Welcome to the latest edition, number 221, where we are excited to shine a spotlight on the outstanding businesses of Beachmere in our special feature titled "Beautiful Beachmere." Nestled in this picturesque seaside town with a captivating village ambience, Beautiful Beachmere offers an unparalleled experience for all visitors. Whether you are searching for a tranquil getaway or a memorable weekend retreat, visiting this charming locale is an absolute must. Immerse yourself in the breathtaking natural surroundings and the heartwarming hospitality of the local community while showing your support for our beloved local businesses.
Furthermore, I would like to take this opportunity to express our profound gratitude to the Bribie Community Nursery for their unwavering commitment to serving our community. Their remarkable generosity and tireless efforts have helped transform dreams into realities for numerous community members. Their impact extends to the Bribie's Gem Club, highlighting the remarkable spirit of togetherness that defines our community. As a testament to this, the Gem Club is gearing up for its highly anticipated annual Gemfest event, a delightful celebration of our shared passion for gems and the strong bonds within our community.
Until next time,
Take care, stay safe
We respectfully acknowledge the Traditional Country across our region. We also acknowledge and pay our respects to the Kabi Kabi, Jinibara and Turrbal Traditional Custodians, and their elders past, present and emerging of the lands, winds and waters where we live, learn and work. We pay our respects and acknowledge the important role of Elders past and present, for they hold the memories of the traditions, cultures and aspirations of Australia’s First Nations peoples, and have taken on the responsibility to protect and promote their culture and leave a legacy for future Elders and leaders.
Over the past nine months, BreastScreen Queensland Sunshine Coast service has recruited over 12,000 women to participate in a world-first research study. The study is designed to assess the impacts of breast density notification on women participating in the screening program.
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
The BreastScreen program saves lives through the early detection of breast cancer. Finding breast cancer early means more treatment options and better outcomes. Age remains the biggest risk factor, with most breast cancers occurring in women over the age of 50. Other factors, including family history, lifestyle, and breast density, can influence breast cancer risk.
Dr Hammerton, the Sunshine Coast service lead investigator, said, “Our study will provide information on the best way to notify women about their breast density risk and also review breast density assessment tools.” With developments in risk assessment, breast screening could be even more effective in future. Tailoring screening according to risk has the potential to find more breast cancers at an early stage.
“We have some way to go before there is enough evidence to make
recommendations for populationlevel, personalised risk-based screening, but hosting this study is a step towards progressive clientfocused changes,” Dr Hammerton said.
“Until then, our goal is to see more women participating in the BreastScreen program and increase our participation rate from 52%, up to the National Standard of 70%.”
BreastScreen Queensland provides free breast cancer screening for women 40 years of age and over. No doctor’s referral is needed. To book, call 13 20 50 or visit breastscreen.qld.gov.au.
THE FACTS:
• A breast screen every two years is the best way to detect breast cancer early, well before you or your doctor can feel anything.
• One in seven women will develop breast cancer in their lifetime.
• 75% of women diagnosed with breast cancer are over 50. Younger women do get breast cancer, but the risk of breast cancer increases significantly after the age of 50.
• 9 out of 10 women diagnosed with breast cancer have NO family history of the disease. While women with a family history of breast cancer are more at risk, most women diagnosed have no family history of the disease at all.
WE ARE DELIGHTED TO WELCOME TWO NEW FEMALE DOCTORS
DR NAFIZA NISHA
Dr Nafiza has lived and worked on Bribie Island for the past 2 years and is now planning on staying long term. She has special interests in urgent care medicine, women's health, obstetrics, mental health, paediatrics and chronic disease management.
DR BINISHA VARGHESE
Dr Varghese has special interest in lifestyle and preventative medicine, neonatal and paediatric health, women's health and chronic disease management.
Corner Welsby Parade and Kangaroo Avenue, Bongaree, QLD, 4507
Experience the pinnacle of luxury with our exclusive and meticulously curated range of cosmetic and beauty services. Our services are designed to uplift and enhance your natural beauty, giving you a sense of well-being and a radiant glow from head to toe.
Unleash the transformative power of our Azure Tan Firming Butter and elevate your look with our mineral make-up powders and tinted moisturisers. But that's just the beginning of your transformation journey!
At our clinic, we hold the belief that personalisation is paramount. This is why we provide exceptional Cosmedix MediFacials tailored to your unique needs, aiding in the natural regeneration of your skin. Whether your concern is scarring, pigmentation, anti-aging, or laxity, our team of seasoned professionals will meticulously design a personalised skin package exclusively for you.
As one of the industry's leading medical, cosmetic, and advanced skin quality clinics, QLD Laser & Cosmetic Clinic brings you the pinnacle of treatments. Don't
hesitate to embark on your journey to a more vibrant life. Immerse yourself in our world of allure and allow us to empower you with confidence and beauty today!
Are you ready to shine like a star at your next event? Attractions Fashion is here to make sure you’re the centre of attention! Introducing our brand-new Event Dressing collection, curated to make you look and feel your absolute best for every occasion. Whether it’s a glamorous gala, a chic cocktail party, or an elegant wedding, we’ve got the perfect outfit for you.
8 Scentsational Mistakes No Guy Should Make:
Perfumes Demystified
There are steps to a grooming routine that, when done right, can work in your favour. Following one makes you look polished, smart and put-together. Perfume is one such essential that ties a grooming routine together. A clean white musk fragrance enhances the feel of a fresh shower, and a rich perfume makes for an unmatched finishing touch, along with a sleek watch or pair of shiny cufflinks. While learning to identify fragrance notes and how to layer scents are smart feats, knowing how to wear perfumes for men is equally important. When you go through a meticulous process of building a perfume wardrobe, you want to ensure you’re getting money and time’s worth.
Rubbing Your Wrists Together
Rubbing your wrists right after spraying perfume may be second nature to most of us. We do it assuming we’re even spreading the perfume between both wrists. In actuality, this move is counterproductive to wearing premium men’s perfume. When you rub the skin, it heats up and makes the natural oils mix in with the molecular structure of the perfume. This destroys the natural scent and makes it dissipate from the body faster. The best action is to spray 2–3 spritz on each wrist and let it absorb into the skin completely.
Misting Instead Of Spraying Pulse Points
At one point, we’ve all done the ‘mist and walkthrough’ routine. You mist the perfume into the air and then walk through. You may think this will evenly disperse the perfume across your body, but that’s not quite as effective as you think. When you spray the perfume into the atmosphere, it’s already mingling with the exposed air, therefore diluting its ability to give you a scent that could be long-lasting. Instead, spray the perfume on all the pulse points like the wrists, behind the ears, inside the elbow, behind the knees and decolletage. Since these areas generate more heat, the perfume will vaporise and last throughout the day.
Not Factoring In The Weather
Spraying On Clothes
Storing It Wrong
Much like preserving food or expensive wine bottles, perfumes must be stored properly. This circles back to the environmental and atmospheric factors. You may have placed a good-looking perfume bottle on the vanity, but you may not have realized that direct sunlight could damage it. Harsh UV and UVB rays can destroy the oil balance and the colour of the perfume, making it unsafe to use. Keeping perfume in your bathroom vanity could equally render it useless, as the increase in temperature from the hot water and the mist can dilute its potency. The best way to store your perfume is in a dry, dark spot at room temperature.
Wearing Too Much
Yes, environmental surroundings and the weather can affect how you wear perfumes for men. Your body chemistry also changes as per these conditions. You don’t tend to break much of a sweat in cold or breezy weather. In such cases, your perfume may last longer. If you’re wearing layers, try spraying the perfume behind your ears and on the inside of your scarf for a lingering effect since all the pulse points are likely to be covered. When the climate is exceptionally hot, you’re better off not wearing perfume on your body as the excess heat and sweat can instantly disintegrate it. If you still want to wear one, try spraying some onto your hair.
In the previous point, we mentioned spraying perfume on scarves during cold weather. However, it’s an exception. We may do so now and then as last-minute touch-ups or during hasty morning routines. Spraying perfumes on clothes will not have the same effect, as the detergent scent could mingle and alter the true nature of the perfume. Moreover, when you spray perfumes only on clothes and not the body, they might not last as long. In some cases, perfumes can also ruin the fabric.
Not Considering Body Chemistry
Body chemistry plays an important role when wearing perfume. What many might not know is that your body chemistry somewhat acts as an ‘unofficial ingredient’ that makes the perfume have a distinct scent on you. So, spraying the same perfume on you and your friend might differ in how it smells on each of you. Body chemistry could also be why you may not like a certain perfume regardless of its hype or popularity.
When a perfume smells really good, we may get carried away while spritzing it. But hold on! This is where we couldn’t emphasise more on the saying ‘less is more’. Premium, high-end perfumes for men most often boast a potent, rich blend of fragrances. It’s formulated in a manner that only a few spritzes will last you through the day. Spraying too much perfume can take it from an olfactory paradise to a dizzying headache. The best way to enjoy perfume in all its glory is to spray only a little so it lightly lingers through the day without overwhelming the nostrils
Spritzing On Dry Skin
If you’ve been using perfume on dry skin, it’s time to unlearn. Perfumes naturally have a lightweight consistency that can dissipate quickly. That’s why they don’t last on dry skin, as they don’t have something to stick to. Applying a body lotion that complements the perfume not only enhances the fragrance, but the moisturising base will trap in the perfume and will make it last longer. If you care only for your perfume’s scent, opt for a fragrance-free moisturiser. Before spraying perfume, You can dab some petroleum jelly on your pulse points.
Now that you know everything, use your perfumes for men wisely and make them work wonders for you!
Treating Cracked Skin on the Foot
Cracked heels can range from an unattractive nuisance to an extremely painful condition. Cracks or fissures can become so deep that standing, walking or applying any pressure becomes painful, and serious cracks may also begin to bleed.
Cracked heels may start with dry skin or result from other conditions, including psoriasis, diabetes, hypothyroidism, and atopic dermatitis. Corns and calluses can also cause cracked heels, particularly if a person is overweight, stands for a long time on hard floors, or wears open-back shoes or sandals.
If you care for your heels properly, you will most likely prevent cracked ones. Proper care is simple -- use a moisturising cream regularly. If cracked heels are already a problem, use the moisturiser two to three times a day. Before using moisturiser, rub callused areas with a pumice stone to reduce their thickness. Look for foot moisturisers containing urea, salicylic acid, alpha-hydroxy acids or saccharide isomerate because these water-retaining agents help keep the foot.
See a podiatrist if your home treatment of cracked heels doesn’t work after a week. Treatments include debridement, which involves cutting away the thick skin and strapping, a method used to hold cracks together as they heal. Consider using prescription creams and special insoles or other products to redistribute the weight on the heel and provide better support.
Good moisturising doesn’t just help prevent or cure cracked heels; it can also help keep away corns and calluses.
Be Kind to Cracked Heels
Never use a razor blade or scissors to remove hardened skin from your feet. If you remove too much skin, you run the risk of infection. This advice also applies if you’re getting a pedicure in a salon.
Treating Corns and Calluses
Corns and calluses are quite similar. Both are tough, thick layers of skin formed by friction and pressure. Corns are usually smaller than calluses and have a hard centre known as the kernel. They can develop in several areas on the foot but are more often found in areas that are not weight-bearing, such as the tops and sides of toes. Calluses typically develop on the soles of your feet and don’t usually become painful unless you develop cracked heels.
As with several foot ailments, prevention is your best line of defence. Shoes that don’t fit—both too tight and too loose— can cause corns and calluses to develop. High-heeled shoes are another common culprit, as are narrow, pointy shoes. Wearing shoes without socks or sandals that rub against your foot might also lead to corns and calluses.
Corns or calluses that don’t cause too much discomfort and aren’t inflamed can
Fast Foot Facts
Your feet hold a whopping one-fourth of all the bones in your body (26 in each foot). Each foot also has 33 joints and more than 100 tendons and ligaments.
usually be treated at home. Treatment is simple. Use over-the-counter pads to provide a barrier between your foot and the cause of the friction on your foot. Use caution with liquid corn removals or pads with salicylic acid, which can irritate.
You can also soak your feet in warm, soapy water to soften the hardened skin. While soaking or right after, use a pumice stone to remove some toughened skin. If you use a pumice stone, only remove a little skin at a time. Then, use moisturiser to help keep the skin pliable.
See your doctor if your efforts to treat the problem at home are ineffective. A podiatrist can use a scalpel to remove some of the problem skin. He or she may also apply a patch with 40 per cent salicylic acid, prescribe an antibiotic ointment, or suggest you use custommade shoe inserts.
If
We all have those days; you know the kind – when it feels like you’re taking ten steps back rather than two steps forward. Yep, we all have them. It’s easy to get disheartened and think you’re not making any progress, though let’s pause for a moment and reframe this perspective.
First, remember that growth isn’t linear. It is a beautiful, winding journey filled with highs and lows. On those challenging days, it is crucial to remind yourself that every step, even the backward ones, is a part of your journey. These moments of struggle are not failures but opportunities for profound growth and self-discovery.
When you feel like you are moving backward, it is often because you are being presented with lessons that need revisiting. Perhaps there is an old wound that needs healing or a limiting belief that is resurfacing for you to finally let go of. Embrace these moments as your soul’s way of saying, “Hey, there’s still some magic here for you to uncover.”
On these days, practice self-compassion. Be gentle with yourself and acknowledge your efforts, no matter how small they may seem. It is okay to feel frustrated or disheartened but do not let those feelings define you. Instead, allow them to flow through you and release them with grace.
Take time to connect with your breath. A few deep breaths can ground you and bring you back to the present moment, where true peace resides. Use this time to tune into your inner self and ask, “What is this experience trying to teach me?” Listen to the wisdom that arises.
Another powerful tool is gratitude. Even on the toughest days, find something to be grateful for. It could be as simple as a warm cup of tea, a kind word from a friend, or the comfort of your bed. Gratitude shifts your focus from what’s going wrong to what’s going right, creatin ta positive ripple effect in your mind and heart.
And remember, you are never alone. Reach out to your support network – friends, family, or a trusted counsellor. Sharing your struggles lightens the load and often brings new perspectives that can help you see your situation in a different light.
In the grand tapestry of life, these backward days are but threads in a much larger picture. They add depth and texture, making the final masterpiece even more exquisite. So, embrace them, learn from them, and trust that you are exactly where you need to be on your journey to self-love and fulfilment.
You have got this! Even on the days you feel like you are moving backward, know that you are always moving forward in the grand scheme of your soul’s journey. Always with love Maria
Forty Winks, a trusted Australian brand in bedding, has been serving the community for decades. We have earned a reputation for quality and reliability and pride ourselves on exceptional customer service.
For the past thirty years, our family has poured our hearts and souls into the success of Forty Winks. Our daughters, Danae and Carly, have been part of the company's operations since they were young, and now, alongside their mother Annette, they play pivotal roles in its management. Even when Danae and Carly's children were little, they were part of the business, and now, as the owners' grandchildren, they occasionally help out during school breaks.
At Forty Winks Morayfield, we are deeply committed to giving back to the community that has supported us. We actively participate in local initiatives and events, always striving to make a positive impact. For many years, we have proudly sponsored Little Athletics, a testament to our dedication to the local community. The residents of Bribie Island have been instrumental to our success from the start, and it is our privilege to serve the Bribie area.
As bedding specialists, we recognise the significance of quality sleep and are fervent about assisting individuals in achieving this through the right mattress for their needs. Utilizing the BedMatch diagnostic machine, we personalise each person's sleep surface, ensuring that they find the perfect match for their body type and unique sleep requirements. Our exclusive BedMatch technology
simplifies purchasing a bed by identifying the mattress best suited to you, guaranteeing an optimum night's rest that fosters overall health and well-being. We are deeply committed to promoting better sleep, and our in-store sleep experts are available to guide you in preparing yourself and your sleep environment to benefit fully from this groundbreaking technology.
Our expertise encompasses everything related to the bedroom, including mattresses, adjustable bases, furniture, and bed linens. Additionally, we offer delivery and installation services to provide our customers with a hassle-free experience. With a diverse selection of high-quality brands under one roof, we make it convenient for you to find the perfect bed or mattress to suit your needs and budget.
For expert advice on achieving a better night's sleep, visit our store and speak with our highly trained staff. Recognizing the importance of investing in quality sleep, we offer an 'Interest-Free Payments' option, allowing you to enjoy your new mattress immediately and pay for it in convenient, interest-free instalments.
As we celebrate our 30th anniversary, we are thrilled to offer FREE DELIVERY to our Bribie customers as a token of our gratitude for their unwavering support over the years. We invite you to join us in this milestone celebration and take advantage of this special offer.
