The Bribie Islander Issue 216 may 31, 2024

MUDDY MORETON BAY

DANCING FOR THE SEA TURTLES 66 31 VOLUNTEERS NEEDED 17

Dear Readers,

Welcome to our latest community magazine edition, where we highlight local achievements, promote community events, and encourage active participation. As the cold weather approaches, let's heat things up with exciting updates from our vibrant community.

Congratulations to all the winners of the Pumicestone Small Business Awards. Your hard work and dedication are truly commendable! These businesses represent the essence of our community! All the businesses voted for in the awards, winners or not, are fantastic examples of what makes our community unique. We hope to see a community services award included next year to recognise outstanding organisations like Busy Fingers, VMR, Pumicestone Indigenous Education

& Employment Council, Butterfly House, B. I Community Nursery, B.E.I.P.A, B.I.N.C, and more for their invaluable contributions.

Be sure to check out our feature on "Dancing with the Turtles," a remarkable collaboration between the Celtic Minstrels and Bribie Islands Turtle Trackers. By securing your spot at this event, you'll not only have an amazing time but also play a vital role in supporting our turtle population. Your participation matters! Until next time,

Take care, Stay safe,

CONTRIBUTORS

Anne Matthews

Al Finegan

Barry Clark

Bribie Bait & Tackle

Colin Walker

David Horrocks

Elaine Lutton

Greg - Recipes

Joie Scheinpflug

John Traill

Karyn Chalk

Katherine Miller

Kathy Vincent

Maria Christina

Marj Webber

Peter Schinkel

Peter Dallimore

Philip Arlidge

Robyn- B.I.

Boat Charters

Sue Wighton

It’s no secret that most women prefer the experience, environment, and services of a salon that exclusively caters to female clientele over traditional barber shops or unisex hair salons. But why is that, and what should you look for when searching for the best women's hair salons and stylists?

FEMALE-CENTRIC ENVIRONMENT

Women prefer women’s salons because they provide a relaxing, spa-like atmosphere completely tailored to women. The decor is feminine, areas like the waiting room provide women’s magazines, and some even offer complimentary wine or coffee so clients can unwind. With fewer male clients coming in and out, there is more privacy, too. This creates an unthreatening environment for women to discuss beauty concerns with their stylists openly.

RADIAL /FOCUSED SHOCKWAVE THERAPY

Clinically proven* to help these conditions

• Heel pain (plantar fasciitis and Achilles tendinopathy)

• Tennis and golfers elbow

• Patella tendinopathy

• Frozen shoulder

• Rotator cuff tendinopathy +/- calcification

* Hip bursitis

• Shin splints; Heel spurs

• Knee arthritis

Specialised Services

Hair stylists at women-focused salons specialise in working with women’s hair. They are highly trained in the latest trends and technologies for cutting, colouring, highlighting, smoothing, and styling hair for their predominantly female clientele. Many also provide wig fittings, hair extensions, keratin treatments and more female-oriented services you wouldn’t find at a typical barbershop.

Products Created for Women

Another reason women prefer these salons is the access to high-quality hair care products formulated for a woman’s unique hair type and needs. Many salons carry professional brands that are not available in regular stores. Stylists sell what they know works best to repair, smooth, volumise, or curl a female client’s tresses. Advice is also provided on how to use the products properly. Getting insider product knowledge

helps maximise results from their recommended regimens. How to Find the Best Women’s Hair Salon

Once you’ve decided to book your next cut or colour at a women’s salon, here are tips on selecting the best one in your area:

Get Personal Referrals

Speaking to friends, family members or co-workers about their experiences is one of the best ways to find a great women’s salon. Women love sharing beauty advice, so ask around about stylists, pricing, ambience and overall satisfaction. This can help narrow options.

Search

Online Reviews

Today, most salons have an online presence. Search nearby women’s hair salons and read customer reviews on Google and Facebook. Pay attention to reviewers with hair types and needs similar to your own. Look for consistent 5-star ratings and glowing commentary on a stylist’s listening skills, attention to

detail, carefulness, and overall positive demeanour.

Check Qualifications

The best women’s salons have highly qualified stylists holding advanced certifications or specialties. Look into the owner and staff’s cosmetology training, years in business, specialties like balayage, updos, extensions, or keratin treatments, and before-andafter photos showcasing their work. Highly skilled staff with continued education demonstrate their commitment to honing expertise in working with women’s hair.

Book Consultation

Call or email your top salon picks and schedule a free consultation. Come prepared with photos of cuts or colours you are considering. This meetand-greet allows you to assess your communication approach, listening skills, and overall customisation to your vision. It also gives you a feel for the salon’s cleanliness, efficiency, and busyness. Take notes

afterward on pricing options and your comfortability with the stylist to determine if it’s the right match.

Consider the Perks From beverages to loyalty programs, see what special amenities or incentives each salon provides. Given all the time and money spent on looking beautiful, the best women’s salons make the experience as enjoyable as possible. Whether it’s special event styling, wig services, makeup touch-ups or hair smoothing treatments, look for a one-stop beauty shop catering to all your needs.

At the end of the day, wordof-mouth referrals and instincts on which stylist makes you feel most heard, understood and beautiful are key. The right women’s salon is an extension of your sisterhood, supporting your hair health and goals. It should leave you more radiant and confident from the inside out.

Committed To Quality And Best Salon Experience

At D'Luxe Beauty Haven- We are more than just a Beauty Salon!

We offer a unique salon setting. Our staff, who are not only professional but also highly skilled and experienced, are very friendly – you will feel at home in their presence. Our focus is on helping you look and feel your absolute best.

Our passion is simple: we live to help every guest look and feel beautiful.

We know our guests expect extraordinary results. We take our customers’ needs earnestly to heart and use only the highest quality products.

Step into our Nail Suite, a sanctuary of beauty and relaxation. We offer a diverse range of services, from stunning artificial acrylic nails to gel polish and manicures, catering to all your nail care needs. Our salon is meticulously designed to create a serene atmosphere, with plush beds and pillows in our facial, lash and waxing room. It’s the perfect haven to unwind and indulge in some well-deserved pampering, leaving all your worries at the door.

At D'Luxe Beauty Haven, we believe that quality should never be compromised. From the most popular looks and brands to the current trends and latest beauty innovations, we bring it all to you.

We are committed to being the only place you need to look great and maintain your healthy, beautiful look. Your satisfaction and trust in our services are our top priorities.

Come treat yourself at the D'Luxe Beauty Haven!

COMMITTED TO QUALITY & BEST SALON EXPERIENCE

•Nails

•Beauty

•Spa Pedi

•Lash & Brow

•Hair Removals & Waxing

•Massage

•Men’s Mani & Pedi

Check out our FB page for details!

Shop 3/91 Welsby Pde, Bongaree 07 3438 2461

h, fear – that ever-present companion lurking in the shadows, whispering doubts and casting long, intimidating shadows over our dreams. We've all felt it, haven't we? Yet, here is the secret to living a truly fulfilled life: feeling the fear and doing it anyway.

Fear, in its essence, is not our enemy. It is a natural response, a primal instinct designed to keep us safe. However, in our modern lives, it is rarely about life-ordeath situations. More often, it is about stepping out of our comfort zones and into the realms of growth and possibility.

The first step is to acknowledge your fear without judgment. Feel it in your body, name it, and accept that it is there. This simple act of recognition can be incredibly liberating. It is like shining a light on a shadow – suddenly, it is not so menacing.

Next, delve into the source of your fear. Often, our fears are rooted in past experiences, societal conditioning, or limiting beliefs we have internalised over time. By understanding where your fear originates, you can start dismantling its power over you.

Instead of viewing fear as a stop sign, see it as a signpost pointing towards growth. When you reframe your perspective, fear transforms from a barrier into a guide. It signifies that you are on the brink of something new and exciting.

You do not have to leap into the unknown; sometimes,

small steps are enough to build momentum. Break down your goals into manageable actions. Each small step you take is a victory, and each victory builds your confidence. Be gentle with yourself. Understand that feeling fear is part of being human. Treat yourself with the same kindness and encouragement you would offer a dear friend. Self-compassion nurtures resilience, allowing you to bounce back from setbacks and keep moving forward.

Take a moment to visualise yourself successfully navigating the situation that frightens you. Imagine the feelings of accomplishment and pride you will experience. This mental rehearsal can boost your confidence and reduce anxiety.

Surround yourself with supportive individuals who uplift and encourage you. Sharing your fears with trusted friends or counsellors can provide invaluable perspective and reassurance. Celebrate your courage, no matter how small the achievement. Each time you act in the face of fear, you strengthen your resilience and expand your comfort zone.

By feeling the fear and doing it anyway, you open yourself to a world of possibilities. Embrace your courage, step into the unknown, and watch your life transform in ways you never imagined.

Do you need someone to help you find the courage to take that next step? Give me a call at 0405 361 882, and together, we can create a plan to move forward.

Always with love, Maria x

Hello, my name is Lisa and I am the Founder of LJ Aesthetics. As a Registered Nurse, Cosmetic Injector, and Dermal Skin Therapist, I have over 20 years of experience in the Beauty Industry. I operate two clinics, one in Redcliffe and the other is at Bribie on First Ave in Bongaree. I welcome you to schedule a free consultation with me.

My qualifications include an Advanced Diploma of Health Science, a Diploma in Beauty Therapy, a Bachelor of Nursing, and certification in Fundamentals of Cosmetic Injectables. I have trained alongside industry leaders and am committed to continuing my education by obtaining internationally recognized industry certificates. I am now a certified Trainer and train Doctors, Dentists and Nurses in the fundamentals of cosmetics both nationally and internationally. My passion is to provide the most current and best practices to my clients, building my reputation as a highly respected professional.

I bring a holistic approach to my injectable practice, aligning with my Australian Catholic

University education. My goal is to empower my clients to achieve natural and subtle-looking beauty through cosmetic enhancement. I prioritize long-term patient care and affordability, focusing on treating volume loss and correcting asymmetry in the brows, lips, and cheeks. My commitment to my clients is to deliver a natural and subtle enhancement rather than an overdone appearance, providing impeccable care.

MY SERVICES INCLUDE

• Anti-Wrinkle Injections

• Dermal Fillers for correcting asymmetries, restoring facial volume, creating fuller lips, and shaping facial contours

• Micro Needling RF for a Mini Non-Surgical Facelift and Collagen Regeneration. This treatment promotes collagen synthesis, resulting in skin thickening, skin tightening, and rejuvenation effects.

I am very passionate about cosmetics; it’s something that I constantly think about and enjoy learning new things about. It’s a big part of my life and I always strive to improve my knowledge and skills in this area.

See you soon

Nurse Lisa

BRIBIE ISLAND WOMEN UNITED. IN FOCUS ON FELLOWSHIP FOR TWENTY YEARS

For over two decades, the focus on Fellowship (Bribie Island Ecumenical Women's Group) has remained a beacon of unity and faith. Comprised of dedicated Christian women from 8 churches on Bribie Island, the group's unwavering focus is on fostering fellowship and extending love, peace, and hope to the broader Bribie Island community.

When they first came together all those years ago, they decided that the group didn't want to lose sight of the initial goal of fellowship; they are about information sharing, collaborating and demonstrating ecumenism, friendship and togetherness.

Unlike traditional groups, Focus on Fellowship operates without a formal hierarchy or fundraising activities. They don't have a president, secretary, or treasurer, nor do they sell raffle tickets or charge for functions. Yet, they successfully fulfil their purpose, demonstrating the power of unity and shared values.

They convene three functions a year. The annual fashion parade is held in June at the Church of the Little Flower on First Avenue. The parade showcases and promotes the Op shops on the Island and their good work in raising funds for a variety of welfare organisations. Over 300 people enjoy fashion, food, and fun at the parade, which is always well-attended. The group also holds two morning teas, one in April and the other in October.

The morning teas are held at the different churches on a rotating basis. The group ask that guests bring a small plate of food to share at functions, and the spread provided is most enjoyable.

Anne Iverson and Kay Benson are inaugural members of Focus on Fellowship and continue to enjoy working with the amazing women of all the churches. The women remain passionate and dedicated to the group and to each other through their faith and care for the community.

BOOST YOUR EYE HEALTH WITH THESE LIFESTYLE CHANGES

Our eyes are a critical body part that allows us to perceive the world around us. However, they are also susceptible to various conditions affecting our vision, such as cataracts, glaucoma, and macular degeneration. While some of these conditions may be hereditary, many can be prevented or slowed down by adopting healthy lifestyle habits. So, here are a few tips for improving eye health so check them out and find a way to incorporate them into your lifestyle.

Learn more about your eyes

The human eye is a complex and delicate organ that allows us to see the world around us. As we age, our eyes become more vulnerable to various conditions affecting our vision, such as cataracts, glaucoma, and macular degeneration. However, several lifestyle changes can be made to maintain optimal eye health and prevent these conditions from developing or worsening.

Visit your doctor. Regular eye exams are essential for maintaining good eye health. Many eye conditions develop slowly and have no early symptoms. By the time symptoms appear, the condition may have progressed to a more advanced stage, making it harder to treat. Regular eye exams can detect these conditions early, allowing for timely treatment and the best chance of preserving vision. You should stick to the best doctors out there, so take your time to look for an experienced optometry specialist who knows what you need to do and who can change your life forever. Wear your sunglasses. Protecting your eyes from harmful UV rays is another crucial step in maintaining good eye health. Prolonged exposure to UV rays can damage the eyes and increase the risk of developing cataracts, macular degeneration, and other eye conditions. To protect your eyes from UV rays, wear sunglasses that block 100% of UV rays and a hat with a brim when spending time outdoors.

Quitting smoking is another essential lifestyle change that can significantly improve eye health. Smoking has been linked to an increased risk of several eye conditions, including age-related macular degeneration, cataracts, and optic nerve damage. Quitting smoking can reduce the risk of developing these conditions and may even slow their progression in those who have already been diagnosed.

Start eating healthy food. A healthy diet rich in nutrients can also help maintain good eye health. Vitamins C and E, zinc, and omega-3 fatty acids are essential nutrients for maintaining healthy eyes. Foods such as leafy greens, salmon, nuts, and citrus fruits are all good choices for maintaining healthy eyes. Eating a balanced diet with these foods can provide the nutrients your eyes need to stay healthy.

Limit your screen exposure. Staring at digital screens for long periods can cause eye strain and fatigue. This is known as computer vision syndrome, and it is becoming increasingly common as more people spend time in front of screens. The 20-20-20 rule is a simple technique that can help alleviate this strain. Every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break and look at something 20 feet away. This will allow your eyes to rest and refocus, reducing the risk of eye strain and fatigue.

Check your weight. Maintaining a healthy weight is another important factor in maintaining good eye health. Being overweight or obese increases the risk of developing several conditions that can lead to vision loss, such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and heart disease. Maintaining a healthy weight can reduce the risk of developing these conditions and protect your eyes from the damaging effects of these diseases

Hit the gym. Exercise is another important lifestyle change that can significantly improve eye health. Exercise helps maintain healthy blood vessels, including those in the eyes, which can reduce the risk of developing eye diseases. Regular exercise can also help prevent conditions such as diabetes and high blood pressure, which can damage the eyes and lead to vision loss.

Practice good hygiene. Finally, good hygiene is essential to maintaining good eye health. Avoid touching your eyes with dirty hands, and always remove makeup before bed. Additionally, using proper contact lens hygiene and not sharing eye makeup can help prevent eye infections, which can cause long-term damage to the eyes if left untreated. Following these simple hygiene practices can reduce the risk of developing eye infections and maintain good eye health.

Maintaining good eye health is crucial for preserving our vision and quality of life. Following these lifestyle tips can significantly reduce the risk of developing eye conditions and slow their progression if already diagnosed. A healthy lifestyle not only benefits our eyes but also our overall well-being. Therefore, we must prioritise taking care of our eyes by adopting healthy habits and regularly visiting an eye doctor for comprehensive eye exams.

Change Of Season.

Now is the perfect time to get Sandy to wash and sun-dry your summer bedding and prepare it for storage. Then, “freshen up” your warm winter big items, like doonas, blankets, mattress toppers, quilts, pillows, etc., all ready to return to your beds for a toasty-warm “Chilly Season.”

Bedding accumulates dust mites, oils, dead skin cells, and other debris. Regular washing is essential to keep your doona fresh and free from allergens.

Dust Mites—Over time, dust mites can colonise even the most well-kept bed. They are a common allergen, especially for children, so getting rid of them is one of the many health benefits of regular cleaning. By maintaining a clean bed, you're ensuring a healthier environment for your family.

Sweat, Fluids, and Oils—The human body is a beautiful thing. The secretions of the human body, not so much. Even if you shower before bed, your sweat, body fluids, and body/hair oils will still make their way to your doona. Over time, this can create an unpleasant smell and bacterial build-up.

Animal Hair—Cats and dogs can be furry, living hot water bottles, and that’s comforting in winter. However, this also means there will be a lot of animal hair on your doona and blankets, which needs to be washed off before storing them away.

Why use a Commercial Laundry Service?

While washing your doonas at home is possible, why not opt for the convenience and expertise of a commercial laundry service? Unless you happen to own a commercial washer or feel like spending a whole day soaking blankets in your bathtub, a professional service can take care of your doonas efficiently and effectively. This not only saves you time and effort but also ensures the best care for your doonas.

Experienced Staff - A professional laundering operation has experience with all types of fabrics and materials, so they will know how to care for your doona properly. Some materials require special care to avoid damage.

Variety of Washing Methods - Different doonas need to be washed in different ways, and commercial laundries feature a variety of washing machines to handle any job.

Multiple Doonas, One Job—If you have multiple doonas that need washing, especially in families, washing them at home transforms from a huge job to a Herculean task. At a commercial laundry, you can simply drop your doonas off and pick them up when they’re spotless.

Drying - Storing a doona with even a little moisture can lead to mould. When you use a professional laundering service, however, your doonas will be returned to you bone dry.

Clean Machines—Washing machines can accumulate dirt, so even if you manage to wash your doona at home, it may not come out all that clean. The same goes for soaking it in the tub—especially when you consider all the dust, bugs, and dirt that might fall in the water while it’s soaking.

Sandy offers quite a quick turnaround for your bulky items, but you will need to call Sandy soon, as she is getting really busy at this time of year! You will be delighted with her “tip-top” quality and “on-time, every-time” reliable service, with a smile.

Check out her website at www.sssbribie.au for services and prices.

i Laundering service for sheets and all your bulky items, including…..

i Sheets, bedspreads, doonas, covers, blankets, mattress-toppers, quilts, pillows & more

i Free pick up & delivery for Bribie and surrounds

i All items, professionally washed, sun-dried and ironed

i Bed stripping & remaking available

i Gift vouchers available Call Sandy on 0409 385 611

Email: gregorysandy@yahoo.com.au Website: www.sssbribie.au

Busy Fingers...

VOLUNTEERS - BRIC A BRAC ROOM

YOUR DONATIONS

Please

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.

