The Western Echo July 2023

Kids Day Out - Top Local Spots for Families

Parents with young children are always on the hunt for great spots that are fun and safe to visit with their young children –but also enjoyable for parents too. Here we explore some of the best family-friendly spots in Bardon, Paddington, The Gap, and Ashgrove.

Bardon:

Jubilee Park - a family-friendly park that offers an array of features for young children to enjoy, with a well-equipped playground with slides, swings, climbing structures, and interactive and creative play elements. The park also features open green spaces for picnics and ball games, public toilets, and there is ample parking.

Norman Buchan Park – the best day to visit is a Sunday when the Bardon Markets are on, to combine a local community activity and a play in the park. The ride on fire truck is a very popular feature for young children.

Good Folk Café – directly across the road from Norman Buchan Park, with an enclosed safe back area and edible garden.

Paddington:

Neal Marcossan Park - a fun playground with plenty of features for young children. This enclosed play area includes swings, slides, climbing frames, and a large sandpit, providing endless opportunities for imaginative play and physical development. The park is located next to the Ithaca Pool and an adjoining offleash dog park.

Peach Café – in Haig Rd is the perfect hang-out to grab great food and a coffee, located right next to Torwood Park to keep the kids happy too.

The Gap:

Benjamina Place Park – famous now as the location for the "Turtle Boy" episode from Bluey. A very safe park for young children (no busy roads nearby), with a basic playground (swings), and a picnic area. No public toilet facility. Cover image: local mum Mathilde Dujardin at Benjamina Place Park with her two boys Jack and Alfie.

Wittonga Park – a great park for both younger kids and older kids. There is a playground suitable for younger children with slides and climbing equipment, and a bikeway/walkway, BMX track area suitable for older children. The park also has picnic areas, a BBQ (electric), basketball half-court, tennis rebound wall, cricket facility, water bubbler, and public toilets. Adjacent is an enclosed off-leash dog area – so the whole family can enjoy themselves. The park also featured heavily in the recent "Cricket" episode of Bluey!

Walton Bridge Reserve – a lovely location to explore next to the creek, with BBQ’s (electric), picnic areas, and a great playground for little children. Under the bridge next door is a skate park facility to keep older kids happy. Public toilets and water (bubbler/tap) are available.

The Bakeologists Café – a very short stroll along the path from Walton Bridge Reserve Park is the perfect spot for parents to relax and enjoy a coffee, snack, and chat with friends, while young children have a safe outdoors environment to enjoy. Story continued next page.

Ashgrove/Dorrington:

Amarina Avenue Park - is a family-friendly park designed with young children in mind. From slides and swings to climbing structures and interactive play panels, there is plenty to engage children's imaginations and promote physical activity. Pop into the Ashgrove Library right next door to keep your little ones further entertained or grab a coffee from the coffee cart on the library verandah – also child friendly.

The Enchanted Forest (located in Dorrington Park) – designed especially for young children, featuring a magical playground that captivates the imaginations of young children. This whimsical park is designed to resemble a fairytale forest, with an enchanting atmosphere. It features a range of play equipment, including slides, swings, climbing frames, and balance beams, all adorned with charming forest-themed elements. The park also includes picnic areas and public toilet facilities.

So, pack a picnic, bring the kids (and dog maybe), and embark on an adventure to these family-friendly havens in our Western suburbs.

Cover image and main image credits: Chelsea Armour. Other images supplied by Cr Steve Toomey, The Gap Ward; and @GoodfolkCafe

From theEditor

Dear Readers,

We hope you are enjoying the new look Western Echo – we would very much love your feedback, and any ideas for feature articles. Please reach out to us with your thoughts and any suggestions.

July Competition – prize value $500!

This month, enter our competition to win a voucher from Renee Bailey at Defining Health. See all details on page 6. The prize includes a Winter Wellness Kickstarter package valued at $500. Located in Ashgrove, Renee Bailey from Defining Health is a degree qualified Clinical Nutritionist. Please visit our website to enter: www.westernecho.com.au

The competition closes midnight 31 July 2023. Thank you Renee for your generous support!

www.defininghealth.com.au

Facebook.com/TheWesternEcho Instagram.com/thewesternecho

All the best, Mel & Kym | editor@westernecho.com.au

Notice to Readers

For those residents who wish to collect a free copy, we have newstands / copies available at:

Home Cafe Ashgrove

Ashgrove Library

Gerbino’s Bakery Ashgrove

Jonty Bush MP Office Waterworks Rd

Cr. Steve Toomey Gap Ward Office

Red Hill Post Office

The Gap Post Office

Keperra Post Office Great Western Super Centre

The Gap Village near Sushi Dream

Brumby’s The Gap

The Friendly Grocer The Gap

Wyatt’s Automotive

BP The Gap

Ashgrove Golf Club

Paten Park Native Nursery

Planet Marketing The Gap

West Ashgrove Shopping Centre between bakery/chemist

View online: www.westernecho.com.au

We wish to advise that distribution of the Western Echo can not be legally made to letterboxes displaying ‘Australia Post Only’ ‘Authorised Mail Only’ or ‘No Junk Mail’.

COPYRIGHT: All advertisements appearing in The Western Echo are subject to copyright and may not be reproduced except with the written consent of the owner of the copyright. No guarantee is given to the positioning of the advertisements and the publisher takes no responsibility for errors or omissions or the accuracy of articles published. The Western Echo is delivered, by private letterbox distribution, to homes in: Ashgrove, Ashgrove West, St. Johns Wood, Dorrington, The Gap, and selected areas of Bardon, Red Hill, Enoggera, Keperra and Mitchelton.

C r S t e v e n T o o m e y Councillor

for The Gap Ward

Brisbane is the fastest growing capital city in the country, boasting a growth rate three times higher than Sydney and twice that of Melbourne. The Schrinner Council is dedicated to facilitating the future of this growth in our city. Amidst this rapid growth, the focus of the budget is to maintain cost efficiency while prioritising investment in projects that keep Brisbane moving and ensure our city remains clean and green. Council's Suburbs First Guarantee means that 87% of the Budget spending will be in Brisbane’s suburbs. This is great news for The Gap Ward, meaning stronger infrastructure, high-quality parks and green spaces, and cost of livingsupport for residents.

Our investment in infrastructure will include a record spend of $144 million on road resurfacing and footpath projects. This helps cater for Brisbane’s rapid growth and protects the lifestyle we all love. Maintaining active transport infrastructure in the form of footpaths and bikeway reconstruction will be a priority in The Gap Ward with Enoggera Creek Bikeway and Nathan Avenue footbridge in Ashgrove as well as footpaths for Payne Road and Weemala Street in The Gap scheduled for works.

This budget is focused on servicing and upgrading over 2,100 parks and bushland areas across Brisbane. Locally, following on from community consultation, I look forward to delivering upgrades to Movilla Street Park, Ferny Grove and Honeyeater Street Park, Upper Kedron. Maintaining green spaces in our community remains one of my top priorities.

Breakdown of $80 million Cost of Living Relief Package

A major highlight of this new budget is reducing the cost of living to local residents. This includes:

$7.8 million: Discount on your green waste recycling bin reducing the cost of a green bin from $93 to just $45 per year

$2 million: Reducing the entry fee to Council pools to just $2 per person this Summer

$22 million: Holding back rates rise below inflation

$26.2 million: Pensioner rates rebates and concessions

$15.7 million: $60 discount for on time rates payment

$3.2 million: Free off peak transport for seniors

$1.7 million: Discounts and concessions from other rates

$1.1 million: Holding back fees and charges increase below inflation

T h e L o r d M a y o r ' s B u dg e t f o r 2 02 3 - 2 4

Winter Wellness &Competition

Give Your Immunity A Boost!