Fortunately tight muscles or spasms are the most common cause of sciatica, which can be treated more easily. Often the root cause is a tight piriformis muscle in the buttocks, but other muscles in the lower back and pelvic region often contribute to sciatic pain.
walking with a tilted posture, and wound up also having back pain.
ACUPUNCTURE FOR SCIATICA
Though acupuncture is well known for its effectiveness in treating pain conditions, what often prompts people to come to see us at Bribie Acupuncture for treatment is not the pain itself but the impact the pain has on their quality of life. Pain can stop you from enjoying your morning walks, keep you off the golf course, or prevent you from running your best time in the next race.
One of the main nerves in our legs is called the sciatic nerve which traverses from the lower back, through the buttock and down the leg. When the nerve is inflamed, pain, numbness, and/or weakness is often felt in the buttock and upper leg - in some cases the pain can travel down to the feet, down the back or side of the leg. Sciatica can literally be a big pain in the butt!
It is estimated that up to 40% of people experience sciatica at some point during their lives, most commonly in people in their 40’s or 50’s, and more commonly in men than women. Sciatic pain may be constant or it may be felt as a sudden pinching sensation. Oftentimes sciatica cannot be blamed on a specific trauma - sometimes simply bending, lifting, or straining may aggravate it. Even sitting for extended periods, such as during long car rides, may be the culprit. Pain is triggered when pressure is put on the sciatic nerve such as from the spinal discs or tight muscles, or more seriously spinal disc herniation, when a portion of the spinal disc bulges out of the spinal column and pushes on the sciatic nerve, or spinal stenosis, a narrowing of the spinal canal.
TIGHT MUSCLES & MUSCLE SPASMS
Though the source of pain can sometimes be obvious, often more subtle dysfunctions in the nervous system result in neuropathic pain (nerve pain) which cannot be seen on x-rays or ultrasound scans. Oftentimes this pain involves the nerve to muscle connection where affected muscles that have become shortened/ tightened or overstretched/ loosened, physically compounds the pain due to reduced blood flow. A classic example is someone who suffers back pain after long periods of sitting: though their back muscles may of course be affected, often the muscles in their buttocks become overstretched and the muscles at the top of their thigh become overly tight (simply due to the body position while seated), and the muscles become inhibited or “switch off”, causing pain to refer to the back. Or, in the case of sciatica, the tight muscles could be pushing on the sciatic nerve.
When muscles are inhibited, matters can become more complex as these muscles can feel weak and we often compensate by altering our posture, creating more dysfunction in other areas of the body, creating a domino effect. We likely all know someone who has injured their knee, then started
The first step to treatment with acupuncture is an assessment of which muscles may be contributing to the condition. Once this is determined, we are able to find the points in which nerves meet those muscles, known as motor points. When an acupuncture needle is used on a motor point with an electric impulse, it creates a contraction and relaxation phase releasing tight contracted bands of muscle or tightens overstretched bands of muscle. This is like hitting a reset button. The results are immediate pain relief and improved muscle contractibility and mobility.
Acupuncture has been shown to be an effective treatment for sciatica, eliminating or significantly decreasing pain and increasing quality of life. Research has shown acupuncture to be successful in treating back pain and sciatica through the following mechanisms:
• Stimulating nerves located in muscles and other tissues, leading to the release of endorphins which relieves stress and pain
• Reducing inflammation and muscle stiffness and increasing joint mobility by increasing blood circulation in the affected area
• Promoting regeneration of the sciatic nerve.
Acupuncture is a popular and effective treatment for sciatica which is without the side effects of prescription pain medications like NSAIDs and muscle relaxers. Clinical guidelines for low back pain in the United States are now almost universally recommending acupuncture for low back pain over previously-favoured pharmaceutical and surgical options. The American College of Physicians, Medicare/Medicaid and the Joint Commission (which establishes criteria for hospital accreditation) have all recommended acupuncture for low back pain.
If you’d like to make a booking or if you’d like to discuss whether acupuncture and Chinese medicine is right for you, please contact us - Jessica, Wendy, and Katherine - via our website www.bribieacupuncture.com.au or call 0423 160 228.
You can also find us on Facebook and Instagram @bribieacupuncture. HICAPS is available onsite. Pensioner discounts available.
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Benabrow Avenue, Bellara Qld (behind James Moore law office)
Acupuncturists Wendy Ryan BHSc. Acup. (left) and Jessica Yung BHSc. Acup (centre) and Receptionist Katherine Williamson (right).
MyTime is for you
Being a parent is an important job. It’s easy to get caught up in meeting your child’s needs, but it’s also important to look after yourself.
MyTime is a sanctuary where you can relax, unwind, and share your thoughts and experiences with others who truly understand. MyTime is for all parents and carers of children under 18 who need a higher level of care than other children. This might be because of disability, chronic medical condition, or other additional needs including developmental delay. MyTime members come from different backgrounds, and their children have different abilities and needs.
MyTime organises supported groups where parents and carers of children with disability or other additional needs can feel understood, share ideas and access quality information and resources. What happens in a MyTime session?
By sharing their experiences and listening to each other without judgment, members create a supportive environment where they can share their triumphs and struggles. This fosters connections with others in similar situations, reducing feelings of isolation and promoting a sense of community and well-being.
MyTime is a place to socialise, discuss, get information, and support and be supported by other parents and family carers. It’s a world away from appointments and therapy.
Members get to plan the group sessions around their specific needs as carers. Each group has between 4 and 12 members, who usually meet once a week for 2 hours during school term. It’s not necessary to attend every session – members choose to go when they have time.
THANK YOU TO THE COMMUNITY
Our ‘GoodPeople’ charity is deeply grateful for the overwhelming response from our local community in Bribie and Surrounds and even those further away. Your support in providing the requested food items has been instrumental in our ongoing efforts,
those who are struggling and families in need.
We always need grocery and fuel vouchers for the rehomed. They usually take time to settle from schools into others, sometimes quite a distance, and fuel
need a hand-up and genuine love and care from others to help them heal and get started again. We also make frozen home-cooked meals for the elderly, especially
We move items around our area cheaply for everyone, have garage sales to sell a few items to help run our vehicles, pay for meal containers, and buy items like white goods for single mums, especially if we don’t have them in storage.
We do many other things as needs arise; we have an extensive network beyond our areas and skilled people to address issues
Our team carefully inspects all donated items to ensure they meet our quality standards before distribution. Our local community and beyond came together when we were asked to take essential items to the Tara fire victims. Locals filled 11 friends, flat-deck Utes, and large trailers. It doesn’t get much better, people. It showed
Bribie Island Community Help is after volunteers to assist our active aged and frail clients with door-to-door transport. We transport clients around following areas:
•Bribie Island & surrounds
•Caboolture, Redcliffe, Northlakes
•North Brisbane & Brisbane City. Currently seeking to expand our Volunteering numbers to service all areas to assist our growing client numbers.
volunteering obligations.
We are seeking committed volunteers who can donate 5 to 8 hours per week. We are registered with Centrelink for those with
We have a fleet of Toyota Commuter automatic minibuses, and we will provide training on driving the buses as well as orientation and ongoing support from our professional office staff. MANDATORY
REQUIREMENTS:
•Must hold Australian or NZ Citizenship or the capacity to permanently work in Australia.
•Above 25 years of age due to insurance constraints.
•Be able to pass a driving record history check by Qld Transport.
•Be able to pass a criminal history background check.
•Have a minimum of an Australian Open “C” class license check by Qld Transport.
If you wish to apply or seek further information, you can email your details to apply@bivchai.org.au or call on 3408-0111.
me the power of local communities. Our team will collect donated goods if necessary.
It’s important to note that all our charity work is free. This is our way of showing respect and care for our community, and we are committed to continuing this practice. You can always count on us to be here for you, just as you have been for us.
Our motto has been and always will be
Once again, we extend our heartfelt thanks to our local community. Your continued support is not just appreciated, it is essential for us to carry out our work. We are truly grateful for your unwavering commitment. Our local people are indeed the best in the business, and we need you to continue being a part of our mission.
Dear Pumicestone,
It’s been such a privilege to be your State Member for almost four years now!
It’s been a big four years and I’ve worked hard to deliver the infrastructure, services and cost of living support our community needs.
Together, we’ve got a lot done. Here’s some of my favourite local achievements:
1. BRIBIE ISLAND SATELLITE HOSPITAL AND CABOOLTURE SATELLITE HOSPITAL NOW OPEN
I’m so proud to have delivered our Bribie Island and Caboolture Satellite Hospitals.
Our Bribie Island Satellite Hospital is providing free public hospital care for the first time ever in the heart of our community.
Islander’s lips…are we getting a new Bribie Bridge? The answer is yes, but only if the Miles Government is re-elected. In 2020, I committed $4 million to plan for a new Bribie Island Bridge. Now, all the underlying work has been done and concept designs for our next bridge have been released.
Our plan delivers what the community asked for. We will build a new two-lane bridge, bringing traffic onto Bribie Island, while keeping our iconic existing bridge for two lanes of traffic to the mainland. The new bridge will have a much wider pathway for pedestrians, cyclists and mobility scooters, and of course the new bridge will have perches for our pelicans.
Staffed by hospital doctors and nurses, the Minor Injury and Illness Centre is open 7 days a week, until 10pm at night. They can treat a range of urgent, non-life-threatening conditions like fractures, sprains, burns, wounds needing stitches, head injuries without loss of consciousness, fevers, infections and so much more!
They also have X-ray, ultrasound and pathology to support the other services available.
We’ve already heard so many positive stories from locals who have used our Bribie Satellite Hospital. It’s life-changing for our community having 100% FREE public health services on the island.
2. CONCEPT DESIGN AND COMMITMENT TO BUILD OUR NEXT BRIBIE ISLAND BRIDGE
The one question on every Bribie
You can scan the QR code and see the new bridge design below.
3. NEW POLICE OUTREACH SERVICE FOR BEACHMERE
Beachmere locals have been asking for an increased police presence for a long time. That’s why I’m so glad to deliver Beachmere’s new police outreach service. There are now police dedicated to Beachmere, working out of the Beachmere Hub. This means police will spend more time in the community and less time travelling.
we’ve delivered. I know it makes a big difference to local students.
5.
START-TO-FINISH UPGRADE
OF BEACHMERE ROAD
NEARLY
FINISHED! Our HUGE start-to-finish upgrade of Beachmere Road is expected to be completed in September, as long as the rain stays away!
Beachmere Road was the number one issue for locals. That’s why in 2020 I committed to key upgrades, and got our funding doubled to deliver a full start to finish upgrade for Beachmere locals.
I’m grateful to locals for their patience with the works and can’t wait for it to be finished next month.
This is just a few of so many achievements, as well as Bribie Island Road upgrades, lights at the Regina Avenue intersection and a brand-new Neighbourhood Centre for Bribie Island.
It’s taken all my experience and lots of hard work to deliver these projects for our Pumicestone community since 2020!
There’s still so much more to do. I’ll keep fighting every day to do what matters for our community.
We’re making sure locals can be safe and feel safe in their communities.
4. AIR-CONDITIONING FOR EVERY STATE SCHOOL
We all know that kids learn best when they are cool. That’s why our government air-conditioned every classroom, library and staff room in our State schools. We promised this at the last election, and
Warmly, Ali King
Essential Steps to Take 5 If You Want to Retire Early on in Life
Many individuals dream of retiring early. Enjoying your golden years while you are still young and healthy is indeed an enticing prospect. However, achieving early retirement requires careful planning and disciplined financial management. In this article, we will explore five essential steps you need to take to retire early in life. By following these steps, you can embark on a journey toward financial freedom and enjoy the fruits of your labour sooner than you ever imagined.
The importance of financial planning for early retirement
Before diving into the steps, it is crucial to understand the significance of financial planning when it comes to early retirement. Financial planning involves evaluating your current financial situation, setting specific goals, creating a retirement plan, and making wise investments. It serves as a roadmap that guides you toward your desired financial future. Without proper financial planning, retiring early may remain nothing more than a distant dream. Now that we have understood the importance of financial planning let’s move on to the first step.
Step 1:
Assess your current financial situation
Before you can embark on your journey towards early retirement, it is essential to have a clear understanding of your current financial situation. This involves evaluating your income, expenses, debts, and assets. Start by creating a comprehensive budget that outlines your monthly income and expenses. This will help you identify areas to reduce unnecessary spending and save more towards your retirement goals.
Next, take stock of your debts. List all your outstanding loans, including credit card debt, student loans, and mortgages. Determine the interest rates and prioritise paying off the debts with the highest interest rates first. Reducing your debt burden will free up more money to save and invest for your retirement.
Finally, assess your assets. Calculate the value of your investments, savings accounts, and any other assets you may have. You could even utilise the services of retirement plan consultants, who have the knowledge and experience to guide you through the complex world of retirement planning. This will give you a clear picture of your net worth and help you determine how much you need to save to achieve your retirement goals. By assessing your current financial situation, you can identify gaps and make informed decisions.
Step 2:
Set specific goals for early retirement
To retire early, you must set specific goals aligning with your desired retirement age and lifestyle. Start by determining the age at which you want to retire. Consider factors such as your health, family commitments, and personal preferences. Once you have a target retirement age, calculate the years you have to save and invest.
Next, consider the lifestyle you envision for your retirement. Do you want to travel, start a small business, or relax and enjoy your hobbies? Determine the estimated annual expenses you will incur during retirement. This includes housing, healthcare, leisure activities, and other costs specific to your desired lifestyle. You will have a clear target to work towards by setting specific goals. This will help you stay motivated and focused on saving and investing for your early retirement.
Brisbane’s flight paths are changing and we want your feedback
Airservices Australia has developed options to reduce the frequency and concentration of some flight paths over Brisbane.
It’s part of our Noise Action Plan to reduce the impact of aircraft noise on communities in Greater Brisbane.
Will these proposed flight path changes affect you?
Learn more and give us your feedback: 19 August - 15 September 2024
For more information, to book an appointment at a community session or register for an online session, visit:
engage.airservicesaustralia.com/nap4b
Locked Bag 747, Eagle Farm QLD 4009 communityengagement@airservicesaustralia.com
Create a retirement plan
Now that you have assessed your current financial situation and set specific goals, it is time to create a retirement plan. A retirement plan outlines the steps you need to take to achieve your financial goals and retire early. Start by determining how much you must save each month to reach your retirement savings target. Consider factors such as your current savings, expected investment returns, and the number of years you have until retirement.
Next, explore different retirement savings options, such as individual retirement accounts. Evaluate each option’s tax advantages and contribution limits and choose the ones that best align with your goals.
Additionally, consider consulting with a retirement plan consultant. These professionals have the expertise to help you create a personalised retirement plan tailored to your unique circumstances. They can provide valuable advice and guidance, ensuring you are on track to achieve your early retirement goals.
Invest wisely for early retirement
Investing wisely is crucial when it comes to achieving early retirement. While saving is essential, it is through investments that your money can grow exponentially over time. Start by diversifying your investment portfolio. Spread your investments across different asset classes, such as stocks, bonds, and real estate. This will help mitigate risks and maximise potential returns.
Consider investing in low-cost index funds or exchange-traded funds (ETFs) that track the performance of a specific market index. These passive investment strategies offer broad market exposure and tend to have lower fees compared to actively managed funds.
Keep in mind that investing for early retirement requires a long-term mindset. Avoid making impulsive investment decisions based on short-term market fluctuations. Stay focused on your retirement plan and maintain a disciplined approach to investing.
Step 3: Step 4: Step 5:
Monitor and adjust your retirement plan
Once you have set your retirement plan in motion, monitoring and adjusting it regularly is essential. Life is full of unexpected twists and turns, and your financial circumstances may change over time. Review your retirement plan at least annually to ensure that you are on track toward your goals.
Monitor your investment performance and make adjustments as necessary. Rebalance your portfolio to maintain the desired asset allocation and risk level. Consider consulting with a retirement plan consultant for expert advice on optimising your retirement plan.
Regularly monitoring and adjusting your retirement plan ensures that you remain on the right path toward early retirement.
Retiring early is achievable if you are willing to put in the effort and follow a disciplined approach to financial planning. You can pave the way toward early retirement by assessing your current financial situation, setting specific goals, creating a retirement plan, investing wisely, and regularly monitoring your progress.
Remember, achieving early retirement requires patience, perseverance, and guidance. With careful planning and smart financial decisions, you can retire early and enjoy the life you have always dreamed of. So, start taking these essential steps today and set yourself on the path to early retirement.
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.
