatch

DON'T

• Hook crabs – hooking crabs is illegal

• Interfere with another person’s crabbing gear – this is a serious offence that carries heavy penalties. Stealing crabs or crab pots is a criminal offence. If you’re caught you will be reported to the police. Crab pots and dillies

• You can use up to 4 crab pots or dillies (or a combination of these) per person.

• You can’t have more than 4 pots or dillies per person on a boat in the water.

• A pot or dilly must have a tag attached with the surname and address (number, street, town, state and postcode) of the person using the pot/dilly –this information must be clearly visible, legible and in English.

• The pot or dilly must be attached by a rope to either a:

• solid, light-coloured float at least 15cm in all its dimensions and marked with the user’s surname

• fixed object above high water (e.g., a jetty or tree) – the rope must have a tag attached to it above the highwater mark with the user’s surname on it (sunken and unmarked pots are illegal).

• You can’t use inverted dillies (witches’ hats).

Bushwalking on Bribie Bushwalking on Bribie

MELALEUCA Bicentennial bushwalk

Wander through a paperbark wetland and bloodwood forest and discover a vibrant landscape of native plants and animals. Fill your senses with the magnificent sights, smells and sounds of these melaleuca wetlands. Wander along this walk and be surrounded by wallum flowers such as mauve vanilla lilies and parrot wedge peas. Discover grasstrees scattered in the understorey, with a canopy of bloodwoods. Walk quietly for a chance to spot scarlet honeyeaters and scaly-breasted lorikeets darting through the trees. Keep your eyes peeled for koalas dozing, eastern grey kangaroos grazing and lace monitors warming themselves in the sun. Getting there and getting around

The Banksia Bicentennial bushwalk is in Bribie Island National Park and Recreation Area. Drive

• From the bridge turn north onto Sunderland Drive and continue to the community arts centre.

• From the car park, follow the 300m walk through a rainforest to a large waterhole and the trail head of the Banksia Bicentennial bushwalk.

• Walk the 500m of the Banksia bushwalk before

• Walk the 500m of the Banksia bushwalk before joining the Melaleuca bushwalk.

By boat

• The closest boat ramps are on the mainland at Golden Beach, Bells Creek and Coochin Creek.

• There are also boat ramps at Sandstone Point, Toorbul and Donnybrook on the mainland.

• On the island you can launch your boat at Bellara and Bongaree boat ramps.

• When boating over seagrass beds in Pumicestone Passage, do your best to minimise impacts on dugongs. Take it easy and observe the go slow areas.

• Read boat and fish with care for tips on boating and fishing safety and caring for parks.

Distance 1.5km

Time suggested Allow 1.25hrs walking time.

Grade Easy (walk)

PALM GROVE Bicentennial Bushwalk

Walk among foxtail ferns and native palms and watch native birds feasting on the fruits and flowers of blueberry ash. Discover a slice of heaven along this walk that starts from Sunderland Drive, near the

bridge, and you don't need a 4WD to get here. Take a leisurely stroll through native palms and fox tail ferns and find blueberry ash adorned with seasonal fruits and flowers that attract scarlet honeyeaters and scaly breasted lorikeets. Watch them feasting on the nectar and flitting about the trees.

Tread quietly and you might be lucky to spot an eastern grey kangaroo grazing or a lace monitor basking in a sunny spot along the track. Look up into canopy to spot koalas resting in the fork of a tree. Getting there and getting around

The Banksia Bicentennial bushwalk is in Bribie Island National Park and Recreation Area. This bushwalk begins near the community arts centre.

• From the bridge turn north onto Sunderland Drive and continue to the community arts centre.

From the car park, follow the 300m walk through a rainforest to a large waterhole and the trail head of the Banksia Bicentennial bushwalk.

• Walk the 500m of the Banksia Bicentennial bushwalk before joining the Palm Grove Bicentennial bushwalk.

Distance 1.3km return

Time suggested Allow 1hr walking time.

Grade Easy (walk)

BANKSIA Bicentennial Bushwalk

Explore remnant wallum heathlands and spot colourful birds and other wildlife on this delightful bushwalk. Starting from Sunderland Drive, near the bridge, stroll through wallum heathlands featuring grass trees and banksias. In a banksia woodland scattered with white-flowering wedding bush, walk quietly and you're likely to spot scarlet honeyeaters or scaly-breasted lorikeets feasting on the nectar from the banksias.