Last month I mentioned our volunteers who assist us in many ways, and I thought that I would mention one of the areas they work in. In the Bric a Brac room, we sort everything except linen, clothing, books, electrical, furniture and paintings. Everything else is put into this category, things like toys; if they are small items, we place so many in a bag and sell them for a few dollars. They check that bigger toys are clean and in one piece; you would be surprised if you saw how many donated toys are broken and unable to be sold. This room also covers glasses, crockery, cutlery, tools, plastics, ornaments, cases and many other items. All items are checked, cleaned, priced and placed on the shelves for sale. The staff sort and price many trolleys each day hoping to keep the shelves stocked at all times.

be aware that we are still taking donations, but sometimes, when all our trolleys are full to capacity, and we have no other storage available, we put up a sign advising we cannot accept donations for part of the day. We ask that you drop them off another day, or if you cannot bring them back again, please arrange for us to pick them up for you. Some locals have been advising residents we do not take donations now, which is false. We apologise for any inconvenience and ask for your patience with this situation.

DONATIONS GIVEN

REQUEST FOR PRESENTATIONS AND

DONATIONS: If your club or association could benefit from our assistance, we encourage you to apply. Please include a contact name and phone number, a current equipment quote (preferably from an island business), and a brief description of your association/ club and why you need the equipment. Email this information to busyfingers1@ bigpond.com. Please note, we only support Bribie Island associations and groups, not individuals. We look forward to hearing from you.

FREE RAFFLES

We often receive new items that have not been used or opened, so in addition to selling them in the shop, we often make up a few baskets of some of the

With the help of our supporters and the many customers that come through the shop, we have been able to assist many associations on the island this month, including our permanent assistance to Hospice for the Palliative Care Suite; we were able to assist the following groups OLDER WOMEN’S NETWORK BI have asked for a printer with two replacement cartridges, BI NASHOS asked for help in taking the members to ANZAC Square facility in Brisbane, so they can take a guided tour of the galleries which are of special interest to our veterans. BI SCOUTS required a new ride-on mower as the old one was starting to need constant repairs; BACE asked for assistance in hiring toilets and a medic for their regatta.

items and give out free tickets when customers spend $10 or more in the shop. We run this for about a month to give as many customers as possible time to get a ticket before the drawing. Our President Pauline drew two tickets out just recently and informed the lucky winners.

BRIBIE OUTRIGGERS asked for a much-needed canoe as their numbers are increasing. BI WARRIGALS SENIORS NRL has asked for assistance with jerseys and training gear, and the ladies of the DRAGON BOATS needed some new equipment: twenty wooden paddles, a sweep oar and a boat cover.

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 non-for-profit associations and

We have received new guidelines for invoicing the donations we grant. Please note that when you apply for a grant, we require Quotes and Invoices to be in our name - Busy Fingers Fundraisers Inc. but for delivery to your organisation's address. Also, we have to advise that if you purchase the item before we grant it, we cannot reimburse you as the invoice is not in our name, so you must wait for our decision, and then we will guide you through the process. We do not want to disappoint anyone, so please follow these guidelines; if you have any questions, please send us an email or call us on the number above.

I would like to thank all our supporters and customers, and a very special thank you to the Bribie Islander and staff for their continuing support. I hope to see you in the shop soon. Sandra

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED at Bribie Island and District Neighbourhood Centre

‘Do you have a few hours to spare each week? We need new volunteers now, to join our caring, happy and non-judgmental BINC Centre team.

Bribie Neighbourhood Centre is a vital part of our community, working tirelessly to keep us connected, safe, and caring. We are funded by the Queensland Government’s Department of Communities—the Australian Government’s Department of Social Services funds Services Australia.

Are you able to maintain confidentiality and work respectfully with people of all ages, backgrounds, etc.? If so, we would love to hear from you about joining our team in Reception, our Information, Advice, and Referral Service, or perhaps our Services Australia Agency.

You can make a positive difference in your community by joining our friendly, helpful team!

The Neighbourhood Centre is at 50 Verdoni Street Bellara. Phone 3408 8440(Mon. -Thurs. 8.30am-3.00pm and Fri.8.30am-12.30pm).’

Volunteering has many benefits. It can bring meaning and purpose to your life while increasing your self-esteem and wellbeing. Volunteering can also relieve stress and alleviate symptoms of depression. In addition to positively impacting your community, volunteering can improve your relationships.

Volunteering can be very meaningful and enjoyable and, in turn, may be good for your mental health and well-being.

Volunteering can:

• give you a sense of achievement and purpose

• help you feel part of a community

• help you feel better about yourself by improving your self-esteem and confidence

• help you share your talents, learn new skills and create a better work-life balance

• help combat stress, loneliness, social isolation and depression

• help you meet new people, which can help you feel more connected and valued

Volunteering is a great way to meet new people and build healthy relationships. It strengthens your ties to the community and exposes you to people with similar interests. Volunteering also allows you to practise and develop your social skills.

Because volunteering keeps you in regular contact with others, it can also help you develop a solid support base. As well as helping to protect you against stress and depression, volunteering can help with mental health recovery.

Things You Can Do To Positively Impact Your Community

It doesn’t matter if you live in a big, small, or tiny city. Connecting to your community and giving back is important. Many of us want to do something to improve our neighbourhoods and the areas in which we reside, but often, we’re not sure how to go about it and make a difference. We all have the power to create positive change around us, and our experts have three things you can do to serve your community.

1. Donate Your Blood

Donating your blood can help patients of all ages. Cancer, heart surgery, accidents, burns, and more all require blood donations, and you can make an important impact on your community. Donating blood is a good and generous act that is needed now more than ever, especially during uncertain times like these. The demand for blood products (blood, platelets, and plasma) never goes away.

Hospitals in your community need an adequate supply of blood, and donating blood if you are healthy and eligible is a wonderful example of kindness.

2. Support A Charity

Another excellent way to deliver a bit of goodwill to your community is by choosing a charity to work with. Some folks have an interest in helping animals or children with life-threatening diseases.

You can make a positive impression in your city or town by volunteering for the charity, donating money, or asking what supplies the organisation needs.

3. Tidy Up Your Landscape

Everyone wants a clean and green neighbourhood. You can take action in your town or city to help maintain its beautiful landscape. You can even host a clean-up. Some communities offer free supplies, pre\post-event checklists and local programs and resources to guide you.

There are also organisations in most towns and cities that perform park and green space beautification efforts. These kinds of organisations have many facets, and you and your friends, coworkers, or family can get involved at various levels. For example, not only are there park cleanup and beautification days, but fundraising events are important for a community, too. Maybe you would prefer being on the organisational aspects of recreational and educational programming, advocating for park improvements, publicising important issues on social media, aiding in resource management and park advocacy, etc.

We may not always believe it, but each of us has special qualities we can bring to our communities. Getting out there and connecting with others can go a long way and help build a stronger and closer community, no matter how large or tiny.

ANNOUNCING THE 2024 PUMICESTONE SMALL BUSINESS AWARD WINNERS…

This year I held the second Pumicestone Small Business Awards to shine a spotlight on the incredible talent of our small business owners and employees. 200 small business owners and employees came together to celebrate at the Small Business Awards Gala

Best Beauty and Hairdressing KBeauty

Best Health, Wellbeing and Fitness Island Dance

Best Business and Professional Services

Our Wild Hearts Photography

Best Hospitality Business Pigface Seafood

Best Trade Business Hans Electrical Service

Best Retail Business Ang&M

Best Business Newcomer Ikigai Cafe and Workshop

Best Pet Business Bribie Pets Supplies

Best Market and Microbusiness

Brooklyn’s Finest - American Hot Dog Company

Congratulations to all the small businesses who got involved with the 2024 Pumicestone Small Business Awards and a special shoutout to all the 2024 Finalists and Winners!

$1,300 off your power bill and ONLY 50 cents to catch a bus or a train! Cost of living is my number one priority right now.

That’s why our new Miles Government is taking ONE THOUSAND DOLLARS off your power bill from 1 July, and the Federal Government has announced an extra $300.

This brings the total amount to $1,300 off your power bills. If your bills are less $1,300, the remaining amount will be rollover as a credit on your account to come off future bills. For some families, this means they won’t have to pay a power bill until next year.

Seniors, pensioners and concession card holders will get an even larger rebate of $1,672. If you are a senior, make sure you receive this extra money off your bills by registering either your seniors, pensioner, or concession card with your electricity provider.

In more big cost of living news this week, public transport fares will be reduced to

Night last Friday at the Bribie Island RSL! The Queensland Small Business Commissioner Dominique Lamb joined us for the celebration to announce the 2024 Small Business Award Winners. THIS YEAR’S WINNERS ARE:

Best Education and Childcare

Bribie Island Community Kindergarten

Outstanding Customer Service Award

Tyson from Bongaree Bubbles & Clips

Young Entrepreneur of the Year Callum from Bribie Pets Supplies

Best Bribie Business Island Dance

Best Sandstone Point Business Steakout Pizzeria

Best Beachmere Business Flamingos Ice Creamery

Best Caboolture Business Gather and Feast

Pumicestone Small Business of the Year Island Dance

Small and local businesses play such an important role in providing the goods and services that make our community the wonderful place it is.

50 cents.

From 5 August, it will only cost 50 cents to catch the bus to the shops or the train into the city. It’s great news for seniors who can no longer drive, for university and TAFE students using the train to travel into Brisbane, and for people who use public transport to commute to work. One local who catches the train to the city for work told me this will save them around $70 a week.

From lowering your household bills, to reducing public transport fares, our new government is doing everything we can to help out with cost of living. If you have any questions or State Government issues, please get in touch pumicestone@parliament.qld.gov.au or call 34742100.

Warmly

Ali King

State Member for Pumicestone

BRIBIE ISLAND HEALTHY SLIMMERS FELLOWSHIP SUPPORT GROUP INC.

After quite an absence from the media, we are back to tell you about our group.

We are a cheerful bunch of like-minded people (FEMALE AND MALE) who enjoy fellowship and a shared cuppa and support each other in losing weight.

Our meetings are filled with engaging talks and practical tips on healthy living, lifestyle, and diet. We also have the pleasure of hosting special Guest Speakers who share insights into their Services or Organisations. In addition, we enjoy laughter, occasional exercises, bus trips, celebrate special occasions, and hold our Graduation each July, creating a fun and vibrant atmosphere.

With a proud history of 43 years and a thriving community of over 80 members, we are a wellestablished and popular group on Bribie Island.

The cost is a $25.00 joining fee (which includes a badge and information booklet) and $2.00 per week.We also have weekly raffles. Tuesdays: Weigh-in from 7:45 – 8:45 am. The meeting starts at 9 a.m. and concludes by 10 am. Held at: Toc H, 36 Banya Street, Bongaree. Facebook:Bribieislandhealthyslimmers Email: bribieislandhealthyslimmers@gmail.com Phone: President Chris Blackmore 0419 423 653 If you are interested in joining, you are welcome to visit our group as a visitor at no charge.

Kayleigh Marven, a local prodigy, graduated from Bribie High in 2018. Her unwavering dedication to opera and musical theatre has led her to remarkable achievements. She secured the understudy role to the lead (Christine) in Phantom of the Opera, performing at the prestigious Sydney Opera House in 2023. Now, she is embarking on a new adventure, moving to China to join The Phantom of the Opera World Tour as an understudy to the lead and swing. While Maryann Cannon provided local guidance, Kayleigh's talent is primarily self-taught. For years, her melodious voice has graced the National Anthem at Anzac days in Bribie. Her family, including her brother and sister, who is in year 12 at Bribie High, resides locally.

Kayleigh Marven was thrilled to mark her debut on Opera Australia's main stage in The Phantom of the Opera. This significant milestone is the culmination of a personal, lifelong aspiration and a testament to her unwavering dedication and talent.

“My whole childhood, my favourite princess was Snow White. As a little girl, I went to Disneyland in Paris and refused to wear anything besides my Snow White dress. I always sang as a kid. My mum would put Disney songs on in the car,” she says as she laughs, admitting she would get annoyed if anyone tried to sing

over the top of her. Kayleigh has been performing since she was eight years old and has always had a passion for singing and theatre. She was inspired by the wondrous music of Disney, which she still adores in adulthood. Every shelf in her bedroom showcases an impressive array of Disney collectables. Her love for Disney music has greatly influenced her style and repertoire, and she often incorporates these beloved songs into her performances, adding a touch of nostalgia and familiarity for her audience.

Driven by an unwavering love for Musical Theatre, Kayleigh has diligently honed her skills, establishing herself as a gifted and adaptable performer over the past three years. Her musical journey includes being awarded a Scholarship of Excellence to pursue (Classical Voice) at the esteemed Queensland Conservatorium, Griffith University, and furthering her studies in Musical Theatre at The Brisbane Academy of Musical Theatre (BAMT).

Kayleigh has played various roles in theatre productions, including Tinkerbell in Peter Pan Junior, Bet in Oliver the Musical, Dorothy Gale in The Wizard of Oz, and Isabel in Pirates of Penzance. Her performance in the role of Isabel received rave reviews. She prepared for each role meticulously, spending hours studying the character, rehearsing her lines, and perfecting her performance, a testament to

her dedication and passion for her craft.

She fondly remembers her role as Dorothy in The Wizard of Oz, her first big role at 15. Her family dog, Snoopy, even got to join her on stage as Dorothy's dog, Toto.

“My family has always been an unwavering pillar of support,” she shares. “My parents were always there, encouraging me to pursue auditions and enrolling me in singing, acting, and dance classes. Their support has been constant and invaluable.”

LocalGuideDining

BONGAREE | BELLARA | BANKSIA BEACH | NINGI | BEACHMERE | WOORIM | SANDSTONE POINT

STEAKOUT PIZZERIA

For delicious pizza, pasta, contorni salads and more, all crafted with love, come and enjoy our waterfront pizzeria. With live music every Sunday and the beautiful Pumicestone Passage right beside you, we offer you a taste you’ll love For deliveries or bookings, please visit us at www.steakoutpizzeria.au

9/11 Spinnaker Drive, Sandstone Point - 07 5360 1094

LUNCH Thu to Sun 11:30 - 2:30

DINNER Tue to Sun 4:30 - 8:30

SERENITY CAFE

With fabulous views across the Passage and open from 7:00am – 2:00pm every day, Serenity serves up lovely coffee and fresh cooked food for breakfast, brunch, lunch & snacks. Enjoy High Tea in our little tea salon which can also be booked for your small gatherings (bookings essential). We also provide catering for picnics and events We're now open Thursday and Friday 5:30pm to 7:30pm 2/83 Welsby Parade, Bongaree, 4507.  Phone: 0466 221992.  Email: allan@serenitycafebribie.com Find us on Facebook

THE SURF CLUB

Open for lunch and dinner seven days a week, our casual bistro boasts a bar and gaming area as well as mesmerizing ocean views. Explore our diverse menu, offering a little something for everyone. It’s the perfect place to unwind, indulge in good food, and enjoy the laidback friendly atmosphere. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, you’ll enjoy a memorable visit at The Surf Club Bribie Island. Come for the food, stay for the view!

First Avenue, Woorim PH: (07) 3408 2141 www.thesurfclubbribieisland.com.au

SCOOPYS

Located by the jetty on beautiful Bribie Island, Scoopy’s Family Cafe is all about the family vibes, great food and coffee, fantastic service and all the ice cream you can eat! Enjoy our friendly hospitality with barista-made coffee, amazing burgers, and a tempting array of ice cream choices to impress the pickiest connoisseurs. Our massive range of cakes and famous fish and chips make it well worth the hour’s drive north of Brisbane.

Shop 2/2 Toorbul Street, Bongaree 07 3410 1791

PIGFACE

Pigface Seafood (named after the flowers that cover the dunes of Woorim beach) is a well known and award winning dine in and take away cafe. Not only do we offer fresh seafood, we also have a comprehensive menu to suit all tastes. Check out our GF options.

4/4 Rickman Parade, Woorim, QLD, Australia. (07) 3408 4282

DIAMOND CHINESE TAKE AWAY

With a huge variety of tasty meals Diamond Chinese can offer something for everyone. Positioned in Welsby Parade, grab your meal and sit by the jetty and watch the boats go by or one of our amazing sunsets.

3/1 Welsby Parade, Bongaree, 4507.  (Opp the Library)

Phone: 3408 1430

LUNCH Wed to Sun 11.30 - 1.00pm

DINNER: Tue - Thu & Sun 4.30 - 8pm, Fri & Sat 4.30 - 8.30

CLOSED MONDAYS

Air Fryer

RECIPES

Lemon Cake

INGREDIENTS

150g butter, at room temperature

140g (two thirds cup) caster sugar

225g one and a half cups) self-raising flour

2 eggs

1 1/2 tbsp finely grated lemon rind

80ml (one third cup) lemon juice

METHOD

Grease a 20cm round cake pan. Line base with baking paper.

Use electric beaters to beat the butter, sugar, flour, eggs, lemon rind and juice for 3-4 minutes or until pale and creamy. Spoon batter into prepared pan. Smooth surface.

Place the pan in the basket of the air fryer. Set the air fryer to 160C. Bake for 25 mins or until a skewer inserted in the centre comes out clean (see tip). Set aside for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool.

Serve the cake warm or at room temperature.

Beachmere District Community

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 - 12pm

Bribie Island BIDCA 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

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 12pm

The

Bribie Island Comm Plant Nursery

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

H eartstrings

The Bribie Island Lions Market

2nd Sat of the month at Tintookie Park Woorim 7am - 1pm. Bribie & District Woodcrafters Assoc

Contact president: 0415 237 167 Bribie Island Gem Club Open Day & Markets on the last Sunday every month 8am -12pm At 191 Sunderland Drive, Banksia Beach.

The Bribie Bowls Euchre Club

Meets at the club each Monday at 12 Noon.  Fun afternoon.  Contact Lorraine on 0414802733.

JUST NUDES exhibition a wonderful

body of work

Artists across the mediums have embraced the inaugural JUST NUDES exhibition at Bribie Island Community Arts Centre

Running from May 28 – June 16, it’s a whole gallery celebration of the wonder and beauty of the human form. Organising committee chair Gaye Tait dreamed big when she floated the idea of a Nudes exhibition at the Centre more than 12 months ago. The enthusiasm and array of works entered is a tribute the open, adventurous hearts of Gaye and her committee.

Don’t miss it at the Community Arts Centre, 191 Sunderland Drive Banksia Beach.

And you can vote for your favorite in the People’s Choice award

Art Centre’s jewel event sparkles in its Silver year

THE BRIBIE ISLAND COMMUNITY ARTS CENTRE IS EXCITEDLY PLANNING THE 2024 MATTHEW FLINDERS ART PRIZE – THEIR 25TH SUCH EVENT… A TRUE MILESTONE IN THE BRIBIE ISLAND COMMUNITY ARTS CENTRE’S HISTORY.

This Year, The Matthew Flinders Art Prize Runs July 13 To August 2.