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 2/83 Welsby Parade, Bongaree, 4507. Phone: 0466 221992. Email: allan@serenitycafebribie.com Find us on Facebook
FREE COFFEE
Present this ad or coupon for your free regular sized coffee with any breakfast over $15.00 ! !
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
EL PIGFACE
Hola Amigos, if you love authentic Mexican cuisine, all freshly made on-site, look no further than our little Mexican Cantina, located next door to Pigface, right beside the beach at Woorim. What better to go with Mexican food than our very own, secret recipe, that goes into our frozen margaritas, which are perfect for our Queensland summer.
OPEN FOR LUNCH: Friday, Saturday & Sunday (11.30am to 2.30pm) OPEN FOR DINNER: Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday & Sunday (5.00pm to 8.00pm)
CLOSED TUESDAY
3/4 Rickman Parade, Woorim. (07) 4800 8393
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
THE DECK RESTAURANT
With its spacious, relaxed ambiance, The Deck Bistro offers casual dining indoors or alfresco on the deck overlooking the golf course, lake and lush gardens. Enjoy modern cuisine with locally sourced ingredients, open 7 days a week for breakfast and lunch and dinner on Fridays and Saturdays. Perfect for any occasion!
ood Company presents “An Afternoon of Song” in support of Bribie Island School Chaplaincy. In recognition of the wonderful, caring role our Chaplains play in supporting children in their school years and also the families and teachers who care for them, Good Company is proud to lend their support. Sometimes, a listening ear, a helping hand, or a shoulder to lean on can bring much comfort and encouragement to a child needing an uplifting word. Come along and support our Chaplains. Enjoy a musical afternoon with a table-served afternoon tea of tea/coffee and muffins.
Saturday, 24 and Sunday, 25 August 2024, 2:30 pm, at Bribie Community Hall, Arcadia Street, Woorim.
Tickets only $15, available from: The Ink Shop, 17 Benabrow Avenue, Bellara (cash only, please)
BRISBANE CRUISES
ISLAND LUNCH CRUISE 2024
Enjoy a relaxing lunch time cruise while we prepare a delicious BBQ lunch onboard the
Brisbane. The cruise towards Skirmish Point, Gilligan’s Island and Deception Bay is always a magical experience. Cruise route is weather dependent.
Interesting Facts About Songs 2
Neil Diamond wrote the song “Red Red Wine” in 1967. In ’83, the band UB40 covered it in a light reggae style, reaching #1 on the Billboard 100. Diamond stated that it is one of his favourite covers, and he often performs the song in the UB40 style instead of the original version. .
After Paul McCartney dreamed the melody to “Yesterday” and woke up thinking he subconsciously plagiarised the song, he would play a demo to other bands to make sure the song wasn’t theirs.
Madonna leaked a fake version of her album to pirates where every song was a loop of her saying, “What the f*ck do you think you’re doing?” Then, a hacker posted the real songs on her own site for everyone to download.
Michael Jackson composed songs despite not playing any instruments. He would build each track element with his voice so pitch-perfect that studio musicians could match chords to his singing.
Gangsta’s Paradise is one of the few Coolio songs to not feature profanity because it was the only way Stevie Wonder would authorise the sampling of his song “Pastime Paradise”.
Queen’s “Bohemian Rhapsody” only reached #9 on the U.S. charts when the song was first released in 1976 but reached #2 in 1992 after Wayne’s World came out.
“Weird Al” Yankovic wrote an original song called “Dare to Be Stupid” in the style of DEVO. Devo’s Mark Mothersbaugh: “I was in shock. It was the most beautiful thing I had ever heard. He sort of re-sculpted that song into something else and… I hate him for it, basically.”
The reason Top 40 has specifically forty singles is that standard jukebox machines held 40 songs at that time.
“Prisencolinensinainciusol” is an Italian pop song consisting of Gibberish and meant to sound like how English sounds to non-English speakers.
The Management & Staff wish to invite you and your family to our
to be held in the Chapel of Great Northern Garden of Remembrance 31-35 Tallowwood Dr, Deception Bay Friday 30th August 2024 at 6:00pm for a 6:30pm start
Please RSVP your attendance by Wednesday 28th August on (07) 3888 6622 as numbers are limited. For those unable to attend, you will be able to watch on our live stream at www.gngor.com.au/live-streaming/
banana chips
Slice the bananas into 1/4-inch slices.
Put the banana slices in a bowl and cover them with olive oil. Mix until combined. Place the banana slices in a single layer in the air fryer and sprinkle them with kosher salt. . Work in batches if needed since overcrowding will result in soggy banana chips.
Air fry for 8-10 minutes at 180c. Flip halfway through, until bananas are lightly browned and crispy.
With this deliciously mild fruit, your options for seasoning these air fryer banana chips are endless! Use your favorite seasonings to create different banana chip flavors. Try these:
Use different types of salt. Seasoned salt, smoked salt, or specialty salts would all be delicious.
Try some spices. Make your chips spicy with cayenne pepper, chipotle, chili lime salt, or even hot paprika. A little goes a long way with these options, so add and taste!
Make them sweet. Cinnamon, nutmeg, and sugar would turn these snacks into a sweet treat. Drizzle with some chocolate or add them to an ice cream sundae after they are cool!
Air Fryer Air Fryer
SAGITTARIUS (Nov 23 - Dec 21)
I don’t need to tell you to be careful what you wish for. Being ruled by lucky Jupiter, you know how powerful wishes can be. This week, as Mars links with your ruler, you’re being blessed by cosmic support. It’s good timing, because the situation you’re dealing with is chaotic, and you’d be more comfortable if you could calm it down and focus on something more fulfilling. Is this an impossible dream? No. You might be able to get what you’re hoping for. So, think carefully. Once you make a wish, it’s going to be hard to undo. View your challenges in a new light… and sort them! For free audio and video forecasts visit ozfree.cainer.com
PISCES (Feb 20 - Mar20)
We’ve all got habits we’d like to give up. And healthier ones we’d like to adopt. So, what would your world be better without? This week, as dynamic Mars conjoins your traditional ruler, Jupiter, you get a cosmic boost of energy and good fortune. It’s the perfect time to make a resolution, and instigate it. You need to enthusiastically embrace the concept of change. The future is prepared to be different for you. The question is: how prepared and willing are you to be different? If you’re ready, this is transformation time. Live life to the max! For inspiring advice, check out your free audio and video forecasts. Visit ozfree.cainer.com
GEMINI (May 22 - Jun 22)
I’ve got a secret to share. But if you want to hear it, you need to start by telling me yours. Hmmm... you don’t want to go first? Why not? Don’t you trust me?! I’m playing this game because it mirrors a situation in your world. You’re being offered information; but the person who’s got the intel is using it to have power over you. And it’s making you uncomfortable. Fortunately, your retrograde ruler heightens your perceptivity. You’re not obliged to say anything you don’t want to. Be patient. You’ll find out what you need to know. Nothing is hopeless. If you want positive news, check out your free audio and video forecasts. Visit ozfree.cainer.com
VIRGO (Aug 24 - Sept 23)
You don’t like making mistakes. And being a smart, thoughtful Virgo, you don’t often make them. So suppose I tell you that as long as you get one thing right, you can make as many mistakes as you like? Does that take the pressure off? Or pile it on? How are you going to know which situation to focus on? Is it the obvious one? Or is that a distraction? If you focus on your most exciting dream, and think about how to fulfil it, you’re on the right track. If something’s annoying/ frustrating, it won’t be a mistake to ignore it. I’ve got so much more to tell you. Great news awaits! For free audio and video forecasts visit ozfree.cainer.com
Sometimes our eyes are bigger than our stomachs. Sometimes our mouths write cheques our bodies can’t cash. At least our ears and noses are better behaved! As Mars and Jupiter converge this week, excitement and passion could cause us to dive in head-first rather than ease gradually in. So it’s useful that retrograde Mercury gives us time to look before leaping. We need to listen to our inner voice and speak our truths. When our hearts and heads work in combo, the sky’s the limit. So, aim high!
CAPRICORN
(Dec 22 - Jan 20)
No matter how stressed and challenged we feel, we know that someone, somewhere is having a harder time than us. In a way, we can use this knowledge to stave off anxiety. And as a helpful Capricorn, who’s always happy to go out of your way to help people, you know the advantages of turning your attention away from yourself and onto others. It helps you, and it helps them. It’s a win/win situation. This week, energised by the Mars/Jupiter link, your positive actions will be particularly effective... and your stress levels will lift. Will the dream you’re chasing come true? Find out! For free audio and video forecasts visit ozfree.cainer.com
ARIES (Mar 21 - Apr 20)
Our celestial helpers are free-spirits. They’re not obliged to watch over us and give us a helping hand. They do it because they choose to do it. When you think of what they’ve witnessed and experienced, they must be broad-minded and rarely surprised by what they see. What they don’t like, is being told what to do. They don’t respond well to orders. With your ruler linking to Jupiter this week, don’t try to force the hand of destiny. If you work out where the hand is, and where it’s pointing, you’ll be on the right (lucky) path. Change is possible! Get some valuable help. For free audio and video forecasts visit ozfree.cainer.com
CANCER (Jun 23 - Jul 23)
Academics study Greek and Roman Gods and Goddesses, but there’s much less attention paid to other fairytales and myths. Yet every culture has its own folklore - each filled with tales of courageous adventurers, visionaries and dreamers. Woven deep into our societal memory banks, these stories can be sources of inspiration and learning. The Mars/ Jupiter link brings the energy to embark on a new adventure. Are you ready for a new chapter of your life? Seize the opportunities coming your way. You’re more than ready. What’s in the sky? Helpful planetary alignments! For free audio and video forecasts visit ozfree.cainer.com
LIBRA (Sept24 - Oct23)
Billionaires have to invest a lot of energy into protecting their assets. Are their bank accounts secure? Can they trust the people charged with looking after their wealth? Maybe these are the kind of concerns we’d all like to have... but to them, their worries are real. Now, imagine someone looking at your life. Your assets might not involve finance, and they’re not always easy to look after. But they’re special. Focus on the good things you’ve got this week, and they’ll reward you with joy, support and good company. Priceless gifts. To find out how your life could change for the better, check out your free forecasts. Visit ozfree.cainer.com
AQUARIUS
(Jan21 - Feb 19)
Someone has a secret they want to tell you. Perfect, because you’ve been holding information you’d like to share. But for some reason, which you don’t quite understand, you’re cautious about this exchange of intel. Are you worried you’ll hear something that’s going to make you uncomfortable? Are you concerned you’ll reveal more than you should? You sense that this communication is important. So, take a risk. Open the dialogue. Once it’s started, this connection could turn out to be profitable and supportive For great advice to guide you to a brighter future, check out your free audio and video forecasts. Visit ozfree.cainer.com
TAURUS (Apr 21 - May 21)
That complicated situation you’re dealing with? This week brings clarity. If you’re up against something perplexing and puzzling, try looking at it from another angle. Even if it feels complex, in essence, your challenge is simple and straightforward. Just because you don’t know how to handle it doesn’t mean you won’t soon find a way. Mercury retrograde reminds you of the strengths you’ve gained from recent experiences. Within the realms of the obvious and immediate, you’ll find opportunities that move you towards success. You’ve got so much to look forward to! Be inspired! Check out your free audio and video forecasts. Visit ozfree.cainer.com
LEO (Jul 24 - Aug 23)
If you were super-rich, what would you do with your cash? Some people use theirs to collect perfect diamonds. They’re excited by the idea of owning something precious and flawless. Actually, though, it’s imperfections that make life interesting. When there’s nothing to prove (or improve) what’s left to stimulate and excite us? We need challenge. We need to be striving for better/more. This week, be glad of all in your world that seems less than perfect. It’s part of the magic. Working with what you’ve got brings priceless satisfaction. Solve problems. Ease troubles. Find solutions! For free audio and video forecasts visit ozfree. cainer.com
SCORPIO
(Oct 24 - Nov 22)
Just because leopards can’t change their spots doesn’t mean they can’t change their disposition. Like any other creature, they adapt to the situation they’re dealing with. You’re dealing with someone whose previous behaviour made you wary. You’re not going to forget what they did. But are you doing them a disservice? Sometimes, people really do change. And even if they don’t, are you doing yourself any good by hanging onto an unhappy memory? Mercury retrograde brings a chance to forgive, and find freedom. What does your heart desire and can you achieve it? For free audio and video forecasts visit ozfree.cainer.com
I'm back from my Pacific Island Cruise, on the P & O Encounter and had a lovely time.
Although we couldn't stop in Norfolk Island (2-metre waves), we sailed onto Tonga, Fiji, Port Villa, Vanuatu.
Mary-Anne hosted our last meeting on 21.7.24. There was a good turnout, with a few more new faces. There was plenty of talk about travel, and even a couple of ladies eagerly talked about the possibility of travelling together, which is wonderful news.
This is what our meetings are all about, Travel Buddies. Possibly meeting someone with whom you would feel comfortable travelling can be a great experience ( I did it to India earlier in the year), and you're not on your own.
You might each do different things during the day, but how fantastic would it be to have dinner with someone you know and talk about your day?
Our next meeting will be on 18th August at 3 pm at the RSL. When you come along, don't forget to jot down some handy hints and tips from your recent travels so that we can all learn a little more.
Whether it's accommodation (where you stayed, that was just a great place), good places to eat, or even which travel company you might have used that you got a great deal with.
We are all eager to have more insider information for great travel, and everyone's tips and hints help Along the way. You might be a solo traveller, so kudos to you, but we can possibly make that trip a little extra special with other people's travel experiences.
Once again, I will stipulate that we are not TRAVEL AGENTS; we won't be making any bookings for you, but with seasoned travellers in our group, we always have some great memories that we are happy to share That will make you feel your trip is more informed and doable.
We do have a Gentleman who was looking for someone to do a European River Cruise and another who had to cancel a cruise because his friend was sick, but he would like to book another before February 25.
See you in August
Cheers
Roslyn 0401078187
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
The Bribie Island Lions Market
2nd Sat of the month at Tintookie Park Woorim 7am - 1pm.
Bribie Woodcrafters & Bribie Island Gem Club
Open day, Demonstrations & Sales - last Sunday of each month 8am to 12noon Held at Bribie Art Centre 191 Sunderland Dr, Banksia Beach
The Bribie Bowls Euchre Club
Meets at the club each Monday at 12 Noon. Fun afternoon. Contact Lorraine on 0414802733.
At the end of WW2, a shattered Germany was divided into four zones of occupation under the control of the United States, Britain, France and the Soviet Union. Berlin, although located within the Soviet zone, was also split amongst the four powers. The US, UK, and French sectors formed West Berlin and the Soviet sector became East Berlin. The division of Germany had been confirmed by the Allied leaders at the Potsdam Conference, held in August 1945. The relationship between the former wartime Allies
became increasingly strained, as they struggled to reach agreement on the shape of post-war Europe. The huge buildup of military power from WW2 meant both the US and the Soviet Union had emerged as ideologically opposed “superpowers”. Each wanted to exert their influence over the post-war world. Germany became the focus of their Cold War politics. As divisions within Germany became more pronounced, so too did the political Divisions.
The Wall
In 1948, the Soviet Union closed off Berlin blockading all Western access to that city from the rest of Europe. The US and the UK responded by initiating the “Berlin Airlift” to keep food and supplies flowing to West Berlin and to maintain its connection to the West. In 1949, the blockade was lifted. The US, UK, France, and the Soviet Union maintained the status quo in Berlin, whereby each of the former WW2 allies governed its own sector and had free access to all other sectors. The free city of West Berlin, surrounded by the communist GDR became a Cold War crucible, in which both superpowers repeatedly asserted their claims for dominance of Europe.
On 10th November 1958, Soviet Premier Nikita Khrushchev demanded that the US and its allies relinquish their occupation roles in Berlin. He also declared that if they did not sign an agreement to this effect within six months, the Soviet Union would
By Al Finegan
no longer honour their postwar agreement and would enter into a separate treaty with East Germany. US President Dwight D Eisenhower refused Khrushchev’s demands, insisting that their Berlin agreement still held. On 27th November the Soviet Union announced that it had rejected the postwar agreements concerning the occupation and governance of Germany and West Berlin. Khrushchev also proposed that Berlin become a free city. Although Khrushchev did not indicate that the Soviet Union would use military force if the US did not comply, it was widely understood that the Soviet Union intended to back up its threat. The US and the UK refused to agree to the Soviet demands, arguing that a free Berlin, with no guaranteed access to the West, would soon be controlled by communist East Germany. Multiple attempts to find a diplomatic solution were fruitless. In 1959, US - Soviet talks took place at Camp David, but no
agreement was reached. They tried again in May 1960, but the summit in Paris collapsed in the wake of the shooting down of a US spy plane over the Soviet Union.