In these unprecedented times, maintaining a strong immune system has never been more crucial. Luckily, science has shown certain supplements can play a vital role in enhancing our body's natural defence mechanisms. Let's explore the best immunityboosting supplements backed by science.

1. Vitamin C: The Mighty Defender. When it comes to immunity, Vitamin C reigns supreme. Numerous studies have highlighted its remarkable ability to bolster immune function. Incorporating foods rich in Vitamin C, such as oranges, strawberries, and kiwis, or opting for a quality supplement, ensures your immune system remains robust.

2. Vitamin D: The Sunshine Vitamin. In recent years, the importance of Vitamin D in immunity has become increasingly evident. Research indicates Vitamin D plays a crucial role in activating our immune defences and reducing the risk of respiratory infections. Embrace the sunshine by spending time outdoors, and if necessary, consult with your healthcare provider to determine if Vitamin D supplementation is right for you.

3. Zinc: The Immune Guardian Zinc. A trace mineral with powerful immune-boosting properties, is essential for overall health and well-being. By including zinc-rich foods like oysters, beef, and eggs in your diet or taking a high-quality zinc supplement, you can fortify your immune system and shield yourself against illnesses.

4. Probiotics: The Gut Health Warriors. Did you know a significant portion of our immune system resides in our gut? Probiotics, live bacteria and yeasts that promote a healthy gut microbiome, have emerged as superheroes in supporting immunity. Incorporate probiotic-rich foods like yogurt, sauerkraut, and kimchi into your diet, or speak to a trusted health professional about which strain of probiotic supplement will keep your immune system in peak condition.

It's essential to remember supplements should never replace a healthy lifestyle. A well-balanced diet, regular exercise, hydration, adequate sleep, and stress management are all fundamental pillars of a strong immune system. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplements, especially if you have underlying health conditions or take medications.

Renee Bailey is a degree qualified Clinical Nutritionist. Clinical Nutrition is a researched and evidence-based health profession, working towards improved prevention, management, and treatment of chronic, complex and lifestyle-related conditions. Working with all medical and health professionals for a multidisciplinary, multi-system approach to healthcare.

Prize includes an Initial consultation which begins with a comprehensive assessment of your medical history, nutrition, lifestyle, current medication and supplementation, along with body measurements and review of any pathology results.

And 3 follow-up consultations where we will work together to ensure you have the tools and knowledge necessary to become a healthier you. Together, we will overcome life's hurdles with inventive approaches to keep you feeling motivated and empowered regardless of what is standing in your way.

COL’S CHAT Locals through my Lens

for the shows amazing audio.

Dan says, “Each season takes me about a year and a half. They get bigger and more ambitious. Luckily, I love it”.

We’re chatting in West Ashgrove at a location familiar to the show’s watchers. “The episode Take Away was set in a Chinese restaurant. It took its name from The Golden Crown at Ashgrove, but it was set here, because growing up, this was our local place. I also took all the sound recordings here, to get the accurate atmos.”

Sound accuracy proves a fascinating part of Dan’s story. “I want the show to sound sincere. If you’re a Brisbane kid I want it to sound familiar, and if you’re from overseas, I want you to go, ‘gee, Brisbane sounds beautiful’. You don’t want people to notice the sounds, because if they do, it’s often because it doesn’t sound right.”

The Emmy and Logie winning phenomenon that is Bluey is a local production that has delivered its charm to every corner of the globe.

That charm is due, in large part, to the efforts of Dan Brumm, who has been working in the world of radio and sound design since 2004. Today, he is the voice of Uncle Stripe, and responsible

Playgrounds are a common Bluey location and I’m left with a smile as Dan tells me about one occasion. “Kids know what a playground sounds like, so you’ve got to get it right. One day I was going down a tube slide with bulky recording equipment. When I reached the bottom, a serious fella said, “What you doing?” I told him, and the man says, “Get a real job!”

Dan’s job couldn’t be more real, just ask the millions of fans.

Author & image: Colin Bushell © Colin Bushell Photography

Louden Builders specialise in custom built homes major and minor renovations

How Can Acupuncture Help You?

Acupuncture is a versatile therapy that can provide assistance with various conditions, ranging from physical ailments to mental health concerns. Olwen Bishop is an AHPRA registered acupuncturist and founder of Zen Acupuncture.

One of the primary benefits of acupuncture is its effectiveness in managing chronic pain and musculoskeletal injuries. By stimulating specific points on the body, acupuncture can help alleviate pain, reduce inflammation, and promote natural healing processes. Olwen enhances these effects by employing electroacupuncture, which utilizes gentle electrical stimulation to regulate neuro-muscular patterns.

Beyond physical health, acupuncture has proven beneficial for mental well-being. It can help alleviate symptoms of anxiety, stress, and other mental health conditions. Acupuncture treatments promote relaxation, reduce tension, and restore balance within the body, thereby fostering a sense of calm and emotional stability.

Olwen also focuses on addressing women's health concerns, particularly menopause and menstrual regulation. Acupuncture can help manage menopausal symptoms such as hot flashes, mood swings, and sleep disturbances. For menstrual irregularities, acupuncture can help regulate hormonal balance and promote a healthy menstrual cycle.

With Olwen's expertise and personalized approach, acupuncture becomes a powerful tool in addressing a variety of conditions. From chronic pain and musculoskeletal injuries to anxiety, stress, and women's health issues, acupuncture offers a holistic approach to promoting overall well-being.

Ashgrove The Gap Lions Club

• On 2 July our Club will conduct their annual changeover from the Outgoing Board to the Incoming Board for the next 12 months. This is an opportunity for Ashgrove The Gap Lions to celebrate their work in our community and recognize the work and commitment from previous Board Members. This event will be held from 2pm4pm in the Ellis Room at Ashgrove Golf Club.

On 4 June some incoming members of our Lions Club attended the Lions Training Day at Voices of Birralee in Bardon in preparation for their positions on our Board for the next 12 months. Our club also catered for over 50 Lions Members & Presenters.

• Leading into Christmas in July, we have Christmas Cakes & Puddings for sale if anyone in our community would like to purchase a 1kg Cake and 900gm Pudding for $15 as well as a 80gm Mini Cake for $2. Enquiries can be made visiting the link to our website or facebook page which appears below.

If you would like to find out more about Lions and the involvement we have in our community or if you would consider joining Lions or become a friend of Lions please email Allan Turner at lionatg19@gmail.com or call 0400 210 357.

Ashgrove Lions The Gap – Lions Club Australia (ashgrovethegaplions.org.au)

www.facebook.com/AshgroveTheGapLionsClub/

20 Members, Partners & Friends attended a Thank You Morning Tea on Sunday 11 June in response to our club donating 50% of the funds to purchase a commercial treadmill in conjunction with our Community Partner Trek2Health. We got to view the treadmill in operation and were presented with the work that Trek2Health does with First Responders & Veterans to improve their mental and physical health. We were advised about managing chronic stress, having nutrition for well-being, behavior change along with gratitude and empathy. Further, the trending of the statistical data has provided outcomes that the work that Trek2health are doing is positive for the participants as well as the commitment from Trek2Health. The morning finished with a 1.5km walk around the Enoggera Dam Wall.

At our Business Meeting on 13 June our club welcomed our Community Partner Melanie Grevis-James from Planet Marketing who has been working on a Strategic Business Plan for our club. This plan was presented to the members attending and will now form an active component of our development going forward. We would like to thank Melanie most sincerely for all of her hard work devising this plan in conjunction with our steering committee.

Upcoming Events

• Our club will be conducting BBQ’s for Trek2Health on 4/7/2023, 11/7/2023, 18/7/2023, and 25/7/2023.

The Gap RSL Sub Branch

Chaplain providing invaluable support to Seniors

A calming influence and a listening ear delivering support to those in need, chaplains play an important role in the lives of people every day.