In the course of a year, the Arts Centre rolls with many busy events and activities, but the MFAP is their true jewel in the crown. It’s an art exhibition/competition long treasured and valued that remains a shining example of reward for excellence, free thinking, creativity and endurance.

Thank to these generous sponsors who have come on board for 2024: Hans Electrical, Australian Plumbing and Gas, Traditional Funerals, Mattrest Bedding, Terry Young MP, First National Rel Estate, Bribie SLSC and Victory

So entries are starting to come in for 2024.

Early bird closing date is June 9, and all entries must be registered by June 16.

You might just click with the

Clacks

There are some empty chairs in the Bribie Arts Centre’s Clickety-Clacks knitting group.

And it might be you they’re waiting for.

These happy knitters meet every Wednesday afternoon from 12.30 in studio 3.

Whether you're a seasoned yarnster, just a beginner - or somewhere in between - you'd be very welcome in this company.

Studio is spacious, well lit and airy and has kitchen facilities for BYO afternoon tea.

The Centre’s Cafe 191 is open for coffee, snacks and lunches 9am til 2pm.

Contact Shirley Jenkins on 0456 761 203 or email dave.jenkins9@bigpond.com and see how you like it.

ABOVE: Clickety clackers, Jacki, Vicki, Teresa and Kerry would love to meet you.

WHO INVENTED THE CAMERA?

It is difficult to say who owned the first invention of the camera. Its creation is attributed to several people of different eras. The history of the camera is shaped by the contributions of numerous inventors and pioneers who left an indelible mark on the evolution of photography. For example, it is known that the oldest camera obscura was developed by scientist Ibn alHaytham in the 11th century. The Emergence of the Camera Obscura

The camera obscura means "dark chamber" in Latin. It was the first camera ever created as a precursor to modern photography and played a key role in developing visual imaging techniques. What did

the first camera look like? It was not a portable device as we think of it today. Instead, it was a room-sized structure or box with a small opening on one side. The light passed through this hole and projected an inverted image onto a surface inside the camera. These first devices did not create images. They were used mainly to view or project them.

Artists and scientists have used this invention for centuries for painting and scientific research. The principles of operation of this device laid the foundation for the understanding of optics and light. It took humanity a long time to finally have the first cameras that created images, not just transmitted them, in the 19th century AD. When were Cameras Made?

Johann Zahn, in 1685, designed the first portable photo device. Thus, the camera invention date is considered to be this year. Progress was made in the development of this technology only 130 years later. The first photographs belong to Joseph Nicephore Niepce. They were made in

1814. Johann Zahn and Joseph Nicephore Niepce share credit for the invention of the first camera. The picture was taken with a device he built using silver chloride-coated paper. On the paper, the regions not exposed to light became dark. One of many interesting facts about photography is that Nicephore's technology created non-permanent pictures.

Invention of the Daguerreotype Further advances in camera technology have changed the way we take pictures today.

In 1839, the world saw the invention of the daguerreotype, which the French artist and inventor Louis Daguerre made. By irradiating a silver-plated copper plate and developing it with mercury vapour, he obtained a unique image that did not fade, was clear, and accurately reproduced the original. Thanks to this, the daguerreotype quickly gained popularity.

The French government purchased the rights to the daguerreotype design in exchange for a lifetime pension for Louis and his son. France

presented this technology and its science as a "gift to the world."

George Eastman introduced the improved Kodak camera in 1888. Edwin Land created the Polaroid instant camera in 1948. They laid the foundations of photographic technologies and paved the way for the next generation of inventors of modern photo devices.

Writer'sCorner

On Writing History

By Trisha Hughes

When I was at school, learning about the Magna Carta, the Battle of Hastings, Agincourt, Bosworth, Bannockburn, along with the names of unknown Kings fighting unknown battles in unknown places, these were the most boring lessons I could imagine. They were just names and dates but I had to remember them because in a very short time, I knew there would be an exam. In my mind was the question, ‘Why do I have to learn about this when I’ll never use it again when I grow up?’

As we get older, our perception changes. All of a sudden, these characters are not eccentric or ancient anymore. We realise they were real people with real personalities and they fought battles, won the love of their women, made mistakes and were vulnerable to diseases. Just like us. Suddenly, history becomes interesting. And then at some stage, almost like a revelation, we realise that history not only provides us with a nostalgic glimpse of how things used to be but also

realise its lessons can teach us things that are important for life today. History can be the richest of all stories, the saddest of stories and the most shocking of stories and because we know of that history, we can learn from the mistakes made in the past.

While the shelves in bookstores are filling up with ‘historical fiction’, we see that these stories are not just works of fiction. Historical Fiction writers have an obligation to research and delve deep to make sure the information given to readers is correct. Sources of Britain’s early years rely on fragments of information – most notably, the AngloSaxon Chronicle. It’s partial and not always correct, written many years after the events but it is invaluable in giving us a guide to events that shaped our ancestors’ lives. World acclaimed author, Hilary Mantel once said that Historical Fiction is 80% hard research and 20% storytelling. Some early writers may have had ulterior motives. William Shakespeare comes to mind.

He needed the support of Elizabeth I to earn a living, so many of his plays reinforce the Tudor claim to the throne, as with Richard III, where in actual fact, their claim was very tenuous. It was a brave writer who went against the monarch, especially the Tudors.

It’s important that Historical Fiction writers adhere to the truth as much as possible because we are the chroniclers of the present. Our children rely upon us for the truth because it helps them understand the importance of major events and the mistakes that were made in the past. And isn’t that what we really want? To make our children’s future better than our past? Considering the greed that caused The War of the Roses, the family misunderstandings that caused the First World War and the need for power that caused the Second World War, who would want to repeat them?

As the famous Spanish philosopher George Santayana said, ‘Those who do not remember the past are condemned to repeat it.’

Author Bio:

Trisha Hughes is a local author who started her writing career with her #1 Best Selling autobiography, ‘Daughters of Nazareth’. Since then, she has published an historical trilogy she calls her ‘V2V’ series, sweeping us through history beginning with the first Vikings who ravaged England, through the devasting War of The Roses, the violent Tudor dynasty, the turbulent Stuart dynasty, the Hanovers and finally, the current monarch, Charles III. Her most recent book, published this year, ‘The Tartan Kings’, takes us on a journey through Scottish history.

Check out her website for excerpts for all her books. www.trishahughesauthor.com

The Bards of Boondooma

The 2024 Boondooma Homestead "Spirit of the Bush Festival" was a testament to our community's rich poetic talent. Our local poets from North Pine Bush Poets, including Howard Kennedy (Bribie Island), shone brightly in the performance competition for Bush Poetry. At the Novice level, Howard not only took out both the Traditional and Modern sections but also finished second with an original poem, a true reflection of our community's poetic prowess.

Howard's success was not just a result of his talent but also a testament to the invaluable mentorship provided by our local poetry identities, Cay and Barry Ellem. Their guidance and support played a significant role in Howard's strong performance in other sections, inspiring us all to reach greater heights in our

poetic journeys.

Andrew Ryan, another talented poet, showcased his skills at the Intermediate level, securing second place in both the Traditional and Original sections.

Gerry Mannion, a proud member of Logan Bush Poets, made his mark by winning the Original section, securing second place in the Modern section, and third place in the Traditional section. Suzanne Honour, a testament to the club's success, was featured as one of the esteemed guest poets at the festival, sharing the stage with Neil McArthur, Gary Fogarty, and Jennifer Bell. It's worth noting that Bribie Island Poets, the nurturing ground for these talents, meet every fourth Monday at 6:30 pm at The Blue Pacific Hotel, Woorim.

OLD AGE IS A PRIVILEGE

By Colin Walker

There’s a lot to be said for “growing old” ….. gracefully or otherwise … including some advantages that younger generations may not fully appreciate yet.

For example, who’s going to spank us, physically or otherwise (like in our younger days), when we do – or say –things claimed to be unpopular in today’s world of so-called “political correctness”? And who (among our peers or siblings) has the right to tell us oldies what we can or can’t do, say, or THINK, anyway?

When someone is foolish enough to ask us what we think……well, we have the right (and the capacity, based on generations of experience) to tell them what we really think without fear of significant rebuke or redress.

Few people in our younger generations today can get away with such

“indiscretions” without public censure these days.

The luxury of being able to genuinely express genuine opinions, expressed honestly and openly—and simply being ourselves—still exists … and that’s a great feeling (for those of us in our “twilight years”, anyway!).

Of course, there’s more to growing old than old-fashioned honesty, decent behaviour, and good manners.

Old values, habits and manners still count for something, too, and old memories, experiences and acquaintances are still treasured (mostly).

But not everything is just “beer and Skittles”, of course. There are a few downsides.

Many of us don’t see as well, walk as briskly, hear as clearly, or react as quickly as we used to – and of course, we are (in many respects) the mainstay of a very diligent medical profession (financially and otherwise) with mild to serious health issues our unwelcome companions, for many of us, every day.

However, all this doesn’t mean we have “lost our marbles” (or can’t think straight most of the time).

It means simply that while we have lost our “youth”, – we have not (in most

cases) lost our brains or our capacity to see things straight, as they are.

This is where officialdom (in particular) very often misreads and underrates our elderly and attracts our wrath (at election time and on other political issues and occasions, for example).

In this respect, I guess we are a bit of a surprise packet to many in our younger generations, too. We tend to be pretty direct in answering the question, “What do you think?”.

So, what does it take to float our boat”? Waking up every day and knowing (most times) what day it is…… that’s a great start.

Seeing all the grandchildren (and greatgrandkids) grow up strong, healthy, and chirpy is a great tonic, too, when we’re perhaps not feeling our best.

And then there are the magnificent sunrises, sunsets, birds and animals around us every day (or every other day!).

Add in a bit of music (of our individual choices), and life’s still pretty good most days for most of us, most times.

The benefit of reaching “old age” to experience and enjoy all of life's real treasures a bit longer is a real privilege. It keeps my boat afloat, that’s for sure!

Photo L to R, Andrew Ryan, Suzanne Honour, Howard Kennedy, Gerry Mannion

Dancing For The Sea Turtles

A BUSH DANCE HOSTED BY BRIBIE ISLAND CELTIC MINSTRELS

WHEN: 2:00 pm - 5:30 pm Sunday 16th June 2024

WHERE: Bribie RSL (Auditorium), 99 Toorbul St, Bongaree.

The Bribie Island Turtle Trackers (BITTs) and Bribie’s Celtic Minstrels are coming together to raise awareness of the critically endangered sea turtles that breed annually on Bribie Island’s 35km of Ocean Beach.

Come - be a Turtle Tragic - join in the fun of a Bush Dance with the Bribie Island Celtic Minstrels.

Tickets are available at the door.

The Celtic Minstrels are hosting this fundraiser in support of the long-term work the BITTs are doing to

protect Bribie Island’s turtles and nesting population.

Anyone who has witnessed the magic of baby turtle hatchlings scurrying across the beach from nests in the dunes to their new marine home becomes forever enchanted…. “hooked” on turtles.

The BITTs are a group of dedicated citizen science volunteers in South East Queensland who are trained by the government to monitor sea turtle nesting rookeries from November to April. The BITTs monitor 25 km of Bribie Island’s Ocean beach. At sunrise, these volunteers travel from Red Beach to Welsby Lagoon, identifying nesting turtle tracks.

The BITTs confirm the species of turtle (e.g. loggerhead, green….) at the nest site, mark the location and monitor the nest through the next 8-10 weeks incubation period. Depending on the location,

nests can be exposed to native and feral predators such as goannas, foxes, pigs, off-leash dogs and 4WDs. Measures such as meshing, caging, fencing and relocation of the nests are employed to protect incubating eggs.

Studies indicate the survival rate of the genetically distinct loggerhead turtles of the South Pacific Ocean is one in 10,000. So, the Bribie Island Turtle Trackers are dogged about protecting precious nests and hatchlings.

Once a nest has emerged, the BITTs excavate and record the success rate of the nest. Bribie’s turtle nests typically have above a 90% success rate. All information collected by the BITTs is recorded on the government’s database. The BITTs also respond to, record and report marine strandings (mostly turtles) in the Bribie Island and surrounding area.

For the past 20 years, the

BITTs have been self-funded. However, equipment is needed to carry out this work. The BITTs carry backpacks with essential nesting and stranding equipment. They need weather proof clothing, bicycles, etc.

The Celtic Minstrels have been a popular addition to Bribie’s music scene. They play concerts, bush and line dances, and run bush dancing classes with the Bribie U3A. Their repertoire of instruments includes fiddles, whistles, flutes, mandolins, guitars, bass, harmonicas, button accordion, concertina, and even the Irish drum called a bodhran.

For the Bush Dances, there is a Caller who quickly teaches a dance, so there is no excuse for not getting up and having a good time.

You and your family will experience a lively day full of joy and dance in celebration of TURTLES.

BAR-SHOULDERED DOVE

t Geopelia humeralis

BAR-SHOULDERED DOVES ARE COMMON BREEDING RESIDENTS OF THE BUSHLANDS OF BRIBIE ISLAND. SOME NEARBY SITES WHERE I SEE THEM REGULARLY ARE BUCKLEY’S HOLE, SANDSTONE LAKES AND ANY WOODED AREAS NEAR WATER.

They are medium-sized long-tailed doves 20-30 cm in length and weigh 108-150 g. Their napes are barred and copper coloured, and their shoulders are pink. Heads are blue-grey, and underparts are whitish. They have brown barred wings which, in flight, show the chestnut underneath. On take-off and during flight, the wings make a loud whistling sound. A

By: Marj Webber

common call of the Bar-shouldered Dove sounds like “cook a rook, cook a rook” and is quite different from any other bush sound. A similar species is the introduced Spotted Dove, but the spots on the Spotted Doves’ necks are an easy way to tell them apart. Bar-shouldered Doves are sedentary and not known to move seasonally.

Bar-shouldered Doves are adaptable birds, found in northern and eastern Australia, extending a long way inland. They thrive in bushland, particularly near water sources, as they need to drink several times a day. In the north, they are more commonly spotted in urban areas and mangroves. While they are rare in southern parts of Australia, they do occur in the south of PNG and Indonesia. Their feeding habits are also interesting, as they primarily feed on the ground, with seeds, fallen small fruit, and other vegetarian morsels being their preferred foods.

Feeding takes place on the ground, and seeds, fallen small fruit, and other vegetarian morsels are the favoured foods.

September to January are the usual nesting

months but breeding may take place at any time during the year. Nests are usually located in dense scrub and are well hidden from predators. They are small, untidy, platforms built with twigs and grasses on the forks of trees or shrubs 1-4 m up from the ground. The female lays two white eggs which are incubated by both parents for 14-16 days. The young are fed on crop milk by both parents. (Crop milk is a creamy, soft, rancid, cheesy-like substance that begins production in the fat-filled cells in the crops of both males and females 2 days before hatching). This is regurgitated by the adults and fed to the young that fledge after about 3 weeks.

The main threat to bar-shouldered doves is the introduction of predators such as cats and foxes. Their mortality rate is very high in their early lives, but some birds may live up to 10 to 15 years.

In some areas, their numbers have dwindled with the introduction of feral Spotted Doves, while in other areas, they are spreading. Their conservation status is at present “stable and of least concern.”

They’ve Gone, But Only Until

IMichael Strong, bird counter with QWSG and Sandra Bayle BIEPA shorebird coordinator

East Asian-Australasian Flyway map courtesy of Richard Fuller.”

East Asian-Australasian Flyway map courtesy of Richard Fuller , the first author of this article: https://moretonbayfoundation.org/articles/ migratory-shorebirds-of-moreton-bay/ published by the Moreton Bay Foundation.

Photo of Red-necked Stint, published on I-naturalist by Cameron Eckert (https://www.inaturalist.org/photos/209826148)

t’s official: our resident migratory shorebirds have left, mostly in April. They’ve been with us on Bribie, at Toorbul and Donnybrook since September last year. Their mission is to feed, feed and feed on crustaceans and worms from the soft mud at low tide here on the Pumicestone Passage and more broadly, Moreton Bay. To us they probably look like good-for-nothing mud flats. For the birds, they are teeming with life and just what they craved after the long flight here last year and now in preparation for the long flight back to the Arctic. They need the food in our mudflats to store enough energy over the eight months they’re here to fuel their 11,000 km flight back to breed.

That’s why it’s very important that when the mud is covered with water at high tide and the birds are resting on the high tide roosts, such as Kakadu and Toorbul, we let them rest. If we disturb them and they are forced to take flight, they are wasting their energy stores, vital for their migration. If they are too often stressed while trying to rest, they may not return to the Arctic to breed.

Our birds will be heading north for the Yellow Sea on their 11,000 km flight and then separating, with the godwits flying east across the Bering Sea to the Yukon in Canada and the Great Knots turning west into the Siberian tundra.

It was raining at the time, but when I was counting at Kakadu on 7th April, up in the grey sky over Ningi, I saw a flock of about 35 Godwits very high heading north; they passed the roost then turned back and landed, which added to the tense situation at the crowded roost.

So now we have some quiet months as our Godwits and Knots breed on the other end of the planet. It is strange to think that when they have such a good time here in Pumicestone Passage, with lots of food and sunshine, that these same birds are now high above the South China Sea, overflying naval installations and international tensions, heading towards feeding grounds at the top end of the Yellow Sea, in a completely different environment. There they will separate from the flocks into pairs and find a suitable habitat in the heather and tundra sedges to breed.

Tagged Bar-tailed Godwit

Pacific Golden Plover Red Stint (smallest)

Godwit in breeding plumage

Eastern Curlew (largest)

They Return To Us In September

When their chicks hatch, they rely on the larvae of mosquitos to feed on and rapidly gain weight. What these chicks don’t realise is that their parents will depart for the big flight back to Australia within three weeks. The chicks will be left to fend for themselves until they are ready to take the same big flight back to Moreton Bay, including Pumicestone Passage. Miraculous.

One of the many obstacles these migratory birds face is that with the warming climate, the Tundra winter ice is melting earlier than it used to. This means the mosquito larvae underneath it hatch earlier and are lost as food for the chicks. Those of you who saw the recent Australian film Flyways may remember the story of the Red Knot, which was measured to be losing weight and beak length due to inadequate food now available in the Tundra. Unless all these migratory birds can adapt quickly enough to the warming climate of their breeding grounds, they will not be able to sustain their lifestyles.

Our next seasonal excitement is the arrival of our inter-Tasman friends, the Double-banded Plovers from New Zealand. They breed there but winter in Australia. Look for small plovers at Kakadu roost huddled in the tidewrack with sandy brown faces.

I also count at Godwin Beach, and on 7th April, I was thrilled to see 385 Greytailed Tattlers land in front of me from an isolated clump of mangroves out to sea where they had been roosting during the high tide. There were also 6 Common Greenshanks, which, despite their name, are anything but common.