In 1961, John F Kennedy took the oath of office as President of the US. Immediately, the Berlin situation heated up. At yet another Summit in June 1961, Khrushchev reiterated his threat that if a Berlin agreement was not achieved by December, the Soviet Union would sign a separate treaty with East Germany, an arrangement that West Berlin Mayor Willy Brandt disparagingly characterised as Khrushchev “marrying himself”. Kennedy made it clear that Berlin was of supreme strategic importance to the US and that free access to the city had to be maintained. In that month of June, over 1,000 East German refugees crossed into West Berlin each day, an economic and demographic drain that, left unchecked,
would spell disaster for the East. The following month, 30,000 fled. In the first 11 days of August, 16,000 East Germans crossed the border into West Berlin, and on 12th August some 2,400 followed - the largest number of defectors ever to leave East Germany in a single day.
The existence of West Berlin, a conspicuously capitalist city deep within communist East Germany, “stuck like a bone in the Soviet throat,” to quote Khruschev. Without warning, on the night of 12th August 1961, the GDR, backed by the Soviet Union, began to build a barrier between East and West Berlin. By early the following morning, the word had spread like wildfire, that the GDR was separating East Berlin from West Berlin with barbed wire, roadblocks, and a wall. A flood of East German citizens began to flee, carrying only a few belongings to reach West Berlin before they were trapped in the communist state. Dramatic scenes were enacted at roadblocks all along the dividing line as swarms of panicked citizens burst past overwhelmed guards. By the end of the day, reinforced guard units had won the battle. Many innocent citizens had been shot or badly beaten. Furious work continued on the barrier, leaving those who were too late to leave to look on forlornly, wondering what their future held in store. It wasn’t to be pretty.
The Berlin Wall became not one, but two walls. Measuring 155 km long and four metres tall, these walls were separated by a heavily guarded, mined corridor of land known as the “death strip”. With 302 watchtowers, it was under the constant surveillance of armed East German border guards who were ordered to shoot anyone attempting to escape to the West.
Over the following years the standard of living in the East deteriorated as the people suffered under a cruel regime. Spies were everywhere and the slightest comment or action, perceived to be against the state, resulted in harsh punishment. Despite this, escape to the West was on everyone’s minds. Many succeeded, while many failed, usually in death. The following are just a few of the ingenious escapes to freedom from the Soviet cruelty and repression.
Frieda Schulze escaped out the window of her flat. Her apartment building was designated to be in East Berlin, while the street in front of the building was in West Berlin. She rappelled from a window in Bernauer Strasse down a rope to land in the west. Two days after the wall was built, 19-year-old Conrad Schumann, an East German border guard, leapt over barbed wire toward freedom. He ran, weaving like a rabbit, dodging bullets from his fellow guards.
Heinz Meixner a young Austrian worker had fallen in love with an East Berlin girl. Foreigners were given permits to move freely through the checkpoints in the wall, but their cars would be searched, so hiding his fiancée and her mother in the car boot would have been useless. Instead, Heinz came up with a simple but daring plan. He bought an old car in East Berlin and cut off the top half to the dashboard level, then installed steel plates in the boot, enough to stop bullets. With his girl and her Mum hiding low in the back seat, he waited till there was a clear run at the boom gates, then sped at full pace to race under both booms. The guards taken by surprise, only managed a few parting shots, by which time, Heinz and his love had careered into the West. Shortly thereafter, the barriers were all modified, and spikes added below. Other car-hacking techniques included modifying the fuel tank to fit a person inside, building hiding spaces into the back seat, and even strapping a person underneath the vehicle.
Swimming 50 metres across Berlin’s river seemed to be a tempting way to escape to the west side, but the east bank was paved with obstacles. As well, East German border guards had installed spikes just below the water’s surface, and they patrolled the river, day and night. Despite their efforts, a successful escape did take place after the crew of a GDR ferry planned a mutiny. They plied the captain with schnapps then tied him up. After picking up some of their friends, they turned the boat sharply off course and sped full throttle towards the west bank. The GDR Coastguard gave chase, firing in their direction. Some of their bullets hit the western shore, causing the West German police to return fire. The GDR guards retreated. All 14 passengers, including a baby, safely reached the other side. Another ingenious nautical escape involved a diving instructor who built his own miniature submarine and reached Denmark after a five-hour voyage.
Ute Schmalfu, a 19-year-old East German girl had fallen in love with a Frenchman but was denied permission to leave. She told her fiancé Jean-Pierre she would do anything to be with him. So she secretly climbed into a train headed to West Berlin, in which Jean-Pierre and his friend Charles were waiting with two empty suitcases, each about one metre long. They were engineered to fit her inside. One end in each was a flap. She climbed into one, then the other was pushed against it, giving her two metres and the impression it was just two suitcases side by side. She spent 70 long, nail-biting, and very uncomfortable minutes lying above them in the luggage rack as GDR officials checked everyone on board. But, like a magician’s assistant, she emerged on the other end of the journey
unharmed and free. They are still married and living in France.
Fourteen East Germans, including eleven children, were smuggled across the border in a refrigerated truck. They were able to escape detection by being concealed under the carcasses of slaughtered and stuffed pigs being transported to the West.
Aircraft mechanic Hans Peter Strelczyk and his friend Gunter Wetzel, decided to build a hot air balloon. They did their research and built an iron platform with four gas cylinders in the centre, while their wives stitched together 60 different pieces of canvas and bedsheets to form the balloon. On their first attempt, they lifted off, but the winds were wrong, and their attempt failed. A few months later, they tried again, and this time, both families, including four children, landed with relative ease after a 30-minute flight, right into a blackberry thicket in West Germany.
Many attempts were made to flee East Germany via railway, hiding in, under, or on top of trains. But only one man managed to take a whole trainload of people to the West. Harry Deterling, a train driver, had heard about a still-existing remote railway line that stopped abruptly at the wall. He discovered that the switches to the line still worked. After careful planning, Harry loaded 18 family members and his colleague Hermut in a train engine with one carriage and took off. Hermut jumped out and switched the rails to head the train towards the wall. Harry had the train at full speed when it hit. The passengers, all secured, held grimly to their seats as the train, in a spectacular crash, sent bits of wall in all directions as it smashed its way into West Germany. Thanks to Harry’s daring, five entire families reached the West. The railway line was demolished the next day.
The Berlin Wall came down on the evening of 9th November 1989. After a complex few meetings, based on Mikhail Gorbachev’s glasnost ("transparency"), the commander of a border crossing yielded, allowing guards to open the checkpoints to let people through with no ID check. As the East Germans swarmed through, they were greeted by West Germans waiting with flowers and champagne amid wild rejoicing. Soon afterward, a crowd of West Berliners jumped on top of the Wall and were soon joined by East German youngsters. Before long, and for all night, people from both sides swarmed over the wall, smashing it apart. The evening of 9th November 1989 is forever known as, “The Night the Wall Came Down.”
So, you want to write a story. Or you have been told you should write one.
The first question you need to ask is: ‘Why do I want to write this story?’ Perhaps you have travelled a lot, you’ve lived through a difficult time be it on a global, national, or personal scale, or you just want to leave a legacy for your family. Only you can answer the question.
If you are writing about your life, you are writing a memoir. Memoir equates to memory, so you are writing about an event in your life, from your perspective. Your friend, who was with you, will have a different perspective on the same incident.
The next question to ask is: ‘What do I write?’ Unfortunately, not many of us can take a single memory and write fifty thousand words. Here I say look at your life, the places you have lived, the work you have done, the people you have met. If you were a teacher for thirty years, and taught
“ Writers Corner
So You Want To Write A Story
By LG Dalton
for seven years in ‘Back-of-Bourke’ then you may be able to write thirty thousand words on that segment of your life. One of the best memoirs I have read was by a woman who wrote anecdotes of between two hundred and five hundred words, and then placed them in some type of order that bought her book up to thirty thousand words.
Third question to ask is: ‘Where do I start?’ If I was that teacher I may start with ‘the day I arrived in Back-of-Bourke was the wettest and coldest day on record.’ I could write about finding my accommodation, checking out the school and how to get there from my digs, shopping for supplies, so on. Then, I could select anecdotes of my days as a teacher, my social life in the town, forays into the surrounding countryside, particularly with students in tow.
Question four, I’ve been asked, is: ‘How do I start?’ Some people are comfortable
typing straight on the computer, others prefer pen and paper. It is personal. The main thing is to sit down and write. It does not matter how good or bad your spelling, sentence construction, or grammar is, just WRITE. Everything that is wrong can be corrected later.
Another question to ask is: ‘Do I use real names?’ I am no solicitor, so if you think you are verging on shaky ground, I recommend checking it out. The other thing you could do is drop surnames, and even change the names completely. Of course, that is if you intend to publish it for purchase by the general public. If you are writing for family only, then I wouldn’t worry too much.
The final question to ask is: “When and where do I stop?’ If I was that teacher I would stop when I left Back-of-Bourke. If I was transferred to Beyond-the-BlackStump, I could start another book about my teaching career there.
About L G Dalton
I have written for over 45 years. I am involved in 4 local writing groups, and a member of 3 peak writing organisations. I write mainly romance stories, but have written action and speculative fiction. If I write poetry, it is more by accident than design.
BRIBIE COMMUNITY Nursery backs a winner!
Ryan Waters is 16 years old and a full-time student currently completing grade 12. He became involved with Athletics seven years ago with Bribie Little Athletics while also doing Triathlons.
His dedication to Athletics since 2017 is truly inspiring. He recently completed his under-17 year and aged out of Bribie District Little Athletics Club. His love for the sport led him to join the committee for the next season as a general committee member. Two years ago, he joined Queensland Athletics and has been an active part of a group of athletes, always eager to compete in as many competitions as possible.
Ryan's most recent achievements are not just his own but a source of great pride for our entire community. His victories at the Queensland Schools Competition and the Queensland All Schools, where he secured 1st and 2nd place respectively, were celebrated by all. His success at the Australian All Schools competition in Perth, where he finished 3rd and 4th, further solidified our pride in him.
Ryan recently competed in the Chemist Warehouse Australian Athletics Championships held in Adelaide in April 2024. He competed in the under-20 and under-18 400 m events. He qualified for the nationals by making the qualifying times throughout the season and came first in the 400m under-18's
race at the Queensland State Championships in March. While Ryan was a little disappointed with his overall result, he is working again with his Coach to set up a new plan for next season. He is determined to improve his performance and has set his sights on the upcoming national and international competitions.
On the brighter side, the boys' 4x400m relay was awarded the 3rd Medal. Well done to all; it was such a wonderful experience. Bribie Community Nursery were pleased to assist Ryan to be able to compete in Adelaide. We eagerly anticipate hearing of his future achievements and are proud to support him on his journey. Ryan's success is a testament to the unwavering support and encouragement he has received from the entire community, and we are all part of his journey.
BY: Marj Webber
Wedge-tailed Eagle
AQUILA AUDAX (BALD EAGLE)
Wedge-tailed Eagles are Australia’s largest raptors and one of the largest eagles in the world. They are a rare sight on Bribie Island and have been recorded flying overhead from the mainland on a few occasions.
Wedge-tailed Eagles are magnificent black or brown raptors with massive legs that are feathered to the toes. They have huge wings and a long wedgeshaped tail which is unlike any other raptor tail. Older adults are black with rufous hackles on their napes and shoulder patches. Immatures are brown, darkening yearly for about ten years until they reach full maturity. Their bills are whitish, hooked and 53 to 64 mm in length. Their talons are strong enough to lift a young kangaroo. The breasts and underparts are black. They are .9 to 1.1 m in length and stand to about 1 m in height. Wing spans can be up to 2.2 m. Females are larger than males, weighing around 4.2 kg, and the smaller males average 3.2 kg. They have very keen eyesight and can see up to 1.8km. You are most likely to see them by the roadside eating roadkill or soaring with upswept wings in huge circles in the sky. They can reach great heights and have been known to fly as high
as 2000 m or more. When taking flight, the wing movements are slow and heavy, but once in the air, they take to soaring. When the wings are outstretched during flight, you can see 6 or 7 long feathers resembling fingers on the tips. My giveaway when identifying a Wedgie in flight is the upswept wings with fingered tips and the wedged-shaped tail. They may live up to 40 years in captivity and less than half of that in the wild. They are aggressive hunters and have been known to attack drones, hang gliders and model aeroplanes. Wedge-tailed Eagles are commonly found in most habitats throughout mainland Australia, Tasmania, and PNG. They prefer areas with scattered high trees. Rainforests, coastal, and urban areas are usually avoided. They are territorial, with their territories taking up very large areas. Juveniles move, sometimes long distances, to find new territories after leaving their parents.
Most of their food is made up of native or introduced mammals. They are hunters and scavengers hunting singly, in pairs or in small groups for animals such a rabbits, small kangaroos, reptiles and sometimes large birds. Prey is often swooped upon and taken from the ground.
known to reach 4m in depth and 400 kg in weight. 1 to 3 whitish blotched eggs are laid with each egg being about the size of three chicken eggs. Females incubate the eggs for about 45 days with a little help from the males. During this time, and when the eaglets are young, males bring food to the nest. Eaglets are at first covered in a white down. Usually only the oldest which is strongest survives, as the oldest often sets about disposing of its weaker siblings. If food is scarce the deceased siblings are sometimes eaten. The youngsters leave the nest at 11 to 12 weeks and can fly in about 20 more days. They depend on their parents for about 4 to 6 months after fledging. The parents then stop feeding the youngsters, thus making them find their own food. During this time, the juveniles disperse to find their own territories, sometimes travelling great distances.
You will sometimes see Wedgetailed Eagles circling fires and swooping on animals as they flee the flames. Roadkill is also a favourite, but there can be a danger of being hit by passing traffic. Sometimes up to 20 eagles will attend a carcass or a roadkill. When they work together in a group, they can attack and kill much larger animals (weighing up to 60 kg), as each bird can lift about half of their body weight. If they have too much food at any one time, they may store it on a branch near the nest to use later. Up to 1.5 kg may be eaten in one meal which may last for several weeks before having to hunt again.
Breeding usually takes place between June and November. An enormous nest is built, if possible, in a strong high tree with wide views of their territory. In areas where there are no high trees, they will choose a lower tree strong enough to hold their enormous nest. Sometimes, they are forced to build on human structures such as power poles and sometimes even on the ground. Nests are used for many years. When first built, they are about 1m in diameter and 75cm deep, but each year, they are added onto until they become huge, sometimes with a diameter and depth of 2m. They have been
Wedge-tailed Eagles face several threats that can be a danger to their survival. During the early 1900s, there was a government bounty on the heads of Wedgetailed eagles as they were attacking some of the smaller domestic animals, such as lambs, in farming communities. This led to the destruction of tens of thousands of eagles. They are now fully protected. The main threats to them now are clearing suitable nesting trees, flying into wires, fences and wind farms, and on the road while eating roadkill. They are often mobbed by other birds, and Lace Monitors try to raid their nests to eat the eggs. Nests are sometimes abandoned if approached by humans.
While travelling across the Nullarbor Plain several years ago, I counted 54 Wedge-tailed Eagles in total. This was during a plague of rabbits and just before the calicivirus was released into the rabbit population. Because of the stunted trees growing in the area, nests were built quite close to the ground.
Numbers dwindled drastically during the years when they were shot, trapped and poisoned by humans, but they have shown that they are remarkably resilient, and their numbers have increased considerably. Their conservation status is now listed as least concern on the IUCN Red List.
Bribie Pink Dragons
It was a lovely event with great weather, creative titbits, and a specially crafted individual birthday cake.
In 2004, Joyce was diagnosed with breast cancer. So began the long journey, through lumpectomy surgery and radiation, to wellness.
Several years later, she spotted a dragonboat “full of pinkies” through her binoculars and remarked to her husband, “That looks like fun; I would like to do that!”
She recounts seeing an article in a local paper asking Breast Cancer survivors to come and paddle. The phone call was made, and two days later, Joyce had her first training in the boat and has been paddling ever since!
She recently returned with our team after competing in the Cooloola Coast Regatta.
Joyce embraces life with a beaming smile and an unparalleled zest for life. Whether we are doing an International Women’s Day walk or a fundraiser for cancer, she is always an energetic contender.
As a previous gymnast in her youth, playing ground sports, tennis and squash, she has an ongoing determination to keep fit and paddle on!