Gaythorne-based not-for-profit Carinity has volunteer chaplains who support people in hospitals, schools, correctional centres and aged care communities across Queensland.

A big thank you to The Gap Village Shopping Centre for the morning tea that was held recently to acknowledge the work put in by the many women in The Gap’s community groups that do so much work supporting the wider community. Our own Karen, Barbara, Cathy and Marea represented the RSL and we are all well aware of the hard work that they put in. Their continued effort in organising ANZAC and Remembrance Days activities and providing welfare support to our members is much appreciated.

The Gap RSL is based in Nullagundi on School Road. We have our members meetings on the third Friday of each month at 1800 but we also aim to open every Tuesday from 9-11am. Drop in for a coffee and a chat. We no longer have advocates on-site but we can point you in the right direction, as well as how to access the many other RSL programs such as the RSL employment program, for both ex defence members and their partners.

A date for the diary: 18 August is Vietnam Veterans Day. We will be holding a small service and function at Nullagundi to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the end of Australia’s involvement in the Vietnam War.

Please contact us via email: secretary@thegap.rslqld.net.au

As chaplain at the Carinity Hilltop aged care community in Kelvin Grove, Glenys Page supports seniors who may be experiencing a difficult time in their lives.

“Many people coming into aged care feel a loss of liberty, are concerned about limited visits from family, and need reassurance at this time of their life,” Glenys said.

“A chaplain needs to be available for everyone and to help with their emotional and spiritual needs.”

The former Salvation Army officer has been an aged care chaplain for five years and enjoys building rapport with the residents.

“The chaplain is there to listen to and comfort everyone, regardless of their lifestyle or beliefs, and encourage people as they walk through issues such as grief and loss,” Glenys said. Residents feel supported and confident knowing they can have confidential interactions with chaplain Glenys.

“People are social beings so you need to be friendly and a good listener and also a person who can gently engage a person in discussing important questions,” Glenys said.

“I enjoy engaging with a range of people to assist them in any way that is possible. I enjoy hearing the life stories of people who often have lived amazing lives, to acknowledge their lives and just be there for them.”

Contributions to the Carinity Chaplains Appeal will help ensure chaplains like Glenys can continue their vital work in the community.

Photo: Glenys Page, chaplain at Carinity Hilltop aged care at Kelvin Grove, with resident Dawn Floyd.

Rotary Club of Ashgrove The Gap

enlivened by a recital on the Koto – a traditional Japanese instrument played by David Shield, a traditional Aussie Koto player. He also demonstrated the bass Koto – a stringed instrument rather like a surfer’s longboard. The bass Koto is a “modern” instrument, with barely a hundred years of history. The world is changing!

Many people express an interest in Rotary, or say that a parent or grandparent was a keen member, without themselves having a clear idea of what Rotary is or what it does around the world. To address this issue the Rotary Club of Ashgrove/The Gap will be holding an information night on Wednesday 26 July, 6:30 pm at the Ashgrove Golf Club. All are welcome, and you don’t have to have any intention of joining – it will be a true “information night” with no arm-twisting.

To most of us a new TV is a brief excitement. To schools in The Gap a new TV would be just one of many, and not of particular note. To a poor primary school in country Kenya, struggling to educate young boys and girls to a comparable standard, a new TV (i.e. the first and only TV) is vital in an age when textbooks are starting to refer readers to Google, or YouTube or other sites for further information.

Accordingly, the Rotary Club of Ashgrove/The Gap has donated a TV to Kikapu primary school in Kenya for classroom use. The club is fortunate to have a proud Kenyan member who was able to navigate the complexities of currency exchange, local purchase, ensuring actual delivery and installation, so that we are assured that 100% of our donated funds went to exactly the defined purpose. The joy with which this donation was received can clearly be seen in the photo. Ending “digital isolation” will do a lot to bring this school and its pupils into the wider world. Speaking of the wider world, our meeting earlier this month was

You can contact our club by calling or texting Tim Boyd at 0411 141 304. Come and visit a meeting some time – no charge, no obligation. Meetings occur the 2nd and 4th Wednesdays of the month (except this month!) from 6:30 to 8:00 pm at the Ashgrove golf Club. And especially the information night on 26 July.

AshgroveForum

For more information on Forum Communicators public speaking association, please visit the website www.beconfident.org.au

Ashgrove Forum Club held its 983rd General Meeting at the Ashgrove Library at 6.30pm on Wednesday 17th May 2023.

Members and guests enjoyed interesting and well researched speeches on “An Event that Changed the Course of History”. Topics covered were:

• The introduction of the conception pill on women’s lives and society.

• The Implementation of gun laws on Australian society.

• The effects of Mobile phones on society, the pros and the cons.

• The explosion of knowledge resulting from the invention of the Printing Press.

• The understanding of the mathematics involved in building the Pyramids.

• The Rise of Genghis Khan and Mongol Empire on civilizations in Asia and parts of the Middle East and Eastern Europe.

• Small mistakes, accidents and fortuitous incidents that had momentous consequences (e.g. Atomic bombing of Hiroshima and Nagasaki from a wrong interpretation of a word; the Titanic hitting iceberg because binoculars were inaccessible; the invention of tough windscreens and discovery of penicillium from serendipitous observations of scientific experimentation.)

Visiting Accredited Speech and Procedure Assessor, Joy Martin, gave a comprehensive and encouraging assessment to all speakers.

The Ashgrove Forum AGM was held on 21 June where the annual trophy for Most Memorable Speech by a member in the past year was awarded.

APPLICATIONS FOR THE ANNUAL FORUM BURSARY HAVE NOW CLOSED.

The Bursary valued at $1000.00, is funded by Forum and offered annually. The presentation to the winner will be made at Parliament House on 29 July.

Ashgrove Forum holds meetings in the Ashgrove Library Meeting Room at 6.30pm, on the 3rd Wednesday of each month. Visitors are always welcome to attend and observe without obligation. For information, contact Secretary Pat on 0458 696 267.

Brisbane North Cake Decorators

Brisbane North Cake Decorators is a branch of the Queensland Cake Decorators Association Inc. and we meet monthly on the third Saturday of the month (except December) at the Arana Hills Community Centre, 291 Dawson Parade, Arana Hills at 1.00pm. Our aim is to encourage the love of cake decorating in all its aspects and we love to share our knowledge with everyone.

Our next meeting is on Saturday 15 July. This meeting will be a short business meeting followed by a surprise demonstration by a branch member. We always have a delicious afternoon tea as well provided by members.

If you are interested in cake decorating but not able to find the time to attend meetings, our Cake Show in September is offering some courses by well known decorators for a reasonable fee. There are figurine, royal icing and buttercream courses available, and all are posted on our Facebook page. One of our members is teaching a very cute Santa figurine.

We love to see new members and can be contacted on our Facebook page, Brisbane North Cake Decorators Association QCDA or via email: brisbanenorthcakedecorators@gmail.com

NativeViolets

We are fortunate in Australia to have a variety of native violets, three of which ae found locally. Two of these, the native violet (Viola banksii) and the Helidon violet (Viola perreniformis) are superficially alike. They are perennial herbs that produce stolons. The leaf shape of the native violet is almost circular with a narrow v-shaped sinus at the base whilst that of the Helidon violet is semicircular with a deeply indented, wide base. The main difference, however, is in the flower colour with the petals of the native violet being white with a blue-violet centre. The Helidon violet has petals that are fairly uniformly blue-violet with the anterior petal having a white base streaked with violet veins. The native violet, which flowers throughout the year, is naturally found on the east coast from near Brisbane to Bateman’s Bay. The Helidon violet flowers from October to April and is found from North East Queensland through to coastal, central New South Wales in shady places in eucalypt forests and woodlands or on rock faces.