Before our migratory birds depart, they will have swapped their brown and grey feathers for their more colourful breeding plumage. They will also have doubled their weights on arrival. This is necessary for them to last the distance that they have to fly.

I think the big Far Eastern Curlews leave first, followed by the tiny Red Necked Stints that weigh as much as a box of matches, then Whimbrels, Godwits and Knots and finally Terek Sandpipers, Greenshanks and Tattlers.

Michael counts all the birds at the northern hide of Kakadu Shorebird Roost at high tide on alternate Sundays. He delights in showing them to interested visitors through his bird spotter. He also hosts a website called Birds, Butterflies and Blossoms of Bribie.

By Al Finegan

The Sixties

A DECADE THAT CHANGED AUSTRALIA

Many forces have acted on our national character over the more than 200 years since colonisationthe forge of war, the tyrannies of distance, and land swept by droughts, floods, and fire. Add to these the democratic energies of goldfields, the union movement, and the atomising effect of social change from mass migration after World War Two. They have all played their part, not just in moulding the Australian people but often in encouraging a new round of national navel-gazing, triggering the surge of events in that decade that set off many societal changes. I present here some of these events that occurred in the 1960s, which redefined the Australian character of the time.

1961

The Sexual Revolution. The oral contraceptive pill arrived in Australia in 1961, and by 1966, half a million women were on “The Pill”, a rate higher than in any European country and even in the US. For the first time, women had access to contraception, which they could control and which was almost completely reliable. The Pill was originally developed to control population growth in developing countries, but its launch in the West gave impetus to the ‘60s Free

Love Counterculture and the Women's Liberation Movement.

It was seen as a relationship’s heaven. Swallow a little pill each day, easy as can be, and you can have a freedom your mothers never had. Before The Pill, an intimate relationship was risky. It was not uncommon for married women to give up sleeping with their husbands because they didn’t want another baby. In many families, the husband slept on the back veranda. For unmarried women, the penalties of an unplanned pregnancy were public shame and humiliation, family grief, or having secretly adopted the baby out. The pill allowed women to plan their lives, extend their education, pursue a career, delay marriage and childbearing, or choose not to have children at all. The impact on marriage, families and single women's relationships was immense and lifechanging. In 1968, the Vatican declared the use of The Pill a sin. The Pope's Encyclical reaffirmed the Church's traditional teachings and classified The Pill as an artificial method of birth control. To go on The Pill or use any other contraceptive device would constitute nothing less than a mortal sin. This Encyclical saw a significant deterioration in the numbers of young women attending Mass and Confessions. It wasn’t long before doctors

became more willing to prescribe The Pill to unmarried women. Eventually, the Sexual Revolution served up sealed sections to the pubescent readers of Women’s magazines, and condom vending machines began to pop up on campuses. Mothers wept while young adults rejoiced.

1963

Death of the US President

Although this tragedy occurred in the US, the death of President John F Kennedy had a huge impact on the people of Australia. As a microcosm of the impact, this is just an example. On 22nd November 1963, I was on manoeuvres with the Army when the news broke out that JFK had been shot. A highly complex and disciplined exercise involving some 1000 troops was unexpectedly halted. All troops were ordered into a central area where we were briefed on the assassination. As hundreds of soldiers stood in unordered, silent sorrow, a sad pall fell over us. JFK was much loved, admired, and considered one of the best US Presidents we had ever known. JFK, the First Lady, and the local Governor were riding in a motorcade through Dealey Plaza in downtown Dallas, Texas. Crowds of excited people lined the streets and waved to the Kennedys. As it passed the Texas School Book Depository, gunfire suddenly reverberated in the plaza. Bullets struck the president's neck and head, and he slumped over toward Mrs. Kennedy. The governor was shot in the back. The car sped off to Parkland Memorial Hospital, just a few minutes away. But little could be done for the President.

A Catholic priest was summoned to

administer the last rites, and at 1 pm, John F Kennedy was pronounced dead. Though seriously wounded, Governor Connally would recover. In no time, the police had arrested Lee Harvey Oswald, a recently hired employee at the Texas School Book Depository. On Sunday morning, 24th November, Oswald was being transferred from police headquarters to the county jail. TV viewers across America and Australia watched in horror when they suddenly saw a man, later named Jack Ruby, appear and, at point-blank range, shoot Oswald. He died two hours later. The loss of President Kennedy was felt deeply by the entire Western world.

1964

The Homicide TV Series Began From its introduction in 1956, Australian television entertainment programs originated mostly from Britain or America. As the Australian viewing numbers increased, so did the demand for homegrown shows. Our first onehour drama, “Consider Your Verdict”, was released, set in a courtroom and ran for 160 episodes. Then, in 1964, Crawfords, Australia, struck real gold with “Homicide”, a police drama featuring local actors in the rainy backstreets and sleazy dives of Melbourne. “Homicide” hit the screens on 20th October and, within months, became the most popular program in Australia, with just about every TV set tuned in to “Homicide”.

1965

Our Troops go to Vietnam

In 1962, Prime Minister Robert Menzies sent a small team of military advisors to assist the South Vietnamese Army. On 29th April 1965, he committed 1500 regular military personnel on the grounds that a takeover of South Vietnam by the communists would constitute a direct threat to Australia. His chief concern was more likely to encourage the US to remain active in our region's defence. An opinion poll recorded a big majority in favour of our involvement. In 1966, it began to include conscripts, when all 20-year-old males had to register for national service. A build-up continued until 1968 when there were more than 8000 Australian servicemen in Vietnam. There was some initial opposition to conscription. As the war escalated and battle casualties increased, student protesters began to defy government policy openly.

1966

Decimal Currency Arrives

Australia's early currency was chaotic. It was not until 1913 that the first series of Australian notes was issued, based on the old British system of pounds, shillings, and pence. In 1958, Robert Menzies promised to investigate decimal currency, and by 1963, it was a done deal. But what to call our new

currency? Close to 1000 suggestions for the name of the new money were tossed about, not all of them serious. Short-listed were Marino, Austral, and the Menzies favourite, the Royal. Common sense ruled, and The Dollar won. Geelong designer Stuart Devlin's wildlife motifs were chosen for the tail side of the coins. Gordon Andrews designed the notes as an exciting piece of OP art. In anticipation of the need, a new mint was built in Canberra to create a stockpile of a billion coins. To a huge publicity buildup, the 14th of February 1966 arrived to be known as “conversion day”, and what an exciting day it was. Suddenly, both the old and new currencies were in circulation, leaving the population desperately doing maths in their heads. Confusion reigned in shops and pubs as too much or too little charged or change received became endemic. At the same time, counterfeit $10 notes were beginning to appear, ironically because convicted forger Francis Greenway was depicted on some notes. Eventually, it all settled down. Old notes were deemed invalid, and we all adjusted to lamenting the loss of our much-loved vernacular – quids, bobs, zacs, treys, and many more.

1965

Feminists Target Pubs

On the 31st of March, Merle Thornton and Rosalie Bogner wandered into the public bar of Brisbane’s Regatta Hotel, chained themselves in, and ordered two beers. It was their protest against the segregation of women from public bars. The publican faced a stiff fine if he served them alcohol, so he refused. To great frivolity, sympathetic male patrons bought them beers and a few cheers. It drew widespread publicity. Debate erupted on the rights and wrongs of women's selective exclusion from various institutions. Thornton established the Equal Opportunities for Women's Association, which led to a successful campaign to eliminate the “marriage bar”. Since its inception, this law had prohibited married women from working in the public service. Oh, and by the way, the “no women in public bars law” was repealed.

1967

Aborigines Given a Fair Go

In 1966, the Aboriginal mood began to change. It started when the Gurindji people walked off Wave Hill station after Harold Holt signed a United Nations Accord to eliminate all forms of racial discrimination. Until that time, States had made laws for Aborigines, which led to many forms of discrimination, including forced reserve life, curfews, and drinking bans. In 1967, a referendum was held seeking to amend the Constitution by removing State powers to legislate for Aborigines and demanding that Aborigines should be counted in the census. An unprecedented 90% of voters said yes. It was a humanising move to

bring the First People's Peoples into the mainstream population. Australians did not commit to any particular Aboriginal policies, but it meant that the Commonwealth could use its power to override state-based discrimination.

1967

Oil Strike in Bass Strait

The share markets went wild on the 15th of September with 3 million Dollars of trading in Melbourne and Sydney after BHP confirmed a flow of 3200 barrels a day from its new Bass Strait Well. A decade earlier, in an attempt to reduce Australia's reliance on imported oil, the federal government introduced generous tax concessions for oil exploration. In the early sixties, BHP turned its attention to the Bass Strait, with initial surveys looking promising. In May 1964, the company formed a joint venture partnership with the American company Esso. Drilling began six months later, and by 1967, the giant oil fields of Kingfish and Halibut had been discovered.

1969

The Vietnam Moratorium

By 1969, the earlier public acceptance of our troops being sent to Vietnam had diminished. The mood had changed dramatically, turning into widespread anger. The moratoriums of 1969 became an indication of a broad collapse in public support for the war. It revealed and fostered a new sense of unity, representing a growing discontent within a large portion of the Australian population to the government’s commitment to the Vietnam War and to conscription in particular. A Gallup poll conducted in 1969 showed public opinion, shaped by the televised brutalities of the Vietnam War, was shifting against government policy and in strong favour of bringing the troops home. Student anti-conscription protests grew in numbers and violence. Coordinating committees emerged in most capital cities, and the ABC put the Vietnam Moratorium symbol in the top right corner of the screen during the Evening News. On 8th May, several hundred thousand protesters took to the streets throughout the country. Melbourne organiser, politician Jim Cairns, stood exultantly on top of a car amid 70,000 people sitting in Burke St and cried out, “Nobody thought this could be done”. More protests followed. By August 1971, the government announced all troops were to be withdrawn from Vietnam by the end of the year, by which stage 523 Australian servicemen had been killed. The anticonscription movement continued until the New Labour government abolished National Service in December 1972.

Next Episode

The sixties ended – leaving so many changes to our national psyche. But standby, the next episode is “The Seventies” and all it brought.

THE POINT BEFORE THE PUB

Toorbul Point Before Sandstone Point

A few thousand years ago, the sea level was much lower than it is now, and Moreton Bay was dry land with no islands. Archaeologists have identified sites of indigenous occupation beneath the bay's waters, showing that earlier residents dealt with “Climate Change” over a long period of time.

Moreton Bay and its many islands, including Bribie, were created as the sea level slowly rose more than 120 meters over a period of 12,000 years. At its peak, the sea level was higher than today's before it receded a few metres. In recent years, the impact of tides, storms, and currents broke through the north of Bribie to create a small new island.

This article is about the mainland headland south of Bribie, where the Bribie bridge crosses to what we now call Sandstone Point. This was a significant location in the history of Moreton Bay, known as Toorbul Point until recently. The headland was a boundary for indigenous land and language groups and the site of many events in the early years of settlement.

This article describes Aboriginal occupation, attempts to grow Sugar, changing owners, Oyster leases, big Ships, Military Training, transport Barges, Bribie Bridge, Housing development, and the Sandstone Point Hotel.

A ceremonial Bora ring still exists on Bestman Road, which was the site of a big corroboree in 1891 when more than 2000 Aboriginals from surrounding areas assembled for initiation and resolution. Bora ceremonies often took several days, requiring much food and water, and the area had an abundance of Kangaroo, Wallabies, Emu and Fish before white settlement. The Point extends to Godwin Beach, named for Charles Godwin, who had a fish cannery there from 1897 and a contract to salvage wrecked ships in the Bay. He was hit by the boom of his

boat returning from a salvage in 1911, fell overboard and was drowned, and a memorial stone at Godwin Beach tells his story.

From Godwin Beach, Artie Bestman floated the first car across to Bribie Island in 1918, after a two-day drive from Brisbane over beaches and farm tracks before there were any roads. On the other side of the Point past the Marina, the last Bribie Joondoburri

woman, Kal-Ma-Kuta, lived for many years at Turner's Camp with her white husband, Fred Turner, and six children until she died in 1897. A memorial stone and plaque at the end of Turner's Camp Road tell how they lit a navigation light on the headland to guide ships into the Passage.

Few people lived on Bribie before the Bongaree Jetty in 1912, and those who did worked for Sarah Balls at her Fish Cannery, where IGA stands today, or at Oyster leases up Pumicestone Passage. Large natural Oyster banks around the Point and up the Passage were developed as successful commercial Oyster dredging leases.

In 1893, record rainfall over the entire Southeast caused great flooding and silted the Pumicestone Passage. It was a significant waterway for large ships travelling to Campbellville timber mill on Coochin Creek, and as far back as 1846, there was talk about Toorbul Point being the possible site of a future port.

The first European to lease land on Toorbul Point was D.D.(Douglas) Hamilton in 1873, and he later purchased the entire headland comprising 1280 acres, intending to grow Sugar, as was happening on the flood plains of Caboolture River. The

Barry Clark, President

Bribie Island Historical Society

venture was unsuccessful; in 1882, he offered the land for sale, but there was little interest. Eventually, in 1889, the land and associated Oyster leases were purchased by solicitor James Markwell, who partnered with James Clark, the “Pearl King”, to harvest Oysters, which they did for many years. James Clark was the youngest of 8 children who, as a young man, had worked for James Campbell, a timber merchant and builder in Brisbane. Campbell established a successful Timber Mill at Campbellville up Pumicestone Passage, and James Clark learned business skills from him. In 1891, James started a Pearling operation in the Torres Strait and, within eight years, built a fleet of Pearling Luggers operating in Torres Strait and Broome.

In 1899, devastating Cyclones destroyed most of his fleet of ships, and he reconsidered his business future. Having been in partnership with James Markwell for several years at Toorbul Point, in 1900, he purchased the Land, property, and Oyster Leases from Markwell. Within five years, Clark built a very profitable business, sending 300 bags of Oysters a week to markets around Australia, when a bag sold for 25 shillings ($2.50), which was a man’s working wage.

However, after a few years, Oyster production was threatened by “mud worm” infestation and Oysters were impacted by sea changes. Clark purchased the hulk of an old cargo ship named “Avon” and scuttled it in the passage to protect his oyster banks. That was 110 years ago, and the wreck of the Avon is still visible at low tide opposite Banksia Beach, and the nearby Avon Avenue is named in its memory.

James Clark built a school on the Point for local and employee’s children where Spinnaker Sound Marina now stands. The Mud worm infestation eventually ended all Oyster operations in the Passage. James Clark disposed of most of his leases before his death in 1933 when his son Colin took over the property.

In 1915, Colin Clark married the daughter of politician and businessman Thomas Welsby, after whom Welsby Parade was named. He also inherited the Toorbul Point property when his father died in 1933. In 1951, his two sons, Arthur and James, inherited the property from him when he died. In World War 2, the Government took over the whole area of Toorbul Point to build a military training camp for Australian and American troops being sent to fight the Japanese in PNG and islands. During the war years 1939 to 1945, many thousands of troops were based at the camp for beach landing

craft training on Bribie Island. The camp was isolated with basic facilities and abundant mosquitoes, and a local author, Ron Donald, later wrote a book titled “The Yanks Called It Terrible Point”.

James Clark and his wife Mona retained 37 hectares of land on the Point and 218 hectares west of Bestman Road. Their daughter Jan offered both parcels of land for sale in 2011, and the Comiskey Group purchased them.

A dirt road built from Caboolture to Toorbul Point provided military vehicle access to the camp. After the War, when private motor cars increased, an ex-military barge began carrying people and cars to Bribie when the Steamship from Brisbane stopped in 1952. For the next ten years, cars and passengers came to Bribie on the barge before the Bridge was built in 1963.

To construct the new Bribie Island Road and Bridge, Clark sold some Toorbul Point land to the Government and Developers for what became Pebble Beach Estate and Spinnaker Marina. The name Toorbul Point was later changed to Sandstone Point to avoid confusion with the settlement of Toorbul further up the Passage.

The rest ……as they say….. is History. Sandstone Point has been progressively developed as a hotel, holiday park, accommodation, and entertainment space. The photos we provided, which hang on the hotel's walls, show some of its previous history.

MORE BRIBIE HISTORY

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

Crosswords - QUICK & CRYPTIC

Across

Across

1 Helpful (13)

8 Town on Scotland’s southwest coast (3)

9 Source of sustenance (9)

10 Hilly, uncultivated countryside (8)

11 Pack away (4)

13 Not excessive (6)

14 Spirited (6)

16 Condemn to death (or failure) (4)

17 Means of transport (8)

20 Peripatetic (9)

21 Small (Scottish) (3)

22 Aggressive, predatory attack (7,6)

CRYPTIC

Across

1 Learns to open branches for Rudolph, maybe (7)

5 Musical game in which essence plays a part (5)

8 Mature lawyer retired last month (5)

9 A Breton born out of the hoi polloi? (7)

10 Capital asset coming from Croatia - rare for this part of the world (5)

11 Little scamps find the church in awful ruins (7)

12 Call about university head and regretting it (5)

14 By the way, cancel the article about the thoroughfare (2-3)

17 Good pal holds revolutionary knife (7)

19 Verbose, unworldly null and void (5)

21 By a giant's constitution (7)

22 Supporters back university head when pandemonium reigns (5)

23 As many as there can be.. (5)

24 No alternative for each other, out fast and wild (7)

SOLUTIONS

Down

1 Warning signal (5)

2 Greenhouse gas (6,7)

3 Unthinking (8)

4 Excursion (6)

5 In the thick of (4)

6 Very similar sibling (9,4)

7 Escape (after a crime) (7)

12 Costlier (anag) – secluded setting (8)

13 Navel-gazer’s focus? (7)

15 Island off the west coast of Peninsular Malaysia (6)

18 Run-down, disreputable (5)

19 Skilled or skimmed? (4)

Down

1 Notice befitting change (5)

2 Worried chap in a shabby suit can be a disaster (7)

3 More new duty about to be gazetted (5)

4 Get the better of underwater transportoutstanding (6)

5 Old chestnut horse found in a field of maize (7)

6 Lethargy found in a special sister, for instance, shivering (5)

7 Fulfill, say, fits strangely (7)

12 Force a bit of breastwork (7)

13 Untrained, for instance, as an activist (7)

15 Justification for a summons.. (7)

16 Despotic characters leave party, infected somehow (6)

18 The seat of power? (5)

19 Was most of the tea thrown away? (5)

20 Not me - and a large part of the minor (5)

CRYPTIC SOLUTION 216

suduko

Ingredients:

1 iceberg lettuce

375g Singapore noodles

2 teaspoons vegetable oil

1 carrot, finely diced

1 stick celery, finely diced

1 red capsicum, finely diced

1 barbecue chicken, meat shredded

200g Passage to Asia Singapore Noodles Stir-fry Sauce

4 green onions, thinly sliced diagonally Fried shallots, to serve

Method:

Preparing the lettuce is a breeze. Simply hold it between your hands, give the core a firm tap on a flat surface, twist, and remove. Then, place the lettuce in a large bowl of icy cold water. This step is crucial as it makes it easier to separate the leaves. Finally, drain well.