Her enthusiasm is infectious. In 2023, as the oldest competitor, Joyce attended the IBCPC International Regatta in NZ, where she engaged with and earned the admiration of many international teams.
She hopes to compete in 2026 at the IBCPC event in Aux Les Bains, Lake Bourget, France.
After cutting her cake, in an emotional few words, Joyce thanked everyone for the camaraderie, the friendship, the love and the sisterhood of support in a club where she was “ever, ever, ever so proud to be a member”.
We welcome all, not just Breast Cancer survivors, their supporters and those with a like-minded ethos, to come and join us in paddling in the beautiful Pumicestone Passage.
Contact 0493096377
bribiepinkdragons@gmail.com
Bribie Pink Dragons celebrated the 90th birthday of our long-standing member and, still current, drummer and paddler, Joyce Thomas.
'Pawsome Pet Page
M.K. Clinton
Latest Guide To Use DOG HARNESS And Leash Set Comfortably
Dog owners know leashes and harnesses are necessary tools for their dogs to have fun outside and are also compliant with safety and comfort. On the other hand, choosing a supportive harness and leash is not easy, and moreover, employing it correctly can add more to your worries. These comprehensive handson harness and leash set guides will have you practising the techniques before you can take a full harness and leash set.
Choosing An Appropriate Harness and Leash Set:
Ensure you have a proper dog harness and leash set before walking your dog. This is the first and most important step to making walking with your dog comfortable.
Here are some factors to consider when choosing a harness and leash set:
1. Size and Fit: If you want your dog to be well restrained, you need to be careful when selecting a harness. Use the measuring tape to measure your dog’s chest and neck width and get a harness that is neither too tight nor too loose. The harness fitted right will provide about two— two-digit clear space between the dog and the harness.
2. Material: The reins and leashes come in a variety of materials, so you can choose from nylon, leather, and cotton. Options regarding the dog’s comfort and durability might make choosing a suitable material easier. Nylon harnesses are light, easy to maintain, and relatively cheaper than leather ones, which, on the other hand, are strong and durable.
3. Type of Harness: These harnesses are combined with various types of leashes, such as back-leashes, frontclips, step-in harnesses, and head halters. No matter where you walk, be it inside the house, among the trees, or in the sand, choose a kind of leash that is best for your dog’s needs and walking style.
Proper Fitting of the Harness
After finding a suitable harness for your dog, the next step is to guarantee the correct combination of harnesses.
Unthread all the laces on the straps. Loop the harness around your dog comfortably, ensuring the D ring is on the back. First, adjust the straps on the harness around the dog’s neck and chest, ensuring they are tight but not too tight.
Fit: Use a bit of force to accurately test-pull on the harness. It should not slip off, nor run the risk of being obstructive and preventing freedom of movement for your dog. Clip the straps excessively, ensuring that your dog does not get tangled or will feed.
Attaching the Leash Correctly
• Start with the straps that connect to the D-ring on the back of the harness.
• Secure the side leash by hooking it on the D-ring.
• Try not to miss the leash tie, which could unexpectedly detach in the midst of walks.
• Tighten the cord of the leash to see if it is connected and secure with a slight tug.
Safety Precautions During Walks
1. Avoid retractable leashes: These types of retractable leashes may be harmful due to the possibility of getting injuries yourself or your pet’s part. Choose a fashion leash that is normal, and you will have greater control over your pet.
2. Watch out for signs of discomfort: Observe your dog during walks and look for signs of distress, such as limping, excessive pulling, or rubbing its body. Adjust the harness if needed or allow a service provider to help you.
3. Stay vigilant: Pay attention to where you are and what may be a hazard, such as busy roads, angry dogs, or poisonous materials. The prime thing to do is to be sure to keep your dog on the leash if it is in a dangerous situation.
Crosswords - QUICK & CRYPTIC
Across
1 Lose one’s job (3,3,4)
7 Traditional field boundary (8)
8 Grey (anag.) – spiral movement (4)
9 Put one’s foot down (4)
10 Nutrient found in meat, fish, eggs and beans (7)
12 The years 1649 – 1660 in England (11)
14 Taken (with someone or something) (7)
16 (True) strength of character (4)
19 Spur of the moment (4)
20 Service charge? (8)
21 Not finished (10)
CRYPTIC
Across
1 Check out MC from what I hear (7)
5 Wanton but free (5)
8 Destruction from on high (3,4)
9 Cockney cash using one's loaf? (5)
10 Something to sniff at? (5)
11 Discharge concerning rental agreement (7)
12 Lament that register is out of order (6)
14 Cleans up after Sally starts to cry (6)
17 Not such a burden when Oxford rowing crew used both hands properly (7)
19 Tip off clergyman about lighting fire (5)
22 Accounts are in the finer details - spirit lacking (5)
23 Sanction software and ramble? (7)
24 Grubby mission ensnares Pole (5)
25 Conclusions that some are happy (7)
SOLUTIONS
CRYPTIC SOLUTION 221
Down
1 Visitor (5)
2 Ship’s tower? (7)
3 Damage (avoided by doctors?) (4)
4 Colleague (2-6)
5 Should (5)
6 Common observation (6)
11 Notes of a chord played in succession (8)
12 Disease-resistant (6)
13 Help (something) to flourish (7)
15 Footballer’s goal scored from close range (3-2)
17 Legal ownership (5)
18 Affected – temporary shelter (4)
Down
1 Right in the money but concern for Wall Street (5)
2 This idiot seems to be overdressed (5)
3 Consider she is deceitful, from what we hear (7)
4 Tolerate at last? regret it, somehow (6)
5 Identify apprentice with an early murder victim (5)
6 Manage work in the theatre.. (7)
7 Labour leader sensed troubleunlimited (7)
12 Had to do with redhead being thrilled (7)
13 Sniggers as Giles rides a horse (7)
15 Knocked, apparently when enclosed (7)
16 Erect a set and make a scene (6)
18 Thanks for the pigs - Yum (5)
20 Cuddle up with a bit of cutlery (5)
21 Wants to deal with bread mix, we hear (5)
CAPE VERDE COMOROS SAMOA THE BAHAMAS
MALDIVES SRI LANKA MALTA HAITI
DOMINICA IRELAND JAPAN VANUATU
1. Riddle: It belongs to you, but your friends use it more often. What is it? Answer: Your name.
2. Riddle: What weighs more? A kilo of candy bars or a kilo of cake? Answer: They both weigh the same—1 kilo each.
3. Riddle: Sean’s mother has three children: Snap, Crackle, and _____? Answer: Sean.
4. Riddle: What has legs, but doesn’t walk? Answer: A table.
5. Riddle: What goes away as soon as you mention it? Answer: Silence.
6. Riddle: What can you hear but not see or touch, even though you control it? Answer: Your voice.
BOWLS RESULTS
BRIBIE BOWLS CLUB RESULTS
Self Select Pairs Results Friday 12 July 2024
Winners: BJ Adams, J Wallis
Runners up: S Mitchell, L Wright
Lucky draw: M Tull, J Tennent
Bunny: G Huth, Donna
Self Select pairs results Friday 12 July 2024
Winners: K Laverty, R Glasser
Runners up: K Ford, R Elmore
Lucky draw: I McLelland, V Adams
Lucky draw: J Prowl, a Mann
Lucky draw: A Sturm, E Shaw
Lucky draw: W Broad, M Lowry
Random Select fours results
Saturday 13 July 2024
Highest margin: L Beaven, G McKay, L Hackwood, P McCarthy/R Gilmore
Lowest margin: I Smith, A Whalley, S Brown, L Gilmore
Out of hat winner: Wally O, T Phillips, G Hutchison, A Campbell
Out of hat winner: L Tebbutt, J Adams, R Bickerton, A Pinzger
Self Select triples results Tuesday 16 July 2024
Winners: K Hicott, G Hodge, N
Hodge, C Gleeson
Runners up: D Coulthard, J Tennant, K Tennant
Lucky draw: I McLaren, E
Stacey, G Riley
Lucky draw: M Gittens, J Noonan, L Tebbutt
Lucky draw: P Gray, M James, J Gray
Bunny: M Andrews, L Mathers, R Fitzgerald
Scroungers results Wednesday 17 July 2024
1st: S Greensill
2nd: W Follett
3rd: G Jackson
4th: T Bishop
Self Select pairs results Wednesday 17 July 2024
Winners: K Perkins, C Perkins
Runners up: F Grimsey, M Retchford
Lucky draw: P Campbell, D Gibson
Lucky draw: S Telfer, R Glasser
Lucky draw: M Garfield, E Bateman
Lucky draw: W Kelly, L Mathers
Self Select pairs results Friday 19 July 2024
Winners: S Chandler, M Lowe
Runners up: S Cook, J Hosie
BONGAREE LADIES SECTION RESULTS FOR THE PERIOD ENDING 30TH JULY 2024
Results for Ladies Division Friday 2-42 19th July 2024
Winners: Maureen Ferguson, Janice Mason
R/Up: Sue Francis, Ken Kajewski ************
Results of Ladies Section Tuesday Turkey Pairs 23rd July 2024
Winners: Tim Carlton, Jaarpung Blundell
R/up: Arne Jensen, Errol Fender
Bonus Draw: Jackpot ************
Results for Ladies Division Friday 26th July 2024
Winners: Sue Francis, Margaret McGarry, Steve Patching
R/Up: Peter Vlajic, Ross Bryant, Colin Hodges
Prizes donated by the 2nd hand Uniform Shop Bongaree Bowling Club ************
Results for Ladies Division Tuesday Turkey Pairs 30th July 2024
Highest margin: G McEniery, L Tebbutt, J Adams, L Gilmore
Lowest margin: G Frew, G Geisler, M Lyons
Out of hat winner: T Brain, K Brown, J Neill, T Brain
Out of hat winner: M Aubin, C Stroud, I Teakle
Self Select triples results
Tuesday 23 July 2024
Winners: L Mather, R Doherty, M Ball
Runners up: M Andrews, T Erfurth, R Fitzgerald
Lucky draw: Barrie, Kathy, IPW
Lucky draw: K Piva, W Kelly, C Kelly
On Saturday, July 28th, Bongaree Bowls Club held its annual Australia vs. The Rest of the World event, proudly sponsored by Wilson Real Estate.
22 teams played mixed triples. Most participants dressed in their countryof-origin colours, and music on the greens made for a very festive event. The morning game finished with a delicious BBQ lunch, followed by prize giving, raffles, and a lucky numbers draw.
Thanks go to all the volunteers for making this happen, and special thanks to Wilson & Co. Real Estate for their generous sponsorship and support of our wonderful Bowls Club. 1st place winners were visitors from Victoria, Lydia Patching, Geoff and Sue Shaw
2nd prize winners were John Bell, Tony Jericevich, Gideon kroycamp 3rd place winners were Brien Skerten, Richard Pell, David Vaughan
A great day was had by all. Well done to the organisers and everyone who worked hard to ensure another successful, friendly day was held at Bongaree Bowls Club. It’s great to see visitors enjoying the sunshine and hospitality of our great club.
Bunny: P Mann, L Kurts, M Young
Scroungers Results
Wednesday 24 July 2024
1st: R Eaton
2nd: B Hosie
3rd: E Theam
4th: B.J Adams
Self Select pairs results
Wednesday 24 July 2024
Winners: T Phillips, D Cherry
Runners up: L Gilmour, L Godfrey
Lucky draw: C Perkins, K Perkins
Lucky draw: M Garfield, E Bateman
Lucky draw: M Durham, M Diego
Lucky draw: J Cullan, T Howard
Random select triples results
Thursday 25 July 2024
Winners: L Beavan, V Brebner, C Ormerod
Runners up: B Doe, F Grimsey, M Fleming
Lucky draw: G Riley, R Bickerton, G Shaw
Luky Draw: G Gawron, M Hannan, I Teakle
Lucky Draw: K Tinkler, A Cooke, J Hannan, L Stanford
SOLANDER LAKE BOWLS MEN’S RESULTS
Scroungers July 20th
1st John Bell, 2nd Gail Parker, 3rd John Park, 4th Eric Thean, 5th Lidija Patching
Wed 4’s July 24th
Winners Ray Huggins, Don Somerville, Glenn Biggs, Paul Hill. Runners Up Billy Moor, Stevie Horn, Joe Mifsud, David Vaughan
Thurs Jackpot pairs July 25th
Winners Tim Carlton, Jaarpung Blundell Runners Up Arne Jensen, Elna Jensen
Scroungers July 27th
1st Lidija Patching, 2nd Mick Falvey, 3rd Steve Patching, 4th Judi Irvine, 5th Peter Furlong
Wed 4’s July 31st
Winners Carol Monk, Hazel Crouch, Sandra Scott, Wendy Rollason Runners Up Roger Parker, Ken Wales, Col Hodges, Peter Thatcher
Thurs Jackpot pairs Aug 1st Winners Tim Carlton, Jaarpung Blundell Runners Up Darryl Rollingson, Artie Hinton
BRIBIE ISLANDER: RESULTS FOR BRIBIE ISLAND WOMEN’S
GOLF 18 JULY 2024 TO 30 JULY 2024
18/7/24 – Single Stableford
Div 1 Winner: Di Benghamy 38, 2nd Ann Rogers 37, 3rd Vicki Cronan 35
Div 2 Winner: Margaret Huxley 36, 2nd Mary Jones 35, 3rd Penny Brittain 34 cb BRD to 30 cbNTP’s: Hole 4 Debra Dunn, Hole 7 Ann Rogers, Hole 14 Sue Navie, Hole 16 Julie Bell, Hole 4 (Div 3 2nd shot) Angela Jordan
Sat 20 July 1 L Carr & J Wright 2 A Fielding & L Groves 3 R Medhurst & P Breene
Wed 24 July 1 J Newton & D Scown 2 J
Kinross & J Reiter 3 R Medhurst & P Breene
Sat 27 July N/S 1 S Watson & R Sutton 2 D Quinan & C McAlister 3 D Quinan & C Browne E/W 1 B Fuller & P Breene 2 E Hutton & T Avenia 3 R King & S Burton
Wed 31 July N/S 1 L Carr & J Wright 2 S
Watson & R Sutton 3 J Newton & D Scown E/W 1 R Medhurst & P Breene 2 J Kinross & J Reiter 3 C McAlister & H Browne
HAPPY BIRTHDAY BRIBIE ISLAND CROQUET CLUB
Kathy Vincent.
What do you need for a really good birthday party? Well, a group of good friends, some lovely food, a drink or two, and games to play. That is exactly what happened at the Croquet Club Birthday Party on July 17th, celebrating 39 years of fun and games.
All the members brought something to eat, and the delicious food was beautifully presented. There was plenty to drink too of course and a beautiful Birthday cake complete with sparklers. So, lots of friends were having a good time and then games of croquet to complete the afternoon. But the best birthday parties always have a surprise visitor, and this was no exception. The joy and excitement were palpable as we awaited the arrival of our special guest.
BICBC: Mon 22 July N/S 1 A Fielding & J Easey 2 B Moxham & L Hutton 3 M Arthur & J Lindell E/W 1 L Groves & N Denvir 2 J Day & S McCulloch 3 J Brazier & L Wilson Mon 29 July N/S 1 P Edis & C McAlister 2 A Fielding & J Easey 3 H Browne & U Maffey E/W G Lock & N Denvir =2 J Brazier & L Wilson =2 R & C Perrott
Moreton Bribie Bridge Club held its 2024 Congress on Saturday 13th and Sunday 14th July, where they hosted visitors from surrounding clubs, as well as Gold Coast and Victoria. The team competition was held on Sunday, with a
The surprise guest was Muriel Smith. Who was she you might ask? Well, Muriel was more than just a surprise guest. She was one of the founder members of the croquet club 39 years ago. Her presence was a living link to the club’s humble beginnings.
Eventually the council agreed that they could use the present land where the courts are now. That area was originally earmarked for the football and then relocated to First Avenue. So the club started with one court for association croquet, and the rest, as they say, is history. Now there are 4 main courts and a practice court, and in August, the club will be holding some of the National Croquet competition games. How far have we come? Now, as well as Association Croquet, we play Golf Croquet and Ricochet. Why not come down to the courts and see what we are doing, you might even want to have a try. Give Jan a call on 0437008042
team
Second place and first among our own Bribie teams are pictured. They are (L - R) Bob King (President) with Janine Budgeon, Shirley Watson, Robert Sutton and Chris Watson.
from Gold Coast taking the honours.
2024 Women’s Foursomes Champions
Muriel Smith one of the original founders of the Croquet Club 39 years ago
Nett Winners
DO YOU KNOW WHAT YOU’RE DRINKING?