Both of these species form a wonderful ground cover in moist locations that range from light to heavily shaded. As part of a cottage garden, courtyard or poolside garden, they are a low maintenance plant that provides a perennial, evergreen background with splashes of colour. They grow well in containers and are particularly attractive in hanging baskets. These violets tolerate light frosts, a wide variety of pH and soil types, from clay to loam. The native violet is playground friendly and the flowers, which are edible, are great in salads.

The third local species, the arrow-leaf violet (Viola betonicifolia), has a wider distribution – from Cape York along the east coast to Tasmania. Although often found in moist, forest areas, they can also be seen in more open eucalypt forests and grassy hillsides. The plants occur singly or in clusters. The basal rosette consists of dark-green leaves that are lance-shaped and about 70 mm long, with slightly scalloped margins. Purplish-blue flowers are produced on erect stems in spring and summer. This perennial herb will tolerate a wide range of growing conditions – moist to dry soils, in lowlands to alpine fields, in semi-shade or full sun and is frost tolerant. It is a wonderful in rockeries or planted in pockets of deep soil to form a drift through a garden bed. The arrow-leaf violet is the host plant to the endangered laced frilillary butterfly.

Celebrate National Tree Day on 30 July at the Nursery between 10.00am-1.00pm.

In addition to checking out the wonderful range of native plants available at the nursery there will be bush food condiments for sale, a sausage sizzle (a gold coin donation), bush food sampling and advise on growing bush food, creative craft for youngsters and a plant quiz for children and teens (with a prize of a tube-stock plant for successful completion).

V. perreniformis V. banksii V. betonicifolia

Boomerang Bags The Gap and Surrounds

This year, BBTGS has given grants of up to $1000 each to local community groups: Payne Road State School, St Peter Chanel Primary School, The Gap State School, Bardon Girl Guides, The Gap She Shed, and The Gap Uniting Church.

Equally important to our members are the personal benefits they get by spending Friday mornings together at our sewing beessewing, chatting and sharing stories with each other. They find sewing bees uplifting ‘therapy’ for their mental wellbeing. There is lots of laughter and often a wonderful spread of delicious goodies for morning tea, brought along by the members to share. We’d love for you to come and join us!

The Month of June: Global focus on Solutions to Plastic Pollution

How Boomerang Bags The Gap & Surrounds is contributing to the global solution while improving local wellbeing

The month of June is when we mark World Environment Day (5th June). This year’s World Environment Day theme was focussed on ‘solutions to plastic pollution’. Solving the plastic pollution problem is all our responsibility.

The world is inundated by plastic, with more than 400 million tonnes of plastic produced each year, contributing 1.8 billion tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions annually. Half of the plastics produced are designed to be used only once. Of that, less than 10 percent is recycled.

In June, representatives of 175 countries met in Paris and agreed to develop a legally binding global agreement by the end of 2024 to curb plastic pollution. This is but a first step towards reducing plastic production, use and pollution, including its contribution to greenhouse gas emissions and climate change.

Reducing our demand and consumption of plastic and creating a circular economy around plastics is a tall order. We all know this will not be an easy goal to achieve.

As a minimum, we all have to become agents of change. We each must change what products we buy and consume, for how long we use them (including repairing, repurposing, and recycling), and when and how we dispose of our plastic products.

This is exactly what volunteers at Boomerang Bags The Gap & Surrounds (BBTGS) have been doing since it was first established six years ago.

Community Benefits that also Boomerang

All the repurposed products made by our volunteers are sold locally. The funds raised are then donated to local community groups in the form of grants, or as small donations to their favourite charities.

Sewing Bees 9.30am – 12.00pm Fridays during school terms (next one is 14 July)

The Gap Baptist Church, 1125 Waterworks Road, The Gap (beside the 7 Eleven)

Follow us Facebook: facebook.com/ boomerangbagsthegapandsurrounds

Instagram: Instagram.com/boomerang_bags_the_gap

Email: bbtgs4061@gmail.com

Brisbane Art In Bark Assoc.

Come and join us, learn how to do a bark picture. Art in Bark have classes at Brisbane City Hall 50+ in basement. Adelaide Street side of Hall. Mondays 9.30am to 12.00 pm for Workshop. Fee $10 for lesson and $5 for kit.

The Kit we supply includes bark, board, glue etc. for the first lesson.

Embroiderers GuildQueensland

WORLD EMBROIDERY DAY – A celebration of all things Embroidery

The Embroiderers’ Guild, Queensland Inc. will celebrate World Embroidery Day on Sunday, 30 July 2023 from 10am – 2pm at its headquarters located at 149 Brunswick Street, Fortitude Valley. Entry is free and all are welcome to attend this Open Day.

As part of this year’s celebration, Guild members throughout Queensland have participated in a recycle/ upcycle ‘challenge’ and all

The Embroiderers’ Guild, Queensland Inc.

Patron: Ms Janet De Boer, OAM

invites you to celebrate

World Embroidery Day

Sunday, 30 July 2023 10 am – 2 pm

149 Brunswick Street, Fortitude Valley

*Free Entry*

Enjoy our heritage-listed building and experience:

 ‘Upcycle Challenge’ display - see recycled items made by members

 Handmade gifts for sale

 Secondhand Rose stall – bargains to add to your stash

 Demonstrations by members

 Display from the Guild’s collection

 Raffle drawn on the day

Website: www.embroiderersguildqld.org.au

Email: info@embroiderersguildqld.org.au

entries will be on display. Textile items are donated to the Guild each year for re use and the display will not only highlight the ingenuity and creativity of our membership, but also demonstrate how potentially discarded or unwanted textile items can be repurposed into something that is usable and of value. Visitors to the Guild’s heritage listed building will be able to purchase handmade gifts, find textile bargains from the Secondhand Rose stall and see demonstrations by members. In addition, items from the Guild’s extensive embroidery collection will be on display and our librarian will be on hand to speak about the Guild’s considerable library. A raffle will also be drawn on the day.

The local Ashgrove Group meets monthly: 2nd Friday of the month at 12noon–4.00pm at Ashgrove Library, Amarina Drive, Ashgrove

Phone: (07) 3252 8629

Email: info@embroiderersguildqld.org.au

Newmarket BocceClub News

under 18 were Nina and Chiara, and runner ups in the rapid throw were again Nina and Chiara. Samuel from Queensland had a special acknowledgement for exemplary on court behaviour and sportsmanship. I have included some photos for your enjoyment.

Want to know more?

Please call Mario 0403 257 325; Tony 0418 731 423; or Bill 0431 458 481.

The Australian Junior Open was held at Redlands Bocce Club on 20 and 21 May. The participating States, QLD, NSW, VIC, and ACT, competed under three categories, under 15, under18 and under23.

I was privileged to be a referee, long hours but I had the best view. These young

athletes are amazing. They are up and coming champions, in this sport: watch this space. Queensland did not take top honours but did extremely well and parents, coaches and spectators should be very proud. Under 15 Queensland, Samuel was runner up in the Singles. The Double winners

The Gap Historical Society

LAUNCH OF THE TIMELINE PUBLICATION

On Saturday 10 June, some 60 residents and visitors gathered in St Mark’s Anglican Church Hall to hear Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner launch the Society’s Timeline Book – “A Journey Through Time”. The book is the result of several year’s work by members of the Society in researching and recording more than 680 “Events That Shaped The Gap” directly or indirectly.

In his remarks, the Lord Mayor drew attention to the fact that, although The Gap is Brisbane’s most populous suburb, it still retains a relaxed and calming atmosphere in which to live. Most of the remaining members of the Society were on hand to witness the event and to assist with the morning tea etc.

In his opening address, President George Stoddart mentioned the transition of The Gap from a small farming community to the modern suburb it is today, which took place over a relatively short period of time.

Copies of the book are available @ $25.00 per copy by contacting the Society Secretary Don Willsher on 0408 012 689.

The Society is now considering winding up due to a shortage of new younger members.