Heat oil in a non-stick frying pan over medium heat. Add carrot, celery and capsicum. Cook for 4 minutes or until soft. Add chicken, Passage to Asia Singapore Noodles Stir-fry Sauce, ½ cup water and ¾ green onions. Bring to the boil. Cook for 2 minutes. Add noodles and toss until well combined.

Now, for the grand finale. Trim the lettuce leaves with scissors and arrange them on a large platter. Spoon the mouthwatering noodle mixture into the leaves. To add that extra burst of flavour, sprinkle with the remaining green onions and fried shallots. And voila, your delicious dish is ready to be served!

Singapore noodle and chicken lettuce cups

IKEA BRUNO

HENRY

BLAKE AND ODIN

ROXY & CLEO

BOWLS RESULTS

BONGAREE BOWLS

MEN'S RESULTS

Scroungers May 11th 1st Bob

Thirwell, 2nd Imelda Valentine, 3rd Bob Cooper, 4th Rose Marie Dimino

Wed 4's May 15th Winners

Tony Gormley, Ray Huggins, Don Somerville, Peter Higgins

Runners Up Ron Carruthers, Billy Moor, Pat Warwick, John Morrison

Thurs Jackpot pairs May 16th

Winners Jacque Murdoch, Greg Hemphill

Runners Up Peter McQueen, Imelda Valentine

Scroungers May18th 1st Bob Thirwell, 2nd Jim Warwick, 3rd

David Lemming

Wed 4's May 22nd Winners Rhonda Warwick, Barb Tanner, Sheena Bath

Runners Up Carol Monk, Hazel Crouch, Pam Walker, Bob Vonarx,

Thurs Jackpot pairs May 23rd

Winners Tim Carlton, Jaarpung Blundell

Runners Up Bob Thirwell, Trevor Mallouk

BONGAREE BOWLS CLUB 216

Ladies Division Tuesday 14th May, Winners: Bob Vonarx, Pam Walker

R/Up: Doreen O’Halloran, Brenda Hutchinson

Bonus Draw: Trevor Mallouk, Bob Thirwell, Sue Alexander, Bev Montgomery

On Friday, 10th May, Bongaree Bowls Club held its annual Maytime Fours Carnival. This event was proudly sponsored by Remax Advanced Bribie Island and Martin Jonkera Motors Morayfield.

There were 24 teams with 96 players. Two games of 15 ends were played, with lunch served between the two. Teams came from all three Bribie Island clubs, with visiting teams from Woodford, Kawana, Glasshouse, Kilcoy, Bramble Bay, and Woombye.

Bongaree Bowls Club extends its heartfelt thanks to all the participants and the dedicated volunteers who made the event a success. We also congratulate the winners and all the teams for their spirited participation.

Everyone had a wonderful, fun day. Winners overall were Solander - The Lions.

BRIBIE ISLAND BOWLS

CLUB

Self Select Pairs Fri 3 May 2024

Winners: L Tweddle, W Ritchie

Runners up: S Cook, J Hosie

Lucky draw: A Mann, J Proule

Lucky draw: Lynne Mather, Les Mather

Self select triples Fri 3 May

Winners: K Muller, C Perkins, G Taavena

Runners up: R Brinton, T Ridley, L Deakins

Lucky draw: Wally O, P Adams, G Fowler

Lucky draw: B Smith, M Lowry, J Oliver

Lucky draw: W Hoelscher, I Cooper, C Wilkie

Self Select triples Tue7 May

Winners: E Bateman, B Hosie, B Garfield

Runners up: M Gittens, J Noonan, L Gilmore

Lucky draw: M Hannon, J Hannon, S Cook

Lucky draw: M Mills, G Riley, C Monk

Lucky draw: Ken, Mark, Sandra

Lucky draw: K Smith, F Grimsey, I Smith

Scroungers Wed 8 May

1st: L Hackwood

2nd: S Hamblin

3rd: K Fuller

4th: L De Roule

Self select pairs Wed 8 May

M. Moore, J. Cummings, V. Jones, A. Boast

The second-place winner was SolanderThe Tigers.

S. Strasser, B. Stuart, R. Stuart, J. Oakley Third place winners Were BongareePink Panthers.

A. Jensen, D. Vaughan, S. Francis, E. Jensen.

Results of Ladies Section Turkey Pairs

Tuesday 21st May

Winners: Tim Carlton, Jaarpung Blundell

R/Up: Ken Kajewski, David Hutchinson

Winners: A Mann, J Prowle

Runners up: T Sellars, R Glasser

Lucky draw: J Mercer, K Burdon

Lucky draw: N Gray, S Hose

Lucky draw: H Taylor, I McNamara

Lucky draw: W Ritchie, L Tweedle

Random Select triples Thu 9 May

Winners: B Kelly, s Lang, M Cole

Runners up: M Hannan, P Neumann, T Phillips

Lucky draw: F Grimsey, R Follett, D Davis

Lucky draw: L Stanford, T Paokau, C Christiansen

Lucky draw: P Conn, G Low, J Brinton

Self Select pairs Fri 10 May

Winners: J Hosie, S Cook

Runners up: P Wilmont, A Coxhead

Lucky draw: C Watts, S Priest

Self Select pairs Fri 10 May

Winners: M Tull, B Kinnear

Runners up: S Root, K Burdon

Lucky draw: K Smith, M Retchford

Lucky draw: K Thornton, C Hayles,B Ferguson

Lucky draw: B Meek, M Lee

Lucky draw: A Legosz, R Elmore

Random Select Fours Sat 11 May

Highest margin: T Richardson, T Phillips, R Gilmore, L Gilmore

Lowest margin: J Neill, D Davis, K Mulleer, I Teakle

Out of hat winner: H Groves, K

WEEKLY SOCIAL BOWLS

W/E 18/05/2024

Tuesday Winners: John Harris, Raie Stuart & Alan Matheson.

R/U: Bill Dobe, Neville Graham, Ricci Harris & Ted Parker.

Wednesday Winners: Peter McCarthy & Ian James.

R/U: Paul Ollier & Peter Hodgson.

3 rd : Tony Miguel & Neil Feazey. Jackpot ($66) – No Winner.

Thursday Winners: Marieke Moore, Chris Cummins & Neil Feazey.

R/U: Lynne Shorter, Ted Parker & Ian Carr.

3 rd : Tania Town, Scott Town & Bruce Hill.

Jackpot ($105) – No Winner.

Friday Winners: Krys Henshaw & Rob Henshaw.

R/U: Desley Handcock & Rod Reilly.

1 st Rnd: Tony Grimmond & Chris Avenell.

2 nd Rnd: Marieke Moore & Neil Feazey.

Saturday Winners: No Competetion

Soens, L Kurtz, H Klass

Out of hat winner: B Castle, P Patrikeos, G Hutchison, D Bishop

Self Select triples Tue 14 May

Winners: H Groves, A Sturm, J Lonsdale

Runners up: M Gittens, J Noonan, L Gilmore

Lucky draw: B Turnbull, S Mitchell, C Ebert

Lucky draw: R Avern, D Davis, L McKay

Lucky draw: R Eaton, F Crockett, BJ Adams

Scroungers Wed 15 May 2024

1st: P Ditchburn

2nd: L De Roule

3rd: S Greensill

Self Select pairs Wed 15 May

Winners: M Garfield, E Bateman

Runners up: E Hooley, I McLaren

Lucky draw: G Woollett, D Cherry

Lucky draw: T Phillips, R Glasser

Lucky draw: M Andrews, M Prewett

Lucky draw: E Eaton, R Eaton

Random Select triples Thu16 May

Winners: C Brayley, F Grimsey, T Armstrong

Runners up: H Russell, T Brain, L Mackay

Lucky draw: B Kelly, R Ward, M Hogan

Lucky draw: G Riley, P Neumann, S Muller

(Men’s 2 Day Carnival).

WEEKLY SOCIAL BOWLS RESULTS - W/E 25/05/2024

Tuesday: Results Unavailable.

Wednesday: Results Unavailable. Jackpot – No Information.

Thursday: Results Unavailable. Jackpot – No Information.

Friday: Results Unavailable.

Saturday Winners: Alan Clavell-Pearson, Beryl Cowperthwaite & Alan Thompson.

R/U: Richard Sergeant, Mike Ross & Brian Craitem.

BRIBIE PINK DRAGONS

Sue Bowen's "advocacy, passion and commitment has encouraged so many to realise that they can still have an active and healthy lifestyle after a breast cancer diagnosis." Her work over more than two decades, 2001-2024, has encompassed guiding organisations with vision and enthusiasm in roles from Chairperson, Treasurer, Vice President, Co-Ordinator, and Coach. Her mission to promote cancer awareness and bring comfort and hope to many was continued through her years of volunteering with the Queensland Cancer Council.

We congratulate and happily

acknowledge Sue being awarded an OAM for service to women and dragon boating."

Bribie Pink Dragons, "applaud her incredible achievements, not only through her athletic endeavours but also her unwavering commitment to the fight against Breast Cancer. Despite facing new recurrences, Sue's boundless

Bribie Islander: Results for Bribie Island

9/5/24 – Single Stableford (Yellow Tees)

Div 1 Winner: Val Phinn 41, 2nd Abby Driver 38, 3rd Sandy Smith 36

Div 2 Winner: Roslyn Crossley 37, 2nd Heather Croukamp 33, 3rd Penny Brittain 32

Div 3 Winner: Nadia Aylott 31, 2nd Angela Roberts 30, 3rd

Yvonne Nicklin 26 cb

NTP’s: Hole 4 Di Benghamy, Hole 7 Vicki Jones, Hole 14 Lyn Cockerell, Hole 16 Carole Watson, Hole 7 (Div 3 2nd shot) Paddy Hyde

Accuracy Drives: Div 1 Vivi Lloyd, Div 2 Roslyn Crossley, Div 3 Nadia Aylott

14/5/24 – Single Stroke

Div 1 Winner: Myra Thomsen 69, 2nd Pauline Grooby 71, 3rd Vicki Jones 75

Div 2 Winner: Sue Graham 72, 2nd Vivienne Learoyd 74, 3rd Helena Winterflood 75

Div 3 Winner: Yvonne Nicklin 77, 2nd Roslyn Crossley 78 cb, 3rd Charmaine Price 78

NTP’s: Hole 4 Pauline Grooby, Hole 7 Judith Umlauft, Hole 14 Vivienne Learoyd, Hole 16 Jo Malone, Hole 7 (Div 3 2nd shot) Jude Dorhauer

16/5/24 – American Foursomes

Overall Winners: Ann Rogers & Jude Dorhauer 74.875, 2nd Di Benghamy & Vicki Jones 77.5, 3rd Carol McKenzie & Yuko Nakamura 77.625

NTP’s: Hole 4 Di Benghamy, Hole 7 Penny Brittain, Hole 14 Ann Rogers, Hole 16 Carol McKenzie

21/5/24 – 4BBB Stableford

Overall Winners: Vivi Lloyd & Barbara Newcomb 42 cb, 2nd Vicki Cronan & Nadia Aylott 42 cb, 3rd Angela Roberts & Sonia Ferrante 42, 4th Susie Smith & Carole Watson 41 cb

NTP’s: Hole 4 Ros Gardiner, Hole 7 Julie Bell, Hole 14 Suzanne Fowler, Hole 16 Sandy Smith, Hole 7 (Div 3 2nd shot) Nadia Aylott

courage and dedication to offering support to the newly diagnosed reveals her spirit remains unbroken. Even after stepping back from competitive paddling, she commits every training day, in her role as accredited Coach, to nurturing the next generation of paddlers

We are deeply grateful for the

HOW GOOD WAS THE CABOOLTURE CHALLENGE?

Kathy Vincent.

It was another thrilling weekend at Bribie Island Croquet Club, marked by the prestigious Caboolture Challenge. This high-stakes competition drew players not just from our club, but also from esteemed clubs like Windsor, Point Lookout, East Brisbane, and Mcllwraith. This was a very tough few days. Players had to think of good strategies and play to win. One player from Windsor was unbeaten throughout the competition, winning every game on Saturday, and on Sunday, she had one more game to play. She is an excellent player with a low handicap. Her last game was with Arthur Heathwood from Bribie. Arthur is fairly new to the game and has a much lower handicap. He would be classed as a novice. However, Arthur was amazing, many of the spectators, including myself, held their breath while Arthur just kept his head down and played a great game against the champion, winning the game. Wow, what an achievement! We all congratulated him on an amazing performance we had, Arthur, a star player.

Our Bribie players showcased their skills and determination, making us proud. However, the ultimate champion was Judy Fairclough from Windsor, with our very own Joan Gleeson as the deserving runner-up. We commend all the players for their excellent performance over the two days of golf croquet.

If you would like to come along and have a go, give Jan Rees a call on 0437 008042 we might see you there .

opportunity to celebrate Sue's journey and the indelible and inspiring impact she has made on countless lives. Her dedication and achievements are a beacon of hope for all of us.Bribie Pink Dragons are on the water three times a week.

For further information, contact President 0499990352

EAT DRINK AND BE MERRY

Kathy Vincent

Well, that is just one thing we do at Pumicestone Passage Probus, but so much more, too. On Tuesday the 14th of May we had an excellent meeting.

What do we do you may ask?

Well, we go out locally for dinner each month, supporting local establishments (eat).

We also have a coffee morning each month (drink).

We have entertaining speakers every month and we have a jolly good time (Merry).

This month, we were entertained by an excellent speaker Chris Reynolds talking about his book “What a Capitol Idea “

Chris loves to research documents, some of which have only recently been released, as well as personal accounts to reveal the true story of Australia’s development. This story is quite different from the accounts we have been given in the past. This is not just another history book; it is really worth a read. We were thrilled to welcome 4 new members to the Club and had visitors who are eager to join next month. Each new member brings fresh perspectives and enriches our club, making it a more vibrant and diverse community.

Cheryl and John Doak and Jane and Ray Gratton were inducted this month. Perhaps you would like to come along and see for yourself how much fun you can have in our Club?

Give Di Carter, a call on 0438 182 071.

Are retro kitchens making a comeback?

Fashion can be fickle but also cyclical. Home design, in particular, is a challenging task -- we aim to choose a fashionable style this year that won't be at risk of looking dated next year. One way to navigate this challenge is to find a design that's already 'dated' yet endures the test of time. Kitchen designs from the mid-20th century (the 1940s-1960s) are making a strong comeback, particularly because of the feelings they evoke. Fond memories of parents and grandparents cooking and cleaning in a kitchen adorned in cheerful colours, steel cabinets and sleek metal appliances are common mental images of the ideal kitchen.

The generation that designed mid-century kitchens emerged from a tumultuous time following the Great Depression in the 1930s and the rationing of World War

II. Finally, after the war, people had jobs and—thanks to a boom of post-wartime production— products to buy. People were ready to invest, but smart consumers with fresh memories of the Depression knew the value of a dollar and, therefore, sought quality products. This practicality and durability are key features of mid-century designs that are making a comeback today.

Today, thanks to an increased interest in cooking and eating healthy instead of prepared and processed foods, the kitchen itself is regaining the spotlight as the most important room in the house. Just as our grandmothers made everything from scratch from fresh, local ingredients, we're rediscovering the value of those methods. Likewise, we want the style of our kitchen to reflect that pastime and those old-fashioned values.

And then there are those of us who adore the mid-century cool, sleek style, which is making a comeback largely thanks to hit TV dramas like "Mad Men." But whatever the reason, it's clear that retro kitchens are back in style.

Dishwasher Tablet Hacks to Clean Almost Anything

ishwasher tabs go in the dishwasher, right? Yes, but they can be hacked for many other purposes around the house. Don't worry if you went a little crazy at Costco and bought far too many dishwasher tablets than you need for actually doing dishes. These modern marvels are capable of far more than simply cleaning your cutlery.

There are many brands of dishwasher tablets out there, but they all have the same general ingredients and purpose. These little tablets are designed to fit right into the detergent dispenser compartment, typically located on the interior of the dishwasher door. The little dispenser door opens at the appropriate time during the cycle, and the tablet dissolves, mixing cleaning detergents in with the water.

That's a pretty cool use all on its own. However, there's a lot of other untapped potential for this modern cleaning marvel. Here are some of our favourites, which, not surprisingly, are pretty much all about making things sparkle.

Clean the Toilet Let's face it: Cleaning the toilet is nobody's idea of fun. But with dishwasher tablets, this dreaded chore becomes a breeze. Simply drop a tablet in the commode, let it dissolve, and then give it a quick scrub with a toilet brush. Flush, and voila! Your toilet is sparkling clean, and you're free to move on with your day.

Wash the Washing Machine - Few appliances

take more abuse than the washing machine, which can get pretty stinky from time to time thanks to mould, mildew and bacteria buildup. Easily clean and deodorise this all-important household tool by dropping two dishwasher tablets (four if you have a really dirty or oversized machine) in the drum. Run the cycle on high heat, then enjoy a delightfully odour-free machine.

Brighten Those Whites: Are your white towels, sheets, and clothes losing their brightness? Don't worry, dishwasher tablets are here to help. By adding a tablet to your regular wash, you can harness the power of the dishwasher's bleach to remove stains and bring your whites back to life. It's like a mini miracle for your laundry.

Remove Marker and Crayon Stains - Every parent has at some point turned their back for only a moment, then turned back around to find a wall or section of flooring covered in toddler "art." To eliminate such an exhibit, a

dishwasher tablet should be put into a bucket full of warm water. Allow it to dissolve, then get a sponge nice and damp with the stuff. Wipe the walls and floors until clean. Scrub the Oven - Oven doors get covered in all sorts of baked-on grime and goo, which ruins the overall kitchen's aesthetic. Get a clean oven door back in the mix with a little help from a dishwasher tablet! For this purpose, choosing a powder tablet rather than a liquid gel pack is easiest. Put on some rubber gloves, then fill up a spray bottle with plain water (a bowl of water works fine, too). Get the tablet and the surface wet, then scrub directly on the oven door with the tablet. Do the whole thing, then wipe the surface with a dry paper towel, followed by a wet one to remove chemicals. Go over stubborn spots as needed. Repeat this on all parts of the oven, including the racks, bottom, and sides!

Revitalise Patio Furniture - Even if kept under cover, plastic and metal patio

furniture collects dirt, pollen and other bits of natural grime. Make your outdoor furniture look shiny and as good as new by giving it a good once-over with a dishwasher tablet. This can be done in two ways. Either scrub the furniture directly with a damp tablet or dissolve the tablet in warm water, then dip a sponge in to get the good stuff. No matter what, be sure to wear gloves. Wood and wicker furniture should be cleaned with a nourishing, oil-based soap.

Burned Pots and Pans - Did dinner get out of control? Don't hurt yourself scrubbing and scrubbing those burned pots and pans. Instead, fill the affected cookware with water. Add a dishwasher tablet, then bring the water to a boil. Simmer on low for ten minutes, then drain and easily wipe away stains as needed. Repeat if the stain is extra stubborn.