The World Health Organization (WHO) has initiated a review of the potential health implications associated with microplastics in bottled drinking water. The research revealed that the presence of microplastics in the water could be attributed to bottling processes or the bottle caps themselves.
In simple terms, most plastics comprise long chains of hydrocarbon molecules made from basic units called monomers. When plastics degrade, they release small amounts of monomer chemicals and ingredients. This deterioration process accelerates when plastics are heated, such as when a bottle is left in in a microwave. fungi can thrive in bottled water.
Water is an indispensable resource for all living beings. Water pollution, whether from natural occurrences, human activities, or human-induced causes, can lead to health issues, including cancer, gastrointestinal problems, and cardiovascular conditions. Pollution can stem from a variety of sources such as agriculture, chemical and radioactive waste, climate change, extreme weather events, fracking for natural resources, oil, plastics, rubbish, sewage, and wastewater.
While most drinking water pipes in Australia are lead-free, many other plumbing products, like brass fittings, contain lead. Ingesting lead through water can result in cardiovascular issues, decreased kidney function, and reproductive problems.
It is crucial to recognise that the effects of water pollution are not evenly distributed. The most vulnerable among us, including young children, infants, and fetuses, are at the highest risk. This fact should not only inform us but also evoke a deep sense of empathy and concern, highlighting the gravity of the issue.
It is a harsh reality that almost 200,000 Australians are
consistently exposed to unsafe levels of uranium, arsenic, nitrates, fluoride, and E. coli in their drinking water, as reported by water researchers. Addressing this urgent matter warrants immediate attention and action.
Elevated levels of elements like uranium or arsenic could lead to long-term chronic health problems, but the most common risk was E. coli, which results in immediate health issues. If a water supply is not adequately disinfected, gastrointestinal problems may arise. Over the long term, the chemical impacts accumulate, resulting in chronic consequences that are much harder to detect immediately and subsequently more challenging to treat.
The environmental impact of bottled water is a critical aspect to consider. Studies have shown that the production required for bottled water consumption significantly affects ecosystems and resource extraction costs.
World Environmental Solutions Pty Limited, established in 2005, is a forward-thinking company that provides innovative solutions to address environmental challenges. One of the company’s products
World Environmental Solutions
DRINKING WATER FROM AIR
Do you want affordable clean reliable drinking water in your home as an alternative to the Bribie water? Then you need to look seriously at getting a machine that makes drinking water from Air. It’s easy in Bribie. In fact perfect all year round.
Gone are all the things you read about like heavy metals, fluoride, preservatives and of course Micro Plastics. Just great clean water. 8,000 copies World-wide and the inventor and patent holder for 20 years is a Local in Woodford.
gaining traction in the market is its domestic water from Air machines.
These machines utilise advanced technology to extract water from the air. The process involves condensing the moisture in the air, then filtering and purifying it to convert it into safe and clean drinking water. The air-water machines provided by World Environmental Solutions Pty Limited are easy to operate and maintain, making them an excellent option for households in areas where access to safe drinking water is limited, or water quality is subpar. Moreover, these machines are environmentally friendly and energy-efficient, making them an ideal option for those prioritizing sustainability and reducing their environmental footprint.
World Environmental Solutions Pty Limited is dedicated to providing innovative and sustainable solutions to meet its customers’ evolving needs. Water from Air Machines is just one example of their unwavering commitment to offering environmentally friendly and cost-effective solutions. Effective products that provide practical, reliable solutions to the world’s common water challenges.
HOME AND GARDEN
Orange Sky Homelessness Week
•New research released by homelessness support charity Orange Sky, indicates the cost-of-living crisis is showing no sign of letting up, with over half of Australians struggling to make ends meet financially
•In fact, three in five Australians have had to moderately or significantly adjust their lifestyle due to the rising cost-of- living, while one third have dipped into savings just to get by
•With almost one in five Australians having experienced homelessness previously, Orange Sky is encouraging Aussies to support their mission to be there for those doing it tough this National Homelessness Week (5 – 11 August)
With the cost-of-living crisis now entering its third year, the latter part of 2024 appears to offer little relief, with research indicating Australians are struggling to afford basic needs, deferring crucial healthcare and working 86 million extra hours to keep afloat.
In fact, new research by free mobile laundry and shower service, Orange Sky, corroborates the national data, revealing over half (57%) of Australians struggle to make ends meet annually, with over
a quarter (27%) struggling as often as monthly2.
The new research comes as government data indicates household inflation rates have skyrocketed by 3.6% over the past 12 months, with housing, food and health costs climbing by over 3% in the same period of time3.
Sadly, to meet growing costs, the new research reveals three in five (59%) Australians have had to moderately or significantly adjust their lifestyle due to the rising cost-of-living2. In fact, one in three (31%) have had to dip into their savings just to get be, highlighting the increasingly difficult decisions Aussies are making to keep up with mounting financial pressures.
Nic Marchesi, Co-Founder of Orange Sky, says growing costs and expenses are placing unsustainable pressure on everyday Australians, who are having to make tough sacrifices just to keep up.
“No one deserves to go without essentials – clean clothes, a hot shower and a safe place to sleep; however, rising costs are increasingly forcing everyday Australians to choose between living essentials,
bills and rent, and people who may have never thought they would be struggling financially are turning to us for help.
“We have seen a 21% increase in demand for our services since last financial year, and this increase is coming from families, retirees, students and middle-aged women and men. Even people with current employment are coming to us for help.
“To support the growing number of Aussies experiencing homelessness and hardship, in the last financial year, we launched services in five new locations. In addition to the brand-new services, we launched 36 new shifts in already existing services,” Marchesi says.
Concerningly, escalating costs are seeing Aussies not only struggling to afford the essentials but also to find safety and security, with the research revealing more than one in ten (12%) have had to forego a meal due to a lack of funds2, while over one in six (15%) have borrowed money,
sold something or taken out a loan just to pay rent or bills2.
Amid a national housing crisis which has seen mortgage prices hit an all-time high in June of this year, weekly rent prices rising by 8% in the past 12 months4, and rental vacancy rates sitting at the lowest they’ve been in a decade5, it’s no surprise there’s an increase of Australians heading into tough times.
However, Amanda also highlights the profound impact of open and empathetic support services for those doing it tough.
“I heard about Orange Sky and didn’t know what to expect. I came down and saw all these really happy people talking and laughing and waving each other over – I just felt so welcomed. The impact the Orange Sky volunteers had on me that day, the way they treated me, it almost brought a tear to my eye of happiness and appreciation. It still sometimes does.
“Homelessness can be much closer than you might think it is. These statistics are people – people that we see each and every day, and people who need our support. Homelessness can impact anyone, and as we see financial hardship escalate, all it could take is one unfortunate circumstance for you or someone you know to fall on tough times,” Marchesi says.
Amanda, mother of two who previously used Orange Sky’s services before becoming a volunteer, has experienced homelessness first hand and says the experience can be isolating, especially when you are lacking empathetic support.
“Being homeless was horrible, just so sad and lonely. You really do feel invisible – you don’t have anyone to turn to, anyone to talk to, or anyone to help you, other than specified services. The rest of the day and night, you’re on your own,” Amanda says.
“To sit for a whole hour at my most vulnerable and be treated like I mattered meant so much. That’s how I want other people to feel,” says Amanda.
With the new research unveiling almost one in five (18%) Australians having experienced homelessness2, this National Homelessness Week (5 – 11 August), Orange Sky is encouraging Australians to support their mission to be there for those doing it tough. No one should go without clean clothes, a warm shower and empathy from the community.
As more and more Aussies are forced into homelessness, Orange Sky is asking Australians to show their financial support through their Homelessness Week appeal at: orangesky.org.au
Creating a serene and tranquil outdoor escape has never been more important. An increasing number of people are turning to their backyards to unwind, and one of the most popular additions to outdoor spaces is the hot tub or spa. These luxurious amenities provide relaxation and wellness benefits and enhance the overall appeal of your outdoor landscape.
LOCATION AND PLACEMENT
The first step in incorporating a hot tub or spa into your outdoor space is choosing the right location. You should consider the following factors:
• Privacy: Ensure that your chosen spot provides a sense of privacy. Tall plants, fencing, or a well-designed gazebo can create a secluded, relaxing atmosphere.
• Access: Make sure your hot tub or spa is easily accessible from your home. A well-planned path or deck can make a significant difference in convenience.
• View: Consider the view from your hot tub or spa. Whether it’s a lush garden, serene lake, or scenic mountains, the sight you enjoy from your tub enhances the overall experience.
GAZEBO FOR HOT TUBS
A gazebo is a wonderful addition to your hot tub or spa setup. It provides shelter from the elements, adds a touch of elegance to your outdoor space, and offers a cosy ambience. You can enjoy your hot tub or spa regardless of the weather, rain, or bright sunshine. Gazebo options range from traditional wooden designs to more modern, sleek structures that blend seamlessly with your landscape.
LANDSCAPING AND DESIGN
Enhancing the overall aesthetics of your outdoor space is crucial. Landscaping plays a significant role in creating a harmonious environment. Add greenery, such as potted plants and shrubs, around your hot tub or spa to create a serene atmosphere. Natural stone or wood elements in your landscaping can further complement the beauty of your outdoor escape.
ACCESSORIES AND ADDITIONS
To further enhance your hot tub or swim spa experience, consider adding
steps, handrails, or cover lifters for convenience and safety. Decking or patio extensions around the spa area can provide a place for seating or lounging. Don’t forget about storage for towels, robes, and other essentials nearby.
LIGHTING AND SEATING
HOW TO CREATE A RELAXING OASIS:
Incorporating Hot Tubs and Spas into Your Outdoor Space
Outdoor lighting can transform your space into a magical retreat, allowing you to enjoy your hot tub or swim spa even after dark. Consider both functional and decorative lighting options. Include comfortable seating and outdoor furniture to create a welcoming and functional space. Decorative elements like outdoor rugs, cushions, and accessories can add a touch of personality to your oasis.
CONCLUSION
Incorporating hot tubs and spas into your outdoor space is an excellent way to create a tranquil haven in your backyard. You can transform your outdoor area into a relaxation paradise with the right location, gazebo, landscaping, and spa choice.
Whether you’re seeking relaxation, exercise, or a combination, there’s a solution. Be sure to consider factors like location, privacy, and gazebo options, and explore the variety of top hot tub brands and self-cleaning models available. Consider investing in self-cleaning hot tubs or swim spas for easy maintenance and speak with reliable dealers and suppliers to find the perfect addition to your outdoor escape. Elevate your outdoor living experience with the luxury of a hot tub or swim spa and make your backyard a true oasis of relaxation and wellness.
ABC TV’S GARDENING AUSTRALIA HOST COSTA GEORGIADIS WILL LEAD THE LINE-UP OF SUSTAINABLE EXPERTS, WASTE WARRIORS, FOODIES, AND GREEN THUMBS WHEN THE CITY OF MORETON BAY’S POPULAR ECO FEST RETURNS THIS AUGUST.
From 10am—2pm on Saturday, August 31, Caboolture Town Square, Caboolture Hub, and Caboolture Library will be packed full of free workshops, hands-on activities, presentations, live entertainment, and much more to celebrate sustainability and eco-conscious living.
Mayor Peter Flannery said this year’s festival promises to be a fun, free and memorable day out for the whole family, guaranteed to plant a smile on everyone’s face. “‘Going green as we grow’ is a major focus for the City of Moreton Bay, and Eco Fest is a great way to learn about how you can lead a more sustainable, eco-friendly lifestyle, too,” he said.
“This is the Council’s third year running this free event and each year, it gets bigger and better, with plenty of entertainment and education for the whole family to enjoy. “I’m thrilled to welcome one of Australia’s most loved gardening and sustainability experts, Costa, to the main stage.
“We all have a part to play in protecting and nurturing Moreton Bay’s beautiful natural environments—whether that’s by starting our own veggie garden in the backyard or becoming an ecochampion in our community—and there’s no better place to go green than at this year’s Eco-Fest.”
Cr Adam Hain (Div 3) said festivalgoers will unearth a world of fun and learn how to live a more sustainable life simultaneously. “Eco Fest is an annual favourite. We paint the town green and give the community a fun day out to learn how to put great sustainable ideas into practice every day,” he said.
“I’m particularly excited to sit in on the new Eco Hub talk series where guest presenters including Nathan Freeny from Swallow Tail Nursery, Sussane Engelhard from Growing Made Simple, bee ecologist Dr Kit Pendergast and more, will share their eco expertise and insights on creating a greener future.
“Visitors can also explore the various market stalls offering locally crafted, eco-conscious goods or pop into Caboolture Library to pick up a free tomato plant, fairy floss and a reptile show. “We’re making the festival itself as low impact on the environment as possible by offering compostable packaging at most stalls and working with Mallow Sustainability to manage waste and recycling in a sustainable manner.”
Eco Fest is a FREE, family-friendly event promoting sustainability and eco-friendly living. Caboolture Town Square is a wheelchair and pram-friendly venue with accessible toilets and footpaths.
DATE: SATURDAY 31 AUGUST - TIME: 10 AM – 2 PM
VENUE: CABOOLTURE TOWN SQUARE, 4 HASKING STREET, CABOOLTURE
The Moreton Bay Eco Fest 2024 program includes: Appearances and presentations by Costa Georgiadis from ABC’s Gardening Australia, slow clothing advocate and agricultural scientist Jane Milburn OAM, Sarah Heath from Basilea Living Herbs, Nathan Freeney from Swallowtail Nursery and more.
• Recycleman Show
• Interactive song and dance concert by Aunty Sharron
• Caboolture Library’s Garden Party featuring free tomato plant giveaways, fairy floss, and music by Little Wattlebird Band
• A creepy crawly display by Bugs Ed
• Wildlife HQ rangers and some scaly friends presenting animal facts and conservation tips
• Live marine animal display with Ocean Life Education
• Useful items to help families save food, save money and save the planet at the pop-up market
• Electric vehicle display
• Free native plant from one of our friendly Council environmental officers*
• Face painting and live music
VISIT THE WEBSITE FOR MORE INFORMATION, OR JOIN THE FACEBOOK EVENT FOR FESTIVAL UPDATES.
Supporting Inclusion and
Communities BECOMING A NDIS PROVIDER:
Living with a disability often means facing challenges that many people might take for granted. Everyday activities can require additional support, whether it’s using a wheelchair, hearing devices, an assistive dog, or prosthetics. These aids significantly enhance the quality of life for people with disabilities and are deemed reasonable and necessary. Attending therapy sessions, such as physiotherapy and psychology, is crucial. Having a multidisciplinary team is essential, and your role as a supplier of these necessary goods and services to NDIS participants is invaluable, fostering local investment and inclusion.
When individuals with disabilities have the right equipment and support network, they can thrive in their communities. Whether working, studying, or volunteering, the right support enables full participation.
The NDIS has been operational in Queensland for several years. However, many businesses still struggle with the
Thriving
processes involved in supporting an NDIS participant, whether as an employee or a customer/client. The system can seem complex, particularly around invoicing the NDIS plan for the participant, which can inadvertently create hardships for the individual with a disability.
To navigate the invoicing process effectively, companies should attend NDIS workshops and consider employing people with disabilities. Hiring a person with a disability enriches your workforce and provides valuable insights into customer and client needs related to the NDIS. These employees can advise on NDIS consumer queries and help understand NDIS legislation. Their multidisciplinary support network can guide your business through necessary adjustments for daily work. Reach out to organisations that can attend staff meetings regularly to enhance education. I’m currently offering two local businesses a complimentary 30-minute workshop on supporting NDIS clients. Please email traceylblinco@ hotmail.com for more information.
“ We all have the right to be part of the community and
to thrive
We all have the right to be part of the community and to thrive. At your next staff meeting or team-building session, challenge your company to learn about the NDIS and discuss employing more people with disabilities. Embracing this can set your business on a successful and inclusive path, benefitting both your team and the wider community, and inspiring personal growth and learning. Yours in health and wellness,
Tracey Blinco Law and Access Consultant Health Coach
6 / 155 Sylvan
Beach Esplanade
Your opportunity to secure this superb waterfront brick 2 bedroom townhouse is now. Enjoy silica sand beachfront with picture perfect 180-degree views. Magnificent residential location showcases this haven of stunning scenery. Immerse yourself within impressive surroundings while relaxing on your balcony. Comfortable living with exquisite sunsets via your patio, balcony or master suite. Your heavenly master bedroom boasts amazing uninterrupted ocean views. Beneficial 2nd powder room is downstairs for convenience or entertaining. Spacious bathroom includes large skylight, separate bath + shower recess. Provides tall parking via extra high-set carport direct access to the back door Perfect for down-sizers, your holiday retreat, first dream home or investors. Price: Offers over $589,000
BRIBIE ISLAND FORESHORE GLOW UP COMES TO LIFE
Sylvan Beach Esplanade is getting a beautification treatment thanks to a $1.5 million State Government contribution toward Stage 1 of Council’s Bellara Foreshore Renewal Project.