Mitchelton & DistrictsGarden Club

Wow! Already we're in the second half year of 2023. How time flies! During the last few weeks the executive members of the Mitchelton and Districts Garden Club Inc. have been very busy with an EXPO at Arana Hills and the June general meeting which also included a farewell function for Pat Killoran, a long serving president who retired towards the end of last year. Unfortunately, Pat was ill and unable to attend. The members who took part in preparing for this function are to be congratulated for their splendid efforts. A card and gifts from the club were delivered to Pat's residence the next week.

Remember to hose your garden between the hours of 9am- 4pm in winter. This allows the foliage to dry before nightfall. Dampness encourages attack by disease and mildew, especially powdery mildew, so try to avoid it. Check citrus trees for gall wasp and citrus leaf miner. Prune off offending pieces. Tie them up in a plastic bag to go in the rubbish bin. Spring flowering annuals and vegetable plants would benefit from a liquid fertilizer at this time. If lots of little weeds are showing in your lawn, in

dry weather give the areas a sprinkle of sulphate of ammonia. The next morning's dew will melt the sulphate of ammonia which will burn and kill the weeds. The grass will be burnt too, but the chemical will also provide nourishment and it will not be long before the lawn is green again.

The next meeting of this club is at the Enoggera Memorial Hall (entrance at 36 Trundle Street) on Thursday morning, 3rd August.

The topic of the guest speaker, Rose Graham, is Herbal Teas. Herbs have always played an important role in the well-being of humans and animals, but they must be used according to directions. Visitors and new members are most welcome to attend. Morning tea is served from 9.45am and the meeting commences about 10am.

For more information please email: mitcheltongc@gmail.com Or on FACEBOOK: @mitcheltongardenclub

The Gap ProbusClub News

Well, the club had had its Annual General Meeting with the election of office-bearers, and all slots were filled, so it is perfectly safe to come along as a visitor to sample the interesting talks and good company that you will find in the club. Then later you can choose to enjoy the visits, games, cocktails, lunches, overnight trips, walks and other delights which our members are looking forward to.

In the last month alone we have gone out to Bellbird Grove for a local picnic, gazed in wonder at the cakes in the competition at the RNA showgrounds, and footled around with the Putt Putt mini-golf at Victoria Park.

The weather was fine but extremely windy for the picnic; the brave Probians fastened everything down on the picnic tables in the Council shelter and carried on regardless. Not one person was carried away by the breeze, but it was a close thing. We have used Bellbird Grove before, so we knew to bring drinking water with us. Otherwise there are all mod cons to enjoy in the fresh air.

Fran Rooney, with her husband Mark, runs a local business centred

around bees. She proved a fount of knowledge at our April meeting, with fascinating detail about the running of a honey business, the life-cycle of bees, workers, drones and Queens, their different stings, their behaviour. Did you know that to move you from a place where they don’t want you to be they will head-butt you? Given that to sting you can be suicidal for the bee, that’s obviously a preferable first move. Bees are immensely important as pollinators, and at the same time threatened by introduced pests, so there is cause for concern. We can help by not bringing contraband items into Australia when we return from overseas.

The cake show was a real revelation. The things that are possible with building materials made out of food! Whales, dragons, horses, weird portraits – all are within the scope of the icing sculptors. A few members went to see the show, and far more will be there next year now that we know what wonders are on display.

If you are interested finding out more without commitment, we would be delighted to talk with you, and invite you to our meetings (first Thursday of every month, 2pm, at The Gap Baptist Church, corner of Waterworks and Settlement Roads).

Just call Rhoda on 0409 484 219.

Ithaca ProbusClub News

Another year of fun at Ithaca Probus Club

Ithaca Probus club celebrated its 23rd birthday in June. The occasion was marked by a well-attended lunch at Zegato’s Restaurant at the Ashgrove Golf Club. Although numbers have been declining over recent years, some new recruitments are ensuring the ongoing success of the club, with members looking forward to many more birthdays to come.

Club members are recovering from some sad events of recent times. Two of our members passed away, two more had serious accidents, and the inevitable illnesses of our generation are affecting a few others. At these sad times the friendship and camaraderie of club membership comes to the fore.

Our June general meeting focussed on ways to maintain our interesting range of activities, including the ever-popular barbeques in local parks, lunches and dinners at pubs, clubs and restaurants, and a range of walks to keep everyone active. Occasional major outings such as the bus trip in June to Victoria Barracks, lunch at a local restaurant, then a visit to the Trade Coast Central Heritage Park, are also enjoyed.

Our monthly guest speaker program continued in June with

former councillor, politician and now President of the Historical Society of Queensland Dr Denver Beanland telling us about early European settlement in Queensland, and in particular the major characters involved in the first decade following separation from New South Wales. Many of the names were recognised as now being names of towns, suburbs or streets around Queensland. An upcoming talk will bring us up to date with the sadly all to prevalent threat of scams.

Club members continue to engage in literary interests. The book exchange table is well supported, and the poetry group will be continuing after the loss of its long-term convenor, providing both social and mental stimulus at its monthly meetings.

New members are always most welcome at Ithaca Probus Club. We meet at 9.30am on the 2nd Thursday each month except December and January at the Red Hill Bowls and Community Club in Fulcher Road, Red Hill, or come on any of our outings. If you would like to give us a try, please phone either of our Club Membership Officers Sue Vivian on 0413 544 202 or Janelle Rhodes on 0412 628 646.

Arana ViewClub News

ARANA VIEW CLUB calls on the community to give generously to The Smith Family’s Winter Appeal.

View (Voice, Interests and Education of Woman) is a leading woman’s organisation with 14,000 members in 300 communities across Australia, all dedicated to supporting children in need with their education through The Smith Family. Members do this through community fundraising, spreading awareness, and volunteering. Change Makers, “We help The Smith Family make tremendous change by giving children the best start to life through a quality education.

Last year alone, the charity’s educational and mentoring programs reached almost 160,000 children and young people across the country.” VIEW members volunteer their time fundraising for The Smith Family in a variety of ways.

We help raise funds for programs like student2student, which pairs younger children with reading buddies, we sponsor students through the Learning for Life program, so they are supported throughout their entire education, and members can volunteer at Learning Clubs, where children are given help with their homework after school.

If you wish to know more about The Smith Family and The Arana

VIEW

Club

Contact our President: Judy on 0424 315 300 or email

aranaview@gmail.com ...................

The Luncheon meeting for Arana VIEW Club will be held at 10.30am on the first Wednesday of the month at Arana Leagues Club, Dawson Parade, Keperra.

A two-course lunch for $30.00 including tea and coffee will be provided. There will be lucky door prize and raffles. We have

a guest speaker each month with some very interesting topics. For bookings phone Carol 3355 5349 by 11.00 am Thursday before the meeting if you are attending.

The Physiologix Corner

Pilates Exercise for Scoliosis in Brisbane

There are few specifically trained people that can teach Pilates exercise for scoliosis in Brisbane. Scoliosis of the spine simple means that at rest the spine curves slightly from side to side and not just forwards and backwards. On some people this is relatively minor, will not result in pain, and they will be unaffected by this throughout their life. For others the focus will be on addressing pain and or reducing the increase in this scoliosis.

Who has scoliosis?

Scoliosis in kids and adolescents must be carefully monitored. Through growth spurts the scoliosis can change dramatically –close monitoring will ensure that any more medical intervention occurs swiftly. No matter if more medical intervention is required or not, Pilates exercise for the scoliosis can be beneficial. And in Brisbane, not many pilates instructors truly do this well.

As we age our spine may be prone to reducing in height (yes sorry, you get shorter as you get older), with the curvature of the scoliosis at risk of increasing – careful monitoring may again be indicated to monitor any deterioration and symptom progression. Pilates exercise for scoliosis management as we age can be beneficial if done carefully and well.