Deodorise the Kitchen Rubbish Bins—Even relatively clean kitchen rubbish bins need a good once-over now and again. The easiest way to

Mon-Thu 8 am to 4 pm Fri 8am - 3pm, Sat-Sun

do this, which doesn't require you to get shoulder-deep in such a nasty space, is to fill the can carefully with boiling water. Then, drop a dishwasher tablet in, allow it to dissolve and soak for ten minutes or so. Carefully pour the contents out afterwards and wipe them out as needed.

Eliminate Gas and Oil Stains - Unsightly oil and gas stains can ruin the appearance of a driveway or garage. To fix this, dampen a dishwasher tablet until it becomes crumbly. Apply the paste to the affected area and allow it to soak for a couple of days. Then, rinse the grease away! Dishwasher tablets pack a lot more punch than the average consumer realises. It's a classic case of how big things come in small packages!

Feeling extra ambitious? Make your own dishwasher tablets using a few simple ingredients, such as baking soda, washing soda, citric acid, white vinegar, salt, and essential oil. Be sure to have a few silicone ice cube trays on hand to form them!

When the sun is shining, solar panels convert sunlight into DC (direct current) electricity. The solar inverter converts this electricity into AC (alternating current) power for use in your home. Your home appliances (fridge, dishwasher, pool pumps etc.) use this power instead of drawing power from the electricity grid.

Any excess electricity generated by solar panels but not used by appliances is sent back (exported) to the electricity grid or used to charge a solar battery.

Electricity Retailers pay a feed-in tariff for any electricity sent back to the grid. Solar generation, consumption, and export are tracked and recorded through a smart meter, which provides the data for electricity billing.

Solar systems are most effective when they are well positioned (north-facing is optimal, but not essential) and exposed to enough sunlight without obstruction by shade caused from trees, power lines or other structures.

Understanding the importance of this positioning can help you make an informed decision and maximize the benefits of your solar system.

There’s no way around it—installing a solar system requires an upfront investment. So, to make sure solar is right for you, ask yourself the following questions.

What are your main reasons for investing in solar?

Understanding your energy usage can help you determine whether that investment will pay off. Knowing how much solar power you will be able to use throughout the day will help you determine the appropriate system size and ensure you are getting a return on your investment.

The most benefit to be gained from solar is through “self-consumption” – that is, consuming the power your solar system generates instead of drawing power from the grid. Your solar system will generate the most power during peak daylight hours, so this is the optimal time to consume the energy your system is generating.

When do you use the most electricity?

If you (or your family) are not home during the day, you can still make the most of your system by altering or tweaking how you consume energy or by running appliances during peak daylight hours.

Any excess power you generate is sent back to the grid, for which your electricity retailer can pay you a feed-in tariff. Feed-in tariffs differ from state to state and from retailer to retailer, so it’s worth talking to your retailer or shopping around to find the best deal for you.

The other key factor in determining if solar will work for you is your roof.

How well do I know my roof?

The orientation (degree to North) of your roof, pitch (slope or angle), available space, amount of shade, and even the type of roof (tile, tin, concrete, etc.) will impact how you benefit from solar energy or whether solar energy is an option for you.

Solar is not a one-size-fits-all solution, and these factors need to be considered.

A quality solar retailer will examine your roof to determine the appropriate size and projected benefits.

Maintenance and Warranties

Like all electrical equipment, your solar system should be maintained with some frequency to ensure continued performance, operation and safety. Additionally, dust, bird droppings and other debris can build up over time and

decrease the performance of your panels.

Independent advice

For more independent advice or information on buying solar, we recommend the following organisations:

• The Australian Energy Foundation is working towards a transition to a zero-carbon society through community empowerment. They offer simple and clear energy advice for consumers.

• Renew is a national, notfor-profit organization that advocates for people to live sustainably in their homes and communities. It offers a paid advice service (free for Renew Members) and free online information.

• Choice is the leading consumer advocacy group in Australia and offers unbiased product and purchasing advice for consumers.

Solar guides

The Clean Energy Council offers free guides on buying solar and storage. Available for both households and businesses, the guides cover the important information you need to know when purchasing rooftop solar or storage.

WEED OF THE MONTH COCOS PALM

The Cocos palm is regarded as an environmental weed in Queensland and has been declared a class R - reduce population by the Brisbane City Council .

The Cocos palm is a large single trunk palm to 20 metres. It is a weed of road sides, water courses and urban bushland . It has the ability to prolifically reproduce creating a thick carpet of seedlings out-competing native species .

In the urban environment it often grows too large for the area it was planted in. With its ability to prolifically reproduce, it creates an unsightly mess in yards . The mass of seeds that drop to the ground create a trip hazard on

paths and driveways. The Cocos palm also requires regular cleaning of the dead fronds as they are not self cleaning. It also attracts flying foxes for the fruits/seeds. These flying foxes are regularly injured by the fronds and also get diarrhoea from the fruit and deposit it all over properties on cars , houses and shed roofs etc .

If you have a Cocos palm and are sick of living with it . Feel free to contact me for a free no obligation quote for its removal or any other tree problem you may have. We have all the right equipment and expert staff to get your tree job done safely and efficiently.

- Lifetime service & product warranty

- FREE call back & redo policy

- Pay as you go with no lock in contracts

- Free advice regarding lawn care and maintenance

- Cost effective solution for positive visual results

- Pet friendly products

CHOOSE COOCHIE? WHAT DOES OUR LAWN CARE PROGRAM INCLUDE?

- Coochie Hydrogreen services over 30,000 regular clients on our Lawn Care Program Australia Wide

- Our commercial grade lawn products are unique and not available to the public

- Australian owned, home grown business

- No.1 industry leader for over 25 years

BRIBIE LAWNS EXPERIENCING A MEALY BIG PROBLEM!

Has your lawn recently developed brown spots that seem to be multiplying by the day? You might have an outbreak of MEALY BUG!

Mealy Bugs are small sap-sucking pests that are often found in warmer climates. They are soft-bodied, wingless and are covered in white, protective wax and leave behind dry looking, damaged grass blades. They produce Honeydew which can cause mould growth on plants, attracts other pests, and can prevent your grass from photosynthesizing. They tend to hide in the moist and protected parts of a plant, usually the dense foliage or underside of leaves, and can have the appearance of small spots of cotton.

SO, WHAT CAN YOU DO?

Mealy Bugs reach maturity within 1-3 months of hatching, and adult females can lay 300-600 eggs which will hatch within 1-3 weeks. If these pests aren’t taken care of quickly, they can overrun your lawn!

Option 1. Mealy Bugs are hard to eradicate, generally needing to be manually removed with rubbing alcohol from each blade of grass. This daunting task could take days or weeks depending on your yard size.

Option 2. Jump on Doctor Google and research old wife’s tales on ‘How Do I Kill Mealy Bug’ just to find the hundreds of different products you ‘could’ use to eradicate them.

Option 3. CALL COOCHIE HYDROGREEN!

Whether your lawn is inundated with weeds, tired and stressed, disease-ridden or destroyed by lawn grubs and pests, Coochie Hydrogreen can help you out.

With over 25 years of experience servicing more than 30,000 customers nationally, our lawn care programs and products are designed to give you the peace of mind of knowing that your lawn will be healthy all year round.

Our products are applied by trained technicians, pet-friendly, commercial grade, unique to Coochie Hydrogreen, and backed by our full-service warranty.

Take the hassle out of loving your lawn and call in the professionals to help you out.

Contact Coochie Hydrogreen for your FREE LAWN ASSESSMENT today at  www.coochie.com.au

Dear Homeowners and Landlords,

It's a pivotal time in the real estate industry where you can rely on a trusted source with over 500 5-star reviews. We have over 60 years combined experience and knowledge to guide you through the ups and downs of the market cycle. Current market conditions have led to a demand for affordable selling methods, and we pass on the savings to our clients with our very low fees. We aim to ensure that you get the most value from our services.

Sheri Binzer has worked in real estate since 1992, bringing over 25 years of local experience to her clients. She is known for providing personalised service and maintaining high professionalism, which leads to impressive results.

Clients view Sheri as an "absolutely down-to-earth professional" in real estate representation. With her authentic reputation and deep roots in Bribie Island, she is dedicated to understanding the needs of both seasoned and first-time buyers.

As an experienced realtor, Sheri holds a business degree from Monash University. She is committed to comprehensively serving the Bribie Island region's real estate needs.

Sheri is the esteemed founder of Bribie Realty and one of the largest regional independents - Caboolture Realty, and has partnered with Julie Walton, a renowned property marketer with an impressive 30 years of negotiating and sales experience.

Julie’s honours degree in Marketing from QUT, combined with sales and marketing experience with local businesses, has been pivotal in creating 'Top Shelf' results - driven campaigns.

We are thrilled to introduce bribierealty.com.au, a new website that serves as a 'ONE-STOP SHOP' for the market. This user-friendly platform provides a comprehensive view of all three core services – SALES, RENTALS, and HOLIDAY RENTALS, available across the Bribie Region. With this, you can effortlessly explore our services, compare options, and make well-informed decisions, all in one place.

Please pick up the phone and talk to us....

Seller & Buyers - Winter Program

This exclusive program is designed to provide additional benefits and support to our clients during the winter season. We've covered you, from special offers on our services to tailored advice for winter property management.

JOIN US today and benefit with the latest information, services, properties for sale, rent and holiday let. REGISTER NOW!

1. Home Ready - Specialist trades that will drop tools for our clients to aid in getting their homes ready for market. Painters, carpet, smoke alarms, swimming pool certification, everything.

2. Free no obligation appraisals (we come to you 7 days a week)

3. All advertising, photography, internet inclusive with free premium realestate.com.au listings

4. Free strategic marketing plan with digital and traditional media that get’s results

5. Buyer Property Tours– open for inspection trails & new listings alerts to database

Housing CRISIS

The mayor of the City of Moreton Bay, Peter Flannery, called on the State Government to take action on the housing crisis.

“AV Jennings’ announcement last night to terminate their option for development at Waraba, due to expected costs not aligning with their forecasts, is a timely reminder for Government,” Mayor Flannery said.

“There is no doubt that infrastructure and development costs have increased - we’re seeing that across the board.

“However, we will not meet state government-mandated housing targets if a catalytic

infrastructure pipeline is not prioritised now.

“The City of Moreton Bay has done the planning, and we know what we need to manage impending growth. We have 12 growth fronts, but all of these are in underdeveloped areas. “The fact of the matter is land can’t be turned into housing without infrastructure.  Developers need certainty. They can’t just sit on paddocks and wait for their day in the sun!

“It’s all well and good for the State to mandate growth targets for Councils but they need to support that growth. “That is why we have been calling on the State and Federal Governments to expedite funding for key infrastructure NOW.

“We really need the Bruce Highway Western Alternative (BHWA) and Buchanan Road projects to come online to facilitate housing. “The State has been talking about the BHWA for years but it’s just another case of infrastructure lagging behind privatelyfunded development.

“The Federal Budget claimed to have a solution to ease infrastructure bottlenecks and better connect essential services to homes such as roads, water and power and

called for an increase in housing supply.  But not a dollar has been even offered to City of Moreton Bay for this purpose.

“With Councils only receiving 3% of tax revenue - it is up to the State and Federal Governments to make a real contribution to infrastructure that will unlock City of Moreton Bay’s huge growth area, so that housing targets can be met.

“As South East Queensland’s fastest growing city, we expect better and will hold the State to account when their budget comes down in June. “The current lack of response in funding the enormous growth challenge that City of Moreton Bay faces is quite frankly inadequate.”

The landowner for whom AV Jennings had a development option remains committed to achieving outcomes at Waraba. Waraba is a key growth area for South East Queensland and Council is hopeful that the land earmarked for the AV Jennings Rocksberg project will be quickly snapped up.

When completed, Waraba will be the size of Mackay providing 30,000 homes for about 70,000 people.

MYLT MYLT MEET YOUR LOCAL TRADIE

Pros and cons of home renovation

If you’re thinking about taking on a renovation project, there are a few key things to consider before deciding if it’s going to be worth it for you. To provide you with some guidance, here are some of the pros and cons of renovating your home that you might want to weigh up before you get started.

Pros of a home renovation

Firstly, let’s get the good stuff out of the way. There are many benefits to renovating your home, so let’s discuss a few of them.

Increase the home’s value

One of the main reasons many people decide to renovate is because of the added value it creates. If done right, renovating can be a great way to increase your property value, which means more money in your back pocket when it comes time to sell. To give you a hint of what you might look at updating, kitchens and bathrooms are the most common renovation destinations.

Cheaper than buying a new home

Maybe you’re sick of the bathroom tap always leaking, or you hate the tacky carpet in your current home. Rather than moving into a property without these issues, often times, renovating ends up being better for the budget when accounting for all the costs of buying a home and selling. Plus, if you’re in a location that you love, why move?

Personalisation

When you renovate, you can make custom changes that cater to your likes/preferences. For example, do you love the look of a feature wall? You can pick any colour and put it wherever you want. If you love taking long showers, you could

consider installing a costeffective rainwater shower. Whatever you want to add to or change about your home, you can - the options are pretty much endless.

Room to expand

If you wanted to, you could choose to make additions to your home to account for a growing family or changing lifestyle. Whether you choose to add on an extra bedroom at the back of the house or knock down a wall to create more space, that’s totally up to you. Improve/update your home’s look

At the end of the day, renovating your home allows you to make improvements that will benefit your everyday life. Whether that’s putting solar panels on the roof to save on energy bills, or putting in a new kitchen stove that isn’t from the 1970s - you can create a more modern, sleek home without needing to move elsewhere.

Cons of a home renovation

As well as benefits to a home renovation, there are also drawbacks that should be considered before drawing up designs and knocking

down walls.

Overcapitalising

There are significant costs to renovating and one of the most common mistakes when renovating is what’s called overcapitalising. As mentioned earlier, renovating can add value to your home when done right. If this isn’t considered, you might end up spending money on a renovation that doesn’t reflect in the value of your home

For example, if you spent $50,000 on a new kitchen, but it only adds value of $20,000 - you have overcapitalised. Might not get your money back

If you overcapitalise, you’re essentially losing money. Additionally, if you make specific renovations for you and your lifestyle, this might not be attractive to buyers. For example, if you painted a bright green feature wall, this might end up turning off potential buyers, or be seen as something that needs to be fixed.

Renting during renovation

If you’re making massive structural changes to your home that make it unlivable for a period of time, you might

need to rent elsewhere as the renovations are being completed. This can be costly, as not only will you need to keep up with your mortgage and finance your renovation project, you also need to cover your rent. Is a home renovation right for you?

Whether you’re looking to expand or to make specific alterations, a renovation project can be highly rewarding.

However, depending on what you want to get out of it, you should weigh up the pros and cons of renovating before deciding if it’s worth it.

Renovating a home is not an easy task - it takes time, patience, money, and precise planning. You might also need to consider taking out a construction loan to finance your renovation project, depending on its scale.

Talk to one of our friendly lending specialists today.

VMR BRIBIE ISLAND

With beautiful Autumn weather our Annual High Tea was blessed with 76 guests for an awesome event. With fine food and a fabulous Fashion Parade by 2 of our local businesses, Bribie’s Sheron Strasser’s “Island Designs”, and Rebecca’s “Seaweed and Sandals” from Beachmere.

Kelly Langworthy and her Social Committee team provided a great menu for the day with, quiches, mini sausage rolls, curried tuna and savoury cheese vol-au-vents, sandwiches (triple decker smoked salmon cream cheese chives) and cucumber, egg & lettuce, chicken with celery, chives and spring onion. After the Fashion Parade sweets were served: – scones & jam with and cream, match sticks with jam and cream, chocolate brownies, mini-French cakes, caramel tarts, and pink lamingtons. All guests were offered 2 complimentary drinks at the bar and unlimited tea and coffee.

Commodore Ces Luscombe welcomed everyone and gave a brief overview of our volunteer’s work, and a special welcome to our VIP guests; Federal Member for Longman Trevor Young MP and his wife Alex, Olivia representing State Member for Pumicestone Ali King MP, and Division One MBRC Councillor Brooke Savige. Terry and Brooke had the privilege of choosing the winner of the best outfit, won by Karen who had purchased her outfit from Seaweed & Sandals from Beachmere. There were raffles aplenty thank you for all our donors:Allan & Gail Tranter, Lindsay & Colleen Crompton, Kaye & John Hammond, Cheryl Robinson, Peter & Gwen McNamara, Margaret & Ron Jones, Nextra Newsagency Bribie, Ali King, Sheron from Island Designs, and Rebecca from Seaweed & Sandals.

Wednesday 1st May 2024, Testing and Tagging at the Base. Wayne Sclater patiently waiting for ambos to arrive for Medevac from Tangalooma. Thanks to our electrician and Kelly Langworthy and Lindsay Crompton for assisting.

New benches arrive for the Kitchen upgrade thanks to a grant from the Moreton Bay Regional Council. Sinks, dishwasher, fridge, and bain-marie have also arrived, work is expected to take approximately 2 weeks and should be completed by the end of May.

A massive shout out to Dale Mullins who was awarded his 3rd stripe today and became a Crew Day Coxswain. Picture shows Dale being congratulated by Commodore Ces Luscombe, watched by Vice Commodore Wayne Sclater. Dale joined us a few years ago when he was enticed by a ramp day and was keen to learn about safe boating and the area and what an asset he has become.

Colleen Beros delivers one of the food tiers.

Kelly Langworthy addresses the gathering on what they can expect from the function.

The Function Room setup and ready for action.

A big shout out to Scott Normile who received his first stripe today from Vice Commodore Wayne Sclater and Commodore Ces LuscombeCongratulations and welcome aboard Scott.

The Social Committee Team – Colleen Beros, Kaye Hammond, Robyn Young, Leona Patrick, Kelly Langworthy, Barbara Lucas, John Traill, Sheryl Traill, Cheryl Robinson, and Sharyn Giles before the guests arrive.

Robyn Clark with our Karen Llewellyn behind the bar!

Wendy Luscombe with her neighbour Hannah.

Gwen McNamara with her neighbour Sarah.

FISHING,

Above and below MBRC Division One Councillor Brooke Savige and Federal Member for Longman Terry Young MP addressed the gathering highlighting the ongoing contribution of VMR Bribie to the community, their efforts in fundraising for this critical service and your ongoing support for this totally voluntary organisation. They praised the small businesses for their professional Fashion Parade and encouraged all to support such businesses wherever possible.

MAY VESSEL ASSISTS

SAT 11/05 0543AM – Advised by Water Police that a vessel was drifting North of Skippers Canal, located and moored safely.

SUN 12/05 1256PM – 7.9m Half Cabin member with a broken timing belt in the Shipping Channel, required a tow to Pacific Harbour. MON 13/05 0652AM - Prearranged to tow member’s 12m Cruiser from Pacific Harbour to Scarborough.