Work was completed this week on a new picnic area and existing boat ramp at Marine Parade, including new picnic shelters, barbecues, park furniture, lighting upgrades, pathways, landscaping, and shade tree plantings.
Mayor Peter Flannery said this project would elevate the Bellara foreshore area to the same standard as the muchloved Bongaree foreshore area to the south.
“Bribie Island is one of South East Queensland’s premier tourism hotspots as well as being home to roughly 20,000 residents who call the island home,” he said.
“I’d like to thank the Queensland Government for their significant contribution to allow Stage 1 of this project to be completed.
“Council will continue to develop designs for upgrades to Crest Park Playground, Sunset Park Lookout and the existing Water sports Precinct as more funding becomes available.”
The Queensland Government contributed $1.355 million to fully fund Stage 1 through the 2021-24 South East Queensland Community Stimulus Program with the remaining contribution of $65,000 from City of Moreton Bay.
Quotes attributable to Member for Pumicestone Ali King
“Bribie Islanders love walking along the Pumicestone Passage foreshore from Bongaree to Bellara and making the most of the natural beauty,” she said.
“These upgrades to the picnic and boat ramp areas make the foreshore area even more accessible and usable for many years to come.
“This project was just one of many that the Queensland Government has supported across South East Queensland through 2021-2024 through the SEQ Stimulus Program, totalling $100 million.
“It’s helped deliver vital infrastructure, facilities and amenities for local families."
Quotes attributable to Councillor (Div 1) Brooke Savige
“I can’t wait to see families utilising this space for events and days out, and coupled with the upgrades to the boat ramp, it’s the perfect place for water sports and a picnic,” she said.
“Bring your boat down, have a barbecue and enjoy the beauty of the Pumicestone Passage with the Glasshouse Mountains as your backdrop.
“This is an investment in lifestyle for locals and it helps boost the local economy by catering to the thousands of visitors that holiday on the island all year round.”
For more information about the Bellara Foreshore Renewal Project, visit Council’s webpage.
BRIBIE COMMUNITY NURSERY
Debbie and I attended a lovely morning tea at the Bribie Island Gem & Fossicking Club last Tuesday, during which Dynamic Dave from the Bribie Community Nursery accepted a beautifully crafted award from the president of the Bribie Island Gem & Fossicking Club, Maz Naci, in appreciation of their generosity.
The Bribie Island Gem & Fossicking Club Inc. is an incorporated organisation that provides superior lapidary hobbyists with gemstones, rocks, minerals, fossils, and associated crafts in Bribie Island and adjoining communities. Thanks to
the Bribie Community Nursery and their generous donation, the club has been able to significantly enhance its gemstone identification capabilities, a crucial aspect of its operations. This wouldn’t have been possible without their support, and they are truly grateful for the contribution!
“The Bribie Island Gem and Fossicking Club sincerely thank the Bribie Community Nursery for its exceptionally generous support. Their contribution has allowed the club to procure a cutting-edge gem tester, a vital addition to its equipment inventory. This advanced tool will empower the club to conduct comprehensive testing and
identify various semi-precious and precious gemstones, enhancing our members’ learning and exploration experiences.”
The members are thrilled about the opportunity to use the new gem tester at the highly anticipated Gemfest, scheduled to take place on the 21st and 22nd of September. This much-anticipated event, which we are all eagerly looking forward to, is set to be hosted at the Banksia Beach State School. The festivities will commence at 8:30 a.m. on Saturday and continue until 4 p.m. They will carry on into Sunday from 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. We can’t wait to share this exciting experience with you all!
Our dedicated team brings together a wealth of expertise, with each member boasting over 60 years of collective experience. Comprised of highly skilled and qualified tradesmen, we place a strong emphasis on the use of toplevel products and brands, ensuring that our projects are characterised by speed, efficiency, and exceptional quality. Our unwavering commitment to excellence is demonstrated through a stringent quality control process and a dedication to adhering to world-class manufacturing standards. As proud members of the National Caravan Association, we uphold industry best practices. Our team also includes two government THVRAS inspectors, reinforcing our commitment to regulatory compliance and safety.
Beyond our professional pursuits, we are fervent supporters of young initiatives and are wholeheartedly committed to fostering an inclusive and welcoming environment for all.
"Start your next adventure without the worry of maintenance or repairs. We service and repair all brands of caravans, campers, RVs, trailers, and motorhomes. You take care of the adventure, and we’ll take care of the safety and comfort of your caravan. Get in touch today."
Treat choosing a tradesperson as you would treat buying a car. It’s unlikely you would ever purchase the first car you inspected, and likewise there is no obligation to give your job to the first tradesperson you call. There are several websites offering instant quotes from multiple companies, but it is always best to go directly to the tradesperson. These websites typically charge tradespeople to have their services featured and pass these costs to the customers and speaking to somebody directly will allow you to ask follow-up questions.
Step 2:
LISTEN TO WORD OF MOUTH
The internet age means that anybody with a smartphone has access to a myriad review. But while online review can be handy, they aren’t the be all and end all. If you have family members, friends or colleagues who have recently had work done around the house, ask them questions about the tradespeople they used. you can’t beat old-fashioned word-of-mouth. You are more likely to get an honest answer from somebody you know rather than relying on stranger’s opinions online.
Whether you are in the market for a large-scale renovation or some smaller jobs around the house, selecting the right tradesperson can be a difficult and stressful experience. For every positive encounter, many people have had or know someone who has had a negative experience with a tradesperson.
The good news is that there are several things you can do before you commit your job to somebody, which will ultimately help to ensure it is completed on time, on budget and to the right standard.
Step 3:
CHECK ON THEIR CREDENTIALS
Each state and territory have its own laws about licensing. A quick way to ensure the tradesperson you’ve been speaking with has the right accreditation is to visit licensedtrades. com.au. Australia’s only comprehensive licensechecking site features an easyto-use database of more than 1.2 million trade professionals across the country. Another good sign is if your tradesperson is a member of their peak organisation such as the Masters Building Association or Master Plumbers. By going to these peak organisations directly, you will be able to obtain a list of credentialed professionals in your local area.
Step 4:
GET A DETAILED QUOTE
It is important that you get a quote with a breakdown of the total figure – how much of the cost relates to materials and relates to labour. All quotes should feature the ABN and/ or license number of the tradesperson. The best way to avoid ‘bill shock’ at the end of the job is to be up-front with your tradesperson throughout the process and ask questions in advance about how they will handle and communicate any unexpected changes to the quote or the timeframe of the job.
Communication is key. A lot of the stress involved in hiring a tradesperson can be alleviated if you ask plenty of questions, get everything in writing and make sure your tradesperson knows you expect to be informed as soon as anything changes.”
ASSIST OFF CAPE MORETON
Friday 7th June 2024 – 0933AM we received a call from Coast Guard Mooloolaba for the assist of a Caloundra Coast Guard member off Cape Moreton. Everyone had lost radio and phone contact with them which consequently turned into a 5 hr SAR with police vessel Dan Stiller also involved, as the initial coordinates given were incorrect. Eventually regained radio contact on channel 16, located them and completed a tow back to Spinnaker Sound Marina.
CONGRATULATIONS
LOUIS MIFSUD
Sunday 14th July 2024 – Louis Mifsud received his Crew epaulettes today from Commodore and Green Sunday Skipper Ces Luscombe and Senior Crew Steve Parry. Louis commenced as a Trainee with VMR in November 2023 and allocated to Blue Sunday Crew in March 2024, he transferred to Green Sunday 1st July 2024.
CONGRATULATIONS
MARK PATERSON
Sunday 14th July 2024 – Mark Paterson received his Competent Crew epaulettes today from Commodore and Green Sunday Skipper Ces Luscombe and Senior Crew Steve Parry. Mark commenced as a Trainee with VMR in February 2023 and allocated to Blue Sunday Crew in June 2023.
BRIBIE ISLAND
STATE OF ORIGIN – Game 3 Wednesday 17th July 2024 – 18 members and partners attended on a cold July night. Pies, hot dogs, and toasties were available and drinks at our usual great prices. The three Blues supporters were ecstatic to see their side clinch the series win!
Vessel in tow by Bribie 1 with Police Vessel Dan Stiller in the right background.
See the area covered in the search by Bribie 1 on the above chart.
Thursday 7th July 2024: - On our way back from Skirmish Banks to Bellara with an 8m Cabin Cruiser experiencing engine problems in tow.
Police Vessel Dan Stiller was also involved in the search
Commodore Ces Luscombe congratulates Louis Mifsud and presents his Crew epaulettes assisted by Senior Crew Steve Parry.
Commodore and Green Sunday Skipper Ces Luscombe presents Crew Mark Paterson with his Competent Crew epaulettes
A confident John Burdinat!
Pam Purtell with Rossi and Mark Young.
Mark and Pam Purtell.
Marg and Mike Phillips.
Sheryl Traill in the Busy Fingers Kitchen
A confident Kelly Langworthy in the Busyfingers Kitchen.
Kelly Langworthy and Sheryl Traill worked in the kitchen whilst Ian Thomas manned the bar.
Paul Gillmore and Cheryl Robinson.
Allan Tranter with Peter Morton.
SUNSET DRINKS - Friday 26th
July 2024
43 Active Members and partners attended this Olympic Games themed Sunset Drinks with a menu of bangers and mash, with peas, corn, carrots and gravy, followed by waffle cones with ice-cream and topping of your choice. The usual raffles were held along with a trivia question for how many gold medals has Australia won since the modern-day Olympics began (167). The bar was manned by Ian Thomas and Mike Lucas and meal prepared by Kelly Langworthy and her Social Committee Team, Cheryl Robinson, John Traill and Colleen Beros, with other Team members assisting with serving and cleanup Linda Burdinat, Carol Pobar, Gail Tranter, Brenda Allardyce, and Robyn Young.
JULY VESSEL ASSISTS
TUE 16/07 1407PM – 16m
Houseboat member required assistance to relocate vessel near Kal—Ma-Kuta Boat Ramp to more sheltered area nearer mainland.
FRI 19/07 1545PM – MOP reported Tinny, including fishing gear and outboard washed up on rocks 100m South of Bridge – contacted
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
2024 YTD RADIO ROOM STATISTICS
To Wednesday 31st July 2024 10,018 Calls, 2,807 vessels logged on, 209 Vessel Assists, 1,021 Sitreps, 1,228 Requests, 31 Overdue vessels, 13 Vessel
CONGRATULATIONS
Wayne Hook had a surprise visit from the Radio Officer Peter McNamara this afternoon where he along with Deputy Radio John O’Hagan who was coming off his shift presented him with his Radio Operators Epaulettes. Wayne has completed his 6 months training course and now can go solo manning the radios. Congratulations Wayne welcome to the Radio Team.
Water Police who authorised recovery to VMR Base. SAT 20/07 1421PM – Nonmember Tinny having difficulty towing recovered Tinny to Toorbul, assist with tow from Kakadu Bird Hide. FRI 26/07 0929AM – 7.6m Cabin Cruiser non-member broken down South of the Bongaree Jetty, required a tow to Spinnaker Sound Marina.
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.hz marine radio on board.”
“PLEASE WEAR YOUR LIFE JACKETS!”
Tracking, 852 Radio Checks, 7 Weather Forecasts 3 Securite Broadcasts. 1 Pan Pan, 0 Mayday
Kelly Langworthy and Sheryl Traill worked in the kitchen whilst Ian Thomas manned the bar.
Gail Tranter and Cheryl Robinson ready to serve at the Ice-cream Point!
Mark Paterson receives his prize from Peter McNamara for correctly identifying 167 gold medals for Australia
Some of our 43 strong crowd.
New members Lesley and Dave Dodsworth, Dave has recently joined as Trainee Crew.
Brenda and Kaye Hammond.
Ron Burrett receives his $50 raffle prize from Kelly Langworthy and Peter McNamara.
New member Trainee Crew Wayne Schultz.
Allan and Gail Tranter.
Dale and Finn Mullins.
Gwen McNamara catches up with Public Relations Officer John Traill.
Cecilia Wilson receives her raffle prize from Kelly Langworthy and Peter McNamara.
Cheryl Robinson receives her raffle prize from Kelly Langworthy and Peter McNamara.
John Burdinat receives his raffle prize from Kelly Langworthy and Peter McNamara.
With our Commodore and Vice Commodore unavailable, Committee Member and Radio Officer Pater McNamara took on the MC role for the evening, welcoming everyone, asking the trivia question, and conducting the drawing of the raffles.
Kelly Langworthy - one happy Blues supporter!
FISHING REPORT
This time of the year, winter bream (yellowfin variety) shows up in big numbers, migrating from the coastline to breed in the protected bays, rivers, and Passageways. They will be in good condition as they have put on a lot of weight and are feeding on everything as they are about to spawn. Bream doesn’t tend to stop eating like some fish do pre-spawn. You will find them instinctively hungrier and will be easier to catch. Keeping this in mind, it is a good time to limit your bream catch as they are one of Australia’s most popular fish that are caught. The current bag limit for this species in Queensland is 30 (but be aware the 30 includes pikey bream, yellowfin bream and tarwhine in possession) per person with a minimum length of 25cm. Bream can breed in almost fresh water and have been found in freshwater ponds and creeks with almost no saltwater influence. Anglers can prepare for bigger-thanaverage fish, with most of my extra-large specimens caught this time of the year. Bream in the mid-40s is not uncommon, with the odd one hitting the 50cm mark, but they can grow to a maximum size of approximately 65cm.
I find the gut, cubes or fillets of mullet one of the best fish baits, followed closely by my favourite baby blue pilchards regularly sold at Bribie Bait, Tackle and Bikes near the jetty. Whole fish on a Snell rig with size 1 or 1/0 hooks works a treat with 10 to 15kg trace, as you will be likely to pick up a stray flathead, and hence you will need a bit stronger leader.
Some other baits include yabbies, prawns, chicken hearts, and squid. Don’t forget the humble soft bread, which can be dynamite on bream.
For the more finesse anglers, 4 to 6-pound main line, braid, or nylon is best for the test of skill and technique. There are two types of nylon - monofilament and fluorocarbon. I prefer 4lb fluorocarbon as my main line and a 4 to 6lb Fluro leader. The difference between the two is that fluorocarbon has very little stretch, is heavier than mono, and has more abrasion resistance than mono. Because of this characteristic, I find it helps remove/turn bream out of oyster racks, pontoons, or any snaggy ground. I often will fish unweighted bait to trick the XO-size bream, but from time to time, I fish with the smallest sinker possible to get your bait down.
By: Claude Trabelsi Bribie Bait, Tackle & Bikes cjsdemo@hotmail.com
Mono is lighter and has more stretch, which allows it to act as a long shock absorber, which helps in playing a fish back to you. This will also complement a stiffer rod. Many fish are lost because of sticky reel drags. Indeed, some are so tight that they don’t allow the fish to pull out the line at all, resulting in the line often breaking at the knot. By setting your drag light, you will enjoy when the fish runs, and if there are no snags around, you can take your time getting it in and enjoy the experience.
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40cm bream caught on a yabbie.
Tailor season has officially started for Bribie, with lots of small tailor invading the Passage. The cold westerlies typically start the migration north as they head to Fraser Island. With some persistence, you may need to catch 30 tailor to bring home half a dozen of the legal size. See the photo -as they are so much fun to catch, no one was complaining. Tailor need to be a minimum of 35cm in QLD and are notorious for biting off hooks. If you lose a couple of hooks, use a thicker trace, wire trace or ganged hooks to limit the bite-offs. When bait fishing for tailor, the easiest rig would be a 15kg nylon trace about 1 meter long with a set of gangs baited with a pilchard. Tailor typically won’t typically be over 40cm this month, so having gang hooks 3/0 or smaller will be the better choice. Even 1/0s will produce a bycatch of flathead and big bream. Strip baits of mullet and bonito are also top baits on gangs for tailor. They are fast-swimming fish and need to be bled when caught. As tailor have soft flesh, it is important to have an ice slurry handy to aid in bleeding them out and firming the fish for the table. They are excellent table fish if you look after them.