How Physiologix can help

Physiologix, in The Gap in north-west Brisbane has Pilates instructors specifically trained in the “Scolio-Pilates” method. These are highly experienced Pilates instructors who understand scoliosis, what it is, what it means, and what can be done about it, in particular which are the best and most appropriate Pilates exercises for your specific scoliosis.

Learn how to correct your curves towards a more neutral spinal position using scoliosis specific exercises. Begin with corrections in basic positions you can manage, maybe lying on your back, tummy or side, or seated or standing. Master your ability in these basic positions first and then move into more complex movements on the Pilates Equipment.

Your Scoliosis Pilates Program is Specific to you

Your scoliosis Pilates program will be entirely unique to just you, your curves and what you specifically need. Everyone will have their own aims, goals and things they wish to achieve – we will help you work towards these as we progress you forward. We are based upstairs at the Gap Health and Racquet Club.

For more information call us on 3511 1112 or email us at admin@physiologix.com.au.

SUPPLYING GREAT TASTING, fresh, Certified Organic Produce to The Gap & Neighbouring Suburbs for 10 years.

For a current price list and details about ordering – email thegaploco@gmail.com or visit thegaploco.com

We are a community owned, local, worker run, registered worker co-operative.

DELIVERIES ARE ON MONDAYS and we also run a pop up shop between 10am and 3pm on Mondays at 15 High St, Ashgrove

(down the easement to Oakleigh Scouts car park)

* Advertisement proudly sponsored by COOEEE (COOEEE.com.au)

AshgroveRangers

• Tiana Solley (Bronze Open Nationals Heptathlon).

Unable to attend the breakfast were Shea Caminiti (Gold 13 years 80m Hurdles) and Connor Duggan (Silver U20 Nationals Decathlon).

Jonty and Steven were able to fill us in on some of the planning that’s taking place regarding sport in Brisbane as we head towards the Olympics in 2032.

Well done to our young medallists for their achievements – the culmination of hard work, discipline and dedication. Thanks also to the parents, coaches, officials and committee members whose support efforts provide the necessary platform for our young people to fulfill their potential.

Breakfast to Toast our Champions

On 10 June 2023, the Ashgrove Rangers Athletic Club held a breakfast at Corn Street Café in Ashgrove to congratulate some of our National medallists on their successes over the summer season. The breakfast was attended by our Club Patron, Jonty Bush MLA, and also our Vice-Patron, Cr Steven Toomey.

Athletes in attendance were:

• Lee Martin (Gold 16 years National All Schools Shot Put/ Silver U18 Junior Nationals Shot Put)

• Joel Drew (Silver National All Schools 400m Hurdles/ Bronze Junior Nationals 400m Hurdles)

• Tate Van Camp (Gold & Meet Records Primary Schools Nationals 800m/1500m/Medley Relay/Gold & Meet Record Junior Nationals U14 800m/Gold Junior Nationals 1500m)

The Ashgrove Rangers cater for all levels of athletes. We believe every athlete is important and emphasise participation, enjoyment, continual development and community. We have training sessions at The Gap State High School oval on Mondays and Thursdays from 5:45pm to 7:15pm.

Our next family friendly running event, the “Flying 4” will be held on Sunday 16 July. This event takes place once a month at the Ashgrove Sports Ground (GPS/Valley field closest to St Johns Wood Bridge.

There are three distance options to choose from (1km for Under 10, 2km for Under 14 and 4km for Open) so there is something for everyone!

To find out more about the Club, training or events, please visit our website: www.ashgroverangers.org

stand up for what they believe can find themselves in such dark places where the world can no longer see what is happening. Before you had time to read that article, sadly Majid had been executed. There are, however, a tremendous number of cases where Amnesty has been successful in rescuing individuals from similar situations.

For over 50 years, Amnesty International has been working in places where dreadful human rights abuses occur. There are people all around the world who face such violations even at the hands of their own governments. Often it can be for simple, everyday actions that we take for granted – like voicing opinions or belonging to a particular group. Tragically, some of these people will be sentenced to death or left languishing on death row for decades.

Last month we mentioned to you the case of Majid Kasemi, the cousin of a family living safely in Sydney. Majid had been arrested and tortured in Iran. For what reason? Because he protested peacefully about the death of a young 22-year-old Kurdish woman for what was considered to be wearing her hijab inappropriately. In many countries, people who peacefully

Take a moment to realise our good fortune here in Australia where we are able to discuss, object and share opinions freely and safely.

If you are interested to know more about the work of Amnesty International there are two local Amnesty International groups: The Helen Black Group meets between 9.30 and 11am on the second Monday morning of the month in The Gap. Please contact Di on 3300 1861.

The Ashgrove Group meets on the first and third Thursday evenings of the month. Please contact Sally on 3366 2046 or 0476 006 990.

Brisbane Tramway Museum

an increase in numbers. The smell should be subsiding now, as mating season for this species has ended.

GATE CRASHING

News and Views from a Tramway Museum

When a Milton family gathered for their routine week-day breakfast, they probably didn't expect a runaway tram to gate-crash their picturesque cottage. But that's exactly what happened to the Price family one November morning in 1911.

The unfortunate accident happened on Milton Road when tram driver Arthur Greaves lost control of his Toowongbound tram. Fortunately, no passengers were onboard at the time, which is just as well because the large and heavy 'Dreadnought' was licensed to carry 90 passengers.

The Price family were understandably shaken by the incident, in more ways than one, but no physical injuries were sustained. Contemporary press reports noted that some items of furniture were rearranged by the deranged Dreadnought and the family

clock also went on strike.

The Dreadnought also delivered a lasting impact on one young child that day. Fred Price can be seen on the veranda in the accompanying photograph. He became a regular visitor to the Brisbane Tramway Museum in his later years, often accompanied by his daughter.

You can ride a restored Dreadnought tram at Ferny Grove most Sunday afternoons. The museum also has a "Baby Dreadnought"tram No. 99 - and you can ride her too. Both are guaranteed to deliver a moving experience in more ways than one, but for those wondering how a tram behaves off the rails - the drivers will do their very best not to oblige.........

© David Fryer maximalist@bigpond.com

The Brisbane Transport Museum is proudly supported by the Brisbane City Council. Photo courtesy State Library of Queensland.

You can read The Western Echo online at: www.westernecho.com.au

Enjoy the read! Links included online – for more information about our advertisers and editorial contributors.

Bat Conservation

The last few weeks have seen a significant increase in the size of the grey headed flying fox colonies at both Riaweena Street, The Gap, and Banks Street Reserve. The new arrivals are believed to have come from Victoria and New South Wales with the migration event originally commencing on the south side of the city, where bottlebrush were in flower at their arrival, with the animals moving to our area as eucalypts commenced flowering. All the city’s flying fox camps have observed

These flying foxes play an incredibly important role for the environment, travelling up to 50km a night, pollinating many of the native trees that form our valuable forests and spreading the seeds. The flying foxes will move between the various colonies. Despite the large numbers present in these colonies, the bat populations are declining and the species is listed as vulnerable. The animals are protected by the Commonwealth Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 due to the significant reduction in their numbers nationally.

If you see a bat on the ground or on its own then it needs assistance – please call either RSPCA (1300 264 625) or Bat Conservation and Rescue (0488 228 134). Do not handle the bat yourself.

Neighbourhood Watch The Gap

“The police are the public and the public are the police; the police being only members of the public who are paid to give full time attention to duties which are incumbent on every citizen in the interests of community welfare and existence.”

Sir Robert Peel

What does this mean for our community?

It means that by working together through prevention, disruption and reporting we can continue to keep our crime rate low, and if persistent with our commitment, even lower this further.

For strong communities to emerge it takes community members stepping up so that all community members feel valued, respected and supported.

Much of our crime prevention happens from our homes and businesses so you don’t have to go anywhere to contribute to keeping our community safer.

Follow our tips, keep your home and vehicles locked and report suspicious behaviour and try and get to know your neighbours is a great way to start.

DV - Not now. Not ever. Together.

Let’s support those members of our community who are dealing with Domestic and Family Violence by doing some of the things below.

How can you help if an individual seeks help relating to a domestic and family violence matter?

• Respect a person’s right to make their own decisions

• Listen and be empathetic

• Be open and show you believe what they are telling you

• Let them know the domestic and family violence is not their fault

• Let them know there are support services available

Here are some examples of what you might say to someone experiencing domestic or family violence:

“I don’t think it’s okay for anyone to treat you like that”

“I believe everyone deserves to be treated with respect, especially by those who say they love us and care for us”.

Below are contact details for those who may be dealing with Domestic and Family Violence.

Emergency Response Triple Zero (000) -If someone is in imminent danger or has been the immediate victim of violence, police should be contacted on Triple Zero (000) immediately.

DVConnect Womensline 1800 811 811

DVConnect Mensline 1800 600 636

Elder Abuse Helpline 1300 651 192

Sexual Assault Helpline 1800 010 120 1800 RESPECT 1800 737 732

Policelink 131 444- 24 hours, 7 days a week.

Policelink is the main police contact number for non-urgent matters and can be used to report crimes or if a person feels threatened or in danger.

Source:https://www.justice.qld.gov.au/about-us/services/ women-violence-prevention/violence-prevention/not-now-notever-together/community/what-you-can-do for more in depth information.

Red Hill Bowls Sports & Community Club

Congratulations to Steve Hayden and Benny Walsh who are Division 1 bowlers from Red Hill Bowls, Sports & Community Club who were recently selected in the State over 40’s squad.

Our club is also currently competing in over 60’s Pennant competition in Divisions 1 & 2 against other clubs in the Brisbane District Bowls Association region. On 9 June in the Semi Final of the Pennants competition, our Division 1 team won through to the Grand Final on Friday 16 June against Enoggera.

Unfortunately the Division 2 team lost to Enoggera at Ferny Grove (Photo of Red Hill winning the over 60’s Division 1 Pennant Final against Enoggera at Ferny Grove).

Recently a number of our bowlers including Mark Ellul, John Green, Rob Kernohan, Declan Kilkenny, and Benny Walsh competed in the Singles, Pairs & Fours events at the Australian Open on the Gold Coast with Rob Kernohan and Benny Walsh winning their singles and progressing through to the knockout rounds on 16-17 June.

Saturday Bowls is back at Red Hill Bowls, Sports & Community Club between 2-4pm, all bowlers and non-bowlers are welcome with coaching available.

We welcome all community members to our club to utilize our facilities either socially or to play bowls. The club plays social bowls on each Wednesday and Friday afternoon, Barefoot Bowls can be played during daylight hours through making a booking with the club and on the 1st Sunday of the month we play Turkey Triples commencing ay 9.30am where all bowlers and nonbowlers are welcome to come along and enjoy a fun morning including lunch and prizes.

For further details contact secretary@redhillbowls.org.au or call 0412 765 805.

For local Western suburbs business owners:

Please join us for our next Westside Business Heart networking breakfast.

Event Details:

Date: Thurs, 13 July 2023 | Time: 7.00 - 8:30am

Venue: Corn Street Café, Waterworks Rd, West Ashgrove

RSVP: to Melanie by 12 July please - or via the Facebook event https://www.facebook.com/events/800666044992706

BUSINESS NETWORKING BREAKFAST Invitation

Cost: $25 or $30 option per person - includes breakfast & drink. Pay on entry at counter.

Note: if you are coming please RSVP so I can manage appropriate numbers with the cafe. Thanks!

Email: melanie@planetmarketing.com.au or 0409 440 501

To keep updated please follow our Facebook page: www.Facebook.com/WestsideBusinessHeart

Principal'sPoints... Principal'sPoints...

Payne Road State School

FIRST NATIONS PERSPECTIVES ARE MEANINGFUL TO US

During National Reconciliation

Week our senior students were stimulated to think about the indigenous ‘yarning circle’ concept and generated their own curious questions:

• What is the purpose of a yarning circle?

• What if we designed one?

• Where could we put our very own yarning circle?

• How could we have kids actively involved?

• Can we raise funds to build a real yarning circle? How much would it cost? These questions are featured in our school’s central Curiosity Wall! Here further questions from our NAIDOC 2023 Theme ‘For our Elders’ are also forefronted, ready to be actively utilised by our students in our decorative Yarning Circles, as we join with our longstanding First Nations friends from Leichardt State School for deep discussions through yarning.

At assembly our students commemorated National Sorry Day. We reflected that some events in our history are remembered, and not celebrated, due to particular painful memories in our shared history. We know that First Nations people today come from over 250 nations and language groups, across Australia. Our students recognise the truth of how the forced removal of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children (1910 to 1970s),

also known as “The Stolen Generation”, still affects their families and communities. On National Sorry Day we stood alongside our fellow First Nations student at our Under 8s Day. Together we engaged in a collaborative ‘Welcome to Country’ with sincere hearts and child-centred, ageappropriate gestures! Our P-2 students were joined by two visiting kindies, Cubbyhouse Montessori and The Gap Early Learning Centre.

As part of our ongoing professional learnings, our teachers have recently engaged in the ‘Eight Ways of Aboriginal Pedagogy’, presented by First Nations Project Officer Sharilyn Johnson (a Queensland University based research project). Not only did this deepen our teachers’ understandings specific to First Nations, we also made great connections with pedagogies that work for all students.

Nicky Brazzale, Principal St Peter Chanel

students in their learning. The Senior Primary Years teachers braved the world of glue and paper mache during Science lessons. Year 6 students created models of volcanoes from around the world and the Year 5 students worked together to create planets to represent the solar system. One of the larger of the planets proved difficult but with the creative talents of Mr Greeham and Miss VcVeigh they worked together to fix the fast deflating planet!

handprints as a symbol of healing.

This month as we move into the end of Term 2, teachers continue to bring energy into their lessons and engage

Our APRE Hayley Hadfield, Laurie Hallam and a small number of senior leaders attended a National Reconciliation Liturgy to Holy Spirit Collage, Fitzgibbon. Where students brought forward promises written on

During the week many classes read or listened to stories from First Nations authors. Year 3 have been learning about the importance of Welcome to Country through HaSS and invited a member of the wider community Aunty Nikki, via video call. The Year 3 classes sat down with Aunty Nikki, from Wakka Wakka country (in the South Burnett region of Qld). They had a yarn about her connection to country through her daily life, love of family and her beautiful artwork. They created questions for their interview so they could find out more about First Nations people and how they can help us connect to our special places and acknowledge their

Principal'sPoints... Principal'sPoints...

country. Their big learning from Aunty Nikki was that First Nations people want us all to stop and be still on country. Listen and thank God and our elders for our beautiful country and together look after our environment for future generations. It is all about respect. For country. For Family. For each other.

And please note our Open Morning on Wed 19 July, at 9.30-10.45am.

The Gap State School

Our Junior and Senior Choirs recently competed in the 2023 Queensland Creative Generations Choral Fanfare heats held at The Gap State High School. Both choirs led by choral conductor, Mrs Katherine Ruhle, performed admirably. Junior Choir celebrated an outstanding result with a Gold Award and Senior Choir were commended for their exemplary performance and were awarded a much-coveted Platinum Award.

Following the heats, we were proud to receive the news that Senior Choir was selected for a place in the regional final to be held at the Old Brisbane Museum. Congratulations to our students and the music team on their success in this competition.

It has been a rather busy time for our music ensembles. The annual Mid-Year Choral concert was held at the end of May, where families heard the Sopraninos, Junior Choir, Girls’ Choir and Senior Choir perform. It really was a magical event. Our Mid-Year

Instrumental Concert was held the following week in our MPB. All instrumental students performed at the concert and for the Year 3 Strings and the Junior Band, it was their first concert. Both events created a joyous celebration of music at our school.

Recently, ten of our Year 4 and Year 5 students experienced the challenge of participation in a chess tournament held at Nundah State School. Facilitated by Gardiner Chess, the opportunity was a chance for students to match their skills against chess players from a number of public and private school with over 200 competitors on the day. Well done to all our participants Coen, Carter, Jasper, Jake, Thomas, Sarathi, Kingsley, Teddy and Bailey, for their efforts and fair play. Bailey and Tenyu received individual commendations and one team (Carter, Jake, Bailey and Sarathi) placed third in their section.

In the garden, the Sustainability Club’s recent composting efforts have produced some lovely, healthy organic material that students have shared with our groundsman Mr Heyes to improve our school gardens. Thanks to Sue Moller, our community volunteer and Master Composter who has supported our composting efforts and goal to reduce food waste at The Gap State School. We are incredibly grateful and making wonderful progress. Our school families are welcome to send in vegetable and salad scraps, along with coffee grinds and egg shells to donate to the compost, rather than sending them to landfill.

We look forward to watching the gardens flourish!

The school continues to accept expressions of interest for 2024 Prep enrolments. Please visit the school’s website for information on enrolment eligibility and processes.

Warm regards,

Joanne Nicholls, Principal

The Gap State High School

Launch Plus

• Jr. Engineering Crane Challenge (Mondays 3:00 pm – 4:30 pm)

For more information and to book, visit: https://thegapshs. eq.edu.au/extra-curricular/ clubs/launch

School Musical

Have you purchased tickets yet for The Gap’s first-ever musical production (The Fungus), written, organised and directed by students.

“The Fungus” A ragtag group of teens join forces to take back their city from a

Launch Plus is a selection of afterschool student-led STEAM workshops (open to students in Year 4 and above).

These workshops are designed by students for students. Each workshop aims to inspire participants to become STEAM creators and markers.

During Term 3, we are running three workshops:

• Drone: Fly and Coding Challenge (Thursdays 3:00 pm – 4:30 pm)

• Python Coding (Thursdays 3:00 pm – 4:15 pm)

dangerous tech-eating fungus whose mission is to eliminate humankind. Friendship. Risk. Bravery. All these heroes need to overcome the evil forces that threaten to tear down any hope of a future. Will they succeed, or will our intrepid heroes fall?

The Fungus is showing from Thursday 20 July to Saturday 22 July 2023. Tickets can be purchased at https:// events.humanitix.com/ the-fungus

For the Love of Books

Lifeline Bookfest!

An absolute booklovers dream, commencing in Brisbane in 1986 at the Lifeline Warehouse in Bowen Hills, the Lifeline Bookfest outgrew its home and moved to the much larger venue, the Brisbane Exhibition and Convention Centre in 1997. It is Lifeline’s biggest fundraiser of the year with all profits going directly to the Crisis Support Line (13 11 14). This year, Bookfest was held in January, and then again last month from the 17-20 June. Over 4km of second-hand books and over 600 volunteers, it is an epic feat that never disappoints.

If you missed it and can’t wait for January, there are now many regional locations close enough for a day trip. These include Ipswich, Gold Coast, and Nambour. You can find all the details here: www.lifelineqld.org.au/shops-and-events/bookfests

Having been overwhelmed in the past, this booklover has a few tips and tricks to pass on. Firstly, write a list before you go of any Authors or books on your Wishlist. This will help you to zone in on them amongst the thousands of books. Also, take a pic of your bookshelf before you leave. This will help you avoid double ups. Sounds silly, but I know I’ve purchased books before only to arrive home and find a copy already on my shelves. If this happens, you can always donate to your closest Little Free Library or donate back to Lifeline. And lastly, the final day of each Bookfest usually sees a half price sale – so if you’re on a tight budget, it’s a great day to go.

Author: Sarah Krause | Instagram: @sarahsbookchat

The Gap resident Cathy Vallance wins Editorial Award

The Rosanne Fitzgibbon Editorial Award has been awarded to The Gap resident Cathy Vallance, a senior editor at University of Queensland Press (UQP), for her editorial work on Zana Fraillon’s middlegrade verse novel The Way of Dog. Known as the Rosie, this award recognises excellence in editing from an editor who has helped an author make their published work the best it can be. It is awarded in memory of editor Rosanne Fitzgibbon DE (Distinguished Editor).

The judges said Vallance’s work on The Way of Dog demonstrated great sensitivity and skill in her undertaking of a complex brief: to work with the author to refine a poetic verse novel with an animal as the protagonist. “Vallance honed voice and character through her edits, and played a significant role in shaping the story,” judges said.

The Way of Dog is about Scruffity, a young pup who is left rejected and unloved at a puppy farm, and Manpup, a lonely boy who helps him escape. Told from Scruffity's perspective, the book is about the pup's unbreakable bond with Manpup as together they search for safety and a place to call home.

Monthly workshops - see our Facebook page for details

Next workshop: 15 July

Bookings open (QR to book): 8 July

Booking also via: www.trybooking.com/CJFQE

Facebook: RepairCafeTheGap

Instagram: repaircafethegap

Email: thegaprepaircafe@gmail.com

PaddingtonThen and Now

forward to hearing from you with your own stories and pictures of inner-west Brisbane!

Yours in history, Kerry Forsythe and Caylie Jeffery Paddington Then and Now

144 Latrobe Terrace, Paddington QLD 4064

Kerry 0418 844 511 | Caylie 0400 200 938

Dear Western Echo Readers,

We wanted to introduce ourselves to you all as the ladies who run Paddington Then and Now, collecting, preserving and sharing history & memories through community collaboration.

Caylie Jeffery and Kerry Forsythe are our names, and we both have a passion for the community and history of Brisbane’s inner west. We can often be found loitering around historical homes and buildings, speaking to seniors about their life journeys, running legacy and storytelling workshops, or video recording local events and interesting speakers.

We have both renovated very old Queenslander homes in Paddington and Milton, and have lived in the area for over 50 years between us! Our children have attended the local schools, we have worked in local businesses and been actively volunteering since our kids started kindy.

You might know us from the Under the Lino Project, or the Paddington Haunted House; you may follow our adventures

The Paddington Festival

Saturday 5 August...

Given and Latrobe Terraces will celebrate the past and the present with the Paddington Now & Then Festival, a free outdoor event encouraging visitors to Walk, Shop, Eat & Explore this well-loved character precinct.

Experience the Terraces’ eclectic mix of boutique fashion and lifestyle, destination dining, art, music, tours, and special festival street activities.

online already; or maybe you’ve asked us to help you with a legacy project of your own. Perhaps you’re who we want to hear from with stories and photographs of your own to share?!

As the current volunteer custodians of thousands of historic photographs, maps and stories collected from the community, we are committed to preserving and sharing them in a digital format, on our web page, and social media channels.

In conjunction with our own channels, we will be sharing stories and pictures here in the Western Echo each month, and look

website: http://www.westernecho.com.au

The Festival is also partnering with Brisbane Open house to highlight the architecture and built history of one of Brisbane’s oldest suburbs with a series of tours and talks. Visitors can book in to be guided by experts, pick-up a map for a self-guided experience or drop in for a speaker session at the Briswest Centre on Latrobe Terrace. Historical Paddington properties, such as Lucerne House and the Ithaca Presbyterian Church, will be running their own guided tours across the day and an historical bus tour of the broader suburb will also be available to book through the festival website.

For a full Festival Program, Information and registration for the Shopping totes, tours and other offers and activities visit website:

www.paddingtonfestival.com.au