WED 15/05 1208PM – 15m Trawler non-member requests vessel relocated from near Avon Wreck to Turners Camp.

FRI 17/05 1342PM – 16m

Houseboat has dragged anchor and stuck on sandbank, required refloating from White Patch away from new bridge construction.

SAT 18/05 1143 AM – 5.3m Half Cabin member run aground North of the Bribie Bridge required a tow to Spinnaker Sound Marina.

SAT 18/05 1220PM - Request from Water Police to Conduct a search of area from Skirmish Point to Deception Bay for suspected Missing Canoeist

SAT 18/05 2025PM – 6m Cuddy Cabin member lost power near Banksia Beach required a tow to Spinnaker Sound Marina.

2024 YEAR RADIO ROOM STATISTICS

To Wednesday 22nd May 2024

6,111 Calls, 1,637 vessels logged on, 150 Vessel Assists, 660 Sitreps, 821 Requests, 16 Overdue vessels, 7 Vessel Tracking, 520 Radio Checks, 6 Weather Forecasts 3 Securite Broadcasts. 1 Pan Pan, 0 Mayday VHF

COMMODORE CES’ SAFETY MESSAGE:

“With the weather improving check that your boat is in good order, check that you have all your safety gear and everyone on board knows its location, ensure it is easy to get at in an emergency, ensure your flares are in date, that your torch works, check your battery and your fuel. Ensure you let someone know of your plans, who is with you, where you are leaving from, where you are going, what time you are returning, and make sure you have either a mobile phone, VHF or 27Mhz marine radio on board.”

“PLEASE WEAR YOUR LIFE JACKETS!”

“BUT importantly – Always remember if you are heading out on the water LOG ON with your local VMR or Coast Guard, its a free service for everyone, so why wouldn't you! - It just may save your life!"

The proprietors of the Fashion Parade showing, Sheron from Island Designs, and Rebecca from Seaweed & Sandals from Beachmere.

Carol Sharon

Brooke Savige and Terry Young get together to judge the best dressed for the function.

Robyn Clark with Ariana Doolan the LNP candidate for Pumicestone in the upcoming Sate elections.

Colleen Crompton enjoying the day.

Radio Operator Pauline Amourous with her Mum Margaret Jones.

Jennifer Williams catches up with Life Member Betty Snell.

Radio Operator Mary Brown with Olivia D’Rozario from Ali King’s Office.

Our immediate past Social Committee Coordinator Janine Jaavuo, enjoying life on the “other side” with fellow friend Jeanne from Gemlife Bribie Island.

Rossi Young with Barb O’Hagan.

Lyndsay Paterson with Lindsay & Colleen Crompton’s daughter Amanda.

Jaydene Annette

Jenny Kelly models a glass of champagne for the photographer!

Best Dressed winner Karen with Commodore Ces Luscombe, Cr Brooke Savige and Terry Young MP.

Terry beckons to Brooke to announce their joint decision for the best dressed prize.

Cr Brooke Savige and Terry Young MP with an Honourable Mention for Best Dressed –Zara our youngest attendee at the High Tea.

On Water & Re-Power DaySouthern Fish Marine

Spinnaker Sound Marina 9/11 Spinnaker Drive, Sandstone Point

IF YOU ARE IN THE MARKET FOR A NEW BOAT OR ENGINE, COME ON DOWN SATURDAY, 1ST JUNE, FROM 9 AM -2 PM AND JOIN THE TEAM AT SOUTHERN FISH MARINE. GO FOR A RIDE IN ANY OF THE SIX MAKOCRAFT BOATS THAT WILL BE ON THE

Ranging from 3.76 through to 7.3m Plate boats, they'll be sure to wet anyone’s appetite.

If you already own a boat and are looking to repower it, whether it’s an outboard or a diesel or petrol inboard, Anthony has on-the-day deals that will get anyone excited.

Anthony says he has managed to get some crazy savings, up to thousands of dollars to pass on for a day that won’t be repeated. Representatives from Mercury, Mercury Finance, Makocraft, and Volvo Penta will be on-site to help assist with any enquiries regarding the product.

There is an impressive display of Mercury outboards, Volvo Penta diesels, and petrol Inboards, including an IPS Drive and Makocraft boats.

So, if you are in the market for anything on the water, go and see the team @ Southern Fish Marine. Grab yourself a snag, and for the kids, there's a face painter and balloon twister.

07 5497 6733

www.southernfishmarine.com.au info@southernfishmarine.com.au

Once Navy, Always Navy

Roy Sycamore, Marion Warden, and Rod Curtis were honoured for their exceptional dedication and support of the Tuesday Night Raffles, a significant event within the Ex-Naval Men’s Association community. Ron Tait, the QOV coordinator, presented these individuals with well-deserved certificates of appreciation, recognising their invaluable contributions.

The Ex-Naval Men’s Association began one evening in 1920 in the vicinity of Young and Jackson's Hotel on the corner of Flinders and Swanston Streets, Melbourne. An ex-naval man out for a stroll with his wife saw a former shipmate on point duty as a policeman. After this chance meeting, they decided to get together again with as many old shipmates as possible.

This marked a significant milestone in the association's history, as it led to a "Smoko" in May 1920 in the old Manchester Unity Hall in Swanston Street, attended by about 100 ex-Naval men who agreed to form the "Ex-Naval Men’s Association", which was inaugurated in November 1920.  In 1922, the Ex-Naval Men’s Association took a leap forward by amalgamating with the China Naval Contingent Association, whose members had seen service during the Boxer Rebellion of 1900, thereby expanding its reach and influence.

As the association continued to grow, it underwent a significant transformation. In 1925, the NSW Section was formed in Sydney, and in 1947, approval was given to form Subsections in other areas throughout the State. Then, in 1960, the association took a Bold step by changing its name to "The Naval Association of Australia", a name that better reflected its evolving

aims and membership, which now included serving and ex-naval persons.

From the beginning, the Association was developed as a self-help organisation with the primary objective being to unite former and serving Naval Personnel for mutual benefit with the motto:

Each for All — All for Each Once Navy, Always Navy (the motto today)

The NAA pursues five objectives that underpin its mission:

• Care (welfare) for the diverse and crucial support of Navy and ex-Navy men and women,

• Commemoration by maintaining the

legacy of past service and sacrifice.

• Cadets (ANC) by assisting youths to become better citizens through support to the ANC.

• Camaraderie to meet and socialise with like-minded Navy and ex-Navy men and women.

• Community (Engagement) - How we interact with and support our local communities.

The aim is to be a dynamic and contemporary organisation that supports the Navy fraternity in various ways, with Mateship being the core of ethos. It represents the strong bond and camaraderie shared among serving Navy and ex-Navy men and women. Through mateship, members support, understand, and feel a sense of belonging, fostering a community that values unity and mutual assistance.

Additionally, the NAA provides support and assistance to its members, whether it's through welfare programs, mentorship opportunities, or simply being there for one another in times of need. This strong camaraderie and mutual support ensure that the bond between Navy and ex-Navy men and women remains strong and enduring within the NAA.

Membership in the NAA provides a platform for individuals to make a meaningful impact and sustain the Navy's legacy. Today's compensation, rehabilitation, and well-being entitlements provided to Navy and ex-Navy men and women are the result of decades of dedicated work by NAA members.

Group Photo For "Quilt of Valor" for their services for their countries was:

Roy Sycamore, Yvonne Birdling, David Birdling, Joy Churches, Colin Baxter and Sonny Moon

FISHING REPORT

Fishing has been up and down lately and often badly affected by the weather. Like the little girl with a curl in the middle of her forehead, when the weather has been good, it has been really good. When it’s bad, it’s been horrid!

An example was last weekend when Bribie really needed fair weather sailing for the Bribie Island Classic Boats Regatta. Saturday morning began miserably – cold, damp and windy. Just as we were giving up hope that the boaties could possibly enjoy their excursion up the Passage, out came the sun, and a glorious Saturday afternoon led to an equally lovely Sunday. Fishing, too, was lousy on Saturday morning and improved when the sun came out.

The water temperature has dropped by half a degree in the past few days, enough to slow some fish down. Bream, particularly, is less keen if there is a quick drop in water temperature – there haven’t been many good ones around. Ben did get a nice one off the sandbank near MR.

Ronny had better luck when he was christening his new boat. He anchored between the first red and green markers up Ningi Creek on the morning rising tide and caught two bream, all more than 28cm. Then, not long after the top of the tide, he landed three flathead – 41, 55 and 57cm, as well as a flounder. It must have been his new boat!

Talking of Ningi Creek, it has really silted up over the last

By: Robyn Bribie Island Boat Charters

few months, maybe due to the constant rainy weather? There are sandbanks across the entrance to Little Ningi, where there used to be drains, and the old oyster leases are hummocked with mud.

Whiting and tailor are abundant all through the Passage, so fishing over winter looks promising. Chris got eight whiting and two bream up at Poverty Creek – all while waiting for a VMR rescue! He was north of the campground and says there were whiting sitting all along the water’s

BRIBIE BAIT TACKLE & BIKES

TRADING

Fred’s flathead was caught on the afternoon falling tide, near the Avon wreck.

edge - big fat ones. It was the same the week before – he had half a bucket of them before pulling up anchor because his son’s girlfriend was seasick with the swell.

Jo and Rob went out to one of their favourite spots for a good feed – a little sandbank between Redcliffe and Beachmere, where the “whiting were biting!”

We had to go out a couple of nights ago to bring in a stranded hire boat, so we decided to do some fishing while we waited. After a couple of big snap-offs and wishing we’d remembered to pop a landing net on the rescue boat, we wandered up to our stranded vessel and chatted with a Whitepatch local on the shore, who said he could see whiting all along the edge of the water. They would have been after all the goodies that the rising tide stirs up and would be easy pickings if you want to try fishing from the shore.

Peter and Heather were nearby earlier that day, fishing off the sandbank close to Wright’s Creek and caught a 54cm flathead, using prawns for bait. On their way home, they caught

flathead getting around but sizes have generally not been huge.

two more off Kalmakuta Park, also on prawns. There are a few

Fishability Queensland has been getting some reasonable flathead from north of the Ningi Creek yellow marker. But they’ve also been getting lots of slimy grinners! If there is a catch-of-the-week, it’s probably

grinners – they are everywhere at the moment, “plague proportions”, as one fisher said! Some people like to mince them for fishcakes, but they’re too ugly for most to keep.

The Alvey Women’s Fishing Classic is on again for a month, so there’ll be more news about that in the next report.

Rod’s wasn’t big enough to keep, but it was taken just as we were going to print, so maybe he’ll get a biggie before the end of the day!

Chris was so impressed with his muddy that he popped it on the scales – good catch, from Poverty Creek.

MUD NOW COVERS 98% OF MORETON

BAY'S FLOOR,

CHOKING OUT PLANTS AND ANIMALS

University of Queensland sampling during and after the February 2022 Brisbane River flood has sounded a warning about the future of Moreton Bay, with climate change predicted to bring more extreme weather.

Dr Alistair Grinham from the School of Civil Engineering said recent floods deposited mud across 98 per cent of the Bay, compromising its remaining areas of clean sand and hastening the growth of a

MUD now covers 98%of Moreton Bay's floor

muddy ‘dead zone’.

“In 1970, Moreton Bay had about 400 square kilometres of clean sand, and now it has just 30 square kilometres,” Dr Grinham said.

“Clean sand is defined as having less than one per cent mud content, so some areas may look lovely and white, but flood sediment is insidiously changing the nature of the seabed and affecting water chemistry. “While sand is inert, flood sediment contains clay, organic matter, and nutrients from rural and suburban areas, which microbes break down to release nitrogen.

“This process is a background stressor across the whole Bay, contributing more nutrients to the water.”

In 2022, a free-fall penetrometer was deployed to measure the depth of mud on Moreton Bay's seabed. Dr Grinham said the nitrogen levels measured in the water during the study indicated Moreton Bay already had a big problem.

He said, “We estimate the amount of ammonium the sediment contributes to the Bay’s water to be equivalent to 180 years of sewage plant discharges.”

“When you load a system with nutrients and mud like

this, phytoplankton thrive and block sunlight from reaching the seabed, which is already being smothered by mud. These factors change what can live there.

“It is a process already underway in Moreton Bay.”

He said the destruction of seagrasses meant a loss of food and habitat for the fish, microorganisms, and vulnerable dugongs and turtles in the bay. Dr Grinham said dugongs could migrate to other waters on the eastern bank, but the mud zone was increasingly contaminating those areas, too.

He said without seagrasses to anchor the floor, more mud would be lifted and mixed into the surface water, cutting light from the rest of the plants below.

The survey captured images of flood sediment settling as mud around seagrass areas near Manly. The study collected and analysed sediment from 47 sites around Moreton Bay three days after the flood peak and then at more than 200 sites throughout 2022.

Core samples of mud pulled from the seabed across the Bay were also collected, and the results were compared to those of previous studies done in 1970, 2015, and 2019.

“Over the past 50 years, 300 million cubic metres of mud has been washed into Moreton Bay – that’s enough to fill 300 Suncorp stadiums,” Dr Grinham said.

“Much of the mud has collected in the central Bay where the water is deeper, and wind and tidal currents can’t disperse it. “This is where a big mud zone is growing and puts the great habitat wealth of Moreton Bay at risk.

“With climate change meaning we will see more extreme weather events and floods in the future, we desperately need restoration work along the Brisbane River catchment, especially in the Lockyer Valley and Bremer River subcatchments that flow into the Bay.

“Eventually, without restoration work, Moreton Bay will not be able to bounce back from a flood event,” Dr Grinham said.

The research is part of a longterm collaboration between UQ, Urban Utilities, and the Port of Brisbane. It found no evidence to suggest a health risk associated with swimming in the waters of Moreton Bay when an algal bloom was not present. The research paper is published in Science of the Total Environment.

Some of the Biggest Crabs in the World

he lived to be 80 years old, ultimately passing away in 2016.

Tasmanian Giant Crab

habitat.

Primarily nocturnal, Japanese spider crabs scavenge for molluscs, fish, and detritus. They are generally solitary creatures, although they congregate in large numbers during the mating season. With meat that's sweet and tender in texture, Japanese spider crabs are a prized delicacy in local cuisine.

The Largest Crab Ever Caught

The largest crab ever caught was a Japanese spider crab whose captors nicknamed it "Big Daddy" after the professional wrestler Shirley Crabtree Jr., who enjoyed the same nickname. Big Daddy the crab measured 10 feet, 2.5 inches (3.11 meters) wide and also set the record for the longest leg on a crab: 4 feet, 8.5 inches (1.43 meters). In 2013, Big Daddy travelled from Japan to the Sea Life Blackpool aquarium in the United Kingdom, where

The Tasmanian giant crab (Pseudocarcinus gigas) is an enormous crustacean that lives off the coast of Tasmania. Commercially fished for its prized meat, it can weigh over 20 pounds (9 kg), with a rounded carapace that measures 18 inches (46 cm) across. Its major claw can be up to 17 inches (43 cm) long. Living and breeding in deep waters, the Tasmanian giant crab feeds on small fish, crustaceans, and carrion. It helps control the populations of prey species and plays an important role in nutrient cycling, making it crucial to keeping Tasmania’s underwater ecosystem in balance.

Coconut Crab

The coconut crab (Birgus latro) is the largest terrestrial arthropod in the world, living in the tropical regions of the Pacific and Indian Oceans, including islands like Christmas Island and the Seychelles.

Known for its surprising ability to climb coconut trees, the coconut crab can reach a leg span of about 40 inches (1 meter) from leg tip to leg tip and can weigh 10 pounds (4.5 kg). This makes it the largest land crab in the world. Despite its name, the coconut crab is not solely reliant on

coconuts and eats a varied diet, including fruits, nuts, small animals and carrion. It possesses a keen sense of smell and can crack open coconuts with its powerful claws. Incredibly strong, a single crab can lift 60 pounds (27 kg).

Alaskan King Crab

The Alaskan king crab (Paralithodes camtschaticus) is a large crustacean prized for its succulent meat. Native to the cold waters of the North Pacific, it primarily inhabits the Bering Sea and Gulf of Alaska.

Known for its distinctive spiky shell and long, spidery legs, it can have a leg span exceeding 5 feet (1.5 meters) and weigh up to 28 pounds (13 kg), making it one of the largest edible crabs.

Sometimes also called the red king crab, Alaskan king crabs are omnivorous scavengers that feed on various organisms, including molluscs, fish, and algae. Conservation efforts, including catch quotas and regulations to protect juvenile crabs, are in place to ensure sustainable fishing practices and maintain healthy crab populations.

Dungeness Crab

The Dungeness crab (Cancer magister) is native to the West Coast of North America, ranging from Alaska to California. Culinary circles consider it a delicacy, valuing the crab for its

delicious meat, which accounts for about one-fourth of its weight.

The Dungeness crab has an oval-shaped, spiny carapace, varying in colour from brownish red to purple or olive green, with two large, asymmetrical claws. It typically has eight jointed legs and a relatively small abdomen. Male Dungeness crabs are 7 to 9 inches wide (18 to 23 cm) and 4 to 5 inches (10 to 13 cm) long and can weigh 1 to 3 pounds. These large crabs inhabit sandy or muddy bottoms in coastal waters and are opportunistic feeders, consuming a variety of prey, including clams, fish, and other crabs.

Giant Mud Crab

The giant mud crab (Scylla serrata) is a crab species native to the Indo-Pacific region. It commonly lives in mangrove forests, estuaries, and shallow coastal waters. This Indo-Pacific mud crab can have a carapace width of up to 11 inches (28 cm) and weigh over 11 pounds (5 kg). Its colouration varies from dark brown to greenish grey. Capable of growing to large sizes and known for its delicious meat, the giant mud crab is a prized catch in many Asian countries. Its robust, ovalshaped carapace and powerful claws allow it to defend itself and capture prey. These crabs are omnivorous, feeding on various prey, including small fish, molluscs, other crustaceans and ocean detritus.

TO ROAR BACK INTO QUEENSLAND FOR OPENING ROUND OF 2024 AUSTRALIAN SUPERCROSS CHAMPIONSHIP

The Fox Australian Supercross Championship will return to Queensland, with the opening 2024 round to be held in the City of Moreton Bay at Kayo Stadium in Redcliffe on Saturday, October 12th, after a five-year hiatus from the Sunshine State.

The announcement is a major win for Queensland supercross fans who have been yearning for live racing and will be thrilled with the unique double header format running for the opening round offering two main races.

Championship Director, Kelly Bailey predicts the new seaside location, together with the outdoor rectangular stadium, will deliver a sell-out crowd for the first race of the year.

“Our Queensland fans have been patiently waiting and we’re thrilled to return the championship to Queensland where we’ve always been so incredibly supported with an established fanbase,” said Bailey.

“Australian Supercross has had strong past success in Queensland – from 2019 in Brisbane to Coolum, Jimboomba, and Toowoomba to name a few locations.