There is a closed season on snapper and pearl perch for a month from midnight on the 15th of July to Midnight on the 15th of August. I have noticed lots of undersized snapper lately, which is a great sign that the closure is aiding in producing a sustainable fishery. Snapper are an iconic fish with lots of anglers dreaming of their first nobby. Some anglers like Lachlan are like magnets to big snappers, with this beauty caught on his first cast with a soft plastic. The fish went 82cm and was safely released after a couple of photos. Great fish like this are caught locally around Bribie every year. You have to be out there wetting a line.
First-Time Boating Tips for New Boaters
If you just bought a new boat or you’re thinking about buying one for the first time, or if you’re renting a boat for the day or tagging along on a friend’s boat, we have some good news for you: on top of being flat-out fun, research has proven that boating is good for your health and mind. But like any new experience, someone who’s not an experienced boater may have a bit of anxiety over casting off the lines for the first time.
Keep It Safe: You knew that was coming, didn’t you?
Boating is actually an incredibly low-risk activity, but like anything, the fun stops abruptly if someone gets hurt. Pay attention as you take your boating safety course and peruse a Boating Safety Guide before you shove off the dock.
Decide What Activities You Want to Try:
With the safety stuff out of the way, prepare yourself to have some serious fun. We mean, actually, prepare yourself— and think about which sorts of activities will likely be embraced by the entire family. You might even want to call a family meeting and gather around the kitchen table to discuss all the options.
When you’ve decided on a plan of action, list any boating accessories you may need to be fully prepared for all the gringenerating wave-hops, laughter-inducing tube-towing, and smile-causing fish-catching that’s about to come.
Check the Weather:
Pick your weather carefully. Although we’d all like to go boating every time the schedule allows, Mother Nature has a big impact on this activity. If a stiff breeze or thunderstorms are in the forecast, it’s best to keep your powder dry and wait for a better window of opportunity.
Remember to “Walk Before Your Run” Ease
into the boating lifestyle with short trips that don’t take you too far afield. You don’t need to start with a long-distance cruise or an overnight camping adventure immediately. Most people will be best off if they build up to bigger trips by starting with smaller, shorter ones that help build confidence.
You’ll quickly figure out what sorts of provisions and gear are best to keep on hand, how to respond to situations that may arise out on the water, and how long the crew enjoys different activities before a change of pace is due. As any parent can probably guess, this is particularly important if you have kids.
Life Jackets for Everyone! Pick out comfortable life jackets, not because they’re the cheapest option. Again, this is particularly important if you have kids. Ill-fitting or poorly designed life jackets will grow less and less comfortable as the day wears on, and there are so many types and choices these days that it’s quite easy to find a comfy life jacket for anyone of any size or age.
Plan Ahead: Use a Pre-Departure Checklist Plan some extra time both before and after the trip. When you’re trying something new, you don’t want to be rushed, and there will be some set-up time needed to stow the gear, prep the boat for launch, and go through your pre-departure checklist. When you return to the dock, you’ll want to allow extra time to secure the boat, clean it up, and wash it down. Keep this in mind as you decide when to start your trip and when you end it so you don’t end up under any pressure to hurry.
Slow Down for Waves This may sound a bit simplistic, but the truth of the matter is that after hopping over a few small waves, most new boaters leave the throttle open for larger and larger ones—right up until they hit the one so big that it hurts. Remember that wave impacts are often worse for the passengers than for the captain, who is more likely to see the wave coming and be prepared for the impact. So, if you’re running the boat and you feel a thump, other people aboard may have felt a slam or a bang. The solution is simple: pull back on the throttle before the boat hits big waves.
Learn How to Adjust the Trim
When you get your boat up and running, play with the trim to find the boat’s “sweet spot.” Many inexperienced boaters forget all about trimming because the boat seems to be running just fine. And it may well be running just fine. Play with the trim, however, and you’ll almost always discover it could run even better. Trimming will change how the hull meets the waves, affect speed and manoeuvrability, and make the ride much more (or less) comfortable. Every boat responds differently to trim, so the only way to find that sweet spot is to try changing trim in small increments and seeing how your boat reacts.
Have Fun—and Don’t Forget to Wave!
Have fun, and don’t forget to wave as you pass your fellow lovers of boats. Whether you know it or not, you’ve just joined a new family—the family of boaters. We all share one thing in common: our passion for boats and boating. So, when we see another boat out on the water—any boat —we wave to each other. It’s part of boating etiquette and lifestyle and why we all have such a great time out on the water. Get ready to enjoy it for yourself!
letters to the editor
Dear Editor,
Just reading your interesting article in the Bribie Islander regarding the cat plague, we would make the following points –The park ranger needs to be contacted immediately and work with the council to remove any unregistered cats from the island. If there are any registered cats, their owners need to be contacted and warned about the rules regarding wandering cats and desexing.
Feral cats are outlawed in fauna, flora reserves, and national parks (Bribie Island is that). They are trapped up the coast and removed from reserves, parklands, and national parks. They kill native animals’ insects, and birds. Seriously depleting the biodiversity of our ecosystem, and in some places in Australia, completely wiping out a species. There is a bounty of feral cats in the West. These cats need to be removed ASAP.
The person feeding these cats would be seriously impacting our environment and needs to stop feeding them immediately. Your article should not be treated with mediocrity; the matter is serious.
Regards
Greg Mawn
Dear Editor,
Education matters, good education matters even more.
Dear Editor,
I would like to thank Tony Longland for adding some additional information to the facts I shared. When I said, "Wind turbines are being torn down," I was only quoting from the Canadian National Observer Climate News, 20 September 2023; they were not my words. If he prefers to use some other words for their dismantling, I wouldn't bother to argue about it; the basic fact remains the same.
France has 70% nuclear power, Germany has 60% renewable, but their power is much more expensive than France, not twice as much, but at least 30% more.
South Australia (70% renewables) has the highest power cost in Australia.
G. Miller
If education is the bedrock of society, even more so than politics and religion, why is our society now in such a terrible mess? Has something gone amiss with the very bedrock of society, our education system?
Consider just two questions: “If our politicians have created the current educational model for our nation’s future with a National Curriculum, NAPLAN and its MySchool website to make Parent Choice their preferred option, and they have, how is it that it is in such a diabolical mess?” and “Are we expecting too much of our schools?” No politician will answer the first; the second gets a resounding Yes from
Dear Editor,
On Thursday, 25th July, a 94-year-old patient was transported from Bribie Island to Caboolture Hospital following a preliminary ECG conducted by a medic from the Bribie Island Division of the Queensland Ambulance Service.
At midday, upon arrival at the hospital, the patient was triaged and joined a queue of approximately 12 others. Around 2 pm, a set of tests, including an x-ray, ECG and blood test, was completed and repeated two hours later. Around 5 pm, the patient was
Dear Editor, Al Finegan’s article reminded me of a standing joke familiar to residents of the Locker Valley west of Brisbane. It doesn’t usually matter about names being mixed up, especially things like Kosciusko and Townsend. However, when the names includes different topographical features, the mistake should be obvious, unless it is done by a desk jockey. That was the problem when the names “Forest Hill” and “Plainland” were swapped around. You certainly wouldn’t expect a flood evacuation if you lived on Forest Hill, but that is what happened in 2011.
H.Beneke
most quarters. Many schools now operate with teacher shortages, managing disruptors including iPhones, pornography, drugs, sexual abuse, knives, vapes, social media abuse and bullying, and physical and domestic violence. One wonders when our teachers get a minute to breathe! “What about the kids?” you may ask. When an education system leaves so many of its participants Disenchanted and Disillusioned, often leading to their Disengagement, possibly ending in their Disenfranchisement, even their withdrawal from society with disastrous results, maybe it’s time to find some answers.
Our “Bridge from Bribie” National Survey welcomes your ideas to address the current role of our schools. Please email them to bljones@ bigpond.com
wheeled on a bed to a room to wait for a doctor to relay the results of the tests. At 10 pm, a doctor informed the patient of the results and was cleared to go home.
Why did it take 8 hours for a doctor to interpret the results of the tests to the patient? Reportedly, six doctors were not in attendance at the hospital that day. Consequently, the turnaround time from admittance to release was ten hours. Another patient suffered a seizure in the emergency waiting room after waiting 15 hours despite having a
disability and a history of seizures. Other people had waited between 10-15 hours for treatment!
This is not a criticism about the treatment the patient received at Caboolture Hospital but a complaint about the delays caused by a doctor shortage at the hospital. At the very least I call for a review of the doctor shortage at Caboolture hospital on 25th July, to reduce the delay which compromised the care of some Moreton Bay residents.
Julie O'Connor
Dear editor,
The dictatorial Moreton Bay City Council Mayor has to go. The dictatorship of the mayor and any of the counsellors who support him – no matter how nice they are – has to come to an end.
Reckless spending and ever-increasing borrowings are just part of the problem, always presented with the propaganda that the increases were "in line with CPI.” How about a budget with no increases, particularly in the middle of the increasingly damaging cost-of-living crisis?
The latest example of this ongoing dictatorship has just come our way, not announced by the council or counsellors, just a note on Facebook Banksia Beach, an extra $67 a year about to be charged by the council for a mandatory green waste recycling service. This is just another increase in the rates we are being charged, known about by the council but not included in the budget notification as it would probably have put the increase above the CPI – something the council doesn't want you to know about.
Meanwhile, in the Courier Mail on 28th July, there is a major announcement – full page – from the Brisbane City Council that you can now request a green waste recycling service for less than a dollar a week. The difference, of course, is outstanding, It is not mandatory; you have the free will to request a bin, and if you choose to take one up, it is almost 30% lower cost than the money grab from the MBCC. Now that's democracy at work – shame we don't have it here. Best solution, vote this lot here out at the next council election, both the mayor and the counsellors who support this kind of activity.
Regards. Charles at Banksia.
Dear Editor, What a very interesting article in issue 220 regarding Banksia's Cat Plague. Yes, feral cats are a terrible problem, and so is the scourge of our wildlife. Unfortunately, it isn't only feral cats that decimate our wildlife; our domestic cats are just as guilty. However, there are many people who, like us, love their cats and also love all our wonderful wildlife as well. It is possible to have the best of both worlds by keeping your cats indoors and if necessary, netting a porch or similar. There are many products on the market, and some are not overly expensive,
Dear editor,
Of course, there are a few things that Indoor cats will be deprived of, for example:
• Being Stolen
• Getting Lost
• Becoming Roadkill, most cat/vehicle accidents occur at night.
• Worms, Ticks & Fleas
• Exposure to Cat Flu & other diseases
• Drowning in pools
• Rain, Wind & Extreme Temperatures
• Exposure to Ringworm
• Poisoning both Accidental and Deliberate
• Death or Injury caused by seeking shelter in car engines
• Fights with cats and other
The dictatorial Moreton Bay City Council Mayor has to go. The dictatorship of the mayor and any of the counsellors who support him – no matter how nice they are – has to come to an end. Reckless spending and ever-increasing borrowings are just part of the problem, always presented with the propaganda that the increases were "in line with CPI.” How about a budget with no increases, particularly in the middle of the increasingly damaging cost-ofliving crisis?
The latest example of this ongoing dictatorship has just come our way, not announced by the council or counsellors, just a note on Facebook Banksia Beach, an extra $67 a year about to be charged by the council for a mandatory green waste recycling service. This is just another increase in the rates we are being charged,
Dear Editor,
Have you noticed, in this Renewables versus Nuclear debate, if one side either doesn’t know, can’t be bothered to work it out, or doesn’t know how to work it out, they get out of this dilemma by coming up with a meaningless, throw-away line. Your reader, Tony Longland, adopted this approach in his rebuttal of a letter promoting nuclear power. He claims that ‘renewables with backup storage could be built for a tiny fraction of the cost’ of a nuclear power station. Let us examine the example of the local Tarong, a coal-fired power station due to be retired in 2037. It can be replaced either by a nuclear power station or a solar power station with battery backup. Both are required to generate 1.4 GW (GigaWatts) 24 hours a day.
i) A 1.4 GW nuclear reactor can be purchased from the Korean Electric Power Company (KEPCO) at a price of about $8 billion. KEPCO has installed several of these reactors in recent years in Korea and in the UAE. This will generate 1.4 GW, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
animals, which also occur more often at night,
• Being harmed by intolerant neighbours.
Some Outdoor Cats only live 2 – 4 years but many Indoor Cats … often live 15 – 20 years. Some people have successfully trained their cat to walk with a harness and lead – good luck with that one. Please cat owners, consider turning your free ranging moggy into a pampered indoor family member, and also help to save our precious and unique wildlife.
Sincerely
Annette & Chris Schnack.
known about by the council but not included in the budget notification as it would probably have put the increase above the CPI – something the council doesn't want you to know about.
Meanwhile, in the Courier Mail on 28th July, there is a major announcement – full page –from the Brisbane City Council that you can now request a green waste recycling service for less than a dollar a week. The difference, of course, is outstanding, It is not mandatory; you have the free will to request a bin, and if you choose to take one up, it is almost 30% lower cost than the money grab from the MBCC.
Now that's democracy at work – shame we don't have it here. Best solution, vote this lot here out at the next council election, both the mayor and the counsellors who support this kind of activity. Regards. Charles at Banksia.
ii) A solar farm would need to generate an average of 4.2 GW (1.4 x 3) during an 8-hour day that the sun shines. In addition, this solar power station would need batteries with a total energy content of 22 GWh (1.4 x 16) needed during the 16 hours that the sun is not shining. Solar panels cost about $1,000 per kW, giving a total cost of $4.2 billion. The Tesla Big Battery, installed in South Australia, has a storage capacity of 193 MWh and costs $172 million. A solar replacement for Tarong would, therefore, require 116 of these batteries (22 / 0.193), costing $20 billion.
No doubt Tony Longland will find fault with some of these figures, but there is no way that a renewables-only power station ‘could be built for a tiny fraction of the cost’ of a nuclear power station. Oh, and what happens when the sun doesn’t shine for 8 hours? Get out the candles!
Michael Cavenor
Neighbourhood Watch
Shredding Day
Saturday, August 24th is the day that NHW on Bribie Island has arranged for an event which will help all residents of the City of Moreton Bay to dispose of unwanted paper that is cluttering up their filing cabinet, or boxes under their bed! Any paper-based material – copies of old tax returns, personal correspondence, meeting minutes, property documents, even love letters from many years ago! Uni notes – any personal stuff with any connection to you – your name, address – anything which can identify you and perhaps allow your identity to be stolen. Car registrations, rate notices and the like. Just remove any metal clips or folders – staples and paper clips are OK, as are manilla folders. Any quantity. X-rays and photographs are also welcome.
Your local NHW has partnered with Shred-X, a commercial secure disposal company, and Charter Hall – Managers of the Bribie Central shopping centre – to provide this service on the morning of the 24th, in the car park adjacent to the petrol station. The material will be placed in securely locked bins and taken to their Ormeau processing facility for shredding and conversion to computer paper. They are providing this service free of charge, on the basis that any gold coin donation goes to the local NHW.
CRIME REPORT
BRIBIE ISLAND WRAP
JULY 2024
www.mypolice.qld.gov.au/moreton
WATER POLICE – MORETON
During the recent deployment of Operation Whiskey Legion in the Moreton District, our officers impacted not only our neighbourhoods and roads but also our waterways.
The Brisbane Water Police were actively involved in Operation Whiskey Legion, detecting two drug drivers, conducting over 65 name checks and issuing 20 infringement notices.
On May 27, at 1.30 pm, a vessel was intercepted at Ningi. It is alleged the person in charge of the vessel returned a positive drug test for methylamphetamine. A 48-year-old Bellara man was charged with drug driving.
The Brisbane Water Police patrol our waters quite regularly and also investigate marine incidents that occur. The officers from the Water Police continually see boaties without the correct safety equipment, including flares and an Emergency Potion-indication Radio Beacon (EPIRB), and without enough or the correct life jackets.
Volunteer Marine Rescue (VMR) Bribie Island have assisted over 170 vessels and logged over 7100 calls between January and May this year.
Stay safe on our waterways, and make sure you have the correct safety equipment and that your boat engine is serviced regularly
so you don’t have to make “that” call to VMR. If you see the Water Police out and about, be sure to give them a wave.
For information on what to have on board, you can find it on the Maritime Safety website.
A career within the Queensland Police Service is like no other. From protecting, responding, and investigating to supporting, rescuing, and learning, the sheer variety of roles makes it both challenging and rewarding.
As a police officer, you can have a career with endless possibilities. Now is really the best time to join.
Visit PoliceRecruit.qld.gov.au to kickstart your policing career and positively impact your community.