Look for eastern grey kangaroos grazing in the distance or a lace monitor basking in the afternoon sun along the track. Getting there and getting around

The Banksia Bicentennial bushwalk is in Bribie Island National Park and Recreation Area. Drive

• From the bridge turn north onto Sunderland Drive and continue to the community arts centre.

• From the car park, follow the 300m walk through a rainforest to a large waterhole and the trail head of the Banksia Bicentennial bushwalk.

Distance - 500m one way.

Time Suggested: Allow 15min walking time. Grade Easy (walk)

BEFORE YOU VISIT

OPENING HOURS

Open 24 Hours A Day

Check park alerts for the latest information on access, closures and conditions. There are no wheelchairaccessible facilities.

What to Bring

Don’t forget to bring along a hat, sunscreen and a water bottle.

There’s a range of birdlife to see, so take your phone/ camera along too. You may catch a glimpse of rainbow bee-eaters, red-backed wrens, and eastern yellow robins, as well as a host of other beautiful and wellcamouflaged birds

Please Note: Dogs and horses are not allowed on the trails.

BIEPA is running a project with Ozfish to help restore shellfish reefs in Pumicestone Passage. The team's latest achievement was to deploy dozens of floating bird roosts that also provide a home for oysters. This was done in partnership with Healthy Land & Water as part of their trial of shorebird roosts in Moreton Bay.

The day started at 0830 as planned. Liz Gould from Healthy Land & Water led the day. OzFish stalwarts Robby Porter and Colin Scobie accompanied their (trailered) heavy-duty barge which was loaded with the project’s equipment. The BIEPA contingent led by Peter Alexander was supported by members Jill Sanders, Doug Parrington, and Rhys Walker, with the use of a small tender to assist if required. A total team event of 7 persons.

Our Federal Member of Parliament, Terry Young generously met with us all at the VMR boat ramp with words of encouragement.

The location of the floating bird roosts with oyster baskets is in the Pumicestone Passage between the Kakadu and Torbul shorebird sanctuaries, close to Shag Island. The timing was coordinated with the tide

&

so that the team could work on the exposed sandbank, to manually install six 'screw' anchors and three 25m long heavy plastic lines, to which the 120 floating baskets were attached. Those lines were connected to the anchors by heavy-duty poly rope and galvanized steel shackles. Six coloured buoys were strategically positioned to warn recreational boaties who may be tempted to venture near the raft of 120 baskets.

On completion we saw that as the tide came in, all baskets floated as expected, moving gently with wind and tide. The final task before the water rose was to position and fix in place, nearby the floating baskets, a 7m tall steel pole. Atop the pole a camera that once turned on was programmed to send to Liz of HLW via electronic signal a photo of the floating raft, initially programmed for once every 30 minutes.

When there was sufficient water to float the barge and small tender, we all returned to the VMR ramp, completed the activity paperwork and said our goodbyes. The event was completed as planned and without mishaps.

Close Encounters of the BEAR kind.

By David Horrocks

Bears or the sighting of them is a big draw card for tourism in many parts of the world. Their attraction is manyfold in that they can be very dangerous creatures which adds more than a little spice of excitement to the adventure when trying to seek them out but also they are furry attractive creatures even though very large and fearsome. The sight of young cavorting playful cubs with their caring mother nearby can be memorable and will elicit admiring noises from observers.

There is a protocol that is advertised on signboards at the approaches to areas where bears are thought to inhabit. The words on the signs erected on Kodiak Island the home of the second largest bear in existence only exceeded in stature by the white Polar Bears in the high arctic areas are worthy of quoting. The would-be adventurer is advised that if they are confronted by a bear they should -

Identify yourself, talk in your normal voice. Wave your arms.

Help the bear recognise you.

DON’T RUN.

Don’t crowd the bear. Report sightings to park HQ.

Be safe!

Now I’m not joking with this, I have pictures. Imagine; confronting you is a powerful critter that can stand seven feet tall, that can run at 40 KMH when roused and you’re expected to introduce yourself. “Hello Mr Bear, I’m really friendly and mean you no harm”. All without a quiver in your voice and, DON’T RUN!

We befriended a Canadian animal expert and lecturer who travelled with us one time who told us that he had had such an experience whilst hiking at night through a forest. Bears have

red eyes that glow in the dark. He met two pairs of them one night. He obeyed the advice on the signs. The bears stood for a while and then shuffled away. He never mentioned needing a change of underwear.

Our own bear meeting occurred on Kodiak Island, Alaska during the full light of day. Together with another couple we had engaged a guide to take us around the area in his vehicle. We visited the sites of WW11 defences – the Japanese had fought to take the islands and the US and Canadian troops had fought them off in the 1940s.

We saw huge nesting sites of bald eagles and watched them soar in hundreds on the air thermals. But what we wanted above all else was to see a bear in the wild. The guide spent hours searching areas where bears had been sighted in the past all to no avail. Towards late afternoon in disappointment, we gave up and started to head home.

“There, over there” called out my wife, “In the swamp, in the swamp”. We all looked to where she was excitedly pointing and there he was, grazing in the water-covered grassland – a large dark, blondcoloured Kodiak bear. These creatures are omnivorous and eat vegetation as well as salmon during the running seasons. He was taking his fill.

The guide immediately drove us off the road and down an embankment telling us that we’d better hide the car because if others saw us parked, they would stop to see why and we wanted the sighting to ourselves at least at first. All five of us scampered across the elevated highway and down the reverse side and into a small copse of trees for cover. The guide told us that he was a mature male, obvious by the large hump between his shoulder blades. He wasn’t too long out of hibernation – his fur was still a bit tatty having not yet recovered

his full coat. We watched fascinated as he lowered his huge head into the water and pulled large amounts of greenery to eat. He was on all fours as he fed. The small trees that were giving us cover didn’t keep us from his gaze for long. Suddenly he stood up to his full height, looking around, probably scenting the air as well. He then gushed a huge spray of water out of his mouth. “He’s seen us”, said the guide. I turned to relate the news to my wife. She was already halfway up the embankment directly behind the other lady in our party making very rapid progress towards the highway and the safety of the car. I turned to the other guy and the guide with eyebrows raised, “time to go”? Nods of agreement were the answer, so we forgot about the advice on the warning signs and high-tailed it after the ladies.

Full of excited chatter the car headed off back towards more civilised parts. What a thrill we’d all had. It was all over too quickly and no really good pictures had been taken but we had the memory of it all to take with us.

The guide told us more about the way the bears were treated locally. We were shocked when told that for a couple of months each year, hunters were licensed in return for huge fees to hunt and kill the bears. However, these fees were given over to the preservation of the species and the only bears that could be killed were the largest alpha males. This suited the hunters of course whose trophies would be all the more impressive. The guide said that there were reasons for this rule in that the alpha males who roamed the area would kill any cubs they found to try to bring the female into season again. By reducing the predators, the bear population actually increased which was good for the bears, the visitors, the tourist industry, and the locals it employed.

DISASTER DASHBOARDS IN QUEENSLAND

LOCAL COUNCILS ARE THE FIRST POINT OF CALL QUEENSLANDERS SHOULD TURN TO FOR INFORMATION AND DIRECTION AT THE TIME OF A NATURAL DISASTER.

In preparation for storm, cyclone and bushfire seasons, many councils will be out and about running events, pop-up information stalls and other activities to help their community Get Ready for when the next major weather event occurs.

Queensland’s local council websites and disaster dashboards provide important information to support local communities during and after disaster events.

The disaster dashboards include information about:

• evacuation centre openings and locations

• river heights

• road conditions and closures

• power and phone outages

• helpful contacts.

You can also sign up for local weather alerts and other support information on many council websites.

BRIBIE ISLAND WRAP

www.mypolice.qld.gov.au/moreton

BRIBIE ISLAND BEACH OPERATION ENSURING SAFE DRIVING ON THE SAND

Across the public holiday on Thursday, January 26 and through the weekend, Officers from Bribie Island and Highway Patrol conducted random breath testing and patrols on Woorim Beach, to ensure road rules were being observed on the sand.

We would like to thank the great majority of you for taking care and making great decisions on our beach.

During this period, police performed over 220 breath tests with no positive drink drivers detected – a very welcome result!

Considering the high volume of vehicles visiting the beach to make the most of the sunny weekend, we are also pleased that majority of motorists observed the road rules and only ten traffic infringements were issued.

A 21-year-old-man from Narangba was

issued with an infringement for driving without due care and attention, after it is alleged he was fishtailing in the sand.

A 17-year-old Donnybrook man was issued with the same infringement, after it is alleged his 16 year-old female passenger was seen sitting on the vehicle window sill with her body protruding out the window. Both offences occurred on January 26, on Woorim beach.

Driving without due care and attention imposes a $575 fine and a loss of three demerit points.

An 18-year-old Caboolture man was issued an infringement on January 26, at Woorim when his passenger was found not wearing a seatbelt.

This infringement incurs a $1078 fine and four demerit points.

Other infringements issued, also resulted from motorists speeding and driving defective vehicles.

Family and friends of Harrison Payne who

died as the result of a single vehicle traffic crash on Woorim Beach in 2021, were also in the vicinity over the weekend, raising awareness for beach goers about safe driving.

They teamed up with members from the Forensic Crash Unit to talk to drivers about the impact of poor driving decisions in hopes of helping stop any more tragedies from occurring on our beaches. You can read Harrisons story on their webpage and find out more about the Harrison Payne Initiative.

If you have information for police, contact Policelink by providing information using the online suspicious activity form 24hrs per day at www.police.qld.gov. au/reporting.

Report crime information anonymously via Crime Stoppers. Call 1800 333 000 or report online at www.crimestoppersqld. com.au.

Dear Editor

No Australian items at Kmart. They are owned by nonAustralians so why do they care? It's all about the mighty dollars, that's all, nothing else, absolutely no patriotism at all. What can I say, we as people are stuffed (to be polite.) Here are the multinationals saying you don't have to celebrate Australia, but they will take the free holiday for Australia day. Do you know that Canada's economy is in fast decline and will not ever recover for 2 to 3 decades because the bleeping (greenies) is running the show?

No new mineral exploration, no new trees being harvested, petrol cars being ditched for horses and carts. Don't work or work little, hang around in parks smoking the good stuff (as they say.) Demark is also the same now, the good news is Ireland is fast becoming the richest country per head in euro countries leaving Germany etc, far behind and will grow at 22% plus over the 2 to 3 decades. Look at Ireland's past, now look at us in Australia, see any similar trends to Canada?

Yes, we are stuffed too, and it all starts with banning Australia day, our past. How 1,000,000 Australian men and women fought and died under the flag for Australia. I did, what a stupid idiot I was, and I was green under the gills. Would not do it again for the weak pathetic greens and the like, that once had a country that was going to be a middle-level power. Albo and Brandt took something that could have been a world powerhouse and wrecked it for us all, even the veterans that fought for a better Australia. So, thanks, Albo and Brandt, Philip, a dumb Vietnam veteran. Dear Bribie Islander Editor, I find it astounding just how many kind faces offer a

smile or a hello to me on my daily Esplanade walk. Either unprompted or returned these kind gestures are the essence of what makes Bribie special. Such community spirit.

The daily average for a 45-minute walk is around 23 enthusiastic hellos and 5 plain acknowledgements or less enthusiastic hellos. Smiles are infectious. They are acknowledgement. They help people feel seen, appreciated, and worthy. During the 111 days I spent in Melbourne lockdown the smiles on my one hour of Government approved time out of my house really got me through the day. Smiles remind others although we may not be able to hug or have time to chin-wag that humanity is inherently good. Connection is vital and necessary.   Thank you to all the friendly walkers. You constantly brighten not only my day but my toddlers too.  You are the silent heroes of Bribie, and we are grateful for you.

Big love,

Bree

Dear Editor,

As a nation of diverse cultures and beliefs, we have embraced Anzac Day on the 25th of April every year commemorating and giving respect to those who served in war.

On the 26th of January we as thinking, caring, educated people, could commemorate and recognise  that on this day in 1788, Captain Arthur Phillip raised the Union Jack at Sydney Cove and proceeded to invade the land. This action led to genocide and near annihilation of first nations language, culture and people, who had inhabited this land for thousands of years. I believe this day should always be remembered.

A National Sorry Day with a

smoking ceremony every year on this day would make sure these actions will never be forgotten. It should be taught in schools to all children. that this day is the anniversary of the day that changed the life of the indigenous tribes forever.  This country is an amazing colourful diverse land, but we need more RESPECT REGARD & REFLECTION.

Love this land.

Sooz

Dear Editor

Once again, I take pen in hand to comment on your esteemed publication. Arriving as it does, fast and free – generally, on a Friday, I rushed to open it and read the latest news. Alas, however, (and horror), I felt it lacked something this time. A spark, a carefree note, something to bring a smile to my face. As is my wont I wondered if things could be spruced up or improved. We have all come to love the regular contributors and their stories of our past, their past, and other people’s pasts. But again, I wondered if perhaps they could be limited to oncea-month contributions. I’d like to see more of the butterflies – the gardens – the birds of Bribie (feathered), rather than, for example, hear about slow drivers and how bad our bridge is (letters). Not to mention Global Warming and why the “trolls and deniers” just can’t accept that they are wrong, and our letter writer is right. I wondered if we could approach our schools and ask for a regular contribution – what was once called a “composition”. Maybe even have an Annual/Fortnightly Prize for the best from a local business – Maccas? I do like the recipes, so again – a contribution of recipes from

the public – their favourites. One subject that might interest the visitor and locals alike, is a feature on Bribie Walking Tracks. Can we walk from Banksia to Woorim for instance, in comfort and ease, through the National Park, as a real estate person suggested in their advert? Another idea might be a review of books that your readers have read. I must say, I do love the horoscope, so I would have this at the back for ease of access. You get the idea – just a change of style, not a change of ethos.

Perhaps Barry and Al could take alternate editions for their history lesson? Elaine’s sage comments might be more hard-hitting if held for every second edition. Even David’s interesting article on the luggage he lost some 50 years ago seemed to lose some of its gravitas by the second page ...! I never did find out if he ever got it back. I had to take Archie for a walk.

I must admit I did like my stars – “you are an important, influential person, and (I’m) flattered such a person has found time to read this ...”. Clearly this astrologer has her/ his finger on the pulse and understands the importance of the Aquarian in life today. My favourite articles for this edition – notwithstanding David’s lost luggage dramawere the Butterflies and the Grey Teal Duck. Although, I always enjoy the dog photos. Thanks again for an awesome magazine.

Cheers

Michael Matthews

Dear Editor,

Whilst it appears the majority of Australians are seriously suffering from price rises across the board, especially those

with home loan mortgages, the Reserve Bank of Australia give the impression to have only one strategy in response, to raise interest rates.

Philip Lowe, Governor of the Reserve Bank, purportedly the highest-paid public servant in the country, is paid over $1,000.000 per annum. Salaries of the Banks multitude of staff vary from $85,000 to $159,000. I find the cost to taxpayers for the Bank's operations to be sickening if another rate rise is all they can come up with. Why are we paying a fortune for people who appear to lack vision and the ability to think outside the square and at least produce some alternative ideas?

I could go to the pub on a Friday night with a group and discuss how prices are still on the rise, so how about we raise rates again this month, it’s a no-brainer. Australians are hurting and suffering badly, I believe the Board of Governors are a joke and their short-sighted strategies are unacceptable!

Derek Patey

Dear Editor,

My partner alerted me to the content of some of the letters in the last issue. They caught our attention because they raised issues of concern to us both, that is, the high incidence of incivility (especially when driving) and the incidence of animal-car collisions on the island.

It is useful to have these issues aired but I wondered if singling out particular groups (tradies, slow drivers and hoons) might be counterproductive? Perhaps equally counterproductive, is playing the blame game i.e., the assertion that slow or inattentive driving causes others to take unnecessary risks. Abusive conduct and dangerous driving should not be tolerated under any circumstances and to suggest otherwise implicitly sanctions such conduct. Do we need to go back to fundamentals?

Such as thinking carefully about the space we live in and how we conduct ourselves within that space – we create space and in turn, that space creates us (Lefebvre). For example, does

the MBCC need to address, as a matter of urgency, traffic speeds across the island? This was suggested by an audit of speed signage proposed more than two years ago which as far as I know has yet to be carried out. A standard 50km, across the whole of the island (which is the case in Donnybrook) would help normalise this speed for the island and help curtail expectations that people travel either faster or slower. Research also demonstrates that animal-car collisions are significantly reduced at lower speeds. Secondly, it comes down to the much trickier question of RESPECT. If people could only pause to think just for a moment about the effects their actions have on other humans and animals and remind themselves instead of the warmth and goodwill that is generated by displays of patience, kindness and generosity.

Carole Rushton

Dear Editor, MORE THAN JUST WORDS! Modern-day usage (or even our traditional Aussie “slang”) is OK by me – but does anyone really bother about the real meaning of words anymore?

Are we to accept that everyone who gets to the bar first for a round of drinks for their mates is a “legend” …..everyone who does anything normal to help people in trouble is a “hero”….. and every place worth visiting, or subject to wide public appeal, is “iconic”? Really? These three words …..legend, hero, and iconic…..surely are the most overworked and misrepresented words in the English language in Australia today. (I don’t know about the rest of the world; I don’t get around that widely, these days).

I have heard teachers and other “learned” people in recent times tell us that being understood is what it’s all about today – not whether or not we use “proper English” ….or even spell it or write it correctly.

Well, I’m finding it more than just a little hard to swallow that little gem of modern educational wisdom. In fact, I cringe every time I hear these words of very poor advice from people who really should know better.

If this is the advice that our

young people are getting from teachers (and others) in our classrooms in these challenging times of change for them, then it is no wonder that our rough-cut “Ocker” image persists….and not (necessarily) as a positive reflection of who we are. As media reports constantly remind us, it also should come as no surprise to anyone that illiteracy among our emerging adults remains one of the biggest problems confronting the country’s education system, and (most significantly) those served by it….today’s young citizens - our leaders of tomorrow.

Col Walker, Sandstone Pt.

Dear editor, It really is at the beyond-thepoint with the little darlings' crime spree. Let's face it. It's really the bad luck of the draw coming from around the third generation of dole bludgers. Blame past governments for being gutless! Not making it compulsory to get a job. Give one-month benefits whilst looking for work. If nonfound, then give them paid work regardless of whether they like it or not working on different Council projects, or for businesses crying out for labour.

Back to the present. We can obviously see these youths are not deterred by the current system. In fact, mocking it, and gain prestige for the crimes they commit.

Solution!!! A Boot camp approach. Far out in the bush build work camps. No walls! Too far to escape. NO communication with the outside world. All are run by ex-cops, and ex-military. Make them assemble their accommodation from prefab huts. All very basic. Learn to cook all meals under the guidance of ex-chefs. Form groups initially living in tents whilst assembling their huts. Teach them skills that they can continue with when back in the community. But! put into halfway accommodation, where they can be given guidance. Education. Work. Above all... Respect for themselves, and others. It just might work!!! HOWEVER!!! Another final solution... Resurrect Sir Joh-B. J. Bellara.

Letter to the Editor:

On the 24th January this year I posted the following message in the Bribie Island and Surrounding Areas Open Forum Facebook page:

“Message to the Motorcycle Rider 044VN, who speeded through the school Zone after 7 am when the lights were on warning that children could be present for school today: You are not qualified to ride a motorcycle. Quit while you are ahead.”

While many of the 30 posts supported me for calling out this bad behaviour, there were a number of counter productive and critical posts like:

“If you’re worried about someone's riding call police link.... FB does nothing”

My answer: “Police will do nothing. FB tells him what he did wrong. A learning experience.”

The police will not charge someone on my word alone, but the rider or someone who knows him might have a word to him about it.

A surprising number of posts were like this one: “'Speeded'”. My response: “Sped and speeded are both standard inflections of the verb to speed, and neither is more correct than the other. The old rule, purveyed in many English reference books, holds that speeded works only in the past-tense phrasal verb speeded up, but this recommendation is dated. In real-world, 21stcentury usage, writers generally use whichever they think sounds best. Speeded is widely used without up, and sped is likewise used both alone and with up. Sped is about three times as common as speeded, though, which suggests that it remains the safer choice.”

Why don’t they read the previous posts to see the answer to a question that has been asked many times?

My point is Why are people so super critical online?

I have read much worse in other posts. People who are trying to contribute to the Bribie community are silenced by nit picking, super critical, nay sayers. These things would not be said face to face.

Why can’t we be supportive neighbours online as well as face to face?

Dr. R. Zolin