“Timings have aligned to secure a boutique venue like Kayo Stadium, where we believe the location, shape and size will produce a world-class track and allow for a bumper crowd, atmosphere, and weekend for fans in the City of Moreton Bay.

“We anticipate the Saturday event selling out, which may leave the door open for another day of racing action.”

Promoters AME Group will work closely with City of Moreton Bay Council to bring the event to life, showcase the wider region and deliver fans an epic weekend of entertainment.

“We’re extremely grateful to be working closely with Council,” said Bailey.

“Redcliffe is a terrific location within City of Moreton Bay, set away from the inner-city hustle, only 20 minutes from Brisbane airport. It’s a great opportunity for our attending fans to make a real weekend of it - take in the high-octane action, then relax by the beach or the nearby hinterland.

“We can’t wait to entertain our Queensland fans again, as well as supporting local tourism with the event.” Mayor Peter Flannery said City of Moreton Bay was proud to bring this exciting event to Redcliffe and expects the anticipated event to draw a big turnout.

“We know Australian Supercross events are hugely popular for moto-loving fans. This is an incredible opportunity to bring Australia’s best riders and some international stars to Moreton Bay,” said Mayor Flannery.

“Given the national and international interest and eyeballs on the championship, it’s a significant occasion for us to showcase everything our fantastic city has to offer. “From

beaches to the hinterland, I’d encourage fans to stay and play in City of Moreton Bay.”

As for what to expect more widely in 2024, Bailey noted the championship will continue to focus

the

“Last year, we had business targets to build the championship’s

from the ground up with the right programs, people, industry collaboration and seamless events,” said Bailey.

“We introduced new programs, achieved a 77% increase in gate numbers year on year, had a 10% uplift in attendance per round and 80% increase in broadcast minutes watched - while we are proud of what was accomplished, it’s just the beginning. Stay tuned for 2024 to be even bigger and better.

letters to the editor

Dear Editor,

Last week, I visited Bribie Island with my wife and stayed there for a week’s holiday. I found a copy of your magazine No. 214 and could not put it down until I read it cover to cover. What a great magazine. What impressed me also was the article “A convict’s journey from Dublin to NSW’ Part 1, penned by Al FINEGAN. My family history goes back to 1821, when they arrived in chains. I would love to follow his journey.

I have attempted to find him on Google and Facebook without success. If you know the novel from which his story originated or perhaps a contact for him, it would be very much appreciated.

Can I access The Bribie Islander online to keep abreast of the next episode in Edition No. 215? I would appreciate any assistance you could provide.

Sincerely

B. FURLEY

EDITORS REPLY

I emailed information to Mr Furley, so hopefully, he can keep up with what is happening in our wonderful community and continue reading Al Finegan's wonderful articles.

Dear Editor,

David of Bongaree, April 19, states, “Indigenous? A simple dictionary search shows that because four generations of his family were born here, they are indigenous Australians." Instead of a pocket dictionary relating to indigenous flora and fauna, David could validate his claims with a scientific option: DNA testing! Mapping your ancestral spread around the globe.

Who knows, perhaps David from ‘Bongaree’ (an Indigenous Australian man) has Indigenous relatives around the world to satisfy his misaligned sense of missing out. Indigenous Australians have familial heritage from various ethnic groups that lived within the territory of present-day Australia before colonisation after the first fleet arrived in 1788.

Torres Strait Islanders possess a heritage and cultural history distinct from Aboriginal traditions. They are related to the Papuan peoples of New Guinea. Accordingly, they are not generally included under the designation “Aboriginal Australians”. Another factor in promoting the more inclusive term “Indigenous Australians”. The Torres Strait Islands were annexed by Queensland in 1879. Many Indigenous organisations incorporate the phrase “Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander” to highlight the distinctiveness and importance of Torres Strait Islanders in Australia’s Indigenous population. Using critical thinking skills, one becomes less susceptible to being fooled David. Nola, Bongaree

Dear Editor,

I was horrified to see the teenage terrorist attack the Assyrian Bishop on TV last week, but I was truly appalled by the riot that broke out afterwards when the word of the stabbing spread to the nearby suburbs. By all accounts, 50 police were injured, and 42 police cars were damaged in the resulting fracas. Why did the rioters think that they could take things into their own hands as they yelled out, ‘Bring him out’? Perhaps they were emboldened by the complete lack of condemnation by our political leaders and inaction by our police force with their ‘hands-off’ approach to the recent pro-Palestinian rallies around the country. State and federal governments are adopting the stance of not offending any minority group, especially if that means losing votes in the next election. Well, I feel offended! Law and order no longer appear to be a government priority,

and I resent that, and I claim that I am part of the majority group.

I would lay some of the blame on the parents of these ‘hot-heads’. Most immigrants to Australia have come here to seek a better life. They have left behind a homeland often wracked with civil unrest and religious animosities. They could have, indeed they should have, left all of that behind them. They’ve been welcomed by a country renowned as the best country in the world. Why not start afresh? Instead, they listen to the hate preachers, and they inculcate in their own kids a hatred of anyone who does not share their view of how they should live their lives.

It is way past the time when our elected leaders should show some spine and demand that all newcomers to this country abide by the laws and the culture of this land. If they choose not to accept the Australian way of life, then they and their families should have their visas or citizenship revoked, and they should be sent back immediately from whence they came.

Michael Cavenor

Dear Editor,

I'm just pointing out that the bias towards the LNP is palpable. I’m old enough to remember that there has never been a successful rightwing government in Queensland, and if the LNP is elected later this year, heavens knows how bad things might get. I point out that in several recent elections, Labor has won all booths on the island.

Cheers,

B. Ferguson

Response from the Editor

The magazine has no affiliation with any political party; all parties are welcome to submit any community news to the magazine and have been told this repeatedly.

Anything else that appears in the magazine politically wise is paid content that all parties are welcome to place with us. We aren’t and never will be a politically biased magazine. We believe our readers have a right to see all party's information. However, we can only print what has been provided to us.

Regards, Cherrie

Dear Editor,

I would like to congratulate Banksia State School for initiating a WALKING BUS today (Friday 17th). This idea has been around since the sixties in Japan and started in Britain in 1998. I’ve been waiting to see one in Australia, and finally encountered two today - one either side of Banksia State School.

I hope it was not just a one-off. It is a great form of exercise for both school children and the odd parent who gets involved. If it can keep the number of cars on the road down it would help solve our traffic problems, apart from lowering pollution levels.

H.Beneke

Dear Editor,

I was disappointed, but not surprised, to learn that Australia had voted in favour of Palestine being elected as a full member of the United Nations. This is another win for Hamas. They have won the sympathy of the majority of the world due to the mounting death toll of civilians in Gaza, and now we are told by our Foreign Minister to ‘show unwavering support’ for a ceasefire and a ‘two-state’ solution to the conflict in Israel. Perhaps Penny Wong has not read Hamas’s Charter, which calls for the total annihilation of all Jews in Israel ‘from the river to the sea’.

Pro-Palestinian demonstrations around the world never mention the atrocities that occurred on October 7th, nor the fate of the hostages that Hamas rounded up on that day. The whole world is now able to witness the inhuman slaughter and torture that has been carried out by Hamas through the YouTube video ‘Screams before Silence’.

It is a very confronting documentary that is hard to watch in a single sitting, but I do urge you all to view this video before offering any support for this subhuman terrorist organisation.

Michael Cavenor

Dear Editor, Lately, I've heard people

complain that Shepard avocados are hard to peel because the skin is so thin. I have solved this problem by skinning them like a fish fillet. Once you have a quarter of avocado, place it on a board with the skin side at the bottom. Insert the tip of a knife just above the skin and slide the knife along the side of the fruit, pressing onto the skin. Do the same along the other side, then peel away the skin. The same method is a great way to remove skin from mangoes without any of the usual mess. It is easier if you cut the cheek into about three strips to minimise the bulge. Then cut each strip into your favourite-shaped chunks.

H.Beneke

EarthCheck Report

After a delay of almost two years, the State Government last week released the report by consultants EarthCheck on beach driving on Bribie Island titled “Sustainable Visitor Management Capacity”. Does this consultant’s report tell us anything we don’t already know? Is it just smoke and mirrors? Does it make any useful recommendations? The report concludes that current visitor levels are unsustainable and changes are required. So what is new about that? Bribie Islanders have been screaming that out for years. Residents have repeatedly pointed to the negative impacts this is having on their health and lifestyle (particularly those who live along the access routes). They have repeatedly pointed to the environmental damage beach 4WD’ing is causing, and have repeatedly complained about the hooning and disruptions that occur at all hours. A petition to the Minister for Environment with over 28,500+ signatures was tabled in Parliament requesting some modest restrictions be placed on beach 4WD’ing. But all these residents’ concerns have been totally ignored.

In 2008, Ocean Beach was declared a “highway” even though it is protected by International, National and State legislation (including the Ramsar Agreement that was enforced to prevent the Toondah Harbour development). Traffic has ballooned to from just a handful in 2008 to 85,000+ in 2022. Studies by the UQ School of Environment show that beach drivers make little or no contribution to Bribie’s economy.

The EarthCheck report is really a collection of ideas and suggestions and contains virtually no concrete recommendations. So will it serve any purpose? Will it’s suggestions improve the experience for beach drivers? Possibly. This was really its only focus. Will its suggestions do anything to better protect the environment? No. This was not part of the study. Will its suggestions do anything to address Bribie Islanders’ concerns? Definitely not. There was no consultation on this subject.

John Oxenford Woorim

Dear Editor,

Recently, as the result of my audiologist finding part of one of my hearing aids lodged in my ear, I had reason to seek the services of the Caboolture Satellite Hospital as my doctor was not available for eleven days.

My early morning visit to the satellite hospital was a very positive, smooth process. Parking was readily available; the initial receptionist helped direct me to the correct section of the extensive building and the medical reception staff was very friendly and efficient in processing my details. While the stats-gathering process was underway, a nurse called me in to check my health status. After completing the health check and collecting my details, I was given a wristband and directed

to the waiting room. After a short wait, a doctor took me into a treatment room, where the obstruction in my ear was quickly and successfully removed. The whole process from arrival to departure took no time at all. My experience at Caboolture could not have been improved, especially in terms of the friendliness of the environment and staff. Indeed, the relationship I observed between staff and staff and patients was exceptionally positive and warm. My experience at Caboolture bodes very well for the positive treatment of Bribie Island residents when our satellite hospital opens shortly.

Sincerely, Paul from Bribie

Dear Editor,

We see that the annual Sandstone Point Hotel Rodeo is occurring again next month. Advertised as “An ActionPacked Event”, this very public example of animal cruelty illustrates the hypocrisy and a basic failure of our society to join the dots. We expose young people to the barbaric spectacle of adults displaying violence to animals (and often maiming and crippling them) and then express surprise when the same children grow up to become violent criminals with no respect for other people or property. Many overseas studies show that violence towards animals leads to violence toward human beings. It is also pertinent that 500 years ago, “An Action-Packed Event” often meant public beheadings, hangings, burnings at the stake, etc. Yes, we have evolved somewhat since then, but we appear to have a long way to go.

We also find it puzzling that a venue that appears to cater to a sophisticated clientele with fine food, wine and upmarket accommodation in a very ambient setting is so in need of customers that they are prepared to include these gladiatorial spectacles among the other worthwhile entertainment they promote.

Sincerely, Annette & Chris Schnack.

The Significance of Flowers

Flowers have the power to express love, console in sorrow, congratulate on achievement, and celebrate friendship. The language of flowers has evolved and diversified over the centuries, with the same flower often carrying different meanings at different times and in different cultures. This versatility is what makes the language of flowers so fascinating and inspiring. The Chinese and Japanese have a rich, centuries-old language of flowers. Flowers played a pivotal role in the emotional expression of ancient Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans. In the West, the language of flowers was introduced by Charles XII upon his return from exile in Turkey in 1714, adding a new chapter to the history of flower communication.

Lady Mary Worley Montague, whose husband was appointed Ambassador to Constantinople in 1710, promoted flower talk. (This is the same Lady Mary who introduced the smallpox vaccination.)

By 1884, when Kate Greenaway illustrated a

language of flowers for children, so many different dictionaries were in print that it was almost necessary to send one along with the nosegay or tussy-mussy to ensure the message was clear.

Even in modern times, it's wise to include a written translation when sending a floral message to avoid any potential misunderstandings. This flower dictionary, compiled from a variety of ancient and modern sources, can serve as a valuable tool in your floral communication, empowering you to convey your sentiments accurately.

FLOWER DICTIONARY

AGAPANTHUS: Love

ALLIUM: Strength and courage (garlic is even stronger)

ANTHURIUM: Let's be sweethearts

ASTER: Elegance and daintiness; jealousy; I will consider your offer

BABY'S BREATH: Innocence; a delicate touch

BACHELOR BUTTON: Hope in love; celibacy

BANKSIA: Down under; absence makes the heart grow fonder

BELLS OF IRELAND: Improve with age; send money (shell out the green)

BIRD OF PARADISE: Magnificence, regal splendor, good fortune

CALLA LILY: Magnificent beauty

CARNATION: Red -admiration; alas for my poor heart. White -- good luck; pure and ardent love. Yellow -- rejection and disdain. Striped --refusal. Pink

-- mother's love

DAISY: Innocence; gentleness; purity in thought; loyal love; I partake your sentiments

DELPHINIUM: Fun; I had a good time; big-hearted

EREMURUS: Fortitude in adversity; endurance; constancy

EUPHORBIA: Strength of character; persistence

FEVERFEW: Innocence; speedy recovery

FREESIA: Elegance; I appreciate your thoughtfulness

GARDENIA: I love you in secret; good luck

GINGER: Strength and vigor

GLADIOLUS: You pierce my heart; admiration; consolation in sorrow

RIS: Message and promise; faith and hope; wisdom and power; my compliments; good luck

IXIA: Bright and cheerful; you have beautiful eyes

LILY OF THE VALLEY: Return of happiness; purity and humility; let's make up

MUMS: Cheerfulness and optimism; long life and happiness; scholarship; rest and ease. Red -- I love you. White -- it's the truth

ORCHIDS: Magnificent; you are beautiful; I await your favors; fecundity; long life; good luck

PEONY: Good health; gay life and prosperity; love and friendship; happy marriage; bashfulness; power

ROSE: Love; silence (in ancient times, anything said under a rose -- sub rosa -- was to be kept secret); dinner time. Red -- love and desire; good luck; may you be pleased.

Pink -- unconscious beauty. Yellow -- jealousy. White -- happy love; secrecy and silence; good luck

SNAPDRAGON: Desperation

STATICE: Constancy; always yours; social prominence; success

STEPHANOTIS: Fit for a crown; something special

STOCK: Bonds of affection

SWEET PEA: Departure; goodbye

SWEET WILLIAM: Gallantry; fineness and perfection; a smile

YARROW: Time will ease your sorrow

Foliage Dictionary

ASPARAGUS FERN: Fascination

BROOM: Ardor; humility

CAMELLIA: I shall love you always; good luck; unpretending excellence

CROTON: Congratulations

HUCKLEBERRY: Simple pleasures; come to dinner

LEATHERLEAF FERN: Fascination

LYCOPODIUM: Long life; eternal youth; good luck

MYRTLE: Love; mirth; joy; happy marriage

PITTOSPORUM: Generosity; happiness and prosperity

PODOCARPUS: Constancy; sorrow

SALAL: Zest; discretion; married love

CRIME REPORT BRIBIE ISLAND WRAP

MAY 2024

www.mypolice.qld.gov.au/moreton

Sharon’s story: police officer and victim-survivor of Domestic and Family Violence

Acting Senior Sergeant Sharon Morgan has spent the better part of her policing career with the Queensland Police Service (QPS), assisting those in dangerous, abusive relationships and unsafe homes to safety.

Sharon's empathetic approach and discernment of facts are a result of her training and personal experience. She is a victim-survivor.

Sharon met her now ex-partner at age 17, describing the beginning of their relationship as a ‘thrill’ to be dating a man in his early 20s and his aptitude for gentlemanly behaviours. After just a few months into their relationship, Sharon recalls the first night she was

exposed to physical violence.

From that moment, Sharon was exposed to physical, emotional, and financial abuse and coercive control for more than seven years.

During this time, Sharon embarked on her career as an officer with QPS, hiding the abuse she suffered from her colleagues for years until an occurrence that saw her Sergeant at the time respond and immediately intervene. Now, Sharon uses her experience as a propeller to help those who find themselves in high-risk abusive relationships through her role as Senior Sergeant in the Domestic and Family Violence and Vulnerable Persons Command High-Risk Teams. High-risk Teams are integrated service responses that work on a holistic approach to DFV in conjunction with external agencies.

These units determine high-risk cases by considering lethality factors to offer appropriate safety responses for victims and families of high-risk DFV incidents across the state.

“As a police officer and someone who is a victim-survivor, you are so passionate about that space, I just want to make sure that I can help people still,”

Sharon says.

“I wanted to join the police because I wanted to help people

and I think in this area, I am able to do that.”

Domestic violence rates increased significantly in 2023, with more than 171,000 reports received by police in Queensland, with the Commission of Inquiry (COI) reporting approximately 80% of domestic and family violence (DFV) cases going unreported.

The QPS is committed to working with and for the community to end domestic and family violence.

Recommendations made by the COI into QPS responses to DFV include recruiting personnel to increase capability in service areas that deal with DFV across the state as well as our frontline policing response, developing and reviewing training programs relating to the management of DFV programs that increase competence and confidence whilst improving critical thinking and decision making and reviewing and updating our processes and procedures to be more contemporary, reflective of current policing requirements, and more appropriate to the needs of victim-survivors.

When considering the changes made to the approach and support of victim-survivors, Sharon notes the changes implemented since her own experience.

“We’ve got two-day holistic

Other 3

Assault 4

Other Offence Against the Person 3

Unlawful Entry 9

Other Property Damage 7

Unlawful Use of Motor Vehicle 4

Other Theft (excl. Unlawful Entry) 24

Drug Offences 7

Trespassing & Vagrancy 4

Good Order Offences 3

Traffic & Related Offences 11

training, three-day training, five-day specialist training and online learning products,” she says.

“We’ve got a Domestic and Family Violence Command that is all day, every day, working in the background to mitigate domestic and family violence.”

With so many support services available now, Senior Sergeant Sharon Morgan implores victimsurvivors to contact police or partner agencies for help.

“We’ve got so many things available to victims now that can assist in leaving or preventing further DFV,” “As a victim-survivor myself, I wish I had that support when I was going through my experience.  Thankfully, now there are so many resources and services available to support victim-survivors”.

If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic and family violence, you should report it to the police.

Support and counselling is available from the following agencies:

• DVConnect Womensline: 1800 811 811

• DVConnect Mensline: 1800 600 636

• 1800 RESPECT: 1800 737 732

• 13YARN: 13 92 76

More information is also available from the Queensland Government Domestic and Family Violence portal.

PLUMBING

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES